The View Issue 6 Vol 19

Park Hill South High School Issue 5 volume 19 february 10th, 2017

The United States of America prides itself on the many freedoms granted to its people and today, the freedom of speech.

But what do these freedoms entail? This means we can peacefully march against something we feel is unjust, we can deny Trump as our president completely by using #Notmypresident and we can most certainly stand proud with our new President elect. However, I simply cannot stand when people ruin things for other people. A very recent example would be the protests at UC Berkeley that exploded into a riot. The Free Speech Movement has become a Freedom From Speech Movement.

Milo Yiannopoulos, a British journalist, speaker and entrepreneur, was hired to speak at UC Berkeley last Wednesday. Milo is famous for his political beliefs and straightforward attitude, but also his extremely conservative views and blunt statements against liberals.

Naturally, there was a large amount of people who were not thrilled about his speaking at Berkeley on campus.

What started off as a peaceful protest turned quickly fell into utter chaos. Chaos, as in ATM’s being smashed, a video footage of Milo supporters getting assaulted, and groups large mobs all bent on setting fires; you can't have a riot without setting your surroundings on fire! All we’re missing now are the pitchforks and a monster, but Milo’s haircut puts him pretty close.

And how did President Trump react to this? With a tweet, of course.

His exact words were, “If UC Berkeley does not allow free speech and practices violence on innocent people with different points of view… NO FEDERAL FUNDS?” I want to speak on this.

I will defend freedom of speech and a person's right to protest even if I do not agree. People have beliefs, and they should be allowed to voice them. But what we saw at UC Berkeley was a riot, a shutting down of words, a shutting down of the freedom of speech.

This I will not defend, even if I’m not the biggest fan of Milo myself. People calling themselves anti-fascists and creating chaos are placing a stigma on liberals of being violent, which then arms the opposing side with more ammunition against them. Defacing property, pepper spraying Milo supporters and smashing ATMs is NOT exercising America’s freedom of speech, it is destroying it. The event was then cancelled, as there was no way to guarantee the safety of any who attended. The very mob who fought for free speech in turn denied it.

In 1768, John Dickinson wrote: “By uniting we stand, by dividing we fall.” Amongst all the fighting, protesting, and outrage, it is important to note that there is no black and white, there are only lighter and darker shades of gray.

Whether you are conservative or liberal you have your own beliefs and they matter to you. But with all of th e politics, it is sometimes easy to forget that we are all Americans, and a nation founded on rebellion. Do your nation a favor and exercise your right to free speech, but not in a way that extinguishes it for others.

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4

DREAM

ASPIRE

EMPOWER

LEAD

L E A D the Way “I think LEAD gives us the opportunity at Park Hill to provide students with a very different educational experience, something new,” said Jaime Dial, Director of Secondary Education.

LEAD Innovation Studio is Park Hill’s latest addition to the district. The 2017-18 school year will pilot the new concept for 150 incoming freshman and 150 professional studies participants.

Park Hill is a rapidly growing, top-rated school district. The two high schools, Park Hill and Park Hill South, have surpassed their expected “carrying capacities” by almost 300 students.

With space issues already present, the district needed to try something new.

Projections showed that building a third high school was unreasonable, and that a smaller, more immediate solution was needed. Dial and her team looked at a long list of options before creating the hybrid that is LEAD innovation Studio.

Along with solving space issues, the program offers a new learning environment for students.

“At our high schools, you don’t have much autonomy and don’t get to make decisions regarding your learning, where as here you have that f lexibility,” says Daniel Amata, future educator at the innovation studio.

Flexibility is the driver of the new program.

Students will no longer have bells, block hours, or even scheduled lunch times. The learning itself will also look a bit different. Students will hear a lot more about Personalized Learning (PL), Facilitated Learning (FL), and Project-Problem-& Professional-Based learning (PBL). The new styles have been compiled from award-winning programs across the country.

“The idea sounds great,” says Ty Rouse, freshman, “but what will it actually look like?”

The daily schedule at LEAD will be very different. Students first report to their respective high schools. Busses will then transport kids to the office space, located in the Tiffany Hills area. The first part of the day is spent completing facilitated learning (FL). The second half of the day reserves time for students to work through problem based learning (PBL). All activities at the studio will be f luid, which means no strict bell schedule.

At 2:25 p.m., busses return students to their

high schools, just in time for extracurriculars.

The program also accommodates for students that wish to participate in certain electives, such as choir, orchestra or band.

“I’m very thankful that District Office is taking into consideration the ensembles we have at both schools. It’s going to be a learning process for everybody, but I strongly believe that the arts are an important part for any student,” said Elizabeth Brockhoff, choir director.

The district has been advertising its new program heavily. Videos and FAQs can be found on the Park Hill website, and they have hosted parent meetings at both Lakeview and Congress middle schools. Those who attended Lakeview’s informational meeting asked many questions, and some expressed their worries.

“Park Hill has taken on a monumental task,” one parent said.

The program still has many obstacles to overcome, and will require patience from all those involved, but the end result could be something truly innovative.

“There are some questions we just don’t have the answers for yet...when it comes change and innovation, somebody has to take the first step,” said Dial. “I think it’s exciting to be a part of the District that is taking the leap.”

“It’s exciting to be a part of the district that is taking the leap.”

The District introduces a new program offering alternative learning experiences

by ZACH NAY

5

news

Marching for a cause Protesters at the Women’s March in KC took to the street to make a change

by MADDIE HILL

A sea of pink filled Washington Park in downtown Kansas City 10 years, there could be a lot of changes,” said Matthew Kissinger, on Saturday, Jan. 21. People clustered, leaning in to listen intently sophomore. to every word that came out of the mouth of the speaker. This A couple of students took it a step further and f lew to Washington image was seen across the nation and all over the world after the D.C. inauguration that shocked millions.

“I said I wanted to go just because I wanted to do something In response to the results of the election, Teresa Shook arranged a because I didn’t want to be someone who believed in something Facebook event to march on Washington. News and not do anything about it,” said Madison of the event spread and many others followed “Many people feel like their rights Hawthorne, junior. until it became worldwide. will be taken away now that Trump That mindset was what kept the marches News of the March spread over the world has become president, but I think spreading. Many different groups came and eventually a total of 673 marches were to protest the inauguration, including even if we can’t change his opinion together held all over the world including cities, with each putting aside their differences to protest an official total of 4,876,700 women and men of women we can change other the same cause. registered to march on the Women’s March on people’s opinions and in 10 years, Each and every person that attended the Washington website. there could be a lot of changes.” march had a different reason for going but Thirteen percent of polled students many had the same goal for the march. attended the march in Kansas City, and many were optimistic about “In today’s climate, words against women are degrading and what they would learn from the march. negative, but we want to send a message to politicians that we are “I hope to hear some new speakers and new ideas to overall going to put up a fight, and that when we stand together, there is no change people’s opinion on women,” said Julia Vap, sophomore. way that you can ignore us,” said Deanna Koelliker, english.

Vap wasn’t the only student that had high hopes for what the Now that the march is over and the sea of pink has receded, the march could do. overall message that was sent out is still circulating and creating “Many people feel like their rights will be taken away now that change all over the world. Many students don’t know what it is Trump has become president, but I think even if we can’t change going to come from it but those who participated know that they his opinion of women we can change other people’s opinions and in contributed to a worthy cause.

Not My president On Jan. 20, America said goodbye to eight years of progress, and hello to a man who intends to take our country back 50 years.

Well, he won’t tell you that; he’s actually going to tell you that he’s working on making America great again. In reality, he is massively oppressing women, people of color, people who differ in religious beliefs, LGBT people and more.

For example, telegraph.co.uk reports that Donald Trump made a tweet on May 7, 2013, regarding the thousands of unreported sexual assualts that occur in the military. “26,000 unreported sexual assaults in the military-only 238 convictions. What did these geniuses expect when they put men & women together?” the tweet reads.

For those who oppose him and refuse to ignore the election results, the creation of the hashtag “not my president” has come into play all across social media.

