Bucs' Blade June 2011

BUCS'

BLADE

Summer Calendar See page 32 Wednesday, June 1, 2011

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

Math and Motorcycles

Teacher John Mauro and his bike spending summer, first two trimesters of next year volunteering in Peru

See page

27

2 Inside THE BUCS’ BLADE Wednesday, June 1, 2011

EDITORIAL

3

6 things the Blade looks for in the next principal

With Mr. Grimes taking a new position next year, the Blade gives its advice on what the school should look for in his replacement.

NEWS

5

Science Olympiad places sixth

Bucs travel to Wisconson, compete in national tournament

ARTS

6 see pages

11-22

Phantom phenomenon

With extensive sets, opera singing, drama department begins musical preparations

HEALTH

7

Beach Survival Challenge teaches safety tactics

Eighth annual Beach Challenge raises water safety awareness

VIBE

Helping Haiti

8

see pages

24-25

Which music fest is best?

The Blade’s guide to choosing the right summer music festival

FEATURE

23 31

Math and Motorcycles

Math teacher John Mauro taking two trimesters off next year to volunteer in Peru’s Sacred Valley

SPORTS Rising in the ranks

Golf team overcomes inexperience, looks forward to future

photo by Scott Stall

THE BUCS’ BLADE

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

Volume 66, Issue 7 June 1, 2011

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.

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

GHHS ROOM 0205

17001 Ferris Grand Haven, MI 49417 Copies of The Bucs’ Blade are offered on the news stands located in the main office, Room 0205, the media center, the Loutit Library and The Bookman.

Editorial Board

Associate Editors News

Haley Birkett

Editor-in-Chief

Lucas Wilder

John Cherette

Managing Editor

Ethan Beswick

Sports

Noah Thelen

News Editor

Allison Steggles

Photo

Dez Burley

Feature Editor

Amanda Bennick

Artist

Mollie LaBeff

Feature Editor

Zak Konarska

Arts Editor

Chloe Dault

Health Editor

Erin Ribbink

Vibe Editor

Mike Ginocchio

Sports Editor

Amy Potter

Photo Editor

Nate Niemerowicz

Design Editor

C.E. Sikkenga

Advisor

Staff

Emma Baty, Megan Bitner, Laura Burton, Hannah Hughes Dustin Chrysler, Bailey Coval, Maggie Ginocchio,Meredith Frein, Connor Jennings, Lauren Lund, Riley Missel, Amy Wronski, Scott Staal, Samantha VanHoef

OBITUARY Zachary William Kline Zachary Kline, 17, of Grand Haven High School, passed away April 27, 2011.

He was born on Oct. 2, 1993 and lived in Grand Haven all his life.

Zach was very involved with his family. He loved spending time with his grandma Sally, his parents David and Juli and his sister, Christie.

He was also very involved in his studies, excelling in honors and advanced classes as well as an active member of the Free Thinkers Club.

Zach and his family attended Watermark Church of Grand Haven.

Those who knew Zach remember him for his ever-present smile and kind nature.

Zach ‘s family later found out that he was a victim of bullying, influencing them to speak out against the problem.

“If you see kids being bullied, stick up for one another,” Zach’s mother Juli said.

Contributions may be sent to Harbor Humane Society, Loutit District Library or Spring Lake District Library.

6

Wednesday, June 1, 2011 THE BUCS’ BLADE Editorial 3

things The Bucs’ Blade wants to see in the next principal

With principal Scott Grimes leaving at the end of the year to take on the role of assistant superintendent of Grand Haven Area Public Schools, the replacement has big shoes to fill.

Here’s what the Blade staff thinks would be important qualities in his replacement.

1

4

Someone who interacts well with students

Put it this way: it was considered strange when Mr. Grimes DIDN’T come out into the hallways to say hello to students. To get the rest of the school on their side, the new principal needs to do the same.

2 3

Mr. Grimes was a by-the-book type of principal, but by no means was he rigid. If the next principal has a similar attitude when making executive decisions, he or she will find it very easy to get along with the rest of the school.

Someone who enjoys and puts pride in their work

Mr. Grimes always had a smile on his face and he never acted like his job was a “job.” Keeping this attitude in the job will help the new principal fit right in.

Someone who cares about school policies, but the issues of students as well

STAFF EDITORIAL

Someone who takes interest in the activities of students

He came to sporting events, he came to plays at the performing arts center. For the next principal to connect with every group of students like Mr. Grimes, they’re going to have to follow his example.

5

Someone who can relate to the student body

6

Someone who loves Grand Haven

It didn’t matter what part of the school you were in or where your interests lay, Mr. Grimes always had time for you. The next principal should have this mindset as well.

To succeed in a town like Grand Haven, you’ve got to enjoy the things that make it what it is.

Show up at football games. Make annoucements when Science Olympiad does well. Do things like that and you’ve got it made.

Bullying has no place in our school It’s more than stealing a classmate’s lunch money or flushing the puny kid’s head down the toilet. Bullying is everywhere, it can affect anyone no matter how minute. We may not even know how to identify this harassment, let alone know STAFF how to stop it.

EDITORIAL Bullying is here in different forms than we’ve seen on cliché TV shows.

When our parents were kids, “bullying” was shoving kids into lockers or fistfights after school. We still see this harassment today, but the attacks are much more

subtle. It can be a glare in the hallway, a sarcastic photo comment, or even as far as blatant ridicule.

No matter how miniscule, bullying still hurts.

Would you flush someone’s head down the toilet?

Would you shove them into a locker? No, but you could make someone feel even worse by demeaning them emotionally.

By putting somebody down it makes you feel superior for a few minutes, but it’s something that the other person will carry with him or her for weeks.

For an entire month after Michael Fowlin spoke, the school was filled with ‘Free Hugs’ signs, ‘You are Beautiful’ posters and an overall positive attitude. Has it only taken us three short months to disregard his powerful message?

“Don’t be a zebra,” was one of the most influential things he said. When we see harassment happen and we don’t stop it, it’s just as bad as bullying itself. We shouldn’t stand and watch and wait for a teacher to intervene. It can be so much more powerful coming from a peer than coming from a figure of authority. When an adult interferes, it stops the bullying until they turn the corner. But when another student speaks up, it can cause a major change of heart.

The Bucs’ Blade is kicking off an anti-bullying campaign, beginning now through the 2011-2012 school year. As a staff and as a school, we hope to obliterate this issue throughout Grand Haven. We want to empower students and each other to be able to put a halt to this hurtful mistreatment.

4 News THE BUCS’ BLADE

Wednesday , June 1, 2011

(from left) SOCIALIZING: Grimes converses with freshman Scott Peters. He often visits students’ tables to check in on them. photo by Emma Baty BEAMING: Grimes watches over the fall pep assembly. Next year Grimes will move to the ESC to become an Assistant Superintendent. photo by Amy Potter

Grimes says goodbye to GHHS Principal leaves high school to become Assistant Superintendent of Human Services MIKE GINOCCHIO Sports Editor For 13 years he was a mainstay in the school. It was strange if he wasn’t in the hallways, a smile on his face and a twinkle in his eye, with a hand extended in friendship and as a role model.

For an incoming freshman at Grand Haven High School, it didn’t take long to learn that Scott Grimes was the principal. His voice was on the intercom, his presence was felt in the lunchroom and at student events around Grand Haven.

After a while, students came to regard him as much a regular part of the school

as the library or the football field.

But at the end of this year for the first time in over a decade, Grand Haven High School will be searching for a new principal.

Grimes is vacating his current position to become Assistant Superintendent of Human Services for Grand Haven Area Public Schools. “[Dr. John Thatcher], who had been in this position for the past few years, is retiring,” Grimes said. “I thought that it was a time in my career where it would be neat to challenge myself and expand my knowledge a little bit by looking at district level administration as opposed to build-

School’s out for staff

Joining the class of 2011, the staff of GHHS has six graduating employees SAMANTHA VANHOEF Reporter

ing level administration.”

Grimes, though excited about his new role, is willing to admit it’s going to be a challenge.

“I’m excited and apprehensive,” Grimes said. “One of the things I think happens to people if they’ve been in a job as long as I have is that they start to take things for granted, but when you take a new position and it’s more district-level, you’re not going to be so sure. But for me, that is exciting and I enjoy that challenge.”

For staff members such as assistant principal Tracy Wilson, Grimes’ moving up in the district creates a void that will

take time to replace.

“Of course I’m happy for him and the opportunity to grow professionally,” Wilson said. “But for us at the high school [it’s going to be hard.] We’re very stable in our building and I think his leadership style in general has helped us continue with our success.”

Wilson also noted it isn’t that he’s going to be saying goodbye forever, he’s just switching buildings.

“It’s going to be a huge loss,” Wilson said. “He’ll be here to help us, to support and be a mentor. His dad was a superintendent, so I know he aspires to follow in those footsteps.”

KAREN FLANIGAN

GREG RUSSICK

EMPLOYED BY GHAPS: 33 years

EMPLOYED BY GHAPS: 28 years

SUBJECT: Language Arts

SUBJECT: Special Ed.

Parting words: “Every year is special,

Parting words: “Everyday I have an oppor-

every class is special, and every kid is special. There’s been a lot of humor and that’s really good.”

tunity to do something that’s meaningful in the lives of myself and other people.”

Wednesday, June 1, 2011 THE BUCS’ BLADE News 5

Science Olympiad success

Budget update Funding cuts still changing as Snyder’s deadline draws near LUCAS WILDER Associate News Editor

HUDDLE UP: Head coach Mike Reed reads the full results of the 27th annual national competition to the team after the award ceremony. All team members recieved a medal for placing sixth overall. The team also medaled individually in Fossils, Technical Problem Solving, Sounds of Music and Towers. courtesy photo

Bucs place sixth out of 6,000 teams in country SAMANTHA VANHOEF Reporter

The blow has been potentially softened on K-12 education, but there are many conditions.

