Bucs' Blade November 2011

BUCS'

BLADE

See page 32

Friday, November 18, 2011

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

Music of the

Night

Drama program’s ambitious production of ‘The Phantom of the ‘Opera’ ends two-week run tonight and Saturday

See pages

22-23

2 Inside THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday, November 18, 2011

0-1

EDITORIAL/OPINION

4

Road of incoherence

National protests lack cohesiveness, fail to address problems

NEWS 8-9 Occupy Grand Rapids inspires all ages

Massive Occupy Wall Street movement takes over Grand Rapids

26

CULTURE She’s back

Weather pattern “La Nina” to bring more snow, lower temperatures

FEATURE

14

Nothing to hide

Senior Cory Spelde opens up about sexuality, how he became accepting of, accepted by others

PHOTO

27

Chess club spends time with Rosy Mound Elementary students to teach them the rules of the game

SPORTS

See pages

30-31

Checkmate classmates

32 IT MIGHT HAVE BEEN: Senior Andrew Byrne reacts to Grand Haven’s 1-0 loss to Canton High School in the soccer state finals. photo by Emma Baty

THE BUCS’ BLADE

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

Volume 67, Issue 3 November 18, 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.

Thanksgiving throwdown

Preview of Thanksgiving matchup between Detroit Lions, Green Bay Packers

VIBE

28

Renew your library cards (or fire up your Kindle)

Reviews of the latest books to hit the shelves

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

Scott Staal

Sports Editor

Samantha VanHoef Web Editor Laura Burton

Photo Editor

Maggie Ginocchio

Graphics Specialist

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

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, Sam Schurkamp, Olivia Seaver, Erin Staal, John Strainer, Katherine Wampler, Harrison Zost

Friday, November 18, 2011 THE BUCS’ BLADE Editorial 3

Bullying bill step in right direction Proposed legislation welcome sign in campaign to end bullying, discrimination There is no acceptable reason to bully someone, no matter for what reason and no matter for whom the barbs are aimed at.

Here at Grand Haven High School, steps have been taken to curb this cruelty and while there is still a lot of work to be done, it is safe to say that we are moving in the right direction.

Now we can say our state government is following suit. A recent piece of legislation, entitled “Matt’s Safe School Law,” was proposed by the Michigan House of Representatives where the state would mandate that all schools develop antibullying policies.

However, upon leaving the House and moving to the Senate, the wording of the law was changed to make exceptions for phrases stemming from a “sincerely held religious belief or moral conviction.” This means as long as a phrase was rooted in a religious or moral belief, it would not not bullying.

After much (welldeserved) criticism, however, Senator Rick Jones (the man who was

STAFF EDITORIAL

responsible for the Senate version of the bill) removed his exemption. As the Bucs’ Blade went to press, the Michigan legislature looks to pass the original, unedited version of “Matt’s Safe School Law.” This acknowledgement of what would have been a misguided attempt at tackling bullying is a step in the right direction by both Jones and everyone else in Lansing.

With that being said, however, it’s time for both Lansing and the rest of the state to put our money where our mouth is.

Trying to keep track of how many times laws have been proposed to change our society for the better is frustrating, as the government is littered

with half-baked bills and ineffectual laws. This is different.

The imminent passage of this bill, in the wake of our currently caustic political landscape, is a glimmer of hope that something can be done to benefit everyone without fighting and wasting time.

Here at Grand Haven High School, we are in the midst of a school-wide “changing of the culture,” so to speak. Throughout the school, we’re trying to create an environment where it is safe to be who you are without fear of discrimination or bullying of any form.

The passage of this bill should only reinvigorate our efforts, for now we know that we aren’t alone in trying to make it better.

We are not the minority.

But let’s not lose focus now, now that we see things shifting in favor of those victimizedby bullying. We the staff of The Bucs’ Blade cannot stress enough that we (our school and Lansing) must keep going. Like Ghandi said, let’s be the change we want to see in the world.

A series of unfortunate events

John Cherette A user’s guide to Twitter I love Twitter. I love everything about it. There is nothing else that could make me think intently for 20 minutes on how to best display the fact that I just had leftover pizza for dinner in 140 characters or less.

I first joined the quest for followers last spring, trying my best to tweet something funny about various events. Lately at Grand Haven there has been a large increase in the amount of Twitter users or “Tweeters,” as they are known.

Having been a Tweeter for over six months, I think I’ve been able to identify the different kinds of Tweeters out there. With this guide, I hope to shed light on various Twitter types. And who knows, maybe you might just learn something along the way!

The “Updater” is always telling us what they’re doing. No matter if it’s the fact that they’re in first hour (which can’t come as much of a surprise, considering it’s 8:30 a.m. on a Monday) or that they just got to lunch and @whoever_they_are_with just said something totally funny. They will generally Tweet at least five times per school day and the number of possible weekend tweets could be infinite.

This leads us to the majority of Tweeters: The “#Hashtagger.”

The “#Hashtagger” never misses an opportunity to #HashtagSomethingClever in almost every single one of their Tweets. More severe cases of the “#Hashtagger” will use multiple hashtags per tweet, making the follower #deciphereverythingtheysay. The worst offenders of hashtag abuse will hashtag completely random words in #the middle of a sentence, for no apparent reason.

The Twitter category I most fit in to is the “Grammar Geek.” With an obsession for correct language, the “Grammar Geek” makes sure everything they Tweet is correct. Severe cases of “Grammar Geeks” (myself included) will go as far as to make sure they put commas in their correct place, use the correct format for titles of works and will even delete a Tweet if they find a grammatical error.

The “Comedian” is my favorite kind of Tweeter. They may not Tweet as often as the “Updater,” but the “Comedian” makes every tweet count. They realize the difference between quality and quantity. While the “Comedian” may not have 2000 tweets, every time they Tweet, you know it will make you LOL. And by LOL, I of course mean laugh in your head and if it’s really funny, maybe even crack a smile.

There are many types of Tweeters of all shapes and sizes. Most people fit into more than one category, but we all have our Twitter tendencies. There’s nothing wrong with any type of Tweeter, but being self-aware may help improve the quality of your next Tweets.

Oh and by the way, you should totally follow me. @jcherette

4 Opinion THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday, November 18, 2011

Black Friday Road of incoherence

Bonanza

Shopping season’s most looked forward to day offers consumers nice bargains in weak economy Black Friday: the beginning of the holiday shopping season and climax of the shopping year, both on the same day.

Retail stores open for this huge event at ridiculously early times to bring in bargain-loving shoppers. Customers are on the hunt to find the best deals of the holiday season.

The day after Thanksgiving is the day ERIN STAAL to handle all of your shopping needs, Reporter while saving you loads of money.

How low are these prices? According to dealnews.com, 16” dual-core laptops are projected to hit a bargain price of $189 on Black Friday as opposed to as high as $1000.

While the Kindle 3 eBook readers are projected to be as low as $99, you’ll pay around $150 today. These mainstream items can be perfect gifts for the family.

Is your money tight this year? Black Friday is for you. Want to buy all your gifts in the shortest time? Black Friday is for you. As for me, I wish every Friday was Black Friday.

Sophomore Emily Lenahan agrees that the deals of this holiday shopping extravaganza are well worth the time, effort and headache because dollars are on the line.

“Students could save a lot of money on Black Friday, especially on electronics.” Lenahan said.

Some argue that the congested crowds and reports of injuries are a possible downside to Black Friday shopping. While they have a point, the great deals on shopping’s best day outweigh the issue of over-crowding.

In fact you don’t have to drive a long way or navigate notoriously long lines at malls. Downtown Grand Haven stores like Borr’s, Down to Earth and Mackinaw Kite Company plan deep discounts and are only minutes away.

The early morning wake-up, the exhilarating feeling of shopping ahead of you, the adrenaline from bagging a great deal all make this morning worthwhile.

Sophomore Lauren Klouw acknowledges the excitement.

“It’s definitely crazy, but it’s a lot of fun,” Klouw said. “You get up early in the morning and get to shop for the whole day.”

Getting all your holiday shopping done wrapped up with feeling from saving money will brighten your holidays, no matter if you are on the naughty or nice list.

Opinion

Opinion

BRITTANY OLDS Reporter

National protests lack clarity, fail to address problem One of the significant differences that distinguish our country from others is the ability for citizens to speak out for what they believe. The burning passion of every different American’s opinion is allowed, even encouraged to be released and expressed.

History books are full of stories of citizens not willing to take injustices and taking a stand to make America a better place. Occupy Wall Street however, doesn’t fall among them. The difference?

Occupy Wall Street lacks a clear, coherent direction.

Occupy Wall Street does have some potential. Thousands of worked up people marching

down Wall Street with intent to change the political system to stop the money hungry companies from keeping it all to themselves. To stop social and economic inequality. And hopefully, to spread some of the wealth of the 1% over the 99%.

Although I respect the passion and ambition being poured into the movement, I think it could use a little more specificity in its stated goals.

Does anyone actually have a good plan to put these ideas into action?

All the talk of ideas get us thinking about what great advantages would come for the lower income part of our population. In reality, nothing ever works out that easily.

Especially not the American economy.

It’s a vicious cycle, how that works. In order to support the poor, companies get taxed.

Less money means less innovation, less drive and most crucially, less employees. The fired employees then receive money from the government, who gets money from the companies and the cycle repeats itself.

If money is simply given away to placate the poor, we aren’t getting to the root of the issue.

Sure, the lower class population would have more money for an instant, but how long would that last? The only real results will come with stable job creation, which happens through the companies, not through the instantaneous reimbursement of money to lower class America.

Occupy Wall Street is asking too much of the government.

Their voice has been heard. We all know there is a problem.

But it’s a complex issue that would be better solved not by standing in the street with signs chanting somewhat catchy slogans but rather by coming up with ideas that work, and taking matters into their own hands.

Above all, be sure to spend within our own means.

We are in control over where the money goes, and which companies prosper. Show what you want with your own purchases.

So, I encourage you to stop sitting in the back seat, loafing behind a piece of poster board on a stick that says you’re not happy in one hand and a fresh cup of good ol’ corporate Starbucks in the other. If you just want to see a distribution of wealth across America, drop the sign, trade in the coffee, and start critically thinking.

Friday, November 18, 2011 THE BUCS’ BLADE Opinion 5

Dangerous drug must be made illegal Opinion

KAYLA HOFFMAN Reporter Clean up the dust and disco biscuits, there’s a new kid on the block— and he’s replacing Mary Jane and Lucy at the cool kids table.

Spice, the latest drug, is fast becoming a favorite among the teenage crowd for a few reasons: other than a urine test, there’s no convenient way to see if someone is on it and it’s sold in many places under the convenient façade of inconspicuous incense.

Oh, and one more important thing, it’s still legal in most States.

While many European countries have banned it since researching the sketchy synthetic, America is still addled

with bags of the mystery stuff. Manufacturers are jumping through loopholes and managing to evade the legal system’s reach.

While one version of the drug is in the process of being banned, the fake THC compounds are altered just enough to still deal.The thought that—by enforcing a ban—the faux THC would go underground and make it even more of a risk is flimsy. It’s a notion as concrete as an addict’s “trip”.

With the law keeping most spice on the rack, further research can be done to ensure that users won’t be risking themselves.

Many use it as an alternative only because it won’t show up on the tests.

A spice consumer is the Icarus of the drug cartel; they’re a first time flier risking the chance of getting too close to the sun on their little “trip”.

They teeter

dangerously on the precipice of a cavern that could either be filled with a psychedelic bliss or horrors and psychosis, using the drug is a leap of faith.

Spice isn’t something that should be fooled around with. It’s just an off-brand that’s also riddled with potentially serious side effects (such as anxiety and chemical dependency) that actual marijuana doesn’t cause.

Some bags even say ‘Not For Consumption’, but I guess that’s like an inside joke to all the users. Just like a sort of tongue-in-cheek acknowledgement of the dangers of these shady substances.

Keeping it legal wouldn’t be a benefit to anyone. At least under a ban it could be managed and kept out of more hands and curb the desires of those people still looking for a thrill without a connection to other such “forbidden fruits.”

Making Spice illegal won’t stop users Opinion

LAUREN KRUGGEL Reporter The latest dangerous teenage drug is one that parents may not know about. Worse yet, it’s legal.

The drug, called “Spice” or “K2,” is said to give the user a marijuanalike high. Sold in shops and online as incense, it is being smoked as a legal alternative to marijuana.

But this drug appears to have far more dangerous side-effects and without the necessary regulation, consumers have no idea what they’re really getting.

Spice appears to have many negative side effects that marijuana does not including anxiety attacks, hallucinations, nausea, and a

chemical dependency.

Theoretically, children under the age of 18 cannot buy the drug, as head shops and online stores are not supposed to sell to minors.

As this drug is still legal in the U.S., many people may be led to believe that it is a safe alternative to marijuana. right away, or even at all.

Although I believe this dangerous drug should be considered illegal like marijuana, cutting off kids’ supply to Spice isn’t going to create much of a lasting effect.

The compounds have been found in as many as 25 different herbal blends; even though they closely resemble marijuana, they still remain undetectable under standardized drug testing.

So how could the government regulate if someone was using it or not? Innocent people would be accused while the real rule-breakers would slide on by no

questions asked. To be effective they’d need a real way to operate the testing.

Alcohol is not as risky that spice is, however Prohibition went into effect in the early 1920s to outlaw the sale, manufacturing, and transporting of alcohol.

Even then there were testing to show who had been consuming alcohol, yet the citizens of the United States still found their way around the law.

Bootleggers created a profitable black market for selling alcohol in secret. The thrill of going behind the law would be just the same as those choosing to still use spice after it became illegal.

They’d know they couldn’t be tested, and they’d be so addicted to the rush, why would they care if it was illegal?

Marking it as illegal wouldn’t stop the craze.

It would just give the user even more of a lift know they’re being a rebel.

6 News THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday, November 18, 2011

BUC

B r i e f s

SCIENCE OLYMPIAD The 2011 Science Olympiad team tryouts are Nov. 29 to Dec. 1. Forms are available in room 0202 and are due Nov. 22. Freshmen competitors will participate with the middle school they attended and sophomores and up will compete for GHHS. “We hope to make it once again to the national tournament and continue the Grand Haven tradition,” Head coach Mike Reed said.

