The Tiger Print — December 2015

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Blue Valley High School — Vol. 46 — Issue 4 — December 2015 — Overland Park, Kansas

Weighing in: Student overcomes negative body image, eating disorder

Photo illustration by Sophia Ragomo.

2 inthenews December 2015

inside this issue NEWS

2

RECENT BV EVENTS Photos portray second quarter happenings at school

page 4

OPINION 10 MEDIA MISREPRESENTED Pop culture needs more diversity

page 10

local • national • international

news explained Brownback refuses to admit Syrian refugees

After the attacks in Paris on Nov. 13, many U.S. officials and citizens feared a similar plot was imminent here. The influx of Syrian refugees into European cities was part of the reason the ISIS terrorists were able to carry out their deadly plan since one had posed as a refugee seeking asylum. With this new information on the subject, several governors — including Sam Brownback — signed

page 19

ENTERTAINMENT 22 SEASONS GREETINGS Activities, drinks reviewed for upcoming holiday celebrations page 26

SPORTS 29 SIGNATURE MOVES Wrestling team begins season, makes plans to return to State

page 30 Photos courtesy of MCT Campus.

Stories by Sheila Gregory.

Page designed by Sheila Gregory.

Why is this a big deal? The attacks on Paris were instigated by several members of the Islamic State, only one of whom posed as a refugee. The open European borders make it extremely difficult to maintain the whereabouts of all the refugees — especially those who did not declare themselves. That would not be a problem in the U.S. since any refugee admitted must undergo rigorous screening, and the majority of them are women and small children — not the ideal ISIS fighter.

Farook worked for the Department of Public Health and was in attendance at the banquet until he quietly left his table and started shooting minutes later.

FEATURES 14 KEEPING IT CLASSICAL Orchestra seniors provide overview of class structure, roles

motions to withdraw assistance in the relocation of Syrian refugees.

Mass shooting kills 14

Dec. 2 marked the deadliest shooting since Sandy Hook, killing 14 people and leaving 17 injured. It took place at the employee banquet for the Department of Public Health in San Bernardino, California. Witnesses report the two shooters — Syed Farook, 28, and Tashfeen Malik, 27 — were calm throughout the attack, as if they were carrying out a mission. The couple escaped from the scene, only to be later killed in a shootout with the police.

Countries discuss climate change

Nov. 30 marked the start of international climate discussion in Paris. Leaders from 150 countries were present to decide how much money is needed to solve the several crises stemming from climate change. These mostly pertain to thirdworld countries with an increased need for drinkable water and crop diversification. To alleviate these issues in the many impoverished countries,

Why is this a big deal? As of Dec. 3, there had been 355 mass shootings in 2015. Gun violence in America is at an all-time high and is not normal for developed countries. President Barack Obama issued a statement that shifted from sadness to anger since this continues to happen. The guns used in the shooting were purchased legally, highlighting the flaws in the background check system. While Obama pushes for more comprehensive background checks, it is likely nothing will get done since over half of congress is funded by the National Rifle Association. they concluded $100 billion is the minimum amount needed.

Why is this a big deal? Climate problems facing the world mean melting ice caps and carbon emissions. Increasing temperatures and water shortages have caused failing crops, straining the global economy. The money would be used to help adapt to droughts and floods, clean water supplies and improve crops. Without these measures, mass migrations from famine would affect all countries and cause an even greater global catastrophe.

December 2015 inthenews 3

the deal with debate

Teacher, students discuss the 2015 debate season vance and real-life impact on teens. “[Students] learn about the power and reach of the government and just how much power and reach the government Spending an hour and a half arguing about domestic surshould have,” he said. “I think those are critical questions we veillance, cracking political jokes left and right and constructdon’t ask enough — especially teenagers — so I think it’s a great ing an entire speech in a matter of minutes makes debate unlike thing for them to learn.” any other activity.

Despite what many may believe is just an academic activity Despite the stereotypes and assumptions, debate isn’t acfilled with busy work and lectures, junior Karishma Shah said tually just arguing about random topics. It’s also not all about there is a family-like atmosphere throughout the debate team. learning one side — every debater must be prepared to take on “We’re very, very close,” Shah said. “We hang out a lot outeither position of the argument. They stand as the affirmative side of class. We’re really good friends, and we all look out for — agreeing with the resolution — or the negative — each other.” disagreeing with it.

Even though Blue Valley has a large team — 150 “I always liken it: what a martial art is debaters in total, 55 of whom are novice — to fighting, debate is to arguing,” debate Clark said his favorite part of being in coach Chris Riffer said. “So, yes, there’s debate was meeting new people. an arguing element to it, but you’re “At the debates, I meet a lot of differdoing it in a disciplined manner. We ent people from different schools,” he learn about claims, warrants, data, said. “I’ve made a lot of new friends impacts, counterclaims and things this year.” like that.”

Riffer said the most interesting Each year, debate coaches part of teaching debate is seeing across the country vote on one his students’ minds change. topic — which is called the reso“I think my favorite thing is lution — they wish to see argued the critical thinking skills kids get during the next season. The reso— watching their brains expand lution this year concerns curtailing in a way that school sometimes just domestic surveillance. doesn’t do a good enough job of Freshman Nick Clark said this year’s expanding them, [like] how topic interests him and has taught him to problem solve and anaSenior Amanda quite a bit.

Miller cross-examines lyze situations,” he said.

“I’ve always known this existed, but I never The season has been sophomore Louis Pires really got in-depth on it,” he said. “I didn’t really know full of success, Riffer at the Fine Arts Potpourri. Each how much they were actually doing.” year, debate students perform a mock debate said, but Shah said her From metadata to drones to encryption, there are a at this event. “Debate creates a community highlight was placing of learning that is beyond what we get at multitude of cases being run this year, each offering new and fifth in a tournament school,” Miller said. “It encourages us to be on Oct. 30-31. detailed information about the federal government’s surveilmore aware of what is going on in the lance techniques.

“I’ve been [debate world and to discuss it.” Photo by Riffer said this year’s topic is amazing because of its relepartners] with my best Maddie Davis. friend — it’s a lot of fun no matter how we do at a tournament,” Shah said. “We did well [recently]. We went 4-1, which would bring us to fifth place out of 60 or 70 teams, which was great.”

While this season has been successful, Riffer said he’s excited for the talented debaters returning next year.

“There’s just this massive tidal wave of really talented juniors and sophomores that will be seniors and juniors next year,” he said. “We’ve done amazing this year, but it’s going to be even Riffer Shah Clark more amazing next year.”

juliefreijat staff writer

Page designed by Julie Freijat and Maddie Davis.

4 inthenews December 2015

NEWS IN PHOTOS

1.

3.

1. Smiling, senior Tom Overman gets blood drawn for the annual blood drive. This year’s blood drive was Nov. 11. “The blood drive was an easy way to give back to people in need,” he said. Photo by Maddie Davis.

2. Junior Nick Schuler and senior PJ Meacham play their instruments during the Fine Arts Potpourri. Both are members of Blue Valley’s Jazz Band. “Every time I improv I have a lot of fun,” Meacham said. “It’s a learning experience and it’s always a lot of fun

2.

4. to share music with the student body.” Photo

by Maddie Davis.

3. Discussing secret plans, junior Caitlin Riffer and senior Charlie Stebbins act in the Fall Play. The play was “The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940” and took place Nov. 12-14.

“My favorite thing about the play was the cast,” Riffer said. “We all got along so well and had great chemistry on stage, which made the play really fun.” Photo by Sophia Ragomo.

4. After catching a pass, senior Taylor

DeBey runs the football during the State championship. Due to two days of rain and sleet before the game, the field was frozen. “It was definitely hard to make some cuts and move around,” he said. “It was just as bad as it looked.” Photo by Megan Hegarty.

5. Singing, Chambers members perform for the student body. The Fine Arts Potpourri took place Oct. 29. “Everyone goes to the football games and other sporting events, but with the Fine Arts Potpourri, we are able

December 2015 inthenews 5

5.

6.

7.

8. to show the school what we are passionate about,” junior Jeremy Jacobs said. Photo by Maddie Davis.

6. Junior Sydney Van Ophem presses her handprint on a poster. National French Honor Society met Nov. 19 in one of the art rooms.

“NFHS is sending [the handprint chain and poster] we made to a school in Paris to show support after the attacks,” Van Ophem said.

Photo by Sheila Gregory.

7. Waving her baton, band teacher Carol

9.

Lowman conducts the band as freshman Carlee Lyerla follows along. The Symphonic Band’s Winter Concert took place Dec. 1. “[My favorite thing about band is] playing music and having fun with my friends,” Lyerla said. Photo by Sophia Ragomo.

8. Surrounded by varsity football players, principal Scott Bacon holds up the sectional championship plaque. “Obviously, we didn’t finish the season how we wanted to,” senior Jeff Gurley said. “But, I couldn’t be more

proud of my brothers and our achievements this season.” Photo by Maddie Davis.

9. Moving to the beat, junior Mallory Norris and senior Emily Blackwell dance at Switch.

By paying the $5 entrance fee, students who went to Switch could dance, eat pizza, enter a raffle and take photos in a photo booth. “We are hoping to encourage and spread the word of art to those who may not experience it,” senior Brooke Metz said. Photo by Sophia Ragomo. Page designed by Maddie Davis.

6 inthenews December 2015

BV Honor Societies offer Honor Bring enriching opportunities us All

to

NHS

NHHS

National History Honor Society is a relaxed way to enjoy history, president senior Elyse Kats said.