Originally the legislature proposed cutting $470 per pupil, but a recently revealed uptick in tax revenues led to a new proposal that would reduce that cut by up to $200 However, district superintendent Keith Konarska is somewhat skeptical.

“Details have yet to be released and could make part of this improvement unattainable,” Konarska said.

The first half of the reduction would come from the government and go towards retirement costs. The second half is based on a school district’s ability to fulfill ‘best practices,’ such as establishing a financial report card made available to taxpayers and requiring employees to contribute toward health care.

As for Grand Haven High School, things will only change slightly. In its current state, the budget requires the reduction of 2.6 positions from this year’s staff.

“Our goal is to absorb the reductions through attrition, meaning ‘no layoffs,’” Konarska said. “This could mean not replacing retiring staff or long term substitutes.”

Grand Haven High School placed sixth at the 27th Annual National Science Olympiad tournament on May 21. Sixty high school teams representing 48 states participated in the tournament held at the University of Wisconsin in Madison.

With 293 points, the Bucs trailed the first place team, Ohio’s Solon High School by 96 points.

“We were hoping for a little bit higher than that,” senior Carolyn Coutre said, who competed in four events at Nationals.

“Some stuff didn’t go as well as it should have that day. It was kind of an off day for us, but we’re still really, really happy to

have gotten 6th.”

While the Bucs hoped for a higher finish, the team is not discouraged by the end result.

“You hope for the best and you have to be able to accept what it is you end up with,” head coach Mike Reed said.

“There’s only one team that can be first.

We’ve only done that three times. ‘Only.’

We don’t need to try to achieve bigger and better every year, we just try to do our best every year.”

As for this year’s ending result, the team is not complaining about a sixth place finish out of the 6,000 Science Olympiad teams in the nation.

“I get annoyed when people think ‘Sixth place? You didn’t do very well’,”

coach Scott Stanley said. “Excuse me?

Anybody who can get there is doing really well. I applaud how well we did. Could we have improved? Absolutely. But am I displeased? No, I’m happy. The kids put out their best effort.”

The effort needed to attain one of the top spots increases exponentially once a team reaches the National level. Stanley understands this added pressure.

“Nationals are a totally different beast,” Stanley said. “Unless you’ve ever gone to a national competition, you have no clue what you’re up against. We’re talking the best of the best. To put it in perspective, we’re in the top 0.1 percent of the nation’s high schools for Science Olympiad. That’s pretty darn good.”

DEBORAH SCHAKEL

CAROL SWARTOUT

GENEVIEVE UGALDE

DANIEL WESTRATE

EMPLOYED BY GHAPS: 25 years

EMPLOYED BY GHAPS: 21 years

EMPLOYED BY GHAPS: 16 years

EMPLOYED BY GHAPS: 36 years

SUBJECT: Language Arts

SUBJECT: Counseling

SUBJECT: Spanish

SUBJECT: Psychologist

PARTING WORDS: “It’s

PARTING WORDS: “It’s

PARTING WORDS: “I

PARTING WORDS:

fun when what we taught came in handy.

One student knew the answer to ‘Who wanted to sound their great barbaric yawp over the world?’”

been wonderful. I get to do what I like to do—working with 9th graders. It’s enriched my life, working with all of these professional people and all the neat kids.”

always loved when the kids would light up and get the ‘I got it!’ look. That happened more than once, thank heavens. Those were my most memorable moments.”

“Everyone has been pretty cooperative and it makes the job easier when everyone is working as a team. The team aspect is a really positive thing.”

As graduation approaches let

porto bello

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Call 846-1221 for custom pricing and menu info

Wednesday, June 1, 2011 THE BUCS’ BLADE Health 7

Beach Survival Challenge teaches safety tactics CHLOE DAULT Health Editor

&

MOLLIE LABEFF Feature Editor

It’s a red flag day and you are out past the buoy at the State Park beach. You thought you’d be fine, you learned how to swim in kindergarten, right? Suddenly the sandbar breaches and a strong undertow pulls you beneath the water. You can’t find the surface. This sensation is known as a rip current, something you can learn to escape from at the Beach Survival Challenge.

The inspiration for this event was sparked eight years ago when Andy Fox was a victim of a rip current at our local beach. His family has since coordinated the Beach Challenge to raise awareness for teens around the water.

“It was my son Ryan who came up with the idea,” Andy’s mom and event coordinator Vicki Cech said. “He wanted to do something like extreme games to help people learn water safety.”

The event consists of coed teams that contend in four competitions including tug of war, beach soccer, ultimate Frisbee and an obstacle course.

Teams require four to six members and must include at least two girls per team.

“The main point is how to get out of a rip current,” Cech said. “We’re not trying to keep them away from the beach, just teaching them to know what to do in a bad situation.”

This lesson has proved beneficial for participants outside of the event.

“I got caught in a rip current while surfing and literally just did what they said,” senior Jim Herman said. “It got me out of it.”

Since it’s debut, the event has grown rapidly. Last year -Vicki Cech there were 72 teams signed up, whereas the first year only had 11.

If the number of teams reaches its cap before June 17,

“We’re not trying tokeep them away from the beach, just teaching them to know what to do in a bad situation”

some teams may not be guaranteed a spot.

“I hate to get to the point where we have to turn people down.”

Cech said.

This is the first year that online registration is available, easy sign-up is accessible at

respectthepower.org.

The appreciation and changed perspective of the water that participants have after attending the Beach Challenge is significant.

“They do a really good job getting people there,” senior Travis Redman said. “They have made it into a big event.”

Congratulations, graduates!

Grand Haven is a great place to graduate from high school and an even better place to start college. With over 80 areas of study, small class sizes, outstanding instructors, and the opportunity to work on your degree right here in Grand Haven, Muskegon Community College provides the best chance for success. Fall classes begin on August 29, so call or click today to learn how easy and affordable it is to invest in your future at Muskegon Community College.

L o o k for o u

r new Ot tawa Count y locatio

n in 2011

(866) 711-4622  www.muskegoncc.edu/ottawa

8 Vibe THE BUCS’ BLADE Wednesday, June 1, 2011

Which music fest is b Blade helps you decide

which festival is worth th LAUREN LUND Reporter

The get-go: Celebrating its’ 20th anniversary, the larger-than-life cultural experience brings passionate fans from all genres of music together to make a heck of a crowd.

Where: On 115 Acres of Grant Park downtown Chicago Dates: August 5-7 Top artists: Anyone from Eminem and Damian ‘Jr. Gong” Marley to Noah & The Whale or Ratatat Who else to check out: Lykke Li, Best Coast, Beirut and Lissie

Summerfest

est?

The get-go: Two weeks of once in a lifetime preformances makes for one breath-taking event for all types of fans.

Where: 75 Acres of Lake Michigan’s beachfront, downtown Milwaukee Dates: June 29–July 3 & July 5–10 Top artists: Kanye West ft. Kid Cudi, Third Eye Blind, Kid Rock, Wiz Khalifa and Katy Perry Who else to check out: Black Keys ft. Florence & The Machine, The Flaming Lips and The Fatty Acids

e summer road trip

The get-go: The undercover festival full of soulful independent artists draws in an enthusiastic crowd there for one thing only—to jam out.

Where: On115 Acres of Grant Park downtown Chicago IL Dates: August 15-17 Top artists: Fleet Foxes, OFWGKTA and Animal Collective Who else to check out: tUnE –YarDs, Toro Y Moi, Wild Nothing, Baths, and Twin Shadow

The get-go: The experience includes everything from jammin’ to the gnarliest techno, camping with some pals in the ‘electric forest’ to soaking in some sunshine on Wildcat Lake.

Where: Rothbury, MI Dates: June 30-July 3 Top artists: Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeros, Chiddy Bang, Bassnectar and Pretty Lights Who else to check out: Excision, Galactic,Big Gigantic, LYNX and Skrillex

Water For Elephants leaves viewers thirsty for more MEGAN BITNER Reporter Based on a best-selling book by Sara Gruen, Water For Elephants is the adventure thriller of a lifetime. There is romance, action, and betrayal all under a big top circus tent in an era bygone.

Jacob Jankowski jumps on the Benzini Brother’s Most Spectacular Show on

Earth train in an effort to leave his old life behind. He becomes their veterinarian and falls in love with the ringmaster’s wife, Marlena, who spends her time tip toeing atop wild horses as they gallop around the ring in sparkly costumes.

Together they escape her violently delusional husband, August, and attempt to start a new life together. In the end their fate will depend on a mystical Elephant named Rosie, whose heroic instincts will make or break their future.

Wednesday, June 1, 2011 THE BUCS’ BLADE

Photo 9

Students ‘Get Hooked’ on more than fishing

Outdoor ed class participates in event to build relationships with special education students

REELING IT IN: Senior Austin Cherry helps a younger boy reel in a fish. The two caught multiple fish together. photo by Laura Burton

FIRST FISH: Senior Scott Deater and a student display a fish they caught during the ‘Get Hooked’ event on May 19. photo by Laura Burton

(Above) CATCH OF THE DAY: Sixth grader Alex Anderson of White Pines Middle School catches his first fish of the event. He was all smiles as he showed it off to everyone around him. (Right) PICTURE PERFECT: Senior Jameson Steffel poses with a student and the fish they caught together. “It made my experience even better knowing it gave someone the chance to do something new,” Steffel said. photos by Laura Burton

BUILDING BONDS: Senior Sarah Kober talks to a student from White Pines while waiting for the perfect fish. It was clear they enjoyed spending time together. photo by Laura Burton

10 Arts THE BUCS’ BLADE Wednesday June 1, 2011

Phantom Phenomenon with extensive sets and opera singing, drama department began preperations early for next year’s muscial,“The Phantom of the Opera” BAILEY COVAL Reporter

S

ix months. In six months you could train for a marathon, learn a language or even travel the world. For the d drama department, the next six months will be one of the most grueling h al half years of their career as they tackle “The Phantom of the Opera” for next year’s years musical. Director Rita McLeary knows now that preparations have begun the drama department can’t skip a beat.

