The View Issue 1 Vol 21

september 21, 2018 volume 21 issue 1

park hi

ll south

South is geared up for the many new changes for the 2018-2019 school year. page 12 & 13

he t view

Park Hill South High School Riverside, Mo.

FEATURES

OPINIONS

NEWS

SPORTS

S TA F F

EDITORS

Editors in Chief: Noelle Alviz-Gransee Garrett Osbourn Art Directors: Annie Buckles Alex Benton Features Editor: Claire Hoy Sports Editor: Ethan Farrow Opinion Editor: Gabby McDowell News Editor: Grace Dieleman Managing Editor: Annie Woodson

03 08 New Band Pirate

11 Latte

17 KC/South

05 09 15 Rage Cage Assassin STUCO

22 Reigning

Direction

Pete’s

Letter from the Editors:

Walking into South this year, Garrett and I had mixed feeling about all the new renovations that were put in place during the summer. I, for one, love the new commons and cafeteria, and Garrett has his feelings about the infamous tardy tables. A lot of students sacrificed patience in the face of these changes.

The football team practiced at Lakeview, and the soccer teams had to spend most of the summer at Park Hill. Seeing it all now though, I feel like it was all worth it.

At first, walking into our senior year as co-editors was a little overwhelming. We had to learn how to run a class and organize a magazine within a few weeks, but in the end we formed a united front and were able to guide the class to put together our first issue.

Our mission is to deliver fair, unbiased reporting to inform the student body on things not only going on in the school,

Love

Switch-Up

Soccer

Ace

but events that we find important for them to know. In our first issue, we chose to focus on all the changes that took place throughout the summer in order to inform you, the students and so you can form your independent opinions.

We are excited to what this year has to bring, and with just months until graduation, it’s important to enjoy every moment left of high school. We are only here once, so let’s make this year a good one, South.

Noelle Alviz-Gransee Garrett Osbourn co-editors-in-chief

Reporters: Maria Allred Garrett Anderson Lucas Bowman Kiana Fernandes Avery Glover Jessie Hagen Payton Havermann Sadie Hudson Lyon Jones Payton Keedy Zane Leiker Nicco Leluga Duke Maddox Kate Maness Jake Powers Ty Rouse John Sterrett Nicole Wilson Adviser: Megan Palmer The View is published six times during the regular school year as the student news publication of Park Hill South High School in Riverside, Mo. Opinions expressed here are that of the student journalists and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Park Hill School District.

To access the editorial policies or to submit a letter to the editor, visit our website at phsview.com.

The View is a member of National Scholastic Press Association and the Missouri Interscholastic Press Association and is printed by Osage Graphics in Olathe, Kan.

Marching to a New

beat

Before marching onto the field, South students had to walk into class with an open mind thanks to the introduction of a new band director

by Kiana Fernandes

Andrew Gillespie directs the band as they perform stand tunes on the sideline. photo by Kiana Fernandes

“Band, ten’hut!”

“South!”

This call and response can be heard every time the Panther Marching Band hits the field to perform. It’s a message from director to students to make sure they are prepared for the show ahead.

This year, though, the command isn’t being delivered by Dr. Craig Miller.

A new face has come to band, and with it, a new organization. Andrew Gillespie was hired this spring to fill the role of head band director at South following Miller’s retirement in May. While worried about the ideas he would bring at first, the band has quickly adjusted to Gillespie’s fresh perspective.

“To help with the transition it was just kind of reassuring people ‘just give him a chance, it’s gonna be great’ and once he got here he came in super strong and... his whole persona was really uplifting and happy and I think everybody clung to that,” said Haley Wewers, senior, who is one of the four drum majors this year.

Since then, the band has worked with Gillespie and has now started working on adding music to the second movement of their show, “Gypsy Caravan.”

While the end product is important, Gillespie said he has a higher priority when working with the band.

“I genuinely do care about the student experience and that’s what should come first.

Band isn’t the end-all-be-all If I can tell the students are hitting a brick wall, the band doesn’t come first; the student’s well being does,” he said.

Marching isn’t the entirety of the Panther Band experience, though. Once the last football game ends, the students are inside preparing for their first winter concert. Charlie Boyd, a colleague of Gillespie and fellow band director, is already thinking of what’s going to come.

“I look forward to seeing what he does with the top symphonic band. Obviously the biggest part of any music program is the actual indoors.

When you look at music education, it’s really about what are you gonna do indoors with your concert groups,” said Boyd.

Gillespie’s new perspective to the band will continue to be implemented for the entirety of the year, but for now…

“Band dismissed.”

“‘Just give him a chance, it’s gonna be great.’”

a. Mrs. Jones b, Mrs. Anib c. Mr. Stelinga

features -3

d. Mrs. Fanjaud e. Mrs. Sparks f. Mr. Williams

As we grow up, the world gets darker. Sex trafficking and kidnapping is getting closer and closer to home. Sex traffickers are crawling into victims’ back seats while they fill up at gas stations, waiting on the passenger side for the door to unlock, approaching girls at school bus stops, following them on the highway and much more.

We have always been on high alert but we’ve also been able to enjoy life, and live somewhat care free...that’s over now.

In a study on missingkids.com, it is found that one in seven kids were likely victims of sex trafficking.

In just one year there were over 14,500 attempted child abductions.

Not worried yet? The last week of August leading into September, a black Jeep was reported following school kids around and asking them if they wanted rides when at the bus stop. This was right here at South, and the man has yet to be caught.

To top it all off? Deanna Koelliker, communication arts, went to an interview with past criminals.

She reported the number one thing they said was, “We could have doubled are numbers of victims because everyone is so plugged in.”

Staying off your phone is just one precaution we can take; there are so many more to follow.

