{reporter}
THE
volume 92 issue 5 may 2017 paola high school 401 angela street paola, ks 66071
In this issue {5} saying goodbye {7} local adventures {10-11} class favorites {14} top sports moments {16-20} literary magazine
adieu staff list
through hard work, journalism staff becomes family for all 3.5 Year- editor
3 year- editor
robinson
hoskins
Editor-in-chief
Ashley Everhart
karly
shannon
2016-2017
So long
farewell auf wiedersehen
the Reporter Managing Editor Karly Hoskins
Online & Social Media Editors
Mariah Sullivan & Moorea Long
Palsmeier
1 Year- Reporter
While many people have fallen under the impression that all we do in journalism is eat food, carve pumpkins and play shaving cream wiffle ball, I think the five newspaper issues we have produced this year prove otherwise. I’m not denying we don’t eat food or play games (we’ve definitely done a lot of the two) but we have still managed to pour ourselves into every newspaper page. We’ve made many changes to our program this year, between combining staffs, redesigning the paper, and moving everything over to online, we’ve all been a little bit more than overwhelmed. Not only have we persevered through all of this, but we’ve become a family. What makes our family so special is our ability to accept each other for who we are. We have a wide variety of personalities on staff -- some of us dance on tables with flags while others can go the entire class period without talking
{2}
Ashley
everhart
Amanda Meeks
4 year- editor
-- either way, we embrace everyone’s differences. Because of this mix of unique characters, we’ve formed many memories and irreplaceable friendships. These friendships make leaving so difficult for the other seniors and myself. It’s hard to imagine starting a week without Mrs. Chayer’s positive “Happy Monday,” or one of Bre Allen’s crazy stories or even simply witnessing Moorea Long down an entire pizza. I know bigger and better things await besides high school journalism, but it’s hard to remember this in the midst of teary goodbyes and sad hugs. It is because of this newfound family that I would like to thank the entire community for making our publications possible. To our readers: For taking an interest in our publications and making all of our hard work worth it. Every time someone compliments
The Reporter May 2017 Editorial
Ads Manager
our work we are overcome with gratitude. To the community: For purchasing ads and making the newspaper possible. Because of you, I have found my place in high school, and have even been able to determine my future career aspirations. To the student body and faculty members: For allowing us to bother you during all hours of the day. Without you and all of the interesting aspects of your lives, there would be nothing to put in the paper. To The Miami County Republic: For distributing our newspaper with yours and helping us to showcase all of our skills. I have drawn endless inspiration from your work, and have grown to appreciate what it takes to be a journalist. To the school custodians: For cleaning up after us after every food day. I know we get pretty messy, but we’ve truly been working on staying clean. We’ve made it the
.
Senior ads managers entire year without finding food in filing cabinets, so I’d say that’s a pretty big accomplishment. To the IT department: For fixing the computers every time something goes wrong so we can get back to work as soon as possible. Honestly, most of the problems you’ve run into were probably caused by me accidentally knocking the computers over. And thanks to anyone else I may have overlooked who has helped with the making of our newspaper. I am proud to call myself editor-in-chief of such an amazing staff and publication. Know that I’m only one call away if you ever need anything -- it may actually take three or four calls because half of the time I don’t know where my phone is -- but regardless, I’ll always have your backs.
Bre Allen & Abby Winterscheid
Reporters
Kalyn Bell, Erik Brakner, Stephanie Castillo, Jenna Collier, Claire Cox, Emma Cox, Lainey Dent, Breuana DuVal, Joey DuVal, Macayla Enman, Paige Fleming, Jacquee Hecker, Makayla Hughes, Skyler Hughes, Natasha King, Kelsey Lester, Hannah Menefee, Ethan Palsmeier, Cali Seck, Gracyn Shulista, Matthew Troutman, Abbie Upshaw
Adviser
BriAnne Chayer
It is the policy of the Paola Reporter to provide a forum for student expression, voices in the uninhibited, robust, free, and open discussion of issues. The Reporter encourages students to write letters to the editor or submit articles for the editorial page. We reserve the right to edit content. Material that contains libelous or obscene information will not be published. Material that will cause a disruption of school activities is also prohibited. Authors must provide their full name. No articles will be published with an alias.
Volume 92 Issue 5 mission statement
1.5 Year- Reporter
ethan
the reporter editorial policy
abbie upshaw
The Reporter is for the students, by the students. The goal of The Reporter is to give the students a voice, and provide an open forum of ideas while maintaining an ethical publication with unbiased coverage.
Future so Bright senior paths splinter off after graduation { } { Katelin Anderson Jacob Maichel Breahna allen senior ads manager
What are your plans after grauation? To pursue costume design as a career because it gives me peace. It is one thing in my life that just works. How will you pursue this? I am shadowing the costume department at the KCRep on the UMKC campus. Do you have any advice to someone wanting to do this also? Start early and do not overwork yourself.
senior ads manager
Yes, even though we are going to miss each other. Are you nervous about joining the millitary? Not really, it’s something I’ve always wanted to do.
What are your plans after graduation?
What are your plans after graduation?
To join the workforce for Coca-Cola.
To go to K- State and major in Biology.
Why did you want to work there?
What type of career are you planning?
To make money. I will make approximately $17. 50 an hour.
