LeJournal by Alison Long

Journal

A Publication of Notre Dame de Sion* 10631 Wornall Road*Kansas City, MO 64114 Volume 30, Issue 5 March 2o12

Notre Dame de Sionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Centennial

Service

Tradition

Celebrating

100 Sisterhood

Faith Academics

Community

Track&Field Team Welcomes New Coach

The Excitement behind the Hunger Games Movie

Could your Facebook be Keeping You out of College?

What’s Inside 10

The school celebrates its 100th year.

Obamacare provokes freedom of religion questions.

Music and Art students take a trip to the Windy City.

Workout clothes from LuluLemon are a growing trend.

Teachers flip the classroom and take on a new kind of teaching

Senior Abby McDowell sports a 1960s Sion uniform. (Photo by Ali Swee)

IN EACH ISSUE 3

THE EDITOR’S INK

STAFF EDITORIAL

Now playing

MY LIFE IS AWKWARD

A LAST LOOK

WHAT’S INSIDE PHOTOS BY: Ali Swee, Wikimedia Commons, Taylor Escher, LuluLemon submission and Emily DeCoursey

ON THE COVER COVER DESIGN: Ali Swee COVER INSET PHOTOS BY: Meg Cowan, Lionsgate Publicity, MCT Campus

what’s inside

BY ALI SWEE Editor-in-Chief

or all those not following me on Pinterest, here’s a shocker: I have an obsession with cheesy, inspirational quotes. Flash back to junior year: commonplace journals. I can take this time to formally apologize to my whole 4th hour AP class and Ms. McCabe for my overload of cheesy quotes. Every Friday, no fail, I recited some beyond awkward, yet slightly inspirational quote in my Lilly Pulitzer notebook. It’s embarrassing, honestly. They’re the type of quotes that could be vertically plastered across a picnicked picture. Luckily my dignity is still intact in the fact I’ve never reduced myself to the pink-tinted hued photos with quotes written LiKe tHiS.

Celebrating Our Past, Looking Towards the Future

However, despite the endearing amount of cheesiness my Pinterest board entitled “Inspirational” holds, every time I look at it, I can’t help but smile. There’s quotes about God, happiness, finding yourself, friendship, life and appreciating everything we’ve been blessed with. There’s one quote in particular that always catches my eye and sends my brain reeling. It reads: “Ask yourself this question: will this matter a year from now?- Richard Carlson.”

Now, that’s a loaded question. But here’s my take on it: the choices we make, the classes we take, the people we surround ourselves with, the priorities we value, the ideals we hold sacred, all amount to who we are and who we become. There are moments where we make one life-changing decision, like that fateful day in 8th grade when you decided to attend Notre Dame de Sion. Those moments are the ones that

Le Journal welcomes letters submitted by readers. The staff reserves the right to edit length and minor grammatical errors, but the letter’s message will not be altered. The staff reserves the right to review letters and edit material that is inappropriate. Libelous, slanderous, or obscene letters will not be printed. Letters must be signed.

Le Journal

is the official publication of Notre Dame de Sion High School 10631 Wornall Rd., Kansas City, MO 64114. Member

an incredible journey lay ahead. Since then, hundreds of girls have walked the halls of Sion, worn the coveted gold ring and donned the white graduation gown. Being here for four years has shown me how truly special this incredible school truly is. Deeply rooted in a hundred years of history, Sion has shown me the values of faith, academics, service and most importantly, sisterhood.

So, think about it. In a year from now, I’ll probably be off somewhere down South, not worrying about the 30 degree weather, walking to my political science class. I’ll look down and the glimmer of my Sion ring will catch my eye. And I’ll smile. I’ll remember all the teachers, the ones who stayed after school to help me figure out “just one more” math problem. I’ll remember the classes, the ones I stayed up studying until two a.m. just to get a B. I’ll remember the traditions, the ring ceremony, convocation and graduation. But mostly, I’ll remember my sisters. My 98 other Sion sisters who I shared four amazing years full of learning, growing and smiling. Then that incredibly cheesy Pinterest quote will bounce into my head and I’ll know the answer. Yes, yes, yes. In a year, everything I love about Sion will still ring true and I’ll know it’s one of the most important decisions I ever made. So here’s to the history of Sion. What it is today and everything it will be in 100 more years.

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“Ask yourself this question: Will this matter a year from now?” -Richard Carlson, Author

Letters to the Editor

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shape and mold us. Because in that moment, you chose to subject yourself to four years of endless studying, bi-monthly masses, freshman beanies, peer ministers, interfaith values, 20 minute lunches, white graduation dresses and you pledged to love every minute of it. And this is where the history begins. Almost 100 years ago, girls just like you, took a moment and committed to immerse themselves in the mission of Sion. Little did they know what

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Ali Swee FEATURES EDITOR Maura Eveld A&E EDITOR Delaney Bates

Le Journal celebrates the Class of 2012! Profiles on every member of the class of 2012, senior features and a look at where the class of 2012 will be next year! This will be Le Journal’s last issue for the 2011-2012 school year.

MANAGING EDITOR Taylor Escher

WEB-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Katie Mahoney

National Scholastic Press Assoc. International Quill and Scroll

ADVISER Alison Long

LAYOUT/DESIGN EDITOR EDITORIAL/NEWS EDITOR Emma Eveld Elizabeth Gianino SPORTS EDITOR Audrey Saracini

PHOTO EDITOR Lucy Gasal

Missouri Interscholastic Press Assoc. Columbia Scholastic Press Assoc.

