LE JOURNAL NOTRE DAME DE SION HIGH SCHOOL | DECEMBER 2017 | VOLUME 36
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WORTH THE READ NEW JOHN GREEN BOOK IS EYE-OPENING
DIY GIFTS TO MAKE FOR CHRISTMAS
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THE MIDS: BEYOND THE MATH LEGENDS
Goodbye to Privacy
PUBLIC TRANSACTIONS
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#METOO MOVEMENT
When online activity threatens personal security BANK ACCOUNT
BROWSING HISTORY
BIRTH DATE
MUSIC TASTE
CONTACTS RECENT PURCHASES
CREDIT CARD CURRENT LOCATION SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER
CONTENTS (Photo by Paige Ritter)
Senior Sarah Schaffer tries out for swim team.
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(Photo by Meg Schwartz)
Junior Megan Broomfield performs with the dance team at the Nov. 30 pep assembly.
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(Photo by Paige Ritter)
Senior Grace Frame cheers on the basketball team against STA.
ON THE COVER
FEATURES
NEWS
OPINION
With holiday spending in full swing, read about how online shopping and big data affect the economy, personal security and consumerism.......................14
Seniors Joileeah Worley, Moriana Jaco and Lauren Graves run the Generation Rap radio show...................08
Fusion Fitness trainer helps run Storm Fit......................06
Le Journal staff editorial explores how modern conveniences create laziness.................................10
Reynold and Elizabeth Middleton balance home life and a shared passion for academics.............................18 Sophomore Avery Kuhls will play Cinderella in the January musical.................22
WHAT’S ONLINE
Gene editing breakthrough promises progress in fighting disease..................05 Students visited Islamic School...................................07 NAHS donates art to domestic violence shelter..................................07 Amazon Key delivers inside the home.............................06
LEJOURNALLIVE.COM
Holiday consumerism is out of control...............................12 Sports culture takes over society....................................13
SPORTS Nationally-ranked swimmer and freshman Abby Karl balances school and sports....................................20 Dance team works with kick and pom specialists.............................21 Swim team moves to new class........................................21
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Students of Sion Podcast: Molly Hudak
Follow the effects of daily workouts on happiness through the eyes of reporter Emma Miller. (Photo by Catherine Frerker)
Winter Formal Photo Gallery
@lejournalsion @lejournalsion www.lejournallive.com Sia Christmas Album Disappoints
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@lejournallive
PHOTO OF THE ISSUE Senior Gabi Atchity performs with the cheer team at the basketball game against St. Teresa’s Academy Nov. 17. (Photo by Paige Ritter)
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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT The Nelson-Atkins features Picasso in new exhibit...................................24 New John Green book is worth the read....................25 Sam Smith’s new album brings personal spirit......................................25 Beat the winter blues with classic Christmas movies and DIY gifts........................26
EDITOR’S INK OUR TIPS
Studying for finals week
1. Start now NO HOLIDAY SLUMP GO-TO GUIDE FOR BREAK ON PG. 26-27
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ust a few short days until the sweet freedom of Winter Break arrives to relieve us of finals week stress, Sion. That’s right, first semester is coming to an end just in time to enjoy the rest of the holiday season. We hate to remind you, but before we can all enjoy sleeping in for days on end we have to face the dreaded finals week. Check out our tips on how to survive the hours of studying. Don’t forget we have an extra day off on Dec. 13 for our hard work during Food for Thought, which raised 12.3 tons of canned goods and non-perishables for Redemptorist Social Services Center. In this issue we take a close look at the holiday season and whether the true meaning of the holidays is being overshadowed by consumerism (pg. 12) and how years of technological advances have influenced consumerist tendencies (pg. 1417). Consider going against the grain this year by making handmade gifts for your friends and family (pg. 26-27). In between family gatherings and gift shopping, make time to visit the Picasso exhibit at the Nelson-Atkins Museum (pg. 24) or go see the movie “Wonder” (pg. 24). Tune in to Hot 103 Jamz on the radio on your relaxing Saturday mornings from 8 to 9 to listen to seniors Joileeah Worley, Lauren Graves and Moriana Jaco on Generation Rap (pg. 8). Start looking forward to the musical next semester, “Cinderella,” featuring sophomore Avery Kuhls as the lead (pg. 22). Also, get excited for more Storm basketball after a crushing victory against St. Teresa’s (pg. 21). While there is much to look forward to in the upcoming weeks, there is much to reflect upon and learn about as well. As we enjoy our holiday feasts, Yemen is facing a severe famine (pg. 4). We are still within the largest refugee crisis in history
SENIOR SIGNING Senior Ellie Chaffee hugs senior Haley Ulowetz after signing to Xavier University during the volleyball senior signing Nov. 15 in the gym. (Photo by Phylicia BarnerLewis)
There are only a few short days until the finals begin. Spend time getting a head start on organizing and strategizing for your exams.
2. Make a study schedule With the order of the exams in mind, plan out which days to study for which exams. Be specific: schedule certain times to stay on track and make sure to add in some snack breaks. Also, be sure to spend your day off Wednesday, courtesy of our Food for Thought win, wisely to study for Thursday’s math and science exams.
3. Ask questions (pg. 13) and women locally and around the world continue to face sexual harassment and gender based violence (pg. 13). Stay informed over Winter Break by keeping up with lejournallive.com for news within our own community and beyond and be sure to follow our social media. Hang in there, Sion. We can almost hear the final bell signaling the end of final exams. See you in 2018! Sincerely, Lanie & Meg
Use the final days before exams to ask your teachers questions. Look over old tests and homework so that you can come into school prepared with questions.
4. Sleep Staying up into the late hours of the morning before an exam in order to cram new material is ineffective and bad for your health. Go to bed early to absorb what you studied during the day, and use these other tips to assure you get your studying done before 3 a.m.
5. Get rid of distractions Lock your phone in your bathroom, give it to your mom or leave it at home and study elsewhere to eliminate time-sucking distractions. Less distractions equals less stress.
LE JOURNAL 2017-2018 LE JOURNAL IS THE OFFICIAL STUDENT PUBLICATION OF NOTRE DAME DE SION HIGH SCHOOL - 10631 WORNALL ROAD - KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI 64114
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KELLY NUGENT
LETTERS TO THE EDITORS
EDITORIAL EDITOR
LE JOURNAL ACCEPTS LETTERS TO THE EDITORS IN RESPONSE TO PUBLISHED ARTICLES. LETTERS MUST BE SIGNED, VERIFIED AND NO LONGER THAN 200 WORDS. LETTERS MAY BE EDITED FOR LENGTH, GRAMMAR, SPELLING AND CONTENT. LETTERS WILL NOT BE PRINTED IF CONTENT IS OBSCENE, INVASIVE, ENCOURAGING DISRUPTION OF SCHOOL AND/OR IS LIBELOUS.
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MEG SCHWARTZ
WEBSITE MANAGING EDITOR
PRINT MANAGING EDITOR
OLIVIA DOPHEIDE
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SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER
NEWS EDITOR
MCKENNA HEEGN
MEG TRAVIS
A&E EDITOR TAYLOR PITZL
SPORTS EDITOR CATHERINE FRERKER
FEATURE EDITOR KAITLIN JONES
CO-PHOTO EDITORS
BREAKING NEWS DANI ROTERT
REPORTERS REAGAN AMATO PHYLICIA BARNER-LEWIS MOLLY CONWAY LILY DROUIN PRISCILLAH GICHARU MELISSA KOPPERS EMMA MILLER
LIZ OLTJEN ANA PENDERGAST AVA RAWSON GRACIE ROBERTS SYDNEY SAN AGUSTIN ANNIE SCHORGL
DECEMBER 2017
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NEWS IN BRIEF
MADAME SECRETARY FOOD FOR THOUGHT
FINALS SCHEDULE DEC. 13
NO SCHOOL
DEC. 14
MATH - 8AM ELECTIVES - 11AM
DEC. 15
ENGLISH - 8AM SCIENCE - 11AM
DEC. 18
WORLD LANGUAGES - 8AM
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SOCIAL STUDIES - 11AM
GERMS | STOP THE SPREAD
Senior Lucy Steyer is the first female candidate to file to run for statewide office in the upcoming election in the state of Kansas. “It’s a bit intimidating being the only woman running for Secretary of State office,” Steyer said. “I hope it’ll encourage other young women to pursue politics.” Steyer is running for Secretary of State at the age of 17. For most state positions, there is no age requirement. Five other youths are running for state governor. Steyer appointed her father John Steyer as campaign treasurer. The election will take place in November of 2018. (Photo by Sydney San Agustin)
Food for Thought ended Nov. 10 and, because the school raised more than the 8-ton goal, students receive the day off of school Dec. 13. “I love Food for Thought because the whole school really gets involved,” STUCO president and senior Carolyn Dickey said. “It brings unity to the community” There was also a class competition to bring in the most cans. The seniors came in first place, sophomores in second, juniors in third and freshmen in last. The school raised a total of 12.3 tons for Redemptorist Social Services Center surpassing the previous year’s collection of 10 tons. Pictured is senior Loulya Alabed in the senior skit. (Photo by Sydney San Agustin)
NEW BARBIE DOLL
KC BUZZ
Mattel released a new Barbie doll wearing a hijab. The Barbie is modeled after Ibtihaj Muhammad (pictured above) who was the first U.S. Olympic athlete to compete in a head scarf. “The hijab Barbie helps young girls, especially Muslim girls, feel like they are finally being represented in things that affect their lives, so now it can be normal to play with a Barbie wearing a headscarf as it is a Barbie with blonde hair and blue eyes,” junior Safa Khan said. The doll won’t be available for purchase until 2018 and will be part of Mattel’s “Sheroes” line, which is modeled after real women who are heroes “breaking boundaries.” (Photo from WikiCommons)
Professional basketball is returning to Kansas City. Coach and General Manager Calvin “Pony” Thompson introduced the KC Buzz Nov. 10. The team will compete in the North American Premier Basketball League, starting in January 2018. All home games will be played in the Municipal Auditorium, which will be renamed “The Hive” on game days. “I am excited to see what the team has to offer and how it will affect Kansas City,” senior Ann Huff said. The team will play 32 games between January and May and tickets will range from $8 to $50. (Photo from Wiki Commons)
Wash Your Hands
SOAP
Handwashing can help prevent one in five respiratory infections. It also helps prevent the spread of diseases, according to the Center of Disease Control and Prevention.
Get Vaccinated Vaccines save an estimated 42,000 lives in the U.S. alone. By staying updated on vaccinations, people can be protected from diseases that are preventable, according to the Immunization Partnership.
Don’t Share Drinks Students should refrain from sharing drinks because the risk for catching herpes, the common cold and strep throat is much greater, according to PositiveMed.
Stay Home When Sick Students should stay home if sick because it prevents the further spread of illness, according the University of (Infographic by Sydney San California, Davis Wellness Services. Agustin)
WORLDWIDE Famine in Yemen The war-torn country of Yemen faces the worst cholera outbreak in world history. This forced Saudi Arabia to tighten its borders, cutting off vital aid flow to Yemen. Although the blockade has since been lifted, 7 million people are still threatened by famine because of the lack of resources and destroyed reserves from bomb attacks.
Russia Olympics Ban The International Olympics Committee has announced after a prolonged investigation that Russia will not be permitted to participate in the 2018 Winter Games. This investigation revealed unprecedentedly severe doping tactics by Russian Olympians in the previous Olympic Games.
Egypt Mosque Attack Over 300 people were killed at the Sufi Mosque in northern Sinai, Egypt Nov. 24. The attackers set off a bomb outside the mosque and worshipers fled as the attackers shot at them with automatic machine guns. The Egyptian government responded with airstrikes on “terrorist outpost.”
NEWS
RESTAURANT ADDITION The new Ward Parkway Pavilion welcomes people to the season with a Christmas tree and other festive decorations. (Photo by Dani Rotert)
New Addition to Ward Parkway Center The Ward Parkway Restaurant Pavilion welcomes new restaurants and a new atmosphere to shoppers. BY DANI ROTERT BREAKING NEWS
The Ward Parkway Restaurant Pavilion opened Oct. 26 on the west side of the Ward Parkway Center on 89th Street, taking the place of Dillard’s and its parking garage. The $16 million renovation included the installment of five restaurant spaces, fountains, and an outdoor plaza area with benches and lawn-like chairs. “I’m excited because there are now more restaurants by my house with more things to do and more places to go,” junior Jordan Harrison said.
