The Bucs' Blade, February 17, 2012

BUCS'

BLADE

Find out the useful things these household products can do See page 18

Friday, Februrary 17, 2012

Grand Haven High School’s student publication of community significance since 1927

‘It’s like a family to me’ In 37 years of being a Grand Haven employee, Russell TenHagen has built relationships that go beyond athletics

See pages

20-21

2 Inside THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday, February 17, 2012

Winter Walk and Fun Run See pages 26-27

EDITORIAL/OPINION 4

Don’t turn a blind eye to poverty

Students should be more aware of poverty in Tri-Cities

NEWS 8

Governor Snyder’s first year in office Review of Snyder’s education reforms

VIBE 11

Activities to beat the winter blues

What to do without breaking the bank or gas tank

CULTURE 14

Naps are a good thing

Taking short naps can improve focus, health

FEATURE 2425

Cyberbullying more prevalent

Recent rise in cyberbullying is cause for alarm

SPORTS 30

Buccaneer Sports Boosters

Organization helps GH athletic teams with “needs” not just “wants”

BACK

RUN AS FAST AS YOU CAN: Senior Chucky Blackmore and freshman Joe Butler run down Harbor Drive. The two were on the same team to raise money for upcoming preschoolers. photo by Laura Burton

THE BUCS’ BLADE

Grand Haven High School, 17001 Ferris, Grand Haven, MI 49417 A student newspaper of community significance since 1927

Volume 67, Issue 5 Februrary 17, 2012

PUBLICATION POLICY 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. During the school day, the Blade staff may be reached at 616.850.6263 from 11:30 a.m. until 1:20 p.m.

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.

32

Keeping Grand Haven High School PDA at a minimum

Bucs’ Blade declassified guide to three major PDA “don’ts”

LETTERS AND SUBMISSIONS The paper will operate on the basis of an open or public forum. Essays and other nonfiction literary works are welcomed. All letters to the editor must include the writer’s name, signature, and class or position, and must be free of obscene and potentially libelous material. Typed, double-spaced letters are preferred, but legible, handwritten letters are acceptable. Names of individuals will not be edited, except in rare cases to prevent legal liability, to edit material that is in poor taste or to fit space requirements. 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, and emailed to bucsblade@gmail.com THE BUCS’ BLADE 17001 Ferris Grand Haven, MI 49417

GHHS ROOM 0205

Editorial Board John Cherette

Editor-in-Chief

Mike Ginocchio

Editor-in-Chief

Emma Baty

Managing Editor

Lucas Wilder

News Editor

Mollie LaBeff

Feature Editor

Bailey Coval

Culture Editor

Chloe Dault

Editor-at-large

Lauren Lund

Vibe Editor

Riley Missel

Vibe Editor

Scott Staal

Sports Editor

Samantha VanHoef Web Editor Laura Burton

Copies of The Bucs’ Blade are offered on the news stands located in the main Maggie Ginocchio office, Room 0205, the media center, the Loutit Library and The Bookman.

C.E. Sikkenga

Photo Editor Graphics Specialist Advisor

Staff McKenna Brinks, Dustin Chrysler, Meridith Frein, Katelyn Hansen, Kaia Hayes, Kayla Hoffman, Loren Johnson, Kennedy Kaufman, Lauren Kruggel, Kyra Lansky, Molly McGinnis, Riley Missel, Brittney Olds, Andrew Prince, Turner Sale, Alexa Shampine Sam Schurkamp, Olivia Seaver, Erin Staal, John Strainer, Katherine Wampler, Madison Wilder Harrison Zost

Friday February 17, 2012 THE BUCS’ BLADE Opinion 3

Applied Week goes far but not far enough Efforts succeed in increasing senior post-secondary education application rates by 28 percent, future steps needed to make clear other options exist besides four-year degrees

Having their say

CSU

Teachers, students weigh in

“I liked the sense of camaraderie. It generated discussions and interest.

Frequently, students wait until their senior year to think about it but in reality they should start in ninth.”

-Spanish teacher Kirsten Montroy

College State University

February 17, 2012 Go to college. Get a job. Earn money. Live the American dream.

That’s what we’re told from the early stages of life. It’s drilled into our heads and ingrained in our goals. For many people, that is the ideal. For many people, that works out. But is that really the best plan for everyone?

Recently, the efforts of Applied Week were channeled toward encouraging seniors to apply to some form of post-secondary education. This would include not just college but trade school, community college, serving in the military, etc. In theory, this is a great message, one that we truly support and believe in. However, the presentation of this goal wasn’t made clear to everyone.

Listening to the testimonies given over the intercom, it felt as though each one was coming from someone who had gone to a four-year institution. This gave the impression that four-year colleges were the only choice.

However, the problem wasn’t that the administration failed to give every staff member in the building a chance to speak up. Teachers, secretaries and members of the kitchen staff were just some of the few areas of the school where testimonies were given. But unfortunately this was lost in translation. In the future, the school needs to be more clear about showcasing every option people can take.

This is not to say that the school and administration failed. Far from it. At the beginning of the week, only 55 percent of the senior class had applied to have a plan after high school. By the end of the week, that number had increased to 82.9 percent. This is a number for which the school administration deserves praise.

Of course, there are things that can be done to improve the program. The most important thing is to improve the clarity of what is available. There are other options besides four-year schools, such as trade schools, technical schools, military service, etc. Because the majority of education staff are required to have a four-year degree, a good option would be to also bring in guest testimonials from people in professions not requiring a four-year degree, such as culinary arts or office management. This was a good start, but more can be done.

It may be true that as we go down the road, the need for a four-year degree is more and more of a necessity to have a job. But whether that’s the truth or not, at the end of the day let’s be honest: there will always be a need for people to cut hair. Or fix cars. Or repair houses. Everyone should have the right to go to college, but not everyone needs to.

“The fact is we’ve got to have high school seniors thinking about the next step. You can’t wait until Coast Guard.

Decisions made then aren’t based on long-term commitments.”

-Government teacher Brian Williams

“I liked the idea! I liked the quotes Mrs. Wilson would read over the announcements and the fact that they still have [Apply Week banners] up and it’s still in front of the students.”

-French teacher Lynnda DeVries

“I thought it was definitely a good idea.

The stats show that it got the message across to students and it should help kids in the future be more motivated to think about their future plans.”

-Senior Eric Martin

“I think that it really helped show the progress seniors are making and it also showed that as seniors we need to get ready and motivated for college.”

-Senior Hannah Lundeen

So with that being said, the significance of Applied Week cannot be underestimated.

It is important for seniors to be thinking about their future. It’s just that the future is not the same for everyone, nor should it be. It’s all about having a plan beyond high school.

Sincerely, The Bucs’ Blade

STAFF EDITORIAL

“I think it was a good idea to help students get an idea as to where we want to go, to what career we want to pursue and in general where do we want to be.”

-Senior Alec Gignac

4 Opinion THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday, February 17, 2012

A series of unfortunate events

Hardships happen in Grand Haven

John Cherette Bring back my Harry!

Harry Potter is over. I realize that. The movies, the books have all been made and released. So why can’t I get over it? I don’t want to believe it’s over, that’s why. It’s meant so much to me over time.

It’s meant countless midnight releases for books and movies, waiting while shouting out spells and having battles. Even once while in Kentucky on a mission trip, we drove for over an hour to the nearest theater to see “The Half-Blood Prince” on opening day.

There we were, sweaty and covered in dirt, grinning from ear to ear as onlookers stared. Did we care? No, because we were there for Harry.

I love Harry Potter so much that I have been in several serious arguments about it. Was Dumbledore really gay? Why did they leave out or change certain parts from the books to the movies?

What are the odds of getting Ginny Weasley to marry me? Slim, considering the actress who plays her is engaged, but I’m still holding out hope. If need be, I guess I could settle for Hermione too.

One of my favorite gifts of all time is a replica of Dumbledore’s wand. Why? It means that I am that much closer to casting spells.

And I’d be lying to you if I said I don’t run around my house, casting spells at enemies that don’t really exist. Harry Potter has taught me to imagine. In a technology-fueled world, there needs to be some room for imagination.

I can remember staying up into the wee hours of the night reading. Crazy, right? A kid born in the 90s who chose to read?

That’s what Harry Potter did for millions of us. Now that it’s over, I don’t read anymore. As sad as that is, I think it’s just a testament to what the boy who lived has meant to our generation over the years.

I’ve even made the decision that my first tattoo will be the deathly hallows symbol. That’s how much I want Harry Potter to be a part of my life forever. It’s so much more than a series of childrens’ books. It highlights the internal struggle we all face between morality and selfishness. Though some people freak out because it involves witchcraft, there are so many lessons one can learn throughout the series.

Harry Potter is over. It has been for over seven months.

But I want more. Not just 16,000 extra words on some website (pottermore.com). I want more books, more movies. Because I’m not quite ready to give up on my childhood yet. This is my plea: J.K. Rowling, PLEASE write more books. Even if it’s just one or an entire series, I need more. And if during the process you feel like making Ginny or Hermione single again, I would be alright with that too.

Opinion

KAYLA HOFFMAN Reporter

Don’t think that poverty doesn’t exist at home Seeing isn’t always believing.

Just because you drive down the street and don’t see people holding signs with requests for work and money written in Sharpie on them, doesn’t mean someone out there isn’t hurting.

Poverty isn’t a transparent window, letting you see through the problem straight to the answer. It’s multifaceted. It’s a complex machine that’s malfunctioned.

According to the U.S. Census

Bureau, the overall statewide poverty rate is 15.5 percent.

That’s the highest it’s been in 27 years. It’s no secret that the Mitten is suffering beneath the pressures of the economic downfall and that we’re still struggling to stand on solid ground again.

What might be more unbelievable is that Grand Haven hasn’t eluded the vicious beast of poverty, if only because its lack of visible presence drives it to the back burners of our minds.

Just because we have a quaint little downtown strip of shops, fueled by locals and easy breezy tourists, doesn’t mean everyone is staying above the dark waters of poverty.

A sunny, clean beach won’t keep us from falling prey. The lighthouse can’t just flash poverty in the eyes like an MIB neuralyzer and make it conveniently forget about our sandy little niche in the world.

The blunt truth is that there are homeless here.

There are the hungry.

Down the street, someone could be trying to decide between buying food and paying for heat.

Don’t let the stigma of gilded Grand Haven blind you from the reality. Don’t let that @TotalGrandHaven tweet convince you all kids can party hardy without worry about where they’ll be sleeping that night.

This is your community, and whether you like it or not, your responsibility. It’s almost too easy to give back.

Between options like the local Love INC to the Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry or the Community Action House, all it takes is a few hours of your time to go in and sign up to help unload items from trucks, take apart old computers, or act as the receptionist.

If a 13 year-old can choose to give baby clothes in leeway of receiving birthday presents, I’m pretty sure high school students could devote some of their time in order to make a difference in others’ lives.

Friday February 17, 2012 THE BUCS’ BLADE Opinion 5

Attack on the internet Opinion

KAIA HAYES Reporter

Proposed legislation poses serious threat to freedom of information, internet as we know it This January, over 10 million people signed an online petition to oppose the passage of the “Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA)” and “Protect Intellectual Property Act” (PIPA). Internet giants including Google, Wikipedia, Tumblr, Reddit, and Wordpress blacked out or displayed anti-SOPA banners for 24 hours in protest. More than 19,000 tech enthusiasts rallied in New York to show their dissent.

Before the Jan. 18 Blackout/Strike, surprisingly few people were aware of the two proposed bills. However, word spread quickly about the legislation.

First introduced on Oct. 26 by U.S. Representative Lamar S. Smith, SOPA was intended to curb online copyright infringement and piracy issues.

Combined with PIPA, the bills would give both the government and copyright holders the authority to seek court orders against foreign websites that are seen as ‘enabling copyright infringement,’ and have access to those sites blocked by U.S. internet service providers, search engines, and website directories.

Those in favor of SOPA and PIPA feel that the bills are necessary to strengthen

the enforcement of copyright laws, especially in foreign websites. They argue that online piracy and copyright infringement costs companies and puts millions of jobs at stake.

While the level of support in legislators has dropped significantly since the protests on Jan. 18, the bills are still widely supported by content providers and other organizations that rely on copyright, including the Motion Picture Association of America and the Recording Industry Association of America. Although the idea of fighting online piracy is a good thing, these bills are not the way to do it. The proposed legislation would give the government more power than needed to monitor copyright infringements, and potentially allow them to censor content from U.S. sites as well.

