The
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THE SENIOR ISSUE
! e n o d I’m PHOTO BY ETHAN STONE
MAY 2014 . VOLUME 48 . ISSUE 09
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Table of contents May 2014
ISSUE 09
Meet the Staff CALVIN FREEMAN Editor-in-Chief
Arts & Entertainment
RACHEL ROSENSTOCK Asst. Editor-in-Chief A&E Editor
HAYLEIGH CHUDIK News Editor
ROLA ALASMAR Opinions Editor
LUKE HOLLAND Features Editor
GARRETT MOULD Sports Editor
ETHAN STONE Photo Editor
CHRIS MANGA Web Editor
MIGUEL PALOMINO Ads Editor
ROSE POLLINA Copy Editor
TERESA HEDIGER Infographic Editor
TRIVETTE KNOWLES Writer
GRIFFIN ZELLER Writer
LAUREN ROSENSTOCK Writer
DANIELLE LAUDICK Writer
EMILY WILKINSON Writer
ARIELLA DAVIDSON Writer
GRACIE WILLIAMS Writer
AUTUMN MOCK Writer
AMELIA HOLCOMB Writer
NANAE URANO Designer
ARTURO SANCHEZ-VERA Photographer
JENNA FACKRELL Photographer
BROOKE HOLMES Photographer
HANNAH HOLLANDER Photographer
JULIE FALES Adviser
Mission Statement The Patriot is a news magazine that aims to objectively present topics affecting Shawnee Mission South High School, as well as connect with readers on issues concerning the student body. Staff members reserve the right to express their views in the Opinions section. These pieces are labeled and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the staff as a whole, except the Lead Editorial, which represents the views of the editors. Under the First Amendment and Kansas Law, The Patriot staff is entitled to freedom of the press and neither the school nor district is responsible for any content or coverage. The staff encourages letters to the editor, but they will only be published if signed. The editor-in-chief reserves the right to refuse or edit any letters for reasons of grammar, length and good taste. For online news go to www.smsouthnews.com.
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Old bands come to KC; Where to go and what to listen to as summer approaches Reviews on The Other Women, Buzz
17 Uner the Stars, Heaven is for Real, and After Visiting Friends
Junior Jennifer Weber shows off the reptiles to elementary school students in her Environmental Ed class. PHOTO BY ETHAN STONE
MACKENNA BARKER Writer
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Senior editor makes predictions on what the next big Apple products will be; Asst. EIC predicts what transitioning from a suburb to a college town will be like
News 04
Southettes and Pacesetters programs will combine in 2014-15 school year
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Front office hopes to put together a student tech team for next year; Seniors receive local scholarship
06
Recent crimes rattle KC residents; Five teachers prepare to say goodbye as they announce their retirement
opinions 07
Editors discuss what next year’s one-to-one student-computer ratio means for the immediate future
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Two writers debate whether the price of higher education is worth going into heavy debt
09
Writers consider their college futures; Do you need to know what you’ll study going in and why your major should be something more practical
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Senior editor discusses which you’ll remember more from college, what you learned vs. what you experienced; Writer explains why one should study in-state
Features 11
Memorable moments from 2010-2014; How yearbook’s contribution to the school is one of the most important
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A master list of where seniors plan to spend their time next year
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Q&A with one of Tuesday’s graduation ceremony student speakers, Sophie Tapko
Sports 18
Some of the best photos from the May 5 and 6 sixth grade field day
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2009 graduate Mike Morin gets called up to the MLB through the Angels Organization
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What Donald Sterling means for the NBA; Sporting with the Staff
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Sports briefs on track & field, swim and dive, golf, tennis and baseball, softball and soccer
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19 senior athletes have publicly announced what school they will compete at next year
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Photo Essay Top photos from the past month
Overland Park community members walk down Nall to commemorate the three people shot at the Jewish Community Center on April 13. PHOTO BY HANNAH HOLLANDER
TOC
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spirit squads to undergo major changes
two seniors rise victorious
southettes and pacesetters prepare to combine BY LAUREN ROSENSTOCK
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xtravaganza, dance marathon, talent show appearances and assembly performances give the school an idea of how the dance teams and flag team work. Beginning next year, a major change will be made. The Pacesetter Varsity Dance Team and the Southette Varsity Flag Team will be combined to create the Pacesetter Varsity Drill team and Pacesetter Junior Varsity Drill Team. The decision to form one team was made by the administration. “Financially it was difficult to justify having two coaches... South is the only [Shawnee Mission] school that has separate teams, and we would not have made the change if we had two teachers who were interested in coaching,” athletic director John Johnson said. Science teacher Alexandria Stankewsky was the 2013-2014 Southette coach. For the 2014-2015 dance season, Stankewsky will coach the newly formed team; the two teams will function as one with the same vision and goal in mind. “I came from a drill team from Shawnee Mission Northwest, I have a lot of experience with this. It’s going to be awesome. We are going to amp up our dance skills, we are going to amp up our flag skills and we are going to work together as a team,” Stankewsky said during the information meeting about the Pacesetter drill team, “We are looking for a team of twenty to twenty-five girls. We do not want a smaller team, we want a bigger team, we are merging two teams together,” Stankewsky said. Auditions for the new team were April 30 to May 2. The first two days of auditions consisted of clinics and Friday, May 2 was strictly audition performances made by groups of three girls at a time. Team announcements were also May 2. Over the summer, the girls are scheduled to go
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to a three week intensive dance camp, then to dance camp which is mandatory and then the dancers go to band camp to work on their field season, which Stankewsky says, is the majority of the teams’ auxiliary training. For three months in the fall, the Pacesetters will focus on the field show for marching band competitions; for three months in the winter their focus will be on dance competitions. Then the girls will put on the spring show, Extravaganza. “We want to put together an awesome team where we are using your strengths and so you can be just incredible out there...I want that type of squad,” Principal Joe Gilhaus said during the information meeting. The 2014-2015 Pacesetter Varsity Drill Team is composed of Addie Nerstheimer, Ali Ciersdorff, Carly Rogers, Caroline Cooper, Caroline Gatti, Carsen Schroeder, Dani Bates, Emily Arnold, Emily Featherston, Emma Shenefield, Gillian O’ Brien, Jess Jurczak, Juliana Roberts, Kara Byrd, Kara Pringle, Kate Gawlick, Madi Smolich, Marissa Gatti, Megan Berning, Megan Watkins, Melissa Kelly, Savannah Smith, Skyla Divine and Yiken Jongerius. The 2014-2015 Pacesetter JV Drill Team consists of Alana Parsons, Anna Distefano, Audrey Reynolds, Caroline Weaver, Christine Elaine, Christy Foster, Danielle Mitchell, Emma Kate Stapp, Hannah Wandling, Kira Nickle, Leanna Farney, Mackenzie Spaulding, Mckinsay Kane, Muriel Lund and Olivia Love. By focusing on the girls’ strengths, the Pacesetter Varsity Drill Team will incorporate flag and dance routines equally. With a diverse group of dancers, the Pacesetters will take the term “high school drill team” to a new level.
Mackenna Barker
Mitchell Fowler
both were awarded $250
raider revue may 9-10
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may 13
graduation ceremony
JAZZ
SMS Geek Squad BY CALVIN FREEMAN
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fter superintendent Jim Hinson’s announcement to issue a laptop to every SMSD student next year there were undoubtedly going to be more than a few changes in buildings across the district. From a local standpoint, SMS is implementing a change of their own. Next year the school is hoping to start a program called the SMS Apple Core Support Team. The group is to be made up of 25 to 30 technologically knowledgeable students who will assist their teachers and fellow classmates with any computer problems that may arise throughout the school day. Associate principal Ryan Flurry believes the program will do a valuable service in easing the school through next year’s dramatic technology transition. “I think having a program like the technology support team will be a great way to get the entire school, staff and students, involved in integrating technology into our everyday lives in the
support group to be instated next year to help with apple products
classrooms,” Flurry said. The students will be selected through an application process and are to be chosen by administrators like Flurry and other SMS front office personnel. The selected students are to work in the library during one of their seven class periods and would earn credit as a cadet teacher. One of South’s most intelligent computer students, senior Justin Graham, believes that the program is a good idea, but there are still some kinks to work out. “Next year, from what I’ve been told from Weigel (computer and math teacher) and Barb (school’s computer system operator) everyone is going to be allowed to install software, everyone is going to be allowed to have full access to their MacBook not like [when] you log into a school computer and have restricted access,” Graham said. “So, there’s a certain liability of, if a student’s fixing somebody else’s computer and does something that causes damage,
south’s shooting stars
is the student liable? Is the school liable? With that being the concern, how do you determine if a student knows what they are doing or not?” Graham is currently a senior and will be studying Computer Science at Kansas State University in the upcoming school year so he will not have a role in the program’s upbringing. A class period like this would be the first of its kind for SMS. The four other Shawnee Mission schools also intend to create their own version of a student support team but according to Flurry, South is currently “leading the pack” as far as getting a set plan into action. “This [kind of program] is common in schools that have the one-to-one technology stuff,” Flurry said. “I hope that the students and staff both realize that they have a lot to learn from each other when it comes to technology and how we use it in our everyday lives to enhance the curriculum here at South.”