You might be asking yourself, why would someone use a hashtag just because they don’t like our new president? Well, for me, it’s pretty simple. Donald J. Trump was indeed elected on Nov. 8, but just because he earned enough votes from the electoral college does

not mean I have to silently standby for four years while he makes choices despite their effect on others.

Trump has already taken steps to move forward with the Dakota Access Pipeline (DAPL), which will intrude on sacred Native American land, as reported by rawstory.com. The DAPL will also create, yet again, an unstable relationship with the people who were here before us.

In addition to the DAPL, Trump has also started the process of appealing the Affordable Care Act, which has provided millions with health care coverage that had never been available to them before Former President Obama.

You see, Trump is damaging our country, and that’s why I refuse to accept his position in office. He may hold the title of President of the United States, but what he is doing is destroying the United States of America and creating the Divided States of America.

It is for these reasons, and many more, that I will continue to persevere and march on. I will continue to use the hashtag “Not My President,” and refuse to accept him as my leader.

by ELLIE KNECHTEL

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Don’t break the bank with these great places to eat

Arcade

For a guy who has always been a huge fan of arcades, even I can admit that Main Event’s arcade is very impressive. Their arcade has a plethora of games (120 to be exact) and it balances out well with ticket collectors and games you just want to play against your friends. The bright lights and noises on all the games make each game stand out.

The thing I liked the most about the arcade was all the games were fairly new so most of the games I played I never saw at other places like Dave and Busters and Power Play. My favorite game was Dark Escape 4D which is one of the scariest games I’ve ever played.

Overall, the arcade is a blast and the experience is great.

“The thing I liked the most about Main event was definitely the arcade.

This was the first arcade I’ve been to where all the games looked new and everything was up to date,” said Josiah Berhane junior.

Cafe Gratitude

by MAX GHASEMI

Are you tired of spending your weekends going to Edge? Maybe you’re tired of walking to Burlington every Friday? Are you sick of feeling like an eighth grader? Well, Main Event holds the solutions to all these problems.

Main Event is a place for all ages where you can always count on an unforgettable experience. Having such a variety of activities for you to partake in, I would say that Powerplay and Dave and Buster’s don’t even come close. The faint lights and modern interior give off a nightclub type vibe. They made the building very open, making you want to wander through it for hours.

“I would say that Main event could turn into a hangout place for highschool students because of it’s laid back, chill environment. Any kid would have a good time there,” said Trey Tolliver, junior. Tolliver’s parents own the three local Main Event locations.

Food/Drinks

Besides just having a wider variety of things to keep you entertained, I think one thing that sets Main Event atop all the competition is their food. Toward the center of Main Event is a pizza place called La Bella’s Pizza.

They had delicious food from pizza to steak , and treated their dining with the same importance as their gaming and other activities-- which is rare for these places nowadays.

Hours: Monday-Friday (11 a.m.-10 p.m.)

Saturday (10 a.m.-10 p.m.)

Sunday (10 a.m.-9 p.m.)

Cafe gratitude is a 100% organic plant based restaurant specializing in plant cuisines. The Cafe strives for a menu to support the environment, health and the planet.

Cafe Gratitude opened in April of 2012 and is run by Amber Shea, serving a wide range of food, including a dish called “ Magical” which is a veggie burger on a whole wheat bun with lettuce, tomato, pickles, onion and hummus and served with a side of salad.

HAPPY GILLIS 549 Gillis Street Kansas City, MO 64106 Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 8 a.m.- 3 p.m.

Sunday 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Closed Mondays Known for a cafe and hangout, Happy Gillis is run by Josh and Abbey- Jo. The couple has created a restaurant to support local farmers and retailers. Their menu changes with the seasons, and one of their top dishes is, Biscuits & Gravy,which includes a f luffy biscuit topped with Broadway butcher sausage and coated with gravy. Another signature is the Smoked Salmon that is avocado toast with pickled onions, soft eggs, corn nuts and toasted sunf lower seeds. Happy Gillis opened in December 2013.

MISC

The fun doesn’t just stop at the arcade, though. Main Event also has bowling, laser tag, a gravity course, multiple pool tables and more.

The bowling lanes had a nice U-shaped couch for relaxing and enjoying food as you play, and the wall on the back of the lanes was filled with projectors so you could have the luxury of bowling and watching the latest sports game. You don’t have to choose one or the other. You could visit this place three times and still not experience half of the stuff.

“We have 22 lanes of bowling, 120 state of the art video games, two story laser tag arena, and a 13 different elements gravity course,” said Jerry Hungerford, Manager of the Independence location.

333 Southwest Blvd Kansas City, MO 64108

by CRISTINE GURROLA

Drive & Dine

Il Lazzarone

I know, I know, this all sounds too good to be true... and that’s because it is. Unfortunately, Main Event closes at 9 p.m. for 20 and under, unless you are with a parent. I can see why they do it, but it’s a buzz kill. The potential for how good this place can be is off the charts, but the 9 p.m. close time kind of ruins it for people in high school.

Main Event is expected to be up and running by summer, which is great news. I had a blast at Main Event and I think it’s about time we get a fun hangout place like this around the Northland.

412 Delaware St, Kansas City, MO 64105 Hours: Monday - Saturday 11 a.m.-1:30 a.m.

Sunday 11 a.m.-12 a.m.

Opening their second location in March of 2015, il lazzarone is known for the genuine italian pizza, and cooks pizza under 90 seconds with speedy service. Il lazzarone has the spirit of relaxation and community and has an open atmosphere, and is run by Erik Borger.

Pink and Purple

7

news

by ANNE PRICE hope to have Yarro visit us at least once a week because he has South lost a beloved student, peer and friend on the morning of been an important part of our class, as well,” McDaniels said.

Jan. 19. Delaney Hughes passed away at Children’s Mercy due to a Although Hughes and Yarro are both important, some people in recent virus that her heart wasn’t strong enough to recover from. the Best Buddies program didn’t think the student body would show Hughes was born with a heart defect, and on top of that she had their love and support for Hughes and the ones closest to her. But on epilepsy. Despite her weakness, she still brought a sweet, lively Friday, Jan. 18, the student body banished these doubts by nearly all spirit to South. wearing pink and purple.

“STUCO got to hang out with the Special Education classes a “I know a lot of students in Best Buddies who didn’t think anyone lot through the parties that we had together, and the way that she would care, but seeing everyone participating and wearing pink interacted with the other kids just brought a light to the room,” said and purple brought me so much happiness because I know people Hailey Deeds, junior. care and I know that they want to do something,” said Deeds.

This light was taken too early from this world, and has left the Although Hughes isn’t with us anymore, her spirit is still being South community with a deep sense of loss. The students most kept alive by the students at South. affected by her passing were her friends in the Special Education Deeds said, “I’m planning for the department. school to come “The loss of anyone close to you “The loss of anyone close to you is together and is hard,” Sarah McDaniels, Special Education teacher said. “Many of these hard... The connection that they had make a garden for her in her students have been with her since they were three, so the connection that was a bond that we’re going to miss,” remembrance. special they had was a bond that we’re going Sarah McDaniels, Special Education The education to miss.” classes walk in To help the Hughes family, the Teacher. the sanctuary Special Education department is a lot when the weather is teaming up with STUCO to raise money through tasty fundraisers. warm, so I thought putting a South has already had a successful chocolate cake day. The next garden right next to it would be fundraiser is banana split day on Feb. 13. a great way to have peace and “Kids can get a free banana split and can give sponsor money. remember our friend.”

And that will go to a scholarship in her name, or a service dog for Delaney Hughes, another special needs kid,” said Nathan Jurries, senior. a beloved student, peer and Some students may be wondering about the fate of Hughes’ friend, will not be forgotten. service dog, Yarro.

“The family originally purchased him as a service dog, but

seeing as his service days are over, he will now be their pet. We

photos courtesy of Sarah McDaniels

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Yes We Can To yes we did

“When he got elected in 2008, I remember where I was, I was in Texas at an AVID conference and I was sitting there with four other teachers. Some of us were in tears, I was just so proud to be an American... My country was finally being the country I always thought we could be,” said Brad Peck, social studies.

