Oct. 10, 2019 Edition

Volume 58 • Edition 2 • Thursday, October 10, 2019

T H E

SAILORS’ LOG Mona Shores High School • 1121 Seminole Road • Norton Shores, Michigan 49441

Cell Hotel

nts to a new love-hate Cell phone policy introduces stude 5. relationship. Read more on page

2 Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019

Stressed Out

EDITORIAL

The way I think about anxiety has changed

I

t can make one’s heart start racing. It can make sweat glide down one’s forehead.

It can make one’s hands clammy.

And it can set a person on edge with negative thoughts.

Stress can do all of these things and more.

People face exhausting amounts of stress daily because of the expectations of the modern world and the way they Column by personally Jaylene handle and Davis, staff identify their writer stress.

I am no different.

When I feel overwhelmed with the stress of anxiety, I try thinking of it differently to help me feel better about it.

Instead of letting my stress and worries tear me down, I see them as something that prepares me to react to the situation.

I constantly remind myself of the things I heard in Kelly McGonigal’s Ted Talk, “How To Make Stress Your Friend.” The most surprising fact to me was that 182,000 people have died prematurely “from the belief that stress is bad for you” over an eight-year period. That would average out to 20,000 per year.

She said it was important to make think of stress as a helpful, preparing mechanism rather than something

that is bad for you.

That fact, the 182,000 deaths, is a shocking truth to anyone like me who believes stress is detrimental to their health and happiness.

Upon hearing this, I realized that the way I thought about my stress hurts me more than my stress itself ever did. Yes, my anxiety can be bad and make me overwhelmed, but I am also aware that my self-talk during stressful moments greatly contributes to worsening my mental state.

For example, when I was panicking about presenting a speech, the stress got in my body and made me feel as if I were walking on a tightrope above a crowd being watched, and I needed to be careful with every

Executive Editors Morgan Cathey Paige Judson Gabby Lopez Staff Jenna Baker Holli Brus Aidan Cook Jaylene Davis Mia Dickson Sydney Fetters

move I made.

Although it was not that bad, my heart was racing, and I was worrying as if it were.

When I feel that overwhelming anxiety surge through my head and rush through my veins, I remind myself that my body is preparing myself for this challenge and that I should use this adrenaline to my advantage.

And next time I am standing in front of a crowd delivering a speech or any other stress-inducing task, I am going to take that negative energy I feel and turn it into power to fuel myself through the challenge.

That pounding heart and the feeling of needing to do something immediately are preparing me to succeed

Sophia Fisher Bailey Graham Chris Horvath Emily Kuznar Sarah Roman Samantha Sewick Kye Sieffert Robby Swanker Adviser Warren Kent III

and giving me courage.

By simply changing the way I think about my stress, I hope to find that even when dealing with minimal stress, I can handle myself better and direct my thoughts back to the task at hand instead of my worries.

This will be the biggest challenge for me because stress always led me down a bad path.

I naturally worry about the little things in life like other people’s thoughts, likes on social media, and things I could possibly do wrong.

Worries like these can be barriers in my life, but they’re barriers that I get to wotk to overcome.

Through this, I hope others can remember that stress can be their friend and help prepare them for the task at hand too.

For me, I hope I can continue to practice thinking of my stress as a good thing and even using it to my advantage more often.

I understand now that it will greatly benefit anyone’s physical and mental health to be positive a major thing that can tear them down.

And by changing the negative mindset about stress, one’s racing heart turns into a beating machine pumping fuel to their brain and body to help them overcome challenges.

Their sweat will cease and nerves will fade.

But most importantly, one’s negative thoughts ease and they will be ready for the challenge ahead.

The Sailors’ Lo

our voice Fall time brings out the seasonal favorites We all know that time of year. The leaves start falling, the wind gets just a little bit colder, and the sweaters start coming out of hibernation.

Among these things comes the holiday that you either love or hate. Halloween.

If A Nightmare on Elm Street isn’t quite your forte, then we’d assume you’d be curled up in a fuzzy blanket with a cup of apple cider watching Halloweentown or Casper.

However, if that is not what Halloween means to you, then go ahead and get to the haunted house.

Watch Child’s Play. Scare your best friend to another universe. The world is your oyster.

But fall isn’t just for scheming, scaring, and snacking. Well, maybe a little bit of snacking.

During this cozy time of year, we encourage you to go apple picking. Not only do you get to spend time with a parent or a best friend, but you can pick some delicious apples and make some caramel apples.

Maybe fall means curling up with a good book, lighting that pumpkin spice candle you’ve been saving since July, and reading the day away.

Bust out those plaid flannels and brown booties.

Wear that oversized sweater and black vest. Carve pumpkins with your best friends and see who can make the most creative pumpkin.

Rake up all the leaves in your backyard and relive your childhood memories. Start up a gigantic bonfire with all your friends, roast the tastiest of s’mores, and share silly memories you all share.

And you can’t forget about taking a long hayride along the most magnificent of apple orchids.

While you’ll be out there living your best life, we’ll be inside writing our next edition while 2000s rap plays in the background and someone will be crying. Don’t ask us why. We have no idea.

So, whatever your definition of Sunday Funday means this fall, get out there. Enjoy the nice weather now before below-freezing temperatures and snow up to your knees comes back.

If we get lucky, we might even have another week off school. Fingers crossed.

The Sailors’ Log is a public forum for student expression distributed freely to students and faculty of Mona Shores High School.

How to communicate with the staff: • Email: kentw@monashores.net • Website: www.thesailorslog.com • Facebook: Mona Shores Publications

Our Voice is the opinion message selected by the editorial staff of The Sailors’ Log. Your Voice, the letters to the editor section, is the opinion of our readers. All letters to the editor must be signed.

This edition of The Sailors’ Log was printed by The Argus-Press 201 E. Exchange St. Owosso, MI 48867

The Sailors’ Log

EDITORIAL

Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019 3

A Divided America

America has changed throughout the years, not for the better

W

e live in a country that couldn’t be more divided. Nowadays, the feeling that most people give off is; either you’re with us or you’re against us; either you’re red or you’re blue, when in reality most people are some shade of purple.

I am a Trump supporter.

That statement alone might make some people beColumn by come filled with anger and Chris frustration, which is wrong.

Horvath, It’s wrong to judge anyone staff writer based solely on their political views.

I often find myself surrounded by people who believe the opposite of me, but that’s OK. Actually, it’s better than OK; it’s a good thing because differing opinions built this country.

I wore a Donald Trump T-shirt to school on the Friday of Sailor Salute and had many dirty looks shot at me, many of which were from people I didn’t know, which makes me question their character.

Last year, I met somebody in one of my classes; eventually, this person became a friend. One day, everything changed when I wore my Trump shirt; he said it was terrible for me to wear something like that, and after that, we never spoke to again.

Artwork by Chris Horvath Seeing so much judgment at our school makes me think about the broader picture.

I look at the members of Congress, such as Nancy Pelosi, Chuck Schumer, and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who just spew their hatred against President Trump, and I know they would rather see President Trump fail than see our country succeed.

That’s pure selfishness and greed. Saying you want your President to fail regardless of if you agree with their policies or not is basically saying that if you’re riding on an airplane that you want the pilot to crash.

Yes, Republicans disliked President

“I like to go on walks through the woods with my dog. I also like the changing colors.” – Sam Schibner, senior

“I like hunting because you can go outdoors and enjoy nature and the changing colors.” – Evan Fischer, junior

“I like watching football in the fall instead of going outside because I’m afraid to go outside.” – Bobby Wasserman, sophomore

“I enjoy going to and watching football games because they’re a lot of fun.” – Nico Taylor, freshman

Obama while he was in office, but it was never like this against him as it is for Trump now. America was built on liberty and independence. If the colonists hadn’t worked together back in the 1770s, regardless of their differing opinions, we would not be here right now.

I’m proud to live in America, but America has evolved throughout the last 250 years, and generally, it hasn’t been for the better. America is so much more than what it has become.

Back in the earlier years of our country, we cared about each other. We didn’t even

What are you most looking forward to this fall?