I want to go to medical school, and am thinking about anesthesiology or pathology.
My job title is Warehouse Order Builder. My job is to organize what products ship to differnet places.
reporter
Does your family support you decision?
Addison Watrous
}
matthew troutman
What are your plans for after graduation? I’m going into the military- specifically the Army.
James Meeks What responsibilities will your job entail?
}{
abby wintersCheid
Have you always been interested in biology? Ever since I took human anatomy I have been really interested in the human body.
The Reporter may 2017 features
{3}
HELP WANTED!
your night...
Forklift Operator/ Material Handler
your event...
Louisburg Cider Mill
your
14730 K68 HWY
12 S. Hedge Lane Paola, KS 66071 (913)294-4400
Call and ask for Brent for further details 913-837-5202
913-294-9449 JOURNALISM ONLINE CHECK PHS OUT... Frontier League Updates
{4}
The Reporter may 2017 advertisement
23 W. Wea Paola KS
WWW.PHSJOURNALISM.COM
Valuable Lessons teachers prepare to retire in may {
} {kelsey lester} {joey Duval}
jacquee hecker
In the fall of 1978, Cristie Sims started teaching language arts and social sciences at the high school. In May, Sims will retire after 24 years of teaching. Sims said she has learned multiple lessons when it comes to teaching. “I can tell you where the lessons came from, it came from students. Those are always my most valuable lessons,” Sims said. Sims, who teaches Developmental Leadership, said she will miss her fellow teachers and her students. Senior Allyson Frizzell said Sims taught her how to think outside the box. “She has taught me to look beyond what you see and think one step ahead,” Frizzell said. Frizzell said Sims demonstrates the traits of a strong leader. “She is always thinking about others. She would stop at the drop of a hat to help someone else,” Frizzell said. Frizzell said she hopes more people get involved in Dev Led next year even after Sims retires. Spanish Teacher Sydney Dulgari-
reporter
an will retire in May after teaching for 40 years. “It’s interesting, it’s fulfilling, it doesn’t change all that much from year to year,” Dulgarian said. Dulgarian taught math teachers Lisa Collier and French teacher Sara Allison when they were in high school. “It’s always interesting to see where your students go because they don’t always turn out the way you expected,” Dulgarian said. Dulgarian said she plans to spend more time with family, travel and substitute teach. Special education teacher Jean Criss said the special education department made great changes in the 16 years she has been working at the high school. “We don’t have a lot of ins and outs and we haven’t had everybody new all at once,” she said. Criss said it is interesting to watch students grow into adulthood. “The thing that always amazes me is you see it in their eyes that something finally clicked,” Criss said. “Once they finally understand it, the appreciation they have after
reporter
reporter
they are out of school shows. You don’t see it while they are in school but you see it when they come back after school and after they graduate,” Criss said. Criss said learning has a pendulum effect; it moves back and forth in constant changes. “I have enjoyed it, but it’s been hard. I’ve seen all the changes in not only kids themselves, but in parents and curriculum,” Criss said. Secretary Missy Thompson, said she had the opportunity of knowing Criss for 12 years. “I was a para when I first started,” Thompson said. Thompson said she was the best boss she ever had. “She ran her department very professionally and there was never fighting,” she said. Thompson said she will miss her because she was an important part of her life. “I worked for her personally, I helped her out with things in her home and that helped with really getting to know her on a more personal level,” she said.
Spanish teacher Sydney Dulgarian helps students during Spanish I on May 2. Dulgarian is retiring in May after 40 years of teaching. {Photo by Amanda Meeks}
The Reporter may 2017 school news
{5}
for
dress success Mariah sullivan} { seniors individualize graduation outfits by decorating caps with mementos online editor
As a way to show his memories from the past four years, senior Trey Slyter said he plans to decorate his graduation cap with pictures of his friends and the quote “the party never ends.” “This was just a huge thing within my group of friends over the years and it’s basically meant to mean that even if we all go away, we’re all gonna have the memories,” Slyter said. Slyter said cap decorations allow people to express themselves. He said he intends for his cap to signify his time in high school coming to an end. “I thought it would be cool to have all of my high-school experience wrapped up onto it,” Slyter said. “It’s all just coming to an end. These are the people that I’ve grown up with for the last 12 years, they are always going to be my friends.” Slyter said allowing cap decorations is important. “If schools don’t allow people to decorate their caps then you smother people’s expression,” said Slyter.
Although cap decorations are not important to graduation, senior Liz Stone said it can be a fun way to express yourself. “It can show everybody a little bit of yourself,” Stone said. Stone said although there are many upsides to decorating caps, there are also some downsides. “It can distract from the whole ceremony that is graduation,” said Stone. While some students have chosen to decorate their caps, senior Keaton Farmer said he will not. “Decorating caps is a lot of work,” Farmer said. “I’m also not the best artist and I feel that during the hat toss, it would get easily damaged.” Farmer said he thinks cap decorations are a good way for people to show individuality. “Artistic expression is good for people,” Farmer said. “Cap decorations put out what people are doing.”
