Spotlightmarch2015

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March 25, 2015 Vol. 14 Issue 5 Blue Valley West high school, Overland Park, Kansas

S P 0 T L I

KC PRIDE

Special Metro Edition

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Teacher Migration

Pg. 8

BBQ Reviews

pg. 20

Famous Kansas Citians

PG. 28 Baby “nick” Besler

PG. 29

Photo courtesy Jeremey Theron Kirby

Photo courtesy of UMKC

Photo by Shaye Herman

25 Spotlight editor reviews

performance of The Rocky Horror Picture Show a UMKC

Upcoming Events Beyond the Bubble 5 Spring Break Comic 6 Local Colleges 8 How Teachers Got Here 11 Museums 12 Galleries 14 Kauffman Center 16 Kansas City Photos 18 Plaza 20 Barbecue Reviews

21 Local dessert shops provide an alternative to chain dessert places

2 Contents

What’s 34

INSIDE

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Mark Allen’s “Ethereal Waters” at the Blue Gallery is one of several local art exhibits

Museums provide an artistic and educational outing around the Kansas City metro area

SENIOR Countdown

Photo by Grace Lamar

Photo by Vinnie Garimella

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21 Dessert Reviews 22 Cultural Food 23 Cultural Events 24 Theaters 25 Rocky Horror Review 26 Boutiques 27 Antiques 28 Famous Kansas Citians 29 Nick Besler 30 Kansas City Interactive 31 Beyond the Bubble Opinion

Upcoming events around kansas city Local events provide endless entertainment Lauren Hansen Editor in Chief

Earth Fair 2015 Shawnee Mission East High School March 28, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Learning Disabilities Simulation Horizon Academy April 9, 7-8:30 p.m.

Midwest Chamber Ensemble: Song and Dance with Harp Lutheran Church of the Resurrection March 29, 7:30 p.m.

Heels for a Cause Fashion Show Haskell Indian Nations University April 10, 7 p.m.

Keith Leff Magicreations Magic Show Old Shawnee Pizza & Italian Kitchen First Friday of every month, 6-8 p.m.

Downtown Lee’s Summit Farmer’s Market Second and Douglas, Lee’s Summit Every Wednesday, 7 a.m.

The Mowgli’s Concert Midland Theatre April 2 Dan + Shay Concert Arvest Bank Theatre April 4 Jazz Then Under the Lens American Jazz Museum April 9, 6 p.m.

Walk MS Kansas City Sporting Park April 11, 9:30 a.m.- 1 p.m.

Jammin’ at the Gem American Jazz Museum Now through May 23 Xtreme BUGS Union Station Now through Apr. 12 Thompson Square Concert Ameristar Casino April 16 Death Cab for Cutie Concert Arvest Bank Theatre April 23

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Thirty six year-old Ahmed Al-Jumaili was shot on March 4 while taking pictures of his first snowfall.

He had immigrated from Iraq to the United States only three weeks earlier with his wife. No suspects have been caught and the police are searching for two to four suspects and no motive has been named in the shooting.

A new survey shows that Americans trust their local news stations the most when it comes to reporting accurate and reliable information. Fox was voted as the most trusted source of national news outlets. The same survey also found that 32 percent of Democrats trust CNN the most, while 58 percent of Republicans said they trusted Fox News.

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Lauren Hansen Editor in Chief

FĂŠdĂŠration Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) Executive Theo Zwanziger said that Qatar should not host the 2022 World Cup. He said that they should lose the privilege of hosting the tournament for a number of reasons, including scorching desert temperatures, and called the selection of Qatar as the host country a mistake..

FIFA has been accused of corruption in the bidding process for the 2018 and 2022 World Cup.

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A 95 year-old British man, Charles Eugster, beat the World Record in the 200 meter dash for people 95 or older.

He completed the dash in 55.48 seconds, two seconds faster than the previous record holder. Eugster began body building at the age of 87 to improve his lifestyle.

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A continuing series o f wo r l d e v e n t s

Hillary Clinton’s personal emails about the events in Benghazi and Libya have recently come under scrutiny. Clinton used a personal email account to send more than 55,000 emails, which the State Department confirmed that they will release after all the information has been reviewed and certain information is redacted. The United States consulate in Benghazi was attacked in 2012.

DANGERS OF SPRING BREAK Sarah Andrievk Artist

MISSION STATEMENT

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Education An array of colleges located in the Kansas City area Avila University: Kansas City, Mo. Mascot: Eagles Total Undergraduates: 1,407 Male: 37% Female: 63% In-State: 71% Out-of-State: 29% 2014 Tuition: $25,700 Most Common Major: Health Professions

Baker University: Baldwin City, Kan. Mascot: Wildcats Total Undergraduates: 1,010 Male: 55% Female: 45% In-State: 68% Out-of-State: 32% 2014 Tuition: $26,290 Most Common Major: Education

Johnson County Community College: Overland Park, Kan. Mascot: Cavaliers Total Undergraduates: 19,684 Male: 46% Female: 54% In-State: 94% Out-of-State: 6% 2014 Tuition: $2,640 Most Common Major: Liberal Arts 6 News

Connection Lauren Hansen Editor in Chief

Friends University: Wichita, Kan. Mascot: Falcons Total Undergraduates: 2,800 Male: 44% Female: 56% In-State: 81% Out-of-State: 19% 2014 Tuition: $24,630 Most Common Major: Business

Rockhurst University: Kansas City, Mo. Mascot: Hawks Total Undergraduates: 2,276 Male: 42% Female: 58% In-State: 69% Out-of-State: 31% 2014 Tuition: $32,865 Most Common Major: Health Professions

William Jewell College: Liberty, Mo. Mascot: Cardinal Total Undergraduates: 1,043 Male: 40% Female: 60% In-State: 63% Out-of-State: 37% 2014 Tuition: $31,620 Most Common Major: Health Professions 7

Many Roads to BV West Staff members came from all over the country Alexa Turiello Reporter

Small town glory: Attendance secretary, Sandra Schwagerl, is from Smith Center, Kan. It is the geographical center of the United States. A book called “Our Boys, a perfect season” by Joe Drape, was written about the town, the teams and coach and their five straight state sootball titles for a 2A school. The football team holds the nation’s longest winning streak.

