the
Friday, December 22, 2017
Sailors’
Volume 56 • Edition 4 Mona Shores High School 1121 Seminole Road, Norton Shores, MI 49441
Mr. Positive Senior Jacob Brown makes students’ days by always smiling – page 7
Students reveal unique obsessions – pages 8-9 Holiday fun: board games – page 11
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editorial
K i nd ness M akes the World Go Rou nd
Artwork by Sarah Anton
Holidays are a time to do good deeds
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hether a person is Christian, Muslim, Jewish, Native American, Black, Hispanic, or white, one thing that is always heard during the holidays is be kind. Being kind to others is one thing that most people can agree upon. When I say “agree,” I mean people all say to be kind. More recently, however, it seems that people can’t follow their own advice sometimes. Starting at an early age people are taught Morgan to treat others how they Cathey, wish to be treated, and if editorial editor they have nothing nice to say, to say nothing at all. However, as years go by, some forget the little lessons they were taught as children. That’s okay, everyone needs a reminder sometimes. Universally the holidays are meant to be a time of giving, togetherness, and all around happiness. Nothing makes people happy like acts of kindness. Why is it that people shy away from simply complimenting someone or helping someone if they Adviser Warren Kent III Editor-in-Chief Mal Meston Page 2 Editor Morgan Cathey Page 3 Editor Caitlin McCombs Page 4 Editor Mal Meston
need it? Many feel they are simply too busy or too preoccupied to stop and do these simple things, but there’s honestly nothing more important than being kind to other human beings. Small things amount to big things. For sophomore Timmy Schneider, this became true recently. He was walking to school, along Henry Street, when he dropped his wallet – but he didn’t realize it. That same day, while Schneider was at school, he received a call from the local Goodwill that a stranger had found his wallet and brought it in. “It reminded me of the good in the world because there are plenty of people who would’ve kept the money and thrown away my ID and stuff,” Schneider said. By simply bringing his wallet in, rather than taking the money for themselves, the stranger did Schneider a big act of kindness. For me, kindness has always been important. All throughout my life, the kindness people have shown me have stuck with me. My father? Always willing to be there for me and pick me up if ever needed.
Page 5 Editor Emmalee Dykstra Page 6 Editor Taylor Dew Page 7 Editor Kali Jend Page 8-9 Editors Madeline Eckerman Marisa VanderMolen
Page 10 Editor Gabby Lopez Page 11 Editor Chris Horvath Page 12 Editor Sammie Ladegast Page 13 Editor Jaylene Davis Page 14 Editor Mal Meston
My friends? Always there when I’m feeling down. Even my pets? Always show me kindness by staying loyal. Always. After the winter dance, I was waiting for my parents. They said they wouldn’t be there until 20 minutes after the dance ended. Most people came and went. I was waiting with my friend when her ride came. She didn’t leave though; she stayed with me. We waited together until my parents were able to come; then, we both got into our separate cars. This wasn’t the nicest thing that has ever happened to me. This was something small, but nonetheless nice. It stuck with me, and it showed that she really cared as she was willing to show me an act of pure kindness. Little things turn into big things when they are done simply to brighten a day. Things like giving someone a ride home, lending someone money when they really need it, or buying food for someone who can’t afford it. All of these things are quick, relatively cheap, and kind. The world still has greatness in it. If you can’t find a good person, become one.
Page 15 Editor Carlie McNiff Page 16 Editor Megan Swanker Photo Editor Isaac Varela Staff Sarah Roman Olivia Watson
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.)
The Sailors’ Log
our voice
Ending Net Neutrality could negatively impact schools across nation On Thursday, Dec. 14, the FCC voted to scrap Net Neutrality— the the principle that Internet service providers should enable access to all content and applications regardless of the source, and without favoring or blocking particular products or websites. This vote to get rid of these regulations means that not only can Internet providers block certain websites, but they can charge people to use different areas of the Internet, such as social media or shopping sites. We at The Sailors’ Log are astonished by this decision. How can the FCC vote to end a regulation that will now make having Internet so much more complicated and expensive than necessary? Not only is it not right; it is impractical. In the past few years, many of the nation’s schools have made a shift and began taking steps to move toward technology as the main tool. This means that students need Internet access in order to do complete assignments, take tests, take notes, and even do research. So the question is, what does this now mean for schools? With the Internet being one of the broadest sources for students and schools today, the idea that broadband providers can choose to prioritize paid, selective content over freely available content means schools run the risk of not being able to afford it. And where does that leave students? While we may not see much of a difference in the next few weeks or months, over time the Internet as we know it will be a completely different place. That is, if we can even use it as often. It certainly won’t be as freely workable. Many organizations have already expressed in fighting the decision. Now, all we can do is hope that the correct decision is made to protect our rights. • Facebook: Go to “MSHS Yearbook - Compass Points” (provides photos after every Shores event) • Twitter: @thesailorslog (provides easiest way to get information to readers) • Instagram: @thesailorslog (provides Picture of the Day and story sneak peeks) • Email: kentw@monashores. net (provides communication with staff)
Our Voice is the opinion message selected by the 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. This edition of The Sailors’ Log was printed by The Argus-Press 201 E. Exchange St. Owosso, MI 48867
The Sailors’ Log
editorial locked in and kicked out
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Gates shouldn't close after school, students shouldn't be forced to leave
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who was coming home from Ludington after a meeting. After stepping outside, I realized how cold it was. I had forgotten my jacket in my locker, and my sister was standing there in a dress. After 15 minutes of waiting for my dad, I was freezing, and my sister had goosebumps running up her legs. Finally, my dad picked us up, and we explained what happened.
“The nine reindeer are Dasher, Rudolph, and Prancer – that’s it.” – Shayla Charles, senior
“The nine reindeer are Rudolph, Prasher, Dixon. Is this a real question? Um, Timothy and Lexi. Are they all boys? Dasher and Stancer.” – Gaby Sanchez, junior “Um, Santa’s nine reindeer are Rudolph, Dancer, Vixen, Cupid, and Conold. Can I look it up?” – Olivette Balzer, sophomore
“Santa’s nine reindeer are Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen, and Rudolph.” – Ireland Gill, freshman
He, as well, did not understand why we were kicked out into the cold. All I could think was why were we kicked out? Did we do something wrong? Does this happen to other students? There are some things that could be improved at our school and the rule after-school is one of them. After my experience, I was furious at the thought that students are being kicked out into the freezing cold.
With Christmas 3 days away, what are the names of Santa's nine reindeer?
Q the big
In each edition of The Sailors’ Log, eight students will be asked their opinion about a current topic.
I began to think about all the kids whose parents work, who do not have a bus to take them to their houses and who can not drive. Are they kicked out into the cold every day? It is now winter, and the weather is only getting worse. I understand that in the front lobby students are allowed to stand in the foyer; however, it is not much warmer in there than outside considering it is just glass walls. Also, what about the students, like me, waiting for parents in the Sailor Center? There is no foyer for them to stand in; they are just kicked out into the cold. Additionally, there should not be gates closing after school. Some students have to stay after school for sports or tutoring, and when they are blocked from getting to their car or their ride home, it causes a problem. So when they reach the gates, students are stuck trying to find a way to get through them. Why are the gates closed and locked? What does it protect anyone from? We also should not be kicked out of school into the cold because we simply can not get a ride home until around five when our parents get out of work. There should be an alternate place for students to wait for their parents under supervision after school. Therefore, we can fix the problem and make sure all students are secure and safe while waiting for a ride home from their parents.
