Andover High Trojan Bluestreak- Issue 7

TTB the trojan bluestreak

1744 N. Andover Road. Andover, KS 67002 Volume 26 - Issue 7 March 12, 2012

Exploring Wichita Discovering local new and existing activities (pg. 12-21)

news: Intersection at Kellogg and 159th St. poses danger to drivers {page 4}

feature: Senior, shop teacher share love of motorcycling {pg 22-23}

sports: Wrap-up of Winter Sports season {pg 2425}

{news}

Young Life group to start at Old School

One of many Young Life groups makes its way to AHS. A new program called Young life is being started. As of right now, a small group of 25 students are helping in the planning of Young life. Parent Jill Hodge helps in leading Young Life.

“I am the point-to person for that group and am meeting with the students weekly to pray, study the Bible and plan Young Life Old School,” Hodge said.

To help get Young Life started, parents have been attending meetings since December. The parents picked out a group of students from all grades to help get the club up and running.

“A group of Christian adults felt it would be a positive thing for our school and they contacted a core group of students that they think could get young life started at AHS,” freshman Meg Plank said.

Young Life is also an active club at other surrounding schools.

“I just transferred from Wichita Collegiate School and Young Life is a very big part of the Collegiate community,” sophomore Grace Cusick said.

Some students had heard of the program before, and were excited to hear of the new group being put together. The first official club date is planned to be held on March 29.

“Look for signs at school to find out when and where the first meeting will be held,” Hodge said.

“Everyone is invited.”

Hodge was aware of Young Life and highly interested in becoming involved. Her daughter was involved in high school and college, and Hodge found it to be a valuable tool.

“I love high school kids, and I love God. Since

Young Life puts the two together, I want to be part of it,” Hodge said.

Hodge and the parents who have helped to put this program together have goals for the club.

“It is my prayer, and the prayer of all the adults on the Young Life steering committee, that Young Life Old School will be used as a tool to share the love of Jesus with the students at AHS,” Hodge said.

Young Life is going to be an upbeat way to help students connect with God. “We’ll play games, have contests, give away prizes, sing songs, make new friends and hear a short lesson from God’s word,” Hodge said. “Anyone who attends Young Life Club is also eligible to go to Young Life summer camp.”

Besides having a good time, some students hope to get something specific out of Young Life.

“I hope to be able to use my relationship with God to bring others to Christ,” freshman Kristen Graves said.

Some plan to improve their own relationships.

“I think having a connection with the Lord helps everyday life, and I want to get closer to him,” sophomore Nick Hess said.

Freshman Danny Moran also hopes to grow in his faith.

“I think this will impact me to always help other people out with whatever they need, and to not be afraid to share my faith,” Moran said.

Young Life has ministries in 5,039 schools in the United States as of June 2011.

“The high school years are a time when lots of teenagers make important life choices, including what they believe about God,” Hodge said. “Young

Snip-its

Parents for Puckets another successful fundraiser for teacher

2

Teaming with the Booster club and numerous students to create another fundraiser for the Pucket family, parents Mary DeKoning and Lisa Olson pulled together a group of people who had the same goal: to help the Pucket family that has been desperately in need.

The day of the past Andover vs. Andover Central game, DeKoning and Olson held “Parents for Puckets,” a fund raiser serving food with all the proceeds going straight to the Pucket family.

“We really did not know how much money we were going to raise,” DeKoning said. “There have been so many fundraisers for the Puckets. We ended up raising $1,900.”

The fundraiser was held through out the commons from 4:30 to 7 p.m.

“I am glad I showed up for Parents for Puckets,” senior Eden Zarkeshan said. “There was a decent turnPhysics teacher Keldon Pucket chats with seout and it was for a good cause.” nior Glenn Karnes at the Parents for Puckets fundraiser. The event raised an astonishing mariaSTANLEY $1,900 for the family. Photo by Cale Minear

March 12, 2012

Leader Jill Hodge works with students at a Young Life meeting. The program invites anyone to join. Photo by Cale Minear Life is in the world of high school-learning kids’ names, hearing their stories, supporting them, having fun with them, and earning the right to share with them the news that God loves them.”

haileyPURDY

Class offerings to change next year Upcoming changes to the curriculum of several classes are causing students to think a bit more carefully about the classes they are enrolling into for the following school year.

Next year, there will be no English 3A. Instead, AP Language and Composition will fill its place.

“The AP course will provide college credit opportunities and a more rigorous workload,” English teacher Mike Bogner said.

Another subject that will be facing changes are the science classes. Next year, the required freshman science class will be replaced with biology.

“We will not be changing the number of classes we will simply be changing the order in which students cover science as they move through AHS,” science teacher Daniel Smalley said. “This will cause a huge influx of students who will be in biology courses next year since both sophomores and freshman will be enrolled in the same course. That huge number in this one course will be a challenge for the school to manage.”

Other science class additions are Botany, Environmental Science 1 and 2 and AP Environmental Science.

“I think it is a good idea to change up the English courses,” sophomore Thomas Archer said. “It is good that juniors can take an AP English class. It opens up more opportunities for juniors.”

mariaSTANLEY

Important news around the world Syria

Syria is currently facing clashes in their government. Over 5,000 lives have been decimated by rebel forces, and 2,000 members of the security forces.

The protest descended from 15 young school children being arrested for graffiti hatful words toward the government in March 2011 in Deraa, a Syrian city.

From there, a peaceful protest erupted, attempting to free the children from wrongful custody, democracy, and greater freedom for the people of Syria.

The government’s response was not as tranquil. They responded by belligerently sending their army on March 18, and opening fire on the group of protesters, and killing four.

Continuing unrest followed when the army shot at mourning, hopeless civilians at the funeral.

What was once a peaceful dem-

North Korea

onstration, transformed into a hatful and passionate protest geared toward making Bashar al-Assad, the president, resign.

Both the Arab League, and the United Nations attempted to support a plan of making a new united government in two months.

China and Russia, countries with strong ties to Syria, rejected; leaving Britain and the US to not support the protesters.

Ultimately, the whole situation is a lose-lose. If the protesters win, the whole entire government regime would collapse. This could possibly lead to civil war.

Every side is stubborn, meaning that neither the government or the rebel forces will fall into the others d emands. source: www.bbc.com

henryHOOK

Last week North Korea said it would suspend nuclear tests, long-range missile launches and enrichment of uranium at it Yongbyon nuclear facility. On top of that they allowed international nuclear inspectors.

The United Nations is preparing to send inspectors to search for nuclear weapons and production in North Korea.

In return, the United States pledged to resume its food aid to the impoverished and isolated country.

North Korea is under a strict, and extremely destitute government in which it’s crippling from the inside in.

Every time the Vienna-based UN agency inspectors met previously in North Korea they were limited to their access.

North Korea is notorious for hiding undisclosed enrichment-related facilities, but Western analysts hope to covet atomic activity in all of Asia.

Yukiya Amano, the leader of the International Atomic Energy Agency, said “intensive consultations” were required with Pyongyang and he did not rule out sending high-level IAEA missions into North Korea for that purpose.

First Amano said monotonous preparatory work would have to be done.

The work would last for quite a significant time. From there inspectors have to approve the inspectors from a board of 35.

The main problem is that Pyongyang has rejected past deals proposed by the IAEA. If the deal goeswell, North Korea will successfully be disarmed.

Source: www.nationalpost.com

henryHOOK

Why do these issues matters to us? with Current World Affairs teacher James Harris Syria “It is difficult to find how it is impacting the US. Realistically there is two big issues. One is that any general instability in the Middle East causes a rise in the price of oil.

So that is one thing that could potentially impact us. Keep in mind though that what goes on in the oil market today typically impacts us 90 days down the road.”

North Korea “Well you have to understand that North Korea didn’t give up their nuclear arms. North Korea basically said that they will scale back some of their efforts, that they will continue discussions to get rid of nuclear weapons and that they’ll allow some inspectors to come in and verify that they’ve decreased their activities.

The thing to understand though is that

we have been down this row multiple times with North Korea before. Because all of this is done in exchange for food.

That was known as the agreed frame work and it eventually broke down. We stopped building them their nuclear there nuclear reactor and they started back up.”

March 12, 2012

3

Traffic light to reduce accidents on Kellogg Tragic accidents seem to be a recurring theme on Kellogg Dr. stemming from two separate accidents, both of which involved drivers traveling too fast, losing control, crossing the median and killing two five-year-old girls, Andover and Wichita have decided to make a change.

In order to allow protected turns onto Kellogg, also known as Highway 54, Andover is set to install a stoplight on Kellogg and 159th Street.

“The stop light at the intersection of 159th and US Highway 54 should make traffic flow at that intersection safer and possibly [make] not as long of a wait during high volume traffic,” Andover Chief of Police Mike Keller said.

Because of the high volume of traffic and its record of deadly accidents, the project qualified for Kansas Department of Transportation [KDOT] Safety Program funding.

“KDOT’s mission is to reduce deaths, injuries and economic costs resulting from motor vehicle crashes in Kansas,” ksdot.org said.

