The Sailors' Log, September 3, 2013 by Warren Kent III

today

the

Students will attend all classes while learning the P.R.I.D.E. matrix. At 2:15, students will be dismissed to the Sailor Center for the annual back-toschool assembly.

sports calendar Today • Boys’ soccer home vs. Grand Haven at 6:45 p.m. • Girls’ golf at GR Union at 3:30 p.m. Tomorrow • Boys’ tennis home vs. Reeths-Puffer at 4:30 p.m. • Volleyball at East Kentwood at 4 p.m. Thursday • Boys’ soccer home at Holland at 6:45 p.m. • Girls’ swimming at Spring Lake at 6 p.m. Friday • Football at Spring Lake at 7 p.m. Saturday • Boys’ tennis at Holland Invitational at 8:30 a.m. • Boys’ and girls’ cross country at Muskegon Invitational at McGraft Park at 8 a.m.

yearbook news 2012-13 yearbooks will arrive by Friday, Sept. 20. Please pay attnention to announcements. 2013-14 orders can be made by going to jostensyearbooks. com. Cost of the yearbook is $60 until Nov. 4, when the prioce increases to $65. Senior pictures are due to adviser Warren Kent III by Thursday, Feb. 13. All photos must be in color and need to be submitted via email at kentw@ monashores.net. Senior ads are due to adviser Warren Kent III by Friday, Dec. 20. To receive a contract, please email kentw@ monashores.net.

next paper

Next month’s edition on Oct. 11.

index

p. 2 – editorial p. 3 – photos p. 4-5 – center section p. 6 – profiles p. 7 – feature p. 8 – sports

Tuesday, September 3, 2013 Volume 52 • Edition 1

LOG

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

Sailors set to sail into new year By Mandy Versalle Editor-in-Chief

Ride with Pride gets facelift

By Shayna Hoch Staff Writer

This school year will continue with another shot at winning a new car. The Ride With Pride giveaway is back and bigger than before. “Last year, we had a fantastic outcome with our partnership with the Norton Shores Police Department,” principal Jennifer Bustard said. “We received a reduction in detentions and offenses out in the community and on the road.” Last year was the first year of Ride With Pride where juniors and seniors could enter to win a new car by signing a pledge to stay out of trouble. Senior Paige Wisner was last year’s winner. Also, iPad minis, gift cards, and certificates were given out from a drawing from Pride Pass receivers from all grades. The idea of Ride With Pride and the rewards were accepted greatly by all. “(Ride With Pride) is a good way for getting kids to behave in and outside of school and not into as much trouble,” junior Tyree Jackson said. This year, there will still be a car for junior and seniors to win as well as prizes. Different from last year, a moped giveaway will be available for freshmen and sophomores. “It’s a cool idea that the school is trying to get everyone involved and make sure that no one is left out,” sophomore Kaitlin Maycroft said. In order to qualify, students must sign a pledge to stay out of disciplinary action and not break the rules of the pledge before the end of the school year. After that, school personnel will draw 10 lucky students names. On the day of the assembly, each one of the 10 students will be given a key, and whichever key unlocks the car is the new owner. “With this year’s Ride With Pride, we hope to accomplish more awareness of driver’s safety, and even better academic achievement from our awesome students,” Bustard said.

Principal Jennifer Bustard said the 2012-13 school year will be a tough one to beat. A few highlights: introduction of the P.R.I.D.E. matrix; one student winning a free car; multiple successful sports teams, including the girls’ golf team winning a fourth straight state title; and a national merit scholar. “What I realized was that our school does not need a new theme,” said Bustard, who begins each school year with a specific theme. “We just need to keep on sailing and to make ourselves even better than what we were last year.” Bustard said she made that realization in February. It was then that she began the process of revamping last year’s theme, “Sailor P.R.I.D.E.,” to create this year’s theme, “Sailor P.R.I.D.E…. That Is How We Sail.” “The P.R.I.D.E. acronym was the beginning of the introduction of good behavior in every aspect of our school community,” said Bustard about the letters that stand for Personal responsibility, Respect, Integrity, Discipline, and Engagement. “The skills accounted for in the P.R.I.D.E. matrix are not only needed for success in high school, but they will stay with students so that they can use them for success the rest of their lives.” Bustard said she realized the P.R.I.D.E. theme does not just apply to students. In fact, she noted that it starts with the staff. “The entire theme stems on teachers modeling the numerous expectations for students,” Bustard said. “It just goes to show how critical common language is in the building, not just among staff, but among students as well.” Bustard said both the staff and students quickly and fully embraced the school’s new expectations last year, far exceeding the hopes she had for the matrix. “We, as staff, have a great passion for our students,” Bustard said. “We hope and wish for their success, and we ensure that all of their goals are met each year. We are never afraid to dream big for them. Together, we make one incredible sailor nation. That is how we sail.”