Are seniors decorating their caps? yes 66% no 34%
{Source: Reporter survey of 41 percent of seniors}
Signs of Success black/gold cords: top 10 percent of the class white cords: National Honor Society medallion: valedictorian & salutatorian {Source: Linda Rice Registrar}
{6}
The Reporter may 2017 entertainment
Senior Trey Slyter designed his graduation cap with pictures of himself and his friends during the past four years. “I didn’t want to be super cliche and be all college on it, so I decided to put memories from high school on it,” Slyter said. {Photo courtesy of Trey Slyter}
small town adventures stay local {
}
Karly hoskins managing editor
A free activity in Paola is the Paola Free Library, which is located off the Square. Check out up to ten items, five can be movies . If returned on time, the rentals cost nothing. The library is always getting in new books, and if you can’t find it there, they will even ship books in from other locations.
paola free library
Whether you’re looking for an aesthetically pleasing item for your bedroom or a birthday gift for a friend, Park Square Emporium is the perfect place to search. The owners of the shop are constantly buying new items to put on their shelves. Not only do they sell antiques, they have a variety of books, movies and cardboard cut-outs from Winnie-thePooh to Iron Man. The Emporium is on the west side of the Square.
park square emporium
If you’re craving Starbucks, but don’t feel like driving to Olathe, Cafe Latte is the perfect place to pick up a cup of joe. Not a coffee lover? No worries. The coffee shop, on Kansas Ave. near Subway, offers hot, cold and frozen coffee, a variety of teas, baked goods and even serves breakfast and lunch during the week. Cafe Latte is the perfect place to grab a beverage or snack to go, or even enjoy it in store.
Grandstand Burgers is a NASCAR-themed restaurant that offers burgers, fries and shakes. They also offer a great ice cream cone, priced at $1 plus tax. On sunny days, the restaurant offers picnic outdoor seating near Wallace Park.
cafe latte grandstand burgers Back Home Nursery, rated five out of five stars on its Facebook account, is the perfect place to pick out plants and flowers for your home and garden; or a beautiful basket for Mother’s Day. The nursery is in Osawatomie down John Brown Road.
{Photos by Karly Hoskins & Mariah Sullivan}
back home nursery
Instead of traveling to Oak Park Mall to buy a new outfit, stop by Adorned on Gold for cute shirts, dresses, pants, jewelry or shoes. They also offer tanning beds for those over 18 and spray tans,for those who aren’t. Adorned is located down Gold street, off the square.
adorned on gold
The Reporter may 2017 entertainment
{7}
Ethan palsmeier our unique cliques and started exploring our talents and hobbies, what made us individuals. Life after high school still seemed so far away, and yet it breathed down our necks every chance it got. Somehow, we survived. As juniors, we buckled down and got serious. The more insightful among us decided what we wanted to do with our lives once we were freed from the classroom and started working toward those goals. We fought uphill battles all year long, making plans for our futures in between assignments. Oh, and prom was in there somewhere, too. Somehow, we survived. As seniors, we finally ascended to our rightful place at the top of the food chain. We finally became adults, so we believed, and a few of us breathed a sigh of relief as we could finally do all the things we had before we turned 18, but legally. We
applied to colleges, for scholarships, for grants or loans. We enlisted with the military or joined tech schools. We began to come to terms with life beyond these walls. Oh, and there was another prom. Somehow, we survived. And now here we are, at the end of the world. Our lives are over. Nothing after high school will ever matter as we struggle to recapture the glory of our youth. To that, I say quit being so dramatic. High school may be over, so now is a good time to leave the drama behind, but that does not mean they were defining years of our lives. We have so much more adventure and excitement ahead of us. So remember your days of football and track, Scholar’s Bowl and choir, quizzes and tests fondly. Your life starts now.
live everydaylast
shannon robinson
we survived
11 STORIES written 7 pages designed 1 year on staff 10 photos published
68 STORIES written 79 pages designed 3.5 years on staff 32 photos published
Everyone has heard the phrase ‘live everyday like it’s your last’. This is my motto, the very thing I live by, because I know all too well how true it is. I learned the hard way how fragile life really is and how quickly it can leave someone. Last summer, I was at camp when I got a horrifying phone call. The next day, I was at a hospital saying goodbye to the lifeless
doing something, I just think, “This could be my only chance to do it because who knows if there will be a tomorrow.” This change in mindset has helped me to accomplish many things and create a better future plan than I had before. I say what I think I voice my opinion more freely, and I do things I wouldn’t normally do because, why not? No one knows
when their last day on Earth will be, so why not tell that person you have been admiring for so long how you feel? Go do the crazy thing your friend has been asking you to do for months or take that road trip you’ve been wanting to go on. Live life to the fullest, and make everyday count because you or anyone you know could be living their last day today.