-Sam Schurkamp

FRIDAY FRENZY The Mainstreet Downtown Development Authority (DDA) is organizing Friday Frenzy, a Black Friday shopping event downtown on Friday Nov. 25.

“Friday Frenzy is a reminder that the downtown businesses are open on Black Friday and that they have many good products and gift ideas,” DDA director Dana Kollewehr said.

Almost every retail store downtown will participate by marking down prices and opening early. The exclusive offers and sales remain mysterious, to build anticipation.

“You’ll have to come in and find out!” Kollewehr said.

-Kaia Hayes

HAPPY ELVES CRAFT SHOW Saturday Dec. 10 the halls of White Pines Middle School will be ringing and jingling with the Happy Elves Craft Show. Crafts will be available for purchase from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Be there early for the best selection of handmade goodies.

-Samantha VanHoef

All hands on deck

‘The Bucs On Deck’ provides daily announcements, comedy to fifth hour TURNER SALE Reporter

Lights, computers, wires, cameras and an odd assortment of materials that may or may not apply to what the room is used for; production The school’s production room previously stood empty, dust collecting in all the nooks and crannies, miscellaneous materials from computers to lamps piling up in a disorderly array. Thanks to the new “The Bucs on Deck” news program, this room has undergone a remarkable transformation from storage to the limeRIGHT ON CUE: Senior Hailie Veen counts down seniors Morgan Wildrom and Federico Piras to begin light of school sponsored, student made reading off the teleprompter. News anchors present school news, weather and national headlines programs. every day, stemming of off this year’s Beginning TV Studio Production class. photo by Laura Burton In this revamped production room, this year’s Beginning TV Studio Production class is creating a student centered of that tree hurt.”

Funk said. and student produced daily program to Not only is the production ‘fun and Aspiring to follow and catch up give staff and students the vital informaupbeat’ in class and a chance for parwith similar programs that have been tion that they crave. Through a mixture ticipants to learn, but the information is established in high schools for years, of comedy and also relevant and Threadgill is excited about the program’s reporting, these useful in students’ potential. students are makevery day lives.

“We hope to give announcements that “It’s really cool of the school to have ing their way into “Our goal is to relate to the community and school, and all the activities going on in one prothe tech-centered give announcemaybe expand outward to state or U.S. gram and the weather is really helpful ments that are schools of the 21st news,” said Threadgill. century. With two Another promising aspect of “The Bucs for the students who have sports after relevant and intersets, two reporters school.” esting, while not On Deck” is the growth of the program and a cameraman - Kyle Funk compromising on and the experience that students who that runs bebeing entertainparticipate continue to gain. Even starting tween, “The Bucs ing,” producer and with minimal or non-existent training, on Deck” is now a staple on school days teacher Dennis Threadgill said. students who wish to get into film or news starting at 1:29 p.m.

According to students, the new class is broadcasting get a small injection of the Sitting in class with one of the andoing just that—giving information that is profession that includes programs such as nouncers, Anthony Sgroia, the class asks clear and concise in an engaging way.

Fox News, ABC and CNN. him questions about what it’s like to make “It’s really cool of the school to have “Students don’t need experience, bethese videos. Especially in one video all the activities going on in one program, cause we have the ability to train them,” where he jumps out of a tree dressed in a and the weather is really helpful for the Threadgill said. “We of course want bed sheet. students who have sports after school,” growth and to be able to pick the best of “It’s fun,” Sgroia said. “But falling out sophomore and common viewer Kyle the best.”

Friday, November 18, 2011 THE BUCS’ BLADE News 7

Choir gives back

Half of proceeds from annual GHHS holiday choir concert will benefit Love INC Hope House for Women RILEY MISSEL Reporter

O

n Saturday Dec. 3, GHHS Choirs are putting on their annual holiday concert with a philanthropic twist: half the proceeds from this year’s show will be donated to the Tri-Cities Love INC. With two performances at 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m, the show will feature Choral Ensemble, Concert Choir, Chorale, and Chorus. The concert is titled ‘Songs for a Better World,’ fitting the theme of giving back this holiday season.

In order to raise even more money for Love INC, community members including Gail Krug and Paulo Luz (first place winner of ArtWalk) will be donating pieces of artwork to be auctioned off to the highest bid by the end of the day. Together they hope to be able donate a large sum of money.

“As a choir program we believe in giv-

When: Saturday Dec. 3

Two performances: 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Where: GHHS PAC Ticket prices: $10 Adults $5 Students/Seniors

ing back,” Choir Director Julie Dick said.

“We contacted Eric Morgan at Love INC and they were on board.”

Executive Director of Love INC Eric Morgan was thrilled they chose Love INC as the benefit. “[The choir program] wanted to find an organization that was consistent with what they wanted to do–give back to the community,” Morgan said.

Love INC opened Hope House for Women on June 6 and has been at full capacity of homeless women from the TriCities ever since.

“The need is there in the community—we’ve had to turn away 76 women already,” Morgan said.

The concert revenue will help meet the needs of Hope House residents, which include students attending schools in our district.

“Knowing all the things they do for the community, even directly for students [makes this very important],” Dick said.

Morgan agrees.

“It’s really important right now that the community helps because government funding is being cut,” Morgan said. “People are being cut off from food stamps and cash assistance, which increases the number of people coming to us at Love INC.” Sophomore choir member Logan DeWitt encourages students to attend.

“Not only will you get an awesome music experience, you’ll help the community,” DeWitt said.

L ght N ght marks start of shopp ng season

Downtown business expected to improve with construction finished KAYLA HOFFMAN Reporter The third annual Light Night sends the community on its merry Christmas way tonight from 5-9 p.m. Aside from the shopper’s perspective, the local economic scene gets a little boost with the wattage.

The mood is set for the community to start preparing for Christmas shopping, fruitcake and family gatherings.

With people drifting down the newly twinkling streets—just like the live holiday music from WGHN—customers who

are both familiar and new to local stores get a chance to see the shop fronts in what is possibly their most welcoming atmosphere.

“We always have cocoa and cookies,” Borr’s Bootery employee Liz Strobridge said.

Vander Mill, a local cider mill company in Spring Lake, promises free apple cider in a commemorative cup to the first four hundred people to arrive at Light Night. Many companies have gotten cozy with the notion of enticing the walkers with delicious goods.

Now that there are trees planted due to the small revamp, it’s likely to be an even bigger hit this year. If decorations aren’t your cup a tea, the great deals might be.

For the stores, it’s almost as if their selling muscle gets injected with steroids— perhaps an early Christmas present from Santa and his needle of frenzied Christmas shopping.

“Last year it definitely picked up,” said Strobridge, a smile on her face from a memory of maneuvering frenzied sales.

“I’m expecting with the sidewalks done… it’ll probably grow even more.”

BUC

B r i e f s

CLASS T-SHIRTS Class t-shirts from the Interact fundraiser will be arriving between Nov. 22 and Nov. 25 in the lunch room. Senior Jeana Reinecke and others created the shirts as a DECA project.

“For DECA we have to do a community service project, which means helping other school groups,” Reinecke said.

If you’ve seen these shirts and think they’re cool, but didn’t get the chance to order one, you have another chance to make your purchase.

“They’ve been so popular we’re planning on ordering another batch after Thanksgiving Break,” Reinecke said.

-Katie Wampler

UNDER ARMOUR AT BUC STOP The Buc Stop recently received a shipment of new Under Armour clothing, including sweatshirts, sweatpants, T-shirts both long-sleeved and shortsleeved and drawstring bags.

“Students can represent our school by purchasing and wearing the clothes,” senior Buc Stop employee Corbin Holwerda said.

The school store is also looking to have a holiday sale before Christmas Break to make room for future shipments. The money made from the sale will allow the Buc Stop to purchase more items that appeal to students.

“It’s probably the coolest Grand Haven apparel you can find anywhere,” Holwerda said.

-Andrew Prince

8 News THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday, November 18, 2011

Ninety-nine to one SAMANTHA VANHOEF Web Editor

On Sept. 17 in Zuccotti Park, New York, a people-powered protest began.

The belief in fighting back against

the “role of Wall Street in creating an economic collapse” and the “corrosive power of major banks and multinational corporations over the democratic process” has since spread globally.

This is Occupy Wall Street, who’s

name adapts to the location in which protesters are present. This protest has been marched over capitals and through downtown streets, representing the ‘99 percent’ of the world’s population facing financial inequality

and fighting the authority of the ‘one percent’ that controls the majority of the world’s income. There is even a piece of Occupy Wall Street here in West Michigan. Welcome to the movement. (Coverage continued on p. 9)

photo by Kayla Hoffman

Friday, November 18, 2011 THE BUCS’ BLADE News 9

People of GR protest social inequality LUCAS WILDER News Editor On the grassy corner of Division and Fulton in downtown Grand Rapids, a rag-tag group of around 50 people carry handmade signs and stand up for what they believe in.

Two elderly women dressed in winter gear sing a song about freedom, their voices ringing strong and clear. One man paces back and forth, firmly gripping a crumpled piece of paper with the lines he must memorize for an impromptu play written only a few hours earlier. Drivers honk their horns as they pass by and the small crowd throws their arms in triumph.

These people make up the General Assembly of Occupy Grand Rapids. They stand up for credit unions and fight the power of large corporations. This local group is an offshoot of the original Occupy Wall Street movement in New York City. Currently, they reside on the porch of the nearby Fountain Street Church by night and throughout downtown Grand Rapids by day.

Joe Fletcher is a 21 year old student attending Grand Rapids Community College and member of Occupy Grand Rapids since day one. He is the man memorizing

his lines, smoking a cheap cigarette and pacing. The character Fletcher will play is also the character he is in real life; a regular citizen fighting the reign of “powerful CEOs and big businesses.” He clarifies multiple times that what he says are his own opinions and do not represent the views of the whole group.

“Our voices are completely drowned out by large corporations, especially in elections,” Fletcher said. “Corporations can contribute unlimited amounts of money to campaigns now and that will absolutely ruin democracy.”

Fletcher always attends the regular Saturday Occupy GR rallies and makes a point to stop at the church camp for a few hours every day after school.

“People just need to get out there and attend a General Assembly,” Fletcher said. “It will change you.”

The old ladies singing belong to an international group known as the Raging Grannies. The Grannies are an ironically non-violent group of activists who believe in peaceful protest.

“We stand for peace and justice in the environment,” Haduch said. “We write our own lyrics to the tune of familiar songs, so that anyone can sing along provided the words. Sometimes we’re sarcastic, but the purpose is always true

to the cause.”

Haduch recently visited the main Occupy Wall Street camp in New York City.

It’s just like the group here, but bigger,” Haduch said. “No arguments, everything run by a General Assembly, very casual.”

The Raging Grannies have protested for peace all over the country, from Washington D.C. to New York City. Every two years, they hold what they call an “unconvention,” where all the Grannies share stories and political propaganda.

“A group of Grannies is known as a gaggle,” Haduch said. “Wherever there is trouble, we are there.”

On the other side of the park, a man

sits against an old oak tree with a jetblack chrome-accented acoustic guitar, strumming and singing soulfully in a husky voice about not giving in to “the man.” He is wearing a monkey mask to disguise his identity. Little kids clap their hands and poke at his mask, clearly unafraid. The rest of the crowd dances along with the children. Fletcher looks on from the curb, still trying to memorize the lines he believes in, still pacing.

“Go to a General Assembly,” Fletcher said. “If you do, you will feel more involved in politics and society than ever before in your life. It really is an amazing experience. It’s democracy without outside influence.”

“Ninety-nine to one” sources:

-http://occupywallst.org -http://www.thenation.com/ -http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/ occupy-wall-street NEVER TOO OLD: (clockwise from top) A member of the Raging Grannies reads a pamphlet protesting nuclear power. The Grannies stand for peace and justice in the environment, spreading their message through songs. ITS A DOG’S LIFE: A husky wears a sign that identifies it as part of the 99. Along with dogs, the protest consisted of children of all ages, the elderly and every age in between. IN DISGUISE: Known as “the monkey,” this man plays guitar and sings soulfully in a husky voice while lounging under an oak tree.

He has been a part of the Occupy Grand Rapids movement from the start. photos by Lucas Wilder

10 News THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday, November 18, 2011

Cutter Park residents shoot for safety Rod and Gun Club temporarily closes outdoor range, residents relieved action being taken LAUREN KRUGGEL Reporter As a result of the recent incident involving the GVSU Department of Public Safety’s use of the outdoor range on Sep. 29, the Board of Directors of North Ottawa Rod and Gun Club continue to have the outdoor rifle and pistol range closed indefinitely in order to ensure the safety of the citizens in Grand Haven Township.

The Club has received a written report from the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office regarding the GVSU Department of Public Safety incident. The Board has closed the outdoor range until a thorough review of the incident has been conducted. The skeet and trap range are still open.

This review will also determine whether or not the continued use of the range by law enforcement agencies is appropriate.

The university has not commented on the incident since it happened. Rod and Gun Club president Mark Welch remarked that GVSU was leaving it’s mess for club to clean up.

The club sent out a letter Nov. 1, to Grand Haven Township authorities expressing their in-

tentions to have the club’s range design examined.

“The National Rifle Association needs to review the safety standards of the club,” Grand Haven’s township supervisor Bill Cargo said. “They [state laws] protect the club from noise pros-

ecutions, however they prohibit stray bullets.”

After the evaluation, the Township Board will work with the North Ottawa Rod and Gun Club on safety improvements or recommendations. English teacher and Cutter Park resident

Tom Foley feels the decision making process is running smoothly.

“There’s some ordinances that aren’t in place,” Foley said.

“The township has to go through proper procedures and if it takes time to do that, so be it.”

The Board of Directors of North Ottawa Rod and Gun Club are taking the matter very seriously and will continue to work with the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office to address any legitimate concerns of the threat of stray bullets flying around the neighborhood.

“Prior to finding the bullets, I was not worried about the rifle club,” Foley said. “We thought the range was safe. But now that they’ve found the bullets, there is definitely a concern.”