Taylor Boyce, junior, said, “I never drive in my car without at least a fourth of a tank of gas, I never go places by myself at night, and I always keep alert in sketchy places.”

What other precautions can we take?

Officer Matt Westrich, SRO, said, “If you get into a situation where you are being followed, change your direction and go to the nearest business or person, and call the police.” He also says, “to try avoiding overloading yourself with bags or restricting clothing.”

Sex Trafficking: more intense and dangerous than bumper to bumper

by Nicole Wilson

Always lock the car even if only walking away for a short time.

If being followed on the highway, try your hardest to get away from them If you’re unable to call the police and have them meet at the next exit.

4- features

Flesh

Trafficking

Check underneath your car when approaching it, and check in the back before getting in.

When getting into your car only unlock the drivers’ side door, as attackers can be on the passenger side waiting for you to unlock that door and let them in.

If an unmarked car tries to pull you over do not pull over, call 112 (highway control), say you feel uncomfortable and ask if there are any unmarked cars in your area. If not, keep going and they will send cops out to you.

Academy sells pepper spray for $9.99 and personal alarms for $19.99--just don’t bring to school!

Stay off of your phone-- you need to pay attention to your surroundings as much as possible.

about G N I G RA the LEADER

S

by: Kate Maness

Every year a new set of seniors are chosen to lead the Rage Cage. Here’s a look at the 2018-19 leaders

Sadie Franklin

Favorite chant: You can’t do that Fav sport to watch/chant at: Football Fav theme: Jersey What you love about it: Getting everyone hyped up and feeling everyone have the same energy

Dawson Owen

Favorite chant: Scoreboard, Scoreboard Fav sport to watch/chant at: soccer Fav theme: Camo What you love about it: Hyping everyone up and getting them involved

Cooper Hayes

Favorite chant: Fundamentals Fav sport to watch/chant at: Girls swim Fav theme: tourist/safari

What you love about it: Running flag after touchdowns

Braeden Denney

Favorite chant: Ha, Ha, Ha, you let the whole team down Fav sport to watch/chant at: Basketball Fav theme: USA What you love about it: I love getting rowdy with all my friends

Ethan Farrow

Favorite chant: Nuts and bolts!

Fav sport to watch/chant at: Basketball Fav theme: Jersey What you love about it: the energy in the cage

features - 5

F

alling or all

With Fall rapidly approaching, South students spill the tea on their favorite

By Claire Hoy and Fall trends Annie Woodson

Getting out of the summer spirit and into fall mode can be difficult, but for Shea Worley, freshman, and Madison Carter, junior, there are two things that have them jumping for cooler weather.

“I love going to the pumpkin patch. The colors, pumpkins and overall vibe of it is so fun. Getting dressed up and going is one of my favorite fall traditions,” said Worley.

While all of South students live in Missouri, Kansas’ sunflowers are a short hop, skip and a jump away.

“I went to the sunflower fields this year with my family to get pictures taken. I love sunflowers, and going with my family was really fun,” said Carter.

Fields of Fun

Finding Fall Fashion Along with the seasons, fall fashion trends are ever changing. Styles are being recycled every season, bringing back the old and making it new again.

“My mom always jokes with me saying that she should have just kept her clothes from when she was growing up because they just keep coming back in style,” said Kate Kobayashi, senior.

From groovy stripes to denim on denim, Kobayashi keeps her closet stocked.

“You can never go wrong with stripes. They are always a good idea in the fall. Another thing that I have always loved but is just now coming in season is denim on denim,” said Kobayashi.

Location Location Location

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Red Barn Farm Free Entry

6- features

Festive Food

Transitioning from summer to fall can be a big step that some don’t want to climb, while others have been waiting all year for the season and its festivities.

Abigail Ahrendt, sophomore, doesn’t mind switching from summer to fall and enjoys the transition.

“When the weather starts to get colder and it becomes fall time I usually start eating lots of soup and bake with my mom,” said Ahrendt.

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Grinter’s Sunflower Farm Cider Hill Family Orchard Free Entry Free Entry

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Good things come to those who wait. Those who enjoy downtown Parkville have been waiting for Pirate Pete’s for quite some time.

The location, the corner of

the street next to the power plant, for Pirate Pete’s has always been a tough place to sell. The two restaurants that have been there in the past decade have been less than successful, but maybe Pirate Pete’s will be able to break the curse.

Pirate Pete’s was definitely a welcome surprise. The wait wasn’t long, the food was a reasonable price and it was made right in front of you. I ordered the basic burger, the deckhand, and a side of fries.

Burger was perfectly grilled, juicy and not greasy.

Something that was unexpected was how good the fries where. They were freshly fried and topped with different seasonings--the kind of fries that you would find at family owned restaurants, but actually on a street corner. The whole meal was a good deal, and only cost about $8 for the food, drink and a side.

Pirate Pete’s was first announced as opening a year ago, but the building was owned before that. It began heavy renovations leading up

to the restaurants opening, with the interior being changed drastically with furniture and decorations fitting the new restaurant.

The interior reminds me a lot of a place you would see down at the Lake of the Ozarks. With fishnets on the walls and wooden stools, it would fit in with the other aquatic themed restaurants. This is a plus on the atmospheric level, and makes for a pleasant dining experience.

If you are in need of a job, Pirate Pete’s is hiring. As a new restaurant they are currently understaffed and a help wanted sign hangs in the window. Judging by how friendly the owners and service was, it might not be a bad place to work.

Overall, I enjoyed Pirate Pete’s, and hope for their success. They will make a good destination for eating in downtown Parkville or a just for a quick bite.