The first four restaurants that opened include MidiCi: The Neapolitan Pizza Company, Smitty’s Garage, Ted’s Escondido Cafe and Charleston’s. The developers of the Ward Parkway Center and the restaurant pavilion, Legacy Development, have announced the fifth tenant, Freezy Rolls, but have yet to set a date for the rolled ice cream shop’s opening. “Right now, there is plenty of fast food available in that area, but a distinct lack of, what I like to call, “date night” restaurants,” Dave Claflin of Legacy Development said. The restaurants are all connected by an outdoor pedestrian walkway, but still maintain their own respective area and outdoor dining patio space. The outdoor plaza at the center of the pavilion includes a stage for free concerts and other live events. Six concerts were put on in October
after the grand opening, including classic rock, jazz and country singers and bands. More concerts are expected to be announced by Ward Parkway Center soon for the spring season. “The pavilion will benefit the people of Kansas City by providing great options for dining that do not exist in the area,” Claflin said. The outdoor area in the middle of the pavilion is designed for year-round use, covered by a sunshade to keep the area cool in the summer and built with fireplaces to keep it warm in the winter. It will also add more options for seniors to visit during lunch check-out since it is only a 10 minute drive. “It’s really nice to have more options that are close by for check-outs,” senior Sarah Schaffer said. “[Seniors] don’t have to worry about being late but can still have variety.”
Gene Editing Breakthrough Reveals Potential Treatments Innovative Genomics Institute University of Berkeley, said in an e-mail. Gene therapy, which adds extra genes to cells to treat rare genetic disorders, was first used in 1990. Now, 27 years later, gene-editing has advanced to have the ability to alter all the existing genes inside cells. This process can treat and potentially BY GRACIE ROBERTS cure a much wider range of REPORTER conditions, ranging from Human Immunodeficiency Virus infections to A new technique this year has allowed high blood cholesterol, according to doctors to make changes to a person’s DNA the New Scientist. and alter their genetic codes, which offers “However, it is impossible to the potential to eradicate genetic diseases ignore the thought of curing things like sickle-cell anemia and cystic fibrosis, like Tay Sachs and other detrimental according to an article in the New Scientist. diseases that have no treatment Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short currently,” science teacher Kaci Flippo Palindromic Repeats technology, a tool said. “All medicine has risks and developed by researchers Jennifer Doudna bumps along the road but with this and Emmanuelle Charpentier, played an CRISPR TRIALS we are gambling at the highest stakes essential part in this breakthrough. It allows The new trials show promise for DNA editing and cures for many diseases. (Photo from MCT Campus). ever.” researchers and doctors to easily alter DNA Scientists are planning on more sequences and modify gene function. With trials because if these trials are successful, they could benefit millions of this machinery and technology, scientists are now able to edit the DNA of people. Among these are four planned CRISPR trials that would change living people. immune cells and modify them to kill cancer cells. Another three trials are “One standout advantage is that it has already shown more promise than potentially going to make their way to the United States and use another human gene therapy,” science teacher Amy Vandenbrul said. genome editing method known as zinc finger nucleases. These would add A similar breakthrough called “chemical surgery” has also been recently developed. This surgery can correct a type of genetic mutation or error in one genes to liver cells in an attempt to treat Hemophilia B, Hurler Syndrome and Hunter syndrome. Furthermore, gene editing experiments are still being of the rungs in the DNA double helix that can later develop into an genetic disease. About half of the 32,000 known point mutations are linked to diseases worked on to further science treatments and to cure more genetic disease. “The advantages are that it’s fairly easy and cheap to use CRISPR-Cas9 to due to wrong base pairings. Twenty CRISPR trials in China will be the first cut a harmful gene in a human cell. This means that for the first time we can documented attempts of editing the genomes of cells inside the body as an actually cure many genetic diseases and infections like AIDS, and can make effort to eliminate the cancer-causing Human Papillomavirus Infection virus. personalized treatments for things like cancer,” Witkowsky said. “Scientists “If you want to change a mutation back to what it should be, then you need to give the cell a piece of template DNA with the correct sequence so that have already started clinical trials to cure certain genetic diseases like sickle cell anemia by fixing those mutations in cells of patients.” after CRISPR-Cas9 cuts the target gene, the cell can use the template DNA to correctly repair the break,” Lea Witkowsky, the project/policy analyst at the
A new scientific breakthrough involving genetic editing can alter genetic codes, possibly eliminating deadly diseases.
DECEMBER 2017
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Amazon Begins to Let Itself In and the customer is given the option to watch the delivery happen live. The app verifies that the package belongs to the address and the driver is at the correct door and then turns on Amazon Cloud Cam and unlocks BY PHYLICIA BARNER-LEWIS the door. No special codes or keys are REPORTER given to the driver. Once the delivery Amazon debuted “Amazon Key” is complete and the door is relocked, the resident will receive a notification that allows delivery personnel inside and can watch a video clip of the homes in an effort to reduce the delivery, according to Amazon. number of stolen packages. Not only will Amazon deliver Amazon Key is only in the packages inside a consumer’s front United States and Kansas City, door, but it will also allow temporary, Kansas is one of the 37 cities eligible recurring or permanent access for Amazon Key. to family, friends and others like The $249.99 in-home kit that maids, dog walkers or babysitters includes a security camera, smart to enter, do their job and leave. This lock and app became available to the will reduce the need to hide a key public Nov 8. The security camera, somewhere on the property or the Amazon Cloud Cam (Key Edition), need for spare keys. features 1080p Full HD, night vision “I can’t think of a circumstance and two-way audio. The Amazon when [Amazon Key] would be Key App is used to watch deliveries, necessary other than deliveries in my check in anytime via live view and household at least,” Brown-Howerton lock and unlock your front door said. from anywhere. Amazon will send a According to Amazon, Amazon professional for free to install the kit. Key will, in the coming Installation scheduling is available months, provide during checkout, according to customers with a safe Amazon. and easy way to allow Social Studies unattended access curriculum coordinator by professional Jenny Brown-Howerton service providers receives deliveries a from Amazon couple times a week Home Services. These and likes the idea individuals, along with of Amazon Key the in-home delivery drivers, but would are thoroughly vetted love to hear reviews (Illustration by Phylicia with comprehensive Barner-Lewis) background checks and about the motor vehicle records products reviews. because she faces her “I think there are people who are own concerns. nervous about letting delivery people “I don’t know if I would be into their home,” Brown-Howerton the first in line to get it,” BrownHowerton said. Amazon’s experience said. “Why haven’t they invented a lock box that works like a mailbox in retail, hardware, cloud technology that you would put on your house or and logistics led to the creation of this new service. It’s this combination on your porch or next your garage or something? Like a mailbox but of convenience, security and peace bigger.” of mind that is unique to Amazon Since Amazon Key is not and the value it offers its customers, according to an e-mail interview with integrated with home security systems, security alarms will need Amazon personnel Av Raichura. to be disarmed on the day of The app will notify awaiting delivery. Amazon is always working customers the morning of the to make their customer’s lives delivery date with a four hour easier. This is one of many delivery timespan of when to expect the delivery driver to arrive. An “arriving innovations they are working on to improve convenience and choice for now” notification will be delivered customers, according to Raichura. before the driver reaches the door
Amazon’s introduction of a new delivery system early November continues to raise safety questions.
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DOWNWARD DOG During Storm Fit’s monthly Fusion Fitness Friday, counselor Karen Phillips does a yoga pose led by the personal trainer brought in from Fusion Fitness. (Photo by Gracie Roberts)
Blending Fun with
Fusion Fitness During Storm Fit, a personal trainer comes the first Friday of every month. BY LILY DROUIN REPORTER
A personal trainer from Fusion Fitness will be coming to Storm Fit the first Friday of every month at 7 a.m. for a program called Fusion Friday. “Everyone was full of positivity and gave the workout their all. Taking care of our physical, mental and spiritual selves is our number one job,” fitness trainer and owner of Fusion Fitness Darby Brender said. In partnership with Fusion Fitness, a personal trainer comes to help those in Storm Fit step up their workout routines, focusing on the mind and body. The first class was Nov. 3 and all sessions are open to all students, faculty, staff members and parents to start their morning off with a boost of energy. “I go to Storm Fit every day and it’s lovely, but I think it is great
“Taking care of our physical, mental and spiritual selves is our number one job.” - owner of Fusion Fitness Darby Brender
to have something different thrown in,” French teacher Liz Bono said. Although Storm Fit has separate workouts each day, Fusion Fitness is adding contrast. The Nov. 3 class started and ended with a session of meditation, and incorporated moments of yoga and stretching throughout, according to junior Sade-Joy Dugbo. “The workout itself was a bit challenging, but it made me feel accomplished afterwards,” Dugbo said. Fusion Fitness is a local gym with three locations in the Kansas City metro area that features a program of high energy cardio with muscle building tones to produce positive physical and mental results, according to fusionfitness.com. Everyone who participates in at least one of the sessions at Sion will get a pass for a free class at Fusion Fitness. “It’s awesome to see so many young ladies doing a phenomenal job of taking care of their healthy bodies at a young age,” Brender said. “Sion is full of so many amazing women and we are so thankful to be a part of their fit Fridays.”
NEWS
Artwork Donations Become Annual Tradition The National Art Honor Society is using their talent to give back to the community for the second year in a row. BY KELLY NUGENT WEB EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
The National Art Honor Society announced it will donate watercolor art pieces to the Rose Brooks Center at the end of the year. Rose Brooks is a domestic violence shelter for men, women and children who are victims of domestic violence. The inspiration for donating came from an all-school assembly last year about domestic abuse, according to NAHS president and senior Catherine Dehaemers. “We donate to them because they do not have a budget for art and we hope that we can brighten their days with calming and cheerful art,” Dehaemers said. The money raised from the
sticker fundraiser Dec. 11 and 12 will be used to purchase frames that will display the artwork donated to Rose Brooks. The artwork and monetary donations, no matter how small, can make a great impact on the shelter, according to NAHS member and freshman Avery Brundige. “At Rose Brooks, [they] don’t really prioritize artwork in their budget, and as a result, Rose Brooks feels less warm and welcoming,” Brundige said. “I think bringing even small works of art into a space makes it feel cozier.” Using their talent to give back to the community, art teacher Michael Pesselato believes that what the girls in NAHS are doing goes beyond the art pieces that hang on a wall. “I think it is great that the students took the initiative to arrange contributions for Rose Brooks,” Pesselato said. Since they donated a total of nine art pieces last year, NAHS
wants to continue to make an impact at Rose Brooks and donate again this year, according to NAHS vice president and senior Sydney Crawford. As a token of appreciation, representatives from Rose Brooks came to the fine arts banquet last year to receive the donated art pieces and thank those that created them in NAHS. Crawford believes being able to see who they’re donating to makes the whole process worthwhile.
THROUGH FIRE AND WATER With this piece of artwork, sophomore and NAHS member Bridget Schumm hopes to provide inspiration to women who have been abused. “I made this piece of art with the idea of it going to a safe house for women,” Schumm said. (Illustration by Bridget Schumm)
“It was really great to see all our work pay off in the end when we saw our pieces framed and displayed,” Crawford said. “Physically handing out works to them was so satisfying and worthwhile.”
Students Visit Islamic School To Explore New Faiths Students got an inside look of the Islamic School of Greater Kansas City and learned more about this faith Nov. 10. BY MELISSA KOPPERS REPORTER
Juniors Ava Rawson, Kendall Rogers and freshman Grace Steyer visited the Islamic School of Greater Kansas City Nov. 10 and experienced a day in the life of a different culture. “I learned a lot of new things by going to the school and you also get to interact with the students that go there,” Steyer said.
