BREAKAWAY Spring 2024

Lily Sanchez Graphics Director

Caleb Metzen Chief Editor

Mya DelaCruz

Mikey Varela

Natalie Radke

Dakota Pearson

Video

Audio

Kaden Johnson

Director

Director

Rylan Anderson

Sta Sta Sta

Jack Koksal

Kallista Rhoades Trasyn Crandall

Beau Hammond Sta

Jaden Rice Sta

Stevi Yaucy

Garden City has made me really patient, GC3 made the JUCO experience very easy for me “ “

Study Haven Unveiling the Best Spots

Starbucks

Starbucks, located at 2401 E Kansas Ave, stands out as an excellent study spot for many reasons. Its cozy environment, with comfortable seating and chill background music, creates a conducive environment for focused work. The free Wi-Fi allows students to access online resources and collaborate seamlessly. Also, Starbucks offers a variety of beverages and snacks, keeping study sessions energized and productive. The option to choose between loud and busy city locations or quieter coffee shops caters to individual preferences. To add on, the extended operating hours accommodate

different study schedules, GCCC students have all types of different schedules with work, class, sports, etc. This makes Starbucks a flexible choice for most students. Summing up, Starbucks provides a blend of comfort, convenience, and resources that make it a popular and effective study spot.

environment perfect for deep concentration. The smell of freshly brewed coffee and baked goods adds a delightful touch, which makes the overall experience so much better. With many different seating options, including quiet corners and communal tables, students can find their ideal study space. The shop’s staff are very

Patrick Dugan's

Patrick Dugans Coffee Shop, located at 301 N Main, is also a great place to study. Patrick Dugan’s coffee shop is a great study spot for numerous reasons. Its inviting atmosphere, adorned with cozy furnishings and soft lighting, creates a chill and relaxing

friendly and they have excellent customer service that contributes to a positive study environment. Patrick Dugan’s coffee shop truly creates a blend of comfort, ambiance, and amenities, making it a great choice for productive study sessions and homework.

STEM

The Garden City Community College STEM building is a haven for students looking to work on some homework, study, or tutor other students. Its modern architecture and eco-friendly design inspire a sense of innovation and focus. As students enter the STEM building, they are greeted by spacious and multiple study areas

filled with natural light, fostering a refreshing and stimulating atmosphere. As well as quiet and closedoff study rooms and spaces for a study session that needs a quieter atmosphere. The quiet noise of technology and the occasional rustle of paper create a serene backdrop for deep focus. Laboratories and collaborative spaces offer opportunities for

hands-on learning and group projects outside of school. The supportive faculty and access to resources further enhance the learning experience. In this dynamic environment, students thrive, making the STEM building an exceptional place for academic growth and success.

College Library

Within Garden City Community College, the library stands as a beacon of academic support and tranquility. Its shelves hold books spanning every subject, while digital resources offer boundless exploration. What truly sets this library apart is its access to tutors, who guide students through complex subjects with patience and expertise. There are quiet study areas that have good lighting furnished for comfort and have

cubicle-like walls to give students privacy. The atmosphere in the library invites deep focus and contemplation. Here, amidst the hushed whispers of turning pages and computers clicking, minds expand with knowledge and understanding. The Garden City Community College library, with its blend of resources and serenity, epitomizes the perfect study spot for ambitious learners.

Roots Juice & Co

Roots Juice & Co, located at 216 N Main St, exceeds the expectations of a prime study spot. With exceptional service as their hallmark, the staff greets customers with warm smiles and a dedication to customer satisfaction. The menu is filled with a variety of delicious and healthy beverages, from fresh juices to revitalizing

Central Cup

Patrick Dugan's

smoothies, fueling both body and mind. Along with these treats are wholesome,flavorful, and nutritious food options, catering to different tastes and dietary preferences. The cozy atmosphere and many places to sit inside and out, sets the stage for focused study sessions. At Roots Juice & Co, students indulge in nourishing refreshments and enjoy a conducive environment for academic success.

Central Cup

Central Cup Coffee Shop, located at 517 N 8th St, radiates a cozy and happy charm that makes it a great study spot. Nestled in the heart of town, its aroma of freshly brewed cof-

fee greets students and promises a productive study session. The friendly staff offers exceptional service, ensuring that students feel at home. Many seating options, including quiet corners and communal tables, cater to individual study preferences. The shop’s relaxed atmosphere, coupled with soothing background music, improves concentration and creativity. With delicious beverages and snacks to offer, Central Cup Coffee Shop creates a perfect blend of comfort and productivity for students seeking a peaceful study environment.