a coming of age story for the class of 2017 It’s all over now. No more zany spirit weeks or pep rallies. No more tedious homework or tests. No more boisterous sports games or club tournaments. No more agonizing projects or finals. The stands are empty and the lunch line is bare. The desks sit unfilled and the Chromebooks have been returned. The hallways are dormant and the bathrooms are spared from more graffiti, at least until next year. And all I can think to say is... it’s about bloody time. We, the graduating class of 2017, have barely survived the four most grueling years of our education. So far. We tackled all obstacles in our way, from mountains of busy work, through juggling our jobs, our extracurricular activities, to even our own classmates and teachers. And now we must take on our greatest challenge yet; adapting to being the next generation of adults in this asinine, back-
wards, hate-mongering, insane world. Here in the hallowed halls of Paola High, we have been sheltered from the worst humanity has to offer. Now, we must make it on our own. This is not a startling revelation; it’s something we all knew was coming when we walked through those extremely well-protected glass doors all the way back in 2013. We all knew these four years would be in preparation for adulthood. As freshman, walking through those doors was awe-inspiring as we marveled at what we thought were supposed to be the best years of our lives. We soon learned otherwise as we were forced to adapt to block scheduling, rigorous coursework and upperclassmen who did nothing to hide their contempt for us. Somehow, we survived. As sophomores, we started to get a grip on our new course loads. We formed
like it’s your
encounter with death teaches life lesson
{8 }
body that had lost the essence of the person I once knew. It’s nine months later and I still think about him all the time. The way he used to bear hug me and spin me around every time he saw me to say hello or the deep conversations we had and the advice he gave when I was having problems. Ever since that terrible day, whenever I am wrestling with the idea of doing or not
The Reporter may 2017 opinion
don’t waste the short amount of time you have together I’d walk in my house after work, grab my plate of food waiting for me in the microwave, go to my room and shut the door. This was my life from my sophomore year to halfway through my senior year of high school, I hardly made any contact with my family unless I had to. Looking back on all the time I wasted breaks my heart. I put everything before my family and I didn’t appreciate the love they had for me. At the beginning of this year, I went through some pretty serious heartbreak that led me back to my family. At my lowest point, I finally turned to them, broken
and in need of repair, and they were waiting for me with their arms wide open. Their love had been with me all throughout high school. I didn’t have to ask for it, I just had to open my eyes to see it. Ever since the beginning of this year, I’ve been very conscious of how much time I spend cooped up in my room alone and I’ve made a better effort to be more social with my family. This past semester has been a rollercoaster of emotions for me, but my family’s constant love has made it enjoyable nonetheless. I sit with Mom as she cooks and we discuss our day; I spend more time eating
Letter to the editor Dear Sir or Madam, This is a letter for the PHS student body, but especially you seniors in your final weeks of high school. As I am coming up on the end of my first year at The University of Kansas, I want to express to those of you considering or already preparing for college how incredible your experience can be. Attending college has pushed me to grow as a person, lead me to learn many new things and introduced me to countless different types of people. You will find that the value of attending college goes beyond ensuring your career path or a larger salary. While the college experience is exceptional and fun, it is also socially, academically and emotionally challenging. So, I have also prepared a few tips or pieces of advice for you to keep in mind as you en-
ter college your freshman year: No. 1. Manage Your Time: There are going to be times when you will want to sleep instead of writing that paper. Or, go out instead of reading that chapter. Or, you will want to binge watch Netflix instead of studying for that midterm. DON’T! This is easier said than done, and I admit that I fall prey to procrastination more than I would like to. But, I stress the importance of scheduling time in your day to work on homework. And be consistent! I promise you a lot of your potential success in college will depend on your ability to manage your time. Get a head start and begin practicing now! No. 2. Practice Self-Care: There is no easy way to put this : being in college is stressful. Period. You find yourself in a completely new environment surround-
abbie upshaw
we are family
17 STORIES written 9 photos published 8 pages designed 1.5 years on staff
dinner with my family. Riley and I go on late night trips for ice cream. There’s a never-ending stream of sarcastic jokes shared with my dad. I simply enjoy being an Upshaw. I didn’t have that a whole lot before because I ignored many of the opportunities I had to spend with them. I thought spending time alone in my room watching Netflix or Youtube, doing homework or talking to other people was more important. However, I’ve come to find that when our internet quits working or people let me down, my family is still there for me. Everything in my life is changing. Riley
no longer has to ride with me to and from school and conversations with my parents recently have revolved around scholarships and college to-dos. Sadly, while growing closer to my family, I’ve been simultaneously getting ready to leave them as I prepare to go to college in the fall. The little time you have in high school is precious -- don’t waste it. Make time for all the people in your life who matter and love them as much as you can. No family is perfect and there will always be moments where you won’t be able to stand each other, but you’ll never regret the time you spend loving them, I promise.