“It offers the opportunity to come and learn about history not in the school setting,” she said. “We do a lot really cool field trips and a lot of fun events on weeknights or weekends. It’s just another opportunity to learn about something we are all interested in.”

With lax requirements, Kats said many people use it an application booster.

“There are a lot of people in it who have a passion for history because we do so many fun activities, and it’s just easy to be in,” she said. “But then again, because it so easy to get into and has such easy requirements, there are people in it who use it as a resumé builder.

My hope is that even if there are people who are in it as a resumé builder, they will develop a true passion for history.”

The few requirements is something Kats said she hope will draw people to NHHS. “We are really accepting,” she said. “Even though we don’t have a lot of requirements, we hope that’s something that makes you want to join, so you can develop that passion for history. We all just want to learn more about history and more about each other.”

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at least 1 AP history course taken

50 members come to 3 meetings for cords

SNHS

Science National Honor Society president senior Aubrey Gilchrist said SNHS is significant for fostering an interest in science.

“SNHS is important because it helps out with the love of science,” she said. “We get to work with Science Outreach and do different projects for other schools. It’s just to have fun with science.”

Gilchrist said SNHS is working on various service projects.

National Honor Society is based on the four pillars of Character, Service, Scholarship and Leadership, which president senior Adam Houghton said members try to exemplify every day.

The main point of the society is volunteer work, Houghton said.

“We do service projects,” he said. “We organize things, and we go and help. This year, we are going to the Blue River Carnival, the Wilderness Science Center [and] Wayside Waifs. We also promote [individual] community service. Each member has to have 20 hours every year to stay in [NHS] — 20 hours for 140 kids really adds up.”

Houghton said NHS is not an honor society members can join and slack off.

“We try to set it up so that it is enough work where you can’t just get in it and do nothing, but it’s not too much work that it is a super hard commitment,” he said. “We want people who are involved, but we know it’s not the only thing they are involved in.”

How much the honor society gives back is what Houghton said he wants the school to recognize about NHS. “I want people to know about all the service we do, and [that we] strive to give back to the community,” he said. “[We are] doing things that will better our local area and people around us.”

Getting into NHS

11 recommendations 20 hours 4 current teachers community service 5 former teachers 3.5 cumulative GPA 2 activity sponsors

“We’re hoping to start an electronics recycling bin in [SNHS sponsor Charlena] Sieve’s room,” she said. “That’ll be up and running soon. We are also hoping to clean up Kaleidoscope.”

SNHS members don’t need to be science prodigies to be in the society, Gilchrist said.

“We aren’t stuck up,” she said. “We love science, and if you maybe aren’t the best in science but still want to apply, we would really like that.”

{ by the } numbers

3.5 science GPA

3.0 cumulative GPA 140 members

December 2015 inthenews 7 Senior Amanda Miller is treasurer of National French Honor Society and said it fosters an inclusive environment for upper-level French students.

“It really helps develop a community around something we are all passionate about,” she said. “We are at a level in French where we can use that and share that passion with each other.”

Miller said while some may not share that passion, many are there because they want to be.

“I think there are some people who will solely do it as a resumé builder, and it shows because they won’t come to a lot of activities,” she said. “But then there are some people, while they know it might help their resumé, they are there because they genuinely enjoy coming. They aren’t concerned about the points they have, but they rather are excited about coming to the activities.”

Those are the types of people Miller said she wants NFHS to be a reflection of.

“People who are in National French Honor Society really do enjoy French language,” she said. “We enjoy French culture and speaking the language. It is a passion we want to be able to share with the whole school.”

{ by the } numbers

35 members

3.5 French GPA

3.0 cumulative GPA

Must be enrolled in Honors French 4 or AP French 5 NAHS

National Art Honor society president senior Mandy Novicoff said the organization focuses on creativity for the members and school.

“NAHS is a society to promote the arts in our school,” she said.

“We usually plan one or two school dances throughout the year, like Switch. Within the society, we have our members do monthly meetings that include tie-dying T-shirts or painting pumpkins. It’s just to encourage people to be creative.”

NAHS hasn’t done service before, but Novicoff said that will change this year.

“What we’re thinking about

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5-minute meetings every other Thursday

117 3.0 cumulative 3.5 math GPA members GPA

Mu Alpha Theta

The National Math Honor Society — Mu Alpha Theta — co-president senior Nathan Luzum said he wants it to cultivate a different atmosphere than the one found in a math class.

“In general, math gets kind of a bad rap among kids because math is always the subject that kids say, ‘Oh I hate math,’ or ‘I don’t understand this,’ [or] ‘I don’t understand 9 how this will apply to my life.’7I think8our mission is /to have fun with math. Whether it be through a math compex 4 5 6 tition or discussing problems, just let people have a— good experience with math.”

1 3 2 Mu Alpha Theta’s activities are math-based for points in the society.

0 . = “[We will be] having team competitions for people who will come in and work through some problems with friends, and then, whichever team gets the most points at the end gets extra points for this society,” Luzum said.

“We’re going to try to do some talks this year. It will be bringing some math teachers [in] who will speak about some interesting subject matter.”

However, Luzum said the participation in competitions are not cut-throat.

“We try to build a more relaxed and more casual atmosphere where anybody — regardless of whether you’re big into math competitions or not — can come in and try their best,” he said.

doing is having a workshop at the school to teach little kids how to paint or draw,” she said. “We’re also thinking about going to a nursing home and helping the elderly paint pictures.”

Despite what people may think, Novicoff said NAHS isn’t a blowoff society.

“NAHS isn’t the easy honor society,” she said. “It isn’t easy to be in because you have to be interested in art, which isn’t just something to put on your application. Our society harbors a group of people who are really interested in different forms of art and want to encourage it so others enjoy it, too.”

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2 art credits 3.5 art GPA

10 hours community 3.0

Other Honor Societies

NFHS

service cumulative GPA

National Spanish Honor Society Tri-M National Music Honor Society Quill and Scroll Journalism Honor Society National Latin Honor Society Stories and page designed by Sheila Gregory.

8 inthenews December 2015

Better to Give than to Get lydiahsu staff writer

‘Tis the season of giving.

As first semester comes to an end and winter break is just around the corner, many students are excited not to have school so they can relax and spend time with friends and family.

However, senior Nicole Robben and sophomore Elaine Zhu will spend most of their winter break volunteering with different organizations.

“During the holidays, I like to volunteer with Wayside Waifs and my church,” Robben said. “I volunteer primarily at Wayside Waifs with the cats and dogs.”

While Robben focuses more on organizations with animals, Zhu said she spends time with organizations that help people.

“I volunteer in a local student-run organization called the Youth Hope Fund,” Zhu said. “We raise money by doing fundraisers, then donate the money to local charities.”

This past year, Robben said she was very involved with her volunteer work.

“I think our school puts a lot of emphasis on the importance of volunteering,” she said. “I was also really encouraged by my family to volunteer.”

Zhu agrees with Robben that family members impacted her to get involved with her community.

“I got into volunteering because my older sister and brother were also active volunteers,” Zhu said. “Doing community service is something really important to me because it shows how much a difference students can make in their community and school.”

Between the two organizations Robben volunteers for, she said she enjoys spending her time at Wayside Waifs more.

“I mainly volunteer for Wayside Waifs because I love working with animals,” Robben said. “I feel like around the holidays they need extra love because [the dogs and cats] aren’t getting any.”

Robben said volunteer work does make a difference in the community.

“I see an impact every week I go [to Wayside Waifs] because the animals will get adopted and find a loving home,” Robben said. “I love seeing families post

AVI D

avid about

av·id ‘av d/ noun a program started in 1980 to prepare students for college and put them on a track for academic success e

Learning Model:

pictures on Facebook of them, and I love seeing their progress.

Zhu said volunteering betters the community and makes a difference.

“Even if my work is small compared to others, I believe that even some of my work could benefit others and maybe even help make their lives better during the holiday season,” she said.

Both Robben and Zhu encourage students to volunteer during the holiday time.

“I think more people should volunteer, especially during the holiday season,” Zhu said. “During these times, families may need more help than usual because of the upcoming holidays. [The] holiday season is a time for giving, and we can help others by giving our time to help families or charities in need.”

Robben

must be interviewed by an AVID teacher as part of the application process.

112

BV students enrolled in AVID

AVID stands for...

It is taught by social Advancement Via studies teacher Individual Determination Dianne O’Bryan Across 44 states and 16 countries and territories, there are more than 800,000 students enrolled in AVID.

“WICOR” — Writing, Inquiry, Collaboration, Organization and Reading to learn Page designed by Lydia Hsu and Alli Williams.

Zhu

At Blue Valley... students are recommended by staff to take AVID and AVID students carry

all their class work in a 3-ring binder.

Tutorials are like tutoring, where students work in study groups.

and ELA teacher Kelsey Bakalar.

class schedule

What is it?

BV students volunteer during holiday season to better community

Monday Tutorials

Tuesday

Block Day

Friday

WICOR Activities, Assignments & Projects

Tutorials & WICOR content

WICOR Activities, Assignments, Team building & Projects

Information gathered and infographic by Alli Williams.

December 2015 payin’thebills 9

IT’S THE DEALER THAT MAKES THE DIFFERENCE

www.boballenford.com • 913-381-3800

9239 Metcalf Ave • Overland Park, KS 66212

10 outloud December 2015

The Cruelty-Free Crusade Inhumane animal testing calls for drastic change in everyday products

taliaamjadi staff writer It seems like labels on products are popping up everywhere these days.