The funding is given to those intersections that have a record of traffic deaths and severe collisions.

“There is not a significant difference in the number of accidents at 159th and US Highway 54 as compared to other intersections in Andover,” Patrol Capt. Randy Coffman said. “The issue or concern is the seriousness of the accidents since the vehicles involved are traveling at much higher speeds.

While an official date for construction to start has not been set, the city is hopeful it will start, and end, soon. Bid letting happens when construction companies compete for a project by presenting their plan to the city council. Andover will use a variety of factors to choose the company, namely the best price and quality.

“The bid letting for the project is March 21. Construction should begin within four to six weeks after the letting. The project should be complete by late fall,” Director of Public Works Les Mangus said.

The cost, yet to be determined, will be split by Andover and Wichita, but construction cost is funded by KDOT. “Due to an interlocal agreement, Wichita and Andover will split the cost of the preliminary engineering, give or take about $200,000,” Mangus said. “We will know more once the bid letting happens. KDOT will completely cover construction.”

While speeding tickets are always doubled in construction zones, Kellogg may soon see other ticket increases.

Last week, the Kansas Senate passed a bill that would double fines for moving violations. If passed by the House and then by Gov. Brownback, the legislation would cause speeding tickets of more than five mph to go on a driver’s record, causing increased insurance. All moving violation tickets would be doubled.

“I don’t agree with that. I mean, going five mph over the speed limit is understandable, over five is deliberate. But it shouldn’t increase your insurance if you were just going, like, six mph over the speed limit,” senior Ben Blizzard said.

The stoplight construction, intended to help drivers travel more carefully when complete, may be hectic while in process.

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March 12, 2012

The intersection at Kellogg and 159th is the sight of numerous accidents. The cities of Wichita and Andover plan to install a stop light at the intersection on order to decrease the number of accidents. Photo Illustration by Henry Hook

”I would recommend avoiding that intersection as much as possible during construction and be prepared to follow the new traffic signal lights after construction,” Coffman said. “Wear their safety belts all the time, leave earlier so you aren’t rushed, do not drink and drive.”

The turn lanes and “green arrow” lights should eventually make driving faster.

“Traffic will be slowed down for a time,” Mangus said. “But the severity of crashes should be reduced.”

robynHERBERT

21st Street median causes uproar among residents

March 12, 2012

{around andover}

When the median on 21st Street was added near the entrance of Quail Crossing, residents affected by its presence began expressing their anger at the median’s installation.

Freshman Asia Haque lives on Quail Cross Road, which is the first culdesac past the median in Quail Crossing.

“We have to drive all the way out to the other side of the neighborhood in order to get out,” Haque said.

Before the median was installed, Haque had a much shorter route to take to school. After the median’s installation, her travel route to school was altered greatly.

“On a bad day, it can take about 10 minutes more for me to get to school,” Haque said.

Junior Sarah Clark also lives in Quail Crossing and is minimally affected by the median.

“It doesn’t affect me coming to school because I turn right to get here,” Clark said. “It does affect me going home because I have to turn into another neighborhood, so it takes about a minute or two longer to get home than it used to. I have to go through all of the neighborhoods that are connected to mine in order to get to my house.”

According to Clark, the median was installed because no traffic light exists from Kellogg to 159th St. and the area where the median was installed was prone to accidents before the median was put into place.

“I didn’t think they would actually close it off,” Clark said. “One day, I saw the median and I thought ‘well that needs to change.’ At first, I was mad by it, but I’m kind of getting used to it now. I understand why it hapQuail Crossing, a major neighborhood in Andover, has been affected by pened.” construction. Photo by Jessica Griffin Senior Megan Roser is affected by the median and is unhappy by its According to the Andover American, the Andover City Council authopresence to the point that she wants to take drastic action. rized city engineer Mike Thompson of Poe and Associates to appeal to the “I feel like hitting it with my car every time I see it,” Roser said. “There Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) for approval of installing a are too many cones there. I feel like taking them and throwing them in left turn lane instead of having the median. He proposed two ways to solve random places.” the problem: remove the median and install a left turn lane or remove the Her daily route to school is impacted by the median. median and use a continuous two-way left turn. Clark said having a left “I have to go a whole different way to get to school,” Roser said. turn lane would be better than having the median.

“It used to take me two minutes to get to school, and now it takes five “It’s a much better idea to have a left turn lane,” Clark said. “They’ll be minutes.” accidents no matter what, but if drivers are careful, then it’s really no big While Roser understands the median was installed to prevent accideal.” dents, she thinks it is causing traffic to significantly slow down.

Roser disagreed and said the best idea is to simply take the median “It’s supposed to speed up traffic and it’s just slowing it down even more,” Roser said. “People get in accidents all the time on Andover Rd., and out.

“That’s not a very good idea,” Roser said. “I say they should just take it they don’t put a median there, and we have a hospital right there next to out. The road was fine before they messed with it.” the median, so it’s not like they don’t have anywhere to go if they get into For Haque, the median will cause frustration for her and her family as an accident and get hurt.” long as they live in their current house.

Overall, Roser’s feelings toward the median are negative.

“I knew there was no reversing it,” Haque said. “I wish they would “I don’t like the median at all,” Roser said. “All it does is slow trafhave done something different, because as long as we live in our house, it’s fic down and it causes frustration for lots of people. I think pretty much totally inconvenient for my family and I. In short, the median just angers everybody who lives in my neighborhood is just annoyed by it being put there so I think that they should consider getting rid of it. That would make me.” tjRIGG people happier.”

5

Sweet Hearts Each year, the American Heart Association hosts the Sweethearts program to help raise money for people suffering from heart disease.

Sophomores Bradyn Phillips, Abby Bradshaw and Haley Fahnestock represented AHS at the Sweethearts event.

“Sweethearts is not a ‘debutante’ group, like many think,” Bradshaw said.

“We have raised thousands of dollars as a group and it’s a great thing for girls to do.”

Each sweetheart has to be nominated by someone connected to the school or to the Sweethearts program.

A former Sweetheart’s mom nominated Fahnestock; Phillips was nominated by the director of Sweethearts; counselor Robin Anderson nominated Bradshaw.

A maximum of three Sweethearts can be selected per school.

“It made me feel good that I was nominated because I didn’t know about it until I was told, so I liked that someone thought of me that way,” Fahnestock said.

The three girls participated in multiple events in Sweethearts including various lunches with their parents, volunteering at a children’s home, visiting

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March 12, 2012

a pumpkin patch, dancing lessons with their dad’s, learning CPR, the Heart Ball and a telethon where money was raised.

Most of the events were held at Galichia Heart Hospital, Wichita Country Club and the Drury Hotel Broadview.

“Being in Sweethearts showed me horrible things like heart disease happen everyday and made me want to give back more,” Fahnestock said. “Getting involved in the community and raising money for other people was something I really liked.”

The annual Sweetheart Ball was held at Drury Hotel Broadview on Feb. 18. The ball consisted of dinner, dancing, live entertainment, pictures with parents and silent and live auctions.

“During the ball, each girl received five roses and were paired up with another girl. With our partners, we had to go around and sell them for $100, which was a little hard,” Phillips said.

Altogether, the Sweethearts raised thousands of dollars to be donated to the American Heart Association. In the past five years, the American Heart Association has funded 35 studies at three Kansas institutions at a cost of almost $4.4 million, all raised from Sweet-

Sweethearts Sarah Dorsett, Abby Bradshaw and Ali Rickert dance with their fathers after taking American Heart Association Sweethearts ball was held at the Drury Hotel Broadview in Wichita. Courtesy Photo

Three sophomore girls participate in program sponsored by American Heart Association

hearts.

“It was fun to get to meet other girls and have an opportunity to apply myself in the community by raising money for a good cause,” Bradshaw said. “I really saw how bad heart disease is and also saw how good people in the community are at coming together and helping charities.”

Sweethearts does not carry on into the future because only sophomores in high school can participate, but the organization does contribute to a lot of community service hours for the girls.

“Sweethearts looks really good when applying for colleges and job recommendations,” Phillips said.

Sophomore Abby Boyd, a Sweetheart from Collegiate High School, spent a lot of time with the Andover Sweethearts and enjoyed the time with them.

“They are all great girls and are very real, I didn’t know them before Sweethearts and now I definitely know them a lot better,” Boyd said. “The other girls were a good change and a great way to meet new people from other schools.”

Fahnestock had the opportunity to not only become close with Boyd,

but with many other girls she had not known before Sweethearts.

“I made friends that have impacted my life and I probably would not have met them without Sweethearts,” Fahnestock said. “I am really lucky to have met such sweet girls.”

Sweethearts is an organization that is involved all over America. Different states such as Arkansas, Nebraska, Iowa, Texas and Oklahoma all have the Sweethearts program in different high schools to raise money for patients with heart disease and studies to find cures.

Sweethearts not only makes a difference in the lives of the girls participating in the program, but also the thousands of people who receive help living with a heart condition. The millions of dollars have benefited heart hospitals, associations, and patients all across the United States of America.