For these reasons I give Pirate Pete’s a 4.5 out of 5. It was a rewarding experience, and one that will be repeated. My hopes are high for the burger joint, and I believe they will outlast its precursors.

opinion -7

The Fault in Our

Freshmen

By Noelle AG

Walking into South this year, most students

noticed that a lot of physical features in the school have changed. There’s a new cafeteria, entrance, library and of course the tardy tables. Something that was missing that perhaps many students didn’t notice was that there was no longer a freshman mentor program.

Through all the commotion, this dismantlement was swept under the rug due to shock and fascination.

Youth who meet regularly with their student mentors are 46 percent less likely than the rest of their peers to start using illegal drugs and 27 percent less likely to start underage drinking, according to a study

by Big Brothers Big Sisters.

Last year at South, we had 35 drug cases that were reported to the state prosecutor. 23 cases were from the first semester alone, according to Officer Matt Westrich. What’s worse is that a vast majority of them were from freshmen. These incredibly high numbers were when we had FANS mentors, so imagine the numbers without them.

Not having a FANS program this year will cause an unpredictable ricochet of health and social problems for the current and future freshmen.

According to Big Brothers Big Sisters’ nationwide statistics, students who meet regularly with their mentors are 52 percent less likely than their other peers to skip a day of school and 37 percent less likely to skip class.

The program wasn’t slashed because there wasn’t enough passion in the mentors; on the contrary, most of the FANS loved making connections with the new freshmen. Maya Yildirim, senior (STUCO president) and Annie Buckles, senior, developed a close bond with their mentees and even drove them places.

As a mentor, one of the responsibilities is to become someone that the freshmen can turn to during social or educational struggles, a student counselor if you will.

8- opinion

Their job is to be approachable and a role model for those who maybe don’t have an adult to turn to.

Last year, I had to the opportunity to help one of my freshmen who had a friend who was dealing with sexual harassment. Since I couldn’t help deal with situation myself, I gave them advice to tell their friend and gave them a list of trustworthy adults to talk to at South.

Before becoming a FAN, you are trained on how to handle difficult social situations. One learns how to talk to a student about their depression, anxiety, bullying, drama or family issues. Who will they turn to when there isn’t a trained peer who is able to assist them?

According to Mentoring Impact, young adults who were at risk for falling off the track, but had a mentor were way more likely to volunteer regularly, hold leadership positions, and become mentors themselves.

It is extremely detrimental for our school to not encourage these statistics.

To the freshmen this year: I apologize for the lack of positive peer guidance you will receive, and I hope that you will be able to defy the statistics and be a role model class for the next to come.

To the school administration: I have to say there was a lot of disappointment amongst the upperclassmen who were FANS last year. Without any positive peer guidance, South can only hope that the freshman class will be able to make the right choices.

This year, the Freshmen Mentor program was dismantled, and the effects that can come from that could be detrimental

Drug Cases at South Referred to State Prosecutor 2017-2018 School Year

2 12 8 4 9

Distribution of Medication (Non-Scheduled)

Possession of Marijuana

Possession of Prescription Medication (non-scheduled)

Possession of C/S (not marijuana)

Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Survival

to

Guide

No one is safe in a game of survival

1 2 3

No matter what, DO NOT leave your social media location on!

I know you all love to say you have the most followers but refrain from accepting random requests during the time period of the game.

Park your car in garage.

4

Make sure your family knows what it going on so they don’t let a “friend” in to assassinate you.

5 6

Become a stalker to find your next target.

Keep your target a secret; people talk and talking can lead to your destruction.

By: Gabby McDowell

Hide...those who are caught are

eliminated from the game.

For past years South has had a tradition of upperclassmen playing the iconic game, Assassin. For those who don’t know, it is an intense game of hide and seek. The difference is that money is the prize and your hiding from the water.

Before the game starts, students who play put a certain amount of money in to play and whoever “lives” the longest will receive that money at end.

They objective of the game is to not be shot down with water. Below are some steps that you can take to ensure maximum security in the game.

7 8 9 10

Put on your running shoes!

Be prepared to hunt during all hours of the day and night.

Always keep some type of water squirting device with you.

Last but not least...

TRUST NO ONE

opinion-9

the n I . s see u ient o t ant conven t is that w u o as y d most ound ou thlete, s u see rms an at we f d an a u o “Y lest te t wh rain, an , and a u p B sim itions. s is a b incess r n defi one of u ase, a p c each basket lub a C iving in a time when you are d t s n ” a a f k al. constantly being told who you a n i e should be or what you should crim -The Br look like isn’t easy. We are told that high school is your chance to become

F

T T I

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“When introducing projects, I always tell my students, ‘I want you to go outside the box.’ I don’t want to pigeon hole you. Create your own path. Be you.”

-Kathy Thompson, art

10- opinion

an independent young adult with your own sense of identity.

Every counselor, teacher and parent is on your back about how this is your time to prepare for college and figure out how you are going to live the rest of your life.

On top of it all, you have to fit in to a specific clique and match the stereotypes that come along with it.

There’s always going to be people telling you who you should be friends with, what you need to be involved in, and the type of person you are supposed to be.

But there’s one person who controls what you make of yourself: you. All these voices have no idea who you are and have no right to tell you what you should do.

There’s a type of freedom that you gain when you realize that you will never be able to please every person that expects you to be someone you aren’t. When you decide to care about the people who care just as much about you, you no longer have to fit in a little grey box of social standards that everyone else makes for you.

I moved to this school district in sixth grade with a pretty strong sense of individuality, which I started to question the second I walked into

G IN

B

IN

A

X O

Plaza Middle School. I was torn by who I was, who I wanted to become, and every person around me telling me how I should fit in.

Five years have passed and I have never had a stronger sense of self than I do today. It has taken some trials, to say the least. Everyone is dealt their own set of cards in this life, meaning the ups and the downs and all the in betweens. It is how you handle these challenges that defines the type of person you are.