11...yes, 11...

Holly Serbousek Rapid City, South Dakota

Michael Vodenhal

Portland and LeGrande, Oregon

Nebraska

Longest journey: Transition specialist and assistant basketball coach, Wayne Smith, grew up all around the world. His dad was in the United States Air Force. His road to BV West was the longest: Washington state Japan California Arizona Philippine Islands Kansas

Washington

Maureen Miller

Paraprofessional Christine Dyck was a member of the first graduating class of Bishop Seabury Academy in Lawrence, Kan. She was one of 11 graduates.

• • • • • •

Arthur (Wayne) Smith

Kari Wood Lincoln, Nebraska

Karen Tritt Boulder, Colorado

Lisa Stolper Denver, Colorado

John Stone Emporia, Kansas

Carol Birnbaum Lawrence, Kansas

Christine Dyck Lawrence, Kansas

Sandra Schwagerl Smith Center, Kansas

Ann Dark McPherson, Kansas

Deb Waldorf Hutchinson, Kansas

Todd Kurimsky Wichita, Kansas

Al Ortolani 8

Pittsburg, Kansas

Amanda Davis Jordan Rowlen Oklahoma

Parental Footsteps: Debate coach, Arianne Fortune, is a second generation teacher. She grew up in Windsor, Mo., which is 90 miles southeast of the Kansas City area and just south of Whiteman Air Force Base (home of the B-2 bomber). Fortune’s dad was the football coach at Windsor High School and her mother was the speech and debate coach.

English Language Arts teacher, Al Ortolani, grew up in Pittsburg, Kan. where his dad was a college professor and baseball coach. Ortolani started teaching in Baxter Springs, Kan. where he was also a baseball coach. Like his father, Ortolani, is beloved by his students. The baseball field at Pittsburg State is named for Ortolani’s father.

High School Hop:

Heather Hall Michigan

Adam Keda

Justin Fargus

Westland, Michigan

Carslile, Pennsylvania

Pam Fellingham Spencer, Iowa

Debbie Glenn Kansas City, MO

Wendy Thurston Belton, MO

Cheryl Battista Folsom, Pennsylvania

Marcy Pellegrino Lansing, Michigan

Andy Gell

Arianne Fortune Windsor, Missouri

Dr. Brett Potts

Baltimore, Maryland

Debra Wright Hinton, West Virginia

Cheryl Kerns Alexandria, Virginia

Bolivar, Missouri

Renea Simpson Republic, Missouri

Greg Hayden Missouri

Science teacher and activity sponsor, Jordan Rowlen, changed high schools four times in her career. As a freshman she attended Land O’ Lakes High School in Florida. She then came to BV West for her sophomore year. Her junior year found her attending Piedra Vista High School in New Mexico.

And she returned and graduated from Land O’ Lakes in Florida.

Math teacher, Cheryl Kerns, went to three different high schools. She attended Ft. Hunt High School in Alexandria, Virginia her sophomore year, Carlisle High School in Carlisle, Pennsylvania her junior year, and Lawrence North High School in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Franklin (Tripp) Corrick Atlanta, Georgia

Donald Alpaugh Miami, Florida

Who Knew?: Paraprofessional Justin Fargus and math teacher Cheryl Kerns both attended Carlisle High School in Pennsylvania.

He later attended Pfeiffer University in North Carolina with an enrollment of less than 2000.

Boomerang: New computer teacher, Carol Birnbaum, had the longest roundtrip back to Kansas. She grew up in Lawrence, Kan. and went to the University of Kansas. From there, once she met her husband, she lived and taught in Colorado, Ohio, Missouri and, is now back living and teaching in Kansas.

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S P O T L I G H T

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STAFF

MISSION STATEMENT Spotlight is printed six times a year for the BV West students and community. Its goals are to inform, entertain, and interpret through editorials and bylined articles while providing an open forum of communication for the diverse student population and faculty members.

Spotlight aims to be fair, accurate, and impartial. The content of the publication is determined by its student editors as determined by the Kansas Scholastic Press Act and may contain controversial subject matter as the staff exercises their First Amendment rights.

Spotlight does not necessarily reflect the opinions of the faculty adviser, the administration of Blue Valley West or USD 229.

Editors in Chief: Lauren Hansen and Erin Walker Managing Editor: Carly McDonald Design Editor: Logan Cole Copy Editor: Beth Gasser Web Editor: Libby Frazier Section Editors: Vinnie Garimella, Dan

Kurtz, Maddy C. Lewis,

John Wilson, Leah Zimmerli Reporters: Rebecca Abraham, Sarah Andrievk, Ashley Buehler, John

Byrket, Quinn Coleman, Shaye

Herman, Grace Lamar, McKenna

Patchen, Ethan Paine, Matt Stry,

Joe Mallory, Lexi Melson,

Adrieanna Norse, Alexa Turiello Photographer: Ryan Barrett Adviser: Debbie Glenn

Wed, 10 am—5 pm Thurs/Fri, 10 am—9 pm Sat/Sun, 10 am—5 pm

Museum at Prarie Fire

Mon – Sat, 10 am–5 pm Children 5 years and The Museum at 16 mins. under FREE Sun, 12 pm–5 pm Prarie Fire Wed. Nights, 5 pm–7 pm 6 -15 years old $3 collaborates with the American 16 - 64 $8 Museum of Natural History to Seniors (65+) $7 educate this area.

