Volume 85 Issue 1 Sept. 26, 2014
6 12 14 21
Inside:
A new assistant principal and several new teachers join the Viking staff.
Social media continues to be a powerful source of information for teens. Meet the Homecoming candidates before crowning festivities tonight. Volleyball stuns competition with 17 game winning streak.
Seaman High School
4850 NW Rochester Topeka, KS 66617
seamannews.com for latebreaking stories and all of our journalism projects @SeamanNews SeamanNews Volleyball girls Riley Neigenfind,Hannah Olson-Thomas, and Payton Summers fight it out against Olathe East. The girls won 25-17, 27-25. (Photo by Marcy Anderson)
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Seaman Clipper Sept. 26, 2014
District bond issue construction continues by Tory Darting staff writer The district’s bond last April approved expansion of three elementary schools— Elmont, North Fairview and West Indianola—and the building of an entirely new middle school. Also part of the bond issue was closing Pleasant Hill and Rochester and moving those students to Northern Hills Elementary, formerly Seaman Middle School. Construction of Elmont Elementary School began back in June of this year. Elmont is planning to add seven new classrooms and a new gymnasium. Construction will also secure the front entrance of the building. Plans include remodeling the current gym into a cafeteria and multi-purpose room.
Principal Annie Diederich said, “I am so glad that the district patrons approved the bond issue for the addition at Elmont,” she explained. “We are excited about getting the new gym and classrooms. I only wish the process didn’t take so long, but it will be worth it when it is finished.” Also part of the bond, North Fairview Elementary is currently planning to add several new classrooms as well as a new gymnasium. Plans include remodeling the site to improve parking, the flow of traffic and safety of pedestrians. Principal of North Fairview, Kelli Finnegan, said, “It’s definitely a good thing. Right now, each grade has two classes, and it will be nice to be able to expand the school for more classes. Plus, we are very excited for the new gym.” At West Indianola Elementary, the plan is
North Fairview is halfway through construction. (Photo by Tory Darting)
to construct a new gym, several new classrooms and improve the traffic flow before and after school. “It is an exciting time at West Indianola. Students and staff welcome the added space,” said Principal Sherry Helus. “This is definitely a good thing for our school. The construction is moving along in a timely manner. Now that we have been able to move the kindergarten classrooms into our building, the gym and the rest of the expansion will really take off.” The biggest addition to the bond agreement is the building of a new middle school. The making of the new middle school began in June of this year. So far, the walls of the gymnasium are standing and the crew just began pouring concrete bases for the rest of the building. The new gymnasium is predicted to
West Indianola adding on new classrooms. (Photo by Delaney Spence)
seat between six to seven hundred people. Mike Mathes, superintendent, voiced his views on the construction, as well. “The construction is right on schedule, despite all the rain this summer. Upon completion, this will be a state-of-the-art middle school that will allow us to become even more effective and efficient as a school district.” The middle school will be built to allow for future expansion. Students currently attending Pleasant Hill and Rochester will be able to move into the new elementary school in January of 2016. The elementary additions are expected to be completed in January of 2015, while the new middle school isn’t anticipated until mid-August of 2016.
Elmont building a new gymnasium. (Photo by Sydney Marney)
opinion.
Seaman Clipper Sept. 26, 2014
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New math program begins for freshman students by Brenlee Yingling ad manager There is a new math program beginning with the freshman students this year. Instead of the current classes offered to the sophomores through seniors, there is now Math I (freshman year), Math II (sophomore year), Math III (junior year), and Math IV (senior year) that the freshman class will be taking. During a student’s junior year, they are allowed to switch over from Math III to take Trigonometry so that their senior year they can take AP Calculus or any other class offered. A few of the reasons the district has decided to change the math curriculum are students were not seeing the importance of math in the real world, having Geometry in between taking Algebra I and Algebra II made some students forget concepts that were needed to move on, and students
could not retain many skills learned from year to year. “It is our hope that students will better retain the skills that they learn and be able to apply them in real life situations,” said Deb Manning. In the new program, there will be more teamwork, writing and presenting ideas just like they would have to do in a real world situation. There is also a change to the honors program. Sophomores through seniors, take an honors math class separate from the regular math class. In the new math program for freshman, there is no separate honors class. Students are required to sign a contract saying they are working for an honors credit. To get the honors credit the students will spend extra time in seminar with their math teacher completing more difficult assignments, maintaining satisfactory scores on all course work and
making an oral presentation for the end of the semester. Sophomore through senior math teachers are also observing the freshman math classes to get some insight for next year. “We are excited about the new program coming into the high school next year. We believe that it is going to be
good for our students. We are also aware that it is going to be a lot of extra work on our part, as we are changing how we do things,” said Deb Manning. If there are any questions or concerns about the new program, feel free to contact one of the math teachers.
Graphic provided by Mrs. Manning
ASAP gets help from the district transportation department by Ethan Brunetti staff writer The Freshman Center’s After School Academic Program also known as ASAP has gained help from the Transportation department of the district. With the addition of a bus to the after school program, this bus allows freshman students many of whom rely on bus as their main form of
transportation, to and from school, a way to continue improving their academics without having to rely on a parent or another form of transportation to get home. Freshman Bryce Cowan said, “I think that my parents will be extremely grateful of an after-school program that transports students after school.” This is true many parents
of students who are freshman must pick their kids up from practices or games, so having an after school activity where students are independent will help both the parents and the freshman students. Freshman Principal Shelly Prengel said, “To ride the ASAP bus you must sign up in the freshman office before 1 P.M., upperclassmen will be able to ride the bus in certain
Shyanne Osterhaus, Michael Owen, Jakob Ready, Brianna Schuster, Delaney Spence. • Adviser Kelly Neiman Editors Taylor Buessing, Kendall Leatherman •Ad managers Kaelin Summers, Brenlee Yingling •Photo Editor Marcy Anderson •Staff Writers Ethan Brunetti, Blake Czajkowski, Tory Darting, Mason Diederich, Cortni Heston, Sydney Marney,
To submit a letter to the editor, the letter must be 300 words or less in length. All correspondence must be signed. The goal of the staff is to report school and community news and suggest ideas for improvement. We welcome your opinions and will do our best to publish what you have to say.
situations that have been preapproved and arranged in the office by administration. the bus leaves at 4:30.” Overall the steps that ASAP is taking are helping parents and students and will hopefully carry over onto other activities at Seaman High School and other schools across the district.
Views in this newsmagazine do not always represent those of the faculty of school of USD 345. The Clipper reserves the right to edit or refuse publication of material that is libelous, obscene, invading privacy, infringing on copyright or disruptive to the educational process of Seaman High School.