“It was nice to meet girls that I might not have not normally met and seeing each other later in our activities,” Bradshaw said. “I realized the importance of raising money and doing community service.”

brookeLEATHERMAN

March 12, 2012

7

reaching new

{feature}

DEPTHS

Assistant Principal Grier finds joy below sea

T

8

he sudden quietness of the rolling ocean engulfs Assistant Principal Amanda Grier as the rush of bubbles coming from her breathing mask float to the surface of the water; kicking her fins she begins another scubadiving adventure.

Grier began scuba diving 13 years ago when she needed a physical education credit for college while she was attending Wichita State University. After finishing college, Grier decided to go on her first ocean dive to test out her new-found hobby.

“I have so many [great memories], but my very first ocean dive would have to be my favorite,” Grier said. “Ironically, I am afraid of fish, but after I jumped over the side of the boat, and got over the sheer panic [of my first dive], it was just so quiet and peaceful, and the fish were just beautiful.”

After that, Grier was hooked for life, and she knew that this was what she wanted to spend her spare time doing. While striving to become the Assis-

March 12, 2012

tant Principal, Grier took more classes at Adventure Sports in Wichita that eventually led to her taking a second job there to continue her passion, and to help others find a love for the sport she so enjoyed.

“When I am scuba diving for relaxation,” Grier said. “At the same time I’m getting others excited about scuba diving.”

Grier teaches classes at Adventure Sport one weekend a month. Sometimes the classes are in town while others are out of town. Grier said as long as she is in the water, she could care less about where she is.

“To me, the best place to scuba dive is anywhere you can get in the water,” Grier said. “Lakes, oceans, ponds, anywhere is good. Though one place I would not dive in would be Cheney Lake because you can’t see anything in the murky water.”

Being a diving coach means Grier has had a chance to teach many people in the surrounding Andover area how to dive, including computer tech-

nologies teacher Michelle Snyder.

“Mrs. Grier was a great instructor because she has done so much scuba diving herself and could bring in the background information,” Snyder said.

“She was also really patient while we were learning some scary breathing techniques for the first time.”

Unfortunately for Snyder, her days dreaming about scuba diving were short lived.

“Scuba diving has been very difficult for me because of my sinus issues,” Snyder said. “I have a very difficult time trying to acclimate below ten feet, not much fun for a diver. My doctor told me that I would need to have two holes drilled into my face if I wanted to pursue scuba diving, so I decided that snorkeling sounded like lots of fun.”

Although she has a full time job here at the school, Grier manages to find time to scuba dive as much as possible.

“I like to go lots of places,” Grier said. “Ornogo, Missouri, Bonaire, Cozumel and Hawaii are all great

places to dive. I will also go on vacation anywhere that has an ocean.”

Scuba diving is not only beautiful forests of coral reefs and exotic schools of fish, there is a dangerous side to scuba diving as well that can lead injury or death.

A few years back, Grier went on a scuba diving excursion with a Livaboard group to the Turks islands.

According to Grier, a Livaboard is a boat which takes a group of about 18 people out on the ocean to scuba dive everyday, five times a day, for a week. Basically if someone goes on this excursion they better like to dive.

“My Livaboard group went diving so much that by the end of the week I had had enough for a while,” Grier said.

But it was on this excursion that Grier experienced one of her worst memories while scuba diving.

“[My worst experiences] would have to be being stung on my face by a jellyfish,” Grier said. “It was a night dive, and we were just about to end the dive when I felt something sting me across the face from my ear to my mouth.”

Luckily for Grier this was only a minor, yet undoubtedly painful, injury. While diving, things can get a lot more dangerous.

“I haven’t [been in any dangerous situations],” Grier said. “I have been in the water with sharks, but really it’s not dangerous as long as you are not aggravating the things under the water and just watching and also remembering to keep track of your air gauge, it’s never dangerous.”

Besides going on self-planned trips around the world to scuba dive, Grier is also part of an all-girl scuba group called the Lady Go-Divers. The group of women consist of 30 women ranging in age from 25

SNAPSHOTS: an underwater glimpse

to 50 years of age. They plan huge diving trips every other year to help satisfy their diving needs.

They go to places all around the world to dive and experience the beauty of the oceans.

“I go on lots of excursions with my ladies,” Grier said. “It has been just a really fun group to go and dive with over the years.”

When Grier learned to scuba-dive back in 1999, she knew it was something she liked doing. A few years later when she taught her first class at Adventure Sports, she knew she was hooked for life.

I hope to be [diving] well into my old age,” Grier said. “You get to travel and see some pretty amazing things underwater.”

garrettWOLF

March 12, 2012

9

Staff

{editorial}

10

{ EDITORIAL}

Vote: 35-0 For students who do not have a full schedule but still have a seventh hour, they should not be required to attend advisory at the end of the day, leaving it as a choice instead for the student.

At the end of each day, students are to go to advisory; which is classified as a period of time that allows students some catch up on time on homework, studying, or to receive help from teachers if needed.

The period lasts 25 minutes at the conclusion of the school day, which in turn means if a student has seventh hour, they have to attend the period every day. A large amount of the students who are juniors or seniors have less than seven hours in their school day.

These students, who might only have five classes but still have a seventh hou,r have to attend either way. It is not ultimately fair to the students to be required to go to a class session at the end of the day if they do not want too.

For students who have the shortened schedule, it is because they are taking college classes with college release during the day, or do not need to take a class because it is not necessary in their schedule. Therefore, students should have

BLUESTREAK editorialpolicy

The Trojan Bluestreak exists to inform, persuade and entertain its readers concerning topics of importance. The newspaper recognizes all rights and responsibilities under the First Amendment.

The Bluestreak operates as a public forum for student expression and the staff takes full responsibility for newspaper content and its ramifications.

The Trojan Bluestreak will not publish material considered to be legally unprotected speech, libel, obscenity copyright infringement,unwarranted invasion of privacy or material that could disrupt the educational environment.

The Bluestreak is a CSPA Gold Medalist and KSPA All-Kansas honor recipient.

March 12, 2012

the choice to attend advisory at the end of the day if it is sought necessary by the individual to take on the extra time if needed.

The students who do have a full schedule should be required to attend regardless, however it is not fair for students who have a less than a full schedule to have to attend if they do not see it needed for their personal academic time.

Occasionally activities are scheduled during advisory ranging from antibully awareness programs to class contests such as door decorating and game banners amongst the advisory classes. The general idea is advisory is good for students to experience regardless of whether the student wants to attend or not.

Generally, students have full schedules throughout their freshman and sophomore years, thus going through two years of attending advisory, which is plenty of time to take in the experience.

Students have elected not taking a seventh hour often times simply because of the requirement to go to advisory after the hour. This, in turn, holds back the opportunity for kids to be in a class that could possibly be beneficial all for an extra 25 minutes of class time that could be spent doing other things.

Time is valuable, and if it is needed at the end of the day for students such as work or tutoring, it should be logical to not have to go to advisory.

If the students who have the shortened schedule do not see it fit to the end of their day, they should have the choice, leaving it up to the student as to how the time is spent at the end of school.

ryanLAKE {opinion editor}

henryHOOK {pop culture editor}

kelseyDICK {business manager}

trinaBHATTARAI {senior writer}

edenVIERTHALER {DPS editor}

hollyHEIRONIMUS {copy chief}

jacobHIGHFILL {photo editor}

alexHERNANDEZ {asst. DPS editor}

katieSCHNEIDER {design editor}

robynHERBERT {writing coach}

tjRIGG {page editor}

chadHAMMAN {web managing editor}

kathrynSILL {senior writer}

samuelLEE {illustrator}

ryanMINEAR {sports editor}

alexDURANO {asst. web editor}

laurenQUAM {fun editor}

kaitlynDEYOUNG&chrisJONES {editors-in-chief}

{Staffers} alexLEFF abbyBRADSHAW claireCHRISTOPHERSON chaseLEMMONS hebaMADI alyssaFRIEND caleMINEAR alyssaGOODMAN stephanieMUNSON jessicaGRIFFIN haileyPURDY jordanHERNANDEZ mariaSTANLEY brookeHILBERT garrettWOLF brookeLEATHERMAN

kristinBAKER {adviser}

Differences between similar religious views explained

TJ {rigg} About three months ago, I changed my Facebook profile to include the new timeline feature, which I heard was a cool and different way to interact on Facebook.

After converting to the timeline feature, I updated parts of my profile to make it more accurate since I had not really updated my profile in a while. I updated my political views to the Democratic Party since before I had written uncertain. Next, I looked at my religious views.

Three-and-a-half years previously, I had selected “Christian” as my religion. I looked at the picture of a Cross associated with having Christian as a religious view, and I thought to myself, “This is wrong; I should change it.”

Now, I am not religious by any means; I do not attend church regularly, and I do not pray daily for things to happen. So I decided to do some research to see what religious views matched mine: someone who is not very religious, but still believes in a God. I saw on my mom’s profile her religious views were listed as “Agnostic.” I read her personal description of that view, and I thought I would be an agnostic.

