JagWire newspaper: Volume 17, Issue 7

JW cancer Survivors honored in annual relay for life Page 12-13

Jagwire

mill valley high school volume 17 issue 7 april 13, 2017 mvnews.org

In this issue ...

NEWS

04

04 school funding 06 Country Club Cafe

FEATUREs 09 10 12 14

spotted: Mitch Willoughby VPN usage Relay for Life Kansas City

OPINIONS

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20 staff editorial 21 opinions

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SPORTS 24 KSHSAA classifications 26 EKL review 27 overtime

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A&E 29 dog park reviews 30 taco reviews

PHOTO ESSAY 32 parking lot

02

TABLE OF CONTENTS

24 Design by Madison Ferguson

Cover by margarat mellott

32 mill valley high school

Jagwire

letter

from the editors

T

his is our second to last issue in our time on the JagWire staff, so we wanted to provide a solid issue seven before our senior-centered issue eight. We tried to balance fun topics with a few harder hitting news pieces that will inform and intrigue readers.

For this particular issue, we wanted to explore all the possibilities of what there is to do in downtown Kansas City. K.C. is a special place that has so much to offer and even as K.C. natives, there are still a lot of places we haven’t seen or explored. So, we offer you this Guide to K.C. to help you in your future adventures throughout the city that we all love.

While having a more lighthearted special section, we were able to focus more on design elements throughout the issue. The staff

JAGWIRE OFFICE

5900 Monticello Road Shawnee, KS 66226 Phone: (913) 422-4351 Fax: (913) 422-4039 Email: jagwirenewspaper@gmail.com Adviser: Kathy Habiger khabiger@usd232.org JagWire, a monthly publication of Mill Valley High School, is printed by the Sedalia Democrat.

PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS

Kansas Scholastic Press Association National Scholastic Press Association Journalism Education Association The 2016 JagWire was named a Pacemaker winner and an All-American newspaper by the NSPA, was inducted into the NSPA Hall of Fame and earned an All-Kansas rating from the KSPA. The Mill Valley News website was also named a two-time Pacemaker winner by the NSPA.

SOCIAL MEDIA

felt more relaxed as a whole during this production cycle, as they have come to terms for the most part with their responsibilities set at the beginning of the year.

We have to keep the student body informed though, and there are a couple of pages you should really look for in this issue: School funding and the possibility of KSHSAA changing their classifications, both of which affect future students directly and impact both the playing field and the classroom.

They also both involve how the entire state will look in regards to the high school level.

With this being our last real issue, our time on staff is all coming to a bittersweet end. We are extremely thankful for being able to put out eight great issues every year since our sophomore year. We wouldn’t trade it for the world and we hope that our penultimate issue lives up to the high standard that we’ve set.

Jagwire 2016-17 staff EDITORs-IN-CHIEF Madison Ferguson Margaret Mellott Braden Shaw

managing editor Morgan Gurwell

copy editor Alison Booth

photo editor Victoria Wright

business manager Madison Ferguson

Hunter Ristau

news editors Katya Gillig Annie Myers Margaret Mellott

features/a&e editors Claire Boone Tricia Drumm

Braden Shaw

CENSORSHIP POLICY

Kansas Senate Bill 62 guarantees the same rights for student journalists as are guaranteed for professional journalists. These rights include, but are not limited to, all First Amendment rights, including the rights of freedom of speech and the press, insofar as published items may not contain libelous, slanderous or obscene statements, may not incite or promote illegal conduct and may not cause a substantial disruption to normal school activity.

EDITORIAL POLICY

We value your opinions. If you wish to submit a column or a letter to the editor for the JagWire, you can do so by handing it in to a member of the staff or to the print journalism room (C101). Additionally, you may email any member of the staff with opinions, as well as tweet us at @millvalleynews.

Anonymous content will not be accepted.

Please understand that we have the right to edit all copy that runs in this publication.

opinions editors Nora Lucas Ally Nguyen

sports editors Anika Roy Jakob Twigg

social media editors Lexi Flipse Abby Layton

ILLUSTRATOR Avery Sheltra

REPORTERS & Photographers James Ball Carter Lawson Joe McClain Michael Sandri Marah Shulda Chris Sprenger

Twitter: @millvalleynews Facebook: Mill Valley News

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Design by braden shaw

staff information

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education legislation Legislators debate a new school funding formula due to recent Supreme Court ruling ABOVE: Kansas schools to receive more funding from state after experiencing lack thereof in past years. Photo Illustration by Victoria Wright

by ABBY LAYTON

social media editor jagwire.abbylayton@gmail.com

by NORA LUCAS

opinions editor jagwire.noralucas@gmail.com

W

ith the recent ruling by the state Supreme Court that unanimously declared the lack of funding towards public education unconstitutional, teachers and administrators alike are discussing the best way to solve the funding issue.

Several plans have been recently

lookingback

A timeline of important events in Kansas school funding history

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news

introduced to address this issue, including a plan called the Chairman’s Plan, which would distribute money based on enrollment numbers, called “foundation aid.” This was much like the 1992 formula that was disassembled under Gov. Samuel Brownback. Superintendent Frank Harwood estimates that, if passed, USD 232 would receive about $2 million.

Another plan introduced is House Bill 2270, which would steadily increase funding over the next four years. Again, foundation aid would be reinstated, and additional aid would be distributed depending on the amount of at-risk stu-

dents and career technical education classes, which are called weightings.

This bill is closest to the current plan in plan, and Harwood speculates that considering the June 30 deadline, this is most likely to pass.

In contrast to these bills, which are currently being debated in Topeka, superintendent Jim Hinson of the Shawnee Mission School District has introduced a plan of his own, which would have higher-based state aid per student and would get rid of almost all weightings.

“The idea is that if you get the money in the based state aid, you don’t need

Mock v. State of Kansas: Plaintiff challenged the state school funding system

Kansas Supreme Court rules that less wealthy districts have less access to the same level of education

1990 - 1991

March 2014

mill valley high school

Jagwire

FinancialFallout 3.5

million dollars that the Shawnee Mission School district would receive

Source: The Kansas City Star

2.9

the weightings because you are now already getting the dollars,” Harwood said. “It’s just a different philosophy in how you distribute.”

English teacher Kristen Crosbie believes that while a plan like Hinson’s can be beneficial for some school districts, a focus on property taxes has already proven to be ineffectual for De

Statistics on the financial impacts of House Bill 2410

206

thousand dollars that the Turner School district would lose

million dollars that the Hutchinson School district would lose

2.5

million dollars that the De Soto School district would receive

Soto schools.

“We have less business in this area than the Shawnee Mission district,” Crosbie said. “So they can afford higher salaries and probably more books and other amenities.”

Social studies teacher Angie DalBello is one of two building representatives for the De Soto Teachers Association, along with social studies teacher Jeff Wieland. The DTA is responsible for initiating discussion and negotiation between district employees on topics such

as salaries, resources and internal conflicts. DalBello was happy to hear about the Court’s ruling, and hopes it encourages change within the state.

“I see that as a huge victory for public education,” DalBello said, “and I agree with it.”

Likewise, junior Tom Colling has noticed that extracurriculars tend to suffer when the school district is underfunded.

“Some of the smaller, newer clubs are not getting [as much] funding,” Colling said. “So we have to pay for most of our stuff ourselves, whereas other schools get that support.”

For Crosbie, no matter what plan is passed, the biggest issue is the government’s attitude toward education in general.

“I feel like over the past few years ... [public education] has become a non-priority,” Crosbie said. “We were supposed to get new English books next year, went to several meetings for them, and we can’t afford to get them now.

Our classrooms are full and we haven’t gotten raises to speak of: little ones, but not much.”

DalBello says that if the state government does end up giving more money for education, it should be budgeted to-

wards salaries that would allow schools to hire more teachers.

“I’ve been in this district since 1999 and the class sizes just continue to get bigger,” DalBello said. “Maybe that’s two or three kids more per section of a class, and that doesn’t sound like a lot, but when you’re at 29 kids instead of 25, that really can change the dynamics of the classroom. It’s just harder to manage when you have more kids, more papers to grade and more parents to communicate with.”

