the
blade LAYING DOWN THE LAW
Clearing up student misconceptions about student rights page 12
DECEMBER 20, 2013 VOLUME 69 ISSUE 3
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Grand Haven High School’s student publication of community significance since 1927
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On the cover: Student Rights Photo by: Maisy Hoffman
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Opinion
From Africa to Bucco, reporters Anna Rose Perrier and Luke Blauvelt share their views on the latest Grand Haven issues
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31 Days of Kindness
21 years after the tragic death of her brother, Lara Provencal-Capuano honors his memory with charity.
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Howie Day Q&A
We sit down with singer/ songwriter Howie Day to find out what drives him as an artist. 2 THE BUCS’ BLADE
Inside Election 2014
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Find out who is up for election to the school board, including disputed candidate Brandon Hall
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Not Missing Out
Senior Hunter Jonas has a unique role on the football team: stat boy.
Cole twins share court
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Sophomores Katie and Libby Cole: different on the court, similar in DNA.
Junior Connor Jettner returns to pitch after three year hiatus
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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 noon 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.
Editorial Board
For updates on all things GHHS
@TheBucsBlade @BucsBladeSports
Austin Schouman Editor-in-Chief Madison Wilder Editor-in-Chief Emily Bruch News Editor Dallas Eslick Entertainment Editor Maisy Hoffman Photo Editor Landon Hudson Feature Editor Brianna Moynihan Sports Editor Vlasia Niotis Web Editor Elizabeth Tibbe Managing Editor Schaefer Thelen Sports Editor
LETTERS AND SUBMISSIONS The paper will operate on the basis of an open or public forum. Essays and other nonfiction literary works are welcomed. All letters to the editor must include the writer’s name, signature, and class or position, and must be free of obscene and potentially libelous material. Typed, double-spaced letters are preferred, but legible, handwritten letters are acceptable. Names of individuals will not be edited, except in rare cases to prevent legal liability, to edit material that is in poor taste or to fit space requirements. Letters previously published, addressed to third parties or photocopied will not be published. The Bucs’ Blade can only print as many letters to the editor as space will allow. Letters should be addressed to the editor, and emailed to bucsblade@gmail.com THE BUCS’ BLADE GHHS ROOM 0205 17001 Ferris Grand Haven, MI 49417
Writing Staff Adam Abraham, Lexie Alexander, Aliyah Austin, Tressa Bathke, Luke Blauvelt, Sarah Jane Chrysler, Casey Davis, Taylor Fase, Anna Rose Perrier, Connor Weber
Photojournalists James Harding, Andrew Hewitt, Sophia Newhouse, Jonas Quirin
www.bucsblade.com, October 17
Editorial
Courtesy photo: Caleb Bohn
LONG LIVE THE KING (AND QUEEN): This year’s Homecoming King Bradely Langemaat (center left) and Queen Brigid Marcinus (far right) pose with last year’s queen Sarah Herndl (center right) and Caleb Bohn (far left), who stood in for last year’s king, Karl Johnson.
Building Blocks
Homecoming court election highlights great opportunity for students Grand Haven has been ridiculed for racism, bad sportsmanship and TP-ing. We’ve sat through endless Whale Talks, assemblies about inclusion, and we’ve constantly been told not to be zebras. Now, that contempt has turned into praise. After four years of knowing exactly who would be on the Class of 2015 Homecoming court, the senior class threw Grand Haven a curve ball. Four special students were elected to the court: Samantha Huffman, Brigid Marcinkus, Bradley Langemaat and Jack Dewitt. Their selection was in large part due to the efforts of seniors Mackenzie Burkhardt and Sydney Watson. The pair took to Twitter to organize the movement to get the four elected simply because they www.bucsblade.com, October 17
deserve it. When Marcinkcus and Langelesson from homecoming. We did somemaat took home the crowns, praise for the thing great, there’s no doubt about it, but student body began pouring in why can’t we do more? on Twitter almost immediately The first week of October after the result was tweeted. isn’t the only occasion we But Langemaat and have to include others. The Marcinkus’ victory highlighted community read picks up again something else. We showed Oct. 16 and with it comes an a lot of doubters that we’re opportunity to build upon the capable of banding together as positives from Homecoming STAFF a student body to create week. Don’t simply brush off EDITORIAL: something really special. Yes, the community read as a joke. Editorial Board Watson and Burkhardt deserves Support 10-0 credit for getting the ball Participate. rolling, but it took a collective effort from the entire school to make it happen. Contribute to the conversation. So congrats class of 2015, you will go down in history. Everyone else, take a Make an effort to listen to what other
students have to say. The positive vibes generated by the four special students deserve to be capitalized on. While what happened on a football field at Friday night at 8 p.m. might not seem like something that can carry over directly to the classroom, we think it can. To put it bluntly: if we can care enough to elect Langemaat and Marcinkus, we can care enough to put forth a little effort while discussing the themes of a book. We have the chance to prove something to the community, to the administration, and most importantly to ourselves. Take that chance. Show everyone that electing those four special students to the Homecoming court wasn’t just an isolated incident, but the start of something more.
THE BUCS’ BLADE 3
OPINION
The Africa Complex Recently, my cousin Elizabeth announced her plans to teach English in Senegal. Responding to imminent silence Liz added, “It’s in Africa.” Specifically Western Africa. Officially known as the Republic of Senegal, the 76,000 sq. mile country is the western-most country of the African continent, bordered by Mali, Gambia, and Mauritania. But this isn’t about Senegal, this is about homecoming decorations at Grand Haven High School. Particularly pods 1 and 5. The homecoming theme this year was “around the world.” Student Senate had members representing each grade pick a city from around the world and theme two pods after their choice. Opinion The Freshmen chose Anna Rose Perrier Honolulu, the Sophomores Rio de Janeiro, Juniors Paris, and Seniors...India. Well it’s obvious that “India” isn’t a city, but that isn’t the issue here. My problem with “India” goes beyond satisfying my OCD. I’ll be honest, I had no idea where Senegal was. I find myself amongst those who see Africa as a country rather than a continent with 47 independent nations within it’s borders. And I’m not proud of that.
Maisy HoffmanTHE BUCS’ BLADE
Let’s go Bucco
Herman Tanis started a tradition that is now lost the Grand Haven High School Mascot. With his gold sweatshirt, blue sweatpants, black belt, rubber boots and wooden sword, Tanis began our unofficial school mascot, Bucco. Why was Bucco born? To boost the energy of our
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American-s, myself included, have an unfortunate habitual ignorance of geography. I am willing to bet that a large part of the decision to use India rather than Mumbai, Delhi, or Bangalore is the fact that most students wouldn’t have even recognized the 3 biggest cities in India. Or maybe, senate members didn’t think that one city could accurately represent the wealth of culture that India holds. They are right on both accounts. India is a victim of what I have taken to calling the “Africa Complex.” Not only do we tend to consider the continent of Africa a country, but we generalize the hundreds of cultures and ethnic groups within Africa. We try and blend them all together, into some sort of homogenous mixture that’s easy for western culture to digest. And that’s easy to do. Especially when your understanding of African culture comes from a few select sources. Africa isn’t well represented in Western Culture, neither is India. The fact is, there isn’t a single city that would fully represent the breathtaking culture of India.