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Seaman Clipper Sept. 26, 2014
Vandalism on football field punishes community by Taylor Buessing Co-Editor
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ecently, there have been some changes in the amount of access the public has to the track and football field due to numerous vandalisms. Many people are wondering why everyone has to be punished for the acts of others. Lighting off fireworks isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when you think of going to a football field; but, a group of people decided that it was what they wanted to spend their evening. These students decided to throw fireworks by the five-yard line on the home side closest to the student section and burned a hole in the field. To completely repair and replace the damaged part of the field caused by the fireworks, it would have cost the school $1,200 to fix a 2x2 square of the football field. Our school is extremely lucky to have such a prestigious football field, and ev-
What is the most serious concern our nation faces right now and why?
eryone should be angered that people are treating it in that manner. If everyone treated our football field with respect, these rules would not have been implemented. While we do have some of the nicest cameras out there, it is still hard to distinguish faces at night; especially from the heights the cameras are located. “We think that very few good things will happen between 9 p.m. and 6:30 a.m.,” said Principal Ron Vinduska. Previously the field was open to the public 24/7 and was originally restricted to the hours 6:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. and closed on weekends but will now be open during the same hours on weekends. “I think 9 p.m. is a little early because we do have janitors at the school until 11 p.m.,” said Vinduska. While there is still some compromising that could be done, I think the new rules are appropriate for how the field has been previously treated
or maybe just common sense graphic by Hannah Olson Thomas
voices clip “The Royals because they are not a lock for the playoffs.” Freshman Kaden Henley
“Being in debt because we are wasting money on things we don’t need.” Sophomore Zach Burns.
“Obesity because people like junk food more than healthy food.” Junior Sarah Hedges
• The Seaman Football Team collected over $1400 in donations for the Brenna Morgart Memorial Scholarship • NHS induction ceremony is Oct. 22 at 6:30 p.m. in the library. • Leadership Class is hosting a Trick or Treat Volleyball Bash on Oct. 30 at 7 p.m.at Seaman High. Entry fee is $5 • Interact Club’s Sleep in the box is tomorrow night. Registration fee and form are due TODAY.
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Seaman Clipper Sept. 26, 2014
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Many factors affect school lunch program by Taylor Buessing co-editor Just about every high school student has complained about school lunches at some point or another. Students are constantly blaming the school but the true fact is, it’s not the schools fault. The district lunch program is in an agreement with the federal government that we will follow their specific lunch requirements and in return they will help fund the lunch program. “The Federal Lunch Program is an agreement between the school board and Kansas Department of Education, I just help interpret the agreement, ” said Seaman Food Director Kaye Kabus. It seems like the simple solution to this would be to not be in this agreement. However, without this agreement the school would not be able to fund our free and reduced price lunches. Even regular priced meals receive federal reimbursement. “I’m not sure Seaman would have a lunch program without the agreement,”
said Kabus. Some schools have other restaurants and lunch options due to outside funding, which this district does not have. The School Lunch Program is a strict non-profit program; so, in order to keep feeding all of the students, Kabus must meet certain nutritional standards. On top of making lunch for the entire district, Kabus has to think about the serving of fruits and vegetables each day. For example, she must serve a certain amount of dark green vegetables, red/orange vegetables, beans/peas and starchy vegetables. Most people don’t even think about what color of vegetables they are eating and definitely not what color vegetables hundreds of other people are eating. “There is nothing more important than to provide the best lunch we can for people,” said Kabus.
Kabus urges people to call her with feedback and tell her how she is doing in terms of making good lunches. “If you don’t like something, call me. I try to keep the meals students like most on the menu as much as possible,” said Kabus. Kabus is available at the number 575-8650.
Students given opportunity for entrepreneurship education by Kendall Leatherman co-editor This is the first time that a yearlong entrepreneurship class is offered to students who are interested in learning how to run a business. Forty three high schools across the state of Kansas are currently involved in the Youth Entrepreneurs, a nonprofit organization. The foundation of the curriculum is a market-based management that follows the 10 principles that the Koch Foundation uses to run their company. Throughout the year the 21 students who are enrolled will learn what it takes to develop business ideas, write business plans, and market their plans to investors. “The organization requires a market day in the fall semester, and a business plan competition in the spring semester. Students who are involved in the program also have the opportunity to attend
events outside of school,” said business teacher, Kevin Hoffmans. According to youthentrepreneurs. org, market day is the students’ first chance to run a mini-business day and earn real profit for it. Teams of students will develop a business plan for a product, research and market for venture capital, and then figure out the best way their product will be profitable or not. “The ability for students to see the chain of events and then turn that knowledge into a money-making venture has a big impact on them,” said Ky-
lie Stupka, Youth Entrepreneurs executive director. Enrolling for this class not only prepares students for success in business endeavors, but also provides benefits after the class is completed. Once students successfully passed the class, they become Youth Entrepreneur alumni. YE alumni who are still involved in the program are given points for participating, which later translate into capital grant funding to put toward their higher education.
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Seaman Clipper Sept. 26, 2014
JINGUA WANG
CHINESE
•Hometown:Guilin, Guangxi, China •Family: Qing Deng (spouse)and 1 child •Her grandfather and mother were both teachers •Taught English in China before coming to America •Taught at SHS/SMS in 2010 •She missed the students •Hobbies: Ping Pong, Badminton, Chinese paper cutting, and traveling compiled by Leann Isaacson
New assistant principal joins staff by Kaelin Summers ad manager Mr. Mike Monaghan is the new assistant principal, replacing Mrs. Shelly Prengel who now works with the freshman part of the student body. Mr. Monaghan is in charge of discipline for the 10-12 students. When a teacher is sick, Mr. Monaghan is in charge of finding a substitute to fill that teachers place for that day. Mr. Monaghan has spent 25 years in education. He started out as a student teacher at Seaman High School shadowing Mr. Kevin Hoffmans. He then went on to teach at the Topeka Juvenile Detention Center School. After his years at the juvenile center Mr. Monaghan was administrator at Lawrence Gardner High School. Mr. Monaghan spent seven years before coming to Seaman as an administrator and a teacher at Hayden High School. Mr. Monaghan has much good to say about his new job. “I like the schools mission to prepare you for college and then focus on the career,” Mr. Monaghan said. Not only did Monaghan think our mission for learning was great, but he also thinks the student body is great. “I like the climate of the students and the school spirit they all have. It’s all so welcoming,” said Mr. Monaghan. The mission is great and the students are great he thinks, but he couldn’t leave out the wonderful staff. “Getting to know the staff was one of my favorite transitions. They are all very enjoyable and are passionate about helping the students with learning and homework,” Mr. Monaghan explained. Mr. Monaghan has a wife and three kids. All three kids attend or graduated from Hayden High School. His oldest son Patrick goes to Washburn University Nursing School, his middle child Kylie goes to Highland Community College and his youngest Brenna is attending Hayden Catholic High School.