Story by: Mya Delecruz

Layout by: Kallista Rhoades

JOIvan valdez

I strive to be a kind person, And I would consider myself to be a nice guy. So I’m achieveing my goals! “ “

THE MIX

Buster Gram

#GCCC

#Fromhere

#Busternation

Photos By: GC3 Media, Adam Shrimplin, & GCCC P.R.

Be active and attentive in class. Come to class with the energy and care to learn things will become much easier. Doing things such as showing up early and sitting in the front of the class will allow you to learn more effectively. Listening takes effort and if you put effort in you get something positive out of your classes.

advice to be an

Ask your friends for help. Sometimes getting something from someone else’s perspective is really useful to understand a school subject. It is also an easier and less stressful experience when you work together with people who share the same academic goals as you.

Taking advantage of office hours is really helpful, especially for athletes who miss a lot of normally scheduled class times. Use the time that your teachers are specifically setting up for you if you need extra time with them.

COLE ROTNER

AYAKA YAJIMA JORDAN FRAZIER

academic weapon

Study in calm environments. Put on some relaxing music when you are studying. This will help you feel less stressed about what you’re working on or the due date of whatever you’ are working on.

Be focused in class. Taking good notes and taking in what the teacher is presenting to you through the lecture is at its core the most important. Be part of class and it’’ will be easier to work off that on your own time if you need it.

Effectively communicate with your teacher. We all live busy lives and we need to let our teachers know that especially for athletes. Whether it is sending out an email or letting them know, communicating with your instructor will allow you to make up the classwork you missed. Communicating with your teacher also allows you to connect with your teacher which will make your process as a student better.

CARLY LANG GABE BOHANNON VITORIA STEDILE

Nick & Brett barber

Garden City made us appreciate everything, we appricate the opportunities that we have here, but also appricate the little things that we have back home more as well.

“

Adventures With Billy Buster

In the vast plains of southwest Kansas, where sight often stretches to the horizon with little to catch the eye, there exists a legend of great glory and treasure.

Long ago, a golden nugget, a championship trophy in size, was discovered in the heart of the plains. It became the symbol of champions, sparking fierce competitions and battles among both creatures and men for the

prestigious title of holder of the Conference Champion gold nugget

Amidst this lentless pursuit, a you bronc-buster named Billy Buster would rise to prominence, embarking on a quest for championship glory.

Billy, a gritty boy, spent years wandering the windswept plains, contemplating his destiny. Hailing from a small town without trees or rivers, he would constantly gaze upon the boundless sky where his dreams took shape in the clouds. Despite his wit, Billy felt lost, longing for guidance. Then, one day, a Jayhawk from the east appeared, “You seem lost,” the Jayhawk remarked, striking a chord with Billy’s inner need for purpose. With a mischievous grin, the Jayhawk recounted the tale of a legendary golden treasure that brought immense

honor to those who possessed it. Overwhelmed by the prospect of adventure and the vastness of the world beyond his small town, Billy’s heart ignited with a singular desire, to embark on an epic journey.

Filled with excitement for the journey ahead, Billy joined forces with his close friend Seward the Saint. Growing up together in tornado alley, they had supported each other’s development. Setting out in pursuit of the Conference Championship prize,Billy and Seward journeyed across vast fields, their anticipation mounting with each step. However, Seward’s greed soon surfaced, consumed by the desire for fortune and glory.

In a moment of craving, he turned against Billy, striking him down. Shocked and hurt, Billy defended himself as Seward pulled his swords, intent on crushing Billy’s championship dreams. Despite the betrayal, Billy fought back fiercely, using his sheer determination to overcome Seward’s attacks. Their once unbreakable bond shattered, they battled fiercely, each desperate to gain the upper hand

As exhaustion took its toll, Seward attempted to strike from a distance, but Billy intercepted, turning the tables on his former friend. With a heavy heart, Billy confronted Seward, lamenting the loss of their friendship as he delivered the final blow.

Overwhelmed with sorrow, Billy pressed on toward the coveted gold, haunted by the memory of their shattered camaraderie.

As Billy journeyed toward the Conference Championship gold, he encountered numerous obstacles that tested his resolve. Shortly after his confrontation with Seward, he encountered aformidable opponent in the form of Pratt, a large beaver guarding a towering dam. Aware of Billy’s determination, Pratt sought to impede his progress by hurling rocks in his path. Undeterred, Billy faced the challenge head-on, scaling the dam despite Pratt’s efforts to obstruct him.