“Um, it is Rudolph, Dancer, Prancer; um, I am Jewish; I cannot answer this.” – Kohl Richards, senior
“The nine reindeer are, um, I have no clue. Isn’t there a Stupy, Dumby, Goofy, Wacky, Tacky, and Lacky?” – Niral Patel, junior
“Santa’s nine reindeer are Rudolph and the other ones.” – Christian Fletcher, sophomore
“Um, the nine reindeer are Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Donna, and, uh, Dixon, and Rudolph.” – Christian Banks, freshman The names of Santa's reindeer are Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen & Rudolph.
bout two weeks ago, my sister and I stayed after school because I was meeting with a teacher and my sister needed to finish test corrections. Therefore, we were there until about 3:30 p.m. I walked out of the library and found my sister waiting for me then we headed to the Sailor Center. However, we ran into a problem: we were blocked by the gates closing off the hallway to the Sailor Center. My sister and I spent 20 minutes searching for Caitlin someone with a key to McCombs, open the gate. staff writer Finally, we found a teacher heading the same way. Once we got through the gate, we headed to the Sailor Center and took a seat at the table. I pulled out my Chromebook and started to work on my essay, and my sister took out her math homework. We were sitting quietly minding our own business when a policeman, one of the security officers hired to patrol the halls after school, approached us and asked if we were waiting for a parent. When I responded with a yes, he told us we would have to wait outside for our parent. Without even thinking about it, my sister and I headed outside to wait for our dad,
news
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The Sailors’ Log
Interim superintendent retains role through June By Mal Meston Editor-in-Chief Following the resignation of Superintendent Greg Helmer on Nov. 13, Bill O’Brien, the district’s director of curriculum/instruction/assessment was named acting superintendent. At the Dec. 4 school board meeting, O’Brien was given the title of interim superintendent until June 30, 2018. “(This was done) to ensure that Mona Shores has strong, consistent leadership through the remainder of the school year,” said Stan Miller, the school board president. “The O’Brien Board and Mr. O’Brien will evaluate the situation in the spring to determine next steps.” O’Brien said he is willing to do whatever is necessary to help the district through this transition. “It is the role that Mona Shores needs me to fill at this time, and I will do everything I can to continue to help this District and the people in it any way I can,” O’Brien said. “We are not defined by any one person, I truly believe that it is what happens every day in the classrooms of Mona Shores that make us what we are. My job, no matter the title, is to support students, staff, and community in any way I can.” Miller emphasized that although the past
How did we get here?
July 12 After receiving investigator’s report into allegations filed against Superintendent Greg Helmer in February 2017 and May 2017, Board of Education votes to place Helmer on plan of assistance until June 30, 2018. July 31 Helmer receives formal reprimand letter from Board of Education for “violating the retaliation provisions of Board policy 1662 and for dishonesty.” August 7 Helmer receives plan of assistance document that lays out “areas for improvement” and “action steps.” October 25 Helmer responds to July 31 reprimand letter, stating that he is “embarrassed, shocked and mortified” by the comfew months have been difficult for everyone, Shores is resilient and will be able to put the past behind. “The Mona Shores community has been terrific through all of this,” Miller said. “People have spoken their minds on all
plaints and acknowledges that while he does not agree with all of the findings in the report, he will accept the plan of assistance. October 27 Board President Stan Miller sends an email notifying the MSPS community of the allegations against Helmer. mLive obtains the investigation report and briefly explains the investigation report in online story. November 6 Following Board meeting, Helmer is placed on paid administrative leave. November 13 At Board meeting, Helmer resigns. Bill O’Brien, the district’s director of curriculum/instruction/assessment, is announced as the acting superintendent.
sides of a troubling issue while maintaining civility, and I’ve been constantly reassured by the number of people who care deeply about our District.” Miller also stressed that bringing stability to the district is important because the board
plans to bring a millage to the voters next November. “Important healing steps are already under way even as we reboot the preparations for a major millage renewal election in November 2018,” Miller said, “and I hope and expect that the community, including students, will be thoroughly engaged in those efforts as we meet at each of our six buildings and separately with stakeholders for the arts and for athletics.” O’Brien said he has a few things that he is looking forward to brighten the future of Shores. “The future is incredibly bright for the Mona Shores community,” O’Brien said. “The November 6, 2018, millage renewal is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the community, and this renewal has the potential to set our community up for the next 30 years and beyond.” O’Brien added that he is ready to move forward and to continue to support the Shores community in anyway that he can to bring the district to a higher level. “Mona Shores is defined by the great things that happen in the classroom everyday,” he said. “It is because of this that we continue to see incredible things from our students and staff regardless of this situation. As we move forward and continue to support these great things happening at the classroom level, I have no doubt we will continue to be a premier school district.”
Discount cards for area businesses provide incentive for good grades By Mal Meston Editor-in-Chief
Who doesn’t like discounts? The Shores Academic Booster Club (ABC) provides students with Argonaut Cards, which allow students discounts at local establishments. Students earn either a Gold (4.00 GPA) or Silver (3.50 3.99 GPA) Card. The ABC conducted a survey that was sent to all high school students, intending to get feedback about how much they are actually used. More than 50 percent of students recorded that they never received a Gold or Silver card. Assistant principal Kent Higgs said he would like to see more students gain an Argonaut Card. “To get more students involved with the ability to receive Gold and Silver cards, more awareness needs to be brought to the attention of students by announcing it on social media and on the announcements,” Higgs said. Even though these cards can come in handy, many students said they often forget they even have it. “I don’t typically use my Gold Card because I end up forgetting about it even though it’s in my wallet,” junior Tommy Newman said. Newman isn’t alone. Out of the 540 responses, 25.5 percent of students admitted to not taking advantage of their Argonaut cards because many of them just simply forgot they had one.
Sophomore Sophie Recknagel uses her Gold Card to purchase a dessert at TCBY and crazy bread from Little Caesars. (Photo by Isaac Varela) On the other hand, students who do use it often, love their discounts. “I probably use my Gold Card at least once or twice a week,” senior Rocky Simonelli said. “I use it the most at
Subway, and when Jimmy John’s was on it, I used that one a lot too.” A few of the merchandise and food discount stores on the Gold and Silver Cards include Biggby Coffee, Burger King, Cherokee Restaurant, G&L, La Casa Fierro, Hearthstone, TCBY, Best Buy, Cinema Carousel, The Trophy House, Shores Choir, Sherman Bowling Center and many more. “My favorite place to go that is on the Argonaut card is the Cinema Carousel. I go to the movies a lot with my boyfriend, so it comes in handy,” senior Grace Ginman said. “They have really great matinée pricing in the evening.” In the same survey, many students gave suggestions to places they would like to see put onto the next Argonaut card for the year of 2018. These include Jimmy John’s (which used to be on them), Lakeside Emporium, Max & Marley’s, Starbucks, Wendy’s, Brooklyn Bagel and many more. “Since I’m a freshman, I won’t be getting my card for a few more months, but I would like to see Buffalo Wild Wings and the Chicken Coop added to the Argonaut Card,” freshman Andrew Taylor said. “Those two restaurants have the best wings and chicken, and having a discount would urge me to go there more often.” From the survey, the top three places used on the Argonaut cards were Subway, the Cinema Carousel, and Little Caesars. “We are currently in the process of coming up with a unique way of celebrating the students who earn and receive Gold and Silver Cards,” Higgs said.
news
The Sailors’ Log
Junior sacrifices receiving gift to help others By Emmalee Dykstra Page Editor While many people focus locally when helping others during the holiday season, junior Shelby Savacool has a unique and meaningful tradition during the holidays that extends globally. “Each year, my aunt buys animals, such as goats, chickens, ducks, and donkeys, in my name,” Savacool said. “They are given to poor families in other countries to provide for their families and towns.” Since she was in third grade, Savacool’s aunt, DeEtte Minerly, has been buying the animals from World Vision, an Evangelical Christian humanitarian aid, development, Savacool and advocacy organization, for one reason that epitomizes the meaning of giving but not receiving. “She started this tradition to help people who need things more than we do,” Savacool said. “We have too much, and the people who receive these animals are lucky to have three meals a day, so getting the animals helps provide basic biological needs.” The twist to the story? Savacool doesn’t receive a gift from her aunt at Christ“ I serve at food trucks in the winter time. My church raises money to buy a $1,000 food truck. We meet somewhere and serve food in those in need.” – Avery Smith, freshman
According to its website, worldvision.org, the organization began in 1950 when founder Bob Pierce gave a little girl $5. Since then, the organization has grown and now helps more than 4 million children in more than 100 countries. World Vision is an international partnership of Christians whose mission is to follow our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in working with the poor and oppressed to promote human transformation, seek justice, and bear witness to the good news of the Kingdom of God. mas. “I don’t get a gift from my aunt during the holidays,” Savacool said. “It doesn’t bother me at all; in fact, it makes me genuinely happy that I am helping others.” To Savacool, it is more than just a silly tradition that she overlooks during the holiday season.