World War I Museum

Tues. - Sun from 10 am Adults $14 to 5 pm Seniors (65+) $12 Closed Mondays Students (18+ with ID) (except during summer $12 hours) Youth (6–17) $8 Children under 6 FREE

Upcoming Exhibits at Nelson Atkins Museum in Kansas City

Parking $8 (Free Parking for members) Admission is FREE

This internationally recognized museum aims to show the fine arts and varied cultures of the world.

Nelson Atkins Museum of Art

38 mins.

The WWI Museum is located in the heart of KC and “preserves the legacy” of WWI, enlightening people of all ages on the history of this war.

38 minutes

The Value of Museums Museums are the representations of society, culture, and history. These places are phenomenal for students or families looking for a fun and enlightening way to spend a weekend. The Metropolitan area surrounding Kansas City features a captivating array of museums. The subjects of these museums differ enough to appeal to everyone, so connossieurs of art, history, and paleontology all have places to go.

American Folk Art from the Collection of The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art Feb. 18—Nov. 1, 2015 Jump In! Architecture Workshop Feb. 27—July 19, 2015 Ferran Adrià: Notes on Creativity Feb. 28—Aug. 2, 2015 A Shared Legacy: Folk Art in America March 28—July 5, 2015 Philip Haas: The Four Seasons April 25—October 18, 2015 Rising Up: Hale Woodruff’s Murals at Talladega College Sept. 25, 2015—Jan. 10, 2016 American Epics: Thomas Hart Benton and Hollywood Photo by: Vinnie Garimella Oct. 10, 2015—Jan. 3, 2016

FUN FACT:

Art for the sake of art

Harry S. Truman

Times: Fees: How far from BV West?

Mon to Fri, 8:45 am to Children 5 years and The Harry S. 39 mins.

4:45 pm under FREE Truman Library Sat hours, 8:45 am to 6 -15 years old $3 commemorates the 33rd 12:45 pm 16 - 64 $8 presdent with exhibits his life Seniors 65+ $7 and times following WWII

Museum connection

Description:

The word “Museum” originates from the Latin word Museum meaning ‘seat of the Muses’, or a place sacred to the Muses. The Muses were mythical figures of Ancient Greece and Rome, patrons of Carly McDonald Managing Editor learning and the arts.

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Walking on The Artsy Side An Introduction to the Crossroads Art District Grace Lamar Reporter

Behind Vulpes Bastille Caranne Camarena stayed true to her roots after she graduated from Blue Valley Northwest High School; however she did not stick to the path of conventionality.

Camarena attended the Kansas City Art Institute (KCAI), with a focus on painting.

“Attending KCAI introduced me to the KC art scene on a more intimate level than I had previously been familiar with it,” Camarena said.

“The art culture here is vibrant and flourishing and still somewhat young (compared to established scenes like LA or New York); it’s a good time to be an artist in Kansas City right now and I knew I wanted to be a part of it.”

Following her graduation, she sought a location to continue her career; thus, Vulpes Bastille was born.

Now the space boasts a gallery and

studios that Camarena rents to local artists.

“We built the studios to mimic the student studios in KCAI... There’s a very communal feel to the space that’s similar to KCAI.” Vulpes Bastille sets aside the months of March, April, and May specifically for KCAI senior exhibits.

“Those student shows bring in a lot of more experienced artists who take note of what I’m doing and tell me how they appreciate that I fill that niche,” Camarera said.

Camarera extends the welcoming feel of Vulpes Bastille to her visitors as well.

“I’m welcoming to anyone who wants to create or appreciate art and/or has a passion for creating,” Camarera said. “As far as welcoming teenagers into my gallery, I’m happy to have them visit and appreciate the space and the work in it.”

Vulpes Bastille 1737 Locust St. Kansas City, MO 64108 Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art 4420 Warwick Blvd.

Kansas City, MO 64111 (816) 753-5784 Tues.-Thurs. 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.

Fri.- Sat. 10:00 a.m.- 9:00 p.m.

Sun. 11:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m.

Closed Mondays Kemper at the Crossroads 33 W. 19th St. Kansas City, MO 64108 (816) 753-5784 Fridays 5:00- 9:00 p.m.

Sat. 12:00 - 4:00 p.m.

Closed December, January, and February Photos by Grace Lamar

Tips: 1. Save every address in your phone before you leave. Take note of the gallery’s business hours.

2. Many of the lots require permits unless they are designated for a specific business (example: The Cashew, Grinders, Bob Jones Shoes).

I have parked in both the business lots and along the curbs that are designated three-hour parking.

3. After you park, take note of the intersection you are nearest to.

4. Ask questions! if you see anything that piques your interest, ask about it.

5. Ask before you take pictures.

6. I am sure this is nothing revolutionary, but DO NOT TOUCH. On a related concept, art galleries are no place for high-action activities.

Photos by Grace Lamar

Leedy-Voulkos Arts Center 2012 Baltimore St. Kansas City, MO 64108 (816_ 474-1919 Thurs.- Sat. 11:00 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Archival Designs 2014 Main St. (Rear of Building) Kansas City, MO (816) 522-6238 Mon.- Sat. 8:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m.

Blue Gallery 118 Southwest Blvd.

Kansas City, MO 64108 (816) 527-0823 Tues.-Sat. 10:00 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Sherry Leedy Contemporary Art 2004 Baltimore Ave. Kansas City, MO 64108 (816) 221-8689 Tues.-Sat. 11:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m.

