Bucs' Blade November 2009

BUCS’

BLADE

Through faith, new freshmen coach overcomes tragedy pg. 20

November 20, 2009 17001 Ferris, Grand Haven, MI 49417 A student publication of community significance since 1927

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2 Inside THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday, November 20, 2009

Volume 67, Issue 3

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Letter from the editor: I hope everyone enjoyed our previous edition of the Bucs’ Blade. This month I could not be more proud of the hard work my staff has completed to create

SURF UNSALTED: It’s November and Grand Haven locals are psyched and surfing fall waves.

some truly incredible pieces. I encourage everyone to check out reporter Kali Rea’s story concerning teen pregnancy (pg 16-17) and our new monthly feature in Focus (pg 14). We would like to remind

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MENTORING:

Seniors spend time within kindergarten classrooms.

and encourage any feedback containing questions, comments and/or concerns related to anything we print addressed as a letter to the editor (see page 10 for more information). Thank you for reading and enjoy! ­­– Megan Birkett

From the adviser:

Many readers noticed the typographical errors in the Letter from the Editor in our October edition. While we appreciate it when readers point out our errors, I feel a special explanation is in order for this one. The page on which the letter occurred crashed at 11 p.m. on production night after Megan had spent some time and stress working on it. All attempts to recover the file were failures. Although Megan was more than willing to stay late and fix it, I told her I would recreate it for her from a printout of the page.

Unfortunately, I misplaced the printout and I tried to recreate the page from a much earlier version that did not include the final draft of her letter. In doing so, I

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BOOMERANG: New program designed to give juniors insight into careers

mistyped the letter and did not catch my errors before I burned the pages to a disc and dropped them off to be printed on my way home from school. The incident serves as a useful reminder to me that even the most experienced writers benefit from an editor, especially when working on a tight deadline. I apologize to the staff and especially Megan who has endured comments and criticism for errors that were in no way, shape or form her fault.

STAFF

–C.E. Sikkenga

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Megan Birkett EDITORS:Matt Deater, Marisa Enos, Maidson Testy, Haley Birkett, Alida Boon, Teal Champagne, Nate Niemowicz, Amy Potter, Grace Sterenberg, Tyler Appel, Scott Deater

ADVISER: C.E. Sikkenga

REPORTERS: Ethan Beswick, Dez Burley,

PUBLICATION POLICY:

Devin Chan, John Cherette, Chloe Dault, Emily Francart, Mike Ginocchio, Camille Johnson, Mollie LaBeff, Riley Missel, Kali Rea, Greg Rokisky, Sam Soule, Noah Thelen, Kailin VanOordt, Lucas Wilder

The Bucs’ Blade is a newspaper 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 its readers.

The Bucs’ Blade strives for the highest standards

of accuracy, completeness and careful research in its presentation of material. If an error merits correction, as determined by the Editorial Board or the Adviser, it will be promptly published in the news brief column or on the editorial page. Correction notification forms are available in the main office or in Room 0205 and should be returned directly to Room 0205 upon completion.

All correction requests are subject to review.

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Friday, November 20, 2009 THE BUCS’ BLADE News 3

Good grades could win you a...

NEW CAR!

SWEET RIDE: The 2009 Nissan Cube displayed at My Auto Import Center in Muskegon. The car will be raffled off at the end of the school year to seniors from who bring in report cards. photo by Greg Rokisky

Dealership offers free car to seniors who bring in exceptional report cards GREG ROKISKY Reporter Are you a senior looking for a car that costs near to nothing? How about one for free? My Auto Import Center in Muskegon will raffle off a 2009 Nissan Cube at the end of this school year.

“We’ve just gone through a really hard economic time

with a lot of cutbacks in education,” sales manager Bill Ferry from My Auto Imports said. “Our owners were looking for a way we could give back to the community that’s given back so much to us.”

Seniors from both Grand Haven and Muskegon high schools will be eligible for the Cube. Those who have a 3.0 GPA and bring their parents along with a copy of their report card will receive one raffle ticket. Those with a 3.5 GPA will receive two raffle tickets, and those with a 4.0 will receive three. If you get a 4.0 for all three trimesters then you are eligible for up to nine entries.

This is a greater incentive for seniors to work harder and strive for something all throughout the year said Ferry.

“I know I’m going to try harder to win that car,” senior Hannah Owens said. “That type of car is so cool.”

The 2009 Cube won’t be just a base level car.

“It’s got a list price of $19, 600,” Ferry said. “But we’re going to enhance the sound system and put in some after marketing accessories. It’ll be worth about $22, 000 once we’re done.”

The schools will have an input on one part of the car.

“We’re going to let each school come up with a design for graphics for each of the sides,” Ferry said.

The raffle will occur after school is let out.

“There are no costs to the student whatsoever,” Ferry said. “Other than what comes after the purchase such as insurance.

“This is simply a way to reach out to students and give them that extra push to strive for something and keep them motivated all year long,” Owens said.

Marching band has playoff experience of its own ETHAN BESWICK Reporter Halftime is game time. At least for the band it is.

The Grand Haven Marching Band followed the football team throughout the playoffs, hoping they would be able to give the Bucs an extra spark as they make their way through their games.

“We have had plenty of opportunities [to perform] with 13 performances [this year], but it’s nice to be in a position to support the football team and the school,” band conductor Gregory Maynard said.

Maynard wasn’t the only one eager about this opportunity as many of the students in the band were thrilled.

“It’s a real honor since it’s only the second time in school history the football team has made it this far,” senior band student Mitch Hamm said. “The drumline is going to put on a heck of a show.”

The halftime performance was an original composition, which is something the band normally wouldn’t play. In past years they have performed older classical pieces. This year they were really taking a risk. The show was a familiar one though because they have been practicing and performing it all year. Maynard was confident it yould be the band’s best work.

“It’s the same show,” Maynard said. “Hopefully it will be much more of a finished product.”

With three hours of practice on Mondays and Thursdays, and one hour every other weekday, being in band is just as time consuming if not more than playing a sport.

“The time, effort, energy, focus, and work the kids put in is just as much as any sport,” Maynard said. “They have lots of time invested into the show outside of school.”

All of the preparation set a solid foundation for a show that was all but perfect. It really is up to the band students and how they get ready for their performance.

“It comes down to the mental preparation,” Maynard said.

Band students enjoyed playing the show one more time in front of the crowd and they were hopeful that they would continue to get a load of support from the fans.

“I like seeing the enthusiasm of the crowd as they get involved,” sophomore band student Ben Petersen said.

Maynard believes the opportunity was special but knows it was just another chance at getting it right.

“I just knew it was going to be just another performance for us,” Maynard said.

When it came down to it, the band continued to march out onto the field and put on a fantastic show that would get the crowd going and fire up the football team. Maynard knows the students take pride in what they do and looked forward to the opportunity.

“They enjoy the chance to play the show one more time,” Maynard said. “Being a part of the whole school spirit is important.”

4 News THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday November 20, 2009

Township board to vote on Harbor Transit expansion

Same OLD books with a whole NEW look

DEZ BURLEY Reporter

Curled up under the stars on a cool November evening in nothing but a hoodie and jeans, junior Kendra Brady waits for her parents to pick her up from school.

“My nose was red and my fingers were numb,” Brady said. “It was like 40 degrees and I was freezing.”

Brady and other students often have a difficult time getting rides when they stay after school. After about 3 p.m. students must rely on their own methods of transportation to get home.

This may change at the end of November when the Grand Haven Township Board decides if they should expand the Harbor Transit route to locations throughout the township. Although not many students ride the Harbor Transit currently, many students that do not have cars, could benefit from this expansion. “[The Harbor Transit coming to the high school would be helpful] for a lot of people because [many students] can’t drive yet and it’s a big pain to find rides,” sophomore Lauren Lund said.

Brady agrees that finding rides after school can be quite difficult and believes that the addition of the Harbor Transit to the Grand Haven area would be quite helpful in this matter.

“I wouldn’t have to freak out and worry about how I’m going to get home,” Brady said. “I don’t see why they don’t have more transportation after school.”

Paraprofessional Lisa Holm believes the Harbor Transit would be a beneficial addition to the transportation methods offered in our area as well.

“A lot of kids have a hard time arranging for rides [when they have a detention],” Holm said. “It would help them be able to get home so they don’t have to wait [at school] until after five.”

Junior Sarah Shaw has experienced this personally.

“It would be super convenient,” Shaw said. “I’ve skipped like five detentions.”

Some students may feel that the Harbor Transit is for old people or that they are too cool. However Lund doesn’t find it a problem.

“I have [rode the Harbor Transit] before,” Lund said.

“I would again.”

Junior Sam Hoats thinks that it would be useful for students who want to go places after school.

“Before I got my license I had to walk or long board everywhere,” Hoats said. “When I broke my leg I couldn’t go anywhere if it was cold because I had no way to get there and it’s hard to scooter more than two miles.”

Librarian Joan Thomas has noticed that some students feel rushed after school in the library.

“Some kids are rushed to get the bus,” Thomas said.

“They quickly come in, get what they need and leave. [If those students didn’t have to] meet a bus, they would be able to get their material and look through it more so they could know what they are checking out.”

The Harbor Transit does cost 75 cents for students, but the money factor out weighs the irritation and waste of time.

“My parents have jobs and I have three siblings,” Brady said. “My parents can’t pick me up easily and I can’t stand being stuck at school until eight.”

OPEN FOR BUISNESS: As of July 1, the remodeled Loutit Library has been open to the public. The improved building costs just over $10 million and is 23,415 square feet larger than the old building, making room for larger areas and technology expansions. photo by Alida Boon

After months of construction the Loutit Library reopened complete with a new look

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GREG ROKISKY Reporter

It’s 5:30 p.m. on a Tuesday and a student needs to type a paper for government. The problem-they don’t have a computer. The solution-the new Loutit Library on Columbus Ave. The library temporarily moved locations from March 2008 until July 2009 in order for a complete remodel. The newly improved library reopened in July and has an entirely new look including a parking garage, almost twice the square footage, an addition of sections that focus on the needs of particular age groups, program rooms for larger groups and a more permanent bookstore.

“I go to the library once a week,” senior Katie Martin said.

“Or whatever I need a good book or a quiet place to study.”

One of the many additions are the five available study rooms available to students and others upon request.

“The study rooms are good if you need privacy to talk [or] work on a project,” library director Sandie Knes said. “They’re also good for tutoring and mentoring where you don’t have to worry about bothering others.”

Another addition is the improved teen section. Here, teens have their own section to look at books, use computers or lounge in one of the available chairs and big booths.

“I really like being able to sit around and feel like I’m at home,” Martin said.

A user friendly self serve checkout system is also one of the new additions.

“People really like the machines,” Knes said. “It’s something

BROWSING THE BOOKS: Freshman Tazz Robinson and senior Jimmy Herrera hit the library shelves after school. photo by Alida Boon

that we’ve never had before.”

Since the remodeling, Knes noticed an increase in activity.

“Circulation has increased over 50% from what it was last year,” Knes said.

The library’s computer lab has increased in size and is still very popular.

“We used to have them busy before,” Knes said. “And now that we have twice as many, they’re still always busy.”

In addition to these features, another hot-spot is the downstairs lounge with a bookstore, open five days a week. Available in the lounge are coffee, soft drinks and snack machines.

“I always have to stop at the lounge and grab a coffee when I’m there,” Martin said.

The Library also offers many audio and visual materials.

“The movies and CD’s we rent out are very popular,” Knes said. “We try to get the newer films and still keep a lot of the old classics. We offer a more in-depth selection of classics than some other places. We also have a lot of informational videos.”

Be it books, comfort, hominess, or business the Loutit Library is available to meet anyone’s needs.

“I like going to the library for studying, hanging out with the librarians and just checking out books for pleasure reading,” senior Stephanie Eslick said.

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Friday, November 20, 2009 THE BUCS’ BLADE News 5

Senior mentors connect kindergarteners to district RILEY MISSEL Reporter

SMILING FACES: Senior Shelley Bultje shares a story with her kindergarten friends at Mary A. White. Senior kindergarten mentors help connect the kids to the school district. photo by Grace Sterenberg

Nineteen pairs of four-year-old eyes lit up as senior “Miss Alicia” Cadena, dressed as a peacock, and walked into Connie Halloran’s kindergarten classroom at Griffin Elementary. There was a chorus of “Hi Miss Alicia!”’s and a moment of colorful chaos as tiny princesses, superheroes, and even a bumblebee got up to hug their friend.

A petite Cinderella with tousled hair grabbed Miss Alicia’s hand and gave her a crayon drawing of two people.

“It’s of me and Miss Alicia,” she said. “She has a smile on her face. I like her when she smiles at me.”

By the end of the day, Miss Alicia had a stack of beautiful kindergarten handiwork; some pumpkins, some houses, and some unidentifiable crayon masterpieces.

“The kids get so excited when Alicia comes,” kindergarten teacher Halloran said. “They love having a grown-up friend.”

Cadena is a part of the Kindergarten Mentors, a group of seniors that go into kindergarten classrooms throughout the district every Friday. They play games with the kids, do puzzles, read to them, help them with art projects, or help out wherever they are needed, all the while setting a good example and being a “grown up friend” for them to look up to.

Assistant principal Tracy Wilson, facilitator of the Kindergarten Mentors, is very passionate about the potential of this program.

“The goal is to try and get kindergartners connected with the district and to get future high school students

connected with current high school students,” Wilson said.

“We want to try and get them hooked into education.”

And who better to hook them in but big, friendly high school role models?

“The kids look up to the seniors. What our high school students need to realize is that they are admired by younger kids in school, athletics, the music department, as well as out in the community as well. It doesn’t necessarily have to be someone they know, because a lot of times when the kids see an older student, the older student becomes a role model.”

Senior Austin Langlois thoroughly enjoys his role as a mentor to these kids.

“I love helping little kids,” Langlois said. “I like to make a difference in their lives. The reason we mentor is to give the kids a high school role model.”

The mentors are not only making a difference in their lives, they are providing a good example and putting smiles on kids faces.

The kids enthusiastically jumped, twirled and waved light sabers and magic wands to show off their Halloween costumes, beaming when Miss Alicia complimented them.

“I like giving them positive feedback,” Cadena said. “I feel like it helps to build their self esteem, especially when their teachers are too busy for one-on-one time.”

The Kindergarten Mentors have all kinds of comical commotion to look forward to every Friday, and they love every minute of it. Though occasionally stressful, Miss Alicia agrees it’s all worth it to see their adorable smiles and hear a miniature Incredible Hulk politely say, “Thanks for coming!”