TERRY SCHEUERMAN
PHYS ED
•Teaches Physical Ed •Freetime: He likes to travel and play sports Family: wife and daughter •Left SHS to have a different experience •Came back for the students •Has been teaching 38 years compiled by Kaitlyn Brooks
New teachers show team loyalties KU or KSU Mrs. Stephanie Wywadis-Miller
KSU
Mrs. Jinhua Wang
KU
Mrs. Emily Rudy
KU
Mrs. Jolene Shove
no loyalties
Mr. Matt Tinsley
KU
Mrs. Amy Calhoun
KSU
Mr. Terry Scheuerman
Emporia
Ms. Megan VanGordon
no loyalties
Mr. Michael Ragsdale
KU
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SPECIAL ED ART JOLENE SHOVE EMILY RUDY •Hometown : Wichita •Family: Spouse Jared and two kids •Teaching 10 years •Favorite artist: FridaKahlo •Hobbies/Interests: Disney, digital art, KU, sports, reading •Favorite art: pop art popular in 1916 compiled by Mandy Wilson
•Teaches: Math •Freetime:Hangs out with her kids, and youth group kids in free time •What made her want to teach here: All three of her kids go to school in this district •Favorite thing about Seaman: nice communite, and all school’s work together •Favorite artist: Aubrey Prventy compiled by Roland Westling
STEPHANIE WYWADIS-MILLER compiled by Sophie Darting
MIKE RAGSDALE compiled by Stone Brackett
•1999 graduate of SHS •Spouse- Jennifer •Hobbies- Fishing, Hunting •Bachelor’s and masters degree from Washburn University •He decided to start teaching at Seaman because he knew that the students at the school were good. •He wants his daughter to go to Seaman as well.
•Hobbies- Shopping, watching her son play baseball •College Major- Early Childhood Education •Daily Jobs- making sure there are subs for the teachers that are going to be absent, gathering up the homework for absent students, filling out the monthly newsletter, and helping with Friday school
SECRETARY
MATH
AMY CALHOUN •High School-Seaman H.S. •Hobbies- reading, quilting, dog: Bailey •Favorite food- anything Mexican •Why did you chooose to teach German- became friends with foreign exchange student in high school
GERMAN MEGAN VanGORDON BUSINESS
matt tinsley compiled by Brooklyn Carter
•Teaches middle schoolers and high schoolers. •He has a daughter named Mollie and a son on the way named Chase. •He likes to read books to his daughter •His wife also works in the school district •He likes to watch the KU and WU games.
•Hometown: Spring Hill, KS •Bachelors degree - Missouri State University •Hobbies and/or special interests - cooking, furniture restoration, gardening, interior decorating compiled by Kamryn Kaul
VO-AG
compiled by Avery McCarter GERMAN
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Seaman Clipper Sept. 26, 2014
Local history teacher receives Milken award by Cortni Heston staff writer Mrs. Susan Sittenauer, who has been teaching for 29 years, was one of 18 recipients nationwide to receive a fellowship from the Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes. Sittenauer is well known at Seaman High for the indepth research project she assigns to students in her AP history classes that are submitted for the National History Day competition each year. In the years since she’s been teaching, more than 100 of her students have received honors at both the state and national level. She has twice been named the Kansas History Day Teacher of The Year. “The thing about projectbased learning,” she said, “is when students start researching a topic they are really interested in, they are the ones who are discovering, then becoming experts on the
topic and sharing.” She believes that in order for students to be effective learners, they must be capable of utilizing all the tools available to research a topic. While her students sift through research, they acknowledge the different perspectives and bias that may arise. The Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes seeks out educators from the U.S. and abroad each year that focus on project based learning, and teaching respect and understanding and only a select few receive the fellowships. Upon receiving the fellowship, Sittenauer was invited to spend a week in Fort Scott, where the centers offices are located, with all expenses paid, and also received a stipend of a few thousand dollars. While in Fort Scott she attended a prestigious, merit-based professional development as part of the fellowship.
“...when students start researching a topic they are really interested in, they are the ones who are discovering, then becoming experts on the topic and sharing.”
Susan Sittenauer is one of 18 recipients nationwide to receive a fellowship reward from the Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes known as the Milken Award.
“That was probably one of the most meaningful weeks of professional development I’ve ever had. I’m really excited.” Sittenauer says she is
Susan Sittenauer, Milken recipient
looking forward to asking her students to dig through primary sources in search of new stories that deserve to be told.
Schedule change rumors put to rest for now by Sydney Marney staff writer Recently rumors have been flying around the school about Seaman’s secondary schools switching away from a block schedule next year. Needless to say, most students and teachers
aren’t in favor of this change in the schedule. “Although it’s nice to see all of my students on Viking days, I feel like we accomplish more on block days and are able to go more in depth in our learning,” french teacher Sean Riley explains. The reason these
rumors have been flying around is because most of the elective teachers at Seaman Middle School and a few elective teachers at Seaman High School are currently teaching six out of seven class periods. According to Seaman High Principal, Ron Vinduska, their contract states that they
Trick or Tourney Volleyball Bash
Oct. 30 @ 7 p.m. at SHS
Teams are encouraged to have a theme and dress up. Cost is $5 per player. Fans are encouraged to bring donations (i.e. Non perishables, canned food). All proceeds will be going to Topeka North Outreach Event sponsored by the leadership class
are guaranteed 40 minutes of plan time every day, so creative planning has prevented them from violating their contract. No decisions have been made for other changes in the 2015-16 school year. “At this time we aren’t planning any schedule changes for next year,” said Principal Ron Vinduska.
features.