First Fridays On the First Friday of every month, thousands of Kansas Citians fill the sidewalks of the Crossroads. Arts organizations, galleries, studios, and a wide variety of local businesses feature regional and national artists as well as live entertainment starting at 5:00 p.m.. Next event: April 3.

“It’s nice to go out with friends and look at the art and listen to the music,” junior Paula Walewicz said.

Kauffman Center McKenna Patchen and Ryan Barrett Reporter and Photographer

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Photo by Ryan Barrett

M

any have heard of the Kauffman Center located on Broadway Boulevard in downtown Kansas City, Mo. and some may be vaguely aware of its extraordinary acoustical innovations. With a mission statement that strives “to enrich the lives of communities throughout the regions, country and world,” it would be assumed that all residents in the Kansas City area would know of its history. However, aside from those who regularly perform there or have visited, not many know of its background.

Muriel McBrien Kauffman, longtime Kansas City civic leader and philanthropist first discussed the idea for a local performing arts center with her family and the community in 1994. After Kauffman’s death the following year, her daughter and the chairman of the Muriel McBrien Kauffman Foundation, Julia Irene Kauffman, began to move the project forward.

As the younger Kauffman stated at the Kauffman Center Grand Opening in Sept. of 2011, “At the heart of the Kauffman Center is a living tradition of extraordinary and diverse performing arts experiences. Ten years of collective research, planning, and design have brought into focus the mission of the Kauffman Center. This is a building for today and for the next generations to come.” Since then, her mother’s vision has grown into the largest performance center in the state.

The Kauffman Center is conveniently located near the Power and Light District, the Sprint Center and the Crossroads Arts District. Over the past few years, the number of visitors has increased rapidly.

Besides its construction being a major part of the ongoing development in downtown Kansas City, it has become an icon of the city. The building is set up as two performance venues linked together by a Great Hall, which features a panoramic view of the south skyline. The two houses are known as Muriel Kauffman Theatre and Helzberg Hall.

In just the past three years, more than a million people have visited the Kauffman Center, and close to 3,000 productions occur a year. It also welcomes 65,000 thought leaders a year, where they engage in innovative thinking and dialogue.

The programs offered by the performance hall are held specifically to connect with the youth in the Kansas City area, and there are a wide variety of classes available. These include acting, singing, speech, dancing and many more. The developing respect for the Kauffman Center weighs heavily on the performance house’s reputation for high quality music display. It has been the performance home to the Kansas City Symphony, the Lyric Opera of Kansas City, and the Kansas City Ballet School.

Country Clubbing An inside look at the Country Club Plaza Erin Walker Editor in Chief

Photos by Vinnie Garimella and Ryan Barrett

By the Numbers

89 stores

12 towers

42 restaurants

19 fountains

6 courtyards

Trivia Time

Top Ranked Restaurants The Capital Grille

Top 3 dishes: Filet Mignon Dry Aged Sirloin Clam Chowder

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The Plaza was the first suburban shopping center designed to accommodate the automobile

Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant

Top 3 dishes: Crab Cakes Asian Pork Belly Tostadas Chopped Salad

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Over 287,000 bulbs are lit each year and over 80 miles of wire are used

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In the 1970s, Brush Creek overflowed and a massive flood ravaged the Plaza, destroying blocks of stores and causing millions of dollars in damage

Seasons 52

Kona Grill

Buca di Beppo Italian Restaurant

Brio Tuscan Grille

Top 3 dishes: Cedar Plank Salmon Garlic Chicken Flatbread Braised Beef Tacos Top 3 dishes: Edamame Volcano Sushi Roll Spinach Artichoke Dip Top 3 dishes: Shrimp Florentine Chicken Parmigiana Apple Gorgonzola Salad Top 3 dishes: Shrimp Verduta Ravioli di Bello Lobster Bisque

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During construction of the Plaza Theater, which opened in 1928, workers uncovered a 2.5 pound mastodon tooth

Smoke the competition KC area small barbecue restaurants rival big names

Jon Russell’s BBQ

Photo courtesy Jon Russell’s BBQ

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Feel that soft sensation of Kansas City barbecue covering the inside of your mouth. The sweet, satisfactory pallet cleanser that is so pure to the area, you can find a barbecue place every mile. When people tend to think of barbecue places in Kansas City, they come up with the brand names such as Joe’s Kansas City, Gates, Arthur Bryant’s or Fiorella’s Jack Stack. These all are great but it is the small chains that make Kansas City a true barbecue town.

One in particular that satisfies the taste buds is Smokey’s on the BLVD. BBQ. Smokey’s is a small joint off of 143rd and Metcalf, near Fortune Wok. It doesn’t draw the attention that the brand

Dan Kurtz and Matthew Stry Section Editor and Reporter

If you ask any Kansas City native “What is KC known for?” people will almost instantaneously tell you that barbecue is our city’s proudest accomplishment.

I toured around the Kansas City area reviewing two barbecue places. These places are not the most famous that Kansas has to offer, but definitely should be recognized.

The first place that I went to was Jon Russell’s, located off of 135th and Quivira. When I entered I was overwhelmed with the menu, but I decided to keep it simple and ordered the classic “Jon Russell” which included a chopped burnt end sandwich

with a side. The smell and the presentation were absolutely outstanding. Of course the burnt ends were tender and juicy, but the thing that impressed me the most was the amount of sauces available. Ranging from cherry chipotle to smoky ghost pepper, theses sauces had my taste buds rocking.

Overall my experience at Jon Russell’s was well worth the drive. I would consider myself a barbecue fanatic and Jon Russell’s definitely topped it. I would recommended this place to anyone who enjoys a good barbecue spot.