Throughout his adventure, Billy faced similar adversaries, wrestling Butler Grizzly Bears and swiftly subduing Barton Cougars. With each encounter, Billy grew not only faster and stronger but also more resilient. Each obstacle he overcame strengthened his resolve and prepared him for the challenges yet to come on his quest for the elusive gold.

As Billy continued his journey, he encountered seasoned adventurers known as the Dodge Conquistadors, who were well-versed in the dangers of the wild.

Despite his inexperience, Billy joined them in their quest for the legendary gold nugget. However, the Conquistadors constantly undermined Billy, filling his mind with false warnings of mythical creatures and men that supposedly guarded the treasure. Instead of deterring him, their words sparked a sense of curiosity and determination in Billy. He became fixated on the idea of encountering these mythical beings, fueling his resolve to pursue the gold with even greater fervor.

As Billy approached the highest point in the plains, he encountered a

formidable adversary in the form of a Colby Trojan.

Despite being warned to turn back, Billy refused to relent, determined to compete for the prize he had journeyed so far to reach. The Trojan’s powerful blows tested Billy’s resilience, but he refused to stay down. Sensing an opportunity, Billy exploited the Trojan’s overconfidence, swiftly knocking him off the peak to his demise.

As Billy reached the top of the plains, he spotted birds circling a limestone cave. Before he could enter, he was suddenly ensnared by the

talons of a Cloud Thunderbird, one of the creatures the conquistadors had warned him about.

As he was lifted into the sky, Billy glimpsed his home below, filled with fear that his dreams of glory would come crashing down with him. However, the Thunderbird eventually released him, and to his surprise, Billy found himself gently caught by the wind, sparing him from a harsh landing. Even the plains seemed to be on Billy’s side as he gracefully descended.

Witnessing this, the Thunderbirds dispersed, impressed by the sight of a boy harmonizing with his homeland. Entering the cave, Bily was nearly blinded by the glimmer of the gold nugget, which was mounted atop the head of the Hutchison Blue Dragon.

Undeterred, he charged at the dragon, drawing upon the power of the plains beneath him. In a fierce battle of strength and wit, Billy relied on his determination to emerge

victorious, fulfilling his long-held dream of claiming the Conference Championship Nugget as his own.

Billy’s story of trumph over formidable adversaries serves as a testament to the power of skill and unwavering belief. His journey inspires others from his town to pursue the same coveted conference championship prize.

Billy’s success motivates fellow Bronc busters to follow in his footsteps, continuing his legacy of greatness and victory.

Story by: Caleb Metzen

Layout by: Kallista Rhoades

Uplifting Student Athletes Spirts

SARAH Dorado

Life is full of tough decisions, it’s up to you for it to change you or break you. “ “

Uni ng Minds Exploring Futures

Garden City Community College pulled out their capes and spandex on Saturday, February 24th, hos ng their rst-ever Buster Con. As the showrunner of this year’s Buster Con, William Schlichter has always had a special love for anything and everything nerdy and has always been inspired to put on a “ComiCon” themed event himself. When asking Schlichter why it is important to put on an event like this he states, “We have s eriously been underserving our nerds,” Schlichter said. “When we think about diversity, skinned color is the rst thing we think of or language, but we forget this certain group.” Buster Con was made as our very own

twist on modern ComiCon, where vendors, creators, and fans can come together and share their love of di erent

fan-favorite series. From zombie extras and redshirt guards, there is a place for everybody at this event. Events such as these

are also important to create awareness of the di erent genres and allow others to gain knowledge on upcoming content such as literature and TV media that are being released. In essence, it’s a big nerdy hype event for all of your favorite upcoming topics. William was able to bring together people who all share a love for anything nerdy. From The Walking Dead to Zombie Land, Schlichter has met numerous stars, including Darl from The Walking Dead, who en featured in different genres of TV shows and movies. In the rst year of produc on, there were a lot of creators, but for the next Buster Con, there are already plans to bring in bigger-name creators. If you

