Issue 1: On The Same Tab

passage

Volume 46 — Issue 1 ­­— September 26, 2014

ON THE SAME PAGE It may take some of us longer to get used to the two-finger swipe or that ‘command’ is our old ‘control,’ but everyone at Northwest will be going through the MacBook adventure together .15

TAB

a c h i l l i n g c h a l l e n g e . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 2 f r o m a c r o s s t h e p a c i f i c .....2 0 t h i s m o n t h i n # ’ s ..................... 1 0 PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY LUCAS SILVA

passage staff

issue 1 table of contents

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF GRACE AMUNDSON PHOTO EDITORS ADDISON SHERMAN LUCAS SILVA MANAGING EDITOR DEENA ESSA WEB EDITOR HAENA LEE COPY EDITOR PAIGE EICHKORN ASSISTANT COPY EDITOR SOPHIE FLORES GRAPHICS EDITOR MITCH FEYERHERM ADVERTISING EDITOR NATE HENDERSON STAFF WRITERS SAMUEL ATHEY REBECCA CARROLL KEEGAN DOLINAR CALVIN LACERTE BEN LUCIER STAFF DESIGNERS AMY ABADIE RACHEL BATEMAN PADEN CHESNEY MADDY GRIMES STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS JORDAN ABSHER EMILIE AMUNATIGUI SYDNEY BIERY ATALIE BLACK GRACE BUZZARD CLARA DAVISON LAUREN EDWARDS NICK KAHTAVA SAVANNAH KELLY REAGAN KEY HAENA LEE MAYA LEE SAMANTHA MACAULEY BRYCE REX JADA ROBERSON-PEOPLES KRISTI SENGPRASEUTH TARYN SMITH LEA STUART ALEXA STYERS KEVIN THOMPSON NATE THOMPSON CARLEIGH WHITMAN

16 ON THE SAME TAB It may take some of us longer to get used to the two-finger swipe or that ‘command’ is our old ‘control,’ but everyone at Northwest will be going through the MacBook adventure together photo illustration by Lucas Silva

ON SMNW.COM

SMNW.COM @SMNWDOTCOM @SMNWDOTCOM

The purpose of the Northwest Passage is to relay important and interesting information and concerns of the student body. Outside concerns and activities will only be covered to the community, administration and students of the Shawnee Mission Northwest if they somehow affect the school or students. The Northwest Passage is a 32-page High School. As a newsmagazine, the Northwest Passage will cater to the interests newsmagazine. The paper will be distributed every four weeks during fifth hour.

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FRESH OUTLOOK

FRESHMAN STUCO REPRESENTATIVES

FINDING YOUR USED DREAM MACHINE

THIS MONTH IN #’S

The backstory on the new faces in the Northwest classroom. photo by Haena Lee

The new StuCo elects reveal their plans for the coming year photo by Addison Sherman

How to make sure your used car is still a winner

Trending hashtags in news, politics, entertainment, and sports Graphics by Grace Amundson

photo by Carleigh Whitman

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EGGS, BACON, & A SIDE OF CONVERSATION

A CHILLING CHALLENGE

BEST OF NORTHWEST

Ken Summers approachable nature brings him daily breakfast encounters

The growing trend of the ALS ice bucket challenge has spread to Northwest

photo by Grace Buzzard

photo by Emilie Amunatigui

29 FORKS DOWN

Our favorite photos from the first month of the school year

In a plate-to-plate battle, will Pepper Jax or Chartroose Caboose come out on top?

photo by Emilie Amunatigui

photo by Regan Key

FASHION PICK OF THE DAY

PHOTO OF THE WEEK

THE NEWEST KNOW

HOMECOMING COURT

How to find the best clothes at the best prices

Highlights from our staff photographers on each sporting event and school-wide happening

A blog by staff writer Keegan Dolinar

Get to know each candidate on your 2014 homecoming court

Subscriptions will be available to the community for $25. The Northwest Passage firmly supports arise the editorial board and adviser will discuss the problem to find the solution. In these cases, and good taste. Letters may attack policy but not people. In no way will ideas or viewpoints the First Amendment and opposes censorship. The content of the newspaper will be determined the editor-in-chief and editorial board will have the say in all decisions. Letters to the editor will be changed. The editor-in-chief and editorial board reserve the right to refuse any letter. and created by the entire staff. When questions concerning word choice, legal problems or ethics be accepted and encouraged. The staff reserves the right to edit for grammatical mistakes, length

LUNCH WITHOUT + by sam athey

+ by calvin lacerte

VS Y

ou hear it everywhere: be when the rule doesn’t affect in the hallways, in the lunches brought from home cafeteria and at the and, therefore, if a person vending machines. Students are wants junk food, they can just complaining about the changes bring it. made in school lunches. I On the other hand, students confess to having been angry who don’t have junk food at at one point when the district home will be forced to eat the food service department got healthy food served at school. rid of the Otis Spunkmeyer The federal guidelines are cookies. not to be ignored or taken But the fact is, the district lightly. is required to abide by federal According to Shawnee policies and has a limited Mission district nutritionist Jill amount of time to prove that Funk, ignoring the guidelines is they are complying. just not an option.

Every five years the U.S. “They would probably take Department of Agriculture money away from the district,” ( U S D A ) Funk said, but guidelines added that they the district is change and, in never consider required to abide by those five years, failing to meet federal policies the schools the guidelines. and has a limited amount gradually change I believe that of time to prove that their standards the changes they are complying. to meet them. are beneficial The last time to students. the guidelines were changed According to food service was during 2010, when the deep manager Joy Greenbaugh, five fryer was taken out. years ago every fifth student Would I love to have the would take a salad. Today, every Otis cookies back? Yes. But I other student takes a salad. I’m understand that students need not saying that the lunches are to eat healthier, and changing perfect, or that everyone who the menus to better fit the complains about the school guidelines is not just following lunches is an over-the-top the rules, but actually beneficial drama queen, but it’s really not to students. as big an issue as they make it But I’m not sure how out to be. effective these regulations can

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opinion | sept. 26, 2014

The rules that the school lunches need to comply to are as follows: • No more than

10% of calories can come from saturated fats.

• All items are

trans-fat free

fruits & vegetables •

must be offered daily.

• Fruit and juice are offered at

breakfast • All breads and buns must be

whole grain

T

he new USDA afford to purchase the regulations took our junk food this bill seeks cookies away. to outlaw at venues And, like most outside the school. With students, I am really an average income of unhappy. $20,000 higher in Johnson The Hunger Free Kids County households than Act instituted in 2010 in the rest of the country; by the United States the majority of students Department of Agriculture can afford this on a (USDA) is the crowning regular basis. political achievement Allowing students to for the child obesity bring their own lunches, movement. The t h o u g h act has benign somewhat The [USDA] has intentions but uncommon, benign intentions also contradicts also contains but also hidden faults. the act’s contains hidden E f f o r t s aspirations. faults. to improve The Hunger nutrition in Free Kids Act school lunches have will force schools to been invalidated because spend more money on students can still mix and school lunches because, match their food: pizza overall, healthy choices and a big chocolate chip cost more. But the act will cookie from the pizza line also increase the school plus nachos and cheese lunch budget for those from the a la carte line still who comply by 6 cents per allows students to ingest lunch. a excess of carbs instead People grew of eating vegetables and accustomed to the food – fruits. Sure, if you ate the they knew what to expect meal in Mom’s Kitchen, – but now The Hunger you’d have a healthy Free Kids Act has changed meal, but too many of us that. In the case of these aren’t doing that. adjustments, you’ve got In a wealthier school to ask, “Is it worth it?” districts like ours, I don’t think so. students can generally And I’m still mad.

NEVER STAFF EDITORIAL

Betray the Badge

FOR

12 POLICE OFFICERS OVERSTEP THEIR BOUNDARIES AND ARE NOT RIGHTFULLY PUNISHED

/

01 IT IS A POLICEMAN’S JOB TO PROTECT THE COMMUNITY

BY ANY MEANS THEY DEEM NECESSARY

CONTROVERSY INCREASES OVER THE SEEMINGLY UNLIMITED ACTIONS OF POLICE OFFICERS

T

here’s not much chance you haven’t heard of Michael Brown.

You’ve seen his photo on the five o’clock news or heard his name on the radio. You’ve probably seen the hashtags #HandsUpDontShoot or #Ferguson in your social media feeds, too.

Brown was fatally shot by Ferguson police officer Darren Wilson Aug. 9, two days before Brown was to begin attending college. Long before the incident, tensions were high between the African-American majority population in Ferguson and the primarily white police department.

There is one thing most people agree on: circumstances leading to Brown’s shooting aside, he was killed brutally. He was shot not once, not twice, not three times, but six times. What has After the incident, Wilson didn’t immediately call in what had occurred. There was some confusion at the dispatch center with multiple conflicting calls made.

As a result, Brown remained on the floor for several hours, lying on his stomach, uncovered.

Beyond even that, the police’s response to protests in Ferguson was uncanny. The Missouri National Guard was called in and tear gas and rubber bullets were used against protesters. Journalists from major news agencies received threats, were caught in the crossfire and were arrested, in some cases even detained overnight, and were “prevented from covering the unfolding story” according to the Washington Post.

Eric Garner was a 43 year-old father of six. At 6’3” and 350 lbs, Garner used his considerable size and kind demeanor to keep the peace in his Staten Island neighborhood. On July 17, after helping to break up a fight between two inhabitants of his neighborhood, Garner was approached by police officers about selling untaxed cigarettes. In a video taken by Garner’s friend Ramsey Orta, Garner can be heard exasperatedly saying, “I was just minding

-States with the lowest/Highest reported misconduct per 100,000 officers:

AGAINST

my own business. Every time you see me you want to mess with me. I’m tired of it. It stops today!” After that statement, Garner put his hands in the air, and was put into a choke-hold by NYPD officer Daniel Pantaleo. As Pantaleo pushed Garner’s face into the sidewalk, Garner could be heard struggling to yell “I can’t breathe,” over and over. After Garner’s body went limp, the police waited seven long minutes to administer CPR, but it was clear: Garner was dead.

First and foremost, Garner’s death was a tragedy.

His life was cut short for no other reason than suspicion of a victimless crime. After dealing with the sadness of such a community minded man being killed, questions arose about police conduct and brutality. Since 1993, choke-holds have been banned by the NYPD, and the coroner who inspected Garner’s body ruled the death a homicide. In this case, unlike many others, the officers involved were penalized. Both officers who were involved in the killing were put on desk duty, while Daniel Pantaleo was also stripped of his badge and service weapon.

However, it sets a dangerous precedent to learn that a man’s life is apparently only worth a demotion at work.

As far as what police can and cannot do, the law simply insists that a police may only use force by way of a gun when there is legitimate reason to feel the suspect poses a mortal threat to anyone. Many states prohibit the use of choke-holds as they can too easily cause death.

In a court of law, there are clear guidelines as to what can be used as evidence. There must be ample video or photographs and at least one eyewitness account as to the nature of police actions in question.

This is where the boundaries are becoming unclear.

If indeed the situation is found to not be a defensive act, the police department could have a civil lawsuit on their hands.