This means that content on websites like Wikipedia and Youtube could potentially be unavailable to people in the U.S. Try to imagine the internet without Facebook or Twitter.

Losing access to these websites would be a bad thing for more reasons than being deprived of a source of entertainment; both students and teachers use them for learning purposes as well. Doing research for a paper, watching videos, or using classroom blogs would be nearly impossible in our increasingly digital world without these valuable online resources.

Although protecting copyrights is important, there are better ways to address the issue. Alternate bills can be written that attempt to find a balance between protecting rights and allowing the internet’s flow of free knowledge remain. For example, a bill with more due process protections would prevent abuse of power. The voting on SOPA and PIPA were pushed back indefinitely, but they aren’t gone yet.

In order to preserve our freedom of access, we need to speak out against SOPA and PIPA.

75 98

percent of students are aware of SOPA and PIPA

percent of students are aware of SOPA and PIPA and are the passing of either bill into law

against

51

percent of students have less than 25 percent pirated music

9 10

percent of students have 25 to 50 percent pirated music

30

percent of students have 75 to 100 percent pirated music

percent of students have 50 to 75 percent pirated music

6 News THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday, February 17, 2012

BUC

B r i e f s

TAMING THE WILD WEST IN A DRESS Grand Haven High school presents “Taming the Wild West in a Dress,” today and tomorrow Feb. 17 and 18 at 7 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center “It’s a very silly spoof of old westerns,” director Rita McLary said. “It’s like a cartoon, the jokes are pretty broad and it’s funny.”

Tickets to the underclassmen show are $5 at the door, for two hours of entertainment.

“It’s really easy to laugh at,” sophomore actress Logan DeWitt said. “The jokes are easy to pick up on, it’s really fun [and] the characters are really not normal.”

-Kyra Lansky

MARCH GARDEN DAY March Garden Day is on March 10 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Grand Haven Community Center. The event includes landscape learning sessions, a silent auction and lunch.

“We want to spread knowledge and excitement about gardening, shrubs, flowers, and trees,” coordinator for West Michigan Nursery and Landscape Association Laurel Nease said.

The proceeds go to the WMNLA scholarship fund for students who want to major in horticulture. Registration is $45 in advance or $50 at the door. You can register at West Michigan Nursery and Landscape Association’s website (www.wmnla.com).

“It’s for all levels of knowledge,” Nease said. “You don’t have to know much about gardening to come.”

-Katherine Wampler

Getting back on track ER for CR: Junior Stephanie Hoover, sophomore Cathlynn Veysey and junior Frances Wrighthouse work. The program is free to use. photo by Laura Burton

Students who’ve failed required classes given opportunity to regain lost credit MADISON WILDER Reporter The sounds of clicking mice fill the air in the Pod 2 computer lab as students in the new credit recovery program work to earn their credit through online programs now offered at GHHS. Beginning second trimester, Principal Tracy Wilson created this after-school program to facilitate students who have failed required classes. The goal is that students can regain their lost credit without retaking the course.

In the past, students have been able to utilize PLATO, an online class system, as an alternative option for students who have failed to earn credit in the regular classroom setting. Central High School used to have this program, but it had to be purchased. Now the program is being offered here and it is free of charge.

“Central High School has been offering after school PLATO programs for the past several years,” Wilson said. “They are not offering it this year. That is when we decided to do something to help out our kids.”

A letter was sent out to 57 students over Christmas break who failed either Algebra I A or B, Geometry A, Algebra II A, Earth Science A, Biology A or Chemistry A with information about the new program and encouraging them to sign up. Thirteen of the 57 students took advantage of this opportunity.

“I figured, ‘why not do it,’” junior Stephanie Hoover said. “You get your credit without having to retake the entire class over.”

The whole idea behind the program is for the students who failed a class the first time around will be able to take it again after school and continue on to the next section of their class in the next trimester.

At this point the program is just a pilot.

“We have not made a decision yet on whether or not we will continue the program into third trimester,” Wilson said.

Wilson says money has been set aside for the program, but whether there will be enough participation is not yet clear.

“If enough kids sign up for third trimester, then we can expand it,” teacher Joe Nelson said.

The program is entirely computer

based with Nelson posted in the room to support and help out when necessary.

Although because he is a math teacher, he may not always know the answer.

“You could ask for help if you really need it, but there is no guarantee he will know the right answers because we are all taking classes on different subjects,” Hoover said.

More student interest would allow for the program to grow and more teachers to become involved down the line.

Students who are interested but don’t have access to transportation can now participate in the program, due to the Harbor Transit extended bus route that reaches GHHS. “We have at least one student who uses [the Harbor Transit] regularly,” Wilson said.

According to the participants, the program is “relaxed and easygoing.”

Students can come and go as they please within the hour and if they get behind they can come in during their lunch period to catch up.

“The bottom line is that they have to get the work done,” Nelson said.

Friday, February 17, 2012 THE BUCS’ BLADE News 7

Harbor Transit extends routes Local millage funds expansion, makes GHHS a consistent bus stop

BUC

B r i e f s

KAIA HAYES Reporter

H

arbor Transit recently extended its service area to include Grand Haven Township. This addition more than doubled the population served, giving 30,000 residents the opportunity to use public transportation. The area of the new route was tripled, now covering approximately 39 square miles and servicing Grand Haven, Ferrysburg, Spring Lake Village and Grand Haven Township.

Harbor Transit representative Tom Manderscheid says that the change was proposed to address public demand.

Many people felt that Harbor Transit should reach destinations such as the Meijer area and the high school. Last May, taxpayers voted on a millage, which passed with overwhelming support.

“There was need for the change,” Manderscheid said. “The township officials felt the need for public transportation into the township and that really drove the process.”

The lengthened route has already proven to be beneficial, with a 25 percent daily increase in ridership and a daily average of 80 rides into the township.

In addition to routes, Harbor Transit is in the process of re-branding, considering changes in other areas including a new logo and redesigned buses. The changes are expected to take effect some time in the next year.

Principal Tracy Wilson feels the bus stop at the high school will be extremely beneficial to students.

“We have students that are impacted on what they can or can’t do based on transportation,” Wilson said. “If students have not been engaged in something outside of school because of transportation, we need to hook them in and help them realize there’s an opportunity.”

Junior Cathlynn Veysey agrees and takes advantage of the busing service to bring her home after staying to complete a class at school.

COSMETOLOGY OPEN HOUSE The Tulip City Beauty College in Holland will be holding an open house for anyone interested in cosmetology on Tuesday, Feb. 21. The event will take place from 5-7 p.m.

“Students who are looking at cosmetology after their high school diploma should attend,” employee Kathy Blank said.

The facility was recently established in 2009, but is a branch campus from Moored Associates Beauty Schools who have been educating for over 50 years. More information will be given during the event about enrollment, financial aid and the cosmetology course itself. Tours of the facility will also be offered.

-Brittney Olds

A.C.F. SCHOLARSHIP

illustration by Lucas Wilder

“I use it to go a lot of other places too,” Veysey said. “I don’t have a car at home.”

Harbor Transit hopes to make the local bus system a more practical option for young people in the community as well.

“We encourage the students at the high school to utilize the service,” Manderscheid said. “We’re out here each day and if there’s any way we can assist in your transportation, we’re happy to help.”

The American College Foundation is offering a scholarship opportunity to all high school freshmen, sophomores, and juniors. There will be multiple winners, with prize money ranging $1,000 to $5,000. The application deadline is April 1, 2013.

Applications must include a completed ACF Visionary Scholarship Application, a copy of the student’s most recent report card and a 500 word, doublespaced essay to be considered eligible. Essays will be judged on grammar, punctuation and merit.

Award money is used to offset costs of the first year of post-high school education at the student’s institution of choice within the United States.

For additional information and to apply, visit www.AmericanCollegeFoundation.org.

-Kaia Hayes

8 News

THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday, February 17, 2012

The Gover-nerd Looking back on Rick Snyder’s first year in office

Snyder awareness The Blade conducted a survey testing the knowledge of government classes regarding Michigan’s current governor, Rick Snyder

62% No

Do you approve of the job he is doing?

69% No

Do you think the governor’s changes have helped education?

31% Like

78% Yes

31% Don’t care 38% Dislike

Do you know who Rick Snyder is?

How do you feel about schools getting more money based on performance?

In his first year in office, Governor Snyder made sweeping education reforms KATHERINE WAMPLER Reporter With $470 someone could buy an iPad, two plane tickets from Chicago to Los Angeles, or 134 gallons of gas. The same amount money could also restore the funds for education of one student in a Michigan K-12 school.

Budget cuts On Jan. 1 Governor Rick Snyder’s $1.6 billion business tax cut took effect. Previously the tax helped fund education for K-12 schools. However with the new cut, schools are seeing less money for each student forcing schools to cut programs and layoff staff. At GHAPS the effect of the cuts was absorbed by making

other areas more efficient.

“To date we have been very fortunate to maintain our level of programing, but unless Snyder raises the priority level for school funding, that will eventually be impossible,” Superintendent Keith Konarska said.

Snyder’s education changes Snyder’s plan for educa-

tion focuses on student learning and performance. He has made legislative changes to help improve failing school districts such as allowing unlimited charter schools. His changes give kids in low performing districts the opportunity to get a quality education, but it may not benefit everyone.

Konarska worries that the

changes Snyder made that focus on improving failing schools has the potential to negatively impact high performing districts.

Teachers like Brian Williams resent the government meddling in successful schools’ affairs.

“The reality is that at Grand Haven, we’re where we are because we have an administration, a faculty, teachers and

Friday, February 17, 2011 THE BUCS’ BLADE News 9 continued from page 8

community that are committed to offering a quality education and we don’t need the state to intervene,” Williams said.

Charter schools increase Snyder allowed unrestricted growth of charter schools as part of his plan to help students get

a better education. He’s hoping the increase will give students a chance to learn in non-conventional environments.

“I think this is some exciting stuff,” Michigan Senator Arlan Meekhof said. “It now says you don’t have to live in a specific geographic area to get an education, you can get it anywhere.”

Helping kids get a quality education is important, especially to parents. However every child who decides to go to a charter school instead of a public school takes away money from public schools who already have dwindling resources.

“They [charter schools] don’t play by the same rules and regu-

lations as public schools, but they receive the same funding,” Williams said.

Full day kindergarten Snyder has also encouraged school districts to offer full day kindergarten. Schools who don’t offer a full day of education will only receive partial funding. It’s

forcing districts to reconfigure to make space for kindergartners.

“The expectations for school districts have never been higher at a time when resources have never been lower,” Konarska said. “While we welcome the higher expectations we need reasonable funding to meet those challenges.”

College tuition $pike Current undergraduate costs Michigan State University $21,026

Students finding it harder to pay for higher education as tuition costs continue to rise LAUREN KRUGGEL Reporter

The rising cost of college is taking its toll on students and parents and threatens to only continue increasing.

According to the College Board, in 2011, average in-state tuition and fee plus room/board charges exceeded $17,000 Central Michigan at four-year public institutions, a six percent University Hope College increase from one $17,822 year earlier. Spend$36,320 ing by Americans for post-secondary Western Michigan education totaled University $461 billion; an amount 42 $17,201 percent greater than in 2000. College seniors who borrow to finance their education now, will graduate with an Grand Valley State average of $24,000 in debt and student loan University debt. This tops credit card University $17,340 debt among Americans. of Michigan The College Board said the tuition increases stemmed from a $21,026 weakened economy and state funding that has not kept pace with the growth in

college enrollments.

Local colleges such as Grand Valley State University in Allendale see the tuition prices increasing hundreds of dollars each year.

“The tuition has steadily gone up in the past years and I don’t see it going down anytime soon,” Denise Davis, from the Grand Valley University admissions office said.

“However I don’t believe [tuition] has so much that it would affect the students terribly.”

Universities do something unheard of in the private sector that increases their profit; they deliberately turn customers away.

A fast food chain succeeds by selling more hamburgers and fries. No customer was ever kept from spending money at McDonald’s by an admissions office. Yet for American universities, the bottom line is measured by college rankings that often reward schools for turning people away, becoming more “selective.” Many believe the Ivy League offers the best education in the world, so why do we encourage those elite institutions to deny access to thousands of highly qualified students every year?

Like health care, prices are rising rapidly for higher education because of the predominant role of third-party payments; federal student loans and grants, state government support, private gifts and endowment income.

The costs will continue to rise and within a year or two of starting school, the cost of last year of college may cost 15 to 25 percent more than the first year.