I am thankful for every single thing I have gone through in my life, because without the hardships I would have become a completely different person.

High school is your chance to define yourself and the person that other people see you as. Do you want to be someone created by the influence of everyone around you or do you want to be the person crafted by what you believe and the things you are passionate about?

by : Avery Glover

M E N U : “T

here’s just something about the smell of coffee,” said Dale Longenecker, principal. “The Folgers plant… It’s gone now. It was such a wonderful smell… It was a big thing to drive past and smell the coffee.”

Longenecker has been working closely with Sarah McDaniels, special education, to bring a new addition to the library.

Rumors about a new coffee shop began circulating last school year. They were confirmed around May. The idea came from surrounding schools that have implemented similar, special education-run coffee shops.

“I toured a lot of them the past few years… we just thought it would be a great implementation to our school, for not just my kids but any kid to come hang out,” said McDaniels.

She hopes it will be open by October 1.

Most of the details of the counter have already been planned out. Its name, Gathering Grounds, is meant to represent South students coming together. The counter will sell hot coffee with a variety of milks and syrups for $2, according to McDaniels.

Longenecker believes that the coffee counter will

promote positive change at South.

“It’s not just about serving coffee,” he said. “It’s a great vocational activity for our Special Education kids.”

Both McDaniels and Longenecker agree that this coffee counter is a way to bring the Special Education students even closer to the rest of the student body.

Student have also expressed anticipation for the coffee counter.

Rose Coyne, senior, is an avid coffee drinker and is excited for the new addition.

“On days where I wake up late, and am exhausted, and still want to get to school on time, I would go there” Coyne said.

The counter will start off small, and with limited options. They hope to expand later.

“We hope to go to even hot teas, or hot cocoa in the winter,” said McDaniels.

While the construction has faced delays. Gathering Grounds looks to be a new warm and welcoming space, and bring that nostalgic coffee smell to the South library.

“It’s not just

about serving coffee.”

Students pose in front of the future coffee counter with brand new aprons.

Photo courtesy of Sarah McDaniels

Details emerge about the highly anticipated coffee counter in the South library

By: Amy Graham 11- news

new South who dis?

Students were greeted on the first day with an onslaught of exciting, new changes at South

Library Logjam

by Lucas Bowman

W

hen class ended in May, other work was just beginning. Although the don’t know exactly,” she said, though unfortunately much is still left to be students were gone for the summer, South was still full of activity as done in mid-September. construction crews worked on renovations to the school over the summer.

Students also had opinions on the library renovations.

Most projects, including the soccer, baseball, softball and football fields, have “I understand why they did it... but it seemed unnecessary,” said Kris been completed; except one.

Tinoco, senior.

The library renovations began at the same time as the sports fields, He was frustrated by the lack of progress by construction workers. around the first week school let out. However, the library has taken “They’ve been putting in the same light bulbs for two weeks,” said Tinoco. considerably longer than the rest. Although its Othes were much more positive about the changes that have completion was expected in August, there have been already been put into place, as many more students have begun “I understand why to use the library in new ways. delays.

Barb Kauble, media specialist, said, “We were told really like the new seating and how it is arranged; it’s really they did it... but it nice“Ifor it would be ready by August 1… they started all the doing work in here,” said Kara Hagen (freshman). renovations the first day after school got out.” seemed unecessary.” With the additional wait time, the main portions of the The postponement, as she was told, was caused by library, including the coffee bar, and glass display cases won’t the lack of product, some stuff they’ve had to back be done until late October, with other projects being completed order, and the ordering of the wrong material. throughout the school year. Things don’t always go as planned, “They’re hoping that a big part of it will be done by Labor Day, but we but the school has to move on, and keep going.

May construction begins right after school lets out

before 12- news

after

July major structural renovations are either underway or finished

On August 15, South was introduced to Tardy Tables. The idea was pitched

by South’s assistant principal, Dr. Elizabeth Esco, who used them when she worked in the Olathe School District.

“The whole idea of it came from the fact we had over 400 tardies to first block in a week, last year. So, when we started to look at that; that’s a lot of time out of class, it’s a lot of interruptions for our teachers, and we wanted them to be able to start classes for the kids who are here,” said Esco.

Having the new system put in place isn’t the whispers of the hall, it’s the time wasted on it. Whether you’re caught a second short by the 7:30, 9:06, 10:37, 11:13, and or the 1:14 bell, you’re sent walking to the nearest table.

Where you’re helped by one of South’s following campus supervisors.

“I’d say they are effective. I believe that is has less to do with the students.

To be honest with you, I think that is helps the teachers keep track of tardies, and maybe that’s something they want to deal with. Some kids that will be tardy all the time, some teachers maybe wouldn’t count them tardy, but then other kids would get counted tardy a lot. So, it’s kind of like an unfair thing.

This here, keeps everyone honest,” said OJ Simpson (campus supervisor).

However, many students agree with Tracy Aguilar (senior) that it causes additional delays, rather than on time students.

“You lose more time in class. Depending on where you are, you might have to walk farther to get to a Tardy Table, and then wait on top of that because there may be a line of people who need a pass. Personally, the whole idea itself is so flawed. They’re dumb and end up making you way more tardy than you would be,” said Aguilar.

Keeping the student’s opinions in mind, Esco explained the goals of the Tardy Tables.

Dr. Esco said, “I’m the one who brought it, so I think it’s a good thing. We didn’t really set specific goals, less rather than just having less tardies than we did last year. Less recurring high flyers who are tardy to everything and racking up huge numbers of tardies. We’re trying to alleviate the number of tardies in general.”

The new system has seemed to create an issue, which South is going to have to get through.