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1. Louisiana 3. Montana 5. mississippi 7. West virginia 9. Oklahoma

2. Kansas 4. maine 6. virginia 8. arkansas 10. iowa

- Statistical distribution of excessive force (police brutality) reports: 1

15

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1. Cases involving physical use of force which include fist strikes, throws, choke holds, baton strikes, and other physical attacks.

2. Cases involving firearms.

3. Cases involving a combination of force types.

4. Cases involving tasers.

5. Cases involving police dogs.

- Statistical distribution of fatalities resulting from use of excessive force (police brutality): 80

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PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY LUCAS SILVA

30 20 10

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1. Firearm fatalities 2. Physical force fatalities 3. Taser fatalities 4. Other causes

nw passage | opinion

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Colleen Winter Owner

13222 West 62nd Terrace Shawnee, KS 66216 Phone: (913) 962-0077 Fax: (913) 962-5577 Email: wbushawnee@gmail.com www.shawnee.wbu.com Twitter: @wbushawnee Facebook: Wild Birds Unlimited of Shawnee, KS

a briefly

PHOTO BY NICK KAHTAVA

Rehearsal begins for little shop of horrors + BY REBECCA CARROLL

PHOTO BY NICK KAHTAVA

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hen there is a man-eating plant in town, crazy things can happen. But when there is a man-eating plant, a nerdy boy, his love-interest, a worried shopowner, and a whole crew of other characters, it makes for one great musical.

“Little Shop of Horrors” will be on stage Oct. 30 through Nov. 1 in the Greg Parker Auditorium. The stars of the show, junior Dylan Klein and senior Maggie Marx, are nerdy Seymour Krelborn and Audrey, the girl he’s after. Junior Elise Dorsey as Audrey II (the plant), and junior Elizabeth McElroy as Mrs. Mushnik, will make their leading role debuts.

The show also includes a crazy dentist, played

The school will announce the presence of an active intruder in the building and convey helpful information specific to the situation over the PA system.

A lockdown will begin. Not only are all doors locked but doors and entrances are barricaded. Time in lockdown is used to plan for evacuation or methods to counter intruder.

Administration will continue to give the intruder’s location in real time over the PA system, allowing for either evacuation of certain areas of the school or increased lockdown in areas at most risk.

Teachers and students improvise with anything to defend themselves if faced by intruder - throwing anything from paper wads to textbooks provide a life-saving distraction.

If teachers and students can conclude that they’re not in immediate danger according to the information being relayed to them, they evacuate to the nearest safe area.

PHOTO BY NICK KAHTAVA by junior Frederick Rivera, as well as a trio of “Doo Wop Girls.”

Set in urban Skid Row, the story follows Seymour and his exotic plant Audrey II. Audrey II brings Mrs. Mushnik’s plant store lots of business and all is well, until Audrey II develops an unusual appetite and an unusual size. It is up to Seymour to save the world from Audrey II or allow the plant to achieve world conquest.

The 36 members of the cast, directed by theatre teacher Keli Rodgers, vocal director

Thespian Troupe #888 gears up for their fall musical THE 36 MEMBERS OF THE CAST, DIRECTED BY THEATRE TEACHER KELI RODGERS, VOCAL DIRECTOR DEBBIE GREEN AND NW ALUM AND CHOREOGRAPHER MINDY MORITZ, HAVE GONE INTO REHEARSAL TO PREPARE FOR THE SHOW. Debbie Green and NW alum and choreographer Mindy Moritz, have gone into rehearsal to prepare for

the show. The crew, stage directed by sophomore Josh Harris, has begun their preparations under direction of technical head, Judy Tuckness.

Free entry to the show comes with every student activity pass, however the cast asks that everyone brings at least one nonperishable food item for the “Trick or Treat so Kids Can Eat” drive that will be set up in the lobby.

Get more information on the cast and crew at smnwtheatre.com

District to implement new safety procedures Students and teachers are encouraged to take action under new security guidelines

A

new security protocol will be introduced to students and employees of the Shawnee Mission School District that will give them more leeway to defend themselves in the case of an active intruder.

A new intruder alert is being planned but no specific system is in place at this time.

One of the protocols that may form the basis for the new system is the A.L.I.C.E system. A.L.I.C.E is an acronym for Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter, Evacuate and allows students and staff to assess the situation and make informed decisions regarding their safety in addition to a lockdown. But expect to see the Shawnee Mission School District put its own version in place.

“We’re working on realigning our procedures across all of the high schools and make sure we’re all on the same page,” principal Lisa Gruman said. "Each facility’s plan will have some unique aspects to it specific to that campus, but when we’re talking active intruder, when

we’re talking lockdown...we’re going to have a more universal response to that.”

Following his retirement in January 2014, former Chief of Police John Douglas was hired as the SMSD Director of Safety and Security and has since been implementing

A.L.I.C.E IS AN ACRONYM FOR ALERT, LOCKDOWN, INFORM, COUNTER, EVACUATE AND ALLOWS STUDENTS AND STAFF TO ASSESS THE SITUATION AND MAKE INFORMED DECISIONS REGARDING THEIR SAFETY IN ADDITION TO A LOCKDOWN. several new security measures at elementary, middle and high schools in the district.

“School safety is really important because you kids are our most precious asset,” Douglas said. “You’re more important to your parents than gold or silver

or jewels. You are our world. So consequently protecting you is the most important thing we can do.”

Schools nationwide have conducted lockdown or ‘Code Red’ drills, as they were called at Northwest, since the 1999 Columbine incident until this year.

In light of more recent events and especially the Newton, Conn. school shooting, administrators across the nation have begun considering and adopting the ALICE procedure.

“It stems from, unfortunately, research that was collected from some of these events on how to minimize loss,” Gruman said. "It’s very tragic but perhaps it’s the legacy that they leave for everyone else – how to respond in a manner that’s going to ensure student safety.”

According to Gruman, in case of an active intruder, students and staff will follow ‘Code Red’ procedures until further notice.

+ BY deena essa

NW passage | news

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FRESH Outlook THE BACKSTORY ON THE NEW FACES IN NORTHWEST CLASSROOMS

Q: Why did you transfer to Northwest?

A: For my husband’s job and to be closer to family.

Q: Where did you transfer from?

A: Morgantown, WV. Q: How do you like northwest?

A: The students and staff are great. I feel so fortunate

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lee

Q: When did you come to NW? Why?

Q: When did you transfer to Northwest and why?

A: I relocated because I wanted to teach PE, coach basketball, and live in the KC area.

A: This is my first year at Northwest. I was traveling between SM North and SM East last year, which was great. A teacher here retired and I came here to teach the Foods classes

Q: Where did you transfer from?

A: I spent the last six years teaching Special Education and coaching basketball at Silver Lake High School. Pretty much a suburb of Topeka.

Q: What do you think of NW so far?

Q: What’s your favorite part?

A: So far, I have really enjoyed my time at NW. It has been good working with everyone that is apart of the NW family.

news | sept. 26, 2014

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to be here.

A: The people - everyone has been so willing to help me get settled in here. Their kindness has been greatly appreciated.

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+ BY PAIGE EICHKORN + DEENA EESA

Q: What’s your favorite part about Northwest?

A: There are a lot of great things about NW. The faculty support is great, the camaraderie amongst the staff is great as well.

Q: Why did you become a teacher?

I like the freedom and creativity it allows me and I like the collaboration with other teachers.

A: I actually just graduated and got my initial teaching license. I did my student teaching in the Shawnee Mission School District and fell in love with it. When the teaching position opened at Northwest I was thrilled for the opportunity to join the Pride

Q: Where did you transfer from?

A: I just graduated from Kansas State University and I did my student teaching at Shawnee Mission West.

Q: What is your current position?

A: I am teaching sophomore and junior English. It is going really well so far, and I really appreciate working with the others in the English Department.

A: I am currently split between North and Northwest this year. I am here in the afternoon. I really enjoy teaching Spanish and have been teaching for over 30 years in Shawnee Mission.

Q: When did you transfer to Northwest and why?

A: I was extremely excited to get a job offer here. Returning somewhere that is both familiar and an incredible place to begin a new career is not something very many people get in life, and I’m grateful.

Q: Where did you transfer from?

A: I am loving my experience as a SM Northwest Cougar.

The fellow staff are great and the students are awesome! I am certainly glad to be a part of such a great community.

A: I just finished my Master’s in Ed. at Rockhurst University in May. That was my pathway to teacher certification, so I completed my student teaching in the Spring at Cristo Rey High School in Kansas City.

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A: I love the students. I expect the majority of teachers will say that, but I agree with them, so I’ll say it too.

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Q: What’s your favorite part about Northwest?

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A: I’m excited to see the students participate in the various sports and activities. I plan on attending many games, performances, and other such events.

Q: What is your current position?

Q: What is your current position?

A: I am a social studies teacher. I’m very happy with how things have been going and the classes that I am teaching.

A: I teach English to freshmen and juniors. So far, I’ve really enjoyed my time here.

Q: When did you transfer to Northwest and why?

A: I graduated from K-State in May. During the spring 2014 semester I student taught at Olathe Northwest High School with 11th and 12th graders.

Q: What’s your favorite part?

A: It’s always fun to see who can out-do one another during Spirit Week and it’s great to see all the orange and black on Cougar Crazy Day

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Q: What is your current position

Q: What do you think of NW so far?

Q: What’s your favorite thing?

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carol yasuhara

brett mach Q: When did you come to NW? Why?

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Q: When did you transfer to Northwest and why?

A: I began teaching at Northwest this year. I completed my student teaching in the Shawnee Mission District and was able to see firsthand how outstanding the teachers were.

Q: Where did you transfer from?

A: In the time I’ve spent here, Northwest has exceeded my expectations in so many ways. I’ve been especially impressed with how the students are so willing to try new things.

Q: When did you transfer to Northwest and why?

A: I was needed this year at both schools to teach Spanish 1.

Q: Where did you transfer from?

A: Right now I’m enjoying being in two different buildings. North has a tradition of being the oldest building in the district and now I’m teaching in the “newest” of the high schools in Shawnee Mission.

Q: What’s your favorite part about Northwest?

A: I am really having fun getting to know my students here. I am very impressed with their desire to learn and they are very cooperative and friendly

“

My life experiences and LOVE for both young people and the subject I teach make this job both CHALLENGING and SATISFYING, like any good calling should.

”

-Brett Mach

NW passage | news

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this

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month in s

THESE ARE SOME OF THE TRENDING HASHTAGS IN NEWS, POLITICS, ENTERTAINMENT AND SPORTS ACROSS MAJOR SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS. + BY DEENA ESSA / SOPHIE FLORES

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A Kansas University group of about 50 students called the September Siblings released an anti-recruitment video on Sept. 9 to

condemn the school’s sexual assault procedures. After the response of local police and KU administration to a sexual assault complaint infuriated

students, many have taken to Twitter with the #aGreatPlaceToBeUnsafe – a twist on the University’s slogan ‘A great place to be’.

The Instagram account @ LoveYourLines was started by two mothers to celebrate the stretch marks of mothers worldwide and

the stories behind them. The social media photo campaign has spread to Facebook and Twitter and mothers of all backgrounds are posting photos

of their ‘tiger marks’ along with the stories behind them and receiving positive comments and support from other women.