Colling thinks that above all, the ethical concerns raised by a lack of funding should be addressed.

“I believe that education is really important for the development of our futures,” Colling said. “Especially being high school students, it’s more relevant than ever to keep public school funding [well supported] to make sure we’re getting quality education.”

Harwood thinks that with school funding up in the air, it is difficult to make decisions for next year.

“We’ve done enrollment projections for each building,” Harwood said. “So they need to do staffing, and we also need to do negotiations with teachers … and we still have no idea how much money we’re going to have.”

Gov. Sam Brownback signs bill replacing the 23-year-old school funding formula with Senate Bill 7, a block-grant formula

Courts unanimously rule that Brownback’s “block grant” funding system is unconstitutional

House Bill 2410 is proposed. The proposed bill would boost school funding by more than $75 million in the next fiscal year

March 2015

March 2, 2017

March 22, 2017

“[Education] has become a non-priority.”

ENGLISH TEACHER KRISTEN CROSBIE

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Design by alison booth & katya gillig news

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spill the beans

New Country Club Cafe owner Bethany Vogel reinvigorates local business

by JOE MCCLAIN

reporter and photographer jagwire.joemcclain@gmail.com

caffeine blast to the past

Under previous ownership for three years, Country Club Cafe produced a large number of popular refreshments and food

ABOVE: While working a shift at Country Club Cafe, senior Kristen Schau makes a specialty espresso drink for a customer on Sunday, March 26. Photo by Morgan Gurwell

B

ethany Vogel’s dream since college was to one day own a coffee shop of her own. Now, she has the opportunity to do just that as the new co-owner and manager of the Country Club Cafe.

“When I was in college, I ran a coffee shop,” Vogel said. “I’ve worked at a few different jobs, but my goal was always to own a coffee shop. Then came the time when we were able to purchase one and now I’m actually doing it.”

Previously just a manager of the cafe, Vogel recently purchased the cafe with her mom, making it a family business. The transition to a new owner proved stressful at first for senior Kristen Schau who worked for the previous owner, but it soon proved to be advantageous.

“I was hesitant about a new owner because I had worked for over a year and a half with the previous owner and formed a good relationship with her,” Schau said. “It’s turned into a family run business, but it carries the same level of familiarity of the previous owner and all of the new employees are incredibly friendly.”

With Vogel being the new owner, the Country Club Cafe is bound to undergo some change. Vogel already has a vision for the future of the shop.

“I’m just learning everything first and then we’ll jump into making some changes and leaving our mark on the shop,” Vogel said. “The previous owners did a really good job as far as running

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news

Design by Annie myers

the business, but my main goal is to change the look. I want to change the colors and bring it more up to date. I want to make it a space for not only the older generation, but also a space for a younger crowd. I really want some high schoolers to enjoy coming here, too.”

Throughout the change in her work environment, Schau has formed a bond with the customers and the cafe itself.

“While my co-workers have been changing, the customers have stayed the same and they are what makes my job so great,” Schau said. “Even though I have an incredibly full schedule, I couldn’t imagine dropping work from my list of responsibilities because making coffee and seeing the people I work with and work for is so beneficial.”

Freshman Nico Gatapia frequently visits the Country Club Cafe. Though Gatapia is excited to see new management, he wants the menu to stay the same.

“I can’t wait to see what the new owners do with the place, but I hope they don’t change the menu too much because I like it how it is,” Gatapia said.

Vogel has big plans for her newly owned family business, but it will take time. For now, she plans to continue to make coffee for happy customers.

“I have four kids, so running the cafe takes me away from the house a little bit more,” Vogel said. “I also work at Children’s Mercy [Hospital]; juggling everything has been a chore, but it’s fun.”

14,229 Lattes made

25,449 Cups of coffee made

15,629 Rollovers made

mill valley high school

Jagwire

check this out

Long anticipated construction of new Johnson County Library begins

ABOVE:, The exterior plans for the newest Johnson County Library located at 2435 W. 66th St. in Shawnee, include a vast outdoor patio space. This branch is expected to be open in late 2018, with its final cost reaching nearly $18.1 million. Photo Illustration by Carter Lawson

by MICHAEL SANDRI

reporter and photographer jagwire.michaelsandri@gmail.com

W

ord of a new $18.1 million library being built in Shawnee has been going around since the Clark Enersen Partners were hired in 2006 to start construction. Eleven years later, members of the community are still waiting for the Monticello Library to start construction.

“Monticello Library is expected to open late in 2018 — likely in the fall,” community relations coordinator Christopher Leitch said via email. “That is, if all goes according to plan! Lots of issues might arise…”

Other than issues with funding, the main reason the library construction is taking so long is because it takes time to ensure the community will be satisfied with the end result, according to Leitch.

“One of the most time consuming — and most important — parts of the work is seeking community input,” Leitch said. “We want to be sure we are building a library that meets community needs and expectations.”

According to the Clark Enersen website, over 500 suggestions regarding the library were received in public meetings and on the Johnson County Library website. Among the many people who shared their input is junior Graham Wilhauk.

“I have been in a forum where I requested to have a bookstore inside of the library,” Wilhauk said. “It is pretty much a small bookstore inside the

Jagwire Mill valley high school

library, but the books are extremely cheap and I love it.”

Although a library bookstore is not unheard of, the majority of the community’s suggestions centered around demands for a public meeting area and greater computer availability. Leitch said that people will not be disappointed if all goes as planned.

“In addition to public Wi-Fi and computers, we’re adding some special-use computer stations and meeting rooms on the second floor,” Leitch said. “These collaborative tech areas will permit patrons to experiment with high end software they might not otherwise have access to.”

The large amount of technology is impressive, but it is not the thing that sets the Monticello Library apart from the other Johnson County Libraries.

“When it opens, this will only be the second two-story library in the system, and the only one with a dedicated outdoor space,” Leitch said. “We’ll also have an environmentally-sensitive green roof around the terrace.”

However, one thing that will not be under the green roof is the library’s highly anticipated patio.

So far, it is undecided what the patio will be used for. The plan is to let the community give their input as they have before.

Wilhauk plans to continue suggesting ideas as he eagerly awaits for the library to open.

“I cannot wait to see how this library will be different from other libraries before,” Wilhauk said. “I’m so excited.”

What’snew?

Additions to the new library that were suggested by the community

Building design courtesy of the clark enersen partners

Floor-to-ceiling glass along three of the library’s four sides will allow for more natural light to enter the space.

With demands for computers, the new library will have a technology center.

In efforts to modernize the library, this location will feature an outdoor rooftop patio for the guests.

Design by claire boone news

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ads

Design by Hunter ristau

mill valley high school

Jagwire

Spotted

A series on our students and staff and what makes them unique

ABOVE: After competing for four years in diving, senior Mitch Willoughby has won three medals at state, including a first place finish this year. Photo by Chris Sprenger

The lone

diver

Senior Mitch Willoughby is successful as boys swim team’s only diver

by LEXI FLIPSE

social media editor jagwire.lexiflipse@gmail.com

A

After placing first at state in dive, senior Mitch Willoughby smiles and laughs while standing next to the second place diver on the podium. The season, and his dive career, have come to a close with a splash.

Throughout his high school career, Willoughby traveled to Lawrence to receive coaching for diving, a sport in which the swim coaches here are not as well-versed in, according to Willoughby.

“The swim coaches did the best they could with what they knew,” Willoughby said. “They tried to get me to other dive meets, so that was really helpful.”

Despite their limited knowledge, the coaches, including head swim coach

Thriving in diving Standings of Willoughby’s state accomplishments

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Dan Dervin, reached out to other coaches to find meets suitable for Willoughby to compete in.

“The thing that was challenging was knowing that Mitch was going to be prepared for the next step,” Dervin said. “[We wanted] to make sure [he] had enough meets so he would be prepared for state.”

At school practices, Willoughby would practice dives by himself after learning the proper motions from his outside practices. Willoughby’s private coach also taught him various other things about the sport.