“I think the worst excuse is if they say ‘The first five minutes or ten minutes of class is important, then why did I waste it at the tardy table?’ You’re already late so obviously you don’t care how long it took you. The point is you’re late, but I really just think it’s teachers’ responsibility. [Regardless], it’s obviously working, because we have less tardies than we had in a long time,” said Simpson.

August

September

bookshelves are unfinished, and doors haven’t even arrived

bookshelves still aren’t here, and still no doors to conference rooms

“I was skeptical at first, but the process is working, particularly for first block.”

As South awaits to see the final year outcome, many still express their thoughts. Administrators, teachers and students, will have to be patient and deal with it.

“I was skeptical at first, but the process is working, particularly for first block,” said Jennifer Holden (communication arts). “It will be interesting to see if, as the semester progresses, whether or not the number of tardies increases.”

by Sadie Hudson

Tardy Tables encouraged students to get to class on time or face new penalties

Tardy Party

news -13

Southside Got That New New The fields got plenty of new features over the summer

where’s what?

The athletic complexes at South have gone through major updates.

From the football, soccer and track fields’ fresh turf, to bright new lights rising above the softball and baseball diamonds.

The construction started in May and finished mid-August, right before the first day of school.

“We have one of the best campuses around now; it is beautiful out there,” John Carr, athletic director, said.

The football field was the first project. The field that used to be all natural grass, is now artificial turf that works with any type of weather that might be thrown at them. All summer long, the athletes had to make adjustments to their practice locations.

One day, they switched fields three times because of conflicts that interfered with other South sports.

“I feel like it’s good training to respond positively and make the most of what you get,” said junior middle linebacker Cameron Gillespie.

The boys were getting very tired of the changes going on throughout the summer, but now they can all agree that it was worth every second that the construction workers took.

Some advantages the school has with the new turf is now when it rains they still have a practice field that isn’t

14- news

muddy or dangerous. The new turf helps the soccer and football boys slide or tackle people a lot smoother.

“We seem more prepared for the games now that we are more comfortable on turf,” said Gillespie.

Now that there are lights on the softball and baseball fields, the players can have later games that can last as long as they need them to. The J.V. team for softball used to not even be able to finish their games since they play after varsity. Now they will have plenty of time to finish up any games, and the baseball team will be able to play multiple games in one day.

With the athletic part of campus now renovated, South is looking for what could be the next step.

“I would really like to see a nice little concession stand and bathroom for the softball girls and parents during our games. Running up to the soccer field is not fun,” said senior Emma Beuerlein.

While this has been a long and gruesome process, the players and staff are excited to get the fans outside to watch them on their updated fields.

Make sure to check the fall sports schedule to see your favorite South teams play this season.

2 LIGHTS

by Jessie Hagen

Reserved Preserve

by Grace Dieleman and Lyon Jones

As you drive across campus in the morning you have probably noticed some additional orange cones strewn across the athletic half of the parking lot.

These are to block off a new area known as the Panther Preserve. It allows those who arrive after 7:50 a.m., specifically the virtual, NCAPS and Professional Studies students, easier access to the front entrance.

“The new lot has been really helpful when you come later to school and can’t find a parking spot. Now you know that there will be a lot spaces in one area,” said Kate Kobayashi, senior, and virtual student.

Others who arrive late agree.

“It’s very convenient to have quick access to the front door when coming for second block, especially when it’s been raining so much recently,” said Sam Ahrendt, senior.

But administration is still trying to perfect the new system.

“We still have many problems with the preserve because students that don’t have the blue parking

sticker run over the cones to park in those spots,” said Dr. Beth Esco, assistant principal.

So, now, students are being ticketed if parked in the lot invalidly.

“I paid for a $30 parking pass and it’s not fair that I got a $10 ticket for parking... in a parking spot,” said Brooke Jones, junior.

Additionally, many students agree that the newly coned off area has caused more problems than it has fixed.

“I left after second block one day and counted the parking spots available in the preserve after virtual and NCAPS students got to school.

There were over 50 empty spaces,” said Evan Oathout, junior. “I just don’t think that athletes and people with weights classes should have to park in the academic lot when there is a completely empty area right next to the athletic doors.”

Only time will tell what’s in store for the Panther Preserve, but for the time being, adhere to the cones.

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by Ki a Garre na Ferna nd tt Os bour es & n

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plan fo

r the u

O

t could have easily been chaos.

Freshmen screaming, deadlines completely Several forgotten, teachers ripping out their hair as they veteran wonder what went wrong when it’s only the first members that dropped day of school. Thankfully, STUCO is in capable STUCO this year, explained what changed hands. Despite their newness to the role, there is their mind. resounding positive feedback for the new advisors.

Carli Burdiss, senior, said, “Walked in first day, “I’m excited to get the opportunity to work with and saw a seating chart, and the teacher said phones a lot of underclassmen, and be able to help them away.” grow in leadership after leaving FANS,” said Mary As miniscule as it may seem, for Burdiss this Dickson, sponsor. exposed a shift in leadership that is taking place, Sarah Adkins was the head of STUCO for nearly and could affect the overall morale of STUCO a decade, but a new era is beginning in rooms B202 students. and B203. Cearra Jones, math, and Mary Dickson, The National Institute of Health’s study on foreign language, were hired to fill the role of teacher relationships with students states, “Weak STUCO sponsors, and they have been preparing for relationships that have low personal foundation, this year long before the school doors opened on 84 percent of the time resulted in less effort, and August 15. productivity declined,” which brings into question, “We’ve had countless, I don’t even remember not the challenge of getting things done, but the how many, Exec meetings over the challenge of advisors building good summer, just getting them adjusted relationships with students who and getting us adjusted to all the had the same leader for the last changes that are happening this year three years. because there’s a lot of them and it’s With 150 students, compared to last increase in different, but it’s good change,” said year’s roughly 70, to build relationships Anna Knittig, junior, who is students with, Dickson and Jones have a also serving as STUCO Secretary this challenge ahead of them. school year.