Elizabeth TibbeTHE BUCS’ BLADE
Indian Culture is simply too vast, too brilliant, for us to possibly hope to be able to compact it into one location. I’m not out to get anyone. I don’t blame Student Senate members. I blame a culture of ignorance that turns a blind eye to the beauty and splendor of our world. I should know where Senegal is. Just as I know where Paris, Honolulu, and Rio are. We all should. When we try to value pack culture we discredit it. All I’m trying to do here is explain the impact something as small as homecoming decorations can have, and expose the greater issue behind it. I just want others to take steps to become culturally aware, to realize the implications of even the smallest actions.
student section and generate team spirit. Team spirit gives volunteerism and participation. athletes a reason to win--for their team, which is why So where is Bucco now? The current Buccaneer costume can be lent out to student volunteers yet hasn’t having a large student section behind your back not only been appearing at athletic events--apart gives you an objective to win, but intimidates from one football game only because a the other team. Although teams play with parent stepped up to the plate and suited fair rules--giving neither team an advantage, up. Bucco is an essential part of the whichever team has the better student student section and it is up to us to bring section will surely get the advantage--which him back to life, he should be at most is where Bucco comes into play. sporting events, if not all. Bucco is an Traditions such as these bring the imperative component for the 12th Buc community together because people are because it acts as a catalyst for producing sharing a common belief--go Bucs! The the energetic atmosphere. mascot costume is meaningless by itself, but The Grand Haven Buccaneer is not the consensus gives it power. Not having Opinion only a tradition, but a representation as Bucco is like a band not having a conductor, Luke blauvelt well--of our city, our school and especially nobody to aid and conduct the chants as our athletics. This is what gives the well as their timing (both very important mascot power, because when a concrete factors for a successful student section). representation is made animate--its effects are just powerful These kind of traditions shall also live on for decades, over a student body and the energy of an entire event. which won’t happen unless students keep it alive with www.bucsblade.com, October 17
NEWS
Rake-a-Difference With fall comes the dreaded task of raking leaves. To help out those who are unable to rake their own yards, the Ottawa County United Way is hosting Rake-a-Difference on Nov. 7 and 8 from 8 a.m. to noon. “Every year, our volunteer groups set out to rake leaves and experience the great feeling of teamwork,” said Shannon Morton, Director of Volunteerism for United Way. “What most are not prepared for is the absolute gratitude they are met with at every home they visit.” This annual volunteer event has been in motion for six years. Volunteers are split up into different groups and sent to different houses to rake. Come prepared with gloves, warm clothes and your favorite rake. Anyone interested in participating or in need of help by the volunteers can contact Morton at smorton@ottawaunitedway.org or (616) 396-7811. Sign ups end Oct. 27. “Volunteers are not just raking, they are making a huge difference in someone’s life,” Morton said. --Vlasia Niotis
Girls create dance crew A dance club was created this year by seniors Devin Merz and Erin Yasick, for aspiring dancers and those who already know the steps. The idea of the crew is to get all different kinds of people to come and dance. Anyone from any grade can join. Meetings will be held every Tuesday and Thursday for rehearsing after school. “A lot of high schools do something similiar to this, but ours never has,” Yasick said. She explained that her and Merz both recently quit dancing for a competitive team, but they wanted to keep dance in their lives. This is why they came up with the idea for a high school dance crew. The dancing will be similar to jazz and hip-hop, although it is not confined to a specific genre. The estimated time of each practice will be an hour and a half, but Yasick and Merz do not have strict rules regarding how long the practices will go on. Those who join will be placed into two groups: one group that wants to choreograph a dance routine for fun, and one group that wants to audition to dance during halftime at basketball games. “We’re going to make it last until basketball season is over, and if everyone likes it and has fun, we’ll keep it going longer than that,” Yasick said. “Our main goal here is to just have fun.” --Casey Davis www.bucsblade.com, October 17
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NEWS
‘Experience is a brutal teacher’ Courtesy photo: Brandon Hall
JACKPOT: Political consultant Brandon Hall poses with friend Alex Aton on a trip to Las Vegas to intern for the Ron Paul presidential campaign. Hall will be running for school board election Nov. 4.
After removal from school board for theft, Brandon Hall hopes to put past behind him, get re-elected EMILY BRUCH News Editor
Brandon Hall is looking for a second chance. The 2007 Grand Haven High School graduate was the youngest elected official in Ottawa County history when he was voted on to the school board in 2008 at just 18 years old. However, Hall was relieved of his duties in 2010 when he was charged with larceny by conversion after an incident where he used money from a school fundraiser for personal expenditures. Hall is running for school board again as a write-in candidate. He decided to throw his name in when he heard that no one stepped up for the seat. “I started to do a lot of thinking,” Hall said. “I ultimately decided, no one in the community decided to run for this spot, I’m going to give it a try.” Despite his earlier difficulties, Hall believes
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he brings important qualities to the job. “I have a passion for the district that I think is unique,” Hall said. “That passion is what led me to run when I realized that no one filed for the position.” Shortly after Hall announced that he was in the race, attorney and current school board treasurer Chris Houghtaling decided to join as well. The two have history, as they were both on the board together back in 2008. In 2012, when Houghtaling needed help gathering signatures for his run for judge. Hall worked on Houghtaling’s campaign and ended up in more hot water. Some of the signatures they turned in were challenged, and were deemed false signatures. Hall claims that Houghtaling helped forge these signatures, whereas Houghtaling claims Hall did it without his knowledge. Houghtaling, who has served on the board since 2001 and was president from 2012 through January, 2014, says Hall’s decision
to run did not influence his attempt to seek another term. He says he is running again because he’s not ready to leave the school board just yet. “I think I still have several things that I can help the board with, assist our community with, and we just passed a recent bond and I would like to see that implemented through the next couple of years,” Houghtaling said. “I think I can still contribute significantly to our community and to public education.” According to Houghtaling, his focus for the election isn’t on his competitor, but on his record of good service to the community. He says he has a history of completing projects on time and under budget. However, Hall is trying to recover from his past transgressions and the image it may have created. He says it hasn’t been a major issue with the voting public. “When I go door to door, sometimes I’m asked about this issue, but not as much as you might think,” Hall said. “People are
more concerned about the future of their family. They’re more concerned about what are you going to do to improve the district, what are your ideas.” According to the Michigan Association of School Boards (MASB), the school board and its members must focus on issues that will improve student achievement. It is the group’s mission to make policies, set both long and short-term goals for the district, and be active in the meetings and committees of the board. The MASB also ensures that the actions of all members should be in the best interest of the board and district, not the individual member. Despite his previous issues, Hall believes he is now ready to meet this standard. “I definitely regret decisions I’ve made in the past,” Hall said. “I got humbled deeply, and let a lot of people down in a big way. Experience is a brutal teacher. But I’ve learned a lot. Sometimes you’ve just got to say sorry.” www.bucsblade.com, October 17
In the running
NEWS
Get to know the candidates By Emily Bruch
Matt Wiedenhoeft is a professor at Baker College and Davenport University. He was also vice chairman for the First General Credit Union.
Matt Wiedenhoeft
Why are you running for the open spot on the school board? “I have a passion for education. I feel that with the assets I have as an educator and my business background, I have a lot to offer to the school board.” Nichol Stack, the Chief Operations Officer at Liberty Pest Control, received an endorsement from the Grand Haven Education Association (GHEA).
Nichol Stack
Brandon Hall
Why do you think that GHEA is backing you? “I think it’s because I’m not a politician. I’m just a regular lady from Grand Haven, that was educated by Grand Haven Area Public Schools. I am a small business owner here in town, so we have the same mission. Our goal is only to get the best education for the students.” What changes are you hoping to implement? “We need to improve school safety. We need to improve our communication plan with the city police department. As a board member I can place it in the front and say okay this is a priority that we need to address. The Grand Haven athletics have taken a toll this year. Now each team has to pay an $800 team fee, that’s beyond the individual pay-to-play. We have to look at ways to lower that. Our principals and our teachers should have more control over their buildings and their classrooms.”
Stay informed every day @ www.bucsblade.com
Attorney Chris Houghtaling has served on the school board for 12 years. During his time on the board, he served as a trustee, both president and vice president, and he is the current treasurer of the board.
Chris Houghtaling www.bucsblade.com, October 17
What is the purpose of the school board? “The school board’s purpose is relatively simple. We are a policy creating board. What happens is the board of education creates policies. The administration’s job is to implement those policies. To make sure that the policies of the board comply with state law and mandates that come from the Michigan Department of Education.”