Seaman Clipper Sept. 26, 2014
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Blood drive provides a benefit to the community by Shyanne Osterhaus staff writer Every year Seaman High School sponsors a student and staff blood drive. This year the event falls on Monday, Oct 6 in the multipurpose room from 8:30a.m. - 1 p.m. “We always have a blood drive, one in the fall and one in the spring,” Kevin Fries, the supervisor of the blood drive says. “We have done it for a number of years and it is part of our community service commitment.” Every two seconds in the United States someone needs blood, and one in four people will receive a blood transfusion in their lifetime. A single blood donation could possibly save the lives of three separate people, due to the fact that red cells, platelets and plasma are all extracted during the donation process. “The blood supply is constantly needing to be replenished,” school nurse Nancy Ellison says. “And you gain satisfaction of knowing you have helped others who are in need of blood.” “It’s a benefit to the community,” Mr. Fries explained. “That’s why we do it.” While donating blood is a selfless act, not everyone qualifies or meets the requirements needed in
order to be eligible to donate. Males must be over 5 feet in height. A total body weight of over 110 pounds is necessary. Height and weight requirements for females are much more particular and precise (see infographic). In addition to height and weight specifications, there are age restrictions as well. The minimum age to donate is 17, although in some states, including Kansas, a minimum age of 16 is allowed if a parental consent form has been read and signed. All students 16 and over wishing to participate in the fall blood drive must pick up a parental permission form from Mr. Fries. After parents have reviewed and signed it, return the form to Mr. Fries to be eligible to donate. In order to donate, your last donation must have been in a time period greater than 56 days ago. Another requirement is to present one form of primary identification, or two forms of secondary identification. Examples of primary ID are a driver’s license, passport, or an American Red Cross donor ID card. Examples of secondary forms of ID include a Social Security card, an insurance card or a student ID. After the donor has-
ensured the requirements have been met, they should focus on what to do to prepare for the actual donation. “Eat a healthy meal prior to donating. Don’t donate on an empty stomach. Also eat a snack afterwards,” Ellison says. “Stay well hydrated, drink plenty of water the day of the donation. Drink beverages afterwards to replenish your fluids.” The day before and the day of, drink at least an extra 16 ounces of water. Maintain a healthy level of iron in your diet by eating poultry, fish, and other iron rich foods. Eating a variety of these foods will also aid in the prevention of iron deficiency. During the donation, make the person taking your blood aware of your preferred arm to be used. Wear clothing that can easily be raised above the elbow. Be sure to relax and enjoy the refreshments provided immediately after
the donation is complete. Finally, after the donation has concluded, drink an additional 32 ounces of liquids throughout the next 24 hours. Do not perform any vigorous exercise for the remainder of the day, and if at any time you feel light-headed or dizzy, promptly stop what you are doing and rest. Throughout the course of a year, the United States collects approximately 15.7 million blood donations. Even though this number is large, less than 10 percent of eligible donors actually donate each year. By following the safety precautions and requirements, students can help save a life by donating blood. “YOU may need a blood donation in the future,” Ellison states. “So pay it forward!” Anyone with questions or concerns regarding the upcoming blood drive should visit Mr. Fries in room E1.
“It’s a benefit to the community. Mr. Fries, social That’s why we do it.” studies teacher Height and Weight Requirements for Females
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Seaman Clipper Sept. 26, 2014
Is teaching the same profession it used to be? by Delaney Spence Staff Writer As technology, such as online courses and the use of iPads and laptops in schools are rapidly becoming prominent in todays society, the importance of professors and teachers is coming into question. Many schools in Topeka are slowly adapting to this shift in technology integration but there is no question, textbooks and chalkboards are becoming a thing of the past. Although, the old methods of teaching are dying, teachers keep fighting back to keep their positions relevant by personalizing courses and providing personal assis-
tance to students in need. For example, math lab and the writing center, these options are so helpful to students. A little help from a teacher or tutor can boost the grades of many students, plus getting that one-on-one time really helps out too. I feel that there is just something about doing hands on work that makes it so much easier to understand the methods in school. However, there are many mixed opinions on teacher’s relevance and technology. Coach Pierce says “if used appropriately, it does a better job to engage students, but it can be overused. Sometimes we need more student-
teacher interaction.” Technology does open up more doors that we couldn’t get from just being lectured in classes, which is a similar statement to what Mr. David Blackman goes to tell us, “technology lets you bring more variety to the classroom. Smartboards are a math teachers dream, but nothing can replace the
one-on-one time between students and teachers because every student has a different learning technique. Some can learn better online and some don’t.” In my opinion, this statement is very true. It really does depend on what is the easiest method for you to learn things. I feel that with all the online courses you can take nowadays teachers are similar to babysitters. They tell us what to do and make sure that their students don’t get too rowdy or off-track. So, in my opinion teachers are becoming less of an importance because you could just take online classes and learn the same information if not more.
Will Bad Seed Rising make it in the industry? by Delaney Spence staff writer As a group of young, passionate, and talented kids take on the music world, they gladly sign with Roadrunner Records, this being the youngest group ever to sign with the company. This fairly new band, Bad Seed Rising, consists of four teenagers, with their ages ranging from 12-16 years old. The Maryland-based band is formed by lead singer/rhythm guitar player, Francheska Pastor and backed by Mason Gainer on lead guitar, Louey Peraza on bass and Aiden Marceron on the drums. The group is home-schooled and practices four times a week. ‘Charm City,’ their EP album, was released on April 15th. This five-track album gives off a good energetic sound. With the attire
of leather jackets, skinny jeans, and beanies, and the privilege of touring with Daughtry, 3 Doors Down, and Halestorm last summer, they claim themselves to be a “hard-rock” band. Though their songs are catchy, they come with some cheesy lyrics. For example, in the song “King Kong,” Pastor says she feels like “King Kong when you sing my song” a personal thought, not the most creative lyrics for a rock band. Their song “Hey Kid,” is being played on the radio. “Bad Seed Rising,” with its rebellious and catchy tune may become mainstream and make it on the radio soon too. I believe that if this group of youngsters becomes more creative with their lyrics and makes more songs then, they will become better known and make it in the world of music.
opinion.
Seaman Clipper Sept. 26, 2014
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Students outraged with university’s policy “I’ve always been extremely proud to be a KU student.Right now I’m extremely embarrassed.”
by Kendall Leatherman co-editor
When looking at colleges, students pick their school based on location, majors and tuition. The thought of safety never crosses their mind when they finally choose the college that fits them best. Unfortunately, students should maybe start looking into the statistics of sexual assault and violence being reported at colleges, and how colleges’ policies try to prevent these crimes from happening. Uproar appeared at the University of Kansas recently when the punishment for a student, found guilty of nonconsensual sex, was probation and a writing four-page essay because the victim had taken contraceptives that morning. The university ruled that the victim was “asking for it” since she had taken her planned contraceptive, which caused the accused to be charged with nonconsensual sex instead of sexual assault. According to KU’s policy, students can be dismissed from school for plagiarizing a paper, but community service is too punitive for rape. Students at KU have become so outraged at how
#AGreatPlaceToBeUnsafe
the University has handled investigating sexual assaults and lenient punishments to the accused. They have started tweeting under the hashtag #aGreatPlaceToBeUnsafe, to counter KU’s slogan, A Great Place to Be. One male student tweeted, “I’ve always been extremely proud to be a KU student. Right now I’m extremely embarrassed. #AGreatPlaceToBeUnsafe” So where do we draw the line of letting colleges decide what is best for the victim and what is best for the accused? Both have the right to be protected, but why is the victim being punished? The Department of Education has become involved by fining colleges for not handling the
situation appropriately instead of punishing the assaulter themselves. How is that stopping any student from sexually assaulting another student? It is not. The fine does not directly affect the students so there is no consequence for them to face. As a society we need to face that colleges need new regulations to follow for sexual misconduct on campuses. According the www.whitehouse. gov the Obama Administration has began to aid universities with steps on how to handle sexual misconduct appropriately, how to help victims get the services they need after the assault, and how to prevent sexual assault completely. The government has also opened a website, NotAlone.org, that tracks enforcement and provides victims with information. “Colleges and universities need to face the facts about sexual assault. No more turning a blind eye or pretending it doesn’t exist. We need to give victims the support they need, like a confidential place to go, and we need to bring the perpetrators to justice,” stated Vice President Joseph R. Biden Jr. in an interview conducted by the Washington Post.