Spirit of Giving
The
Shores ‘adopts’ multiple families By Emmalee Dykstra Page Editor Things just got a little brighter for 20 area families. Every year at Shores, fifth-hour teachers are given the option to participate in Adopt-a-Family, an organization in which a class is given a family in need to buy gifts for during the holiday season. Along with fifth-hour classes, school clubs/ groups, and local businesses collected money and gifts to give their family a memorable Christmas, said Lori Foley, the director of Shores’ Adopt-a-Family. Some groups, such as Student Senate and The National Honor Society, even came together after school to wrap their presents. “It was a really eye-opening experience to help a family who isn’t as fortunate as I am during the Christmas time,” junior Leslie Ewalt said. “National Honor Society adopted a family that has four kids. We were able to gather a huge number of gifts for them and hopefully make it the best holiday season for them.”
After school on Thursday, Dec. 14, many students gathered in the back of the Library Media Center to wrap gifts for the 20 families that were adopted by the Shores community. Junior Coy Lakatos (above), senior Max Wilson (far right) and junior Leslie Ewalt (near right) all participated in the event.
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“I feel extremely honored to have this done in my name because I feel like helping others is more important to me than getting a $30 gift from my aunt,” she said. Savacool said that Christmas is more than giving and receiving gifts. Focusing on the real reason for the holiday is what Savacool tries to do. “To me, Christmas is Jesus’ birthday, and it’s a great time to be close to my family,” Savacool said. “Giving back has a huge role in my faith, so I feel like I am commemorating Jesus when I receive the honor of giving the animals rather than receiving a gift; in fact, at church, we raise money for this around the holidays too.” Savacool said she hopes to continue a tradition similar to the one she participates in now when she has a family of her own one day. “When I’m older, I would love to do something like this for my own kids and/or my family members. Carrying on this tradition would mean a lot to not only myself, but I am sure my aunt, too.” Minerly was unable to comment because she was out of the country, but Savacool gave her thoughts on what she believes her aunt feels. “I would say that she feels like she is making a difference in someone else’s life, and that is the most important and best feeling around this time of year,” Savacool said. “Each year, I will usually try to help out with military fundraising. Also, if there are presents or anything being sent to kids in foster care, I pitch in and help.” – Connor Keidel, sophomore
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feature
Twilight by Stephanie Myers
The Premise: High school student Bella Swan, always a bit of a misfit, doesn’t expect life to change when she moves from Arizona to Washington State. There, she meets Edward Cullen, a handsome, mysterious teen. Edward is a vampire whose family does not drink blood, and Bella, far from being frightened, enters into a dangerous romance with her immortal soulmate. History of Books/Movies: The first Twilight book came out in 2005
with three books following a threeyear span. The series sold more than 100 million copies in 37 different languages. In 2012, Twilight won the Popular Paperbacks for Young Adults award. Four movies were based off of the book, and they have grossed just under $500 million. Quotable: “I first saw the movies, and they really got me but then I read the books, and the dialogue really got me. The dialogue was just so good, and the foreshadowing was really good as well.” – Shanbria Crawford, senior
Maze Runner by James Dashner The Premise: Thomas, a teenager arrives in a glade at the center of a giant labyrinth. Like the other youths dumped there before him, he has no memory of his previous life. Thomas quickly becomes a part of the group and, soon after, demonstrates a unique perspective that scores him promotion to a runner, those who always patrol the changing maze to find an escape route. Together with Teresa, the only female, Thomas tries to convince his peers that there is a way out. History of Books/Movies: The first of the four book series came out in October of 2009, and as of now, the series has sold more than 10 million copies. The first movie in the Maze Runner series came out in 2015 and won two awards. The first two films earned $348 million, and the third movie is scheduled to come out in 2018. Quotable: “There were so many cliffhangers in the Maze Runner that I just didn’t want to stop reading. There was so much suspense and the characters also made it a really good experience.” – Dakota Dirheimer, junior
The Sailors’ Log
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
The Premise: In what was once North America, the capital of Panem maintains its hold on its 12 districts by forcing them each to select a boy and a girl, called Tributes, to compete in a nationally televised event called the Hunger Games. Every citizen must watch as the youths fight to death until only one remains. From District 12, Katniss Everdeen has little to rely on other than her hunting skills and sharp instincts in an arena where she must weigh survival against love.
Y L D L WOR
Divergent by Veronica Roth
These five book and movie series are some of the more popular for teen readers and viewers. Page Designed by Taylor Dew
History of Books/Movies: The Hunger Games went viral after the first book came out in 2008. The original book sold more than 23 million copies, Catching Fire sold 14 million, and Mockingjay sold about 13 million. The series won a total of four awards over the span of four years. The first movie of the four came out in 2012, and the overall series has grossed more than $2.9 billion. Quotable: “The books were just really exciting, the games were so suspenseful that it kept me on the edge the entire time.” – Mark Paparella, junior
S E I R SE
The Premise: Tris Prior lives in a futuristic world in which society is divided into five sections. As each person enters adulthood, he or she must choose a faction and commit to it for life. Tris chooses Dauntless, those who pursue bravery above all else. However, her initiation leads to the discovery that she is Divergent and will never be able to fit in to just one faction. Warned that she must conceal her status, Tris uncovers a looming war which threatens everyone she loves. History of Books/Movies: The first book of the Divergent series came out in 2011, and from then to now, the series has sold just more than 10 million copies. In 2011, the series was awarded with the Goodreads Choice Awards Best Young Adult Fantasy and Science Fiction and Goodreads Choice Awards Favorite Book. The first Divergent movie came out in 2014. The three-movie series made more than $765 million worldwide. Quotable: “I really like the strong female character, she gave the book a really interesting edge over other books.” – Ryleigh Wehler, senior
Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling The Premise: Harry Potter, a boy who learns on his 11th birthday that he is an orphaned son of two, powerful wizards and possesses powers of his own. He is summoned from his life as an unwanted child to become a student at Hogwarts, an English boarding school for wizards. There, he meets several friends who become his closest allies and help him in the battle between good and evil. History of Books/Movies: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (otherwise known as Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone) came out on June 26, 1997 and it took the world by a storm. The Harry Potter series
is distributed in more than 200 territories and is translated in 68 different languages. The books have sold more than 400 million copies worldwide. The series has won more than 40 awards and has become so popular that they are stemming a new series off of it (Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them). The books inspired a movie series to come out after, and the first movie came out in 2001. The eight-movie series has earned $7.7 billion. Quotable: “Harry Potter is such a special series compared to other book series that have been popular and are popular right now because the development of the characters is so strong that you feel like you are part of the story with them. It’s like you feel as though you are friends
with them, and it’s like you’re attached.” – Bailey Dew, sophomore “The characters are so relatable in Harry Potter that you can connect with them on a personable level, and they can almost influence you as a person. You almost want to be just like them. Hermione practically inspired me when I was younger because she was able to outsmart anyone in the room and was able to tell all the men around who’s boss.” – Kristina VanGelderen, senior “Harry Potter is my favorite out of all of the series I’ve read because J.K. Rowling goes so in depth with the stories and the characters that you can just really feel like you are there with them,” – Maddie Sewick, senior
profiles
The Sailors’ Log
P O S I T I V E
Smiling senior brightens school By Kali Jend Page Editor Parents always tell their children to surround themselves with positive people. Senior Jacob Brown is one of those people your parents are talking about. Brown walks the halls of Shores everyday with a big smile on his face and a positive attitude in his heart. Brown said he loves making friends and shares a close relationship with the many friends he has. Smiling is not the only way Brown shows compassion to his friends. “To me, being positive means to stick up for my friends and other people,” he said. “I love my
friends, and I am very protective of them.” For junior Zoie Willeke, her friendly encounters with Brown have become a daily routine. “Jacob always tells me to have a good day, and likes to have conversations in the morning,” Willeke said. “On the days that I don’t see him, I realize it because it has become almost routine at school.” Junior Emma Lynn also has all good thing to say about Brown. “It’s always a highlight of my day seeing Jacob,” Lynn said. “He has a special soul.” Brown will always have a special place in Lynn’s heart, she said. “He makes an impact on people’s lives, and he is someone I Please see BROWN, page 14
When one is looking for a positive person at Shores, it is easy to single out senior Jacob Brown, here surrounded by seniors Trevor Versalle, Savannah Kendra, Emma Nelson and Griffin AmRhein. (Photo by Isaac Varela)
The 10 Essential Habits of Positive People 1. Positive people don’t confuse quitting with letting go.
from lifehack.com 2.Positive people don’t just have a good day - they make a good day. 3.For the positive person, the past stays the past. 4.Show me a positive person and I can show you a grateful person. 5.Rather than being stuck in their limitations, positive people are energized by their possibilities. 6.Positive people do not let their fears interfere with their lives! 7.Positive people smile a lot! 8.People who are positive are great communicators. 9.Positive people realize that if you live long enough, there are times for great pain and sadness. 10.Positive person are empowered people – they refuse to blame others and are not victims in life.