Choir comes back from MSU with useful knowledge CHLOE DAULT Reporter The Grand Haven Chamber Choir got to do what most choirs only dream of on Oct. 26, and came back with priceless knowledge.

“It is a great experience for me to be able to take Grand Haven singers anywhere and show them off to their peers,” choir teacher Shirley Lemon said.

The choir was invited along with eight other schools to the Michigan State University Invitational Choral Festival.

This year, unlike many other years in the past, the choir was able to get the funds for bussing, which meant they could finally attend.

While on the trip the choir got the privilege to work with Professor Paul Tucker of The University of Kansas, who is a world-renowned clinician (person who conducts the clinic). “[The kids in Chamber Choir] are used to me and what I say,” Lemon said. “He talked about totally different things than I would.”

Junior Chamber Choir member Liz Markovicz agrees with Lemon, and really enjoyed getting to work with Tucker.

“He had lots of interesting things to say,” Markovicz said. “He looked at things different than other clinicians.”

SPLENDID SINGING: The Grand Haven Chamber Choir tries out its new skills in class on Nov. 17. The choir was invited to the MSU Invitational Choral Festival on Oct. 26 photo by Grace Sterenberg

The choir performed three pieces for the clinician, and then got critiqued by him.

“If I had the option, I’d make it so Mr. Tucker worked with us longer,” senior Chamber Choir member Austin

Campos said.

Along with the talented clinician, the nearly perfect participation by the choir members also made the trip a success. “[The trip was] affirmation of how great Grand Haven Choir is,” Lemon said. “The other schools did a nice job but were not in the same league as us.”

What about the other choirs at GHHS? Is it unfair that only the Chamber Choir got to participate in this wonderful experience?

According to Lemon the Chamber Choir is the leader, so this trip opened up many opportunities for the other choirs.

“When one choir goes out and does a wonderful job it reaffirms the wonderful choir and our position in the state,” Lemon said.

Campos is excited to take the critiques they got on the trip back to home to improve the choir.

“Chamber benefited immensely because we are now applying some of the methods that we learned at the workshop,” Campos said.

To Lemon, the trip was all that she expected and more.

She was very pleased with the way the choir behaved, how they performed, and the great clinician they got the chance to work with.

“It’s not just making beautiful music,” Lemon said. “But being good citizens.”

6 News THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday, November 20, 2009

World History teachers honored to present at social studies conference

ALUMNUS OF THE MONTH

“Wake up with Jesse in the morning!”

JOHN CHERETTE Reporter Irony works in interesting ways. Most kids would kill to get out of taking World History, but experts say other schools could learn from our curriculum.

GHHS’ World History teachers attended the 54th annual Conference for the Social Studies Nov. 2 to speak about their curriculum. Teachers Kevin Howard, Rory Callendar, Mark Robertson and Kevin Polston attended the conference.

The teachers spoke about what they have been doing here in the world history class that differs from other schools. These teachers have set an example of how to teach the history of the world in only 12 weeks, which is something other schools struggle to do.

The teachers felt the experience was a good one not just because they were given the opportunity to speak.

“It was a lot of fun to put it simply,” Callendar said. “I was with three friends which was great. We felt we had a lot of good information to share.”

“I HAD VERY LITTE INTEREST IN IT UNTIL THE MOMENT IT STARTED. ONCE I REALIZED HOW MUCH PEOPLE WANTED TO KNOW IT BECAME FUN.” -- Kevin Howard Their presentation was called ‘World History: The Grand Haven Experience.’ They spoke about effective curriculum development, instructional strategies and proper assessments.

Howard was surprised by how fulfilling the experience was for him and his companions.

“I had very little interest in it until the moment it started,” Howard said. “Once I realized how much people wanted to know it became a lot of fun.”

The conference gave the teachers a chance to show what they’ve been doing, but also learn about what other schools were doing. It helped them determine what to do with World History in the coming years.

“It was a lot of fun,” Callendar said. “It was a major stepping stone to take world history to the next level at Grand Haven.”

BUC

Briefs

ON THE AIR: 1994 graduate Jesse Bruce speaks to the audience during his broadcast of the Jesse in the Morning show on WGHN Nov. 13. “I guess the coolest thing (about the show) is that it’s never the same thing two days in a row,” Bruce said. Photo by Grace Sterenberg

GHHS 1994 graduate Jesse Bruce has worked for local radio station WGHN for ten years. Reporter Riley Missel had the opportunity to talk with Bruce about his life from high school on until he became a popular radio DJ. What radio station did you listen to?

WGN radio in Chicago. That’s what I used to listen to.

I knew about WGHN, that it was there, and that they did the football games, but I never imagined I’d end up working there. But I’m glad I did.

What sort of things were you involved in in high school?

Probably my favorite class in high school was speech. I didn’t do any [activities] through the school, I mean I didn’t play sports, I wasn’t in any clubs...I just hung out in my friends basement and played video games!

The friends I had in high school, my senior year, are the friends I have now…that’s probably the only thing I took from [high school]. What you guys do now is probably what we did then. We used to drive around, go to movies, ditch school to go to concerts…we went to a lot of concerts, and just cut out early without telling anyone. Those were the days. We just messed around, got in trouble. You know.

How did you get this job?

[Being a radio DJ is] the only thing I’ve really ever

wanted to do. I did go to Grand Valley for business, but they pretty much kicked me out. So I came back and became a DJ. I got an internship at WGHN, and then I got hired.

What is the coolest thing about being a radio DJ? I guess the coolest thing is that it’s never the same thing two days in a row. You meet all sorts of interesting people with all sorts of interesting stories.

I’ve met Tony Stewart, the racecar driver. I’ve met the governor…oh and Kwame Kilpatrick. Before he got thrown in jail. But get to meet so many locals too, and they’re more interesting than those guys.

What accomplishments have you achieved in your life thus far?

I’m married and I have a daughter. That’s a pretty big deal to me Looking back on high school, what advice would you give to students now?

Boy, if I could go back…I would say, don’t listen to anybody but yourself.

Light show returns

Drivers be patient

Dance off that fat

Tongue twister tee

The holiday light show is returning to its original location.The show takes place at Heather Court, Spring Lake. Nov. 26 through Nov. 30 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Patrons can expect to see over 200,000 Christmas lights brilliantly synchronized to the sound of cheerful seasonal music.

The school year is well under way and some student’s still don’t have their parking permits. Parking attendant Ben Blais says it is critical to have a permit and during the after school hours please be patient.

With around 1,800 kids in our school there are plenty of drivers and everyone wants to get home.

The Cardio Jam Class at the YMCA is a fun mix of high/low basic hip-hop and dance moves. The current session of the class runs through Nov. 29 and you can sign up at the YMCA office. This class is for those that are looking for an abdominal work out and toning.

It is a great thing to do for fun and exercise in the winter months.

Students traveling to Spain Spring Break 2010 organized a tee-shirt fundraiser. The shirts say “Hablas Espanol” on the front and have a Spanish tongue twister on the back. Students may order short or long sleeves.

Short sleeve shirts are $10 and long sleeve shirts are $15. Please order before Christmas Break.

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Friday, November 20, 2009 THE BUCS’ BLADE News 7

THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE SCHOOL FUNDING CRISIS

Where once Michigan was in the top 10 in wealth it is headed for the bottom 10. As a consequence, the state faces massive budget deficits which have led to mid-year cuts in school funding.

Assistant Superintendent John Thatcher helped to explain how these have impacted GHAPS.

1. THE DAMAGE: Districts across the

GRACE STERENBERG News Editor

state are being cut $292 for each student enrolled this year. For Grand Haven, this means we’ll only receive $7,412 per student compared to the $7,704 received last year, making for a total cut of $1.7 million. Next year it could get even worse with cuts between $375 and $575 per student, nearly doubling the amount cut this year.

2. HOW IT AFFECTS US: Approximately $500,000 was cut this year in material, supply, and other budgets. These steps to save money have prevented reductions in staff, but if nothing gets better with the state budgeting, the Board of Education may have to look at staffing efficiencies, which could mean fewer teachers and larger classes.

3. ABOUT THE NEW TECHNOLOGY: The bond issue passed last spring allowed the district to buy new technology for classrooms, new busses, and upgrade district buildings to be more energy efficient. This money did NOT come out of the district’s operating funds.

4. HOW WE’VE PREPARED: The dis-

trict has been preparing for budget cuts, but nothing this big. The Board of Education has saved money in response to these cuts by closing two buildings, selling excess property, cutting staff outside of the classroom by about 100 (by restructuring, reallocating and eliminating through retirements, resignations, and technology), and instituting an energy savings program.

5. WHAT WE CAN DO: Students and parents both can help the cause by contacting either Representative Arlan Meekhof or Senator Wayne Kuipers and ask them to make K-12 education a higher priority. (Contact information, as well as a video from Superintendent Keith Konarska can be found at ghaps.org)

Serniak launches free winter gear shop SAM SOULE Reporter When English teacher Janna Serniak gets an idea in her head, she’s the type to put it into action. Because of this, students in need won’t have to go without warm clothing this winter.

“I decided to do it one day after a conversation with Mrs. Twa, Mrs. Erickson and some students,” Serniak said.

“We thought it would be a good idea. I’m impetuous.”

The main attraction: coats and boots.

“We collected coats and boots from staff and students here at the high school and staff through out the community and then hung them in here [Room 7213] and set up the boots,” Serniak said. “During all the lunches kids will be able to come and shop for coats and boots.”

While they could shop, nobody had to buy. All goods were 100 percent free.

“Students can shop, and they won’t have to pay for them,” Serniak said. “They’ll just be able to come in and pick a coat that they like and boots, and we’ll probably have them sign out so we know. That way we can kind of

Time is ticking by Seniors, capture the moment now before it is too late. Applications for colleges should ideally be handed in already. If they have not been handed in, get them in by the beginning of December. Ask Mrs. Alexander for any further questions about details on your applications, and hurry!

have a record of what’s being taken.”

Serniak feels that by donating to the shop, students have an opportunity to do something positive—something that’s not always emphasized in a materialistic society.

That they can do it without great cost only makes it better.

“So many people have coats and boots that they just don’t wear because they just don’t feel like wearing them,” Serniak said. “So why not pass them onto someone else who might want to wear them?”

It took the help of some willing high school students and staff to contribute.

“I think that there has been a dedicated group of students who have been very helpful,” Serniak said. “There have been a number of students and staff who brought in clothes. Even community members have brought in coats.

Mrs. Flanigan has been helping out, and Mr. Benson hung all these poles.”

Serniak is unsure of the shop’s future, but hopes it will continue.

“I kind of want to wait to see,” Serniak said. “There are not the exact resources to do it every year. It depends on how much goes on next week. But if all goes well, I think it would be a great idea to continue.”

Senate to break in The Student Senate hopes to launch a “Christmas Break-In” with local radio station GRD. In this program. Senate members would go to the house of a family in need and sponsor their Christmas by putting up a Christmas tree, buying them presents and purchasing groceries for a Christmas meal for the family.

BROWSING THE RACKS: Junior Amanda Blackmer peruses at the winter gear shop in room 7213 on Nov 17. English teacher Janna Serniak started the drive with donated items. photo by Grace Sterenberg

Music shall reign

Opera stops at GH

The Orchestra will hold a holiday concert on Friday Dec. 11 at 7 p.m. They will combine with the band for a full symphony during two of their musical enchantments and will fly solo for the remainder of the concert, which is expected to run about one hour. This performance will be in the PAC and is free and open to the public.

GHTV (TV5) is helping promote, film and light a concert at the Grand Haven PAC on Nov. 21 7:30 p.m. Featuring internationally known opera singer Carlos Seise and Neil Jones, a 12-string guitarist. One hundred percent of the proceeds go to the music and arts department. Admission is $7 for students and $10 for adults.

Sur f Unsalted

8 Surfing THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday, November 20, 2009

Grand Haven locals are stoked and ready to surf Lake Michigan HALEY BIRKETT Feature Editor Temperature, 63 degrees. Wind, 20 mph from the south. Water temperature, 46 degrees. Juniors, Dan Arnold, Connor Davis, Jim Herman and Elliott Karafa float patiently in the icy waters of Lake Michigan, shivering, but ready to surf.

Swimming in Lake Michigan water in the fall may seam odd, however it’s the perfect time of year to surf. The boys admit that they aren’t ‘pro’, but that they surf mostly for fun.

“Its another way to hang out with friends,” Davis said.

“It’s really calm and relaxing when you’re out on the water waiting for a wave.”

Surfing may look easy, but it can actually be quite challenging.

“It’s the hardest sport ever,” Herman said.

“Other sports you can stand up and learn, but standing up while surfing is not so easy because balancing can get tricky with the waves.”

However, Davis believes that surfing comes easier to people that know how to snowboard or skateboard, because they know how to balance in a sideways stance.

Learning how to surf is also easier if you have someone to help you out.

“I learned to surf in the seventh grade,” Arnold said. “I was with a friend and he had these two really old boards, we were both super bored and just decided to teach ourselves.”

Davis and Herman also taught themselves how to surf.

“The best way to learn is to just get out on the water,” Davis said. “My friends and I would just go out for hours and teach ourselves.”

Learning to surf on lake Michigan can also be quite difficult because it all depends on the weather.

“The only way in Michigan to get out on the water, is when it’s storming,” Herman said. “It all depends on the wind.”

While surfing may seem like a safe sport because the water breaks the fall, its actually not. With the tall, cement walls lining the piers in Grand Haven, it can get quite

dangerous.

“Once I was thrown up against the pier when it was really windy,” Davis said. “It did not feel good.”

The icy waves also get hazardous when gusts of wind begin to blow and the whitecaps reach their peaks.

“The first time I ever jumped off the pier,” Herman said. “The waves were really big, and a huge one broke and landed right on top of me.”

Surfing on the ocean is actually easier because the waves come in sets, but without an ocean, Lake Michigan is the next best thing. Arnold explains that the best places in Grand Haven to surf are usually by the north or south piers.

Overall, these boys are just looking for some fun.

“It’s a cool way to chill with friends,” Herman said. “We have a good time.”

SURF TERMS Aggro

Aggressive attitude in the water. Having a bad attitude.

Amped

Getting excited while surfing or really looking forward to a surf.

Ankle Busters/ Snappers Small waves.

Beach Leech

The perfect description of a beach leech: “Some people don’t bring their own boards, and prefer to borrow your extra boards (they don’t rent). And for wax, some don’t really bring it. They just ask for some.”

Carve/Carving

The classic surfing maneuver. Basically what turning on a wave is called.

Clucked

Being scared or afraid of waves.