seniors receive scholarships from local program
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PHOTOS BY BROOKE HOLMES
any set construction I had done. I had pictures, drawings, descriptions of things I had done during the show and I just compiled them all,” Lierz said. Director Mark Swezey nominated Lierz in October. “She has really shown exceptional abilities earlier in this year and late last year in management, stage management,” Swezey said. “She’s just exhibited tremendous leadership and shows me she can take on adult responsibilities. So I nominated her early in the year and she continued to shine throughout the year.” Senior Skylar Brennan also won an award in photography. Brennan was awarded a $700 scholarship that she will use at Kansas City Art Institute and double major in creative writing and fine art, with an emphasis in photography. She submitted eight photos and the judges critiqued the best five. Art teacher Pat St. Louis nominated Brennan because “she’s the best.” “I know how hard she’s worked and she’s very deserving of the award,” St. Louis said. Brennan didn’t expect to win, but was “really excited” when her name was announced. “I think my teacher had seen my progression with the series and it was something really important to me,” Brennan said. The scholarships will help support Lierz and Brennan’s artistic careers that will surely lead to more achievements.
early dismissal
may 20- 23
FINALS WEEK
BY AMELIA HOLCOMB
wo of South’s most active art students were honored for their arts achievement with scholarships from the Shooting Stars program, a program that celebrates art students and educators. Shooting Stars is sponsored by the Arts Council of Johnson County and funded by private donations from corporations, foundations and individuals. Students must live in Johnson County and can win second or first place in nine categories. Senior Remy Lierz won first place in the Production & Design category, winning a $1,400 scholarship. She will major in theatre technical and design at Wichita State University and get a stage management certification. She has already dominated South’s theatre scene by stage managing four shows and working on every show since her freshman year. “When I stage manage shows I basically kind of run rehearsals until the director gets there and is ready to actually start the show and he gives acting notes, but I make sure the crew is ready. I write down any notes the director has and I give them to the people that can get those jobs done. During the show I call the show so any time something happens, it’s because I said ‘do this,’” Lierz said. Lierz went to a meeting and interview and put together a portfolio and digital portfolio showing all her work from theatre productions she’s worked on. “From when I’ve stage managed shows, I had a prompt book, notes, different designs I’ve done for tech theatre,
early dismissal early dismissal
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WED hours 2&3
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3 2 Y A M SUMMER BREAK 11:30 a.m. NEWS
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The
Patriot
Rola Alasmar Editor-in-Chief & Opinions Editor
Jenna Fackrell
Autumn Mock
Social Media Editor Sports Editor Photo Editor
Amelia Holcomb Ads Editor
Nanae Urano
A&E Editor
a hard goodbye PHOTO COURTESY OF KELLY O’CONNOR
too close for comfort
recent crimes leave kansas city shaken up BY AUTUMN MOCK
06 NEWS
Rose Pollina
Features Editor
Black and Gold Friday was held April 18 for students to show support for the Jewish Community Center victim, Blue Valley High School freshman Reat Underwood.
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Lauren Rosenstock
Infographics Editor News Editor
next year’s editors
ommonly known as a relatively safe area, the residents of Kansas City have felt a spike in fear due to the latest crimes at the Jewish Community Center and highway shootings. Residents are shocked and scared to see Overland Park on national news. While neither event was a massacre, each left its mark on the public. The JCC shooter left three dead and the highway shooter wounded another three. On April 13, the eve of Passover, 73-year-old Frazier Glenn Miller acted in the shooting at the Jewish Community Center, in result, killing three, two of whom happened to be Methodist and one a Catholic. This devastating news hits home because one of the deceased was sophomore Rose Smithson’s godmother. “It’s definitely really hard. She was my godmother/second mother; she was always there for me,” Smithson said. Miller allegedly was heard calling out “Heil Hitler!” when he was escorted to the police car. The case has been treated as a hate crime. This is not Miller’s first time in trouble with the law, he has had issues since the 1980s when he went to prison for weapon charges and plotting to kill the founder of the Southern Poverty Law Center, and has since been on the FBI’s radar. Many have questioned as to why he was able to pull this off while being watched by the FBI, but technically no one can be arrested
Emily Wilkinson
Assistant Editor-n-Chief Web Editor
until it is known that the person is plotting to commit a crime or has already committed a crime. Until then, law enforcement is powerless. Since the case is being treated as a hate crime, the death penalty is an option as punishment for Miller, as long as he was motivated by the three victim’s race, color, religion or national origin. “The family is all like ‘Let’s all be about love and let’s not have him have the death sentence.’ I’m trying to be loving about this situation but it’s hard,” Smithson said. The other two of the three killed in the JCC shooting was Reat Underwood, a freshman at Blue Valley High School, and his grandfather who was a retired doctor. On Friday, April 18, Pep Club held a Black and Gold spirit day in support of Underwood and BVHS. About a month previously, the city was in a state of unease from the highway shooter who was targeting cars where highways split and near exits around Grandview, Blue Springs, Lee’s Summit and Leawood. During this spree the man left three injured: two shot in the leg and one shot in the arm. Mohammad Whitaker, who is 27 years old, was taken into custody and faced charges of 18 felony counts in a dozen shooting incidents. Along with his bond being set at $1 million. Like Miller, Whitaker was under surveillance about a week previous to the shootings.
raiders say goodbye to retiring teachers
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BY GRACIE WILLIAMS
he familiar sound of the banjo strings being plucked will no longer fill the front hall during first hour after the 2013-2014 school year ends. Art teacher Fritz Buster, along with four other teachers and staff members, will be leaving. Besides Buster, the retiring staff members are special education teacher Barbara Hoffman, athletic office secretary Carol Gunter, and attendance office clerks Mary Dodd and Debra Rosenthal. Buster, who has been teaching at South for 23 years, says he plans to focus on his art, specifically his sculpting, once he is retired. Special education teacher Hoffman says one of her favorite memories from teaching is seeing a student get excited about reading a book. After her retirement, she plans on traveling and visiting her grandchildren in Phoenix. Another sad farewell will be to Dodd, who works in the attendance office. This is Dodd’s 11th consecutive year working at South. She hopes to find another job after retirement. Dodd is most looking forward to spending time with her mother. Rosenthal, who works in the attendance office, has worked at South for the past 13 years. Rosenthal is also a proud parent to Meleah, who was also a Raider and graduated in 2009. Rosenthal has big plans after her retirement which include writing a book and traveling. “I look forward to endless hours with my 11 grandchildren and traveling… hopefully to warm exotic places,” Rosenthal said. After a long 21 years working at South, Gunter is currently the athletic office secretary. “All the people at South have left me with wonderful memories that I will remember forever,” Gunter said. “It has been a great place to work.”
Staff Editorial
will the new technology at school enhance learning?
editors discuss why the new technology is more harmful than beneficial or not. They might as well get a more advanced tool for learning in front of them if the district is willing to provide it. But doesn’t the big, bright, flashing screen in front of you make it a little more tempting to open that funny-cat video link that your friend in Environmental Education sent you? And does it make cheating easier? What’s to stop students from drafting up quick emails with the answers to today’s chemistry worksheet in exchange for the free-response paragraph they can copy and paste and turn in for psychology tomorrow? Will the teachers be able to transition fast enough? There’s always problems with computers and some teacher’s skills in front of a keyboard aren’t much more impressive than an 11 year old trying to dribble a basketball. With time the computers can be a great thing. They can help the the district use less paper, they can allow teachers and students to communicate and work together in a way that has couldn’t have been imagined a decade ago and that’s exciting for the education world but, there are always kinks to work out with big changes like these. The question worth asking right now, for the 2014 and ‘15 graduating classes, is will those kinks be like speed bumps, a little uncomfortable and easily passed, or like mountains, unpredictably rocky and repeatedly difficult to get around?
editors agree with the views expressed in this editorial. For your voice to be heard you may write a letter to the editor and send it to Room 195.
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Go online to smsouthnews. com to read about.... • Quiz on Raider Spirit • Review of Don’t Step on the White Tile and 2048 • SMS’ Improv Troupe • And More!