Q the big

In each edition of The Sailors’ Log, eight students will be asked their opinion about a current topic.

identify ourselves based on who we voted for in the last election or just based on our political ideas whatsoever. I wish we still lived in that version of America.

I’ll be the first person to raise my hand and say that this issue isn’t a one-way street. The “tolerant” and “loving” left side of this country is not as tolerant and loving as they would like to appear, but I’ll admit that the right is also to blame.

It’s sad that in this world we live in we can’t even be cordial to one another because of our differing political views. That is the most idiotic philosophy ever.

I am not afraid to say it: America is not the greatest country in the world anymore.

There’s a video on Youtube titled “America is not the greatest country in the world anymore.” It’s from an HBO show called The Newsroom. If you get a chance, watch it (be prepared for explicit language).

I couldn’t agree more with everything that’s said in that video. A gentleman talks about how our country has gotten worse, how we truly only lead the world in three categories (all negative).

However, I still have faith.

I have faith that America can be and will be back to its former glory, back to the country it used to be, and if that’s not going to happen, God help us, and God bless the United States of America, always.

“I always liked going to Lewis Farms and taking fall pictures. There’s always nice scenery and good atmosphere.” – Raine Jackson, senior

“I really like all the changing colors of fall. They make for nice pictures and backgrounds.” – Amariya Thomas, junior

“I really like the pumpkin Pillsbury cookies during fall and carving pumpkins.” – Linden Gentzkow, sophomore

“My favorite thing about the fall is volleyball because it’s fun, and I get to do it with my friends.” – Ava Dunn, freshman

REVIEW

Spice it Up

4 Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019

The Sailors’ Log

Pumpkin spice lattes are a huge trend during the fall months. Whether they are iced or hot, pumpkin spice is the way to go. Staff writer Holli Brus visited three local coffee places around Norton Shores and decided to taste these lattes for herself.

Biggby is the way to go

Brooklyn Bagels was a pumpkin spice overload Brooklyn Bagels (3007 Henry St.) might have good bagels, but their iced pumpkin spice lattes aren’t really up to par.

It was definitely my least favorite of the places I went.

Even though it was the cheapest, $2.60 for a 16-ounce latte, there was something not quite right.

For starters, the latte tasted super watery, and it should have been more creamy.

The latte had a strong pumpkin spice zing to it, which was good, but it was also a little overbearing.

Also, the temperature of the latte was mediocre. It was warm at first, but once I mixed it around with the ice, it was better.

On a better note, Brooklyn Bagels lets customers pick out whatever straw color they want, so that’s fun.

I would suggest this latte to coffee lovers who are looking for something cheap and who love the taste of pumpkin spice.

Overall, the latte wasn’t bad, but I would never choose to get that over something else.

Driving to Biggby (3295 Henry St.), I didn’t have high expectations for their pumpkin spice latte.

Those expectations were definitely exceeded. Biggby’s version of the iced pumpkin spice latte was by far my favorite, making this the best of my three stops.

As I took the first sip of the latte, my taste buds burst with flavor, and I took a liking to this drink immediately.

The latte was a perfect mixture between not being too watery or being too creamy; instead, it was the perfect median.

This latte also had a great amount of ice so that the drink was nicely chilled but not watered down.

This flavorful delight had the perfect combo because I could taste both the coffee and the

pumpkin spice.

What was nice was that the pumpkin spice latte wasn’t overbearing, but it also wasn’t to faint.

I am not the biggest fan of pumpkin spice, per say, but I greatly enjoyed this latte.

Another bonus was that they added whipped cream without me even asking, so that was a good addition to the latte because who doesn’t like some whipped cream?

The one negative would have to be the price since this was by far the most expensive of the three.

The 16-ounce latte cost $5.82, and I was in shock when the cashier told me the total because that seemed a little too high for a small latte.

Yes, the price was high, but I would recommend this drink to those who are craving the perfect fall drink because you won’t regret it.

Even though the price was slightly unreasonable, Biggby’s version of the iced pumpkin spice latte scored at the top of my list without a doubt.

They like it a ‘latte’ “I like black coffee with creamer.

I drink coffee every morning on a school day. It wakes me up, and it just starts off my day better. My mom usually makes coffee in the morning, and that’s my go-to.” – Max Spagnuolo, senior

“I love coffee. It keeps me nice and energized all day. I normally drink it about three times a week. My favorite type of coffee is an iced caramel macchiato, and I love going to Biggby.” – Kayla Forman, sophomore

“I am obsessed with coconut, so my favorite coffee drink is a coconut cream latte. I always go to Biggby to get my coffee.

It is my favorite place to get coffee, and I don’t know why.

I’m just obsessed with it.” – Maria Coronado, junior

“I like all kinds of coffee, and I drink it about every day to help me wake up. My favorite place to go and get coffee is Biggby because they make it sweet, and it tastes good, and I go there a lot.” – Donaven Dekuiper, freshman

Tim Hortons: was it even a pumpkin latte?

The small iced pumpkin spice latte from Tim Hortons (3334 Henry St.) tasted nothing like I would expect, and frankly, it wasn’t a pumpkin spice latte at all.

Instead of being watery, this latte was super creamy, and it had a strong taste of vanilla to it.

It also definitely had a stronger coffee taste.

As for the pumpkin spice, it was extremely light, which I enjoyed.

It tasted like an iced vanilla latte with a faint splash of pumpkin spice at the end.

The cup size was only 10 ounces, and it cost $2.99.

I would recommend this drink to coffee lovers who’s forte isn’t pumpkin spice because it is so faint that I could hardly taste it, but it is still enjoyable.

The only negative would obviously be the price compared to the ounces.

Also, the straws were extremely large for the cup, making it more difficult to drink out of and difficult to mix around the flavoring.

NEWS

The Sailors’ Log

Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019 5

Shutting Down One of the projects funded by the $93 million bond was the installation of the new vestibule and the remodeling of the front office. (Photo by Bailey Graham)

Sailors see new upgrades added to school building, soccer/softball complex

By Robby Swanker Staff Writer While the new entryway to the high school is complete, there are many construction projects that are still underway at the high school.

The entryway, which included re-routing guests through the main office as well as a new check-in system, was completed the week before school started.

“The check-in system is much better,” front office secretary Deb Klein said. “I can see people ahead of time and be more prepared when they come in. A small problem is that it is kind of confusing for people knowing which way to go since we switched the office entrance. ” In addition to the entryway, work is being done at the softball/soccer complex as well as the auditorium. A big thanks to the $93 million bond that passed last November.

Work at the soccer field, which has forced both the girls’ team (last spring) and the boys’ team (this fall) to play home games at Ross Park, has included new sod along with bleachers and a concession stand.

The softball field received more of a cosmetic upgrade with a new backstop, bleachers, dugouts and pressbox. The backstop masonry is almost done, so they are just waiting on concrete to start columns and finish outside blockwork. They are also finishing up the interior softball concession masonry. The dugouts and pressbox are projected to be

completed by Nov. 1.

“The softball program has been chipping away over the course of the last 20 years, doing it with parents and volunteer labor,” athletic director Todd Conrad said. “It was time for the district to support the program with some upgrades. Soccer is the same way. We had some drainage on the field, so they had to cancel a lot of games because any time it rained there was standing water in the SW corner of the field, so we needed a solution for that.”

The auditorium and stagecraft area is under some drastic changes as well.

Drywall is in process, followed by fresh paint. Improving fire safety is complete and windows should be installed in a week. Carpet has been removed with scaffold, or a raised wooden platform, coming down in a week. As soon as the scaffold is down, the new ticket booth will be installed.

“For the auditorium, we don’t know exactly what we’re going to get in there yet, but we are hoping that we are going to get a lot of upgrades to the sound, lighting, whole new stage floor, and new curtains” choir teacher Shawn Lawton said. “Everything is almost 25 years old, so basically all total overhaul of all the technical equipment in the theatre as well.”

Another addition, although not one specific to the school, is the addition of a crosswalk across Seminole Road from Padelt Street.

DISTRACTIONS Phone policy removes distractions

By Bailey Graham Staff Writer So why can’t students have their cell phones in classes?