ALL SMILES Freshman Grace Steyer and junior Kendall Rogers smile as they walk down the stairs to the prayer service at the mosque. (Photo by Ava Rawson)
While visiting IScGKC, students viewed projects at an Islamic history fair where students from sixth through 10th grade presented topics involving the history of Islam. Among these were topics such as Caliphates, historical figures in the Golden Age of Islam, and the contributions of Muslims to Africa, America and Europe. A Caliphate is “like a ruling line of leaders, related to the Prophet Mohammad, Peace Be Upon Him. Their areas go across country lines, and their reign can go on through generations,” according to Selle. Students also observed prayer at the end of the day in the masjid, or mosque, the place of worship in the Islamic faith. “My favorite part of the day was probably when we went to the mosque because they were having a prayer service there,” Rogers said. “I’ve been to one before a few years ago so it was nice to go to a different one.” Social studies teacher Jaime Banyalmarjeh hopes to teach understanding and tolerance through this interfaith partnership. Banyalmarjeh said that there are many more similarities than differences between the Islamic faith and the Christian faith. Some of these similarities
include that both religions believe that Jesus will return to earth to lead all believers in the day of judgment. Both believe in the Virgin Mary and revere her, both stand, bend, kneel or prostrate during prayer, according to Banyalmarjeh. “I got involved in the youth interfaith group because our school principal suggested I take this on, as she knows I am very committed to building understanding and dispelling ignorance,” Banyalmarjeh said. Earlier this school year, four students from the IScGKC and the Hyman Brand Hebrew Academy visited Sion through an IScGKC partnership via their current interfaith group. Students came to observe an all-school Mass, a portion of a religion class, a few other selected classes and then stayed to eat lunch with their host students. In previous years, the partnership included activities like service trips. This year IScGKC Banyalmarjeh and Mission Director Penny Selle coordinated both school visits. Students from ISCGKC attended French and music classes that ISCGKC does not offer, according to Banyalmarjeh. “It was a very enlightening day for our students who have never had exposure to a Catholic service. I believe our students walked away with new knowledge and understanding of the Catholic faith,” Banyalmarjeh said. Rockhurst High School just joined a new group and is planning activities as well. At the end of the year both groups are hoping to host one big event, according to Selle. “People are people with the same needs and desires,” Banyalmarjeh said. “To live free, to be safe and secure, to be happy and to be successful in life.” DECEMBER 2017
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FEATURES
ON THE AIR Seniors Joileeah Worley, Moriana Jaco and Lauren Graves are part of Generation Rap, a radio show which gives a teenage voice to social, cultural issues in the world today. BY SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER MCKENNA HEEGN
S
enior Joileeah Worley first got involved with the show Generation Rap, a segment on the Kansas City radio station Hot 103 Jamz for 30 years, after attending a seminar for emerging leaders through the Black Caucus of Kansas City at the University of Missouri. She heard Councilman Jermaine Reed, of the third district of Kansas City, mention that he had gotten involved in politics through Generation Rap and that they were always looking for young people to help out with the show. Worley approached the politician after the seminar and he referred her to the station. “I had heard kids on the radio before but I would always just turn the channel and never really listen,” Worley said Seniors Moriana Jaco and Lauren Graves became further interested in being a part of the show after hearing Worley frequently talk about her experiences at school. Jaco and Graves mentioned that they were interested in the show and Worley told them to come to one of the weekly Wednesday planning meetings. On Jaco’s first Saturday show, while she was still shadowing, Jaco asked a question on air and got acknowledged for her accomplishment by everyone on the set. “I went to one Wednesday planning meeting and I absolutely fell in love with it,” Jaco said. Once the girls had decided they all wanted to commit their time to the show they all received mentors to help them along the way but, for the most part, Generation Rap is run and produced by teenagers. They run the Wednesday planning meetings where they come up with topics to discuss on air every Saturday from eight to nine in the morning. “The Wednesday meetings help us to plan out the whole show and make sure everything is lined up and running smoothly for airtime,” Graves said. Because of the freedom the GRappers have to produce and organize the show, they choose which topics they want to discuss, not shying away from controversial ones. Some topics they have chosen to tackle in the past have included the Black Lives Matter movement, police brutality and a whole show on black culture including film, music and STRAIGHT CHEESIN’ (right) After a Saturday show seniors Moriana Jaco and Joileeah Worley pose for a funny picture with other GRappers in the Hot 103 Jamz studio. (Photo by McKenna Heegn) MIC TIME (far right) Before going on air, seniors Moriana Jaco and Joileeah Worley warm up with a couple of voice exercises in the recording studio. (Photo by McKenna Heegn)
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fashion and its evolution over the years. “I was really interested in having a fun show about black culture,” Jaco said. “So I sat down with my mentor and we came up with the three segments we wanted to talk about the most.” Another important part of the show are the mentors the GRappers work with who keep the show on target and teach how broadcasting works. One mentor, Jim Nunnely, better known as Grandad, has worked with Hot 103 Jamz for 30 years. Nunnely has been in the business for many years but Worley, Jaco and Graves impressed him from the beginning. “In my thirty years as Grandad on the show and after mentoring some 1300 teenagers, this trio ranks in the top ten, individually and collectively,” Nunnely said. “They exude young woman power in the highest sense of the phrase.” Since working on the show, Worley, Jaco and Graves have taken away many important life skills. For Worley, her ability to think quickly on her feet while on-air has been one of the important experiences for her. Worley hopes to pursue a career in acting and believes this skill set will benefit her in the future. “I feel like I can walk into a room and no matter who is in it I will feel completely comfortable leading a conversation,” Worley said.
“In my 30 years as Grandad on the show and after mentoring some 1,300 teenagers, this trio ranks in the top 10, individually and collectively.” -Jim Nunnely Graves experiences on Generation Rap and on the air has helped her develop a new fluidity in how she speaks. Graves hopes to take this development to become even better at public speaking, which will help her in the future as she wants to be a social activist. “Your mission can really be thrown away or
put to the side if you aren’t strong with what you believe in,” Graves said. Jaco has picked up skills from prepping for the show such as making an outline, staying organized, getting guests together and on the show and sounding politically correct on air. This will help Jaco focus on a career path in communications with an emphasis in public relations. “[Generation Rap] has really helped me a lot,” Jaco said. “I’m not trying to be on the radio for a living but I do think it really has influenced what I want to do.” For all three girls the importance of the show in their lives goes beyond just meeting influential people from the Kansas City area or being featured on Kansas City Live. Generation Rap gives a voice to local teens to discuss important topics and gives a platform for their thoughts and opinions. “[Generation Rap] gives a teenage voice to the social and cultural issues that we are having in America today,” Worley said. Along with life skills Generation Rap has given Worley, Jaco and Graves, they have also had opportunities to meet people like Tech N9ne, Emanuel Cleaver II and even Big Sean. However, big names like these aren’t the ones who leave lasting impressions. The other GRappers that work with the girls to put on a successful show have had a huge amount of influence on their lives. “Getting to go to Generation Rap where it is a bunch of different types of kids from all over Kansas City helps you get really involved with them and helps you understand where everyone is coming from and their perspectives,” Graves said. For fellow GRappers like Kalan Hooks, working with Worley, Jaco and Graves has been a great experience because he gets to work with people who have the same optimistic mindset as himself. Inside and outside of the studio the relationship they have expands everyday. “Whenever they are in the studio it seems like they dazzle the show with their irreplaceable characteristics,” Hooks said. “The effect of those three is fictional because you’ll never find a pod of sisters from another mister that have that type of connection with each other.”
FEATURES
MIC CHECK ONE, TWO, THREE Behind the scenes of Generation Rap seniors Joileeah Worley, Lauren Graves and Moriana Jaco take a moment of time out of their busy schedules to enjoy some time in the studio. (Photo by McKenna Heegn)
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STAFF EDITORIAL
Shopping Made Lazy The amount of available services online leads to inactivity and causes society to be less productive and more leisurely when it comes to shopping and simple tasks.
Eight out of 10 Americans shop online today compared to only 22 percent in 2000, according to a study done by the Pew Research Center.
F
shopping online means everything Before these services were available, comes directly to the buyer. A record people were required to go out and number of stores are being forced entertain themselves, read books and to close due to people purchasing newspapers and chat with people to learn from the comfort of their homes. It about what was happening. Today, the is predicted that there could be 8,640 online services that are available to use stores closing in 2017 compared to let consumers sit on the couch and order the peak of 6,200 in 2008, according items to arrive within a matter of days. The to a report by CNN. As big-name click of a button or even Amazon’s “Alexa,” companies such as Sears and Kmart a system that allows customers to speak to close their doors, people also lose order items, seems so easy and timely. This their jobs. inactivity that technology has brought has Another aspect of online led to an increase in obesity in Americans. services is the on demand delivery Stanford researchers found that from 1994 apps and streaming networks. to 2010, the number of physically inactive Through apps such as Uber and Lyft, American women grew from 19.1 to 51.7 a few clicks can get a ride to whatever percent and the number of men from 11.4 destination is needed. When it percent to 43.5 percent, according to data comes to this modern-day taxi from the National Health and Nutrition service, hailing a cab and paying the Examination Survey. The problem is not driver is no longer needed when it is in the diets but rather the laziness that has accomplished through the screen of come from technology and online services, a smartphone. These apps allow for according to Medical Daily. people to hail a ride from their selfThough these new ways for consumers employed drivers. Uber accumulated to indulge in their shopping are convenient, a total of 2 billion rides in 2016, they are making people lazier. There are so according to Forbes. With services many ways for people to sit around and let like pay-per-view and Netflix, going the phones and computers do the work, to a theater or a movie rental store is but consumers need to step back from the no longer needed when trying to find technology and take action in the simpler something to watch. These services ways of life once again. make people lazier because they don’t This editorial reflects the views of have to do these tasks themselves. the Le Journal staff. Twenty-two out of There are services for food 27 staff members voted in favor of this delivery in addition to the shopping editorial. services such as UberEATS and Postmates. Both allow users to order food from a wide range of restaurants through their apps and it will be delivered to them. Postmates even allows people to order non-food items for delivery, which is just another example of people not needing to leave the house.
rom Uber to Postmates to Amazon, the convenience of the world on demand is almost too good to be true. However, the line between convenience and laziness must be established in this day and age. The growth of online services has made those who use them less active and more lazy. The holidays are right around the corner, which means the amount of people shopping will surge. But instead of hitting the shopping malls, the majority of Americans head to the web for their purchases. Eight out of 10 Americans shop online today compared to only 22 percent in 2000, according to a study done by the Pew Research Center. This significant increase in online shopping is due to the growth of e-commerce companies such as Amazon and the emergence of smartphones, where consumers can buy anything they want no matter the location. Last year, 44 percent of smartphone users made purchases on their phones, according to a survey reported by The Wall Street Journal. In the same survey, it is reported that shoppers make 51 percent of their purchases online. This change in the way people shop has a substantial effect on the retail world. The simplicity of online shopping causes people to drift away from taking the time to shop in stores, because
YOU TOLD US...
79%
*According to a survey of 125 students.
of people would rather take the time to walk somewhere instead of call an Uber.
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74% of people would rather shop in a store instead of online.
59% of people would rather watch a movie on Netflix than go to the movies.
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(Illustrations by Vecteezy and Molly Conway)
OPINION
Marvel’s LGBTQ Marketing is A Lie DISNEY DIVERSITY Disney show “Andi Mack,” was the first Disney show ever to have an openly gay character. It shows the character’s struggle of being gay while dealing with the hassles of middle school. (Photo from MCT Campus)
without including any allusion to the fact feels like false advertising. On top of falsely advertising Valkyrie as bisexual to fans, the media took the story and twisted the facts to make it seem like Valkyrie was the very first LGBTQ character Marvel has had. Within days of Thompson’s BY REAGAN AMATO announcement hundreds of articles were REPORTER published that mentioned Marvel’s “first LGBTQ character.” This headline is completely false. For years Marvel has included While they haven’t had an openly gay characters who are members of the character in their movies before, Marvel LGBTQ community, which makes the has had gay and lesbian characters in use of Valkyrie from Thor: Ragnarok numerous comics and television shows as a marketing technique feel wrong. for years. This is emphasized by the fact that the Valkyrie’s character has been openly movie gave no hint to the character’s confirmed as bisexual since 2013, with sexuality. Not only does the inclusion the first mention of her girlfriend, Dr. of an bisexual character as a publicity stunt feel like false advertising, but is also Annabelle Riggs, in the Marvel comic series. Beyond Valkyrie, Marvel has disheartening. historically made a point of including Prior to the release of the film, members of the LGBTQ community Valkyrie actress, Tessa Thompson, tweeted that she played her character as in their television shows. They have bisexual. However, it doesn’t make sense written parts for a lesbian couple in their show “Jessica Jones,” a gay super human to come out with an openly bisexual in “Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.,” Debrii, a character without expressing her lesbian character in Marvel’s show “New bisexuality, especially if it is marketed Warriors,” and more. Therefore, the use as such to the fan base. Yes, a character of Valkyrie’s sexuality as a marketing tool can be bisexual without having scenes is redundant, especially considering the that highlight their sexuality, but to say that your character is played as bisexual lack of screen time Valkyrie’s bisexuality
The announcement of “Marvel’s first LGBTQ character” left fans excited, but is only a disappointing marketing tool.
MODERN FAMILY The hit reality show “Modern Family” stars a gay couple (Eric Stonestreet and Jesse Tyler Ferguson) and depicts their life raising a young daughter. (Photo from MCT Campus)
gets.