10 Vibe THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday February 17, 2011

Sound advice LOREN JOHNSON Reporter

Whether it be the highly unfashionable Styrofoam-sheathed headsets that came with your uber cool CD player in the 90s, or those new Monster-endorsed ear buds you dumped three weeks of allowance into, we’ve all had our up and downs with headphones. Nowadays a good set of buds can really dip into your savings, so how do you stretch that dollar to get the sweetest bass quality? Fear not, The Bucs’ Blade has assessed the best headphones for the price you want to pay.

Money to spend:

What to Buy:

$7

JVC Gumy Headphones

$25 $100

Skullcandy Ink’d Earbuds

Bose QuietComfort Headphones

Chosen Because: Available in all the colors of the rainbow, these headphones are for the multi-tasker. They have zero noise cancellation, making it easy to hear what’s going on around you as well as Taylor Swifts vocals. The buds are pretty large too, so they wont fall out of your ears as you dart from project to project.

The Black Keys Concert Preview BRITTNEY OLDS Reporter

The crowd’s cheers will echo through the enormous 12,000 person Van Andel Arena. The guitar and drums will strike simultaneously as the man with the beard, Dan Auerbach, and the man with the glasses, Patrick Carney jam away into their world of head bangs and good music of their band, The Black Keys.

Dan’s voice sounds like years of cigarettes, but in the best way possible. He has the sort of strain to his sound that every rock singer wishes they had. His fingers move along the guitar fast, but effortlessly. Patrick slams on the drums, his whole body moving with every note.

At the end of the song every die hard fan will be captivated, every newbie will become a die hard fan and every hipster will realize the Black Keys are too good to stay a secret.

The Black Keys will be performing at Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids on March 18 at 7:30 p.m. The concert is part of their tour following the release of their newest album El Camino. Arctic Monkeys will open.

Skullcandy headphones promise a lifetime warranty. Depending how much you value sound quality and how obnoxiously bulky you want your audio accessories to be, you can find some pretty sweet buds. The excellent noisecancellation will reduce you to lip reading. Designs range from edgy to adorable.

Bose sound quality is beautiful.

If you dream of the Biebs serenading you live in your living room, these headphones are about as close as you can get. However these buds don’t do much for style- they come in black and silver. If you’re willing to sacrifice style for quality, then these are your perfect match.

A- Van Andel Parking Lots-Prices Vary B- Grand Rapids Parking Ramp-$1 per 30 minutes C- Georgio’s Pizza- $2.50-$3.75 per slice

Friday, February 17, 2012 THE BUCS’ BLADE Vibe 11

Ditch the video games and beat winter blues The Bucs’ Blade staff helps you defeat those winter time blues and pencil in some plans without breaking your bank account or your gas tank.

RILEY MISSEL Vibe Editor

Fire-Til-You-Tire Laser Tag at the Lost City

Community Yoga at Lakeshore Yoga Center

Cross-Country Skiing at Pigeon Creek Park

Open Gym at Aerials & Baranis Gym

Grand Rapids Original Swing Society Swing Dancing

Rock Climbing at Grand Valley State University

Where: Holland Distance: 20 miles (30 minutes) Cost: $10/person for 2 games Details: Battle your friends for the most hits, shots taken and sun shots in The Lost City’s glow-inthe-dark obstacle course.

Wear black to blend in, or white to glow under the black lights!

Where: Grand Haven (715 ½ Washington St) When: Sundays 1:002:15pm Cost: Free!

Details: Whether you need a study break, a de-stressor, or want a new and fun way to meet people from around the community, yoga instructor Natalie Muratori invites you to come get your yoga-groove on!

Where: West Olive Distance: 13 miles (23 minutes) When: Open unitl 10pm, conditions permitting Cost: Trails are free to use, cross-country skis are $8 to rent (ID required.)

Details: Enjoy the well-lit, groomed trails of Pigeon Creek Park. Hot chocolate and other concessions available.

Where: Grand Rapids Distance: 35.5 miles (45 minutes) When: Fridays 8-10pm and Saturdays 7-10pm Cost: $10/person Details: Gym with trampolines, tumble track, and a foam pit for you to bounce around, pretend you’re Mary-Lou Retton or just let out all that pent-up winter energy.

Where: Grand Rapids Distance: 33 miles (40 minutes) When: Tuesday 7pm free lesson, 7:30pm open dancing Details: All ages and talent ranges come out to dance the old fashioned way. Look for Grand Rapids Original Swing Society on Facebook for weekly venues and entry fees.

Where: Allendale Campus Distance:23 miles (37 minutes) When: Open Climb Saturdays from 1-5 pm Cost: $10/person Details: Unleash your inner adventurer and scale up the 2600 square foot climbing wall at GVSU. Staff members available to provide instruction and to belay climbers.

MOVIE MARATHON No need to waste precious time watching half a film to decide it’s a dud. The Buc’s Blade Staff has picked the ‘next up’ for your instant queue

Happythankyoumoreplease

The Parking Lot Movie

Released: 2011 Starring: Malin Akerman, Tony Hale, Zoe Kazan The Deets: As a winner of Sundance Film Festival, this production explores the growth of friendship, love, and getting older in the good ol’ New York City.

Released: 2010 Starring: The parking lot attendents at The Corner Parking Lot The Deets: The title sums it up. This movie is all about drunk, insane and irresponsible people at their finest-- while parking.

Big

Dandelion

Released: 1988 Starring: Tom Hanks, Elizabeth Perkins, Robert Loggia, John Heard The Deets: After an encounter with a fortune machine, Josh is granted the wish to grow up only to discover it’s not what was in mind.

Released: 2004 Starring: Vincent Kartheiser, Taryn Manning The Deets: Don’t let the fragile title fool you. This depressing film is about a lonely boy who falls in love only to loose it in a fatal accident.

Trendy & Affordable Clothing 616-844-1743

119 Washington Ave. Grand Haven

12 Vibe THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday Febuary 17, 2012

Local artist spreads music across “The Mitten” LUCAS WILDER News Editor Grand Haven’s got talent.

Garrett Borns, a 2010 GHHS graduate, recently released his first EP, “A Dream Between” and is traveling Michigan performing with his new band. I attended one of four local sold-out shows at Seven Steps Up Event and Banquet Center in Spring Lake on Feb. 3.

As I arrived, I was immediately greeted at the door by owner Gary Hanks smiling ear to ear, showing off a few gold teeth. Once checked in, I filed into the main venue, where rows of chairs were arranged before a small stage. The room was packed to the fire code limit of 104. The lights dimmed and from a back door, the band walked onto the stage, drawing cheers. Borns, drummer Scott Pellegrom, bassist Tom Thomas and guitar player Kevin Kozel all picked up their respective instruments and smiled broadly at the sea of faces.

Admittedly, I wasn’t feeling too optimistic about the music before I arrived. After all, this is the guy that just replaced Justin Bieber in the eyes of my sixth grade sister. Borns began the

Lund’s top tunes

STRUMMIN’ CHORDS: Lead singer and Grand Haven graduate Garrett Borns reaches out to his audience through his soft tenor and charming charisma at his sold-out show on Feb. 3. After recently releasing his first EP, he is on tour with his band preforming across Michigan, a place he fondly refers to as “the mitten”. Photo by Katelyn Hansen

night with “Time Flies,” the somber lead single off his new album. His clear, almost feminine voice filled the air as he strummed his ukulele, swaying his hips to the beat. Once I got past my judgemental inner inhibitions and actually started to listen to the song, I was taken aback by the talent.

Borns is a natural performer and he was at home on the stage, interacting with the audience and encouraging them to “get crazy.” Skinnier than a supermodel on a diet and sporting a modernized Elvis Presley haircut, he was full of cool confidence throughout the show. His songs were catchy, clever and simple, weaving together indie and pop sounds seamlessly. Borns’ comic ability shone on “Tale of a Michigan Cougar,” a song describing his run-ins with seductive women, who are older than his mother in various music bars. Unfortunately, this brought on a wave of extremely disturbing bumping and grinding

Entertainment editor Lauren Lund picks songs to download now

“Never Be Daunted” JayMay

It makes perfect sense that this tune is in the independent film Happythankyoumoreplease due to its charming serenity and simple stripped-down vibe.

“Fluke” Mates Of State

Within the first 20 seconds the tempo is shifted, and the harmonies become scattered with a techy keyboard and easy bassline.

“I’m Losing My Mind” Wise Blood Sickening bassline and raunchy vocals slowly ease into the smooth yet heavy chorus.

“Yam Lo Moshech” Fool’s Gold

Filled with trumpets, electric guitar, bongo drums, and a choir-feel for the chorus it carries the exception of not understanding the foreign lyrics and still enjoy what they are saying.

“Helicopter” Deerhunter

Sounds of water droplets and chimes are intertwined with guitar and some what femenine vocals by Bradford Cox in the indie-punktechy-alternative jive kindof way that is ideal for anything from studying to getting active..

the older women in the crowd. One cougar even danced her cell number up to the stage to throw at Borns, who slyly tucked the slip of paper down the front of his shirt.

While Borns was fantastic, the band made an even stronger impression. Kozel’s wicked guitar riffs melded with Thomas’ smooth bass while Pellegrom provided the pulse. Thomas also contributed background vocals to multiple songs, balancing out Borns’ delicate voice in the low end. Pellegrom stole the show with his insane drum solo, moving his sticks at unbelievable speeds, bringing the room to its feet.

It’s as if all the musicallyoriented people in the city collaborated to produce Borns and the band. Gazing at the back of room, I recognized people who play music downtown and other hipster-type people from school. World-renowned sound man Bill Chrysler did all the sound mixing with the help of his son, junior Dustin Chrysler.

My brother’s drum instructor worked the lights. It’s awesome to see the community coming together around a worthy cause. If you get the chance, go to a show.

You won’t be disappointed.

Borns and crew are going places.

“Round and Round” Ariel Pink’s Haunted Graffiti Being highly praised by Animal Collective is surely not a coincidence- this song has many different and diverse tunes within one song while still remaining the 80’s-ffel retro vibe throughout.

“Rainbows In The Dark” Das Racist The songs comical lyrics and upbeat rythm is refreshing for hip-hop rap. Grab some buds and jam out to this tune when doing an energy requiring activity of interest.

4 things

Friday, February 17, 2012 THE BUCS’ BLADE Culture 13

You oughta know

about taking the ACT test Drawing by Sarah Snider

The ACT is right around the corner. Whether it’s your first or fourth time taking this standardized test, the ACT can be quite stressful. Just a few points can determine where you go to college and the academic scholarships you can receive. Simply showing up on test day isn’t enough—preparation is the key. If you want to avoid cramming the night before, it’s crucial to put in a few minutes here and there in your spare time. Here are four things you should know to help reduce test-day anxiety and work toward that perfect 36.

1. Study in advance

Studying days, weeks or months in advance will help you feel prepared come test day – March 6. Practice tests can help you become familiar with the format.

Studying for this test is quite different than studying for normal chapter tests — you must review many subjects, like math, science and English, instead of just one.

“Having continual practice over and over in the [ACT prep] class and reviewing a week or so before will not only reduce stress, but will help kids do better on it,” ACT Prep and science teacher Steve Evink said.

2. Stay focused throughout the test day

While preparation beforehand is key, time management during the test is equally important.

“A lot of students struggle because they feel the pressure of time,” Assistant Principal Mike Roberson said. “So I would work through all the ones you know and then go back to the ones you didn’t know.”

A clear mind and positive attitude will help relieve any test-stress.

“There is always the opportunity to re-take the test –so try to eliminate as much of that test anxiety as possible,” Foley said.

3. This test matters

The ACT isn’t just another standardized test –it can open doors to post-secondary education.

“So it really depends on your aspirations in terms of your college choice how important it is,” Roberson said. “The better you do, the better your college choices are.”

Whatever goal is in mind for after high school, prioritize the “all-important” ACT. “A lot of kids have goals for the future and places they want to go for college,” Evink said. “Scoring at a certain level is important for admission into the school.”

Written and reported by Erin Staal

4. The night before

The combination of a good night rest the night before you take the test and a hearty breakfast is key to success.

“The power of sleep is somewhat underestimated –[you] should get a good night sleep, probably two nights before,” ACT Prep and English teacher Tom Foley said. “You should eat breakfast, as [cliched] as that seems. It’s a long test, you’re only given two breaks, you don’t want to be that one in the room that their stomach is growling and that’s more distracting to yourself than anyone else.”