ever want to meet someone truly in love with the things they do, look at the type of people that a end these events. Imagine taking your online chat board and making it a real in-person conversa on. When you live in a small town it can be di icult to nd people who care about the same things you do. Especially with shows and movies that can invoke real and intense emo ons out of us. It is trulysomething special to be able to also create a safe environment that can involve all types of crea ve outlets. For the arts, there are not a lot of opportuni es where they can be shown in the same place. There was truly something for everyone to enjoy even if these types of events even if you would not consider yourself nerdy. Southwest Floral made an appearance where they

specialize in the sales of oral light lamps inspired by the beauty and the beast ower. With other products including glass globes that have owers or gurines inside. It would not be a proper nerd fest if there was not a bunch of people who dressed up as their favorite characters. Star Wars is always a popular op on because it is so well known. This year they were appearances from Darth Vader, Storm Troops, and resistance ghters. There were also a lot of Anime characters that showed up including characters from well-loved Anime including Sailor Moon and Naruto. Although these were standouts, the couple that dressed up as the Joker and Harley Quinn went above and beyond with not only the makeup but the character-

is cs. This year Joker, there is barely a di erence in the way that he did his makeup compared to the makeup in The Dark Knight Rising. Everyone who dressed up seriously looked amazing and brought the feeling of a true Comicon alive. With over four hundred people a ending, Buster Con was an instant success. There were mul ple Authors there to promote their work including Willam with his own Fantasy novel series. Willam had the inten on of bringing as much crea vity and having a diversity of op ons to create the best possible outcome for Garden City’s First Buster Con. In small towns like Garden City, we must con nue to grow and appreciate di erent events that we do not always see. “I am a book author, and I’ve been to over ninety book

signings, and sixty of those are comic cons,” Schlichter states. When looking for recruits for this event, he was pre y determined to nd the best candidates for Buster Con. “I reached out to a lot of Kansas people I know. A lot towards the Wichita Area and Hutchison.” Schlichter said. “We do have some people coming from some di states.” Author Kris Stoval, Fantasy and Romance Novelist made her debut here at Garden City Community College Buster Con. Kris an has been a ending ComiCon for six years but has been partaking as an author for three years. Kristan states that her favorite thing about Buster Con and similar events is the inclusion they look to spread. “Growing up we were the outcasts. But coming here everyone has a place, and there are so many talented creators that you get to meet and talk to.” Stoval said. Buster Con was able to create a place that is safe enough to be yourself and maybe a li le weirder. Due to the success that Buster Con brought GCCC, next year Schlichter already has gameplay on how to

bring more success to this event. “Next year, we are looking to host Buster Con s ll in the Dennis Perryman Athle c Complex, back gym but are looking to bring in bigger creators,” Schlichter said. In the future, it will be interes ng to see how much this event evolves and what will be added to it over me.

It is important to con nue pu ing on events that several types of people can enjoy. For fans of Fantasy Novels and all bookworms, it is nice to be able to go to an actual book signing. Since the rise of digital books, there are not as many available book signings as possible. Eventslike these are

in very selec ve ci es that also tend to not get as much a en on. Garden City CommunityCollege students also shared their art at this year’s Buster Con. Students Nancy Torres and Felicity Miller are both members of the Book Buster Club and freshman at GCCC. These ladies were here represen ng their clubs by having a club table there at Buster Con to spread awareness about their upcoming project 1919 Magazine of the Arts. Project 1919 is open to all students where they can submit their art, short stories, photographs, songs, poems, and literature. Project 1919 has signi cantly grown in popularity since last year. There have en a bunch more students with almost over 100 entries in this year’s magazine. Miller is one of these talented students who have submi ed mul ple pieces to the Project 1919 magazine. When asked what her favorite part of Buster Con was, Nancy Torres said, “I enjoy seeing everybody in their costumes, everyone dressed up!” Several other clubs also came out to show their support for this year’s

Buster Con with the Spirt Squad Showing up alongside Billy the Buster! Christan Challenges also made an appearance with their own booth giving out informa on on their club! Of course, there was also the Art Club expressing their own art and selling their T-shirts! Overall, Buster Con was able to achieve the plan at hand and created a diverse se ing that is safe and completely nerdy for all. It is safe to say that there will be a lot of happy people when Buster Con returns next February.

Layout by: Kallista Rhoades

Photos by: Dakota Pearson & Jack Koksal

Story by: Natalie Radke

Caleb Metzen

Lily Sanchez

Sophmore

Good-Byes

Kaden JOhnson

Natalie Radke

Mikey Varela

Jack Koksal

“sometimes you will never know the value of a moment, until it becomes a memory.”

- Dr. Seuss

Mya DelaCruz