Follow us on Twitter @thebucsblade and @bucsbladesports 7 THE BUCS’ BLADE
NEWS
Flu season approaches LEXIE ALEXANDER Reporter
Emily Bruch THE BUCS’ BLADE
GROUND ZERO: Syria and Iraq are neighboring Middle Eastern countries. They are also where most of the ISIS-related conflict has occurred.
CRISIS in the Middle East
Here’s what you need to know about the radical Islamic group that is terrorizing the Middle East, and how they could impact the U.S. CONNOR WEBER Reporter
WHAT IS ISIS? ISIS is an acronym which stands for Islamic State of Iraq and Syria. The radical anti-western group was once part of the larger al-Qaeda organization until this spring when the two had a “falling-out” due to differences in religious goals. The main difference between the groups was that al-Qaeda sought to unite all Muslims across the Middle East and form a single Muslim state, while ISIS members’ only intent is to unite Sunni Muslims. The newer ISIS organization and their actions also proved to be too “extreme” even for al-Qaeda, as demonstrated with systematic mass executions, crucifictions, and the beheading of American journalists Steven Sotloff and James Foley. WHAT DO THEY DO? The main goal of ISIS is to establish a new caliphate, or unified Muslim state, encompassing much of the unstable Middle
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East. But what makes them different from other extremist groups is the amount of organization and preparation they do before taking action. They are not only continually gaining land, but they’re setting measures in place to ensure they maintain control in conquered areas, and utilizing all available resources to fund their operations. Its through these constant territorial expansions that ISIS can further spread its influence, and acquire resources necessary to remain self sufficient. “ISIS is seemingly more organized,” current affairs and economics teacher Ed Thomas said. “They’re holding territory, taxing citizens, kidnapping for ransom, utilizing drug money, and oil money. They seem to be more organized than al-Qaeda.” WHERE IS IT? ISIS has established a presence in nearly all of Syria and northwestern Iraq, now with hundreds of square miles of conquered territory. “They have expanded because of the political grievances,economic condition,and corruption that has existed in Iraq,” as-
sistant professor of Middle Eastern studies and political sciences Gamal Gasim said. “They have also expanded in Syria because of the civil war, and the failure of the international community to come and help Syria in fighting.” HOW COULD THIS AFFECT THE U.S.? Despite the most obvious impacts such as the safety of Americans living in or traveling to the Middle East, this ISIS conflict could also have economic and political consequences here at home. One of the most straightforward impacts being the price of oil. As ISIS continues to advance they are also gaining control of vast oil reserves, and with Iraq being OPEC’s second largest producer, a slight bump in the price of petroleum products could soon be felt worldwide. Political tensions have been sparked here at home. Regardless of the time the U.S. has spent this past decade attempting to stabilize Iraq, and the billions of dollars invested to bolster and train the Iraqi army, ISIS forces have swept through with a breeze.
Flu season is upon us. To avoid missing multiple days of school, and feeling more tired than average, get a flu shot. Doctors advise that anyone over the age of 6 months be vaccinated. “The flu shot protects the individual and helps to stop the spread of the virus,” Walgreens Pharmacist Derek Edlund said. “Each shot contains three deactivated strains of the flu that are anticipated to be in circulation in the given year. The shot takes approximately two weeks to take effect, but after that period vaccinated individuals should be less susceptible to the flu.” People hear horry stories associated with vaccines, claiming that the side effects will outweigh the positives of getting it. In reality, the side effects of the vaccine are minimal and rare. “The only real negative to the vaccine is the chance of an injection site reaction,” Edlund said. “Which can cause soreness, redness and swelling at the site of injection. Claims about the shot giving recipients the flu are completely false since the vaccine includes “dead” versions of the virus. Those who get sick after receiving the vaccine were either already sick before receiving the shot, or came in contact with a strain of the flu not included in that yearly vaccine.” Shots are given at places like Meijer, Rite Aid and Walgreens, who have trained personnel onsite during pharmacy hours. Appointments aren’t necessary. Your local doctor’s office may also have the vaccine but tend to cater more toward individuals at risk, such as the elderly. The only individuals who should opt out of receiving the shot are those who are allergic to eggs, since that is how the shot is manufactured. “Many teenagers don’t get the shot because they think they’re invincible, or they’re afraid of the needle,” Edlund said. “The shot itself is relatively painless.” www.bucsblade.com, October 17
Be kind, always
FEATURE
21 years ago, beloved GHHS senior Adam Provencal was shot and killed while trying to apologize for a Halloween prank. To honor him his sister, Lara, spends October filling 31 days with random acts of kindness the rest of the world. “If you follow along with the blog you’ll find that my brother was really remarkable and he made When Oct.1 hits the calendar, the Halloween people feel really special but not for any other season takes over as bags of candy fill the shelves, reason than for god’s glory and to purely love other spooky decorations line yards and costume catapeople,” Capuano said. logues arrive in mailboxes. The leaves change, the Capuano’s niece, senior McKenzie Nelson also cold weather rolls in, the smell of bonfires linger, participates in the 31 days of kindness. and the warm months of summer fade into the “I like to pay for things for people without them beginning of fall. knowing,” Nelson said. But Lara Provencal Capuano and her family Nelson spreads the word about 31 days of kindcan’t mask the pain that’s triggered with this time ness by sharing her aunt’s blog with her classes and of the year. The memories are as crisp as the aufriends. tumn air as Capuano thinks back to the night that “I try to [do an act every day], I feel like that’s she could never forget-- the night her 17-year-old how I can honor my uncle,” Nelson said. brother Adam Provencal was shot and killed. Capuano’s sister, Kristin Nelson encourages her 21 years ago this month, her older sibling was family to recognize her brother through selfless killed by gunshot while apologizing for a Hallowacts during, but not limited to, October. een toilet-papering prank. “I think it’s important to think about other peo“I kind of mark my life like a before and after ple first, put someone else’s needs before my own,” because everything changed,” Capuano, a 1999 Kristin said. “I’d like to say this is always easy and GHHS grad who now lives in Rochester, New natural for me, but the truth is, it isn’t. I need to Photo courtesy of Lara Provencal Capuano YoYork said. be very intentional in things I do and say and how BE SWEET: Capuano often leaves affirmations for others. Her blog inspires The seasonal signs stir feelings of sorrow for the followers from around the world to do the same and to participate in doing daily I choose to respond in any given situation. Making a family. Capuano shared that October in particular choice to serve others first is a beautiful thing, and it’s acts of kindness during October, continuing throughout the year. is a hard month for them to get through. When she a choice I want to make each day. And if other people decided it was time for her to fully process his death viral and people caught on and wanted to participate.” pay it forward, so to speak, then that kindness will be years later, she created a blog to help her cope. The activities can be as simple as smiling at someone, contagious.” Three years ago Capuano made the brave choice to turn paying for the person next to you in line, or helping out. Starting this year, Capuano has used the hashtag #Adher inward grief outward and focus on how she can benefit “Just be a little friendlier or hold the door open, it amsActs on Twitter to encourage others to partake in the other peoples’ lives. She managed to turn her 31 days of doesn’t have to be expensive, it doesn’t have to be a grand 31 days of kindness. She’s taking the opportunity to share torture into 31 days of kindness. gesture,” Capuano said. “Just take a minute and ask how her experiences and transform her grief into helping and Every day for the month of October, Capuano, her someone’s day is going. Some of the best acts of kindness loving others. family, and thousands of her blog readers from around the ended up being the conversations afterwards.” Big or small, acts of kindness are always appreciated. world participate by doing an act of kindness. Some acts that Capuano has done include giving free “The big takeaway is that it doesn’t matter if you live for “When I first started it, I really was doing it for my haircuts, making care packages for the less fortunate, leav17 years like my brother did or if you have one day left on family,” Capuano said. “It was really because I was trying to ing affirmations around her local gym, and volunteering at this earth, you truly can make a difference,” Capuano said. give a voice to what my family goes through and to reach shelter for women and children. “It can be a small difference or it can be a big difference, out to other people who might be hurting or strangers who Her mission is to help people and to try to continue her it’s just how much you’re willing to put into it. Even small might need their day brightened up. Then it kind of went brother’s kindhearted legacy and share his strong faith with differences matter.” LANDON HUDSON FEATURE EDITOR
www.bucsblade.com, October 17
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FEATURE
Not missing out
Maisy Hoffman THE BUCS’ BLADE BY THE NUMBERS: Jonas looks onto the field, noting the plays going on below. He’s been helping in the press box since his sophomore year, loving the view and the position. “I think it’s really cool to be sitting up with the coaches and broadcasting people. I don’t feel like I’m missing out on anything in the student section because I feel like I’m helping the team out more by doing what I’m doing.”