5/11
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monumental leap forward awaits the Shawnee Mission School District next year as the news about computers being handed out to each and every student at each and every level has been buzzing around for months. Teachers have already gotten a little taste of what it will be like and have been toying around with their new Apple products this past semester to see what their touch screens and iBooks can do for them. But the real show starts Aug. 13 when students will walk into their respective buildings unsure of exactly how their newly-distributed, district-funded, devices will affect their learning experience. The question here isn’t so much, “Were the computers a good idea?” as much as it is “How will it affect students and schools next year?” Of course the computers have the potential to create a more advanced learning environment, but will that be the case in 2014? Is there a learning curve that will negatively affect classrooms next year but positively affect students in the future? Of course it looks good on paper to say that each student is getting this new “tool” to carry around with them everywhere they go as they learn their new equations and history lessons, but in reality, will its immediate impact be more of a benefit or a distraction? Some might argue that students who don’t want to pay attention won’t, whether we have computers
CARTOON BY ROSE POLLINA
OPINIONS
07
The
Debate
is a good college education worth the money? PHOTOS BY ETHAN STONE
K
nowledge is power. We acquire the knowledge necessary to succeed in life through schooling. The problem is postsecondary schooling isn’t cheap. The average cost for an in-state public college tuition for the 20132014 academic year is $22,826. The price tag for private colleges is substantially higher. Is college worth the cost? Yes. The money you pay for tuition pays for your future. College degrees require both money and effort on your part, but just having a degree increases your chances of success in the professional world. The economic case for college is simple: college graduates make more money. According to an economic analysis by The Hamilton Project they make over $500,000 more over the course of their lifetimes, on average. Success is what we crave, but it isn’t free. Nor should it be free. Success needs to be earned and not
Pro: Rose Pollina
given out like a participation prize. If everyone was successful no one could truly be successful. If you want success you have to put forth effort. Your knowledge and capability is just as important as the money you’re spending. Granted the price tags can be outrageous for college and should be made more affordable, but hey, you get what you pay for. Schools like Harvard and Yale are quite costly but the prestige accompanied with graduating from them is undeniable. The education is also top-notch. It provides a great environment for you to cultivate your future. Just to make it clear: I’m not trying to say you should just throw your money at the colleges. It’s still important to plan out your expenses and not pay for anything unnecessary. Another important note to consider is to know that degrees in one area may be more rewarding than another. This is mainly because
of job availability in certain fields and the wages associated. Ultimately you want to spend money on what will give you a higher chance of success after college. It’s important to balance what your interests are and what will make you more money in the long run. It’s the most important decision concerning your future career. Money pays for your professors. Your professors have a life too and need money as much as the next person. Quality professors take more money to retain. The building also requires money to maintain. Electricity. Water. Waste. Those are just few the expenses colleges have to cover. Everything is connected. Paying for college is paying for your future. It rings true with the saying, “money makes the world go round.” Education is always worth investing in. Continue your education and improve your odds for a successful future.
Con: trivette knowles
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ilton Hershey, Steve Jobs, Walt Disney, Simon Cowell, Rachel Ray and Bill Gates all succeeded without a college degree. Colleges have now created the image that higher education is necessary to have a fulfilling and successful life. I will not preach ignorance and ignore the obvious pros of going to college and how on average people who earn a college degree make more than those without, but I will preach how it is plausible and possible. With unpaid student debt going through the roof and graduates not being able to find jobs, other options are popping up. More and more, high school students are looking into jumping right into their career to build experience and become selfsufficient as soon as possible. About 34.1 percent of all high schoolers go into the work force instead of enrolling into a university, and that number is increasing. To believe the
08 OPINIONS
only way to succeed is by sitting in a lecture hall listening to a professor is absolutely ludicrous. Americans can still accomplish The American Dream no matter the education received. With hard work, discipline, and dedication, anything is possible. For the school year of 2013-14 tuition and fees rose 3.5 percent and has now been under public scrutiny for the soaring prices and lack of aid. Although it’s difficult for students to look outside of their own personal world outside of Johnson County there are plenty of Americans suffering. Low income high school students around the nation have been taking the biggest blow to rising costs. These individuals are finding the most difficult time even getting enrolled in the schools for lack of funds, transportation, and other reasons restricting the possibility of attaining a higher education. The same hard working students who are
stricken with these uncontrollable circumstances can still better society by demonstrating the hard working capabilities in the workforce while lowering the unemployment rate. Additionally, on a personal note, some teenagers travel the country or find themselves like Chris McCandless in Into the Wild. Some of my pals are traveling out West after school to connect with nature. Surprisingly many adults actually suggest that youth take some time away from the demanding nature of routine and conformity of the American public. With the aid of hip hop artists such as Kanye West people are pondering the idea of creating their own path on other nontraditional life experiences. School is not the only way to live or succeed. So whether the cost, the lack of interest, or other deterring reasons, there are other options.
Go online to smsouthnews.com to vote for your opinion
IT’S A MAJOR DEAL
PHOTO BY JENNA FACKRELL
editor advises students to choose sooner rather than later BY RACHEL ROSENSTOCK
D
espite considering myself an extremely indecisive person, committing to a college major was one of the relatively easy choices I’ve had to make in my life. I shouldn’t use the word easy, as planning on spending the rest of your life on one area of interest is no simple action and is one to take very seriously. The choice to major in journalism at Indiana University wasn’t a battle between competing subjects or a program I had to settle on. It seemed natural and merely a progression of my four years in high school practicing my journalistic skills (or lack thereof). I do feel lucky to have a plan of action for college and something I feel confident and happy about pursuing, as many friends and peers I know are no closer to deciding a major than they are to study for next week’s English test. I also know that many of them regret not exploring or discovering something they truly feel passionate about, because their first one or two years of college have to be spent(or some could say wasted) on finding what it is.
While I do feel bad that so many of next year’s college freshmen are going to be floundering around trying to find something they like and a good portion who will ultimately settle for something “sensible”, I’m confused on how they have absolutely no idea what to do yet. I mean it’s not like you had four years to at least discover what you dislike, right? Well, yes we did. Four years of classes, with seven classes a semester for most people, that’s 56 classes completed by seniors, give or take a few. Out of all those, there wasn’t a single one you liked? Took a passing interest in? Did the homework for on a semi-regular basis? I find that hard to believe, even for those whose dislike for school is only minutely passed by their dislike for following proper driving etiquette. Having even a small semblance of an idea of a major or area of study can save money (avoid taking those gen-ed, 700+ lecture hall, classes) save time (graduate in three years) and help you gain experience in your field prior to being
thrown to the wolves (internships and summer jobs). Having a focus in high school can help you avoid being one of those students who realizes second semester junior year, oh wait, I actually really hate little kids and don’t want to be a pediatrician after all. Oops. Bet whoever is paying your tuition won’t be too happy to hear about that. Most scholarships are only renewable for four years, also. While I realize picking a major and eventually a future career is not a decision to be taken lightly or made quickly and many of us will deviate from what we have planned now, going into the next crazy stage of our lives with some focus is important. If you have some motivation behind what you study and can see the light at the end of the tunnel and a goal to strive for, it makes the long hours up studying and 10 page papers worth it. I can’t imagine writing paper after paper and giving presentations and speeches and working on projects for subjects I don’t care about. So as the last weeks of school wind down, sit back and think about what you are passionate about. There’s no need to run down the streets proclaiming your future as a veterinarian or an engineer, but find something you enjoy. It doesn’t have to be as specific as a bio-chemical engineer with a concentration in plant pathology, but something general and broad like education or engineering. That leaves the door wide open for you to find something that lights you on fire but also gives you focus for the start of your college journey.
Undecided on your major?
editor gives tips on how to decide what to study BY LUKE HOLLAND
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dds are if you are a senior reading this, you haven’t decided on a major for college yet, let alone a minor. This selection process is a daunting task, and even after shadowing professions, talking to other college students, and taking personality quizzes to find the career or major that’s right for you, you may still be lost. However, there are several tips that will make this important decision easier for you and more beneficial in the long run. For starters, it’s OK to wait. Many people don’t commit to a major until up to two years into college, and several who have chosen earlier tend to switch majors. Don’t be afraid to wait or switch paths if the one you are working towards is not going how you planned. It’s recommended to take at least two advanced classes in a field before you fully commit to studying it. Don’t choose based on your friends. If you pick classes for a particular major because many of your peers are
taking them, or even because they were recommended by parents or other adults, you are less likely to stay committed, or to even enjoy it. Pick something that appeals to you specifically, and don’t try to advance your studies in subjects that you have previously struggled in. Find your academic strengths and pursue them. That being said, don’t major in something super specific to your personal interests. Don’t major in Greek Mythology just because you like the stories, unless you plan on becoming some sort of teacher in the field. Major in something that will get you a job that you are comfortable with. Save the lesser interests for your minor. Many people choose to double major, but I would not recommend it. Generally only one of them will be beneficial further down the road, and having two puts unnecessary burdens and responsibilities on your already crazy schedules.
There are some jackpot majors that look good when applying for virtually any job. A humanities degree is a good jack-of-all-trades degree that adds some good character to your resume. A business degree shows a broad understanding of business operations that will help you secure most corporate jobs. Most importantly, don’t stress over this. This should be a fun and exciting decision in your life, and there is no need for it to be forced. Go to class, take some extracurriculars, and let the decisions come to you. When all is said and done, do what will give you a comfortable future and what makes you happy.