Principal provides support Most mornings, Principal Jennifer Bustard greets students in the main lobby of the school, saying good morning to the students who pass her and telling them to have a great day. “Every day, it is important to give kindness and respect to everyone you encounter,” Bustard Bustard said. “Our words of encouragement and support can be a difference maker. I believe in making each moment count with each person I meet.” Bustard said she has one main purpose in mind when she greets students. “It is my hope that by modeling positivity, others will see it in action and begin to lead with positivity as well,” Bustard said.
For Bustard, she said it is important that everyone who walks in each morning is greeted with a positive interaction and that Shores is a positive and caring place to be. “Everyone has a story, and I want every student, staff and community member to know that I am so glad they are here and let’s have a great day together,” Bustard said. Bustard said she would like students to know that even with negativity around, they need to stay positive. “In education, there can be the negative perspectives that can be the loudest voices, when actually the positive approach will have a more lasting impact on student success and the entire school community,” Bustard said. “I am motivated to lead by positivity because it is what I believe our students and community need most.”
‘Angel’ makes impact While senior Noah Patterson has been a positive impact on the Shores choir, he is known by many to march to the beat of his own drum. Choir director Shawn Lawton liked the fact that Patterson was not afraid to be himself so much that he put Patterson at the top of The Singing Christmas Tree, which was held Nov. 30-Dec. 2 at the Frauenthal, as the “Angel.” “Noah is always a positive kid. He is always willing to lend a hand even when it is grunt work,” Lawton said Not only does Lawton admire the fact that Patterson is not afraid to be himself, Patterson but he loves the fact that Patterson accepts things with an enthusiastic attitude. “He is someone that is always grateful for what he gets, and doesn’t show he’s upset when he doesn’t get something.” Lawton said. Patterson thought of it as a big honor to be perched at the top of the tree. “It makes me happy that I was chosen to be the angel,” Patterson said. “It makes me proud of the person I am.”
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P E O P L E
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8 “I love all the different candles there are; there’s a candle for every mood. They create a homey feeling, and make me feel complete. When I am not burning a candle, it’s like sitting in a cave.” Lily Tilden, junior
“Something I have always enjoyed doing is playing video games. They are just something that always bring me entertainment. They are a really fun activity for me in my free time.” Aiden Fraiser, freshman
“I’ve always really like going shopping. The thing I enjoy most about shopping is getting new clothes. It is just really exciting buying new things and staying caught up with the different clothing trends. ” Emily Priest, freshman
The Sailors’ Log “Something that I have become super interested in is antiquing. I just really like collecting old trinkets, especially small angels. Antiquing is just something that is really fulfilling to me.” Rain Riley, senior
“I really like to run a lot. It has just been something that is a good stress reliever for me. I also like that it is outside and spending my time in the outdoors. It is a good challenge and keeps me in shape.” Cade Poland, senior
center
The Sailors’ Log “Something that I have spent a lot of time playing and practicing is golfing. It is a super interesting sport. I always like going to the practices and playing in the different golf matches.” David Ackley, junior
“I have become really interested in knitting. I like to knit when I am bored or have nothing to do. I first became interested in knitting when my mom brought it home to me and taught me to make a scarf.” Krystina Richards, sophomore
“I really love playing old video games like Space Invaders and Pac-Man. It just seems like all the video games today are the same, so the older video games are more interesting and unique.” Derek Pennell, sophomore
9 “I am super interested in legos. I find it enjoyable to build different things. With all the different possibilities of things you can build, it is a really great way for someone to be creative.” Owen Barnard, sophomore
“Some people say I am obsessed with my phone. My favorite thing is just talking to all my friends and going on Facebook. It is a really good was to keep up with what is going on in everyone’s lives.” Delanie Suzor, sophomore
Obsession Confessions Miller VanderMolen, junior
Niral Patel, junior
Pumpkin Pie
The Secret Behind Obsessions
For as long as most Americans can remember, they have always enjoyed (or not) pumpkin pie at their family Thanksgiving. For junior Niral Patel, this is not the case. “We (my family) were all watching a movie when my aunt offered it to us all,” Patel said. “I had never heard of pumpkin pie, but I’m not soft, so I had to try it.” Patel judged the book by its cover and expected not to like it, but once giving it a shot, he said he absolutely loved it. He describes the pie’s unique flavor as a taste of the holidays. “The flavor just makes you think of festive things like Thanksgiving and family and the holidays,” he said. “I just love it.” And ever since that memorable day, Patel has become a major fan of this staple Thanksgiving dessert.
By Marisa VanderMolen Page Editor It’s odd how some people are obsessed with certain things, and others are obsessed with nothing at all. Why are some people so fixated with a certain thing and others are not? “I think of an obsession as an intrusive thought, something that you can’t get rid of,” said Jim Johnson, who is the school psychologist at Shores. “It’s something that urges you to continually go back and do something.” Simply put, an obsession is the state of being obsessed with something or someone. When one is obsessed with something, they will overindulge in whatever that is that they are obsessed with; it will become a part of their everyday life. Obsessions can be compared to an addiction – they fill one up and make them happy,
ROCKS
Kaylee Holman, junior
Obsessions and collections often go hand in hand. Junior Kaylee Holman is an avid collector of rocks. Her obsession all began on a trip to Florida in sixth grade. On that trip, Holman said she made the decision that she would collect at least one rock from every place she visits. Similarly, her dad decided to do the same thing with sand. “Rocks are unique, and they represent different places and culture,” Holman said. Holman now has an impressive collection of more than 100 rocks and said she plans to continue to search for more additions whenever she finds herself in a new place.
Billy May
To be successful, one must do whatever is possible to stay focused and free themselves of the stress many high schoolers battle every day. Senior Max Wilson has a unique and therapeutic, way of relieving stress brought on by the large workload and high expectations of high school. “Last year in AP Physics, I was super stressed and decided to listen to an hour loop of ‘Hi, Billy May’s here’ (from the OxiClean commercial),” Wilson said. Wilson said he is not sure what compelled him to lisMax ten to that particular video, besides that he’s insane (his Wilson, words), but this video is still his go-to fix whenever he is senior stressed. He said he listens to that video the same way one might listen to music to help focus while doing schoolwork.
What is the ideal pastime for junior Miller VanderMolen’s weekend? Kick back, relax, and drink a few Rip It energy drinks with his bros. “(My obsession) all started a couple of weeks ago when I was hanging out with a good friend of mine, (junior) Conner Vallie,” VanderMolen said. “We were pretty bored, so we took our usual trip to Pic-n-Pac. Instead of getting a plain old Red Bull, we decided to take the cheaper route and buy some Rip It. They’re cheap, tasty, and have an appealing looking.” VanderMolen said he and Vallie are now fans of this energy drink, and they plan to enjoy its killer taste for weekends to come.
some might say that they complete a person. Although the word “addiction” is harnessed with bad feelings, obsessions can be good. One can be obsessed with good, positive things, and one’s obsessions can drive one toward creativity and doing good things. OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder) is caused by an imbalance in the neurotransmitter, or brain chemical, serotonin, according to OCD-UK. Serotonin is the chemical in the brain that sends messages to and from brain cells that affect mood, social behavior, appetite, digestion, and sleep. When there is an abnormality with one’s serotonin, that is when one is affected with OCD. Although OCD and obsessions have common links, there is still no scientific evidence as to why people get obsessed with or collect certain things.