“My coach in Lawrence was just really helpful,” Willoughby said. “I had to learn how to fill out a dive sheet, how to score things [and] how to do all the coaching side of it because I didn’t have that coach to fill out the paperwork for me.”

2nd place at state junior year

ABOVE: Preparing to move into a pike position, senior Mitch Willoughby dives at state on Saturday Feb. 18. Photo by Jakob Twigg

Although Willoughby placed three years in a row at state, he faced several challenges that came with being the only diver.

“It’s a lot of self-motivation,” Willoughby said. “When there’s no one there to push you, you kind of slack off, so you just have to be driven.”

While Willoughby doesn’t plan to continue with diving after high school, he currently enjoys coaching eighthgraders in dive and sees coaching as a good way to remain involved in the sport.

“I didn’t think I would like [coaching], just because it’s hard going from doing it to trying to tell someone else how to do it with [just] your words,” Willoughby said. “But it’s a lot of fun; I think it’ll be a fun way to transition from the sport, still being able to stay in the sport but in a different area of it.”

1st place at state senior year

3rd place at state sophomore year

design by anika roy

features

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worki ng the

netw

ork

Com

mu p r iv n i t y e v at e net aluat e wo r s ks c the vi r ont rov tual ersy

Split decision

Students often use VPN to bypass restrictions on school Wi-Fi. Photo illustration

by Avery Sheltra

Students debate whether or not to use a virtual private network

FOr

“It blocks the Wi-Fi so I canuse Snapchat and Instagram and Facebook ... My Wi-Fi is faster.”

junior cameron loew

against

“I used it for a few months, but it slowed down my phone so I decided to using my own LTE.”

sophomore kaleb shukeat

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features

mill valley high school

Jagwire

by ABBY LAYTON

social media editor jagwire.abbylayton@gmail.com

A

student walks into school, looking down on at her phone. As the phone connects to the school’s Wi-Fi, social media apps like Snapchat and Instagram can no longer be used. As a solution, the student turns on her VPN, or a virtual private network, on her phone.

Sophomore Brian Parks, a student who uses a VPN on his phone at school, has been familiar with technology from a very young age, and VPNs specifically since he was ten.

Parks says the purpose of a virtual private network is to protect the user’s privacy and prevent them from being spied on by other users. “[VPNs] make a tunnel from the network you are on to a different network, and bypasses any firewall or security that the network has on it,” Parks said.

While the intended purpose of VPNs may have been to protect the user’s privacy, chief operational technology officer Brandon Riffel believes students are using the apps for a purpose other than what they were built for.

“I think most [students] are just trying to get past the web content filter,” Riffel said. “I mean there are a few I’m sure that are trying to protect their privacy, but I think most are just trying to get to something, not necessarily because they are trying to do something unacceptable… [but] I think just part of [students] everyday life is using social media.”

Junior Vanessa Harlow also believes students use VPNs so they can use apps blocked by the school Wi-Fi. “[VPNs] work pretty well when there is no service,” Harlow said. “You can turn the Wi-Fi on and go on Snapchat.

… [Students use them] so they can still be on the Wi-Fi and use Snapchat, Instagram and Twitter.”

The reason the district has certain restrictions on the school Wi-Fi, according to Riffel, is to protect students from cyberbullying. In addition, it’s to make sure students are using their technology at school appropriately.

“Students’ parents expect [the administration] to block those things because all they’ve heard is the bullying and bad things that can happen, but it’s a work in progress and it always will be,” Riffel said.

“As long as you know exactly what VPN does, go ahead.”

SOPHOMORE BRIAN PARKS The use of VPNs while at school is forbidden, according to the current 2017 Acceptable Use Policy. However, according to Riffel, because too many students use a VPN the district has never punished a student for using one.

“We have not one time enforced the acceptable use policy on VPN use,” Riffel said. “The easy way for me to enforce that is if I see VPN traffic, those users get blocked.”

As VPNs grow in popularity, so does the controversy surrounding them.

While many students accept the fact VPNs work, there is little concrete information on the actual effects the apps have on students’ phones. For this reason, sophomore Zach Steiger chooses not to use VPN. “Their software is designed to use

what’s the HARM? disables security features, so it’s easier to get hacked

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history on your phone,” Steiger said. “In the terms and conditions it says they can use any data on your phone that they like.”

Until recently, teachers were not affected by the school firewall restrictions. However, English teacher Anna Nelson resorted to downloading a VPN on her school laptop when a blocked website stood in the way of her lesson plans.

“I thought it just wasn’t working, but my class thought it was being blocked, and they said put this VPN on there and it will work,” Nelson said. “So I installed it and it worked but I haven’t really used it too much since.”

In the future, Riffel believes there needs to be a more open discussion between students, parents and administration to address a policy that he believes needs to be changed.

“I know that the policy we have now where we don’t allow most social media is pushing students to find other ways to get to their social media,” Riffel said.

“I think education and communication needs to happen [and] part of that communication and discussion is going to be why are students using it and is there another way we can facilitate the things [students] need to do without being risky.”

Ultimately, Parks believes that while VPNs serve a purpose, students should still be aware of what they are putting on their phones.

“Truly they won’t have much of an affect on them except porting through a different network,” Parks said. “If they were to install a VPN that someone purposely developed that also has a virus on it, it could cause problems for them … but it will get around restrictions. As long as you know exactly what it does, then go ahead.”

Chief technology officer Brandon Riffel and sophomore Brian Parks warn students what can happen to their phone after a virtual private network

the potential to slow down a phone’s speed

design by tricia Drumm and hunter ristau features

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reaching goals After three months of fundraising, teams surpass the initial set goal

Amount raised: $75,750 Total goal: $50,000

Cancer survivors participate in many events to honor their battle

p

urple tablecloths, baby’s breath in mason jars and Starburst candies covered every table in the senior cafe on Friday, March 31.

From grandparents to seventh graders, cancer survivors and loved ones feasted on Fazoli’s pasta, salad and breadsticks while learning about each other’s cancer experiences. When the survivors aren’t eating, they were adding their purple handprint to the ‘Survivors of Hope’ mural.

Preparation for the Relay for Life survivor dinner began early December when the committee members contacted restaurants to see who could donate meals.

Later, the committee raised even more money with the jean drive, in which teachers donated $5 to wear jeans to work the week before spring break.

The number of survivors in attendance at the survivor dinner has greatly increased from last year’s 40 to 100 registered guests. Senior survivor dinner co-chair Sidney Lawyer expects the number to continue growing in years to

come.

“Every year we keep doing it it’s going to get bigger,” Lawyer said. “I love to see it grow.”

Sophomore Bobby Dyche was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma in January 2015, his eighth grade year.

After eight rounds of chemotherapy, Dyche went into remission in July 2015.

He was a guest at both last year’s event and this year’s.

“The most valuable part is creating the sense of community.”

SPONSOR ERIN HAYES “I felt really happy with all the support,” Dyche said. “I got to meet new people and talk to them about their experiences. It just felt really good to be there.”

Former Monticello Trails Middle School science teacher Roger Bruns was diagnosed with prostate cancer in October of 2015, when a robot performed an

RIGHT: At Relay for Life, sophomore Bobby Dyche enjoys the company of fellow cancer survivor Sean Brewer.

“Sean was very inspiring and caring; he encouraged me.

He was also very supportive,” Dyche said. Photo by Hunter Ristau

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features

mill valley high school

Jagwire

by TRICIA DRUMM

features editor jagwire.triciadrumm@gmail.com

by ANIKA ROY

sports editor jagwire.anikaroy@gmail.com

immediate surgery to remove the cancer with money raised for the American Cancer Society.

Since being in remission, he has attended both Relay for Life events.

“Thank goodness for all the research and money raised,” Bruns said. “It’s because of the research that [the surgery] worked out very well.”

After watching a family struggle with cancer firsthand, Lawyer recognizes the importance of supporting survivors and those still fighting.

“We try to honor them as much as we can and the dinner is the least we can do,” Lawyer said. “They honestly deserve so much.”