After doing some research, I learned about agnostic theism. According to what I found, agnostic theism encompasses both theism and agnosticism; an agnostic

theist believes in the existence of a deity, but believes the truth or falsehood of it is unknown, or inherently unknowable.

I identified immediately with agnostic theism. I do believe in something going on “up there,” but I do not think it is possible to prove or disprove a god exists. So after doing my research, I changed my religious views on my timeline to agnostic theism.

Then, about three weeks ago, I was discussing religion with a friend. They were saying something about going to church, and I said something along the lines of: “Church just isn’t for me. I think that’s why I decided I am agnostic.”

Their reply was, “Wait, you don’t believe in God?” I was not expecting that response at all. Evidently, the difference between being agnostic and being an atheist is not all that clear to some people.

So I figure I can help clear up the difference between the two religious views. An agnostic person believes it is impossible to be sure whether or not a god exists. On the other hand, an atheist does not believe in a god at all.

Now, I do not have any hatred toward any other relgious belief. If someone is Catholic, Christian, Islamic, Hindu or any other relgion, I do not have any hard feelings for them. I understand religion is an important part of some people’s lives, but to me, religion is not really a large part of my life.

I am definitely not an atheist person. I believe there is some sort of deity that did something to start the world, and all of the things it is said God does. I cannot be for certain a god exists, and I do not think it is possible to prove or disprove a god exists.

In short, an atheist is significantly different from an agnostic. I am not an atheist, but rather an agnostic theist. I do not believe I will know the truth of falsehood of there being a god until after I die. I will just have to wait and see.

fDifferent views of Agnosticism >>

Agnosticism The view the truth values of certain claims are unknown or are unknowable.

>>

Agnostic atheism Encompasses both atheism and agnosticism. Agnostic atheists are atheist because they don’t hold a belief in the existence of any deity and are agnostic because they claim the existance of a deity is unknowable or is currently unknown in fact.

>>

Agnostic theism Encompasses both theism and agnosticism. An agnostic theist believes in the existence of at least one deity, but regards the truth or the falsehood of that proposition as unknown or inherently unknowable. An agnostic theist may also or alternatively be an agnostic regarding the properties of the God(s) they beleve in.

Source: www.infidels.org

Lent offers change in schedule for people who partake

HENRY{hook} America since the onslaught of public education has become obsessed with routines.

Toddlers are instructed to complete kindergarten, from there, elementary school, then middle school, high school and finally college. All of this in order to prepare for a successful, well paying job.

Every day becomes monotonous and lazy with our habitual routines. Wake up, eat breakfast and leave for school. Do homework, and finally sleep.

Maybe a break from the normality of daily routines would be healthy for humans. Something to help separate the boring and standard schedules that have consumed humans, and create a alternative, positive difference.

For 40 days, excluding Sundays, Catholics partake in Lent, or a time following Ash Wednesday in which penitence, abstinence and fasting is implemented in order to commemorate God and his 40 days spent in wilderness.

Contrary to what most non-catholic’s believe, Lent is about so much more than just giving up unhealthy or addicting items. The ultimate goal is to provoke positive change in each individual’s faith.

Catholics give up something which may be interfering or harming to their religion, such as the use of cuss words or even listening to music that contains profanity. From there on, they replace the act with praying, or volunteering, or any act helping to grow in their faith; all of this in an attempt to grow closer to God and in their religion.

Although Lent derives from religious motives and intentions the same ideas could be spread to all.

Everybody is capable of implementing a change in their schedule, whether it is large or small.

It is as straightforward as giving up something an individual feels detracts from their moral standards such as drinking alcohol or even lying, and replacing it with positive change.

Every time the temptation to indulge in harmful decision arises, implement the positive action previ-

ously planned.

For example, if I gave up the use of social media networks, I could replace going on it with studying for a test I had tomorrow. Or maybe even with helping one of my family members.

For those attempting to lose weight, the 40 days and nights can be used to diet; through fasting, and the giving up of high caloric foods. Just remember to replace that time with spending more time with family, or time evoking positive change In the community.

In the Catholic religion, it is important to remember the foundations of what is required to give up. It is not a time to give up something that can be easily replaced in daily routines. Give up something that invests great emotional significance and strength.

Something that will help sense the same pains Jesus went through, and not something that can be easily disregarded.

The ultimate benefits of Lent are limitless. Everyone is capable of changing their daily schedule for 40 days in order to promote and provide for the better good of themselves and their community.

March 12, 2012

11

{breaking it down}

12

Two Wild players practice kickoff returns at Hartman Arena. Field position is important in arena football because of the short field. Photo by Jacob Highfill

Members of the Wichita Wild offensive line set up to the ball during practice on Feb. 28 at the Hartman arena. “It seems like we’re improving every day,” head coach Morris Lolar said.Photo by Jacob Highfill

Kicker James Chandler practices kicking the ball through the field goal during an evening practice. “We have a good team, you can see that when we play,” Chandler said. Photo by Jacob Highfill

March 12, 2012

Going

Wild

Indoor team brings NFL-type entertainment to Wichita

O

n a typical weekday night, the Wichita Wild indoor football team can be found at practice at the Hartman Arena in preparation for their weekend games.

Orange, black and white practice jerseys line up in position as the players practice kicking the ball through the goal. While running their plays, bystanders can the see word WILD printed across their jerseys.

At the end of practice, the team huddles up for the coach to talk.

“It seems like we’re improving everyday guys; I like it, I love seeing it,” head coach Morris Lolar said to the players.

Though the season is just at its roots, the process for bringing in players had been in fullswing since the end of their 2011 season.

“What we usually do is send out a pressrelease for tryouts, which is usually in the early part of November. Also, throughout the year, we start recruiting guys to come in and play,” Lolar said.

In a sense to put the team out in public, they participate in events throughout the community.

“We try to have a good number of local guys that are here all the time. We do different sorts of public appearances, throughout the year, not just the season. We also have a football camp for the FCA coming up in June,” Lolar said.

A prayer ceases the practice, alerting the players to hang around the field to talk amongst each other. With the 17-week, 14-game season in its beginning, citizens of Wichita have plenty of games to attend to watch a local team play.

“We’re exciting. We started off kind of rough, losing our first game, but we’re a good team and we have good individuals on the team.

I think you can see that when we play; we play well together,” Wichita Wild kicker James Chandler said. “We have so much talent on this team and I know that doesn’t mean anything, those are just words, but we’re really putting it together this season.”

The game of indoor football is painted in a different aspect than outdoor football with the rules, the atmosphere and the patron-involvement.

“Last year was my first year playing [indoor football], but it’s pretty much just a boxed-in version of outdoor football. [The difference is that] the field is cut in half, the rules are a lot

different and it’s a lot faster,” Defensive Lineman Marcus Miles said. “The fans are more involved.”

The background of the players and the dynamic of the speed of the game also add to the distinctive vigor of indoor football. “[Indoor football] is a lot quicker than the outdoor game, that’s for sure. Coming from this league, you’ve got guys from all walks of life.

You know NAIA is basically the bottom of college football and you’ve got guys from every league all the way up to division one. The mix is good for us to play together; it’s kind of like a melting pot,” defensive lineman James McCartney said.

“The game itself, like I said, is a lot faster than the outdoor game. The guys are all big and fast instead of some big guys that are fast; everybody that usually plays are pretty quick people.”

Participants of the team originate from all different upbringings.

“I moved over from England and a friend saw me run a couple of routes, catch a couple of footballs and told me I should try out for the team. That was back in my sophomore year in high school out in California,” Chandler said.

Not only does Chandler have experience in high school football, but he continued his career in this sport in college.

“I finished up high school, graduated, went to junior college and kicked there. Then I transferred to West Texas A&M in the Canyon Texas.

I kicked there for two years and now I’m here,” Chandler said.

Along with different countries, players have come from both east and west side of the United States to play with the Wild.

“I’ve played since about the eighth grade. I played at the University of Albany in Albany, New York. I’m originally from New York,” Miles said.

Not only from all over the states come players with an instinct for football, but local guys are involved as well.

“Rashad Washington is a local kid; he went to Southeast High School then played at Kansas State. Then he played for four seasons with the New York Jets and now he’s back home with us,” Lolar said.

With his local players attuned to Wichita’s community, Lolar shares that common bond with them in his start in football.

“I’m from Wichita, I went to Wichita South. I left Wichita and went to the University of Minnesota out of high school. I came back to Wichita, finished up my college career at Friends Univer-

sity. I then left Friends for three years and signed a pre-agent contract for the Kansas City Chiefs. I was released from there and went and spent five seasons in the Canadian football league where I was recruited,” Lolar said.

As the coach has had his hand in the professional football league, his players aspire to reach the same goal.

“Our guys are ranged from 22 to 27-yearsold, most right out of college, trying to be recruited for an NFL team,” general manager John Blazek said.

The ultimate goal for the team members is to always move up.