LeJournalLive.com

MULTIMEDIA EDITOR Emily DeCoursey REPORTERS Laura Travis, Sarah Holland, Meg Cowan , Shannon Laird

PUBLICATIONS BOARD Michelle Olson Kay Walkup

Ali Swee Taylor Escher

Melissa Wilcox Penny Selle

Jane McCormack Carole Wall-Simmons

editorials

Standing in Solidarity

Health Care Mandate Stirs Up Controversy in the Catholic Church

This staff editorial represents the views of the ligions. If this mandate goes into effect, our consti- our ‘religious’ position. They are rooted in our constaff of Le Journal- 11 out of 14 staff members tution loses legitimacy. The constitution currently viction of the existence of a Natural Law,” Fournier voted in support of this editorial. recognizes conscientious objectors. For example, said. Catholics are saying ‘No’. Protests from reli- Jehovah’s Witnesses don’t have to join the armed There is an exemption that’s available for cergious institutions are sweeping the nation in sup- forces. Christian Scientists refuse to receive immu- tain places from having to follow this mandate. port of the Catholic church’s decision to condemn nizations. If the Catholic people can’t trust the first However, Fournier said that hospitals, universities, soup kitchens, and outreaches to the poor are not the Health and Human Services edict, as they amendment, what can they trust? Deacon Keith Fournier spoke out against the included in the exemption. should. The Obama administration created the edict in a “Catholic Online” article. He believes that Failure to follow this mandate will result in disPatient Protection and Affodability Care Act, the Gospel demands a response which goes beyond ciplinary measures in the form of large fines. Many of the Church’s outreaches, ministries, and instituor “Obamacare.” So far 27 states have started the walls of our Church building. or joined lawsuits filed against it, according to “This HHS Edict is a violation of the Free tions could likely close as a practical result, accord“Conservapedia.” Tucked inside Obamacare is the Exercise of Religion which is protected under the ing to Fournier. newly created HHS mandate, delivered by Kathleen First Amendment to the United States Constitution,” No matter what Catholic institutions do, conFournier said. “The Federal Government of the traception, abortions, and sterilization will still be Sebelius, secretary of Health and Human Services. available to the public. The Catholic This mandate states that all em“The government should not force Americans Church is not trying to control anyone ployers, regardless of their religious or ask anyone to quit using contracepbeliefs, have to offer health care plans to act as if pregnancy is a disease to be pretion. The Catholic Church is just asking that allow free access to the Plan B pill, vented at all costs.” -Cardinal Timothy Dolan not to be forced to provide these seror the morning after pill, birth convices at their institutions. trol pills, and coverage that includes sterilization of United States is trying to force the Catholic Church “In effect, the president is saying we have a women. This has outraged the Catholic population. The to act against its deeply held religious convictions year to figure out how to violate our consciences,” Cardinal Timothy M. Dolan, archbishop of New right to life in all stages is the bedrock of Catholic and to violate conscience.” principles. It’s similar to forcing an Islamic person But, the strong-willed Catholic people did York, said in an interview with the United States make a difference. Originally the mandate was set Conference of Catholic Bishops. to eat pork or asking a Hindu to eat a hamburger. According to Archbishop Dennis Schnurr from to be put into place August 2012 but now is set for If you don’t like working for the Catholic Church, or a Catholic organization, where insurCincinnati, this edict is alarming and a serious mat- August 2013. ter that negatively impacts the Church in the United Over the years Catholic institutions have ance doesn’t provide this, then don’t. Free contraworked to create places that can be morally and ception and abortion pills are not hard to obtain. States. “The federal government, which claims to be ‘of, spiritually sound to their faith and offer the help Despite what you think, 98 percent of Catholic by, and for the people’, has just dealt a heavy blow to that others need. This new mandate would take women have used contraception at some point almost a quarter of those people-the Catholic popu- away all that they have worked for, just to create an- in their lives, according to The New York Times. lation and to the millions more who are served by other stereotypical establishment, no different than Planned Parenthood even offers birth control for $15, according to their website. the Catholic faithful,” Schnurr said in a letter posted the next. “Our insistence upon protecting the Right to “The government should not force Americans on “The Catholic Telegraph.” Our constitution is supposed to protect all re- Life and the Right to Religious Freedom are not just to act as if pregnancy is a disease to be prevented at all costs,” Cardinal Dolan added. From what I’ve seen, this appears to be the beginning of many new lawsuits. The compromise does say that houses of worship and other religiously affiliated groups will not have to ‘pay, arrange, or refer’ employees in regards to this issue, according to a statement from Sebelius on March 16. But when you look at the HHS mandate as a whole, it is apparent that the Obama administration does not respect the right to life and the right to religious freedom. This is a country that treasures freedom of religion. We should not be forced to go against our religious principles. We as Catholics have the responsibility to stand up and be heard. We should try to regain what we once had, and we should stick to what we believe in: the right for all life. Here’s my advice to all Catholics and people who believe in religious freedom. Stand up against this assault on religious liberty. You can contact your local congressmen to encourage them to remove or reverse this unjust mandate. Don’t fall to the pressure of society. Let’s keep our moral foundations intact.

U.S President Barack Obama hosts a Cabinet meeting in the Cabinet Room of the White House in Washington D.C., including Secretary of Health and Human Services Kathleen Sebelius. (Photo from MCT Campus)