Smokey’s on the BLVD.

names do, but their food certainly rivals those places.

First off, the pulled pork sandwich is so perfectly smoked and seasoned. Then the sauce gives it the right kick in your mouth to say “oh wow!” Next, their fries are in a league of their own, but to get the full effect make sure to order the spicy fries.

These fries are just regular fries that they place the seasoning from the ribs on and, boy, do they pack a flavor punch.

Besides for the food, Smokey’s is a cost efficient and quick barbecue restaurant that provides a comfortable atmosphere for all.

I recommend eating here if you are interested in trying a new barbecue restaurant.

Photo courtesy of Smokey’s on the BLVD.

Best. Assignment. Ever: Reporters review treat shops

Uppercrust pie bakery

T A K E

Andre’s chocolates

A

A small but charming pie shop in the middle of a shop called Pryde’s, the cutest and coziest place of the three. The corner had a homey, patchwork feel, almost as if the decorations were homemade along with the pie, which they probably were. It felt like I was in my eccentric grandmother’s kitchen. I tasted the apple pie, the chocolate pie, and the shortbread cookies. The pie had some of the best crust I had ever tasted, as it was flaky, light and sprinkled with sugar. The filling was somewhat average but still satisfying. However, what was great about their pie was that you could taste that it was handmade and not by a machine. The store even sold t-shirts featuring pie puns such as “You’re the apple of my pie.” I absolutely loved the charming little shop and I will definitely be going back.

This place was more like an edible art gallery than a shop, and I felt underdressed compared to the lavishly decorated chocolates, cakes and pastries. The problem was how expensive everything was.

The small box of chocolates I bought was 20 dollars and it only had eight inside. However, when eaten, they met their worth in taste.

The gourmet flavors, such as pistachio, honey, and raspberry were far more unique than any chocolate I had ever tasted, and all in a luxuriously wrapped box. I would recommend Andre’s if you are looking to give delicious gift to someone with an eye for beauty and a sweet tooth, or if you are looking to treat yourself.

Babycakes cupcakery

T r e a t

sugar rush

T R i p

Whoever decorated this cupcake shop definitely knew what they were doing. The tiny, fragrant shop looked like it came straight out of Candyland, with paintings of cupcakes on the walls and vases full of gumballs in the corners. I purchased three cupcakes: chocolate, vanilla, and red velvet. They were quite adorable, with rainbow sprinkles and flower decals painted on each with frosting.

The frosting was perfectly sweet and had just the right amount on each cake, but the cake was somewhat dry and bland. However underwhelming the cupcakes were, their presentation and the fun décor of the shop was enough to gain a positive mention.

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Shaye Herman and Lexi Melson Reporter and Photographer

The shop front showed a nice array of cupcakes and cookies, in familiar flavors like chocolate chip, and snickerdoodle. The toppers they used were made of fondant and added significantly to the appeal, considering how difficult it must have been to make them.

I tasted the white buttercream cupcake and felt like I was eating a light and airy cloud. All in all, the shop did a nice job with their various dessert options and I thoroughly enjoyed my time there.

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eN u l B

ile Cafe

Tucked away in the City Market, Blue Nile Cafe brings a unique perspective to Kansas City’s cultural cuisine. The traditional Ethiopian meal platter was comprised of 11 various foods, six vegetarian options and five meats. From potato and lentils to lamb and chicken drenched in berbere, a chile and spice blend used in authentic Ethiopian cooking. The exotic array of dishes was intimidating at first, as the flavors were vastly different from anything I had tasted before. It served to be a learning experience of the flavors of a part of the world I had not previously known about, which is what I enjoyed most from this restaurant. The price point is fairly pricey, but the quality of the food brings the genuine Ethiopian cuisine to the table.

Location: 20 East 5th Street Kansas City, Missouri 64106 Phone: 816.283.0990

Th e h T

ai P l a c

e

Thai cooking places emphasis on lightly prepared dishes with strong aromas, and a spicy edge. Thai food is based off of five fundamental taste senses; sour, sweet, spicy, salty, and bitter. I was very anxious to try a Thai dish, especially since Thai food is mainly based around spice. I was blown away by the distinct taste of the dish, the pineapple fried rice offered all of the five fundamental taste senses. In Thailand, ginger is heavily incorporated in many Thai dishes. I was able to taste the ginger within the pineapple fried rice. Thai Place really focuses on their customers, and they make it a priority for them to leave satisfied. The price point was fairly high. Location: 9359 W. 87th St. Overland Park, KS, 66212 Phone: 913.649.5420

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a taste Reporters review local ethnic restaurants

Rebecca Abraham and Adrieanna Norse Reporters

Bash a Caf e h T e

Rich in culture and culinary history, the nations on the shores of the brilliant Mediterranean Sea have all contributed something special to the colorful, vibrant tapestry that is Mediterranean cuisine. In Mediterranean dishes, beef, lamb, and chicken are mainly used when preparing the meals. The service was impeccable, within five minutes my food was delivered, piping hot. A Mediterranean spice, called cardamom, is heavily used in Middle Eastern dishes. The chicken shawarma plate is heavily marinated in Mediterranean spices, such as cardamom and cinnamon.

I was very surprised by the fact that cinnamon was being used, and I thought it added a subtle spice to the dish.

The flavors are very rich and enchanting. The collection of foods featured delicious and often nutritious recipes that evoked the essence of the Mediterranean region. The price point was fairly reasonable.

Location: 7016 W. 105th Street, Overland Park, KS 66212 Phone: 913.341.7778

An entree from Blue Nile Cafe. The restaurant serves authentic Ethiopian cuisine.

of culture

An entree from Cafe Provence. The Cafe serves French food.