Senior Hunter Jonas isn’t on the field, but he’s taking numbers
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CASEY DAVIS REPORTER
verybody loves high school football games. Be it the traditional aspect of supporting your home town, the enthusiasm pulsing through the crowd, or the adrenaline of living vicariously through the players, we have something in common to look forward to on those Friday nights in the fall. For most high-schoolers, it’s the hype of the student section. The excitement of screaming in ecstasy with your classmates when a touchdown is scored is a feeling unlike any other, unless of course you’re the player who helped score the touchdown and you feel proud eyes on you.
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Those are the only two options for most students that wish to contribute to Friday night football. Except for one, whose job is extremely important in making these football games run smoothly. Senior Hunter Jonas spends every football game in the press box taking stats and helping everyone stay up to date with what’s happening in the game below. As an avid swimmer, Jonas never got involved in actually playing football himself. He has the mentality for the ball game, not the physical ability. “I know what to do, I just can’t do it,” Jonas said with a laugh. He’s always loved watching football. When he was younger, he would often correctly predict the outcome of certain games. When Jonas became good at it, he was inspired to become involved with statistics. The school became aware of Jonas’ interest in taking stats, and he landed the spot through his dad two years ago. His job on Friday night starts long before the game does, with an email to the opposing team’s head coach asking for their roster. Once that is put into the book, he enters the records and names, where the game is and what
time it starts. Jonas then waits in anticipation for the game to start, where he will put in the time each quarter and half starts and ends. He also writes who kicks off, who the ball goes to, the returner, the tackler, where the ball ends up, and who runs it, over and over again. During halftime, Jonas prints off the statistics written down so far and run it to the people talking on the radio. At the end of each game, he wraps it up by writing what time it ended, updating all the records, and printing off the statistics to give it to the press. His job is not an easy one at this. He must work at a very fast pace and under the pressure of knowing that his stats must be perfectly accurate. Despite the pressure, Jonas thoroughly enjoys writing the statistics. “I think it’s really cool to be sitting up with the coaches and broadcasting people,” Jonas said, pushing his wirerimmed glasses up on his nose. “I don’t feel like I’m missing out on anything in the student section because I feel like I’m helping the team out more by doing what I’m doing. Plus, it’s way cooler to be up in the press box.” Jonas added with a smile. www.bucsblade.com, October 17
FEATURE
Let’s get down to business
iCreate 360 students are excited to begin learning what it takes to be an entrepreneur ing a business and applying it to the real world.” Senior Luke Larkin is intrigued by the originality of iCreate. Instead of reaching for the typical tool of pen “I like the creativity of it,” Larkin said. “The or pencil, senior Isaac Braak is handy with the way you get to make your own business, make jigsaw. your own logo, make your own surfboard. I feel During his 6th hour class, Braak and teammates like I’m never going to get bored in the class besever wood as they prepare the stringer, or middle, cause there’s always something to do.” of the surfboard they’re making and marketing. Jettner opened a business once, but wishes Braak’s 6th hour is iCreate 360, a new course he knew then what he does now. By sharing his designed for juniors and seniors to transform an experiences, he's able to give students insight into idea into the construction and selling of a product. the world of entrepreneurship. iCreate is unlike other classes Braak’s taken. "Being an entrepreneur can be brutal and I “It’s a lot different,” Braak said. “Two of the want them to have an honest idea of what being five days we’re at school we get to leave, but we an entrepreneur is all about," Jettner said. "It still have homework." certainly has some amazing perks, but it’s also a lot Mondays and Fridays during 6th hour, students of work." are encouraged to work from home. Harvitt basks in the freedom and responsibility Business and technology teacher Chad Jettner, thrust upon her in iCreate. accounting teacher Diane Ma"My expectations for the class hacek and technical education “The students are were to have the teachers already Jeremy Case co-teach the class have the main components done the ones figuring on a rotation. In Jettner’s secand the students fill in the blanks," out everything and Harvitt said. "I was definitely tion, students develop their own business. With Mahacek, they doing it on our wrong. The students are the ones work on their financial plan. In own, which I really figuring out everything and doing it Case’s class, students build their on our own, which I really enjoy." enjoy.” surfboards. Larkin’s excited to begin designIn the past, classes have cov-junior Caroline ing his surfboard. ered aspects of business, but the “I’m really looking forward to Harvitt goal of iCreate is to guide stuwhen we actually get our surfboard dents through the entire process going,” Larkin said. “We get to of being an entrepreneur. figure out the colors we’re going to “Most people, they have ideas all the time,” put on it, start shaping it to the way we want it to Jettner said. “But they don’t know how to take be.” it to the next step and so that’s what this class is The students and teachers are excited about the really about.” auction that will be held in May where they get the Junior Caroline Harvitt is curious about creatchance to see their creations being sold. ing a business so iCreate 360 is a perfect match for In the meantime, Braak’s content to develop his her. business and chop wood with his teammates. "I decided to take the iCreate 360 class because "It’s a lot more freedom," Braak said. "You I wanted to learn about starting a business,” Harhave to manage your time better as the school year vitt said. “Not only just learning, but actually creat- goes on. That will be interesting." ALIYAH AUSTIN REPORTER
Sophia Newhouse THE BUCS’ BLADE
SURF’S UP: Senior Ashley F watches technical education teacher Jeremy Case demonstrate construction of her surfboard. An auction will be held in May. www.bucsblade.com, October 17
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IN-DEPTH
Know Your Rights A guide to knowing how to help students caught in sticky situations
B
eing arrested at age 17 is a big deal. It can mean fines, suspensions, probation, and
even affect a students ability to get into college. Kids need to know how to help themselves out as much as possible. Knowing how to
Does receiving a Minor In Possession ruin your life? DeVries: I’m a firm believer that if you get an MIP, it’s what you do after you get it that matters more. Are you going to learn your lesson, or are you going to continue to make bad decisions. I have a lot of friends who have very professional jobs who have had MIPs. I don’t think its going to ruin your life, but it can. There is going to be times in like that you’re going to make mistakes. I understand that. but I think that how you react to that mistake and how you change your life in that mistake, is you setting yourself up for failure down the road or you’re setting yourself up to be successful even though you made that mistake. Sewick: A “minor in possession” charge does not necessarily ruin a person’s life but it is highly advisable to avoid such situations. If a person is charged in Michigan with MIP, a diversion program is available which allows the defendant to avoid the conviction if they jump through specific hoops.
What are the consequences of an MIP?