We are auditioning early this year purely because of the complexity of the shhow,” Mclary said. “Over summer break we need to work with the leads and their vocal abilities.

The show tells the tale of a complex love between the character Christine’s love for Raoul, the arts and her love for the Phantom, a man whom resides in the Paris Opera house terrorizing its occupants.

Only four high school in the state have taken the challange. The sets, props and costumes are elobrate, however opera singing casts a daunting shadow that makes every other aspect manageable. Junior Hugo Lawton, a vetern to the stage understands this a and knows that practice will make perfect.

It’s the most challenging thing I’ve ever considered doing in my life,” Lawton said.

“The range for singing is high er than I am used to. I am definitely practicing. I think if we put the effort in now, we’ll get it.”

Adding to its diffaculty, the show hasn’t been adapted from its original format. All of the origanal scores are in the show, unchanged for the young high school performers.

The combination of all aspects of the show forces the drama department to all step up and go beyond what they have done before.

“The musical takes us further. It will top our performance of ‘Beauty and the Beast,’” McLary said. “I wanted to encourage the program to grow even more and at Grand Haven, we have never done anything like this before. It’s harder than anything we have ever done before. It raises the bar and is more complex.”

Phantom fast facts:

1. Based on the book originally written in 1909 by Gasto Leroux 2. In 2009 it became the longest running Broadway show ever 3. 3. A sequel was made in 2010 called “Love Never Dies” 4. The Broadway show

has won over 50 awards

WONDERFUL WEDDING: Cast memebers stand for the wedding ceremony in the second act. The play was held “in the round” as auidnece members on the show sat on stage in a circle around the set of the play. Photo by Bailey Coval

Play succeeds in a round about kind of way BAILEY COVAL Reporter I walked in and instantly I was confused. I looked at the stage and there were chairs on it. They had people on them, like audience people.

I took a deep breath and walked over to c hoose my seat. The only things on the stage were two black wood rectangle platforms about four inches tall.

The cast walked in at sat down in part of the circle, which the audience sat in. Granted, their seats were marked “reserved for cast,” but I was still confused. The most sacred secrets of the drama department were about to be revealed. Backstage. I always thought it was like the Kennedy assassination— if you knew what went down, you did not share it. The entire cast not on the stage just sat there. The whole play.

The lights did not dim, but rather rose because not only was the cast lit up with a spotlight, so was I. The play began and I was skeptical. The props were very minimal. There wasn’t really a set.

As the play went on, I found myself on the edge of my seat. It was no “Inception” but rather the small town simplicity we so often forget. It actually made me put my phone down and stop for a second. I just stopped and thought.

The plot was simple— a few characters in a small town just living their normal lives. they go to school, they fall in love and they get married. It was predictable. Until the last act.

Emily, played by Erin Dunne, dies, though she is still able to speek to the audience. Dunne captures the audience with her ability to make you laugh and cry all in the same scene. I was actually impressed with all of the acting. I mean these people are in high school and they were darn good.

Toward the end, the play pushes the theme that you don’t know what you have until it’s gone. So, hug your mom. Tell your best friend they are awesome. Or just go for a walk on the beach. Because tomorrow, it might be gone.

Wednesday, June 1, 2011

THE BUCS’ BLADE

Senior 11

Wednesday, June 1, 2011 THE BUCS’ BLADE Senior 12

A word to the wise...

Highschool graduates share advice for future college freshmen “Experiment with your schedule. Read the course descriptions and try different classes so you can find out what you want to major.”

-CMU grad Joe Sharphorn

“Don’t bring cell phones or lap tops to class unless you have to because college classes tend to be boring and they are too tempting to distract you from learning.”

-CMU sophomore Cam Hewitt

“Meeting girls at parties is not a great way to start any sort of relationship.”

-WMU sophomore Tom Potter

“Get good grades right from the start, so you don’t have to play catch up during junior and senior year.”

-Aquinas Senior Mike Matych

“No one is here to tell you what to do or how to do it, so you have to be responsible for yourself and have discipline.”

-GVSU sophomore Alyssa Vanderstel

“Make friends with the people in your classes to pass time easier and in case you have questions or need help in the class.”

-CMU sophomore Cam Hewitt

“Be sure to talk to teachers and advisors as much as you can. Also, having a moped helps if you’re on a larger campus.”

-MSU sophomore Dave Miller “Get an education, not a degree. Join clubs, get involved and volunteer.”

- CMU grad Joe Sharphorn

“Don’t be afraid of early classes, I found I liked them better because it forced me out of bed earlier and got my day started the right way instead of rolling out of bed at noon.”

-CMU sophomore Cam Hewitt

“Keep an open door and an open mind.”

–GVSU Sophomore Grace Sterenberg

*NSYNC released their first single “I Wan’t You Back” from their album *NSYNC, selling over one million copies The Parent Trap, Kudos to Lindsey Lohan for showing us how delicious oreos and peanutbutter taste together

1999

1998

“Always put school work first becasue its really easy to fall behind in college. There is more than enough time for partying after class.”

-MSU sophomore Ben Perfect

Columbine High School massacre in Colorado becomes the fourth deadliest school massacre in U.S. History

Smash Mouth’s album Astro Lounge is released and went triple platinum with their single “All Star” The Book, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone created an epidemic of wand waving wizard wannabes

Wednesday, June 1, 2011 THE BUCS BLADE Senior 13

Roadtrip of a lifetime starts now Don’t settle for anything less than your intended final destination in life Opinion

illustration by Amanda Bennick

that ideal school that would’ve put you in a better position to reach your destination. Or maybe, later in life, you’ll find your resume won’t be good enough to get that big promotion that would put your dream within reach.

In those situations it’s important to stop, take a second to breathe, pull over at the next rest stop and consult the map.

But in order to get back on the road, you need people that will guide you and show you the way. Proverbs 12:15 says “The way of the fool seems right in his own eyes, but he who listens to advice is wise.” Truth be told, there are in fact people that know the streets better than you do. Those people might be older, wiser, more experienced and have probably taken a similar path. There are

Britney Spears releases her album, “Oops!...I Did It Again,” it opened at the number one spot in the U.S and sold over 20 million copies “Remember the Titans,” the movie that taught us about civil rights long before any history teacher did

2001

2000

If you ask a kid what they want to be when they grow up, you will hear the grandest, yet purest dreams. When I ask my 6-year-old sister what she wants to be when she grows up she says she wants to be a fashion designer. Other kids say they want to be an astronaut, a professional football player or a dancer. Yet something happens in NOAH THELEN the course of your life journey; you News Editor give up on your dream.

This past April my family and a group of friends planned a spring break trip to St. George Island, Florida. It was a much anticipated trip which took place after months of planning. On the way down we ran into an accident which left traffic at a stand still for miles down the freeway. In order to avoid the madness we took an exit and drove on back roads for a while.

After driving through some long winding Kentucky roads, we stopped at an old fashioned gas station to ask for directions. A local then showed us the way back onto the freeway and we were off.

During that stop we never thought, “Hey, lets stay in Kentucky for vacation. We don’t need to go to Florida.”

And we certainly didn’t give up and head back to cold Grand Haven, when faced with obstacles because we thought we might never get to our destination. As I see it, taking a trip is very similar to your journey through life. Whereas your dream in life is much like your final destination.

Realizing your dream isn’t going to be easy. It is going to come with trials, tragedies and tribulations. You might have to veer off on an early exit and take an alternate route on your way to your dream. For my trip to Florida, it made sense for us to re-route to get out of the bumper to bumper traffic and onto the smooth and clear roads.

Life is the same way. Maybe, some of you didn’t get into

“locals” at every point in our journey that can show us the way back onto the freeway of life. So to arrive at our destination, we must listen to those around us. But don’t let anybody discourage you. Don’t let anybody tell you that you’re not good enough or that you need a back-up plan. These words of negativity will not only set you off course but could also ruin your trip.

Howard Thurman said, “Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it.”

So, Class of 2011-go for it. Fix your eyes on the map deep inside yourself and find your final destination. Discover what makes your heart come alive and seek it out with reckless abandon. The roadtrip of a lifetime starts now. Enjoy the ride.

“Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” movie premiers, creating a shortage in broomsticks at grocery and department stores

9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center becomes a major historical event tha will forever define our generation Apple releases the First Generation iPod and we finally retire our portable cd players and upgrade

14 Senior THE BUCS’ BLADE Wednesday, June 1, 2011

Hungary for a change Senior Maggie Smith prepares for take off as she takes on the challenge of studying abroad LAUREN LUND Reporter

2002

When senior Maggie Smith boards the flight of her life in August, she will be one of approximately 2,000 exchange students.

Although she is optimistic, she is fearful of leaving behind more securities than just her seatbelt.

Fearful of adjusting her lifestyle to the uniqueness of a new culture, but enthusiastic towards the change it carries.

Fearful of entering Hungary knowing only how to say ‘hello,’ but eager to expand her knowledge of the language beyond ‘szia’.

Fearful of being away from her family for the first time, but looking forward to independence.