What students don’t report: Statistics on College Campus
1 in 5 women are sexually assaulted while in college
207,754
Victims annually
80-90 percent of college campus assaults involve victims who know their assailants information compiled from mprnews.org
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Seaman Clipper Sept. 26, 2014
Social media CAN have a good impact
by Ethan Brunetti staff writer
T h e world of social media has evolved from a select group of young adults, to parents to grandparents trying to stay in touch with their family and friends has turned the once struggling social media to the most advanced form of communication in the world. The ALS ice bucket challenge took off overnight. With millions of dollars raised for charity the question was raised are we in a new era of charity, due to social media. Through August 2014 the ALS Ice Bucket Challenged received 101 million dollars in donations.(ib.times.com) This is especially incredible due to the fact the entire year before ALS related donations did not
even reach two million dollars.(ibtimes. com) Social media started a fantastic way of communicating with people
across the street or on the other side of the world and this new form of communication has changed television, marketing, advertising, and the speed at which all of this information travels. Since the introduction of social media outlets many different forms have become extremely popular and certain people have gained fame from these different forms of social media. Vine a social media that releases
short video clips played on a loop has helped thousands of people gain stardom from these short video clips. Youtube has been a huge help to thousands of different charities. This includes
after school snacks
Stop by the 10-12 lunchroom line and pick up milk and the snack of the day available EVERY DAY from 3:15 - 3:30 p.m.
famous youtube personality Tyler Oakley who raised over half a million dollars for the Trevor Project a charity that helps LBGTQ teenagers.(thetrevorproject.org) The ALS ice bucket challenge truly shows how fast information travels over the Internet the challenge blew up so quickly through the seaman district and all of north Topeka. In the matter of a week it seemed as if everyone at seaman high school teachers and administration included. Not everything about social media is perfect by any standard but the good outweighs the bad. The speed at which Information can now be shared has caused many problems. Social media had been able to make these things possible since its invention. And this is why people believe social media has had a positive effect on society and the way information has begun to be shared. Most people will tell you they check social media multiple times a day. These people check social media to see an update on their favorite sports teams, or minute-byminute updates on the score of the most important game of the year. Ten or more years ago it would be a true challenge to learn something that people now can find in a few quick taps of their smartphone. This alone is an absolutely incredible feat that very few charitys have matched recently. Social media is a truly incredible invention that will continue to increase in popularity and functionality in the future and will help people connect throughout time and will continue to make the world a better place.
features.
Seaman Clipper Sept. 26, 2014
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Social media breeding ground for drama by Mason Diederich and Michael Owen Social media is one of the fastest ways to find out information and now runs most of the world. With all the good it comes with, the bad surrounds it completely. The public saw multiple occurrences of this during the summer and past year, as well as the daily struggles of social media. People like drama; while all the juicy gossip used to be delivered by word of mouth, social media has become quicker and more thorough replacement. Recently, the Michael Brown shooting blew up all over social media. Police brutality topics skyrocketed on all of the social media sites after this incident occurred. People took their sides as they always do and waited until the correct result came out. As always lots of rumors surfaced. Approximately 49 percent of people have reported that they have heard false news on social media. After first reports of Brown’s case were released, whether true or not, people mostly took sides even though they didn’t know the whole story behind what happened. “Everyone becomes experts on social media when they can hide behind a screen and act like they were first-hand witnesses,” said Officer Randy Diederich. Yet misperception isn’t limited to na-
tional news. With the majority of high school students having social media, drama runs rapidly throughout schools. Senior Jayci Gooden
says, “All the drama that comes out of social media can really tear apart peoples’ relationships.” Cyber bullying will continue to happen as long as social media exists. Approximately 50 percent of students, nationwide, reported
Internet Blackout
Internet in Syria has been cut of from the public by the government in an attempt to silence media coverage.
Their government has disabled mobile phones, landlines, electricity, and the Internet.
that they were victims of online bullying and 34 percent of the students reported committing online bullying. Studies have
shown that the more cyber bullying that goes on brings about more harmful decisions like suicide. With how fast everything spreads on the Internet and how dependent people of this generation are on social media news, people tend to believe anything they hear. No matter if they know the story, people are just looking for something to input in a conversation. Anything they can get their hands on is pure gold in their mind.
in
Syria
Social media is a big way to get the word out. Exactly what the Syrian government doesnt want to happen.
On 29 November 2012, almost all Internet connectivity between Syria and the outside world was cut off. This caused massive riots.
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Seaman Clipper Sept. 26, 2014
2014 Homecoming Candidates Rachel Heald
Andrew Ralston
What’s the color of your favorite underwear? “Black… this is an awkward question.” Would you rather wear heels for the rest of your life or crocs? “ Heels, dem calves doe.” What’s one thing you want to be remembered for? “That I did everything with love and compassion.”
What’s the color of your favorite underwear? “Green with pineapples all over it.” Would you rather wear heels for the rest of your life or crocs? “Crocs because you can put swag jewels on them to keep them fresh.” What’s one thing you want to be remembered for? ”I would like to be keeping the fashion at Seaman supah fly with my mandles or my loud laugh.”
Photo by Marcy Anderson
Cassidy Henry
Wyatt Hendrix
What’s the stupidest thing you’ve ever done? “I have a reputation for posing for pictures for 5 seconds when they’re really a video.” What would be your ideal first date? “Some dinner on a dock then some sparkling grape juice on a boat at night.” What’s one thing you want to be remembered for? “For always being kind to others.”
What’s the stupidest thing you’ve ever done? “Wrecked my mother’s car.” What would be your ideal first date? “Go on a nice date, grab some food, then head back to the crib and watch a movie.” Whats one thing you want to be remembered for? “Being that guy that made you laugh” Photo by Marcy Anderson
Madison Henderson
Brett Lichter
Would you rather be ugly and live forever or attractive and die in a year? “Ugly and live forever” If you had to pick between love and money which would you choose? “Love for sure.” What’s one thing you want to be remembered for? “Always being positive and in a good mood… well most of the days.”
Would you rather be ugly and live forever or attractive and die in a year? “Beautiful” If you had to pick between love and money, which would you choose? “Love.” What’s one thing you want to be remembered for? “Always having a good time and making people laugh”
Photo by Marcy Anderson
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Seaman Clipper Sept. 26, 2014
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2014 Homecoming Candidates Bailey Bushnell
Grant Boyd
If you were a DJ what would your name be? “DJBBush.” Who is your fantasy boyfriend/girlfriend? “Jake Gyllenhall.” What’s one thing you want to be remembered for?“Being nice to everyone and having a positive outlook on everything.”