The residents of Cutter Park, a neighborhood next to the rifle club, are relieved to know something is being done about the damage to their houses and the recent injury. Science teacher and Cutter Park resident Jeremey Wilder is a spokesperson for Cutter Park.

“Many residents of Cutter Park, including my family, feel that opening the rifle range like it has been used in the past would endanger us,” Wilder said.

“We are working with township officials and representatives from the North Ottawa Rod and Gun Club to address our concerns and ensure that the problem of stray bullets never endangers us again.”

Postal service suffers financially, cuts to be expected KEN KAUFMAN Reporter The United States Postal Service (USPS) has been suffering financially, threatening a shutdown.

Fewer mailings and increased internet usage means fewer customers. Fortunately, our local post office is surviving. Postmaster Barbara Kiehboer answers all.

BB: What is the overall problem with the postal service?

BK: We continue to lose money because less people are mailing and more people are using the Internet for paying their bills and sending cards.

large enough that it’s not affecting the employees here, but we did gain carriers from the West Olive post office. They moved to GH back in May, so they have to travel a bit further to come to work and a bit further to deliver their mail.

BB: How does this affect you?

BK: The Grand Haven post office is

BB: Will the post office close?

BK: I don’t think so. I think that

we have enough plans in place to keep us operating. We’re looking at different ways to try to save money, going to five day delivery [schedule] instead of a six day and trying to reduce the employees that we don’t need by looking for retirement. Right now, I don’t really see that we’re going to be shutting down.

BB: How are they fixing the problem?

BK: We don’t have anybody helping us financially because the postal service is financial secure.

Congress is looking to change the delivery standards or the overall service standards to help us to save more or not lose as much money.

Friday, November 18, 2011 THE BUCS’ BLADE News 11

The social bys ander effec

photo by John Cherette

Research shows bullying can be effectively countered by one person speaking out LUCAS WILDER News Editor “Hey man, cut it out, you’re making me a zebra.”

Sounds pretty random right? Wrong.

Believe it or not, this line can be heard all throughout the hallway. Originating from speaker Michael Fowlin’s powerful presentation last spring, the phrase “Don’t be a zebra” is the tagline for the school’s anti-bullying campaign. Regardless of zebras’ actual defense mechanism when faced with mortal danger, the phrase means “don’t stand by and let someone

get picked on.” The campaign focuses not on the bullies themselves but the bystanders who remain silent.

What is bullying?

Senior Jared Bollaert, Student Senate President, believes that although it may be hard to spot at first, bullying is a prominent issue.

“To me, bullying is any intolerance towards an individual,” Bollaert said. “It doesn’t have to be direct. It could be as simple as ignoring someone. It’s easy to do and it happens all the time.”

Clinical psychologist Al Winebarger

takes the definition a step further.

“Bullying falls into two main categories,” Winebarger said. “In psychobabble, we call it pro-active bullying and re-active bullying. Proactive bullying is singling out an individual, unprovoked. It can be physical or verbal, although the verbal attacks typically hurt much worse. The pro-active bully is someone who is getting something out of inflicting emotional, verbal abuse on someone. Re-active bullying is the situation when the quiet kids lash out when pushed too far.”

According to Winebarger, bullies often see this abuse as a way to gain social sta-

tus in the eyes of their peers. As they are inflicting damage on others, the bullies’ friends are laughing and even cheering them on.

“They don’t want to lose that social status,” Winebarger said. “People your age are what we call externally referenced: they’re always gauging the responses of other people to them, to decide whether or not they feel ok.”

Winebarger compares telling the bullies to stop to taking $50 from them and giving them five instead. They won’t just stop because they’re told to, because that status gain is too important. Because

12 News THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday, November 18, 2011 *story continued from previous page of the environment, acts of bullying are often held up as acts of glory. Government teacher Brian Williams is perplexed as to why students behave in such a manner.

“Some things in recent years have been way out of line,” Williams said. “We as teachers have an investment with our students and we really do care what happens outside of the classroom. The last thing I want to see is someone hurt.”

The social bystander effect Why do students let bullying escalate to absurd heights? Winebarger has the answer and offers a clear illustration.

“Let’s say I’m walking down the street on Washington and I keel over and have a heart attack, where there are 50 people that see me keel over,” Winebarger said.

“Let’s also say my twin is hiking in the woods with one other random person they don’t know present and he keels over and has a heart attack at the exact same time I do. Which one of us is more likely to get help? Believe it or not, the correct answer is my twin in the woods. This phenomenon known as the social bystander effect, which says the more people are around when someone needs aid; the less likely they are to receive it.”

If you’re waiting for everyone else to do This example can be very easily something, nothing will happen.” translated into a high school encounter. A male student walks through the hallway What can bystanders do? and someone shouts “fag.” The chances of The silent demographic, the bystandsomeone in the crowded hallway going up ers, is the group that GHHS’s anti-bullyto the offender and telling them to knock ing campaign is trying to target. In order it off are slim to none. However, if the ento make a difference, one doesn’t even counter took place in a room with just one have to intervene. If one person breaks other person present, almost undoubtedly through their wall of reservations and that bystander speaks out, the would speak up. rest of the crowd “Everybody will join in and “Many [teenagers] think everyone has what is called support the atdoes ‘x’ and no one does ‘y.’ They a diffusion of tacked party. wildly, wildly overestimate things. responsibility,” “Changing They will see themselves as alone, Winebarger said. the culture takes when in reality they’re not.” “‘Look he’s young time,” senior class and strong, I’m advisor Brian Wilold and fat, he - Al Winebarger liams said. “I see should do somethe upperclassmen thing,’ or ‘I’m not showing leaderqualified enough.’ However, if there’s one ship and I think it’s awesome. Our next other person in the crowd that moves step is to take this program to the middle in to help, the bystander effect tends to schools, where it’s needed even more. go away and everyone moves in to help.

Anyone interested in helping is welcome

illustration by Lucas Wilder

to join us. I believe that when our high school students have an opportunity to provide this teaching to the younger middle school aged kids, they will feel much more connected and begin to fully understand our purpose.”

Being a former school board member and college professor and having participated in numerous studies, Winebarger knows the formula to a successful campaign.

“If you really want to something about bullying, first you have to teach a different way to get social status,” Winebarger said.

“Second, you have to try to help people initiate a response. They don’t even have to do anything, they just have to initiate that response and then everyone else will chime in to help. It’s very difficult to be the first one to stand up and become a defender and that’s why their numbers are always so small. But if you can just label the obvious, then other people will join in with you and then you can begin to start making picking on somebody inherently uncool.”

Give everyone three chances According to Winebarger, most people that feel socially isolated at school are not as they believe.

“Many [teenagers] think everyone does ‘x’ and no one does ‘y,’” Winebarger said.

“They wildly, wildly overestimate things.

They will see themselves as alone, when in reality they’re not.”

According to Winebarger, the bullied must stand up and challenge these beliefs.

“Reality check your assumptions,” Winebarger said. “Will everyone really reject me? Challenge that, experiment with that, to try. Before you reject a group of people, give them at least three tries.

You can’t have a pattern without at least three data points.”

Steps in the right direction Principal Tracy Wilson is pleased with the way GHHS students have stepped up this year.

“I am extremely proud of our students *story continues on page 13

Friday, November 18, 2011 THE BUCS’ BLADE News 13 *story continued from page for being willing to step up and take a stand against something,” Wilson said.

“There were about 75 students who wrote their name down on the bottom of the

bullying survey we put out last year, saying they would be willing to help with what we put together. They’ll be receiving a letter inviting them to get involved.”

The Student Senate and administra-

tion are leading the school in an unprecedented undertaking with this campaign, starting from the ground up. With plans in place for skits and assemblies in both middle schools and firm establishment in

the high school, Bollaert believes the message is getting through.

“Yeah, there’s been some resistance,” Bollaert said. “But that means people are hearing it and it will sink in eventually.”

Father of victim disappointed in Senate The State Senate passed a new anti-bullying law, commonly known as “Matt’s Safe School Law.” The law is named after Matt Epling, a bullied teen who commited suicide in 2002. Just hours before the law was passed, Senate Republicans added an exemption that allowed for bullying justified by moral and religious reasoning. The exemption was very recently dropped, but only after a massive uprising of dissent from the general population and the media. Before the exemption was taken out, Matt’s father Kevin Epling answered a few questions.

LUCAS WILDER News Editor

Bucs’ Blade: First, what is your opinion on the recently passed “Matt’s Safe School Law,” and why?

Kevin Epling: There are pluses and major minuses to the bill as passed. It is a positive that more information has been added to the bill bringing it closer to its original 6-7 page introduction bill, including more details for the schools. The negatives are that on the topic of “Cyber BB: Many people, particularly bullying” the language added earlier was to require that schools take action against cyber bullying on and off school property. They have now Senate Democratic Leader added “only if the equipment is owned by the school,” which creates a loophole for schools to ignore instances of cyber bullying. Also the steps Gretchen Whitmer, have labeled outlined for reporting of instances stops short of giving information to the state which would only help that state manage resources and future the law as a license to bully. expenditures on state wide programs because they will already see what is happening on some areas and get more information or invest in What do you believe and why? strategies in potential problem areas. The Senate has asked for many other forms of reporting from our schools but fell short on this one. The KE: I do agree with Sen. Whitmer most egregious section was the addition of language which basically makes bullying okay if a student, teacher or family member deems it to be and so do countless people across okay because of religious or moral beliefs.

America. This story has been BB: What message do you have for high school students who have been/are being picked by over 250 media outlets BB: What changes would you make to bullied? and perhaps only three have upthe law?

KE: I firmly believe that students are the ones who will change this around law or no law. held what has been done. The rest KE: I would add the requirement for reportStudents across MI and the US are fed up with this issue and given the right tools will do wonhave clearly pointed out that it may ing instances to the State Board of Educaderful things in their own schools. Adults have ruined the system. It is time for the students violate separation of Church and tion so we can better understand what is to show the adults how to make positive change. You are the leaders of tomorrow, you must State, that those with a “religious happening across or state. With the growing be tolerant and accepting of different cultures, religions and races to compete and thrive in belief” that “Gingers” are devil threat of cyber issues I would expand the the global economy. We should all endeavor to move forward, never backwards. Each of us is children so they can be humiliated schools power and responsibility to react special in our own way and no one has any right to take that away from us. Two young men is state sanctioned bullying. As to instances of cyber bullying that happens took that from Matt, and in turn took a piece of my world and I am trying my best not to let it long as you have an excuse, you are between students at any time or place. happen to anyone else. excused. Throughout history people This would mirror current adult laws and in have used religion as the “right” turn protect students from possible misuse BB: What exactly does the law proBB: As the father of the law’s nameto hurt others: the Crusades, the of their own technology (actually schools vide? sake, how does it make you feel to see Inquisition, World War II, Sept.11. already have this power in the Model Code KE: The law does many things for schools this law changed in such a way?

We as a society should be learning of School Conduct as put forth by the State and helps outline how they should hanKE: I am saddened that after almost 7 years from our mistakes, not repeating Board of Ed. Most schools don’t seem to dle instances of bullying. It designates of work (you have to understand I may know them. The additional language use it). Students know that whatever hapa person to work on the issue, requires more about the political process by now does nothing to add to the overall pens off school grounds will sooner or later and suggests training, integrates notificathan some of those who have been elected) safety of students, for which the bill manifest itself within the school and be distion of parents, working closely with local on this issue, that individuals tossed in one was created. Instead it creates an ruptive to the school environment. If there law enforcement, engaging the commumore self indulgent anchor to slow the down opportunity for students to justify were the ability to intervene earlier, how nity in the drafting of the new policy and the process. I was also very disappointing future misdeeds. many instances of bullying and or violence requires that every school in MI has an that not one Republican Senator from any could we prevent? anti-bullying policy, has an open meeting district in MI questioned this and or voted about it, disseminates the new copy to against it. This was clearly an instance of parents staff and students and requires mob mentality at work and perhaps they To contact legistature about this bill, call toll free: them to give a copy to the State Board of were bullied by fellow Senators to vote Yes. Senator Arlan Meekhof: (866) 305-2130 Education.

It would be interesting to find out.

Representative Amanda Price: (888) 238-1008

14 Feature THE BUCS’ BLADE

Friday, November 18, 2011

Nothing to hide

Senior Cory Spelde illustrates how he became so accepting of and accepted by others MOLLIE LABEFF Feature Editor

STANDING STRONG: Cory Spelde doesn’t deny that coming out in a small town was hard. “Honestly, being gay in this community sucks,” Cory said. “You feel really alone because nobody is willing to step into those shoes. Being gay is different and that isn’t good here apparently.” photo by Mollie LaBeff

Cory Spelde has always known who he is. With a shy smile and a hand running through the innovative haircut he crafted himself, Cory describes exactly how he found that out—and why it’s nothing to be ashamed of.

“I remember around first grade I wanted a boyfriend.” Cory said.

For him, being gay was not a decision he made or a lifestyle he chose. It’s something he’s known almost all of his life and he is able to embrace that.

“If anyone asks [if I’m gay], I’m not going to be like, ‘Oh, no…’ or not answer,” Cory said. “Who wants to hide themselves?”

He is able to cope with the fact that he has been put into a minority group, especially in a small town like Grand Haven.

“Honestly, being gay in this community sucks,” Cory said. “You feel really alone because nobody is willing to step into those shoes. Being gay is different and that isn't good here apparently.”

But Cory has the self-assurance to be able to stand out in this community, even at the cost of feeling like an outcast.

“Of course I stand out,” he said. “I tend to express myself through my clothes and a lot of times it isn't something people would normally wear.”

As he got older, Cory couldn’t hide who he was—especially to his close friends and family. Coping with that was one of the toughest parts of coming out.

“I cried a lot,” he said, his smile giving off a hint of embarrassment. “I wanted to hide it, but everyone knew so it was hard.

I had my group of friends and that was my group of friends. I didn’t like to talk to other people.”

But when Cory finally accepted his sexuality to himself, “It felt awesome,” he said. “Like everything was lifted off of my shoulders. I didn’t have to worry about

anything anymore.”

And when he worked up the bravery to officially come out to his family, it was well worth it.