Duck Dive/ Duck Diving WET SUIT: $135- 500 - Shorties: cover the torso - Steamers: covers all but hands, feet, and head BOARD: $450- 800 - Shortboard: 7 ft with pointed nose - Longboard: 10 ft with rounded noses

Diving under an oncoming wave when paddling out.

Eat it

Wiping out on a wave.

Foamies

Used for both whitewater waves and also surfboards that are made out of foam.

Frube

A surfer who does not catch a wave for the whole time they are in the water.

Grubbing

Falling off your board while surfing

Hang Ten

Riding a longboard with both feet right on the nose of the board.

Junkyard Dog

A surfer with poor style. A surfer who only surfs crappy waves.

Kook

A beginner or someone who is not very good at surfing.

Men In Grey Suits SHARKS!

Party Wave

A wave surfed by several people at once.

Raked Over

To be hammered by incoming waves while paddling out.

Sick

A term used to describe when someone does something impressive.

Stoked

Very happy.

Washing Machine

Getting spun around and around underwater by a wave.

For more surf terms check out: http://www.surfing-waves.com/surf_talk1.htm

photo by Teal Champagne

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Friday, November 20, 2009 THE BUCS’ BLADE Surfing 9

COUNTERCLOCKWISE FROM UPPER LEFT: SURF’S UP: Michigan State sophomore, Kyle Zeppenfeld, catches a wave on Lake Michigan. photo by Teal Champagne HEAD’S UP: Junior Connor Davis heads back out to catch another wave.

STOKED: Juniors Connor Davis and Elliot Karafa eagerly head into the surf. photo

by Teal Champagne NO FEAR: Grand Valley freshman, Mac Jermstad, jumps off the pier and into the water. photo by Haley Birkett AMPED: Kyle Zeppenfeld shows his excitement after riding a big wave. photo by Teal Champagne FACING THE WAVES: Junior Connor Davis prepares to duck dive into a wave. photo by Teal Champagne

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10 Editorial THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday, November 20, 2009

Teens must consider consequences Every year there are a few girls who the list of consequences, if that list is ever disappear from school. No one is sure written or even thought about. Contrary where they went, but the rumors are to popular belief sex and babies do in fact always the same. She’s pregnant. But go hand in hand, that minor detail from what we’re starting to see now are fifth grade sex education lesson should girls who don’t leave immediately after not be overlooked. becoming pregnant. They stick Now that we’ve gotten that it out until they can’t stick out of the way, look out the around anymore. classroom window across Ferris We do not condone teen Street. See the building labeled pregnancy but we support the North Ottawa Health Center? . girls in our school who are still If you so choose, take advantage attending and are preparing of the services it provides. for the overwhelming task of If you have made the raising a child. conscious thought out decision STAFF EDITORIAL Over 750,000 girls become to have sex (and we mean pregnant every year, and a thought out) decide whether few of those are at our school. Statistics you want to be responsible for the life of show that their lives and the lives of their another human. After you’ve answered children are likely to be difficult. But that no, you have two choices. information is too often after the fact.

A. Wait to have sex.

To sexually active teens, a baby is never B. Use proper preventative the goal. And chances may not be high on measures/contraceptives.

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Letters previously published, addressed to third parties or photocopied will not be published. The Bucs’ Blade can only print as many letters to the editor as space will allow. Letters should be addressed to the editor, placed in an envelope and mailed to: Bucs’ Blade c/o 17001 Ferris Grand Haven High School, placed in C.E. Sikkenga’s box in the main office or hand-delivered to Room 0205.

Staff editorials represent the collective opinion of the The Bucs’ Blade staff.

The Bucs’ Blade may be reached at the following address: Room 0205 Grand Haven High School 17001 Ferris Grand Haven, MI 49417

Although we as teenagers will always make our own choices we are far more susceptible to parent and teacher advice then we care to admit. The school should create a better program to educate students about the consequences of sex.

In addition parents need to talk with their children about sex and by extension safe sex. Only then can they hope to minimize dangerous behaviors. Some safe sex options are only available with the help of parents so communication is key.

To our peers, we remind you that abstinence is never out of the picture.No matter how awesome you think sex will make you, not doing it might be a little easier than raising a child. If waiting for marriage is not an option you could at least wait for a little more maturity and direction in your life. Or better yet get to a point where the appearance of a child in your life would be less of a burden.

Freshmen need to focus for their future now, turns out GPA matters Opinion

John Cherette Reporter I remember freshman year. I devoted 80 percent of my time to chasing girls, 10 percent to acne and voice cracks and the other 10 percent to schoolwork. I always thought freshman year didn’t matter, so I used up all available homework time on facebook and Xbox. Apparently Master Chief can’t teach algebra very well.

Grand Valley State University Admissions Counselor Ben Rhodes pointed out some key flaws in my (apparently not) ingenious study

program. middle school. They were never “It is much harder to work your challenged enough to study and way up from a freshman year with therefore never learned the study bad grades, than to maintain good skills that must become second grades,” Rhodes said. “If you start nature in high school and in off on the wrong foot freshman college. year it’s hard to get back on track.”

Freshmen just don’t realize Grand Haven High School how they do in the classes they’re Freshman taking could affect Counselor whether or not “IF YOU START OFF Steve Hewitt they’re accepted ON THE WRONG recognizes into the college FOOT FRESHMAN the problem of their choice. as well. Out They don’t know YEAR IT’S HARD TO of the 240 how important GET BACK ON TRACK” freshman year freshmen he counsels, 40 to ---GVSU Admissions really is. It’s 50 are failing not your fault Counselor Ben Rhodes at least one of freshmen, I’m just their classes, informing you. meaning roughly one in five Most kids come into freshman year freshmen are failing at least one completely unprepared for high class. school.

“I think the common problem Freshmen are offered a with freshman that struggle is freshman success class or a guided the lack of study skills and lack of study class, but not every student effort,” Hewitt said. can fit them into their busy Many freshmen just cruised schedules. The biggest problem through their three years of seems to be that freshmen

just aren’t educated on what is expected of them in high school.

There needs to be something that all freshmen can do to prepare them for high school. If freshmen were even just brought in a day or two in the summer before their ninth grade year, it could be a tremendous help. Throw in a few free t-shirts and a couple coupons and you might have a full-blown freshman convention on your hands.

As of right now freshmen, you are still pretty much on your own.

Seeing as there are two counselors for several hundred kids, some of you are going to be overlooked.

So freshmen, as you approach your first ever high school exams, think about how you want your future to go. Think about where you want to go to school or how you want to make a living. Maybe make it 10 percent chasing the opposite sex, 10 percent acne and 80 percent schoolwork. You don’t want to go from ‘stupid freshman’ to ‘super senior,’ do you?

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Friday, November 20, 2009 THE BUCS’ BLADE Opinion 11

Do students get too much homework?

Homework complaints don’t hold water especially compared to the workloads experienced by students at other local high schools

W

e all know the feeling. Once or twice every trimester we have those nights when we are overwhelmed by the two hours of homework we have and we just want to hide in a hole somewhere. Now, imagine that exact same feeling every night. Some teens don’t need to imagine it.

A lot of Grand Haven students are lucky enough to escape the dread of hour upon hour of homework. Why do we complain so much then? Look at your facebook home page on any given weekday and you’re bound to see someone complaining about the ‘stupid worksheet’ they have to do. A worksheet takes what, 20, maybe 30 minutes at a Opinion maximum? It’s a little ridiculous.

Western Michigan Christian Junior Collin Breit has it a lot tougher than most Grand Haven kids. On school nights Collin has a minimum of two and a half hours of homework to do. That’s after he gets home from golf and soccer practice. He says he doesn’t know much difference from it, because it’s always been like that.

Duke Professor Harris Cooper has conducted homework studies for over 40 years. Cooper’s studies John Cherette find that kids should have about 10 minutes of homework multiplied by their grade level per night Reporter for the most effectiveness. Meaning ninth graders would have 90 minutes per night, 10th graders would have 100 minutes and so on. Most students don’t JOHN’S VIEW have nearly this amount of homework, yet they still complain about it.

It’s not that Maybe the problem isn’t that kids have more homework then they can handle, but that kids aren’t students have pushed until it’s too late. If we think we have it tough too much now, we’re in for a wake up call. What are we going to homework. do when we’re at college reading 250 pages a night and It’s that they summarizing it into a six-page essay? don’t use their We really don’t have that much homework. Heck, a time well lot of the time I don’t have any homework. Obviously not every student is the same. We don’t all have matching classes. We don’t all have half an hour of homework per night and we don’t all have two and a half hours of homework per night. Not every student has a huge project due tomorrow and not every student just turned a project in. Just know that out there somewhere is a kid who’s spending all of their free time on homework.

The next time you wonder why the homework gods are punishing you, just realize it’s one day. One big assignment or one measly night spent doing homework. Even if you feel like you just want to crawl in a hole and never come out, the feeling will pass. Besides, you could use the time it takes to dig the hole to finish your homework anyway.

Maybe the problem isn’t that kids have more homework then they can handle, but that kids aren’t pushed until it’s too late.

Homework has its place, but when teachers pile it on it doesn’t help students achieve more and cuts into other valuable activities

I

n today’s world, a lot of parents and schools alike would prefer to see their kids fly through their high school classes, attend MIT, and move on a full ride to Harvard Medical School. In order to master these classes, they assign more homework. Maybe to much.

Today’s society has caused a lot of us to focus too much on homework, and less on other activities, like bonding with the family and extracurricular activities.

Ben Krochmal, a former student now living in North Carolina, agrees.

“I feel like a lot of teachers don’t realize that [many] students don’t have the time do lengthy assignments,” Opinion Krochmal said. “I usually spent two and a half hours on homework [at GHHS]. Even when I compare my AP English class here, to Advanced American Literature last year in Grand Haven, it’s a lot easier here. I felt I had to study a lot harder and put in more effort in order to get good grades at Grand Haven.”

Here at GHHS, many people, such as junior Trevor Dirheimer, are also involved in sports and other extracurricular activities, which require more commitment than in the past, and as a result, have a Devin Chan harder time managing homework with life outside of Reporter school.

“I’m a leader at Youth Group, so every CHAN’S VIEW Wednesday night, I have to go and help out with the kids there,” Dirheimer said. “On Thursdays, I go to Students have the church because I play on Sunday mornings in the worship bands, so that takes up my whole night too much until like 10 o’clock. So right after football, I’m going homework; to these things too. I spend the rest of my day doing studies say it homework, and it basically takes up my weekend.” doesn’t help Studies by Harris Cooper, a psychology professor them that at Duke University, found that kids who do some much anyway homework in high school score somewhat better on standardized tests, but doing more than 2 hours in high school is associated with lower scores.

Homework is good, but too much can lead to getting burned out, depriving students of sleep that is essential (a treasure I never get), and loss of interest in studying, which basically is loss of the importance of learning.

The amount of time spent on homework has further increased as a result of lack of understanding in a subject, often due to method of teaching or lack of help. The commonly accepted practice known, where 10 minutes of additional homework is given as a student moves up a grade should be applied. To reach this goal, teachers must be willing to help students if there are questions on a lesson, rather than leave them spending an extra two hours on homework.

Likewise, students must not be afraid to ask questions.So take action.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions about the lesson or homework, if you learn to communicate with teachers everyone’s lives will be made easier.

12 Opinion THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday, November 20, 2009

Remember Nick Roush, Remember the War Opinion Mike Ginocchio Reporter

Living in the 21st century can be a hassle, especially if you watch the news. Stories are discovered, reported, and then beaten to death by every possible network with every possible angle that you can imagine. And then, once the story has been milked for all it’s worth, the next big thing quickly and quietly replaces it. A political or celebrity scandal, the health care debate, swine flu, even the balloon boy and his family are a result of the endless 24-hour news cycle.

It makes it easy to forget certain things, like the war in Afghanistan and Iraq. I had for the most part forgotten that as well, until seeing something I’ll never forget.

It was a beautiful Friday, my dad and I were working around the house, but something in the news that morning made us change our plans. A soldier named Nick Roush who was from West Michigan had been killed in Afghanistan, and his body was being brought home that day.

The thing that caught my dad’s attention, however, was that the family had asked for anyone that wanted to attend to stand along

the highway that the procession would travel.

That was how I found myself in the car with my dad, driving east to Middleton, about ten miles from the Grand Rapids Airport.

As we made small talk to pass the time, a flood of questions went through my head. Who was Nick Roush? What should I do when we get there? What is it going to be like? I had never been to a procession before. I hadn’t even been to a funeral for someone I knew. I felt out of place.

We chose a spot along the highway, close enough to the airport to see planes flying in and out. Along the side, officials went back and forth, setting up roadblocks to keep other traffic from moving. Along the edge as far as we could see there were people. Some were even standing on the median. Everyone had some kind of flag or piece of equipment that had U.S. colors, their way of showing respect. We had brought our house flag, and terrified of losing it, I put a death grip on the corners.

For maybe 20 to 25 minutes, we stood there, waiting. Then we saw it. Coming around the corner

from the intersection ahead of us were cars. Immediately, it became quiet as the motorcade passed by. Even the cars that had been stopped on the other side of the highway were emptied as their drivers paid respects.

After a few minutes, a black limo drove in front of us, with a large group of family members sobbing inside. There came a black hearse, a coffin inside with the American flag draped over it. The sight of the solemn car and the complete silence was a haunting experience that I will never forget. Eventually, the crowd of cars passed, and the gathered mourners quietly left. It had been raining the whole time.

It can be easy to get caught up in the endless media cycle of stories that, at the end of the day, don’t really affect us that much. But for the sake of people like Nick Roush, we shouldn’t forget about the war, regardless of whether or not we agree with the basis of starting it or even the very thought of war itself. At the end of the day, our soldiers are still out there, fighting to defend their country. That’s what’s really important.

Find the facts and then make your argument Opinion

Kailin VanOordt Reporter Let’s admit it, politics is not a subject that most high school students put a lot of thought in to. However, many students still seem to have very strong opinions about their political affiliations.

Oftentimes these opinions are not well-informed, educated ideas but are only the reiterated ideas of what students hear at home.

Government teachers all agree; many students are simply clueless when it comes to politics, and

more specifically, belonging to a political party.

Many students are in fact clueless as to what being a democrat or a republican really means. Here is a short list of issues and a quiz; take a look and see where you fall.

Take our quiz to find out where you fall on our political scale. Answer 5 for strongly agree, 4 for moderately agree, 3 no opinion, 2 moderately disagree, and 1 for strongly disagree.

After you have taken the quiz think about where you ended up.

Did you end up where you thought you would? Now that you know where you fall on our political line, research what party you truly belong to. And think about that before you jump into an arguement with a person who did their research.