Beverages have their “all-natural” drinks. Shampoos claim to be “organic.”

Household items are going “green.”

As our society has become gradually more health conscience within the past 20 years, marketing companies try to put anything on their product to make it sell.

Although natural and organic products are important, cruelty-free products are better for the health of animals suffering every day from animal testing.

Every year, more than 100 million animals — including mice, rats, rabbits, cats, dogs, guinea pigs, hamsters, monkeys, fish and birds — are killed in United States laboratories for multiple areas of testing.

Before their deaths, the animals are forced to inhale toxic fumes, are immobilized in restraint devices for hours, have holes drilled into their skulls and even have their skin burned off or their spinal cords crushed.

In addition to the torture, animals in these labs are deprived of everything that is natural and important to them. They are confined to cages, socially isolated and mentally traumatized. They are treated as nothing more than disposable lab equipment.

When I was younger, I was unaware and didn’t put much thought into animal testing and what the animals actually endured — ever since I have been educated on the subject, I have used cruelty-free

products.

A lot of popular brands test on animals for things like shampoos, lotions, face wash, cosmetics and more. Though a lot of people don’t know, a ton of brands do not use animals to test products.

It is easy to look at a tweet of a tortured animal and feel guilty and upset, but nothing is changing from doing that.

In order to really turn around animal testing throughout the world, everyone must make the fight to use cruelty-free products and spread the word about how they are killing thousands of innocent animals every day.

Cruelty-Free Products

Shampoo Makeup Face Wash Paul Mitchell

NYX

Lush

Shea Moisture

Tarte

Pureology

Elf

Yes to Cucumbers

Burt’s Bees

Seeing is Believing

Representation matters because it shapes a person’s perception of others, themselves

kaitlinyu staff writer Iron Man. Batman. Spiderman.

Captain America.

These four superheroes are loved everywhere across the U.S., and everyone is always awaiting their next appearances.

Yet, what do people see when they watch these characters on screen?

They see conventionally attractive, able-bodied, straight, white people who are glorified and put on a pedestal.

Sure, there’s Black Widow, but her character struggles to even get her own movie.

Page designed by Talia Amjadi and Kaitlin Yu.

There’s also Hawkeye, who in the original comics had a hearing disability, which was completely ignored when he was put on the big screen.

Though subtle, by representing majority of popular media with those types of actors or characters, it sends a negative message to minorities.

You are less important.

You are ignored.

You are rejected.

According to a study from the Ralph J. Bunche Center for African American Studies at UCLA, only 16.7 percent of roles in Hollywood are minorities even though they make up 40 percent of the U.S. population.

Oftentimes, even when minorities are given roles, their characters are often stereotyped or misrepresented. Not to mention, disabled and LGBTQ characters and actors are rarely shown in a positive, empowering way.

If the characters who portray minorities are served to us as sloppy and 2D, it gives everyone — not just minorities — a negative mindset toward them.

Media provides people’s perspective of the world.

What is shown on screen will influence everyone’s ideas of other people.

Both children and adults look to media for role models and instruction on how they live or see themselves.

How can you dream to be something when it’s never shown to you that you can do it in any way?

How can you believe you belong in a group if it’s never visualized to you?

Media can be something wonderful, where you pour your spirits and feelings into an outlet of creativity.

However, it could be even greater than it is now by welcoming everyone and new ideas into this blend of inventiveness.

December 2015 outloud 11

staffeditorial TIGER PRINT newspaper the

co-editors Maddie Davis Sheila Gregory

photographers Isabelle Allen Chloe Breau

photo editor Sophia Ragomo

cartoonist Mandy Novicoff Christine Rice

news & web editor Rachel Lock

Cartoon by Christine Rice.

Privileged lifestyle often overlooks need for local volunteering It’s time to face the fact that Johnson county is a mostly privileged area.

We have great schools, most of us have cars, we eat daily meals, we go shopping, we get a lot of presents and we have feasts for the holidays.

Some of us ignore the fact that there are people who have close to nothing.

In our school, 5.9 percent of students eat a free or reduced lunch, and nationwide 51 percent of students qualify for that assistance.

It’s that time of year again — it’s getting cold, and the holidays are coming up. A lot of people are struggling to get food, shelter and proper clothing, as well as other necessities.

It’s hard to imagine a life without food on the table, or not having a winter coat, but many people have been living that way

for years.

Especially in the colder months, it’s important to donate food, clothes, hygiene products and maybe a present or two.

There are food bins in almost every grocery store, and cans of soup or vegetables cost a dollar or less.

Donating old coats can make a huge difference, as well as socks, underwear, shirts and pants.

If the opportunity arises and you’re able to donate or volunteer, take it.

Aiding a person in need is rewarding, and knowing you’re doing something to benefit another person warms the heart.

If nothing else, at least you get volunteer hours.

There’s no reason not to volunteer or donate, especially when we have been blessed with homes, plenty of food and clothing

to wear. A lot of us live a very comfortable life, so make an attempt to help those who don’t.

Donating to the Harvester’s bin or sorting food, dropping old clothes or toys off at the Salvation Army and volunteering to ring the bell are simple ways to get involved. Giving food to the homeless on the street or spending time with sick children in hospitals also make huge impacts.

The Kansas City community makes it easy to get involved, and sacrificing a few hours of your time to better the lives of others are hours well spent.

There are so many people in the world who are having a hard time, so the least we can do is aid the people in our community who are in desperate need of support.

staff writers Talia Amjadi opinion editor Julie Freijat Charlotte Rooney Connor Heaton Lydia Hsu features editor Lauren Huesers Hope Brown Macie Lawrence Amelia Lock entertainment Makayla Nicholis editor Alli Williams Courtney Carpenter Kaitlin Yu sports editor Megan Hegarty

adviser Michelle Huss

“The Tiger Print” is an official publication of Blue Valley High School, an open forum distributed to all students seven times a year. This publication may contain controversial material.

Kansas law prohibits the suppression of a student publication solely because it may contain controversial matter. Blue Valley Unified School District No. 229 and its board members, officers and employees may disclaim any responsibility for the content of this publication; it is not an expression of school policy. Student authors and editors are solely responsible for the content of this publication.

Letters to the editor are encouraged for publication. “The Tiger Print” reserves the right to edit all submissions for both language and content. Letters should be submitted to Room 450, emailed to thetigerprint@yahoo.com or mailed to: The Tiger Print Blue Valley High School 6001 W. 159th St. Overland Park, KS 66085

12 outloud December 2015

Let’s Be

Selfish sheilagregory co-editor Everyone says teenagers are selfish.

We only think about ourselves.

We have dedicated entire websites to posting pictures of us.

Fine. I’ll let you have this one.

When it comes to time, however, we are unselfish to a fault.

None of my time is my own anymore. When I am not doing homework, applying to college or running, I am . . . sleeping. Wait, scratch that. I also babysit once or twice a week and have friends I can sometimes pencil in time for.

This leaves virtually no time just for me.

I’m not the only one with a busy schedule. So many of my friends, peers and mere acquaintances have

Alone time important for individual growth

just as much or more to do.

Why is this?

Are we so conditioned to say yes to any plans that come along that we forget it is OK to decline?

It’s taken me most of high school to learn that it is 100 percent acceptable to say no.

We have a right to be selfish.

And while you shouldn’t become antisocial, sequestered beings, one Saturday night to yourself is an amazing experience.

No one is going to be mad if you decline.

The people you babysit for will call you for another time.

Every time plans come about, don’t jump at the chance to say yes.

The balancing act of work, extracurriculars and friends can get really tedious really fast. You don’t want to get to a point in your life where it becomes a need to always be busy.

I can’t count how many times I’ve heard people say something along the lines of, “I have nine papers, a game, a job and an elderly grandparent to take care of. Should I go out tonight?”

Voice }

your

{Raise

Excuse me, what’s your confusion about? Take that time for yourself.

Read, make cookies, knit a scarf or just sleep. Spending time alone is healthy.

While teens are social creatures, it is equally important to realize that alone time helps with developing a sense of who you really are.

Don’t overload yourself just because the opportunity presents itself.

Take some time off from a social life for a night.

Be selfish.

You will be happier for it.

Would you rather spend free time alone or go out with friends?

“Go out with friends because it is fun to be surrounded by others who bring you happiness.

Being around others gets your mind off things, so you can just enjoy their presence and spending time with them.”

— Junior Kelsey Kinkade Photo by Sophia Ragomo.

Page designed by Sheila Gregory.

“It probably depends, but if I had been super busy, then I would have alone time. After my busy week, I would want to relax and have some time for myself.”

— Senior Audrey Holland

P

ity arty

charlotterooney opinion editor “Sympathetic or kindly sorrow evoked by the suffering, distress or misfortune of another.”

That’s the dictionary definition of pity.

Pity is supposed to be compassion and empathy for another person. Lately, it’s been delivered in a high-pitched squeak and a hug, which is apparently supposed to make me feel better.

Pity is now used as a veil to talk about your own problems.

Instead of having a real, meaningful conversation with me, a simple “I’m

December 2015 upclose 13

unsympathetic society skews meaning of empathy

sorry” and then starting in on your problems is what feeling bad for someone has become.

I get it — sometimes someone else’s problems seem like nothing compared to yours, but here’s the deal — they are just as important.

You getting into a screaming match with your mom may upset you as much as someone’s boyfriend or girlfriend breaking up with them. And in order to get the compassion and kindness you need, the person you’re talking to needs the same thing.