“The NFL is always the goal everybody has.

If there is an opportunity that strikes, I’d like to take up on it and see where football can take me,” McCartney said.

With ambitions of continuing on to the pros, coaching in all areas is required. From the very start of the football team came local Martin Elementary physical education teacher Rick Lee to perform as co-offensive coordinators.m “Basically when the Wild got started, about six years ago, I was still coaching at Andover and still teaching. I still teach at Martin. Then the general manager called me and asked if I would work with their offensive and defensive line. I’m basically the only remaining guy from the original staff,” Lee said.

The amusement of the game contributes to ambiance of the games.

“It’s an exciting game. It’s fast pace, there’s always something going on. It’s entertaining, win, lose or draw. There’s always something going on, every timeout, every break we have, they’ve got contests going on and all sorts of stuff. It’s a very sport atmosphere. The games are great, the average for one of our teams to score is 70 points,” Lee said.

With ticket prices ranging from $12-$22 depending on seating preferences, according to Lolar the team will make the patron’s time worthwhile. “[The game] is close-up and fun. Most people who come to our games, they leave knowing they spent their money wisely,” Lolar said. “It’s an enjoyable game. It’s a lot more personable than an outdoor game.”

hollyHEIRONIMUS March 12, 2012

13

Artistic

Endeavours

CityArts offers art displays to public CityArts, an art gallery that also serves as a place to take art classes, has been the forerunner in developing a cultural center in downtown Wichita since 1998.

As one of the largest art galleries in town, CityArts contains artwork by regional artists. Additionally, the building offers classes in different mediums such as glass blowing, pottery, stone carving, filmmaking, digital arts and mosaics.

“I am very proud that we can offer them all,” Assistant Artistic Director Marilee Mitchell said. “What is incredibly special about CityArts, in comparison to even other cities, is that we offer such a vast variety of mediums to learn from which we try to make very affordable. In doing this, I believe that we have greatly added to the quality of artists in our region.”

Information regarding available classes can be found at the CityArts website at wichitaarts.com.

“If you have an interest in art, you should make the effort to learn the medium because it will truly transform your viewing experience and help you understand the work more,” Mitchell said.

Classes, taught by local artists, are said to be original.

“CityArts is the only community art facility where a student can come learn and practice the art of glass blowing,” customer service clerk at CityArts Evan Ricker said.

To appreciate art, ceramics teacher Patricia Chambers goes to CityArts, Wichita Art Museum and The Wichita Center for the Arts. Although she has yet to take a class at CityArts, Chambers enjoys viewing the art on display.

“The art on display is very sophisticated and made very well,” Chambers said. “I have been impressed with the artistry in both music and art.”

Currently, CityArts is featuring “Art Show at the Dog Show.” Artists are invited to display their work and can decide weather or not they would like to put it for sale.

“CityArts hosts shows in many types of media. Just this

March 12, 2012

last January we hosted ‘The Seeds of Change,’ a show that featured bronze sculptures, paintings, photographs and even kinetic sculptures,” Ricker said.

Mitchell said downtown is a great location for CityArts because it is right in the center of the Wichita Arts District.

“There is ample shopping, entertainment, restaurants and parking so once people have viewed our exhibits, they have other choices in very close proximity,” Mitchell said.

Senior studio art student Matt Kaiser has attended CityArts on art field trips and also with his family.

“There were some nice pieces there and they were very elaborate,” Kaiser said. “It is good to have an art gallery [in Wichita] so that people who are interested in art can go see it.

People are able to realize what art is truly about.”

Although he does not plan for a future in art, Kaiser excels at ceramics.

“It is fun to create something from a block of nothing and turn it into something extraordinary,” Kaiser said.

Kaiser views taking art classes through both the school and CityArts as beneficial. “[The classes] build character and expand your knowledge about the techniques and art history,” Kaiser said.

Unlike other art places, CityArts offers its building as a place to hold different events in the community.

“We rent out our space for weddings, meetings, birthday parties and many other types of events,” Mitchell said. “We do not remove art for any event taking place; the art is ever present.”

CityArts is an extremely diverse building that has altered the art scene within Wichita, and people who have an interest in art are thankful.

“The atmosphere within CityArts is bright,” Mitchell said.

“It is spacious and always welcoming.”

edenVIERTHALER

Visitors of CityArts enjoy looking at various paintings by local artists. The pieces were on display on Oct. 28 during Final Fridays. Photo by Cale Minear These towering houses made of ply wood and carved faces stand above the heads of visitors at CityArts.

Photo by Cale Minear A display of an artist’s form of a midwestern tornado sits on display at the art exhibit. The piece was admired by many visitors. Photo by Cale Minear An unique art piece sits on display at CityArts during Final Fridays. Final Friday occurs the last Friday of every month. The piece featured detailed carving. Photo

by Cale Minear

March 12, 2012

15

Beginning to

Bloom

Warmer days lead to anticipated beauty of Botanica Gardens Botanica Gardens, run almost completely by volunteers, is filled with over nine acres of gardens that contain over 3600 species of plants.

“Our busiest season is April to October. With specials events, wedding, festivals, concerts and just regular admission days we are swamped when the sun is shining,” Botanica Garden’s events coordinator, Gabby Brandt said.

On any average summer day, Botanica can have as many as 500 people people wander through the gardens.

“The biggest event that Botanica hosts is our Illuminations event.

This past year, it was reinvented to include 700,000 lights in additions to the 5,000 luminaries lit in all of our themed gardens,” Brandt said.

During the Illuminations, over 35,000 people went through the gardens. That is over one third of the population of Wichita.

“Christmas was a good time to go because of all the different light shows were pretty and the gardens looked awesome all lit up,” junior Alexa Oliphant said.

In 1987, Botanica was officially opened to the public.

The gardens stared with a group of gardens and garden clubs along with the City of Wichita,” Botanica Garden’s executive director, Marty Miller said.

Botanica is celebrating their 25th anniversary this year. According to www.botanica.org, the gardens have expanded from four in the beginning to now 24 themed gardens and exhibits.

“All of the different gardens were really interesting and cool,” sophomore Morgan Trekell said.

Currently Botanica’s main attraction is the Downing Children’s Garden.

“From the giant caterpillars and monster woods, to rainbow trails, a musical maze and fossils, the Children’s Garden strives to provide an educational, imaginative and interactive environment where kids can enjoy, explore and discover our natural world,” Brandt said.

People enjoy the gardens because they have a calm and quiet effect on them.

“I went when I was a little bit younger and I liked the peaceful feeling as I walked through and looked at all the pretty flowers,” Trekell said.

16

March 12, 2012

Botanica is mainly run by volunteers and is a great place to receive community service hours.

“On a daily basis, we have a circulation of 350 volunteers that help with maintaining the gardens, admissions, and helping with special events,” Brandt said.

Volunteers must complete a short application and then are encouraged to meet with the director of volunteers, Jodi McArthur.

“In 25 years of operation, we have had hundreds of volunteers with close to one million hours of service,” Botanica’s director of volunteer services Jobi McArthur said.

Free admission at the gardens while volunteering is just one of the many reasons why students should volunteer at Botanica.

“Learning interesting facts and developing skills with our plants and butterflies, meeting fascinating people from our community and around the world, and gaining the satisfaction of being an active participant in improving and growing one of the area’s major cultural attractions are all reasons why people should volunteer at Botanica,” McArthur said.

The Botanica volunteer program offers many different opportunities to meet the needs and interests of everyone.

“There is no plae more beautiful to work or volunteer than Botanica and there is always something new to see or do,” McArthur said.

Admission into Botanica is $7 for adults, $6 for senior citizens or military personnel, $5 for youth, and children two and under get in for free.

The gardens are open year-round and repeat visits make for a surprise everytime because the gardens change with season.

“All the different flowers made the gardens interesting and fun,” sophomore Meghan Regehr said.

Over 43,000 tulip bulbs and 62,000 daffodil bulbs bloom with an assortment of other flower bloom in the spring.

Botanica gardens has many different attractions and exhibits to offer people.

“There was a lot of stuff to do. The winter was a really fun time to go,” Regehr said.

stephanieMUNSON

Purple flowers growing in one of the gardens at Botanica. Botanica gardens grows a variety of flowers in its multiple gardens.

Photo by Stephanie Munson

A catepillar statue stands in the Downing Children’s Garden at Botanica. A number of statues stand in the garden. Photo by Stephanie Munson

A flower blooming in one of the gardens at Botanica. Botanica Gardens is located at 701 Amidon St. in Downtown Wichita.

Photo by Stephanie Munson

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March 12, 2012

Stearman Bar and Grill offers a friendly place to eat a meal. “It’s a great place to have a hamburger and watch the world go by,” senior Will Murfin said. Photo by Brooke Hilbert

A model airplane hangs from ceiling at the Stearman Bar and Grill. Model airplanes are popular decoration, and are featured throughout the restaraunt. Photo by Brooke Hilbert

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March 12, 2012

Customers sit down around lunch time for a meal. Guests also have an opportunity to view the runway and see pilots take off and land. Photo by Brooke Hilbert

Food Frenzy

Stearman puts a twist on average bar, grill Next time when debating upon a restaurant to eat, Stearman Field Bar and Grill might offer an exciting change.