As the survivors and loved ones walked the first lap through the main hallway to kick off Relay for Life and the survivor dinner, they were met with a roar of applause, cheers and endless encouragement.

“I had to try not to cry when we started the survivor lap because a lot of people were walking through there, and I could already see them crying,” Lawyer said. “I was very proud.”

RFL sponsor Erin Hayes is certain the significance of the dinner is not in the meal itself, but rather the sense of

community it builds for survivors in attendance. “[The survivor dinner] is to show them they are loved and supported and that we will continue to help them in their fight against this disease,” Hayes said via email. “A good meal and cute decorations are important, but the most valuable part of this event is in creating the sense of community and care among all of those in attendance.”

Planning the survivor lap and dinner is the most rewarding part of being on the Relay for Life committee for Lawyer.

“To be able to do something specifically for survivors or for people still battling is so important and so meaningful,” Lawyer said. “I think this is the best of the best right here being able to help the families personally.”

To Bruns, Relay for Life is an important thing for the community and is a significant event and accomplishment that USD 232 should be proud of.

“Mill Valley and [USD 232] are so awesome, and everybody’s working together,” Bruns said. “It’s like with the football seasons; we’ve had two state championships, and Relay for Life is like our two state championships here.”

who do you relay for?

JUNIOR ALLISON WINKER Jagwire

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JUNIOR TORI WESP

ABOVE: Monticello Trails Middle School student Camryn Beggs puts her handprint on the survivors of hope banner. “I liked the stories they told at the beginning and I liked the walk,” Beggs said. Photo by Hunter Ristau

Relay for Life team members particpated in the event in honor of their loved ones

SOPHOMORE QUINTON HALL design by margaret mellott features

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kKansas nsas City city

A guide to

by KAtyA GILLIG

news editor jagwire.katyagillig@gmail.com

by ALLY NGUYEn

opinions editor jagwire.allynguyen@gmail.com

Students frequently explore Kansas City’s different eccentric neighborhoods and areas

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special section

photo illustration by marah shulda and victoria wright

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Design by alison booth and victoria wright special section

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k nsas city m

ultiple restaurants, shops and sources of entertainment line the crowded streets of Westport and the brightly-painted buildings create an enjoyable environment for a person of any age.

The city was founded in 1831 by Reverend Isaac McCoy as an independent city and became an official part of Kansas City in 1897.

Today, the city is one of the main entertainment districts in Kansas with many places to eat, shop and listen to live music. Art from local vendors and artists can also be found throughout the city in the fall during its annual Westport Art Fair.

Even though Kansas City is a large area, most of sophomore Lauren Harris’ favorite locations are in Westport because of the memories she has made with her friends.

“I go to Westport with my friends and we walk around, take pictures, eat and look at the unique shops and bou-

tiques down there,” Harris said. “It’s just a different part of Kansas, it’s different than Shawnee, so we get a new setting.”

Sophomore Paige Nentwig agrees with Harris and favors a shop known for its unique selection of items.

“It’s different than Shawnee, so we get a new setting.”

SOPHOMORE LAUREN HARRIS “Westport is beautiful and there’s many things to do and places to see,” Nentwig said. “My favorite place is It’s a Beautiful Day because it’s cool and there’s many different items that you can gift to people.”

Senior Mariana Cruz also enjoys the Westport area and likes the “new” atmosphere to the older city.

Westport

“I think it’s a really up-and-coming area,” Cruz said. “It has a lot of new restaurants and things to explore. My favorite place in Westport is Oddly Correct because they have great coffee.”

However, restaurants and coffee aren’t the only things offered in Westport; the city also provides multiple places to take photos, according to Harris. “[My friends and I] go to the telephone booth and take pictures,” Harris said. “There are a lot of murals down there that are great for photos.”

Cruz, on the other hand, opts for a more natural setting in another part of the historic city.

“I like to take photos down by the River Market,” Cruz said. “It is a beautiful area.”

Overall, Nentwig likes Westport because of the activities you can do there.

“Westport is the only place we can go on weekends that isn’t too far away,” Nentwig said. “We have fun and make memories.”

Students frequent the historic city of Westport with friends to visit multitude of shops, take advantage of photo opportunities

RIGHT: While in Prospero’s Books in Westport, sophomore Paige Nentwig reads one of the many books. “I enjoy Prospero’s books because I love to read,” Nentwig said.

Photo by Marah Shulda

topstops

Union Station

Science City WWI Museum Coterie Theatre

Crossroads

First Fridays Tapcade at Crossroads Town Topic

Top four stops on Kansas City’s new streetcar and popular activities around each

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Jagwire

Crossroads Arts District

Local craftsmanship and art facilities create a favorable atmosphere for students in Crossroads District

ABOVE: Standing on stage at the Kauffman Center for Performing Arts, senior Natalie Carrera looks up at the lights before performing. Photo submitted by Naralie Carrera

O

nce vacant warehouses are now home to the galleries, restaurants and boutiques of the Crossroads Art District. From the antique shops featured during the First Weekends to the performances at the Kauffman Center For Performing Arts, the Crossroads has a wide array of entertainment options.

Sophomore Libby Mullican attributes the atmosphere for making the Crossroads District a favorite place. “[I like it because of] the vibe that you

Power & Light

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get when you’re down there and all of the cool shops,” Mullican said. “It’s just a very historic part of town.”

Having performed “Big River” with the Culture House in the summer of 2014, senior Natalie Carrera has an interesting perspective of the Kauffman Center. This experience made it a special place for her.

“For me it’s special because I got to perform on the Kauffman stage, and that’s a really unique opportunity,” Carrera said. “I was only in the ensemble but it’s an awesome place. I pass by it every day on my way to work so it’s really cool.”

On the First Weekends many antique shops open in many of the old warehouses. Mullican believes these shops are better than other regular antique shops.

“It’s different because all of them kind of show their best work at the same time,” Mullican said. “There’s more people in there, so you sometimes have to wait in line, but it is worth it for some stores because the vendors are local.

That’s what makes a difference, having that KC experience.”

According to Carrera, the addition of the Kauffman has made Kansas City an exclusive and special place for the arts.

“The Kauffman is known as one of the best performing arts center in the nation, let alone the world, so it’s really cool to have it here,” Carrera said. “It’s brought a lot more having the Kauffman and the music hall. I think it’s enriched the music and arts culture in Kansas City.”

Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Kauffman Center The College Basketball Experience

mill valley high school

River Market

goodeats

TripAdvisor’s top three restaurants in the Crossroads District area

101 W 22nd St., Kansas City, MO

F I O R E L L A ‘ S

Webster House

101 W 22nd St. #300, Kansas City, MO

1644 Wyandotte St., Kansas City, MO

Arabia Steamboat Museum City Market Breakout KC

Design by alison booth and victoria wright special section

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k nsas city Country Plaza

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hile there are many factors that make Kansas City unique, one of the most prominent aspects of the city is that it is commonly referred to as the “City of Fountains.” Many of those iconic fountains can be found littered throughout the Country Club Plaza.

Another feature this spirited town has can be found in the winter. Horsedrawn carriages can be seen on the roads and bright lights are found lining the Spanish style buildings, offering a picturesque area to shop and dine.

Junior Kayla Russell frequently visits the Plaza with her friends to visit the shops and restaurants. When she is dining there, Russell’s favorite spot is popular restaurant, Buca di Beppo, which serves Italian cuisine.

“Their food is really unique, and the restaurant is really unique on the inside,” Russell said.

Sophomore Lindsey Edwards enjoys the sights offered at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, but it represents more than a place to sight-see because of her past experiences at the location.

“I have been to the Nelson ever since I was really little,” Edwards said. “It’s just a really good place and it’s got a lot of memories there for me.”

The Plaza is home to a wide selection

Plaza offers visitors several shopping options, unique food and museums

of places to shop, from clothing to furniture. There are over 100 places listed under the retail section of the Country Club Plaza website.