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Various hashtags have emerged in response to the shooting of Michael Brown by Darren Wilson in Ferguson, Mo. Users post two pictures of themselves in two

starkly different situations with the #IfTheyGunnedMeDown in protest of the way the media portrays African Americans. #HandsUpDontShoot posts are

based on claims that Brown had his hands up before his death based on multiple eyewitnesses and a video recording.

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A Youtube video of Daniel Pierce, a 19-year-old boy, coming out to his family went viral recently. In the video, Pierce was disowned, called

a ‘disgrace’ and, after a physical dispute began, called for the woman, presumably his grandmother, to stop hitting him. A GoFundMe campaign

was started which raised $93,615 in 13 days to help Pierce with his living expenses.

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For the second time, the Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton is pregnant with another royal baby

and has been suffering from acute morning sickness. The #royalbaby will be fourth in line for the throne

behind his 13-month-old brother, Prince George.

The 31st annual VMA awards show aired Aug. 24. Beyonce was the top nominee and Miley Cyrus’ “Wrecking Ball” video was voted as the best of 2014. Rather than accepting the

trophy herself, she sent a young man named Jesse representing homeless youth across the country.

Nicki Minaj’s performance of #Anaconda was called out for being

over sexualized. A moment of silence for Michael Brown was included and Rapper Common talked about the events in Ferguson, Mo.

After TMZ released a video showing Baltimore Ravens running back Ray Rice hitting his fiancé Janay Rice on Sept. 8, he was suspended

indefinitely from the team. This event raised awareness for domestic violence, and Twitter users started #WhyIStayed and #WhyILeft to

explain the reasons they stayed in or left abusive relationships.

Twitter users began to show their support for Ukraine after the State Department started the #UnitedForUkraine campaign.

Russia has made a claim to the

Crimean region of Ukraine. The UN refuses to recognize the claim, calling instead for a peaceful solution. While Russian troops are taking over military facilities

in the region, the U.S. will use aid packages and sanctions but will not intervene directly by sending troops or weapons.

For the first time in the history of the MTV Europe Music Awards, the public could vote for a “wildcard” nominee.

The first nominees were One Direction, Ed Sheeran, Calvin Harris

and Sam Smith. Fans have been using #NominateArcticMonkeys, # N o m i n a t e T h e V a m p s , # N o m i n a t e C o l d p l a y , #NominateCheryl and

#NominateCleanBandit to get some of their favorite candidates nominated. The MTV EMAs will air Nov. 9.

aGreat PlaceToBe Unsafe

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Love Your Lines

IfThey Hands Up Gunned Me Don’t Down Shoot

Daniel Pierce

RoyalBaby

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Ray Rice

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Ukraine

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news | sept. 26, 2014

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Freshman StuCo Representatives 2014

A LOOK AT FRESHMAN STUCO REPRESENTATIVES AND WHAT THEIR PLANS ARE FOR NORTHWEST + by haena lee PHOTOS BY ADDISON SHERMAN

Will Gross — President Q: Why did you run?

A: My brother, [Sam Gross], did it and it seemed very fun. I kind of wanted to help out the school a little bit and it seemed like a good thing to do.

Q: What was your initial reaction when you were told you got in?: A: Overall the definition of surprise was going through my mind because I wasn’t really thinking that I would get on, and my speech

could have gone better.

Q: What do you hope to bring to StuCo?: A: I hope to bring a new way of how things are running and hopefully to do more events differently to improve on them because when my brother did it I was able to see how it was all done. I was able to not give some pointers, but think about stuff that I could improve.

Q: What other activities are you in?: A: Cross country, spirit club, and webkinz club.

Jared Berlin — Vice President Q: Why did you run for StuCo?: A: Everyone in [StuCo] seemed like good people and in elementary school I never got the opportunity to get involved, and I really wanted to.

When I got in high school I was like “why not try again?”

Q: What was your initial reaction when you were told you got in?: A: I was incredibly happy and I couldn’t stop smiling. I was really excited about it and after school I was

on the verge of crying of happiness. I was just really happy.

Q: What is your advice to your class?: A: Education is really important in high school and sometimes you will have to give up sports or something like that to be able to do well in education. Like this right now is actually a real part of your life and you can’t screw around and not do homework like you could in middle school.

Claudia Shamet

Benny Alpert

Ava Graves

Jack Lammers

Q: Why did you run for StuCo? A: I ran for StuCo because I thought it would be a fun way to get to know the school, a fun way to get involved.

Q: What was your speech about?

A: My speech was about how when I was young I was asked what I wanted to be when I grew up. I said I wanted to be a crocodile and until I was in third grade. That was my speech about; how you can be anything if you set your mind to it.

Q: What was your initial reaction when you found out you were elected?

A: I wasn’t surprised because I was optimistic and I’m Jewish. To be perfectly honest I really think that’s why they voted for me.

Q: Who is your favorite teacher?

A: I don’t want to make the other teachers feel bad, but senora Dent is a good teacher. She is just a really good teacher. She teaches things well including in the World Regional Studies.

Q: Why do you think your class elected you?

A: I think that my class voted for me because I put myself out there a lot and I know a lot of people. I try to be nice to my peers.

Q: Why do you think StuCo is important?

A: I think StuCo is important to the school because I think it lets the people choose like the government.

It lets the people choose who they want to lead them through the year.

Q: Why did you run for StuCo? A: It’s a great way to get involved and it just seems like a lot of fun to get to know people and work with everybody.

Q: What do you hope to bring to StuCo? A: I hope to help out with the school more academically and just socially so everybody is involved in the school.

Q: Why is StuCo important to you?

A: StuCo is important because... There would be no organization or enough people to help out with any of it.

Mihir Shroff

Michael Filsinger

Porter Volk

Austin Anderson

Q: Why do you think you were elected?

A: Probably because of my speech and my campaigning. My posters said “Mihir for you” or things like “Mihir when you need it.”

Q: What is your favorite subject?

A: My favorite class in general would probably be debate... They teach us how to use logic in our arguments and so that will help me a lot and i think it would be really fun representing my school this year and competing across the Kansas City area.

Q: Why did you run for StuCo? A: I ran for StuCo because I look for it as an opportunity to get involved in school. I took this as an opportunity because my brother advised it to me and I am glad I did.

Q: What did it feel like to be elected?

A: I was excited, but I didn’t show it off or clap or high five anybody because I knew there were people that were in that room that didn’t make it and were disappointed, so I tried to keep it to myself.

Q: What did it feel like to be elected?

A: I was like in shock because I didn’t think I wouldn’t make it. So I had a huge smile on my face when I walked in the room.

Q: Why do you think you were elected?

A: I don’t know. I think my campaign was okay. I think it is pretty good job expressing that I could help the freshman class. I think you just gotta be nice and I think a lot of people would vote for you if they think you are a nice person.

Q: How did you feel before your speech?

A: On Thursday I was nervous at first, but when I got into the gym I was sitting there a bunch of people in StuCo and the upperclassmen told us not to be nervous... but when I got up to the podium I was still really nervous.

Q: What was it like to be elected?

A: I was surprised because I thought the StuCo elections were more going to be based on popularity, ...so I was shocked kind of by that and by me getting in.

NW passage | news

11

Don’t be left out.

Purchase a senior ad in the 2015 yearbook

Remind your parents to dust off those scrapbooks and old photo albums. You may want to help them find those too-cute pictures of yourself (and avoid those naked-baby-on-a-rug shots).

Make sure you will have a senior ad in the 2015 yearbook.

Prices will increase after Nov. 2. Get your best deal now.

Questions? Contact Kara Bamberger at smnwbabyads@gmail.com or call Susan Massy at 913.993.7286.

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Offer expires October 09/14/2014.

15, 2014

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Monday - Friday 7:00am - 9:00pm Saturdays 9:00am - 9:00pm Sundays 11:00am - 7:00pm

dream MACHINE Finding your used

Students face difficulties with making the right choices when buying used cars

It can be a challenge to find the ideal used car for high school. The problem is that many students do not know what it takes to find a good car and fail to adequately consider the big three: price, condition and responsibility. The key to finding a used car is all about knowledge of the car and its condition.

WHER E TO L O OK: When looking for cars, Craigslist is a good source for used cars. But be sure the vehicle is within a reasonable distance from home. You can find used cars at dealerships, but you’ll pay a whole lot more than if you purchase a car from its owner.

YOUR B UD GE T: Before you look, know how much you are willing to spend. As you begin to determine your budget, don’t forget to include the monthly cost of gas, insurance, registration, checkups and repairs. Once you set your budget, only look at cars within the price point. It’s easy to fall in love with a car you can’t afford.

WHAT BR AND: Japanese brands like Nissan, Toyota and Honda are reliable but may be comparably expensive. These are, however, some of the most trusted vehicles.

Upscale vehicles like Mercedes, BMW or Audi are not ideal first cars. These are very expensive, even when bought used. Repairs tend to be significantly more expensive while gas mileage can be expected to be

about the same or slightly worse than the Japanese models. American brands like Ford and Chevrolet have improved a great deal since 2009. If you can afford a newer car, consider one of these.

WHAT T YPE: Vehicles are most commonly classified by size. Sedans are some of the cheapest vehicles to buy whether new or used. They tend to provide a very dependable drive and have exceptional fuel economy.

Even SUV crossovers are good cars to consider. Gas usage and price are somewhat even with sedans.

S TATIS TICS: Look for cars that have the lowest mileage you can afford. Most high school students will be looking at cars with 100,000 or more mile on them. The cost of a used cost is directly related to the mileage..

The more you pay, the less mileage there is and vise versa. Kelly Blue Book is an excellent source for finding out the reliability on any type of car. This can help you figure out the appropriate price and reliability that a car is expected to have when used.

INFORMATION: When purchasing a used car, learn everything you can about the car. You can ask the owner, but talk to a mechanic prior to purchasing any car. For a small fee, a mechanic may be willing to take a look at the car and tell you what concerns he has.

C ONDI TION: Don’t expect a used car to be perfect. When cars are used and driven for a long time, things wear out. Just make sure you know what condition the car is in.

You don’t want to wind up with a car with critical issues like a faulty transmission, sticky floor mats (that can impact the functionality of the brake pedal), faulty brakes, and other issues that can be either potentially dangerous or expensive to repair. Make sure all of the exterior lights on a car work. Although issues like a blown speaker, damaged interior, paint chipping on exterior are not expensive to repair, you should be aware of them. These may be good bargaining points.

+ by ben Lucier

photo by carleigh whitman

NW passage | Feature

13

eggs, bacon, & a side of PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY GRACE BUZZARD

Ken Summers’ approachable nature brings him daily breakfast encounters

“THAT’S JUST ME, I GUESS. PEOPLE THINK I LOOK EASY TO TALK TO AND THEY ARE COMFORTABLE WITH ME.”

14

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s he pulled into the Metcalf Denny’s on a Tuesday morning, math teacher Ken Summers’ stomach growled.

He walked into a crowd made up of regular customers and new faces, each one with a different story.

“The other day I even sat with somebody who was worried about the number of atmospheres and the weight you feel when you’re underwater,” Summers said. “You are able to discuss all kinds of interesting things that you wouldn’t otherwise be able with all kinds of people.”