Birds
An obsession can be described as an extremely strong interest in something. It seems to be that birds happen to be a pretty popular interest the high. One can catch (science teachers Marc) Miedema or (Mary) Poort talking about their bird interest as it is something Matt they talk about nearly every Smith, day. senior Senior Matt Smith is someone else who values birds. “It started when I was about 12,” Smith
Rip It
said. “I never really paid any attention to them, but then I decided to. They’re just so much more interesting than other animals.” Smith’s family has six domesticated parrots, one of the birds can even speak. Many birders will create a list that incorporates his or her favorite birds. Smith’s list includes pigeons, doves, and parakeets, his favorite birds. Additionally, Smith said proper bird care is an intense, difficult, and expensive responsibility. He said he recommends that anyone interested in adopting a bird as a pet should spend time researching to be best prepared.
Nacho Libre
Slime Anyone with access to the Internet would most likely be familiar with one of the latest phenomenons, slime. Senior Maura Wilcox is someone who has been interested with this newest trend. “Around last March, I started following a few slime accounts, and there were how to’s, and so my friends and I bought some slime from glitterslimes.com, and ever since then, we will always make it,” Wilcox said. Maura Senior Lucy Eyke, one of Wilcox’s slime buddies, said they also get creative with their slime by making Wilcox, various types such as glitter, crunchy, and butter slimes. senior Wilcox said slime can be used for many purposes, such as relieving stress or using as a fun activity for a good time with friends.
Not all obsessions are related to things such as collections or something like a love for a certain food; people can also be obsessed with a certain movie. Senior Ethan Scissons and his friends are obsessed with the movie Nacho Libre. “It combines a good sense of slapstick humor, and it’s generally funny; although, it’s pretty racy for Nickelodeon,” Scissons said. Scissons said his group of friends have watched the movie more than 35 times. Their love for the movie even compelled them to convince choir teacher Shawn Lawton to show their favorite movie in class.
Ethan Scissons, senior
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What was your favorite Christmas gift?
The Sailors’ Log
What is your middle name?
Laura Schluentz, freshman Sometimes, favorite gifts come when a person least expects them, especially when someone is surprised with a kitten during Christmas break in sixth grade.
Mia Noelle Bowers, freshman A middle name based off of the owner of a local indoor soccer complex is an honor even when you get to carry the name with respect.
“Everyone knew I was getting her (the kitten) except for me,” Schluentz said. “My brother told me to close my eyes, and then, my parents placed the kitten in my hands.”
“My parents really liked the girl who started Shoreline Indoor Soccer Complex,” Bowers said. “Her name was Noelle so they chose her name to be my middle name.”
Susi Potter, Spanish teacher Gifts come from the heart, even when they weigh more than the heart itself.
Josephine Lina Deveau, sophomore Showing the originality in one’s middle name comes into play for few.
“My husband got me this iPod in like 2005,” Potter said. “It was the new thing back then. You could get it monogrammed, so he got my name on it. It’s pretty heavy since it’s so old.”
“Lina was my great grandma’s name,” Deveau said. “She was my dad’s grandma and from Germany, so he didn’t know her that well. I’ve never heard anyone with that middle name, so it’s pretty unique.”
Kyle Mireles, social studies teacher Even one of the hottest toys on the market can make Christmas that much better.
Ken Alden Rose, social studies teacher Tradition is also a factor when it comes to middle names especially when it’s been passed down for generations.
“It was the First Edition Millennium Falcon,” Mireles said. “My grandpa gave it to me, and it was the last present I got on Christmas that year. It took me two hours to build, and I left it up for about five months.
“My middle name is Alden,” Rose said. “My father has the same middle, so does his grandpa. Now, my son has the same middle name. It’s a tradition getting passed down.”
All About
US
Each month, The Sailors’ Log staff will ask fun questions to students so that we can get to know those we pass in the hall every day. Information was gathered by staff writer Sarah Roman and page editor Gabby Lopez.
What would you do with $1 million?
Megan Delong, sophomore
Ryan Gillings, sophomore
John Hall, freshman
A top priority is traveling the world but also following her family’s dreams is also high on the priority list.
Even those who have specific items would use this money to buy what they please, even baseball tickets, an island, and candy.
Finally, some will invest it into their future and even purchase some wheels too.
“I would jump on the first plane to Italy or Greece and begin to travel all across Europe,” DeLong said. “Ever since I was a little girl, my dad has watched The Masters. He said it would be his dream to go watch them in Augusta one day. So if I won $1 million, I would buy him tickets to go watch The Masters in Augusta.”
Sheila Hunt, science teacher Some people have a list of things to do when having so much money, even paying off debt, along with taking a vacation and giving back to charity. “First, I would pay off all my debt and then take a vacation. I would want to go to the Galapagos Island,” Hunt said. “I would also want to increase my charitable giving because I think that’s important. I don’t think I’d quit my job though; I enjoy teaching.”
“I would buy Cubs season tickets. I’m a big fan,” Gillings said. “I would also want to buy an island in the Caribbean and buy as many bags of candy as possible, probably Sour Patch Kids.”
Brianne Wade, freshman Being responsible is also helpful when it comes to owning so much money. “I would give half of it to childhood cancer research and the other half I would save for college,” Wade said. ”I’d maybe buy some chips too.”
“I would invest it into college and a new car,” Hall said. “I would also want to help out my parents. My parents have done so much for me already, and it would only be right for me to pay them back. College is super expensive, and I want to earn a good degree when I graduate. And who wouldn’t want a new car? My parents probably won’t buy one for me on their own, and a fancy car would be pretty cool.”
feature
The Sailors’ Log
11
First deer makes life-long hunter of sophomore
L
ike most people, I will never forget my first time. In this case, it was the first time I shot a deer. My first time deer hunting was Sept. 21, 2012, the first day of Michigan’s annual Youth Hunt. I had gone “hunting” with my dad before, but this was the first real time. Prior to that, my dad would occasionally take me bird hunting, and I’d carry a little BB gun, and I thought it was the most fun thing I’d ever done. Until 2012.
I was at my dad’s friend’s property in Walker. We were sitting in a handmade wooden blind atop a hill overlooking a corn field with woods to our right. From about 6:45 a.m. to 10 a.m., we saw 21 deer, three of which were bucks: one small spike (two antlers) running with two does; one huge 8-point that, of course, had to be standing right in front of the sun so I couldn’t get a shot; and one 4-point that walked out from the thickest part of the woods at 9:45 a.m.
Walking at us from maybe 50 yards away, it kept coming and coming and coming. It was not
stopping and had no idea that we’re there. Its body turned so that I could get a shot. I aimed right behind one of its shoulders – because that’s where the kill shot is. I fired my rifle. The deer jumped and took off full speed back from where it came from. It fell down about 100 yards in front of us. It was my first deer. Being a hunter, killing my first deer will never leave my mind. It’s one of my happiest hunting memories.
I’ve wanted to experience that again ever since that warm September morning. Finally, after years of trying again, I killed a doe this past bow season. Same rush. Same fun. Same memory. I’ll never forget it. To me, hunting is so much more than killing an animal. It’s a tradition that has been carried on throughout the history of the world as a necessity to survive. More importantly, it’s a tradition for dad and me.
Shores’
BIG GAME
HUNTERS Three females make their mark Throughout history, hunting has been a man’s sport. From Daniel Boone to Davy Crockett to Teddy Roosevelt, the list of male hunters is forever growing.
But as times have changed so has the clientele of hunters, which now includes females like freshmen Vaughn Lakatos and Emily Lieb and sophomore Sara Gappa, who have a combined 10 years of hunting between them.
This past season was freshman Emily Lieb’s first time killing a deer, a 7-point buck, as well as her first time going out. She said she was sitting with her dad, the deer walked out into the open, and she took her shot and hit the buck. She said it staggered and stumbled and then fell. She then shot it two more times and put it out of its misery. “My dad and I both were so happy to be able to experience this together,” Lieb said. “It’s something neither of us will ever forget. It was a great new experience for me, I loved it and I can’t wait to have more moments like that in my future.”