Devries: [The severity] is lowest at the beginning, with the first one, then as you get more, the penalties increase. The fine for the first is anywhere from $150-$200, and when you get a second the fine will go up and it’s a possibility you could go on probation. The third time you are looking at possibly a weekend in jail or the possibility of an intensive supervision program. 12 THE BUCS’ BLADE
act and what to say when in trouble can make a difference in the rest of a teen’s life. The Bucs’ Blade asked deputy Ryan Devries and Attorney Scott Sewick about the consequences of common crimes students find themselves involved in. What are a students genergal rights? (Sewick) Public school students do have an expectation of privacy, but it is a lower standard than the general public. The standard is does the school official have a reasonable suspicion that illegal activity is taking place and is there a reasonable suspicion that the search will result in the discovery of the illegal activity. This is for activity taking place on school grounds. State law in Michigan holds that students do not have a reasonable expectation of privacy in their lockers and searches are permitted. Hence, random locker sweeps are lawful. When can a student say no to a breathalyzer? (DeVries) You can say no to a breathalyzer whenever you want. In the state of Michigan, when you drive a car you are allowed to say no but its an automatic 200 dollar fine. If you’re at a party and you choose not to, we will have you do a few tests. Like checking your eyes and most of those times we can tell if you have been drinking. When can law enforcement enter a party? (DeVries) I can’t just knock on the door and walk in, I have to have consent.
unless I have a search warrant. Most of the time, when we go in and break up large parties, its because someone gave us consent. Can a student get in trouble if at a party but not participating in illegal activities? (DeVries) We are gonna ask, who hasn’t been drinking [when investigating students with alcohol] and those kids who haven’t usually will just say it and take the breath test and we will just tell them to leave. If you’re being responsible and you’re at a party and kids are drinking, just because you are around it doesn’t mean you should get in trouble. What is the difference in consequences between ages 16 and 17? (DeVries) When you’re 16 and younger that goes to juvenile court and thats a whole different kind of consequences. It’s when you have to go with your parents. [Once you become 17 or older] you get a ticket and you’re on your own. You have to handle it and you have to show up for court and if you don’t show up for court then the put a warrant out for your arrest. What about a student’s perspective can make a difference in how they are treated? (DeVries) I think kids have a very construed way that they look at law enforcement. [Kids see us] in way that they think we are just going to kick a door in, and thats just not how it works. You guys still have rights, we are still going to give you those
rights, and we aren’t going to treat you any differently just because you’re 17 or 18 or 19 even. However, there is a ton of digression that each one of us [law enforcement] individually has when we come to work every day. Some cops are more lenient and some guys are the type of person that say ‘If I pull you over you’re going to get a ticket.” and other guys say ‘ Hey you were honest, I’ll give you a warning. Is there a difference in consequences for drugs alcohol? (DeVries) Alcohol is going to be a misdemeanor which isn’t going to be that bad. If you are in possession of pills that aren’t yours thats a felony, so you are looking at a harsher penalty of probation or possibly going to jail. Narcotics is different depending on what it is. The second time you get caught with marijuana in Michigan its a felony. The first time its a misdemeanor. Kids don’t really think about that when its. Now you’re looking at jail time. There is a lot of different scenarios with getting caught so its hard to get into every possible consequence, I would just say nobody should do it. What is the difference between getting into legal trouble while in the school building as opposed to outside? (DeVries) The only difference is you get hit with two penalties hen you’re in school it will result in you getting suspended. -reported by Madison Wilder www.bucsblade.com, October 17
IN-DEPTH
‘You did the crime, now...’
Assistant Principal Mike Roberson answers questions regaurding disicpline What are the consequences of getting caught with drugs/ alcohol at school?
Drugs and alcohol are treated the same way. It’s an automatic 10 day suspension. If it’s a first offense we try and work with the student first to try and get them back in school as soon as possible.
What are the repercussions that follow fighting in school?
It’s a 10 day suspension, and with counseling it’s reduced to five. The student will go through conflict resolution. Our goal is to help the students.
STANDING OUT: Deputy Ryan DeVries stands on the sideline at a football game during half time. DeVries is taking the place of Deputy Derek Gerencer this school year.
Out with the old, in with the new Deputy Ryan Devries fills position of high school police liason OPINION
What is one rule you personally would like to see change? Rules evolve and change. The best example is our cell phone policy. 10 years ago you were not allowed to have cell phones. We would take them if we saw them. Technology has changed, phones have become more prevalent, and we don’t have that rule anymore.
www.bucsblade.com, October 17
Maisy Hoffman THE BUCS’ BLADE
MADISON WILDER The first thing I noticed as I walked into school on the first day, was the unfamiliar police officer standing off to the side on the hall, arms crossed, looking obscenely out of place. I was thinking “Oh great, we already need extra police for the first day?” I ignored him mostly though. However, he was back again the next day, and the next day. By then I had heard the news.
Our beloved Deputy Gerencer has moved on to a new position, and this ‘new guy,’ with an all-too welcoming smile, and enthusiastic persona was here to take his place. I was distraught to say the least. I loved interviewing Gerencer, he was always so willing to answer my questions, always said hello in the halls, and even gave in to my pleading and begging to leave lunch when I forgot my pass (which was close to every day). I thought that this year I might actually have to, and it pains me to say it, have my life together enough to remember my pass every single day. Nonetheless, I was cunning and clever, or so I thought. On the Friday of the first week of school I marched right down to this “new
guy’s” office, now stripped of all Gerencer’s posters and family photos, and interviewed him. I was so set on this guy being a grouch and a stickler for all the rules, I just new that he could never live up to the standards of his cheerful predecessor. Then-not even 30 seconds into my interview, I was pleasantly surprised; I learned his name is Ryan DeVries, he is actually quite nice, he knows Gerencer, he is excited to be here, he has a wife named Ali and a Golden Doodle named Rooney after his favorite soccer player, and he is here by choice because he enjoys the school setting. So maybe I had underestimated him a little-yet these were still just words and I was not fully convinced.
Before The first home football game, friends and I were tailgating in the rain in the bus lane. A few minutes before we packed up, Deputy DeVries rolls up to remind us to move cars out of the middle of the road. He told us how cool it was that we were all here this early before the game grilling hot dogs (we even offered him one) and how much he was already enjoying our school. Once inside the game, he comes strolling up in front of the student section in a police hat with what looked like a shower cap pulled over it. Despite my best efforts to dislike him, this guy was really earning some serious brownie points with the students.
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FEATURE
Backstage with ‘Shrekies’ For members of the tech crew, all the action is behind the scenes TAYLOR FASE REPORTER
The lights lower and the curtains rise as the fall musical production of Shrek is officially underway. Set construction and rehearsals have begun as the actors and actresses begin to prepare for their big shows. However some stars won’t be walking out on opening night. Instead, they will be behind the scenes ensuring the lights, camera, action all go according to script. Junior Noah Brondyke is in his third year of assisting with productions, and helps control the ropes. Learning to handle the ropes required repetitive practice over the course of his first few shows. He first participated in set construction as part of his drama class, then came to really enjoy working backstage. “I kind of got into it and liked it a lot more than actually acting,” Brondyke said. “Its an easy thing to be apart of. You can just come and help, I have a sport and it doesn’t require as much time as being an actor.” Junior Ciara Arnold also assists in activities out of the spotlight. She helps paint sets and props which she positions on the stage when the curtain goes down and lights go dark. It takes about one week of four hour daily rehearsal practices to learn the positions and pace needed to make the show go as smoothly as possible. Arnold has helped behind the scenes in the three major productions since she was a freshmen. “I don’t usually do very much after school activities,” Arnold said. “I really enjoy being on stage but I don’t like to be in front of a crowd.” Sophomore Morgan Tiles is also apart of the techie team, but unlike Brondyke and Arnold, she plans to start acting in the near future. For four shows, Tiles has helped with the typical techie tasks and picked up extra slack wherever it be needed. She first became involved backstage from her brother who
Landon Hudson THE BUCS’ BLADE IN ACTION: Sophomore Morgan Tiles moves part of the set. “It gets your mind off of school and the people are great,” Tiles said.
participated when he was in high school. “It is a lot of fun and it’s a great way to get involved,” Tiles said. “It gets your mind off of school and the people are great.” All three students gave credit to drama teacher Rita McLary and retired engineer Steve Wozniak for mentoring them and teaching them how to run the ropes and place props appropriately. According to Arnold, McLary and Wozniak first complete the tasks themselves to demonstrate for the techies. They then go through it again to teach them when and where props need to be placed, along with coordinating the timing of the ropes. Arnold is excited for the audience to see the final product with all the effort that goes into preparing for show time. “I like to be able to see our creation at the end of the show and everything we’ve worked so hard for just come to life,” Arnold said.