Russell likes the variety of shops that can be found at the Plaza because of the “good combination of unique Kansas City shops and stores you would find at the mall.”

“[The Nelson has] a lot of opportunities for the community to get involved.”

SOPHOMORE LINDSEY EDWARDS According to Edwards, when compared to other art museums the Nelson has a lot more to offer in many different ways.

“The Nelson is different because it has a lot of variety and is very big compared to the other art museums I’ve been to,” Edwards said. “They keep it updated regularly and have a lot of opportunities for the community to get involved.“

RIGHT: While in Forever 21 on the Plaza sophomore Lindsey Edwards looks at a shirt on Wednesday, March 15.

Photo by Marah Shulda

City of Fountains 1973 18

The year Harold Rice deemed K.C. the “City of Fountains”

Kansas City is known among other cities as the “City of Fountains” due to their imminent presence

J.C. Nichols Memorial Fountain

The most photographed fountain in the city

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Officially registered fountains in the K.C. area

Source: City of Fountains Foundation

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Jagwire

Made in Kansas City CHARLIE HUSTLE T-SHIRTS

PARISI COFFEE

Popular items and merchandise made and bought around the Kansas City area

CHRISTOPHER ELBOW CHOCOLATES

KANSAS CITY BARBECUE SAUCE

“Charlie Hustle started the “loving K.C.” phenomenon. It creates a pride in the city and the shirts are really soft too.”

“It’s the bitterness that I like and they do a really good job with their pourovers.”

“They all have a more rich and perfect flavor compared to other companies [which] sets them apart.”

“K.C. [barbecue sauce] is more sweet compared to the south where there’s more of a vinegar-based barbecue.”

ENGLISH TEACHER ASHLEY AGRE

SENIOR SAM LOPEZ

ENGLISH TEACHER HEATHYR SHAW

SENIOR TY MILLER

Students take advantage of popular K.C. murals for photo opportunities with friends

Mural Moments LEFT: Holding hands, sophomores Lexi Knappen and Jordan Dean show their love for Kansas City on Friday, Aug. 5, 2016 in front of a popular mural. Photo submitted by Jordan Dean

ABOVE: Sophomore Allie Sagi and freshman Mandy Teasley pose downtown on Monday, Jan. 16. Photo submitted by Mandy Teasley

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LEFT: While roaming around downtown with friends, junior Kayla Russel stops for a picture by a new mural on Wednesday, Feb. 22. Photo submitted by Kayla Russel

Design by alison booth and victoria wright special section

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k nsas city

Kansas City we’re so in

The Filling Station

by MORGAN GURWELL

managing editor jagwire.morgangurwell@gmail.com

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or the past few years, I’ve frequented the downtown area quite a bit for doctors appointments. I absolutely hated going, which my mom was plenty aware of, so one day after an appointment, she took me to the Filling Station coffee shop. It quickly became a tradition of ours after every appointment, making me actually look forward to going.

The Filling Station is a cafe on a quiet

The Music Hall

by ANNIE MYERS

news editor jagwire.anniemyers@gmail.com

S

eeing that the majority of her dance competitions are held downtown, my favorite part about Kansas City is getting to watch my best friend, sophomore Bella Line, dance at the city’s Music Hall.

From the start of our friendship in the second grade, dance has brought us together. My personal experience in the area is limited to a slim two years of mediocre classes but, in spite of that, we came together to choreograph and perform a dance in the elementary school talent show.

Years after my resignation from the sport, she continued on with her company and, eventually, the school dance

20

opinions

A collection of opinions from staff members about what makes Kansas City meaningful and somewhat secluded street in downtown KC. It’s nestled in between new condos filled with young and hip people out walking their dogs. It’s definitely the kind of area I can see myself living in one day.

You feel like you’ve discovered your own little secret.

The best part about this place is that not too many know about it except for the locals, so you kind of feel like you’ve discovered your own little secret when you walk in. Although it’s in downtown, it’s in a secluded enough spot that you team, allowing her to compete downtown and elsewhere.

With each performance, I grow more and more in awe of her immense talent.

Sure, the 25 minute drive wouldn’t be included on a list of my favorite things in the world, but seeing her perform and place high among her peers would.

Because of the distance, the possibility of me making it to every competition is unlikely. However, I can better appreciate the experience for its location.

Not only is the architecture of the building beautiful, but it feels almost like going out with a friend. The only difference is that the friend I’m with is doing what she loves in an environment that we can both admire.

Watching Bella perform downtown has strenghtened our friendship and brought us closer together. Because of that beautiful magic, the Music Hall in Kansas City holds a dear place in my heart.

can’t hear the buzz of the city.

Hence the name, this restaurant used to be a gas station, which you can see through the glass garage doors, original brick walls and potted plants in old tires. They serve rich coffee, freshly squeezed juices and perhaps the best scones in the city. Whether we are downtown for an appointment or just a day of shopping, the Filling Station has become our go-to place.

As I was only nine at the time, the best part for me was being able to skip school for a little longer. Now, however, I love going not only because the coffee and food are great, but also because I get to spend a few extra moments with just my mom in my favorite little corner of K.C.

ABOVE: Reporter Annie Myers enjoys watching her best friend, sophomore Bella Line, dance at the Kansas City Music Hall.

Photo submitted by Annie Myers

mill valley high school Jagwire

Tapcade KC

by JOE MCCLAIN

reporter and photographer jagwire.joemcclain@gmail.com

A

fter spending way too much time on one game, my family beat the entire Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles arcade game through sheer will and thumb power. Though I don’t consider myself very much of a gamer, my favorite place in Kansas City is the Tapcade.

This unique arcade has a retro 80s and 90s feel with a wide variety of classic arcade games. Not only do they have arcade games, but they have a movie theater, a Nintendo 64, a bar for those

Union Station

by ABBY LAYTON

social media editor jagwire.abbylayton@gmail.com

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or as long as I can remember, my grandparents have taken my brother and I to the Union Station during the Christmas season. We would see the huge Christmas tree they set up along with the impressive train display in the main hall. We would also go to Fritz’s every year for lunch, where the food was always mediocre, but at the time, my brother was obsessed with trains.

While I wasn’t always interested in the trains, and not too impressed with the tree or the Christmas decorations, I still loved to go. It was the tradition and I loved spending time with my grandparents. My parents never went, so it was something just for the four of us.

For some reason I always looked forward to it every year, even when my brother Ryan clearly had the most fun.

He would always run ahead with my grandpa, ready to explore every inch of the train display, even though it was the exact same as the year before.

As we got older, the experience wasn’t as important to our Christmas season, but the memory always remained. The Union Station added some much needed sparkle to our winter break, and I thank my grandparents every day for taking the time to give my brother and I something so special.

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who are of age and an exquisite menu that hosts some ultra dank burritos.

Though it may be for the “90s kids,” the ambiance of Tapcade will never fade from my memory.

The ambiance of Tapcade will never fade from my memory.

After spending quite some time there, I’ve deemed that it’s a blast for the whole family. Modern arcades are still

fun, but nothing can beat the originals and originality is Tapcade’s forte. After going there a few times, I found that at the end of every visit, I wished to return soon. The only downside to this establishment of excellence is the age restrictions; no children under 18 years of age are allowed after 8 p.m. However, this is understandable because the selection of alcoholic beverages is extensive and most of the arcade games and movie posters are well over 18 years of age.

Despite only being let in during the daytime, I’ve had a blast playing TMNT and many other games. Button mashing a pixelated screen with a homemade chocolate chip cookie in my mouth is something unique that I would encourage everyone to experience.

National World War I Museum

by James Ball

reporter and photographer jagwire.jamesball@gmail.com

W

alking into the World War I museum, you first see the walls lined with glass casings and artifacts.

Being a history junkie since I was younger, I loved going to museums.

This museum by far is the most unique I have ever been to due to its spectacular collection of WWI artifacts and its overall emotional effect.

The museum entrance is a powerful experience in which you walk over a field of poppies, symbolizing the famous Flanders Field. This walkway makes this Kansas City attraction an entrance into the past, and deems the museum an unforgettable experience. This is by far my favorite part of the museum.