The fact that Marvel has had so many characters who identify as gay, lesbian or bisexual further serves to prove that the mention of her sexuality in the media doesn’t make sense. For Marvel, the inclusion of members of the LGBTQ characters is not a rarity or unexpected, in fact, it’s quite the opposite. If Marvel wanted Valkyrie to be a bisexual character on and off the screen they could have written her that way. Instead, Thompson came out with a statement that has nothing to do with the film or even the character she plays. Which begs the question: Why? Why should it matter if Valkyrie is played as bisexual or not? Instead of focusing on the “first LGBTQ Marvel character,” people should focus on the movie itself. The fact that it has a bisexual character shouldn’t be a factor in whether people watch or enjoy the film. The fact that a lie made headlines and was accepted unquestioned simply because a member of the LGBTQ community was going to be included perpetuates the idea that this is a rarity. The sooner society begins to accept members of the LGBTQ community in film without acting as if it was an improbable phenomena the sooner it can become normal.
Fed Up With Sexual Assault? #MeToo. Multiple recent allegations out public figures in all industries. BY MADISEN HANE CO-PHOTO EDITOR
Beloved actors, famous comedians and incumbent politicians alike have been accused of sexual misconduct in many forms over the past few months leaving many to speculate whose name will appear next in the headline of a major exposé. It seems like one day cannot go by without a major news source reporting another explicit scandal. With so many individuals coming forward to tell their stories, it seems that this could prove to be a watershed moment to change how abuse is treated by society. However, the reality remains that it is up to society to actively seek out opportunities to help victims and to root out abuse at
its sources if this conversation about misconduct is to make its mark on history. Arguably this series of events began with the accusations brought against film producer Harvey Weinstein in early November. Dozens of women in Hollywood came forward to explain instances of inappropriate interactions which had occurred over decades. After Thanksgiving, it was revealed that NBC fired Today Show host and family name Matt Lauer was fired amidst the coming forward of one of Lauer’s colleagues about his actions in the workplace. Emmy award winning comedian Louis C.K. publicly conceded to the accusations of two fellow comedians about his actions in a hotel room against them years ago. Former Chief Justice of the Alabama Supreme Court and Senate candidate Roy Moore was accused of sexual
mistreatment of a girl who was just 14-years-old at the time of their interactions in 1979 when he was 32-years-old serving as an assistant district attorney. As these stories trended, so did social media conversations such as the #MeToo. Twitter, Facebook and Instagram became outlets for people of all backgrounds to share their experiences of sexual assault and abuse and to express solidarity with the people who came forward against these men. These exposés have made it abundantly clear that sexual abuse runs deep through industries such as Hollywood, the media and in politics. The margin for individuals in power to abuse subordinate colleagues is far too large. Luckily, the brave voices who have come forward have began a new trend towards change. In this age of information, companies must fire the accused in order to protect their integrity in the
public eye. The vast majority of victims of sexual abuse were not abused by an Academy Award winning actor. Most are abused by friends, family, partners or co-workers. According to the Huffington Post, every 98 seconds an American is sexually assaulted. However, Americans should take solace in this trend of increasing reports of abuse among celebrities and public figures. Having uncomfortable conversations and questioning who has the authority to prevent assault is what will create progress going forward. Perhaps there is a silver lining to all these disturbing allegations. The New York Times reported that upwards of 22,000 women have contacted local officials about interest in running for office since the election in 2016, while only 1,000 had previously indicated interest.
Faces of the Accused (photos from MCT Campus)
Louis C.K.
Harvey Weinstein
Matt Lauer
Rep. John Conyers
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OPINION
Morning Fitness Put to the Test (Illustrations by Emma Miller and Vecteezy)
Attending workout classes offered before school helps add fitness to busy schedules and primes brain for a focused day. BY EMMA MILLER REPORTER
When I discovered fitness classes were offered before school, my initial reaction was excitement for the low expense opportunity to get in better shape. However, my enthusiasm was replaced by concern about the amount of sleep I would lose to the 7 a.m. classes. And, I was simply too busy to workout in the morning. Recently however, I was blessed with the gift of determination and decided to partake the workout classes before school. At night, I had to make an effort to get my homework done as soon as I could, without taking breaks to go online and watch Netflix. 10 p.m. became my strict “wind down” time. Whatever I was working on would have to wait for the next day and I would be in bed by 10:30 p.m.
Having a strict time for putting my homework and screens away helped me get better sleep and feel prepared to exercise in the morning. The first class I attended on my quest to find time for fitness was yoga. My previous yoga experience was limited, but I was able to hold most of the poses and my focus became very inward instead of comparing my flexibility to others around me. Having a professional yoga instructor teach the class is valuable because they can assist with form and reduce the chance of injury. Yoga was very peaceful in the library and the dim lights helped improve my sense of peace and concentration. Towards the end of the session, I could feel that my muscles had exerted most of their energy and my limbs started to shake. After the class, my mind felt more alert because I had been awake longer than usual for a school morning and the stretches gave me a greater sense of clarity and determination to start day. The next day I woke up and my whole body was extremely sore, but my fatigued muscles were a reminder of my hard work.
I rested for the next two days to intervals made each set achievable. prepare myself for Fusion Friday. I Strength and conditioning was the was nervous for the Fusion Fitness perfect combination of difficulty, class held in the gym because I was exercises, and music to make it a still a little sore and a large group of fun, productive start to the day. students was there. This day was by I think most students would be far the most difficult. I did not arrive capable of completing a strength and early enough, so I had to use a small conditioning session, and I would foam square instead of a yoga mat. expect to see great improvement in The foam did not work well for some my strength and endurance after of the exercises. I was also slipping attending more of these classes. around because I wore shoes with Attending these workout classes no traction. The workout reminded before school was not life changing, me of high intensity interval but I did find it helpful to exercise in training, and it was both physically the morning and not have to worry and mentally challenging. High about fitting a workout into my busy energy and intensity was sustained evenings. Waking up early and being throughout the entire class. Better active in the morning also primed hydration and a small breakfast my brain to conquer the day ahead. I before would have made the session recommend looking into the workout easier. I was impressed with the classes before school to students effectiveness of the difficult session who want to improve their fitness and again felt more alert and focused and cannot find time after school to all day. workout. I attended strength and START OFF 2018 WELL conditioning Monday of the JANUARY next week. The class had a smaller group of students 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 and was easier for me than 7 a.m. Fusion Friday. Fairly stationary = Strength & = 7 a.m. Yoga Conditioning exercises and 30 second
Holiday Consumerism Overshadows the Holidays BLACK FRIDAY BLACK FRIDAY
by the numbers
Americans 174 million made purchases in stores or online over the holiday weekend.
On the same night spent being grateful for what they already have, Americans rush to stores to buy more things. BY CATHERINE FRERKER SPORTS EDITOR
Holidays have a lot of benefits. They bring families together, give needed breaks from school and work and stimulate the economy. However, holiday spending often overshadows the holidays themselves. Black Friday sales, commercialized Christmas traditions and excessive Americans spending are ingrained in the holiday season, but people million voted should take a step back and consider how much is really in the 2016 necessary. presidential For many big retailers such as Target, Walmart and (according to businessinsider.com) election Best Buy, Black Friday shopping begins on Thanksgiving Day. Wanting to find good prices when buying gifts for family and friends is perfectly fine, but the sales occurring billion the day of or days directly after Thanksgiving is a bit spent over much. The enthusiasm some people show for Black Friday Thanksgiving shopping is over the top. Last year, people camped out at (according to nrf.com) weekend Best Buy in Kansas City as early as Wednesday afternoon, more than 24 hours before the store opened Thanksgiving night, according to Fox 4 News. this money could... And since 2006, 10 deaths and 105 injuries happened as a result of Black Friday shopping, according to blackfridaydeathcount.com. Forty percent of all holiday spending occurs feed all hungry children in the Thanksgiving weekend, according to Fox Business. These world for almost 2 years events completely overshadow the feelings of gratefulness (according to worldhunger.org) and love that Thanksgiving is supposed to inspire. (according to forbes.com)
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Americans need to realize how hypocritical it is to celebrate their blessings and be grateful for what they have and then turn around and spend billions of dollars. The Christmas season has become less about giving and more about receiving. People accept gifts, take vacations, watch Nutcracker ballets and consume the 1.76 billion candy canes produced every year, according to NBC News. There’s nothing bad about any of this, but a problem arises when Christmas is used as justification to spend or consume far more than necessary. The Christmas season causes almost half of Americans to feel financial stress, according to the Pew Research Center. This should not be happening in a holiday dedicated to love and generosity. In fact, 36 percent feel “stressed out,” 23 percent feel “wasteful,” and only 45 percent said they are looking forward a lot to giving and receiving gifts. These statistics show that the holiday emphasis on spending quality time with family is often overshadowed by pressure to buy gifts for everyone in one’s life, which is completely unnecessary. While December is the biggest month for charitable donations— over 31 percent of giving occurs in November according to Charity Navigator—people could still be doing more. Holiday sales in the United States are greater than the Gross Domestic Products of 181 countries, according to Star News. People should use more of their money supporting charitable causes and less on unnecessary consumption. The holidays are a great time for family and fun, and have a positive impact on society and happiness. However, people should be more aware of their spending and not use the rush of consumerism to satisfy greed.
OPINION
Who Runs the World? Sports. The domination of sports in society is taking over aspects of American culture in negative ways. BY MOLLY CONWAY REPORTER (Photo by MCT Campus)
Resettlement of Refugees is an Unknown to the United States Refugees find themselves in limbo under new administration. BY KAITLIN JONES FEATURES EDITOR
Since March 2011, conflict has devastated Syria and the Middle East, creating the largest refugee crisis of the time. Despite living in an age of mass media coverage, the crisis came to the forefront of the news just over a year ago when countries were bombarded with refugees at their borders. Many countries declined to accept refugees due to existing racial tensions and a lack of resources and funding. The United States was one of the first to address this under former President Barack Obama by accepting 10,000 Syrian refugees in 2016 offering legal status to all, a record that broke previous policies, according to the New York Times. With the anti-immigration and nationalistic policies of the new presidency, the past refugee acceptance rates in the United States have been reduced from 110,000 immigrants to 50,000 in the past year, with an indefinite ban on Syrian refugees. As a once global superpower, this is exactly what the United States should not be doing. Over 5 million refugees are still without a home, according to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. Several Middle Eastern countries like Turkey have accepted over 2 million refugees and Lebanon has accepted over 1 million refugees, according to the Huffington Post. The United States has accepted only 22,000 refugees in the past year, according to the U.S. Department of State. Even if the United States accepted another 10,000, it couldn’t compare to others. Out of all of the refugees accepted across the globe, America only makes up for 14 percent, according to the DOS. The burden this crisis has put on other countries is unlikely to cease soon. Millions of refugees are still displaced in crowded camps, lacking
necessities. Many have died traveling to safety. America should be leading the charge in supporting global peace and safety, which it agreed to do when it joined the United Nations in 1945. America should avoid politicizing the refugee crisis. It should not be just policy decided by legislature. It should be a reflex to help those in need. As much as the United States rebukes terrorism, the lack of aid towards refugees creates a sense of desperation that can lead young migrants to radicalization. America should spend more time having faith in the billions of dollars invested in security than worry about the intentions of those pleading for help. America has been a melting pot for centuries and it would be ridiculous to exclude people due to where they come from. In regards to the recent New York City attack, a threat can come from anywhere. The man that caused the terror wasn’t an illegal immigrant or a refugee but someone who won the immigration lottery. Refugees have caused zero terrorist attacks from countries on President Trump’s recent travel ban since the establishment of the Refugee Act of 1980, according to the CATO Institute for Constitutional Studies. There is also a 0.00003 percent chance of an American being attacked by a refugee, according to the CATO institute. The United States has one of the hardest vetting processes for legal status, let alone for refugee resettlement. America is struggling to find its place within this crisis. But, it has been over five years since the conflict started. It’s time for the United States. to set an example. America has the resources to take in a larger amount of refugees. Several local programs exist like Della Lamb and KC for Refugees. Assisting these organizations helps bridge the divide between animosity and acceptance of refugees. If the United States doesn’t help this crisis it disregards the standards it has previously followed. The idea of justice for all is unattainable if the problem continues to be avoided.