Don’t squeeze all your studying that night before test-day. It will not be that beneficial to your test taking because it will take away from your sleep and add to your stress.

“I think cramming the night before like looking at websites or notes from the class maybe aren’t as beneficial as preparing well in advance,” Evink said.

“It’s like having a coach try to teach you certain skills the day of a competition, it doesn’t work very well.

Consider this Kayla Hoffman Break the circle I’m getting tired of playing this coy little cat and mouse game. When was it that we learned to practically quarantine ourselves from others, as if the personalities of strangers could contaminate us? Did we learn “A, B, C, D, E, F, G, keep unknown people away from me?” It seems that even in high school, the “stranger danger” lessons we picked up with sticky fingers in our kindergarten days has stuck with us. While we might not be afraid our peers will lure us into a creeper van with the promise of candy, there’s still something that keeps us at bay.

The unknown.

For the most part, when you walk down the hallways, you never intentionally meet the eyes of people when they pass you by. You gaze at the fliers, the overhanging flags. Oh, wow, look at it? Just look at it. I never noticed that wall before.

Even when you’ve met someone, after a twist of fate placed you two in the same class, it feels like Wonder Woman’s parked her invisible jet between the both of you. It feels like there’s some unseen force making it impossible to stroll over to them and embark on an adventure of friendship.

In reality, we’re just tricking ourselves into thinking it’s some big deal—trust me, it’s not.

The next time you find yourself about to go into auto avoid mode, follow these helpful instructions. Step one: do not lock eyes on inanimate objects and pretend they suddenly fascinate you. Step two: (this may hurt) smile. Step three: say hello/hey/yo/konnichiwa/bonjour/hei/hallo/ciao/hej/hola or however you greet a person.

You can’t deny it feels great when someone says hi to you, or when you see your friend spastically waving at you from across the parking lot or hallway. We’re social creatures by nature.

When man first discovered fire, you can bet he threw a bonfire party.

Why jeopardize the survival chances of your happiness by using a shy shell to deter others? Your peers aren’t as intimidating and cool as you think they are.

Be a social anarchist and overthrow the odd “norms”. Who cares if you hang out in different circles? Break them. Invite someone to hang out, swap numbers. Forget that awkward unsaid rule that dictates you have to basically go through the seven circles of hell before you can finally socialize.

If humans only live 70-90 years, we don’t have any time to waste being scared of others’ opinions.

14 Culture THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday, February 17, 2012

Catchin’ some zz

z z zzz

Sleeping fast facts

- People who sleep more than the recommended nine hours a day are more likely to develop Parkinson compared to those that do not.

They said it “I find naps to be a waste of time, you could be doing homework [or] hanging out with family. So when I nap, I feel extremely lazy and like I got nothing done.”

- Sophmore Kyle Funk

- If you lose two hours of sleep or more at night, your performance can be lowered to be equal to having a 0.5 percent bloodalcohol level.

“I take naps because I don’t sleep during the weekend, I go to bed late and wake up early.

So during the week I take naps to catch up

-Sleeping over nine hours a night, for adults, can be just as bad as sleeping six or less hours.

Source: www.squidoo.com/fun-factsabout-sleep

Stop studying, go to sleep Late-night studying tends to be more harmful than helpful KATIE WAMPLER Reporter Almost every high school student knows about the difficult choice they have to make the night before a big test.

Stay up late and cram or get a full night of sleep. Other students like sophmore Michael Michalski don’t realize how much homework they until they’re forced to stay up late to finish it.

“I get home and I want to sit down and eat my dinner, watch the nightly news, and I don’t want to nnnnnget to work,” Michalski said. “Then I’m like oh my god these teachers are insane they’re assigning me two hours of homework, they’re going crazy with 25 math problems. It’s just insane.”

If you’re the kind of student who only stays up late to study for a big test, Doctor Mike Sternberg says it’s not going to hurt but he doensn’t suggest it become a habit.

z z z z

on my sleep.”

Along with feeling sleepy or grumpy the next day staying up late has health risks. Possible risks could include your blood pressure being higher, heart problem, and psychological abnormalities like anxiety.

“There’s a lot of evidence now that chronic sleep deprivation leads to heart problems and hypertension and a lot of other physical effects,” psychology teacher Dave Stader said. “The problem is the effects are long term so a lot of times kids don’t feel it but it will affect them 10, 15, or 20 years down the road.”

Research shows that even if you aren’t affected by lack of sleep those extra hours of cramming aren’t that productive.

“Cramming is not very effective for long term learning,” Stader said. “You can pick up some stuff for short term learning but it isn’t as effective as repetitive learning.”

Stader believes that sleep outweighs staying up late to study. He says that sleeps is just as important to people’s health as exercise and nutrition.

“Staying up late is like a doughnut, it seems like a good idea at first but then you’ll regret it,” Michalski said. “I regret it for the rest of the week, I can not catch up on my cyles of sleep, I can not get into my zone.”

oh s(nap)

- Junior Alyssa Whitman

Afternoon cat-naps can be healthy, mentally beneficial KYRA LANSKY Reporter Senior Priscilla Vanheest groggily stirs to check her phone, five unread messages.

She stares at her clock; it’s already 7 p.m.

She looks down to the floor to see her AP psych homework sprawled across the living room. The lights are still on, her North Face backpack open, everything untouched.

“I actually don’t try to fall asleep,” Vanheest said. “It happens whether I’m trying to or not.”

Everyone has gone through the same cycle. Eyes start closing involuntarily, “nodding off.” The body is forcing itself into micro sleep, which occurs when it’s sleep deprived. Occasional napping can eliminate unnecessary stress and self indeuced sleep.

“There’s nothing wrong with taking a nap,” AP psychology teacher Aaron Portenga said. “It reduces stress, strengthens the immune system and is an essential component in memory.

If lacking a certain type of sleep the

next time spent resting, whether it’s for a nap or for the night, more time will be spent there.

For busy high school students, naps are a way to catch up on the needed nine hours of sleep that seem nearly impossible to get.

“If you’re not getting [nine hours], occasional naps are okay,” Family Practitioner Dr. Molly Crissman said. “Not power naps though. In general you shouldn’t need one…two...three hour naps.”

Too many naps can tamper with the body’s nightly sleep cycle. Jumbling up that cycle can lead to sleep deprivation, which can lead to chronic headaches or depression.

When behind on the vital nine hours, occasional napping is healthy.

“During those low points there is a prime opportunity to go ahead and take a nap,” Portenga said.

Vanheest takes full advantage of those low point opportunities.

“Once I start sleeping there’s no waking me up until it’s been at least two-anda-half hours,” Vanheest said.

Friday, February 17, 2012 THE BUCS’ BLADE News 15

A

ccording to the Michigan Department of Education, the number of homeless students in Michigan public schools increased by 37 percent between the 2009-10 and 2010-11 school years. During the 2010-11 school year, 189 students in GHAPS reported to be either living with family or friends, living in a shelter, hotel or motel, or were without shelter, sleeping on the streets or in a car.

Story continues on pages 16-17

Friday, February 17, 2012 THE BUCS’ BLADE News 17

16 News THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday, February 17, 2012

On the defensive

start the spiral…then you get adThe Grand Haven Area Commudicted to pain pills and because of nity Foundation (GHACF) is workan addiction they lose employment, ing to fight the effects of poverty and then they lose transportation, in the Tri-Cities. However as Carol it really depends on the situation.

Bedient, Grants and Programs For every single person, there’s a Director of GHACF explains, it isn’t hitting rock bottom place. There an easy battle. isn’t a step-by-step way it happens.

“We really are looking in both For everyone it’s different.” ways, trying to immediately help Residents of the Tri-Cities often and at ways to prepare families have difficulty recognizing the further,” Bedient said. “We’re really problems right in front of them. on the defense. We’re focused on “It’s easy for us, especially in the the families in crisis…most who Tri-Cities, to live in our own little are seeking out the organization bubble,” Rust said. “Everything are in poverty for some reason or that we know is comfortable to us another-homelessness, unemployand we think that those are people ment, seeking food at the Gleaners’ not in our community, but that’s truck. Our efforts aren’t focused on not true. There are a lot of hurting solving poverty issues, but to give people in our community.” support to families in crisis dealing with homelessness or poverty.”

Bedient says the best thing to do Rust explains that poverty is not is to stop the problems before they simply an issue people step into, start. but can be due to the way they were “Preventative measures mean raised. Generational poverty means focusing on the cause,” Bedient that a person grows up in poverty said. “We will always be there for and due to lack of education or lack the families in need. But we need to of opportunity, continues the cycle. play the supportive role as well as “In terms of generational povimmediate assistance. We now have erty, when you’re looking at three to look back and say what’s caused classes of people, it breaks down this to begin with…how to be to the poverty class, the middle prepared to buy class and the a house or the wealthy class,” skills to take Rust said. “It “You’re not necessarily going open jobs. To differs by mind to see people sleeping on park solve the root set. If you had benches, but its not to say issues we have a meal in the to give them the that there haven’t been people poverty class, tools themsleeping in public restrooms or they would ask selves. We’ve the question sleeping in the Wal-Mart parkhelped the at the end of ing lot, or the Meijer parking lot the meal, ‘Did homeless get into shelter, but or sleeping in Duncan’s Woodseveryone get we need to take enough to eat?’ even though its cold out.” it a step because there’s further with - Carol Bedient not always homeowner enough to eat education.” in poverty; you can’t always afford enough food.

For middle class, the question that Rust breaks down the parts of an would be asked, ‘Did it taste good?’ average case they see. because it’s assumed that everyone “The stability that people had, would have gotten enough to eat. whether it be the jobs or the housFor the wealthy class, the question ing or transportation, just kind of would be, ‘Was it presented well?’ crumbles,” Rust said. “There could because it’s assumed it’s going be a death in the family that could to taste well, it’s assumed there’s

Generational poverty

Living below the line

graphic courtesy of the U.S. Census Bureau

SAMANTHA VANHOEF Web Editor

A

LUCAS WILDER News Editor

s you open your eyes to the morning sun, you roll over and bump into a gas chimney. When you stretch out, you feel a sharp pain in your spine that comes from sleeping on flat brick. You glance at your watch and it reads 5:30 a.m.. Time to climb down from the heated roof

of the public library and get a start your day.

While this story sounds ridiculous, these living conditions have been the reality for some students in Grand Haven. According to the Michigan Department of Education, the number of homeless students in Michigan public schools increased by 37 percent between the 2009-10 and 2010-11 school years. During the 2010-11 school year, 189 students in GHAPS reported to be either living with family or friends, living in a shel-

ter, hotel/motel, or were without shelter, sleeping on the streets or in a car.

“Poverty and homelessness in the Tri-Cities does not look like it does in Chicago and even in Grand Rapids; however, we do have people who are in need.” Love INC Ministry Director Leah Rust said.

Love INC is an organization that exists to serve area churches in meeting the basic needs of families in the community. When clients come into Love INC requesting help, they assess their situations

and do all that they can to connect them with the appropriate ministries or secular agencies where help is available. Since the economic crisis in 2008, times have been harder for people all across the country.

The Tri-Cities region did not escape unscathed.

“Now, people who maybe were doing okay before, who were living paycheck to paycheck, had good jobs and could manage their bills… suddenly don’t have those jobs and their bills are continuing to come,” Rust said. “If they didn’t really have

a lot of money saved, then they don’t have anything to fall back on. So suddenly they aren’t able to make their bills and then they’re also looking for work and that’s a lot of stress. When you’re under stress you’re not always thinking clearly or you’re not getting enough sleep, you’re constantly worried, then presenting yourself for a job may or may not be great because you’re not in the best condition that you could be. It just kind of spirals out of control.”

Loss of stability

going to be enough. But it’s a matter of presentation. It’s interesting when you see the differences between the three classes and the different values within each class.”

Going without

the roof of the library.”

In her position as ministry director, Rust has also seen her fair share of misfortune.

“You’re not necessarily going to see people sleeping on park benches, but its not to say that there haven’t been people sleeping in public restrooms or sleeping in Wal-Mart parking lot, or the Meijer parking lot or sleeping in Duncan’s Woods-even though its cold out,” Rust said. “Those things do happen and we do heard stories of people who have broken into Laundromats or foreclosed homes just to get out of the elements, right in this community.”

Finding sustenance is a primary concern for those affected by poverty. The food service program at GHHS works to combat the possibility of students having to go without, even though the number of families on food stamps has grown.