editorials

Going Beyond the Grade Book

Colleges Unfairly Use Social Media to Evaluate Students for Admission

It is wrong for colleges to use the Students need to check the and safety. Teenagers also need to internet to evaluate a student. The privacy settings on their online acwatch what they post about others on best way for students counts. Many students are unaware Facebook and warn “Beep, Beep, Beep.” You glance to combat this issue is of how little privacy they use online. their friends to not down at your iPhone from your to check their privacy Using online privacy is the best way post something they overly annotated copy of Macbeth to settings. If a college for a student to ensure colleges will will later regret. see you have a new Facebook notificolleges who use YouTube Watch what you’re is unable to access a not use their Facebook to judge them cation. You discover your friend has student’s profile, it is for admissions. posting, liking, and for recruitment finally posted pictures from the party going to be very hard Although it is a great way to commenting on on last weekend. Uh oh. The party you for them to find much information keep in touch and communicate with Facebook. There is not much you can don’t remember. Thumbing through unless they put way more effort into friends, a Facebook do about a post or photo a friend puts the pictures, you abruptly stop upon than is needed or profile or a colof you on Facebook besides ask them a photo of yourself holding a giant practical. lection of Tweets to delete, untag yourself, and or try to beer can smiling at the camera. You does not give a full colleges using Facebook to Students must be let it pass. quickly scroll down to discover almade representation of a You can, however, evaluate applicants ready three likes and two comments aware person. However, watch the way you on the picture. of the the way a person behave in the future Thoughts begin to flood your idea that more people colleges who use Facebook around cameras comes off online through their phomind: you are guaranteed to be the are looking at their tos, posts, and comments does not and at parties and for recruitment joke of your friends for the next Facebook than they always line up with who they are in reconsider if the week, your parents would ground you realize. Counselors, real life. people you are for the rest of eternity, and people teachers, and parents should educate “People hanging out with will have a positive are going to think you are their children about online privacy will judge us effect on you in the long run. some wild party girl when based on what you just made one mistake. we put online,” But, there is one group that colleges using Google to Erin Stein, coldoes not cross your mind lege counselor, evaluate applicants that you should be aware of: said. colleges. Another factor students should Before the internet, college If you wouldn’t want your parent, teacher, or be aware of is what other people post admissions depended on test scores, about them online. It is quite easy for other adult you respect to see something you essays, grades, extracurriculars, and a person to monitor how their own post, teacher recommendations. Those words and photos come across, but it things are still important, but some is quite the opposite when it comes colleges today are using another to what others put up. Your “friend” resource in order to decide a student’s who posted that photo of you drinkadmission: social media. ing at a party is poorly representing Although the information social Watch what you post about other you online. media provides about a person is “Be careful of who you spend time people because it will valuable, this rising trend must be with and who your friends are. Just stopped because it is wrong and an watch the way you behave in general,” infringement of privacy. Students come back to you. Karen Phillips, counselor should not said. have to live Watching behavior online in constant and offline is the best way fear of col- colleges who found negative a student can be assured Untag yourself from unwanted leges seeing things about students online they will not misrepresent everything and themselves to colleges. Stein they post. said students should use their social There are things bound to go onmedia accounts to showcase their line people are not proud of, but it is strengths and represent themselves unrealistic for a student to have to go well. back over pictures from the past two As the world becomes more or three years of their lives to check Represent yourself online in a way that will interconnected through the internet, for things to delete. Students should show your colleges, employers, and more are not have to monitor everything they going to judge others through social post online, worrying about what colmedia. leges would think. While Facebook will likely never “I do not feel that it is an invasion become a part of the formal college of privacy if a student does not use Search your name to see what could admissions process, Stein explained their privacy settings on Facebook that more colleges will begin to use potentially be appropriately,” Kyle Johnson, Rockit for specific purposes like athletic hurst University Director of Freshrecruitment and scholarships. men Admissions, said.

BY LAURA TRAVIS Reporter

66%

24%

20%

85%

Clean Up Your facebook DON’T POST IT.

ALWAYS

12%

PHOTOS

PICTURES.

STRENGTHS.

OUT THERE.

-Percentages from a survey by Kaplan Test Prep in 2011

editorials

Tigers Bump Up Tuition

Tuition Rises at Mizzou and Missouri Universities Causes Financial Worry Mizzou at Sion

14 out of 110 2011 Sion graduates became a Missouri Tiger. BY EMMA EVELD

News/Editorial Editor An unforgiving pair: budget cuts and tuition hikes. Next year, Mizzou, the University of Missouri-Columbia and the University of Missouri-St. Louis’ tuition hikes will go into affect due to certain state budget cuts. As for Mizzou, a school that many Sion girls decide to attend after they graduate, in-state tuition is being raised by 3 percent and for out-of-state students the tuition is being raised by 7.5 percent. This could affect many in-state but especially out-

of-state families next year when the tuition hike takes place. “The state is cutting budgets across the public higher education system so we’ve had to make the tuition higher to compensate for that budget cut,” Chuck May, Associate Director of Admissions at Mizzou, said. The tuition hike is just one step to try to offset a $47 million budget gap from the cut in state higher education spending and campus costs. “The Board of Curators voted on and approved the new cost structure on Monday (Februrary 20th),” Heather Henning, Missouri’s Senior Admissions Recruitment Coordinator at Mizzou, said. “The non-resident tuition total will add up to $31,278.” This new tuition rise, especially for out-of-state students, could affect student’s decision on attending Mizzou. “I live in Kansas so I won’t get in-state tuition which has made this a hard decision for my parents,” senior Grace Angrisano said. “They want me to be able to go to MU because they know that’s where I really want to go, but at the same time the pricey tuition has made them rethink sending me there.” For some girls, such as senior Jane McCormack, the tuition rise isn’t a deterrent from their decision to attend MU.

“I think it’s reasonable. Mizzou has been growing at an enormous rate and has become more selective, so making improvements are a step in the right direction, even if tuition costs more. The jump isn’t a huge percentage so as long as it’s going to good use then I have no problem with it,” senior Jane McCormack said. Some girls really just love Mizzou, so the tuition hike isn’t a problem. “I think the tuition hike is a bad idea and I don’t like it...but it won’t affect my decision to go there because I really love MU,” senior Anne Lobb said.

Comparable Non-Resident Tuitions:

$21,750 $34,500 $12,905.05

Students Stun Chicago

Music and Art Students Venture Into Chicago, Ill. BY LUCY GASAL Photo Editor

It was a whirlwind tour. From Sacred Heart lower school to the Art Institute to the Opera, music and art students covered all there was to see in Chicago. “We chose Chicago because it is a vibrant city chocked with wonderful things to see and do. Lyric Opera’s production of Showboat was incredible and the Art Institute is absolutely rich,” music teacher Gary Adams said. This year was the first time music and art students went to Chicago. They sang at Sacred Heart lower school and also at St. Joseph Village Assisted Living. “Not only did the girls do an amazing job at Village St. Joseph , the elderly people in the audience loved it,” librarian Jennifer Campbell said. “They were swaying, singing along, helping Mr. Adams conduct, and they all had huge smiles on their faces.” They left early in the morning on March first and took a bus to their hotel in downtown Chicago on Michigan Avenue. One of the first stops on the tour was the Art Institute which had a lot to offer the students. “We saw lots of unique weapons and paintings,” junior Christina Flucke said. They also did some shopping in Chicago at the Water Tower and went out for a fun dinner.