Located a mile south of Benton, this restaurant provides an unique dinning experience with its aviation themed setting which conveniently over-looks Stearman Field Air Park’s runway.

“There is no other place like it,” owner John Clements said, “You get be a 100 feet away from the runaway and the people really enjoy watching planes land.”

The Clements family owns the restaurant, the airport and the real estate which surrounds the runaway. John’s son, Alex, runs the flight school.

“My wife and I are corporate pilots, and we noticed that when you have a restaurant it makes the airport really attractive,” John said.

Although the location of the restaurant seems remote, Stearman Field experiences plentiful business according to John. People who enjoy flying as a hobby and people in the aviation careers often come to the restaurant to grab a bite to eat.

“It’s good American food,” junior Taylor Spanglar said.

“Pilots or anybody who likes flying [would enjoy the place], but I have seen a lot of different type of people there.”

Stearman Fields offers a playground for the children, and also an outdoor patio to enjoy the sun during the

Stearman Airfield offers a full bar, and a friendly environment to sit down and enjoy a meal. “We offer a fun atmosphere and entertainment,” owner John Clements said. Photo by Brooke Hilbert

summer and watch the airplanes take off or land. This lets parents enjoy a meal without worrying about their kids who are either playing or pointing their fingers up in the air at the planes flying over head. Nonetheless, the inside of the restaurant fashions just as an interesting environment with its model airplanes hanging from the ceiling.

“A lot of people who know just about nothing about airplanes come to the restaurant and have a good times,” sophomore Abby White said.

The burgers are the specialty of the restaurant but the atmosphere is the real treat. Stearman Fields also provides breakfast.

“Our meats are always fresh,” Jon said, “ the steaks and burgers are never frozen.”

The real estate close to the restaurant features hangers for private airplanes, which allows owners to roll out of their driveway and head to the runway.

“We started the real estate in 2008,” John said.

Stearman Field is also an ideal place to host graduation parties or wedding parities with its live music once a month.

“My favorite memory,” John said. “Is just having the restaurant filled with people and runaway lined up with airplanes.”

trinaBHATTARAI

The Stearman Airfield gas pump, a souvenir item at the restaraunt, is a popular peice when you walk into the restaraunt. Airplane memorabilia is one of the unique qualities that you can experience at Stearman Bar and Grill. Photo by Brooke Hilbert

March 12, 2012

19

The History of Delano What started as a rest stop for cowboys quickly became known as Delano, named after Columbus Delano. Columbus Delano was Secretary of the Interior for Ulysses S. Grant.

Delano was a key cattle-shipping center located on the Chisholm Trail.

Kellogg used to house cattle pens, but when the cattle trade relocated to Dodge City, Delano began to evolve. When the economy began to suffer after a large death in the cattle population Wichita developed into what it is now. Delano was no longer a place for agriculture.

Now, Delano is part of downtown Wichita with a small town feel. There are two trail markers located on Douglas and in the Delano Park that were once part of the Chisholm Trail.

One of the unique things about present day Delano is the Delano clock tower, located on the roundabout on Sycamore and Douglas that was built in 2003. At the base of the clock tower is a time capsule that is to be opened on Delano’s 150-year anniversary.

Delano also hosts several events throughout the year, like: St. Patrick’s Parade, Bicycle Block Party, Ghost Stories of Historic Delano and so much more. Be sure to check out Delano.

kathrynSILL

Shelly Stilger, the owner of Twist Yarn Shop talks to a fellow worker. Twist has classes and sells many different kinds of yarn. Photo by Abby Bradshaw

Workers at the Delano Barbeque Company prepare meals for customers during the lunch rush on March 4.

The Delano Barbeque company has been open since 2004. Photo by Abby Bradshaw

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March 12, 2012

Knitting together the

Delano District

Downtown district offers wide variety of shops The streets that began as a Cowtown during the Chisholm Trail now welcome crowded streets on a Saturday afternoon in the Delano district. The Delano District is located on West Douglas and is home to an assortment of businesses.

The businesses vary from restaurants to boutiques. Bluebird Arthouse, Bungalow 26, Delano Barbeque Company and Twist Yarn Shop are just a few of the diverse companies that decorate the small town atmosphere of Delano.

“I chose to open in Delano because I thought Delano had a nice look and feel and had a lot of opportunity. The rent was cheaper on Douglas too. It feels like a cute, little small town,” owner of Bungalow 26 Kelsey Metzinger said.

Bungalow 26 opened in 2006 and is an eclectic boutique that has bath and body products as well as accessories. The products also come at an affordable price.

“I offer product lines that are not found elsewhere and are local.

They are eco and green,” Metzinger said.

Metzinger also sells her own line called Herb and Luxe Apothecary (pronounced Herbal Apothecary). Metzinger finds products that will please her customers and she finds that small businesses allow customers to be able to talk to the owner the majority of the time.

Like Metzinger, Terri Webb, owner of Delano Barbeque Company enjoys getting to know the people through her business. Delano BBQ opened in 2004 and has since been a popular restaurant that smells of Southern-style cooking.

“We are unique because we hand make everything. We start from scratch everyday and cook our food on a wood smoker,” Webb said.

Delano BBQ’s most popular items on their menu are Carolina

style pulled pork sandwich and their smoked sirloin sandwich. Delano BBQ has won numerous awards for their smoked meats. They are open 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday and also do catering after 4:00 p.m.

A new company, Bluebird Arthouse opened last June. They are the only art supply store in Wichita that offers classes and studio spaces for rent. “[I moved into Delano] because it was affordable and I also needed a very large space. We also really liked the fun, creative atmosphere,” owner Emily Brookover said.

Brookover and her business go by the motto that they are “artists working for other artists.” She enjoys owning her own business because she gets to be her own boss just like Shelly Stilger, owner of Twist Yarn Shop. Twist has built a sense of community in their store.

“Friendships have been built just by people coming into the shop.

People have dealt with cancer, death or birth and we have become friends not just people who come to knit and crochet,” Stigler said.

Twist Yarn Shop has knitting and crocheting classes for all skill levels, from beginner to advance. They also have different projects and techniques for knitting and crocheting.

“We are very friendly, helpful and have everything you need,” Stigler said.

There are many different businesses in Delano. Whether a person wants to grab a bite to eat or find the latest fashion trends, all of that is there. The businesses are close and all within walking distance.

“It is important to shop local and it is important for the economy and helps small business like us to stay open” Metzinger said.

kathrynSILL

March 12, 2012

21

{feature}

Grip, twist, ride

Senior Jon Gepner has been motorcycling since the age of 12. Recently Gepner started motorcycling with shop teacher Lee Garrett. Courtesy Photos

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March 12, 2012

Shop teacher, student share love for motorcycling Walking through the shop class, one might find senior Jon Gepner talking to shop teacher Lee Garrett about their shared passion of motorcycling.

Garrett has been motorcycling since he was 9 years old, a period of about 45 years. For him, motorcycling seemed like a new way to travel.

“I always wanted to travel around the world and that seemed like the best way to do so,” Garrett said. “You cover a lot of ground and actually experience particular areas of the world and country. You also get to experience the weather when you travel on a motorcycle and smells are always interesting.”

Gepner has been riding motorcycles since he was 12 years old. He started riding after a friend brought his own bike to him and he rode it.

“I really loved it,” Gepner said. “[Senior] Brad Hess sold me my first bike and [senior] Noah Duethman showed me you have to take risks to have fun on a dirt bike.”

At the beginning of the school year, Lee had his shop students give an introduction of themselves in front of his classes. Gepner brought it pictures of himself riding motorcycles and the two discovered their shared love for motorcycling.

“Jon is a member of the motorcycle club here and invited me out as a guest,” Garrett said. “It all just kind of took off from there.”

Since then, Gepner and Garrett have raced together. Garrett even helped prepare Gepner for a race, which occurred Feb. 14.

“We spent about once or twice a week prior to the race motorcycling together.

It all happened in the month before the race,” Garrett said. “We were intent on practicing since Jon was using my bikes and needed to practice on them.”

For Gepner, the race on was the longest stretch he has spent on a motorcycle, a period of three hours. However, he has traveled significant distances on motorcycles in the past.

“I did 120 miles on a track breaking a in. I basically just rode it all day long,” Gepner said.

Besides the race, Garrett has participated in a number of other races.

“I raced last year, beginning mid-season,” Garrett said. “It was a 15 race series and I won enough of the series to win a second place rating. I raced in a little over half the races and earned a first place winning overall in three of those races.”

Like Gepner, Garrett has also traveled long distance on a motorcycle. One of his long travels earned him a world record.