Almost every day, Summers sits down for an early breakfast at IHOP, Denny’s or Santa Fe Cafe, depending on the day. He sits with teachers, left-over people from the night before, engineers, “regulars”, the occasional student or even the Dodgers player from the 1950s he ran into once. They talk about whatever is on their minds for the day, pleasant conversation or talk of their personal lives.

“I’m finding things out,” Summers said. “We are communicating so much electronically that we aren’t doing anything

like this anymore. People feel much more comfortable doing their technological thing than talking to people in person.”

Summers’ ability to strike up a conversation with anyone can annoy his wife at times, but he always finds something to talk about with the restaurant staff, customers and everyone in between.

“I must appear to be open for people to talk to because I am shocked by the way they almost always start talking about something from their own lives,” Summers said chuckling.

“That’s just me, I guess. People think I look easy to talk to and they are comfortable with me.”

As he finished up his Tuesday morning breakfast assortment of fruit, eggs and hash browns he wrapped up his conversation with the underwater engineer. He then said his goodbyes to the group of engineers he sees there daily.

“I usually say, ‘I’d better go and let you rest your ears,’” Summers said laughing. “Some people talk a lot, and others just listen, but everyone is interested. I guess I just love to talk.” + BY REBECCA CARROLL

MONDAY

Tuesday

WEDNESDAY

Thursday

IHOP: strawberry pancakes with mounds of whipped cream on top, bacon, hash browns, couple of eggs, water and coffee

DENNY’S: bowl of fruit, sausage, bacon, two eggs, hash browns, water and coffee

DENNY’S: “build your

DENNY’S: breakfast

feature | sept. 26, 2014

own slam,” pancakes, bacon, eggs, and hash browns coffee and water

OTHER

HOME: eggs, potatoes sandwich with hash o’brien (red peppers and browns; ham, bacon onions) orange juice, and egg on english two pieces of toast with muffin water and coffee jam, bacon, and coffee

http://www.featurestory.com/nwpassage

on the

same page TA B IT MAY TAKE SOME OF US LONGER TO GET USED TO THE TWO-FINGER SWIPE OR THAT ‘COMMAND’ IS OUR OLD ‘CONTROL,’ BUT EVERYONE AT NORTHWEST WILL BE GOING THROUGH THE MACBOOK ADVENTURE TOGETHER + by sophie flores

N

early 1,800 laptops were distributed the first week of school, complete with Apple and Google accounts set up.

Northwest was the first school to distribute devices on freshman-only day. According to principal Lisa Gruman, the students were patient and the staff was helpful with every technical difficulty. She pointed out the sense of community that pervaded those first days while admitting that the system is not perfect with administrators and teachers sometimes being forced to play by ear as much as students are.

This package includes student opinions, recommendations, tutorials, academic tips, as well as extra information about security, health and the capability of Mac computers for education. CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY LUCAS SILVA

NW passage | Feature

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T AB ON THE

SAME

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he Digital Learning Initiative represents the potential for the single biggest change in the way education is delivered in the history of the Shawnee Mission School District. The initiative was introduced as a way to build technological and communicative skills in students and help them to adapt to the challenges of the future. It also bridges the gap between students who cannot afford to have their own personal, reliable laptop and those who can.

The new internet-based school system is designed so that everything will be available to students at all times. Students can share their work instantly by connecting to the Apple TV instead of bringing flash-drives and can present spontaneously after being told to research a topic only 10 minutes before. Notes, homework, projects, tests: everything is in one place.

We have heard from both ends of the Apple-approval-spectrum.

Some students see the laptop as an endless resource at their fingertips.

Education has become a bigger part

What is your favorite blocked website on the SMSD laptops?

16

feature | sept. 26, 2014

FIVE STUDIES Five Studies About Macs and Textbooks Learning Differences

THE ASSOCIATION FOR INFORMATION SYSTEMS: Learning on the internet fails to recreate the same experience as reading or writing on paper, causing students to retain less information.

NATIONAL TAIWAN UNIVERSITY: Most students said that they would read a few paragraphs of a passage on the internet, and, if they were interested, they would print it out for more in depth reading.

TEXAS UNIVERSITY: People read less accurately and comprehensively on screens.

NATIONAL CENTER FOR BIOTECHNOLOGY INFORMATION: A slight majority of people have more problems retaining information from computers than from books, but for others there is no significant difference.

PUBLISHERS ASSOCIATION: Research showed that schools that spent more on their library rather than technology were twice as likely to get better test results.

N U M B E R S : OUT OF 10

of their lives as students are always connected to the school and know what’s happening. If students want to do homework at a coffee shop or on a long car ride, they can just bring their laptops and get it done. Without the laptops, we would constantly be pulling out our phones to do research or look up definitions.

Other students think that the initiative is doing more harm than good. According to these students, the school is trying to change too much and it is not working. Some prefer learning on paper and from books and don’t think that computers enhance learning at all. The laptops are expensive and easy to break, and you are at a disadvantage if you have no internet or printer at home. Some classes don’t even use the computers, they point out. If we are going to be “paperless,” we at least need to be more consistent.

Regardless, the computers are here to stay. Please use these tips and tools to make life with the Air a little easier, and consider these thoughts on the introduction of the technology.

HOW MANY ONLINE TEXTBOOKS DO YOU HAVE? N

@chandlerbado: “‘@smnwdotcom: What’s your favorite blocked website on the SMSD laptops?’ The Hub” @ashtonhess: “@smnwdotcom how would we even know?”

@natkid_: “@smnwdotcom tumblr & pinterest NOT WEBKINZ THOUGH” @Jess_kirchy: “ Normal YouTube!” @_keeganwhite: “ netflix tbh” @etihwhannah: “Pinterest”

B Y T H E

How well informed do you think you’ve been about the Mac initiative?

3.26 B Y T H E How many n Google classrooms have you enrolled in?

2.8

How effective do you think the various sites your teachers are using are? g

N U M B E R S

4.1

2.8

HOW MANY GOOGLE CALENDARS DO YOU USE? ON AVERAGE, HOW MANY HOURS PER DAY DO YOU SPEND ON YOUR LAPTOP OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? 2.5

3

HOW WELL DO YOU THINK THE DEPLOYMENT OF THE MACBOOK AIRS WAS HANDLED?

TOTAL #

0.9

What is your opinion about the new technology initiative?

Jack ware, sophomo school work a lot mo Instead of having to w in my planner I can jus [Google] classroom so worry about forget

VS

$900 IN THE TRASH Every high school student was given a Macbook Air that was supposed to enhance our learning; they do everything except that + by haena lee m

T

he technology initiative has changed the online book. My class even cheered nothing. The Macbook Airs are when we were told we were switching to just another supply to carry in our a different online book and receiving a backpacks. In some of my classes, we are physical copy as well. not allowed to use our computers and, in Not all teachers have adopted the new others, the various ways the technology technology. If our teachers aren’t using fails keeps the computers from being them productively, why do we have effective. It just sits there on my desk them at all? We are still expected to hand taking up my work space or wasting in a hard copy of our essays in some precious class time as my teacher fiddles classes, but the printer in the library is with AppleTV for the fourth time since gone. Some students don’t have access class began 10 minutes ago. a printer at home leaving them with A Macbook Air costs approximately no options. Last year, I used the library $900. It only takes a fall, a spill, a drop printer to print all the papers I needed to or five seconds for a student to damage turn in. What am I supposed to do now? a laptop. I am a clutz.

In some classes, students Add to that, there’s need computer programs chance that it will be such as InDesign, stolen if I turn my back.

PhotoShop or Illustrator, But if I accidentally left but can’t get the district If our teachers my textbook, there is a to install the programs aren’t using them very slim chance that on the MacBook Airs. someone would try to Aren’t these programs productively, take that home. as important to the And then there’s the curriculum as a textbook?

WHY DO WE technology that I now Why have the computers HAVE THEM AT have to have at home: if we can’t use them to ALL? my internet goes down complete homework in every now and again. all of our classes?

Sometimes it takes a few I was sick the third hours or it could be a couple of days for week of school and was behind in one my dad to get it working again. Sure, I can of my classes. When I asked the teacher go to Starbucks or McDonald’s and use about the assignments I missed, she was their free wifi, but that means I’m going surprised that I didn’t go online to do to spend three to four hours hanging out the homework. I was shocked. When I’m with screaming children while I try to sick at home, I don’t have the energy to write this column. Ridiculous. study. I need to sleep and rest, so I can The technology initiative was go to school the next day and catch up supposed to enhance our learning, but in all my classes. If I’m going to do my it has diminished it. I learn better when homework while I’m sick, I might as well I can read a physical book or have an come to school. actual piece of paper in my hand. I don’t With more preparation, more training know why, but it just helps me learn for our teachers and more anticipation better and I know I am not the only one. of the problems that would be faced, In one of my classes, the online book just the roll out of these computers could shows us short videos and then quizzes have been spectacular, there is so much us. I just watch the video and take the that the district either didn’t consider or quiz as I watch it. Some students just couldn’t anticipate. The change was too Google all the questions. I can’t count quick and too many problems remain the number of times my teacher called unsolved. The laptops that are meant to tech support because both she and “enhance our learning” are a flop. students were having problems with

ore: “It makes ore convenient. write everything ust look it up on so I don’t have to tting anymore.

And I work a lot better with music so it’s nice that you can have music on them. I like that you don’t have to try to switch back and forth between using papers and using the computer, now it’s all in the same place.”

FEAR OF THE UNKNOWN Full Integration of the macs will take time and a ‘trial and error’ attitude

+ by deena essa

I

remember the very first time I heard into classrooms and, when implemented that every Shawnee Mission student correctly, the laptops can have a very might receive his or her own computer, positive impact on learning. supplied by the district.

After we graduate we will be going It was a pretty big deal; we, the to college and writing papers and using newspaper staff, immediately began databases for research. And after that, preparing for the story that would be the believe it or not we will be looking for center spread in our coming issue. jobs. Most workplaces use technology And then the news broke to the rest of every day. Think of this as practice. the student body.

You’re not going to get it all; you’re not It was spectacular to watch. The going to have a perfect experience with outrage, the giddiness, the confusion absolutely no technical difficulties or and the too-cool-for bumps in the road. school attitudes as Think about last students animatedly year and approximate discussed a subject they how many essays and knew very little about. presentations you made THINK OF THIS I think that was the for your classes. Our general reaction to the learning is becoming AS PRACTICE. entire situation last year. more interactive and Students and teachers assignments of that You’re not going alike were unaware of type were common and to get it all; you’re how these pieces of metal required of students. not going to have a could actually benefit Teachers almost always us. Many questioned assumed you had a way perfect experience the district’s decision to to finish those kinds of with absolutely buy these 'ridiculously assignments when really no technical overpriced' laptops in the there was no guarantee. first place.

Every morning and even difficulties or I faintly remember during lunch students bumps in the road. complaining about flocked to the library to Macintosh systems to work on homework that a friend as I was, and needed a laptop. Some still remain a pretty staunch supporter students were even two steps ahead of the PC. Don’t get me wrong – I was of the district and did a lot of their very comfortable using Macs and I liked group essays or group presentations some of the features of a Mac, like the collaboratively using Google Docs. trackpad. As more specifics surfaced, I The integration of computers into our realized that the 11-inch MacBook Air daily education hasn’t been perfect yet laptops would be quite ideal, actually. and probably won’t be for some time.