Principal Jennifer Bustard explained it this way: “When I am in a meeting, can I be on my cell phone? No. When I am at work, can I be on my cell phone? No, so when students are learning should they be on their cell phones? No.” While no change in school policy has occurred regarding cell phone usage, the faculty is now more consistent with all teachers requiring cell phones to go into a Phone Caddy during class time.

“This strong policy means students check in their phones, sit down, and are all good and focused on what is going on in the classroom, and boom, they’re learning,” Bustard said.

Students and their cellphones in class was a problem that was brought up by the staff and student leadership.

“Up until this school year, every teacher had a different phone policy, so it was hard to control,” Bustard said. “The leadership team came up with the strategy to keep all student’s cell phones either stowed in their locker or in the cell

phone caddy.”

Teachers have already seen a change in the students’ behaviors and attention since enforcement.

“I love the cell phone policy,” math teacher Carrie Helmer said.

“Students are interacting more.

They are looking into each other’s eyes and talking to each other more. Also, they are working harder in class. So far, everyone has been doing amazing with the policy; they walk in head straight to the caddy and pop in the phone and get ready to learn.”

Of course, students have mixed opinion about this power-off policy, but some students have considered it a saving grace.

“I personally like the cell phone policy because you put your phone away for the hour so you are fully engaged in the materials that your teachers are sharing, which I believe will lead to better grades,” senior Nolan Kasher said. “It has given me a chance to really focus on learning at school.”

Not all students share the same enthusiasm about the policy. To get students’ opinion, The Sailors’ Log sent out a survey and 79 percent of students (191 polled) dislike the cell phone policy.

“I honestly don’t like the policy

because it is annoying since it’s still the same concept but a little more hardcore,” junior Sidney Gould said. “It makes it discouraging when all my work is done, and I have nothing to do but sit in class.”

Based on discipline statistics, the cell phone policy has had a positive impact on the study body as of right now in the school year.

“Last year in the second week of school, we had 18 technology discipline referrals,” assistant principal Joe Shaffer said. “A year later, we are down to eight. This policy is encouraging and seems to be doing well and accomplished the goal set out.”

Although the new policy might have caused some frustrations among the student body, it might turn out to be what all Sailors need.

“Kids are so addicted to their cell phones and are compelled to stay connected on Snapchat or Instagram, but they are missing out in the world right in front of them,” Bustard said. “Cell phones are a distraction and limit learning, so the goal of this consistent policy is to limit distractions within the classrooms so we can focus on teaching, learning, and the world right in front of us.”

FEATURE

6 Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019

Gender equality never looked so good

The Sailors’ Log

M S I N I FEM

ionary, t c i D d r o f by the Ox f women’s o y As defined c a c o v d s the a quality of e e h t feminism i f o the basis eotype of r e t rights on s a , r reatens Howeve h t . s t e a x h e t s d e e th been creat s a h s t s i n femi uality. q e r o f s t gh women’s ri

By Gabby Lopez Executive Editor When people hear the words feminism, most look the other way. Some, on the other hand, stand loud and proud for what they believe in.

English teacher Jolynn Walek has put her foot right into the feminist movement, knowing that it will help the greater good.

“With the change in leadership in our country and the ways in which many issues are being handled today, I felt a strong sense of wanting to become part of the movement in order to find solutions,” Walek said.

“When the fight for same-sex marriage was coming to the forefront, I knew that it was my time to step out of my comfort zone and fight for rights for my family. I knew that I wanted my two sons to grow up fulling believing there are not gender-specific tasks and that their mom can and does do everything she wants. I want them to be proud that I didn’t hide in the shadows.”

Standing up for what one believes in is something that the feminist movement preaches.

Being able to show people how one feels is something that is frowned upon in today’s society.

“I think it’s so important to stand up for what’s right – and I try to be as open as pos-

sible about who I am and why I feel the way I do,” Walek said. “I am a minority as both a woman and a lesbian.”

The stigma that feminism is all about women becoming dominate to men is untrue. Feminism isn’t about women becoming dominate over men; it’s about becoming equal to them.

For senior Katelyn Zaagman, the willingness to fight that stigma began at a young age.

“When I was really little, my grandmother had breast cancer. She was the kindest, more generous, and brave woman I had ever met,” Zaagman said. “After several months of fighting cancer, she was cured. From this age, I always thought women could do anything, especially because of the strength and courage my grandmother always showed.

She was an early reminder of the power women have.”

Even now, Zaagman said she knows the importance of being kind to one another and knowing that everyone should be treated equally.

“I completely support the movement for equal rights,” Zaagman said. “Whether it’s gender, race, sexual orientation, or religion, all people are equals. Even the quietest voice can make a difference, so until my voice gets a little louder, I spread my idea of equality in my everyday actions and work to

spread kindness.”

Today, more women have come forth and shared their stories in order to get the justice they deserve than ever before.

Fortunately, actions are being made while assaulters are facing the consequences of their actions.

The courage for other women would not be possible without the number of women who have contributed to the feminist movement altogether.

Women such as Eleanor Roosevelt, Corretta Scott King, Maya Angelou, the Suffragettes, and so many more have shaped the way women are seen and treated.

“All of these women spoke/speak out and none were afraid to be herself – even when it made waves and meant standing up to those in power who tried to silence them,” Walek said.

Change is being made, and the progression to a more equal society is in transit. But the fight is far from over.

“People need to start admitting change needs to occur and not let our voices be silenced,” Walek said. “I want everyone – male, female, black, white, gay, straight, young, old – regardless of political affiliation to come together and raise a sign that proudly says, ‘This is What Feminism Looks Like’ – there shouldn’t be a stereotype for a feminist.”

Times are changing for the better

A

t a young age, I was sometimes called a “sissy” or “baby” if I couldn’t or wouldn’t do something that someone else was doing.

This overwhelmed me with frustration.

I didn’t understand why I was seen as less than anyone, especially the boys.

Of course, I shrugged it off and continued to do my own thing.

However, the more I grew up and became more aware, I realized that this totally made me go ballistic.

Column Why should I or anyone by Gabby be seen as smaller than Lopez, someone?

Executive What was the reason for Editor one to say those things?

After learning about Gloria Steinem, my eyes were opened to a whole new world of women empowerment.

Nothing became more motivating than the woman before me that brought so much energy to the movement.

From that day forward, I knew that I wanted to contribute as much as I could, including spreading awareness about it in the school newspaper.

Feminism is seen as a scary subject.

It’s portrayed as a group of women who want to establish dominance over everyone and anyone.

I cannot explain how untrue this is.

The movement does not wish to create a divide between the two genders in order to prove the hierarchy above the other.

It wishes to constitute an equilibrium within the two genders.

My girl Gloria said it best, “A feminist is anyone who recognizes the equality and full humanity of women and men.”

s points The siWghat vine to what

nt. rief in the moveme Here’s a b d e l e u f y stor through hi

WAVE 1

Occurring during the 19th century, the first wave feminism dealt with primarily legal issues. This ranged from having the right to vote and gaining a higher education.

WAVE 2

Influenced and inspired by the Civil Rights Movement during the 1960s, the second wave of feminism was filled with the fight to have the first oral contraceptive and the right to abortions in Roe v. Wade.

WAVE 3

Picture the standard American mom on a sitcom.

Does a middle-to-upper class heterosexual white Western woman come up? The third wave feminism sought out to fight for diversity.

WAVE 4

Gender roles? Never heard of them? During the fourth wave of feminism, the division between masculinity and femininity is being crushed. Feminists are also now coming forth to share their sexual harassment stories.

DESTINATION: MONA SHORES “Your guide to Homecoming, past and present”

Students, past and present, show Homecoming spirit

By Samantha Sewick Staff Writer Tomorrow is a day that is sitting at the forefront of each football player’s and coach’s mind. Homecoming is a game where students, parents, and community members pile into the stands to cheer on one of the biggest games of the year.

Senior Tre Hatcher, who is on the varsity football team, said he understands the significance of the Homecoming football game.

“You invest so much time into it; it’s like this is what I’ve got to do,” said Hatcher, who hopes to help lead the Sailors to a 6-1 record if Shores beats Jenison. “This team (and this game) is a bigger picture than just me.”

Head coach Matt Koziak said he knows it will not be difficult to motivate the team for tomorrow’s game.