“I stood outside of my mom’s room for two or three hours,” Cory said. “And [when I told her] she was like, ‘Okay.

Goodnight.’…I went to my bed and cried because it was such a relief that I got it off of my chest. I couldn't contain my emotions.”

Telling his mom out loud for the first time was a sigh of relief.

“It’s really weird saying it for the first time because you’ve kept it in for so long,” Cory said, his eyes smiling through his oversized glasses. “It’s like word vomit.”

But it was never difficult for his family to tell, especially given his close-knit relationship with his twin sister, Kristin.

“She just knew,” Cory said. “She would always bring up how accepting she was.”

“Whatever makes him happy I will support him and be happy for him.”

Kristin said.

Cory has also been able to cope with those who have tried to degrade him by taunting him or making slurs.

“Occasionally I’ll be riding my bike and someone will yell ‘faggot,’” Cory said.

“I’ve learned to not care. If others want to bring me down, they’re below me.”

For anyone struggling with his or her sexuality, Cory is happy to extend his help. He insists that self-acceptance plays a key role in the process.

“If anyone wants to talk, I’m fine with talking to anyone that needs help. I didn’t have that,” Cory said. “Being comfortable with yourself is probably the biggest step to growing as a person. If you can't be yourself then how are you going to improve yourself? Pretending to be someone else will only hurt you in the long run…

After you accept it, [talk] with your close friends that you know won’t hurt you. You become more accepting. You get older and you grow.”

Friday, November 18, 2011 THE BUCS’ BLADE Feature 15

(left) A HELPING HAND: Junior Regan Rohrs studies with her LINKS student, Alyssa Rockey.

Rorhs tutors Rockey in her directive study and spends time with her outside of school as well. (above) LINKED TOGETHER: Sophomore Claire Borchers assists her link, Kinsey Fase with some homework. photos by Laura Burton

The strongest LINKS

First year program aims to help students with autism grow as individuals OLIVIA SEAVER Reporter

Junior Alex Page walks into Special Education teacher Trisha Nutt’s classroom holding a styrofoam plate with a slice of pepperoni pizza and a carton of chocolate milk.

Nutt looks up and smiles from the back of her room, illuminated with bright colored posters, carpets and curtains. She mocks Page, suggesting he got hot lunch all on his own to impress the girls.

Avoiding eye contact, he glances downward and denies her accusation, not amused. He takes a bite of the pizza and grease dribbles down his wrist. He hesitates for a moment, then rubs the grease off onto his camouflage pants.

Page takes a seat across from his two LINK mentors, seniors Riley Missel and Megan Jackson. After knowing them for two months, he still has trouble remembering their names.

Page is a student dealing with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), a development condition that causes impaired social and communication skills.

Last year, Nutt, ASD consultant Jackie Johnson and social worker Jeanene Blease discussed how they could better serve autistic students. Their idea was to link autistic students to students without autism to provide

peer support. With help from Paul Miller who ran a former program at Grand Ledge High School, the LINKS program began. “[LINKS] pairs students of average or above average social abilities with students with autism spectrum disorder who struggle with social skills,” Nutt said. “It’s designed to match them up to students in their classes to provide them with academic assistance and help with unwritten social rules that people without autism pick up on naturally.”

The students with ASD are being welcomed where they were not accepted before.

“The students with autism feel like they have a connection to other groups of kids,” Nutt said. “They have a student in the building they can turn to and ask questions of and not feel self conscience or think they’re saying something that’s weird. They have a buddy, a mentor, and a friend.”

Junior Regan Rohrs and her LINK freshman Alyssa Rockey spend time together outside of school as well.

“I tutor her in directive study, I drive her home every other Tuesday, and a few weeks ago me and her two other LINKS went over to her house and had pizza and helped her pick out outfits,” Rohrs said. “In the beginning of the trimester I had to write down ten things she could improve on and one of those things was dressing

herself. Her mom normally picks out her outfits and we wanted to help her become more independent.”

Currently, there are about 30 students participating in the program.

“That’s more than what I expected,” Nutt said. “But I would love more and will take more. Anybody who wants to help other people or wants a job in the social field, bring it on. I would love to have them be a part of it.”

The LINKS program is unique because it’s studentdriven. It’s a different approach that brings even better results than adults can provide alone.

“Some of my kids are talking about their students with autism and are making insights that I, after working with them for three years, haven’t even made,” Nutt said.

“I think that’s because they’re the same age and can talk to them at the same level, so naturally they make more connections than I could ever make.”

The program aims to promote acceptance that could change lives.

“Everyone needs to feel like they belong,” Nutt said.

“Life can be pretty lonely because you’re made fun of and thought of as the weird kid. But, when you give students information about why those things are happening, you don’t think that way anymore and become more aware of differences and how they can affect their everyday lives.

They aren’t weird, there’s a reason behind it.”

16 Feature THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday, November 18, 2011

(left) TEACHABLE MOMENT: Dave Stader tells his legendary “Friday Jokes” to his fourth hour class.photo by Katelyn Hansen (above) HEALING MACHINE: The da Vinci Robotics machine that helped perform Stader’s surgery

A new lease on life

Teacher Dave Stader gains new perspective on life after cancer battle last year SAMANTHA VANHOEF Web Editor At 53 years old, teacher Dave Stader was diagnosed with prostate cancer. Now cancer-free at 54, Stader has a new appreciation for life.

When an annual blood test showed skyrocketing prostate-specific antigens (PSA), Stader’s doctor then knew something was wrong. He then sent Stader to a urologist for a biopsy. Multiple cells were found to be cancerous…and aggressive.

“I was thinking ‘I’m too young for this,’” Stader said.

Stader’s cancer was produced genetically; both his father and his grandfather were diagnosed later in their lives.

Despite early testing, there was still shock value to the announcement, especially after Stader’s son went though major medical issues involving a week of 24/7 hospital care earlier in the school year.

For Stader, bad news began piling up.

“I think for him to really put it in perspective, he had a lot of weird stuff going on in his life last year with his family and the cancer, so when he found out, it was ‘what’s next?’” said teacher Roger Glass, who’s been friends with Stader for 18 years.

Once he accepted his diagnosis, Stader started ‘going crazy’ with Internet research as he tried to become an expert in understanding possible medical treatments and what his future would hold.

First, he settled on a Radical Prostatectomy procedure using a da Vinci robot, a machine that uses robotic arms for increased precision. Next, Stader decided to tell his then current students what was happening, because he didn’t want there to be any rumors going around.

“It’s a big school and people talk,” Stader said. ”I just thought I wanted them to have the straight story in case they heard stuff. I thought that would be kind of rude to them, if all of a sudden they

were just like ‘Stader’s gone? Why is he not in school? And why didn’t he tell us?’

I didn’t want anyone to say that. I wanted them to know exactly what was going on.”

It wasn’t easy on Stader’s students.

“I remember thinking, this is my favorite teacher, this sucks,” sophomore Nycole Mousseau said, who had Stader as a freshman in an Algebra 1 class. “I mean the sub was okay for a while, but it just wasn’t Mr.Stader.”

Once the time came and his students were aware of what was happening, Stader was ready for the long haul of recovery after his three-and-one-half hour surgery.

“Once I kind of knew what was going on and I had to deal with it, and in a fairly quick fashion, it was like, ‘Okay, bring it on, let’s go, and let’s get it over with,’” Stader said. “I don’t like going under, but I knew I had to do it, and I knew I would be okay.”

He was right. Aside from being tired and weak from the required fasting before

and after sugery, Stader was completely cured.

“They took it out and I have no cancer, so that’s kind of a new lease on life too…

I’m like back to square one,” Stader said.

Glass is just glad they removed all of the cancer before it was too late.

“I think about losing him at school when he retires and stuff. I’ll still see him because we live near each other, but coming to work won’t be the same when he’s gone,” Glass said. “I can’t imagine him dying and losing him.”

Stader knew it could have been much worse even before he began treatment.

“I didn’t have to go through years of not knowing what was going happen,” Stader said. “I really feel like an odd cancer survivor, because I know people go through way rougher treatment plans...

I feel kind of embarrassed about it to be honest. I just feel really thankful and happy that it was that kind of cancer where it could be dealt with and it’s gone.”

Friday, November 18, 2011 THE BUCS’ BLADE Feature 17

SEEING DOUBLE

At first glance you might notice they dress the same. You might notice that they both play with their rings, or move their heads when thinking. It doesn’t take long to realize juniors Taylor and Tyla Jones are twins. Most people don’t notice though, that they’re not identical.

“Were fraternal mirror twins,” Taylor said. “So if we face each other, the right side of my face matches up with the left side of hers, that’s why most people think we’re identical.”

KYRA LANSKY Reporter

How similar are your personalities?

Taylor: We’re pretty much the exact same.

We both like to draw, we do everything together. I think I talk a bit more, Tyla’s more of the quiet one.

Tyla: I talk softer and not as much.

Taylor: I’m pretty outgoing, well [Tyla] talks less, just a little. But were the same really.

Tyla: I guess at school I’m just not as outgoing as I can be because I’m focused on what I’m doing.

Why do you guys dress alike?

Tyla: Mostly because we’re twins, but we’re fraternal twins. I guess my mom [thought we would] get more attention if we dressed alike.

Taylor: I mean we grew up with it; it’s kind of a habit.

How do people respond to that?

Taylor: I don’t think it clicks yet that we’re twins, they’re like ‘Oh, you’re dressed the same,’… Most people figure it out though.

Tyla: They think it’s really cool, some people ask us why we dress the same; sometimes they think we should dress differently.

DAY 1 DOUBLE TAKE: Juniors Taylor and Tyla Jones show off their secret handshake. According to the duo, their personalities match just as well as their outfits. “We’re pretty much the exact same,” Taylor said.

“We both like to draw, we do everything together.” photos by Laura Burton

What’s your favorite part of being a twin?

Tyla: I think the funniest is when we’re in a store or something, and someone sees one of us and then they turn around, see the other and do a double take.

Taylor: Like, ‘How did you get there so fast?’

Tyla: I think that’s hilarious.

What’s the worst part of being a twin?

Tyla: Probably people asking us if we hate each other...people say they would hate it.

Taylor: Getting asked the same questions.

‘Do you guys get along?’ Yeah we get along great. I think it’s kind of hard not to get along, we grew up together.

Would you ever date twins?

Taylor/ Tyla: We’ve been asked that a lot.

Tyla: I guess it just depends on what happens...probably not. I mean unless like it’s a coincidence where I meet one she meets the other, but probably not.

Taylor: That would be a bit too much.

DAY 2

DAY 3

DAY 4

Do you guys see yourselves together in the future?

Tyla: Yes, well we want to go to college together, we both want to go to U of M, and we both wanna major in industrial design.

Taylor: We wanna live in the same state; I’m not sure where yet. I don’t know about the same house, we’ll be in the same neighborhood but in different houses. We won’t live too far though.

Tyla: We’ll visit all the time. Talk to each other every day.

Taylor: We’ll start out probably in an apartment together after graduation. We’ll stay together until we figure out what we wanna do.

DAY 5

18 Feature THE BUCS’ BLADE

Friday, November 18, 2011

Jessa Rollenhagen RILEY MISSEL Reporter

Senior Jessa Rollenhagen has participated in Special Olympics multiple times in swimming and bowling, winning three blue medals in swimming events. This movie buff and yoga master loves to be active and has a passion for Michael Jackson music and giving high-fives.

Bucs’ Blade: What’s the best part of school?

Jessa Rollenhagen: When Lew Russ comes [to sing] on Fridays.

He sings nice songs. And [I] make up my own songs for him.

BB: Have you ever participated in the Special Olympics?

JR: Yes. Bowling with Katie [Schuh]. It was very awesome.

And swimming. I loved that.

BB: Who is someone you look up to?

JR: My grandfather, James Lee Rollenhagen, and Mrs. Richardson. She makes me laugh so hard.

BB: What song is on your iPod right now?

JR: Trashin’ the Camp from Tarzan!

That movie is my favorite.

BB: Do you do anything special on the weekends?

JR: [I have] Leave-Me-Alone Saturdays.

My mom goes bowling and I stay home, [and I have] to be independent and responsible. [I usually] watch a movie or call my grandmother.

BB: Do you have any hidden talents?

JR: Yoga is my favorite--I can do the splits.

Turkey bowling rolls through lunch

(above) GUTTER FOWL: Freshman Nic Holwerda takes on the challenge of tossing the turkey down the lane. This event was held during the students’ lunch hours Tuesday. photo by Katelyn Hansen (right) GOBBLE GOBBLE: First Priority leader Chris Kreslins demonstrates to students how to play. Kreslins organized the event to raise awareness for First Priority at GHHS. photo by Molly McGinnis

SPICE

MOKING

Friday, November 18, 2011 THE BUCS’ BLADE Feature 19

With synthetic marijuana use on rise, researchers, lawmakers try catching up to widespread abuse

JOHN CHERETTE Editor-In-Chief

Mark dips his cigarette-like object into a small package, twisting it back and forth. A quick check to make sure the bowl is full, another dip and twist. The lighter sparks. It smells like perfume, but the odor quickly dissipates along with the smoke. Two hits, that’s all it takes. Two hits and 45 minutes seem like no time at all, or no time feels like 45 minutes.

“My perception of time was just completely distorted and I started kind of, like freaking out,” said Mark, * a 17-year old student. “Once you start

freaking out you get a slight paranoia effect for a while.”

The paranoia and the distorted thoughts came courtesy of Spice, the latest in a series of dangerous synthetic drugs to gain favor among teens. Spice seems to be growing more prevalent at Grand Haven, according to Assistant Principal Pam VanderKamp, with 40 suspension days being doled out for it this school year alone.

“We’ve had four instances in two months [this year], where there were probably four instances all of last year,” VanderKamp said. story continues on next page

20 Feature THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday, November 18, 2011

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How hard would it be for you to get Spice? *Out of 262 students surveyed

Very difficult

Friday, November 18, 2011 THE BUCS’ BLADE Feature 21

percent of kids have heard of Spice

percent of kids have smoked Spice

Fairly difficult

Fairly easy

percent of kids believe Spice should be illegal

percent of kids know someone who has smoked Spice

Extremely easy 0

Spice becoming more prevalent Story continued from previous page

Spice, also known as K2, Bliss, Zohai, TRiP and 616, consists of dead plant matter sprayed or dripped with a chemical and is becoming the number one choice for kids who may be drug tested, as it does not show on a “normal” drug test.