With new advisors come new Knittig revealed that in those perspectives and goals for South STUCO. meetings, they were working out how STUCO “We would love to see more engaging assemblies would run day-to-day, as well as starting up the and representation of all school groups and cultures committees that are in charge of organizing many of at STUCO sponsored events. We want our students the events at South. The teachers asked questions, to be aware of the cultures represented in the and the students did as well, so by the start of the student body and surrounding community. We want year, the STUCO officers and teachers were already to challenge our students to be critical thinkers,” in sync. said Dickson and Jones.

“The first day of school really wasn’t getting used Regardless of if they are planning for to the advisors, it was meeting and bonding with the Homecoming, making signs to welcome students, or new freshmen and also the returning members so, surveying the student body, there’s one thing Jones since the STUCO family has gotten so big it was neat wants her students to remember: to see how it played out in between classes,” said “You didn’t wake up to be Marcus Scudiero, junior and STUCO Treasurer.

However, other dedicated students that have mediocre.” devoted months of their time to STUCO, disagree.

pcomin

g year

115%

news - 15

HOPE for a TNewITeam, TL E Same Goals

By Garrett Anderson and Ty Rouse

At 20 °F, the coldest game in MLS history… the 2013

This helped to spread soccer around the nation as a whole. ”The better our city’s clubs do, the bigger audience they MLS Cup Final, hosted at Sporting Park, packed full of attract,” said Oathout. freezing fans with high hopes. The back and forth game With Sporting’s recent form, they are looking like they ended 1-1 in regulation, but Sporting was victorious in have a very good chance to make a deep run in the playoffs penalty kicks. this year.

The stadium erupted with fireworks, chants, and Sitting in second place with a game in hand, Sporting pride for their city’s club. Since being crowned MLS Cup can look to take first place and enter champions back in 2013, Sporting’s this year’s playoffs with a first round playoff hopes have fallen short in the “We are in a bye. knockout round year after year. winning form, and “We are in a winning form, But will this team of new, fresh our defensive pieces are and our defensive pieces are healthy. players break this streak and bring healthy. They’ve added a They’ve added a very good player in home another title? very good player in “I would love to see Sporting be Krisztian Nemeth, and Diego Rubio Krisztian Nemeth, crowned champions again, and is scoring goals like crazy.” said Jared and Diego Rubio is know that people at South and around Byrne, Soccer Coach.

Kansas City would love to see it, too,” scoring goals As the regular season is coming said Michael Smoyer, junior. like crazy.” to a close, will Sporting KC break the There are only a few players streak of losing in the first round and still on the current squad from the have a chance to take home the cup this year? championship team back in 2013 including Matt Besler, Ike Only time will tell.

Opara and Graham Zusi. But in last years off-season, head coach Peter Vermes added some very talented players to the team.

New players such as Johnny Russell, Felipe Gutierrez and Yohan Croizet have played a huge role for the team in scoring goals and bagging assists.

With the third youngest player ever to start in MLS Johnny history, at the age of 16, Gianluca Busio, as well as 18-yearGOALS : 8 ASSISTS : 8 old Jalen Lindsey, and 21-year-old Daniel Salloi, Sporting Russell show to have a promising future.

“It depends if he leaves or not. Younger players are often targeted by bigger clubs from Europe, but if he Roger GOALS : 1 ASSISTS : 9 stays then I could see him doing great things for the club,” Espinoza said Evan Oathout, junior.

Kansas City was named the soccer capital of the nation after both indoor and outdoor teams won championships.

Tim

2018 Season Stats

16- sports

Melia

SHUTOUTS : 12 SAVES : 88

S E N I O R

by Jake Powers

SPOTLIGHT

Get the first look into returning soccer seniors confidence on the upcoming season, and their plans after high school

P

ark Hill South was the definite underdog in their first game against Rockhurst. They were able to score a goal in the first half and hold off the dominating Hawklets offense the rest of the game. Rockhurst has a history of always being a dominant soccer team in Kansas City.

In recent years, South has had competitive games with them, but Rockhurst has always come out on top. Last year, South didn’t face them in the postseason, but lost to them during the regular season 3-0. The Hawklets went on to win the State championship.

With a big victory already under the team’s belt, it could mean more big things are in store for South this year.

There are 11 seniors in the lineup, including multiple returning varsity starters. That includes: Mark Allred, Austin Gates, Isaac Henn, Alex Hammond, Moti Sarbessa, Carson Lindsey, Bryann Carrillo, Cooper Hayes, Cole Bromstedt, Ian Sprick and Ramon Garcia. With so much experience on the field, they are expecting a successful season.

“Our team is looking really good so far but there is always room to improve, this year’s team is hopefully going to do a lot better than we did last year,” said Carson Lindsey, senior.

After high school, Lindsey is looking to play somewhere in college. He has not yet received any offers but is in contact with multiple schools.

Isaac Henn, senior, is also a returning varsity starter. Henn has played soccer since third grade, but has also played lacrosse for a large portion of his life.

During the offseason, Henn said, “I couldn’t play soccer as much or play

on a club team because I am so busy with lacrosse at the time.”

At the moment, Henn is not looking to play either sport in college but also stated, “that could possibly change.”

Mark Allred, senior, has been starting varsity goalie for the past two years.

During his off season he played for a club team and has also been going to the field with some other teammates during the summer.

As of now, he has no plans for college soccer.

“Not at all. I am done with soccer after this season,” said Allred.

The soccer team may have a lot of seniors this year, however this doesn’t mean the team is lacking in young potential talent.