ed by all new people and a new level of academia. Your stress levels will rise and that is OK. What will become crucial to managing that stress is how well you take care of yourself. Get plenty of sleep and don’t skip meals. Be responsible, but make sure you have some fun. And most importantly, take time out of your day to do something relaxing that you love – write, draw, work out, go for a walk, listen to music, etc. If you do something like this to take care of yourself, your mind will be much healthier and happier. No. 3. Push Yourself: Once you find your comfort zone in your first weeks of college, do something to push yourself outside of it. For some of you that might mean joining a club you think you will enjoy. You might consider running for student senate or joining an activist group. For others it might mean speaking up in a large class to answer a question or starting a conversation with the person next to you. The point is you should try to do things that pull you out of your comfort zone so you can grow. These will be things that scare you or make you nervous, but you will be
grateful to have explored unknown parts of yourself, and you will be a better person for it. Those are my tips for an overall successful first year in college. However, they are generally good practices in any stage of your life! The final advice I would like to share is to stress the importance of seeking outside scholarships. The local endowment is fantastic but your counselors aren’t lying when they say so many other options for scholarship money are out there. Take time to seek them out! I was able to benefit from one scholarship in particular at KU called the Hixson Opportunity Award. This program has helped me financially in an incredible capacity. I highly recommend checking this scholarship out on KU’s website, and going to KU but that is a separate matter. I wish you, the student body and the PHS Senior class of 2017, the best of luck in all of your future endeavors! Best regards, Linda Flores, ‘16 graduate
The Reporter may 2017 Opinion
{9 }
o o o ndings o E happy o o o o o o o new Beginnings {ashley everhart} {ethan palsmeier} editor-in-chiEf
reporter
k j k j h u u j u k j k j k j h u k u j j u j h h u u a look into the senior
classes favorite aspects
of high school
top class major
nursing 13%
Senior, Annie Mae Kelley said she believes she has changed in many ways since her freshman year. Kelley said she has matured and become less hyper than she used to be. “I’m going to miss the connections I made and the extracurricular activities,” Kelley said. {Photo illustration by Ashley Everhart}
. . . top universittey kansas sta university 11%
favorite english book 1 The great gatsby: 32.1% of mice and men: 13.2% warriors don’t cry: 7.5%
2
agriculture: 7% current social issues: 3.5%
best school lunch 1 Panther rib: 53.2% 2
orange chicken: 19. 1% ham & cheese stromboli:
. . .
. . .
2
favorite class 1 band: 9.2%
{Art by: Paige Flem
3
{10}
The Reporter may 2017 Features
3
3
o o
what are those: 15% yolo: 11% duck lips: 9.4% yeet: 9.4% swag: 7% dabbing: 5.5% chacos: 3% mannequin challenge: 3%
...
2 most likely to...
...
steal my dog and take it to college
-Isaac Heid, senior
get a doctorate purely out of spite
-Jillian Law, senior
own a crocs store
-Isa Loya, senior
swim in a pool made out of fondue
-Jake Hastert, senior
waste all his money on videogames
.
-Nate Trigg, senior
go completly off of the grid
-Noah Rolf, senior
stress out over absolutely nothing
-Maddie Olson, senior
o best song released 1 24k magic: 13.2% 2
hotline bling: 9.4% hello: 7.5%
.
.
% % 12%
.. .
o
seniors grant themselves awards
ming, Jenna Collier and Natasha King}
h
o
super latives
most annoying trends 1 vaping: 35.8%
3
3
4 5
6
7
8
9
{Source: Reporter survey of 40 percent of senior class}
ived
rece y e n o ip m
o o o class of o o o o o o o seventeen {} arsh
m total a
0 0 0 , 0 19
hol c s f o t oun
$
The Reporter may 2017 features
11
long waythetop high on life to
karly hoskins
Ashley Everhart
students shouldn’t base their future & dreams on money more than one way to go about your high school career 107 STORIES written 79 STORIES written 21 photos published 27 photos published 97 pages designed 79 pages designed 3 years on staff 4 years on staff Working with children is often a struggle. One thing that really stood out to me when I first started my job at the O-Zone is the developmental delay in some children, specifically in communication. Working with the children, learning their quirks and personalities drove me to my major: speech-language pathology. Not only will I get to work with a variety of ages and disabilities, I can also be creative and make an impact on another person’s life forever. I can’t see myself doing anything else with my future. I hope my classmates are following their passions and dreams as well and working hard to accomplish whatever they set their hearts to. The No. 1 question everyone gets asked as a senior in high school is where they plan to go after they graduate. Usually the question that follows is what they plan to major in. Throughout high school, teachers have tried to prepare us for our future, by giving us the materials to decide what we want to do with the rest of our lives. Freshman year, in Business and Technology Concepts, we researched the Kansas Career Pipeline website and discovered careers to pursue. Second semester, in Career and Life Planning, we researched and created a presentatio about a chosen career, ex-
{12}
plaining daily activities, responsibilities, education requirements and most important to students : annual income. A few presentations in, students began to compare the incomes for their “careers” and it became a competition. The project became less of “look how cool this job is” to “look how much money I can make.” Three years later, we still focus more on money than the actual career. How many seniors are basing their career choices on the financial aspect rather than their hobbies and passions? Everyone wants to be successful, but too many associate success with money. Don’t chase the jobs simply because you will be a well-paid employee, because you will never succeed. I will not consider myself successful until I have improved in my career, accomplished my goals, and found myself in a truly happy place in my life. That’s what we should all strive for in the future, not material items and earthly things. Chase your dreams and passions, and take the time to study for something that will make you happy for the rest of your life. I am beyond excited to be able to study something I am passionate about and to meet new people along my journey.