Any of the government teachers can educate you on your party and make sure you don’t become the obnoxious no it all who is actualy borderline clueless.

Defense Spending: U.S. must maintain a strong defense by spending for new weapons and military.

5 4 3 2 1 Use of American Troops: America is not the worlds policeman. Our troops should not be used for humanitarian interventions.

5 4 3 2 1 Immigration: The U.S should workto retract and limit immigration especialy people from certain areas of the world.

5 4 3 2 1 The Environment: Environment laws all too strict, needlessly restricting economic growth.

5 4 3 2 1 Health Care: Covernmant should stay out of ensuring no cost health care for all Americans.

5 4 3 2 1 Tax Policy: Progressive taxes (more you make, the more you pay) are unfair.

5 4 3 2 1

Abortion: Abortion is murder and should be outlawed.

5 4 3 2 1 School Prayer: Silent prayer should be a part of the public are the best way to reduce crime.

5 4 3 2 1 Crime Control: Increased mandatory sentencing and more police are the best way to reduce crime.

5 4 3 2 1 Gun Control: Owning handguns and other weapons are a Constitutional right and should not be.

5 4 3 2 1 Education: Increased competition would be best for everyong and would improve schools.

5 4 3 2 1 Welfare: Programs are too expensice and create a dependant class of people. People should be forced to work.

5 4 3 2 1 Affermative Action: Is unfair to the majority o f Americans.

5 4 3 2 1

Trade Policy: Government should put in place protective tariffs and persuade public to buy American.

5 4 3 2 1 Privatizing Social Security: The government should allow people to invest their social security on their own.

5 4 3 2 1 Stem Cell Research: Should be strongly limited because it goes against Creation and harvests human embryos.

5 4 3 2 1 Homeland Security: The government should be allowed to take whatever steps necessary to protect the U.S. and its interested even if this means a slight limiting of rights.

5 4 3 2 1 Add up your answers for the questions. Reactionary (21-17), Liberal (42-28), Moderate (5943), Conservative (74-60), Radical (85-75)

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Friday, November 20, 2009

THE BUCS’ BLADE Boomerang 13

Boomerang helps juniors find careers

COUNTERCLOCKWISE FROM TOP: CAREER CHOICES: Juniors Riley Clark, Charlie Cuddington, and Evan Draft fill out papers about potential post-high school career choices. photo by Teal Champagne BONES: Dr. Kellen Brusveen helps juniors Kenzie Yoas and Laura Kooistra learn about the chiropractic business. photo by Haley Birkett PICTURE PERFECT: Junior Molly Gancarz gets some helpful photography advice from Craig Watson Photography. photo by Teal Champagne

TEAL CHAMPAGNE Photo/Design Editor

Boomerang is a special event for juniors to help them find possible careers in the Grand Haven area. Each student was given a worksheet where they had to visit three different stations that appealed to them personally. They were to introduce themselves and ask the business representative some questions about the skills needed to do their job and what job opportunities there are. The boomerang motto is, “Fly, Learn, Return.”

The goal is to make students aware of jobs in our area so that after college they will come back, which will help our economy.

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14 Inside THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday November 20, 2009

Bob

the Janitor Hager retires after 33 years of working as a night janitor at GHHS MOLLIE LABEFF Reporter

Bob Hager slowly pushes his cumbersome gray cart through the quiet, dark halls. The masses of students remain oblivious as the custodian puts in his hours, working the night shift from 7 p.m. to 3:30am. He often goes unnoticed as he ambles through the music wing, picking up loose flyers and discarded pencils.

It’s been this way for 11 years, but according to Hager, he “wouldn’t trade this job for any job in the world.”

He wouldn’t trade it for privileges he’s had in higher profile jobs.

“The things I’ve Not for cleanseen and the people ing up after a I’ve met. It’s just Sheryl Crow concert, or amazing.” opening a ga -- Bob Hager rage door for Bob Hope’s limousine.

Not for sitting down for orange juice and a bologna sandwich with Willie Nelson, or shaking President Ford’s hand.

He wouldn’t trade it because of all the ‘thank-yous’, acts of appreciation from students, or an excellent staff to work with and a boss who respects him.

He wouldn’t trade it because of how he found inspiration from young people at a depressing time three years ago, when opening the door to the Performing Arts Center and hearing the voices of the choir ringing throughout the music wing.

He wouldn’t trade it because of the happy retirement that lies ahead, spoiling his grandchildren, spending time in the library and visiting every Major League Baseball field in America.

But Bob Hager doesn’t have to trade. He’s already gained everything throughout his 33 long years in the custodial field.

“The things I’ve seen and the people I’ve met,” Hager said. “It’s just amazing.”

Height:

6’4

Favorite movie: The Proposal

Freshman: Abby Cole

Your hero: “Gabrielle Reece is a good role model and sets a great example for this whole generation of women athletes.”

First crush: “I had a crush on Alec Shroeder in kindergarten. He moved to Florida in fifth grade though.”

Favorite city to visit: West Palm Beach, Fl. Most played song on your iPod: Tic Toc

Fondest memory: “Making varsity volleyball. I’m not a little freshman.”

Number of siblings: “Three. Fifth grade identical twins and a brother in sixth grade.

It’s fun having twin siblings in the family.

When they were little we couldn’t tell them apart. We still mix them up but they are used to it.”

Favorite sport: Volleyball Status: single

If you could go anywhere for college: “Stanford or Pepperdine for volleyball.”

If you could trade places with anyone for one day: “Candice Parker, because she is an amazing basketball player.”

Biggest Pet Peeve: “When people have really long, dirty

finger nails.”

CAMILLE JOHNSON Reporter

Shoe size: 10

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16 Inside THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday, November 20, 2009

“

THIS WILL BE

MY biggest

I’ve never

had anyone

KALI REA Reporter

look at me the way people look

“It was the first time we actually had sex that I got pregnant,” said Chelsea Lamadline, 18, of Grand Haven High School.

That one time changed Lamadline’s life forever.

“At first I was getting kind of scared because of the fact that I didn’t have my period,” said Lamadline. “I was freaking out and just in case I went to Meijer and took the test and it came out positive and I just immediately dropped to my knees and started crying.”

Lamadline isn’t an isolated case. According to U.S statistics, 750,000 teens between the ages 15-19 become pregnant each year. Almost thirty percent of these pregnancies are terminated in abortion. For the others, the girl dilemmas of what to wear to school that will be cute and hide normal fat becomes what to wear that EVERYONE will hide their pregnant belly. It’s a large problem. As a country, U.S teen pregnancy rates are higher HAS PROBLEMS than those in developed countries such as England and Wales that we double in teen pregnancy rates.

THAT COME American youths exceed the teen pregnancy rates in Japan by eight times.

When Lamadline found out, she was already five weeks in, she told her mom right away.

UP WITH THIER “I’m with [living with] my mom right now but she’s kicking me out when I have the CHILD. BUT NO baby,” Lamadline said. “It hurts, it hurts a lot. But I guess it’s just…it’s my choice obviMATTER WHAT ously that I want to keep the baby. She’s just a little shaken up still.”

THEY DO OR Tammy Lamadline, Chelsea’s mom, was initially not pleased with the situation, but said that now it is a fact and they will deal with it the best they WHAT HAPPENS can. Tammy feels it was her job as Chelsea’s parent to get her on the IN LIFE THEY pill but she didn’t. She says the pregnancy has been a very emotional ARE STILL YOUR experience for the both of them, and they still consider adoption as a possibility. She supports Chelsea but they live in a small house and CHILD AND there isn’t a sufficient amount of space for her, her son, Chelsea THEY NEED and the baby.

YOUR UNCON“Everyone has problems that come up with their child,” DITIONAL LOVE. said Tammy. “But no matter what they do or what happens in life they are still your child and they need your uncondi-- Tammy tional love.”

Lamadline Aborting the baby was never an option for Lamadline.

Though her initial response was shock, she will stick by what she feels.

“I believe that under certain circumstances if you honestly feel that [abortion is] the only way out, then I think that you can do that,” said Lamadline. “But for me that’s just not what I believe. It was my mess up, my mistake, and I feel responsible for it so I will be responsible and take care of my child. It’s my own flesh and blood you know what I mean?”

“My mom and my sister both got pregnant really, really young. At least I was older when I got pregnant not fourteen or fifteen.” said Lamadline. “But I kind of understand why my mom feels the way feels because she doesn’t want the same thing for me that her and her sister had. But then again you have to think; on my part I didn’t have the best role models growing up.”

Lamadline will go and live with her boyfriend once the baby is born, who is still a little shaky about the situation himself.

When Lamadline’s boyfriend, Josh Smith, first found out about the pregnancy, he was shocked and scared. He says he isn’t ready to be a dad yet, but he feels if his mom and dad managed to get through the same kind of situation when they were 16 and 17, then he can too. He’s excited about Chelsea coming to live with him and has been planning it out for a while.

Smith never considered leaving Chelsea because of the pregnancy.

“I figure if I make the baby I might as well stay there,” Smith said.

Like any female carrying her unborn child, nausea, difficulty with movement, special diets, fatigue and other responsibilities are part of the daily routine for the typical nine months. After that time it is a whole new world of children and responsibilities.

Although pregnant teens face an uphill battle, there are resources to help.

Counselor Claudia Phipps provides advice and information to pregnant teens. She also makes sure parents are aware of the situation and that they have knowledge of community resources. Phipps can explain options and advise teens to go to a doctor if they haven’t done so. If a couple splits, the father of the baby is required by law to pay child support until the child reaches eighteen.

“

at me and whisper to each other about me. I

understand that your

morals may be different than

”

mine, I got into a bad situation and I made a mistake. The

mistake is my own and I will do

”

what i need to do.

- CHELSEA LAMADLINE

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Friday, November 20, 2009 THE BUCS’ BLADE Feature 17

DUE DATE

that will change my life forever.

Phipps believes that girls usually have a lot of pressure to keep the baby, while many of them don’t usually grasp the concept of actually having a child.

Phipps helps in many ways. One teen came to Phipps and explained that her mom was trying to force her to have an abortion. Phipps called the Children’s Advocacy Office in Lansing and proved the mom had no . Phipps had a policeman explain this to the mom and the teen went to live with the baby’s father.

The main office offers many pamphlets on infant health programs, fatherhood, health insurance, DNA paternity testing, pregnancy centers offering help, STD facts and so on. Information such as this can help pregnant teens plan and have a better chance of getting an education and a job.

English teacher Janna Serniak became pregnant during the spring break of her high school senior year. She strongly encourages teens with children to get an education.

Eight months after she had her son she went to college.

“I took 20 credits at Hope and worked two jobs,” Serniak said. “It was ungodly.”

But she stresses the fact that although it’s difficult, getting an education is essential.

“Its what you do for your kids,” said Serniak who will earn her Ph.D this spring.

Lamadline plans on finishing high school and considers college a possibility, although the reaction she gets from other students doesn’t always make school a comfortable environment.

“I’ve never had anyone look at me the way people look at me and whisper to each other about me,” said Lamadline. “I feel like, I understand that your morals may be different than mine, but I got into a bad situation and I made a mistake. The mistake is my own and I will do what I need to do.

“Some people treat me the same, some people don’t,” Lamadline said. “But it’s high school, people are going to say stuff and I have to be mature for my child. I really don’t let it phase me. If you’re going to be immature that’s perfectly fine, just don’t bring it around me.”

Recent films like Juno provide some degree of comfort.

“It helps me feel like I’m not the only person out there and that there are other people that know what I’m going through that have to go through the same thing every day,” Lamadline said. “They get looked at the same way and they get talked about and talked to the same way. We get called whores, skanks and all this other stuff all the time.”

The most important thing to Lamadline is that she can wake up and decide what’s best for her and her baby.

“It’s not like you can just have a baby and whenever you’re done with it it’s just gone,” said Lamadline. “You’re going to have to take care of it every day every second it’s going to be there. I guess some people just don’t understand that. But I had to take that into consideration and a lot of people don’t. A lot of people are just like oh I’m going to have a baby and everything is going to be fine. They just don’t get it.”

Lamadline is scared and excited about having her baby, and though she feels happy about being pregnant, that doesn’t mean she wouldn’t take it back if she could. She feels she is too young and vulnerable to everything, but she also knows that she has to deal with the consequences even if that means raising a child.

“

It’s not like you can just have a baby and whenever you’re done with it it’s just gone,” said Lamadline.

“You’re going to have to take care of it every day every second it’s going to be there. I guess some people just don’t understand that. But I had to take that into consideration and a lot of people don’t.

- - Chelsea Lamadline

”

Pregnancy FACTS Every year in the United States, approximately 750,000 to 850,000 teenage women between the ages of 15 and 19 become pregnant.

Only 77% of children born to teen parents will recieve a high school diploma compared to 89% of children born to older parents.

Children of teen mothers are more likley than those born to older mothers to experience adolescent childbearing, homelessness, juvenile delinquency, and incarceration.

23,000 or 5% of children born to teen mothers will end up in foster care, partly due to higher rates of abuse.

Fathers are less likely to be in the same home as children of teen parents than homes of older parents.

illustration by Teal Champagne

“I love being pregnant, I love knowing that there’s something growing inside of me,” said Lamadline. “It feels good every day I wake up and I know it’s just another day towards the day that I get to meet my child. And that means a lot to me.”

As maternal age increases, the likelihood that the child lives with both biological parents increases as well. for more information visit: HealthyTeenNetwork.com

18 Feature THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday November 20, 2009

like father like son

My Life Grace Sterenberg

Just one of those weeks We all have our moments, sometimes our days, and every so often we

have an entire week where nothing can go right. It’s like all of the stresses in your life decide to gang up and are on a mission to take you down by all means necessary.

Monday mornings was a little rough, especially when told that exams were two weeks away. “They” always say that your senior year passes by in a flash, but who ever thought “they” were actually right.

I got home and collapsed onto the couch next to my sister, she immediately began sharing her day with me...Turns out student teaching in a second grade classroom yields a lot of share-worthy stories.

“We have been over there to visit them in Croatia four times, Fran is just like another grandson to us.” --Rose Currier STUDY UP: Croatian exchange student Fran Samardzic does homework at the Currier family kitchen table. Samardzic is staying with Bill and Rose Currier, the same family his father stayed with during the 1983 school year. photo by Megan Birkett

After 26 years GH exchange student follows father’s footsteps MEGAN BIRKETT Editor-in-Chief In 1983 Josip Samardzic of Croatia studied at Grand Haven as an exchange student in the home of Rose and Bill Currier.

26 years later his son Fran is experiencing a more than similar experience, living with the Curriers as their second student.