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PHOTO BY ARTURO SANCHEZ
Don’t stress over this. This should be a fun and exciting decision in your life, and there
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is no need for it to be forced.
OPINIONS
09
Hitting the books close to home
writer explains the benefits of going to an in-state college
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BY EMILY WILKINSON
f you’ve been on the college search within the last decade, you may have noticed that choosing the next step in education has become more of a game of numbers than quality. For an affordable, quality degree, a good portion of students in the district turn to Johnson County Community College. Without added stress of paying for room and board, JCCC, Kansas City Kansas Community College and other community colleges are great alternatives for cost-conscious students. Whether you’re looking to complete all four years or just basic courses, going to an in-state community college is the surest option for cutting costs. Despite all of the obvious advantages community college offers, most students (myself included) don’t consider local schooling as the quintessential young adult experience. Whether we consciously acknowledge it or not, there’s more to college than education. Some students would benefit from Greek life in a sorority or fraternity. Others would rather sleep in dorms on campus. Unfortunately, community college offers neither. There isn’t much room for branching out and broadening your horizons when you have to drive back to your parent’s house at the end of each day. The more ideal option, attending a four-year university, while a significant step up in price, is a far more freeing alternative. For the majority of students, college will be the first time they will be living independently from their
parents: a major step forward from adolescence to adulthood. However, no matter what you’ve considered, there’s one aspect of college tuition that’s nearly unavoidable. In Kansas, out-of-state tuition can double in-state tuition, which begs this question: is it worth leaving the state and paying so much more money for an education that you could more than likely achieve here? Of course, I understand that there are other variables that play with this decision. You might have a scholarship that could help with tuition, maybe you’re studying for a specific career that isn’t taught just anywhere or maybe it’s a prestigious private college you’re looking for (which do not separate tuition fees by state, by the way). Unlike those people, I find myself aspirationless and not entirely prone to having universities throwing money at me. And if you are at all like me, then I see no pressing reason to drive out of state, get your diploma, and come back home overworked and indebted. Yes, college is a huge part of the quintessential young adult experience, and students should feel free to explore the world and find themselves, but let’s be serious. College tuition has been increasing exponentially over the last couple of decades, and by the time it’s my turn to take the next step in my education, I have to take into account that it will be even more expensive than it is now. Is it worth the extra money to plan for the future a couple of states over rather than right here? I think not.
PHOTO BY HANNAH HOLLANDER
10 OPINIONS
PHOTO BY BROOKE HOLMES
college life vs real life
editor discusses why going to college isn’t necessary
K
BY MIGUEL PALOMINO
eep the parties, save my liver, and screw the tests. Anyone who has gone to college will fondly recall them as the best years of their life. I once visited my sister who graduated college back in 2011. During my visit we went to her friend’s apartment and at the apartment her greeting had the definition of college as so: College: (n) the party before the hangover that is adult life. At first I laughed and thought how clever it was. But really thinking about it, if college is one huge party then metaphorically are we all just throwing down thousands of dollars for a really expensive kegger disguised as a college diploma? Since we were little our parents have told us if you want to get a good job you need to go to college. Once upon a time that was a very real truth, but now mostly depending on the career path you take, it isn’t all about what you know but who you know. In a post college world it’s hard out there for your typical 20 something with a bachelor’s degree. There’s a lot of competition for jobs out there. Instead of choosing a college for their academic merit should we pick the college that gets one the best career connections? Or are most people looking online for the best party university? Why pay 18 years of savings just to wake up next to strangers, stress for finals, and be separate from the real world? High school is pretty much the same experience but you go home at the end of the night. College is high school without parents. When you sit at the dinner table and ask your parents what the most memorable aspect of college was, I guarantee it won’t be that lecture they heard junior year. It’ll be when they went to a crazy party where their best friend streaked and got tackled by campus police. Maybe if your parents were crazy enough it could have been them. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. That also applies to intelligence. If you can go to a mirror and think you see someone smart why pay the money to a place that already has millions to tell you something you already know. Jobs are not guaranteed no matter
what college you go to. If you’re going to be jobless why not be a happy jobless person who is not in debt. People pay off student loans until they’re grandparents. Obviously if you’re getting a full ride somewhere disregard this whole entire column. So all the smart people who scored a 30+ on the ACT or the kids who can throw or kick a ball well enough for a college to pay for school, ignore this. Because I’m talking to all the other average kids who have to mull over decisions about where their future lies. As a person who extremely enjoys parties it would seem odd for me to be anti-college but I’m not a stupid partier. I realize a scam when I see it and that is all that college is. A glorified scam that gets kids freaked out about the path that is ahead of them when really they should be focusing on the now and how to take advantage of all the opportunities in front of them. Join the Army if you feel obligated to do something, just don’t waste your money like you have nothing to lose. Because in an economy and world where college graduates are not prospering more than any other Jack or Sally, you have everything to lose. So if you’re willing to waste $100,000 over the next four years for room and board, books, classes, lab equipment, parking permits and other useless tools that are supposed to help shape your future go right ahead. Real life experience is everything. Eighty percent of people actually don’t even get a career in the field of the degree received. For clarification, the subject that students loved in the beginning of college they don’t even get a job in 80 percent of the time. That is a big risk to take when life is waiting for you right after May 13. So if you’re not going to college or are taking a year to connect deeper with nature don’t feel bad about yourself. You’re not alone and are probably making a better decision for your future than every other average kid out there.
Memorable moments: 2010-2014
BY MACKENNA BARKER AND CALVIN FREEMAN our years: it feels like a long time. For the seniors, it’s over 1,400 days spent as a part of the Raider family. But this time that we spend here is more than just a set of days or hours. It’s an infinite collection of moments, good moments and bad moments, moments that made us gasp or laugh or cry. Our time here will soon be over, but we can always look back on the moments that made our hearts swell with pride to be a Raider.
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Basketball Wins State (2013)
Boys basketball goes undefeated and brings the trophy home under the leadership of Coach McFall and 2013 grads Josh Pederson and Jake Caldwell.
Swim Wins State (2013)
Boys swim was able to clinch gold last year. National Coach of the Year Bruce Bove and junior sensation Ryan Sweat carried the team to an unforgettable 1st place finish.
AcaDec Wins State (2010-2014)
Since the year 2000 the Academic Decathalon team has been tearing up their competion and these past 4 years have been no different. Coach Stan Stern and his students were able to keep this incredible streak going.
Coming Together
SMS repeatedly showed great support for the families of fallen SMSD students, Shelby Jones, Andre Maloney, Houston St. John, Ashton Brunmeier and Reat Underwood.
yearbook
honoring those who help us remember
BY EMILY WILKINSON
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obody knows for sure where their lives may be in 20 years: what challenges we may face, what family we may have or what dreams we’ll be striving for. But 20 years from now, the Heritage staff hopes you’ll be able to remember the past. “We get to define how you’ll remember the year,” editor-in-chief Emily Searl said. “I mean, it’s not like you’re going to keep in touch with everyone, so if you want to remember it, buy a yearbook.” With an influx of new writers on staff, editors on the yearbook did what came naturally to seasoned members of the staff: adapt and thrive. “You have to be able to go with the flow... I mean, there’s like 50 people on staff, so there’s going to be complications and issues you would never see coming,” Searl said. “That was the main issue this year: figuring out how to use everyone we had effectively. As an editor, you have to be able to listen to people and not just go with what you think is best. Sometimes, even though you’re the one in charge, other people will have better ideas than you or something that would work
better than what you were thinking. Things aren’t going to go exactly as you plan.” New personalities on staff have been a more than welcome addition to the family atmosphere that Searl says is her favorite part of working on the Heritage. “This has been one of the greatest experiences of my life,” Searl said. “It’s just been a really cool thing to work with all these different kinds of people. I don’t know if there’s any other thing that you can do in school that has this weird mix of different people with all these different activities. Everyone’s in it together making a good book.” Distribution day for the Heritage is scheduled for today in the gym lobby. Kona Ice snow cones will also sold outside the gym lobby for $3 to $4. Students will be released by class and are invited to sign each other’s yearbooks after they’ve been handed out. Students will need their ID’s to pick up yearbooks. If extra copies of the Heritage are printed, they will be sold first-come first-serve for $65.