Thursday night practice, Friday night game, afternoon games Saturday, watching ESPN Saturday night, Sunday evening football...is there time for anything else? From packing children’s lives with practices and games day after day, to Christmases spent watching football, no matter the circumstances people always find themselves gravitating towards sports. In today’s culture, parents find themselves willing to spend as much money as they need to for their children to play on the “most elite” sports teams. The average family spends $2,292 per year on sports, according to research done by Utah State University. Often times kids in today’s society view sports as a higher priority than school. Children who participate in competitive sports programs often miss school for out of town tournaments and games. Although parents invest in their children’s education, they also invest for their children to compete with elite sports teams. Families spend as much as 10 percent of their income on sports, between league fees, equipment, camps, training and travel, according to the USU study. For many families of students on extracurricular competitive teams, there is no problem with missing school in order to compete in their athletic event. Beginning at a young age, playing for a competitive sports team usually entails multiple practices a week. Rather than coming home and relaxing after an extensive day of school, kids rush back out of the house to go to practice. Fifty-seven percent of children ages 6-17 are involved in at least one after school extracurricular activity on a regular basis, according to a report released from the U.S. Census Bureau. In Kansas City, professional sports teams influence the city through their energizing environments. In 2015 following the Royals’ World Series win, Kansas City was known for their team’s unforgettable postseason ride. From fountain water dyed blue to the site of endless World Series shirts worn, everything throughout the city screamed Royals. The domination of today’s sports culture yields unbelieveable effects like schools being cancelled and over 800,000 people attending a victory parade for the Royals. Each week an average of 23.7 million people spend their Sunday cuddled up on the couch watching Sunday night football, according to USA today. Football Sunday is completely understandable, but it begins to cross the line when four NFL games are played on Christmas Eve and two on Christmas Day. The idea that sports have to be tied into every aspect of Americans’ lives in some way is absurd. Holidays are a time for people to reunite and spend time with their extended families and enjoy the holiday spirit, not a time to watch football. People in today’s society need to take a step back from their sports driven lives and put more emphasis on academics and spending more time with their families and friends. Although there is nothing wrong with watching football every Sunday or competing in a competitive sports program, today’s culture is pushing the limits a little too far.
(Illustration by Reagan Amato)
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Favorite Brands and Stores
Home Address
TRA
Bank Account Information
Passwords & Logins
Online Searches Credit Card Number
Birth Date Social Security Number
Current Location
YOUR PUBLIC DATA
RANSACTIONS The surge in online consumerism has contributed to the adjustment of marketing strategies and led to ads targeted towards individual customer’s information. This regularly collected data is based upon a consumer’s behavior on the Internet. BY CO-PHOTO EDITOR PAIGE RITTER AND A&E EDITOR TAYLOR PITZL
ith each like on social media, random Google search, online purchase, phone call and any other daily technology use, data is gathered and formed in vast and unforeseen amounts about individuals. The rise in Big Data, data sets collected from individuals’ behaviors online that are so large and complex that traditional software applications can’t handle it, has sparked advancements in banking, education, healthcare, manufacturing as well as retail, according to statistics teacher Mac McGory. As consumers’ habits and priorities shift towards online shopping, companies are modifying their marketing and services with the help of Big Data to adjust to the growing world of online consumerism. BIG DATA AND ONLINE CONSUMERISM The “information age” is characterized by the shift from an economy based on traditional industry brought on by the Industrial Revolution to an economy based on information computerization. This has transformed retail into an expansive world in which consumers have the ability to purchase items anywhere, anytime. Nearly a third of consumers in 2016 reported shopping online at least once a week, according to The 2016 Future of Retail Report from Walker Sands Communications. “What is new about Big Data is the ability to manage large data sets. Storage has become cheaper and companies have become better at collecting that data,” McGory said. “Now huge data sets are collected from people hitting web sites, both on computers and mobile devices.” Whenever technology is used, information is collected and stored in complex database systems. The computing process of data mining, discovering patterns in large data sets, allows companies to gather information on consumer habits. The information can then be used by data-based marketing companies like Acxiom to target consumers with specific ads and coupons
based on where and how audiences are most likely to spend their money. “No one watches commercials on TV anymore, so data mining online is the major way the big companies pay for to spy and target you with specific advertising,” Director of Technology Jason Ketter said. “I swing both ways on this. It’s uncool that Home Depot knows me better then my mom, but it’s nice that I see exactly what I’m interested in when I’m on Facebook.” With a 12.9 percent increase from 2015, 122.9 billion dollars were spent online during the 2016 holiday season, according to the National Retail Federation. Acxiom advertised consumer data collections to retail companies specific for holiday shopping in 2017. Specific targeted audiences included “department store moms” and “holiday travel.” For the concert, sports and shows package Acxiom advertised their ability to help retailers “tap into consumers who have bought tickets as well as their method of purchase.” “Benefits [of Big Data] include better service and cost saving,” McGory said. “UPS and FEDEX, for example, tracked their drivers routes and packages delivered and picked up and matched those routes with online mapping. They were able to reroute drivers to make the routes more efficient and saving many miles of truck traffic.” Targeted advertising is a new way for markets to try and effectively engage their audience. Google earns 95 percent of its revenue from online advertising, while the click-rate of online advertisements is only 0.1 percent, according to the online optimization company Invesp. With targeted advertising, marketers are able to more effectively advertise to customers based on their collection of Big Data. “One major use of Big Data is by retail businesses who are able to target consumers for ads and coupons to drive more potential and repeat customers to their stores and/or sites,” McGory said. Story continued on page 16...
COVER STORY
Kirk Bray’s previous work as a computer programmer leads him to believe that Amazon Key’s benefits outway its risks. “I think it is probably going to be even more secure than regular keys which are of course are easily picked. However, there are always risks,” Bray said. “I bought Cyber security is clothes from Nasty a rising concern as Gal for 50 percent off. consumers increasingly I bought them online conduct their business for Black Friday because online. More than 50 In-Store shopping is so percent of American aggressive and not adults have their worth it.” personal information Senior Loulya Alabed accessed by hackers each Luxury Daily. year, according to Harvard “I can’t drive so normally I shop online,” Business Review. Personal information is more junior Sade-Joy Dugbo said. “I have Amazon accessible now than ever before because of the Prime so I get it right away.” amount of people using the internet for personal Amazon has announced their new means. Consumers can fall victim to hacking delivery service Amazon “Key” for Prime and identity theft from exposing personal account holders. Delivery with the “Key” information online. means that during a designated four-hour “There is very little privacy online,” Ketter time block, Amazon delivery personnel will said. “It’s the information superhighway and is as arrive at the customer’s home and if no one is home, Amazon’s installed lock will private as a highway.” Hackers can also gain access to personal automatically unlock. The driver information through the use of public unsecured will then place the package “I decided inside the customer’s home. Wi-Fi networks. By gaining access through the to go [Back Friday server, hackers can monitor the connected device The customer is able to shopping] so I could and steal personal information from the user. watch on his or her phone get the Christmas through surveillance video This information can then be used to steal the presents right there user’s identity and credit cards, according to as the delivery takes place. instead of waiting Harvard Business review. By not leaving packages for them.” One of the most common ways hackers gain outside customers’ homes, Freshman Lia Concannon access to personal accounts and information is the “Key” is designed to because internet users often use weak passwords improve As consumers are able to shop at any time and use the customers’ delivery or place on their laptops and phones, some brick same ones satisfaction, according to and mortar stores have been unable to adapt to across different Amazon. Test runs of the the online market. This year has set a record pace service are beginning in accounts. If a for the number of retail stores closing, according hacker gains San Francisco, California to the Wall Street Journal. Online businesses like access to one in 2018. Amazon show customers everything available and compare products, virtually guaranteeing SECURITY customer satisfaction. “We went Amazon Key’s lock Customer satisfaction standards have risen to Bath and Body and camera are accessible with online shopping. The end-to-end experience, online through the Works [on Black not just the product itself is now important. Free Friday] and I could customer’s Amazon Prime shipping is a top priority for 88 percent of online not get out of the account, so security is a shoppers with one-day shipping and free returns building. It was concern. If a hacker gains close behind, according to FRR. Companies now crazy.” access to the account, spend 29 percent of their capital on fulfillment they can theoretically solutions such as transportation, logistics and also access the lock and Senior Gillian Cruz order and return management, according to account he the camera. Latin teacher can then use that information to access other accounts. It also becomes an issue if a hacker STUDENT SHOPPING HABITS breaches the database of a website that the consumer has an account with and finds the password, he can use that information to also 10.6% TARGET & WALMART access other accounts. “In general, make sure the website is always 24.2% BOUTIQUES & OFF-SALE RETAILERS secure with https. before the url,” Bray said. “You should also have a anti-virus software running if you’re on PC to make sure the computer itself is 26.7% ONLINE not compromised.” A big risk for consumers stems from 38.5% DEPARTMENT STORES purchasing goods online which requires them of 161 responses to student survey to enter their credit information. Fraudulent ...Story continued from page 15
The availability to shop wherever someone has internet access and the appearance of ads relevant to shoppers has created both positive and negative side effects. Theology teacher Paul Kramschuster sees the monotonous consumerism of online shopping negatively affecting people’s awareness and apathy. However, he recognizes the benefit of convenience and service given to the consumer from targeted ads. “Whether or not you buy something, the constant scrolling and lusting after material objects is becoming habitual. I see it making us more focused on ourselves and indifferent to others,” Kramschuster said. “However, with Amazon being able to alert me and show me things related to past purchases is very convenient and broadens my knowledge of what’s out there.”
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or insecure websites can scam customers into entering their credit information. PayPal is one service that aims to reduce the consumer’s risk of her credit card information being stolen. The consumer sets up a PayPal account with her credit information and then uses her account to purchase goods online, so that she does not need to share their information with individual websites. Amazon has a similar policy. The consumer enters her information into their account and can purchase items without having to reveal it to individual companies. Although using services such as Amazon and PayPal may reduce the risk of losing information to scams, they do not completely protect consumers. Databases from websites are also at risk for cyber attacks. “If they allow access to use your bank account for purchases it is just the same as using another form of payment,” Bray said. Consumers’ information can be stolen from databases. It takes an average of 205 days
Online consumerism has infiltrated food delivery as well. Postmates is a food delivery service that will pick up food from restaurants that don’t offer delivery and deliver it to the customer. The customer can select their order “I went online or on the app and shopping on wait for the food to arrive. Black Friday and in This allows the customer to Bath and Body Works stay in the comfort of their it was so crazy we home instead of driving to couldn’t get pick the food up. out.” Amazon has grown Junior Sade-Joy Dugbo to be an economic powerhouse from when it was founded in have had to adapt. One of the most clear effects of 1994. The online retailer offers many different Amazon and online consumerism on established types of products and services from books to chains was buyout of Whole Foods which was sports equipment to clothes. With an Amazon finalized Aug. 28. Amazon increased the number Prime account which costs 99 dollars a year, of shoppers to the stores by as much as 25 percent members get free two-day shipping on Prime by cutting prices and offering discounts for Prime eligible items, along with access to eBooks, members according to Bloomberg. music, TV shows and movies. Forty-six percent Big-box stores have had to increase online of U.S. households have an Amazon Prime sales and reduce brick-and-mortar stores account, according to CNN. This contributes to in reaction to the uptick in online-focused their domination of the online marketplace and consumers. The Limited closed all 250 of its stores stifling of competitors. in January shifting focus to their online sales. Amazon draws customers “Online consumerism is eliminating small “I went to by offering discounted prices, businesses in the retail industry,” Conaghan said. boutiques at variety and the luxury of Over the past decade, the rise of the internet Town Center on having the products delivered has changed the way Americans spend money. Black Friday because to their houses. Fifty-one Powerhouses such as Amazon have controlled the I was able to go percent of people now prefer market, older corporations have had to modify with my mom.” to shop online, according to BigCommerce. Freshman Mattie their business practices to survive and new online based startups such as Postmates have emerged. Sophomore Caroline Knopke Mills likes to shop on Amazon The private transactions which online because it is easy to use and she can shop from consumers take part in are never private. As the for organizations to detect a breach in security, her home. online market expands, so does the personal according to IT Governance. From May to July, “Amazon can get you almost anything and Equifax, one of three major credit reporting can get it to you with little time at all,” Mills said. information on individuals available to anyone. The more one shops, the bigger their data businesses, was breached, leaving 143 million With the rise of online consumerism and becomes. customers vulnerable to attack, according the Amazon’s domination over this industry, to Forbes. The breach exposed millions of customers’ Social Security numbers, addresses, names and credit card information. The Equifax breach is just one example demonstrating how cyber security will become an increasing issue as online transfer of personal information becomes increasingly more common.
ECONOMIC The rise of online consumerism has shaken up the economy. From the rise of Amazon to new startups such as Postmates, consumers are continuing to look online to further fulfil their needs. Businesses have had to adapt to these changes or risk being left behind. This holiday season will be the first time that consumers spend more online than in the store, according to the Deloitte annual holiday retail survey. The economy has changed and will continue to change because of the ever more connected population. “In my opinion, in 2017 people tend to spend more money in stores, but in the next three years that trend will reverse, and most shopping will be done online,” Personal Economics teacher Dennis Conaghan said.
small businesses have had to fight harder to survive. Forty-six percent of small businesses do not have a website, according to BigCommerce. Companies absence in the online market prevents them from reaching a larger pool of customers. “The mom-and-pop stores are struggling economically to survive,” Conaghan said. Big corporations have also been affected and Bitcoin is an experimental digital currency.