“I am just scared about leaving,” Maggie said. “I am afraid I’ll just turn around and run off the airplane; knowing me I could

do that.”

The intense process of applying alone is what turns many students away from the Rotary exchange program. Maggie spent countless summer days filling out the seemingly endless 25page application for the Rotary program, which accepted her last fall. Between the fall and winter conferences, the program was assigning her to one of the 40 countries she ranked. Her anticipation ended this past February, after finding out her new home will be in Hungary—her fourth pick.

Extremely supportive of her decision to go, Maggie’s mother Ellen Smith left the application process up to her daughter, who completed the application solo.

“If she is responsible enough to go away for a year, then she is responsible enough to fill out her application,” Ellen said.

Multiple doctor appointshe leaves. ments, a thorough essay and The uniqueness of cultures a transcript are needed along initiated her love for traveling. with the application. RecomSo far she has been to Mexico, mendations from Costa Rica, teachers, churchAustralia and “I really am looking es, school adviLondon; howforward to just living ever nothing sors and family members are also with different people like where she is required to apply. going this fall. and trying new The new “I really am things...I’ve been try- looking forward school, family and ing new things almost to just living lifestyle will do more than occupy with differeveryday.”

Maggie’s time ent people and while she is away. trying new --Maggie Smith things,” Maggie “I plan on being able to [know] said. “Since I the basics before found out [I got I go, but it is a really difficult accepted,] I’ve been trying new language,” Maggie said. things almost everyday.”

The seven language books she Parallel to the level of high ordered online have remained spirits are Maggie’s nerves. The practically untouched, but she mental roller coaster full of fears will be getting help from a friend for first day of school, being who speaks Hungarian before apart from her family, missing

“Lose Yourself”

by Enimem was the longest running number one song of the year

“Kim Possible” premiers on Disney Channel, kids become inspired to fight crime, local pet stores also experience shortages in naked mole rats

Microsoft developed Skype, allowing users to have video and voice chats over the internet “The Ring” aka the scary movie that made us all fear fuzzy tv snow, wells, circles, and someone whispering into the phone ‘Seven days’

friends and adapting to a new lifestyle occupy her mind on a daily basis.

“I am nervous to be without my mom, she does kind of a lot for me,” Maggie said.

Close friend senior Hailey Sanford denied that Maggie was leaving until just recently.

“I think the closer we get [to Maggie leaving] it just gets more real,” Sanford said. “From now up until when she leaves it is going to start feeling more real and scary.”

Despite her concerns, Maggie is looking forward to the adventure and experience Hungary offers.

“Last minute [when I was applying], the boy I was sitting next to told me to put Hungary on my list,” Maggie said. “In the end, who cares where I end up?

It is going to be an experience wherever I go.”

“American Idol” premiers, people become obsessed with saying “dawg” and talking in British accents

Friday, May 28, 2011 THE BUCS’ BLADE Senior 15

How to get more bang for your book According to Western Michigan University the estimated cost for required textbooks in the first year is approximately 850 dollars. Here is a few tips to find the best fitting textbook options for freshmen

After receiving a list of the books professors require or recomend for class try and talk to someone who has already taken the class and see if the book is necessary.

Then find out if any of those books will be needed again for another class or another semester. That will usually occur with classes that have a focus on a major or minor.

Next compare prices. It’s easiest just to Google the ISBN (book number) to see what different sites carry the book. Amazon.com usually ends up being the cheapest for used books. Some of the compared prices are to the right. There are two alternatives to buying an expensive new textbook: buy an expensive used textbook, or the new big thing which is to rent textbooks.

After getting an idea of the cost of textbooks it’s best to evaluate the cheapest or most efficient way to aquire your book: The pros to buying: you don’t have to worry about a return date, it’s yours to sell back for money at the end of the semester, you can make notes/highlight and it can be nice to have a fresh book.

The pros to buying used: cheaper to buy, same to sell back (depending on condition), a previous students thoughts and notes could end up being helpful and many times you can find a barely used book that is just like buying new but for a fraction of the cost.

The PROS to renting: it saves you money and time. The online process is simple and the book is off your hands at the end of the semester!

Collegebookrenter.com has some of the best deals for renting college textbooks.

Shipping is free both ways and prices are determined by the length of your rental period. If you need more time than you originally thought, you can easily go online and add time to your rental without penalty—just the difference in price. The rental prices are as follows 130 day book rental $62.82, 90 Day $57.17 and a 60-Day $55.91.

“Stacy’s Mom” by Fountains of Wayne reaches the #1 spot on the “Most Downloaded Songs” list of the iTunes Music Store Disney’s Pixar movie “Finding Nemo” becomes the second higestgross G-rated movie of all time

2004

2003

1 2 3

ZAK KONARSKA Arts Editor

CHEMISTRY:MOLECULAR SCIENCE ISBN: 9781439049303 Author: JOHN W. MOORE Edition: 4TH Publisher: BROOKS COLE Copyright Year: 2011 REQUIRED TEXT

sbxcentral.com

$223.25 new $100 used

Amazon.com

$198.91 new $96.98 used

Chegg.com

$146.99 new $111.67 used $68.99 to rent

More on selling and renting Most university bookstores will buy back your used books, but unfortunately they can only take so many books in their stock so you don’t always get a great deal. Fortunately the same sites that need used books to rent and sell will also buy books back! This takes longer than just walking your books across campus but the hassle can be worth it.

Renting is a HUGE money saver and an incredibly easy process! University bookstores, Barnes & Nobel and many online sites participate in renting. Chegg. com is a very popular website known for renting and is reliable but the cheapest renting website we can find is collegebookrenter.com

“Yeah!” by Usher ranks #2 on the Billboard Hot 100 songs of the decade

Ron Burgandy hits big screens across America making a bang with his famous line “stay classy San Diego” Facebook is founded by Mark Zuckerberg, becomes the global internet phenomenon of our generation

16 Senior THE BUCS’ BLADE Wednesday, June 1, 2011

Graduation Ceremony

Small town, big love...

Who?: Everyone is welcome to celebrate with the class of 2011!

Where?: Gene Rothi Stadium; if it rains, the ceremony will be held in the fieldhouse When?: 7 pm Speakers: The event will feature senior speakers Zak Konarska and Noah Thelen Reminders: Girls must wear light colored dresses under their gown and boys must wear khakis with dress shoes and a dress shirt

Allison Steggles

The band Weezer has everyone moving to “Beverly Hills” because well, that’s where they wanna be... living in Beverly Hills

Ordinary people like Charlie and Scarlet become famous

Stephenie Meyer publishes “Twilight,” teenage girls become overly obsessed with vampires

2006

2005

You can’t tell me that Grand Haven isn’t one of the best places to be.

The reason might be mostly because I’m incredibly stubborn. But another part of it is simple. Grand Haven is one of the best places to be.

When I hear some kid walking down the hallway talking about how he “can’t wait to get out of this dumb place,” I feel the blood boil to my face and it takes all of the self control I have within myself to not turn around and tell him he’s wrong. You know, not a lot of people have all the amazing stuff that we do. This “boring town…” is far more activity friendly than a large mass of the United States.

I don’t mean to complain about anybody’s complaints, but I find it difficult to hate a city with so much variety. With as many different types of interesting people Grand Haven holds, I’d say it comes to meet a lot of expectations. I mean, think about it. Grand Haven has a little bit of everything.

It took me far too long to realize any of this. As a middle school kid, I never fully appreciated this small town. I complained just as much as the next person, but that could’ve been my desire to conform. I’ve grown a lot in my years. I’ve matured to have my own opinions and stick with them. I realize that Grand Haven isn’t so bad after all. As a matter of fact, I’m having an incredibly difficult time leaving.

The furthest I decided to go onto college next year is Grand Rapids Community College. And that’s a stretch, even if I’m still living at home.

Some might be puzzled. Why wouldn’t I want to explore?

Here’s why.

I’m a homebody. I love small vacations to get out for a little, but every time I’m thrilled to return to my homeland. That’s how I chose to view college. It’s a small vacation; I can’t wait to return.

I will come back here, I’m confident of that. I’ll be back here with my future family teaching them to grow and love Grand Haven as much as this girl does.

I’ve grown to love this place with all of my heart; all I’m doing now is saving you the time. I’m giving you the opportunity to realize you love it too before you get too excited to take off. Take advantage of this place while you have it, I guarantee you’ll think about how much you really did like it. Don’t wait until you’re gone.

Zac Efron sings his way into the hearts of middle school girls across the country

People now have the ability to tell the world what they are doing every second of the day in 140 characters or less Pluto gets kicked out of the family of planets

Wednesday, June 1, 2011 THE BUCS’ BLADE Senior 17

The Bucs’ Blade senior editorial staff looked through sports photos and chose...

The top 6 moments caught on camera

of 2010-2011

5.

3.

4.

6.

2.

1.