If you were a DJ what would your name be? “G-money Booooooyd.” Who is your fantasy boyfriend/ girlfriend? “Oprah- she’s a handsome woman and got some money.” What’s one thing you want to be remembered for? “Being a pilot.”
Jayci Gooden
Photo by Marcy Anderson
Reid Morgart What is the most played song on your playlist? “B.Y.O.B. -System of a Down.” If you could have any new skill what would it be and why? “Slapping the bass and singing in a rock band.” What’s one thing you want to be remembered for? “For being a real bro to my bros, bro.”
What is the most played song on your playlist? “Anaconda by Nicki Minaj because I don’t want none unless you got buns hun.” If you could have any new skill what would it be and why? “I would want to be able to turn invisible because I would totally sneak into plaves I’m not suppose to be in. What’s one thing you want to be remembered for? “ For my sick dance moves and my obession with butts.” Photo by Marcy Anderson
If you could live in a different decade what decade would you live in and why?
“1960’s, it seems like a cool decade because there were lots of hippies and stuff.” Freshman Ruth Requejo
“1900’s because you could ride horses around.” Sophomore Jake Hitchcock
“1935 to 1945 because that’s when Hitler took over.” Junior Mitchell Marten
“18oo’s so I could attend grand balls and big parties.” Senior Tessa Beam
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Seaman Clipper Sept. 26, 2014
Seaman students give back in Guatemala Kaelin Summers ad manager San Lucas, Guatemala was the not-so relaxing location of 5 Seaman students’ summer vacations. Seniors Reid Morgart and Jesse Kern, juniors Ian Clarke, Victoria Stevens, and Coby Worcester, and sophomore Faith Barr arrived in San Lucas around 4 p.m. and went straight to the Village of Hope. The Village of Hope is where these students stayed and helped people who don’t have a many worldly possessions. The girls on the mission had different tasks than the guys and at the end of the day they all got to spend time together. “Guys built furniture, landscaped, and finished building a house, while the girls sorted laundry and helped paint rooms, and when we were all done with that we played with the kids,” said senior Reid Morgart. One night the parents got to go out for a “date night” while the kids on the mission trip got to have a movie night with the village children. The movie
“I was sad when we had to leave, but I was so happy about the fact that I even got to go in the first place.
Ian Clarke, 11
was in Spanish, but they got English subtitles along with big bowls of popcorn. These Village of Hope kids don’t have biological parents. The children are put into makeshift “families” of loving people who give these kids with nothing, a home and family to join. The mothers are young and most of the children in the mission are HIV positive. The mission children are getting education while the students are working to help them. Sunday Morning the students went to a church service. Members of the mission group led the church worship. The church provided the students with food for
them to take to the poor to help them feed their families. In the city of San Lucas the environment was more clean and put together. The roads look similar to streets here in the U.S., and the people who lived in the city had more than those who lived on the outside. Outside the city and back into the village, the roads are dirt and bumpy because they’re covered with rocks. People didn’t have houses like the U.S Those outside the city of San Lucas lived in shacks that were falling apart, clothes hung between the shacks and trash wasn’t just in the bins it was spread across the streets. After seven long hard days of work and fun, the students had to get up early on day 8 to return to the airport to come home to the U.S. to see their friends and family. They departed July 23, 2014 at 5 p.m. and they arrived home late that night. When they arrived home they were all sad to leave but very inspired to do more good in peoples lives. “I was sad when we had to leave but I was so encouraged to raise money so I
could return the following summers,” said Reid Morgart. “I was sad when we had to leave but I was so happy about the fact I even got to go in the first place,” told Ian Clarke. “When I left I was comforted that I was leaving all the kids to their families but it was still hard to leave the places because you still miss the people and the atmosphere,” said Faith Barr.
Juniors Victoria Stevens (left) and Ian Clarke work on painting rooms at the Village of Hope (photo by Victoria Stevens)
features.
Seaman Clipper Sept. 26, 2014
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Two girls see mental disability in a whole new light by Cortni Heston staff writer Sophomores Kaylynn Guivas and Kennedy Mirowski spent part of their summers doing something much more important than getting tan, lounging by the pool, or hanging out with friends. From July 7- 11 Kaylynn and Kennedy spent the week volunteering at White Memorial Camp in Council Grove, which is a camp for adults with developmental disabilities. “When the campers would see certain people or things, they would get excited over the littlest things possible. Anything and everything made them happy, and it was incredible seeing that,” said Kaylynn.
Kaylynn Guivas standing with two campers she met while volunteering at Camp White.
The goal of the camp is to make the campers have the best time they can while they’re there, because most of them are accustomed to a daily routine and they appreciate even the slightest diversion from the normal things they have to do. Their job as volunteers was to help the campers do some activities they don’t get to do in their day-to-day routines. “We had arts and crafts, hayrack rides, pool time, movies, and prayer time at sunset next to the lake,” said Kennedy. This camp not only made an impact on its campers, but also on the people who volunteered there. Both Kaylynn and Kennedy took away a lot from the camp as well. “Being with them and getting to know them and their different personalities was the biggest impact on me. They are some of the most amazing people I have ever met. They are so sweet and they get excited over the smallest things,” said Kennedy. Although they were only part of Camp White for a week, their perception of people with developmental disabilities has changed drastically. “It opened my eyes a lot, Every time I see people with mental and physical disabilities, it makes me smile because it reminds me of my friends back at Camp White,” said Kennedy. Both Kennedy and Kaylynn are glad they had the opportunity to not only make an impact on other people, but also improve their perception of people with developmental disabilities.
Kennedy Mirowski poses with one of the campers she interacted with over the summer.
“It’s to make the campers have the best summer yet, they appreciate the smallest things.” sophomore Kennedy Mirowski
B&B Backyard provides entertainment venue
by Delaney Spence staff writer
North Topeka has acquired an outdoor music venue named B&B Backyard, which is located behind the popular restaurant, Bill’s Diner. The diner, at 2134 N. Kansas Avenue, and the outdoor music venue are both owned by Bill Brading and Lee Browning. Browning built the fence around the music venue and they tried their best to make it a comforting place, kind of like a neighborhood backyard. Coach Rick Brading, brother of Bill Brading, says, “It is a cool thing to see what they had
and how they made a big thing from it.” Then he goes along to say “My brother, Bill always wanted to own a diner, and this is just a guy trying to find a way to make a living and do the things he likes.” B&B Backyard not only has live music, but they also offer food and beverages for a reasonable price. Cover charge is usually only $5 and there is plenty of parking. Hours range from 7 p.m. or 8 p.m. – 11 p.m. The venue can also hold private events, food and catering available from Bill’s Diner. There are many varieties of bands that perform. Genres include rock, country, blues, and reggae. It is a
B&B Backyard
great place to bring the family and friends, lawn chairs and/or blankets. Tonight and tomorrow night starting at 7 p.m. check out B&B Backyard. It gives you something to do in north Topeka for a low price.