“We participated [in the exchange program] the first time with Fran’s dad because we thought it would be a unique experience for our children who were in school at the time,” Rose said. “Now we are retired and we told [Fran’s] dad that we would let him come as well long ago and now he’s here.”

The families made an effort to stay in touch with one another throughout the years.

“They have come to visit us more than one time in Croatia,

plus I had been to the United Stated one time 10 years ago,” Samardzic said. “It made me less nervous about spending the year here.”

Samardzic is living in a completely different environment than he his used to at in Croatia, here it’s like being an only child with much stricter parenting.

“My host parents are older than my real mom and dad,” Samardzic said. “In Croatia I’m allowed to go out whenever I want to, my mom never asks me ‘what time did you get home last night’ or anything like that. Here I don’t have a car and I live far away from things. It makes it hard to get places so i dont go out much.”

The Curriers are aware that it is an unusual lifestyle for Fran.

“The biggest difference for him I think is that in Croatia he is pretty much able to go freely,” Currier said. “We don’t really know many people around here anymore and where he is from his family is well known, so that is a change for Fran.”

Samardzic has taken this fathers advice to get involved in extracurricular activities, he played on the varsity soccer team and trying out for basketball.

“I don’t play soccer competitively in Croatia, but everyone plays for fun there,” Samardzic said. “My dad played when he came here and he told me it would be a good way to make friends, so I played too.

Practice wasn’t very fun, so much running, but I liked our games.”

He particularly liked one game.

“It was cool to play East Kentwood,” Samardzic said.

“They had players from my country, so I could speak my language with them.”

Soccer was a good way to fill up the extra time Samardzic finds himself with after school in the Currier household.

“We don’t really do very much, just hang out at home watching TV and things,” Samardzic said.

The Curriers recognize a lot of Fran’s father in him, and truly enjoy having Fran as a part of their home.

“We definitely see his dad in him,” Rose said. “He is funny and quiet yet willing to participate with whatever we do as a family, we have been over there to visit them in Croatia four times, Fran is just like another grandson to us.”

“So I think I have head lice,” she starts. Scratching her head the whole time, she tells me about one of her students who came to school after just having her mother pick the tiny eggs out of her hair. Ew. I looked forward to dance, It’s relaxing and helps get my mind off Monday. “We’re going to start preparing for our performance tonight!” Performance? Say what?!

This led to a night of learning steps I’d never even heard of, along with blaring crazy fast Nutcracker music that seemed to be judging me as much as the beating eyes of my instructor and fellow ballerinas. I just hoped tomorrow would be an easier day.

For the most part it was, until disaster struck. As most overstressed teenagers have probably found, having a lot on your mind can make everything seem so much more difficult. Apparently for me, this includes driving. Yes, I crashed my parents’ new car into an unlucky friend who happened to be driving in front of me last Tuesday. With a sore neck, a $90 ticket, two points on my license, ticked off parents and a lack of car under my belt, I couldn’t imagine my week getting any worse. I really need to stop saying things like that…

Wednesday I looked forward to mind-numbing work packaging peanut brittle or maybe some chocolate-dipped treats for four hours. It would be tonight that half of Grand Haven would want ice cream from our usually deserted treat shop. We got out late, but it gave my mother (my mom picked me up) time to pick up my crying bloody brother from a church function after he had gotten decked in the face by some angry eighth grader.

Thursday was the icing on top of my burnt cupcake of a week. “Uh… mom! I think something’s wrong with your water bed!” Yes that’s right, my parents still have a waterbed. The bed how ever had sprung a leak, leaving everything soaked. My mom frantically brought a yard hose up to her bedroom, attached it to the bed and threw the rest out the window where my brother helped her start a siphon. There we sat for two hours while the bed drained. Eventually the bed got down to a less intimidating size, so we contemplated the easiest way to remove it from our house. Our only idea? Throw it out the window. What followed cannot be described by anything but a complete mess. Water leaked all over us, and mother got her leg caught in the hose as we tried to shove it out the window. It soon fell in a giant splash in our bushes, all we could do was laugh.

Tomorrow would be Friday the 13th, and all I could do was hope my luck would change.

1

Friday, November 20, 2009 THE BUCS’ BLADE Feature 19

Cool Beans Alida Boon

Falling in love between a strip club and a laundromat

SANTERIA: Sophomore, Elijah Russ chills on the front lawn of GHHS while performing the song Santeria by Sublime for his good friends.

Photo by Mollie LaBeff

‘

He calls himself a typical teenager MOLLIE LABEFF Reporter For many teens, spending a Saturday with parents means enduring lame board games and listening to stories starting with the infamous “when I was your age…” But for freshman Elijah Russ, Saturdays are an opportunity to jam with his dad, Lew Russ, who is a professional musician in the West Michigan area. They play guitar and sing together at Old Boys Brew House as well as in Saginaw.

“One of Elijah’s summer jobs was [playing every other Thursday with me] at Old Boys in Spring Lake,” Lew Russ said. “I hired him to be my second guitarist on some of the Thursdays to help him get exposure and experience playing in public.”

Sophomore Schalk Vanniekerk says Elijah Russ is very talented and really into his music.

“Over the summer he dropped skating and picked up music,” Vanniekerk said. “He’s really good and he can play a lot of instruments.”

Sophomore Mollie LaBeff finds his music interests very unique.

“He shows me real cool music,” LaBeff said. “He comes up with the most random artists that no ones ever heard.

I showed him a rap song once and he wasn’t very happy about that. He ran over to the iHome and unplugged it.”

Local bands are Elijah Russ’ biggest influence, as well as musician B.B. King.

“Tyler Appel and his band [inspire me],” Elijah Russ said, “[so did] Garrett [Borns] when he was in Follow Suit.”

Elijah Russ is a guitarist in a new local punk band, The Homeless Kids, along with sophomores Xander Shively, John Lahr and Vanniekerk.

“We’re trying to make it different in Grand Haven,” Elijah Russ said. “[Mostly] everyone else is screamo and we’re trying to break it up.”

’

Elijah Russ says the band doesn’t like to write about random subjects, they write about the problems they see going on around them.

Elijah says that people aren’t satisfied with who they are. This idea is reflected in their song Static saying “we don’t wanna glow, we wanna shine.”

Vanniekerk says the band uses a lot of metaphors to describe how they feel, like in The Tree Song. “[The song says] ‘as the rain comes to wash away the pain of another year.’ It’s about when John’s uncle died of cancer and how he felt about it,” Elijah Russ said.

Elijah’s problems are reflected in his lyrics, which, unlike many teens, don’t revolve around girls and love.

“I’m too lame for a girlfriend,” Elijah Russ said lightheartedly.

He is fun and loves to joke around, especially with his best friend, LaBeff.

“I try not to take everything too seriously,” he said. “[LaBeff and I] just sit and laugh, and watch iCarly. It’s a good time.”

Elijah Russ calls himself a ‘typical teenager’. “[My friends and I] like going downtown like any normal teen,” Elijah Russ said. “I love coffee. Anywhere there’s coffee that’s where I’m at.”

Being a typical boy, Elijah Russ also loves food.

“I’ll eat anything,” Elijah Russ said. “If you give me food I’m your friend. I love McDonald’s, I try to eat it everyday but when I can’t I just eat crap at home.”

Vanniekerk likes that Elijah Russ is always very modest. Elijah Russ doesn’t notice this quality, he just likes to have a good time playing music and hanging out with his friends.

“I think it’s sweet,” Vanniekerk said. “He doesn’t think of himself higher than anyone.”

On Nov. 2, at 10 minutes after nine, I feel in love.

Not with a kid in my grade, a Hollywood hottie or even a new favorite food. I fell in love with the taste of a grungy concert.

Since the my freshman year when I accidentally stumbled upon the heavenly music of O.A.R while browsing YouTube, I have had a favorite band. So, when I found out that O.A.R was coming to the Devos Performance Hall, I knew I had to get to that concert.

The roadblock seemed to be getting permission from my parents (as I had never been allowed before) and, finding a kindred soul to transport me because driving myself was obviously out of the question.

Eventually luck turned my way and after deep consideration it was decided that I could attend the concert so long as my brother Arie was there as a chaperone.

The night of the event, we arrived at Devos shortly ahead of schedule. Since I had been there for an orchestra concert I was relatively certain what to expect: old ushers and softly cushioned seating. However, when we got there it was empty. No cars, no excited crowd, nothing, only a single man in the ticket booth.

For me, the best decision in this scenario is to panic, let my voice raise five octaves and ramble on pointlessly about possible explanations. Thankfully, Arie would have none of this and demanded that I ask the man in the ticket booth what was going on. Mr. Ticket Booth quickly shot down my suspicions that the whole band had caught swine flu and died--they’d just moved the show to the Orbit Room.

Located between a laundromat and a strip club the Orbit Room looks more like somewhere I would go if I wanted to be mugged or murdered than a place to jam to my favorite band.

By the time the opening band screeched to a halt, tired feet had forced us to sit down in the balcony. But the music was too much and we just had to stand and dance. I got into my grove and was singing high decibels when I heard Arie burst into laughter.

“What,” I demanded.

“You dance like an idiot,” he shouted over the music.

And I laughed too, it’s true, I dance like an idiot but, I was in my own little world and nothing much mattered except that my favorite tunes were blasting and my eyes were glued on the band.

The rest of the concert was a daze of happiness. I had never heard so much amazing non stop, heart pounding, wreck your hearing music. Or seen my favorite band in person and I had definitely never chanted the name Jerry (only the best saxophone player ever) over and over with a crowd of insanely intoxicated individuals. Or had I seen so many people legitimately smoking weed right in public or heard so many drunken tales from random strangers trying to make me believe that they could beat Tiger Woods in golf. Put all this together and you have found my true love, smacked down between Kim’s Laundromat and a strip club.

20 Bucket List THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday, November 20, 2009

Songs on repeat Repeat REPEAT...

Reporter Devin Chan investigates why radio stations seem to play the same few songs over and over again

E

ver gone on a long car ride somewhere and heard the same song played a billion different times on a radio station, and then turned to your iPod or CD player?

Chances are, your answer is probably yes.

I had the mindset that radio stations did in fact play songs repetitively. Even more so, I wondered if there was anyway of stopping radio stations from playing the type of songs with nonsense lyrics, like “Crank That,” by Soulja Boy, over and over, and instead introduce a new variety of music to those stations. I got the chance to interview Gravy from 105.3 HOT FM, who has been in the radio station business for 11 years, and got the answers to my questions.

The common reason of why a lot radio stations don’t have many choices in songs is because each station has a playlist based on their research of the songs people like.

You know how the song, “Fireflies”, by Owl City is played so much? Turns out it’s the most requested song on 105.3. Radio stations play songs listeners are more likely

to tune in to, rather than a song they have never heard of.

“I don’t add a record just because I like it,” Gravy said. “I’m not a Jonas Brothers’ fan, but it would be suicide for us not to play the Jonas Brothers. Or Miley Cyrus.

If we didn’t play Miley Cyrus, Party In the USA, that’s one of the top songs in the country right now, I can’t say, ‘Oh, well I’m not a Miley Cyrus fan, so I’m not going to play it.’ Because it’s not about me, it’s about the listeners and what they want.”

But new music is discovered for listeners in many ways.

“There’s all sorts of ways to access music,” Gravy said. “Sometimes it’ll be a song maybe I haven’t heard of, but due to technology, and the way songs are out there, listeners will mention it to me sometimes. Or I’ll go to certain websites where record companies will hook on to certain websites they know that radio stations go to, to look at what new songs are out there, or send [the radio stations] CD’s in the mail. Or I’ll go to a concert and hear a song, and like it.”

Just because the radio show host likes the song, however, doesn’t necessarily mean it will be played on the radio, as it has to fit certain criteria. But to sum it up: One, it has to have a good sound quality.

Two, people have to request it. Three, it has to fit the type of music of the station (as in no Lil’ Jon on 92.1WGHN). Last, the band or artist has to be signed to a record label Gravy has this advice for anyone who wants to dream big and get his or her song on the radio.

“Everybody is going to come up to me and tell me their stuff is the greatest,” Gravy said. “You know, in fact, I like it better when people don’t tell me that.

When people tell me, ‘Oh this is hot stuff,’ I’m like, Oh, great. We can’t just play anything off the streets, because it just doesn’t fit with what the competition is doing at the time. What the bands need to realize is that its not just about getting played on the radio. Keep hitting the streets hard and promoting yourself, do concerts, and build followers.”

What’s On Your Bucket List?

Grace Sterenberg “A bucket list is something completely personal that every person should take the time to do. It’s a constant reminder that gives an extra boost to keep us all moving forward despite our sometimes pointless feeling lives.”

1. See the Eiffel Tower 2. Get a pilot’s license 3. Read the Bible, Torah, and Koran in their entirety 4. Become fluent in another language 5. Write for a major newspaper or magazine

Instead of currently popular songs, listen to these songs that aren’t as well known: Instead of this: You Found Me – The Fray Try this: Your Guardian Angel – The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus Instead of this: Gives You Hell – The All-American Rejects Try this: You’re Gonna Go Far, Kid – The Offspring Instead of this: Shake My – Three 6 Mafia Try this: Party People – Nelly ft. Fergie Instead of this: Miss Independent – Ne-Yo Try this: Green Light – John Legend ft. Andre 3000

TEAL CHAMPAGNE Photo/Design Editor

Angel Dean Run a marathon English teacher Angel Dean never thought she would run a marathon, not to mention finish the second one faster than the first.

“I never thought I could run more than three miles at a time,” Dean said, “Eventually, I changed my mind and I did it…I’m really proud of that accomplishment.”

She originally started training for the Riverbank run around February of two years ago.

“It really was a bucket list thing,” Dean said, “I thought, ‘Now is the time if I’m going to train for a marathon’, which is something I’ve always wanted to do, ‘I’ll just start now.’

Along with running, she also humorously describes another passion of hers.

“All I’ve ever wanted to be is a teacher,” Dean said, “I’m just in awe that I’ve been able to realize this dream of imparting the joys of literature onto the young minds of the teenage population.”

“I NEVER THOUGHT THAT I WOULD RUN A MARATHON AND I RAN TWO.” 1

1

22 Music THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday, November 20, 2009

Potter’s Playlist November’s theme: Workout songs that get you pumped up and inspired even on dreary days.

Dancefloor Anthem by Good Charlotte gets you angry and simply shouting the chorus doesn’t always cut it, so you have to release your anger physically.

Headstrong by Trapt gives off the “I’m better than you” vibe. It makes you feel invincible.