“I really enjoy being on stage but I don’t like to be in front of a crowd.” -Junior Ciara Arnold 14 THE BUCS’ BLADE
www.bucsblade.com, October 17
ENTERTAINMENT
Follow Howie online Twitter @HowieKDay Website www.howieday.com YouTube HowieDayVevo
Sarah Jane Chrysler THE BUCS’ BLADE
ONE MAN BAND: Musician Howie Day performs at Seven Steps Up with only his guitar to accompany him. “I was such a perfectionist about what I wanted the band to be and do, and it made them unhappy. I think from then I kind of knew I was a solo artist. I want to be in charge of everything. No democracy. “
Colliding with Stardom Singer/songwriter Howie Day tells all about his passion for the music industry By Sarah Jane Chrysler Q: When did you know you wanted to pursue music? A: “I had one of those books, for every year of school, k-12 where you put your picture in and it had different questions. Well I wrote in there ‘When I grow up I want to be a rock star.’ I’m not even making that up. That said, I don’t know how serious I was about it at age five. I think 15, I seem to remember there being sort of a ‘ahha moment’ of sorts, where I was pretty determined I was going to do it. I had a lot of people telling me I couldn’t do it, so I actually sort of wrote on a piece of paper that this is what I’m going to do, and I hid it somewhere. ” Q: Are there any bands or artists that specifically influenced your decision to pursue music?
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A: “There were a whole bunch at once. The Nirvana, Pearl Jam thing was happening while I was a teenager. And that was fine and I learned to play the guitar, and stuff from those bands, but then I discovered The Beatles. And after that I started jamming out to Elton John. And then Dave Matthews came to where I’m from and played a concert, and I just thought ‘that looks like a really great job, I’d like to do that’. Regarding the Beatles, I know it’s a cliche to say The Beatles, but it’s just true. I’m just being honest, giving credit where credit is due, even if it’s a lot of credit.” Q: Before your solo career did you work with a band? A: “I was, in high school. It was a lot of fun, I was just so particular. I was such a perfectionist about what I wanted the band
to be and do, and it made them unhappy. I think from then I kind of knew I was a solo artist. I want to be in charge of everything. No democracy. But even so, having people on stage to lean on is huge. If you’re tired, or if you’re not feeling great, what ever it is, there isn’t so much pressure.” Q: Out of everywhere you have played what venue is your favorite so far? A: “Well, I played Red Rocks (In Colorado) one time. Which was pretty great. Just the history and natural beauty around, it was just one of those things where it felt like a dream the next day. Like, did that just happen?”
A: “One of the most incredibly powerful shows I’ve ever seen, I didn’t even think I wanted to go to was U2. I just thought like, it’s way over the top, and at Madison Square garden. I had always planned to go see them at one point, but they played right after September 11, like in October, in New York. So I went to that show, and you could still smell smoke. But the way that the crowd came together, and Bono, and it was just… Life changing.” Scan this QR code to see Day perform
Q: What’s the best concert you have ever seen? www.bucsblade.com, October 17
ENTERTAINMENT
Monthly Movie Reviews Hollywood has remade two popular movies, here’s the breakdown. By Luke Blauvelt
Movie: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Overall Rating: 3/5 Cast: Denzel Washington, Chloë Grace Moretz, Marton Csokas Summary: Robert McCall (Denzel Washington) isn’t your average hardware store worker. Although he may seem normal from a glance, McCall has a mysterious past and doesn’t seem to fit the simple life he now lives. After McCall makes a new friend, Teri (Chloë Grace Moretz) at a local diner, he later finds out that she was forced into prostitution by the Russian Mafia and her real name is Alina. One day McCall discovers that Alina had been brutally beaten by the mafia and the conflict begins. Fortunately, McCall just happens to be a retired government operative--taking the role of a hidden hero among society. McCall’s character is a cross between Sherlock Holmes--with his capability to foresee fights, and Jack Reacher--because he doesn’t care about the law, he cares about what’s right. Seeking who put Alina in the
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Overall Rating: 4/5 Cast: Megan Fox, Alan Ritchson, Johnny Knoxville, Jeremy Howard, Tohoru Masamune, Will Arnett, Tony Shalhoub Summary: When reporter April O’Neil (Megan Fox) is saved by a group of mysterious vigilantes from the infamous Foot Clan, she deviates from her pursuit of the Foot Clan in order to discover the under cover heroes. Eventually O’Neil snags a photo of Leonardo (Johnny Knoxville), Michelangelo (Noel Fisher), Raphael (Alan Ritchson) and Donatello (Jeremy Howard)--bringing conflict and no longer allowing the turtles to operate incognito. The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles are the product of a lab experiment gone wrong, and their blood contains a chemical agent that alters DNA. Coincidentally, Amy realizes that her currently deceased father was partnered in working on the project that created the turtles. Amy seeks her father’s partner and mentions that the turtles are still alive. Little emergency room, McCall makes a promise to rescue her and bring them to justice. Likes: Very well cast, great acting and will keep you at the edge of your seat. Dislikes: This movie is basically the epitome of every action flick dealing with an old man coming out of retirement to kick some ass with a predictable plot. Favorite Quote: “It’s about a guy who is a knight in shining armor, except he lives in a world where knights don’t exist anymore.” McCall talking to Alina about his book. Verdict: Although it was a well written movie with exceptional acting, there was nothing that I haven’t already seen been done before. Recommended For: This movie will appeal to anyone who likes a good old fashioned action/thriller.
does she know, her father’s partner is in collusion with Shredder (Tohoru Masamune)- the leader of the Foot Clan. Likes: The movie gives off a feeling of nostalgia and the plot is unpredictable. Dislikes: The movie is a bit childish in some aspects. Favorite Quote: “I want you to finish our hip hop Christmas album, bro! You’re the hype man!” - Michelangelo talking to Raphael about their rap mixtape. Verdict: The movie resurrects a classic childhood memory for those who grew up with TMNT and creates one for the kids watching it now. Recommended For: The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles are timeless and this film is enjoyable for anyone-even those who claim to be too cool to see it.
Your Turn What music are you listening to right now? “Ever since I was a kid I have loved reggae Christian music because its what my grandma would play.” -Carly Miller, junior “I love reggae music because it channels my inner spirit.” -Sophie Mariani, freshman “Country music makes me happy, and I have been listening to it since birth, so I just really like it.” -Justin Beck, freshman “Heavy Metal helps me reflect on life,”
Movie: The Equalizer -Lukas Steffel, junior www.bucsblade.com, October 17
SPORTS
Cole twins share DNA and volleyball court BRIANNA MOYNIHAN Sports Editor
S
ophomores Katie and Libby Cole have always been a package deal. They have shared everything from a room and clothes to friends and interests. Now they share spots on the varsity volleyball team. After playing for five years, both twins have found their niche. Katie serves as the team’s setter while Libby performs as a defensive specialist. But according to varsity coach Aaron Smaka, the girls have more in common than their looks. “They play different positions, they do different things, but the way they play the game is very similar,” Smaka said. Their teammates notice they play the game with a similar intensity. According to senior teammate Autumn Monsma they are extremely vocal, often shouting both motivation and directions to the team and each other. Some would think that constantly being around your sibling would become annoying, but the Cole twins wouldn’t have it any other way. “I think it makes us better, we have some competition with each other,” Libby said. “It’s fun playing with my sister.” The two also bring a special enthusiasm to the court that helps drive the team to success. “I think more than anything it’s their attitude, I think the way they approach the game and the way they approach www.bucsblade.com, October 17
anything,” Smaka said. “They are so energetic and so positive. They are so passionate for the game and they give it everything they’ve got every day.” Smaka attributes the twins’ success not only to their effort on the court but also to their knowledge of volleyball. “They both have a natural understanding of the game. Knowing where the ball is and being in the right spot at the right time to make the play,” Smaka said. “Obviously being around the game for a very long time is a huge benefit for them.” Being the younger sisters of University of Michigan volleyball player Abby Cole, the twins have big shoes to fill. But they are up to the challenge. They share a dedication to the sport and their team, but express their passion in different ways. Besides the fact that Katie’s ears are pierced and their personalities set them slightly apart, the two are identical in almost every way. “Libby is a lot more outgoing and energetic whereas Katie is more of the quiet type,” Monsma said. “But she’s not really quiet, just quieter than Libby.” Both Katie and Libby are thankful to have the opportunity to play side by side. They cherish the support they receive from one another at home and in the gym. “You have someone who can relate to you, and you can always talk to about everything,” Katie said grinning at her sister.