“Within the juvenile justice field we have seen an increase in the use of Spice with kids who would typically be using marijuana,” said Cindy Spielmaker, Manager of Ottawa County Treatment Service.

“Again this is because of the false assumption that they will not test

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positive on a drug screen.”

While persons on probation can be tested for Spice’s active chemicals, not everyone on probation is tested for them.

“It’s really not my first choice but there’s times where you want to have recreational drug use and that’s when I smoke [Spice] because I’m getting drug tested,” Mark said.

Legal Issues While it is technically illegal, makers of Spice have been able to stay ahead of the law by constantly tweaking its chemical makeup. By changing one small component, a new chemical is born, making for a new chemical that can take months to outlaw.

“It is currently illegal in the State of Michigan, but if the chemical structure is changed it may fall outside the law,” Spielmaker said.

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Whether or not a person caught with Spice will be charged with possession depends on which chemical happens to be in that particular bag. All confiscated Spice gets sent to the state lab, where it is tested for the chemicals that have technically been made illegal.

If the Spice tests negative, there seems to be some confusion by law enforcement of exactly what to do.

“It’s safe to say that if you posses it, you will be charged,” School Resource Deputy for the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Department Derek Gerencer said. “The easiest way to explain it is that it’s basically the same charge as marijuana [possession].”

Spice has become too popular too fast, leaving not only lawmakers but also researchers behind.

“Within the population of kids that are receiving substance abuse services there has been a significant increase in the use of Spice,” Spielmaker said. “I would estimate

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about 80 percent of kids receiving substance abuse services through the court have used Spice.”

Health Risks While researchers have finished no official studies, certain side effects and health risks from smoking Spice have been made apparent. “[People who use it] think it’s just like marijuana but it’s not,” VanderKamp said. “It’s much deadlier and there [could be] long term effects. Whether it’s brain damage or respiratory damage, there are a lot of long term effects that they don’t even know yet because it’s so new.”

Some known short-term side effects of Spice are hallucinations, intense paranoia, anxiety and increased heart rate and blood pressure. In extreme cases, seizures have been reported and deaths have occurred as a result.

“I’ve definitely had a bad trip,” Henry* said. “[I’ve had] mad paranoia and the worst I’ve ever had was just really extreme paranoia and you just want to stop and not be high anymore.”

No Knowledge These side effects do not appear to have much impact on the decision to smoke Spice.

Paranoia and anxiety come with the drug and are therefore not often worried about.

“You tell yourself you’re never going to do it again and all that,” Henry said. “But once you come down from the craziness you’re back to normal and you don’t really think about it. You smoke it again, have a good trip, then it’s a good time.”

A lack of education may be a contributor to why students aren’t thinking twice before smoking Spice.

What is Spice?

A mixture of herbs and spices that are sprayed with a chemical compound similar to THC, the active ingredient in marijuana.

There are no regulations for making Spice, however, so there may be many unknown, possibly lethal ingredients.

What other names are there for Spice?

There are many brands of Spice with many different names. Some include: K2, Bliss, Zohai, TRiP and 616.

Is it addictive?

While no official studies have been completed, subjects have reported addiction and withdrawl symptoms.

“I know that [Spice] is really bad for you but I don’t know to what extent,” Henry said. “But I know it’s up there and pretty bad.”

The small amount of knowledge in students about Spice may not be their fault. It simply seems that not many people know much about its effects on humans yet.

“There’s been no clinical studies done and there’s really not a lot of information out there as to what’s in it or even what the possible side effects are,” Mark said. “I’ve heard a lot of rumors about potential seizures and I’ve heard things about getting holes in your brain and holes in your organs. A lot of that you have to wonder if it’s really true.”

Certain cases of overdoses have been reported, with seizures and death occurring in some occurrences.

“Most of the kids that smoke [spice] around here just use

What chemicals may be in it?

Spice can include HU-210, JWH-018, JWH-200, CP55940, HU-211, JWH-073, CP-47497 and Cannabicyclohexanol. Many other unknown substances may go into Spice.

What are the shortterm side effects?

Some reported side effects are hallucinations, paranoia, rapid heart rate, numbness/tingling, vomiting, paleness and elevated blood pressure. In serious cases seizures, coma and death have occurred.

Where is it sold?

It can be found in gas stations, convenience stores, head shops or on the internet

one-hitters or small bowls,” Mark said. “They don’t really smoke it in amounts that a person would assume would be lethal. Obviously there’s really no telling if it would be lethal or not, which is kind of what makes [spice] a harder drug than marijuana in my opinion.”

Most serious cases have involved large amounts of Spice being smoked, which was the likely trigger. However this doesn’t mean smoking small amounts is by any means safe, according to Gerencer.

“You don’t have to overdose to have symptoms,” Gerencer said.

“It’s a [man made] chemical and could just react badly to something in your body.”

John D. Huffman, inventor of the cannabinoid JWH-18, which was an active ingredient in many brands of Spice before it was banned, does not recommend smoking this substance. He says the chemical, which was made as part of pharmaceutical research,

and has since been altered to stay ‘legal,’ was never tested on humans or meant for them.

“People are getting reactions to [Spice] that are not typical of cannabinoids,” Huffman told ABC News in 2010. “You’re dealing with a very potent cannabinoid and also you don’t know what is in this herbal product that you buy for 40 bucks a bag.”

The theme with everything surrounding Spice seems to be that people just don’t know much about it. The only things that are known are that Spice is dangerous, and it will get a person high.

“I was smoking pot multiple times a day, every day,” Mark said.

“If I was doing that with [Spice] I would probably be melting or something. I would probably have recognizable side effects I would imagine, if I were using it that often.” *Editors note: names in this story

have been changed to protect the identity of certain sources

THEY SAID IT Administrators tell their feelings on smoking synthetic marijuana

“I feel like its very, very dangerous. From what I’ve heard about it and what its doing to kids, nobody knows exactly what’s happening when they do it. It’s kind of a trial and error. But they are saying that if you do it one time, it could be deadly. It can be different for each and every person.

It’s extremely dangerous.”

- Paraprofessional Lisa Holm “One- it’s illegal. Two- It’s probably one of the more dangerous substances you can use. Three- If you are caught with it there are consequences here at school and you are not allowed to have it here.”

- Assistant Principal Mike Roberson “[People who use it] think it’s just like marijuana but it’s not. It’s much deadlier and there [could be] long-term effects. Whether it’s brain damage or respiratory damage, there are a lot of long-term effects that they don’t even know yet because it’s so new.”

- Assistant Principal Pam VanderKamp

22 Feature THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday, November 18, 2011

BEHIND CLOSED CURTAINS 3

CHLOE DAULT Editor-at-Large

It takes more than the leads of a play to turn all of the chaos into a work of art.

Everyone has an important and vital role, without whom the show could not go on.

The performance that the audience sees is a colorful combination of set, lights, costumes and makeup. Here is a look into all the details and dedication that took place to create a masterpiece like “The Phantom of the Opera”:

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Set: The tech crew for “Phantom” spent up to 10 hours every Saturday for eight weeks working on set pieces that will then need to move on and off the stage in seconds. Some may wonder why they would dedicate so much of their time and never get the credit they deserve. “It’s [gratifying] because we create the world [the audience] lives in for three hours during the show,” senior tech director Emily Burton said.

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Lights: Most of the audience does not realize the large effect the stage lights have on the entire mood of a show. “I have to sit down with the director and decide what mood [they] want for each scene,” light director David Mclary said. But Mclary says the most imortant thing when working with the lights is “a lot of trial and error and just doing.”

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Costumes: To create the most realistic and authentic show possible a crew of costume designers work together to accumulate outfits for each cast member, including a whopping 80 dresses from Goodwill alone.

And to avoid costume emergencies? “We are always ready with the machines and saftey pins and if all else fails there is always duct tape,” costume design volunteer Debbie Barnett said.

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PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT: The Phantom of the Opera leads Alexa Redick and Hugo Lawton perform at the last dress rehersal before opening night. Their hard work paeid off with succesful shows. photo by Laura Burton

Makeup: When an actor takes on a role, they become an entirely different person. In order to complete a character, especially one like The Phantom where the makeup is so important, the actor needs to be in full makeup. “For Hugo [The Phantom] the makeup was part of who he had become and the development of his character,” makeup artist Christ Loughrin said.

Friday, November 18, 2011 THE BUCS’ BLADE Photo 23

GOING behind THE MASK Get a glimpse at what it takes to perform ‘The Phantom of the Opera’

(clockwise from above) MASKED MAN: Seinors Alexa Redick and Hugo Lawton gaze into each other’s eyes as Alexa’s character, Christine, wonders what the Phantom’s hiding. She soon found out, despite not having his consent. TWO-FACED: Chris Loughrin aids senior Hugo Lawton in putting on his extensive costume makeup. The scars looked shockingly realistic. HAND IT OVER: Clayton Zimmerman, Cassidy Elzinga and Collin LaMore plead for Cassie Takas to give them the Phantom’s letter consisting of his most recent requests. The characters were more and more frightented with each note they recieved. MANLY MAKEUP: Senior Elizabeth Schippers assists Nate Owens in putting on his makeup before the show. The entire cast seemed more than happy to help each other out while they were preparing to preform. photos by Katelyn Hansen

24 Culture THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday, November 18, 2011

Beyond the art tables Amazing artist hopes to bring her work...

J

KATHERINE WAMPLER Reporter

unior Ashley Bryant spends hours sitting with a piece of paper in front of her, a pencil in her hand and a photo sitting nearby. She glances between the photo and paper. She is trying to reproduce the picture she sees perfectly on the paper. To Bryant it’s not just pencil lines she puts on a piece of paper, for her it’s a story.

“I want my artwork to mean something,” Bryant said. “I don’t want my art to just be people or just faces. I want it to have a message or a purpose.”

Bryant works hard to create her art but she possesses plenty of natural talent as well. The combination of the two qualities allow Bryant’s creations to be skillfully made.

“She’s always loved art,” Ashley’s mom, Debi Bryant said. “I knew she was talented but I never thought she’d develop this much in the time she has.”

Bryant has been drawing since she can remember. However, she did not stop her talents there. She’s focusing on expanding the mediums she works with.

“Drawing has always been a natural ability,” Bryant said. “Painting is a little bit more of an acquired skill. I only started painting a year or two ago at school.

I’d never really painted anything before.

I was naturally pretty good at it but the techniques and skill took me a while to develop and I’m still learning them.”

KICKIN’ BACK: Junior Ashley Bryant focuses intently on the currenty piece she is working on. Bryant aspires to take her talents to college where she hopes to major in graphic design visual communications, or illustration. Photo by Kayla Hoffman Gail Krug, one of Bryant’s art teachers, said that Bryant doesn’t assume she’ll get an A, she works to get her high school art tables. She’d would like to visual communication or illustration,” Bryant’s parents are not alone when grades. make a career out Bryant said. they urge her to continue explorShe listens and of it.

Bryant’s parents thoroughly support ing art. She also finds inspiration in other cares about what “I am planning her pursuit of art during and after high works she sees artists create as well.

“She’s always loved art. I knew she she does,” Krug school.

“I love seeing other people’s ideas was talented but I never thought she’d on going to an art said. “She doesn’t college. I will “They’re very supportive,” Bryant said. come to life through their art,” Bryant develop this much in the time she just expect a good either stay in state “They’re some of my best critics, they said. “I guess that inspires me in a way. has.” grade.” or out of state but know my limitations. They’re also really It makes me want to get out there in the -Debi Bryant definitely someBryant doesn’t supportive of me going to an art college world and try new artistic things, and try plan on leaving thing to do with and pursing a career in something that new mediums and explore new kinds of her talent on the graphic design or applies my art skills.” art.”

4 things

Friday, November 18, 2011 THE BUCS’ BLADE Culture 25

you oughta know

about beating the wintertime blues Illustration by Sarah Snider

KATIE WAMPLER Reporter It can be easy to forget to bring a coat when you’re in a warm car headed to a heated building. Deputy Derek Gerencer says you should always have warm clothes with you. “Have the proper winter apparel in case you have to walk,” Gerencer said. “Then if you’re in a crash you won’t get hypothermia.” You never know when you’ll hit a patch of ice and spin out. If you’re dressed in a tee shirt and jeans you may be stuck waiting for help. Don’t let winter catch you unprepared.

1.Clear your car of snow

Hardlyanyoneishappyaboutwakingupearlysotheycangooutsideinthe coldtocleanthesnowofftheircar.Whetherornotyourhappyaboutit,it’s a smart thing to do.“You can get tickets for that and you could get in an accident,”Gerencer said.“You have to be able to see all around the car so thesnowdoesn’tcauseblindspots.”It’simportanttobeabletoseewhat’s around your car while you’re diving but it’s even more important in the winter.You need to be able to see what’s ahead and behind so you’re not slamming on the breaks and skidding on ice.

3. Slow down

Some people think they can continue driving 5 m.p.h. above the speed limitevenwithalayeroficeontheroad.Thosepeopleareusuallytheones that end up stuck in a ditch. If you’d like to stay on the road, slow down.

“It’s what I call common sense driving,”Albright said.“All speed limits are postedforidealconditions.Youshouldleavemorespacebetweenthecar infrontofyouandslowdownsooner.”Youshouldtrytoleavesixseconds between cars in a light snow and nine seconds in heavier snow.

4. Keep warm clothes in the car

It can be easy to forget to bring a coat when you’re in a warm car headed toaheatedbuilding.DeputyDerekGerencersaysyoushouldalwayshave warmclotheswithyou.“Havetheproperwinterapparelincaseyouhaveto walk,”Gerencersaid.“Thenifyou’reinacrashyouwon’tgethypothermia.”

Youneverknowwhenyou’llhitapatchoficeandspinout.Ifyou’redressed in a tee shirt and jeans you may be stuck waiting for help. Don’t let winter catch you unprepared.