Flipside by The Click Five has a happy beat that puts you in a positive attitude for working out. It changes tempo through the song so you can pace your runs – fast or slow depending on what part of the song you’re at.

Hell Song by Sum 41 begins with a steady, heavy drive that stays constant through the song, Its perfect for running.

Falling Down by Atreyu. Channel the anger from the song into your workout.

Don’t Slow Down by Matt & Kim. The name sums it up. It keeps you going.

False Pretense by The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus. Turn it up and block out the world.

Never Forget Me by Bone Thugs-NHarmony feat. Akon. It reminds me of the “Rocky” instrumentals.

Teenagers by My Chemical Romance. The angrier you get, the harder you push yourself.

Rock Superstar by Cypress Hill is perfect to get “in the zone” before a big game.

To be Loved by Papa Roach. “I never give in. I never give up. I want domination.” The lyrics say it all.

Can’t Be Touched by Roy Jones Jr has that cocky edge that we all need every once in a while. It’s the perfect pre-game song.

Staff Picks A SONG...

TO GO TO SLEEP: Say Yes! To Michigan! by Sufjan Stevens. Relaxing melody mixed with soft vocals puts me to sleep. (John Cherette) TO CALM YOU DOWN: Keep Breathing by Ingrid Michaelson. It helps put your stressful situations in perspective, and gives you just the right advice you need to get through things without falling apart. (Grace Sterenberg) FOR CHILLING: I will possess your Heart by Death Cab for Cutie. It is a long song and the actual lyrics to the song don’t start till later in the song. Which allows you some time to just think and at the same time not think at all. (Noah Thelen) WHEN YOU’RE LOW: Burn by Ray LaMontagne.

This mellow poetic song is great to listen to in depressed moods. It’s very serene and deep. (Kali Rea)

THAT I GREW UP WITH: Brown Eyed Girl by Van Morrison. As a child we lived in Indiana and with family in Michigan, we took many road trips. My older brother and I used to beg our parents to play this song over and over. I now realize I have ruined this song for them, and for that I apologize. (Cam Hewitt) WHEN YOU’RE HAPPY: You make my dreams come true by Hall and Oates. I love this song because it just makes you want to break out in a High School Musical dance. The beat of the song makes you want to bob your head to the side like the Pepsi Max commercials and stroll to the rhythm. (Haley Birkett) TO BOOST YOUR SELF CONFIDENCE: Sexy Back

by Justin Timberlake. Sing it in the shower (if nobody can hear you). Sing it in the car (if there is no one else in it). Sing it at school (out loud so you embarrass yourself and I can laugh at you).

Go ahead, boost your mojo.

(Devin Chan)

THAT MAKES ME LAUGH: Say Hey (I Love You) by Michael Franti. I love this song. Whenever I hear it, it puts a smile on my face. (Teal Champagne) WHEN YOU’RE DOWN AND OUT: Kick Push by Lupe Fiasco. This is that song that can get you back on your feet when you’re down. Listen to the lyrics and you will realize that we all have bad days and its only going to get better.

(Ethan Beswick) FOR WATCHING THE SUNRISE: The Creek Drank the Cradle by Iron and Wine. Soulful playing and a soft voice make this album peaceful and soothing while still a bit melancholy…perfect for starting the day on a hopeful note.

(Kailin VanOordt) THAT GETS STUCK IN MY HEAD: I Got Love by Nate Dogg. This song has a great beat to break it down to whenever… wherever.

And I can understand the words its not all mumble jumble. (Camille Johnson)

Friday, November 20, 2009 THE BUCS’ BLADE Technology 23

Helping you survive life’s troubles, one app at a time

Face the facts, iPod’s are working their way into everyday life, having the latest apps has become a necessity, artist Scott Deater has done research, checked out the App Store on iTunes, and now presents the most needed apps available for the iPod Touch and iPhone Safari - Free Need to get online but have no computer access, use Safari.

Safari is the Internet browsing app for the iPod Touch. It lets you search the web, get on youtube and check your mail.

As long all as you have a WI-FI connection you’re free to surf.

Doodle Jump - .99 Beware this game is insanely addictive. At one point this year this app was the top paid arcade game in the US. The game is basically jumping, but is a great waste of time. If your class is just boring, this will surely pass the time.

Sportacular - 1.99 Love sports? Like to stay on top of the latest news? This could possibly be the best sportsrelated app for the iPod Touch. It gives you fast access to scores, standings, statistics, and news from MLB, NFL, NHL, MLS, NCAA, PGA and more. This app is can also be used to track your favorite players and fantasy team.

Livestrong- Calorie Tracker - 2.99 Have you ever wondered how many calories are on the in the plate you are about to order? This app lets you track how much calories, fat, carbohydrate and protein intake with just a touch of a button.

Fantastic Contraption - 4.99 For all you parents and teachers who say video games rot your brain, this one doesn’t. In this game you have to use your knowledge to get to the next level. The whole premise of this game is to get an object from point A to point B. The twist is that you have to design a contraption to get it there. The game poses many challenges and is not for the feeble minded.

Touchgrind - 4.99 For all you skaters out there who dread not being able to ride your skateboard during school, or maybe you just don’t have the coordination to do so. This app can get you through the day. Play online to build your trick score. If you’re good, you get ranked among the worlds finest Touchgrind players.

Cube Runner II - 2.99 The game is simple navigate through the cubes, but it can lead to serious aggression.

Who doesn’t like an addicting game were you keep trying to beat your high score. Sorry though, if you lose its back to the beginning.

Where do the owners stand?

White Noise - 1.99 Have trouble sleeping? Need help winding down at night?

This app has all the calming sounds to put you in that deep sleep. Just plug your iPod into your speakers or stereo and drift away.

“I LIKE DOODLE JUMP BECAUSE IT IS VERY CHALLENGING, AND I LOVE TO HEAD UP A CHALLENGE. IT’S A GREAT GAME TO PLAY IF YOU’RE BORED.” --sophomore Alex Eidson

“I LIKE USA TODAY BECAUSE I CAN GET MY CURRENT EVENTS FOR CLASS. IT’S VERY USEFUL, ESPECIALLY IF I FORGET TO DO MINE.” --junior Lindsey Flaquer

24 Vibe THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday, November 20, 2009

Music blaring from Tim’s Downstairs

Senior Tim Richards has his own recording studio in the basement of his home, living out his dream of having his own studio, which has become known as Tim’s Downstairs SAM SOULE Reporter

Having a dream is wonderful in life—but having a dream come true is even better.

It was at a young age that senior Tim Richards had a dream of owning his own recording studio. Now, his dream has come true.

“I remember recording as far back as sixth grade,” Richards said. “Though the quality was almost as bad as the material recorded—sloppy chord progressions with pre-pubic screeching overdubbed—it was something that I enjoyed to do. I really got serious between freshman and sophomore year.”

His studio is on its way, but in order to make it happen, it called for a lot of hard work and determination.

“After landing a job at Grand Haven Powder Coating, a factory off Comstock, and a couple summers of 40 hour weeks, I finally had the money to finance a worthy rig,” Richards said. “Looking back, I’ve spent well over $6,000 on what I have today—maybe even something closer to the $10,000 range.”

Next, now that the studio is up and running, is what to call this little shin-dig.

“Garrett likes to call it ‘Tim’s Downstairs’,” Richards said. “I have two rooms cleared out for mixing and recording.”

And in this recording environment, Tim prepares to help others start the beginnings of a dream come true.

“I’ve already done many recordings for local artists, but have yet to really advertise,” Richards said. “Ideally, I would like to find my niche in the current industry. It

Hanging up in Tim’s Downstairs are guitars, each with its own story

WORKIN’ HARD: Richards sits at his desk in his basement, attempting to achieve the sound he’s striving for. “I work with the music so much that it’s almost, in a sense, my own,” Richards said. Photo by Marisa Enos

seems today there are two paths to take if you are an artist looking to make a CD. To either pay $50 an hour at a top of the line studio and stress over your very expensive mess-up’s, or buy a cord from radio shack and try and do it yourself. I want to branch that gap and provide artists with a stress free inexpensive environment that they can expand their sound with.”

Working out his rate of pay doesn’t seem to be as hard as he thought it would be either.

“It’s not like we’re charging,” Richards said. “Well, with

my experience it’s always scary going into a professional studio because they charge by the hour so they’ll charge like, $50 an hour. You sit there and start talking to the guy and you talk for a half hour and you just wasted $25 so I don’t really do that. I normally talk to them, and we work out a flat number and it’s normally just because I’m stupid.

I just negotiate pretty much. I’m not paying rent with the income and I enjoy the experience too much to rip off artists like most ‘top of the line’ places seem to do.”

Getting in to the studio is one thing, what you do when you get there is another.

“I’m Currently recording through a black lion audio modified, digi-design 003 and using Pro tools software— the industry’s standard,” Richards said. “I’m finally content with the sound of the recordings but am always looking for improvement. The beautiful thing about the studio is you can really go in with an idea and leave with a song that you have to listen to ten times before comprehending how it all came together to sound so good. I’ve recently purchased a CD duplicator and label printer so I am now capable of recording and distributing CD’s with a label of the artists design.”

In the end, all Richards really cares about is letting his dream take flight and helping others make there’s come true as well.

“Give me a call if you have something you want to work on,” Richards said. “In the future, I do want do something in recording. I think it would be cool to get into audio engineering and actually make a real studio. I don’t know how far this one is going to go because this is my senior year and I’m going to be graduating, but I do eventually want to start advertising and get more business.”

Richards’ favorite guitars

“THE SQUIER STRAT IS AN OLD BEATER GUITAR. IT HAS A SURPRISINGLY GOOD SOUND TO IT BUT IT’S MORE OF A WALL DECORATION THAN ANYTHING. IT WAS MY FIRST GUITAR.”

“THIS ONE’S A NICE SOLID BODIED ACOUSTIC WITH A FULL AND RICH SOUND. IT HAS A LOT OF CHARACTER AND LIFE TO.”

“THE OVATION ACOUSTIC HAS A NICE CRYSTAL CLEAR TWANGY SOUND AND IS DEFINITELY MY DEFAULT. IT’S ACOUSTIC ELECTRIC, SO IT CAN BE PLUGGED IN AND NEVER REALLY LETS ME DOWN.”

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Friday, October 16, 2009 THE BUCS’ BLADE VIBE 25

OKLAHOMA!

While lead actors receive most of the glory for the musical, it also takes other vital members to pull the production together and create the perfect performance

ON THE STAGE: Junior Kevin McLary leads the chorus in singing “It’s a Scandal! It’s an Outrage!” photo by Teal Champagne

EMILY FRANCART Reporter The gross feeling of syrupy coating being pressed into their faces make them smile just a little. The actors are putting on their make-up. Though the make-up is sticky, it is a reminder of its importance. If the cast is in make-up it is either a dress rehearsal or better yet a show night.

“With musicals we [the actors] have to portray messages without speaking with body language like how you move, interpret the song through actions and how you sing it,” senior Alexa Buckland said.

Acting isn’t just standing on stage and saying lines.

“Acting is challenging but a heck of a lot of fun,” senior Zach Bowser said. “It takes hard work, the will to listen and the will to give up 90% of the time to be in a musical. I live at school, and I sleep at home.”

Buckland has a different perspective on the musical. “[My favorite part is] dancing with the guys, last year we didn’t really interact with them I like acting in couples,” she said. “I also like the harder singing.”

Acting helps with life lessons and social lessons as well.

Bowser agrees.

“Being an actor helped me gain confidence in myself and helped me learn that stepping out of my comfort zone can be very rewarding,” Bowser said. “Dancing and singing is great, especially since it is a chorus show.”

The music speaks to all involved but there is something more for Bowser.

“The greatest part about being in a musical is the glory of a job well done,” he said.

BEHIND THE STAGE: Sophomore Boazie Wynn lights the stage for the cast. photo by Teal Champagne

UNDER THE STAGE: Senior Elizabeth Shay and sophomore Kristin Spelde play along with the chorus. photo by Teal Champagne

The smell of makeup is in the air, the period correct costumes come down off their hangers and ‘techies’ wear costumes for the first time.

Wearing costumes for scene changes is something completely new for the ‘techies’ of this show.

“Usually we blend into the background [by wearing all black] so people won’t notice us,” Student Tech Director Junior Jessica Sheffield said “But this show we [were] in costumes.”

Fellow ‘techie’ and Junior Andrew Juodawkis doesn’t like the idea too much.

“Personally, I would rather not be seen,” he said.

Students and their parents constructed the pieces of set on weekends.

“During the show I organize who brings what set pieces on stage and [I also] organize the timing. We want to keep the show moving,” At set construction the sounds of pounding hammers, screwdrivers, and electric saws filled the air, it is mandatory for those acting in the show to contribute a day to the building of the set. But techies spend their weekends there.

“We painted corn with polyurethane and stapled it to the fence,” Juodawlkis said, “I built the propellers and the cross supports for the windmill.”

Sheffield remembers how and why she got to where she is today.

“I saw my first High School musical three years ago, ‘Bye Bye Birdie,’” Sheffield said. “I was inspired by it and I knew I wanted to be a part of it someway.”

While actors coat on layers upon layers of crème makeup the orchestra walks the 13 steps down to the dungeon, known to many as the pit.

Sophomore Rebecca Shay is in the pit the first time this year.

“Playing with the strings and the singers [is one of the newest parts of being in pit],” Shay said.

The singers lead the music and tempo, which makes it hard to be in the same place at the same time. “[We] have to be able to line up the music with the words and make sure [we] are on the right note on the right word,” She said.

Being in pit helps Shay in her normal music.

“Playing this harder music makes normal music easier to play because in the normal stuff we have keys and rhythms we are used to,” Shay said.

Junior Ben Jacob agrees.

“Though the music is very repetitive in different keys, it’s good practice because it is pretty unusual for strings,” he said.

Shay is in marching band and pit, and many have other activities as well. Switching the musical from spring to fall has resulted in two less weeks for practice. This has put more pressure on the pit.

“It takes a lot of time management [to be in marching band and pit], I don’t sleep as much. Though it is nice we can do our homework at pit when we have measures off.”

Jacob feels the strain as well.

“It is defiantly hard work, especially on such a short deadline” he said.

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26 Health THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday, November 20, 2009

Students deal with stress

Reporter Chloe Dault, asks students how they deal with their stress.

“I chill. I go home and put on some music.” senior

Nick Ackerson “I go for a run.” senior Kim Tuin

“I play video games.” senior Dave Miller

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or most high school students, especially in this day and age, stress has become a way of life. With harder school assignments, extracurricular activities, family life, and everything in-between how can stress be avoided? “[Stress] impedes [teens] health and suppresses their immune system” psychology teacher Mary Jane Evink said.