“What drives our team is that they have tremendous energy,” Koziak said. “I like to think they have that because they have a chip on their shoulder, meaning we don’t have a ton of five-star athletes. We have high school football players that play hard. They don’t care that they’re not 6’4”. They

still think, ‘I’m just going to run around and play hard’.”

Koziak, while passionate about his offense and defense, said he is also a firm believer in bringing the entire Shores community together.

“Homecoming, especially for me because I’m an alum from Mona Shores, it’s nice to have our alumni come back out and bring high school and football and school spirit together,” he said.

Additionally, students are looking forward to Saturday’s Homecoming dance, for which Senior Senate members have been working tirelessly to create a picture-perfect night.

“It’s hard work planning an entire dance, especially knowing that we’re seniors,” said senior Katelyn Zaagman, who is vice-president of Student Senate. “There’s pressure on us to make it so much fun for everybody.”

Zaagman said she is also helping to make sure the assembly, football game, spirit week, and dance go off without a hitch.

“Especially being in student senate, we’re planning one of the biggest dances, and that’s a big deal community-wise,”

said Zaagman, who is a four-year high school senate leader.

“It means a lot to be able to finally plan a dance that not only unites our school but our entire district.”

Homecoming at Shores in recent years has been remembered for the Friday night lights, dress-up days, and formal dances.

While that is a small part of the celebrations that go on during the hectic, eventful, and constantly surprising Homecoming week, it’s not what Homecoming is about.

Homecoming is truly about bringing generations of Sailors, past and present, together to celebrate our community and school. Homecoming can mean so many different things to such a vast variety of people.

For current students, Homecoming week can be one of the best times of the year for student spirit.

“It’s an honor to be able to lead the student section as I do,” senior Austin Grimm said. “I love it. It’s a great way to express myself and I really enjoy doing it. Homecoming is going to be great because so many people are going to be there and I feel like we’ll be really loud and I’ll have a blast.

Being a senior, I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Kings and Queens Of Past Every year since 1964, Shores students have chosen two students (one boy, one girl) to represent the senior class on Homecoming. The tradition of choosing two seniors to be Homecoming King and Queen started with Anchor Day in 1964. The first Homecoming was called Anchor Day because there were no graduates yet. Below is a list of all of the students who have been King and Queen.

1964-65 – Bob Lytle and Brenda Lynch (Anchor Day) 1965-66 – Terry Kirkpatrick and Vicki Firme 1966-67 – David Stein and Nancy Patten 1967-68 – Dick Kelley and Sandy Boyns 1968-69 – Roger Funkhouser and Sue Hendricks 1969-70 – Don Hoekenga and Andee Cordano 1970-71 – Tom Webb and Sue Morton 1971-72 – Jeff Colburn and Peg Weiss 1972-73 – Scott McEwen and Pam Weiss 1973-74 – Dave Seeger and Shawn Miller 1974-75 – Steve Prediger and Julie Carlston 1975-76 – Ted Lee and Nancy DeYoung 1976-77 – Larry David and Joyce Adams 1977-78 – Jay Balgooyen and Stacy Strah 1978-79 – Pat Chiasson and Anne Theisen 1979-80 – Chris Fitzpatrick and Louise Swiatek 1980-81 – Mark Konecny and Patsy Tilden 1981-82 – Joe Foster and Jamie Taylor 1982-83 – Pete Williams and Kris Klinkner (top) 1983-84 – Brad Jensen and Rachel Savellano 1984-85 – Dave DeHorn and Jamie Jazdzyk 1985-86 – Brad Crandall and Lisa Mosley 1986-87 – Andy Galombeck and Julie Aho 1987-88 – Dusty Tyler and Tara Rueger 1988-89 – Pete Bialik and Rhonda Skeba 1989-90 – Jeff Kahn and Kristen Crouch 1990-91 – Eric Wahlberg and Cindy Langeland 1991-92 – Rick Skodack and Mary Amy Hornik 1992-93 – Brett Karis and Heather Mell 1993-94 – Chris Porter and Kelly Ogg 1994-95 – Joe Prior and Stephanie Fisher 1995-96 – Steve Meier and Peggy McKeown 1996-97 – Evan Papp and Christine Schrader 1997-98 – Joe Lienesch and Stephanie Vachirusuedlekha 1998-99 – Rod Moon and Julie Philips (middle) 1999-00 – Jon Scott and Jamie Dickinson 2000-01 – Scott Swinburne and Stacy Bronsema 2001-02 – Todd Jacobs and Jenn Johnson 2002-03 – Nick Caruso and Krystal Kuczmera 2003-04 – Tim Kaijala and Megan Carlston 2004-05 – Hunter Rogers and Carly Ahrens 2005-06 – Troy Jandron and Tina Briggs 2006-07 - Lawrence Kimble and Debra Warren 2007-08 – Addison Brodrick and Casey Williams 2008-09 – Erin Robere and Te’Asia Martin (bottom) 2009-10 – Jordan Tejchma and Lauren Abdelkader 2010-11 – Marc May and Tina Gutoski 2011-12 – Matt Nowak and Rachel Miller 2012-13 – Brent Davis and Taylor Groenhout 2013-14 – Cory Sander and Saddie Vela 2014-15 – Erik Barrientos and LaPrea Anthony 2015-16 – Calahan Peliotes and Jackie Seward 2016-17 – Ke’Vonte’A Pegues and Jordan Walker 2017-18 – Tristan Robbins and Sasha Poland 2018-19 – Diego Stark and Sammie Ladegast

T H E N & n O W

Homecoming history holds many surprises and memories

By Morgan Cathey Executive Editor

Though disputed among historians, the idea of homecoming, a day full of games and dancing meant to welcome alumni home, is generally attributed to the University of Missouri’s 1911 football game.

According to sources such as Fastweb, which also names the University of Missouri as the origin of the homecoming tradition, other colleges and universities did not want to be left out, so they soon joined the trend as well.

By the 1920s, homecoming events had become commonplace, and not long after, even high schools began to join in on the fun.

When Shores first became an official K-12 district in 1959, there were no graduates, so the tradition could not yet live on.

But in 1964, Shores held its first “Homecoming.” At the time, it was not called Homecoming, it was simply dubbed “Anchor Day.” This fun new title quickly slipped away, making 1965 the first year of Shores’ official Homecoming.

Over the years, many things have continued to change, though.

Back in the 1960s, there used to be a Homecoming bonfire, where all students and alumni would sit together around a giant fire.

Originally, there were also elaborate floats that were crafted personally by students and then presented to the public during the Homecoming day

parade that typically took place the morning after the football game.

That was not always the case, though.

At one point in time, the parade wasn’t the day after the game, it happened during halftime of the football game.

Clearly, Homecoming goes through a sort of metamorphosis every year, becoming exactly what the students and alumni need it to be.

This stretches farther than just with floats and fires, though.

For example, the Homecoming of 2000 was one to remember for everyone involved. That year, the student body decided to sell merchandise, do a bake sale, and collect donations in order to help a fellow student who was suffering from leukemia.

Sophomore Chris Ulrich had been diagnosed with AML-acute-myelogenous in the spring, and his fellow classmates stepped up to help him pay for a bone marrow transplant post-chemotherapy.

Though one of the more positive instances, this is not the only example of the student body rallying around a student in a show of support.

In 2010, the students rose up in defense of one of their own. Senior Oak Reed, an openly transgender student, decided to put his hat in the ring for Homecoming king.

Despite support from friends and other students, Reed’s votes were disregarded.

According to the administration at the time, the ballot clearly stated that males were eligible to be king and females were eligible to be queen, and since Reed’s official school record showed that he

was female, the votes were thrown out.

The students, however, strongly disagreed.

In support of Reed, Nick Schrier, a fellow student, created a Facebook group titled “Oak is my King,” which quickly amassed over 11,000 members from all over the world.

This quickly reached local news outlets and even got brief national coverage.

However, the school’s initial decision stood, and he was not allowed to be king.

Though this may seem to be a negative Homecoming, the rallying of community is what Homecoming is meant to be about.

This event did trigger a brief renaming of the Homecoming court, and subsequent revolt though.