While President Obama was in office, homicides dropped 13 percent nationwide and 9 million jobs were added to the economy.

But he didn’t just help the country by picking it up and dusting it off after the recession, he changed society.

“He showed that you have to be accepting to yourself, true to yourself and not to be afraid of what other people think,” said Bali Cortes, freshman.

Obama transformed the LGBTQ community, by ending the ”Don’t Ask Don’t Tell Policy” which was a ban on having openly gay people serve in the military, and led the Defense Department to allow transgender people to serve as well. He was the first president to appoint transgender people to his administration and let people define their legal gender. He supported letting them use the bathroom they want.

“Well personally, I feel like it’s just become such a more normal thing in society. Everyone’s become more accepting to it and people have stopped being so ignorant on the subject, and it has brought America together to be a better whole,” said Emmett Couts, sophomore.

One of his most controversial accomplishments was the Affordable Care Act, or ObamaCare. With it, he provided 20 million more people with health insurance and let those with preexisting conditions still get insurance, which was nearly impossible before.

The other controversial action from him was openly trying to

Former President Barack Obama is now out of office, but he won’t be forgotten

by NOELLE ALVIZ-GRANSEE

protect Planned Parenthood.

“For people who are lower income or even just like college students who are broke, Planned Parenthood is a place where they can turn, not just for abortions. Abortions are only three percent of what Planned Parenthood does. They can get affordable contraceptives there, STD test, treatment for UTI’s and other things that save lives,” said Sara Komar, senior.

Despite the odds he faced as he ran in 2007, Obama was able to pull ahead of Hillary Clinton at the Democratic Convention, and it was at that moment when he really generated support from across the country. With his charisma he gave the impression that he was having a personal conversation with everyone watching him talk about his vision of America.

“Well first of all, in 2004 he inspired me when I saw him speak at the Democratic Convention, and I remember saying, ‘If that guy runs for president I will campaign for him. I will vote for him’,” said Peck.

With this drastic political shift in the United States currently, and with Trump’s 45 percent approval rating, according to a Gallup Survey, during his first three days of office, people are more scared than ever of things they are going to lose their rights. People feel that America will move backwards socially. Things like the Women’s March, and the Civil Rights groups have joined together are protesting across the country.

It’s important that if you protest, you stay peaceful. Let your voices be heard, but don’t give them a reason to silence you.

“What you saw with the women’s marches is right the beginning of the change,” said Peck, “The revolution, I think, is us trying to take our country back.”

(NOT A) PARTY IN THE USA

by MIMI RODGERS

President Donald Trump, former reality star, is now in the dawn of presidency Every four years, the United States elects a new president to represent and protect their country. This year, the United States broke the political streak and elected a famous businessman and reality star, Donald J. Trump. Only having a business background, many were skeptical when the star announced his candidacy, but months later many started accepting him.

Trump is known for his famous TV show, “The Apprentice,” a game show based on business skills. The show had been aired for 11 years with Trump as the host. The show was put to a halt when he announced his campaign in 2015.

“I don’t think [being a reality star] will affect his presidency at all.

I think he’s going to get enough advice from his people and I think it’s kind of molding him into a president,” said Dakota Evans, senior.

In the past, the United States has had various presidents with different backgrounds, including Ronald Reagan (1981-1989). Like Trump, Reagan started off in the spotlight as an actor and climbed his way to political power.

“Just like Ronald Reagan being a movie star, I think it will help Trump more than it hurts him, because he doesn’t have the political ties that the other members of Congress and past presidents had,” said Dane Urmacher, freshman.

In his first week of office, Trump had filled his cabinet and started

Getting the Show On the Field

quickly making big moves. Trump had already planned to make several changes in the United States: abolishing the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) and making abortion illegal, just to name a couple.

“So far, what I have seen, everything has been very businesslike and professional. I think the transition thus far hasn’t been questionable,” said Alexandra Hickey, senior.

However, to some, Trump’s transition to presidency is harder to swallow than they thought.

“He’s not really a people person and the things he says might cause trouble with other countries, because the things he says are so extreme,” said Judson Pierre, senior.

Over the past weeks, Trump has made several Executive Orders relating to of Immigration, instituting a ban on travel for those in what he said are terrorist prone nations, though some worry it will lead to discrimination against Muslims. Though the ban is being challenged in court, it has made a big impact.

“I thought everything he was saying was metaphorical, like when he said ‘build a wall’, I thought he meant increase border control and be tighter on immigration,” said Andrew Stewart, senior.

Only being in office for a short time, only time will tell how well President Trump will transition to his new job away from fame.

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news

Mo Guns mo safety?

A new law is in place that could potentially make school look much different

by GARRETT OSBOURN

This was one of the craziest election cycles that America has seen in a long time. With the end result of a Republican controlled America, holding majorities in the Senate and House of Representatives, Republican-led legislatures now have an easy path to making big changes. In Missouri, this started last year with the passing of a Republican led bill, allowing selected teachers to carry firearms on school grounds.

This was a two part bill titled the NRA-ILA Missouri Gun Law, one passed in September, and one passed early this January. The first half of this bill had multiple controversial policies, starting with the age limit. The age limit to acquire a conceal carry permit dropped from 21 to 19.

“I own a weapon, but I don’t see the point in rushing something like this,” said Christopher Reuscher, english.

This was one of the the most controversial points of this law; however, when Missouri voters were asked the majority stated that this wouldn’t be a deciding factor for their decision.

Other teachers agree.

“I support the second amendment, and as an adult I don’t see a point, or difference in waiting the extra three years,” said Amanda Brewington, social studies.

While some others had different opinions, “Think of it as a driver’s license. You don’t just get to get to have a driver’s license because you turn 16; you go through training, and take tests,” said Brad Peck, social studies.

In another vote in the same month, the Missouri senate decided to drop the requirement of background checks and written tests to obtain a conceal carry permit in the state

Students Comfortable with Guns on School Campuses

of Missouri. What this means is that previously, people were required to take an entry level course and have a criminal background check cleared prior to obtaining a legal concealed carry permit.

With this legislation, neither will be required.

These are the main topics of the first part of the bill, that affects the general public on a day to day basis. The second part of the bill included the policies that will directly affect the everyday life students, and teacher across Missouri The law states that any Missouri school district can select a few well trained individuals to conceal and carry firearms through school grounds, and in the classroom.

This doesn’t mean any teacher can carry freely on campus; as said, the district could potentially select certain teachers they feel comfortable with carrying firearms.

This is being seen as a way to increase safety in schools, but South staff saw the situation could go both ways with more guns in school.

“I would feel very safe,” said Reuscher.

Some teachers saw the value in a way of “mutual respect” thinking if there are guns in the school, then a shooter won’t go to that school; however, others think a different form of violence could occur, “I think that teachers with guns could mitigate deadly force when unnecessary, or incentivise a student to take it from the teacher,” said Peck..

So how do you feel as a student or staff member? Will guns make it safer, or more dangerous in schools? With important bills like this, only time will tell.

MAYBE 15%

NO 57%

YES 27%

FEATURES

10

by SAVANNAH LU

The

Single’s

Guide to Valentine’s Day Forever alone on Valentine’s Day? Here are a few ideas to spend the day of love.

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, and for many of the singles out there, love is NOT in the air. For those of you who are sick of love-sick couples, know you are not alone.

There are so many fun things to do for all you lovely single pringles, you may even be glad you don’t have someone else to hold you down. Here are a few ideas from South students who are happily single.

“Last year, there was an Anti-Valentine’s Day party that me and my friends went to. We just sat around the basement and ate a lot of food while watching ‘Mean Girls’,” said Bradley Spraggs, junior.

Other fun Anti-Valentine’s Day movies include “500 Days of Summer,” “Blue Valentine” and “The Break-Up.” “I always spend my Valentine’s Day hanging out with friends and taking myself out on a self-date. Last year, I walked around downtown and it was super pretty since no one else was there. This year, I think me and my best friend Elaina Cassity are going out and maybe grabbing some Chinese food,” said Sophie Granger, junior.