Payments are made through e-mail-like transactions between users.
The value of one bitcoin reached the value of $10,000 Nov. 29.
Bitcoin payments can be made from user to user, cutting out a middleman such as a bank.
WHAT TO KNOW: BITCOIN
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STAR FLEET Both Middletons have Star Trek costumes that they wore to express the mutual love for the franchise on Halloween. It was memorialized in the 2007 yearbook. (Photo from Le Flambeau)
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VE LONG AND PROSPER
Outside of work, the Middletons share a common affinity for science fiction movies and television shows, particularly of which in Star Trek. “We’re just really nerdy. We like to go see Star Wars movies and Star Trek,” Elizabeth said. “If we could still fit into them, we’d probably wear our Star Trek costumes that we both have.” In their years of service for Sion, both Middletons have shown avid support for the school and have put in lots of pride and hard work into their jobs. “They treated each of us like their own Mathematics Curriculum Coordinator Reynold Middleton and Student daughter. They were always there to help during Records/Learning Management Systems Coordinator Elizabeth Middleton and after class,” alumna Brelahn Wyatt said. “I also played volleyball and ran track and continuously maintain a healthy balance between work and home life. they were at so many of our meets and games BY MEG TRAVIS Sion since 1986. that you could tell they were investing in us as NEWS EDITOR “I had Mrs. Middleton for an honors people and not just as students.” chemistry class and I remember it very well ome love stories start in the This consistent support for the school and her being a very clear teacher,” alumna and and its students has paid off in their positive twisting line of a local coffee shop. Assistant Director of High School Admissions Others start at the discovery of a reputation, even spawning a unique cheer in Rachel Paradise said. “She was definitely one mutual love over New York Times their name. of the best teachers that I had. I remember bestsellers at the neighborhood bookstore, “It is a little known fact that the thinking she was the smartest person and or with that across-the-room glance of Middletons have their own cheer,” Assistant she’s still [one] of the smartest people in the helpless affection between former high school Principal for Student Life Fran Koehler said. building.” sweethearts. For a select two, this love story “I was at a Sion vs STA game one year and STA Middleton began working at Sion in 1999 began with a TI-81 calculator, symbolic of an was winning. [They] started chanting ‘this is and the two have been co-workers ever since. affinity for academics and mathematics and an our house’ and our girls chanted back ‘we’ve got However, they don’t get to see ode to where it all began. the Middletons!’ It was hilarious because STA each other much throughout It is the mutual love of all obviously didn’t know what that meant.” the work day due to their things scholastic and nerdy that In the classroom, both Middletons conflicting schedules. keeps Mathematics Curriculum have proven their aptitude for teaching, and “We don’t come and Coordinator Reynold Middleton continue to exhibit a hardworking nature go at the same time, and his wife, Student Records/ both in and out of the classroom. especially during Learning Management Systems “What I hear from the students cross country Coordinator Elizabeth is that they are good teachers but season. I’m Middleton, close and fuels tough,” Koehler said. “They are here their respective passions for very professional and obviously teaching. love what they do to be at Sion “We met in 1990 or for as long as they have been 1991, I can’t remember. It here.” was when Texas Instruments In terms of their teaching came out with their first styles, both Middletons tend to graphing calculator, the TI-81,” adopt a rigorous curriculum, Middleton said. “Nobody knew with there even being the how to use a graphing calculator daunting “Double Mid,” DYNAMIC DUO because the technology didn’t infamous for its difficulty upon Reynold and Elizabeth Middleton have been working together for nearly 18 exist, so they taught classes all those who took their classes years. They say they both continue to value hard work and dedication to across the United States for math their jobs and show strong support for Sion, both inside and outside of the simultaneously. and science teachers.” “The ‘double Mid’ used classroom. (Photo by Meg Travis) In this particular class full of to be a thing,” Middleton said. older teachers, it didn’t take long for Middleton way early and I’m here way late,” Middleton “People always thought ‘Oh, I bet you guys are said. “We don’t really see each other during the to find a group of fellow younger teachers at home at dinner talking about making [tests] day either because I’m teaching six classes and that he could converse with during the weekly the hardest.’ We didn’t really do it on purpose.” during fourth hour I go and eat and come back, classes. Among the people in this group was Overall, though, they make the work hard so I don’t really see anybody.” Elizabeth. to ensure their students are prepared for college Although this kind of situation may not “One class we got there early and Elizabeth and beyond, according to Wyatt. and another math teacher from Sion were both seem ideal, it has proven to be a healthier way “The ‘Double Mid’ was definitely for the two to maintain a strong separation there and we were the only ones there so we challenging, but overall it prepared me for between work and home life, according to couldn’t really ignore each other,” Middleton balancing my science and math courses in Elizabeth. said. “So the two groups started talking, and college better than any other combination of “It’s probably better that way, because most classes I took in high school,” Wyatt said. after that our groups would always sit together people don’t spend time at work and at home in the class, and that’s actually how we first Like-minded and equally nerdy, the with the person that they’re married to. That met.” Middletons maintain a strong marriage and Before they were brought together through would probably be a really bad idea,” Elizabeth successful careers through a healthy work-andsaid. “In fact, if you ask almost any other people home separation, continuing to put in their fate of the Texas Instruments, Middleton who are married, ‘Would you want to spend all best every day and boldly go where no one has was employed at Northeast High School and day together?’ They would say, ‘uh, no.’” Elizabeth had been teaching science classes at gone before.
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SPORTS IN BRIEF
SWIM FOR THE WIN
MEETING COACH K.
RIVETING RIVALRY
CHEER REGIONALS
Swim and dive had their first competitions of the season. The dive meet was Dec. 1, where the team ended the meet with four divers in the top five. Senior diver Sammie Nesslein, who received second place, had a score over 240 in 6-dive meet, and qualified for State due to her scores on the first meet of the season. “I predict that everyone else will get their State cut too,” Nesslein said. The first swim meet was on Dec. 2. (Photo by Meg Schwartz)
A peek into the career of the new Assistant Varsity Basketball Coach Bree Kisner. Q: When did you start at Sion and what is your favorite part so far? A: “I accepted the varsity assistant position this fall. My favorite part about Sion would have to be the girls. I’ve never met a group of ladies quite like them before. Their energy and pure love for the game is contagious and it’s a great feeling to be a part of such a special group.” (Photo by Lily Drouin) For the full story go to
Varsity Basketball handed St. Teresa’s Academy a defeat Friday Nov. 17 with a home win of 63-51. This game was not the last time they will face the Stars in the coming months. The annual Irish Cup will be played later in the season at Rockhurst High School due to renovations at STA. Senior and co-captain Mariah Lynn, one of the six seniors on the varsity squad, hopes that the team will continue their success. “Us six seniors have gone through a lot in the past three seasons and want this year to be the best,” Lynn said. “So winning this game was just a start to a journey.” (Photo by Paige Ritter)
In the Regional competition Sunday Dec. 3 the cheer team won the UCA competition in their division and competed four different times in Columbia, Missouri. This competition served as an opportunity for the team to have a practice with their National routines before hitting the Nationals floor, according to senior and captain Peyton Dow. “It’s like a puzzle and everyone’s working for the goal of making sure that we all look as good as we can and everyone is helping each other,” Dow said. (Photo by Madisen Hane)
LeJournallive.com
STORM SCHEDULE
ABBY KARL MAKES WAVES 100 YARDS AT A TIME
*DEC 9
Freshman Abby Karl is making a splash on the swimming scene as she works at balancing school and swim.
DANCE TEAM COMPETITION AT LIBERTY HIGH SCHOOL
*DEC 19 VARSITY BASKETBALL VS TRUMAN HIGH SCHOOL HOME GAME 7:00 PM
*JAN 5 DANCE TEAM REGIONAL COMPETITION IN CHICAGO
*JAN 6 VARSITY BASKETBALL VS BLUE VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL AT AQUINAS 10:00 AM
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BY AVA RAWSON REPORTER
Swimming for most is a lighthearted summer pastime with the smell of sunscreen and a constant sunburn. But not for freshman Abby Karl. This popular activity is more than something to do on a lazy summer afternoon but rather a lifestyle that she has dedicated herself to. Karl has 10 2-hour practices a week and has been competitively swimming for five years. This past summer she set a number of records in both individual events and in relays. One such record was for the 50 yard backstroke with a time of 28.96 seconds for the Country Club of Leawood, which won the 2017 Swim Champs. She also has set records in past relays, according to the Country Club Swim Association of Kansas City. She is ranked number one in Missouri for the 100 yard backstroke with a time of 58.06 seconds, leaving her 23rd in the nation according to swimming rank. “It’s a lot of work,” Karl said. “It’s kind of stressful.” She started swimming for the KC Blazers, but Karl is currently swimming for Empire Swim Club with her
greatest accomplishment being her 100 yard backstroke times under the predicted time constraints on future championships. “I love a challenge and the feeling of my arms and legs burning while I’m pushing through the pain knowing that even if I don’t win I still tried my hardest,” Karl said. As for her support system, according to Karl’s mother Christy Karl, after a good meet they all make signs and banners welcoming her home. They celebrate with Karl’s favorite meal, her dad’s salmon, though usually she just wants to sleep. Whether it be her parents driving her to morning practice where Karl has to get up at 4:30 a.m. to swim or the snack bags on the way to practice after school, the time commitment is a large factor that affects everyone in her family. “We just want to be a positive source for her,” Christy said. ”We are always supportive of her because it just takes so much. If you don’t love it you can’t do it.” Karl will swim for the Empire Swim Club this year with the support of her family, coaches and friends like freshman Sophie Henkle. Henkle is astounded with Karl’s constantly happy mood, even on days that have morning practices. “Abby is very dedicated. Henkle said. “She is outgoing, laughs a lot and is always in a good mood.” (Photo submitted by Christy Karl)
SPORTS
Swimming
Dance Looks to Improve With Specialists
Into a New Class
The dance team brought in kick and pom experts to help prepare them for upcoming competitions.
The swim team will be participating in a class with smaller schools.
BY DANI ROTERT REPORTER
BY GRACIE ROBERTS REPORTER
The 2017-18 swim team has moved from a class where their main competitors were large public high schools down to a class where they will be competing against similar small-sized schools. Previously, Missouri State High School Activities Association had only one class for all Missouri schools no matter the size. But now, MSHSAA has made two different classes separating the big and small schools and will have two different State meets, according to Athletic Director Kate Pilgreen. “I think it will be a really big advantage to us,” senior Sarah Schaffer said. “We will be with a smaller class size and possibly win a bunch of trophies.” This new change will provide the swim team with a greater chance of qualifying for State. This would also allow for the girls to double their participation in State due to fairer competition and different qualifying times. “It gets Sion swim team’s name out there,” senior and team captain Ellie Magsamen said. “By being at the top of our class, we can really shine.” In the previous years, the swim team has competed against much larger public schools such as Lee’s Summit West and Park Hill schools. These schools have a team of around 90 girls more or less in which they can draw strong swimmers from and, in turn, typically qualify more for State. No longer will the team have a disadvantage of size, but rather gain an advantage by competing against the same sized schools. “We have qualified a decent amount of people in the past like some of our relays and individuals,” swim coach Kelly Timson said. “We haven’t been able to place at State in the top 16 but for us now I think that will be a thing.”