By federal law, these students are automatically qualified for free and reduced lunch.

“There’s a statistic out there that says there is not one county in the whole United States where a full time minimum wage worker can Here in Grand Haven, poverty earn a one-bed room apartment and homelessness are considered at fair market rent,” Rust said. “If taboo subjects. However as Rust you’re working 40 hours a week explains, a poverty situation can at 7 something an hour, you really happen to anyone at any time. cant even afford “None of us a one bedroom are exempt,” “I grew up in this community apartment. Add Rust said. “I’m and I think we’ve done a great kids to that. talking about Kids are expenjob of not acknowledging or hid- this right now, sive. Food is exbut I don’t ing people who are homeless. pensive. Things know where I’ll The mind-set of our community be tomorrow, are definitely is, ‘that doesn’t exist here.’ But or a year from not getting any that’s not true. It absolutely cheaper. It’s now, I could tough.” become the does and we’re not exempt.”

Those famiperson asking lies who are in for help. And - Leah Rust someday, I just need of a helping hand with might be. One their grocery bill have the option of the hardest things to do is ask of turning to the Feeding America for help in this community. I grew food tuck hosted in the parking lot up in this community and I think of St. Patrick’s church. we’ve done a great job of not ac“I’ve seen poverty,” Bedient said. knowledging or hiding people who “Look at St. Patrick’s church on are homeless. The mind-set of our Friday mornings in the parking lot. community is, ‘that doesn’t exist Look at the families who are shophere.’ But that’s not true. It absoping at Wal-Mart when they need lutely does and we’re not exempt. to instead of downtown whenever If people do have needs, they can they wanted to.” ask for help. Just because someone finds himself or herself homeless or they find themselves where they Even in terms of housing, there can’t pay their bills, doesn’t make might not be any options available. them a bad person. They may have “It’s really hidden,” Bedient said. made some bad choices and maybe “People will stay with friends or not. It could happen to any of us.” family instead of a shelter or they *additional reporting done by Editormight sleep in their car. Even on In- Chief Mike Ginocchio

No guarantees

Hidden among us

Local Resources Webster House Youth Services: The mission of Webster House Youth Services is to improve and enhance the lives of women, youth, and families in crisis in our community by providing and advocating for services which lead to their safety, their emotional and economic selfsufficiency, their productivity and their ability to participate fully in our society.

24-hour crisis line: (231) 5780605

Love INC: Exists to serve area

churches in meeting the basic needs of families in the community. When clients come into Love INC requesting help, they assess their situations and do all that they can to connect them with the appropriate ministries or secular agencies where help is available.

Contact number: (616) 8462701

Tri-Cities Ministries Counseling: It is the mission

of TCM Counseling to provide an opportunity for all people in the Tri-Cities to access professional Christian counseling to meet the spiritual, psychology and emotional needs of our community.

Contact number: (616) 8429160

CALL 211: Dialing 2-1-1 is a

simple way to connect people with human services such as: • Food, housing, clothing • Utility assistance • Support groups • Healthcare Services • Teen pregnancy • Senior issues • Transportation • Prescription assistance • Seasonal programs Call specialists available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

18 Feature

THE BUCS’ BLADE

Friday, February 17, 2012

MULTIPURPOSE

toothpaste

Listerine

hairspray

Hydrogen peroxide

Coca-Cola

Vaseline

SUPER-PRODUCTS

CHLOE DAULT EDITOR-AT-LARGE

e d i x o r n-pe e g o r Hyd For those germ-a-phobes out

e n i r te

Lis

There are some household products that were meant to be ordinary, made for a single use;then there are those that have earned the name super products. From common kitchen items to everybody’s favorite hair supply, these multipurpose products should be in every home.

Not just for a clean mouth, Listerine has been proven effective as a dandruff treatment, aftershave, makeshift deodorant, anti-fungal, treatment for sensitive or reactive skin, and even as a floor or toilet cleaner. Next time you have irritated skin or dirty floors, look no furthur than your trusty mouthwash.

there Hydrogen peroxide is a must have. It can do everything from disinfect countertops to whiten your whites when doing laundry and kill funguses on every area of the body. Plus, it can be used in hair to naturally bleach hair!

Source: http://aidenofthetower.hubpages.com

Source:http://www.truthorfiction.com/rumors/h/hydrogen-peroxide.htm

Hairsp

If you think hairspray is just for keeping your hair in place, think again. This super-product can do everything from pest control to preserving artwork. Other things on its list of can do’s: remove ink stains from clothing, prevent or stop runs in stockings, keeping a zipper in place and preserving polished metal.

ray

Vaseli n

e

This multipurpose product may be well known to most but some of these crazy uses will suprize even the experts. Some things you probably didn’t know Vaseline could do: reduce itchy skin from dandruff, make your own lip gloss, help aid eyelash growth and minimize allergies when placed under your nose.

Source: http://www.frugallyminded.com

Source: www.rd.com/home/unbelievable-uses-for-hair-spray/

ste a p h ot

To

This product will make more than just your dentist happy. With a range of uses including skin care and de-odorizing, this is certainly a super product. Toothpaste can sooth burns, clear acne spots, defog goggles and fix DVD scratches. http://www.care2.com/greenliving/15-brilliant-uses-for-toothpaste-slideshow.html

la o C a c After hearing the amazing things Co this drink can do you may never want to consume it again. The acid in this product can do everything from de-blackening your kitchen pots to melting ice from your windshield. Other unbelievable uses for this classic American beverage: a pain killer for jelly fish stings, remove gum from hair, skunk deodorizer, bug trap, give your hair extra curl and even cure stomach aches with flat Coke.

Source: http://itthing.com/

Friday, February 17, 2012 THE BUCS’ BLADE Feature 19

FLUORESCENT ADOLESCENT Passing by Kendall Redmon’s desk, one can’t help but stop and watch him work. His innovative use of medium and precise technical skill is eye-catching, to say the least. But complimenting Kendall on his work will only get you a bright white, shy smile and an abundance of thank-yous infused with sincerity as if he has no idea that he has such a gift. Kendall’s strong Christian background infiltrates all of his artwork, whether it’s blatant or subtle.

“I call it ‘pushing the limit,’ that’s what I like to call it.”

(clockwise from above) WORKING HIS MAGIC: Junior Kendall Redmon cracks a smile as his fellow classmates jokingly mock his artistic skill. KENDALL NOSE BEST: Redmon perfects his latest sculpture in Ceramics III. LIVING COLOR: One of Redmon’s first Painting I assignments incorporates a Bible passage surrounded by watercolor. He used a straw to blow the paint outward for the splatter effect. His artwork conveys his boldness to display his faith, even when at school. photos by Mollie LaBeff

H

-Kendall Redmon

e takes a step back from his work— a sculptural installation of abstract airplane parts made in clay. His bright brown eyes scrutinize a leatherhard bolt as he twists and shapes it through his fingers using a fettling knife. There is obsession and extreme detail in this process, as if his career as an artist depends on every 120 degree angle.

MOLLIE LABEFF Feature Editor Tell me about your personal style as an artist.

“I like a lot of realistic art…[my artwork is] refined. I like [drawing] people a lot.”

Where do you get your inspiration from? ”Life, period. I listen to a lot of music [and it] influences a lot of my artwork. Ideas just pop into my head and I try to show it as best as I can.”

I’ve heard that you tend to disobey your art teachers’ directions and take your own spin on things. Is that true?

His ceramics teacher, Sherri Greene, intervenes: “He doesn’t just rebel. He comes to me and asks me, and I say, ‘yup!’”

Kendall laughs,“I call it ‘pushing the limit,’ that’s what I like to call it.”

Tell me a little bit about your faith.

“I grew up in a very religious family my whole life but really didn’t get an understanding for Christ until I was older and

experienced life as a teenager.”

How does your faith show in your art?

“I wouldn’t say my faith is directly portrayed in my artwork with pictures of Jesus or Bible verses all the time, but I believe that I have a God-given talent so He’s behind all my art whether it’s seen or not.”

What advice would you give to students struggling to live outwardly for Christ at school?

“I would say that it’s just like anything else, that it takes time for you to be comfortable

when expressing it outwardly. And if you know [it] in your heart it really doesn’t matter what anybody else thinks.

Where is your art taking you?

“I kind of want to be an art teacher. It would be cool to be a known artist, but it’s more of a hobby, I’d say.”

What are your future goals?

“I want to go to Kendall college.” (Irony at its finest) “I definitely want to study art and maybe engineering too. I don’t really have it mapped out. Just living life I guess.”

20 Feature THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday, February 17, 2012

After working for Grand Haven athletics for 37 years, Russell TenHagen has made more than just friends, he’s become...

Part of the

family EMMA BATY Managing Editor

H

e’s at every basketball game and every football game.

Standing on the sidelines, sitting in the stands.

Donning his worn navy blue Grand Haven baseball cap.

He’s always there, cheering and enthusiastically clapping point after point, game after game, season after season.

With every mistake he’ll readjust his hat, cross his arms and shake his head. Maybe he’ll

even pull a player aside to offer a few words of wisdom.

For the past 37 years Russell “Rusty” TenHagen has been a staple at most sporting events, putting in countless hours of work for a new group of athletes every season. For him, Grand Haven athletics are more than just sports.

They’re a lifestyle.

“It’s like a family to me,” TenHagen said. “I love the kids. The kids are all so cool to

me. You know what they are?

They’re my brothers. All the kids and all these girls and guys are all my brothers and that’s the way I put it, because they are.”

At a young age, sports became a significant part of TenHagen’s life and they still are. He began participating in recreational sports while he was in school at Grand Haven during the 70s. After graduation, he began working Buc-

caneer athletic events, starting as a greeter for referees.

Since, then he’s done a little of everything— sweeping floors, setting up game fields, or keeping score— no matter how small the task, TenHagen completes it with the same attention to detail that an artist gives to a painting. In addition to his duties at game sites, he helps coach middle school basketball.

Junior varsity basketball

coach Bob Eidson has known TenHagen for over 40 years and has learned to appreciate his work ethic.

“If you ask [TenHagen] to do something he will do his very best to do exactly what you asked him to do, whether its teaching a kid how to dribble a ball or to emphasize a passing technique,” Eidson said. “If it’s to referee a scrimmage, whatever he’s asked to do he tries really hard to do his very best.” story continued on page 21

Friday, February 17, 2012 THE BUCS’ BLADE Feature 21

M

ost Grand Haven sports better.’” fans have come to expect his attitude has made an imto see TenHagen at events. And pression with visiting teams almost everyone has a “Rusty” as well as locals. story to share. Eidson recalls “He’s a great ambassador and when TenHagen used to ride the it’s not at all uncommon for opbus to away basketball games posing coaches and personnel to and they would sit next to each comment on what a great guy he other. is,” Provencal said.

“When he traveled, Rusty and As a result of his efforts, TenI would get into great debates Hagen’s become more than just about who the all all-American another employee, he’s an asset college players were, who were to the Grand Haven commuthe best nity. During the profesfall of 2010, a “Yeah, I get a pat on the back, special presentasional I get honored, I don’t mind players,” tion was made Eidson at half time of that. But to be honest with said. “We a football game you… it’s an honor to do it. would That’s the only thing I can say. in celebration argue of TenHagen’s It’s an honor to do it that long back and 50th birthday for one school district.” forth and and his years of just have service. a great “It was a - Russell TenHagen time doyear or two ago ing that. when we gave I always him a jacket, a enjoyed doing that with him.” pullover and announced at half Even in his spare time, Tentime of a football game that it Hagen looks to teach students was his birthday and the crowd new skills. At a recent varsity sang happy birthday to him,” basketball game, he sat next to athletic director Jack Provencal a group of pre-teen basketball said. “And he basically cried like players, pointing out examples of a baby. And I mean that in the well-executed plays and demonkindest, most gentle and generstrating shooting techniques. ous of ways. That’s probably my And although these attributes most favorite memory.” aren’t necessarily apparent to ust as TenHagen’s employers the average spectator, the people and the community apprecihe works with appreciate how ate all he does for Grand Haven TenHagen’s influence goes beathletics, TenHagen appreciates yond his job description. the opportunity to do so.