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They even watched the Opera Showboat at the Lyric Opera. “Chicago...its such a great city, with a great energy. And it is so fun to be there seeing all of the people, enduring the weather, and hearing the ‘L’ train all of the time,” Campbell said. On their way home from Chicago they stopped by the worlds largest truck stop which was complete with a movie theater and a grocery store. According to Fluke the trip was a success. “I love Chicago, the buildings were so cool and seeing Lake Michigan was awesome,” Flucke said.

Recognizing the Years our Global Sion Sister Schools were Established 1856 Constantinople, Turkey 1869 Marseille, France 1880 Ramleh-Alexandria, Egypt 1887 Rome, Italy 1906 Curitiba, Brazil

Students performed for the first time at Sacred Heart Parish on Friday, March 2. Here the girls sang “Elijah Rock.” (Photo by Taylor Escher)

1909 Melbourne, Australia

Debate Doesn’t Disappoint

Varsity and Novice Team Rank High in Kansas City Parliamentary Debate League BY Maura Eveld Features Editor

The debate team has competed in more than a dozen tournaments so far this school year, and each one yielded success. “I believe we have had somebody advance to out rounds or place at every tournament we have attended this year,” debate team coach Kristie Pennock said. A look at the Kansas City Metropolitan Parliamentary Debate League standings proves their excellence. Three varsity teams take spots in the top 20 list for varsity parliamentary debate. Another six girls place in the top 20 as varsity individual speakers. “I already knew that our varsity team was definitely a show-stopper with our years of training and harping our speech excellence,” National Forensics League president Chi Chi Obi said. Obi currently ranks second with partner Jae Pearl in varsity parliamentary debate, seventh as a varsity individual speaker, and fourth as a varsity power speaker. She also recently advanced to the sixth round (equivalent to semifinals) in Lincoln Douglas Debate at NFL districts March 2. “But I’m mostly proud to be the president of a debate team where the novices are performing excellently as well,” Obi said. The novice team, comprised of first year debaters, ranks high this year, with six teams in the top

20 for novice parliamentary debate and seven girls in the top 20 as novice individual speakers. “This year has been so much fun for me, and I’m so glad I do debate,” sophomore and novice competitor Sydney O’Dear said. O’Dear’s enthusiasm shows. She ranks eighth with teammate Lexie Johnson, first as a novice individual speaker, and first as a power speaker. But debate isn’t only about success and awards, Pennock said. Debaters learn skills beneficial for high school and beyond. “Debate is training for life,” Pennock said. “From the obvious things like presentational skills and critical thinking, to the not-so-obvious, like taking criticism constructively and learning how to find your way around unfamiliar buildings under time pressure, debate is a wealth of life lessons.” O’Dear agreed with the perks of participating in debate. “It keeps me aware of current events, open to other’s opinions, and I’m always thinking on my feet,” she said. To O’Dear, Obi, and Pennock, the countless hours spent preparing for and attending debate tournaments are not going to waste. “...There it is, this huge, international community that quietly pumps out the people who are going to be among the decision makers of the next generation,” Pennock said. “That’s a pretty big deal, in my opinion.”

KC Parliamentary Varsity Debate Standings Team Standings

1stJulia Balmaceda/Zenib Chaudri Chi Chi Obi/Jae Pearl 2nd 14thPaige Espinosa/Rachel Tritt Individual Speakers Rankings

1stZenib Chaudri 3rdJae Pearl 7thChi Chi Obi Power Speaking Ranks

3rdZenib Chaudri Chi Chi Obi 4th Jae Pearl 5th

Black History Month...

American He can roes i r f A “...Aretha Franklin because she persevered, is talented, and deserves R-E-S-P-E-C-T.” -Mari Nicolosi, senior

“...Oprah because she came from nothing to fulfilling the American dream.” -Bri Baker, senior “....Bessie Coleman because she was the first African female pilot. It makes me remember to persevere in everything I do.” -Mary Humphrey, junior “...Beyonce because she is a great singer and stands for women’s rights as well as being an African American hero.” -Abby Snyder, freshman

To celebrate Black History Month, the 3rd graders at Sion grade school created pictures of a better world inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King’s “I Have a Dream” speech. The outside border is an emulation from Faith Ringold’s “Tar Beach”, which included a small quilt-like frame. (Photo by Elizabeth Gianino)

Nationwide, the month of February has been dedicated to Black History Month. This year included 29 days of celebration and remembrance of all African American heroes that have changed the way our society lives. Focusing on our school community, the Sion students from the grade school chose to participate

in Black History Month by designing, drawing, quilting, and crafting many art projects dedicated towards a specific African American. Caren Percell, the art/art history teacher at the Sion grade school assigned different projects for each grade that corresponded with an important African American.

For more to this story, go to lejournallive.com

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Swim Team Results

State Team placed 11th ▶ Senior Mary Tutera finished 7th in the diving competition with a new school record. ▶ Sophomore Kristine Sullivan finished 9th

in the 200 free in a school record time, finished 12th in the 100 free (school record).

▶ Junior Laura Klover finished 15th in the 100

back.

▶ The 400 free relay (junior Caroline Gates,

Nelson, Sullivan and Hannah Tutera) finished 6th with a new school record.

▶ Junior JT Nelson finished 16th in 200 free. ▶ Freshman Meaghan Kearney finished 12th

in the 200 IM.

▶ 200 free relay (Kearney, junior Hannah

Tutera, Sullivan and Nelson) finished 11th in a school record time.

Basketball Results ▶ The Storm beat Lincoln 53-43 for the MSHSAA District 14 Championship but lost to Pleasant Hill 46-42 in the sectional.