“We have a couple of really good sophomores on the team and I would say our team this year is better than we were last year,” said Allred.

With strong, talented underclassmen mixed in with the seniors, this season is setup to be one for the books.

UPCOMING VARSITY SOCCER

Carson Lindsey and Isaac Henn played major roles in South’s dominating performance over Liberty.

DAT E

TIME

10.1.18 10.2.18 10.3.18 10.4.18 10.10.18 10.17.18 10.22.18 10.24.18

TBD TBD TBD TBD 6:30 PM 6:30 PM 7 PM 6:30 PM

ISAAC HENN sports-17

character integrity dedication

photo: Sadie Hudson

photo: Kendra Kernel

photo: Kendra Kernel

photo: Lexi Frieders

photo: Lexi Frieders

Friday Night Lights through a lens 18- sports

photo: Kendra Kernel

photo: Sadie Hudson

photo: Lexi Frieders

photo: Kendra Kernel

photo: Bethany Conley

photo: Mia Dozier

pride family panthers

photo essay by Grace Dieleman

photo: Lexi Frieders

sports-19

You walk outside to a brisk Sunday morning and embrace the fresh air. You pack up your tailgate stuff and head to Arrowhead. As you’re driving in, you roll down the windows to smell the crisp barbecue rising in the wind. You have a little giddy feeling inside your stomach because you realize that Chiefs football is back.

The Kansas City Chiefs have a great opportunity to be good; they have a young quarterback and he is surrounded by excellent talents all over the offense.

They have Kareem Hunt who has established himself as a top running back in the league and doesn’t show signs of slowing down.

Tyreek Hill is an All-Pro wide out and is the fasted dude in the league, like c’mon, he isn’t called the Cheetah for no reason.

Sammy Watkins has the potential to be a great receiver, but this will be his fourth year in the NFL and his third team. He has never had the opportunity to settle into a system since he has been injured a lot, it has hindered his ability to be effective.

The Chiefs also have Travis Kelce, who is debatably the best tight end in the league as said

by Jake Fisher, “Kelce has elite skills that are second to none.”

New to this season is second year quarterback, Patrick Mahomes. This was a huge deal when the Chiefs traded the former starter and 3x Pro Bowler, Alex Smith.

Mahomes has a ton of potential but can he put it all together when the time is needed.

The answer to that is about 50/50. The weapons on offense will help him but his inexperience won’t be of any use. A lot of the season depends on if he can put it all together.

The defense in people’s mind may be a struggle because of the past, the Chiefs made a lot of changes to the secondary this offseason. Some good, some bad.

Adding young players who can learn the system and also some veterans that can help teach the young guys.

Tyreek Hill is a First-team All Pro (2016) and a 2x Pro Bowler

20- sports

HUNT

Mahomes

H I L L

Fresh look into the season with a rebranded Chiefs team

the view september 21st - news

Mahomes takes over the Chiefs this year. Was the 10th overall pick

in 2017

Young guys like Kendall Fuller and Tremon Smith.

Fuller was ranked the best slot corner by Pro Football Focus last year. Smith was a sixth round draft pick but shows good athleticism.

The Chiefs brought over veteran, Orlando Scandrick, from the Washington Redskins, but before that he was a former captain for the Dallas Cowboys.

Scandrick is a good corner and that will fill the leadership role inside the locker room, we hope he can add value to a struggling Chiefs secondary The linebackers are something special--Anthony Hitchens and Reggie Ragland.

These two are sleepers in the linebacker world and look to build a relationship as a unit for Kansas City.

Defensive line may be a problem as well, they have been building a defensive front for a few years now.

Main pieces include Justin Houston and Chris Jones. The Chiefs drafted Breeland Speaks with a second round pick; he shows great signs of being an elite edge rusher.

Overall, Kansas City has a tough schedule this season.

Possibly the hardest in the last few years as they take on veteran quarterbacks and stacked defenses.

Desi Williams, senior, said, “Every year Chiefs fan say they are going all the way but they always choke.”

While it is hard to disagree with him, the team has changed a lot and maybe Mahomes is the answer to the Chiefs problems.

Led the NFL in rushing last year and 2017 Pro Bowler

Boom or Bust?

Fans are hopeful for a successful season for the Chiefs

by Ethan Farrow

It’s August 19. The Royals have raced out to a six run lead in the second inning, on three home runs from Ryan O’Hearn, Whit Merrifield and Alex Gordon. Kansas City’s starter Heath Fillmyer works a three up, three down third inning to preserve a 6-0 lead. This team is rolling.

But by the end of the fourth inning, the lead is gone. Fillmyer is pulled without even getting an out in the fourth. The White Sox take the lead in the fifth and go up 7-6. The Royals offense grows cold and they can’t get another run on the board. They lose 7-6 and drop to 38-86 on the year. Many students at South watch on in frustration as they have so many time this year.

The Royals are on pace to pass the 100 loss mark for the first time since 2006, and will likely finish with the worst record in team history. The best player on the team is Whit Merrifield, who was not even on the MLB roster when the Royals won the World Series. Five of the eight all stars from 2015 have since been traded or have signed elsewhere.

The Royals are finally starting to embrace what they have refused to accept for the past couple seasons: rebuilding mode.

Rebuilding mode basically means lots and lots of losing while they trade their top players for prospects, and using their top draft picks on players that will hopefully help the team in the future rather than the present.

Ian Enyeart, junior, said that the Royals are unsuccessful because, “They have a lot of young players who don’t have enough experience in the League yet.”

This is true and when you combine this with the departures

of Lorenzo Cain, Eric Hosmer, and Mike Minor, almost all aspects of the team were weakened this offseason, and it has left the Royals with many holes to fill.