Sophia Newhouse THE BUCS’ BLADE
THE BUCS’ BLADE 17
SPORTS
James Harding THE BUCS’ BLADE
GO WITH THE FLOW: Junior Connor Jettner races a Rockford defender to the ball in a home contest on Tuesday, Sept. 16. Jettner’s constant pressure on the Ram’s defense helped the Bucs win 2-0.
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www.bucsblade.com, October 17
SPORTS
From football to fútbol Junior Connor Jettner trades in his helmet and shoulder pads for shin guards and soccer cleats
A
year ago junior Connor Jettner was padded up on the football field. But after a summer of kicking a ball around and a proposition from a friend, Jettner decided to return to the game he once loved. “A year ago I would’ve never imagined myself playing soccer," Jettner said. "It wasn't even a thought.” From age 9 to 12, Jettner played for the Tri-Cities soccer club, Strikers. Though he enjoyed playing soccer on a team with his friends, Jettner always aspired to play football. So when his parents finally allowed him to, he kicked soccer to the side. “I didn’t want to continue [soccer] because I always loved playing football,” Jettner said. “Not that I ever played, I just loved playing football and wanted to try it out.” After two years of high school football, Jettner decided that it wasn’t his forte. However, playing soccer again was still an afterthought. Until junior David Krapohl came along. Krapohl, who was injured in the offseason, helped Jettner come back to soccer. They went to the field and shot around frequently. Krapohl set up various passing and dribbling drills once a week. “He hadn’t played since like 8th grade so he was pretty rusty,” Krapohl said. “So we went out like every other day and did different passing drills, shooting drills and dribbling drills. I saw a lot of improvement from him from the two months we’d been working together.” Jettner attributes his success in transition back to soccer to the time he put in training and playing drop-ins before the season. But the confidence boost that propelled Jettner to play was a successful tryout for Lakeshore Premiere. “I tried out for Lakeshore premiere before the school season and I made it,” Jettner said. “After that, I was thinking if I could make Lakeshore Premiere then I’m pretty sure I can make the school team.” He was right. Not only did Jettner make the team, but he would exceed expectations. Jettner was one of the last players to make the cut. Bucs’ www.bucsblade.com, October 17
ADAM ABRAHAM Senior Staff Writer
Jonas Quirin THE BUCS’ BLADE
CROSSING OVER: Junior Connor Jettner prepares to send in a cross to a teammate. Jettner serves as a forward, he has three goals and two assists on the season.
soccer fans didn’t expect to see him on the field because initially his role wasn't supposed to be substantial. “He's playing a much bigger role than what he thought when we first finished tryouts,” head coach Aaron Dean said. “As a program we talk about making the most of your moments and Connor did that early and has continued to do so.”
This new role didn’t come overnight. Jettner worked hard in practice and got a chance to show what he could do. “After a few practices I finally got into the game and I was going to make the most of the opportunity,” Jettner said. “I ended up playing pretty well so after that I got more playing time.” With more playing time came more opportunities to score. The junior made a statement on a Tuesday night against Muskegon Mona Shores when he fired in his first goal of the season. “I was so hype,” Jettner said. “I haven’t had that big of an adrenaline rush in my entire life. The crowd was super pumped and it was just awesome.” The games came easier to Jettner after getting his first goal out of the way. He proceeded to score in the next two home games. Though he admits that scoring is a priority and beneficial, Jettner’s main goal is to be the "energy guy" for the Buccaneers. "I don’t play the most, I'm not a starter, I'm not the best ball handler," Jettner said. "I just love bringing the energy. That’s just a huge part in any sport." Dean appreciates the energy and attitude that Jettner brings to practice and games. However, solely saying he has high energy doesn't give him enough credit for what he does. "[What he does] requires working harder than others on fitness, on preparing yourself mentally, and pressing on when your body wants to slow down," Dean said. "Unfortunately not all athletes are willing to suffer in the ways that are necessary to play with his 'energy'." Dean describes him as "a kid that most would consider a non-traditional soccer player.” Which is understandable considering he stands at a humble 5'3". Jettner has shown that regardless of his stature or the sport he's playing, there comes a point where you just have to compete. And compete is what Jettner does best. "If you want to do something you can just go and do it," Jettner said. "I never imagined myself playing soccer again. If you really work for it, you can do anything.”
THE BUCS’ BLADE 19
sports
Solid as a Braak Senior twin midfielders use experience, chemistry to lead boys varsity soccer team schaefer thelen Sports Editor
Jonas Quirin the bucs’ blade
brothers: Seniors Derek and Isaac Braak stand back-to-back after a tie against East Kentwood on Wednesday, Oct. 8. The two have played on the same team their entire soccer careers.
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Standing just 5-foot-6, seniors Derek and Isaac Braak are not the biggest guys on the boys varsity soccer team. They’re not the strongest or fastest, and they don’t score the most goals either. However, there’s something about the Braak twins that separates them from most other players around. As varsity soccer head coach Aaron Dean put it: “they find a way to get the task completed.” “I think my favorite part about coaching Derek and Isaac is their competitiveness, their gamesmanship, and the drive that they have every time they play,” Dean said. “They are such a riot, they’re so competitive, and just that basic desire to play at a high level and perform. It’s such a gut kind of thing. You can’t coach it, it’s really hard to develop in players, and they just have it.” Although the Braaks don’t have jawdropping statistics or an earth-shattering physique, the two have a special knack for the ball. “They both make the tackle every time and get the ball no matter what, even with their size,” senior teammate Christian Dault said. Dean agrees. “Physically they’re not the most intimidating presence but out of anybody they’re probably winning more headballs than anybody else on our team, they have more steals and tackles than anybody else on our team and that is just the factor of whatever is in their brain that drives them to be that
way and that’s the piece that is really fun to watch,” Dean said. While Dean claims he can “barely tell them apart” and that they’re basically interchangeable from a tactical perspective, Isaac admits that he likes to move forward and attack more while Derek tends to stay back and defend. Besides their physical talents on the soccer field, the two midfielders have also developed a mental edge in their third varsity season. “Quite often we’ll kind of let them decide so if we’re gonna play a player out wide and one on the inside, we’ll let them pick, and that’s kind of the respect that they’ve earned through their performance over the years and their work ethic in practice, their soccer knowledge,” Dean said. “As a coaching staff we’re really comfortable letting them make a lot of those decisions on their own.” Dault, who has played with them for eight years now, has also come to notice their soccer smarts and poise on the pitch. “They’re like the mediators in the game,” Dault said. “They just don’t ever come unprepared, they’re never complaining, they don’t ever yell at anyone on the team. They’re not the players that people can get into their heads. They just play their game and it’s always the same, you expect them to play good every game so you never have to worry about that.” After playing on the same team for their entire soccer careers, the Braaks have developed a special connection out on the field. “Since it’s a new team this year, me and www.bucsblade.com, October 17
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James Harding the bucs’ blade
laser focus: Senior Isaac Braak concentrates as he prepares for a volley at home against Rockford on Tuesday, Sept. 16. The Bucs won the game 2-0. Braak has five goals and five assists on the season.