“I think his enthusiasm “Every person I’ve worked spreads throughout the kids,” with… they’ve all been the best Eidson said. “They see this to me,” TenHagen said. “I’ve guy who just loves to be at never had a bunch of nicer the games, he’s there and he people to work for at the school supports them and he always here… Yeah, I get a pat on the has good words for them, he’s back, I get honored, I don’t mind encouraging to the kids. Somethat. But to be honest with you… times kids get down on themit’s an honor to do it. That’s selves a little bit and I think the only thing I can say. It’s an when Rusty talks to them he’ll honor to do it that long for one say, ‘hey, it might not be going school district.” well now but you just keep plugDue to his many years of serging away and it’s going to get vice to Grand Haven, TenHagen

T

J

STANDING ON THE SIDELINES: Russell TenHagen stands of the sidelines of a football game this fall. TenHagen not only sets up the game field but assists players during the game. “He probably knows as much about sports as anyone I know,” Athletic Director Jack Provencal said. “It’s not uncommon during a football game or a basketball game, when someone commits an infraction, he knows exactly what the [referee] is going to call… And he will announce what it is before the official announces what it is and I’ve never heard him announce it wrong.” SWEEPING THE DAY AWAY: TenHagen sweeps the floor at a basketball game. TenHagen does numerous tasks like this for the sports programs. photos by Emma Baty

has been able to watch many athletes develop throughout their athletic careers.

“You see them grow up from a middle school girl to a JV or varsity girl now, it’s an honor to do it with them,” TenHagen said. “I can’t complain. It’s hard, putting in the work but … I’ve [coached] every JV girl [on the team this year], every freshman that was on the team a couple years ago, I had those girls… And they all look at me going, ‘hi coach, hi coach, hi coach.’ Wait a minute, I’m not your coach no more.

I’m just a good mentor to you, I coached you to get here.” espite working for 37 years, TenHagen isn’t ready to quit. However, he knows that even if his career ended today, his place in the Grand Haven community is secure.

“I could walk right now and I’d have 4,000 people as my friends,” TenHagen said.

To those who don’t know TenHagen this may sound like

D

an exaggeration but it’s not. just sports skills.

Even as he sat down for an “I think Rusty demonstrates interview in the high school just an unselfishness and a cafeteria, he was greeted by caring for people and treating almost everyone who walked by people correctly,” Provencal in the hallsaid. “He way. This models what “It’s like a family to me. I love included I think we all the kids. The kids are all so the whole should be. freshman cool to me. You know what they And I believe basketball people pick up are? They’re my brothers. All team, who the kids and all these girls and on that and in gave him some respects guys are all my brothers and high-fives try to emulate that’s the way I put it, because that.” as they went past.

But for they are.”

TenHagen - Russell TenHagen TenHagen, it’s responded always been to most more than of them setting up by name. As they walk past the game site, more than helphim, some greet him with ‘hey ing students get to the trainers coach’ while others simply call office, more than meeting and him Rusty. But regardless of the greeting referees. It’s been about name, the relationship is the the kids. same.

“They’re all right here,” Provencal believes that the TenHagen says as he touches his life lessons TenHagen impresses hand to his heart. “They’re my upon athletes are greater than life.”

A RETURN TO NORMALCY 22 Feature THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday, February 17, 2012

Senior Steven DeWitt has colon removed after two year long battle with ulcerative colitis

G

JOHN CHERETTE Editor-In-Chief

ood health is often taken for granted.

This is especially true with teenagers. And until a recent health scare that lead to the removal of his colon, it was especially true with senior Steve DeWitt. Diagnosed with ulcerative colitis in July 2009, Steve has struggled for over two years for one simple thing: to feel normal again. The process eventually resulted in the decision to have three surgeries, which should rid him of the disease for good.

Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory disease where the colon (the last part of the digestive system) is lined with ulcers.

This results in pain, cramps, loose and bloody stool and makes it difficult for the body to absorb the nutrients it needs.

Two years ago Steve noticed blood in his stools and began losing weight. Being a teenager, he waited to tell his parents because he didn’t think too much of it or realize how serious it could really be. “[Junior Varsity football] two-a-days was when we started realizing that I had it,” Steve said. “We didn’t know what it was so I went to the hospital and got a colonoscopy. After that they said I had ulcerative colitis and they gave me a stan-

dard medicine that would take care of it.”

The medicine was effective for a while, but Steve’s symptoms returned about a year later. According to Lori, Steve’s mom, his flare-ups were exacerbated during high stress times such as exam weeks.

“It started getting worse and they’d have to give me steroids in order to keep it down and those aren’t fun,” Steve said.

“Steroids and the medicine took care of it until July of this summer. I got a huge flare-up and had to go in to the hospital and stay there for a week because I was really dehydrated.”

With all previous treatment attempts failing, Steve and his doctors decided to try a relatively new drug in hopes that it would be the answer they’d been looking for.

The second time he was in the hospital, Steve was given the medicine Remicade. It was supposed to be a very good drug, but largely affects the immune system, leaving a risk for infection and other sickness.

“That worked for about a month,” Steve said. “Then that stopped working too and I was back to where I started.”

Without any effective medicine, Steve’s health continued to deteriorate and he developed an infection in his colon. He was forced to stop going to school because he didn’t have the energy or strength. He missed four weeks of the first trimester and a week of the second.

“When I was not in school for that long period of time I was on the couch 24/7,” Steve said. “I had no energy and I couldn’t hang out with my friends or leave my house because it was too dangerous to be in a car if I had to go to the bathroom.”

Steve’s twin brother James began having to help him with simple tasks because he wasn’t able to do them on his own.

“When he was sick, like right before he went to the hospital [for surgery] I basically did everything for --Steve DeWitt him,” James said.

“Even bringing him things, or if he didn’t have the energy to move then I would pick him up and bring him places and give him piggy back rides and stuff.”

Steve noticed James’ extra effort, though he may not have always shown it. “[James] was very helpful,” Steve said.

“He would always bring me things when

“I’m a new person because it’s shown me that the little things are very important.

Good health and feeling normal is ridiculously nice.”

I asked for them in the hospital, or he would help pick me up off the couch if I needed help. He always did things for me even when I would get really mad at him and only him. And he would take it and just keep helping me.”

Being sick for so long took its toll on Steve mentally as well. He spent months without being able to do things that he would normally do without thinking.

“Hospital rooms really get old,” Steve said. “I would feel claustrophobic or bored and think ‘what are they going to do?’ because it would take a long time for them to be able to do something to me.

I felt like it was a lot of wasted time and I would get really mad and start beating my head on the pillows and cry or whatnot and my dad would have to calm me down.”

One of the hardest things for Steve was having to stop playing football for his senior season. He went from 170 pounds to 130 pounds over the summer and eventually became too weak to play anymore. “[Not being able to play football] was really sad,” Steve said. “In the summer was when all the competition was to get a spot and when that happens and you get taken out and you lose everything and just sit there and watch all your friends play while you’re in the hospital, it’s kind of sad. You miss your spot to do anything and then you can’t be with them.”

James knows how important football was to Steve and how hard it was for him to miss out.

Friday, February 17, 2012 THE BUCS’ BLADE Feature 23 “It was really hard because seeing him in so much pain was never fun for me,” James said. “Then when it got even worse this year during football it was really tough seeing him go through that because I know he missed it so much.”

Though at times he was down, Steve was able to keep an upbeat attitude. This was in large part due to his friends, who continually visited and encouraged him throughout the process. “[Seeing Steve sick] was really hard for our whole friend group,” said senior Jordan Keefe. “But I think it brought us closer together. We all love Steve so we wanted to support him and try to make him feel as comfortable as possible by being there for him, thinking about him, praying for him, stuff like that.”

As Steve’s condition worsened, his family went above and beyond in order to be there for him as much as possible.

“My dad made it a goal where [Steve] would never be in a hospital for more than an hour by himself and we’d always have a family member there with him,” James said. “I think that was really cool.”

With his health diminishing and treatment options running out, Steve and his doctors made an incredibly tough decision: a series of three surgeries that would rid him of the disease for good, the first surgery in January and the next two being three months apart. This meant that by July 2012, three years from the beginning of the ordeal, Steve would or should be cured.

“In the first surgery they removed the entire colon,” Steve said. “In the second surgery they take my small intestines and make a new large intestine pouch that holds the poop. They have to let that heal for three months and then in the third surgery they attach it to my rectum.”

While the surgery was not life threatening, it was an incredibly serious operation.

“I was very scared [for the surgery] because it’s an organ being removed from your body and you don’t know what life is going to be like without it,” Steve said.

“The doctors said there was some risk of having nerve damage done.”

The surgery was a success and Steve has returned to mostly his normal self physically. Now able to do normal things again, he’s come out of the situation looking up and remaining positive.

“I’m a new person because it’s shown me --Steve DeWitt that the little things are very important,” Steve said. “Good health and feeling normal is ridiculously nice.”

Even after his procedure, Steve’s friends continued to show their support for him.

“When he came home from the hospital after his surgery, his friends threw him a surprise party—a ‘no colon party,’” Lori said. “His brother James had gotten the idea from one of his nurses who had gone through the exact same surgery at his same age. Everyone chipped in to buy him some [Beats by Dre] headphones he had always wanted.”

“I had no energy and I couldn’t hang out with my friends or leave my house because it was too dangerous to be in a car if I had to go to the bathroom.”

(from left to right) ON THE TABLE: Steve’s removed colon sits on a table after the operation. His colon was removed after he and his doctors decided it was the best treatment for his ulcerative colitis.

STILL PART OF THE TEAM: Varsity football coach surprises Steve in the hospital by bringing his jersey to wear. The entire football team supported Steve, who was forced to quit after he became too weak to play anymore. “Members of the football team came up when he was in the hospital and Coach Farley came up with his jersey,” Steve’s mom Lori said. “This was something I will remember forever.”

The process is far from over, with two follow-up surgeries remaining, but Steve is out of the woods and looking to the future: college, work and living disease free.

Once the surgeries are completed and he has finished physical therapy to regain strength, Steve will be able to return to

his normal life. “[My health problems have] increased my outlook to enjoy every moment, you know?” Steve said. “Because you never know when you’re going to be in a bad situation so I would say cherish every moment you have, that’s very nice.”

24 Feature THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday, November 17, 2012

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VIRAL VICTIM

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Cyberbullying becoming international trend MOLLIE LABEFF Feature Editor Washed in the faded blue glow of an LCD screen, Jackie’s* heart rate increases. A small red box appears in the upper right hand corner of her computer, indicating a new message. This isn’t the first time it’s happened. By now the red symbol has taken on a new meaning to Jackie. She knows this won’t be a friendly ‘hello’ or a flirty anonymous question.

“You’re such a slut! You’re so ugly, why do people like you?”

Jackie goes through this multiple times a week. She receives insulting or threatening messages online, feeling targeted for no reason.

“It’s frustrating because I don’t know what I really did to deserve it,” Jackie said. “Its just frustrating that they would take the time out of their day to do that.”

Online, people are more apt to say things they wouldn’t in person and things tend to escalate quickly. “[A girl] wrote her opinion [about a photo I posted],” Jackie said. “It went from her not liking it to how she hopes my parents don’t care about me.”

Deputy Derek Gerencer feels that throwing social networking sites into the mix of high school drama can only add up to trouble.

“I get fed up with Facebook,” Gerencer said. “I hate all of those things. It’s non-stop drama. Young people should not have Facebook or access to it. Kids that are mature, that realize that what goes on there is indefinite can [handle having a Facebook.]”

Even worse is when Jackie sees public online posts directed at her that anyone can access.

“On Twitter, [two GHHS students harass me,]” Jackie said. “[One of them] always calls me a bitch. They won’t tweet it at me, but I’ll know it’s about me.”

Although the bullying is initiated online, it follows Jackie into her life at school and creates an uncomfortable learning environment.

“Nobody wants to see crappy things said about them,” she said. “And it sucks coming to school and knowing who’s saying it…There’ve been people that have yelled at me in the hallway. It’s just annoying

because coming to school sucks. It’s such a drag. [A certain student] will yell, “JACKIE’S A BITCH!” or [another student] will walk really close behind me and know it’s pissing me off.”

Cyberbullying isn’t an issue that Jackie faces alone.

It’s become a growing trend that affects many at Grand Haven and across the nation. Although there is no official cyberbullying law on the books in Michigan, section 750.411s of the Michigan penal code states that a person can’t post a message through any electronic medium of communicationthat that would make the victim feel “terrorized, frightened, intimidated, threatened, harassed, or molested.”

The penalty for such a crime can be up to 2 years in jail and up to $5,000 in fines. If the victim is under 18 and the person responsible for the harassment is at least 5 years older than the victim, jail time can be up to 5 years and/or a fine of up to $10,000.