Saying sorry doesn’t cut it. Asking what you can do to help, giving advice and saying you love or care about that person are all ways to comfort someone.

Reassuring them and making sure they know you’ve got their back are important during this conversation because that’s what you would like to hear.

Pity has gotten a bad rep because it’s misused for personal benefit.

Easy Ways to Show You Care

Give them a call, not a text Take your friend out to dinner

Don’t ask someone how they’re doing because you want them to ask you.

Don’t use pity to make yourself look nice or caring.

Don’t use it to seem like a good friend if you really don’t care.

One of the worst things you can do to someone is pretend you care about them — no one wants to talk to someone about a problem they’re having if they really aren’t interested in helping them.

When asking someone how they’re doing or if they’re OK, you should expect a tidal wave of hurt feelings and anger. If you can’t handle that, then don’t ask.

You should ask how someone is doing because you genuinely care about and want to help that person, not because you’re going to get something out of it.

Next time one of your friends seems upset, ask them how they’re really doing, and be there for them.

That’s what you would want them to do for you.

Tell them you care about them

Genuinely tell them, “I love Offer to listen you” to them

Go out of your way to do something thoughtful

Ask if your friend wants help when they’re stressed Page designed by Charlotte Rooney.

14 upclose December 2015

UN

raveling the issues

Students participate in new club, debate global issues

hopebrown features editor

Page designed by Hope Brown.

Researching on his phone, sophomore Christian Hansen converses with other Model UN members. Hansen is the president of the club. “[Model UN] is different because it is the only activity which requires you to take the positions of another country and make them into your own,” he said. Photo by Isabelle Allen.

American perspective on it.”

Conferences consist of teams from different schools representing countries. The teams make resolutions for problems and discuss modern issues that are occurring, Hansen said.

“We debate about anything and everything that is a rising issue in the world, and each conference focuses on certain issues,” he said. “The upcoming Wichita conference has two main topics to discuss.

The first is the prohibitions of chemical

upcoming

weapons, and the second is the protection of migrants around the globe.”

Hansen said Model UN is a unique opportunity offering members the chance to engage in prominent issues affecting the world today. “[Model UN] is unlike debate or any other speaking events because there is no single winner, and many people can succeed in the activity,” he said. “It is overall more relaxing, and there is a lot more critical thinking time.”

Jan. 22 every

Model UN competition events:

in Wichita

meetings

Although heated discussions are commonly associated with a debate class or a socratic seminar, a new club at Blue Valley promotes deliberation over prominent problems in the world.

This year, sophomore Christian Hansen assisted in founding Model United Nations club.

“I helped start the club and wanted to be president because I have [participated in] Model UN in the past for other schools and really enjoyed the activity,” Hansen said. “It is very fun for those who like to discuss issues occurring around the globe, and you can meet great people.”

Senior Emily Bridges is a member and said the club splits into groups representing different countries.

“They try to resolve issues within the world — like coming up with new solutions they could present,” Bridges said.

“They take on the country’s identity and its problems and try to find solutions for it.”

Before moving on to real-world issues, Model UN first practiced negotiating and compromising with imaginary countries, Bridges said.

“They started out with a fake area with many different countries,” she said. “They all had their own problems, but they had resources and benefits. A few weeks ago, they [moved] on to real countries with real problems.”

In the competition with the fake countries, the winning team secured the right to choose a real country’s identity first.

“They didn’t put the United States as an option,” Bridges said. “We know what’s going on, and you need to be able to take on different countries’ perspectives on issues. You already have the

Tuesday

in room 609

December 2015 upclose 15

Skewed Perception Staring at yourself in the mirror, you feel empty.

Worthless.

Ugly.

Fat. You pinch a piece of skin between your fingers in disgust.

Suddenly turning away, you crouch down next to the toilet, wrapping your arms around the bowl to steady yourself.

You breathe in deeply and wait to make sure no one can hear you.

Then, you stick your fingers

EDITORS’ NOTE

The story beginning on page 23 addresses a sensitive subject — eating disorders. To respect the privacy of the student interviewed, we left out his name and grade level.

down your throat and force yourself to throw up, emptying your stomach of the dinner you ate just minutes earlier.

When you’re done, you wipe your mouth with a tissue and stand up, shaky from the adrenaline now coursing through your veins.

You tell yourself you feel better, but a part of you still feels guilty.

You know doing this is bad for you, but you can’t stop.

It’s like you need to be in control.

Need to harm yourself in order to

look as thin and fit as your friends.

You quickly brush your teeth and take one last glance at yourself in the mirror as you leave the bathroom.

You look even emptier than you did before.

Story continues on Pages 16-17.

Story by Maddie Davis.

Photos by Sophia Ragomo.

Pages designed by Maddie Davis.

We know this story may be a trigger to emotions for some. Please read at your own discretion. If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, here are some numbers to call in order to talk to someone for advice and help: BV Safe Schools Hotline: 239-4357 Eating Disorder Hotline: 1-800-931-2237

16 upclose December 2015

One Size Does N

An anonymous Blue Valley student said he struggled with bulimia in sixth grade and has dealt with body image issues since then.

“It started around the summer in between fifth and sixth grade year,” he said. “I had been to the pool, and I remember seeing a couple of my friends who were very physically fit. I had hit puberty already, and they were still all very skinny, but I wanted to look like them. I was willing to do anything to look like them.”

He said he started forcing himself to throw up after meals in order to lose weight and look more like his friends.

“I didn’t really know what [bulimia] was,” he said. “I didn’t know there was a name for it, but I thought it sounded like a good idea. It just kind of progressed, and it started to become a habit after a while. I would end up in the bathroom after pretty much every meal unless it was some minor snack like a granola bar.”

In order to prevent anyone from finding out, he said he went to great lengths to hide his disorder.

“The first time I did it, I pretended like I was sick and skipped school,” he said. “I thought after a few days I would be fine, but it became a habit, and then I did have to figure out ways to hide it, especially in school. After lunch, they didn’t let you out of the lunch room, so I had to wait until the next hour, and if someone else was

by the

in the bathroom, I had to wait. At home, I would go to my basement bathroom instead of the main floor bathroom so nobody would hear me.”

However, he said despite his efforts, his best friend eventually found out about his struggles.

“I was at the pool — it’s ironic because that’s where it started and ended — and [my friends and I] were eating snacks from the concession stands,” he said. “Then my best friend came in the bathroom after me, and I didn’t know he was in there. He heard me throwing up, and he asked me if I was sick. I said, ‘No,’ and then he told me there was an actual name for what I was going through. He told me that I was sick, not physically, but mentally.”

He said because his friend responded so negatively to his attempts to look more fit, he realized he needed to get help.

“I talked to my parents about it,” he said. “My mom is pretty good at talking, but when I first told her, she cried, and it was kind of like an epiphany to her. She figured out what everything was about, when it started and was really sad and disappointed. We got through it together — even though nothing was wrong with her, she still felt my pain and helped me through it. It took about a year to finally just break the habit and get the whole mental attitude out of my head, but I’m

NUMBERS Information from anad.org, nationaleatingdisorders.org, eatingdisorderscoalition.org

43%

81%

of men are unhappy with their bodies of 10 year olds are afraid of being fat

“

He t sick b

six 23

every day people

die as a direct result of an eating disorder

by age

girls st their

anorex

th

most illness a

December 2015 upclose 17

s Not Fit All

home, oom m so

fforts, ut

thankful I got help and had someone to support me.”

He said especially after getting help, he realized forcing himself to throw up in order to try to look a certain way did not help him in any way.

“I still struggle to think of myself in a positive manner, but it got a lot better when someone really informed me of what I was doing to myself,” he said. “I used to get these adrenaline highs after

Formerly bulimic student sheds light on insecurities affecting everyone

deal with, it is important to realize that men struggle with them, too.

“I think the main reason why people characterize this as a girl’s disorder is that it seems that girls are more conscious about their body image,” he said.

“But, it depends on who you’re talking to about your body image as a guy. If I would have talked to any guy besides my best friend about it, they would have just shrugged me off and told me I was doing it for attention. People need to start realizing this isn’t something that just affects one gender. It’s an issue for a lot of people.”

He said he urges those thinking about hurting themselves in order to look a certain way not to start.

“It’s not worth it,” he said.

“It’s not worth it at all. It’s like a snowball effect. Once you start, it just kind of grows and grows and side effects come, and then you feel worse about yourself. Just don’t start. Please don’t start. Everyone has the same feelings about themselves at some point. Not very many people can always positively think about themselves, but you get over things. It goes away eventually.”

“ ”

bended —

n

He told me that I was sick, not physically, but mentally.

his zed he

t,” he alking, d, and it er. She about, and ogether ng with ed me finally hole ut I’m

I was done because I felt good about myself, but after hearing that it was bad, I started feeling bad about myself after I did it. In truth, when I was done, I had to have some pretty extensive whitening for my teeth because of all of the acid from my stomach that was breaking them down, and that made me self-conscious, too. I went from being self-conscious about my body and my weight to my teeth and my breath, and I didn’t want that. I didn’t need to be harming myself emotionally, mentally and physically.”

He said although eating disorders are mainly seen as problems women have to

six

by age

girls start to worry about their weight or shape

anorexia nervosa is the

third

most common chronic illness among adolescents

Only 1 in 10 people with eating disorders receive treatment

In the United States,

20 & million30 women

million men

suffer from eating disorders at some point in their lives

If you are already stuck in a situation like this, he said it is important to reach out and get help.