Nothing like spending time with friends on Valentine’s Day can compare to any significant other. Friends are forever.

“I like to bake with my girlfriends. We like to bake things such as cakes and any other fun Valentine themed treats,” said Kelly Barr, junior.

There are so many cute pastry recipes on Pinterest, just search up Valentine’s Day treats, and have fun with it.

“I spoil myself with a bunch of chocolates. Valentine’s chocolates are the best, and a lot of the time, they are on sale. Anything dark chocolate I will grab off the shelf,” said Amatullah Saleem, junior.

Helpful hint: The best day to go chocolate shopping is the day after Valentine’s Day, when they are trying to get rid of everything. You’re welcome.

“I listen to a lot of Drake. Me and my friends also like to joke around on Valentine’s Day since we don’t take it seriously,” said Elijah Brizendine, senior.

Even guys need to spend their day doing something to get over the chumminess of Valentine’s Day. No matter what you choose to do this year, know that there is still hope. Grab some friends, pop in a movie and enjoy Valentine’s Day your own way. At the end of the day, no one else needs pampering more than you do.

For those of you who are sick of lovesick couples, know you are not alone.

FAVORITE MOVIES TO WATCH ON VALENTINE’S DAY

11

Power

Get Educated

NOT

LOVE

Abusive relationships and how to spot one

W

e did literally everything together, we talked 24/7. Nothing was wrong. It’s honestly kind of crazy how one thing could change that.”

It simply doesn't matter what it is, repeating apology after apology, making up a story, raising the volume of one’s voice or using force; in one mind, it’s reasonable, and in another, it's abuse.

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner and represents one of the most cherished human emotions: love. But with any yang, there is a yin and the yin of love is abuse. Abuse, as a verb, is treating someone (a person or an animal) with cruelty or violence, especially regularly or repeatedly.

And according to LoveisRespect.org, nearly 1.5 million high school students nationwide experience abuse from a dating partner in a single year.

Kazzie Christy and Ben Greathouse, juniors, while in two different relationships, are a part of this 1.5 million.

“We met through a mutual friend, basically. And honestly it started off extremely well,” said Christy about her partner.

“We met online, and for a while things were going really well. We talked all the time,” said Greathouse.

Abuse has always been a difficult topic, regardless of how long the couple has been together. But oftentimes, more difficult than speaking about it is spotting it.

“It was amazing until about four months in,” said Christy. “[That was when] we started arguing all the time, and over the smallest things.”

Christy’s partner began to demonstrate their behaviors gradually after this--small actions and passing phrases that would raise an eyebrow, but maybe were too small to raise a red f lag at first.

“I started to notice [their] bursts of anger, only directed at me, calling me names, and the pinching/grabbing. Those were early on.

Further in the relationship is when the biting and smacking started.

The first time I noticed it, however, was the phrase ‘Don’t tell my mom, I’m so sorry’,” Christy said.

Abuse, however, is not always physical. In Greathouse’s case, the abuse was mental.

“A mentally abusive relationship is harder to deal with. In a physically abusive relationship the scars are there, the bruises are there. With mental abuse, no one can see how you are being affected,” said Greathouse.

Greathouse met his partner online when he was 14. The two talked constantly, as it seemed like the relationship was f lourishing. Later

FEATURES

by ANNA PREUSS on, Greathouse noticed a change in dynamics.

“We would get in arguments so petty that I don't remember what they were about. They would blame me, telling me that they were not the ones that were at fault. I was the one causing everything; every argument, every problem,” Greathouse said.

Abuseandrelationships.org, states blame is the foundation of domestic violence. Blame is essential to both implement and disguise mental power and control. “[The relationship] was emotional manipulation. They would tell me they were going to kill themselves after we would argue. That’s why I stayed so long; I was afraid. I thought I had to save them or protect them but it is important to note that it is NEVER your fault,” Greathouse said.

Why do people stay in abusive relationships? There are a number of reasons why one would stay in such a manipulative situation.

“They would break down in tears crying, saying how much they loved me, asking for one more chance. They would tell me, ‘I would never hurt you,’ ‘without you I have nothing.’ This is abuse,” said Christy.

According to abuseandrelationships. org, believing the abuse is normal, fear of embarrassment or admitting to the abuse, low self esteem and love are all common reasons someone might stay in an abusive relationship.

The largest factor though is fear.

“I was extremely afraid to leave. The night I tried [to leave] I wasn't even at my own house because I was scared they would come to where I lived and hurt me. The only thing that kept me from leaving was fear; there wasn't anything else to it,” Christy said.

The moment one thinks to themselves, “but at least they don’t hit me,” or “but they’ve done it less lately,” or “it could be so much worse,” is the moment one needs to get out. At the end of the day, love is not control. Love is not manipulation. Love is not abuse. Love is celebrating another person.

The key element in leaving an abusive relationship is support.

BreakingtheCycle.org states that reaching out to someone will help. A support system will help a victim remember what life was before the relationship, will help a victim recognize their worth. Love is not and never will be abuse.

“Never be afraid to speak up and advocate for yourself,” said Christy. “You are not alone. You are never alone. You have so many people that will be willing to fight in your corner.”

“They would tell me they were going to kill themselves after we would argue. That’s why I stayed so long.”

features

12

13

features

The science and psychology behind love in high school relationships and beyond Je t’aime. Te amo. Wo ai ni. Ich liebe dich. Ai shiteru. I love you.

We all, at some point in our lives, face this palm sweating three word sentence in a relationship. But how do we make sure that the person we say this to is the one?

The answer is simple; chemistry. According to Marcia Umscheid science, love is a physiological and emotional response. On the cellular level, love is a chemical reaction where a receptor site matches another person’s chemical signal. Each cell releases chemical signals that identify the cell. The ones attracted to others cell are called pheromones.

“If I have the receptor site for a particular pheromone, then I actually have chemistry with that person, because that cell then has a chemical reaction with that other cell,” said Umscheid.

Colleen Katzenberger, science, has experienced this type of chemistry twice in her life.

Katzenberger met her first love, Jeremy, in high school and shortly after starting their first semester of college began their love journey. Later on in their relationship, Jeremy enlisted in the military as Katzenberger continued her education at William Jewell.

Katzenberger was 19 when they decided to get married.

“Love hurts. I think about everything I’ve been through with Jeremy and sending him off to war eight times, watching him grow up as a man and now loving again. Loving is literally like giving a piece of yourself to somebody else; like a part of your soul,” said Katzenberger.

In June of 2011, Jeremy passed away while fighting the war in Afghanistan.

“When you love someone as deeply as Jeremy and I loved each other, and then at 26 you bury him and you say in your wedding vows ‘until death do us part,’ there’s that certain shock that you don’t have that second piece of you anymore. I don’t think you ever get it back. You just learn to live without it,” said Katzenberger.

Katzenberger was set up six years later on a blind date with her fiancé, Brett Coursey, by mutual friends and for the first time since losing Jeremy, being with Coursey felt right.

“I will always love Jeremy and Brett knows this. I love Jeremy so much, how do I have anymore love left to give? My story with Brett is very different than my story with Jeremy, but they are both still great love stories. I think the heart is capable of a great capacity of love as long as you allow that vulnerability,” said Katzenberger.

Vulnerability relates back to a theory of love developed by psychologist Robert Sternberg called Sternberg’s Triangular Theory of Love. Sternberg believed that there were three main ingredients to love: intimacy, passion and commitment. Being willing to be more

vulnerable can lead to intimacy and a stronger sense of connection.

“Relationships can exist with just passion and commitment or intimacy and commitment. You can combine them in all sorts of ways, but to have a true loving relationship you have to have all three. A lot of relationships start out and it’s fool’s love. It’s just passion. Or you might have intimacy and passion, but no commitment, which is like most high school relationships,” said Andy Cantrell, psychology.

According to recent stats, less than two percent of all marriages are actually to a high school sweetheart.

However, finding your soulmate in high school isn’t impossible.

Clay Lenhert, AVID, and Laura Lenhert, art, are two teachers at South whose story began their junior and senior year.