“The Royals badly need Pitching depth and a quality starter to not have a repeat of this year,” said Joe Inzenga, junior.

However not everything is terrible to watch with the Royals as they are now overflowing with young talent. Brett Phillips and Jorge Lopez were acquired for Mike Moustakas and each are making an impact. Lopez is pitching in the Royals starting rotation and Phillips has been a stud defensively in Centerfield.

Pair them with Adalberto Mondesi, who has recently been able to bat at the major league level, Jorge Soler, who was having an all star caliber season before his injury, potential future starters in Jakob Junis, Brad Keller and Heath Fillmyer, and a potential Eric Hosmer replacement, Ryan O’Hearn, who hit nine home runs in his first 24 games, the Royals have the makings of a good young core with more young prospects in the minors as well.

“Brady Singer and Khalil Lee are two prospects who are gonna be pretty good in my opinion,” said Jonathan Thompson, junior.

But until then it seems that the Royals are going to be rebuilding for a long time. The team is young and is going to need time to mature and develop.

Patience is going to be key for fans to get through the long rebuild that is to come.

Welcome to the Team

Royal-ly Screwed

by Payton Havermann and Zane Leiker

sports-21

The Year of Dubs: Her sophomore year Eva Kresovic played 25 matches and won every single one, ending the season undefeated, and as a State champ

So Far This Season: Kresovic’s record at this point in the season is

9-1

Ace

Eva Kresovic demonstrates her “ready position” as she prepares to return the ball.

Reigning Eva Kresovic prepares to defend her State Title

H

eart pounding, sweat dripping, adrenaline rushing, her coaches and teammates are cheering her on. Eva Kresovic, Junior, steps up to the baseline to serve the final point to claim the 2017 State Title.

Kresovic is South’s number one tennis player. Freshman year, Kresovic went to State placing third, but falling to two seniors. However, her confidence was far from gone.

She returned sophomore year, dominating her competition and taking the State title placing first.

Kresovic is predicted to win two more State titles before she graduates. Because of this, she is under a lot of pressure to defend the State title for South.

During the summers, Kresovic practiced about five hours a day, 4-5 days a week, and travels for tournaments every other weekend. In the offseason, she plays about 20 hours a week, with tournaments less often.

In addition to practicing after school, she individually trains an five extra hours a week. Kresovic was planning on not playing tennis for South this year because her coach from Marchetti Tennis Academy mentioned it was a “waste of time” and that she “should be using her time to get better at club.” The team was very upset that she wasn’t going to play, but she ultimately decided to play anyway.

“I love playing for my school and playing with my team. It’s a really good break from all the tennis I have to play in the summer, so I decided I needed to play,” said Kresovic.

Ian Cunliff, varsity tennis coach, said his job as her school coach is a little different than her club coach.

“She practices a lot outside of South and has a personal coach, so my job isn’t technical or mechanical things, it is to keep her focused, try and and alleviate the pressure and keeping her from getting frustrated,” said Cunliff.

Kresovic is under a lot of pressure from her coaches, peers and teammates because she is predicted to bring home two more state titles in her high school career.

“There’s a big difference pressure wise when you win State the first time, and defending that title. There’s a lot less pressure when you win the first time because you don’t have anything to live up to. When people expect things from you, it’s a lot harder. I just try to handle the pressure the best I can,” said Kresovic.

Being a State Champion takes a lot of perseverance, and defending the title is even more difficult. Kresovic plans on working diligently to defend her title this season, no matter the pressure she has to endure.

“I love playing for my school and playing with my team.”

22- sports

by Maria Allred

defending CHAMPIONS

Can the defending state champions maintain their title, or will it prove to be a one hit wonder season?

Many people are drawn to cross country for varying reasons: some seek a challenge while others may just want a good way to stay in shape, or enjoy the social aspect.

Regardless of their initial intentions or inspiration to run, last year’s girls cross country squad formed the most successful team at South, and the most dominant team in all of Missouri. Their performance was a source of pride for students, and brought some much deserved attention for the program and the sport.

Expectations are high to say the least for the returning State champion girls cross country team, but a lot of pressure lands on the shoulders of new leadership. The impressive team of yesteryear was led by seniors, and now the girls are faced with difficulties of filling the roles of the graduated seniors while trying to maintain form.

They have been practicing as hard as ever in preparation for the season, enduring grueling summer runs and arriving before school for morning practices. A tough task, no doubt, but what made them so successful last year? Junior Olivia Roth believes it is more than just raw talent and hard work.

“Cross-Country is a mental sport,” Roth said. “Your body always tells you that you can’t keep going, no matter how hard you’ve trained. It’s about overcoming your mind and pushing yourself.”

The recurring theme of perseverance and mental toughness makes cross country seem like a solitary battle between you and your mind, but that isn’t entirely the case.

“Just because you are ranked and timed independently doesn’t make cross country an individual sport. It’s not the same running without your sisters,” said Roth.

A sentiment many of the girls share regarding their sisterly bond, but for Roth it isn’t just a figure of speech. This year will be Roth’s first year running without her actual sister, South’s leading runner last year, Emma Roth. Many of South’s seniors from their star-studded State team have gone on to run at the collegiate level, including Emma, and their talent and leadership will be sorely missed; but maybe not as much as their companionship.

“I think there’s a special bond on cross country because we train together in a way no other teams do. In all weather, all temperatures, all workouts. We do it together,” said Paige Snider, junior. “Teammates encourage you and push you every step of the way and the sport wouldn’t be the same without them.”

fla sh b

ac k

by John Sterrett

Jenna Hudson, junior, races to reach the finish line at last years State girls XC race

sports -23

Start

It’s the 21st night of September, which means that it’s the big day for Earth, Wind and Fire! Help get the famed ‘70s group to the disco in time for their big show.

the disco