“You need someone to talk to religiously,” he said. “You can’t just go around telling little bits to different people. It needs to be one person who knows your situation. If you get to the point where you talk to everybody about it, people will think you’re doing it for attention, and they won’t treat you the same way. But if you talk to a counselor or even a parent, they can really help you out because even a different person’s perspective on the situation will make you feel better. And that way you’re not alone.”

an estimated

10-15%

of people with anorexia and bulimia are male

18 upclose December 2015

the

LEADING PACK

Tiger Pride class promotes school spirit among sports, activities meganhegarty sports editor

Most, if not all, students have attended a football game, gone to an assembly, signed posters for different sports and activities or participated in Hoops for Hope.

You may not know, but Blue Valley’s Tiger Pride class is part of all of these things.

They run the assemblies, plan fundraisers like Hoops for Hope and attend all sports and activities.

Senior Courtney Thompson is a member of Tiger Pride and said it was created to support BV. “Tiger Pride’s purpose is just to spread spirit and tradition and support our school,” she said. “We try to make every day a good day to be a Tiger.”

Tiger Pride has a different structure than any other class at BV, Thompson said. She said the students split up into four different groups.

“We are separated into committees,” Thompson said.

“That way we can divide and conquer, but if people need help, we can cross over.”

The Community Service team was responsible for Hoops for Hope on Nov. 10-12.

Science teacher Azie Taghizadeh sponsors Tiger

Seniors Lauren Sawyer and Serena Nangia present the cross country team with a banner for their achievements at State. Tiger Pride makes signs and banners for activities so teams know the school cares about them. “Tiger Pride wants everyone to feel important to Blue Valley,” Sawyer said. “We like having a visual representation of our support.” Photo by Maddie Davis.

Pride, but the class is mostly student-run.

“We have a leader of the week and that is a student who is in charge of everything,” Thompson said. “[The student leader] also gives a leadership lesson about a topic of their choice.”

Junior Kale Samber said school spirit is important to him, and he makes an effort to show it.

“School spirit to me is dressing up as much as possible on spirit days and going all out,” he said. “[It’s] always going to games and supporting all of the teams — not just going where your friends are.”

Samber said encouraging the students really makes a difference.

“If we didn’t have school spirit, a lot of activities will

feel unsupported,” he said. “I guess, in a roundabout way, that can make them not perform as well.”

Thompson said she enjoys making an impact.

“We have a lot of groups that appreciate banners we make for them or just the support we give to different activities,” Thompson said.

Tiger Pride makes sure to include everyone, Samber said. “[We] support all the school activities, not just football or basketball,” he said. “We support women’s basketball, orchestra, choir, tennis [and others]. We give goody bags to sports if we can’t attend.”

Samber said joining Tiger Pride has benefited him in more ways than one.

“It has developed me into

a great leader and has put me out of my comfort zone,” he said. “I’ve gotten to meet a lot of new people through it.”

Thompson said she enrolled in Tiger Pride because she loves being an integral part of the school.

“I’ve always been kind of a natural leader,” she said. “It was something I was interested in, and [I met] a group of people that I would have never gotten to know otherwise.”

Thompson said her goal is to make BV an enjoyable place to spend high school.

“School spirit is important because without it, you don’t want to go to school,” she said.

“You [should] want to love a place that you’re at every day, and if you have positive thoughts about your school, we’ll have more fun.”

TIGER PRIDE QUICK FACTS: 4 COMMITTEES 12 students

10 girls 2 boys Page designed by Megan Hegarty.

$1,500

BUDGET

fundraising and sports and assemblies activities community service public relations

December 2015 upclose 19

Pulling Strings

Senior orchestra members discuss highlights, commitment to department

Senior Josie McKenna practices playing her viola. McKenna has been in orchestra all four years of high school. “I actually picked the viola because it’s a bit more unique,” she said. “Fewer people play it.” Photo by Maddie Davis.

rachellock

news & web editor The musicians are seated in a semi-circle, bows perched hawk-like over the strings. Deep, full sounds resonate throughout the room.

The classical sound and elegant dress of the performers reflect art in a way not found in other Blue Valley departments.

A refined precision and skill is unique to the stringed instruments in the performing arts hallway.

Seniors Mercedeh Tavacoli and Josie McKenna have been part of orchestra since their freshman year. McKenna said being a senior member of the group has been a rewarding experience.

“It feels like a lot of responsibility, but it’s good,” she said. “I’m probably going to miss the other kids and the feeling when we get a piece right.”

Tavacoli said her status as a senior in orchestra allows her to have more influence. This she has achieved through an orchestra leadership club she is in charge of with orchestra member senior Alethea Gochenour, Tavacoli said.

Seniors Alethea Gochenour and Mercedeh Tavacoli play their instruments in sync. Orchestra takes place during fifth period. “I love being a senior in orchestra so far,” Tavacoli said. “We have a lot more influence.”

Photo by Maddie Davis.

“The group dynamic is different this year because we have a ton of underclassmen,” she said. “We’ve tried to incorporate bonding as much as we can with different activities. It’s our responsibility for everyone to get to know each other.”

The group works well together, McKenna said, and orchestra class is a good way to interact with more musicians in the school.

“Everyone is equal, and we have an amazing dynamic,” she said. “My favorite thing is meeting kids from all the different grades.”

McKenna said there are some key differences between band and orchestra.

“It is more difficult to play orchestra instruments loudly,” she said. “We play more classical music than the band.”

Tavacoli said a contrast between the two music groups is their seasons — band does competition-based performances first semester, and orchestra competes second semester.

“It’s frustrating when people don’t realize that band and orchestra are completely different,” she said. “They’re completely different instruments with distinct

sounds. We prepare music throughout the year, but we only have Regionals and State in the spring.”

McKenna said shows are a big part of what the group is doing and is grateful for the spirit of those who attend their shows.

“I wish we had a few more people show up,” she said. “The fans we have are great.”

Tavacoli said she is pleased with the department’s growth.

“Orchestra has been getting a lot more attendance because the group has gotten bigger, and Tiger Pride has supported orchestra as well,” she said.

Orchestra is unlike any other class, Tavacoli said, and it provides her with a creative outlet to alleviate pressure from other activities.

“I’m going to miss having a class that is not solely academics,” she said. “Having music in the day helps relieve some stress.

It’s just different than just having to do worksheets, listen to a lecture or read. My favorite thing about being in orchestra is having a class where I can get away from homework and tests in school and just play music.”

Page designed by Maddie Davis.

20 upclose December 2015

NEW

World A Whole Students with immigrant parents share experiences, perspectives came over from China in ‘91 (dad) and ‘98 (mom)

came over from Syria in ‘85 (dad) and ‘89 (mom)

Zeng’s parents Zeng Baghdadi’s parents Baghdadi’s family

kaitlinyu staff writer Most of us have ancestors who immigrated to the United States at some point, though some came more recently than others.

Junior Sarah Baghdadi, said her dad studied hard in Syria to come to the U.S. for education.

“My dad is your typical immigrant where he grew up in a family that wasn’t very rich,” Baghdadi said. “He definitely worked his way up to where he is now.”

She said sometimes there is prejudice toward her mother, who is also an immigrant from Syria, for being Muslim and a non-native English speaker.

“I feel like [people] expect her to not understand a word,” Baghdadi said.

“Whenever I’m with her and they need to communicate to her, I act as the translator for them. I feel like that’s degrading toward her.”

Sophomore Faith Zeng is another student whose parents are immigrants — they came over from Guangzhou, China.

At first they struggled with finances and learning English.

Zeng said because she is Asian, she is sometimes judged for filling many of the stereotypes that come along with being Chinese.

“I think from the outside, people see me as straight-up Asian, but I’m not just ‘Asian,’” she said. “I don’t care about Confucius — I’m Christian. I’ve never eaten

lived in Taiwan from 2002-2007

dog before, and I have gotten a B. In the end, the impressions others have of me don’t matter. Being Chinese doesn’t make me any different.”

After Zeng’s birth in the U.S., she traveled back to China as a child and lived there for three years. Because of that, she speaks fluent Chinese, and she said she has an accent that makes it hard to pronounce certain sounds, like “th.”

“There would be occasional jokes made about my pronunciation,” she said.

“I’m beyond that now, but at the time, I was hurt. Now, I see it as a reminder to appreciate what a wonderful experience I had [in China] and the positive impact it had on my life.”

Baghdadi said her and her parents’ ideas of success align, and she wants to be a general surgeon in the future.

“I think their biggest goal is for me to fulfill my goals,” Baghdadi said. “They want me to be successful in what I want to do. They want me to be a doctor [like] most immigrant parents, but that’s what I chose to do far before they told me I should.”

Similarly, Zeng said her and her parent’s ideas of success don’t conflict with each other. However, because of how her mother grew up, her mom is doubtful about Zeng’s choices in wanting to go into an art field in college.

“My mom isn’t as understanding [of lower grades], and I see her point of view,” Zeng said. “Growing up in a conservatory left her with a great gift in piano but didn’t

“

give her a good general education. She wants me to excel in school and gain what she didn’t have.”

In the end, Zeng said she loves being Asian because she gains perspective about lives in China when she travels.

“There were times when I was younger I wished I was just white instead,” she said. “Thinking about it now, I love being who I am. My life is always filled with amazing Chinese traditional cooking.”

Baghdadi said not to judge others just for immigrating because they are human as well.

“I feel like the fact that we and the government refer to immigrants as aliens dehumanizes them,” Baghdadi said. “We’re all just people in the end — the only thing that differs is the race or ethnicity.”