ersonal responsibility

R espect I

ntegrity

isciplined

ngagement

Junior loses battle with rare blood disease By Mandy Versalle Editor-in-Chief Joey Hekkema, who would be a junior this year, always had a smile on his face. “His joy was infectious,” said Ruth Hekkema, mother of Joey. “He never wore his disease on his sleeve. He never played the sick card. Joey just wanted to be normal.” Joey was diagnosed with chronic neutropenia at nine months of age and hyper IGM syndrome at two years of age. In other words, Joey had a rare blood disease and lacked an immune system to ﬁght off everyday illnesses. The slightest thing could put him in the hospital. On May 29, 2013, Joey underwent a bone marrow transplant, but things turned awry when he contracted a virus. After years of battling multiple

complications, Joey passed away on Aug. 15 in the presence of his family and his dogs. “We always said that we would ﬁght as long as Joey would,” Ruth said. “His body gave out before his spirit did.” On the day of his death, Joey was heavily sedated. The family was not able to wake him to say their goodbyes, but they say he went peacefully. “We lost the battle, but Joey won the race,” Ruth said. “He beat us to Heaven.” Even those not related to Joey knew how wonderful he was. “Joey was special,” said Michele Koeller, Joey’s lifelong Hematology nurse. Koeller said that having a patient like Joey is rare because she usually does not get to take care of someone for his entire life. Please see JOEY, page 3

Joey Hekkema, who would have begun his junior year, died Aug. 15 died from a rare blood disease. (Courtesy photo)

The Sailors’ Log • Tuesday, September 3, 2013

e d i t o r i a l

the Tuesday, September 3, 2013 Volume 52 • Edition 1

LOG

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

EditorS-in-Chief

Kayleigh Fongers Mandy Versalle

Editorial EditorS

Andrew Kromminga Annabella Olivares

Entertainment Editor Miranda Shafer

Profiles Editor Abby Bryson

FeatureS EditorS Abby Keessen Blake Robinson

Sports Editors

Holly Fredericksen Cory Sander

Photo Editor

Rachel Resterhouse On-Line Editor Abby Keessen Staff Katie Beemer Isaac Cathey Michael Gale-Butto Shayna Hoch Sam Morse Alex Rakowski Adviser Warren Kent III The Sailors’ Log is a public forum for student expression distributed freely to students and faculty of Mona Shores High School.

The Sailors’ Log can be found at the following on-line sites: • www.thesailorslog.com (contains current stories, photos, etc.) • www.monashoressports.com (contains current Sailor sports information) • Facebook Fan Page: The Sailors’ Log (provides a means for the staff to communicate with its readers and vice versa) • Twitter: @thesailorslog (provides easiest way to get information to readers) • Email: thesailorslog@gmail. com (provides readers with a way to communicate with the staff) Our Voice is the opinion message selected by the 10-person editorial board 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. The Sailors’ Log is printed by Hi-Lites Graphics, Inc., 1212 Locust Street, Fremont, Michigan 49412.

Summer’s Over!

Co-editors-in-chief welcome students back

e’ve seen the oh-socheesy commercials on TV for weeks

now. We've seen stores banish all of their Fourth of July festivities the moment the fireworks come to an end and restock the shelves with a myriad of school supplies. We head to the mall and see the latest trends for fall displayed in every store. And yet, it still doesn't seem to Kayleigh sink in that school Fongers is here, whether we are willing to accept that or not. If the summer has rendered us bored out of our wits or has been more exciting than Phineas and Ferb’s, it always seems to go by way too quickly. There’s always that cool concert that we never got the chance to go to. There's always that family trip up north that never seemed to work out. And there's always that summer reading assignment that gets completely bypassed in favor of something more fun. I feel you, though. Even as I was typing this, I was thinking about the book I still had to read before today. But the problem is that we spend what seems like the entire month of August dreading what commences in September. We focus on what is ahead rather than living in the moment and making the most of our summer.

Now, as a senior, I can honestly say that not a day goes by without me stressing about my plans for next year. Where do I want to go to college? What on earth am I going to be when I grow up? I spend so much time worrying about things like that that I sometimes forget to just sit back and relax. This is my last summer vacation of high school, and I should instead be focused on making it count. Hopefully – whether you are a nervous little freshman or an antsy senior – you also tried to make the most of your summer. Because whether we choose to accept it or not, it is sadly over. It doesn’t have to be a miserable thought, though. Rather, it’s bittersweet. Look at it as an opportunity to get back into a routine and a chance to see your friends every day now. Look at it as a chance to debut those new fall trends as you strut through the halls. Look at it as a chance to go to sports games and fun club meetings. Look at it as a chance for making new friends...new achievements...new memories. Okay, let's be done with all this cliché stuff. It's time for school. This is your informal welcome back from The Sailors’ Log. We hope that you had a great summer and will try to make the most of the new school year, whether it be your first or your last.