Clay first laid eyes on Laura during a orchestra/band concert. Later in the year, Clay and Laura ended up having the same health class together.

“I was an old senior taking health class with some younger kids and when I walked into the class she was sitting there and I was like, ‘Oh, sweet!’ But there was this freshman sitting behind her and I had to get closer to her, so I just kind went up by the freshman and said, ‘That’s my seat. You’re going to have to move.’ I got to sit behind her in that class,” said Clay.

Clay and Laura, however, didn’t start dating until college. Clay ended up going to Air Force Academy Prep School, then to Missouri State University to finish his studies. Laura transferred to the same University to be closer to her mother. They both crossed paths again at a Park Hill Graduation where they decided they wanted to go out.

Three months after, Clay asked Laura to marry him.

“I didn’t want to date her in high school, because I was an idiot. I didn’t want to mess it up, so I just wanted to wait until I was a little bit more mature.” said Clay.

Clayand Laura have now been married for 26 years.

“I think you can love somebody in high school. I fell in love with my husband in high school. I don’t think there’s an age limit,” said Laura.

Regardless, love continues to change between cultures, eras and give life meaning.

Je t’aime aussi. Te amo también. Wo ye ai ni. Ich liebe dich auch.

Watashi mo aishiteru. I love you too. No matter the language, who you love, how old you are or what the word means to you, the feeling that we get from this four letter word are all very similar. By putting chemistry and psychology together, it allows us to see the big picture. The picture can be best put into words by Mahatma Gandhi, civil rights leader, “Where there is love, there is life.”

by HAILEY DEEDS

FEATURES

T

14

The beauty world seems to be just getting started with integrating plus size models and men in makeup into its industry

by ELYSSA BEZNER

he world keeps finding ways to be surprise us.

Change seems to be the new normal.

It’s no different in the beauty industry. Plus size models, male and female, are breaking in the spotlight. Male makeup artists are also making their way, as well.

The beauty industry is making big strides with plus size models. Ashley Graham made news when she was put on the cover of Sport Illustrated magazine 2016 issue, the first plus size model to do so.

Many people do not like this uprising of plus size models, including sophomore Cameron Ferraro. He describes plus size women as not his “preference” and thinks that plus size models hurt magazines ratings because most men agree with his body type ideal.

“I just don’t like it on swimsuit magazines because they are supposed to look good--that’s what they’re known for,” said Ferraro.

He is in favor of plus size models, but only if they are Photoshopped to look “better.” He says he knows women “cry that it’s not natural” to have Photoshopped photos but points out that makeup is not natural as it is changing how people look.

Zach Miko, a male plus size model, is a part of the “Brawn” division at Target, the first male plus size model to become part of a major franchise.

In an interview with Buzzfeed, Brawn said, “We have been told for so long that beauty is this one thing, but times are changing. It’s a new conversation. Beauty comes in every variety. If you want to be a model, go do it.”

Dalyn LeGrand, junior, thinks that the inclusion of plus size models in big brands such as Sports Illustrated and Target is a huge step forward in

society. She said that seeing bigger people, more relatable people, on magazine covers give her confidence to be who she is.

“It’s encouraging to me that people are starting to acknowledge that bigger can be beautiful. That I can be beautiful,” said LeGrand.

Another development in the beauty industry is one 17-year-old boy in New York named James Charles. Charles became an Instagram star after posting a picture of his yearbook photo in which he was wearing makeup and said he even brought his own lighting so that his highlighter would be “poppin.”

He has since then became the first male ambassador for CoverGirl, a popular makeup brand. Charles’ story sparked controversy since makeup is viewed mostly as a female-specific pastime.

“I think that makeup on a man is definitely not what it’s meant for,” said Ferraro.“I don’t know why they let him on the cover, because it’s in the titleCovergirl.”

Others have reacted positively to this drastic change, especially sophomore Lydia Kelly. She believes that makeup has “no gender and no rules.”

“Many people, including me, perceive makeup as an art form, a way to express who you are as a person, and everyone should be able to do that no matter what,” said Kelly.

The industries that have been so stagnant in standards for so long are definitely changing it up.

Regardless of your beliefs on men in makeup and plus size men and women, it doesn’t look like the world is done with people like James Charles, Zach Miko, Ashley Graham and countless others.

“I think that makeup on a man is definitely not what it’s meant for.”

15

FEATURES

Can’t Hear The haters

South student excels on the field despite rare disability For most people, the thought of not being able to hear is a scary one, but for Connor Campbell, junior, it’s a formality.

For whatever reason, whenever Campbell was born he only retained 10 percent of the hearing that a normal child is usually born with and that number would soon diminish to just a mere two percent by the time he was 10 years old.

However, Campbell refuses to let his disability hold him back on the football field or in the weight room, which is where you can find him spending most of his time.

Everyone that is close to Campbell knows how much of a force he is in the weight room, and his numbers prove that fact. At just 17 years old and 195 pounds, Campbell benches nearly 370 pounds and squats a whopping 555 pounds, which are astronomical numbers at such a light weight.

But such incredible numbers don’t come without hard work.

“I really don’t think people understand how much hard work I put in,” said Campbell.

Campbell starts every day off during the week by waking up at 5 a.m. and getting in a workout before school. After school that day, he will pack up his gym bag to go lift once again. If lifting twice a day every day during the week wasn’t already enough, he heads back to the gym every Saturday.

One of his favorite things about lifting is

“You have to get used to repeating yourself a lot and really mouthing your words, but it’s not too bad because of his hearing aids.” that it takes almost no thinking or in his case, having to listen to anyone. His lifting partner, best friend, and middle linebacker tandem, Payton Ireland, senior, is with Campbell every step of the way while lifting.

At first Ireland struggled lifting with Campbell due to his condition, but he quickly adjusted and now the pair are a force in the weight room.

by BRAEDEN DENNEY

“You have to get used to repeating yourself a lot and really mouthing your words, but it’s not too bad because of his hearing aids,” Ireland said.

When it comes to the football field, Campbell was the anchor of one of the best defenses in the state this past season. The Panther defense averaged only 18 points per game scored against them. His leadership and prowess on the field was recognized by earning First Team All-Conference and Second Team All-District linebacker honors.

One might wonder how Campbell received the instructions for what he was supposed to do in a play.

“Because of the system that our defense used, we had a lot of visual communication instead of verbal,” said Ireland. “That helped a lot with the confusion of trying to talk in game.”

While both football and weightlifting are a huge part of his life, Campbell admitted that lifting was his main focus.

“I enjoy weightlifting more because you don’t have to worry about 200 pound running backs running right at you,” said Campbell. “You can just focus on lifting.”

You may find Campbell on the football field or in the weight room, but something you will never hear or see him complaining about is his disability, and that's something everyone can admire.

Sheridan’s Swirling Back in Action Remember those late night drives heading to Sheridan’s with friends on warmer, better days? It was always exciting to order some tasty, satisfactory ice cream.

For those who haven’t noticed, Sheridan’s has been closed since last year. This is because inspectors found seven critical violations and one critical follow-up violation. The last violation involved pest control.

But, there is no need to fear, Sheridan’s will be up and running fairly soon starting in February, according to their Facebook page.

A lot of South students are very excited about the reopening of Sheridan’s.

“I’m excited to get the vanilla concrete with pretzels again,” said Skler Vanvalkenburg, junior.

As the days quickly approach to the opening, Sheridan’s has been getting their dedicated customers pumped by advertising raff les on their public Facebook page, to win free concretes for a year.

On their page, anyone can participate in the raff le. The steps are simple. First, comment on the picture. And second, wait until the winner is announced. Easy as that.

Kory Seve, junior, just so happened to be lucky enough to be the one in 100 comments to win that raff le. He said it’s not yet clear how frequent the free concretes will be distributed.

“I’m not sure, but I’ve heard you can get them once a month,” said Seve.

Although, a free concrete a day would be nice, Sheridan’s has to cut the line somewhere, and a free treat once a month sounds a lot more reasonable than every day.