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Seaman Clipper Sept. 26, 2014
Public loses MVP magazine by Michael Owen staff writer Where is the place to go to find the athletic information about the state of Kansas? MVP was a source to look at, and a lot of people did. It had the sports, the teams, the players, the coaches and more. However, the June 2014 issue was its last. Ex-Owner/Publisher, Tara Dimick, said, “ The MVP staff loved working with the student-athletes, coaches, and administration. The support was incredible by the readership, but the magazine was supported by advertisers and the financials just didn’t work out.” Many people loved MVP and are very disappointed that it is no longer being published. Senior volleyball player, Jayci Gooden, said, “The MVP Magazine had a special effect on high school students. It gave the hard-working athletes the fame that they well deserved. I, personally, loved picking up the magazine and reading about all of my friends excelling in sports that they love. I am very disappointed that it was cancelled. I feel it had a very positive impact for us high schoolers.” Seaman 2014 graduate, Jeremy Hurla, who was also MVP Board vice president and president, said, “The owners operated the magazine at a loss for three years, and you can’t continue to run a business like that when you have three kids. They had a lot of fun with it, and really enjoyed it, but it just did not work out with the financials.”
Coach’s words have a double meaning by Kendall Leatherman
co-editor
As the sports season progresses for amateur and professional sports teams, fans might start to hear the same phrases over and over from coaches when being interviewed. There sometimes is a different meaning behind the answer that they give you than the literal meaning of the sentence. You might have to use urbandictionary.com to get the hint they are trying to give you without sounding blunt and frustrated with their team.
“It is definitely a rebuilding year for us.” The coach believes his athletes will not perform very well that year, and he does not expect much out of them.
“We are going to milk the clock.”
The team is wasting game time, so it can end as soon as possible. This could be because the team is up and they are trying to end the game, or it could be that the team is down and want to go home.
“We are going to take this one game at a time.” This is coach saying that he can only think of one game at a time because their athletes are performing poorly, and he can only get through the season “one game at a time”.
“It was a team effort.” Coaches want people to believe that the game is won because the team as a whole, when sometimes there is an outstanding player that has stepped up and taken the game into his own hands.
“It is what it is.” This seems to state the obvious, but it is actually implying helplessness. This when they have given up on what the team has to offer, and there is nothing left to give them.
“Suck it up.” Coaches say this to athletes to cope with something unpleasant without complaining usually because they don’t have a choice, and they need to deal with it.
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Seaman Clipper Sept. 26, 2014
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sports.
Seaman Clipper Sept. 26, 2014
Seniors bring high expectations for this season by Kaelin Summers ad manager The Vikings play Junction City at home tonight at 7 p.m. Come out and support your Vikes for they need everyone cheering for them. In the preseason the Vikes spent quite a bit of time in the weight room and conditioning. “We worked very hard and had intense work outs in the weight room,” said junior Hunter Williams. The Vikings lost to two tough teams Hayden and Manhattan as soon as the season started. “Looking at the schedule I knew we had a tough one,” said Coach Brown. After the summer training and conditioning, the Vikes believed they would be off to a great start of the season. “After the summer, I believed we would have a good record,” said Coach Brown. The talk hasn’t exactly kept up with the walk. As the season has been rolling on, the Vikes face some team struggles. It’s been tough for a lot of the guys to stay focused on the possibility of winning. After something goes wrong during a game the main struggle is to make sure that players are not hanging their heads and are keeping a positive attitude. “Biggest struggle is to learn how to adapt to a new offense and our lack of experienced returning players,” said Coach Brown. To correct team struggles, players and coaches know things they could do to enhance their playing. Working as a team is a good way to grow and get things done. “We as a team could prepare ourselves better and come together to not be selfish,” said junior Austin Tremblay. Coaches see what is going wrong on the field and know what there is to do to fix the problem. Coach Brown emphasizes the team has been “Executing on offense, defense, and special teams and working to improve on a daily basis.”
Viking defense on the ball against the Hayden Wildcats. (Photo by Tira Haag)
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Seaman Clipper Sept. 26, 2014
Volleyball tries to keep momentum going by Ethan Brunetti staff writer The Volleyball team is off to a hot start starting out with a flawless 17-0 undefeated record. The team is filled with strong leadership. Only two seniors graduated after last years state tournament appearance leaving the team with many players returning to the roles that they filled last year. The team has more height than in recent years including the addition of basketball standout Tatyana Legette. And the amount of athleticism this team possesses is evident to anyone watching the team Junior Rylee Neigenfind serves play. Even though, the Vikings the volleyball to the opposing team. have a perfect record, some (Photo by Marcy Anderson) wins mean more than others. “Shawnee Heights is always special. The rivalry between us is so strong that it always feels amazing to beat them,” said senior Jayci Gooden. The volleyball team is full of talent and hard workers that have consistently worked hard throughout their time at Seaman to improve and work together better as a team. Bailey Bushnell, senior, said, “The volleyball’s team success has come from every member of the team working well together and getting along, on and off the court.” The team’s success has been the result of the girls working hard together and pushing themselves to get better every practice. Rylie Neigenfind, junior volleyball player said “We are happy with our undefeated record, but we
The volleyball’s team success has come from every member of the team working well together and getting along, on and off the court.