s co-editor-in-chief of The Sailors’ Log, it is my duty to welcome you back to Shores for what I hope is another wonderful year. But I would be remiss if I didn’t give you some words of wisdom from my three years at the high school. 1. There are not stop signs in the middle of the hallway. Keep the traffic flowing. There are 1,500 kids that need to get to class, and people will not hesitate when it comes to knocking you out of the way. 2. Save the drama for your momma. Do not bring it to school. No one wants to hear about it. We all have our own problems. 3. If you are forced to choose between sleeping Mandy and studying, sleep. If you have not studied by now, Versalle then you are probably going to fail anyway. You might as well have a great night of sleep to lessen the blow of your grade. 4. Look your best, but do not overdress. This is high school, not a runway. It is acceptable to wear sweatpants and a t-shirt every day of the week. 5. Grow up, fast. You are in the big league now. It is time to put on your big boy pants. Immaturity is not cute. 6. Stop trying to be cool. Be yourself. Be confident. 7. Never bring illegal substances to school. Are you trying to get arrested? 8. What is important now will probably not be important after high school. Stop sweating the small things, and try to enjoy life. 9. Some teachers do not know how to teach. Accept it now so that you are prepared to teach yourself most of the material. On the other hand, if you get one of the many great teachers at Shores, count yourself lucky and absorb everything. 10. You have a locker. Use it. Do not try and carry your locker on your back. You will have back problems for the rest of your life.

Graduation approaching us fast

never thought the words, “I am a senior,” would ever come out of my mouth. It seems like my friends and I were just fighting over boys and lunches in the fifth grade. While for some of us things have not changed, my life is moving at a steady pace forward, and I find myself wondering if I am ready for what the future holds. Many of our “lasts” are approaching us quickly: our last first day of school, our last a column Homecoming game, and by our last Prom night. Annabella It is difficult for a lot Olivares of us because we look forward to these things every year. Even though this has been our routine for the past three years, the new routine in the future will be exciting and nerve wracking all at the same time. Whether it is college, working, or traveling that the future holds, we all will be experiencing new things and meeting new people. I will miss my favorite teachers, their cheesy jokes, and their awkward moments. I

Shores Memories

As the final nine months of my high school career wind down, here are my top three memories.

Anna’s

• Being in middle school production of Lady Pirates of Captin Bree. I was horrible at performing yet it was still so much fun. •Shelly Brower’s English class in ninth grade. She was such a warm-hearted and hilarous teacher.

Angle

•The 2013 Prom was filled with beautiful gowns and weird dancing.

can never thank them enough for what they have taught me, whether I learned to be a better person or I learned how not to act because they were so abrupt. College is a difficult thing to swallow for anyone. Hearing “college” is like hearing I will leave my friends, my family, and my home all in one. It is a scary thought, and I do not know if I am ready to handle that. I will always remember one thing my mom told me about college: “It can be the time of

your life, or it can be the worst. It depends on your attitude.” As said by Denzel Washington, “I’ve found that nothing in life is worthwhile unless you take risks. Fall forward. Every failed experiment is one step closer to success.” So my goal this year is to get through high school, with good grades, have fun at all the football games, graduate, and start my life.

Newspaper encourages readers to submit letters to the editor The Sailor’s Log staff encourages our readers to send letters. However, not all letters can be published, and the editorial board reserves the right to edit letters for clarity.

Guest commentaries and stories may be included if the staff feels they enhance coverage of a unique topic. No material will be printed which is libelous, advocates illegal activity, or

which in poor taste. Attacking our ideas is fine; personally attacking our writers is not. Remember, everyone has the right to his or her own opinion, including you.

Please sign and submit your letters to room 501, Mona Shores High School, 1121 Seminole Road, Muskegon, MI 49441 or via thesailorslog@ gmail.com.

S u m m e r

Senior Rachel Resterhouse, the photo editor of both The Sailors’ Log and the school yearbook, Compass Points, traveled around Muskegon County and beyond to take these pictures (clockwise from right): Senior Megan Hannon; Logan George, a 2013 graduate, takes time to smell some flowers; Andy Hull, lead singer of Manchester Orchestra, is seen through the camera phone of a fan during the Mo Pop Music Festival 2013, in Sterling Heights; storm clouds approach a white barn located between Holton and Fremont; and another storm rolls in over Lake Michigan.