But Jackie was unable to press charges because most of the bullying was done anonymously. With the growing availability of an ‘anonymous’ option on many websites, cyberbulying becomes almost impossible to stop.

“They want to be mean but they don’t want to be seen being mean and that’s why it’s so crappy.” Jackie said. “Cyberbullying is just so pointless. I think if you have a problem with someone you should just let it out, instead of harsh words being used.”

Gerencer agrees that students are more inclined to use those harsh words when they know there’s a much lower risk of getting caught.

“People have a lot more audacity to say mean or inappropriate things online when they’re not face-to-face.”

Gerencer said.

Jackie’s advice to anyone receiving insulting messages is to rise above it and react with dignity and class.

“I’ll respond but I won’t stoop to their level,” Jackie said. “[I’ll say,] ‘I hope you feel better now that you said that.’ If you just start talking crap back it doesn’t make you any better than them…I feel like if I let [the bullies] know that it upsets me, it will be like them winning. I don’t want anyone having the satisfaction of knowing they upset me… The people in life whose opinions should matter to you won’t say things like that.”

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Friday, February 17, 2012 THE BUCS’ BLADE Feature 25 Search

Jackie Smith Attends Grand Haven High School . Lives in Grand Haven, Michigan . From Grand Haven, Michigan . Born on August 4, 1993 Share:

Post

Photo

Link

Have you ever received mean or threatening messages online? yes 208

Video

no 167

Jackie Smith Still think cyberbullying is a joke? A paranoid label set in place by overbearing parents and stiff anchormen on the evening news?

Still think it doesn’t affect you? At right are stats based on a survey of 375 GHHS students. Below are actual messages* that have . GHHS students been sent to .actual

On which sites?

twinkle twinkle, little slut. name one guy you haven’t f****d.

3 hours ago . Like . Comment

i want to drown you.

9 hours ago . Like . Comment

32

50

33

44

Was the bullying anonymous?

your gross and anyone with sight can see that. .

170

Other

6 hours ago . Like . Comment

Tumblr

you’re disgusting

Twitter

5 hours ago . Like . Comment

Formspring

Friends (438)

honestly I think your ugly. and EVERYONE hates you.

Facebook

Wall Info Photos (106) Notes Friends

.

yes 41 no 240

i see you in the hall way’s at school and i want to step on you because you’re so ugly.

11 hours ago . Like . Comment

Did it affect you in real life?

you’re so ugly, why do people like you?

1 day ago . Like . Comment

yes 92 no 216

sluts never change

1 day ago . Like . Comment

who do you think you are? you are a joke.

2 days ago . Like . Comment

*names are fictional. Posts are real.

375 students surveyed

26 Photo THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday, February 17, 2012

Winter Walk and Fun Run

THE END OF THE ROAD: Participants exude happiness as they approach the finish line. A majority of the spectators yelled words of encouragement to cheer the runners on and give them the motivation to complete the course. photo by Laura Burton

Rotary Club hosts run to support preschoolers ALEXA SHAMPINE Reporter Despite the freezing cold weather, hundreds showed up to participate in the Winter Walk and Fun Run. Hosted by the Rotary Club, all proceeds went to the Grand Haven Schools Foundation Preschool Scholarship program. This will benefit less fortunate families that need assistance putting their children through preschool.

Saturday, Feb 11 at 9 a.m. the race began at The Kirby Grill downtown Grand Haven. Participants could either run or walk the 5k or the one mile course that weaved

through downtown. Chad Lahey came up with the idea for the race and was very pleased that 400 people came to support the cause.

“Actually, 100 was my goal,” Lahey said. “I was really hoping for 150 but since we got the Grand Haven Schools Foundation involved, we were able to get a lot of teams together.”

Lahey said that 17 teams of 12 entered, each paying $650. That $650 is enough to pay for one preschool scholarship for a year. Along with the teams, many others entered just for the sake of running. Lahey also said that there was some

resistance in getting the race started.

“There was some resistance but I’m a runner and throughout the year there is always races like in the summer, every weekend,” Lahey said.

“And this time of year, there is maybe one or two per month.”

Students for Grand Haven High School also ran to help raise money for preschool scholarships.

Senior Chucky Blackmore is one of the 10 students who wanted to make a difference.

“It was definitely worth it,” Blackmore said. “It was for a good cause and it spread awareness about what the cause was.”

TAKING THE DOG FOR A WALK: Superintendent Keith Konarska and his wife Patti walk with their dog Bailey during the 5k. The event was open to both veteran and beginning runners along with those who prefer walking to encourage more participants. photo by Laura Burton

Friday, February 17, 2012 THE BUCS’ BLADE Photo 27

(clockwise from top) S’NO PROBLEM: Participants face harsh weather conditions as they make a turn down Harbor Drive. The runners didn’t seem phased by the snow and wind. CHIP OFF THE OL’ SHOE: Senior Ethan Beswick and sophomore Claire Borchers are assisted with taking their chips off at the end of the race. This was Beswick’s first time finishing a race before his father. AND THEY’RE OFF: Senior Ryan Duff and junior Justin Pippel take their first strides at the beginning of the race. The two were on the same team along with other high school students. photo by Laura Burton

28 Sports THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday, February 17, 2012

RECORD: 9-5 (7-4 OK-Red) KEY PLAYER: Senior Alex Eidson hit last-second, game-winning shots against both Rockford and West Ottawa last week.

KEY MOMENT: The Bucs defeated rival and conference-leading Rockford 43-41 on the road.

THEY SAID IT: “We’ve been very consistent. We are kind of heating up you could say.” -senior Jeremy Lattig

Lattig

Girls Basketball RECORD: 16-1 (10-1 OK-Red) KEY PLAYERS: Senior Alex Law scored her 1,000th career point in a win at East Kentwood. The victory shot the Bucs into first place in the OK-Red.

KEY MOMENT: Junior Abby Cole had

THEY SAID IT: “We’ve reached really good team chemistry and have played as a whole.”

-senior Jordan Keefe

LOREN JOHNSON Reporter He strides down the hallway confidently on his way to the next class. He high fives his buddies passing by and flashes a smile at those that can’t quite reach his palm. He walks spine-straight, shoulders back—adding to his intimidating height. His self-assurance in itself is eye-catching, but what really turns heads is his dastar that covers his hair.

Freshman Balraj (B.J.) Nahal is a Sikh and the wrapping he wears is traditionally called a dastar. Sikhism is a monotheistic religion that began in the Punjab region of India, which follows the teachings of founder Guru Nanak Dev and 10 consecutive gurus. Even though Nahal was born and raised in Grand Haven, he still follows the religion diligently.

“Our last guru, Guru Gobind Singh Ji is the main reason I wear [the dastar].” Nahal said. “He believed in giving us an identity to represent who we are and respect God. The identity he gave us was to have long, uncut hair and keep it unseen...

Having long hair and keeping it uncut shows respect of not cutting what’s naturally yours, keeping it covered just protects it.”

Nahal is no stranger to judgment; he experiences stares and stereotypes wherever he goes.

“People used to say things like ‘go back to your own country’...But that was a long time ago,” Nahal said.

Nowadays, Nahal finds most kids who approach him are just earnestly curious and want to ask questions and he’s always happy to answer.

The dastar has made Nahal instantly recognizable in the hallways and on the court. Nahal–known as B.J. to his team–fell in love with basketball when he was 5 years old and he’s got the talent to back up the passion.

“My first impression was that he was a really good basketball player,” said freshman basketball coach Jason Lawson. “In all of our drills, he’s always one of the hardest working kids.”

Even when he wears his dastar during games, it doesn’t get in Nahal’s way. In the past, there have been certain situations where referees asked Nahal to remove the dastar, but once religious reasons were explained, the referees were understanding and let Nahal play with it.

The pressure is high for Nahal, but he still takes time to connect with his team.

“He’s the team jokester,” freshman teammate Schaefer Thelen said.

“He’s always making jokes and we laugh with him.”

We’ll be expecting to see big things from Balraj Nahal, for the diligence that he’s learned from his religion is reflected in his playing.

“I was thinking about cutting my hair back in 6th grade, but when my parents taught me more about the religion, I got more into it.” Nahal said. “Now I really follow the religion and I’m proud of it and I can explain it to people.”

Wrestling

Boys Swimming and Diving

ph

nine points and 10 rebounds in a 40-34 win over Rockford.

Freshman B.J. Nahal displays faith on and off the court

Keefe

Hockey

n

Boys Basketball

Da(star) player

B ot alr o aj

by N La ah ur al a Bu rto

Winter Sports Updates

RECORD: 16-4

RECORD: OK-Red Co-Conference Champions

RECORD: 1-8

KEY PLAYER: Junior goalie Mark Nalley recorded 20

KEY PLAYER: Junior Connor Moynihan and senior

KEY PLAYER: Senior Aaron Venema won the 500

saves in a 3-1 victory over the Holt Rams.

Allen Torres both scored their 100th win this past weekend.

freestyle and 200 freestyle against the East Kentwood Falcons.

KEY MOMENT: The Bucs defeated

KEY MOMENT: On Feb. 2, the Bucs

Mona Shores and West Ottawa last week to win the district championship.

won five events in a close 171-143 loss to Grandville.

THEY SAID IT: “This is probably one

THEY SAID IT: “We’re definitely the

of the best teams we’ve had in a while.

[We need to] continue wrestling as we are.”

-senior Chris TeBeau

underdogs in all of our meets,We’ve put in a lot of effort.”

-junior Rory Thibault

KEY MOMENT: Senior Doug Zelenka scored a hat trick in the Bucs’ 3-2 win over Grand Rapids Catholic Central.

THEY SAID IT: “There’s fierce competition [being in Tier I] and we’re attacking it. We are taking everything seriously. Nothing comes lightly.”

-senior Tyler Petersen

Petersen

TeBeau

Thibault

6

Friday, February 17, 2012 THE BUCS’ BLADE Sports 29

Competitive Cheer

things to know...

RECORD: Finished third at the Allendale Invitational

When stepping up to the free throw line

Shooting from the free throw line isn’t as easy as it looks. Thousands of thoughts race through a player’s head during one of the simplest plays in sports— especially when the game is on the line. But what really goes into the art of a free throw? Is it bending your legs, keeping your eyes on the rim, or simply having confidence? Reporter Erin Staal caught up with seniors Alex Law, Alex Eidson and Jeremy Lattig to gain some insight on the fundamentals of a foul shot.

1.

4.

Mental toughness

JL: It’s going in. If there’s a

AL: Having a good follow

bunch of people yelling or someone trying to distract you, you just have to tell yourself that it’s going in.

2.

through and taking every free throw the same are probably the most important.

5.

Power comes from your legs

AE: At the end of the game,

rhythm [is the most important part of my form].

6.

Repeat your routine

Poised under pressure

AL: You just have to try to

AE: I line my left foot up to the nail hole, take one dribble with my right hand and spin it. I take a deep breath and then shoot.

Get in your own zone

JL: Just getting into the

you need to make sure you [have enough leg power] to get it there.

3.

The finishing touch

SWOOSH: Senior Alex Eidson shoots a free throw in a 63-43 win over cross-town rival, Spring Lake on Dec. 20. The Bucs host the Grandville Bulldogs this Tuesday at 7 p.m. photo by Laura Burton

forget about it [the pressure]. You have to pretend like it’s just you and the hoop and then you shoot it.

KEY PLAYER: Sophomores Lauren Klouw and Alexa Buitendyk and junior Kassi Nelson have all stepped into new roles due to injuries.

KEY MOMENT: The Bucs tied their Round 2 and broke their Round 3 school records at the Allendale Invitational, respectively.

THEY SAID IT: “We have had some rough spots but we’re getting better every competition. We’re trying to beat Muskegon right now because they have beat us at every competition.”

-sophomore Sarah Stegall

Boys Bowling RECORD: 5-1-1, OK-Red Conference Champions KEY PLAYER: Senior John Morehouse recorded games of 233 and 266 in a key 19-11 victory over Hudsonville.

The victory knocked the Eagles out of first place as the OK-Red conference leaders.

KEY MOMENT: Freshman Justin White rolled games of 193 and 233 to lead the Buccaneer bowlers to a 15-15 tie against the Grandville Bulldogs.

The tie also keeps both teams tied for first place atop the OK-Red.

THEY SAID IT: “We look pretty good.

We will preform well in state and hope to finish in the top three.”