All three girls were able to harvest a kill this past season. Gappa and Lieb were able to bag bucks while Lakatos brought down a doe. Freshman Vaughn Lakatos, who has been hunting for four years, killed a doe this past season. Lakatos said she was sitting with her dad early one morning. Suddenly, out of nowhere, out from behind them, walked a doe. Lakatos moved around from where they were sitting, and she said she took her shot. “The deer snuck right up on us,” Lakatos said. We didn’t expect it to be there, and then all of a sudden 15 yards behind us, there it is.”
Sophomore Sara Gappa, who has been hunting for five years, hunts both in Michigan and Nebraska. “I’ve always loved the whole process,” Gappa said. “From leaving Michigan to going all the way to our family’s property in Nebraska, to getting up at 5:30, to getting all set up and ready to hunt, to finally killing a deer, it’s awesome.” She killed an 8-point buck this past rifle season. Traditionally, she said she wakes up at 5:30 a.m., gets ready, and heads off. On the day she shot the 8-point, she said she shot the deer at 11 a.m. “When I killed my deer, it had run down the hill in front of us,” Gappa said. “We had to drag it back up to the top of the hill with my dad’s truck.”
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people play
Holidays perfect time for competition By Sammie Ladegast Page Editor During the holiday season, time is usually spent with friends and family. One of the ways this quality time can be spent is by playing those board games that have been stashed away somewhere in the house. One common reason board games are typically played by families is because they allow for the competitive nature to peek through. Freshman Lexy McCann and her family are no exception to this reasoning. “We’re all very competitive people when it comes to playing board games together,” McCann said. “It’s a ton of fun watching each person try to beat the others to win.”
Many families enjoy playing games, such as Uno, during the holidays. Here, juniors Tommy Newman, Marisa Bacon, Carlie Perdue, Diego Stark, and Shelby Savacool enjoy a quick game in the library. (Photo by Sammie Ladegast) Trivia board games like Trivial Pursuit and Family Feud are the common McCann family favorites during Christmas and, occasionally, New Year’s Eve.
“My favorite part is how I’ve never lost a game,” McCann said. “I also enjoy our special rule that whoever wins the game gets to open a present of their
Uno “My family plays Uno whenever we get together during the holidays or when we go camping. My favorite part of this game is when we are able to keep a game going for hours because we all end up getting
Apples to Apples
a ton of cards at the same time. We even have ‘house rules’ we play by. If you have a ‘draw two’ or ‘draw four’ card, you can keep stacking them. We get pretty competitive, too, especially when my cousins and I get together and play, but it’s all in good fun.” – Gypsy Bates, sophomore
Spoons “During our family party on Christmas Eve, which is also my Grandpa’s birthday party, my family plays Spoons. This has become a tradition in my family, and we enjoy spending time with one another while playing. My favorite part is watching my parents, aunt, and uncle fighting to grab a spoon because it gets pretty intense. I even have a small scar on my hand from getting scratched by my cousin while fighting for a spoon.” – Kailee Kurth, senior
choice or their stocking that night before Christmas, which adds to the competitiveness of the game, making it even more fun.” Another reason for breaking out the board games during the holidays, or anytime really, is to spend quality time with family. Freshman Sahara West said this is her family’s reasoning. “Each year, we get presents addressed to our family from Santa and, often, it is a new game that we open and end up playing that day,” West said. “We’ve received games like Apples to Apples Kids, Clue Junior and Monopoly Junior.” The time spent opening, figuring out, and actually playing each new game received is quality time they spend together. “We play these games mostly Please see GAMES, page 14
“My family only plays Apples to Apples on holidays when we all come together like Thanksgiving and Christmas. This is a fun game to just mess around with, and it also prevents it from being awkward while everyone stuffs their faces with mashed potatoes. I like how Apples to Apples is a creative game that makes the players think, and it also brings laughs to the table.” – Tristan Lakos, junior
Monopoly “Around the holidays, my family tries to play Monopoly as much as we can. It has become a staple in our household. We play because it is time we can spend as a family, especially since my family is always
busy with work or extracurricular activities. My favorite part is that I typically always win, and it is fun to see how competitive my siblings are. One of our games even took so long that we spent a solid three hours playing, but it never got boring because we were all so focused on winning.” – Diego Stark, junior
The Sailors’ Log Exit: The Game – The Polar Station (Kind of like “escape room” experiences) In Polar Station, you play as climate change researchers locked in an Arctic lab, trying to solve codes to escape before you all end in a cold demise. Photosynthesis (Kind of like chess) Plant tree seeds, catch the sun’s rays to grow them taller, and harvest the fully-grown trees for points. Thinking ahead and planning carefully are necessary for this game with spectacularly gorgeous 3D tree game pieces. Codenames: Duet (Kind of like Taboo) Two teams of secret agents with spymasters try to guide their rival teams into making contact with friendly agents before unmasking their own or running into an assassin. Only one-word clues revealing the secret agents are allowed.
Six Top of 2017
According to Smithsonian.com Raiders of the North Sea (Kind of like Lords of Waterdeep) This game doesn’t involve knocking one player out of the game. Instead, you play as Vikings plundering hapless settlements in this interesting take on the worker placement genre. Go Nuts for Donuts (Kind of like Sushi Go) Players are hungry donut-eaters who must strategize for the best donut. You must choose the donut you want; however, if more than one person wants the same donut, nobody gets it. So, think wisely in order to receive a tasty treat. Evolution: Climate (Kind of like Evo) Players must take control of a creature, adding traits like horns or a hard shell, grow a population, or start a new species. Herbivores that compete for plant food and carnivores that can eat other players’ species are all part of the fun.
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The Sailors’ Log
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sailors being
PET SMART Chickens
“My chickens are Tank, Millie, Queso, Mick, Teryaki, and Cheddar. I love to let them roam around the yard when I’m outside, and sometimes, they’ll sit next to me if I’m on the patio. I love how well trained they are. It’s sweet I can have them even though I live in Norton Shores.” – Carley Eggleton, senior
When most people think of getting that first pet, the idea probably goes to getting a cat or a dog; however, there are other unique pets students have, such as gerbils, horses, and fish. Animals can provide comfort and support, but unique pets can do unique things for their owners. Unique pets can provide stress relief, help encourage exercise, and provide food (like eggs from chickens). Some unique pets just provide an alternative to the traditional pets like cats and dogs. Certain people are just not fit for cuddly pets and prefer scaly or feathery companions.