The Sailors’ Log • Tuesday, September 3, 2013

JOEY Continued from page 1 “Joey was a true victor,” Koeller said. “His love and legacy will be imprinted on our hearts forever. You are so loved Joey.” Koeller is not the only one who thinks that Joey is loved. There are currently 1,178 members on Joey’s “You Got This Joey” Facebook page, a page where community members can post their thoughts, wishes, and prayers. “You never truly realize how much people care,” Ruth said. “It is a testament to the impact Joey had on everyone’s life.” In school, Joey was an active participant in both the robotics club and

band. “Joey loved his school and his community,” Ruth said. “He had an unconditional love for his Sailor Pride.” The Hekkema’s said that the band is like a family to them. “They have been incredible,” Ruth said. “When (band director Jason)Boyden made arrangements to bring the band back from camp for the funeral, that was the greatest gift. Those kids do not get enough credit for the amount of love and compassion that they have.” Dave Hekkema, Joey’s father, is currently the President of the Mona Shores Band Parents Association. “It is so hard to sit there and make plans knowing that your son cannot be there to experience them,” Dave said. “I would never want what has happened to

be a detriment to the band program.” Joey, who also leaves behind an older sister Meredith, was in the drum line and got to experience two band camps while in high school. “The band is a family the moment they go off to band camp,” Dave said. “The kids were so accepting of his medicine. He was comfortable around his band family. He was conﬁdent.” Apart from robotics club and band, Joey was also an active volunteer for Pound Buddies, an animal shelter and adoption center in Muskegon. “He loved those dogs,” Ruth said. “They are a part of him. They are what is helping us get through this.” Joey was allowed to have his dogs by his side in his ﬁnal moments. The Hekkema family, including

the dogs, is now in the midst of a deep grieving process, but if anything, Joey’s lifelong battles with illnesses have only brought the family closer. “Joey’s illness never drove a wedge between our family,” Ruth said. “We have lived and breathed this disease together since the day he was born. We have been Team Joey since the very beginning.” Now the family is leaning on each other to heal. “Joey has always inspired me,” Ruth said. “He missed out on a lot, but he handled it well. We tried so hard to give him a normal life. Joey was a ﬁghter. He accepted his disease, and he never wore it on his sleeve. If anything, his story has just reminded me to be kind to everyone. Everyone has a different story to tell.”

c e n t e r s e c t i o n

summer diary Muskegon has a lot of fun things to offer for summer, but sometimes it’s nice to just get away, especially when looking to create some awesome memories that will last forever. These eight students all traveled to various locations throughout not only Michigan but the United States to ensure that their summer 2013 would be memorable. Information complied by Kayleigh Fongers, co-editor-in-chief

The Sailors’ Log • Tuesday, September 3, 2013

camps

Katey Fritz, freshman

Aaron Fongers, sophomore

What: Band camp

What: Summer camp

When: Aug. 15-20

When: June 23-29

Where: Little Pine Island Camp, Comstock Park

Where: Portage Lake Covenant Bible Camp, Onekama

“Band Camp was a lot of hard work. Everyone worked together to get things done. It could be stressful at sometimes, but by the end of the week we all came together as one big happy family. Overall it was a wonderful experience.”

“The best part was being up there (it’s a really nice camp) and experiencing all the new people, the games, and the speakers. I really enjoy the atmosphere.”

Dana Bragg, junior

Julie Jones, senior

What: Summer camp

What: Leadership camp

When: June 23-29

When: July 21-31

Where: Portage Lake Covenant Bible Camp, Onekama

Where: University of Notre Dame, South Bend, Ind.

“The best part was the awesome staff. It made me be closer to my friends and I had the courage to make new friends. I know I got closer to God because of how great my counselor was.”

concerts

c e n t e r

Freshman Rachel Quick What: Ed Sheeran concert When: July 7 and August 10 Where: Grand Rapids

Why: “I like Ed because he has a voice that you can’t find in every artist. He can be singing all calmly and smoothly one moment and then be rapping like crazy another. Ed is just perfect, in my opinion.”

s e c t i o n

With: Freshman Amanda Hichue and cousin Heather Other: “My favorite song he performed was ‘Give Me Love’ – it was amazing!”

Sophomore Mikey Kresnak What: Beyonce concert When: July 17 Where: Chicago Why: “She’s hot, and I really like her music.” (Said to The Sailors’ Log last May) With: Mom and cousin Hilary

Junior Cassie Hansen, pictured left with the Jonas Brothers, met them July 7 at their Detroit concert.

Junior Cassie Hansen What: Jonas Brothers concert(s) When: July 7 and August 10 Where: Detroit and Las Vegas Why: “I love and know all of their songs, and I really can’t choose a favorite. Honestly, those days were the best days of my life, especially after being a dedicated fan for 9 whole years and finally getting to meet them. To this day it all feels like a dream, and I don’t think this will ever quite sink in.” With: Parents and junior Karli Paggeot for Detroit and parents for Las Vegas Other: “They are all so down-to-earth and it was a true blessing meeting then in Detroit. Seeing them in the front row was cool because they all noticed me and remembered who I was because I held up the same signs in Detroit and Vegas. I also made another sign for Vegas that said ‘I saw you in Detroit 2,020 miles away.’