From antique medals to giant mortars, this museum has them all. My personal favorite is the WWI Harley Davidson. My dad and I bonded over this artifact due to our love of motorcycles.

However, one of the most honorable things in my life happened here. While I was visiting, I had the honor of meeting Roger Donlon, the first Congressional Medal of Honor winner of Vietnam.

The museum overall is just a fantastic experience and I would recommend it to any and all.

ABOVE: The National World War I museum stands tall above Kansas City, honoring those who died in the war. Photo by Marah Shulda

Design by nora lucas and ally nguyen

opinions

21

Staff editorial

The JagWire gives its opinion on a topic covered in this issue

Kansas Court ruling offers a jumping off point for discussion

F

or the third time, the Kansas Supreme Court has ruled that the state’s inadequate funding towards public education is unconstitutional. The news immediately became a trending topic on social media and drew national attention from news outlets such as the New York Times and the Huffington Post.

While it does not immediately solve funding problems, this ruling is a step in the right direction for Kansas schools who desperately need the money to support their students and faculty.

Since we as students, teachers and administrators often feel the repercussions of spending cuts, this ruling was a big deal to us. What some fail to realize, however, is that this decision was nothing new. For years, Kansas has been trying to develop a functioning plan that benefits both taxpayers and schools alike. Yet, time and time again, we see legislators approve formulas with little change from the previous plan.

We’re not saying it’s easy to pass a state funding formula that benefits all types of schools. In Kansas, you have 1A rural schools competing for funding with 6A schools, some of which are located in profitable business districts,

kansas schools

need more funds

which inherently provides them with more money. A perfect plan is certainly hard to come by. However, from the switch to block grant-style distribution in 2009 and the recent Senate proposal to cut $128 million from K-12 education, it seems apparent that public education funding continues to decline year after year.

Time and time again, we see legislators approve formulas with little change from the previous plan.

Because of these cuts, we’ve actually lost over $7 million since 2009 in USD232 alone, according to superintendent Frank Harwood. While it takes time and resources to develop well-structured funding formulas, the legislature needs to take action before

this legislative session ends and at least begin to finalize a plan. It’s difficult for schools to develop budgets for next year when they don’t know how much funding they will receive.

A big problem is we don’t have money to pull out of thin air. It’s all either been spent encouraging our economy or given back to taxpayers. Although it may not make people happy, creating more revenue through tax increases could be a hail mary for our schools. In February, the Kansas Senate proposed House Bill 2178, which called to “increase personal income taxes and eliminate a tax exemption for businesses,” according to the Topeka Capital Journal.

Unfortunately, the bill was vetoed by Gov. Brownback. The Kansas Department of Revenue says the bill would have created about $590 million by next year.

Education is an investment, and it’s an investment in our future. For us, more funding could mean more teachers per department, better computers or more career and technical programs.

But what the bottom line of this means is a better education. No matter how we get there, that is the end game.

jagwire staff vote Agree

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Disagree

0

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buzzfeed provides both entertainment and journalism

BuzzFeed should be regarded as a legitimate news source by all

Admittedly, BuzzFeed does provide readers with its fair share of silly cat pictures and overrated humor, so I do understand the hesitation to allow students use the site in school. But, its recent move towards providing more in-depth coverage of U.S. politics and economics is substantial, and should verify its existence as a reliable news source.

In fact, in January, BuzzFeed was the first news site to publish a dossier detailing relations between the Russian government and President Donald Trump, a feat other news sites like CNN failed to execute. Although CNN, among others, claimed that the in-

formation provided was not verified, BuzzFeed said that they published it “so that Americans can make up their own minds about allegations about [Trump].”

While some looked down upon BuzzFeed for this decision, I admire them; they felt like the public should receive the whole story, and I’d have to agree.

It’s a known fact that BuzzFeed is notorious for its quizzes and internet memes, but this doesn’t have any effect nor bias on their news reporting. Instead of assuming that their entire site is pure entertainment, do your own research.

Read some BuzzFeed news stories and them form your own opinion about the site.

by alison booth

copy editor jagwire.alisonbooth@gmail.com

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hen I began researching story ideas for this issue, I drew a blank when it came time to suggest A&E ideas — as always. So, I decided to check out BuzzFeed’s latest A&E stories. However, when I tried to access their website during school, I discovered it was blocked. After refreshing the page multiple times and furrowing my brow at the screen, I realized that I wasn’t able to access one of my favorite websites just because I was using school Wi-Fi.

twigg’s helpful list about getting through high school before we can live our life to the fullest while we still have it. These following tips are designed to get you through high school in one piece or at least have a good laugh (more or less).

High school is a difficult and stressful time, so here’s some tips

Floss daily, because you don’t want people gawking at the gunk between your teeth.

by jakob twigg

sports editor jagwire.jakobtwigg@gmail.com

L

ife as we know it is pretty short and hard. To the universe, we’re just a miniscule speck of dust. To the world, you and I are just one in 7 billion trying to stand out. Us first world homosapiens all need to get a few rules straight

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mill valley high school

First up is English class, whether it be honors or regular, it can have its moments. It might not be your favorite, but an easy way to get an A on an essay is to use a thesaurus to sound more floccinaucinihilipilific.

Tip Two: Floss daily, because you don’t want people gawking at the gunk

between your teeth. Flossing is also beneficial to your oral health, a plus.

Tip three: Next up on the list is to always know how to find lost stuff.

Now matter how hard you try and find something, it always seems to be in the last place you look. So when you lose something, check there first. We lose a lot in high school, and some things we will never get back. But don’t fret; sometimes it’s OK to lose, as long as you’re happy with the result.

Tip four: [Place tip here] It is your life, not mine. Be your own person and listen to your own voice.

Most people at this point would have stopped reading at the title, so if you stuck around and beared through this then good for you. Life is whatever you make it to be, for better or for worse.

You don’t need a guide book to live it.

The only thing I ask of those who got this far is to remember: anything is possible if you go out and live your life.

Who knows what will happen?

Disclaimer: You should floss though, it helps with health and painful trips to the dentist.

illustrations by avery sheltra Design by nora lucas and ally nguyen opinions

23

the classifications

change Administrat ors and KSHSAA officials have differing ideas to improve both Kansas state legislature and state school classification system

by JAKOB TWIGG

sports editor jagwire.jakobtwigg@gmail.com

A

thletic directors from across the state are challenging both Kansas State High School Activities Association by-laws and Kansas State legislature to change school classifications.

Paola athletic director Jeff Hines — alongside Girard Middle School principal Randy Heatherly — have chosen to challenge state statute K.S.A. 72-130 in Senate Bill #145 to change what they believe to be a competitive imbalance among schools, particularly private

by BRADEN SHAW

editor-in-chief jagwire.bradenshaw@gmail.com

schools.

With these potential changes, Hines believes a new classification system could create a more even playing field for both public and private schools, particularly in the playoffs. “[The potential changes] would create much more competitive postseason tournaments,” Hines said via email. “Moving really successful private schools up a division would create more parity in all levels of play and allow a

ABOVE: With his hands on his opponent’s shoulders, junior Ike Valencia pushes the Bishop Miege player back on Friday, Oct. 7. photo by Morgan Gurwell

24

sports

ABOVE: At the sub-state game against St. Thomas Aquinas on Saturday, Oct. 22, freshman Samantha Shelton jumps in the air to serve a ball. Photo by Margaret Mellott

truly competitive postseason tournament to develop.”

Hines suggests one of two options of his own, regarding private schools’ classifications in particular: a success modifier allowing schools that finish in the top four in three or four consecutive seasons to move up a classification or a multiplier rule where private schools’ attendance would be multiplied by a fixed number to increase enrollment numbers.

While Hines is seeking to even the playing field with private schools, Bishop Miege athletic director Mike Hubka — who also served on the KSHSAA classification study committee the past two years — believes that the current state of athletics doesn’t entirely fall on private schools.