Diving into Motherhood

Dive Coach Leaves Position to Focus on Her Children BY SARAH HOLLAND

a junior, said. “Now Margaret will be able to spend more time with her kids and being a teacher. We will miss her dearly.” The dive team, which grew from one to four Winkeler felt like it was a successful seadivers this year, is losing their coach, Margaret son. Junior Elizabeth Gianino, Benson and Winkeler, who happens to be the wife of the swim Snyder all made it back to finals at the Conference team coach Paul Winkeler. Championship. Senior Mary Tutera placed 7th in “She was a tremendous asset to the team. We the diving competition with a new school record. were lucky to have her. She’ll be greatly missed,” The dive girl’s favorite memories include joking Athletic Director Dennis around with Winkeler. “I am really going to miss Conaghan said. “Margaret would al Next year, Winkeler is be- all my divers and the pro- ways make joking remarks coming a full-time mom. The gram as a whole, but I am about fellow diver Elizabeth Winkelers have three children: It was so funny,” now going to focus on being a Gianino. Mary Ellen, Rosie, and John. Benson said. “I am really going to miss mom.” -Margaret Winkeler An important aspect all my divers and the program of any sport or activity is reas a whole, but I am now going to focus on being a membering to have fun. mom,” dive coach Winkeler said. “She made diving really fun and was always Being a vital part of the team, she will be greatly happy and positive. The swim/dive team is a fammissed by the divers. ily,” Snyder said. “I am going to really miss Margaret being part So the search is on for a new dive coach. of the team. She helped me so much this season,” “If anyone knows of a dive coach, please freshman Abby Snyder said. contact me or Mr. Middleton,” Conaghan said. This was Megan Benson’s first year diving. She “Characteristics of a dive coach should be no fear wishes she had more than just a year to have gotten of heights or water, agility, and athleticism. In all to know Margaret. seriousness though, the coach should have knowl “I think that was a really rough decision for edge of dive, work well with high school students, Margaret to leave the swim/dive program,” Benson, and have patience.”

Reporter

Running Under New Leadership

Student’s Mom Assumes Head Coaching Position for the Track and Field Team BY MEG COWAN Reporter

Fifteen minutes until your first race of the season. You have been training for the 800 meter race for three weeks. As you lace up your New Balance spikes, the anxiety sets in. The crowd seems immense. The other runners look tough. Your body is overpowered with a surge of adrenaline. Just when you begin to think this sport is not the sport for you, your coach sits down and instantly her confident voice and strong stare calms you. A coach can be a very important aspect of any sport and for the girls on the Track and Field team, they now have a coach to lead them. Last summer, Lori Donnelly: mother, member of booster club, and personal trainer, was offered the position of head coach for the track team. “At the time I was caught with surprise. This was not something I had planned to do” Donnelly said. “So I counseled with God, my husband Pat, and my daughter (Mary Frances). The support I received from all three

sports

made it easy to accept my challenge with enthusiasm.” Donnelly has been putting in a lot of work preparing for the season, noticed her daughter, and Sion student, Mary Frances. “My mom has put in a tremendous amount of effort to help build the program.” Mary Frances Donnelly Other members of the track team are also enKayla Tanner thusiastic about Donnelly assuming the coaching Michelle King position. “I hear she has a lot of experiMeaghan Kearney

ence when it comes to running” Jade Latson, junior, said. “She’s bringing aboard a lot of new coaches, so it will be a great opportunity for the girls, that are doing other events besides running, to perfect their skills.” Victory seems to be where the What’s your event?

track team is headed in Mary Frances’ eyes. “Success is a process, not a destination,” Mary Frances said “and I believe Sion track is headed down the right road.”

What do you snack on before you race?

800 m

Sprints and relays

400 m

800 and 1600 m

What’s your pump up song?

Nuts and my mom’s homemade energy bars

Fruits

Sunflower seeds and protein bars

Gatorade, fruit and water

Get Outta Your Mind by Lil Jon

Mental Giant by Tech9 Teenagers by Chemical Romance

Bottoms Up by Keke Palmer

Dance Team Wins State

Dance Team and Cheerleading Still Not a Sport

Storm Spotlight:

BY ELIZABETH GIANINO

their activity is a sport, even if it is unofficial. “Dance is a sport because it requires physi It was perfect. A perfect score. For the third cal strength, endurance, and flexibility,” Jane year in a row, the dance team proved their high skill McCormack, captain of the dance team, said. capabilities by winning the Missouri State Dance To McCormack, dance is similar to any other Championship. The team received thirty more sport because the team competes against other points than second place. This group of 16 dancers schools and receives points based on their performance. The more points they have, the better advannow carry a new title-three-pete champions. They travel across the country to compete with tage they have of winning. the best. They have visible banners and trophies In comparison, cheerleading is considered a displayed throughout the school. Both dancers and sport to many, including captain Emma Hogg. cheerleaders jump, turn, split, flip-but still are not “Cheerleading is a sport because to be on the squad, you have to take on a sport. Sion dancers and “Cheerleading is a sport be- all of the same responsibilicheerleaders spend count- cause to be on the squad you ties as an athlete who plays a ‘sport’,” Hogg said. less hours practicing and have to take on all of the Hogg also believes performing only as an activity. According to the same responsibilities as an that cheerleading requires the most energy and posiAthletic Director Reynold Middleton, Sion follows the athlete who plays a ‘sport’,” tive attitude because they not only have to motivate rules and regulations of the -Emma Hogg, senior themselves, but the crowd Missouri State High School and teams as well. Activities Association. And cheerleading and dance are classified as a perfor- Both captains agree that what distinguishes them from sports is their training season. mance group. The Assistant Executive Director of the Cheerleaders and dancers are committed to an elevMissouri State High School Activities Association en month season, and each week they practice only Davine Davis said cheerleading and dance are two to three days, rather than every day for three viewed as activities under their bylaws. Each man- months. date suggests specific requirements for sports and “Cheerleading is different in the sense that we activities as well as advocating equal opportunity for are there all year long,” Hogg said. “Our season is the first to start, and last to end.” both genders. “The Office of Civil Rights questions how much The cheerleading and dance teams share the competition their is. And because there is limited same appreciation for the school’s support. However, to no competition component for cheerleading and both teams feel that it can sometimes be tough to be dance, both are classified as an activity,” Davis said. considered a sport by their classmates. But the classification that Sion follows does not “I think the student body takes us a little less affect the cheerleaders’ and dancers’ view on their seriously than other sports that work just as hard,” athletic stance. Both captains firmly believed that Hogg said.