P h o V ie t n a m

C afe p

r o v en c

e

French cuisine always mystified me in its rich, alluring food comprised of multiple courses and minimal portions. The price point and intimidation in regards to the caliber French cooking has, steered me clear from its famed cuisine. Yet my experience transformed my previous misconceptions to those of genuinely fine food as well as service. Anxious to try a dish so stereotypically French and exotic in its own right, escargot, which is cooked land snails, completely surprised me. Its pungent garlic flavor, the snails simmered in butter and cream, did not prove to be the healthiest choice but they were indulgent. The small portion sizes of French cuisine forced me to experience each bite in its entirety, heightening my overall appreciation for the art.

Provence, the region in France for which the restaurant is named, specializes in herbs and influences from Mediterranean cooking as well. Do not let the high end aura and expensive price point deter you from trying French cuisine. Overall, the experience taught me to take the time and truly enjoy the quality of food amidst the rushed pace of the American lifestyle.

Location: 3936 W. 69th Terrace, Prairie Village, Kansas Phone: 913.384.5998

Vietnamese cuisine may always be referred to as “different,� but its unique flavors brought me to the taste of Vietnam tradition. Every Vietnamese dish has a distinct flavor. The pork egg rolls offered a traditional taste, as it relates to Chinese cuisine. Shrimp is one of the essential meats used in Vietnam. The shrimp spring rolls also presents a Vietnamese feel along with a more traditional taste. The presentation of the food was out staging. The essential ingredient in Vietnamese food is ginger, which provided a very distinct flavor. I really liked how every dish was perfectly displayed. The price point was fairly reasonable.

Location: 8602 W. 133rd St, Overland Park, KS 66213. Phone: 913.814.0950

An entree from Pho Vietnam. The restaurant serves Vietnamese food.

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Spotlight on Live Theater Summary of upcoming shows at KC play houses Beth Gasser Section Editor

Just Off Broadway The upcoming show at the community theater, Just Off Broadway is a show called Extremities. This show is a very serious drama about rape. The main character, Marjorie, is almost raped by a man named Raul, until she turns the tables and gains the upper-hand. When her roommates arrive home they find Raul, the stalker, and potential rapist, tied up with household items in a fireplace. The roommates debate about what to do with him, since there is no evidence of what was going to happen. One of the roommates was raped as a teenager and has no faith in

the justice system, while the other one believes strongly that the right thing will be done in the court system. As they debate about what they should do with Raul, he turns them against one another by revealing things about them.

This show is for adult audiences due to obscene language, graphic content, and a serious plot line. This show is running from Apr. 1,2,3,4,9,10,11 and all shows begin at 8 p.m.

For more information visit www.justoffbroadway.org Their phone number is (816) 784-5020 Just Off Broadway is located at: 3051 Central in Penn Valley Park Kansas City, Mo. 64141

The New Theatre Restaurant The New Theatre Restaurant provides a unique dining experience. With a very recent remodel, the New Theatre Restaurant provides a dinner and a show. From Feb. 19 to May 3, they are performing Forever Plaid. This comical musical is audience interactive , and it is fun to be a part of. The show is about four eager male singers that are

The Jewish Community Center A variety of shows can be seen every season at the Jewish Community Center. The upcoming show is Of Mice and Men. This literary classic, written by John Steinbeck, is about George and his mentally handicapped friend Lenny. The friends move from farm to farm dreaming of a place where they can be free, and control themselves.

After some unfortunate circumstances George is forced

driving to perform their first big concert. On their way there, a school bus full of Catholic girls crashes into their car, and they all die instantly. The show begins off with the singers descending from Heaven to perform the show they never got to do. With music from the 1950’s and 1960’s, and timeless humor, this show is a must see.

New Theatre Restaurant is located at: 9229 Foster Overland Park, Kan. 66212 Their phone number is (913) 649-7469 For more information visit www.newtheatre.com to make some difficult life-changing decisions. He must choose between his friend or his dreams. This story is centered around friendship, finding a home and independence. It is a classic tale of the struggle to achieve the American Dream. Of Mice and Men is being performed Apr. 11, 16, 18 at 7:30 pm, Apr. 12 at 2 pm, and Apr 19 at 5:30 p.m.

For more information: www.jcckc.org Their phone number is (913) 327- 8000 The Jewish Community Center is located at: 5801 West 115 Street Overland Park, Kan. 66211

Rocky

Horror

Picture Show

UMKC performs the gender-bending cult classic

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Leah Zimmerli Section Editor

est known for its midnight showings and wild audience participation, the Rocky Horror Picture Show celebrated its fortieth anniversary with a bang in University of Missouri, Kansas City’s (UMKC) stage production of the cult classic. The show was fast and flashy with colorful costumes and hard rock music that will keep audience members dancing in their seat all night long. The audience participation that has come to be associated with Rocky Horror was included, as well, with props available and modern updates to the traditional audience script.

“This is not your parent’s Rocky Horror Show,” director Steven Eubank said. “We are taking a fresh approach to costumes, the stage set, even the gender roles, and really pushing them to the limits.”

The show was put together in a month and a half which meant that the cast had only a short amount of time to get used to losing their inhibitions and showing some skin.

“I was raised to be very modest,” actress Merit Christensen, who played Janet Weiss, said. “so it was difficult to get used to wearing less clothes on stage.”

Rehearsals had an open atmosphere where Eubank

worked closely with the actors and actresses performing the show. The performers added their own touches of humor here and there to make the show genuinely their own.

Though Rocky Horror Picture Show flaunts its promiscuous nature, it does have a deeper meaning that the audience can take away.