“Several schools have rich traditions that have produced great amounts of success that include state championships, both public and private,” Hubka said via email. “Most success in any school runs in cycles - basically related to a group or class of athletes and/or a particular coach. I imagine the classification of any school impacts who they have to play in the postseason.”

At the same time that Hines is pushing for these changes, KSHSAA has discussed two plans during its most recent meeting on Jan. 11 to potentially put 36 schools in each classification or create eight championships/classifications for football. Both parties have not gained traction to make any immediate chang-

mill valley high school

Jagwire

es thus far.

According to senior Chris Hoog, who transferred to Mill Valley after his sophomore year at St. James, the potential change could possibly benefit private schools with a much needed challenge in some sports.

“Private school athletics will continue to thrive if they are being put into a higher class because they will be put against higher competition,” Hoog said.

“They will undoubtedly struggle at first because they won’t necessarily have the talent that a bigger school does, but it will push them to improve their program in a given sport and excel.”

Hines and Heatherly gave out a survey to KSHSAA member schools to gain support with a response rate of 80 percent. Of the schools that responded, 82 percent of schools were in Kansas support change regarding private school classification.

However, the Kansas Senate Education Committee held a hearing over the bill on Feb. 13 and a week later deciding to take no action. The Kansas Senate is currently reworking the school funding formula, taking attention away from the issue. Hines hopes to force movement at the upcoming April 28 KSHSAA meeting.

The bar is set higher for private schools, according to Hoog who believes that public schools have more leeway when it comes to success on the field.

“The standard for high school sports in private schools is already set higher than public schools,” Hoog said. “A school like Pembroke Hill or St. James is expected by their own administration to perform better overall in athletics then a public school like Mill Valley is.”

Hubka agrees with the changes as long as the potential changes apply to both public and private schools seeing that “there are currently too many state championships for the size that Kansas is.”

Even with the current standstill with both Kansas state legislature and KSHSAA itself, Hines hopes that one of his proposals will pass to fix the current system.

“It is not right to allow a select few students from elite private schools take opportunity away from small town schools,” Hines said. “I want to be clear it is not the fault of the players or coaches of these private schools, the system is broken. My three daughters all attend a private catholic school yet I am leading the charge to correct a problem that has existed for many decades.“

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a look at the options

A glance at the two possible solutions being discussed at the state level

option number one: Option one is to count one student in attendance at winning private schools as closer to one and a half students to advance to higher class

option number two: Option two is to move a private school to a higher class after the school finishes in the top three or four in four consecutive seasons in a sport

ST. JAMES ACADEMY 14 STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS in 9 years ST. THOMAS AQUINAS 91 STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS in 25 years BISHOP MIEGE 94 STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS in 45 years design by anika roy and chris sprenger

sports

25

Looking Future To The

After the first year in the Eastern Kansas League, athletes and administration look ahead at future seasons to come

by BRADEN SHAW

editor-in-chief jagwire.bradenshaw@gmail.com

T

he first year of Mill Valley athletics competing in the Eastern Kansas League provided new challenges from the previous years in the Kaw Valley League.

The athletic year thus far has been highlighted by another football state championship, first place league finishes for both bowling teams and second place league finishes for boys cross country and wrestling.

Athletic director Jerald VanRheen — who has experience in the EKL at Gardner as a coach — wanted to match the league's intensity from the start.

“I wanted all of our coaches to make sure that the weight room was a priority because I felt like the EKL is physically stronger than what we had been in,” VanRheen said. “I wanted people in the best league in the state to see that we belong in the EKL.” The new league brought other changes for the boys soccer team, such as having the right mindset, according to senior Adam Grube.

“We’d have these lulls in games where we just didn’t have our focus [against EKL opponents],” Grube said.

“We’d lose three straight games to teams that we shouldn’t have lost to. So it’s just keeping our speed of play fast throughout the entire season and not just picking and choosing.”

The league switch also served as

ABOVE: Fighting for the ball, senior Adam Grube blocks a Shawnee Mission North player on Tuesday, Aug. 30. The Jaguars won after the game was called at halftime due to inclimate weather, making the final score 4-0. Photo by Madison Ferguson

a wake up call for the girls basketball team, according to junior Evan Zars, who quickly realized that she had to work harder to compete in the EKL. “We used to think we were one of the top teams,” Zars said. "Now we see how competitive other schools really are and where we really do stand. Now we know how hard we have to work.”

Grube agreed, but also believed that the new league will help previously inexperienced players to compete at the highest level.

“For the younger kids, they were able

to realize how varsity plays and how the state tournament is going to be,” Grube said. “It’s a lot more physical and it’s a lot faster play.”

For VanRheen, the change was necessary and has helped to prepare all of the teams to be their best at the highest level of competition.

“If you want to run with the big dogs then you better play with the big dogs,” VanRheen said. “We’re putting ourselves in a position that will prepare us for any team that we see in a postseason situation.”

AthleticAccolades Over the past 17 years, MVHS has acquired a large number of athletic awards and accomplishments

99 ABOVE: Dribbling to the basket, junior Evan Zars goes in to make a layup on Friday, Dec. 9. The Lady Jags pulled ahead and beat the Lawrence Free State Firebirds 54-42. Photo by Morgan Gurwell

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sports

Design by Jakob twigg

KVL Athletic championships

3

2 EKL Athletic championships

Athletic State championships

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Jagwire

OverTime

An inside look and additonal coverage on this season’s sports and athletes

ABOVE: During an intense after school practice, head track and field coach Chris McAfee discusses the daily workouts for the team on Monday, April 3. Photo by Victoria Wright

running START

anticipating the Superior Varsity basketball players predict the champions of 2017 NCAA tournament

Social studies teacher and cross country coach Chris McAfee takes on role as the new head track and field coach for this 2017 season

by JOE MCCLAIN

reporter and photographer jagwire.joemcclain@gmail.com

T

he boys track team has recently undergone a change in management.

Distance coach Chris McAfee has taken up the position of boys head track coach after 18 years of coaching in the district, two of which at Mill Valley.

“I’ve been a head coach before and I really enjoy it,” McAfee said. “The opportunity was there so I decided to step in.”

After taking the program over from former boys head coach Chris Dunback, McAfee plans to keep running the track team the same way for the time being.

Dunback is now a specialized throwing coach.

“Coach Dunback obviously ran a tremendous program so it’s hard to say if things need to be done differently,” McAfee said.

Though McAfee plans to run the team similarly to Dunback, sophomore Harry Ahrenholtz is excited to see what McAfee brings to the table.

“It happened pretty quickly, so it was a subtle change for me at first,” Ahrenholtz said. “That being said, I feel like he’s going to be a good head coach.”

One of McAfee’s major goals as boys head coach is to make sure that he connects with all of the athletes on a per-

Jagwire Mill valley high school

sonal level as well as a conventional one.

“I try to be pretty laid back and mellow,” McAfee said. “I want to make sure I connect with everyone as best as I can.”

According to Ahrenholtz, McAfee’s main focus is getting to know the athletes by trying to motivate them to get a little bit better each day and pushing them during practice.

“It’s cool because we’ll pass each other in the halls and say hi,” Ahrenholtz said. “Then at track practice, he’ll check in on how I’m doing in my events.”

Still adjusting to his position, McAfee hopes for a successful season and looks forward to coaching the future generations of Mill Valley track and field.

“Being head coach is a lot more work; I have a lot more responsibilities and paperwork to do and it takes up a lot more of my time,” McAfee said. “I write entries and make sure everyone has all of their stuff turned in.”

Ahrenholtz participates in the high jump and triple jump. Although McAfee plans to run the program how Dunback did, Ahrenholtz thinks that his different personality will affect the team in a different way.

“He’s a bit more passionate about being a coach than Dunback was,” Ahrenholtz said. “He’s a really good leader [and] he really strives to make every individual better in every event.”

“North Carolina [will win] because they are a better team and Roy Williams will get the guys fired up.”

junior ike valencia

“Gonzaga [will win] because they have a strong offense and they know how to move the ball.”