2.Practice

People always say practice makes perfect. This holds true if you are drivinginthewinter.Ifyou’venever driveninthesnowbefore,figuringit outbytrialanderroronabusyroad is probably not the best strategy.

Andifweatherpermitsandwehave a snowday, do not take your first timedrivinginthesnowonthisday.

Snow days are called for a reason anditisverydifficulttodrivesafely on these days. Drivers’ training instructorJamesAlbrightsuggests going to a public parking lot with yourparents.“Itletsyougetusedto thesnowyconditionsandgetexperience on how to handle and steer yourcar,”Albrightsaid.“Whenyour parentsfeelcomfortablewithyour drivingyoucanmoveontothemain roads.”Also, you can never be too cautious while diving in the snow.

And you can never be too good for drivinginthesnow.Ifyouareaseasoneddriver,therearestilldangers that you can’t always practice.

Consider this Kayla Hoffman

I’ve got a bone to pick You say tomahto, I say tomato. You say potahto, I say potato. You order a hamburger, I order a salad.

This is where things get weird.

It’s not easy being green—and by “green” I mean vegetarian, not that my skin has changed color because of my diet. With my “alternative” style of eating, I encounter many less than appetizing situations.

I usually don’t like to start out by saying I’m a vegetarian when getting to know a person.

Even though there’s an entire menu of responses for people to choose from, they usually settle for the same one: Why are you a vegetarian? This is sometimes paired with the side dish, “How long have you been a vegetarian?” And…if feeling creative, this can all be washed down with a refreshing question, like “What DO you eat then…salad?”

Instead of people asking things, like the health benefits o I get all the above. When you ask a vegetarian these things, do you expect some out of the blue answer? If this were the case, I’m sure many vegetarians would be happy to supply you with information. For the most part, though, it feels like we’re being inspected like strange creatures society has stumbled across. You probe us, as if we’re aliens from planet Rutabaga.

Sometimes I even find myself in a game. It’s pretty low-key, and can sneak up on you like a panther on a moonless night. I refer to it as “Let’s See What Will Make the Vegetarian Squirm.” These are some of the basics: taking huge, dramatic bites out of your barbeque ribs, saying God made animals for us to eat and waving chicken nuggets very close to my lips. Entertaining. The fact that you’re giving Bessie a postmortem massage with your teeth doesn’t mean I need to turn on the waterworks. But it’s not like we’re saints. (PeTA is very… enthusiastic.) Vegetarians may stress omnivores out a little, like when it comes to inviting someone over. What on Earth can you feed us? Do you have to buy blocks of tofu? How do you eat tofu, anyway?

Is it offensive if you eat this steak in front of your anti-meat friend?

Relax.

This is a personal choice. It takes two to tango and if you don’t start bragging on the merits of bacon, we won’t wave stalks of broccoli in your face. You don’t need to worry yourself over our protein intake. Billions of people eat cheese fries, big Macs and greasy tacos.

Where’s their hearty nutrition? We should be the least of your concerns.

If you like meat, then it’s not like we’re going to force you to the green side. Go, enjoy your meatloaf. I think I will just nibble on a bear.

A gummy bear.

SHE’S BACK 26 Culture THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday, November 16, 2011

On September 8th, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) announced La Niña conditions were back after a break in summer and were expected to strengthen throughout the 2011/2012 winter. Cheif Meteorologist Bill Steffen says La Niña means more snow for West Michigan “This means that Grand Haven has a slightly better chance of a “Snow Day” this winter.” Which means the coming winter may be like last winter which brought in almost 30 percent higher than average snowfall.

The odd weather pattern allowed enough snow on the fourth of July to gain 50,000 skier/rider visits.

BAILEY COVAL Culture Editor

What we can expect:

Pacific Northwest

Rockies

What they can expect: What they can expect: Lower than average temperatures and higher than average precipitation this winter, similar to last year’s winter. This region will get dumped with snow this winter as La Niña pushes the colder temperatures and moisture off of the Pacific Ocean.

La Niña doesn’t bring the consistent cold and snowy winter that it will bring to other parts of the nation. Average snow levels and temperatures are expected but, the mountains may have some violent cold snaps and wind will be at persistently highs this winter. The 2012 season could bring record low temperatures to the Rockies as well.

The stronger Pacific Jet Stream will bring colder tempera tures to cool Michigan off more quickly than previous years. This characteristic of La Nina brings the cold temperatures from Arctic Canada and will make for an even harsher winter for Michigan. The La Nina characteristic of heavier snow will hit Michigan as the Pacific jet stream pulls moisture from the Pacific Ocean. The Pacific jet stream powers the movement of snow-filled clouds from the Ocean and brings them Michi gan’s way. A little warmer Pacific air might make a cameo appearance but not for long. For the most part, areas around the Great Lakes should have a harsh winter with plenty of snow.

Average snowfall 100 inches per year

Average snowfall

Average snowfall

650 inches per year

350 inches per year

La Niña snowfall

La Niña snowfall

778 inches per year

520 inches per year

La Niña snowfall 150 inches per year

Sources for information: noaa.com and snowsports.org

Friday, November 18, 2011 THE BUCS’ BLADE Photo 27

CHECKMATE CLASSMATES

Chess club spends time with Rosy Mound Elementary students to teach them the rules of the game

(clockwise from above) HELPING OUT: Senior Jonah Reenders assists Vincent Fett and Shae O’Leary during their game. The boys were uneasy about how to play at first but by the end of the day they had caught on. LOTS OF LAUGHS: Sophomore Connor Redman ponders where to move his piece while his opponent smiles about his lead. Their match was close the entire time. THE THINKER: A Rosy Mound student contimplates his next move. Most of the children took their matches very seriously. photos by Laura Burton

Friday, November 18, 2011 THE BUCS’ BLADE Sports 29

Meeting on the mat

DOWN UNDER

Wrestling competition invites GH wrestlers to Australia SAMANTHA VANHOEF Web Editor

I

t takes a talented opponent to take down junior wrestler Allen Torres. But it only took one letter to do just that.

“When I got it in the mail I almost collapsed,” Torres said.

The letter invited Torres and fellow junior Connor Moynihan to represent the state of Michigan on the National East Central Wrestling Team at the 14th Annual Down Under Wrestling Competition in the summer of 2012. Hosted on the Gold Coast of Australia, this seven-day tournament allows wrestlers to compete for team and individual titles.

Full-time recruiting coordinators and coaches hired by the International Sports Specialists, Inc. research deserving athletes (between 14 to 19-years-old) to select possible competitors for the program. Moynihan and Torres were the only two wrestlers chosen to represent Michigan.

“I was excited for them,” wrestling coach James Richardson said. “What an excellent opportunity for both of the guys to be able to travel. I say to them often they should use wrestling to open doors for them and if it

affords you the opportunity to be able to travel, that is excellent.”

According to Torres, Richardson not only recognizes his and Moynihan’s drive, work ethic and will to win, but also what kind of opportunity this really is, as he had the same opportunity.

“I wrestled in the junior nationals a long time ago and I missed an opportunity to wrestle in Russia. I totally regret not going,” Richardson said. “I was a fool. I encourage those guys to go because I made a mistake by not going my senior year of high school.”

Even though this opportunity is once in a lifetime, it takes a lifetime of dedication to get to this point in these wrestlers’ careers.

“I wrestle all the time, all year round,” Moynihan said. “It’s fun.

Maybe it’s not fun, but it’s competitive. I don’t know why I love it… but it’s addicting. I need it. I feel like crap if I don’t wrestle.”

Torres understands his obsession.

“Honestly, I would consider myself a wrestling addict, along with Connor,” Torres said. “Every day and every moment we’re always thinking about wrestling,

always thinking about being on the mat. Everything that we do, we do with hard work and determination because we know it’s going to help us out in the long run with wrestling.”

But for right now, Richardson is proud of everything these two boys have achieved.

“They are pretty accomplished wrestlers being able to travel and represent not just Grand Haven, not Ottawa County, not even the state of Michigan, but represent the United States as well as our community, county and state,” Richardson said.

In order to begin this Aussie adventure, funding is necessary. If you’re interested in sponsoring these athletes on their way to the Outback, please visit http://www.downundersports.com/sponsors or visit the Athletic Office.

“It’s honestly a dream of mine to wrestle for the USA Wrestling Team,” Torres said.

“Anybody willing to sponsor Connor or I will be of great thanks from my family to them and great thanks to the community if they are willing to help out.”

View from the trenches

Mike Ginocchio Our (lack of) words define us There are times where I really, really hate irony.

Joe Paterno, the longest tenured coach in college football, the guy who made Penn State seem like a football version of Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood, the coach just about any parent would have been okay entrusting their son’s body and athletic health to for four years…is gone. He didn’t retire or resign – he was fired. Not because of booster gifts, fixed test scores, or other common career ending scandals, but fired because of his failure to do more in a scandal so horrible it makes me sick to my stomach to read. I tried reading the grand jury report. I stopped after a page and a half.

It’s hard to even say out loud, but it’s alleged that Joe Paterno was involved in covering up the sexual abuse of multiple young boys.

Technically speaking, Joe Paterno did not do anything wrong.

He didn’t commit a crime and he didn’t witness a crime. According to the information we have and what has been released from courts, Paterno was informed of the crimes his former assistant coach was committing and informed his superiors of the problem. He simply moved it up the chain to what I assume he thought would fix the problem. It’s what Paterno didn’t do after that, however, that was wrong. He didn’t speak up again. It’s his decision to remain silent after the University executives took “control” of the matter and did nothing about it that is his failure.

There is a larger lesson to be learned here, one that applies to everyone. It’s about sports, yet at the same time it really isn’t. Joe Paterno and Penn State are just the latest example of how staying silent or saying the bare minimum is just as bad as committing the offense. Inaction is equally as bad as the action itself. This applies to all of us. Here at Grand Haven High School, we say “Don’t be a Zebra” -- don’t let your inaction cause someone else to be hurt.

Sometimes we joke about that phrase, but what happened in Happy Valley shows that there is weight to those words. Sometimes, it’s not about protecting your own interests or about protecting yourself. When it comes down to it, we have to do right and face the consequences.

How does this tie back to sports? In sports, we become part of a team, a cohesive group that must learn to work together and love one another as brothers or sisters. We watch each other’s backs and learn to trust one another. But that team mentality shouldn’t end when we leave the playing field. We’re all a part of the same “team”: the human race. We need to look out for one another. Pick someone up when they’re down. Come to the aid of someone in trouble.

Protect those who can’t protect themselves. Above all, we cannot be afraid to speak up.

We owe that much to each other.

30 Sports

THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday, November 18, 2011

Bucs soccer comes up agonizingly short MIKE GINOCCHIO Editor-In-Chief

Record-setting season ends for Bucs soccer It was a season for the ages, one that set school records and permanently etched itself in the history of Grand Haven boys soccer. But on a windy Saturday in East Kentwood, the magical season Grand Haven had was stopped painfully short in a tightly-contested 1-0 loss to Canton High School in the Division 1 Soccer State Finals.

Senior goalkeeper Ethan Beswick acknowledges that it wasn’t how they wanted to finish.

“We didn’t play bad in the state finals,” Beswick said.

“We went out and did what we thought we had to. In games like that, it’s gonna be one goal that decides the game and we just got unlucky on that one bounce.”

Any season cut short leaves a bitter taste in the mouth, for both the players and the coaching staff. With time to reflect on the year, however, the Bucs acknowledge that their season truly was one to remember fondly, having finished 28-2 with the first state finals appearance in school history.

“It’s the best season in the history of Grand Haven which is just special to be a part of,” Beswick said. “To be a part of that record-setting year was just incredible.”

Coach Aaron Dean shares his players’ pride to be a part of such a historic season.

“I was pleased with how the guys played,” Dean said. “When we had the chance to put the

Conference, District, Regional and State Finalist trophies all together it was a pretty sight and helped to put into perspective what this team accomplished.”

One of the key aspects of a team having a successful season is how the players on the team mesh as a whole. Senior Matt Davis points to this as an integral part of the team’s accomplishments this year.

“Everybody on the team had a great attitude,” Davis said. “It was more like a brotherhood out there than anything. Most teams have great teams, but we just had great team chemistry. That’s what made us go as far as we did in the tournament.”

With the season at last over, the Bucs face a daunting rebuilding task ahead of them: replacing twelve graduating seniors. However, Coach Dean does not fear the challenge in retooling; after this season, the sky is the limit.

“Kids from Grand Haven can really be on the best teams in the state and nation as proved by the players we had on this team,” Dean said. “It’s sacrifice and dedication and hard work, but it’s possible, it’s very possible.”

(Right, top to bottom) HEAD IN HIS HANDS: Senior Ryan Schoonover holds his metal while reflecting on their loss. Schoonover was a solid defender for the team. photo by Laura Burton COMFORTING WORDS: Senior Ethan Beswick talks to junior Kevin Lacroix at the end of their game.

Each team member went out of their way to try to console each other on the loss. “We all knew that our soccer performance was a top priority but being able to enjoy all the other pieces that went it to it, was probably the most memorable part,” coach Aaron Dean said. photo by Emma Baty

30 Sports THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday, November 18, 2011

(clockwise from left) SOFT TOUCH: Senior Chad Buitenhuis prepares to gently bring the ball to the ground. Although the team didn’t win, they have high hopes for next season. FLYING HIGH: Junior Willie Bennick jumps up for the ball while in close contact with a Canton player. A majority of this close game was played in air. photo by Emma Baty GO TIME: The entire team pumps up before the game begins. “It was a great experience and something the kids will talk about for the rest of their lives, but it was one soccer game,” coach Aaron Dean said. “The fact that we won or lost isn’t as important as the season as a whole.” photo

by Laura Burton GO FOR THE BALL: Senior Nate Rose competes for the ball against a Canton opponent. He held a starting position on the team all year. photo by Laura Burton

32 Sports THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday, November 18, 2011

Restoring the ROAR

As the Big Thanksgiving Day game approaches between the Green Bay Packers and the Detroit Lions (two rival NFC North teams), seniors Brent Boerema and Danny Cotter share insight behind their allegiance to their favorite NFL team.