Causes of stress are different for each person, but some common reasons teens are affected include schoolwork, parents, siblings and problems with friends. “[Life] stretches kids so thin between [all their activities],” psychology teacher Aaron Portenga said.

So are teens supposed to stop living their lives just so they can avoid stress? No, but they can do a few things to make their lives easier and more stress free.

“Because students deal with stress in different ways I see it manifest in different ways,” Evink said.

With the build up of stress many students stop trying and refuse to do anything to help their problems.

“In psychology we call it learned helplessness,” Evink said.

For most teens stress can be dealt with by tackling a few of the major causes. Planning ahead could be the saving grace to most teens who feel like they don’t have enough time in the day to do every-

“SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE IF YOU AT ALL CAN”

--Aaron Portenga

thing they need to get done.

“I use an agenda, it helps,” senior Austin Langlois said.

Pick up a planner at any office supply store and start writing your schedule out for the next week, and see how it helps. This may be especially useful during exam time.

“I don’t understand why students are so reluctant to use a planner,” Evink said.

Don’t save everything for last minute, especially when it comes to exams. Start studying ahead of time. This will mean less stress the

night before the exam, which could mean a better nights sleep and a smoother day of test taking.

“Simplify your life if you at all can,” Portenga said. “Addition by subtraction.”

Often times there are people in your life that may be adding to your stress, even your friends. One person may surround themselves too much with the same people, which could also add to teen’s stress.

“Stress is often caused by hanging with the wrong kind of people,” Evink said.

So take it easy. Try to do things that will take some of the stress off of your shoulders.

“Try to like what you do,” Evink said.

Exercise, reasonable breaks from work and school, and a variety in your day could all help to ease your stress, or possibly break free of it. Making an effort to incorporate these things into daily life could make life practically stress free.

“Don’t be a victim to your life,” Evink said.

“I like to listen to music.” senior Hilary Colbry

“I swim.” senior Sam Shulze

“I use an agenda, that helps.” senior Austin

IRON CHEF COMES TO GRAND HAVEN MADISON TESTY Managing Editor

T

TASTE TESTING: Judge Carol Scanlan tastes contestants food creations.

(Photo by Teal Champagne)

he Grand Haven School District is pleased to welcome their very own kitchen stadium. GHAPS employees were recently given the chance to participate in a localized iron chef competition. The competition promotes wellness for the entire district.

Recently district employees were sent a survey asking what the staff wanted to know about the new wellness program. 44 percent of employees responded that they would love to have a healthy cooking event in the district.

“Most wanted to know about exercise,” social studies teacher Lindsey Ruiter said. “But nutrition came in second.”

After the surveys were complete and decisions were made, the wellness program sent a message asking for Iron Chef representatives

from each building.

That was when Ruiter jumped on board, not only a representative but a contestant too.

“Yes, I’m really excited, I love to cook,” Ruiter said. “But unfortunately the reason my food is so good is because I cook with real butter and fat.”

Contestants began competing at their building level last week.

Winners from each building moved on to district finals, which were held last night. All recipes will be featured in the GHAPS Iron Chef Cookbook, which will be published after the competition The cook off stylebook uses a non-biased judging system. The entrees are given a number so they are not associated with a person.

Calorie count is included in the judging process, along with presentation, originality, creativity, taste, cost, and how easy the recipe is to follow. Since the judging is based

on calorie count, the participants were advised Karen Flanigan’s to enter the entrée only FRIDAY NIGHT PIZZA without sides.

Language arts teacher, Karen Flanigan also got involved in the cooking frenzy.

“I made something 400 calories, but that is for an called Friday Night Pizza. It has a entire meal. whole wheat crust with caramelSure, I wanted to win the grand ized onions, and green peppers and prize, but, alas, I didn’t make it past cheese,” Flanigan said. “Then, in the high school competition,” Flanitheory, you are to go to your local gan said. “There are many better farmer’s market and buy fresh chefs than me,” “I just like to mess produce for the remainder of the around in my kitchen after a hard toppings. Last night I used fresh day of teaching kids where to put spinach and tomatoes. It has about commas and semicolons.”

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Friday, November 20, 2009 THE BUCS’ BLADE Health 27

Caffeine content affecting teens CAMILLE JOHNSON Reporter

te t a L

O

Coffee ha c o M

Cappu cino o s s re p s E

ne cup in the morning on the way to school. Sometimes a second cup at lunch for a midday pick-me-up, followed by a cup after school to avoid the late-day slump.

Then a final mug around 7 p.m. to help finish homework before bed. Is this a new norm for some students to survive the day?

A recent Boston Globe study found children ages 13-17 that eat snacks and drink coffee rose 20 percent, from 2004 to 2006. For ages 18-24 it rose 37 percent.

Local pediatrician Alana Barron believes that teenagers are more sensitive to caffeine than adults. She advises students to avoid coffee Barron’s worries that teenagers drinking coffee could struggle to fall asleep or to remain asleep long enough to feel rested.

“I think if they go through caffeine withdrawal they can have issues of headaches or (loss of) attention,” Barron said. “Probably my biggest concern would be insomnia. I have seen some kids where they had really bad insomnia and then you find out they’re drinking all kinds of coffee during the day.”

Teacher Dawn McCotter does not allow students to drink coffee in her classroom.

Although she doesn’t encourage students drinking coffee outside of class, she does not see a big issue with it.

“As long they are drinking it in moderation

and it does not affect them [negatively],” McCotter said. “Health wise I don’t really see a big problem with it, [unless there] were to be a problem of them drinking too much and making them jittery, or having attention problems in school.”

Although McCotter is not overly concerned, researchers see things differently. Statistics found from www.healingdaily. com showed that coffee use by teens leads to attention problems, nerves, jitters, rapid heartbeat and hyperactivity.

Still, Spanish teacher Jan Khadija sees coffeeas less of a problem with her students than their ever-present energy drinks.

“If you are drinking a cup of coffee than it is alright,” Khadija said, “but if they are on their fifth cup or drinking their Rockstar energy drink things then I can see it being a problem.”

The facts confirm Khadija’s opinion. According to www.energyfiend.com one 8 oz. can of original Red Bull contains 80 mg of caffeine, while one 8-ounce decaf brewed Cup of joe’ has 6 mg of caffeine. If you compare a tall Starbucks coffee, at a mere 8-ounce has 180 mg of caffeine compared to your at home decaf brewed coffee with 30 times the caffeine.

An 8-ounce can of Red Bull contains 80 mg of caffeine.

A Starbucks 8-ounce short cup of coffee has 180 mg of caffeine.

One cup of Starbucks has 30x the amount of caffeine as home- brewed cup of decaffeinated coffee.

An 8-ounce decaf cup of Joe contains 6 mg of caffeine. www.energyfiend.com

Coffee also contains far less calories than energy drinks and fewer carbohydrates if you use Splenda or artificial sweetener in place of sugar. (Note: This applies to basic, brewed coffee; not Starbucks drinks.)

Barron is well aware of the fact that coffee is a staple of the student diet, but still upholds her opinion.

“I think that any more than one cup is probably too much,” Barron said.

Soda pop also brings caffeine risks ALIDA BOON Associate News Editor

T

he fizz, bubbles, caffeine and jazzy taste draw Americans to pop like flies to a pile of horse manure. However, while there seems to be great satisfaction in drinking pop most people do not realize the negative effects it has on the body.

“The biggest thing is just the caffeine,” registered dietitian Kelli Meyer said. “It can cause you to have a high and then crash because it burns off very quickly in the body.”

Meyer thinks this may lead to the addiction of soda because of the constant need for a buzz after the first can has left its mark. Yet, in terms of caffeine content Meyer says that some pops may be better than others.

“Usually the darker the pop the more caffeine it has, except mountain dew which has a lot,” Meyer said. “Clear pops like sprite and squirt are usually caffeine free, but as far as sugar content, they are pretty much all the same.”

The kid’s health rock website says that drinking just

one can of pop is equal to eating at least 10 teaspoons of sugar in one sitting. This amounts to the consumption of 3650 teaspoons of sugar in just one year if a single can of soda is downed each day.

When junior Andrew Ferren saw Quick Fact: how pop was made, if you down a he stopped drinking it all together. single can of soda “I never liked the each day, you will taste of Coke,” Ferren said. “And after I saw consume 3,650 how much sugar was teaspoons of in it compared to how much liquid and sugar in a year it was I quit drinking it all together.”

Meyer suggests alternatives to pop as to decrease intake.

“You can do vitamin waters, water, or milk,” Meyer said.

Meyer warns juice can be just as bad a pop.

“I don’t promote juice all day long, only about four to eight oz. a day just to get the vitamins and minerals from it,” Meyer said. “[juice] is basically the same thing as pop, with the high sugar content.”

The calories consumed in soda are commonly referred to as empty or liquid calories.

“It’s just pure calories, and no nutrients,” said Head of the Center for Science in the Public Interest Michael Jacobson in an interview with CNN. “It’s like a bomb in our diet.”

According to the University of California, Los Angeles website studies have shown that there is a 60 percent increase in the risk of a childhood obesity with every additional daily serving of soda they drink.

Controversially, Meyer thinks that soda can be fit into any diet.

“In my opinion, a small amount of pop a day isn’t bad,” Meyer said. “Pop can be fit into a healthy lifestyle, just in moderation, if you’re drinking more than one can a day then you’re getting too much for a healthy diet.”

28 Sports THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday, November 20, 2009 B. Cross Country Record: 5-2 Key Games: Beat Hudsonville 21-39.

Swimmers

Golf Record: 7-5 Key Games: Regionals where they barely missed state.

Key Player: Joe Duff placed 10th at the state meet.

Key Player: Senior Alex Merz shot a 96 at regionals.

Key Moment: “The West Ottawa meet where we ran as a team.”

- sophomore Ryan Duff Outlook for next year: “We want to go to state next year.”

- sophomore Dylan Tarr

Key Moment: Finishing second in the conference tournament.

G. Cross Country Record: 5-2 Key Games: Beat Grandville without top runner Cristina Perez.

Key Player: Laura Addison placed 29th at the state meet.

Key Moment: “We had the fastest duel meet in school history vs. West Ottawa.”

- junior Alex Shurkamp Outlook for next year: “We are going to beat Rockford and East Kentwood.”

- junior Karen Lomeo

head to state finals PREPARATION: Senior Emily Dean swims hard in a recent state swimmers practice. Dean and seniors Currin Hall, Hannah Meade, Erin Page along with juniors Gretchen Spoelman, Kelly Reinhardt and sophomores Alyssia Land and Lydia Hoogerhyde round out the state swimmers. The meet will be held this weekend at the Holland Aquatic Center. Photo by Teal Champagne

MIKE GINOCCHIO Reporter For the girls swim team, the past few months have been like to running a marathon. They’ve dealt with bleary-eyed morning practices that involve jumping into a frigid pool at ungodly hours of the morning.

They have learned to get used to the sharp smell of chlorine lingering in the air that has long since stuck to them. But at the end of the day, it has all led to a season where multiple swimmers are headed to the state meet.

Coach Casey Jensen couldn’t be happier with the way his team has preformed.

“We made a lot of our state cuts very early this year,” Jensen said. “I think in general everybody has

worked a lot harder and have really stepped it up.”

Senior captain Currin Hall is very happy with the teams consistency.

“It was cool seeing everyone improve,” Hall said.

“Everyone worked really hard, and to see that hard work pay off, it was great.”

Jensen has high expectations for the girls that qualified for the meet.

“We should have two relays place in the top 16,” Jensen said. “[We also should] have two individuals place, and maybe even three.”

With the season reaching its conclusion, the whole experience has been a memorable one for junior Gretchen Spoelman.

“A lot of my friends on the team are seniors, so it’s been fun being with them for their last year.

Outlook for next year: “We are going to be very inexperienced next year. But you never know what will happen.”

- coach Roger Glass

Soccer Record: 16-5 Key Games: Beat Forrest Hills Central 2-1.

Key Player: Junior Travis Redman was the top defender on the team.

Key Moment: “Winning the conference championship was very inspiring for me.”

- junior Marshall Rusco Outlook for next year: “We could be good because we are returning a lot of defenders.”

- junior Colin Ottenbaker

Football

Volleyball

Tennis

Swimming

Water Polo

Record: 9-2

Record: 45-17

Record: 3-1-2

Record: 4-8

Record: 31-13

Key Games: Lost to Rockford 14-7 in regionals.

Key Games: Lost to Rockford in four games in the regional semi finals.

Key Games: Regionals where they were two points away from making state.

Key Games: Got 6th place at the conference meet.

Key Games: The state finals where they got 7th.

Key Player: Junior Alec Smith was the leading receiver.

Key Player: Laura Kooistra had 14 points and an ace in a regional win over T.C. West.

Key Player: Jordan Hoogerhyde and Nate VanArendonk were regional runners up.

Key Player: Sophomore Alyssia Land qualified for state for the first time.

Key Player: Senior Sam Schulze lead the team in scoring.

Key Moment: “When we beat Muskegon.”

-junior Mike Moorehead

Key Moment: “When we beat Fruitport.”

- sophomore Kristen Reenders

Key Moment: “Getting to the regional finals” -junior Mitch Borchers

Key Moment: “When we beat East Kentwood.”

- sophomore Lydia Hoogerhyde

Key Moment: “When we won regionals” - junior Cody Duston

Outlook for next year: “I’m feeling 9-0 next season.”

-junior Mike Moorehead

Outlook for next year: “We lost a lot of key players. Because of the loss we will step up and do just as well.”

-sophomore Kristen Reenders

Outlook for next year: “We want to win regionals and go to state.”

-junior Spencer Krug

Outlook for next year: “We hope to have more people make state next year.”

-sophomore Lydia Hoogerhyde

Outlook for next year: “We are losing some key players but our returning varsity players will take control.”

-junior Cody Duston

Friday, November 20, 2009 THE BUCS’ BLADE Sports 29

“My life was forever changed from that moment on. I didn’t know how to deal with something so tragic.”

- Jason Lawson

SEASON BEGINS: Freshman coach Jason Lawson watches his players during the first day of tryouts on Monday. Jason, who is also a teacher at Robinson, is in his first year coaching for Grand Haven since he moved from Ishpeming after his wife was killed in an accident. He is now married and has a baby daughter. Photo by: Teal Champange

Tragic journey leads coach to GH CAM HEWITT Associate Sports Editor Jason and Erin Lawson had a bright future ahead of them. Living in Ishpeming, a town just over 6000 people, Jason was teaching and coaching varsity basketball and Erin was on her way to becoming a nurse. Life was perfect. Unfortunately, life has a way of shifting and while Erin was returning home from work, a car driven by a high school student swerved into on coming traffic, striking her car directly. Erin did not survive the accident.