Summer bucket list BY MIGUEL PALOMINO
Sleep in a park Go camping Binge watch Netflix for two days straight Read three new books Spend a whole day at the beach (any beach) Ride to at least one different state Get along with a sibling more than four days Volunteer at an animal shelter Keep a log of what you did this summer Go to three concerts Crowd surf once at a concert Try a new and unusual food Go to the movies once a week for a month Get record likes on an instagram picture Get a summer crush
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FEATURES
the next step
after graduation seniors transition into adulthood DESIGN BY NANAE URANO GRAPHICS BY TERESA HEDIGER
University of Missouri
Missouri
Iowa
Stephen Erickson
Truman State University
Drake University
Emily Searl
University of Central Missouri
Sara Rodriguez Will Skoog
Stephens College
Terry Adams Brittany Klopper Grace McKee Graham Shenefield Molly White Lauren Wolfe
Anna Torchia
Central College
Central Methodist University
Graceland University
Chase Allen
Zack Ferrara
Allison Hines
Avila University
Metropolitan College
Abby King Jake Morrissey Sarah Woodward
Michigan
Derek Parsons
State Fair Community College
UMKC
University of Michigan
Sam Cashion
Devin Attaluri
UMKC Medical School
Olivia Barling Nico Caruso Tamara Graham
Ben Bernard
Alabama
Massachusetts
New Jersey
University of Alabama
Tufts University
Seton Hall University
Kate Barton
Collin Richardson
Caitlin Duffy
Utah Texas Universal Technical Institute
Wyoming
Brigham Young University
University of Wyoming
Hannah Ward
Ema Lovric
Joshua Hasenleder
Texas Christian University Andrew Zahnd
Arkansas
John Brown University Ginger Seamon
Nebraska Creighton University Nels Carlson
University of Nebraska Lincoln
University of Arkansas Kalyn Carroll Clara Chollet Jessica David
Matthew Bauer Melanie Powell Olivia Feathers
Louisiana Tulane University
12 FEATURES
Mackenna Barker
Boyce Col
Luke Ho
Sullivan Un
University of Nebraska Omaha Devin Newsome
Jordan Jones Lanique Locke Julia Stillwell
Ireland National College of Art and Design Kaitlin Murphy
Kyle Wo
Colorad
Denver Universi
Chase Cabra Carter Stoke
Johnson County Community College
Kansas Wichita State University Isaac Brethour Trivette Knowles Remy Lierz
Butler Community College Ra’keim Abdul
Baker University Olivia Allen Nia Madison
Emporia State Nick Oliver Catherine Schupp
Bethel College Cory Pummill
Pittsburg State University Alex Hermanson Brooke Holmes Luke Morales Avery Reynolds
Highland Community College Rasheed Brady K.J. Edwards Kendall McCoy Ethan Kaplan
Benedictine College Brennan Kalis
llege
olland
niversity
ood
do
ity
al es
Hunter Ahrens Joel Almloff Chora Apostolakos Anton Bland Jerome Block Lawrence Broussard Brent Burchstead Thomas Camburako Andrea Carballo Kylee Cauthon Hayleigh Chudik Nora Clasby Matthew Coleman Bryan Cruz Jessica Cunningham Bailey Davis Meshella Dupree Gabi Finkelstein Moriah Fitzmaurice David Floyd Katelyn Fortson Maria Gaspar Reagan Grant Malek Griggs Ethan Gryska Mark Ham Jenny Han Haley Hankins Teresa Hediger Travis Hediger Daniel Hernandez Zac Herrera Hannah Hollander
Daniel Huelskamp Clayton Johnson Jordyn Johnson Mack Jones Shawn Joplin Evan Lavender Destiny Long Elvis Lopez Sam Luke Jacob Manford Eric Mann Tierra Meysenburg Mahnoor Minallah Marilyn Ogan Kassitty Parbs Blake Pennington Alondre Peoples Tommy Pestano Emily Pinnell Xavier Poteat Max Pozek Jared Reinsch Adam Rupp Weston Searcey Dominic Sebilla Kristina Smith Jackson Spencer Alex Stockler Mayra Torres Cory Vineyard Asia Williams Donald Williams Salim Yang
Southwestern College Jersey Boydstun
Hutchinson Community College Dametrius Berry Dominique Berry Jawann Stennis
Dominick Allen Chase Allison Jacob Benson Terrance Brockman Cole Bunker Alexis Bunyarattaphantu Ashton Dewey Lane Edson Julie Ferguson Teagan Fitzpatrick Jenna Foiles Jack Grafton Caroline Gustafson Payton Howell Irena Jasperson Thu Khoang Sam Kulikov Parker Ling Brett Lohuis Abe Lopez
Josephine Anderson Jesse Barnes May Branit Reid Brown Zach Brown Jacob Burkholder Maddie Callicott Tyler Clements Alison Clothier Christina DeGraffenreid John Erbacher Kyle Fairfax Curtis Field Mitchell Fowler Calvin Freeman Justin Graham
Illinois Olivet Nazarene University Lydia Gardner
Georgia
Nick Hellbusch Ian Hindle Kara Hinshaw Lily Johnson Jourdan LeBeau Lindsay Lowe Garrett Mould Langston Murrell Marcus Neal Tessa Osborn Maggie Reid Aaron Shaw Holly Soto Brandon Sutcliffe Curtis Tobaben Kelsey Walker
Kansas City Kansas Community College Dustin Park Sierra Roberts
Ariella Davidson
Skylar Brennan
Ernesto Lopez Luke Lund Kellin Martiny James Marx Sydney Moore Brittany Multer Sean Novak Kelly O’Connor Miguel Palomino Shawn Parkes Thomas Peterson Noah Posladek Jessica Renfrew Haroun Said Miguel Santibanez Zack Siddall Kristina Tolson Allie Waldorf Noah Welty Griffin Zeller
Kansas State University
Art Institute of Kansas City Kansas City Art Institute
Kentucky
University of Kansas
Labette Community College Austin Giannola
Work Mathew Stacy Parker Berryhill Darci Crandall Jacqueline Kelly
Military Joseph Pringle Caleb Towner
Undecided
Kennesaw State University Christopher Manga
Indiana Indiana University Rachel Rosenstock
Moumen Alkurdi Alena Blackmore Darius Boyd Brock Hansen Josh Harrell Skylar Klee Bailey Miller
Hannah Peerson Paul Phillips William Rogers Draven Romo John Rooney Sam Williams PD Womack
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FEATURES
Q and A
graduation ceremony speaker
Sophie Tapko
QUOTES GATHERED BY LUKE HOLLAND PHOTO BY JENNA FACKRELL
How do you feel about giving a speech in front of all of your classmates? “Well, now that you said it like that, I guess I’m a little nervous… no, I’m excited.”
What was the process like when you were deciding what to write about? “Well, I really like Dr. Seuss, and I decided I wanted to open up with a quote from him, and then just
kept it with Seuss quotes because he has so many. And they are all so good, like when we were little we just knew that Horton protects flowers, but when we were older we realized that it’s really a life lesson.”
Do you have a favorite Seuss quote?
“I really like the one I closed with, ‘You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself in any direction you choose. You’re on your own. And you know what you’ll know. And you’re the guy or the girl who’ll decide where to go.’”
Did you think your speech would be chosen?
I honestly didn’t know who else had submitted a speech, so I just figured I had as good a shot as anybody else.
Which was harder, the writing or the presentation aspect?
I think the writing of it was probably harder, just because I had a week to get it all down and how I wanted it, and perfecting the organization was hard.
What’s your main message to the seniors in the speech?
I guess it’s to not forget the lessons we learned when we were little, taken from a Dr. Seuss aspect.
Do you have any regrets from high school? I guess that I would have put myself out there more.
14 FEATURES
new apple innovations iRULE
You will rule the school when you come to math class. Make absolutely perfect straight lines and rapidly measure things.
Think different, think Apple. What is the next big thing? Oh wait, that’s Samsung, nevermind. Anyway, like whoever makes this junk is a genius and we buy it anyway. So I’mma make guesses or whatever on what could be coming up next in the near future. BY TERESA HEDIGER
iEYE
Rub the sleep from your eyes to unlock. Look people up and down and instantly know their Facebook status. This will obliterate Google Glass.
iSORE
This house may look like crap but it’s actually in fact a high tech home of the future. The future is now guys, and Apple is embracing it.