The dance team flew in two experts, one in pom and one in kick, to help perfect their technique and routine for upcoming competitions. With eight consecutive State titles and National rankings for the past nine years, these experts provide good advice so that the dances are ready to compete, according to sophomore Allie Dierks. “The experts are so helpful in getting us prepared for competitions,” Dierks said. “They know how the judges think and are able to provide really good insight and advice to make sure our dances are ready for competition.” The specialists, Nick Clement of NKC Choreography for kick and Sarah Mikels Harrington of Competitive Edge Dance for pom, worked with the dance team at a four hour practice Oct. 28.
though it was was awkward being Harrington corrected and added in a different space than what they to the choreography for the pom normally practice in, routine that the team according to Rogge, the is performing at practice consisted of Nationals in January “Both of [the and the upcoming specialists] provide us Liberty competition with really great exercises Dec. 9. Clement and condition activities only came to watch to boost our technique the pom practice and endurance,” senior because he is friends captain Mary Evans said. with Harrington. “They push us really hard However, he worked and we are a better team with the team on because of it.” kick technique After working with during a practice in Clement on kick for the September. past three years, this was “If someone the first time that dance new comes in and team brought in an expert says you need to did SMILES ALL AROUND During the basketball for pom. This year they this, you think ‘Oh game, junior Kristen Rogge added Harrington who I’ve never thought performs the pom National is a friend of Clement to about that before,’” routine for the first time. give them an advantage junior Kristen (Photo by Paige Ritter) going into nationals, Rogge said. according to sophomore Because of Brie Bowes. The Monster Mash dance put on “Hopefully, they will give us an by student ambassadors for middle extra boost into our competitions schoolers, the team was forced to coming up,” Bowes said, “Especially move their October practice with helping us make finals for pom at Clement and Harrington to the nationals.” grade school’s gym. However, even
Rival Game Brings High Energy to the Court The basketball team beat rival St. Teresa’s Academy in two out of three games at home Nov. 17. BY LILY DROUIN AND ANA PENDERGAST REPORTERS
The basketball team’s season opener at home against rival school St. Teresa’s Academy ended in a win for two of three teams Nov. 17. The freshman team began the night with a 34-33 loss against St. Teresa’s Academy, followed by JV winning 36-24. To end the night, varsity beat the Stars with a score of 63-51. “We were down by 11 at halftime, we came back and took the lead, but we just weren’t able to hang on to it,” freshman coach Chad Lynn said. The newly named ‘Storm Watch’ student section was packed with hippies, the theme for the night. Students wearing Birkenstocks, loose bell bottom pants and tie-dye were cheering on the team. Students also made posters to support the team. “The student section is super fun, my voice by the end of the night is always gone from screaming so much,” junior Chandler Rawson said. To kick off the night, drum line performed to lead the student section in. The cheer team performed their routine at halftime, showcasing multiple pyramids and stunts. Following cheer, the dance team performed their pom routine while the basketball team prepared for the second half of the game. “Performing is insane. Your mind is just on overload. The energy from the crowd makes it so much fun,
especially since it was in front of the STA student section,” junior cheerleader Savannah Childress said. “It just makes you want to hit everything in the routine perfectly.” The varsity team was led by senior co-captains Mariah Lynn, Sarah Totta and Amaya Adams. After winning their first game of the year at home and defeating their rival, the team is looking forward to their season, according to Adams. For six seniors, this was their last game against STA at home. Despite the win, the team still looks to improve. “I think we definitely need to get in shape,” Adams said. “We won, I can’t complain.”
For the full story and photo gallery, check out lejournallive.com TOUGH REACH Junior Mia McLey grabs the ball in a breakaway during the varsity game against St. Teresa’s Academy Nov. 17. (Photo by Paige Ritter)
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FEATURES
STAR OF THE SHOW Sophomore Avery Kuhls will play the lead role of Cinderella in this year’s musical. BY LIZ OLTJEN REPORTER
T
he sweet sound of a lovely melody floods the room as sophomore Avery Kuhls hits note after note during her audition for “Cinderella.” Picturing herself with a green-painted face, Kuhls thinks back to her eighth grade performance as she recites an excerpt from “Shrek the Musical,” when she played Fiona. Though Kuhls dreams of playing any role, she wonders if taking on the lead in the January musical would be possible. “I didn’t think I was going to get a very good part because I’m a sophomore,” Kuhls said. “I wasn’t that nervous because I wasn’t really going for the lead.” Kuhls performed the song “If I Loved You” from the musical “Carousel,” followed by a monologue from “Shrek the Musical,” when she auditioned for “Cinderella” Oct. 3. Kuhls went from playing a minor role as a nun in last year’s musical “Sister Act,” to taking on the lead this year. She is required to rehearse for a few hours everyday after school leading up to the show. Although Kuhls acknowledges the hard work she will face to play Cinderella, she is happy with the result of her audition. “I tried out because I really like singing,” Kuhls said. “When I did it last year, I had a lot of fun, so I decided to do it again.” Kuhls grew up surrounded by family who shares her love for music. Although she always had a passion for singing, Kuhls needed motivation to break out of her comfort zone into acting. Kuhls’ cousin, Cooper Carr, pushed her to better her singing and acting skills through his own musical theatre talents. “I’m so grateful for the times we’ve had together, putting on shows in our grandparent’s living room for our parents to watch, and singing together nonstop,” Carr said. “Seeing Avery develop confidence in her musical talents has been the greatest thrill. She recognized music brought her joy, she realized she was amazing at it, and she worked hard to get where she is today.” At age 12, Kuhls was inspired to overcome her shyness and start singing in her church choir. The environment at St. Peter’s Catholic Church
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FUNNY FACES (above) Kuhls laughs at cast members during vocal warm ups on Nov. 9. (Photo by Liz Oltjen) MAGICAL MUSIC (corner) Kuhls sings “The Sweetest Songs” during play practice Nov. 9. (Photo by Liz Oltjen) ILLUMINATING INDUCTION (right) During the Tri-M induction ceremony Nov. 14, Kuhls read her pledge. (Photo by Molly Conway)
provided a comfortable place for Kuhls to practice singing in front of others. “I started singing in church, and that’s when I got less and less shy,” Kuhls said. St. Peter’s School harbored Kuhls’ introduction to musical theatre. The school required Kuhls, along with all other eighth graders, to audition for their class production of “Shrek the Musical.” After her first musical audition, Kuhls’ natural born talent landed her the lead as Fiona. She accredits her grade school music teacher, Jessie Reimer, for helping her talents flourish. “Avery has an enormous amount of raw talent,” Reimer said. “She just needed a little push to get out and share her talent with others. During her voice lessons we worked on expanding her range, vocal control, how the voice works and building confidence.”
“I wasn’t expecting to get the lead. I was totally surprised.” - sophomore Avery Kuhls After graduating from St. Peter’s, Kuhls decided to utilize her musical talents in high school. Kuhls fell in love with singing at Sion after joining Petit Coeur, the underclassmen choir elective, her freshman year. Kuhls moved into Grand Coeur, the more experienced choir elective, this year. She also recently joined Tri-M Honor Society. Going forward, Kuhls looks forward to learning more from visual and performing arts teacher Elizabeth Mulkey through Tri-M, Grand Coeur and her upcoming lead in Cinderella. Mulkey is confident that Kuhls’ flexible acting style makes her the strongest student to play the part. “Avery is the right fit for the part,” Mulkey said. “Vocally she was right, acting she was right, and she picked up the dancing really quickly.” While Kuhls finds herself asking Mulkey questions, she never passes up on the opportunity to learn from upperclassmen to better her overall performances. She is inspired by junior Tess Prusa’s enthusiasm about theatre. Kuhls knows she can always go to Prusa when she needs advice.
“During the beginning of the show, I was trying to explain to Avery that there’s a definite reason why she got this role,” Prusa said. “She’s very talented. I told her not to focus on the outside pressures, but to do all that she can, and the performance will be amazing.” To prepare for the major role of Cinderella, Kuhls plans on memorizing her lines a few at a time. As she takes every scene and song day by day, Kuhls gets more excited to perform. Her experience with playing a lead role in the past has made Kuhls more comfortable with the idea of playing Cinderella. “I’ll take it scene by scene and keep going over it, asking for help if I need it,” Kuhls said. Although she is nervous to play Cinderella, Kuhls relies on her mom’s unconditional support. When she is hesitant on reaching towards the next step in her musical theatre career, Kuhls knows she can always count on her mom to push her to reach her goals. “I have a lot of confidence in Avery’s abilities. This year before tryouts, I just really encouraged her to go for it,” Kuhls’ mother Catherine Kuhls said. “Just completely go for it. Go for the part of Cinderella. If that’s what you want to do, then go for it.” Kuhls plans on doing musical theatre productions throughout the rest of her time in high school. Although she is unsure of what she wants to pursue professionally, Kuhls sees a career in musical theatre as a possibility. “I don’t in particular know what I want to do when I grow up. I think it [musical theatre] would be really fun. It’s definitely something I could see myself doing,” Kuhls said. As for future musical auditions, Kuhls continues to follow the advice she gives others. “Don’t be nervous with the tryout. Be yourself,” Kuhls said. “If you really want to do it, then do it. Don’t let anything or anyone tell you differently.”
FEATURES
SMILING SOPHOMORE While taking a break from practice, Kuhls laughs at junior castmember Tess Prusa’s jokes on Nov. 9. (Photo by Liz Oltjen)
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John Green All The Way Up John Green’s new book “Turtles All the Way Down” is emotionally charged and enlightening. BY ANA PENDERGAST REPORTER
John Green’s newest book, “Turtles All the Way Down,” is relatable to everyone and explores the seemingly incessant and all-consuming grip of mental illness. Never ending action and a plot twist around every corner keeps the reader’s attention until the end. Aza, a 16-year-old battling mental illness, navigates the tightening grip of her own thoughts and how this affects her relationships. Aza has been battling with mental health issues for five years. When she was younger, Aza constantly doubted that she was real and pushed her nail into her thumb until it bled to assure herself. This only creates new problems. Terrified that she will contract Clostridium difficile, a potentially deadly bacteria, Aza anxiously changes her bandages and checks for infection. Green seamlessly illustrates the effect of mental WORTH THE READ illness through Aza’s internal battles offering a peek into the mind of one suffering from mental “Turtles All The Way Down” can be found on Amazon. illnesses. (Photo by MCT Campus) Aza’s mind isn’t her only battle. Aza is an only child and her dad died when she was young. High school brings many problems and pressures. Her mom constantly worries about her mental health and college, placing even more pressure on Aza. Daisy, her best friend, struggles with money and always feels overshadowed by Aza’s mental
Casey Engel, English Teacher
Favorite Part health. Together the girls must work to not “The realness of [Aza’s] let financial or mental issues affect their convolutions and phobias friendship. and the moments in the Not only is Green able to showcase the restaurant.” hardships of high school romances, but he is able to take the reader’s understanding Favorite Character of mental illness through the eyes of a high Aza’s mom. “As a mom, I school student. Aza wants to be ‘normal’ relate to her struggle to more than anything else. She wants to have figure out how to help her a normal relationship with herself, her best daughter.” friend and most of all with a guy. Green does not shy away from social Riley Weaver, Freshman issues. Each character struggles with money in a different way. Green showcases the stark contrast between Davis, the son of a Favorite Part billionaire who doesn’t want money to define “When Davis and Aza are in the sandpit and looking at his life, and Daisy, who would do anything to the stars.” be rich. Green does a great job of not letting these issues overpower the story. Favorite Character “Turtles All the Way Down” is a great Noah. “He is really sweet. read for any high schooler. With interesting And still loves his dad intertwining story lines and important social even though he was a total aspects, Green’s newest book is important for jerkface.” everyone to read. The story flows well and is easy to follow, however at certain parts of the plots are forgotten in other parts of the story. The ending is frustrating, but that’s to be expected of Green. As an author, Green has never been one to shy away from the power of evoking emotions in his readers, and certainly doesn’t in “Turtles All the Way Down.” The three week New York Times Bestseller can be found online from Amazon or Barnes and Noble for $11.99
Sam Smith is Burning Up The Charts Student Smith’s newest album “The Recommendations Thrill of it All” features a Junior Caroline Garrison and Sophomore Olivia Townsend share their thoughts on Smith’s new album.
Album Rating Garrison Townsend
Favorite Song Townsend “Pray” “He is really reaching out and touching his fans through his music.” Garrison “Pray” “I can personally relate to that song.”
Recommendation Townsend “Definietly! The album is so beautiful. It is really personal and relatable.” Garrison “Yes! I think the album sounds personal. You can really tell he put a lot of time into it.”
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unique soul and spirit that many popular artists fail to achieve. BY ANNIE SCHORGL REPORTER
Three years since the release of his debut album “The Lonely Hour,” Sam Smith released his best album yet “The Thrill of it All” on Nov. 3. After his 2015 top hits including “I’m Not the Only One” and “Stay With Me,” Smith infuses a deeper meaning to “The Thrill of It All,” and talks about many of the struggles he has endured throughout his lifetime. The song “Pray” features Smith opening up about his personal struggles with having faith in God, but continuing to pray through his struggles, hoping there could be a greater power somewhere. This is a problem many people are able to relate to, which appeals to listeners. Another song that relates to Smith’s struggle with spirituality is the song “HIM,” where Smith is having a discussion with God about being gay. In the song, he is in love
with his partner and will be with him no matter what anyone says. As well as the lyrics depicting Smith talking to God, this song sends a message to people disapproving of the LGBTQ+ community saying he can not control who he is in love with. “Burning” discusses recovering from a breakup, and turning to substances in order to avoid dealing with the heartbreak of his break up. This song is relatable because breakups are a thing people commonly go through. There is only one featured artist on the album, up and coming artist Yebba on the track “No Peace.” The sound of the album is considered to be pop with a little R&B sound. Smith uses traditional soul to make the album his own unique style. In many of his songs, he uses a gospel choir which adds spirit and soul into the songs. The album hit number one on iTunes and Billboard 200 just after its release. On iTunes, the album is priced at $11.99. At Target, the price is at about $13.99. It is also available for streaming on Spotify and Apple Music. Along with his album release, Smith will be going on tour in the
United States next summer. The date of Smith’s concert in Kansas City is Aug. 18, 2018 at the Sprint Center. Tickets are currently priced starting at $53 and the most expensive ticket is over $1,000. Smith’s album is one that will be remembered for many years to come. The quality that makes this album special is the use of Smith’s relatable struggles and the unique soul sound. The album makes the listener feel a sense of revival and clarity that is impossible to ignore. Smith brought old sound and combined it with a newer, popular sound.