Zeng also said not to judge and stereotype because everyone has a unique, compelling story.

“It’s not only important but also extremely cool to know their background stories,” Zeng said. “You can gain new perspectives, be more culturally aware [and] connect with others. Don’t categorize a person based on what you see.”

Baghdadi

Zeng

“

lived in China from 2002-2004

Baghdadi’s father, Riad, on For me, it is personal; I feel it could be me trying to flee the the Syrian refugee crisis:

killing and the destruction with my family with nowhere to go.

Page designed by Kaitlin Yu.

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22 upclose December 2015

connorheaton staff writer

X Wings.

TIE Fighters.

Warrior monks with laser swords.

The Force has awakened.

Can you feel it?

On Dec. 18, the hype climaxes and the mob of rabid fans, hidden away in the dark recesses of the Internet, wake from their slumber to bask in the nostalgic glory that is “Star Wars.”

The newest installment, announced back in 2013, was the result of Disney’s recent buyout of LucasFilm and the first of a new trilogy.

ELA teacher Britt Qualls said the most important thing for the movie to get right would be for it to stay true to the originals and resist Disney’s changes, which may dull the saber blade in a sense in order to appeal to its younger audience.

This buyout resulted in the series visionary George Lucas’ prompt ejection from the proverbial escape pod as Star Trek director, master of lens flares, J.J. Abrams takes over.

Qualls said Abrams has a very different style than Lucas. He prefers acrobatic action shots dripping with style rather than the classic B-Movie practical effects which makes the original trilogy so special. This has some fans worried the film could easily turn into yet another average sci-fi flick.

In an era of reboots and sequels, does

Photos courtesy of MCT Campus.

Page designed by Connor Heaton.

“Star Wars” have what it takes to strike back?

“I think film-making is lacking creativity,” Qualls said. “As much as I love ‘Star Wars,’ having a seventh story isn’t original.

We need some new ideas.”

“Star Wars” is a series heavily built upon nostalgia, and while the trailers made fans of all ages feel like kids again, the generational gap between children and adults may hinder their enjoyment, especially since the “Star Wars” 2000s kids remember was about 98 percent computer animation and Jar Jar Binks.

“I think there are enough purists out there who appreciate the old stuff, and there are enough smart and wise teenagers who can as well,” Qualls said. “The [prequels] were not as great as the first three, but I still enjoyed them.”

Nevertheless, fans are excited, waiting like rabid Ewoks for any information regarding the series’ revival.

The only news given out thus far has come in the form of mysterious trailers featuring fan favorites Princess Leia, Han Solo and R2D2, all of whom have aged well given the decades of rust.

“Just seeing Luke [Skywalker], Han and Leia as old people — it’s just so fun,” Qualls said. “The fact that we get to see them rise up again and all — that alone is enough.”

It is clear Star Wars is taking a new direction in terms of character diversity as Han Solo battles alongside newcomer

Finn, an African American stormtrooper, against new villain Captain Phasma — played by Gwendoline Christie. Phasma is the series’ first female villain.

“We have some diversity in there,” Qualls said. “Before then, what did we have? Just a bunch of white dudes. There’s strength in all sorts of different personalities. I love that [there’s a female villain].

The ‘Rebels’ series and ‘Clone Wars’ have a couple of female villains, and they are really good. They are strong female roles.”

Mystery surrounds these trailers as anticipation builds. “[The] thrill of sitting in the theater opening night having no idea what to expect but a good time makes the hype so real,” Qualls said. “I think I’ve been ignoring some of the information because I want to be surprised. I see some things coming up on Twitter once in a while, but I don’t search it out.”

What these trailers do not reveal is the story’s plot.

Too often, trailers become spoilers, giving away integral plot-notes and set-piece moments — looking at you, Terminator Genisys.

The world, now mere days away from release, waits in uneasy anticipation with hype of galactic proportions: a resurrection with new direction with memorable characters and moments providing fans with the most iconic “strike-back” since episode V.

To view the trailers...

December 2015 centerstage 23

Games Galore

Next generation of video games reviewed

No Man’s Sky

Just Cause 3

Mirror’s Edge: Catalyst

Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End

Tom Clancy’s The Division

Dishonored 2

Genre: sci-fi, exploration, open-world Platform: PlayStation 4, PC Summary: “No Man’s Sky” (NMS) is a science-fiction game in which players explore a full-scale universe, discover new forms of life, trade with others and survive the malevolent forces of the galaxy. This technology used to render the unfathomably massive 18 quintillion planets of NMS is known as “procedural generation”— creating something with algebraic equations rather than hand-crafting levels. Every creature, planet, ship and even musical score is all procedurally generated and all unexplored. Exploration in NMS means discovering and naming species, planets and galaxies perhaps nobody in the world has ever seen. While there is plenty to do — combat, space flight, trading and more — the game’s studio, Hello Games, remains tight-lipped on the more mysterious aspects, promising to keep the game a journey of endless surprises and adventures.

Release Date: June 2016 Genre: first person, exploration, parkour Platform: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC Summary: “Mirror’s Edge: Catalyst” is both a sequel and reboot to 2008’s cult-classic “Mirror’s Edge” — a parkour game set in first person. “Catalyst” follows Faith, an average girl rebelling against the corrupt 1984-esque government. Cameras monitor everything, and the law is enforced with brutality. Her heart-pounding journey isn’t about shooting up buildings and causing mayhem — her weapons are her wits, her stamina and her upper-body strength. Players have full control of her movement, whether sprinting, leaping or kicking. “Catalyst” is a breathtaking game, highly immersive and intense where “real” parkour skills are necessary to tear across the broken, bulletstrewn city-state she once called home.

Release Date: May 2016 Genre: third-person shooter, rpg, open-world Platform: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC Summary: Centered around the complete breakdown of society, “The Division” begins in New York City and includes an independently operated unit of tactical agents that is released into the decaying city to restore justice to the people. The game is set up with a free environment that will affect the decisions and action options of the player.

In an urban jungle setting, the focus for the developers was on creating a world where personal choices lead the storyline of the game. The fully-developed, next generation of the Snowdrop engine will be used to power “The Division,” which could either be revolutionary or spell issues with the running of the game.

Release Date: March 8, 2016

Genre: open-world, action Platform: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC Summary: Want to fire a rocket launcher off a burning jet? You can. Want to surf on top of a sport’s car? You can. Want to tear a missile through an enemy outpost, plunge into the inferno with a wingsuit and simply enjoy the ensuing chaos from above? You can. Want to build a slingshot out of ropes and hooks to launch cars and pedestrians into the horizon? Of course you can, you psycho. “Just Cause 3” is the third installment in the open-world action game that revolutionized over-the-top mayhem. Players take control of special agent Rico Rodriguez on a mission to dismantle a fictional totalitarian government. Using an array of tools from grappling hooks to wingsuits, Rico will liberate the island of Medici — explosion by fiery explosion. What separates “Just Cause 3” from other action games is its disregard of realism in order to provide players with an insane amount of discordant freedom.

Release Date: Dec. 1, 2015 Genre: third-person shooter, action adventure Platform: PlayStation 4 Summary: In this fourth and final installment to the “Uncharted” series, Nathan Drake will take the field one more time to assist his long-lost brother in the seeking of a fabled pirate colony. The producers at Naughty Dog claim this to be Drake’s greatest adventure yet, which raises the stakes to new heights as the first three revolutionized the treasure hunter game market. This game will feature the typical glamor of guns, as well as Drake’s infamous danger moves and sarcasm. The graphics are better than ever, and so are the gameplay options — available on this round will be the choice to go multiplayer with old characters from all the previous Nate Drake games, including Sully and Elena.

Release Date: March 18, 2016 Genre: action adventure, stealth, rpg Platform: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC Summary: Bethesda always strikes the market with games that go beyond gaming expectations in graphics, storyline, character choices and basically all aspects that make a video game important to players. “Dishonored” was one of those releases that relatively came out of nowhere, and it did not fail to impress. Now, main character Corvo will step aside for his trained pet Emily, daughter of the assassinated empress who is out for revenge. The game will once again be lead by action choices made by the player and emphasized by the magic and steampunk vibe that added such a unique flavor to the series last time.

Release Date: 2016 (delayed)

Story and design by Makayla Nicholis and Connor Heaton.

24 centerstage December 2015

HOROSCOPES Aries (March 21-Apr. 19) The kind of person who yells at retail employees and makes snarky comments in class. Glares at anyone who attempts to have a conversation with them and has little to no filter.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) The overly-sensitive nervous wreck who carries an entire first-aid kit, three different kinds of protein bars and two bottles of water in their backpack at all times. You may refer to them as the mother-goose of your group.

Libra (Sept.

23-Oct. 22)

These are the kids who stop dead in the middle of the hallway and stand to talk to their friends. Major socialites. They tend to exaggerate things to the point where they stress everyone else out and are extremely indecisive. Beware — it might take them 30 minutes to pick out their socks for the day.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Taurus (Apr. 20May 20)

The stubborn kid who walks aggressively down the halls with a scowl on their face. They never use their lockers and instead shove everything into a tiny backpack. Funny people to be around if you enjoy satire, otherwise they will probably offend you just to laugh at your anger. Approach with caution.

Leo (July 23Aug. 22)

No Offense...

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

The incredibly arrogant, two-faced kid in your group project who never does their portion of work despite how nerdy they actually seem. They talk fast, will debate absolutely anything and use big words to intimidate people.