MOVING UP AND OUT transitioning from suburban living to college towns T
BY RACHEL ROSENSTOCK
he first words that come to mind when most people think of Manhattan, Kansas, Maryville, Missouri or even Bloomington, Indiana aren’t “exotic”, “bustling” or “metropolis”. Nevertheless, college towns, whether it be one of those listed or wherever you have chosen or plan to attend college, have a certain factor to them that enchants students. Despite many college towns South grads choose to live in aren’t exactly big cities, like KU or KSU, ask any alum and they’ll tell you how much they love their town. Whether it’s the middle of Kansas or the middle of Indiana, each university lends a particular element that will keep you entertained for four years and often longing to go back. After living in Overland Park for most of our lives, or at least the past four years, making a change to a new city to live in is a crazy idea to wrap my head around, especially since the big day is about three months away. Raise your hand if that snuck up on you, seniors. But whether you feel prepared or not, those of us going away to college and moving out have the momentous task ahead of us of adjusting and adapting. Learning and loving a new town is not an easy task and one that will certainly take time, but it’s one you have to put effort into as well. Staying in your dorm
or in the perimeter of campus for four years will not acquaint you with outside life. Personally, once I get to Bloomington, one of the first things I want to do is explore downtown. One of the main attractions of the small town, it’s full of small, unique shops and promotes the artsy culture of the area. It’s also one of the best places for me to get a feel for the vibe of the community. Students from IU frequent the restaurants and stores and the locals run the shops. Familiarizing myself with the way of life and culture of Bloomington is at the top of my priorities list for next year. I believe that to really have a genuine “college experience”, you have to be a part of where you live. Just as many of us contribute in some way to the Overland Park community, I think we should all aim to be a part of our new college town. If you’re heading off to a school with no clear cut “downtown” or popular neighborhood to hit up, no fear, simply ask the weathered and knowledgeable upperclassmen or locals you meet. Older students will know all the reliable late-night coffee-shops or cheap clothing stores to frequent or the best cuisine for a good price. This is also a great way to find out about hole-in-the-wall places you never would find on your own. Everyone was new there at some point, and they’ll probably remember the time they were just as clueless as you.
Many college towns even also have a special annual event, like Bloomington’s Little 500 bicycle race or UCM’s foreign language film festival. These are often storied traditions everyone in the community can participate in some way and have a great time. If you can spring for something a little extravagant while roughing it on a college budget, many college towns have a local concert house, like The Granada in Lawrence or The Blue Note in Columbia. You’d probably be surprised by the big names that pass through these tiny venues, like The Neighbourhood and even The Arctic Monkeys, which are just two of the shows I’ve seen this past year. No matter the size or shape of the college you choose to attend, you are guaranteed a good time. From what I’ve heard from friends and family, it is physically impossible to not have fun. While this is a slight exaggeration and I can assure you cramming for finals and group projects won’t be the highlights, there’s so much more to college than that. Take this time of newfound independence and explore your interests, step outside your comfort zone and figure out what makes you tick. If I see any of you four years from now, or even next summer, and you can’t tell me one awesome thing that happened, you’re doing it wrong.
A&E
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FINALS PLAYLIST COMPILED BY HAYLEIGH CHUDIK OTHER PEOPLE/BEACH HOUSE BANANA PANCAKES/JACK JOHNSON IT’S ALRIGHT/YOUNG MAN RAGING FIRE/PHILLIP PHILLIPS RUMOUR HAS IT/ADELE HEAD.CARS.BENDING/THE 1975 UPSIDE DOWN/JACK JOHNSON HOLOCENE/BON IVER SEVEN LIONS/FLORENCE+THE MACHINE NIGHTCALL/LONDON GRAMMAR
SUMMER TUNES HAPPY/PHARRELL WILLIAMS TALK DIRTY/JASON DERULO PARTITION/BEYONCÉ GOOD LIFE/ONEREPUBLIC
OLD DOGS, SAME TRICKS BY LUKE HOLLAND
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hundred multicolored lights suddenly shine from the ceiling. A thousand people begin to scream and three magicians simultaneously begin their act. Many in the crowd have only heard stories of the performance while others have seen it firsthand countless times, but have a sense of awe that only comes with the fascination of childhood heroes. At a pivotal point in the act, the tsunami of noise drops just barely, and then the crowd’s excited screams cause the stands to shake. Everyone knows what comes next. A single arm rises from the middle of the stage, and sparks seem to fly as the drumstick twirls perpetually in Neil Peart’s fingers. Alex Lifeson unleashes a torrent of Celtic electric pull-offs, and the vocal chords in Geddy Lee’s straining throat emit a noise so uncomfortably high, it has to be good. These men are magicians. Rush’s legendary and timeless act has brought yet another crowd together in their love of good classic rock. With summer fast approaching, ticket sales for various concerts begin to flood radio ads and billboards and rob music lovers young and old of their spring wages. But it’s not just new and upcoming bands that bring in the fans; surprisingly, several ‘70s and ‘80s bands, particularly in the rock
SUMMER CONCERTS cher
Join Cher at the Sprint Center on Saturday, May 31. Tickets range from $27.50 to $107.50, but with every online ticket purchase you receive a complimentary copy of her new album, “Closer.”
ROAR/KATY PERRY TURN DOWN FOR WHAT/DJ SNAKE +LIL JON ISLAND IN THE SUN/WEEZER FANCY/IGGY AZALEA WILD WILD LOVE/PITBULL FEAT. G.R..L. BEST DAY OF MY LIFE/AMERICAN AUTHORS
16 A&E
genre, are making their rounds yet again, well after their hay days. But does that mean that they still know how to rock? Some people just never lose their musical knack. Two years ago, hundreds gathered at Starlight to watch guitarist Tom Scholz and his band, Boston, remind them why rock and roll rocks. Even after the death of lead singer Brad Delp, the band still flawlessly performed all the hits, and Scholz maintained his cool indifferent attitude as he jammed on his Gibson Les Paul in his iconic shorts and cut off tee getup. Some bands who change their songs and try to give their well-loved hits a different vibe when playing live. Boston is not one of those bands. While those new experiences can be fun, they aren’t what made fans fall in love with the recorded songs. There’s a certain level of enjoyment that is enhanced with predictability and anticipation for something you know like the back of your hand, and watching a live band play consistently after decades is truly rewarding. However, several bands have taken a turn for the worst. It’s uncomfortable and a little bit embarrassing to watch solid musicians publicly make fools of themselves trying to satisfy their youthful desires for fame and glory. Sometimes the best thing a
the fray Get ready for The Fray with special guests Oh Honey and Barcelona at the Starlight Theatre June 27, 2014. Show opens at 7:30 P.M and tickets range from $35 - $85.
journey Join Journey, one of the most well known bands of all time, at Starlight Theatre, Monday, July 14, 2014. Featuring Steve Miller Band and Tower of Power, this will be an experience you won’t want to miss. Tickets range from $47.50 to $145.0, the show starts at 6:45 P.M.
classic rock bands touring band can do is know when to quit with honor. When they push their deteriorating musical abilities or, even worse, their slipping voices, it just makes a laughing stock of a bunch of old guys (and girls) who used to rock. The same applies when these bands continue to release albums some 40 years after their debut. Van Halen, Bruce Springsteen and David Bowie have unfortunately made this mistake within the past two years, and others are sure to follow. Rush seems to be the standalone jackpot that keeps producing good, solid tunes, even though they are vastly different from the songs that threw them into the limelight. Fortunately, most of the bands who are still alive and kicking from the golden age are the ones who still retain their skills and who haven’t changed their identities (with the exception of Jefferson Airplane...I mean Jefferson Starship...sorry, now it’s just Starship). They have stood the test of time and deserve just as much respect, if not more, than the budding artists of this decade. This summer, Kansas City will be hosting several of the greats, including Styx, Foreigner, Yes, Journey, Boston, Kansas, and Steve Miller Band. They don’t plan to blow the audience’s mind with something new. They just want to rock.
BY ROLA ALASMAR
backstreet boys + avril lavigne
gavin degraw + matt nathanson
The Backstreet Boys with opening act Avril Lavigne come to the Starlight Theatre, June 7, 2014 as part of the Capitol Federal Concert Series. Show starts at 7:30 P.M., and ticket prices range from $25 - $125, making it accessible whatever your budget may be.
Join Gavin Degraw and Matt Nathanson at the Crossroads, Wednesday July 7 as part of their summer tour. General Admission seats are as little as $36. Bleacher seats can be purchased for $55, and VIP tickets for $75. Doors open at 6 P.M., show starts at 7 P.M.
kongos
john butler trio
96.5 the Buzz presents the Kongos at the Arvest Bank Theatre at the Midland, Monday, June 30th. With tickets starting at just $9.65 it’s a show not to be missed. Show starts at 8 P.M., doors opening at 7 P.M.
rockfest What better way to kick off your summer than by going to Rockfest, featuring 15 different rock bands at the Liberty Memorial, May 31, starting at noon. Presenting Escape the Fate, Five Finger Death Punch, Staind, and many more, it’s a music festival not to be missed by any rock fan.
Don’t miss the John Butler Trio at the Crossroads Saturday, June 7. General Admission tickets are are $25, bleacher seats are $35, and VIP is $61.50. Doors open at 7 P.M. and show starts at 8 P.M.
onerepublic + the script
Don’t miss this dynamic duo at the Starlight Theatre, Friday, August 1. Tickets start as low as $25 and go up to $85. Show starts at 7 P.M. and it will definitely be one to remember.