Senior Aaron Dusenberry What: Rockstar Mayhem Festival When: July 28 Where: Clarkston Why: “I went because they had an awesome lineup and one of my best friends gave me a free ticket.” With: Friends Other: “The place was filled with crazy ‘metalheads’ and I got to meet most of the members of the bands and actually hang out with them. It was one of the best days of my entire life.”

The Sailors’ Log • Tuesday, September 3, 2013

Other: “My favorite memory was when the lady sitting behind me told me I ‘had it goin on’ with my dancing, and my favorite songs performed were Grown Woman and Crazy in Love.”

(cup) CAKE

p r o f i TS L l Senior raises money e s for charity through baking The Sailors’ Log • Tuesday, September 3, 2013

By Abby Bryson Profiles Editor

Senior Morgan May has brought bakery to a whole new level. Beginning in July, May created a cupcake business to benefit an international non-profit organization. Her business, Sweet Connections, has raised money toward clean water through one of her favorite charities, Charity: Water. “I am giving all of the proceeds (from Sweet Morgan Connections) to Charity: May Water because sadly, many people around the world do not have access to clean water, yet clean water is vital to life,” May said. “We so easily turn on the faucet, use the drinking fountain, take 20-minute showers, and flush the toilet while many don't even have clean water to drink daily.” Charity: Water’s current area of concentration is India, and May said she is excited about this because she is in love with the Indian culture. “With the overflowing population there and the extreme poverty in the northern and eastern parts of the country, water is easily contaminated because many people use the loo in the streets and it washes into the water supply,” May said. “Clean water is a beautiful thing that can change lives miraculously and that is why I chose to make it my focus. I’m completely in love with the idea providing clean water.” Sweet Connections is a promising bakery company, run out of May’s house. “(I make) cupcakes, of course,” May said. “I make all of the cupcakes, and I use my family as taste testers. I make the cupcakes at my house and bring them to places to sell, or some people make orders and come to pick them up, or I bring the cupcakes to them.” Although Sweet Connections is run by May, she said her family and friends have

supported and inspired her. “My friends and family have been extremely helpful,” May said. “They have all been very supportive and helpful whenever they can. My dad has helped me a lot with marketing ideas, and my mom has helped me by supporting me through different business and financial decisions. I look up to both of them greatly.” May’s charitable side began to develop as a young girl, she said. “Helping others has been a passion of mine since I was a very small child,” May said. “My parents helped me live my passion when I was little by helping me get involved with charities like Toys for Tots and Habitat for Humanity – as like a 7-year-old. I was honestly so deeply affected by knowing of issues like poverty that I hate things like Christmas because I know there are others who barely have food to eat, let alone luxuries such as Christmas gifts.” So May created Sweet Connections. “I really wanted to provide an easy way to inform others on the issue of poverty and clean water and help them get involved,” May said, “while also making a difference directly for the people who are in need of clean water.” May is especially passionate about this organization because she says water is vital to life. “I love Charity: Water and what they are doing to help this issue,” May said. “They’re amazing people, and I’m glad I found a charity that is a non-profit like me and has helped change so many lives so greatly.” However, on the economic side, May said she has faced challenges over the past few months. “The hardest part of having this business is getting people not only to take the time to really see the cause but become a part of it and donate,” May said. “Advertising and selling a product is difficult no matter what you are selling. Both of my parents are entrepreneurs and small

About Charity: Water •An international non-profit organization with headquarters in New York

•Their mission: to provide clean and safe drinking water •1 in 9, or 800 million people have no access to clean water. •Solutions: filters, rehabilitations of older projects, rainwater catchments, spring protection systems, filtration, latrines •8,944 funded projects in 20 different countries. •Once the project is done, it is self-sufficient. No outside help is ever needed again. •Form partnerships with local leaders and governments •Working on the technology for real-time water flow information For more information go to: www.charitywater.org business owners who have had a lot of experience, so I go to them when I need some help.” As school begins, May said she looks forward to new opportunities to expand Sweet Connections. “I really hope school starting will benefit my business, with the help of school events and different clubs,” May said. “I will be incredibly busy this school year with a number of things, but this is very important to me so I will still continue my

business.” The best thing about Sweet Connections, May said, is the joy of others. “My favorite part so far has been when people around me get excited about my business,” May said. “It is really gratifying when the most unlikely people are enthusiastic and truly excited about my business. It is a great feeling to know that others support me and are sharing my passion in helping others.”