The Reporter may 2017 opinion
I have never been to a party with beer in place of a cake and pinata. I have never answered a question in class unless I was called on. I have never sat in the Rat Pack. I have never attended a homecoming dance. I have never eaten a school lunch. I have never wandered the halls during class or broken any other rules, for that matter. Most people look at this long list of experiences I’ve missed out on and assume my high school career was miserable. I have been told countless times I would later regret avoiding all of these activities. But believe it or not, there are more ways to go about your high school career than what is shown in movies like “Grease” and “High School Musical.” I have somehow managed not to do any of the activities from “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off”- yet I’ve still made the past four years into some of the best years I’ve had. I’ve learned high school is what you make of it, therefore you have to make it fun. By this I don’t mean you have to go out, drink a bunch of cheap beer and smoke god only knows what. You have to find joy in the journey, and despite popular belief, you don’t have to be high to do so. The memories I’ve made with my friends and family during the past years are far better than any high school dance. I’ve put on puppet shows, barked at
cars, rode countless roller coasters, talked to strangers, danced in the middle of the road and laughed until I peed my pants. And I’ll let you in on a little secret; while it may sound like you have to be high to participate in the majority of those activities—you don’t. If there is anything my mom has taught me during the past 17 years, it’s that life is too short. And I don’t know about the rest of you, but I won’t let my life pass me by while I’m sitting around smoking pot and eating potato chips. Now, I’m not completely naïve, and I fully understand why the majority of our population turns to drugs and alcohol; it is an easy alternative to life’s biggest problems. But here’s the thing: we all have problems and getting high or drunk only allows us to escape from them for a brief moment. Facing them allows us to actually be set free. So deal with whatever issues you have in your life and then move on. Don’t let your problems get in the way of eating spaghetti at your grandparents, playing hide-and-go seek with your cousins or sitting down for dinner with your parents. Once you’ve graduated and moved far, far away you won’t have the opportunity to experience all of those little moments with your family or friends anymore; and in life it’s the little moments that make life big.
1 in 615
a series providing a glimpse into the life of one out of the 615 unique students at PHS
Oh, the places she’ll go! white grows excited about plans to travel to china {hannah menefee} reporter
Growing up, senior Jessie White said she hardly traveled outside the Midwest. Now, she is preparing to go to China in February. The idea to go to China started when White’s step dad went back to school and heard about the opportunity to study abroad. “It all started as a joke, but as I thought about it and reflected on it more, I wanted to give it a try,” White said. “I filled out the forms, turned them in and got accepted.” White took science classes throughout high school and pushed herself in hard classes, but said she wasn’t happy because she has always loved history and culture. In addition to her love for culture, White also was inspired to go to China by the owners of Chen’s Buffet, a local Chinese restaurant. “I am very close with the owners of Chen’s and I run errands for them all the time,” White said. “The way they do everyday things and
their experience of coming to America fascinated me.” White plans to stay in China for two semesters, then return the following year for a third semester. With help from Chen’s, White has an idea of what life will be like in China. “I started working there when I was 15,” White said. “It taught me responsibility and showed me what life will really be like; that nothing is ever really handed to you.” Baylee Teagarden, fitness teacher, said she loves White’s self confidence. “She works incredibly hard and is positive and encouraging to her classmates,” Teagarden said. White is in Teagarden’s fitness class. Fitness not only gave White a chance to change her life, but also a chance to make new friends. “She is an excellent role model,” Teagarden said. “She completes every rep, every task and never takes a shortcut.”
While White is excited for the trip, her mom, Becky White, has mixed feelings. “At first I was shocked, terrified even,” she said. “But as I listened to her and her interest kept growing, I saw the glimmer of a life adventure she wanted to experience.” With a brief adjustment period and some research, White’s parents said they feel better about her going to China and they have prepared her and themselves as much as they could. “For me to get on the bandwagon, I wanted to know everything from customs to safety procedures,” White said. With the recent terrorist attacks on other countries, the Whites researched FBI suggestions in case of the worst scenario. Despite their worries, Becky said she’s proud of Jessie’s decision and supports her 100 percent. “I want her to experience life as she wants to,” Becky said. “I know this experience
will teach her so much more than she could ever learn from reading a book about it.” Becky said she is worried about her daughter’s safety and her ability to adapt to being away from home and her family. Friends had an impact on Jessie’s decision as well. Senior Josh Tegarden has known White since sixth grade and was shocked by her decision at first. “I didn’t believe it would actually happen because it was so big,” Tegarden said. Having a couple of friends who travelled outside the U.S. helped White with the final decision. Cybil Drummond, ‘16 grad, knows what White is going through because she lived in Peru for seven months her junior year of high school. “I am very excited for her,” Drummond said. “I know she will do great in her studies, make a lot of friends and have a good time.”