Virgo (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

An obnoxiously loud narcissist who won’t let you borrow their phone The whiny, annoyingly because their camera roll is full of random smart and arrogant kid who selfies. They are the person who spends 10 sits in the front of class and minutes in front of the offers you hand sanitizer every time you bathroom mirror playsneeze. They fear disorder so much they ing with their hair or will probably sue you if you crumple a fixing their makeup. corner of their paper by accident.

Scorpio (Oct. 23Nov. 21)

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 - Dec. 21)

The irresponsible and annoyingly optiThe quiet and mysterious kid in all black mistic liberal hippie whose Tumblr is full who sits in the back of class and to whom of philosophical quotes and artsy pictures. everyone is oddly attracted. They’re prob- They could find the underlying symbolably a part time serial killer, but we’re ism in a moldy piece of bread if they all too afraid to ask. needed to. Art teachers love these kids.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

Pisces (Feb.

The compulsive unemo19-March 20) The greedy and shy control tional who will probably freak in tons of AP classes. major in humanities and constantly rants The creepy and over-emotional nutcase who No social life, but teachers about privileged Republicans. Can be spot- spends 90 percent of school daydreaming love them and we’re all pretty sure they ted in the halls wearing ironic T-shirts, or writing cheesy poetry. Nice people will be a CEO at some point. beanies and carrying books concerning when it comes to deep conversations democratic socialism. but total social outcasts.

Stories and page designed by Julie Freijat.

December 2015 centerstage 25

just your cup of tea Review, suggestions of teas for every occasion

tea

glossary

Jasmine Oolong Tea — Teavana

Taste: A balance of crisp orchid and sweet jasmine with a clean finish Aroma: Scented with jasmine blossoms Occasion: For sunny morning breakfasts with friends and family

Black Tea: Black tea, or just plain “tea” as it is often called, comes from Camellia sinensis leaves that are first crushed and then exposed to air for several hours so it oxidizes and produces a brew that is strong in flavor and dark in color.

Green Tea: This tea comes from Camellia sinensis leaves that are immediately steamed or pan-fired rather than being exposed to air.

This way, no oxidation occurs. It makes for a more delicate brew, typically lower in caffeine.

Oolong Tea: This tea comes from Camellia sinensis leaves that are exposed to air for only a few hours, just half the amount of time as black tea.

Chai: Tea made with cardamom and various other spices, typically prepared with cream.

Herbal Tea: A tea made of dried herbs and spices, usually containing no caffeine.

Loose Tea: Dried, crushed tea leaves sold in a packet or container rather than in individual tea bags or sachets.

Tea Infuser: Container for loose tea leaves so that they stay out of the drink itself.

Available in many shapes and sizes.

Tea Bag or Tea Sachet: A small, porous bag containing tea leaves or powdered tea.

These are individually packaged.

Steeping: Soaking a tea sachet or tea infuser in hot or boiling water to extract the tea’s flavor.

Black Currant Tea — Harney & Sons

Taste: Smooth black tea with a natural black currant flavor Aroma: Lightly scented with earthy black currants Occasion: For an afternoon spent creating something

Green Tea with Mint — Bigelow

Taste: Light and airy green tea with a strong note of mint Aroma: Aromatic menthol notes with earthy undertones Occasion: For waking you up and energizing you in the morning

Raspberry Balsamico Herbal Tea — Teavana Taste: Assortment of berry flavors with an elegant balsamic finish Aroma: Smells sweet, but has depth Occasion: For an evening of catching up with friends

how to

{conventionally}

3

steep tea

1

Fill your mug or tea cup with the desired amount of water. Use the hottest water possible from the faucet.

2

Next, place your mug or tea cup in the microwave, and heat on high until desired warmth is reached. (Hint: Make it a little hotter than you want it to be when you drink it because it will slightly cool down while steeping).

Place either your tea infuser or tea bag/sachet into the mug or tea cup. Depending on what kind of tea you are drinking, steep for the times listed below:

TEA

WATER

green

short of boiling 1-3 minutes 2-4 minutes

boiling black boiling oolong red/herb boiling

4

TEA BAG

FULL LEAF

3-5 minutes 3-5 minutes 3-5 minutes 5-7 minutes 5-7 minutes 5-7 minutes

Remove tea bag/sachet or infuser, and set aside if you will want another cup. If desired, add sugar, sweetener, honey or cream. Enjoy.

Story, photos and page designed by Maddie Davis.

26 centerstage December 2015

‘tis the

courtneycarpenter entertainment editor

season

This is a great way to genuinely spend time with family or friends. Families or groups up to four can sign up online to serve at different locations around Kansas City. Essentially, you stand outside and ring a bell to remind others to donate money to the red kettle for the Salvation Army. There is no cost and is a wonderful way to remind ourselves to be thankful.

salvation army bell ringing

the plaza lights

Of course, our beloved Country Club Plaza Lights makes the list. Enjoy the beautifully radiant Plaza with a hot drink in hand. Now with over 80 miles of lights strung high above our heads, this season is perfect for shopping, eating or taking a horsedrawn sleigh ride in the snow.

walking in KC’s winter wonderland This holiday season, don’t settle for watching ABC family’s “25 Days of Christmas.” Explore different

christmas Christmas in in the the Park:park open until Dec. 31 Location: Longview Lake Cost: free

Pack as many people as you can fit into one car; bring blankets, hot chocolate and snacks and turn up your favorite Christmas radio station.

This park opens at sundown, where thousands of bulbs and hundreds of moving light fixtures gleam for a beautiful show. No walking is allowed in the park — only cars crammed with people are allowed through. Sit back, roll down the windows, open up the sunroof and enjoy this luminescent display. There is no technical cost, but small donations per care are appreciated.

ways to get out and cherish your friends and family The Plaza openofuntil Jan. 15 members while getting Lights: into the spirit winter.

Location: Country Club Plaza Cost: free

park place ice skating

Grab a friend, sibling and your balance. The Ice at Park Place is an adorable skating rink in the common area of the shops and restaurants. Although smaller than other ice skating rinks, this outdoor area makes for a close, intimate environment. Price starts at $11.

“

I celebrate Christmas. One holiday tradition we have is my siblings Every year around Thanksgiving, all of and I will sleep in one room. Then I’ll the family on my mom and dad’s side get to- wake them all up, and be like, ‘Santa gether at Lake Lotawana. It’s really awesome Claus is here!’ They get excited. We because I get to catch up with them all since I also always make cookies for Santa don’t see them that often. and a seven-pound nut cake.”

“

— junior Adam Owens

”

— junior Azia Lynch

”

the nutcracker

This show is a classic holiday story and is great for any age. Performed at the Kauffman Center, come watch the story come alive through dance alone.

The show has been redone and this year is the debut of the newly-redone performance. The Nutcracker is on the more expensive side, as tickets are anywhere from $29-$119, but the experience, especially if you are not exposed to ballet, is well worth the money.

“

This isn’t really a tradition, but this year for the first time, my friends and I are having Indian Friendsgiving.

It’ll be my friends and I surrounded by a bunch of Indian food. It’s going to be awesome.

”

— senior Cameron Smith

December 2015 centerstage 27 Although delicious, drinking the same, simple hot chocolate in these harsh winter months can become repetitive. Here are some twists on the classic hot chocolate we know and love to keep your cup interesting.

loco for hot cocoa top recipes with whipped cream for extra deliciousness

peppermint hot chocolate

Serves: 2 ¼ cup cream 1 tbsp sugar 1¼ cups whole milk ½ tsp vanilla ½ tsp cocoa ¼ cup semisweet chocolate chip morsels 1 tbsp peppermint baking chips 1. Add cream, sugar, milk and vanilla to a small saucepan over medium heat, and bring to a boil.

2. Remove from the heat and add cocoa, morsels and peppermint to the saucepan.

3. Whisk until everything is melted and smooth.

4. Pour into mugs.

Recipe derived from chowhound.com

red velvet hot chocolate Serves: 4 4 cups whole milk ¼ cup granulated sugar 10 ounces chocolate chips 1-2 drops red food coloring Marshmallows, optional Shredded chocolate for topping, optional 1. Put milk and sugar into a medium saucepan.

2. Bring to simmer on medium heat, and stir to dissolve the sugar.

3. Remove from heat, and stir in chocolate chips with a whisk until melted.

4. Stir in red food coloring and vanilla.

5. Pour into mugs.

Recipe derived from mccormick.com

red velvet 44%

nutella 16%

nutella hot chocolate

Serves 4 1½ cups milk ⅓ cup Nutella 1 cinnamon stick Marshmallows, optional Shredded chocolate for topping, optional 1. Bring milk to a simmer over medium-high heat.

2. Add nutella into the pot, and stir until completely mixed.

3. Add cinnamon, and bring to a simmer.

4. Pour hot chocolate into mugs.

Recipe derived from thekitchn.com

s’mores hot chocolate Serves: 3 2 cups milk 1 cup water ¼ cup cocoa powder 2 tbsp chocolate syrup 2 tbsp sugar Pinch of salt Crushed graham crackers ½ cup marshmallows 1. Heat milk and water in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through — about five minutes.

2. Add in the cocoa powder, chocolate syrup, sugar and salt, and whisk until combined.

3. Meanwhile, melt a few marshmallows in the microwave, and put crushed graham crackers into a separate bowl.

4. Rub melted marshmallows onto rim of mug for stickiness, and then dip mug in graham cracker crumbs until well-lined.

5. Pour hot chocolate into mugs.

Recipe derived from minimalistbaker.com

blue valley favorites peppermint 27% s’mores 13%

Based on a poll of 162 students.