(Clockwise from left) SLAP SHOT: Junior Will VerDuin takes a shot on goal. Varsity hockey had the best record in GH history with a conference championship. The hockey team finished with an undefeated conference record of 12-0. photo by Emma Baty WRESTLE MANIA: Senior Jack Dempsey prepares to pin his opponent. The Varsity team was one point away from becoming regional champions and sent five wrestlers to state this year. photo by Allison Steggles BASKET FOR THE BUCS: Junior Shareé Davis drives to the net during the semi-final game at the Breslin Center in East Lansing. The Lady Bucs finished the season with a phenomenal record of 26-1. photo by Allison Steggles DIVING FOR THE GOLD: Senior Mike Vaandering prepares a perfect dive to show the judges at an upcoming meet. Vaandering went on to recieve third in the state diving meet this winter. photo by Allison Steggles BEST OF THE BUCS: Girls cross country team shows off the trophy they recieved for winning first in the state. The girls were the only team to recieve a state championship in the 2010-2011 school year. courtesy photo BIG CATCH: Senior Alec Smith dives for a catch on the two yard line giving the Bucs a chance to score. In one of the best seasons in GH history, the varsity football team defeated the Rockford Rams for the first time in 11 years. photo by Allison Steggles

Foundations 18 Senior THE BUCS’ BLADE Wednesday, June 1, 2011

Senior Dez Burley takes a trek back through time to recall Low pigtails

Lip Smackers

As we outgrew the over-the-ear pigtail, we were afraid to lose our adorable innocence. We chose to simply slide the pig tails down and rest them on our shoulders. This was a common occurance throughout middle school and even into high school. As we continue to advance in age and style, the low pigtails shifted to a side ponytail and morphed again into a low side braid. Straight-accross bangs became a big hit freshman year, teased hair took its turn too.

Lip Smackers never cured chapped lips, but with so many delicious flavors, the lip balm came in handy if you forgot a snack for morning recess. Carmex and Burts Bees buzzed around for a bit.

Slap bracelets

There’s nothing quite like hitting yourself in the name of fashion. Slap bracelets were awesome unless you A) put too much muscle into the slap and left a mark or B) snapped the bracelet in half. I opted for both, multiple times.

Popcorn shirts

2007

This lovely skirt with an inseam gets its name from the South American cowboy. “Gauchos” from Argentina, Chile and Uruguay wear these capris on horseback. In middle school, we wore them when we had to dress up for basketball games. They were also popular as yoga pants. If it can be dressed up and dressed down, we’ll wear it. We also managed to fall in love with overalls, bell bottoms and courduroy.

“The O.C.” kills off Marissa Cooper and the show comes to an end

Juno creates an obsession with hamburger telephones, and wins the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay GH teens attempt to be thug by learning the dance to “Soulja Boy Crank That”

“Transformers” the movie makes Shia LaBeouf cool, teenage boys fall in love with Megan Fox

Crocs

Crocs are essentially a water shoe worn on land.

They come in a million different colors. What started out as a simple foam shoe somehow shifted into fashionable footwear. You can even close up the awkward holes with fun shapes.

They’re still acceptable, I suppose. Just watch out for the “Caution. Wet floor” sign when walking down the tile hallways between classes. There was a time when Uggs were a must have and jelly sandals were also sweet.

2008

er n by Scott Deat photo illustratio

Gauchos

The creators of this one-size fits all shirt claim that it is stretchy, versatile and great for travel.

Although, they also say this ancient Japanese secret is flattering and comfortable. Personally, I hope these gaudy pieces of garbage never come back in style. I’d hate to see my eightyear-old sister look like she just returned from a visit with Willy Wonka.

Barack Obama becomes the first black president “The Dark Knight” recieves eight Academy Award nominations, Heath Ledger wins Best Supporting Actor

of fashion

Wednesday, June 1, 2011 THE BUCS’ BLADE

Senior 19

the trends that shaped us into the style icons we are today Faux Hawk

Guyliner

The Faux Hawk was the wonderful do for bad boys that were too good for a Mohawk. Or for the guys whose mommies wouldn’t tolerate a half-shaved head. Whether the Hawk was cut or gelled, we girls loved it. Why? Beats me. Spikey hair was hot in middle school and I’m fairly certain Justin Bieber stole his hair style from a White Pines yearbook.

Unless you’re the lead singer of Green Day, please put the guyliner down. In fact, toss it in the trash. Or sell it to your sister. I really don’t care just don’t try to bring this fad back. It was so unpleasant.

Jelly Bands

Shirts with flames

Similar to Silly Bands (but nowhere near as awesome), Jelly Bands got out of hand. They were originally intended to support cures for cancer and other diseases but someone decided to give the cool colors a different meaning. Someone loaded with hormones and lacking maturity gave each bracelet a sexual connotation. When I remembered the Jelly Band craze, I looked up the meanings of the bracelets because I only remembered a few. I don’t think it would be appropiate for me to tell you my findings, but I think it’s safe to say that only a yellow bracelets should be allowed in school.

It doesn’t get much hotter than flames on your clothes. Flames looked good on anything—shirts, shoes, backpacks, etc.

In elementary school, flames never go out of style. My little brother’s Hot Wheels shirt has flames that light up.

“I Gotta Feeling” by the Black Eyed Peas wins the Grammy for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals People become depressed after watching the movie “Avatar” because the Na’vi people make the human race look lame

2010

2009

In this middle-class white community, I’m not sure how wearing your pants at the knees ever became popular. Although guys still like to sag, they have blessed the world and pulled up their pants just slightly. It always made me chuckle when I saw someone wearing a belt to hold their pants…down? It seems like it would get a little annoying after a while walk around gripping your jeans to keep them from falling to your ankles. But I guess it was coo, yo. Worse than the beyond baggy pants were the girl jeans.

Whoever decided that was a good idea was an idiot.

“Inception” wins four Academy Awards and leaves us wondering if life is just a deram within a dream

Light-up Skechers

You never had to worry about getting lost in the dark with these terrific tennis. Light-up Skechers came in just about every color and Disney character imaginable. If you didn’t have at least one pair, social status was rather low. Guys and girls both rocked the flashing shoe.

2011

er n by Scott Deat photo illustratio

Pants on the ground

GHHS class of 20011 Graduates United States kills Osama bin Laden, the mastermind behind the 9/11 attack

Natalie Myers

Saint Louis University

Aliina Weykamp

University of Illinois

Adam Beswick

Butler University

Stephanie Tabor

Trinity International

Tory Roth

Alex James

Kent State

Emily Cather

Johnson and Whales

Keith Kane

University of Notre Dame

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Purdue

Sarah Kober

Amy Potter, Emily Franks

DePaul University

The senior class is moving on and many are traveling across the state and country to continue their educations at the college level, here are their steps respectively

Wednesday, June 1, 2011 THE BUCS’ BLADE Senior 20-21

Kelsey Johnson, Alex Schurkamp, Nick Shenefield, Kelsie Taylor , Rhiannon McHenry, Jake Lukasik, Randy Teunis, Mackenzie Yoas, Blake Newton, Josh Geldersma, Garret Swinton, Nate Koella, Meghan Wasson, Allison Knopf, Jared Hayward, Phil Keshavarzi, Joe Schuh, Brittaney Anderson, Jessica Gardner, Steven Miesch, Ashley Streur, McKenzie Bradley, Noah Thelen, Lindsey Flaquer, Macaire Prouty, Lauren Hatt, Brandon Jones, Allison Smith, Jake Rickfelder, Mike Moorehead, Victoria Royce, Brandon Marshall, Cody Duston, Greg Lepley, Joy Schmeltzer

Grand Valley State Univer-

Mackenzie Klingenberg, Jack Dempsey

Aquinas Col-

Blake Williams, Alexandra Chapman, Mary Valk, Allison Chidester, Robin Marcinkus, Quintin VanDoorne, Will Macleod, Erynn Lokers, Alecia Proefrock, Jesse Fuller, Spencer Packard, A.J. Smitter, Katie Gerwig, Dylan Hegedus, Ty Holm, T.J Nadeau, Charlie Cuddington, Chelsey Bassett, Adam Poel, Lluvia Elizalde, Austin Burkhardt, Brittany Brown, DesirĂŠ Burley, Emily Parker, Lauren Brown, Vanessa Hayes, Evan Draft

Muskegon Community Col-

James Donald Herman, Paul Roehm, Travis Redman

Michigan Tech

Mitch Borchers

Albion College

Luke Walburg, Kody Roberts, Shane McNamara, Gina Kukulski, Dakota Reynolds, Trent Hitsman, Shelbie Williams, Tyler Leonards, Justin Simmer, Trevor Miller, Ben Stegall, Allison Steggles, Sam VanZytveld, Kaytlin Lawrence, Justin Simmer, Tyler Sleutel

Colin Pellegrom, Everett Ingalls, Jenny Hamilton, Haley Birkett, Madeline Ciofu, Jameson Steffel, Andres Rodriguz, Karen Lomeo, Colin Ottenbaker, Roy Putnam, Spencer Krug, Alex Concannon, Scott Deater,

Michigan State University

Emily McCauley

Adrian College

Jonathan Kline

Kettering University

Jamie Julie

University of Detroit Mercy

Cristina Perez, Connor Jennings, Mike Vaandering, Laura Addison, Laura Kooistra, Devin Chan, Stephanie Guthrie, Paul Byrne

University of Michigan

Meg Massucci, Zachary Konarska, Anne Marie VanderVeen, Jacquie Destrampe

Central Michigan University

Joe Discher

Lake Superior State

Grand Rapids Community College

Lauren Reenders, Nick Mendels, Alexandria Vandervest, Amanda Bennick, Katie Vanzytveld

Hope College

Erin Ribbink

Davenport University

Baker College

Amanda Blackmer, Jake Keller, Mariah Olthof, Tyler Jenkins

Courtney VanDyke, Corey VanShaik

Cornerstone University

Brittany Labell, Branden Grevel

Ferris State University

Hailey Sanford, Sam Hoats, Gretchen Spoelman, Stephanie Brooks, Harrison Moynihan

Northern Michigan Univer-

22 Senior THE BUCS’ BLADE Wednesday, June 1, 2011

t n e m a st e T d n a l il W Last “ I will the pool in the senior prank to Mrs. Wilson and her kids.”

- Arjun Biddanda “I will control of the Orchestra back to Mrs Meyers.”

- Cody Duston “I will my swag to Michael Sleva… we all know he could use it!”