SUPERB SMITH “The Thrill of it All” album cover (Photo by MCT Campus)
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“Wonder” Inspires “Wonder” depicts a must see journey that encourages everyone to love and live through kindness. BY OLIVIA DOPHEIDE WEB MANAGING EDITOR
LOOKING THROUGH THE EYES OF PICASSO
The Nelson-Atkins’ new exhibit offers an enriching and educational experience, shedding light on art from varying cultures. BY ANNA TOMKA PRINT MANAGING EDITOR
Tucked away in galleries L13-15 lies an exhibit that powerfully depicts Spanish artist Pablo Picasso’s life as a creator. Upon entering, the first captivating pieces hanging on the white walls behind glass display cases are hand-carved, wooden masks of Oceanic and African cultures. Picasso’s creativity was fueled by the intricacy of the masks he saw and inspired his exploration of new forms of art as well as his future works to come. The exhibit provides a unique art experience while showcasing some of Picasso’s finest pieces. The limited-time art exhibit, “Through the Eyes of Picasso,” is located at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art in Kansas City until April 8, 2018. The cost to attend is $18 for adults, $16 for seniors, $10 for students and children 12 and younger are free. The gallery contains a vast array of his works including sculptures, paintings, drawings, pottery and even lithographs. The exhibition proves that Picasso was an artist that could make works of art out of the simplest materials with pieces such as “Lunch on the Grass: Seated Man Resting on Elbow,” a graphite done on cardboard. Picasso defied traditional art in the 20th century with perhaps his most well-known piece, “Les Demoiselles d’Avignon,” a cubist oil painting of five women. Unfortunately, the original resides at the Museum of Modern Art, but a reconstruction is available to admire here in Kansas City. A copy of “Guernica,” one of the most powerful anti-war paintings ever created, is also included in the exhibit and necessary to view. An impressive part of the exhibit is the free tour available with a guide thoroughly explaining pieces to admirers as they take in the progression of
Picasso’s work. The tour INTO HIS EYES This image of is available Wednesday through Friday at 1 p.m. Pablo Picasso’s eyes greets The guides successfully visitors upon educate the public on entering the the contrasting cultures gallery space. featured as well as (Photo by Anna Tomka) what inspired Picasso’s creations such as his love life, animals and his own anxieties. The tour is helpful for any newcomers to the art community or those who are not familiar with Picasso. Though the most important moments of Picasso’s life are explained with a timeline that stretches across one wall, certain aspects of him are overlooked. Unless visitors take the time to acknowledge the descriptions beside the art and the telling quotes from him scattered throughout the exhibit, his thought process is missed. Contrastingly, the gallery did a satisfying job showcasing the changes his artwork underwent throughout his life. Pieces of the periods Blue, African, Cubism and Rose were on display. The final show room pleasantly tied Picasso to KC by including pictures of the artist taken by close friend, photojournalist and KC native David Douglas Duncan. Overall, what made the whole display so fascinating and unique was its inclusion of an extensive variety of work that Picasso made, owned and saw in his lifetime. “Through the Eyes of Picasso” proved to justly showcase the life of one of the most influential artists in the world and is an exhibit that no one can afford to miss.
STRIKE A POSE A reconstruction of Picasso’s first cubism piece titled “Les Demoiselles d’Avignon” hangs near the entrance of the exhibit. (Photo by Anna Tomka)
Auggie Pullman’s first day of school routine is a little different than most. Pulling a space helmet over his head, this fifth grader hides behind his costume. It isn’t just first day jitters, Auggie is hiding a facial deformity in anticipation of his new judgemental peers. “Wonder,” released Nov. 17, is a definite feel-good movie. However, it isn’t an easy journey to see the good in this story. Heartbreaking incidents of bullying add to the emotion already seen in other challenges from the life of a boy who is just a little different. Auggie, played by Jacob Tremblay, endures countless incidents of hatred from peers. These incidents symbolize the real world judgements faced by the whole community of people with deformities and special needs, something rarely focused on in cinema. Tremblay’s superb acting skills force the audience to sympathize with him and involve themselves in the movie. Auggie isn’t the only character that connects with the audience. Auggie’s mother, played by Julia Roberts and one of his main supporters, lives in fear of the central conflict conveyed in this film: ignorant judgements about her son. Her bright charisma brings a sympathetic aura whenever she appears. As her son is bullied more and more, her love and passion for bringing justice to this situation is seen through meticulous crafting of her relatable character. At first glance, Auggie’s situation just seems to be getting worse. However, hearts are lifted when a classmate, Jack played by Noah Jupe, befriends him when he feels most alone. Jack encourages WONDER BOY everyone to choose Jacob Tremblay starred as Auggie kindness amongst Pullman in his second major film. hatred. The whole (Photo from MCT Campus) movie is full of tearjerking moments that restore faith in humanity. Sitting in a theater full of young children reiterates the main message of the movie to the most important audience: kids. “Wonder” shows everyone that children have the power to change how the world thinks. The heartbreaking yet hopeful journey of Auggie Pullman demonstrates to children and adults alike that everybody is the same on the inside. “Wonder” hits on every human emotion as Auggie makes a difference in his world. He tells the audience “Everyone deserves a standing ovation.” DECEMBER 2017
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WHAT TO DO: Winter Break ‘Tis the season of free time. With an extra-long Winter Break this year, check out these ideas to keep busy without the commitment of school. Bake some cookies, watch Try Gals, make some DIY holiday gifts and check out Le Journal’s favorite holiday movies to fill up that extra time off. BY LANIE JONES AND MEG SCHWARTZ PRINT CO-EDITORS-IN-CHIEF
LOCAL ADVENTURES...
CERAMIC CAFE
COOKIE CUTTER CHRISTMAS
Cut-out sugar cookie and icing recipes. (vegan and gluten free alternatives on lejournallive.com)
COOKIE INGREDIENTS: 1 1/2 cups butter, softened 2 cups white sugar 4 eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 5 cups all-purpose flour 2 tsp baking powder 1 tsp salt
DIRECTIONS: 1. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in eggs and vanilla. Stir in the flour, baking powder, and salt. Cover, and chill dough for at least one hour. 2. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Roll out dough on floured surface 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Cut into shapes with cookie cutter. Place cookies 1 inch apart on ungreased cookie sheets. 3. Bake 6 to 8 minutes in preheated oven. Cool completely.
ICING INGREDIENTS: 1 cup confectioners’ sugar 2 tsp milk 2 tsp light corn syrup 1/4 tsp almond extract Food coloring as desired
DIRECTIONS: 1. In a small bowl, stir together confectioners’ sugar and milk until smooth. Beat in corn syrup and almond extract until icing is smooth and glossy. If icing is too thick, add more corn syrup. 2. Divide into separate bowls and add food colorings to each to desired intensity. Decorate cookies with icing and sprinkles as desired.
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Spend time painting ceramic objects for personalized gifts for friends and family. For Christmas gifts to be finished in time, be sure to visit Ceramic Cafe a week or so before, because the ceramics need a few days to dry.
iFLY Looking for an adrenaline rush? Visit iFLY Indoor Skydiving to learn how to “sky-dive” in a large air tunnel. Be sure to sign up for a lesson in advance since there will likely be a holiday rush.
TRY GALS
In this episode of Try Gals, junior Kaitlin Jones and seniors Kelly Nugent, Phylicia Barner-Lewis and Anna Tomka go to Park Place ice skating rink and attempt to perform ice skating tricks. Check it out on LeJournalLive. com.
WINTER BREAK BINGE
Snuggle up with friends or family and unwind from winter finals with some of the Le Journal staffers’ favorite holiday movies.
ESCAPE ROOM
Grab a group of friends and head to one of the many local escape room locations to spend an hour solving clues to “unlock” the room once the mystery is solved. Sign up online in advance to assure an open room.
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PAPER MÂCHÉ BOWL DIRECTIONS:
DIY GIFTS
1. Mix equal parts water and flour to create the Paper-Mâché paste. 2. Blow up a balloon to desired size of bowl. 3. “Paint” some paste onto a strip of newspaper on both sides and paste it to the balloon, starting in the center and working outward towards the sides. 4. Let the layer dry completely. 5. Repeat 6-7 times, depending on necessary sturdiness of the bowl. 6. Pop the balloon and remove the pieces of it from the paper. 7. Sand the edge down to desired hight (optional). 8. Spray paint the inside and outside. *TIP: if the bowl begins to look misshapen or lopsided, allow it to dry the same way it will sit and let gravity do the work.
MATERIALS: -1 balloon -newspaper -paint brush -paper-mâché paste -spray paint -sandpaper (optional)
Looking for a last minute gift for a friend? Follow the simple instructions of these do-it-yourself gifts to give out personalized, handmade presents. (Photos by Lanie Jones and Meg Schwartz)
STRING ART INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Tape the shape being outlined onto the board. 2. Hammer nails along the outline every 1/2 inch and at every point/corner. 3. Remove the paper. 4. Tie one end of the string to a nail on the first letter or starting point. 5. Wind the string tightly around nails in any pattern until entire shape is filled. 6. Tie off the string on the final nail and cut of the excess.
MATERIALS
Wood board Embroidery thread Print-out of desired shape Small nails with flat heads Tape Small hammer
Elf
Rating: 5/5
Buddy the Elf (Will Ferrell) was taken to the North Pole as an infant, but has never been able to fit in. When he sets off to find his father, he is met by a business man, Walter Hobbs (James Caan), the polar opposite of what he expected. (photos from Google Images)
MATERIALS:
VANILLA PEPPERMINT BODY SCRUB DIRECTIONS: 1. Mix together the coconut oil and sugar in a small bowl. 2. Add in the peppermint oil and vanilla extract and stir until the sugar is no longer dry. 3. Add more sugar or coconut oil for desired texture. 4. Transfer into a jar or container and decorate.
The Santa Clause Series Rating: 4.5/5
Scott Calvin (Tim Allen) accidentally kills a man in a Santa suit and begins the process of becoming Santa himself. The series follows the years after his transition to the role of Santa Clause and the struggles faced in that unnatural line of work.
It’s a Wonderful Life
Rating: 3.5/5
George Bailey (James Stewart) wishes that he had never been born, then an angel (Henry Travers) is sent to the earth to make his wish come true. However, he desires to recount this wish after realizing how many lives he had touched.
1 cup sugar 1/2 cup coconut oil 6 drops peppermint essential oil or peppermint extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract jar or container decorations
Home Alone
Rating: 4/5
After being accidentally left by his family, 8-yearold Kevin (Macaulay Culkin) finds himself home alone. Believing his wish for no family has been granted, two con men come to rob the McCallister’s home. Kevin must protect the family home by himself.
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VICTORIES AND FORMALITIES
FLOWER POWER Before making the entrance on the court, senior Eden Griffith dances and jokes with friends. “I was so excited for the STA game,” Griffith said. “I think the student section adds a lot of energy to the games for the players and creates a better game for everyone.” (Picture by Phylicia Barner-Lewis) SPIRIT FINGERS Senior Sarah Totta, zones in on the hoop while the student section wishes her luck on making freethrows. “The constant support from the crowd keeps the energy up throughout the entirety of the game and encourages us to try our best the whole time,” Totta said. (Photo by Phylicia Barner-Lewis)
HER MAJESTY (above) Receiving her Ice Queen crown, senior Maria Rojas smiles at Student Body President Carolyn Dickey. “It made me happy to know that people voted for me and wanted me to win,” Rojas said. “I don’t feel so well-known so I didn’t want to get my hopes high either. It means so much because it was my first and last Winter Formal Dance. My senior year has been the best so far.” (Photo by Meg Travis)
DEDICATED SPIRIT (above) In a wheelchair, senior Jameson Tobin still remains excited in the student section while recovering from a hip surgery. “I just think moments and games like this make some of the best high school memories and I didn’t want to let something stop me from going to one of the senior class’ last big spirited events,” Tobin said. (Photo by Paige Ritter) CHRISTMAS IN JULY JAMS (left) Out on the dance floor, sophomore Erika Sesler dances to Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas is You.” “I think some of the songs were good and others not so good,” Sesler said. “My favorite part was dancing with friends.” (Photo by Kelly Nugent)