Photos and page designed by Courtney Carpenter.

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Hair Tips Untangled

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EXPIRES 1/31/16

Photo by Sophia Ragomo. Story and page designed by Charlotte Rooney.

making a splash

December 2015 tigerturf 29

Swim team forms bond through hours of practice

Senior Jack Weber swims butterfly during practice. He has competed in State for the last three years. “My favorite stroke is backstroke because that’s my fastest,” Weber said.

For his warm-up, senior Adam Houghton swims freestyle. The swim team practice 10 times per week, both before and after school. “It’s a lot of muscle memory,” he said. “If you do it repeatedly, you get better at it.”

meganhegarty sports editor

“In the past we’ve only had, at the most, four seniors,” he said.

“It’s great having a good group of guys who know how we do things on the team. We expect them to motivate and help out the younger guys, too.”

Houghton said he’s been able to get to know the other seniors well.

“We came in with a group of seniors who have all swam before,” he said. “We’ve all gone through high school together.”

Swim requires previous experience to excel, Houghton said.

“It’s something you probably would have to have done before you started high school,” he said. “It’s a lot of work. You don’t want to put that much time into it then not be very good, so it’s not really appealing to a lot of people.”

Harrelson said he joined the team with no previous swimming exposure.

“Freshman year was my first experience with swimming competitively,” he said. “I adjusted pretty well. I had played lots of sports before, but that was my first time swimming.”

Bien said the reasons the swim team is smaller than most other teams at BV are the lack of students with swimming experience and the difficulty of the sport.

“There’s just not a large pool of boy swimmers,” he said. “We have a cut number but haven’t had to use it in the past. Typically the boys figure out pretty quickly if they’ll be able to do it or not.”

Harrelson said the team encourages each other to push themselves in and out of the pool.

“We really rely on each other for motivation,” he said. “We back each other up and root for each other.”

Spending 25 hours per week staring at the black line on the bottom of a pool doesn’t sound appealing to most people, but that’s typical for the boys swim team.

Senior Adam Houghton has been swimming since he was little, so he said he’s used to it.

“I started swimming when I was 8 years old,” he said. “It’ll be 10 years in April.”

Houghton said his favorite part of swimming is the people because they are together so often and form strong bonds.

“I love everyone that I spend countless hours with swimming,” he said. “The teammates and the friends you meet make it more like a big family than just a team.”

What makes swimming different than most sports is it’s not just a team sport, Houghton said.

“It’s an individual sport most of the time, but you’re also working toward a team goal,” he said. “You’re working to do everything you can for the team while also doing the best you can individually.”

Junior Tilston Harrelson said his focus is on getting faster personally rather than beating the person next to him.

“In the past, I’d done a lot of team sports,” he said. “But for swim you’re racing against the clock.”

There aren’t many boys on the swim team this year, but seven of them are seniors. Coach Adam Bien said having several upperclassmen is helpful.

Page designed and photos by Megan Hegarty.

30 tigerturf December 2015

he

Ring

for t

[

Ready ]

Wrestling coach works with large team, plans on successful season outcome alliwilliams staff writer

Last year, various injuries, along with an outbreak of the flu, were to blame for taking a number of wrestlers out for their season.

This year, the wrestling team is coming back stronger and healthier than ever, wrestling coach Kale Mann said. Mann said he has high expectations for the team this year.

“We’ve got a lot of juniors and seniors who have considerable varsity experience,” he said. “We’ll bring back two State qualifiers and another placer. We had two or three other guys that were literally matches away from being State qualifiers last year.

We’re right there on the bubble.”

Mann said his favorite part of coaching is the relationships he builds with the wrestlers.

“Wrestling’s unique because a lot of time the coaches are actually practicing with the wrestlers,” he said. “While there is definitely a distinction between coaches and team members, you get a little more of that teammate dynamic with the wrestlers than you do with some other sports.”

Senior Devin Graff said he has wrestled since he was 5 years old.

“My favorite part is winning,” Graff said. “I like going out there and showing people that just because I’m a little guy doesn’t mean I can’t win. In competing, you have nothing to hide because you’re wearing a singlet. You just have to go out and give it your all.”

Graff said his goals are to finish with a winning record overall and to get closer as a team. As far as personal goals, he said he would like to place at State.

“We’re always practicing as a team,” he said. “We’re always trying to get better.”

The team practices on weekdays for two hours doing high-level drilling, live wrestling, sparring and lifting weights.

“Because you have to enjoy it to do [well], it has a lot to do with mentality,” sophomore Ben Mullinix said. “Wrestling is a lot of work, but if you have the right attitude, it’s not that bad.”

Page design by Alli Williams.

Mann

Graff

Mullinix

Mullinix said his favorite part of wrestling is the individual aspect required when competing.

“It’s a fair sport,” he said. “It’s you, another dude and a ref. You can’t really cheat. It’s only you, so you can’t rely on other people.”

Mann said the biggest challenge this year will be working with what he said is likely the largest wrestling team he has ever coached — more than 50 members.

“With so many wrestlers returning, it’s going to be a struggle on my end finding the best place in the lineup for all the wrestlers, [as well as] organizing and orchestrating smooth practices so everyone gets the work they need,” he said. “[We don’t want to be practicing] here until really late at night.”

Despite the problems that come with having a large team, Mann said overall it will help them more than hurt.

“I think one reason why we were able to survive the rash of injuries we had last year without as big of a drop-off was because we had a lot of people on the team,” he said. “The numbers game really helps when everyone is working hard to prepare themselves. If someone is hurt, injured or sick and can’t compete one week, we’ve got another person who’s ready to step up.”

Mann said he is optimistic about this season.

“We could potentially go undefeated,” he said. “If we wrestle well, keep everyone healthy and get everyone in the line-up that needs to be, I think we could be challenging for a top-10 at State.”

Senior Connor McCarrick wrestles Devin Graff during a practice last year. Graff said the most challenging part of wrestling for him this year will be cutting weight. “I don’t like it, but it’s something we all have to deal with every year.” File photo by Sally Cochran.

December 2015 tigerturf 31

On Point

3rd-year varsity player reflects on early accomplishments, looks to extend basketball career

laurenhuesers staff writer Many freshmen try out for a sports team in the hopes of one day making varsity. While many fail, some, like junior Tyler Geiman, achieved that goal right away.

Geiman said his basketball career started well before his freshman year.

“My dad and sisters always played basketball,” Geiman said.

“I grew up watching it. They actually played [for Blue Valley].”

Head varsity coach Dwight Williams said it’s rare to put a freshman on a varsity team, but he knew it was the right decision.

“He was more mature [than the other freshmen],” Williams said. “He was way ahead of his years compared to the rest of his teammates at that time, and I knew he was going to be a special player.”

Although it was clear Geiman had the talent, he said he wasn’t as confident then as he is now.

“I was pretty nervous,” Geiman

said. “I was pretty little back then, smaller than everyone else.”

Williams said he has had experience with skilled players in the past, and wanted to be able to coach someone with Geiman’s talent.

“No offense to any of the other coaches, but I just wanted him [practicing] with me every day,” Williams said. “I wanted him to get experience against varsity level kids. When he played against the varsity kids in tryouts, he held his own against the seniors and the guys ahead of him.”

Geiman said the commitment for varsity is much greater compared to the other teams.

“You’re expected to put in a lot of work in the summer,” Geiman said. “They expect that of all the teams, but there’s a higher expectation for varsity. I think I handled it all right. I just kind of went with it.”

Williams said he has high hopes for Geiman’s future basketball career.

“I know he’s going to be very successful wherever he goes to school,” Williams said.

Photo by Sophia Ragomo. Page designed by Lauren Huesers.

“He already has a couple Division-I schools that have contacted him and watched practices. I just know how hard he’s worked to get where he’s going to go, and this is just the tip of the iceberg on how good he’s going to be. It’s just amazing how far he’s come.”

Geiman said his goal is to finish his remaining years in high school with a winning varsity team and move on to more competitive basketball.

“I’m going to play next year,” Geiman said. “I hope to play college basketball at some point, so I’m looking forward to that.”

32 snapshot December 2015

Hoops for HOPE Blue Valley participates in first annual fundraiser to fight childhood cancer

1.

3.

1. Senior Brendan Kramer tries to pass the ball to his teammate. Hoops for Hope took place Nov. 10-11. “I enjoyed the atmosphere and seeing people dress up in cool outfits,” he said.

2. Circling up, team Shark Attack prepares for their next match. They won an award for best costumes that included four $10 Chipotle gift cards. “Taylor Wilkins came up with the idea for our costumes,” junior Victoria Wilson said. “The idea was Shark Week, so we all had shirts with days of the week and shark hats.”

4. Sporting a mask, sophomore Nick Nolkemper avoids a block. Hoops for Hope preliminary games were played in Photos and page designed by Maddie Davis.

2.

4. the main and auxiliary gyms. “My favorite part of Hoops for Hope was knowing I was playing for a good cause,” he said.

3. Junior Haylea Mikuls laughs with science teacher Azie Taghizadeh and librarian Jessica Kramer. Mikuls’ team’s theme was ‘80s workout. “Even though no one on my team actually plays basketball, it was still great to go out and raise money for an awesome cause,” Mikuls said.

5. Looking up, junior Morgan Hoffman prepares to shoot the ball. Hoffman was on team Disney Divas. “I was definitely the worst player on the team,” she said.

“However, it was a great feeling knowing I was helping kids with cancer.”

5.