– Adam Poel “Car to Phil. Money to Phil... You know what, just give everything to Phil.” – Steve Miesch “I will all my soccer skills to Nate Rose Hottie Dude because he needs them” - Travis Redman “I will my horrible driving skills to Jordyn Landsmen.” – Erynn Lokers “I left $25.00 inside a desk in Mr. Portenga’s room.” – Jared Hayward “I will my luscious red hair to Mr Kram, because he needs it more than I do.” – Ben Lewis “I give my parking spot to Abby Wittkopp. Enjoy.” – Garret Swinton “I will my sense of humor to Austin Way.” – Al Rosema I will my foreignism to Reyer Jones.” – Jan Erik Boyum Revheim “I will all of my senior pictures to Drew Ellingboe and Thermopylae.”

– Harrison Moynihan “I will my good looks and lady skills to my brother Ethan Beswick and Will VerDuin” – Adam Beswick “I will my hacky sack skills to my little brother, Casey Carlson.”

- Mac Carlson “I will give this school one piece of advice: quit whining about C lunch.”

– Landon Smith “We will our perfect football game attendance and school spirit to Will VerDuin and Kristen Reenders. Also, the GO DEFENSE sign to Katriona VanDoorne.” – Allison Steggles and Amy Potter

Wednesday, June 1, 2011 THE BUCS’ BLADE Feature 23

Math and Motorcycles

Math teacher John Mauro taking two trimesters off next year to volunteer in Peru’s Sacred Valley JOHN CHERETTE Managing Editor The veins in his arms show while he turns his wrench. Two years of work are finally coming to a head. Math teacher John Mauro is getting his motorcycle ready for the 3995-mile ride from Ollantaytambo, Peru to Grand Haven. Mauro will complete this journey next February after six months volunteering in the Sacred Valley.

For his first six weeks in Peru, Mauro will work as a guide for Rustic Pathways, an organization that leads service and culture trips for high school students around the world.

After that, Mauro will spend the rest of his time at the Sacred Valley Project, a dormitory school for young girls who otherwise would not be able to get an education because the walk to school from their (above) HARD AT WORK: John Mauro works on his motorcycle in his garage. Mauro has been preparvillages is too far and dangerous to take ing his motorcycle for the trip for two years. photo by John Cherette (below) THE LONG HAUL: Mauro every day. will ride 3995 miles from Ollantaytambo, Peru to Grand Haven. “I figure that if I can do it, the message “[The girls] go back, they educate their I could send to people in this town is that it’s possible,” Mauro said. “Dream big, do something powerful to change the world.” photo by Emma Baty villages, they teach people,” Mauro said.

“Birth rates decrease; education increases; “You’re definitely going being on a motorcycle health increases. It’s just to run into problems on a in those conditions is a a winning situation across motorcycle where you’re large risk.”

To learn more the board.” going to have to depend On top of accidents, about donating, Several things inspired on strangers to help you Mauro realizes the go to: Mauro to make this out and you’re going to instability in Mexico also trip. He says the movie have to work through brings a risk of crime. www.sacredvalleyproject.

“Motorcycle Diaries,” problems.”

“I understand that org along with the books While Mauro believes it’s a risky thing,” Mauro “Three Cups of Tea” that riding his motorcycle said. “But I guess at To contact and “Mountains Beyond is essential to the trip, he some point if I want to John Mauro: Mountains” were large also realizes the risks he is experience cultures, meet influences on his decitaking. people, make connecmauroj@ghaps.org sion. Mauro believes that “Motorcycle travel tions, then flying home riding a motorcycle will overall is very dangerous,” on a plane is not going put him in direct contact Mauro said. “Especially to do it. Driving in a car with more people than any other method in places like Central and South America isn’t really going to do it of transport. where there are poor road conditions either and at some point, that’s the risk “Traveling on a motorcycle forces you and less adherence to laws. There’s just that you have to take.” to interact with people,” Mauro said. a different way of driving so inherently Mauro has run into a problem already

Donations

after the shipping company he was in contact with told him he wasn’t allowed to ship a motored vehicle more than five years old. His bike, being eight years old, is disqualified from shipping. Luckily, he was able to purchase a newer bike, which he needs to have prepared in a short period of time. Even with a daunting task in front of him, Mauro is not worried.

“I’ve been working on my motorcycle for two years to get it ready for this trip,” Mauro said. “Now, I have to redo everything to this new one in three weeks, but we’ll make it happen.”

Taking the trip on a motorcycle is dangerous, but Mauro believes the uniqueness of his story allows him to reach out to the public with a chance to donate.

“I think it’s [a great project],” Mauro said. “I worked with it last summer and I think they’re doing a great job. Their goal is to make it self-sustaining so it’s run and supported by Peruvians, but right now, they still need some money to keep it going.”

Mauro asks anyone who knows of organizations or has connections in Central and South America to get in touch with him.

“Just give me a name and a number or the name of an organization in a city,” Mauro said. “It seems to me that it would be cooler to meet some people than to just sleep in a tent or a hostel.”

Though the trip is dangerous and difficult, Mauro has no reservations concerning his decision.

“One of the four rules of life that I live my life by is that if you’re nervous, it’s probably the right choice,” Mauro said.

24 Haiti THE BUCS’ BLADE Wednesday, June 1, 2011

Hope to Haiti Church group’s journey to earthquake-shattered country gives those who went new perspective SCOTT STAAL Reporter

W

e live in a world that revolves around our ‘stuff.’

We are constantly surrounded by an abundance of belongings. But too often, one item is missing: appreciation. Sometimes, everything must be taken away to be truly thankful for anything. Where would something like that happen? Take a look at Carrefour, Haiti. I saw it firsthand.

Walking down a typical Haitian street, destruction appears on every block for miles. Concrete buildings lie in heaps of rubble, trash litters the rivers and hundreds of blue and gray U.S. AID tarps line the sidewalks. Everyday, people sit outside their homes trying to sell fruits they scavenged, sandals they salvaged, or anything that they can find—to anyone they can find. All of this is the new reality of life after the devastating 7.0 magnitude earthquake that struck Haiti on Jan. 12, 2010.

I walked those streets while on a mission trip with a mission team from Watermark Church, a few weeks ago.

While there, we broke apart and removed countless tons of rubble that used to be homes, so that families could rebuild one day. I met and moved rocks with many Haitians and observed the ruins they live in every day. Despite the destruction, one thing stands clear: Haitians are thankful a lot for only a little.

During the week our team was in Haiti, we lived in a half-school, half-church building. Every morning, kids in grades kindergarten through eighth grade came in and played before they started their day. Our team got to kick soccer balls and blow bubbles before they started class, as every single kid grins. For them, learning is a privilege—and they are thankful for it.

Then I met Stanley—a 17-year-old guy just like me. Yet, his life is nothing like

mine. Stanley doesn’t have a mom or dad so he was forced to live with his aunt. I learned that she died in the earthquake; Stanley now lives at an orphanage. Plans were set up by an American family to adopt him, but the adoption fell through.

Today, Stanley lives at that same orphanage. He literally has no one in his life—no family, no friends. Yet, he wears a smile on his face and is grateful for what he has—life.

A crisis exists in Haiti. Major clean up and rebuilding needs to take place, jobs must be created and money needs to circulate to the Haitian people. Problems will keep mounting unless something amazing happens.

But there is a crisis here as well.

Sure, there hasn’t been an earthquake, a cholera epidemic or political violence.

Instead, the crisis is found deep in our hearts. I notice that we are thankful only a little, even though we have a lot. I notice that in myself, too.

Here, students complain and argue with teachers as we sit inside our air-conditioned school. In Haiti, songs, clapping and laughter are the sounds made by students at their wooden desks. We have to buy new water bottle-filling stations so that we won’t waste water, while a Haitian is joyful when they have a few ounces of clean water to drink. It’s easy for us to whine about our cafeteria food. They have scarce electricity, no air circulation or lunches.

I suspect that our crisis—overflowing ungratefulness, will also continue unless something amazing happens.

We can notice all the ‘stuff’ that surrounds us. Appreciation is a choice anyone can make. And everyone should, myself included. Let’s decide to be thankful for all that we have—because it could all be gone one day.

(And think about giving some of it away to the Haitians—your choice.)

Wednesday, June 1, 2011 THE BUCS’ BLADE Haiti 25

(clockwise from left): BUCKET BOYS: Senior Mackenzie Carlson passes buckets of rubble to Haitian workers at a worksite. Carlson was part of a 22 member team from Watermark Church that spent a week in Carrefour, Haiti.

COMPLETELY CRUMBLED: A collapsed house lies in a pile of ruins along an ordinary Haitian street. Although the earthquake happened over a year ago, many structures have not been cleared or even touched. HOME AWAY FROM HOME: Several Haitians sit outside U.S. AID tarps known as a “Tent City”—a common site off of main roads.

Little has been done to relieve this problem and many earthquake survivors have come to accept their new living space in these makeshift communities as their permanent homes. WAITING FOR SUPERMAN: Haitian citizens simply sit in the shade of what was once a suitable houme.

Because of the lack of international attention as of lately, many Haitian citizens are left waiting for future relief that most likely won’t come anytime soon. photos by Scott Staal

Wednesday, June 1, 2011 THE BUCS’ BLADE Feature 26

The Way I See It Mollie LaBeff

Jacob Visser

Give me your lunch money En route to pod seven on my daily commute to second hour, nothing seems out of place. The usual people in their standard spots, rowdy boys leaning against their usual banister. Nothing out of the norm. Until I glance at the rowdy boys leaning against their usual banister and hear one yell, “HEY!” at an underclassman boy wearing a particularly effeminate t-shirt. “I like your shirt! You know I’ve seen girls wear it, too?”