Pigs
Reptiles
“I have three lizards: my bearded dragon, Hercules; my leopard gecko, Zeus; and my crested gecko, Hades. I like having reptiles and lizards, in general, because they’re interesting to me, and it’s fun to be able to watch how an animal interacts with their environment and to watch them grow up from babies. For example, my bearded dragon was about 5 inches when I got her about a year ago, and now, she’s over 18 inches. I like to watch them eat, and I love to handle them and let them roam around or just fall asleep.” – Drake Zimmerman, freshman
“My unique pets are two potbellied pigs. I often go out to feed them, or water them, or just to spend time with them. They aren’t exactly cuddly pets, but they are nice to be around. I like them because they, or at least the older one, is huge and doesn’t stop eating. They have a lot of personality to them and keep our chickens company in our tiny barn. Their names are Elsie and Adaline, Elsie being the larger and older, and Adaline being the younger, smaller one.” – Cole Ruid, freshman
dog lovers “I like dogs better because it seems like they actually want to be your friend. Cats just hide away from everyone. Dogs are more playful and loving than cats.” – Jaiden Cunningham, sophomore “I am a dog person even though I own two cats. I like dogs better because they are very playful and don’t run away from you when you try to pet them and sometimes they sleep with you.” – Jared West, sophomore “I am a dog lover. When I was little, we had a German shepherd named Logan who I grew up with, we’re the same age, and with both my sister and I, he was so gentle and sweet. We’d accidentally step on him or sleep on him, and he didn’t mind one bit. We currently have two dogs. I enjoy how cuddly they are and how playful they can be.” – Haiden Graham, freshman
Rabbits
“My unique pet is an angora bunny. She doesn’t do much that is different than other bunnies. She’s fluffy and cute, and a goofball. It’s fun (to have a rabbit). I mean, she enjoys to run around the house, and she plays with stuffed animals; she also gets angered easily.” – Victoria Everett, junior
cat lovers Some people prefer dogs, and some prefer cats. Out of 256 responses to our Sailors’ Log survey, 77 percent (197) said they are dog lovers while only 23 percent (59) said they are cat lovers. It is proven from VetStreet.com that cats have better vision, speed, and more intelligence than dogs, but dogs have better smell and endurance than cats; however, this doesn’t necessarily make one better than the other. Cat Lovers 23 percent (59)
Dog Lovers 77 percent (197)
256 responses
“It’s all about the pet itself. Some of my favorite animals in my life are a cat named Gnarl-Nick, who was a street cat who just hung out with my dad and me. If I had to give an opinion, I’ll say that I’ve had more interactions with cats that I enjoy, mostly because I prefer personal space and quiet but also I have been attacked by a cat or two.” – Ethan Scissons, senior “I identify as a cat lover because of my bad experiences with dogs. Before in my life, I’ve been slobbered on and tackled by various dogs. Honestly, I’ve never had a horrible experience with a cat, and cats are just pretty ‘litty.’” – Carol Jean Whitman, sophomore “I am a cat lover usually, but I love all animals. I love cats because they’re so chill. You want to sit down and relax, watch a couple episodes of your show. Dogs will be like, ‘She sat down! Now let’s go outside!’ But cats just sit in your lap all nice and calm so that you can pet them.” – Sahara West, freshman
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sports
The Sailors’ Log
Best Photos of 2017 Each week, the newspaper and yearbook staffs have a competition called Friday Photos, where staff members take a photo that corresponds to a specific theme. Here are some of the top photos.
Worm’s Eye View. Photo by Kambree DeWitt
Fall colors. Photo by Morgan Cathey
Fall Photos photo by Maura Wilcox
Circles. Photo by Tiana Pittman
GAMES
Publications. Photo by Meghan Adams
Continued from page 12 to spend time with one another,” West said, “not to mention the fun we have when we’re together just joking around and laughing constantly.” This quality time together can even transform into a family tradition, where specific games are played each year, every year. For freshman Camille Zuidema, this is the case. “My family and I play the domino game, Spinner, mainly on Christmas and Thanksgiving; though, if my siblings are home from college, we might play it then, too,” Zuidema said. “Over the past few years, it has become kind of a tradition and something we expect to do each year.” However, not all families these days get together during the holidays to play games, and sophomore Libby Knoll’s family is one of them. “My family is usually way too busy and doesn’t have enough time to play games during the holidays,” Knoll said. “Instead, I play video games by myself or try to hang out with friends.” Knoll said, however, that she does wish her family
Bird’s Eye View. Photo by Coy Lakatos
took the time to play games together because “then we’d be like a normal family and actually have time for one another.” Mostly, games are played to just have fun surrounded by those you love. Some families even make up their own games with their own special rules to amp the fun level up even more. Freshman Lucas Grevious and his family have created their own fun game to play during the holiday season. “Everybody in my family buys four things from the dollar store, or any kind of gift they want, wrap them and then pile them in the middle of the playing room,” Grevious said. “You have a pair of dice, and you must roll doubles to pick a gift from the pile. You keep playing until all the gifts are gone.” He said his family not only enjoys purchasing these fun gifts, which can be anything from plungers to lotto tickets, but they also enjoy themselves while playing the game, too. “We play this game because it is absolutely hilarious and ridiculously fun,” Grevious said. “Everybody laughs and has a good time together, even when we open our gifts and see the crazy items we receive.”
Halloween. Photo by Sammie Ladegast
BROWN
Continued from page 7 will remember when I look back on high school,” Lynn said. Even when Brown is having a bad day, he still walks around with a smile saying hello to all of his friends in the halls. “It just makes me smile seeing someone smile and know that I am the reason why,” Brown said. “When I am feeling down, my friends make me laugh and smile when they say nice things about me.” Special education teacher Deb Stevens said she appreciates Brown’s positive attitude be brings to class everyday. “Jacob comes to class every day with a positive attitude. He is very caring and helpful to students,” Stevens said. “He is hardworking and makes an effort to do his best. He is a joy to have in the classroom.” Apart from the classroom, Stevens sees the ways Brown is making an impact on the whole school. “He is friendly and outgoing and knows everyone by name,” Stevens said. “He greets everyone with a smile.” That smile is one that is known by all of Shores, and even though Brown doesn’t provide happiness for the recognition, he said it makes him happy to make others happy. “It makes me so happy to know that so many people care about me,” Brown said. “I didn’t even realize how many people see me as a positive person.”
sports
The Sailors’ Log
By the Numbers 3
7
8
12 20 23 30 34 42 99
Uniform digits tell a unique story By Carlie McNiff Page Editor Two of the most popular sports numbers of all time are probably 23 and 42, but how did sports get to the point where these numbers were bestowed on Michael Jordan and Jackie Robinson? The origin of numbers has been traced back to a 1911 Australian rules football match in Sydney by the International Federation of Football History and Statistics, an organization of football historians. Stateside, the NFL has had uniform numbers since it was established in 1920. Through the 1940s, teams could number their players however they desired. When the All-America Football Conference merged with the NFL in 1950, a mandatory system of assigning uniform numbers by positions was forced. For example, the numbers 1-9 are assigned to quarterbacks, kickers, and punters while the
Match the athlete below with the number above. (Answers at the end of the article) a. Jackie Robinson (MLB) b. Michael Jordan (NBA) c. Wayne Gretzky (NHL) d. Babe Ruth (MLB) e. Justin Abdelkader (NHL)
f. Abby Wambach (Soccer) g. Stephen Curry (NBA) h. Tom Brady (NFL) i. Cristiano Ronaldo (Soccer) j. Walter Payton (NFL)
numbers 60-79 are assigned to offensive and defensive linemen. Compared to the NFL, a more flexible numbering system is used in high-school and college football. However, players often wear numbers that correspond with those of the NFL. Baseball also brought uniform numbers into its system early on. The Cleveland Indians brought uniform numbers into the MLB in 1916 with uniform numbers on their sleeves but stopped after two seasons. Numbers returned to MLB in 1923 when the St. Louis Cardinals wore them on their sleeves.