Layout/Design Editor

Top Cheerleading Injuries

MUSCLE PULLS AND TEARS

(Photo by Emma Eveld)

Senior Meg Nulton Q: Who inspired you to play?

A: “I started playing because of my older brother. He played all four years at Rockhurst and he needed someone to practice with at home. He taught me the basics and I ended up loving it.”

Q: How intense is lacrosse compared to other sports?

A: “Lacrosse is pretty intense this year. We have morning practices two days a week and several out-oftown tournaments. You have to be really committed.”

Q: What is a lax bro, and do you consider yourself one?

A: “According to my fellow teammate, Sarah Murphy, a lax bro is ‘one whose life revolves around the concept of lax; it applies to all aspects, from the colorful array of pastels and pinnies that fill the closet, to the plethora of slang that slips its way into casual conversations.’”

Cheerleaders are likely to pull or tear muscles nearly anywhere in the body, due to the stresses of sudden, explosive movements.

WHIPLASH

A fall from a height that snaps the head back can cause a whiplash injury. A cheerleader sustaining such a fall may at the least experience dizziness and headache or at the most dislocate or fracture a cervical vertebra in the neck.

SHOULDER INJURIES Cheerleaders who tumble often experience shoulder injuries. In no other sport is an athlete so suddenly forced to support his or her entire body weight on the shoulders.

BACK INJURY

A cheerleader who falls to the floor on her back can fracture one or more of the wings of the vertebrae, or she may fracture the part that connects the front and rear portions of the vertebra, an injury called spondylolysis. According to LiveStrong.com

sports

10 10

c窶覚ver story

00 Years of

Gray Skirts, Algebra 1, Academics, Lunch Rooms, Graduation Dresses, Class Rings, Service, Grande Assembles, Mother/Daughter, Faith, Freshman Beanies, Maisons, Father/Daughter, History and

Classy Ladies.

Story and Layout by Ali Swee and Taylor Escher

c窶覚ver story

he golden Sion logo banded across her ring finger glitters. It’s Friday morning. French teacher Pam Dykes’ smile stretches across her face. “It’s wonderful. Really, just wonderful.” She looks down, admiring the famous gold and purple ring sprinkled with pearls. It represents not only 20 years of hard work and dedication, but 20 years of students, smiles and memories. Head of School Alice Munninghoff beams. The school that has been her home for more than 33 years never fails to make her smile. And this particular Friday is no exception. She’s heard the stories. The stories of girls seeing a Sion ring across the room at a party in New York. The stories of girls sitting next to a Sion alum on an airplane, connected by the golden band. She’s even experienced it, herself. Women stopping her in the grocery store, asking if she went to Sion. And that’s what makes it all so incredible. What started as a simple vision two brothers had over 100 years ago has become all this. It’s become the foundation upon which the students walk from class to class. It’s the New Grande Salle overflowing with cans after the Food for Thought Can Drive. It’s the laughter echoing through the hallways even hours after the final bell rings at 3:10. It’s 10631 Wornall Road. It’s our school, our home. It’s Sion. Let’s rewind. 100 years ago, to be exact. In 1912, the sisters of Sion moved from Marshall, Mo. to Kansas City, Mo. On Dec. 2, they opened their first Montessori school with six students in the Kansas City area. Notre Dame de Sion completed its first graduating class of seven women on June 11, 1923. This began the story of the graduation ceremony. The women wore long, white dresses, went to mass and brunch, and received their diplomas that evening in the final ceremony. And the rest is history. For 1966 graduate Sheila Weiford, Sion has been her life. Weiford attributes her strong religious and family values to her years at Sion. “This school has not disappointed me one bit,” Weiford said. “I still love this school.” Sion moved to its new home on Wornall Road Weiford’s freshman year. With a new campus came

new changes to the school. Four houses or “maisons,” all named after colors in French, competed in intramural sports, newspaper drives and school spirit competitions. “This school totally bonded through maisons my sophomore year,” Weiford said. The school was characterized by “European refinement,” according to Weiford. Often called the “French Institute of Notre Dame de Sion,” students took French, ballet and even sewing classes, reminiscent of the finest academies in Europe. “I adored the nuns. It was like a convent, we just went to school there,” Weiford said. However, shock came in 1968, when the Johnson County Sun published an article about the Center School District trying to buy the high school property, according to Susan Robards, 1972 Sion alumna and current grade school teacher. “My great aunt read the article and told my mother that she probably would not get to send me to Sion,” Robards said. A board was formed to help the sisters run the school and get Notre Dame de Sion back on its feet. Then, the 1970s brought about radical changes with the addition of Spanish as a class and Sion’s two major publications: Le Flambeau and Le Journal. Sports expanded with the addition of golf, softball, tennis, track and cheerleading along with the original sports of volleyball and basketball. By the late 1980s, the sisters of Notre Dame de Sion withdrew their ownership and management of the Kansas City school. A group of alumnae, parents, and benefactors helped propagate the school into the next century. “I had two small children at the grade school,” Kay Walkup, academic dean, said. “I was a counselor and the academic dean then.” That day there was a parent meeting at the grade school and the sisters told parents that they were going to close the school at the end of the year. “This was a total surprise,” Walkup said, tears filling her eyes. “The first thing I thought was how much I was going to miss the Sion girls.” Weiford remembers the dads going to Rockhurst High School and asking if they’d consider going coed. “Girls would chant ‘rather dead than go coed.’ It was the parents and students who fought for this