While some are excited for the reopening of Sheridan’s, some students didn’t even realize they were reopening at all.

“That’s pretty dope, I had no idea they were going to reopen,” said Thomas Roos, junior.

Sheridan’s, unlike other ice cream places, provides a variety of different types of ice cream to fill your specific ice cream needs.

“My favorite concrete is Reese’s peanut butter,” said Seve.

It doesn’t even matter if you aren’t quite an ice cream person. They have sundaes, espresso blenders, shakes, f loats, and smoothies to choose from.

Feeling lucky? Go comment on the Sheridan’s Facebook page now. You’ve got nothing to lose.

by MICHAELA SANTANA

SPORTS

16

Heaven Found Its Ace

Royals Pitcher leaves lasting legacy after recent death at young age

by MATTHEW DIELEMAN “Right-hander Yordano Ventura, who was a big strikeout pitcher last year against Minnesota looks to do that again today,” said Joel Goldberg, Royals Broadcast announcer.

Those were the first words said about Yordano Ventura in the 2016 season about how great of a pitcher he was and, sadly, fans will never hear those words again.

Ventura tragically passed away in a car accident in the Dominican Republic on January 22. Ventura was 25 years old and the Kansas City Royals’ top pitcher. He was one of the rising stars in the MLB. Ventura had a huge impact not only on his teammates and the Royals organization but the city loved him just as much. Every time Ventura walked out to the mound to pitch, viewers were mesmerized. Mesmerized by his work ethic and his will to win the game for his team and, most importantly, the way he could throw a fastball over 100 mph consistently.

Dawson Owen, sophomore, said, “I think we were all pretty heartbroken when we heard the news and we were all really devastated. Not only did we lose a good pitcher but we lost a really cool character on our team.”

Salvador Perez, Royals catcher, described Ventura as his brother and said in an interview that he loved him and would always take care of him. When someone on a team passes away you don’t just lose a teammate you lose a brother, a part of your family, and that is what the Kansas City Royals lost.

Cameron Koeniguer, junior said, “I think it leaves a big hole in the team that is very hard to replace because part of the team is lost when someone passes away.”

Replacing Ventura will be next to impossible. He had heart like no one else, passion for the game, one of the best fastballs in the league, and he had an infectious personality that could not be matched. The Royals will be missing a huge part of not only their pitching staff but someone with an amazing attitude off the field and in the locker room.

In the past year the MLB has lost many young talented

players. Ventura is in those upon Jose Fernandez, Oscar Taveras and Andy Marte. Marte passed away the same day as Ventura. Taveras, Marte, and Ventura all passed away in the Dominican Republic due to car accidents. Fernandez passed away in a boating accident in Miami, Florida.

With the prior deaths of Fernandez and Taveras, the Marlins and Cardinals have done many things to honor them. The Marlins had a moment of silence in the next game after learning of Fernandez’s death and every player rubbed dirt on their pants just like he did. The Cardinals played a tribute video on the anniversary of Taveras’s MLB debut, had a moment of silence and wore a patch of his number all season. What will Kansas City do to honor Ventura?

Recently, a fan started an online petition to have Ventura’s number retired and posted up on the Hall of Fame board in left field. So far, the Royals organization have made a makeshift memorial outside of Kauffman Stadium for Ventura and a special memorial at FanFest in January. Also, during this upcoming season the Royals will be wearing patches that say “ACE 30.”

Owen said, “I think they should retire his jersey just so we always remember him.”

The Royals home opener will be April 10 against the Oakland Athletics so we will truly find out what they will be doing to honor him then.

Until then…. Rest In Peace Ace.

Years before Ventura

During the Ventura Era

2010 ERA: 4.47 2011 ERA: 4.41 2012 ERA: 4.30

Postseason AppeArances: 0

2013 ERA: 3.45 2014 ERA: 3.51 2015 ERA: 3.73 2016 ERA: 4.21

Postseason AppeArances: 2

E

lectric. That is a word used to describe the Kansas City Chiefs rookie sensation Tyreek Hill. Hill’s electricity was on display during the 2016 NFL draft combine where he ran a 4.29 second 40 yard dash.

Throughout Hill’s college football career, trouble seemed to find him.

Hill was a rising star at Oklahoma State University when he was arrested two years ago on domestic violence charges. Hill ended up pleading guilty to the charges and was later kicked off the team by head coach Mike Gundy.

He transferred to a small Division II school called West Alabama. While there, Hill had to juggle with football practices and games as well as mandatory court services and counseling sessions.

Hill seemed to play down to his great potential that he showed at Oklahoma State. Entering the NFL draft, he had had an average season at West Alabama rushing for 237 yards and a touchdown, he also caught 27 passes for 444 yards and three scores, and he returned two punts and two kickoffs for touchdowns.

Although this sounds like an outstanding season, it doesn’t compare to his ability. The Chiefs saw Hill’s tremendous speed and couldn’t resist selecting him even after his criminal history. Hill was drafted 165th overall in the fifth round of the 2016 NFL draft.

When the Chiefs selected Tyreek Hill, the backlash was made clear from fans around the city since Hill had a controversial background, but Ethan Farrow, sophomore, saw the potential of Hill.

“I read into the articles and saw the classes and counseling that Tyreek Hill went through for what he had done,” said Farrow. “I saw that he was trying to earn his reputation back, so therefore I thought that it was a good pick.”

Many Chiefs fans now agree with Farrow after the multiple stellar performances throughout his rookie season.

Ben Becker, junior, is one of the people who have changed their mind about Hill.

“I thought he was just some punk with some wheels and I thought he wouldn’t do us much good,” said Becker. “Now I love him, he’s my little dude.”

Hill had an outstanding rookie season with the Chiefs. He had 61 receptions for 593 receptions and 6 touchdowns. Hill had 24 rushes for

17

SPORTS

Overcoming H I L E L H T

Comparing Their Stats: Rookie Year

Tyreek Hill, from convict to NFL All-Star

by JACK BEUERLEIN

267 yards and 3 touchdowns. He really stood out in the special teams category, though. He had 14 kick returns for 384 yards and one touchdown. On punt returns, Hill had 39 punt return attempts for 92 yards and two touchdowns.

“The Chiefs probably would not have won the division without Tyreek Hill,” said Andrew Aswegan, senior. “He became one of the top receivers in the NFL as well as one of the top rookies.”

Hill is definitely a player to keep watching as he advances in the NFL. He has brought a huge explosion of offense to the Chiefs who have seem to be looking for a twitchy, fast paced player like Hill.

Although he has been in some legal trouble, expect him to keep growing from this experience and for him to keep getting better and better in the years to come.

Tyreek Hill Punt Return Yards: 592 Punt Return TDs: 2 Kick Return Yards: 384 Kick Return TDs: 1

Dante Hall Punt Return Yards: 37 Punt Return TDs: 0 Kick Return Yards: 358 Kick Return TDs: 0

“I thought he was just some punk with some wheels and...

Now I love him.”

SPORTS

18

F

or those of you who don't know who Clay Johnson is, he is the tall, stylish, black hall monitor whose voice is always heard joking around, giving highfives to everyone.

Yet, he's not just any hall monitor. He’s also the sophomore basketball coach. But most importantly, he is a NBA champion who played with some of the greatest basketball players of all time and helped the LA Lakers win it all in 1982.

Johnson started his career at Manual High School where he won all types of awards, like All-District and All-Conference team, and was good enough to go to Penn Valley Community College, where he was an AllAmerican through 1974-75 and 1975-76.

He then transferred to Missouri University in Columbia for his final two years where he also played basketball.

Johnson was known as a very competitive person and he always wanted to be first in everything. This lead him to declare for the draft in 1978. The Portland Trailblazers selected him fifth round and sent him to the CBA later that year. However, he didn’t get his to shine until becoming a member of the L.A. Lakers.

He may not have scored a lot of points but he defended many good players, like Julius Erving and Maurice Cheeks, which contributed to them winning the NBA championship in 1982. He even played in all seven playoff games that year. This was something he had dreamed of doing.

“It was a lifelong never-ending great experience,” he said.