Senior Jessie White is excited about her plans to travel to China in February to study abroad and learn about the culture. White was crowned Prom Queen on April 22. {Photo by Bre Allen}
The Reporter may 2017 Features
{13}
moments last forever
{ { { { {{ }
that will
}1{ }2{ }3{ }4{ }5{
“Getting to go to football practice everyday with a big group of guys I love.” Cam Seck, senior
“Being in the rat pack When both basketball teams went to state last year.” Courtney earring, senior
“WE WERE FINALLY ABLE TO HOST HOME TENNIS TOURNAMENTS on the new courts.” TY RATZLAFF, senior
“the ball for the last point landed out of bounds which gave us our ticket to state.” chandler karr, senior
“Looking back and seeing how far I have come since freshman year in playing golf.” magnus van hoecke, senior
14
The Reporter may 2017 sports
} } } } }
seniors look back on favorite sports memories
{moorea long}{matt troutman}{ashley everhart} social media editor
reporter
editor-in-chief
All eyes went up and time seemed to freeze. The pressure was on and the Panthers were praying for the whistle to blow with an out-of-bounds call. The eyes followed the ball as it landed on the other side of the line. The girls jumped into the air and ran into a group hug. The Panther volleyball team was headed to State. Senior Chandler Karr said she would love to change her experience at last year’s State basketball championship game against Bishop Miege. “I would’ve liked to beat Miege for once,” Karr said. “Everyone wants a State champion banner or ring and it would prove that even though people doubt us, we believe in ourselves to beat an overrated team.” Senior Magnus Van Hoecke said he enjoys realizing how far he has come since his freshman year, but he said he wishes he could change just one thing. “I really wish I had worked harder on trying to make varsity golf my freshman year,” Van Hoecke said. While some would like to change the bittersweet past, senior Cam Seck said he is grateful for the relationships he formed during the past four years. “My teammates always push me to better myself and I did the same for them,” Seck said. “I will really miss going to practice everyday with a big group of guys I love.” Senior Ty Ratzlaff said he has enjoyed playing tennis throughout high school. “The new tennis courts are dope,” Ratzlaff said. “I’m really glad that I was introduced to tennis. It’s a fun sport that I will play throughout college for fun.” First: Senior Cam Seck walks off the field during a game against Piper Sept. 2. It was the first game of the year. {Photo by Ashley Everhart} Second: Senior Courtney Earring cheers on the football team at Panther stadium. The theme of the Rat Pack was beach night. {Photo by Bre Allen} Third: Senior Ty Ratzlaff returns the ball back to juniors Maddie Timpe and Jacob Weaver. Ratzlaff practiced with senior Chad Kinaman as a partner. {Photo by Jacquee Hecker} Fourth: The volleyball players listens to their coach at the State tournament. The Panthers placed fourth. {Photo by Stephanie Castillo}
bittersweet athletes seniors prepare to compete at college level {
}
stephanie castillo
Leaving in the fall, continuing her education and playing the sport she loves drew Allison Daggett to The University of Evansville to play softball on a scholarship. Daggett said she is excited to start a new chapter in her life, but will initially miss the familiarity of high school. “I am overjoyed to attend college there, mostly because it is a really good opportunity for me to be able to go to school somewhere I feel like I can fit in and play the sport I love,” she said. She said she chose the University of Evansville because it is a smaller university. “All the professors are experts in their field, It seems really welcoming, and every time I’ve been there I’ve had more than enough help. It just feels
like home,” Daggett said. Daggett plans to play middle infield. “A senior is going to be graduating and I’m going to come in; since most freshman recruits look to be outfileders, I will more than likely be middle infield.” Daggett said. Blaine Hanf said he plans to attend Neosho County Community College. on a baseball scholarship. Hanf said he chose Neosho because of its good junior college program. “Neosho has a solid JUCO program, one of the best in the nation,” Hanf said. While Hanf said he is excited, he will miss some things about Paola. “I will miss all the buddies I have played with for 10 to 12 years,” Hanf said. After attending Neosho,
reporter
Hanf said he hopes to continue his education and baseball career at Kansas State University. Isa Loya plans to attend Bethany College in Lindsborg on a golf scholarship. “They have a really good golf program, good education and the distance away from home is good,” Loya said. Loya plans to major in psychology, and minor in exercise science. She said she is excited to attend college there for the new experiences and adventures. Though she is excited, she said she will miss Paola. “I’m going to miss having my dad there to help with everything and coach me,” Loya said. Loya said she appreciates that Paola’s program has prepared her for college by playing with the boys and by playing longer distances.
match these mascots to their school
a neosho county community college b bethany college c University of evansville
{Photos courtesy of Google Images}
1-c, 2-a, 3-b
Top right Blaine Hanf pitches the ball May 4 during a home game against Spring Hill. {photo by Amanda Meeks} Bottom left Allison Daggett drives an outside pitch to left field April 20 during a home game agaisant Baldwin. {Photo by Mariah Sullivan}. Bottom right Isa Loya drives a ball of the tee during practice April 4. “golf is life” Loya said. {photo by Karly Hoskins}
1 2 3
The Reporter may 2017 Sports
{15}
THE MUSE
Third Annual Literary Magazine
designs by: Ashley Everhart, 12
{16}
Photo by: Lora wikstrom, 12
The Reporter may 2017 literary magazine
YOU.
art by Ale Wright, 9
by Kailey Johnson, 10
Apple, pear, hourglass, or other All we do is label one another. If someone is tall and “fat,” What’s the matter with that? If someone is short and stout, There is no need to call them out. Don’t say I’m going out on a limb If I say someone who is tall and thin Is still just as beautiful as you and I. As a society, we have set tons of standards Of what it means to be “perfect.” Years ago, to be pale and thick You were the prettiest of them all. Flash forward today, to be perfect is to be thin and tall. To have such an idea of beauty, Has caused many minds to become lost. Bad habits are developed And need to be fixed, but at what cost? The thought to be a certain weight Haunts you till you can’t think straight. So you skip a meal so a number can make you happy, But deep down inside, You still aren’t satisfied. But why is it considered cruel to starve a puppy Till bone Is shown, But it’s okay to do it to yourself? You are like a puppy. You are loved, you are perfect, And you should treat yourself kindly. Once you learn to love and appreciate yourself, Happiness will greet you and say “You’ve found me”. Because it’s important to love yourself Like you would a friend, sister, or brother. And finally realized you’re perfect, Whether you’re an “apple”, “pear”, “hourglass”, or other.