In 2011, King and Queen were renamed to be Homecoming representatives, but the community as a whole was not happy, and so the decision was quickly reversed.

Ever since the controversy of the 2010 and 2011 Homecomings, things have continued to be exciting nearly every year.

In 2013, another unique student was chosen to be King. Senior Brent Davis, a student with Down Syndrome, was crowned Homecoming King.

In 2014, the King and Queen were bonded by much more than crowns.

Both the King, Cory Sanders, and the Queen, Saddie Vela, lost their fathers in the past year.

In 2015, the senior class court members went from eight in total to 16.

Every year at Shores, Homecoming leaves its mark, and 2019 will surely be no different.

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Today This year’s Homecoming spirit week featured different destinations for each

Tuesday’s dress-up day

Wednesday decided to

included a trip down to the

change things up with the

sunny deserts of Texas. With

classic snow-gear day

ities, the Sailors traveled

country-western apparel

becoming a road trip to the

to Florida on Monday.

covering the school, the

snowy slopes of Colorado.

students also prepared for

The Sailor’s dressed up in

day. To kick off the festiv-

Sporting all the best kinds of beachwear, the students geared up with everything

the annual powderpuff game

from flippers to sun hats for which began at 6:00 P.M. in the greatest October beach day ever.

the sailor stadium.

their snow gear, bundling up in their fluffiest coats and thickest scarves.

In 2010, Oak Reed (above) wanted to run as King; however, since the transgender student was officially a female on school records, he could not run for King. In 2013, Brent Davis (pictured with Queen Taylor Groenhout), a studnet with Down Syndrome, was selected King.

Tomorrow

Today the school is split-

Tomorrow is when the true festivities begin.

ting up. Half the gang is

The road trip ends, and everyone returns

going West to Oregon to join a band of Hippies, and the rest are going to New

rise on your Sideline at 5:45 A.M. The school day will end with the annual Homecoming Pep Assembly, starting at 2:25 P.M. Even though the school day will be over, the fun

like the preps. Whether its

will still be going. The Homecoming Parade

plaid skirts and ties or no

starts at 5:00 P.M., immediately followed

the Sailors continue to show up for spirit week.

Saturday will end the week with a bang. The Homecoming dance

home in bright and early for the WZZM Sun-

York to stick their noses up

shoes and peace signs,

Saturday

by the tailgate in the parking lot, featuring a performance by the fiddlers. Finally, the most important part starts at 7:00 P.M., the football game.

will span from 7:00 to 10:00 P.M. and will have a semi-formal attire.

All grades are invited, and tickets will be $10. With this being the last hoorah of Homecoming 2019, it is expected that many of the students will attend the dance, and so it is sure to be a good time.

HOmecOming COurt Sebastian Barnett

Tre Hatcher

Hayden Helmer

Robby Swanker

“Being nominated feels pretty nice; not only do people on the staff actually enjoy me as a person, but people in my class feel like they’re comfortable with me being on the court, and they want me to represent which is kind of nice.”

“It feels great to know that I’m seen as a good person by my peers and teachers. I won Mr. Freshman, and that was awesome, and so I wanted to run one last time for my last Homecoming but for King this time.”

“It is such an exciting experience to be nominated by some of my favorite teachers as well as fellow classmates. I am honored to represent the senior class by being on the Homecoming Court.”

“It’s an honor to be nominated by both teachers and my peers.

I campaigned because I felt like I am a good representative for our school, and it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be Homecoming King, so I’m very grateful.”

Lindsay Cross

Emily Mann

“It feels pretty great

“It’s exciting to be nominated

to know that people

because I know that

thought of me as being

I’m not just liked by my peers

their Homecoming Queen.

but also by my teachers.

I did not campaign at all,

I like that I’ve made an impression

so it was a complete surprise.”

that lasts on everyone.”

Mr. and Ms. junior

Cole Engle

Alisha Livers

Logan Potts

“I did not campaign because I think if people think that I deserve to be the representative I shouldn’t have to tell them to vote for me. I try my best to be nice to everyone and super respectful to teachers, and it feels good to know that people think I’m a good representative for our grade.”

Mr. and Ms. sophomore

Stephen Koziak

Dezmin Merwin

Kariya White

“It’s an honor to be recognized by both teachers and students because it makes me feel like I am a good person who you’ll rarely see down or upset about something and that I made an impact on people.”

Mr. and Ms. freshman

CJ Ivy

Ayame Sullivan

FEATURE

The Sailors’ Log

THAT’S

greek

Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019

TO ME

Greek Tony’s offers lunch special

By Jenna Baker Staff Editor For many students, lunch at Tony’s Pizza and Subs is “all Greek to them.”

Literally.

The actual name is Greek Tony’s Pizza and Subs, 1401 W. Sherman Blvd. The restaurant offers lunch deals specifically for Shores students. With the Argonaut card, an incentive card to award students GPA, Greek Tony’s offers a 10 percent discount off a student’s order.

There is also a lunch special for anyone, even if they don’t have a card, who comes into the restaurant between 11-1. It is two slices of pizza and a drink for $6.36.

“I really like the chicken bacon ranch club,” said senior Raine Jackson said, who also works at the restaurant. “The cheesy breadsticks are to die for.”

Jackson has been working at Greek Tony’s for a little over a year to save up money for her after high school life.

Shores lunch period is about 30 minutes, so students tend to go to the closest places, which is why many students do not know about Greek Tony’s lunch specials. , but the manager has a solution.

“A lot of people are in such a hurry for

Owen McCarthy, sophomore “I like to go to Jimmy John’s. It’s one of the only places that doesn’t make me feel sick afterward. I get the Slim 2, which is $3.99.”

Taco Bell: 20% (11 students) Burger King: 19% (10) McDonald’s: 15% (8) Arby’s, Wendy’s, Jimmy John’s, La Casa Fierro: 9% (5)

SIDE ORDERS Senior Avery Anderson loves Tony’s, especially their breadsticks. (Phoito by: Jenna Baker) lunch, so we have the special for a quick pick-up,” said Sandy Hutchins, who is the manager at Greek Tony’s.

Although Tony’s is not a popular lunch spot, TJ Habetler thinks otherwise. “Greek Tony’s is my go to pizza place,” junior, TJ Habetler.

The Academic Booster Club, the ABC, gives out discount cards to students with a high GPA. The gold card, 4.0 and above GPA, has the best discounts, then silver, 3.8-3.9, then bronze, 3.5. Bring in the card with a student ID and save some money.

IRISH FESTIVAL

Celtic music, culture fun for all

O

Brooke LeRoux, junior “I enjoy Wendy’s 10-piece chicken nuggets and fries; it’s $6.99. It’s very delicious.”

Out of 190 students asked in a school-wide survey, the majority either stays at school or goes to someone’s house.

Only 54 students said they go out to eat. The top five places are:

nce again September has come, and I’m not talking about school. Muskegon Irish Music Festival has gone once again closing out the festival season. If you didn’t attend the festival, then let me tell you what you

missed.

My favorite act had to be Seamus Kennedy, someone who sings comedic songs that may not be appropriate for younger people. He is hilarious, and I look forward to hearing him next year.

The festival, which took place Sept. 12-15, has evolved over the years. Twenty years ago, the festival took place in the vicinity of a single-stage. It has evolved into a nine-stage festival with many more shops, food options, and bands.

The festival doesn’t just cover Irish culture. On Saturday night, JigJam, Moxie Strings, and Shane Hennessy joined each Column by other on stage and started playing “Sweet Home Alabama” by Kye Sieffert, staff writer Lynyrd Skynyrd; it was epic, and one of my favorite parts of this year’s festival.

Irish Fest closes the festival season and will return Sept. 17-20 next year, but it isn’t the only festival that takes place downtown. Parties in the Park, Polish Fest, Taste of Muskegon, Latino Fest, and a couple of other events take place.

They are all held at Hackley Park downtown throughout the festival season. So I hope you consider attending a festival next year.

Seamus Kennedy (right) plays one of his songs on the first night of the festival. (Photo by Kye Sieffert)

Shane Farrell strums the banjo for the group Pigeon Kings.