“The longest trip I’ve ever traveled on is to the Baja of Mexico, which is the southern point of Mexico,” Garrett said. “I have sometimes led tours down there as well. I hold a world record for traveling 1,000 miles in 22 hours [the goal was to do it in 24]. The track consisted of a loop from Goodland through Nebraska and Colorado and eventually back to southern Kansas. To make sure everything was correct in that race, I had to document with people along the way.”

While Gepner was involved in shop class last semester, he would not consider building his own motorcycle.

“I don’t think it would hold up to what I would put it through. A professionally built motorcycles better,” Gepner said.

SAFETY

FIRST

Senior Jon Gepner and shop teacher Lee Garrett celebrate after one of Gepner’s races. Courtesy Photo Both Gepner and Garrett cite deserts as one the more challenging areas to motorcycle in because of the traction on the sand.

“In Grand Junction, Colo., I was biking on a desert and had a pretty bad crash out there,” Gepner said.

Garrett has had similar experiences in Colorado and with deserts in Mexico.

“I’ve done a lot of pass roads in Colorado,” Garrett said. “There’s a place called Pearl Engineer Pass that is particularly difficult to navigate on a motorcycle.

Weather can close in pretty quickly there. I’ve been to mountains before and have been trapped in snow ice, so I have had to camp out in the mountains during bad weather. The most significantly difficult place I’ve motorcycled is in the deserts of Mexico.”

Gepner and Garrett agree they prefer to drive motorcycles over driving a regular vehicle.

“Motorcycles all the way,” Gepner said. “You can jump, go fast and it’s more fun to ride a motorcycle.”

According to Gepner, the most lucky part of him biking is him not breaking anything, bones or parts of the motorcycle. Unlike Garrett, he is not considering a career in mechanics or motorcycling.

“For me,” Gepner said. “Motorcycling is just a hobby.”

tjRIGG

Become familiar with traffic rules and regulations and any special requirements for motorcycles.

Be aware that riding with a passenger requires even more skill than riding alone. Be sure that you are responsible enough riding solo to move on and ride with a companion.

Studies show that the head, arms and legs are most often injured in a crash, so it’s important to wear Clothing for protection from the Elements and injuries through use of color or reflective material.

The helmet is the most important piece of equipment and it saves lives by reducing the extent of head injuries in the event of a crash. Make sure it fits comfortably and snugly, and is fastened for the ride.

Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

March 12, 2012

23

Winter sports

Bowling team pulls through season

The bowling team split their pins with what was in the team’s opinion, a better season than last year.

“Despite our record we improved dramatically, but overall it was just a great experience” senior Trevor Hybsha said “It always is.”

Though the whole year is spent bowling individually, the act itself does not require any teamwork, the team still relied on their teammates to be there.

“It was a great season, and would’ve been better had Trevor been there for every meet.” senior Josh Sprenkel said.

Sprenkel was not the only bowler affected in the 2011-2012 bowling season, many felt the same way.

“The loss was unfortunate and hurtful to us, he was always there for the team” sophomore Jazmine Moreno said. “I wish he could have been there more” He seemed to find a way to impact almost every member on the team.

“He’s really funny any knows how to get the team going, and he wears really cool beanie hats.,” sophomore Dakota Smith said.

Even without Hybsha there, the social aspect of bowling was important to the players.

“I used to bowl with all my friends on the weekends anyway, it’s fun and competitive and that’s exactly what bowling for Andover is like, except everyone comes through” Smith said. “It’s always a fun time”.

It is not a reluctant choice for some students; they should be seen by Andover again next year.

“I don’t think I have any friends that aren’t going out next year,” Moreno said.

Some members of the bowling team also choose to bowl outside of the team.

“I sometimes forget the season is over,” Smith said. “I will still bowl with my friends on the weekends.”

With the seniors departing, next year’s team is potentially full of returners.

“I hope everyone keeps playing, I got better by just playing year after year and with friends on the weekends, even though we didn’t win as much as we wanted, it didn’t [stink] too bad.” Hybsha said. “I thought the season turned out chill, it will [stink] to not be able to play for them next year.

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chaseLEMMONS March 12, 2012

Boys come up short in successful season After coming off of a 9-12 record in the 2010-2011 season, the boys basketball team could only build from the ground up. With a young team and two senior transfers, this season has been about progress.

“I thought we progressed very well. We have come along way since November,” head coach Ryan Harshaw said. “We didn’t have a lot of chemistry to begin with but have grown closer as the season has progressed.”

The improvement has been brought on by everyone coming together to act as a unit on the court.

“The team has progressed mostly by just playing better together as the season has gone on,” sophomore Adam DeKoning said.

Part of the improvement comes from the overall depth on the bench. With the extra depth, the starting lineup has changed as the season has gone on.

“We have found stability. We’re deep playing nine to ten men a game and we now have a stable starting lineup,” Harshaw said. “It is not important if you start, but it is important how you play on the floor.”

One player who has grown into playing as a starter is DeKoning.

“Being a starter has been an honor that I didn’t expect coming into the season,” DeKoning said.

The Trojans progression also came with the ability to finish out close games with great plays to win the game. The first exciting finish came against Salina Central as junior Dallas Bruner won the game on a last second shot. The next buzzer thriller was against McPherson as junior Tyler Kvansicka drained a three-point basket to win the game.

“The McPherson win was a great feeling that I’ll probably never forget,” Kvansicka said.

The two buzzer beaters added great excitement to the season.

“Anytime you win games at the buzzer it’s exciting for us, the fans and the community,” Harshaw said.

A tough loss also came in the season finale as Andover lost to Kapaun 54-48 in the sub-state tournament.

“We are disappointed,” Harshaw said. “We didn’t get to play in the State tournament this year. I’m proud of our boys. They have put a lot of time and commitment they put into the program. We obviously had a successful season.”

ryanMINEAR

In perspective

Girls head to state in search of title

Weddington, Fiene reflect on season

The Lady Trojans faced Bishop Carroll to fight for a spot in the Class 5A state tournament. By consistently scoring more points in each quarter of the game, the girls defeated Carroll 56-43.

At the game, senior Audrey Meisch lead the team with 15 points scoring three three-pointers of eight attempts.

Carroll’s poor shooting percentage cost them the game and let Andover beat them by 13 points.

Now the Lady Trojans are taking their second consecutive trip to Topeka to compete in the state tournament. This is the second time since 1998. On March 8, they will meet Topeka Seaman who is 16-6 for the first round of the tournament.

“It’s [the season] been extremely satisfying,” coach Max Hamblin said.

For the majority of the girls, this will be their second shoot at state.

“It’s really exciting for the returning players to have another chance at state, but it’s also exciting for the younger players to experience it for the first time,” Meisch said.

The girls are keeping their eyes on the prize and want to take one game at a time in hopes of being the 5A state champs.

“To play well in the state tournament we need to stay focused and not get ahead of ourselves,” junior Sydney Tilson said. “We have a few more days left of practice and we need to practice hard and continue doing what we have been.”

Although the Trojans record is better than Seaman’s, the girls are wise enough to know no team can be overlooked in the state tournament.

“We can’t overlook any team at all, so we will look out for our first opponent Topeka Seaman,” freshman Jaylyn Agnew said. “All of the teams are good or else they wouldn’t be in the state tournament.”

Even if the Trojans get defeated, Hamblin thinks the team has many different accomplishments that they should be proud of.

“They really played well together and they are a very unselfish, hard working group,” Coach Hamblin said.

The Lady Trojans have defeated many strong competitors through out the season and have achieved a winning record of 17-5.

“It’s great that we have come together to beat some good teams,” Meisch said. “The wins against both Salina Central and Andover Central really stick out as memorable ones.”

The wrestling season finally came to an end, and the wrestlers and coaches reflect on how their season went.

“It was a good season,” senior team captain Hunter Weddington said. “It didn’t end up how I wanted it to though for me or the team.”

The wrestlers might have had a rough season but they managed to make it to state, and the team is hopeful for next year.

“State was like any other year,” wrestling head coach Brett Fiene said. “It is high energy. At the state tournament, you can throw all the wins and losses out of the window because every wrestler is wrestling at his best.”

Weddington managed to come in second at the end of state, and his Fiene was understanding of his results.

“I wish it would have went a different way,” Fiene said. “But that is life; Hunter wrestled very well all weekend long.”

With Weddington being a senior, this is his last year on the school’s team. This leaves the position as team captain up for grabs.

“Team captains are determined prior to the first duel,” Fiene said. “It all depends on who puts in the time in the off season and leads by example in the practice room. Being team captain is a huge honor.”

Next years captain is going to have to fight for the spot with three juniors returning next year: Kade Baker, Trent Robinson and Cooper Simpson.

Even though he is leaving, Weddington can only look forward to his life ahead of him.

“I’m going to wrestle in college,” Weddington said. “I’m going to get rich and become famous and I’ll become a mechanical engineer and marry a beautiful woman; I can’t wait.”

caleMINEAR

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“At the state tournament, you can throw all the wins and losses out of the window because every wrestler is wrestling at his best.” brettFIENE

garrettWOLF March 12, 2012

25

A New Year 2010-2011 Uniforms

Last year’s team hats featured a white front with a blue brim and back. The new hats will still have the AT on it, but will be a new style. Photo by Chris Jones

The jersey from last year was a royal blue color with a different font for the number and the Andover. Unlike the new jerseys, these are not sleeveless.