Evolution of the Sion Uniform

“Girls would chant ‘rather dead than go coed.’” - Sheila Weiford, Class of 1966

First Montessori School in KC area

First Graduating Class c over story

1933

Sion Throug 1950

Wornall Campus Built

1927

1923

1915

1940

Construction for Locust Campus

1912

1921

1962

1944

Von Trapps Visit Sion

Graduate Trivia: Class of 1923 to Class of 2012 First Graduating Class

Class of 1924, 1931, 1933, 1946, 1952

Largest Number of Graduates

Class of 2012

Class of 1923

Fewest Number of Graduates

114

Class of 2004 and 2011

100th year Graduating Class

ugh the Years

school,” Weiford said. Head of school Alice Munninghoff was also involved in the saving of Sion. At the time, she was high school principal and worked tirelessly from November to June to save the school she so dearly loved. “We were working out the financial model and running the school at the same time, trying to secure enrollment. It was a challenge because at that time the future wasn’t really certain,” Munninghoff said. As the school transitioned from being owned by the sisters of Sion to an independent Catholic school, there were still challenges ahead. “It’s kind of like that gospel passage: ‘blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.’ It was a leap of faith,” Munninghoff said. And faith it was. Twenty-three years later, Sion’s enrollment boasts over 400 students. “I think the key ingredient to continued success is to be faithful to the mission,” Munninghoff said. “If we can continue to have people absorb and internalize the mission then go forth into the world and live it, out of that will come all great things that can happen.” Looking back through the past, Walkup has seen lots of improvements throughout the school. “The sisters came from all over the world, Turkey, South America, France,” Walkup said. “And now everything is coming full circle to developing internationally with the exchange programs.” Looking into the future, Walkup wants to see the global education really grow. “I’d like to see more academic interchange between schools. With technology, people on the other side of the world are only minutes away,” Walkup said. “I’d like to see teacher exchanges with other schools in the world like teachers from the school in Costa Rica coming here to teach Spanish.” Walkup would also like to see the two campuses to have closer bonds and to see a continued process to have more activities with both schools. She’d also like to see the high school as a community center

where parents can come to listen to speakers about the needs of young people and especially young women. We continue into the future with the hope that Sion will forever be our home. For the hundreds that have walked the Sion halls and wear their gold and purple ring with pride, the school holds an unbreakable bond. “I always joke that Dennis [Conaghan] and I will be buried in purple and white caskets,” Weiford said. The same bond that ties Weiford with Sion has connected alums to the school over the years. Years ago, Weiford met a 97-year-old Jewish woman named Rheta Aaron-Sosland, who had attended Sion. “Her memory had faded but I wanted to hear more stories about how the school was in the 20’s,” Weiford said. At first, Weiford struggled to connect with Aaron-Sosland. But then, Weiford mentioned something that made Aaron-Sosland’s eyes widen. “I asked, ‘did you ever have Mere Ida?’ ” Weiford said. Mere Ida had been Weiford’s 4th grade teacher and one of the most influential people she met during her days of Sion. “At that moment, I finally connected with her,” Weiford said, smiling. “I looked at her and said, ‘Rheta, I had Mere Ida.’ ” Stories. The stories that connect us, bind us and tie us. The halls of Sion are filled with stories. Our stories. Stories of today. Their stories. Stories of the past. Stories of those who fought for this school. Stories of those who have been touched by the mission. Stories of those who carry their Sion education in their hearts and in their everyday lives. Holding back tears, Munninghoff summed up the Sion experience: “At the end of the day, we stand on the shoulders of giants. For 33 years, I have never been without somebody who wouldn’t help me,” she said. “People came to help, to celebrate or just to be there. There are lots of really good academic schools in the country, but there’s only one Sion.”

“If we can continue to have people absorb and internalize the mission then go forth into the world and live it- out of that will come all great things that can happen.” - Alice Munninghoff, Head Of School

Le Journal and Le Flambeau Created

Maisons Created

Wornall Campus Renovated

1970

1965

1968

Sion Almost Bought by Center School District

2011

1989

Sisters relinquish ownership of Sion c over story

Now Playing: The Hunger Games

What’s Happening in

Kansas City?

entertainment

Which book is your favorite of the series? “The first one is my favorite because it’s original and sets the theme for the rest of the books.” - Maddye Wilson, junior

What are you most excited about seeing in the movie? “I am most excited about seeing how they portray the actual Hunger Games, if they focus on the gore of the whole situation or more on the personal side.” - Kelly McGurren, senior

Jennifer Lawrence playing Katniss Everdeen competes in the Hunger Games as District 12’s female tribute. (Photos from Lionsgate Publicity)

WebsitesThat Save

If you buy a $59 dress at macys.com through this site, $1.77 is automatically transferred into a college savings account.

asos.com

This online outlet store sells shoes, clothing, bags, and accessories.

2001

Nike Tempo Short: $14.99

2000

If you purchase something online by first going through this site, 1-25 percent of your purchase is automatically put into a college savings account.

upromise.com

iPhone Power Bundle with headphones, adapter, and USB cord: $15 (was $50)

Katniss should be with Peeta because Gale is so volatile. Peeta, unlike Gale, is able to easily calm Katniss down and he is more supportive of her opinions than Gale.” - Mary Mertes, freshman

2007

This site partners with businesses from restaurants to hotels to get discounts for its members.

Would you rather have Katniss with Gale or Peeta?

6pm.com

groupon.com

Launched 2008

Spring/ Summer City Market at 5th and Walnut 4/1 All American Rejects at Beaumont Club 4/4 Premiere of the Titanic in 3D 4/4 Lady Antebellum at Thompson Square 4/6 Narnia the Musical at the Kauffman Center 4/6 KC Royals vs Cleveland Indians at Kauffman Stadium 4/13

Hunger Games Sparks Excitement Among Students

Sequin Skater Dress: $40

This online fashion retailer sells name brand and own label clothing, shoes, and accessories.