The younger boy’s face dropped. Immediately I stopped walking.

Did that really just happen? Is this stuff really still happening? I didn’t even know the boy, but I was livid. As I paused I gave the older boy a few choice words, wishing there was more I could do.

This incident bothered me all week. I just don’t understand the appeal in making a blatant mockery of the way another person dresses, looks or thinks. I can’t grasp the concept. Is it this idea of gaining a false sense of superiority? Is that small 30-second confidence boost worth it? Even though it could adversely affect the other person for weeks, maybe for their entire high school career?

So maybe they can just brush it off, maybe they have a good sense of self-worth and a healthy confidence level, maybe it wont phase them at all. But the scary truth is, you don’t know. You don’t know how they’ll react, chances are you’ll never be able to see it. Chances are they can’t handle what you throw at them and they’re going to harbor and deal with that in an unhealthy way. Whether it’s crying in their room after school, sulking, or even some form of physical harm.

Overeating, cutting or even worse.

Maybe that boy loves that pink shirt, maybe he felt confident and positive about it because he felt good about the way he looked. And in less than thirty seconds, you ruined that mindset and made him self-conscious about it for the rest of the day. You just don’t know.

You don’t realize the effects you cause when you scribble a hatemessage about another person on the bathroom stall. You don’t understand the harm you cause because that’s it, you do the damage with your Sharpie and you leave the room. You call someone else a faggot and you leave the room.

I understand that there are hidden problems inside of the bullies, too. Perhaps a bad home life or some other concealed abhorrence has made them the way they are. Bitter, angry and ready to release those emotions on someone else. But I just don’t see any plausible excuse in taking time out of their day to actually put effort into making someone else feel bad.

Many of us lost a friend last month and it purely disgusts me that this hate is still being tossed around. If you see bullying take place, don’t be afraid to intervene. If you’re being bullied, don’t be afraid to seek help and deal with it in a logical, healthy way. Please remember; this does not happen in the world outside of high school. You only have four short years of this taunting to endure. And if you’re bullying someone, consider what it does to him or her. You don’t know their tolerance and capability levels. The only thing you know about them is that shirt you don’t like.

LAUREN LUND Reporter

&

MEGAN BITNER Reporter

Bucs’ Blade: What was your best skating moment?

Jacob Visser: Definitely skating 5 mile [hill]. I hit the hand rail for the first time, that was fun.

BB: How old were you when you started?

JV: I was little, I started when I was three or four.

I had those little banana boards, and then I got a board from Meijer.

BB: What’s your favorite part of skateboarding?

JV: It is creativity...It’s not a school sport where everyone gets a uniform and you go line up and warm up and go out on the field...I like the individual part of it.

BB: Have you been in any skate competitions?

JV: I have done one little one that we had in Grand Haven...I got first, but I left before they did the [awards ceremony].

Sophomore Jacob Visser shares his passion for skateboarding, speaks on how he got to where he is now

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BB: What do you think about while in the air?

JV: I think I go blank in the air...I think about landing it.

That’s all you think about.

BB: What do you feel like when you land?

JV: Super stoked. I get really excited, and all I want to ever do is try more.

BB: Do you have any tips for improvement?

JV: Don’t just sit there. I notice that when I skate people stop to watch. Instead of sitting there, try it.

Practice makes perfect.

BB: What’s your best trick?

JV: Nollie big heel [or] full cab, down the seven stair.

BB: What are your skating techniques?

JV: Speed and Style, I guess. I’m clean with my tricks, and I go fast. [My friends] always have trouble keeping up with me.

BB: What does your future in skating look like?

JV: It’s a hobby, and if I could turn it into a future I would.

BB: Do you think your family would support you if you wanted to skate professionally?

JV: Yes, I do. My dad snowboards and surfs with me.

My family supports me with whatever I do.

seniors beautiful | timeless |authenic

craigwatsonphotography.com

41 Washington Ave. Suite 141 Grand Haven

28 Feature THE BUCS’ BLADE Wednesday June 1, 2011

A series of unfortunate events

John Cherette

A forbidden love I’ve lived in Grand Haven my entire life. I’m a middle class white boy and I am (surprisingly, considering my upbringing) quite liberal.

There’s a secret I’ve been keeping for a long time that I just have to get out: I am head over heels in love with 90’s hip-hop.

I yearn for it. I think about it at night. I don’t eat, I don’t sleep and I feel sick to my stomach. The simplicity of the beats and the smooth, flowing lyrics are more beautiful than Natalie Portman (when she’s not pregnant). There’s just one problem: I’m white.

Society tries to keep us apart. It isn’t acceptable for a white kid to be in love with a (mostly) black art. The adults of Grand Haven tell me Hip Hop is too much of a bad boy for me, that he only wants me for my money. They just don’t understand our relationship. I can’t fully explain what it does to me; it makes me feel good about myself like no other genre has before.

For too long have Ice Cube and Big L (R.I.P.) been forced to climb through my window late at night when nobody is watching. I’m sick of hiding our relationship. From now on Hip Hop and I are out in the open. We love each other and nothing is going to come between us.

It makes me sad that society forced us into the shadows for so long. Why can’t a white kid fall in love with Snoop Dog? Why don’t Eazy-E (R.I.P.) and I get to walk down the beach together at the sunset? I don’t understand why there is a problem with me pumping bass so loud that you can hear it from Compton.

There’s just something about Dr. Dre and Bone Thugs-nHarmony that is special. I shouldn’t have to feel like a bad person just because I’m driving around town with Nas sitting next to me, serenading me with his beautiful rhymes. The type of music a person listens to does not define them. There’s nothing wrong with a white kid turning up some Wu- Tang Clan (R.I.P. ODB) and there’s nothing wrong with a black kid bobbing their head to a little Simon and Garfunkel.

When did our race start defining what kind of music we listen to?

I think you should be able to put your headphones in and choose to be taken in a warm embrace by A Tribe Called Quest or Little River Band. Just because I choose to have The Notorious B.I.G. (R.I.P.) make sweet, sensual love to my ears doesn’t mean I’m any different of a person than someone who prefers Genesis. As Dr. Dre asked so candidly, “What’s the difference between me and you?”

Hip Hop of the 90’s and I are in love, nothing is changing that.

The only difference is that now it’s in the open for everyone to see.

Maybe I will be looked down upon by the white, predominately republican community of Grand Haven, but that’s alright with me. Hip Hop is no longer the mistress I meet in a grungy motel on Saturday nights. We’re together and nothing can take it away from me. I’m even considering making our relationship ‘Facebook official.’

After life of home schooling, freshman attends high school EMMA BATY Reporter

the second trimester was challenging. But Nathan For freshman Nathan Wichman, school has had existing friends in the school, which eased always felt like home. Of course, this could be the difficulty. because he has been home schooled for the last “In the classes it’s extremely hard [to make eight years. new friends], because you generally don’t get time But for the first time this year, Nathan atto socialize,” Nathan said. “I was lucky enough tended a public school. to already have friends that go here and through Before Nathan was born, the Wichman’s lived them I meet new people.” in LA County. When considering the school opMost students who come from a home school tions for their oldest daughter, reports surfaced of environment need teachers help with the transichildren bringing guns to the elementary school. tion process. However, according to Nathan’s The fear of sending their children to a school math teacher Mark Londot, he has gone through where firearms could be present caused them to this transition on his own. consider home schooling.

“I think he has done really well adjusting,” The decision to switch schools came from a cu- Londot said. “He’s very social in class, talking to riosity about a type of schooling some of the guys—I think he has he had never known. His mother, made some friends. And before “It’s been a real blessing or after class they’ll joke around.

Mary Wichman, noticed that Nathan had been asking frenquently for him to be encouraged During class he works hard and about public schooling and saw gets his work done. I think he’s by other adults saying, value in letting him try it. adjusting fairly well.” ‘you’re doing great, you According to Mary, Nathan For Mary, Nathan’s teachcan do this, thanks for made her decision easy because ers have been vital in assisting your input, you’re a good him in this process and are very of his personality.

“Nathan has a real strength understanding of how big of a kid, you interact well.’ of character in his person,” Mary change this has been for him.

That kind of feedback said. “It wasn’t like I felt like I’m “I’ve been really pleased… has been great for him sending someone out into an with their willingness to bring and such an encouragearena that’s all new to them and him in and understand that for ment. I see it building his him, it’s more like moving to a they’re not going to be able [to handle it].” foreign country,” Mary said. “It’s confidence” Going from the sheltered ennot like he switched schools. He’s vironment of home schooling to - Mary Wichman in a completely different culture a public school can be intimidatnow… this stuff was all brand ing, but Mary was not concerned new to him.” about Nathan making the switch.

According to Mary, one of the “I thought, Nathan can hold his ground, he best things about public school so far has been will be strong in what he believes is true,” Mary the encouragement he has received from his said. “I see that as a real strength of his and I teachers. think that’s part of why he has been able to go in “The power of what people say is far greater and fit right in and do the work.” than what we realize,” Mary said. “I’m so grateful Nathan admits that despite his previous fears for [them] because he’s used to just his mother about public school, the transition was easier doing that for him. So it’s been a real blessing than he expected it to be. He found that the ideas for him to be encouraged by other adults saying, he had about public school were misconceptions. ‘you’re doing great, you can do this, thanks for “[The first day] went a lot [smoother than I your input, you’re a good kid, you interact well.’ expected],” Nathan said. “People were a lot nicer That kind of feedback has been great for him than I thought they [would be].” and such an encouragement. I see it building his Starting public schooling at the beginning of confidence.”