-junior Zach Gargano

Boys Skiing

Girls Skiing

Stegall

Gargano

Girls Bowling

RECORD: 5-1

RECORD: 0-6

RECORD: 1-6

KEY PLAYERS: Senior Allison Price placed third in the

KEY PLAYERS: Junior Lukas Walling placed 18th in

KEY PLAYER: Senior Sam McKinnon bowled games of

slalom at the Greater Grand Rapids Ski Conference race.

the giant slalom and 22nd in the slalom on Jan. 27.

171 and 146 against Jenison.

KEY MOMENT: The Bucs captured

KEY MOMENT: The Bucs took fifth

KEY MOMENT: The Bucs rolled their

the Greater Grand Rapids Ski Conference Title this winter.

place in the slalom at the Greater Grand Rapids Ski Conference race.

way to their first victory as they defeated Muskegon, 17-13, on Jan. 23.

THEY SAID IT: “(We want to) be

THEY SAID IT: “Even though we lost

THEY SAID IT: “It’s been great; I have

supportive at regionals and make it to states as a team and not just a couple of individuals.” -senior Paige Reierson

some of our good players from last season, we are still holding strong at all of our meets.” -junior Kevin Stolarski

made new friends with new people joining. We want to finish the [season] out strong.” -sophomore Dominique Sauers

Reirson

Stolarski

Sauers

30 Sports THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday, February 17, 2012

Giving that extra boost Buccaneer Athletic Boosters provide more than just “wants” for teams, supply needed funds to keep athletic programs afloat in uncertain economic times Booster Funding

ANDREW PRINCE Reporter

44.8% 20.7%

$12,000

18.3%

$10,641

14.5% N CA

DY

$8,400

Team Busing

Concession Volunteers

S O D A

1.7%

C O L D

$1,000

BUCS 1

FRESH POPCORN

S

(amount and percentages distributed for 2010-11 school year) $26,000

CONCESSION STAND

year.

“Each year we do a sports booster memberships drive,” teve Sluka, the Grand Smith said. “This year we’ve had Haven Athletic Direca lot of success with that.” tor from 1950 to 1972, The organization offers a started the Buccaneer wide variety of membership Sports Boosters in the late 1960s types ranging anywhere from as a token of appreciation for $25 to $500 with corresponding sports teams—coaches and benefits. Smith notes that there administrators held banquets to are around 90 members this honor athletes and their achieve- year and also emphasizes the ments. Some 40 years later, importance of current members Sluka probably never imagined who may have students graduatthat the ing to stay Boosters commit“We would hover low to the ground ted in the would without them. We owe them so evolve into years to an organimuch credit, it’s unbelievable. Our come. zation that “Just booster organization is as good as provides because anywhere.” the necesyou leave - Jack Provencal doesn’t sary financial means mean to keep that we Grand Haven Athletics running. go away or cease to exist,” The funding and support is now Smith said. “We still need your crucial for continued success support. It really is a lifelong both on and off the field of play. commitment. Everyone is still “With the funding cuts that a Buccaneer at heart once they the school has had, I think we leave. That never changes.” are being leaned on a little bit more and more to provide Providing student-athlete money,” Booster President Ed scholarships Smith said. “I know it’s very A growing portion of the important for the school that the funds goes towards scholarorganization is here. I know a lot ships for students to cover the of schools would kill to have the “Pay to Play” $80 fee. In hard kind of dollars that (Boosters) economic times, the Boosters talk about.” are stepping up. Just three years Last year, Boosters contribago, the Boosters distributed uted around $60,000 to the around $4,000 to cover the “Pay Athletic program. A critical part to Play” costs and this year they of the organization is the resiare on track to give an estimated dents in the area who become $10,000. members, which generated over “The need in the community $17,000 for the Boosters this has grown,” Smith said. “Part of

Scholarships

(Amount given based on hours worked by volunteer team representative)

the thing that everyone in our organization believes in is that nobody should not play a sport because they don’t have the money and their parents don’t have the money for the $80 Pay to Play.”

Wrestling coach James Richardson agrees with the importance of the Pay to Play scholarships.

“You can’t put a price tag on the opportunities it gives the kids,” Richardson said. “We wouldn’t have the same success due to the fact that numerous wrestlers couldn’t afford to participate.”

Funding for all GH teams The Boosters give every sport

(Pay to Play, Sluka, Chittendon)

Strength & Conditioning Coach

Equipment Requests from Coaches

graphics by Kennedy Kaufman and Scott Staal

a chance and want to see prosperity in all aspects, no matter the size of the team.

“There’s no team that required more funding than another team,” Smith said. “It doesn’t matter how many people are on the team. Each sport is looked at evenly across the board.”

Funding is given to teams once materials are requested from coaches and the board gives its approval. Athletic Director Jack Provencal points out some of the things the organization does that go unnoticed.

“People aren’t aware of the time and awareness,” Provencal said. “The volunteers at concessions work for free. The strength and conditioning coordinator,

Mr. [Jim] O’Neill’s wage is almost fully funded.”

By giving over $300,000 to Grand Haven Athletics in the past decade, Smith realizes how much the Boosters are needed in order to make each sport thrive.

Provencal can’t imagine where Grand Haven Athletics would be without the money and support flowing in from the Boosters.

“We would hover low to the ground without them,” Provencal said. “The lower privileged kids wouldn’t be able to participate. We would have poor equipment and less of it. We owe them so much credit, it’s unbelievable.

Our Booster organization is as good as anywhere.”

Friday, February 17, 2012 THE BUCS’ BLADE Sports 31

View from the trenches Mike Ginocchio Bring back the noise To me, there are a couple of things I’m looking for whenever I go to a sporting event: 1.As fun as a blowout win is, I like tightly contested games much, much more because that feeling of anxiety mixed with excitement in your stomach as your team mounts a comeback or holds off a charging foe is hard to match.

2.An out of the blue “what the heck was that?” moment that makes the game stick in my mind, whether it’s a player jumping over a teammate during introductions to watching a buzzer-beater game winner to storming the field, so that when I tell someone who wasn’t there I can say more than “Oh, it was fun.”

3.A fan section that doesn’t resemble a focus group on sleep deprivation.

Look, it’s no secret that I’m talking about the student section for basketball games over the past few years. It reached its low point last year, when for the longest of time the only people in the student section were a small, dedicated group of students in the front few rows and some bored kids on their phones slouching in the back. Given the recent success of our girls’ basketball team, that was almost offensively rude. We can work up excitement for football, but come basketball season it’s suddenly “who cares?” It didn’t help when during the State quarterfinals suddenly the student section featured some kids who had never gone to a game all season and were suddenly Superfan Reincarnate.

Though this year, there’s been just the littlest bit of hope. Namely, in the rise of student-created “theme nights” that have taken the school by storm lately. It started off with only a couple of people pulling off some cliché themes, but ultimately picked up enough steam where on “80’s Night” the entire student section was stuffed with wannabe Pretty in Pink kids and what looked like the complete original lineup of Guns N Roses (Hats off to the kid in the Slash outfit, you were a dead ringer). And to those who might say that dressing up in something other blue and gold isn’t really school spirit, I ask how is coordinating amongst a large group of students in the same school to wear the same cheesy outfits not expressing school spirit? Isn’t the point of being a fan that you make a fool out of yourself for the team?

Regardless, it’s pretty cool to see that after a couple years of being a ghost town, the Grand Haven student section for basketball games is starting to fill up again. But don’t let that momentum end after this year. For something like this to have a meaningful impact, it has to keep rolling into the future.

When it comes right down to it, the most important thing that I’m looking for in a sporting event is some fun. A packed student section is so fun incarnate. And isn’t that all that we as the fans are looking for?

Anna the Austrian

New ski coach brings race experience, Austrian background to ski team BAILEY COVAL Culture Editor BRITTNEY OLDS Reporter Sitting at the bottom of Cannonsburg’s Face run Anna her eyes follow an athlete gate to gate. Red to blue. Start to finish. She’s dissecting the run turn by turn and when the skier crosses the finish, she intricately explains, in her authentic Austrian accent, exactly what the athlete needs to do to be faster. She’s Anna Braymer, but everyone knows her as Anna. Never coach.

Never Mrs. Braymer, just Anna.

“She’s the answer to every prayer I’ve ever had for this team,” girls varsity ski team coach Derek Warner said. “Ski team is one of the most intense sports out there. Anna, having raced before, is so knowledgeable of the technical aspect of racing. She’s exceeded all my expectations.”

Anna grew up in Austria and her first time on skis didn’t exactly fit the norm of ski lessons and cup of cocoa in the lodge at the end of the day that most skiers have.

“My mom put me on my brother’s old skis and sent me down the hill in my back yard,” Anna said.

TUCK TIME: Anna Braymer instructs senior Allison Price on giant slalom form at a practice at the Ski bowl. Anna hopes to continue coaching next year. photo by Laura Burton

She entered her first community race when she was an elementary student.

“I accidentally won,” Anna said.

“The coaches told me ‘I think you need to race.’ Things fell into place from there.”

After joining the community team Anna chose, by herself, to go to a ski boarding school in Schladming, Austria.

“I had no parent pressure,” Anna said.

“They never pushed me to race. That was my idea.”

The intensity of the school’s athletics allowed Anna to gain knowledge and love for ski racing.

“It’s just that awesome feeling of going fast in a course,” Anna

said. “ I just love the idea of racing.”

She now coaches and lives in Grand Haven and works with kindergarteners in Zeeland. Despite this being her first season a coach, Anna already fits in with the team.

At practice she can be seen setting courses, organizing drills and creates a positive vibe as she laughs, jokes and builds relationships with the team.

“She’s really personable, funny and young, so we get along really well,” senior Claire Pepper said.

“It’s good to have a female role model too.”

Another new edition to the coaching staff this year, assistant coach Jules Terry, agrees.

“Anna and I compliment each other with our coaching style,” Jules said.

“What I don’t cover, she does.”

Not only does Anna bring a technical knowledge to her coaching, but her mental perspective of racing is somethimg the team’s never had.

“She shares things with the girls like no matter what happens to the girl in front of you in the course, you are going to make it through that course,” Warner said. “She amazes me with the mental side of racing.

She not only knows it, but has gone through it herself. That’s what is really going to bring us through, hopefully, to that state meet.”

32 Back

THE BUCS’ BLADE

Stay Classy, Grand Haven

Friday, February 17 2012

Keep

It

Cl

ea

n

Of fense#1

Rate of Offense:

Not one single student enjoys being put in “that awkward moment” of walking up the back stairs while a couple is getting friendly on the benches underneath.

Unfortunately, you know the drill: head down, eyes averted, pretending you don’t see anything.

The back of the pod is not the same thing as being in private.

End of story.

Offense#2

DON’T BE: A Pod Abuser

DON’T BE: A Hallway Obstructor

Offense#3

Not all high school students see Valentine’s Day the same way. Some carry around the over-sized teddy bear that their soulmate (AKA boyfriend of 3 weeks) gave them like it’s a trophy. On the other hand, some wear black in protest of the corny Hallmark holiday.

Magnified on Valentine’s Day, there’s still no escaping PDA every other school day. To create a love connection between PDA haters and PDA enthusiasts, The Bucs’ Blade presents this list of three key public affection Don’ts. (Note that there are no ‘Do’s’. That’s on purpose.)

DON’T BE: Overly Clingy

Rate of Offense:

You may not even realize, but your mid-hallway love fest is causing a traffic jam. If you must, then please move the canoodling to some place other than the middle of the hallway.

Rate of Offense:

Being separated for 70 minutes may seem like an eternity, but do you really need to greet each other after every class? Broaden your horizons and don’t use every single passing time to “rekindle” your romance.

PDA Police

Bucs’ Blade (BB): Why did you guys become the PDA Police?

PDA Police (PDA): “You either die a hero or live long enough to see yourself become the villain.”

BB: What kind of reactions did you guys get throughout the day?

BB: What is your biggest PDA pet peeve?

BB: Will the PDA Police ever make a return?

PDA: “Everybody loved the idea, especially teachers. We just thought it was time someone did something about it.”

PDA: “We really didn’t like it when we’d go up to a couple and ask them to stop, and then they’d just keep going. We’d have to call a technical foul.”

PDA: “The PDA Police will return whenever duty calls, and duty will call.”

Page content and design by Maggie Ginocchio

On Friday, Feb. 10 there were two new ‘bosses’ patrolling the hallways of Grand Haven High School. Juniors Anthony Perrier and Ian Whalen donned complete referee outfits--whistles and flags included--and ordained themselves Grand Haven High School’s first (self-proclaimed) PDA Police.