Photo by Chris Jones

The pants featured on the old uniforms were a plain white with a single black stripe. Photo by Chris Jones

26

March 12, 2012

zach baker

A New Look 2011-2012 Uniforms

The new uniform tops feature a blue undershirt with a gray sleeveless jersey on top. The Andover type print changed from last year, and the jersey features new stripes. Photo by Chris Jones

The team changed their pant style as well, using a looser fabric and a darker gray color. Photo by Chris Jones

March 12, 2012

27

Project X breaks all boundaries

T

GRADE

aaaa

“This film is meant for the teenage

demographic who just wants to party and have a good time, and for that specific audience, this film is a non-stop thrill ride.”

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he only two ways to accurately describe Project X, the newest concoction from the director of The Hangover and Old School, is that it is a teenager’s dream and a parent’s worst nightmare.

The plot follows three socially inept teenagers who attempt to throw a ‘game changing’ party to gain popularity and use it to ‘hook up’ with the hottest girls in school.

The main character Thomas Kub (Thomas Mann), along with his friends Costa (Oliver Cooper), JB ( Jonathan Brown, and silent cameraman Dax (Dax Flame) want to throw a party that no one will ever forget for Thomas’s 17th birthday party. With his parents gone for the weekend, they seize the opportunity.

This particular plot is one we have seen many times before and is one many can relate to. It takes the basic premise of teenagers who want to go from high school zeroes to heroes in one night. Project X is this basic plot scheme on steroids.

Costa is seen as the instigator and the brain behind the party. He is the typical ‘wanna-be gangster’ teenager, who laces the film with profanity, and has such an unwarranted ego, and yet moviegoers still find themselves rooting for him throughout the film.

The movie is a ‘found-footage’ type film, such as “The Blair Witch Project,” “Cloverfield” and the “Paranormal Activity” series. However, director Nima Nourizadeh takes the small film genre in a different direction by using it for a comedic action/thriller film.

For me, this direction makes the film that much more real, and it makes the audience feel like this actually happened. The filmmakers want the viewer to believe they are actually at this insanely out-of-control party, and in that, they wildly succeed.

The first 15 to 20 minutes of the movie starts off relatively slow, as the characters are introduced and established as we see the plot unraveling, but as time goes on and the party gets going, the movie is taken to a whole new level.

The party starts, and the Kub household dives into complete chaos. Rowdy , out of control teenagers crowd the entire neighborhood. The three friends, once social outcasts, are now the center of attention at the largest and craziest party ever thrown.

With the backyard destroyed, the house completely trashed and the neighborhood on fire, they have no choice but to just go with the flow, and continue having the best night of their young lives.

It eventually gets to the point where police riot squad are brought in to control the situation, but by that point, the whole situation is beyond control.

It is the dream of any average teenager to be the center of attention in high school, and to throw the ‘Party of the Century’. Project X makes the view want to be the characters in the movie and it makes them want to be at that party.

The movie has so much excitement going on that viewers will not even notice the hour and a half running time. When I went to see it, the film had drawn me in so much that I was almost surprised when it ended because I had not been paying attention to how long the movie had gone on.

What makes this movie so great and so incredibly entertaining is the fact it is indeed so crazy and over the top, yet it walks the very thin line of reality to where the audience actually believes a party like this would be possible What might deter some people from seeing Project X is that it is definitely meets its R rating and reaches far beyond. Constant cursing, nudity, along with alcohol and drug use throughout might keep the more innocently-inclined viewer away from this film.

Project X did not recieve great reviews from the vast majority of critics, but that is because this movie is not geared toward the adult viewing audience. This film is meant for the teenage demographic who just wants to party and have a good time, and for that specific audience, this film is a non-stop thrill ride.

My expectations for this film were met and farly exceeded. Its one of those films you just have a fun time seeing and I reccomend it to every teenager who has ever dreamed or thought about the ‘Party of the Century’.

chrisJONES March 12, 2012

A look ahead to upcoming album releases Madonna- March 26

“MDNA” is the first studio album under Madonna’s new 3-album pact with Interscope records, and the first since leaving longtime label Warner Bros., after her last album “Hard Candy” -- and will be released on March 26. The set finds Madonna collaborating with producers Martin Solveig and William Orbit. Through spokeswoman Liz Rosenberg, Madonna told Billboard that she’s “thrilled” to be collaborating again with Orbit, who co-produced her 1998 album, “Ray of Light.” Madonna has stated her new album will be a pop-oriented throwback to her glam days returning to the familiar sound that brought her into the mainstream.

No Doubt- T.B.A.

No Doubt has spent the entirety of 2010 and 2011 writing new material for their album to be launched in mid-2012. The group went on a 5 year hiatus as a result of Stefani’s solo career being launched and. Regarding the albums status, Stefani said “It’s generally a really happy album…the main thing we were trying to do is write really catchy good songs…we got about 15 songs done and we want to do a few more just in case, but it’s a really good record, I really love this record”. The record is expected to drop in early Summer.

All American Rejects- March 27 It has been a quiet past few years for Oklahoma based All-American Rejects following their 2008 smash hit “Gives You Hell”, which launched the band into mainstream popularity across the country.

The band has been in the studio the past three years recording their new album titled “Kids In The Street”, due out on March 27th. The new LP is a conceptual album written by front man Tyson Ritter following the stories of his success and failures through his time in the band; all tracing back to finding himself as another one of the “Kids In The Street” as Ritter has put.

John Mayer- May 26

Columbia Records is pleased to announce Born and Raised, the next album from Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter and musician John Mayer, will be released. Mayer’s previous albums—Room for Squares, Heavier Things, Continuum and Battle Studies—have sold more than 12-million copies combined. Mayer was forced to delay the completion of Born and Raised while he recovered from severe vocal chord problems late last year. The record, which was largely finished before he was allowed to record vocals, marks a new direction for the singer-songwriter.

2011 Top Grossing Albums

Adele, 21 - 4,817,000 copies sold Lady Gaga, Born This Way - 1,973,000 Lil Wayne, Tha Carter IV - 1,776,000 Jason Aldean, My Kinda Party - 1,389,000 Mumford & Sons, Sigh No More - 1,328,000 according to thehollywoodgossip.com March 12, 2012

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Painte the Town offers place to express talents

A group of paintings line the walls of Paint the Towne. Paint the Towne is locaed at 9747 E. 21st St. North in Suite 147.

Photo by Jessica Griffin

An instructor leads one of the art classes at Pain the Towne. Two-hour classes cost $35 per painter and three-hour classes cost $45 Photo by Jessica Griffin

Pool parties and scavenger hunts may get old, but Paint the Towne located at 9747 E. 21st St. North, Suite 147 provides a new party atmosphere for people of all ages.

Paint the Towne is a place to express talent, socialize and show creativity. Not only is it about painting, but it allows parties to get to know each other better in a more intriguing atmosphere.

Artistic abilities are not necessary, Paint the Towne instructors will show customers how to utilize techniques and will guide step by step. Paint the Towne provides the canvas, paintbrushes, paint, aprons and everything else one would need. Paint the Towne asks their customers to bring their favorite treat to snack on during their experience.

Two-hour and three-hour painting classes exist at Paint the Towne. Two-hour classes cost $35 per painter while three-hour classes cost $45 per painter.

Paint the Towne allows adult private parties for a minimum of 10 painters, which costs $25 per painter. Children’s private parties require a minimum of five painters at $25 per painter.

These art classes could be opportunities for a first date, birthday party or a girls night out. Experience at Paint the Towne is more about socializing with friends and getting to know loved ones better than anything. This attraction serves multiple purposes by creating an indulging experience while creating a masterpiece of your own.

Paint the Towne, provides different painting to be chose from.

By visiting the Paint the Towne website one could learn about classes and events coming up soon on the Paint the Towne calendar.

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316-267-5287 | HallsWater.com

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March 12, 2012

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March 12, 2012

31

Voice of the Children Kids 4 Kids Club continues its annual fundraiser

Seventh grader Julie Tarbox gets emotional while winning the grand prize of $500 and a chance with the Chicago music company.

Photo by Heba Madi Senior Natalia Farfan sings “Someone Like You” by Adele. “It was a challenge for the judges this year, the talents were amazing,” sponsor Jane Harwell said.

Photo by Heba Madi Dylan Harris, Andover Central student, sings “Eight-second ride” and wins the high school division prize of $100 check.

Photo by Heba Madi Seniors Camille Hantla and Kasey Criser introduce singers to the stage. The dinner was run

by Kids 4 Kids club members.

Photo by Heba Madi

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The Kids 4 Kids club raised about $13,000 from silent auctions. “This is the most profitable fundraiser we’ve had in the past years,” sponsor Alex Jones said.

Photo by Heba Madi

March 8, 2012