Why are you a Packers fan?

Why are you a Lions fan?

Boerema: Personally, I have

Cotter: My dad is a San Fran-

some family in the U.P. and we’ve always pulled for the Pack.

And, they have the greatest fan base in the world. How someone couldn’t be a fan, I don’t know.

cisco 49ers fan so when I was just a young boy I rooted for the Niners. As I got older, I began to watch the Lions more and I became a huge fan even though they let me down so many times.

What strengths do the Packers bring to the Thanksgiving Day game against the Detroit Lions?

What strengths do the Lions bring to the Thanksgiving Day game against the Green Bay Packers?

Boerema: We have the best

Cotter: Their passing offense

record in the league. They have a very experienced and aggressive defense to compliment the best quarterback in the NFL (Aaron Rodgers).

is almost unstoppable, and the defense is looking better than ever. Matt Stafford is a very likely “Comeback Player of the Year’ candidate and probable MVP of the future.

Are you excited for the game?

How will the Packers do?

Are you excited for the game?

How will the Lions do?

Boerema: Oh, I’m pumped. It

Cotter: It’s awesome to see the

gives me a great opportunity to brag to all these Detroit Lions fans. [My prediction] is Packers on top 38-17.

Lions on national TV against one of the other best teams in the division and the league. I believe the Lions will get the big ‘W.’

2001 2-14

KEN KAUFMAN Reporter This season, the Lions blindsided their fans with an exciting team. With this spark of hope, old and new fans are beginning to watch the Lions.

Here are five things you can do to support your Lions when they play the Green Bay Packers on Thanksgiving Day.

Vs.

Lions’ 2000 Record 9-7

Lions experience first winning season in student memory, students find new ways to celebrate as the Lions take on the Packers Thanksgiving Day

2002 3-13

2003 5-11

“For every single game I wear my Jahvid Best jersey and my Lions hat,” sophomore Tanner Jonas said.

Don’t be afraid to go all out, for example, painting your whole face or putting a huge lion in your front yard.

2. Mute your TV and turn up 107.3

1. Grab your Lions gear! (Or anything blue and silver).

This goes for both new and old fans. The radio provides key info that the TV announcers leave out, enhancing your overall Lions day experience.

To be a true fan, everyone must know what team you are affiliated with. The easiest way for a new fan to show their love is to wear Lions apparel.

Don’t be afraid to yell at your TV when the referees make bad calls.

Everybody within 100 feet of your house should be able to hear you.

3. Cheer and scream!

If your voice is not somewhat gone at the end, you have not done enough vocal supporting. Also, It’s allowed to go crazy when the Lions score.

“I freak out!” sophomore Jake Steggles said. “One time I got nacho cheese all over the [T.V.] remote.”

4. Remember the “BIG PLAY”

To watch the Lions is one thing-to be able to talk about them on Monday is another. Nothing helps unite fans together more than chatting about the latest Lions victory. So when that kid comes up to you in the hall and asks you “Hey, did you see that sweet play?” make sure you have an answer.

Students observe first successful Lions season in recent history SCOTT STAAL Sports Editor The Detroit Lions.

A team once booed, mocked and the laughing stock of the NFL has a new story to tell.

After going 0-16 in 2008 and having two losing seasons after, the Lions have come to surprise many this fall with their winning record halfway through their schedule. And for some students, it’s the first time in their lives they have seen the Lions do well.

“It’s really exciting,” senior Eric Martin said.Every single year I always buy into the hype that they are improving and will have a good season and they

2004 6-10

2005 5-11

never do. For once, they’ve backed up all the hype.”

The Lions started the regular season 5-0 for the first time since 1956. Key victories for the team so far include a 26-23 overtime win against the Minnesota Vikings along with a 24-13 win over the Chicago Bears on Monday Night Football. Both wins help the Lions in their chase for the NFC North title—and remind fans that the “roar” has returned to Detroit.

“It’s great not being disappointed every Sunday,” senior Alex Eidson said. “I’m excited to see if it keeps going.”

The real test for the Lions comes this Thanksgiving Day as the undefeated Green Bay Pack-

2006 3-13

2007 7-9

ers visit Ford Field. The highlyanticipated matchup is crucial for both NFC North teams in their race for the division title along with potential home field advantage during the playoffs.

The Lions have come a long way and continue to show signs of hope for the future. The Detroit Lions are on the prowl once again, and some saw them sneaking up.

“In all honesty, I expected this season to go the way it has,” Martin said. “When they finished last season with a four game win streak while using a third string QB, I knew good things were to come. I’d say playoffs this year and Super Bowl next year.”

2008 0-16

2009 2-14

2010

6-10

Sailing to success

Friday, November 18, 2011 THE BUCS’ BLADE Sports 33

Senior Allison Price brings championship skills to high school sailing team EMMA BATY Managing Editor

For some, it may just seem like a sailboat race. But for Allison, it’s not just a race, it’s a enior Allison Price looks out family tradition. from the helm of her 16 foot Allison’s grandfather started Melges MC sailboat. She looks competitive sailing in his mid at the wind on the water, notices 30s. He passed the tradition where it’s coming from and takes onto his son, who started in his a deep breath. She positions early teens. From there, the traherself on the left end of the dition was passed to Allison. starting line, patiently waiting “My wife Nancy and I would for the start gun to go off. She take Allison on Lake Michigan looks at the mark at the end of for dinner, we would strap a low the racecourse, adjusting her profile lawn chair to the mast of path to set her on the right track. our Laser [sailboat], put her life She’s ready. jacket on, give her a chicken leg Five. Four. Three. Two. One. and sail off into the sunset,” AlStart. lison’s father Pete said. “She was She trims in her sails, crosses four years old.” the line and starts out towards Allison began crewing for the first mark sailors at like she’s done Muskegon many times yacht club “When a family or a group before. when she was of friends can do an activAllison sails six years old. ity together like sailing and independently For her birthwork together as a team, on day a few as well as for or off the water, you can’t get years later, the high school sailing team, she received any better than that.” which wrapped her first boat, up its season - Pete Price a 12 foot Buton Nov. 13 with terfly. the Great Lakes “My Championship parents gave regatta. Allison has won regattas it to me for my birthday, they such as MC Junior Nationals two surprised me,” Allison said. years in a row as well as earning Since then, competitive sailTop Junior at the MC Blue Chip ing has been a passion of Alliregatta twice. son’s. She started having success

S

on her Butterfly and then moved to a bigger boat, a 16 foot MC. “The first trophy I ever got for myself was at the butterfly nationals, I got third place and Top Woman,” Allison said. “And that’s kind of what started me getting more serious.”

Allison also earned Top Junior at the Westerns and Top Woman at the MC Blue Chip.

For Allison, one of the most enjoyable aspects of sailing with the MC fleet is sailing against not only her childhood -friends but more advanced competitors as well. “[Regattas are] against all of my friends, so it’s kind of fun,” Allison said. “For the junior fleet it’s all my friends. And there’s [also] professional sailors, old people, people my age, everybody.”

Although this level of competition can sometimes be stressful, Allison’s goal is to always have fun on the racecourse.

“I always say you have to have fun with it, it’s not about winning, it’s the sport that’s the best,” Allison said. “Because when I take it too seriously it all goes downhill. I have to have fun.”

According to her parents, believing in that idea hasn’t been a struggle for Allison.

“We have always told her no

COME SAIL AWAY: Senior Allison Price examines the racecourse during a regatta at Culver Military Academy. Price has been sailing since she was six and has sailed for the high school sailing team for two years. photo by Emma Baty

matter what, have fun, that is the number one priority, how you end up in the race is secondary,” Pete said. “She has done an excellent job at keeping true to that and having fun.”

The Price family’s goals never included championships and trophies— their goal was always for Allison to develop an appreciation of the sport.

“I think the biggest accomplishment is her staying with it,” Pete said. “Yes, she has won

some and lost more but the real deal is that she can take her sailing talents with her for life, that’s the big win. Love and respect for the water and the love of sailing.”

As for the future, Allison hopes to sail at the collegiate level and for many years after that. ”I definitely want to take after my grandpa,” Allison said.

“Because he’s 82 and he’s still sailing.”

34 Sports THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday, November 18, 2011

Hockey team moves to Tier I Fall Sports Wrap-Ups JOHN STRAINER Reporter

Football

RECORD: 8-2 (6-1 OK-RED) KEY PLAYER: Sophomore Isaak Newhouse had 10.5 tackles for the Bucs in a 21-14 win over West Ottawa.

KEY MOMENT: Senior Danny Cotter had 12 catches for 186 yards in a 35-21 victory over Muskegon.

THEY SAID IT: “I was happy because the team wasn’t expected to be as good as last year, so beating those expectations was cool.”- senior Matt Jacobson

Jacobson

Boys Cross Country RECORD: 6-1 KEY PLAYERS: Senior Ryan Duff ran a 15:32, a personal best, at the state meet.

KEY MOMENT: Qualifying for the state meet for the second year in a row.

THEY SAID IT: “In spite of a lot of challenges with people being hurt or sick, the entire team stepped up and we ended with one of our best seasons yet.” -senior Alex Cramer

Cramer

Girls Cross Country

This off-season, preparation for the boys varsity hockey team looked different than in years past. Their hours of training in blistering summer heat and the relentless motivational sayings from their coach all became habits.

But this time, the training was for something the team has never faced off with before—Tier I competition.

The Haven hockey team switched from competing in Tier II competition to Tier I for the upcoming season. Although the team will be skating on unknown ice and face a more consistent level of competition, varsity coach Dan Gadbois says there is not much of a difference between the top two tiers.

“I have a high regard for the teams that were in Tier II,” Gadbois said. “They definitely aren’t chopped liver or anything.”

In the O-K Red Conference, the top team in Tier II and Tier III trade places with the last-place team in Tier I and Tier II, respectively. This marks the complete turn around done by the Buccaneers, as just two seasons ago they sat in Tier III. “It is really fulfilling to move up to Tier I,” senior defender Will VerDuin said. “When I came in as a freshman the team was in Tier III and the hockey program wasn’t looked as being anything in Grand Haven. Now we see a change in that as more fans show up and it is taken more seriously.”

In just two years, the hockey team has skated its way up to Tier I and now joins powerhouse programs such as Grand Rapids Catholic Central, Mona Shores, East Grand Rapids and Forest Hills Northern. The added competition will force the team to elevate their game.

“The tougher competition will force us to push ourselves to another level and play with higher tempo and

Boys Water Polo

ALL IN: The varsity hockey team huddles up before a recent scrimmage agaisnt the West Ottawa Panthers. The Bucs recently switched from Tier II to Tier I competition. photo by Katelyn Hansen

pace,” junior forward Ian Hibbard said.

Finishing last year with a staggering 23-2-1 record, the team looks to build off of their success and make a run for the state title.

“I know that last year’s team felt great about the accomplishment and that this year’s team will feel great about the challenge at hand,” Gadbois said.

In addition to their hardened schedule, Grand Haven has increased the competitiveness of their out of conference games, too. The team will attend the East Kentwood and Conrad [Mona Shores] Tournaments during Thanksgiving and January, respectively.

Facing new teams and tougher competition, they plan to embrace what they have earned and make the most out of every time they hit the ice.

“Every game that we step on the ice we love the challenge,” Gadbois said. “ You can’t take any game lightly and the team will prepare and love the opportunity.”

Boys Soccer

RECORD: 6-1

RECORD: 7-27

RECORD: 18-2-3 (5-1 OK-Red)

KEY PLAYER: The Lady Bucs scored an impressive 15

KEY PLAYER: Senior Ben Bailey scored three goals in a

KEY PLAYER: Senior Jake VanderLaan scored a com-

points in a victory over West Ottawa.

loss to a 4th-ranked Hudsonville squad.

bined five goals throughout the state tournament.

KEY MOMENT: The team finished in

KEY MOMENT: The Bucs battled

KEY MOMENT: Sophomore Jon

third place at the State Finals.

hard in the Jenison Invitational with a big victory over Ann Arbor Skyline, 13-7.

Buitenhuis scored a header in the last three minutes of overtime to defeat Forest Hills Central, 3-2 and win the Regional Championship.

THEY SAID IT: “This is a different group from last year. Not to sound like a ‘Negative Nancy,’ but it’s really hard to be state champions back-to-back.

But it’s not impossible.” -senior Julia Stock

THEY SAID IT: “This year was defiStock

nitely a building season. The team got a lot closer together.” -junior Brendan Merriman

THEY SAID IT: “Overall it was a great Merriman

year, [and] we had a lot of team cohesion.” -junior Kevin LaCroix

LaCroix

5

Friday, November 18, 2011 THE BUCS’ BLADE Sports 35

Volleyball

things to know about...

RECORD: 36-16

Ski team dryland training

The boys and girls varsity ski team aren’t waiting for the snow to fall to get started with their season. Throughout the fall, members of both teams have been working out multiple days per week. Reporters John Strainer and Kennedy Kaufman caught up with senior Paige Reierson and junior Kevin Stolarski to see why they dedicate their time in the off season.

1.

4.

Hit the weight room hard

PR: We go into the weight

KS: We really need our abs

room two to three days a week. [Skiing] is [based on] stamina, so lifting is good because it builds up your muscles.

2.

and our legs and [P90X] really works those because we use them when we ski downhill. There is “ab ripper” and leg builders and we do those two the most and it involves a lot of jumping around and abs in core.

Skiing isn’t just about lower body strength

KS: We work out our arms

5.

because you need them to thrust down the gates when skiing downhill.

3.

Become friends with P90X

What you put into it is what you get out of it

PR: The earlier you start

It gives an edge on the competition

the better. You should always be training all the time. The purpose [for our KS: Most teams that we training] is to become fit PUMPING SOME IRON: Senior Hannah Rymal perfects her talk to don’t dry ground train. bench press while freshman Sarah Hohmeyer spots. Skiiers have for when the season starts so Instead, they just go straight trained in the fall for the upcoming year. photo by Laura Burton that we are stronger than we into the season when it snows. would be if we started later.

five aces in the District Championship victory over Mona Shores.