MAY REVIEWS
thoughts on movies, music and more
THE OTHER WOMAN NICK CASSAVETES BY HAYLEIGH CHUDIK
BY EMILY WILKINSON
The Other Woman is the perfect movie for all you ladies looking for a couple of hours of fun entertainment. Anyone who enjoyed John Tucker Must Die is sure to be satisfied by this slightly more mature adult version. The Other Woman exemplifies girl power and the bond of friends. In this cheesy, but surprisingly hilarious film, lawyer Carly (Cameron Diaz) finds out her new boyfriend Mark (Nikolaj Coster-Waldau) is married in an awkward but funny encounter when she meets Kate (Leslie Mann), Mark’s wife. The two tentatively become friends and team up to take Mark down. In the process they find that not only was Mark two-timing them, he was three-timing. On a mission to hunt Mark down, Kate and Carly come across Amber (Kate Upton), Mark’s other girlfriend. The duo takes in a clueless Amber to form an unstoppable team with the end goal of revenge. Also, rapper Nicki Manaj makes her film debut as Carly’s sassy assistant Lydia. The Other Woman is just what you would expect from a romantic comedy-humor, heartfelt moments and uncomfortable situations. Directed by Nick Cassavetes who also directed famous classics like The Notebook and My Sister’s Keeper, The Other Woman is destined for success. With the rating of PG-13, this film is fairly family friendly. I would recommend The Other Woman for all who enjoy chick-flicks.
HEAVEN IS FOR REAL
RANDALL WALLACE BY AUTUMN MOCK
Beautifully directed by Randall Wallace, Heaven is for Real, based on a true story, portrays the heart wrenching story of a little boy who becomes extremely sick and must go through surgery. After getting out of surgery, Colton (Connor Corum), tells his father that he saw Heaven along with many other things that would’ve been impossible for him to see while he was in surgery. His father, Todd (Greg Kinnear), the pastor at the local church, then has to face the conviction of the public about Colton’s story. Colton further surprises his parents by telling them that he had seen his grandfather when he was young and his sister, who had passed in a miscarriage, in Heaven. His father continues to face the stresses of nearly losing his job and financially struggling. Colton truly shocks his family when his father tries to get him to show him what Jesus looks like, and the only picture in existence that he said was what he actually looked like was painted by a girl on the other side of the world, who had a similar experience. In the end though, Colton’s story and Todd’s preaching greatly inspire the public. Corum does an outstanding portrayal of childhood innocence in his role, along with Kinnear who showed the stress the public can put on a family. Kelly Reilly, who played Colton’s mother Sonja, did an unbelievable job making the audience nearly feel the heartbreak, stress and relief of her child being ill and her household collapsing under stress. Her portrayal of emotion was absolutely phenomenal. Heaven is for Real shares the fascinating story of a little boy who experienced Heaven first hand and lived to tell the public about it. Through the father’s courage though, it becomes an inspiring spiritual story.
BUZZ UNDER THE STARS NIGHT 1 GROUPLOVE, SMALLPOOLS, MSMR, JACK FROST BY RACHEL ROSENSTOCK
BY RACHEL ROSENSTOCK
After attending Buzz Under the Stars Night 1 and Buzz Beach Ball last year, all hosted by 96.5 The Buzz radio station, I headed out to BUTS Night 1 2014 April 30. Hosted in Power and Light, the overpriced drinks were flowing(yes, it was all ages) and the atmosphere was laid-back, despite the slight chill present all night. The venue provided balconies, benches, risers and a pit for ample standing and even sitting room. As for the music, the opener, Max Frost, is clearly a new act and finding the balance between stage presence and performance quality. I was less than impressed with Frost’s cocky attitude but thought their eclectic and fresh style was catchy. Smallpools was next up and even though I had only listened through their self-titled EP a few times, their performance was energetic and fun. MSMR was the third act and the one I was looking forward to the most. Lead singer Lizzy Plapinger bounced around in her platform heels and shook her hips all over the stage, flipped her vibrant pink hair and obviously had the time of her life performing. They performed over half the songs on their album, Secondhand Rapture, and even covered one of my personal favorites; the Arctic Monkeys “Do I Wanna Know.” The headliner, Grouplove, were the last of the night and for good reason. The crowd went wild and throughout the act; the walkways were filled with people dancing and singing along. Their electronic sound was upbeat and everyone in the crowd knew the lyrics. Overall, BUTS Night 1 sets the bar high for Nights 2 and 3. The atmosphere was chill, the bands all put on a great show and I can’t wait for the next one. Check out Night 2 May 17 with Foster the People at Power and Light and Night 3 with Vampire Weekend at Crossroads June 2.
AFTER VISITING FRIENDS MICHAEL HAINEY BY EMILY WILKINSON
Michael Hainey was 6 years old when his uncle knocked on the front door with news haunting Hainey to this day: his father, renowned Chicago newspaperman Bob Hainey, had died that night. For years, no one in the family ever questioned the circumstances surrounding his death. The obituaries said Bob Hainey died on the side of the road “after visiting friends.” Now, decades later, his son tracks down these friends to learn more about his dad and discover that the mysterious details surrounding his passing are not as they seem. After Visiting Friends is not only a memoir about the price of looking back, but a testament to the loneliness that affected each of member of the Hainey family individually. For some, it meant becoming a better father than Bob Hainey ever was. For others, it lead to a cold, callous and accepting life without him. Every time the author is ran around in circles by burned records, family conflict and inconsistent stories by friends with something to hide, Michael Hainey emulates more and more behavior of his late father: a stand-up journalist in a backwards, inconsistent world. After Visiting Friends may be the most well written book you will read all year. Hainey’s unflinching retelling of his quest for answers almost reads like a screenplay. Usually, I detest movie adaptations of such quality books, but the excellent writing in After Visiting Friends demands attention in ways most stories do not.
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going for the green and gold sixth graders visit for a field day PHOTOS BY ETHAN STONE AND JENNA FACKRELL A Pawnee student participates in a relay with her fellow students. The race involved participants running back and forth between cones and placing whiffle balls into baskets.
Senior Melanie Powell and junior Deborah Hass participate in the threelegged race.
Senior Jourdan LeBeau cheers her team on during the chicken toss.
A 6th grade student uses all of his weight to pull the rope far enough to win the tug-of-war for his class. A group of sixth grade boys do their best to fling their rubber chicken the farthest of all the teams.
Sixth graders from four different elementary school participate in a four-way tug-of-war at South’s stadium during Field Day on May 6.
18 SPORTS
a R ider in the
MAJORS
2009 graduate Mike Morin gets called up to the show
A
BY CALVIN FREEMAN
pril 27 was a big day for the Raider baseball program and a day that all SMS athletes could and should take pride in. For the first time in the school’s history there is a Shawnee Mission South alumni suiting up in an MLB uniform. About two weeks ago, 2009 graduate Mike Morin was called up for action in the Los Angeles Angels organization as the team took on the New York Yankees. This year’s ace of the Raider pitching staff and no-hit sensation Tyler Purdue admits that it’s a pretty significant event for the SMS sport’s world.
“It makes me proud to wear green and gold,” Perdue said. “Now we have someone who played on the same field as us in the major leagues to look up to.” Morin had a strong career at South and drew attention from major league teams even in high school, getting his big break after pitching in a high school all-star game and drawing attention from a University of North Carolina talent scout. After his senior season, Morin was drafted by the Kansas City Royals in the 40th round but chose college instead. His impressive work lead him to pitch as a closer for the Division 1 Tarheels of UNC. He was then drafted by the Angels in the 13th round in 2012. In 2013 he was the top minor league pitching prospect for the Angels. In 39 games, Morin posted a 1.93 earned-run average along with 23 saves. If that wasn’t enough, his strikeout to walk ratio was outstanding; 76 K’s and only 10 free passes. Angels manager Mike Scioscia seemed optimistic about Morin’s ability to help the team. “Michael has really come on,” Scioscia said according to the LA Times. “He has
a great makeup. He’ll be ready for the opportunity.” According to baseballprospectus. com, the average MLB pitcher pitches about 400 innings in the minors before they get a chance to show their skills in the bigs. Morin pitched just over 100 before getting his call. Morin made his MLB debut April 30, three days after getting called up. He’s had three big league appearances so far and in those brief showings the Angels couldn’t have asked for much more. Up to this point, Morin has pitched 3.2 innings with 4 strikeouts, 1 walk, and is yet to give up a run. After hearing news like this, sports fans in OP this summer may have their eyes not just on the Royals’ box scores, but the Angels’ as well, in hopes that their hometown right-hander pans out as he gets his first taste of the show. The Angels visit Kauffman Stadium two weeks from now, May 23 through the 25. While there’s no promises that Morin will make an appearance out of the bullpen, fans could potentially have a pretty special moment to look forward to as KC welcomes Morin and the Angels for the weekend showdown.