Hilleary family shares their home through foster care By Abby Keessen On-line Manager Almost 30 foster kids have come and gone through the Hilleary house since 2006. “It is so amazing to have foster kids. It feels like (it’s been) my whole life, but (it’s) only (been) 7 years,” sophomore Grant Hilleary said. Fostering is when a child without parental support is given to a family that can care for them. The family does not adopt the child. “Our five kids got along so well, and we felt God calling us to share our love,” Brad Hilleary, father of Grant Hilleary said when asked why they started fostering children. Grant learned not to get too attached with the first child they fostered, Kamiah. His favorite memory of fostering was spinning Kamiah in a chair and getting her to walk. “Yes it can be hard to give them back but that is the goal,” Grant said. Already a family of seven, three years ago, in the

Hilleary Family consists of adopted children Harmoni (front left) and Harmon (front right) as well as Brad, Danielle, Grant, Grace, Gabby, Drew and Janice (clockwise from front left). (Courtesy Photo) spring of 2010, they adopted two siblings, Harmon and Harmoni, out of Flint, Michigan when they were three and four. Harmon and Harmoni had not previously been fostered by the Hilleary family. They were completely new additions.

“I was always on board (with adopting them) because I wanted a little brother,” Grant said. “I think my reason for wanting to adopt was that I felt like we were making a temporary difference in the lives of the foster kids we had, but I wanted to make a permanent difference. I realize now that I was making a lifelong difference to any of the kids we have touched, but at the time that was my logic. I guess it was just God directing the path,” Janice Hilleary, mother of Grant Hilleary said. Currently they are not fostering any children. The family just finished watching a newborn and had fostered two twin newborns from October 2012 to spring of this year. “Grant has proven to be amazing with babies. The experience and practice he has gained will make him a great father someday. All of our kids have gained so much from the experiences we have had. The main thing I see is that they realize how different other people's lives are then ours. They have learned not to be judgmental of others. Grant possessed a lot of those qualities before foster care, so he really has been an excellent big brother to all our kiddos,” Janice said.

Out with the old...

...In with the new

Former P.E. teacher becomes assistant principal By Katie Beemer Staff Writer

• Bob Jazwinski (special education teacher) – replaces James Andersen • Katie Jazwinski (physical education teacher) – replaces Joe Shaffer •Joe Shaffer (assistant principal) – position added

Joe Shaffer, who taught physical education last year, is now one of two assistant principals. (Rachel Resterhouse) stead of two. “Change is difficult but also change is inevitable,” Gawkowski said. “(Replac-

ing two deans) was especially difficult on a professional and personal level. We just accept it, and we keep our eye on the

work that needs to be done for students and staff. We move forward.” Shaffer will primarily be the behavior specialist for 9th, 10th, and 11th grade, and athletic director Ryan Portenga will be the behavior specialist for 12th grade as he was last year. Shaffer said he is looking forward to helping with positive reinforcement. “I am appreciative that I will still have daily contact with students,” he said. “My most important task is to help (the students) achieve their goals.” Both Bustard and Gawkowski said they know Shaffer is the right person for the job. Bustard said “(The students) can count on him to support them.” “He is going to be a great addition to our administrative team,” Gawkowski said. “He is a committed educator with a strong work ethic, and he always puts students first.”

Cell phone policy expanded to include passing time By Sam Morse Staff Writer Tweets will be flying everywhere after this one. The cell phone policy at Shores has changed. Students are now permitted to use their cell phones in the hallways for “school purposes.” When asked “why” on the policy change, Principal Jennifer Bustard explained how the use of modern technology can be helpful: “Students can now make a call home during passing period if they need a parent to bring a uniform, items for class they forgot, etc.,” she said. In fact, the “majority of the teachers” favored the idea when Bustard surveyed them about the policy, the main idea being that it is helpful for the students. Psychology teacher Heather Hall saw the importance in modern progression with the cell phone policy: “Cell phones are a part of our lives. We have to quit fighting against them and teach students how to be responsible with them, whether that is in the halls [or] the classroom.” Hall noticed the potential that students have in using cell phones as a learning tool and a readyat-hand device, much like the rest of the teachers surveyed. This may be true, but what about the fact that some students still may use them for social media and other non-school purposes in the halls? When asked, Senior Ragen Cooper declared, “I think that the more [students] are allowed to use cell phones, [the] less tempted [they] are to use them for non- school purposes.” Senior Baleigh Tharp concurred, “Indeed.” And, it’s as simple as that. Bustard noted that schools like Zeeland and Hudsonville have proved this.

Scenes like this, with students texting in the hallway, will be OK this school year as long as it is for school purposes. (Rachel Resterhouse) “What [these schools] are seeing is that it’s actually reducing technology misuse,” Bustard explained. She feels that the idea of “embracing” technology will make for the progression towards modern ways at Shores. As for misusing the cell phones, Bustard said students will be “subject to discipline.” Yet, she’s “not worried about it.” “I’m going to treat [the students] like professionals.