Derek know how each other play and we like to pass to each other a lot,” Isaac said. “So I guess we have a chemistry.” Dault has become impressed by this “chemistry” and often sees the two do more than simply pass to each other. “They just know exactly what each other are going to do,” Dault said. “They just pass it in anticipation and the other one just reacts and they know exactly what the other one is expecting them to do.” Although Derek and Isaac work seemingly perfect together with the ball at their feet, their sibling relationship often times shines through. “They have a lot of respect from the coaching staff, from the other kids www.bucsblade.com, October 17
on the team, so when they screw up there’s nobody that really says anything to them except each other,” Dean said. “Derek will get on Isaac’s case and Isaac will get on Derek’s case and that’s pretty funny to see happening out on the field.” Even during games the duo will find ways to get on their brother’s nerves and aggravate each other. “When I’m on the field, I’ll be in the moment and then I’ll just sometimes scream at somebody or something or yell at them and Isaac will all of a sudden out of nowhere tell me to shut up,” Derek said. “It’s really annoying.” As their friend and teammate, Dault witnesses this “brotherly love” all the time in practice during various drills.
“They are really funny,” Dault said. “When one of them makes a mistake the other one makes sure to call them out for it and harass them but they love being with each other. They say they hate it, they’re like ‘aw, lemme have a different partner, I don’t wanna be with him,’ but they love it.” Despite their frequent frustrations with each other and all of their little sibling spats, the two remain a tight pair. “Sometimes we get really annoyed of each other on the field but I like playing with him a lot,” Isaac said. Even Derek painfully admits his admiration for his twin brother. “I guess I like [playing with Isaac] a lot because I guess he’s pretty good.”
James Harding the bucs’ blade
hustle: Senior Derek Braak fights for a 50-50 ball against a Rockford defender on Tuesday, Sept. 16. Braak has totaled 6 points on the season.
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SPORTS
You don’t know
JACK
Freshman dashes to front of pack as varsity’s top runner TRESSA BATHKE Senior Staff Writer
Jonas Quirin THE BUCS’ BLADE
DEFYING EXPECTATIONS: Freshman Jack Nicholson leads the boys cross country team with a best time of 16:20 at the Allendale invite Scarlet Division. Nicholson began running competitively in eighth grade, and found his passions through track and field. He hopes to run under 16 minuets by the end of the season.
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n August 27,a pair of fresh legs graced the trails of the Don Anderson cross country course for the first home meet of the season. An unfamiliar face lead the pack of veteran runners, shocking the spectators and coaches. With a time of 17:06, freshman Jack Nicholson crosses the finish line five seconds before the second place runner, and nearly a minute before the second Grand Haven runner. Since the first race, Nicholson has remained in the top varsity position, with his fastest time at 16:20. “I didn’t expect myself to be good, so it was actually a nice surprise,” Nicholson said. Nicholson participated in cross country in 8th grade, however, he didn’t find his passion for running until track and field that year. Head coach John Tarr attributes Nicholson’s www.bucsblade.com, October 17
success to his work ethic and summer mileage. Nicholson attended daily practices with the team and on the weekends he would practice on his own,which totaled approximately 160 miles this summer. “He’s got a good genetic code,” coach John Tarr said. “But on top of that, this is the first time he’s ever gone through a lot of intensive training. He pays attention to what we are doing and he works hard.” Along with the rest of the team, Tarr recognizes Nicholson as humble, yet extremely competitive, which adds to his success. “He sets a standard for all of us,” senior captain Brent Peterson said. “It makes us want to try harder and keep up with him.” Other teammates agree. “We support him,” senior Justin Merriman said. “By doing that it pulls us with him and helps us succeed as well.”
Tarr hopes that Nicholson will remain healthy and continue to improve. “I had some expectations for him going in to the season,” Tarr said. “But at this point, he’s completely exceeded them.” Nicholson’s aspirations for himself are quite similar, including a goal to hit 16:00 before the season’s end. However, he’s conscious not to try to do too much, too fast. “I really just don’t want to burn out at the end of the season because next year I want to be even faster,” Nicholson said. Avoiding burnout will also help Nicholson achieve another personal goal of making it to the MHSAA state finals on Nov. 1. Even if he doesn’t, the season has been worth it. “It is hard, but it is a really fun experience,” Nicholson said. “Just to be with all of the guys, they’re so friendly and fun to be around. Its just a great thing to be a part of.”
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sports
Varsity volleyball is...
of the
Team month
For additional updates on varsity sports teams check out
www.bucsblade.com
Tressa bathke Senior Staff Writer
The Rundown: The Bucs, currently ranked No. 6 in Class A, have an overall record of 39-5. The team also finished 4-0 in the conference, winning them an O-K Red Conference championship. Standout Player: Junior Emily Lachmann is one of the five outside hitters on the team. She has a total of 302 kills and 73 aces this season. At the East Kentwood invitational on Saturday, Oct. 11, she led the team with 49 digs and 11 aces, and also contributed 33 kills. Statement Game: After trailing by six points in the first set to then No. 1-ranked Portage Central, the Lady Bucs came back and won the match on Thursday, Sept. 4. The Bucs took both sets, 26-24 and 25-20. The victory motivated the team, proving that they can compete against the best teams in the state. Games to Watch: Buccaneer volleyball fans should look forward to the conference tournament. The Lady Bucs will face all five conference opponents in an eight day window. They play West Ottawa on Tuesday, Oct. 21, then Hudsonville and Rockford on Thursday, Oct. 23, followed by Grandville and East Kentwood on Tuesday, Oct. 28. They Said It: “We talk about preseason, conference, and postseason. It gets tougher every game we go. Sometimes the best team doesn’t win, and that’s why we play these games.” -head coach Aaron Smaka “We are super-excited to show everyone what we can do. We are going into it with the mindset that we always have to have the mindset of champions.” -senior Amy Kober
James Harding the bucs’ blade
intensity: Sophomore outside hitter Libby Cole communicates with her teammates in a match on Thursday, Sept. 9.
James Harding the bucs’ blade James Harding the bucs’ blade
bump, set, spike: Sophomore Claire Holman winds up for a kill in a Sept. 9 match against Hamilton. The Bucs prevailed in straight sets, 25-15 and 25-23. www.bucsblade.com, October 17
let’s celebrate: (From left to right) Senior Kenzie Ritzema, sophomore Sophia Newhouse, sophomore Morgan Ross, junior Ally Knoll and junior Claire VanWieren cheer on their teammates after winning a point in a quad on Thursday Sept. 9. The team went 3-0 on the day against Grand Rapids West Catholic, Hamilton, and Muskegon Reeths-Puffer without dropping a single set.
James Harding the bucs’ blade
poise and power: Senior captain Autumn Monsma eyes the ball in a win against Grandville on Thursday, Oct. 9. Monsma will play at Northern Michigan University next year.
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24 EYE CANDY
THE BUCS’ BLADE October 17, 2014
Truly Triumphant
Grand Haven students shine during Oktoberfest 5K AWARDS (1): Teacher Derek Warner stands in front of the crowd to hand out medals to the participants. Each captain was awarded a gold medal and a cup to congratulate them for their hard work. ALL SMILES (2): Grand Haven students Bradley Langemaat and Gatlin Swinton as well as other captains and their angles smile for a group picture after the race. “it’s great to be able to do this with our students and with students in general outside of the school day, because its you know we aren’t doing academics, we are doing something that’s filling them up and kinda filling their bubble in another way” teacher Melissa Richardson said.
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Jonas Quirin THE BUCS’ BLADE
Maisy Hoffman THE BUCS’ BLADE
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HOME STRETCH(3): Captain Alex Priese and his team of angles speed down the course with the finish line in sight. “I’m so happy for Alex that he gets to have this experience and that he gets to feel what it feels like to be pushed in a race and go through the finish line and have people cheering, and clapping and you know calling his name” Richardson said. COOL DOWN (4): After crossing the finish line, captain Gatlin Swinton and one of his angles grab a drink before heading to the awards ceremony. “You know its fun to see Gatlin be excited about it, he was just having fun” Richardson said. GOLD MEDAL (5): After the exciting race, participants headed behind Old Boys for the My Team triumph awards ceremony. Captain Alex Priese was awarding with is metal with assistance from his angles.
5 Jonas Quirin THE BUCS’ BLADE
Maisy Hoffman THE BUCS’ BLADE