Jason, currently in his first year as the freshman boys’ basketball coach, was now a widower. And the future that seemed so assuring before was suddenly a blur, behind brokenhearted tears.

“My life was forever changed from that moment on,” Jason said. “I didn’t know how to deal with something so tragic and for a while my future seemed unclear. But I fully believed that God had a plan for my life, and that I would be okay.”

With help, Jason was able to pull through and create stronger relationships with his loved ones.

“My faith in God, my family, and my friends were the main things that got me through after the accident,” Jason said. “Erin’s sister, Rebecca, and my parents have helped me the most along the way, always in my corner looking out for what’s best for me. These are people that I am confident will do anything to support me.”

In the next several months, Jason became especially close with Rebecca, acting as a source of comfort to one another.

Rebecca ended up moving from Ishpeming to Grand Haven, leaving Jason to decide the next step in his life on his own.

“When Rebecca moved it was hard, because I knew I would miss her,” Jason said. “I also had a tough time forgiving the kid that hit my wife.

He was a JV basketball player and I would have to deal with cutting or keeping him the next season. But, thinking how hard it would be without Erin, I decided to leave at the end of school year to move here.”

After the move, the two only became closer. What started out as a friendship, soon blossomed into a relationship and in June of 2008, Jason and Rebecca were married. And this past April, they were blessed

with their first child, a baby girl named Lilly.

“Besides marrying Rebecca, Lilly is the best thing that has happened in my life,” Jason said. “I am also loving Grand Haven. It is a big change from Ishpeming, but a nice change. I have met some really neat people in my journey, which I am thankful for.”

As well as being the new freshman basketball coach, Jason is a fifth grade teacher at Robinson. Varsity basketball coach, Steve Hewitt, is excited, knowing Jason is someone who is good with kids, and will go beyond just coaching them basketball.

“Jason has a great knowledge for the game but also for life,” Hewitt said. “He has a nice balance of expecting a lot of these kids, but pushing them to become better people too. He understands the role of a freshman coach and that developing players is more important than wins and losses.”

Athletic director, Jack Provencal, is also impressed with Jason, and thrilled for the players he will be coaching.

“With the short amount of time I have spent with Jason, I was incredibly impressed,” Provencal said.

“Steve talked very highly of him and he was strongly recommended. He is likeable, in great shape, and young. A perfect fit for this role and I am confident he will do an excellent job.”

Jason brings a wide range of amazing athletic achievements from his life. Including a High School basketball state championship, defensive captain of his college football team, and playing professional football in Europe and arena league. After all this, he feels the help of his own role models deserves much of the credit.

“I have had some great role models in my life: My dad, father-inlaw, and coaches,” Jason said. “I would say that all of these people have helped make me the man I am today.”

Even with the tragedy behind him, it will never be forgotten, and Jason is ready to make a lasting impression on Grand Haven.

“I think that everything I have been through and everything I’ve accomplished has just helped shape my character,” Jason said.

“Hopefully I can impact kids in Grand Haven in ways which my life was so heavily impacted; by my role models.”

New season, big changes LUCAS WILDER Reporter Basketball fans will double their fun on Fridays this winter.

Both the girls and boys varsity basketball teams will play on Fridays this season and players and coaches are burning with anticipation.

“I like the change,” boys’ coach Steve Hewitt said. “I’m excited to have more Friday games. In previous years we had games all over the place, and I’m happy to have a more regular schedule this year, games on Tuesdays and Fridays.”

The law for all Michigan high schools now requires the change.

The Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) recently lost a 10-year gender equity lawsuit. The battle was fought by the Communities for Equity, who charged MHSAA with unequal accommodations for females, and forcing females to play sports in non-traditional seasons.

“The change was actually about volleyball,” athletic director Jack Provencal said. “The lawsuit claimed that it was unethical to have the volleyball season for high school girls to be in the winter, when college volleyball is in the fall. Last year we switched the seasons around, and now this year both genders are playing on the same day. Next year they switch it around even more, with the boys playing first.”

Players of both boys and girls varsity teams are with the new schedule.

“People get to go to two varsity games in one night, that’s really cool,” center Nate VanArendonk said. “Not much actually changes for me, but I’m looking forward to the away games, because I think we ride the bus with the girls.”

In past years, players and fans have become highly aware of the fact that fan attendance has been down. Both coaches and players are hopeful that the new schedule will produce a big spike in attendance.

Returning girl’s senior Alex Merz is hopeful.

“I’m really excited,” Merz said. “ I think we’ll have a lot more people at our games now, and more crowd support.”

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30 Sports THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday, November 20, 2009

Team overcomes adversity MATT DEATER Managing Editor For senior volleyball player Alyssa Vanderstel, the game on October 15 was supposed to be special. It was Senior Night and the Bucs were playing East Kentwood, one of the top teams in the state. The game was hard fought with the girls losing 3-0. Losing the match was bad enough, but after the contest the team learned it also lost its coach.

After his squad left the court, coach Steve Burmaster told them he was resigning effective immediately to take a teaching and coaching job out in California. The news came as a huge shock to the team.

“A lot of the girls and I felt that we were abandoned,” Vanderstel said. “We didn’t know who was going to come in and help us.”

As it turns out, help came from a familiar place. About a week after Burmaster stepped down, longtime coach Aaron Smaka decided to come back and coach the team. For the team, most of whom played for Smaka last year, it was as smooth a transition as possible.

“Smaka made it a flawless transition,” Vanderstel said.

“He tried to pick up where coach Burmaster left off.”

For Smaka, who resigned after last season to spend more time with his family the timing couldn’t have been better.

“I love being with the team, the program has always been important to me being that it is something I have done for 10 years,” Smaka said. “They are an extremely talented team and great people. Getting to be apart of this during the most exciting part of the season is fun.”

Smaka believes the team responded well to the change.

“They had lots of energy, their goals haven’t changed,” Smaka said. “There’s no doubt they want their season to end in a positive way.”

Although it was difficult to lose a coach in the middle of the season, senior Robyn Power believes the change had

CHAMPIONS: The varsity girls volleyball team celebrates a District Championship after beating Cedar Springs. After coach Steve Burmaster resigned abruptly in the middle of the season, coach Aaron Smaka took over and lead it to the Regional Championship game. Courtesy Photo

some positives.

“It forced the seniors to take a leadership role because it was up to us to bring the team together,” Power said.

Senior Kristen Woods knows this experience has made the team better.

“It brought us together and made us feel more like a team,” Woods said.

Vanderstel agrees.

“All of us knew we had to utilize each other and our strengths,” Vanderstel said. “As a result we have made tremendous improvement.”

Smaka hopes the team will learn a valuable lesson from this situation.

“Through adversity we have to keep pressing on,” Smaka said. “You have to play the hand you are dealt and play to the best of your ability.”

Lydia Hoogerhyde

Conner Lundeen

Noah Veach

Jake Rickfelder

Sport: Swimming

Sport: Cross Country

Sport: Water Polo

Sport: Football

Pregame Meal: Pasta and Bread

Pregame Meal: Granola and Pasta

Pregame Meal: Peanut Butter and Jelly with Banana

Pregame Meal: Hungry Man

Dessert: Cookies

Dessert: None

Dessert: Triple Chocolate Meltdown

Dessert: Apple Pie

Video Game Console: XBOX 360

Video Game Console: Wii

Video Game Console: XBOX 360

Video Game Console: XBOX 360

Dream Job: Journalist

Dream Job: Physical Therapist

Dream Job: NBA Superstar

Dream Job: Shore designer for Nike

Sport to play other than Swimming: Water Polo

Sport to play other than Cross Country: Baseball

Sport to play other than Water Polo: Basketball

Sport to play other than Football: Basketball

Favorite Athlete: Michael Phelps

Favorite Athlete: Lance Armstrong

Favorite Athlete: Lebron James

Favorite Athlete: Brandon Jennings

Friday, November 20, 2009 THE BUCS’ BLADE Sports 31

Sports change lives STRIKES: Two local Special Olyimpics participants bowl at Starlight Lanes recently. These participants meet every Friday to go bowling and enjoy each others company in an accomidating athletic setting. Special Olyimpics is a important program for many students at GHHS. (Lower Right) DOWN THE LANE: Another local Special Olyimpics participant bowls last week Friday and has a great time doing it. Photos by Teal Champagne

NATE NIEMEROWICZ Technology Editor People with disabilities often don’t have the same opportunities that the rest of us have. However, thanks to organizations like Special Olympics, people with special needs are able to compete and receive the same feelings of joy, accomplishment, pride and success that the rest of us get from competition.

Organizations like Special Olympics are primarily run by volunteers who want to help the participants succeed.

Junior Joe Schuh, whose sister Katie Schuh participates in the program, is one of these volunteers.

“I’ve been helping out with Special Olympics for a little more than four years,” Joe Schuh said. “I try to go to anything my sister goes to, they don’t meet that regularly, but whenever they meet for basketball or bowling, I’ll try to go.”

One of the goals of Special Olympics is to create a comfortable environment where the participants can experience the excitement of playing a sport in a safe environment.

“It’s just great to go and have everybody of all ages meet and be able to have fun,” Joe Schuh said. “The coaches do a good job of trying not to make it seem like their just having the program because the people have special needs, they do a great job of just making it seem like it’s a get together to have fun.”

Joe and Katie’s mom Chris Schuh is a volunteer and a member of the board for Special Olympics. Her daughter Katie Schuh has been part of the program for about eight years and has benefited a lot.

“It’s a way to exercise in a manner that is appropriate to her,” Chris Schuh said. “She’s not coordinated enough to participate in the athletics that are offered through the school district, but Special Olympics is tailored for people like her so they can play games and have the competition in

a way that she’s capable of and the other main thing she’s received has been a group of friends and it’s through Special Olympics that she has her wide circle of friends.”

Special Olympics help kids develop their social skills in a judgment free environment.

“I’ve seen a side of my daughter that I haven’t seen here in the house,” Chris Schuh said. “I see how she acts when she’s with her friends in that social environment, therefore I learn more about who she is and how best I can help her reach her full potential.”

Community is the driving force behind Special Olympics.

Volunteers with a common purpose, goal and situation join together to help people less fortunate than themselves.

“The first thing that pops into my mid when I think [of Special Olympics] is the kindness of other people,” said Chris Schuh as tears rolled down the side of her face. “The kindness of complete strangers who give their time and their love to help our kids have a quality life and the kindness of people we know who do the same thing.”

Mark Dalman, director of Special Olympics in the Holland and Allegan areas has been involved in the program for about 26 years, and has seen the tears, the hard work and the dedication that the kids put into the program.

“Once you get involved it changes your life,” Dahlman said. “After helping out for 26 years you see some truly unbelievable things that make your heart lift and put tears in your eyes. Once you help out, you’re hooked.”

Gwen Thelen parent of Grand Haven graduate Alex Thelen has seen progress in Alex’s social skills develop through Special Olympics.

“She’s made a lot of friends with kids who have challenges too,” Thelen said. “It gave her some confidence, she wasn’t going to be able to be on the basketball team or the bowling team, with Special Olympics she gets to play those sports in a comfortable setting but also with her friends.”

Alex Thelen has been part of the program since she was

in sixth grade, now age 19, she still participates.

“My friends that I have made in Special Olympics are nice to me and we like to talk and play sports together,” Alex Thelen said. “It makes me feel good and proud. It makes me think that I’m good at the sports that I do and that I can do anything.”

Special Olympics is impacting the lives of not only the athletes but also those who volunteer. The kids enjoy it and benefit immensely.

“They have a way to travel in this world and have an active part in it just like they see their peer group,” Chris Schuh said. “I think that’s what most of them get. It’s not necessarily the winning or the ribbons or the medals, although the kids really like the medals, but it gives them a sense of place where they belong.”

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32 AMP THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday, November 20, 2009

Superstition: .

su’ per sti’tion (-stish’ n), n. 1. an irrational belief in the ominous significance of a particular thing, circumstance, or occurence. 2. a custom or act based on superstition. e

Definition found in Random House Webster’s Dictionary.

Origins

Many people believe in superstition, but where did they come from?

Knock on Wood

In ancient times it was thought that trees were homes of the gods. When a person desired or wished for something they would ask a tree and touch the bark and then again for a second time to thank them.

Walking Under a Ladder

Besides that fact that something can fall on you it is more religious. The ladder creates a triangle that can represent the “Holy Trinity”, by entering the triangle you violate it and must be with the devil.

Broken Mirror

Many people belive that your reflection is your soul or spirit. If you broke a mirror you would be damaging your soul. The seven years of bad luck was due to fact that when mirrors were first made they cost so much that if broken you had to be a servant for seven years to pay it off.

Black Cats

More based on a religious event, in ancient Egypt a goddess named Bast was a black, female, cat. Christians wanting to rid the world of the other religions told the populace that black cats were demons. If one crossed your path it disconnects you from god.

Rabbit’s Foot

Hares and rabbits are considered fertile and abundant.

Due to this if a rabbit wandered into your yard, your garden would be fertile. When it runs, its hind legs protrude forward leading to them having more luck. The left foot is chosen to be the most lucky.

Friday

While the Knights Templar group was prominent there was a plan to find and kill all of them. The date this mass killing occured on Friday the Thirteenth, condeming it to bad luck forever.

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Information found from “Origins of Popular Superstitions” by Sanguinarius.

HAYDEN CRESWELL AMP Editor

Believe It or Not

Superstitions are beliefs that have no factual proof to back them up, but nevertheless, people all over the world believe. Superstitions can be found in any country, culture and era whether it be past, present, and will most likely continue into the future.

Everyone knows some good luck charms, and bad luck omens. Some people carry them on necklaces, keychains or braclets. Some people belive that luck can be found in rituals of dressing, eating or even repetition. Some choose to believe, some choose not to, and others use it for some good fun. While many people know of at least a few superstitions, few know where they came from and how they came to be. Let the AMP take you through history to show you whats behind today’s common superstitions.

The Believers Some helpful ways to get some luck from fellow students.

I touch glass anytime I go over railroads while driving.

Whenever i need luck, I blink twelve times, do a 360, sing Miley Cyrus, and eat an apple.

For good luck i kiss my test before I turn it in.

I don’t tie my shoes in warm ups.

Don’t step on cracks. For luck take a multiple of four steps before stepping over a crack.

I wear double Nike and Adidas socks. I keep my tag in when competing. I also tape my socks above the laces.

Whenever I do a horse show I wear my lucky striped riding socks.