Weighing in at less than two and a Most of us, all of us actually – both half pounds, the Airs pack a lot of power, students and teachers — are new at this. and I mean a lot. The battery, for the It’s been a bumpy introduction, with a majority of students, lasts the entire few more problems than the district had school day and, according to Apple, can hoped for, but it’s been an adventure last for 9 hours straight of wireless web that students and teachers have faced browsing. more or less together. We are teaching But besides the $23 million price each other rather than only teachers tag and the legendary PC versus Mac doing the teaching. argument, the introduction of the The change was inevitable. It was technology was inevitable. One school going to happen; whether next year, the after another is integrating technology year after, it was going to happen.

Justin malik, junior: “The computers are a complete distraction. They give you something a lot more fun to do than listen and pay attention to a teacher talking. Which will eventually lead to worse grades.”

Lili gray, senior: “I think the laptops are really interesting. Everyone is trying to do their own things. For the first time ever I’m actually excited to do my homework. It was a little overwhelming at first but now it’s good.”

AARON CREWS, Senior: “A major problem with the computers is the restrictions, in some cases educational content is blocked on them and that frustrates me all the time.”

nw passage | Feature

17

HOW TO LEARN DIGITALLY

How to Work Faster + by sophie flores

1

Use timers. Beat procrastination by setting a timer for 60 seconds to organize your thoughts and start working the instant the timer goes off. You can also set a time from three to 10 minutes in which you can prioritize and plan, or set a longer time to focus on a specific task and to factor in breaks. The app 30/30 allows you to schedule all the tasks you want to get done and set a timer for each one. Timers put pressure on you and cause you to focus and work faster.

Background music can help finish tasks faster by occupying the distracted part of your mind.

Put in the least effort possible to get an assignment done. This may seem counterproductive, but wasting all your energy on the smallest assignments leaves no room for the

2 3

PRODUCTIVITY CANNOT BE MEASURED

BY AMOUNT OF TIME WORKING: Greeks worked an average of 2,034 hours in 2012.

Germans worked an averaged of 1,397 hours.

In terms of GDP per hour, Germans were 70% more efficient. (www.oecd.org)

how to take notes on your mac n Electronic notes can be just as engaging as pento-paper notes by using interactive software, organizing ideas and pulling in outside sources. It also helps if you find it hard to go back over notes that are scribbled and unorganized in a notebook.

Paper notes can be messy and hard to keep track of. Your laptop gives you an entire file cabinet of information stored in a 10-by-6 inch screen.

Prepare for class by setting up class notebooks categories and notebooks. Create templates in Kustom Note for Evernote or use one of the templates included with One Note.

Read up on the lesson beforehand and take pre-notes. You will have a better understanding with previous knowledge and with knowing the topics that are going to be covered.

Scan or take pictures of teachers’ handouts and notes that you take on paper. Save them in your notebooks and they are now searchable references.

Many apps include helpful features to use as tools while taking notes. With Evernote, you can add alarms, record lectures while typing, insert tables and

2 3

4

jabriel francis, sophomore: “It’s a whole lot easier to do your homework now, and using online textbooks are better than real ones. It’s also nice that there’s not nearly as much to carry around. Last year my backpack

18

feature | sept. 26, 2014

4

5 6

AVG STUDENT WRITING SPEED .3-.4 WPS AVG STUDENT TYPING SPEED 1.5 WPS AVG PROFESSOR WPS: 2-3 WPS (WWW.COURSEHERO.COM)* WPS = WORDS PER SECOND

+ by sophie flores

1

projects or test that need your full attention. This principle doesn’t work with long-term projects or essays, but most assignments just need to be checked off a list, so don’t make them more complicated than they are.

Follow the 20 minute rule. When doing a writing assignment, you have to be completely done with a first draft in 20 minutes. This means that you will have to rush and accept a bad first draft. Do not stop or question anything you do in the first 20 minutes. The purpose of this method is to leave you with something to work with.

Follow the 30 second rule. Move on if you get stuck on problem or sentence for more than 30 seconds.

Pay attention to how you spend your time. List all of the activities

pictures and attach files all on the same window.

You can buy a LiveScribe pen that can sync to your laptop.

Go back and pull out the main ideas. Put them in an outline that you can use to help recall the basics of a unit. You can use StudyBlue, Evernote Peek or Everword to pull out vocabulary to review.

Create and constantly add to one central outline of everything you have learned so far. This is one page with all the units a class has covered so far with subtopics underneath. For each subtopic there are links to all the notes and references you have on one topic.

Now you have everything you could need in one place.

Set up a time every week to reflect on what you have learned

5 6 7

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was so heavy.�

ANGES AYCOCK, sophomore: “My least favorite thing is the teachers don’t understand the technology.�

Morgan Rheuport, senior: “I definitely feel like I’m more on task at home when

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and update your central outline.

This is a time to make sure that all of your resources are organized and ready to pull up if needed and to determine where you stand with school and what you might need extra help with. It takes time, not to just get everything down in notes, but to relate all reading, discussion, projects, and class work to the concept you are trying to understand.

Make a habit of syncing your notes to all your other devices so you can have them everywhere you go.

There are several different note-taking systems that bring different results for students.

Try them all to see what works, using any templates you can find on word-processing apps.

9

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that distract you from working, and do what you can to avoid them. You can use the fullscreen function to view only one window at a time or the Self Control app to block distracting websites.

Take well-thought-out breaks.

Sometimes it can be efficient to stop working and tackle the problem in a different way later. Know your limits and abide by them.

Embrace your fears. You know that you don’t want to do an assignment; accept it and then do the assignment. A positive attitude isn’t always necessary. You can also embrace your procrastination. Put the assignment you are dreading most at the top of your to-do list, and then put it off by doing all your other homework first.

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The Cornell System is a template with three sections. The first is taking inclass notes. The second is a summary of the lesson, written in your own words. The third is writing questions to quiz yourself over, or concepts to study.

The Outline System shows an organized flow of information and is easy to review quickly. Arrange bullet points into details. Details can also be written in paragraph form.

The Flow-Based System is more suited for in-class learning because it connects broader concepts. These notes are the easiest to take because you just focus on main ideas in list form, not structured sentences.

Guided Notes require contribution from teachers, who prepare outlines of key points so students do not leave out important information.

I’m doing homework, [the laptops] help to give you a reason to want to finish all your work because they’re fun to use. But it is harder to focus in class because they’re really distracting. It makes it easier to look up answers and

stuff so if you don’t have a phone or whatever then you can just use your laptop to search for something.� tyler chadwick, junior:“My favorite part about the school computers is that they were given to us so we don’t

Technology allows you to personalize your learning experience, get assignments done faster and engage in discussion. You just need to know how to use that technology. Here are some tips for using the laptops to your advantage for school and alternative methods to learning from paper.

S

ince May 2014, the administration and district officials have conducted meetings to plan for the Digital Learning Initiative and to make the transition as smooth as possible.

“The majority of our staff really felt committed to making sure students would have their devices in hand from the first day,” principal Lisa Gruman said. "We were really striving to be approved to distribute on the very first day of school. We worked with district administration and district IT to make sure we could follow through with our plan.”

By Aug. 15, approximately 85-95 percent of about 1,800 devices were deployed. The primary issues with deployment were missing paperwork and resetting Apple accounts. Gruman held multiple meetings with parents

MAC vs

PC

to increase communication and your assignments out there available to understanding at home. you, in many cases they launched that “The sessions were very well pretty much from the first few days of attended,” Gruman said. "I was so class.” impressed by the support of our If a teacher sees a necessity for community. It was really amazing. They students to access a certain website, had really thoughtful requests through the questions. They were administration can STUDENTS’ CONCERNS really engaged and be made to unblock ABOUT LEARNING WITH supportive.”

TECHNOLOGY ARE BEING the website for the Students’ concerns required time period.

ADDRESSED about learning with According to the technology are being addressed. Children’s Internet Protection Act The administration is planning on (CIPA), implemented in 24 states streamlining educational websites including Kansas, publicly funded and portals as much as possible to schools are required to regulate accommodate for both teachers and internet use and prevent minors from students’ needs. accessing explicit or obscene content.

"I feel like our staff has really far “[Proxies] are the biggest source exceeded our vision and timeline,” of problems in students’ devices Gruman said. “In terms of electronically functionality and are a violation of the communicating with students, getting Responsible User Policy,” Gruman said.

APPLE. Short for the Macintosh operating systems.

Is compatible with Windows software.

Laptop prices range from $599-$2,499 Less chance of getting a virus.

Since Apple has controlled the hardware and software bundles and model updates, every Mac operates smoothly without worry on lagging, incompatibles and have stable and expected performance.

Not as many games are made native for the Mac, although in recent years, many more apps are released for them.

IMPLEMENTATION OF THE NEW TECHNOLOGY CAN HAVE ADVERSE AND BENEFICIAL EFFECTS ON OUR WELL BEING

HOW THE NEW MACBOOKS MAY BE AFFECTING OUR HEALTH + by calvin lacerte

have to use paper and books, but i still have to use books and paper a lot.“ Matthew wolfe, social studies teacher: “Schools have a habit of resisting change. This is a change that needs to be done. When you get into the “real

from the administration

PRINCIPAL LISA GRUMAN ANSWERS STUDENTS’ QUESTIONS ABOUT THE DIGITAL LEARNING INITIATIVE

T

oo much usage of the laptop computers can hurt you. For example, Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) is a condition caused by staring into a computer screen too long. Indications of CVS include eye fatigue, sensitivity to bright light and blurred vision.

CVS can be efficiently avoided with regular use of eye drops and periodic breaks from the computer. All symptoms pertaining to CVS are considered temporary. No evidence has been discovered that reading on a computer screen has long-term ramifications.

But CVS is the least serious consideration among the adverse impacts of computers. Repetitive Strain Injury (RIA) is caused by continuous and repetitive physical

"We would need to have a conversation with the students to reframe those expectations and if they continue to do that, we would have to get parents involved.”

One of the biggest struggles the administration faced was the logistics of getting everyone through to their accounts according to Gruman. “[Another struggle was] creating a culture where it's safe to take risks...

Anytime you use technology there’s a risk; the lesson may not come out perfectly. And that’s still okay because we’re still learning something from it, we’ll make adjustments and we’ll be that much better the next time. There’s risk to creativity and so anytime you’re stepping out of your comfort zone to try something that is very different, there needs to be that culture where it’s safe to take risks.”

MICROSOFT. PC refers to any computer running IBM-Based (Windows, Linux, Solaris, FreeBSD) Not compatible with Macintosh software.

Computers running Windows can be found usually 45-70% cheaper than a Mac product.

Much greater chance to get a virus Custom-built PCs might not have the suitable drivers for every component in each OS version, resulting in incompatibilities and lagging.

The library of games available for the PC is extensive, and hardware specifically tweaked for gaming performance is much more readily available for Windows.

movements, such as clicking or typing.