(Photo by Kye Sieffert)

Some discounts are the following: Burger King: Free small soft drink with any purchase Little Caesars: $1.50 Crazy Bread, $2.00 stuffed Crazy Bread La Casa Fierro: Buy 2 beef tacos and get a soft drink free Subway: Any 6” sub for $2.29

7

8 Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019

FEATURE

Ready to Launch Disc Golf Club hoping to take flight

By Mia Dickson Staff Writer Most people have picked up a Frisbee at some point in their lives, and now, Shores offers a club where students can pick up a disc and throw it around with some close friends after school.

The Disc Golf Club, which will meet the first and third Tuesday of each month in room 501 and then head outside to play the sport, will be led by junior Carter Mann (president) and freshman Marissa Reeves (vice-president).

Both said it is also possible that the club will go to local courses around the area, such as McGraft Park or Ross Park.

Disc golf is played similar to traditional golf with the obvious exception of using discs instead of balls. The goal of the game is to have the disc land in each basket with the fewest tries as possible.

The club will be advised by English teacher Warren Kent III and math teacher Ross Rosenthal.

However, Liz Carr-Sypien, a 2002 graduate of Shores, will be the real face behind the club.

Carr-Sypien brings years of disc golf experience and was recently inducted into the Michigan Disc Golf Hall of Fame.

Carr-Sypien brings 14 years of playing experience with 13 of those years being professional. As a nine-time Michigan Female Champion, Carr-Sypien said her focus is to spread her passion for the game to Shores students.

“I hope to give opportunities to students that don’t necessarily want to play or participate in the more mainstream sports,” Carr-Sypien said.

Another perk about the club and disc golf in general is the flexibility. ¨It’s not structured so every participant has to make a big weekly commitment, come when you’re able,” Carr-Sypien said.

Kent said he created the club since many students know how to play, and it is an easy yet fun game to pick up.

At each meeting, students will be able to play and learn all about the intricacies of the sport.

“I am excited to simply offer something new to the student body,” Kent said.

While the club may be starting out small, the goal is to grow it into something so much more.

“My and Liz’s vision is to eventually make this a competitive club, first among students at Shores and then broaden it to other area schools,” Kent said.

Mann, who was at the first meeting on Sept.

17, brings four years of disc golf experience to the club.

He said his dad purchased a set of discs at a garage sale, and he has been playing ever since.

The Sailors’ Log

Nicole Hernandez, junior Cooking Club “The meetings could be open to anyone who has an interest in cooking. We could prepare a new meal at each meeting and then end each meeting with a big feast.”

Tatum Ruby, freshman Chess Club “I like chess because it forces you to use strategy and think before making a move. My vision is to have other people who like to play chess come together and have fun doing something they all enjoy.”

Other clubs students would love to see

Katie Lee, freshman Dance Team “I would be having fun by dancing with people and my friends. I would love a dance team would just to have fun and to find/express yourself.”

At the Disc Golf Club meeting on Oct. 1, the group was forced inside due to poor weather, but that didn’t keep junior Carter Mann (above) or freshman Marissa Reeves from working on their skills. Mann, who is the club’s president, and Reeves, the club’s vice-president, were tutored by Liz Carr-Sypien, a 2002 Shores graduate who is in the Michigan Disc Golf Hall of Fame.

(Photos by Warren Kent III) “It’s easy to pick up and fun to play with friends,” Mann said. “When I started, I didn’t know what I was doing, but after a while, I started learning techniques and getting better, and it paid off. It’s a pretty simple game since most people know how to throw a Frisbee.”

Reeves, who also attended the inaugural meeting, said she brings six months of playing experience.

She started playing when her neighbor, Carr-Sypien, brought out her disc golf basket

and allowed her to practice.

The Disc Golf Club is also a great place to meet new people and have fun with people who have the same interests as you, and Reeves said these things are what she likes about the sport.

“I’m excited about learning how to play properly and throw properly, and I’m looking forward to meeting new people who join,” reeves said. “The club could give people something to do, since most people, like myself, aren’t involved in much.”

Carly Califf, freshman Green Team “I would be interested in a team because I want to keep learning about the environment and how to keep it safe and better to live in.”

FEATURE

The Sailors’ Log

Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019

9

at the

Haunted Hall becomes the place to be for Mona Shores students

By Emily Kuznar Staff Writer

English teacher Shelly Brower has been a driving force behind the local Haunted Hall for two decades.

The event’s history began in 1998 when Brower’s oldest son was involved in Boy Scouts and was in need of a new type of fundraising. That is when Brower had the idea of a haunted house.

“My mom said, ‘Why don’t you try a haunted house?’” Brower said. “My uncle worked with a unit in Indiana on what’s called the ‘Haunted Castle,’ and they had been very successfully doing a haunted house for several years.”

With lots of preparation and hard work, the first Haunted Hall took place in 1999 in the gymnasium at Spring Lake Village Hall.

The venue was 2,500 square feet.

Today, the Haunted Hall encompasses nearly 20,000 square feet of space at the Lakes Mall.

This year’s Haunted Hall, which is open every Friday and Saturday in October from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., will cost patrons $15, and tickets can be purchased at the door with cash or credit cards.

Brower said the event was successful right from the start, and the popularity only continued to grow.

After the first year, the venue size had to increase. It has been located in Grand Haven, Spring Lake, and at the Muskegon Fairgrounds.

In preparation for this year’s Haunted Hall, Brower went to two conventions; one in New Orleans, and one in Chicago.

“I attend conventions for professional development,” Brower said. “The professional development system covers a few areas that will improve our event;

HAUNTED HALL

When: Every Friday and Saturday in October Where: The Lakes Mall Cost: $15 business and marketing, creative work, and architecture tips.”

However, to provide this haunting experience, it takes more than just one person.

“We have close to 200 volunteers for the event, not just people from Shores,” Brower said. “We have youth and adult volunteers.

It’s interesting because we’ll have youth who have grown up with it and still come back.”

The volunteers also play a large role in the setup of the event.

“All of the decorating is one of the most difficult tasks,” Brower said. “We want to put people out of their element. We strive to make people uncomfortable - with things hanging from above, hanging crooked, things out of harmony, etc.”

Brower also said it takes a lot of effort to train the actors who will be working in the halls.

“We do safety training before anyone is allowed to do the event,” Brower said. “We talk about the safety of scaring, which is a big one for people to know, so they do not get into a customer’s face.”

After the volunteers receive scare training, they are allowed to finally start scaring. However, volunteers don’t know what they will be dressing up as until they clock in for their shift.

“When a person checks in for their shift, what we do is we give them a slip of paper that has the location of where they’re working on it. It has their costume information, their makeup information, and a scare idea.”

One interesting thing about scaring is that there is a science to scaring, and it isn’t as simple as it sounds.

“Every scare is not about the get loud and in your face type of

scare,” Brower said. “Scares can just be quiet and creepy, or they can involve teamwork; two people might be tagging back and forth, (which is) where one person is a distraction and then the other person gets you unexpectedly.”

The Haunted Hall isn’t all just fun and scares. The charity-based event goes to many good causes in Muskegon. Starting in 2009, they began collecting cans for Love Inc. a non-profit organization that helps those in desperate times of need.

“For every canned item brought in, a person receives a dollar off the entrance fee with a maximum of three cans to receive the discount, but more are always accepted,” Brower said. “Last year, nearly 6,000 pounds of food was donated.”

Haunted Hall also benefits many other places around the area.

Six years ago, we expanded into incorporating other groups to fund Brower said.

The money raised benefits groups such as Mona Shores Choir and Mona Shore Interact, as well as other school groups in the area, Brower said.

Haunted houses bring out true vulnerability in people, and they allow people to let their guard down. It can get people out of their comfort zone.

“Getting your adrenaline up is a good time,” Brower said. “I see it as a good thing for friends to go through. And we always say ‘It’s great for a date.’”

Overall, Brower is just really excited to see everyone’s faces once they see her masterpiece.

“We have put in lots of work for this year, and we can’t wait for everyone to see all the new things we’ve done.”

Kobe Allen, senior “One time, I went to the Haunted Hall with my brother and a couple of friends. There were so many scary things popping out. At the end is what really got me. We were walking in the woods at the end to get out. We thought it was all over, and then, this clown came up behind us with a chainsaw. I ran so fast.