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back home. I watched on as Paul Pierce denied the Raptors a spot in the second round. Despite these historically close series, the headline that grabbed everyone’s attention was that of Donald Sterling, the owner of the Los Angeles Clippers who found himself in a world of trouble. TMZ released an unverified audio recording of Sterling’s racist rant to his girlfriend, and then everyone went bezerk. The recording shed light of the owner’s ignorant views, which have been well documented in the past. This was not an instance where the world is shocked as a seemingly good guy is revealed as a villain. Sterling’s racist views have been public for years. In 2006, a lawsuit was filed against Sterling’s real estate company, claiming that he refused to rent his Beverly Hills apartments to African American tenants. When the case was settled in 2009, Sterling paid $3 million in settlement, but continued to deny the claims. We are talking about the same guy who was forced to fight a “wrongful termination” lawsuit from his own general manager and vice president, claiming that Sterling treated him “as a token” because of his race. The general manager, African American Elgin Baylor, insisted that Sterling wanted a “southern plantation” type structure for the team, and that Sterling said he wanted “poor black boys from the south, and a white head coach.” The recent audio recording, which depicts an ell everybody, it is May. A time when sports argument between Sterling and his girlfriend, have fanatics kick back and relax on their come at an interesting time for the NBA. The turmoil couches after a hard day of work, and don’t only adds pressure and uncertainty to a Los Angeles get up until their eyes are burning and brain cells are team that is battling its way through the heart of dead. It’s a month filled with incredible comebacks, the playoffs. It also shone the spotlight of newly and unbelievable upsets. It’s the NBA playoffs. appointed NBA commissioner Adam Silver. This year the basketball gods have showered us This recent controversy marks his first major with drama, both the good and the bad. I have sat conflict within the league, and he felt the pressure on the edge of my seat as Damian Lillard nailed a from fans and players to take immediate action. buzzer beater to send the favored Houston Rockets Using evidence from the audio recording, and
The Sterling Dilemma
a look at donald sterling, adam silver and the situation’s impact on the image of the NBA
W
Sterling’s lengthy history of racist remarks, Silver made a big statement. He banned Sterling from the league for life. It was a decision that shocked many viewers, but satisfied the vast majority. He went on to apologize for Sterling’s inexcusable actions, and voiced the NBA’s lack of tolerance. This punishment, paired with a league maximum $2.5 million fine, sends a clear message to other owners, coaches, and players. Racism, or discrimination of any kind has no place in the basketball, sports, and the world in general. Last year the NBA witnessed the first openly gay player in any of the four major sports. It served as a platform for the changing times in our country, and the banning of Donald Sterling only strengthens its reputation as a home for social justice and equality. Silver’s decision to ban Sterling garnished widespread support around the league, especially from the NBA Players Union, who was mulling the idea a league wide boycott of games. In the professional sports world that has seen so much disagreement and controversy between its authority and players, a decision like this is a big step for the league. It establishes Silver as a commissioner who has the players’ backs, and in a league that revolves around its star players, nothing is more important. The next step for the NBA is to strip Sterling of his power within the organization. This process may be difficult, considering he is the outright owner of the team, but the other NBA owners, including the Kings Vivek Ranadive, has pushed for a unanimous vote to force Sterling to sell the team. For the Clippers, all focus is on their next opponent, the Oklahoma City Thunder. Putting this embarrassing controversy behind them is a top priority, and the easiest way to do that is continue winning basketball games.
SPORTING WITH STAFF predictions and review of the current sports world
CALVIN FREEMAN EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
GARRETT MOULD SPORTS EDITOR
GRIFFIN ZELLER WRITER
TRIVETTE KNOWLES WRITER
LUKE HOLLAND FEATURES EDITOR
1. Favorite NON-KC SPORTS TEAM
Green Bay Packers
Chicago Bulls
Iowa Hawkeyes
Miami Heat
Michigan Wolverines
2. FAVORITE PLAYER GROWING UP
Mark Tehean KC Royals
Chipper Jones Atlanta Braves
Steve Nash Phoenix Suns
Dwyane Wade Miami Heat
3. IDEAL SPORTS TEAM TO PLAY FOR
San Francisco 49’ers (Backup QB)
Los Angeles Lakers (Point Guard)
Dallas Mavericks (Point Guard)
Philadelphia Eagles (Quarterback)
Seattle Seahawks (Linebacker)
Spain winning the World Cup in the 116th minute
Boise State’s “Statue of Liberty” in 2007
David Tyree “The Catch”
Syracuse’s 6OT win over UConn in 2009
Michigan vs. KU Final Four 2013
4. MOST EXCITING SPORTING EVENT YOU’VE SEEN
20 SPORTS
Peyton Manning Indianapolis Colts
SPRING Sports Catch-up an end of season look into the raider sports world INFORMATION GATHERED BY GRIFFIN ZELLER AND CALVIN FREEMAN
(AS OF MAY 6)
Track & Field Standout Players:
Memorable Moment:
Brooke Holmes, Trent
Brooke Holmes breaking the
Flagler, Aiden Johnson, girl’s long jump record, Aiden Ashlie Fischer PHOTO BY BROOKE HOLMES
Johnson’s gold medals
Upcoming Event: Today, SM North Relays
PHOTO BYHANNAH BROOKE HOLMES PHOTO BY HOLLANDER
Baseball
Softball
Record: 10-8 (6-3 in League) Standout Players:
Record: 7-5 (5-2 in League) Standout Players:
Marshall Bland and Adam North
Abby King, Maggie Reid, Sydney
Memorable Moment:
Holler, Christina Mountain
Beating one of the league’s top
Season Highlight: Pitching staff’s
teams, Olathe South, 9-7
ERA is below 1 (0.95)
Upcoming Events:
Upcoming Event:
4:30 p.m. Thursday vs SME @ 3&2
PHOTO BY JESSE YORK
PHOTO BY SIERRA ROBERTS
4:15 p.m. Monday vs SMNW
Tennis
Golf
Standout Players:
Standout Players: Tony DiSilvestro,
Ben Bernard, Mitchell Fowler
Andrew Barton, Blake Simmons
Memorable Moment:
Memorable Moment:
Ben Bernard and Griffin Zeller getting
Tournament in Hutchinson
4th in the League tournament
Upcoming Event:
Upcoming Events:
Regionals May 19
Regional tournament tomorrow
PHOTO BY HANNAH HOLLANDER
PHOTO BY ETHAN STONE
Girls Soccer
Girls swim & dive
Underwood, Sophie Vogt, Olivia
Record: 7-7 Standout Players: Jo Jones, Taylor
Wilkerson and Katie Turk
Christie, Megan Stollsteimer
Memorable Moment: 200m
Memorable Moment:
freestyle relay and 200m medley
Taylor Chirstie’s game winning goal in
relay teams qualifying for State
the 99th minute against Olathe South
Standout Players: Hannah
PHOTO BY JENNA FACKRELL
PHOTO BY BROOKE HOLMES
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SPORTS
you will always be raiders 19 sms senior student athletes have publicly signed their letters of intent and plan to continue their careers at the next level PHOTOS COURTESY OF PATRIOT AND HERITAGE PHOTOGRAPHERS INFORMATION GATHERED BY CALVIN FREEMAN AND MACKENNA BARKER
football
SOCCER
Nick Oliver TE - Emporia State Univ.
Will Skoog GK - Drake University
Ra’Keim Abdul RB - Butler CC
Zack Ferrara D - Graceland University
Chase Allen QB/WR - Central CC
Jo Jones M - Arkansas University
Rasheed Brady LB - Highland CC Kendall McCoy WR - Highland CC Ethan Kaplan WR - Highland CC
basketball Devin Newsome PG - University of Nebraska Omaha Allison Hines SG - Central Methodist University
Track & Field
KJ Edwards WR - Highland CC
Jersey Boydstun Long Distance Runner Southwestern College
Dominique Berry DL - Hutchinson CC
Joel Almloff Long Distance Runner Johnson County CC
Dametrius Berry DL - Hutchinson CC
Brooke Holmes Long Jumper/Sprinter Pitt. State University
Jawann Stennis RB - Hutchinson CC
baseball
22SPORTS
Austin Giannola SS - Labette County CC
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SMSSNAPSHOTS 1
2
4 1. Sophomore Delani Jeter and Amanda Penner compete in KSMS’ contest in which participants must create a beautiful dress out of toilet paper during Southapalooza.
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2. Junior Parker Hoyt educates elementary school children about tarantulas. Students from different elementary schools came up to South to go on tours given by the Environmental Ed students. 3. Senior Lauren McCarthy celebrates “Holiday in May” day with a turkey-shaped hat as part of prom spirit week. Other days included “Salad Dressing Day,” “America Day,” and “Twin Day.” 4. Senior Allison Hines embraces her younger sister, sophomore Emily Hines, after signing to Central Methodist University. Allison Hines will play as a part of the university’s basketball team next year. 5. Shawnee Mission South Theatre puts on a performance of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. It was the theatre’s final play of the year. PHOTOS BY ETHAN STONE
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