We have an opportunity to teach phone etiquette.” This is how Bustard feels Shores will progress with the new policy. She feels that it will help students prepare for the real world. “[The staff] needs to be teachers of common courtesy.” For example, she states: “You wouldn’t be in a meeting and not give the holder the time and attention he deserves because you are texting.” A similar situation can be seen in classrooms. Students are expected to abide by an individual teacher’s rules, as always. If phones are needed out in the classroom, so be it. Otherwise, students are expected to have their phones “put away” and “turned off” while in classrooms to avoid interruption of a lesson. This has always been intact; yet, Bustard feels that with the “embrace” of cell phones, students will learn the ways of the real world and not be so tempted to have them out. Without cell phone’s negative image in a school, Bustard commented that a “positive” environment will arise in synch with technology. With the world moving at such a fast pace, Bustard feels that Shores needs to keep up, for it’s the new age for new learning. “We actually hope to be a 1:1 school one day,” she said. That is, she hopes that every student at Shores will be equipped with at least one technological device for maximum learning power. This is how she thinks Shores will be able to be a current, modern school. As for now, however, the start is the new cell phone policy. Bustard is still ecstatic at the opportunity for students to have this tool ready at hand. Not only will it be helpful for when a math book or lunch is forgotten, but also as a learning experience for real life situations in student’s futures.

The Sailors’ Log • Tuesday, September 3, 2013

Students will find a new, but familiar, face in the front office this fall. In addition to current assistant principal Walt Gawkowski, Shores now has an additional assistant principal with the restructuring of school administration. Gone are the two deans of students (Al Weber and Dave Walls), and in their place is Joe Shaffer, who has moved from the physical education department to the assistant principal position. “He has proven his leadership skills in teacher leadership opportunities,” principal Jennifer Bustard said. “He was on the trimester committee (assists with planning school calendar) and numerous other instructional committees. He has a great rapport with students and his colleagues.” Shaffer, who graduated from Hope College in 2005 with a bachelor’s degree in Social Studies and P.E., received his master’s degree at Western Michigan University in 2012 for Educational Leadership. “I’m very excited,” said Shaffer, who interviewed for the job at the beginning of July and started the first week of August. “I loved my job in P.E. I loved being down at the gym, but when the opportunity came up to be involved in leadership at Mona Shores, I was very excited.” Despite replacing two front office personnel, Shaffer will not simply be picking up the slack left behind. Shaffer will also have “added responsibilities that include teacher evaluation and instructional support,” Bustard said. Previously, Bustard and Gawkowski performed teacher evaluations, but the state now requires three evaluators in-

Out

• Al Weber (dean of students) – position eliminated • Dave Walls (dean of students) – position eliminated • Janice Hall (secretary) – position eliminated

f e a t u r e

Recruiting Trail

the

s p o High school athletes search r for scholarships at next level t s

There are more than 7 million high school athletes, but college rosters only have enough room for 2 percent of them, and only 1 percent of those players get full rides to a D1 school. (NCSAsports.org)

By Cory Sander Sports Editor

The Sailors’ Log • Tuesday, September 3, 2013

Seniors Asantay Brown and Jasmyn Walker ended one of the longest, most stressful processes of their lives by saying one simple word: yes. That process they finished with smiles was the recruiting process. Both Walker and Brown committed to Valparaiso (Ind.) University and Western Michigan University, respectively. “(Accepting a scholarship offer and committing) was one of the best feelings that I have ever gotten,” said Brown, who will take his athletic skills to the Bronco football field next fall. “To know that I am going to the next level not only for football, but in school as well, is a dream come true.” Walker will be playing women’s basketball for the Crusaders. According to the National Collegiate Scouting Association, the whole recruiting process can be considered a funnel or an upside down pyramid. At the top of the funnel, thousands upon thousands of letters are sent out to student-athletes by coaches. A slim fraction of those athletes get calls from those coaches, where an even smaller fraction go onto visits of the university and are then maybe offered a scholarship. The entire process is incredibly time consuming and stressful for both the athlete and the coach, but a good attitude makes it that much easier. “It is not an easy feat to be a student athlete,” said counselor Danielle Smith-Walker, who is also Walker’s mother and was a standout basketball player at Ferris State University, where she was inducted into the school’s athletic Hall of Fame in 2007. “The entire recruiting process is made much easier when a student-athlete has good grades, good test scores, and a good attitude to go along with the athletic talent.” So coaches send out letters, make phone calls, schedule visits, and offer scholarships. What’s so difficult for the student-athlete? It is all sunshine for Brown and Walker now, but this time last year it was a different story. Stressed about getting their name out there and being exposed to coaches, making the right decisions, and excelling in the classroom all build up, it was not easy. “It is a lot of work (for the athlete) to try and get noticed by coaches,” Walker said. “I’ve had to sacrifice a lot of things (to make this happen). Nobody really knows how much I really put into this. During the summer I played more basketball than anyone will ever know.” On the student-athletes’ side of the recruiting process, being exposed and getting their name out there is a difficult thing to do. “I emailed over a hundred coaches just so that they would look at my video or so they would take a look at the events I would be in and maybe they would find the court I was playing on,” Walker said. Every year, athletes from every state post videos of themselves, attend various sport camps, and play for elite teams to try to persuade coaches to invest in them. “In order to be recruited, the coaches have to see you,”