KEY MOMENT: The Bucs defeated Mona Shores in three straight sets to win the District Championship for the fifth consecutive year .

THEY SAID IT: “Overall, it was a great season and I’m going to miss each one of these girls. I am very proud of how we did this season.” -junior Abby Cole

Cole

Girls Swimming and Diving RECORD: 5-7 KEY PLAYERS: At the OK-Red Conference meet, the entire team dropped a combined seven minutes, which was more than any other team.

KEY MOMENT: The Bucs scored a key victory over the East Kentwood Falcons, 187-128 in the second half of the season.

THEY SAID IT: “Our team has improved throughout the season and we have really come together [as a team]. We swam amazing at the conference meet and next year should be a great year for the [underclassmen].” -senior Alyssia Land

Boys Tennis

Girls Golf RECORD: 1-5

KEY PLAYER: Sophomore Martha Ramsey and senior

KEY PLAYER: Juniors Ryan Peterson and Janno Heins

Kristen Carlson led the Bucs with scores of 110 and 111, respectively at the regional meet.

(2nd Doubles) won their flight at the regional meet.

KEY MOMENT: Junior Kira Glass

at regionals, surpassing their sixth place finish at conferences.

placed sixth at the conference meet, pulling the Bucs up in the standings.

KEY MOMENT: The Bucs placed third

THEY SAID IT: “We did very well this

THEY SAID IT: “The team was really DePrekel

season considering we lost nine seniors and we’re in one of the toughest conferences in the state.”- senior Isaac Bowen

Land

By the numbers

RECORD: 3-9

great and I loved [the season].”- senior Katelyn DePrekel

KEY PLAYER: Senior Kristen Reenders had 23 digs and

Bowen

This past fall, Buccaneer athletic teams accounted for...

2 2 1 3

OK-RED CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSHIPS

DISTRICT CHAMPIONSHIPS REGIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

STATE FINALS APPEARANCES

36 Sports THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday, November 18, 2011

THE BUCS ARE BACK

Talented girls hoops team hopes to return to Breslin, win state title ANDREW PRINCE Reporter

W

hen the final horn sounded in the state semi-final game back on March 18, Detroit Renaissance had dealt the girls varsity basketball team its first and only loss by a score of 39-38, ending its dream season with a 26-1 record, one game short of the state finals.

This year, the team is determined not to fall short again. With seven of nine players from last year’s rotation returning, this year’s squad knows it has little to improve upon, yet is determined to do what it takes to return to the Breslin Center and have another shot at a state title.

“When you look at our team last year, we were 26-1 so it’s hard to find weaknesses,“ girls basketball coach Katie Kowalczyk-Fulmer (Coach K) said.

“There’s not a whole lot lacking coming into this season.”

Returning standouts include senior point guard Shar’Rae Davis, who set a single season record for assists (142) and junior center Abby Cole, who shattered

the blocked shots record (143) last season.

Coach K believes her team’s height and length is one of its greatest strengths.

“We have great size,” Coach K said.

“Not many teams have a 6’5” player.

We’re crazy tall. We had 12 girls on our roster last year and only three were shorter than 5’10”.”

But height alone doesn’t guarantee victories. With that in mind, the Lady Bucs are concentrating on more focused practices to develop team chemistry and create the intense pressure the girls hope to impose onto opposing offenses.

“Last year made me realize that we are capable of reaching our goal, but we just have to make sure that we work hard in practice every single day and focus on the goal of a state title,” senior point guard Jordan Keefe said.

Another step is increasing the difficulty of the schedule in order to prepare for the tougher challenges the Bucs figure to face if they advance deep into the state tournament again. It’s all part of a plan to keep from getting complacent. Coach K made sure the schedule was much more

challenging this year.

This includes a trip to Detroit Martin Luther King on December 30 and a January 17 game against a Grand Rapids Catholic Central team that went 22-2 last season. Both games, along with the OKRed Conference schedule, will add to the pressure of repeating a perfect record in the regular season. “[Going] 20-0 [during the regular season last year] doesn’t make us content,” Coach K said. “We have a chance to be right there and I think it will be tougher than what people think. It’s better to lose during the season than in the playoffs.”

Senior shooting guard Alex Law, who was the team’s leading scorer last year, averaging 12.8 points per game, knows from experience how tough this season will be. Every team seeks revenge.

“The biggest thing we learned is every team is going to be coming out to play their best game against us because everyone wants to take us down,” Law said.

“We need to play every game and it’s not going to be just handed to us because of our talent.”

(left) QUEENS OF THE COURT: Players and fans react early in the state quarter-finals. The Bucs went on to beat East Lansing, 59-50. (top) EYES ON THE PRIZE: Senior Alex Law waits to make a pass against Detroit Renaissance in the state semi-final game. The Bucs finished the season with a record of 26-1, including OK-Red Conference, district and regional championships. photos by Ali Steggles

2011-2012 Girls Varsity Basketball 3 4 10 11 12 14 22 24 25 33 34 40 50

Jr Courtney Springer Sr Shar’Rae Davis Sr Jordan Keefe Jr Angela Shultz Jr Grace Kendra Sr Megan Newhouse Jr Hannah Wilkerson Sr Alex Law Sr Morgan Hawver Sr Cassie Holwerda Sr Abby Cole Sr Kaeding Skelton So Taylor Craymer

Friday, November 18, 2011 THE BUCS’ BLADE News 37

Better safe than sorry

Families of public safety officers share stories, concerns of hazards of life in the field KATHERINE WAMPLER Reporter

O

nce a week School Resource Deputy Derek Gerencer tries to get online to check the Officer Down Memorial Page (www.odmp.org), noticing the latest officers who have given their lives, to remind himself of the risks he takes everyday.There’s 136 deaths this year alone, he points out. Near the bottom of the list is the name Trevor Slot.

He was a police officer from Walker, Michigan, killed while on duty Oct 13.

His death reminds the community of how dangerous a police officer’s job is. Police officers never need a reminder.

“Ask any police officer,” Gerencer said.

“They’ll always say their goal is come home each night.”

The common stereotype is being a police officer in a small town isn’t hazardous, but Gerencer knows better.

“Every situation has the potential to become dangerous,” Gerencer said. “Even a traffic stop could go badly, you just never know. We’re put in dangerous situations every day.”

It’s not just police officers who worry.

They all have families at home who are aware that one day, their parent might not come home. Junior Jake Poel is one of those kids. His father, Randy, has been an police officer and firefighter for Grand Haven Public Safety for over 16 years.

“Its scary sometimes because we have a radio at our house so we know when the calls are all happening,” Poel said. “That can be pretty scary when you hear something and you know he’s working, but he

usually always will call or text after a fire or something so we know.”

Being the child of a police officer does include a good dose of worry, but junior Alex Winager, daughter of Grand Haven Safety officer Tom Winager, has found some upsides.

“It’s not just about fear,” Winager said.

“It makes me feel more protected.”

For students like junior Hailey Vandenberg who are thinking about going into Law Enforcement, danger is a serious thing to think about.

“It’s just part of the job,” Vandenberg said. “It’s dangerous to you, but it would be more dangerous if other people ran into those kinds of dangers than someone who’s trained to deal with it.”

The police are very cautious about protecting not only the public, but also

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themselves. Police officers have monthly in-service training to make sure they’re at the top of their game.

“In a really high intense situation I go back to my training instinctively.”

Gerencer said.

Training saves lives in the face of danger, an exciting element to Vandenberg.

However it’s the experiences in her own life pushing her to become a police officer.

“I have friends that have been abused,” Vandenberg said. “I want to be a cop to prevent that from happening again.”

Vandenberg is not worried about the hazards of being a police officer. She is just glad she can help innocent people.

“If something does happen, then it’s for a good reason because you’re protecting someone else by doing it,” Vandenberg said.

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38 Vibe THE BUCS’ BLADE Friday November 18, 2011

Modern Warfare

3

Newly released CoD video game sparks discussion concerning if improvements from the last edition are worth the expense BRITTNEY OLDS Reporter

Released: November 8 2011 List price: $59.99 Purchase at: Meijer, Gamestop, Best Buy, Walmart

The basics: Between the improved graphics and faster pace, the game stimulates real war along with a one-of-a- kind storyline.

Improvements: “There are different voting for maps and they are a lot bigger than the last game. They have gun levels, which is weird. I don’t know what that is yet.” -Ryan Schoonover “They changed the kill streaks up. I feel like it’s faster because everyone is sprinting around and not just camping out.” - Andrew Wadaga “The graphics are way different and they brought back quick scoping. The overall game play is much faster.” - Jeff Olson

Reasons to buy: “It’s better then Black Ops and it’s a new fun game that you can play with your friends. It’s for sure worth the money. I wish I could have skipped school today and go home to play it.” - Andrew Wadaga “Everyone will be getting it. I was up all night [last night] playing. It’s fun, a good change, and something to do.” - Jeff Olson “[Modern Warfare 3] is addicting, extremely fun, and a lot of people are [starting to buy] it.” -Ryan Schoonover

Hallway jammin’

Classmates share what tunes they’re plugged into during their

BRITTNEY OLDS Reporter passing time

Meet your new favorite book RILEY MISSEL Reporter

Need a new book to cozy up with over break? The Bucs’ Blade selected the best read for any bookworm SCI-FI THRILLER “The Host”

by Stephanie Meyer

Written by the author of the Twilight Series this is the story of a girl whose world is taken over by an unseen invasion. While human minds are abducted their bodies quickly become the hosts.

The main character, Melanie is captured but refuses to give herself up to the ‘soul’ taking her over.

The invader and Melanie both continue to inhabit her body by sharing thoughts, senses, feelings, and even love for another human who is also in hiding. Filled with twists and turns, it will keep you on the edge of your seat and totally engaged.

HUMOR “I am Neurotic (and so are you)”

by Lianna Kong

Everybody’s got some strange tendencies: to only eat after we take our rings off, we HAVE to pull the fringes off our math homework, we can only fall asleep with our head at the foot of our bed… I am Neurotic (and so are you) is a collection of all kinds of crazy, silly, and downright weird quirks people deal with on a daily basis.

Starting as a blog, these confessions were made into a book sprinkled with funny pictures to keep you laughing and let the fringe-haters know they aren’t alone!

Jimmy Kloote Song: Battle Song Artist: Deltron 3030 Why: “The lyrics are way different than anyone else’s... and it has a good beat.”

TOUCHING

“Heaven is for Real”

by Todd Burpo This heartwarming story contains the true events of a young boy from Nebraska who drifts from consciousness during an emergency surgery and into heaven.

After he returns from his life-changing journey, he explains to his family and his doctors what he saw as well as who he met along the way. The boy, whose story is told from by his father, explains his simple message. This eye-opening miracle warms hearts and reminds you what the holiday season is all about.

Claire Pepper Song: Suds in the Bucket Artist: Sarah Evans Why: “It’s got some really good twang that sounds great in my truck because it goes together.”

Friday, November 18, 2011 THE BUCS’ BLADE Vibe 39

THE EVOLUTION MOLLY MCGINNIS Reporter

1973

Cell phones made solely for communication 40 years ago, progressed to hand-held computers

Motorola DynaTAC 8000X This phone was the first-ever portable cellular device. It weighed about 2 pounds, only allowed a half-hour of talking between every charging, and sold for approximately $4,000.

1996

Lund’s

top

tunes

Vibe editor Lauren Lund picks top song you need to download now “Cruel” by St. Vincent

Nokia 9000 Communicator The first phone to feature a full QWERTY keyboard, this became the “SmartPhone”. It was one of the early SMS messaging phones and included Internet access, calendar, calculator, and a clock.

Take early 2000 pop and mix it with an erie choir haunting in dreams- that basically sums it up.

“Bad Feeling” by Veronica Falls

With a beachy upbeat melody sprinkled throughout with edgy harmonies and guitar is perfect for turning that frown upside down.

“The Bad In Each Other” by Feist

2002

Nokia 7650 This was the first-ever camera phone. It produced low-quality images, but was the first nonetheless and intrigued users. It also had the simple attributes of a clock, calendar, alarm clock, and handy dandy calculator.

2007

First-Generation iPhone It had full 3G internet access with 8 gigabytes and offered Apple Application Shop, iTunes, Maps, Weather, Photos, Notes, as well as Safari for the first time. It sold for $399 with dimensions of 4.5 inches in height, 2.4 inches long and and 0.48 inches in width.

George Austin Song: Bully Artist: Liquid Stranger Why: “I really like it’s technical riffs and the complexity in it’s bassline.”

Connor Moynihan Song: I Feel Better Artist: Hot Chip Why: “It puts me in a weird mood and makes me feel better when I’m sad.”

Leslie Feist did not make this the first song on her new album Metals on accident. Charming yet sophisticated, this track is bound to be stuck in your head.

“Top Bunk” by Gauntlet Hair

This garage pop is noisy and rough, but still maintains a good enough beat that is destined to bob heads.

“When I’m Small” by Phantogram This basically could be named as the official song for a cruise around town due to its simple bassline and soft vocals.

“Black Water” by Timber Timbre

The simple piano and deep vocals are just enough to become a perfect song for studying for those exams without being overpowering.

Cayman Weed Song: Burden Artist: Balance & Composure Why: “I like his style of vocals because it’s not normal singing, you get intensity of yelling.”

Friday, November 18, 2011 THE BUCS’ BLADE Back 40

The planner of an exam

This is the final countdown. Don’t freak out fellow students but exam week is upon us. Before completely panicking, remember that some studying is always better than no studying! You can’t make up an entire tri in one weekend but you can always try. You’re a champion, you’re a studying machine and don’t forget it!

Friday, November 18: Studying Round #1

Sunday, November 20: The Final Day

Saturday, November 19: Bring on round #2

Content and page design by Maggie Ginocchio

Now that you’ve survived, take advantage of your six day post-exam Thanksgiving Break Downtown Grand Haven Friday Frenzy Location: Downtown Grand Haven Date: November 25

Local Grand Haven stores will be opening early for Black Friday sales.

Call (616) 844-1188 for more information.

Thanksgiving Butterball Blast Location: YMCA Date: November 25

From 6:15 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. come to the YMCA for some fitness classes. Classes are FREE to anyone in the community during this day!