“Rocky Horror has always been a place for community,” Eubank said. “It is a safe haven and an outlet for people to find themselves.”

The play has the interesting quality of being truly open to interpretation in terms of gender and race, which makes Rocky Horror a flamboyantly unique theater experience.

Eubank and Christensen encourage those who are interested in pursuing acting to step out of their comfort zone and try to pursue their passion.

“There is always time to do the proper thing,” Eubank said. “Do something you love, but make sure that you are devoted to it.”

Overall, the production was fantastic and true to the original film while also bringing something fresh and fabulous to the table, showing that UMKC is a great place to study theater or see a show.

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off the rack Local boutiques provide a shopping alternative to large chain stores

Mainstream Boutique

Mainstream Boutique is found in Olathe and sells a variety of clothing for women. Clothes are multigenerational, so women of all ages can shop there.

There are a variety of skirts, dresses, shirts, and jeans.

Each design is different and the displays show a whole outfit including the jewelry.

“It was a vacant space and it was initially a boutique to start with,” owner Carol Culkin said.

“When I found out it was a boutique, it just worked out.”

Mainstream Boutique has been open since July and is in a convenient spot at 150th and Blackbob.

The store is part of a franchise and all the stores collaborate.

Frankie and Jules Frankie and Jules found in Overland Park. In comparison to Mainstream Boutique, Frankie and Jules is much more compact in size and is in a unique location at on the east side of Quivira south of 151st.

Frankie and Jules is also a women’s clothing boutique. There is a less variety of clothing and the store is much smaller; everything is really close together. Yet the ambiance and unique quality of the clothes and accessories makes it worth the experience. Besides clothes and jewelry, boots are also sold at this adorable boutique, Follow them on Facebook to find out about great end of the season sales.

Photos by Ashley Buehler

Ashley Buehler and Libby Frazier Reporter and Section Editor

Nuance Style House Nuance Style House is an online clothing store. This is also a multi-generational boutique.

Owner Rachel Pfeffer makes jewelry, paintings, and puts team decals on hats. Nuance also sells shirts, skirts, palazzo pants, dresses, sweaters, and scarves.

“I decided most of my customers are buying off of online marketing,” Pfeffer said. “This has freed me up to have the time to go back to designing more of my product as well and creating it with my own two hands.”

Visit their website at nuancestylehouse.com.

Hidden treasures Kansas City’s vibrant antique market he West Bottoms district in downtown Kansas City, Mo. is home to a few of the area’s most famous attractions like haunted houses and First Fridays The area is also one of the largest antique markets in the state. Fourteen different stores open their doors for the first Friday, Saturday, and Sunday of each month. They offer everything from vintage furniture, clothing, and toys to records or neon signs.

Before it selling antiques, West Bottoms was once the industrial center of the city. It was the heart of the business district, making the Kansas City Stockyards the second largest in the country, just behind Chicago, Ill. After two floods ravaged the area, causing $22 million in

damage, factories began closing down and operations came to a halt. Throughout the next 150 years, the West Bottoms marketplace grew into the piece of living history that it is today.

Shops are inside the old factories, standing three to four stories tall. Decrepit tea kettles and assorted 50-year-old children’s books sit on shelves wherever there is room. There is little rhyme or reason to the organization of many of the larger, more eclectic buildings, but it makes the experience that much more exciting. The charm of the West Bottom’s stores seems to be in the hidden treasures amongst the hundreds, if not thousands of items inside.

Records on sale at Good JuJu

Corner of 13th St., by vacant Stowe Hardware building

Photos by Maddy C. Lewis

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Maddy C. Lewis Section Editor

Red Barn Antiques

Second floor display in Studio 1404 27

KC

Stars Kansans who can Quinn Coleman Reporter

Kansas City, Kansas • • • • • •

Jason Sudeikis Janelle Monae Walt Disney Rob Riggle Eric Stonestreet The Mowgli’s

Kansas City, Missouri • • • •

Tech N9ne David Cook Harry S. Truman Philomene Bennett

Overland Park, Kansas • Paul Rudd

Atchinson, Kansas • Amelia Earhart

Sharon, Kansas

• Martina McBride

Topeka, Kansas

• Kansas (the band)

fun Facts:

• Rob Riggle attended Shawnee Misson South high school.

• Walt Disney took drawing classes at Kansas City Art Institute.

• There is a Harry Truman Presidential Library and Museum in Independence, Missouri.

• Jason Sudeikis can be often seen at Royals games.

• Philomene Bennett has had over 100 solo, two-person and group exhibitions of her work throughout the United States.

Hometown Boy Alum Nick Besler drafted as professional soccer player

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tate Champion, National Champion, and BV West alum, Nick Besler has already had quite a soccer career as he enters his first season in Major League Soccer (MLS) with the Portland Timbers.

Besler was drafted fifth overall out of the University of Notre Dame (ND). Besler’s dream to become a professional soccer player was a reality.

“It was really exciting,” Besler said.

“In high school, you don’t really think about that stuff too much, you kind of just go out and play soccer. When my name got called I was really excited and a lot of the hard work I put in in high school and college felt like it was starting to pay off and the goal I set in college to become a professional soccer player had been reached.”

Besler broke several records during his time at BV West, including the single season goal scoring record with 27 goals during the 2010 season.

Besler’s motivations were not records.

“The records are cool and stuff to have, but I’m honestly a firm believer that the most excitement I have had is when my teams have done well,” Besler said. “Winning the state championship at Blue Valley West was better than any record I had there.”

After his time in high school, Besler took his talents to ND. While there Besler scored 38 goals in three years and capped off his career by winning the 2013 NCAA Division I National Championship. Winning the national

Joe Mallory and Ethan Paine Reporters

title is a special memory for Besler.