Cardinals’ players were criticized by fans and opposing players, so the numbers were removed. The Indians were the first MLB team to wear uniform numbers on their backs in 1929. The New York Yankees followed two days later. By the 1930s, all MLB teams wore numbers on the backs of their uniforms. The original baseball numbers were based on the lineup. The starting players were numbered 1-8, the backup catcher was number 9, and the pitchers were numbers 10-14 (not 13 because that was superstitious). The numbering system for
Six Local Stories
“My freshmen year of high school, I started wearing number 40 for hockey because that was the number my dad wore when he played college hockey at Western Michigan University. Hockey was pretty much the only thing I ever played, so even when I played in men’s leagues I still wore number 40 in honor of my dad.” – Chris Johnson, English teacher “I was number 17 for many years while playing club soccer. I chose 17 because one of my favorite professional soccer players who plays for Chelsea, Eden Hazard, was number 17.” – David McNiff, freshman
These three students and three teachers have a story behind the numbers they chose. “The kids in our family wear number 22 because it was my dad’s college football number. It became a tradition, sign of respect, and a goal symbol for the kids in our family.” – Ellery Rose, senior “The number 17 started in Little League baseball. I got picked for the All-Star team, so I picked number 17 for two reasons. My birthday is November 17th, and it was also the number of my favorite race car driver. The first time I wore 17 was probably when I was 10, and then, I wore it all the way up until I was 27. Even when I was coaching, baseball coaches have to wear a full uniform, so I still wore 17.” – Bill Lent, math teacher
baseball has changed, and today’s teams do not assign numbers based on any system. Historically, in the NHL, starting goaltenders wore number 1. Popular belief holds that this was because the goaltender was the first player on the rink from the perspective of one standing in front of the net. In the NBA, players have always worn numbers. Basketball leagues at all levels in the U.S. traditionally use single and double digits between 0 and 5. Retiring an athlete’s number is an honor a team grants a player usually after the player has left the team, retired from the game, or died. The first jersey number to be retired in professional sports was that of an NHL player: Ace Bailey, whose No. 6 was retired by the Toronto Maple Leafs in 1934 following a career-ending fight. Quiz answers: a. 42, b. 23, c. 99, d. 3, e. , f. 20, g. 30, h. 12, i. 7, j. 34
“I have been number 3 in all of my sports for as long as I have played. My birthday is October 3rd, and my mom was always number 3 in her sports.” – Erin Powers, junior “I played basketball, volleyball, and softball, and in all three sports every year I played, I was number 10. My dad and I spent hours and hours in the gym, and he would always tell me I’m number one to him because I put in countless hours and worked really hard. When it came time to pick numbers, that was always in my head, but I didn’t want to take number 1 because I didn’t want to be that person who thinks they’re number one and has that attitude. I put a 0 after it and chose 10, and I knew what it meant.” – Sarah Bronsema, science teacher
15 New coach to lead bowling teams By Carlie McNiff Page Editor For Ron Bacon, the new head coach of the Shores bowling team, the sport has been a part of his life since age 5, and he has bowled recreational, in leagues, and in tournaments. “Out of all the experiences I've had, coaching has been the best,” said Bacon, who replaces two-year coach Sam Gautraud, who resigned after leading the boys’ team to two straight City titles. Bacon has been helping out with the bowling teams for the past few years, and this has led to him earning the position of head coach. Ron Bacon, who has a “The po- lot of experience with sition (of bowling, will coach a s s i s t a n t both bowling teams this coach) kind season. of fell into place a couple years ago,” he said. “(Athletic director Ryan) Portenga called me and told me the team was in need of a coach and asked if I would be willing to coach or help coach. Another reason is my daughters Mady and Marisa were members of the team, so I didn't want them, and the other members of the team to not be able to bowl due to not having a coach. Coaching the Mona Shores bowling team the last few years has been a great experience.” Bacon said he likes bowling because it brings people together. “I have met some really good people over the years and some amazingly talented bowlers also. The OK Black conference has some really good high school bowlers. I will say, the OK Black conference is a very tight group of bowlers and coaches and are more than willing to help each other out when needed. Bacon said he and his teams are hoping to be competitive and bring home hardware this season. “We are just looking forward to getting back on the lanes and knocking the pins down and maybe along the way bringing home some team and individual hardware again this season.”
16
sports BEHIND THE GLASS
The Sailors’ Log
2004 graduate turns love of sports into career By Megan Swanker Page Editor Bryan Fongers is a sports fan who found a way to incorporate his lifetime love for sports into his career as a radio producer for ESPN 96.1 radio station at iHeart Radio in Grand Rapids. “I love sports because it’s always been a passion of mine since I was growing up,” said Fongers, a 2004 Shores graduate who played football and baseball as a Sailor. “My dad used to take me to at least one Lions game every year at the Pontiac Silverdome; a Whitecaps game or two every year; a bunch of Lumberjacks and Fury hockey games at the L.C. Walker Arena during the winter; and to Berlin Raceway on Saturday nights during the summer. I even recall going to a Tigers game at old Tiger Stadium back in the day. Sports have been in my blood since the day I was born.” Following his years at Shores, Fongers attended Muskegon Community College for two years and then finished his bachelor’s degree at Grand Valley State University, where he graduated in 2008. At GVSU, Fongers majored in communication studies and received a bachelor’s of arts degree. For the first seven to eight years of his radio career, Fongers was an intern for Cumulus radio, across the street from iHeart Radio. This internship blossomed his radio career, which also led to being the radio play-by-play announcer for the Muskegon Lumberjacks. At iHeart, Fongers is a producer, running the controls on the other side of the glass, and on-air talent when needed. He will chime in with his opinion on the WOOD Radio morning show, West Michigan Live, and the afternoon ESPN show, Big Drew and Jim. “Brian is just a dependable person,” said Drew McCarthy, the “Big Drew” from the show. “He goes above and beyond each day Boys’ Basketball The Sailors dropped their first two games of the season, 85-77 to Holland and 67-31 to Grand Haven. Girls’ Basketball Junior Nia Miskel has led Shores in scoring in all three games; unfortunately, the Sailors have lost all three to begin the season.
Brian Fongers, who graduated from Shores in 2004, is a producer at iHeart Radio for the Big Drew and Jim show. He will also chime in with his opinion on the WOOD Radio morning show, West Michigan Live. He helps with on air talent and runs the controls from behind the glass. (Photo by Isaac Varela) and works hard all the time and then will find ways to work harder. He does everything well and is sometimes asked to do unusual things. Brian is the king of good guys.” Besides Fongers’ will to work hard to make the show the best it can be, Jim Costa, the “Jim” of the show, said he appreciates the way Fongers carries on a conversation when he subs in for audio before a show. “Brian is a Michigan fan and that can bring in more people to listen to the show,” Costa said. “Brian knows how to mediate, take a side when necessary, and how to push a conversation forward. We always want him to join in our conversations.” However, behind the scenes is where Fongers usually is. He does play-by-play for high school football and basketball, and he works for Cornerstone University, where he
Wrestling The Sailors had two champions at the Lansing Eastern Tournament: junior Josh Hill (189 pounds) and senior Zach Donahue (140). Cheerleading The Sailors have won both of its meets, capturing the title at the CCCAM and at the Reeths-Puffer Invitational.
announced soccer and women’s basketball. “In terms of doing play-by-play stuff, it’s getting a chance to travel to different cities, especially when I was with the Lumberjacks,” he said. “I went throughout the country and saw the different cities, and was able to get out and about because that’s what I like to do. I don’t like to sit around and work at a desk job; that’s just not what I went to school for. Being able to get out and about and working with a bunch of different people is what I like the most.” Fongers said his job at iHeart is unpredictable. “(My job is) never a set schedule, which is what I like about it,” Fongers said. It keeps it fresh and entertaining.” Besides play-by-play, Fongers also helps produce different podcasts for iHeart, which he said he also enjoys.
Sports Briefs Hockey The Sailors, who have an 0-7 record, did not score in the first three games of the season. Boys’ Bowling Senior Johnny Blanton had a 200 game in the Sailors’ loss to
“I do a lot of the podcasting for the shows, which is a part of my production work,” Fongers said. “It is a big thing of mine that I really enjoy doing. Podcasting is really just what the times are these days. People do podcasting, and it just works. A lot of people don’t listen to the shows live much anymore because everyone is busy with their own lives. There is no set time for you to be able to listen to it because it will be there whenever you need it. It’s the new thing that people on the radio are getting into.” In his childhood, Fongers has always loved watching sports on TV. Today, with the same love for sports he had when he was little, Fongers found a career from his dreams. “Doing play-by-play for many different sports has always been a dream of mine since I was little,” he said. “I used to stay glued to the TV whenever the Lions, Red Wings, Pistons, Tigers, or Michigan was on and talk at the TV like I was actually there calling the game myself and talking to other people.” With a long history of sports behind him, Fongers found a career that matches his long time love for sports. “I like my job a lot because I don’t really consider it a job,” he said. “I was always told to do what you enjoy doing for a career, and as long as you find what you’re looking for, it won’t even seem like you have a job at all.” Fongers is known at iHeart as one of the most dependable people at work. He has many qualities such as dependable, hard working, and only has positive things to be said about him. “Brian has a high tolerance to be able to work with us,” McCarthy said. “No one ever has something negative to say about him and his high moral fiber. He is the hardest working man in radio and we would love to be like him. These are the kinds of things that you can’t find in anyone else.”
Muskegon. In the season-opening Wyoming Tournament, Shores placed ninth and then followed it up with a fourth-place finish at the Pre-Conference meet. Girls’ Bowling Junior Marisa Bacon placed fourth in the season opening Wyoming Tournament, where Shores placed eighth. The Sailors then placed fifth at the Pre-Conference
meet before beating Muskegon. Boys’ Swim Shores began the season with a fourth-place (Ludington Relays) and a sixth-place (GR City Sprints). Juniors Tommy Cotner and Ryan Heethouse set a record in the diving relay with 402.80 points at Ludington.