The Reporter may 2017 literary magazine
{17}
Broken
by: morgan demumbra
by: kalli burton
When I was younger, I never saw them that much. Going through the park with my parents, I would occasionally seem them, running through the bushes, sometimes pushing the swings, even. Once my father passed away, they became worse… more noticeable. By the time I was eleven, I began to see them outside the house at night. The trees would move without a hint of wind and that is how I knew they were there, watching me. I began to have nightmares about them. They would be under my bed, typical characteristics of a monster. I woke up screaming most nights after dreaming of a silhouette of a skinny hand reaching out over my pink, butterfly print comforter. My mother would come in, some nights crying and we would both lay there in my twin-sized bed for many hours, sometimes until the sun came up. We would watch the colors change from burning colors of orange, purple and pink to bright blue skies with cotton balls filling the sky. Mom would make hot chocolate and pancakes with strawberries and chocolate syrup, a perfect way to end a horrible night. Although, one morning, it was cereal and that’s how I knew something was wrong. She said there was a therapist in the city, one that I would start going to starting that following Monday. The first week, the therapist just wanted to get to know me and my past life. The second one, it became a little more intense and with each week, it got more and more deadly. Each session was a new day of picking through my brain. In the beginning, I would tell her exactly what was on my mind, sometimes snarky comments towards her and other times sarcastic comments thrown
here and there. Last year, I became very suspicious and cautious of everything going on in the room. I would watch what I said about the monsters, careful not to mention them at all, actually. Her questions became more intense and more nitpicky, sticking her nose in places where it did not belong. The monsters started following us to the building in June, last year and became very distracting. I would lose my focus, looking outside, trying to receive a better look of them, hoping to actually see what they looked like. Becky, the therapist, would have to snap at me sometimes, regaining my focus and drawing my attention back to her. One day though, last week, she said something to me that made me uncomfortable… “You’re a special child, you know?”. No, sorry, I don’t know, you creepy creeper. That’s not something you say to a child twenty-something years younger than you. But I asked her what she meant by that statement and she just smiled in return. That night, driving home from the store, they were following us. I could see them swinging from streetlight to streetlight. Well, I guess not really swinging, but jumping. When we pulled into our driveway, mom turns the key to turn the vehicle off and begins to step out of the four door, Nissan rogue we bought 3 years ago. I grab her arm and give her a silent ‘please don’t leave yet’ look and she slowly slides back behind the wheel. We sit there in silence for a few minutes and just think. We are not able to do this very often, but when we do, we know exactly what the other is thinking. “I miss him too, hun.”
to Read the rest of this short story go to www.phsjournalism.com
{18}
The Reporter may 2017 literary magazine
See this girl, she’s broken, a crying tragic mess. Who knows that she’s a failure. She can never be the best. See this girl, she’s bleeding, an unwanted piece of dirt. No matter how her smile looks. When she cut herself , it hurt. See this girl, she’s crying, an ugly waste of space. Feeling so unloved and empty. And can’t stand to see her face. See this girl she’s lying, and untrustworthy piece of scum. But with each lie she’s told She feels she is coming undone. See this girl, she’s writing, a poem about herself. This is what she thinks. This is how she felt.
Photo By: Breuana DuVal, 9
To My Daughter By Ben Aude
Ever since I found out about you, my life has had a purpose I’m not exactly sure how I’m gonna word this But you’re my daughter and I love you, I dedicate my life to you Nothing else has made me feel the way that I do People make jokes, people second guess Tell me how the rest of my life will be a mess But they don’t see what I’ve done I’m working to give you a good life, while they have fun I’m promising you that I’ll give you a better life than I had Rest of my life is dedicated to being a good dad I now see who really supports me and has my back And who will just leave me, when life gets out of whack I’ll tell you about my guardian angels, hoping they’re proud We can talk about them all day, just staring at a cloud No matter what anybody says, I’ll be here till the end I won’t be perfect, but any problems we can mend I’ll guide you the best I can, but life isn’t clear like water But it’s all worth the trouble, being a teenage father to my daughter
Photos By Elijah Lopez, 9 The Reporter may 2017 literary magazine
{19}
tribute class of 2017 lemore, 11
ack art by: tori m
Art by: tori ma ckle
mor e, 1 1
These certain teens, Have come of age, To start following their plans and dreams, Which were once just an inspirational thing. And as they stand before everybody, Their hearts are racing, Fastily pacing, All in unity. It seems too hard to believe, But now that childhood has come and gone, They are about to move forward, move on But even when it breaks their heart, They all get up and stand, With their heads held high, Looking grand. Just because it’s not in the palm of your hand, Doesn't mean it will all fall apart, Because it's all part of the wing-it plan. Because these certain teens, They are just like, Aspirational things. Flying above, Thriving for love, And success As they cross that stage. Even in heartache, And heart break, They won’t be too sad, To let yesterday stop today. These are the ones who dream, And stop to see, Looking upon the stars, Which are bright with gleam, To guide them with destiny. Because little did you know, Even though,there's hurt and pain, They shoot for the stars, Even through difficulties, Here is a tribute to the class of 2017.
art by: ale wright, 9
to the by joey duval io
{20}
The Reporter may 2017 literary magazine
art by: claire cox, 10