If a college coach sends out 15,000 letters to high school athletes, only 25 of them will be signed to join the college level roster. (NCSAsports.org)

Division I and II give more than $2 billion in athletic scholarships to more than 126,000 student-athletes. Most athletic scholarships are only granted for about one academic year. Coaches decide how long the scholarship is and who it goes to, and whether it will be renewed. (NCAA.org)

Asantay Brown (top) and Jasmyn Walker (bottom) are two high school athletes who will be taking their talents to the college level on athletic scholarships from Division I schools. Smith-Walker said. “So, I signed her up for travel teams, showcases, and a variety of camps. Lots of travel – thousands of miles over the years, and I think all of these things contributed to her achieving her dream of playing at the Division 1 level.” Not only do the student-athletes have to excel on the field and get their name out there, they have to excel in the classroom too by passing certain classes that the National Collegiate Athletic Association, or NCAA, deem acceptable. “I think my role for my student athletes is multifaceted,” Smith-Walker said. “I have to make sure that the colleges/coaches have transcripts and test scores that they request, and to make sure that the student athlete takes courses that are on the NCAA List of Approved Courses for our school so that they are a qualifier (to be recruited).” The recruiting process is a long and stressful time in the student-athletes’ lives. It wears on the them, mentally and physically.

Listed on the left are a trail of real world statistics of high school athletes trying to take their talents to the next level.

The average full scholarship for an in-state public school is $15,000 per year. Out of state is about $25,000, and a private school is about $35,000. (NCAA.org)

“At the junior and senior level, you really start to worry about getting seen and being recruited if you really want to play at the next level,” Brown said. Even though it seems like Brown and Walker have completed another task in their lifelong checklist of reaching the highest competition in the sport they love, it’s not over quite yet. “(Getting recruited and committing) makes you push yourself even harder than before,” Brown said. “They can pull your scholarship as fast as they give it you.” But the recruiting process is finished for these two student athletes. The same process 27 other Sailors completed last year by receiving scholarships for athletics. “It has been a really long journey,” Walker said. “I am truly grateful. If it wasn’t for the people around me and supporting me, I definitely wouldn’t be the person or player that I am today.”

Former Fruitport coach takes over to guide volleyball team By Holly Fredericksen Sports Editor As the volleyball team takes the court this season, a few changes will be set in motion. One of those being among the coaching staff. Previous coach Kyle Kurant, who put in more than two decades of service to the program, will be replaced by Dan Potts. “I am excited entering this season,” said Potts, who led Fruitport to the 2005 state title. “(This is) a great group of players to work with.” That group of players will enter the season minus seven players from last season’s team, which won the O-K Black conference, the City tournament, and had

a 38-11 record. But Potts, who played on the men’s club team for two years at Michigan State University and also participated in beach doubles for 13 years, will bring his volleyball knowledge from his Fruitport days to Shores. At Fruitport, Potts’ teams garnered three state runners-up, four regional titles, 10 district titles, 10 City titles, and eight conference titles. “He really knows the game of volleyball and has a lot of experience,” said sophomore Kennedy Potts, who is the coach’s daughter. “He has always interacted with players well and has a passion for volleyball.” That interaction and passion helped

Dan Potts takes over as head coach of the volleyball team. Potts replaces Kyle Kurant. (Rachel Resterhouse) him lead 26 girls to achieve a scholarship outside of high school and 17 girls get All-State recognitions. Coach Potts was also named 2005 Coach of the Year by

the Michigan Interscholastic Volleyball Coaching Association (MIVCA). “Coach Potts not only brings knowledge and intensity that is on par with what we at Shores want, he also has over a decade of experience that includes a state championship and countless other MHSAA tournament runs,” athletic director Ryan Portenga said. Goals for the 2013 season will be set by the team, and coach Potts said he will be pushing the team to do all the little things right and finish strong in each drill, practice session, and workout. “Coach’s history should be able to help us prepare for any of the big games we have this season,” junior Courtney Brewer said.