I wasn’t too scared by the first stuff, but that clown, I thought I was gonna die.”

Student SCARES Karion Outley, sophomore “My experience (working) at Haunted Hall was awesome.

The time doing it was like walking into a whole new world of ghouls and great actors. You get to choose if you want to be an outgoing scarer or a quiet and creepy one. I was always the first to sign up for outgoing because it gives you a rush when jumping out of curtains or banging on creepy lockers as people walk by in the dark.”

FEATURE

10 Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019

The Sailors’ Log

He Worked Hard for the Money

Educator worked multiple jobs before becoming a teacher

By Sarah Roman Staff Writer When English teacher Dave Droski was just a boy, he was already a working man.

Starting at age 14, Droski tried his hand as a grocery store clerk, an intramural referee, a hockey store clerk, a mechanical insulator, a DJ, a warehouse store stocker, and a forklift driver.

“My parents didn’t have money growing up. I had to work hard to get what I wanted,” said Droski, who is also the adviser of Shoreline Broadcast News. “I’ve always liked to stay busy, and I would much rather be busy than sitting around doing nothing.

These jobs kept me busy, and it was even better because I could make an income to provide for me and my family.”

At his first job as a grocery store clerk, Droski bagged groceries as a 14-year-old.

“I actually told them I was 16 so that they would hire me,” he said. “Two years later, they put me behind the meat counter because they thought I was 18. That was when I decided I should probably find a new place to work.”

He worked a lot of jobs, but one that stood out to him was becoming a warehouse cart pusher.

“They hired me when I was playing football. I was 16 when they hired me, and I worked there until graduating from high

English teacher Dave Droski, who is also the adviser of Shoreline Broadcast News, worked eight jobs before pursuing a career in education. (Photo by Sarah Roman) school,” Droski said. “They really liked me because I could push an entire line of carts by myself. It was about three or four hundred carts. I was the only person in the warehouse that could do it.”

Droski didn’t particularly enjoy all of his jobs. One of those jobs was when he was a mechanical insulator.

“I had to work with someone who stole

parts with copper and brass and sold them illegally. Nobody wanted to do this job, and since I was the new guy, I was stuck with it,” Droski said. “We worked inside this room that was filled with machines that were basically humidifiers. We had to insulate these machines, and it was so hot that the cord to my drill melted and almost electrocuted me.”

Working through hot and dangerous conditions made Droski dislike this job even more. He was put through the wringer doing tasks as a mechanical insulator.

“There was another awful task that I had to do while working there. We were at Western Michigan University, and I had to insulate a power plant,” Droski said. “I had to take fiberglass and lift it over my head and bolt it into a machine. I had cuts all over my body.”

Thankfully, Droski only worked there for one summer and during the next winter break. No more hot and dangerous working conditions for him.

“Another job I had was working as a DJ. I worked for a company called Sound Productions,” Droski said. “I worked mostly bars, and I did a couple of weddings on the weekends.”

There was one particular event that Droski worked at that was a bit out of the norm.

“I DJ’d a Mud Bog. It is the most redneck thing I’ve ever seen,” Droski said. “It was a pit of mud, and trucks would try and drive through the mud. It was a competition to see who could drive the farthest. My boss said to just play country music and even more country music.”

Droski is grateful for the jobs he’s had.

“Having these jobs have taught me valuable lessons,” Droski said. “I’m even grateful for the jobs I didn’t particularly like.”

Educators had many different jobs before becoming a teacher. Can you correctly match the job to the teacher?

1. Scott Lautenschlaeger, math teacher

2. Josh Reister, Spanish teacher

3. Desiree Medina, math teacher

4. Pat Rabbitt, industrial arts teacher

5.Melissa Brown, French teacher

6. Roxanne Schaner, English teacher

7. Bill Lent, math teacher

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

“I worked in construction. I was sixteen when I started and worked all through college. It actually put me through school. I lived on a farm, so I liked doing manual labor. My older brother was in construction, so I got the job through him.”

“I started playing hockey when I was eight years old. . I played three years in the Western Hockey League. I was drafted to the St. Louis Blues, and I played professional hockey for four years, two of those years were for the Muskegon Lumberjacks.”

“I had a paper route when I was eleven. I got paid $30 a week, which for an eleven-year-old was pretty good.

I had 120 customers that I delivered too. It was four streets, two blocks each street.”

“I was a manager at a Bed and Breakfast. My friend actually recommended me for the job and the owner offered it to me. I liked working there, but I only worked there for about a year and a half. I did everything but actually clean the rooms.”

“I worked security at Summer Celebration. I was paired with all the strong, military guys because I was tall and lanky. I saw a lot of people tackled.

There were a lot of fun concerts I got to attend for free.”

Answers: 1-F, 2-E, 3-H, 4-B, 5-A, 6-C, 7-G, 8-D

“I lived in Australia when I was twenty-one. They hired a lot of backpackers and foreigners to work on farms. I picked tomatoes, grapes, apples, and plums. It was hard work, and it completely changed the way I look at the plate on my food.”

8. Sara Busken, science teacher

“I was an ER nurse. There were days that I would go home crying and days that I’d be overjoyed. Some of my co-workers and I were actually going to write a book about our time as ER nurses because there were so many crazy things that happened.”

“I was a bartender for four years during college. I thought it was a good way to make money for school. I went to a class called ABC Bartending, and I became a certified mixologist.”

FEATURE

The Sailors’ Log

Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019 11

TAKING THE TITLE

Senior leads golf team back to top

Boys’ tennis earns City championship

By Paige Judson Executive Editor

By Paige Judson Executive Editor After falling short the past three years, the Shores girls’ golf team finally beat Reeths-Puffer for the City title on Sept. 6 at the Stonegate Golf Club.

“It waas a great experience to win the City title again,” said coach Britni Gielow, who is no stranger to winning City title as she was part of four Sailor teams (2010-13) that won the City tournament. “I’m happy to bring back the title to Mona Shores. I remember winning the City title when I played at Shores, so I know how exciting it is.

And it was even better to win as the coach.”

Shores, which was led by senior Logan Potts, finished four strokes ahead of runner-up Whitehall, 372-376. Potts fired a 73 to take medalist honors.

“It felt really good (to win an individual City title),” Potts said. “I feel relieved that the work I put in all year really did pay off, and it makes me feel way more confident going into other important matches. If I do go a little sideways in a match, I just know that my body knows how to do this, and then, I relax and get back on track.”

Keeping the entire team relaxed was Gielow’s main goal, she said.

“I tried to keep the girls thinking it was just like every other tournament

Senior Logan Potts shot a personal best of 73 to win the City tournament on Sept. 26 at Stonegate Golf Club. (Photo by Warren Kent III) that we have played this season,” Gielow said. “I didn’t want to add any more pressure on them. They all did a great job keeping themselves composed while playing.”

Senior Chloe Knowlton, who shot a sixth-place score of 91, was also pleased with the way the team played at the tournament.

“It was super exciting to win the City title, especially since we’ve improved so much as a team since my freshman year, and I finally got to win as a senior,” Knowlton said.

Boys’ Tennis In addition to winning the City tournament (see story, above), the Sailors also won the OK Black title by going undefeated in dual action and then wining the conference tournament on Oct. 5. Individual conference champs were Kayden Hellman (No. 2 singles), Grant Hylland (No. 3 singles), Gavin Kuhn (No. 4 singles), Austin Grimm and Chris Horvath (No. 1 doubles), and Lydia Sowles and Brady Whalen (No. 3 doubles)

Senior Max Spagnuolo doesn’t care who his (tennis) partner is as long as he is (victory) dancing at the end.

Spagnuolo won his second straight City doubles title on Sept. 28 and also helped lead the Sailors to the team title.

“It felt really good (to win an individual City title),” said Spagnuolo, who teamed up with Brady Whalen at No. 3 doubles last year; this year, he partnered with sophomore Bobby Wasserman at No. 2 doubles.

“It was a really close match. It went down to a third set which made it much more exciting.”

As a team, Shores won five of eight flights en route to taking home the City title.