RIA can lead to damage of tendons, muscles, nerves and other soft body tissues, but its most

MEDICAL EFFECTS [FROM THE LAPTOPS] CAN ALL BE AVOIDED

BY BEING CONSERVATIVE IN THE USE OF LAPTOPS

world” you’ll be using this technology, so why can’t we integrate that now? It has it’s challenges but I think we will work through them. These devices will become an important part of curriculum and learning.”

+ by deena essa

daunting repercussion is the possible development of Carpal Tunnel syndrome. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a condition that can lead to severe nerve damage in the hands and fingers, but this is unusual and only occurs in severe cases.

But introduction of the new laptops may result in a few health benefits including the regression of back injury due to heavy backpacks. The U.S.

Rebecca anthony, social studies teacher: “People seem to struggle with using them responsibly instead of doing what they’re supposed to do. There’s been a drastic change in people paying attention in class and knowing what’s

Consumer Product Safety Commission reports over 7,300 annual backpackrelated injuries. These injuries include back and shoulder strain, bruises, sprains and fractures. A common ailment associated with bookbags is Rucksack Palsy.

Rucksack Palsy results when pressure put on a shoulder nerve causes numbness in the hands, muscle wasting and, in extreme cases, nerve damage. A French study showed that the longer the students wore the heavy bookbags the worse a back deformity would become. Backpackinduced injuries can be avoided by keeping the weight of the bookbag under 15 percent of the student’s body weight.

These medical effects can all be averted by being conservative in the use of laptops and by using lockers store textbooks rather than carrying them all.

going on. The lack of focus is really the main problem. I can spend the whole class period showing people exactly what to do, step-by-step, then still receive ten emails that night asking for directions.”

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from

Across the

pacific SEVEN FOREIGN EXCHANGE STUDENTS JOIN THE STUDENT BODY THIS YEAR + BY DEENA ESSA + NATHAN HENDERSON / PHOTOS BY ADDISON SHERMAN

LEAH LEMMERMAN Germany

J

ust a couple of years ago, Leah Lemmerman decided to do a foreign exchange with the Academic Year in America organization in Germany.

“A girl from my street’s brother was an exchange student in New Zealand and he inspired me to do it,” Lemmerman said.

Her family was supportive of her decision and think it’s a good opportunity for Lemmerman.

“I hope to become more open-

HÉLOÏSE BREBANT Belgium

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ot many students are sure “The system of this school is about their future from a very different,” Brebant said. “I chose young age, but Héloïse Brebant more art classes and classes I’ve was certain about one thing: she was never done in Belgium. I had all going to do a year the math classes and of foreign exchange science classes there from her home and it’s easier here. But SOME PEOPLE I country of Belgium. doing homework was KNOW DID THIS “Some people complicated. Translating EXCHANGE I know did this everything took me a PROGRAM. THEY exchange program. long, long time.”

MADE ME WANT They made me want Besides improving TO DO IT AND LIVE to do it and live this her English to be able THIS EXPERIENCE. experience,” Brebant to travel more, Brebant said. “My mom also also wants to meet new did an exchange people and do something program when she was 18, so I’ve new. always wanted to do that. I knew I “I really needed something new wanted to do this and discover new in my life,” Brebant said. “I’ve been things.” in the same school for six years and I School has been challenging for wanted a big change. The main thing Brebant but she is excited to explore I’m getting out of this experience is a variety of classes. all the people I’ve met.”

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feature | sept. 26, 2014

minded about other people and other cultures,” Lemmerman said. “I want to learn how they live and to improve my language skills.”

Lemmerman wasn’t shocked by many aspects of the American culture because she felt she was prepared by her program.

“It’s nice to get to know new people,” Lemmerman said. “But all the houses and buildings are always really cold.”

LISE TORVIK Norway

F

rom a small town in Norway, Torvik was under the impression Lise Torvik decided to do a a larger number of people were foreign exchange program obese in America, a widespread with the Explorius Youth Program. stereotype in European countries.

Last Christmas, “I was expecting Torvik started more people who looking into were fat but people HER FOREIGN foreign exchange are actually not EXCHANGE options and that fat,” Torvik EXPERIENCE HAS after presenting said.

BROADENED HER the idea to her Her foreign HORIZONS AFTER parents, only to e x c h a n g e LIVING IN ALESUND be initially turned experience has down, Torvik broadened her FOR MOST OF HER LIFE was placed in horizons after Shawnee Mission living in Ålesund Northwest. for most of her life.

“The biggest difference is the “Kansas City is a lot bigger than school probably,” Torvik said. my hometown and so it’s harder to “People here are just really nice talk to people,” Torvik said. “I’m and more outgoing. Everything is a not as homesick right now, not as lot cheaper….and there’s a larger much as I thought I would be.” choice of food here.”

EMMA MATTEAZZI Italy

L

ike many foreign exchange students, senior Emma Matteazzi was convinced to do a foreign exchange program by family. “[My cousins] and I, my mom and my dad were talking about it together,” Matteazzi said. “I told them I would like to do that and my parents agreed and said I really should do that. They pushed me to do it.”

From Venice, Matteazzi flew 5,000 miles as part of the Rotary Lenexa foreign exchange program and has

not yet begun to miss home.

“I’m not homesick already,” Matteazzi said. “I think that this is an experience I’m going to have once in my life.”

Matteazzi attended a literature school back in Italy in which her main focus were the arts.

“I like that there are so many choices of classes you can choose,” Matteazi said. “Teachers are really nice and they understand you.”

MAIKE RÖSSLER Germany

F

rom a town in Northern Germany called Bremen, Maike Rössler joined the Academic Year in America foreign exchange program.

“I decided to do a foreign exchange many years ago because since I was a little child I was fascinated with the U.S.,” Rössler said.

Her family agreed almost immediately, despite the distance and the cost of the program.

“When I came to America, I was

LORITA RAMA Kosovo

LENA PAINER Austria

S

ince the age of eight, Lena something I didn’t want to do so now Painer, from Austria with the they’re very supportive.”

Rotary Lenexa Program, was sure From more religious students to she wanted to do a foreign an increased presence of exchange program. guns, Painer has noticed THE WHOLE “My cousin [told me] significant differences in EXPERIENCE OF she had wanted to be a the American culture.

BEING IN ANOTHER foreign exchange student “Most things are so COUNTRY, GETTING but that she was too old TO KNOW ANOTHER different,” Painer said. and had a boyfriend and “School is very different CULTURE, MEETING so couldn’t manage it,” and the food is very SO MANY NEW Painer said. “She gave different.

PEOPLE, IT’S SO me the idea of being an Painer thinks she’d GREAT. exchange student and so like to further study in the I’ve always wanted to become one.”

States for one year during college.

All Painer faced was the challenge “The whole experience of being of convincing her parents of her in another country, getting to know vision. another culture, meeting so many “My mom was easy [to convince],” new people, it’s so great,” Painer said.

Painer said. “She’d always wanted “But I think I would miss Austira. It’s to do one, too; so she wanted me to beautiful here and the people are nice go. But my dad didn’t want me to but Austria is my home and I miss it.” go until when I was 18. But that was

really surprised how nice almost everyone was,” Rössler said. “This is what it makes great and I don’t feel homesick yet.”

Besides meeting new people, Rössler hopes to grasp the language better.

“I hope to gain more self confidence and improve my English,” Rössler said. “Hopefully, I will go to a college here and spend the rest of my life in America.”

T

o be a member of the Kosovo homesick, but I keep in contact with Youth Exchange Program, [my family], keep sharing with them Lorita Rama was one of nine this kind of experience and that’s students chosen out of a pool of 2,000 good. And they’re always surprised applicants. with some of the things we can do Rama was inspired here.” to do foreign exchange At Rama’s I WANTED TO after her older sister’s school in Kosovo, experiences in Rama had every KNOW HOW PEOPLE LIVE Indiana as a foreign class with the HERE AND TO GET TO KNOW same exchange student. set of A NEW CULTURE AND TO “I really liked students but in [her experiences],” LIVE IN ANOTHER CULTURE the States she is Rama said. “I wanted able to meet more BECAUSE IT’S VERY, VERY, to know how people people in all her live here and to classes.

DIFFERENT HERE. get to know a new “People here culture and to live in are so good,” another culture because it’s very, very Rama said. “They’re so friendly. If different here.” you sit with someone they’re very However, Rama hasn’t found interested in you, even if they don’t things to be as easy as she envisioned. know where Kosovo is.”

“I’ve started being a little

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a chilling THE GROWING TREND OF THE ALS ICE BUCKET CHALLENGE HAS SPREAD TO NW

Y

ou’ve probably seen it and, quite frankly, you’ve probably done it; dumped a bucket of ice cold water on your head and posted a video of it on instagram or facebook.

The ALS ice bucket challenge.

Its meaning is so much more than just the amusement of watching someone squeal as several gallons of ice and water drench them with freezing temperatures and goosebumps.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis disease (ALS) quickly attacks nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord until motor skills are lost leaving the affected unable to move freely or form speech while leaving the brain functioning and the person fully aware of

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feature | sept. 26, 2014

his condition. Therefore, expanding the research fund and awareness base has positively impacted the ALS community.

The challenge requires that the participant dump a bucket of ice and water on his head and then nominate three or more friends to take the challenge within 24 hours. The challenge also encourages each participant to donate to ALS research.

Since the start of the challenge, the ALS research fund has jumped upwards of $23 million.

This unprecedented recognition of ALS and the resulting increase in funds makes the possibility for a lifesaving drug or treatment much higher. All it takes is a simple donation and a little cold water.

+ REBECCA CARROLL

Sophomore Christa Stoll is video taped completing the ALS ice bucket challenge on Sept 2. Many people of all ages helped to raise awareness for Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, by doing the challenge and donating.

PHOTO BY TARYN SMITH

rachel barnes

O

ne of many who decided to participate in the ALS challenge, junior Rachael Barnes happily made a video, with her cat.

“I wanted to do it because it was a good way to create awareness for such an awful disease,” Barnes said. “Before the ice bucket challenge became popular not many people even knew what ALS was and now a lot of people are educated about what it is and they want to help.”

Barnes and her mom have decided to donate $50 to ALS. Her cat however, “donated” her dry fur.

“I was bracing myself for the worst so I did my best not to scream like some of the other videos,” Barnes said. “But my cat midnight

was a bit caught off guard. If she could talk I bet she would say that it was an unenjoyable experience but it was for a good cause so it’s okay.”

This challenge has a different meaning and impact on everyone; Barnes found the mere possibility that a cure is $50 closer to being found is more than enough reward for donating and being drenched in freezing water. “[For me] It means that with all the money that has been raised there is a possibility of a cure being found and freeing people from this disease that has disabled them and ruined their life,” Barnes said.

a cure is $50 closer to being found

AUDREY GLEASON

WATERMELON EXPERIENCE

S

enior Audrey Gleason took the challenge to a new level. In addition to posting her excited video on instagram, Gleason held a “watermelon party” to raise money for both ALS and the Susan G. Komen foundation for breast cancer.

“Everyone who wants to come just comes to my backyard with a watermelon, then we cut it in half and eat it straight with a fork/spoon out on blankets and play frisbee or catch,” Gleason said.