“Winning the National Championship, it’s something that I’ll always have with me and something that my teammates and I will always get to share,” Besler said. “It’s pretty special because a lot of people don’t get that opportunity and I feel really lucky that I have one. Its something that you have really earned and really deserved with all of the hard work you have put in with your teammates.”

Besler’s time at ND was something special. The coaches and other players he came across helped him become the player he envisioned.

“All of the people and teammates I got the chance to play with from freshman year to my last year, all had a really good impact on how I evolved as a player,” Besler said. “The coaching staff is one of the best staffs in the college game and I don’t think I could’ve picked a better place and my decision to go there suited me the best, I have no regrets at that.”

Besler’s career at ND helped him take his game to the next level and helped him prepare for the MLS. He hopes to have a bright future with the Timbers and aspires to eventually hoist the MLS Cup. “Team goal would be to win the MLS Cup,” Besler said. “From an individual perspective, I want to be the best player I can be. I’m not towards the top of the totem pole anymore, I have to work my way back

up it and eventually become a starter.

Hopefully I can become one of the best center midfielders in the MLS.” Besler has started his rookie season in the MLS and hopes to have a positive impact on the team.

“Coming to practice every single day and giving it my 100 percent effort,” Besler said. “I probably won’t be playing in all the games this year because I’m a rookie. I’m going to have to earn my spot. As a first year player, I really can push the other players to be ready for some of the first team matches. Hopefully, if I get my chance I’ll be ready and I’ll try to take opportunities when they are given to me.”

Besler’s time at BV West may be overshadowed by his time at ND, but high school helped him in his development as a soccer player.

“When you make it to the professional level, people may not think that highly of the high school level,” Besler said. “I think my time at Blue Valley West really helped me develop as a player. I played center back with my club team and throughout my childhood. The high school level gave me the opportunity to push up the field and fine-tune some of the aspects of my game like the attacking part and the technical side of playing in the midfield.

Ultimately, I got the opportunity to play center-mid in high school and ironically enough that’s where I’m playing at now.”

fun and games Interactive activities inspired

by Kansas monuments and people

True or False 1. Kansas City is known as the City of Fountains. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 2. Last time Kansas City won the super bowl was in 1985. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

John Byrket Reporter

3. Kansas holds the National World War I museum. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

word scramble 1. SLAYOR: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

4. Kansas City has more barbecue restaurants per capita than any other city in the United States. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 5. Kansas City ignored prohibition in the 1920s. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

2. TNIGOPRS: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 6. Kansas was the 14th state in the United States. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 3. FMNAFKUA: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 4. HWOARERDA: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

7. Kansas City has more fountains than any city in the world. ________

5. CRABEEUB: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 6. TISFUNOA: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

8. Jackie Robinson played on the Negro Leagues Kansas City Monarchs. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

7. AALPZ: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ 8. FHCIES: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

9. Arrowhead Stadium was the first stadium scoreboard to transmit instant replay. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

9. TTMA LSREEB: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

6. False, Kansas was the 34th state 7. False, Kansas City has the second most fountains of any city, behind Rome 8. True 9. True 10. True

True or False answers

1. Royals 2. Sporting 3. Kauffman 4. Arrowhead 5. Barbecue

6. Fountains 7. Plaza 8. Chiefs 9. Matt Besler 10. Alex Smith

word scramble answers

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1. True 2. False, the last time the Chiefs won the Super Bowl was in 1969 3. True 4. True 5. True

10.LXEA TIMSH: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

10. Walt Disney’s first animation studio was opened in Kansas City. ________

Popping the Bubble John Wilson Section Editor

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any BV West students are well aware of the stereotypical term “The Bubble” that refers to the Johnson County area. It’s almost impossible not to agree with the fact that the affluent environment that many students in the area are accustomed to has affected their personalities, opinions and ideas of the world and society today.

Unfortunately, this “Bubble” could have some possible adverse effects. Is it time to pop the bubble and expand the thoughts of students, or should the residents settle in and enjoy what has been called one of the best places to raise children in the US? Regarding the last comment of the previous paragraph, Overland Park is ranked among the best places to live in America. According to liveability.com’s 2015 list of best places to live, Overland Park is ranked 16th, due to its school systems, balance between residential and retail planning, and the continuance of home development. Johnson County has 83 “parks and open spaces” along with four small lakes and six sports facilities. Who said Kansas was boring?

In this sense, it seems counterintuitive to leave Johnson county. Still, though, the stereotype of the “Bubble” exists, labeling people as ignorant and wealthy with children who have everything handed to them. Is this true? In my opinion, yes and no. Living in such a well-off area gives residents the resources to do almost anything they want to with their lives. If anything, Johnson County is letting its youth have the opportunity to do bigger and better things as long as they take full advantage of the opportunities given.

On the other hand, the big problem with growing up in “The Bubble” is the fact that people generally expect things to be handed to them. Unlike the typical Johnson County resident, many young people have to work very hard for their things. Not very often do people just stumble into a large amount of money. It seems that many teens go off to college without ever having a job aside from babysitting, lifeguarding, of working at the local baseball fields. While all these jobs are great, they are often far different than the demanding jobs that young people around the country work to earn money for college.

Yes, Johnson County is a great place to grow up and it has the ability to shape everyone into fine young people.

But it should not spoil the hell out of everyone. If it does, pack your bags and move somewhere where you will have to work for something. Kansas City is an awesome city that is beginning to expand. Maybe not now, but someday many students will realize how fortunate they were to grow up in such an ideal and affluent area.

Hopefully, Johnson County will affect us in a good way and will motivate its citizens to succeed so that their children can grow up in a place like this.

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