“I was pleased overall,” coach Nate Kunnen said. “We always play with a lot of heart and competitiveness, and while not everyone had a great day, it was still a great day because it was the most passion I’ve seen all year.”

Shores finished with 46 points while Whitehall and North Muskegon tied for second place with 38 points.

Kunnen said he is also happy the team rebounded from last year’s second-place finish.

“I’m very proud of how our team has matured from last year, this senior class especially,” Kunnen said. “(Everyone) had a good day, and I feel a bit of relief as well; being favorites

Senior Austin Grimm (above) and his No. 1 doubles partner, senior Chris Horvath, won a City title on Sept. 28 at Muskegon Catholic Central.

Senior Ezekiel Powell (left), who plays No. 1 singles took third place and helped contribute to the win. (Photo by Warren Kent lll) on paper is nerve-wracking.”

Senior Austin Grimm, who won at No 1 doubles with senior Chris Horvath, said he is also proud of how the team played at the tournament.

“It felt really great to win,” Grimm said. “I feel like I played the best tennis of my life. I was hitting the ball really hard and

SPORTS BRIEFS

Boys’ Cross Country Shores has been led by sophomore Jackson Helmer, who posted his best finish (third place) at the Fruitport Invitational on Sept. 28.

Girls’ Cross Country Freshman Cecilia Conrad has led the Sailors in six meets. Her best finish was fifth place at the Fruitport Invitational on Sept. 28.

Football Shores (5-1) can clinch a playoff birth tomorrow night against Jenison.

Girls’ Golf The Sailors, who placed first at all six OK Black Jamborees, could have captured the title Tuesday at the conference meet.

Girls’ Swimming The co-op team (6-0 overall) has been led

by Evyn Johnson (North Muskegon) and

putting it where I wanted to every time. Also, Chris had gotten second for the past two years, so it was really amazing to help him get his first City title.”

Other City champs were Grant Hylland (No. 3 singles), Gavin Kuhn (No. 4 singles), and Lydia Sowles and Brady Whalen (No. 3 doubles).

the Muskegon Catholic Central athletes (Olivia McKenna, Alaina Kohley and Helen Widder).

Volleyball Shores has a 12-12-1 record heading into tonight’s match at FH Central. The Sailors won the Reeths-Puffer Invitational.

Boys’ Soccer Heading into district action, Shores (9-7) has been led by Camden DeRuiter with nine goals.

12 Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019 Sophomore Lydia Sowles, who plays No. 3 doubles with junior Brady Whalen, has been playing on the boys’ tennis team this fall.

Sowles, who is allowed to do this based on a law called Title IX, made this decision so that she could play girls’ soccer in the spring, which coincides with girls’ tennis.

SPORTS

SOWLES SISTER

The Sailors’ Log

Girl plays on boys’ tennis team

By Paige Judson Executive Editor

Sophomore Lydia Sowles has always had a passion for more than one sport.

However, after attempting to play both tennis and soccer for Shores during the spring of 2019, Sowles quickly discovered that it is too difficult to play both sports during the same season.

After emailing Athletic Director Todd Conrad and double checking with the MHSAA, Sowles was allowed to try out for the boys’ tennis team, which plays in the fall, thus allowing her to focus on soccer in the spring.

“Playing on the boys’ team allows me to play both of my favorite sports,” said Sowles, who made the tennis team and plays No. 3 doubles with junior Brady Whalen. “It would’ve been an extremely tough choice if I had to choose between them. I’ve been playing soccer since I was 5, and I am becoming really good at tennis, so it is just too hard to give up on something that I love so much.”

Although she initially went to Conrad about her situation, allowing her to play was ultimately up to a section in the MHSAA rule book based on Title IX, which emphasizes gender equality in school-sponsored activities.

According to Title IX of the Education Amendments Act of 1972, “No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.”

Sowles’ inclusion on the boys’ team has been smooth, head coach Nate Kunnen said.

“Lydia and Brady have been one of our most successful flights so far this year,” said Kunnen of the duo that won a City title on Sept. 28. “They’ve been athletic, dynamic, confident, and ridden their momentum very well. If they learn to manage their lows and keep problem solving, they can do some great things when we get to the season-ending tournaments. We have a lot of work to do, though.”

Kunnen said he was more than happy to have added Sowles to the squad.

“A little extra logistical work [ordering a skirt, answering coaches questions, and having an extra chaperone] on our part is small price to pay to have another strong tennis player on the team,” Kunnen said. “She’s been nothing but an asset, and she’s made us better.”

Whalen said he doesn’t see much of a difference with having a girl on the team either.

“I haven’t run into any issues with Sowles being a girl,” he said. “With every other team we’ve played, no one has acted weird about it. Maybe sometimes, they just made a quick comment to a teammate about it, but there hasn’t been a difference when we’ve played people, probably because we’ve beaten almost everybody this year.”

Overall, Sowles has been an asset to the team in more ways than one, and everything involved have benefited by her presence.

“In general, this team is much more vocal, passionate, and energetic,” Kunnen said. “I’d equate some of this to our leaders in our senior class, but Sowles has her fair share of fire, which the team appreciates. As a whole, we’re learning how to manage these emotions and channel them into focus, but as a coach, I’d rather be harnessing all of that energy than creating it.”

Federal law emphasizes gender equality for everyone in all sports

By Paige Judson Executive Editor Title IX, though mostly thought of as a rule only benefiting females, is actually a law written for both genders. “(Title IX) actually applies to all genders,” said MHSAA’s Geoff Kimmerly, who is the Media & Content Coordinator, “but because females have been the underrepresented gender in athletics over the years, we generally hear about Title IX in athletics when it comes to girls’ sports at the high school level or women’s programs at the college level.”

Part of the controversy surrounding this law has nothing to do with the law itself but rather an MHSAA rule, which actually allows boys to play on girls’ teams; however, the MHSAA state tournaments are specifically by gender for girls’ sports.

For example, a boy could play on the high school girls’ volleyball team during the regular season, but when the post-season tournament starts, the boy would not be

Title IX

able to play because the creates or maintains opMHSAA designates that portunities for females event as the girls’ volleythat would not otherwise ball tournament. exist, thereby providing No person However, girls like females opportunity to in the United States shall, Shores’ Lydia Sowles, develop programs equal who is a sophomore on to boys,” and “There are on the basis of sex, the varsity boys’ tennis recognized, innate physbe excluded from team, will be allowed iological differences beparticipation in, be denied to play in the MHtween the sexes that give the benefits of, or be SAA-sponsored post-seasubjected to discrimination boys inherent advantages son because Title IX and in most athletic events, to under any education the MHSAA allow girls permit boys to participate program or activity to play. on girls’ teams – irrespecreceiving Federal financial tive of the sport – would The MHSAA handassistance. book reads specifically, displace girls from com“Boys may not participetition to a substantial pate on a girls’ team in MHSAA-sponsored extent, thereby diminishing female opportupostseason meets and tournaments.” nity in athletics.”

And even though boys are technically alThis frowned-upon inclusion to the rule is lowed to play on girls teams, it is strongly only frowned upon to help allow more opdiscouraged from allowing them to do so. portunities for females, which is the whole Two explanations behind this discourage- basis of Title IX itself. ment can be found on the MHSAA web“(Title IX) is all part of providing as many site, where it states, “Having all-girl teams opportunities as possible for Michigan’s fe-

male high school athletes, who still participate in athletics at a lesser (but growing) rate than boys,” Kimmerly said. “(However), it’s important to remember than when a girl does play on a boys’ team during a school year, she is not allowed to also play on the girls’ team.”

Although there is controversy surrounding gender equality in sports due to the parameters of Title XI, the MHSAA’s mission in gender equality is all about equity.

Within a section in the MHSAA handbook titled “Gender and Ethnicity - Position Statement,” it is stated that “The MHSAA believes that gender and ethnicity equity is more than being in compliance with the law. It is a spirit. It is a personal ethic. It is a commitment to do what is right and fair for all athletes, officials, coaches and athletic administrators. It means creating an atmosphere and an environment where opportunities and resources are distributed fairly to all. An atmosphere where no person experiences discrimination on the basis of gender or ethnicity.”