Sadly, this would be his last year as a Laker because he would be moved to the Seattle Supersonics. He would only be there a year also because he was moved back CBA to finish out his career in Kansas City.

The next chapter of Johnson’s life was coaching and helping the community. His coaching style was

a mixture of Pat Riley and Jack Ramsay. Both were coaches he played under and both are hall of fame coaches. He said he threw in his own things like fundamental defense and playing aggressive. He started coaching where he went to junco college.

There he coached for three seasons, leading his team to play for the National Championship one of those years. Unfortunately, they lost by one point but he learned a great amount from this experience.

Coach Johnson then went on to teach younger kids about his life and experiences. Johnson wanted to teach the youth that they had to work for anything they wanted in life. He said he wasn't trying to necessarily make everyone NBA players but he wanted to make them a better person.

He decided to make a community organization called “Clay Johnson Foundation.” He described his foundation as “a mixture of everything he experienced in basketball.”

He wanted to give back to kids and show them that dreams do come true if you work hard enough.

Coach Johnson still coaches today on the sophomore team at South. His players all work very hard and they like him very much.

Anthony Bell said,“it’s a pretty good relationship and he’s a down to earth guy.”

Having someone with NBA experience as your coach is a great thing because he can teach you many things too.

Collin Brougham said, “He gives you a different perspective on basketball because he can share all his past experiences with you.”

Next time you see Johnson in the halls give him a high five. You never know, he might even tell you a few stories!

“He is a great baller, and an even better friend.”

Percents of Students who didn’t know

From the NBA to the halls of South

Percents of Students who knew

NBA?

by MJ WALKER

Did You Know He Played in the

76% 24%

19

SPORTS

by DUKE MADDOX In the world of sports there are many superstars-sometimes we don’t realize there are a few that started their careers right here at South Success is not something you are born with, learn or buy. It is something you earn.

This could not be any more true to the former South athletes who have hit the big time. While many people dream of going on to have a great career in sports, many are not able to obtain it. Some students do even more, even some going to the Olympics and making it big playing in college .

When the time for high school is over, people’s paths divide, and people go on to do their own things . There are 8 million students in High School right now, but, according to NCAA, only 480,000 of them will continue to play in college. An even smaller percentage will continue to do anything outside of college.

But there are still some major success stories. Recent students of South have became very successful in the world of sports; such as Maddie Sanders, Payton Meek, Ryan Welty.

Many people know them and see them as friends and siblings; many have their own take on how they became successful.

Some may recognize the name Ricky Maestri, a former exchange student from Italy. He was a talented swimmer, and this talent took him very far. In 2012, he went to the Olympics for his home country of Italy in swimming, but he also swam at South.

One of his close friends, Emily Day, senior, provided a bit more detail on Maestri’s personal life. She recalled the many state, pool and school records he broke and his MIssouri High School State Championships . She described him as driven and

Riccardo Maestri AT SOUTH Rank 11 in the Men’s 4 x200 meter relay Fastest time: 1:40.67 in the 200 meter Freestyle

it was “No surprise” he had the success he did. “Ricky was very goofy too, and had the talent to fit 23 grapes in his mouth, “ she said.

He clearly earned his title of being called one of the best swimmers at South. He took his career to the next level by going and participating in the 2012 summer Olympics in London . He currently swims at Arizona State.

Many South basketball fans will remember Ryan Welty, a 2016 grad. He earned two district titles while at South. If that wasn’t enough he also got first team All-Conference, and in his last year here he averaged 18 points per game. He is now a freshman at Northwest Missouri State and he recently broke the consecutive 3 point record, with a total of 16.

Welty started playing Basketball in second grade.

“I just played it to play it, not much more than that. I didn’t really expect to be where I am today,” he said. “I’m glad my hard work in high achool payed off.”

Lastly he added a finally statement for people thinking about college basketball.

“It’s a lot of fun, and people should consider taking it to the next level,” he said.

While there are many others who have done great things in sports beyond high school, not all can be recognized. But, for any student wanting to play In college should consider the stories given here, and continue to put in the hard work needed to become a success.

Ryan Welty AT SOUTH Averaged 18 points a game First team All-Conference twice Second team All-Metro

AFTER SOUTH 2012 London Olympics Swam for Italy Men’s 4x200 meter Freestyle Relay

AFTER SOUTH Northwest Missouri State University MIAA Athlete of the Week MIAA record for consecutive 3 pointers (16)

SPORTS

20

South’s athletes of

by BRET VANICE

the

month

Paige RiekHof, junior Paige Riekhof, junior, has been breaking records left and right this year. She has broken the 500m freestyle record time set by former Panther and current Cornhusker Tori Beeler. Additionally, Riekhof has set a personal best, 58.3 second time in the 100 meter butterf ly.

This type of performance isn’t coming out of nowhere for Riekhof.

“I’ve practiced and lifted weights outside of school to get better,” said Riekhof.

Well, the work is definitely transferring. Riekhof wins just about every race she is in during duels.. Because of her domination of opponents, Riekhof has been scouted by colleges all over the country, including Pepperdine University out of Malibu, California.

The girls swim team finished the regular season undefeated, and with State coming up on the weekend Feb. 19, she is setting her eyes on the prize.

“I’m hoping to finish in the top 2 or 3 in the state as an individual,” said Riekhof.

Lamel Robinson, sophomore

Lamel Robinson, sophomore, has helped contribute to a strong start to the season for the South basketball team. Many of the wins this season for South have come in the final minutes of the game.

“Whenever we’ve needed him to score, he’s come through,” said Ja’Shar Turner, senior.

Most notably, he had a 38 point performance against Rock Bridge led to a South win in the championship game of the NKC Invitational. On top of the 38 points, Robinson hit a game-tying buzzer beater from well beyond the three-point line to send the game into the first overtime.

Robinson showed how clutch he really is by scoring 24 points throughout the fourth quarter and extra time. The game was eventually won

by South in double overtime.

South hopes to make another playoff run this postseason.

“I need to be a good teammate and get my teammates involved,” said Robinson.

He holds a scholarship offer from Kansas State and continues to be scouted by colleges around the midwest, as have multiple other South players.

RedWINNERS Carpet Rendezvous

21

Best Picture, Drama: Moonlight

Animated Film: Zootopia

The Golden Globes give out awards to the best actors/actresses, TV shows, and movies. The awards are voted on by The Hollywood Foreign Press Association. The Golden Globes are unique because they separate each category by content. For example, there are awards for best actress in a comedy and best actress in a drama.

This year, the Golden Globes were hosted by Jimmy Fallon host of the tonight show. They took place on Jan. 8 on NBC. “La La Land” dominated the 2017 Golden Globes. The film broke Golden Globe records with seven total wins. Other people that won big include Casey Aff leck for his role in “Manchester by the Sea” and Viola Davis for her role in “Fences”.

GRAMMYS

Best TV Show: Best Movie: Finding Dory Outlander

Best Series: Atlanta

Album of the Year

25 - Adele Lemonade - Beyonce Purpose - Justin Bieber Views - Drake A Sailor’s Guide To Earth Sturgil Simpson

Best Competition TV Show: The Voice

The People’s Choice Awards are unlike other award shows in the fact that they let the people decide who will win. Fans had the opportunity to vote for their favorite acts online at vote.peopleschoice. com. Pop culture is the main theme of the awards, with categories from favorite movie to favorite female recording artist to favorite social media star.

The People’s Choice Awards aired on CBS on Jan. 17 and was hosted by actor Joel McHale. Ellen broke the People’s choice award record for most awards with her 20th. Britney Spears took home the most awards on the night with a total of four.

ACADEMY AWARDS Best Picture

La La Land Arrival Lion Hell or High Water Hidden Figures Moonlight Hacksaw Ridge Manchester by Sea Fences

GO with the Flow

Throughout the past year or so, a certain hairstyle has taken many guys, particularly millennials, by storm.

Flow comes from the way hair tends to, for lack of a better word, f low after boys take off their helmet after a game.

“It’s a lacrosse thing, so it’s cool to have the f low,” said Isaac Henn, sophomore.