6

30 Scoreboard THE BUCS’ BLADE Wednesday, June 1, 2011

Record: Finished 4th in conference

Key Player: Senior Ben Lewis placed 8th with a 78 at the OK-RED meet on May 2.

1.

4.

Preparing for a jump is a tedious process

JD: [To find where I start my

Key Moment: The team beat Grandville They said it: “The conference

Lewis

SOFTBALL

Key Player: Senior Brittany Brown recently signed with MCC.

2.

better than last year. We’ve won more games and our infield is stronger.”

-senior Chelsea Meloche

straight in front and stick it into the box. [You] try to keep your arms straight when you plant it.

BOYS BASEBALL

Flying through the air while twisting and turning is a challenge

JD: Once you’re [up in the air], you do what’s called a Bubkaarch your back and pull the pole through so you’re doing a handstand in the air. Keep your legs straight.

6.

Planting properly produces great results

JK: You have to keep your pole

Meloche

5.

JD: I hold my pole [to my left side] because I’m a lefty, really firmly. When I start my run I hold it at an angle, bringing it more to the side as I get closer to the box.

3.

Forest Hills Central, May 20.

get your feet to touch the tip of your pole. [All the while] trying to focus on going up and not out.

The run up leads to the perfect jump

They said it: “We’re doing a lot

Key Moment: A 10-5 win over

From the ground to the sky the danger only increases

GK: When you jump you try to

run,] I go to the box and act like I’m doing my plant. Then somebody counts my sixth or seventh step of my right leg when I sprint.

twice. Both times by one stroke.

Record: 9-10

pole vaulting

Running at top speed towards a stationary object and launching your body over a bar more than a dozen feet in the air is not for the faint of heart. Pole vaulters Jake Degryse, Jordan Keefe and Grace Kendra sat down with reporter Riley Missel to explain how to clear the bar with the perfect vault.

BOYS GOLF

season went really well. Districts are coming up in a week and I feel fairly confident that we can do well there.”

-senior Ben Lewis

things to know about...

The dismount can be hazardous if executed improperly

AIRBORNE: Senior Jake Degryse plants and JK: Turn your body over and push launches himself into the air during his practice down, like you’re pushing the pole into on May 19. Degryse won fifth place at conference. the ground. Land on your back and photo by Amy Potter

push the pole away from you.

GIRLS SOCCER

BOYS TRACK AND FIELD

Record: 11-10 (6-6 in O-K RED)

Record: 7-6-2

Record: 4-3 in OK-RED

Key Player: Junior Doug Zelenka has hit three home

Key Player: Senior Aliina Weykamp has led the Bucs

Key Player: Senior Joe Duff won his third straight

runs this year, including two against East Kentwood.

with her talent which she will take to Illinois next year.

regional title on May 20 at the regional meet.

Key Moment: A grand slam by

Key Moment: The Bucs beat out

Key Moment: A first place finish

Doug Zelenka against East Kentwood.

Hudsonville 1-0 on senior night.

at Regionals on May 20.

They said it: “It has been an up

They said it: “[In] conference we

They said it: “I think [the sea-

and down season, but we plan on turning it around for Districts.”

didn’t do well, hopefully Districts will have a better turnout.”

son] went really well. We really blended well together as a team.”

-junior Will VerDuin

VerDuin

-senior Aliina Weykamp

Weykamp

-junior James Dewitt

Dewitt

Wednesday, June 1, 2011 THE BUCS’ BLADE Scoreboard 31

Rising in the ranks

Varsity Golf team overcomes inexperience, tees off the future EMMA BATY Reporter The boys varsity golf team’s success has come as a surprise for many. Boasting a fourth place finish in the conference and a roster of mostly underclassmen, they hope this success is only the beginning.

On April 21 the team beat Rockford, who hadn’t lost in 44 straight matches. During the week of May 2, Grand Haven defeated Grandville twice. Grandville at this time was supposedly the best team in the conference.

These victories showed the Bucs could compete with the league’s best.

“We started under the radar,” senior Ben Lewis said.

“Grandville and Rockford have always been stalwarts in our conference and this year we just kind of came out and surprised a bunch of people.”

The team is young with only one senior, seven sophomores and one freshman in the regular rotation.

Although this could be seen as a disadvantage, sophomore Kevin Lacroix thinks this could be a factor in the group’s success.

“We feel good about being two years younger than most of the guys we’re playing,” Lacroix said. “It gives us the edge that we need.”

This assurance carries into the attitude that the golfers bring to each match. Lewis also thinks whatever his teammates lack in experience, they make up for in enthusiasm.

“I think being young we bring more energy to some of our matches than other teams do,” Lewis said. “The expectations are a little bit lower for you, too. So you feel like the pressures off.”

BOYS LACROSSE

GIRLS TENNIS Record: 3-6-2 Key Player: Senior captain Gina Kukulski had a decisive victory over Holland on May 6.

Key Moment: A 5-3 win over Holland on May 6 was a key victory for the Bucs.

They said it: “[The season] was good, but it was really fast. Everyone played really well, especially at Regionals.”

Staal

-freshman Erin Staal

GIRLS WATER POLO DRIVING THE GREEN: Star golfer, senior Ben Lewis tees off on May 9 at Grand Haven Golf Course. This season marks Lewis’ fourth year on the varsity golf team. photo by Emma Baty

Looking ahead, the team has set its hopes on making it to state.

“It’s going to be a strong team because there’s going to be a lot of depth,” Lewis said. “We’ll definitely have two or three sophomores that will have leadership skills.”

Although the inexperience of a younger team can be a disadvantage, the golfers are working towards improvement. For now, the team hopes to make it to Regionals and keep making an impression.

“As a team [we want] to see how far we can go into Regionals and State, and just to keep improving and keep surprising people,” Lewis said.

GIRLS LACROSSE

Record: 3-15 Key Player: Senior Allison Chidester started in goal for the Bucs and improved greatly this year.

Key Moment: A come from behind victory over Grandville at the Jenison tournament.

They said it: “The season was good but it didn’t end how we wanted, so we’ve got motivation to work that much harder next year.”

Land

-junior Alyssia Land

GIRLS TRACK AND FIELD

Record: 10-7

Record: 10-6

Record: 5-2 in OK-RED

Key Player: Junior Austin Way led the Bucs with three

Key Player: Senior Mackenzie Yoas scored eight goals

Key Runner: Junior pole vaulter Jordan Keefe won the

assists against Howell on May 22.

in a 19-8 landslide victory over West Ottawa, May 16.

teams only award at Regionals clearing 11 feet, 2 inches.

Burns

Key Moment: A 12-4 victory

Key Moments: Two key wins over

Key Moment: The team finished

against Howell on May 22.

rival West Ottawa on the season.

second at the regional meet.

They said it: “I think the season

They said it: “We’ve really come

They said it: “Track season is go-

went better than last year. We won a playoff game versus Howell and we hope to beat Rockford in the next one.”

-junior Matt Burns

together as a team and we’re starting to work together very well.”

ing very well. We’re preparing for State. Hopefully that goes well.”

Shaw

-senior Sarah Shaw

Newhouse

-junior Megan Newhouse

Wednesday, June 1, 2011 THE BUCS’ BLADE Amp 32

97 days of summer fun are about to begin, follow this Bucs’ Blade calendar to make them count. enings The Happ 9-20 ust 1 Date: Aug idnight p.m. to m ve.

Time: 12 hington A s a W : n o les, Locati

a sidewalk s Downtown nd a s s, band local food g. dancin

Concer t ust 10 Date: Aug to 8:30 p.m. .m.

Park Time: 7 p ast Guard o C : n o ti Loca and

n chairs Bring law . free music snacksfor

Grand Ha ve Date: July n Triathlon 10 Time: 7:4 5 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Location: Tri Cities Family YM Compete CA

Music and

in or watc h the even ts. prizes to f ollow.

For $2 every Wednesday support local bands from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the waterfront stadium.

Grand Have n Beach Vau lt Date: July 1 5-16 Time: 9 a.m . to 7:30 p.m .

Location: Sta te Park Beach 300 v

Flea Mark et Date: July 1 6 Time: 9 a .m. to 2 p .m.

Location: County pa rking lot on Franklin S t.

aulters at the worlds largest Outdoor Pole Vault Ev ent. Free Admission.

Explore u nique treasures or rent space to s ell your own.

Fresh Prod

uce

music.

and sna

cks

allenge rvival Ch u S h c a e B e 18 Date: Jun p.m. a.m. to 4 Park Time: 10 ven State a H d n ra G s Location: our friend

up with y nts!

Get a gro beach eve r u o f in ete and comp rch by nd resea Graphics a

Th Da e i Tre ry at

Op e dai n ly

Wednesdays & Saturdays 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Chinook Pier

Concer t Date: Ju ne 22 Time: 7 p.m. to Locatio 8:30 p.m n: Coas t Guard .

Bring la Park wn chair s

for free

Community picnic at 11 a.m. followed by live music in the evening.

e Grand

Location: Grand Haven Skate Park Watch the top Midwest skateboarders and BMX riders compete for prizes.

Players of all levels can participate.

Waterfront entertainment, parades, rides and crazy tourists.

Picnic Date: July 23 Time: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. & 8 p.m. to midnight Location: Coast Guard Park

Haven

Dancin’ on th

AGA Cup Championships Date: June 25 Time: 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Soccer in the Sand Tournament Date: June 25-26 Time: 9 a.m. Sat. to 6 p.m. Sunday Location: State Park

Coast Guard Festival Date: July 29-August 7 Location: Downtown Gran d

Grand River Kaya k Race Date: June 11 Time: 9 a.m.

Location: 14023 G reen St

$15-$40 for water races and raffles! occhio

Maggie Gin