Not only was Gleason’s party a great way to make money, but it brought people together in a unique way in honor of two very popular causes. No ice water was involved in this challenge, but it was a great way to spread not only the ALS message but as well as the ever-present battle in many lives with breast cancer.

“With all the ice bucket challenges and Zach St. Clair’s mom dying so recently of breast cancer I thought it would be cool for us to give back,” Gleason said. “We raised $62 so that was awesome.”

PHOTO BY LUCAS SILVA

PHOTO BY EMILIE AMUNATIGUI top: The freshman cheerleaders scream as they do the ice bucket challenge on Aug. 22 on the football field. The challenge requires that a participant dump a bucket of ice and water on themselves and to challenge others. middle left: As she pours a bucket of ice water on herself, Sophomore Courtney Jones laughs on Aug. 27 on the NW running track. Student Council was challenged by fellow StuCo member Ojas Patel to complete the Ice Bucket Challenge which has raised over 114 million dollars. middle right: Senior Griffin Robinson yells as he pours a bucket of ice water on himself in support of ALS. Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis is a disease that affects the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord which control voluntary muscle movement. bottom: The varsity cheerleaders do the ALS ice bucket challenge on Aug. 22 on the football field. ALS research has jumped upwards of 23 million dollars since the start of the challenge.

PHOTO BY EMILIE AMUNATIGUI

PHOTO BY LUCAS SILVA

EMILY MOORE

ISSY WALLIS

S

ophomore Issy Wallis had a personal connection with ALS that made the challenge worth her while.

“We had a family friend that passed away from ALS, and he touched a lot of people’s lives,” Wallis said. “I was only six when he passed away but I babysit his son that is ten now and I remember trying to help him get through what a terrible time it was.”

Wallis dumped the bucket of

freezing water on her head, but her participation didn’t stop there. She also donated to ALS research when she was done.

With donations like Wallis’ the ALS research fund has reached a record-breaking high.

“Everyone should definitely do it and not be afraid,” Wallis said. “But they should also donate so we can find a cure for this terrible disease.”

“We had a family friend that passed away from ALS, and he touched a lot of people’s lives,” Wallis said.

T

he trend spiraled to our school when many teams and organizations were nominated for the challenge. The drill team was nominated by the varsity cheerleaders.

“It was for a good cause and to help raise awareness,” sophomore Emily Moore said.

“I did donate online each time I did [the challenge] $10 and then $15 at Audrey Gleason’s watermelon party.”

The drill team then proceeded to nominate the trumpets in the marching band for the challenge.

“We bond with them every morning at band practice,” Moore said. “It just seems like our groups click [the trumpets] are really funny and make our mornings a little more fun.”

The trumpets f o l l o w e d through with their nomination and spread the awareness even more so. Now, both groups feel accomplished in all they’ve done to help.

“It has been so unknown for so long,” Moore said. “It makes me really happy and even if people aren’t donating they are at least aware of this awful disease.”

“It was for a good cause and to help raise awareness,” sophomore Emily Moore said.

NW passage | Feature

23

F ll into THESE FALL FASHION TRENDS ARE CUTE, CLASSIC, AND TRENDY + by rebecca carroll / sophie flores

1

Oversized Cardigans:

2

Flannels:

3

Plain white t-shirt:

+ photo illustration by sydney biery

4/6

1

4

7 24

feature | sept. 26, 2014

2

5

8

9

Flannels have been around forever, but 2014 has been their year. This timeless accessory goes with virtually anything and can add an edgy look to any outfit. Try throwing a flannel over

variety of sizes, weights and colors, making them a fashionable - yet functional - addition to any outfit.

your school t-shirt and leggings to make your spirit wear more you.

Looking to add some flare to your t-shirt and jeans combo? Tie a flannel around your waist, and you are good to go.

Plain white t-shirts are a must-have for every season.

Ripped jeans: Jeans are essential, but they can be boring to wear day after day. So, ripped jeans and “boyfriend” or loose fitting, distressed jeans are the way to go this fall. They make any

3

6

From chilly summer nights, to cold fall days, oversized cardigans are the perfect transition item from summer to fall. They come in a large

5

Envelope skirts:

7

Converse:

8

Strappy Sandles:

9

Boots:

These skirts are not that popular yet, but they are rapidly becoming a necessity. They come in skirt or skort form, in a

Converse have been around for years, but they have become increasingly popular over the past few years.

White, black, high-tops,

Although fall is well on it’s way, strappy sandals continue to be a very popular shoe. They are super comfortable and available in large varieties at most stores.

Riding boots, combat boots, and ankle booties are perfect for fall.

They not only keep your feet dry and warm, but they can add that extra

quick and comfortable outfit look effortlessly chic. For a more puttogether look, stick with dark wash jeans cuffed or with boots.

multitude of patterns and colors. Dress them up or down; they are a perfect basic for the summer and fall wardrobe.

low-tops, it doesn’t matter. Converse give every outfit a basic and young look. Plus, they are really comfortable.

Throw them on with cuffed jeans and a sweater or wear them with a simple dress.

They can be the finishing touch on you fall outfit.

“something” to your fall wardrobe. Try adding leg warmers or tall socks with your boots for a cute transition into the colder months.

NORTHWEST PHOTOGRAPHY

DOMINANT: Senior Brooke Nelson smiles as she performs during the halftime show at the first varsity football game of the season on Sept. 5 at SM North district stadium.

The theme for the halftime show is “The Wizard of Oz meets The Wiz”. The performance was a collaboration of varsity drill team and The Marching Cougar Pride.

PHOTO BY EMILIE AMUNATIGUI TOP LEFT Junior Gerrit Prince laughs as the “We Are Northwest” chant continues to go around the Main Gym on Sept. 4 during the Bonfire. The spirit club had to step in after the chant lasted three minutes. PHOTO BY ADDISON SHERMAN

TOP CENTER Seniors Anthony Abarca and Nehemiah Jones wave to the audience as their names are announced by Coach Hibbs during the Bonfire assembly on Sept. 4. The Cougars’ first football game followed the next day. PHOTO BY KRISTI SENG TOP RIGHT Junior Nathan Jones tackles for the ball against Washburn Rural on Sep. 11 at SMAC. The cougars lost the game with senior Cole Nelson being the only one to put in a goal to make the score 2-1. PHOTO BY LUCAS SILVA BOTTOM LEFT After heading the ball, senior Tom Green is tackled by Olathe South’s Will Davis during the final game of the preseason Olathe East Tournament on Sept. 6 at CBAC. The Cougars lost to the Falcons 0-1. PHOTO BY CARLEIGH WHITMAN

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DO YOU WANT TO SUBMIT A COMIC?

Send an email of your comic to our graphics editor at mitchfeyerherm@ gmail.com and you could be featured in an upcoming issue of The Northwest Passage.

sodoku: medium 5 8 2 7 3 8 3 9 6 8 3 7 9 6 8 5 6 1 9 2 5 8 1 5 8 1 3 9 6 1 5 2 Mitch Feyerherm | Words and Ink

26

entertainment | Sept. 26, 2014

isaac coleman | Spirit of Northwest

jordan absher | Lame Funnies

BUZZ BEACH BALL 2014 + BY MADDIE GRIMES

96.5 the Buzz holds the annual Buzz Beach Ball at Sporting KC Park Friday Sept. 5

W

hile walking into the Sporting KC arena, the upper level opens into an overview of the field.

The crowd is constantly growing in size in the stands and down on the field. The crowd roars as each radio host comes to either stage to announce the next performer.

The first six openers performed in the rain and even though weather conditions weren’t ideal the crowd endured. Soon enough, the rain died down. Unlike most concerts, these openers were fairly well known because of the popularity they received from the station. The openers included The Griswolds, the Broods, J Roddy Walston & the Business, UME, The Mowglis, Thumpers, Bear Hands, The 1975, Big Data, and Meg Myers. The opening bands each played sets up to 45 minutes.

Then Weezer kicks off their set

with a song from their 1994 self titled album called “My Name is Jonas”.

Giant beachballs are flying over the crowd as Weezer goes on to play famous songs like “Troublemaker”, “Island in the Sun”, “Beverly Hills”, “Undone – The Sweater Song”, and “Buddy Holly”.

As Weezers’ set finishes the audience throws up their hands in the shape of a W. After Weezer’s phenomenal set the audience impatiently anticipates the last and final performance of the concert, the Arctic Monkeys.

The crowd almost triples in size as the roadies prepare the main stage for the Arctic Monkeys. As their logo drops from the rafters the crowd cheers. Soon radio host. Lazlo, announces, “And coming up...The

Arctic Monkeys!” The lights go out.

It’s dark now, but the glow of the band’s logo on a black backdrop is visible. Suddenly, bright white lights flare over the crowd and the band members saunter on stage. Alex

stage after playing “I Wanna Be Yours” and the elated crowd chants, “Arctic, Arctic, Arctic!” over and over until the band walks across the stage for their encore. The crowd is still going strong while they play

THE CROWD ALMOST TRIPLES IN SIZE AS THE ROADIES PREPARE THE MAIN STAGE FOR THE ARCTIC MONKEYS...

SUDDENLY, BRIGHT WHITE LIGHTS FLARE OVER THE CROWD AND THE BAND MEMBERS SAUNTER ON STAGE. Turner, lead singer, adjusts his guitar and the band opens with a popular single “Do I Wanna Know?” Hands and fists are in the air, clapping and swaying to the beat of the song. The Arctic Monkeys do not leave fans begging for more, they perform all of their hit singles and some songs off their newest album that aren’t popular on the radio. They exit the

their last two numbers, “One For The Road” and “R U Mine?” Ending with one of their hit singles was probably one of the best things this band could do. They performed with vigor and interacted with the crowd in between songs. The lighting was beyond impressive. Fans filed out of Sporting Park with ringing ears and satisfaction.

LEAGUE OF LEGENDS + BY KEEGAN DOLINAR

T

his game is one of my favorite online games of recent memory, and works well overall. It is perhaps the best game in the MOBA (Multiplayer Online Battle Arena) genre. Although, I can't say that I've played any others. I can say that League of Legends is a really good time.

Like most MOBAs, League of Legends’ main attraction is its fiveto-five matches on its staple threelane map. Called Summoner's Rift, this map is bright and colorful, it creates a distinct playstyle with the way its dense brush allows you to conceal yourself and surprise enemies.

I enjoy how the different jungles on either side of the central river are filled with NPC (Non-player

A NEW CLUB BASED AROUND THE 1 PLAYER RPG character) monsters that give buffs price of between two and eight the low Key status of the launch and (powerups) to players who take a dollars each. Yes, that adds up to a the more-than-occasional hostility break from battle to go hunting. hefty sum of money if you intend of the community just might.

It is a temptation to go into the to buy every single character, but League of Legends is popular other team’s territory to attempt there’s no need to buy more than enough with the student body to steal their buffs. The choice you intend to use. The Champion that there is a club about it. Pete between engaging the other team THE CHOICE BETWEEN ENGAGING THE OTHER TEAM DIRECTLY OR directly or ATTACKING THEIR RESOURCES ALLOWS FOR INTERESTING STRATEGIES attacking their resources allows AND DEPTH BEYOND SIMPLY FIGHTING UNTIL ONE CHAMPION IS DEAD. for interesting strategies and depth beyond simply fighting until rotation is a nice way to try before Campbell and Stephen Nachtsheim one Champion is dead. you buy are current presidents of the club.