Even though it originated in sports, that is certainly not everyone’s reason for growing out their hair. Some Panthers are lucky enough to have their hair naturally f low back. Ian Cassidy, senior, has a few reason for having longer hair.

“I’ve always had longer than average hair since as long as I can remember, and also I don’t really like getting haircuts,” said Cassidy.

Others believe that they were made for having longer hair rather than short hair. Take Michael Allen, junior, for example.

“I grew out my hair because I look ugly with short hair,” said Allen.

The look isn’t the only reason this is a trend. Henn said that his favorite part of having f low is “When you’re running down the field and people are watching your hair f low behind you, you feel like

WINNERS

PEOPLE’S CHOICE

GOLDEN GLOBES

by ADAM FRAZIER

OPINION

This hair trend is taking South by storm

by NATALIE MASTERS

you’re running ten times faster,” said Henn.

For one guy with f low it’s a nice distraction to have. Who doesn’t fiddle with their hair from time to time?

“I like fidgeting with my hair in class, also I think it looks good.” said Cassidy.

Obviously, there are several positive factors of being a guy with long hair, but like everything, there are cons to the f low as well.

“It takes forever to dry long hair,” said Nate Newton, junior.

Newton isn’t the only one with a complaint about the maintenance of long hair.

“The worst part of having longer hair is having to brush it every morning,” said Henn.

For others, it’s most annoying because it gets in the way.

“It gets in your face all the time whenever you put your head down which gets old,” said Allen.

The trend of f low has its upsides and downsides, but I think it’s safe to say it has added a variety to the hairstyles seen on boys every day.

OPINION

22

F l i p S i d e CourtWARMING! Dance or Disaster?

FlipSide

by REILLY SCOTT I consider my parents to be pretty progressive, which is why it’s frustrating that they shake their heads in disappointment when a guy doesn’t open his car door for me. There seems to be a pretty substantial generation gap; I don’t think they realize I don’t mind opening my own door.

Actually, I prefer it.

I can pay for my own dinner, and my date’s. I can push in my own chair. I am 100 percent capable of opening a door for myself, even though occasionally I do push when it’s pull. I realize the guy is just trying to be nice, but chivalry is something that makes me uncomfortable.

That is why I love Courtwarming so much. Also, I take

every opportunity to f launt my legendary dance moves.

As a girl during Courtwarming season, I relish the opportunity to show off my outstanding wit and creativity by asking a guy to Courtwarming. I don’t have to wait around and hope that one of these days, my dream date will emerge from the heavens with a beautiful poster and a golden retriever puppy.

I can go find him myself. The pressure is lifted.

So, the things that seem controversial about Courtwarming (the girl paying for tickets, dinner, etc.) don’t seem controversial to me in the slightest. I understand it’s nervewracking to put yourself out there, to be unsure of the outcome, to put yourself in a situation where you might not come out on top. I think most people would sympathize with that statement.

However, there is an intoxicating feeling that comes with stepping outside of your comfort zone and having it pay off.

So, to all the girls considering asking their crush to Courtwarming: I encourage you, and I reassure you, that it will be worth it.

Courtwarming: the least respected dance South has to offer. It is a lame attempt for a girl to ask a guy to a night of disappointment.

In all honesty, Courtwarming isn’t terrible, but if you compare it to any of the other dances, such as Prom, it would be like comparing bronze to gold. It’s a medal, but it isn’t the best and people would rather stick with the gold. Maybe that isn’t the case in the eyes of others, but looking at the overall aspect, guys do a lot more for the girls at these other dances, and they tend to attract a bigger crowd compared to other dances.

The dance itself, however, has potential, but the girl needs to make sure she is playing her role right. Ladies, it isn’t that hard to ask a guy to Courtwarming, in some cases I bet girls have asked guys in smart and clever ways before, but with what I’ve personally seen at South I can say I’m not impressed with what the girls have to offer. I know y’all can do better.

Paying for dinner and tickets shouldn’t be that big a deal, and supposedly girls are expected to pay for dinner, at least.

Yet, I still hear stories of guys having to pay for everything the night of the dance.

Maybe because Prom is right around the corner, but it just seems like no one cares about Courtwarming, especially the upperclassmen. I mean, with every year I move up a grade at South, the dance just seems to get more irrelevant. No one makes it a big deal like the other dances, and the students are making that more acceptable every year.

Seriously, have you ever seen social media during Homecoming and Prom? Everyone, girls mainly, are posting

pictures left and right, and some social medias like Snapchat even create a category for these events.

But when Courtwarming comes, you don’t see nearly as many photos compared to these other dances, and you won’t see Snapchat making a category for the occasion. The reason behind this is because either students don’t care enough about the dance, or they would rather wait and post about Prom or Homecoming instead. Courtwarming just isn’t big enough for people to care.

I’m not saying that Courtwarming itself isn’t fun. It can be; girls just need to realize that it isn’t hard to ask someone to go with them. Many guys would be okay with going, but they never get asked.

I’m sure the same thing happens to girls with Prom and Homecoming, but it isn’t time to take revenge on guys.

Girls set the tone of Courtwarming because they are the one who choose to ask a guy and go. If students don’t realize this soon, Courtwarming will eventually become irrelevant enough to the point where no one will want to attend.

by TRIPP PARSONS

23

OPINION

Go nuts for donuts I went to five different donut places in one day. While this sounds like it could be the best thing in the world, I highly recommend going to these place on different days. On this 24 hour journey, I tried three different donuts from each of the five different places

by HALLIE VANDEVEN

DONUT KING Donut King was the first stop out of the five. While the drive wasn’t that far, just in North Kansas City, it wasn’t the easiest. It is about 15 minutes away from Riss Lake, but you do have to get on and off of highways; so if that isn’t your forte, I would stick to going to gas stations to get your donuts.

The atmosphere of Donut King was very laid back. The people were especially nice and you could even watch them make the donuts. The main advantage to this place was that there was a drive thru. If you came straight from bed with your hair astray, no one is there to judge, just there to get a donut... or 12.

Speaking of the donuts, they were great. The glazed donut was different than most; something about it tasted citrusy but in a good way. I also tried their chocolate donut that was a complete mess but worth the mess-- it was extra rich and filling. The last was the orange f lavored donut that is everything you could image, and was a favorite of mine; keep in mind, I tried 15 donuts that day.

Overall, I think Donut King hits the nail on the head for what you could get with a donut shop.

DONUT LOUNGE Donut Lounge is in a league of it’s own. They have a wide variety of food and drinks and donuts. They have couches and tables and a bar.

The place is very cool and more on the hipster side of donut restaurants. It is in Westport which is pretty out of the way but there is enough stuff to do there that you could make a whole day of it.

The donuts here weren’t the best, though. It is a place you definitely come to for the atmosphere rather than good donuts. They do have a wide variety of donuts you don’t see every day, my personal favorite being the maple bacon donut.

If you want a place that is laid back and in a cool part of town, I’d go here but if you’re looking more for a place with quality donuts and are in a rush, I’d skip out on this one.

Favorite quick donut options: Dunkin’ Donuts: 51% Hen House: 11% Quik Trip: 38%

LAMAR’S Lamar’s, aka the hardest drive I conquered in the last year of driving, was anything but easy. Lamar’s is on main street which is a tough trek for most high school students.

The donuts here were good but pretty dry other than the glazed donut which was easily the best glazed donut I have ever had.

The people here were okay; it was obviously under staffed but they handled the long line well. If you’re downtown it is worth the stop, but not worth going that far out of your way in all honesty.

What to Expect IN 2017 Spring

Summer

Fall

Nintendo Switch; March 3

Wonder Woman; June 2

Red Redemtion 2; Autumn 2017

Gaurdians of the Galaxy Vol. 2; May 5

Bruno Mars; Aug. 9 at the Sprint Center

Waitress: The Musical; Nov. 14-19 at the Music Hall

by ANNE PRICE

Winter

Star Wars Episode 8; Dec 15

Women’s Volleyball; Dec. 14-16 at the Sprint Center