SOPHOMORE TRINITY KNAPP

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mill valley high school

Jagwire

parks forPups

by MICHAEL SANDRI

reporter and photographer jagwire.michaelsandri@gmail.com

by MARAH SHULDA

reporter and photographer jagwire.marahshulda@gmail.com

At a glance

A rating system out of five based on cleanliness, space and puppy-friendliness

Two dog-owning JagWire reporters set out to review three popular dog parks in the a Johnson county area

shawnee misson park

7900 Renner Rd., Shawnee

Swanson park

ABOVE: JagWire reporter Marah Shulda’s dog, Kona, sits at Shawnee Mission Park, on Thursday, March 23. Photo by Claire Boone

6241 Woodland Rd., Shawnee ABOVE: JagWire reporter Michael Sandri’s dog, Junior, joyfully makes his way up a log on Thursday, March 23, while exploring the trail of Swanson Park. Photo by Claire Boone

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his place is huge and a great park for experienced dogs, but not the best for young or rowdy dogs. It’s not fenced in, and it’s filthy. On the path, you have to watch your step or else you might step in a pleasant surprise left by a fluffy mongrel. In lieu of this, the park offers free doggy bags and trash cans all around. It seems, though, that the patrons choose to bypass this luxury.

The park ends in a lake for dogs of all shapes and sizes to frolic in the water.

It is lined with stones so you don’t have to worry about dogs getting muddy.

The walk back to the parking lot is the perfect distance to let your dog dry off.

RIGHT: On Monday, March 27, JagWire reporter Marah Shulda’s dog, Kona, rests before taking off into the woods along a narrow path.

Photo by Marah Shulda

Jagwire Mill valley high school

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t Swanson’s, there is more of a restriction on what dogs they let in the park. In order to enter the park, owners have to fill out an application for their dog which consists of what their dog looks like, its vaccinations and contact information. Swansons also offers boarding where the same application is used. When you enter the park you can view the entire park from the top of a hill. It is very clean, grassy and there are not very many places for your dog to get dirty.

They also offer free doggy bags at the entrance of the park, however, they didn’t have any water for dogs.

There are also trash cans placed at various locations around the park. During our time there, we didn’t see any poop that hadn’t been picked up. There are also many trees which provide a good amount of shade for tired dogs. These trees also produce tons of sticks which are perfect for throwing and keeping the dogs entertained. The entire complex is fenced in and, because of that, it is perfect for puppies who might try to escape and run free. However, it is unlikely they will want to leave.

kill creek K park

11670 S Homestead Ln., Olathe

ill Creek offered no off leash area, but there was a 10 mile trail around two small lakes. The trail itself was very muddy and went through a wooded area. This provided plenty of sticks for the dogs to play fetch with. Unlike the other locations, there were no doggy bags provided and that downfall showed on the trail.

Design by margaret mellott

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Let’s taco bout it

by madison ferguson

editor-in-chief jagwire.madisonferguson@gmail.com

by CHRIS SPRENGER

reporter and photographer jagwire.chrissprenger@gmail.com

The JagWire reviews four different restaurants known for their tacos in the Kansas City metro area

how it works Journalism adviser Kathy Habiger recommended the first stop, Ponak’s. From there, a Ponak’s employees suggested Tacos el Matedor.

The JagWire staff continued this process for two more restaurants.

The rating system is out of five based on taste, presentation and environment.

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la fuente

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ponak’s

2856 southwest boulevard, kansas city, mo

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alking up to the first location, we felt that we were stepping into a restaurant that would provide a quality experience. Although the rooms were dimly lit with majority of the light coming from the few windows, the walls were brightly decorated with many pop culture inspired posters and

10901 w 75 Street, Shawnee

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xcited with what was to come, we walked into a naturally lit room.

This was the largest restaurant that we went in to on our taco journey, and had the most family-friendly vibes. The overall layout was similar to that of a family restaurant with more open area

salsa on the side In addition to the tacos, the JagWire staff also rated the salsa of each restaurant based on texture and overall taste

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paintings.

Their taco presented itself to appear more basic. The shell had a nice crunch to it and kept in the filling. When it came to the meat, Ponak’s did not let us down. Most of the taco was filled with well-seasoned ground beef. The taco seemed to lay on a bed of excess lettuce that could not fit into the shell with the cheese.

With there being a lot of extra filling on the plate, be prepared to scoop the rest with the fresh tortilla chips. While it was a tough decision between this place and the next place we found ourselves, we gave Ponak’s a 4.5 out of five because of their taco’s fantastic taste.

filled up with booths and a bar.

Here, the taco initially looked as appetizing as the rest, but they fell short when it came to taste. We could taste an undeniable hint of lemon, which gave the taco an overpowering citrus taste.

This was our least favorite taco.

The toppings were very basic, only cold lettuce and cheese on top of lukewarm ground beef. The filling also had a chalky consistency that was hard to chew without sipping on water.

first: ponak’s Unlike the other salsas we tasted, Ponak’s had a much thicker consistency. When you dunked the freshly baked chip into the salsa, it would not slide off the chip.

The base did not overpower the overall flavor with tomato and the seasonings added incorporated the perfect amount of spice.

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2

tacos el matador

1230 merriam lane, kansas city

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fter pulling into the parking lot of Tacos El Matador, we could tell that it had a tight-knit feel because of its small size. With an incomplete parking lot and not much outside decor, it was apparent that the restaurant’s success would be solely on their food quality.

There was minimal decor on the walls inside, and the tables were positioned in a close proximity. The employees there were extremely friendly, greeting us at the door before leading us to the counter to order.

We didn’t have to wait long before we were brought our meal. The taco dripped with perfection. Every bite consisted of ground beef, cheese, lettuce, tomato and sour cream: an amazing combination that provided a sense of at home comfort. Even though they

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la chihuahua

were loaded with toppings, the edges remained crispy. It was the perfect amount of each topping to compliment the well-seasoned ground beef.

The flavors all worked together effortlessly, resulting in an amazing taco.

7769 quivira road, shawnee

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t our last stop, we began to feel the effects of the previous taco places on our appetite, but that did not hinder our excitement for more food. We had to do a double take, however, when we approached the final restaurant to make sure that we were at a taco place. Contrasting the previous restaurants, the bright, electric green on the walls reminded us of a smoothie place.

Stepping into the restaurant, we were greeted by an empty counter and the overwhelming smell of seasoned meat.

We were greeted by a young woman who took our orders at the kitchen counter.

second: La Fuente third: Tacos el matedor Jagwire

mill valley high school

With the food being phenomenal, we just had to give the tacos a perfect five.

Due to the excellent taste, and the perfect amount of each ingredient in it, the tacos found a great place in our ratings and in our stomachs.

photos by hunter ristau

While we were skeptical of the location, we were glad we continued on and ordered our tacos. Unfortunately, they did not offer your average ground beef taco, so we went with the carne asada street tacos. The meat inside was well-seasoned steak bits with only onion and cilantro to compliment as toppings. The shell of the taco was warm and fluffy, which perfectly tied together the meal as a whole.

The combination seemed so simple, because there were only two toppings, but it was definitely worth the money and it was a great mix-up from your traditional taco.

fourth: La Chihuahua Design by LExi Flipse And morgan gurwell

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RIGHT: Before going to track practice on Monday, April 4, senior Morgan Thomas stops at her car to drop of her backpack and pick up her track equipment.

Photo by Victoria Wright BELOW: After school, freshman Dilara King playfully throws tennis ball containers into the garbage bin on Thursday, March 23.

Photo by James Ball

ABOVE: During early release, sophomore Rock Houghton walks out of the main entrance towards his car on Friday, March 31, while surrounded by other students.

Photo by James Ball LEFT: Preparing to ride away after school on Wednesday, March 22, senior Johnny O’Hara mounts his motorcycle in the parking lot. Photo by Tricia Drumm

car

chaos

Students do numerous activities in the parking lot at the end of the school day ABOVE: After the final school bell rings, students rush to their cars and exit the parking lot on Thursday, March 30. Photo by Carter Lawson

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photo essay

Design by Victoria Wright

mill valley high school

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