Bailey Bushnell
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Soccer gears up for Hayden by Jakob Ready staff writer The Seaman boy’s soccer team is preparing for the Hayden Wildcats Sept. 29. The boy’s team is off to a strong start with two straight wins against Maranatha and Lansing. The third game of the season brought the first loss from their 5A rivals, Shawnee Heights. The only goal of the game came in the last five minutes to shut the door on Seaman. Seaman plays a total of 16 games during the regular season. Only seven of these are at home. “The boys are improving and learning more and more each game,” said Head Coach Louis
DiLeonardo.”The goal is to be playing the best soccer by the end of the year.” Special dates for the soccer team include Oct. 1, Oct. 7, and Oct. 16. Oct 1 the Vikes will take on the Junction City Blue Jays and celebrate Elementary night, which is a fun-filled night for kids and families. Cancer Awareness night will be Tuesday, Oct. 7 as the Vikes take on KC Christian at home. Senior night will be the last regular game of the season against Washburn Rural on Oct 16. Junior Nathan Bredow waits for subs against 5A rival Shawnee Heights. (Photo by Tira Haag)
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Seaman Clipper Sept. 26, 2014
Successful tennis season near close by Shyanne Osterhaus staff writer After ending last year with a 6th place league finish, the girl’s tennis team is looking to increase their success during the 2014 season. Many of the team members’ summer was spent attending morning and evening group lessons, as well as the week-long camp offered by the coaches. “We have had several team members participate in the summer tennis activities and have dedicated themselves greatly to the team so far,” head coach Andrew Taylor says. “I think that will set us up for success early in the season.” The girls kicked off the season by all six varsity players placing in the Seaman Invitational meet. Singles player senior, Katie Waetzig, placed third, and number two singles player junior, Mallory Lantz, placed second. The doubles team consisting of senior Peyton Porting, and junior Sarah Knight, as well as the doubles team of senior Katie Andrews, and sophomore Shyanne Osterhaus, both earned a first place finish. This year the team is lead by returning seniors Andrews, Porting and Waetzig. “We have three seniors
that have really stepped up and worked in a leadership role,” says Taylor. “They have also organized certain aspects of practice.” Last season the doubles team of juniors Knight and Brenlee Yingling were the only members to qualify for state. “I would like to qualify at least two entries in the state tournament this season. Additionally, I would like to improve our finishes at league and city, and place at least one team on the all-city team,” Taylor says. At the second Seaman Invitational meet, the Vikings entered two teams. Eight of the 12 participants medaled. The junior varsity team has also had a large amount of success so far this season, winning the majority of their matches at each individual meet. “I think we all work hard individually so that we can have maximum success as a team,” Lantz says. Working hard individually includes running laps at practice, drill work, and many hours of perfecting serves. “I think as a whole we would like to develop our younger players so they push our veterans to a higher level,” Taylor states. “It will form a sense of competition at practice for all the members of the team.” With multiple varsity and
Senior Katie Andrews plays doubles with partner Shyanne Osterhaus at Hiawatha.
JV meets left on the schedule, the team will continue to use their talents to further their success. “I believe our strongest aspects are our levels of skill we have developed this year,” says Andrews.
The upcoming tournament schedule includes the varsity and JV league meets on Monday Oct 6, and Tuesday Oct 7 at Kossover. The team finishes off the regular season with the varsity regional meet on Saturday Oct 11.
Girls golf working hard to improve by Sydney marney staff writer
The Lady Vikes golf team will be competing next at Cypress Ridge for the league tournament hosted by Topeka High at 1:00 on
Sept. 29. This year the lady vikes have had a strong start; varsity placed second once at the Seaman quad tournament and third twice at the Seaman Invitational and the Hayden Invitational. Senior, Natalie Fish has placed first twice, first at the
Seaman Invitational and then again at the Seaman Quad tournament; she has been a leader on the team this year. Other meadalists are Kamryn Kaul; placing second at an Emporia Tournament, Tory Darting; placing eleventh at the Seaman Invitational and
tenth at the Seaman Quad tournament Sydney Kirmse who placed fourteenth at the Seaman Invitational. “Hopefully we show improvement throughout the season, because we have a lot of inexperienced golfers,” said Coach Steve Darting.
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Seaman Clipper Sept. 26, 2014
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Boys cross country experience helps new head coach
Girls cross country prepares for hardest meet
by Mason Diederich staff writer
by Cortni Heston staff writer
When the boy’s cross country team competes at the Rim Rock Invitational with 50 plus teams, they bring six letterman and four state runners. All of this experience will help new coach Luke Wiens. The team’s first meet was in Manhattan. Varsity had an overall sixth place finish while JV took first. C team also came up with a sixth place finish. “ D a w s o n Podlena has gone from a good runner to being a state placing runner. Chase Kufahl has earned a varsity spot as well,” said Wiens.
D a w s o n Podlena (10) had the best finish on the team last year at state and the best finish at the first meet. He took fourth with a time of 16:39. This time ranks number 13 in Seaman history. Dawson is also doing this while playing soccer. “My goal this year is to place at state and beat the sophomore all-time best record of 16:24,” said sophomore Dawson Podlena. Daniel Kramer is also a returning state runner who placed 11th at Manhattan. He is also a varsity soccer player. “I enjoy being able to run against each other and push each other to get better,” said junior Daniel Kramer.
The boy’s cross country team are coming off an historic year. Last year the team had the most members in Seaman history. Last year’s team earned an eighth place finish at state. The team includes 34 runners with seven seniors. The largest class of runners is the sophomores with 11. “We are filled with a lot of young developing talent and I am very excited about that,” said Wiens. Wiens has good expectations of this team who are full of hard workers. “It’s important to be competitive and to improve, if we accomplish this we will be a good team,” said Wiens.
The girls cross country team will be running the Rim Rock Classic meet tomorrow morning at the Rim Rock Farm in Lawrence, KS. Over the past couple weeks the team has competed at the Manhattan Invitational, Joe Schrag Invitational, and Bonner Springs meet. The varsity and junior varsity teams placed second at both the Manhattan and Joe Schrag Invitational. “In my opinion we ran really well against Manhattan on their home course and against Shawnee Mission East at the Joe Schrag meet,” said head coach Rick
Brading. For Brading, the best part of the season is getting to see older and younger athletes alike improve every week, “We have a very well-balanced team with not only the juniors and seniors performing well, but we’ve also got some really good freshmen and sophomores that are competitive,” Coach Brading said. Brading is also looking forward to see how the team will compete on their home course next weekend. “I think we’ll be very competitive on our home course and I’m interested to see how we’ll run against Olathe East because they are a good team as well.”
Girls take off from the starting line at the Topeka West Invitational. Pictured above number 95 Megan Lehman (senior), 96 Allie Crome (senior), 93 Emily Jowers (freshman), 97 Avery McCarter (sophomore), Andie Sodergren and Kaylee Snell behind number 97 and 35. (Photo provided by Megan Lehman)
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Seaman Clipper Sept. 26, 2014
Homecoming royalty: Madison Henderson, Brett Lichter, Bailey Bushnell, Grant Boyd, Jayci Gooden, Reid Morgart, Rachel Heald, Andrew Ralston, Cassidy Henry, Wyatt Hendrix (Photo by Marcy Anderson) Watermelon fun: Junior Hailey Reed enjoys refreshing fruit provided by the Athletic Booster Club. (Photo by Marcy Anderson)
Freshmen cheerleaders Haley Bitner, Faith Horton, Jenna Wilson and Bailey Savoie rev up the crowd at the Washburn Rural freshman game. (Photo by Kylie Cox) King candidates: Reid Morgart, Wyatt Hendrix, Brett Lichter, Grant Boyd, Andrew Ralston. Queen candidates: Jayci Gooden, Cassidy Henry, Bailey Bushnell, Madison Henderson, Rachel Heald. (Royalty photos by Marcy Anderson)
viewfinder.