As free-to-play games go, League Sometimes it feels like League They meet in room 105 on Thursday of Legends is generous. It serves of Legends overwhelms the player, nights right after school to 3:20 to up a weekly rotating selection of both in terms of the number discuss the game, the new updates 10 Champions for free, you can of champions and the general and strategies. purchase and play with any of the confusion of the larger battles. While 117-character roster for a reasonable that's not enough to ruin the game,

NW passage | entertainment

27

Shawnee Mission Northwest marketing Sell ads for your own school newspaper

3$ OFF ANY SERVICE 20$ AND UP

20 % Off Formal

5$ OFF ANY SERVICE 30$ AND UP

char

se

PE P

ILL

Forks

JA X G R R E P

In a plate-to-plate battle, staff members compare Philly cheese steak sandwiches from PepperJax and Chartroose Caboose.

Which Philly cheese steak restaurant is better?

oo

tr

oose cab

+ BY SAM ATHEY PepperJax is loud.

The sound of metal on metal, knife against burner and the sizzling of meat competes with the thrum of background music. Beeping from the machinery punctuates the noise.

Yes, PepperJax is loud. But the noise in the background doesn’t distract from the enjoyment of the food. A person who walks in may be overwhelmed.

But once the food is out, the noise is pretty much forgotten.

Being a boring soul, my Philly cheese steak consists only of beef and cheese with fries. My drink is a Dr. Pepper, as always. No ice.

The Philly cheese steak itself is rather daunting.

The bun is at least a foot long, filled with deliciously spiced meat and melted cheese. Although it isn’t even stuffed to its fullest, I scrape some of the meat off

with a fork just so I can squeeze the sandwich into my mouth.

But once I actually start to eat it? It’s wonderful. The meat is subtly spiced and the melted cheese just adds to the overall effect. It’s a little awkward to hold, but incredibly delicious.

The real beauty of this sandwich is its size. For $6.39, I never thought I would be hungry again.

In fact, I was incapable of eating many of the French fries that came with the meal, despite the fact that the fries were practically perfect. I just didn’t have room.

PepperJax feels sleek and modern, but the noise level is a definite drawback.

If you’re looking for a tasty, filling meal for a reasonable price, PepperJax is the place to go.

Total cost of sandwich, fries and drink with tax: $11.26

+ BY mitch feyerherm

Pflumm Rd Chartroose Caboose

Pflumm Rd 67th st

67th st

Pflumm Rd

CHARTROOSE CABOOSE Quivira Rd

67th st

PEPPERJAX GRILL

87th st parkway

shawnee mission parkway

From Northwest, take a left on 67th St., then take a right onto Pflumm Rd, next take a right onto Shawnee Mission Parkway and PepperJax Grill is on the right.

From Northwest, take a right, then take a right onto Quivira Rd, then take a right on 87th St. Parkway and Chartroose Caboose is on the right

found elsewhere in the sandwich world. Chartroose Caboose adds onto this unique combination by providing a large condiment bar by the soda fountains.

The bun is a feat in and of itself. Other phillies have chewy buns, but this bun isn’t chewy or even a distraction to the eating of the sandwich. Like any good bun, it even adds to the overall taste of the meal.

The one downside to the meal were the french fries.

The fries at Chartroose Caboose have all the qualities of a poor fry: limp, loosely salted, and bland. Rather than a nice compliment to a delicious sandwich, they were a chore to eat and left me feeling empty inside and out.

Great bun, delicious meat, poor fries: $10.91

PepperJax Grill

DIRECTIONS TO PEPPERJAX GRILL AND CHARTROOSE CABOOSE:

Long ave

PHOTOS BY REAGAN KEY

Chartroose Caboose is quiet.

That may be a result of a slow business day, but it is relaxing not to feel ambushed when entering a restaurant environment. No uncomfortable Chipotlestyle assembly line forces rapid, unreasonably terrifying decision-making; no frighteningly stern employees; and not a sound in earshot.

What Chartroose Caboose does have is food.

Delicious, mouthwatering, awe-inducing food. The train-themed decor and often conflicting atmosphere take a back seat once the food is ready.

The philly is unique among sandwiches. Its combination of meat, provolone cheese, sauteed onions, mushrooms, and peppers in a hoagie is not

Quivira Rd

NW passage | entertainment

29

fall

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @SMNWDOTCOM FOR SCORE UPDATES ON EACH VARSITY GAME

Volleyball + by hadley sayers

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t was a big night at Shawnee Mission East High School for volleyball, nervous parents willing their kids to play well as the crowds hummed in anticipation of the next serve.

For the Shawnee Mission Northwest varsity girls, it was tough to start their night playing Lawrence Free State, “(Lawrence) Free State has always been very competitive” Coach Sarah Sliva said after the game. Northwest lost the first match 8-25 and the second match was lost 17-25.

“Shake it off”, Coach Sliva told her team on the court, and that is what they did leading into their next games of the night against Shawnee Mission East and North.

In their first match against Shawnee Mission East, Northwest won 25-21 and ended the game in the next match winning 25-22.

+ by staff

“The main thing for us was to not underestimate (Shawnee Mission) East and North just because we are in the same school district,” Coach Sliva said.

In the following game against Shawnee Mission North, Northwest won the first set 25-23 and ended the game in the next match winning 29-27, this match went into extra points. It was a closely fought game but Northwest pulled through and definitely did not underestimate their competition.

+ photo by haena lee

Football

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M West handed the Cougars their first loss of the season on Sept. 5. The Cougars scored but never found the end zone again in the 29-7 thrashing by the Vikings.

In the first away game of the season, the Cougars snagged a 34-32 win over district rival SM North after kicker Johnathan Killeen booted the game winning field goal over the uprights with 11 seconds remaining in the game.

The Cougars didn’t fare as well last Friday as they faced the East Lancers. With nine injured players on the sidelines, the team just couldn’t handle SM East’s powerful offense. The 2013 division champions showed their mettle in the 49-6 NW defeat.

The Cougars will face Lawrence’s Chesty Lions tonight at 7 p.m. in Lawrence.

+ by Jonathan alexander

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+ photo by nick kahtava

+ photo by emilie amunatigui

Girls’ Tennis

he girls tennis team came out of the gate strong this year, landing a sweep of victories at the tournament this past Tuesday. The victory at the tournament allowed the girls team were able to continue their winning streak. “We’ve got a good team, they’re very nice and fun to work with,” Assistant Coach Leslie Ransdall said.

The team has been hard at work this year, practicing every day after school, determined to maintain their winning streak.

“So far this year we’ve been focusing on letting our new players gain experience on the court, as well as challenging our returning players to be even better.” Senior Co-Captain Brooke Bennett said.

With a strong opening, the girls hope to continue at the pace

they’re at and make it to the State Tournament. “I would describe the atmosphere at hopeful,” Senior Co-Captain Carley Olsen said. “Our team this year is strong and I am super excited to see what we can do.” Hopefully, the girls can continue to be successful and fulfill their goals of making it to the State Tournament.

+ photo by addison sherman

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sports | sept. 26, 2014

Sports

Updates on all your NW fall varsity sports Boys’ Soccer

+ photo by addison sherman

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old, frustrated fans cheered on the boys’ varsity soccer team as they tried to attack the well-organized defensive line that is Washburn Rural Sept.

11. That was how the game went for most of the night.

We started off the game really well,” assistant coach Drew Perkins said. “For first

15 minutes we were flying around. They were chasing us. Then we gave up a silly goal off a corner kick. It was a fluke, a one in a million goal that doesn’t happen all the time.”

When final whistle blew, the Cougars faced a 2-1 deficit and their first home loss of the season.

The team rebounded on Sept. 16 to beat the Lancers, 2-1. The Vikings found

themselves up a creek without a paddle last Thursday in a 3-0 Cougar victory.

At press time, the team was facing a busy week with a game against Rockhurst on Monday, against Olathe North on Tuesday and against SM South last night.

Soccer fans can see the team in action on Tuesday against Lawrence Free State at 7 p.m. at SMAC.

Cross Country + by delaney mirocke / alyssa gamba

+ photo by carleigh whitman

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he boy’s varsity cross country team started off their season at Greg Wilson Classic at Johnson County Community College with a tenth place overall team finish.

The girls’ cross country team has a total of 42 girls running miles this season. Many of the more older track runners have been running a total of 5 to 6 miles from Quivira to Lackman. They are gradually increasing the miles they run per day.

“The guys did well for the first meet and really put in that 100% that Van Rose

+ photo by kevin thompson

+ by randy castellon

has trained us to give,” junior Trenton Schroeder said. “Most of the teams that won were from out of state so we won’t have too much to worry about when it comes to league.”

On Sat. Sept. 20th the girl’s and boy’s JV and Varsity teams will be running at a much larger meet than Greg Wilson, the Heartland Classic in Ames, Iowa.

“I think that our boys will do well,” Schroeder said. “Many of us have been coming in the mornings as well and putting in the work to succeed.”

Gymnastics + by Jade Daly-roentved

+ photo by kevin thompson

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entally preparing for the run to the vault at the gymnastics meet on Sept. 17, junior Lacey Carlson continued to stretch.

“My shins better not hurt me,” Carlson said. “And I’m hoping not to fall.”

This year, Janice Baker returned to coaching the team after a six year leave to enjoy some different activities such as knitting, spending time with her kids and gymnastics judging for other high schools.

“Since it was my program for 35 years I felt compelled to [come back] and help,” Baker said. “I thought I could do a couple more years of coaching and I

missed the relationship you get with the kids when you’re coaching.“ The Varsity team took first place at the SM West meet on Sept. 17 beating SM West, SM North, Olathe South and Olathe North. Sophomore Olivia Williams supported the teams victory, taking first place and sophomore Leah Steinacker in 2nd. The JV team placed 2nd, led by Taylor Moore, who scored 2nd.

“I want them to do well and feel like they’re a more unified team,” Baker said. “I want them to work at their potential and to enjoy gymnastics again. We want to have a program they can be proud of.”

Girls’ Golf + by alyssa toth

C + photo by sydney biery

oach Reiff has been teaching the Girl’s Golf team many different, helpful tricks and skills to help them be the best they can be. The whole team has been working so hard so they will hopefully win their first tourney coming up soon! It’s next Tuesday at 6:30 A.M. They are very excited to show off the skills they have learn and practiced over and over again everyday. All of them are extremely confident and excited. We are expecting a win!

“The reason I decided to play golf this year is because my entire family plays it and enjoys it, It’s fun, I’m good at it so it doesn’t take a whole lot of work, It’s a good way to let my anger out, And some day I’ll be making a lot of money off of it,” Mia McDonald, freshman golfer said.

NW passage | sports

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photo by addison sherman

Once you’re a senior, you realize that there are a whole lot of endings coming up. It makes you take in the moment more...

NO ONE’S AFRAID TO GET UP AND CHEER AS LOUD AS THEY CAN.” — SENIOR emma beller