MyLifeIs Awkward... Awkward Phrase of the Day: Spring Break

“My family went to the Dominican Republic and we were taking a tour around the capital. A bunch of venders came up to us, trying to sell us stuff. This one guy said something to me in Spanish and points to a donkey. I didn’t know what he said, so I just smiled and nodded. Next thing I know, he picks me up, puts me on the donkey, and starts leading me away. I thought he was kidnapping me, so I started yelling for my mom. Turns out, he just wanted to take pictures.” -Jackie Meister, sophomore “My family took a trip to Orlando, Florida. When we got to our room, we found out it was a honeymoon suite. The room had a giant bathtub in the middle surrounded by mirrors. To make things worse, my brother and I got really awful sunburns and couldn’t sleep on the floor so we slept outside on lawn chairs.” -Lucy Hodel, junior “Last year I heard my brother and a few friends talking about how they awkwardly woke up next to each other holding hands.” -Allie Lampo, junior

“My brothers and I dug a giant hole in the sand and an older lady accidentally fell in it. Whoops.” -Bailey Crawford

Fourth Quarter Stressing You Out? Take Note... Stress and sleep

As we head into fourth quarter and finals preparation, keep these facts in mind to ensure stress free studies. • Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep at night • Go to bed and get up at the same time • Exercise regularly • Avoid caffeine in the evening • Limit naps to thirty minutes • Avoid looking at clocks when you are going to sleep • Enjoy natural sunlight • Eat healthy foods • Use deep breathing exercises • Make time for yourself everyday

-Information from Wellness.BYU.edu

(Photo by Emily DeCoursey)

entertainment

LuLu Lemon

Top:

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1 out of 3 girls shop at LuLu Lemon Inspire Crop II

$48 $98

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Swiftly Tech Short Sleeve Bottom: Free Crop

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Where do you see Lulu Lemon?

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Top: Swiftly Racerback Bottom: Groove Pant (Regular) “I saw other dance team girls wearing it and “I heard about it about a year ago the headbands are so comfortable & stay in while dancing- it’s perfect.”-Kimmie Bolton, senior and slowly started seeing the logo everywhere.”-Grace Angrisano, senior

How to be a

What is it?Hipsters are a subculture of men and women that value independent thinking, counterculture, progressive politics, an appreciation of art and indie-rock, creativity, intelligence, and witty banter. Hipsters reject the culturally ignorant attitudes of mainstream consumers, and are often be seen wearing vintage and thrift store inspired fashions. Because of the rise of various online photo-blog and social networking sites, insights into urban hipster culture is reaching sheltered suburban audiences at an exponential rate. Cultural “norms” have been deconstructed by hipster culture as a whole.

Throw away your TV’s, buy yourself a canvas bag, talk about joining the Peace Corps, and join social networking sites to become what you’ve always dreamed of being: A Hipster.

Look to a local thrift store for acceptable Hipster clothing. You can go to Urban Outfitters, it may be 5 or 6 times more expensive but will generally last twice as long as other stores.

What to wear? Here are some ideas. Anything with a bronze or gold owl on it: earrings, necklaces, braclets, or anything will work. Lace tights with shorts will create the look too. Even if you don’t need glasses, owning a pair of wide rimmed glasses is a must. Try to wear a romper and cinch the belt, and maybe even strap on those ‘Jesus’ sandals. Unisex accessories, especially scarfs, look very Hipster. Ray Ban sunglasses are essential. Artsy shoes like toms, moccasins, or oxfords with a heel are what to wear.

Each hipstershows their own personality with their glasses that they wear to school. From top to bottom senior Devon Sweeting, freshman Afton Apodaca, junior Marina Dennis, sophomore Georgia Thompson, and sophomore Olivia Enright. (Photo by Ali Swee)

entertainment

Teachers’ Teaching Style Takes a Students Do Homework in Class and Learn at Home “Students who need more help will be able to consult the instructor, and work with other students to problem-solve at school.” As some students may have noticed, certain There are bound to be challenges with any modiclasses have switched things up a bit or “flipped” fication in the curriculum, it seems as if students them around. For students of Joan Knotts, Marilyn are adapting to keep up. They have to take on a lot Stewart, Penny Selle, Kristi Hilgenfeld and Elizabeth more responsibility in order to decipher what inforMiddleton the tables have turned. mation is useful and where to find it. These teachers have implemented a new “They’re no longer going to have someone just “flipped” kind of teaching style where the students give them all of the information in class,” Middleton take on more responsibility for in-class work. said. “They start to learn how to find what’s impor“A flipped classtant on their room is one where own.” “A flipped classroom is one where students are made Some students students are made responsible responsible for getdon’t feel like ting the notes and this new method for getting the notes and inforinformation mostis as beneficial as ly on their own,” mation mostly on their own. The the teachers beMiddleton said. It has been class time is spent on questions, lieve. “And the class time hard for some to is spent on queschange their way problems, discussions, etc.” tions, problems, of thinking after -Elizabeth Middleton, discussions, etc.” being taught the Middleton exsame way all Chemistry Teacher plained that this their life. method helps students process the information “It’s really hard to go home and teach yourself a they learn in notes, and gives them more time to lesson when the videos are usually only fifty secapply what they see and hear. “Flipping” a class- onds long,” sophomore Julia Balmeceda said. “If room is intended to reduce the frustration students you are confused about the video, you can’t ask your experience while doing their homework and using teacher any questions until the next day.” a new concept. Middleton said that this method doesn’t need “In a ‘flipped classroom’, students can work with to be used everyday in class. She has informally ineach other and with the teacher to apply the con- troduced the flip to her students with an occasional cepts, discuss and answer questions,” Middleton YouTube video and is making a gradual transition. said. “In some cases, the class can run more effi- “Flipping” is just another teaching option other ciently and actually cover more material than they than the usual notes. would otherwise.” This method is supposed to provide students Selle said that the teacher becomes more of a with the tools they need to find the right inforfacilitator than a lecturer. Teachers are the guides to mation on their own. The internet, textbooks and each students’ individual progress, while students video instructions play a large part in the “flipping” can work at their own pace. process, and should be very useful to the students. “The people who are ahead do not have to wait for Basically, “flipping” condenses fifty minutes of the students who are needing more help,” Selle said. notes into fifty seconds of video.

BY AUDREY SARCINI Sports Editor

Seniors (from left to right) Caitlin Allen and Annie Lobb discuss their work in class. (Photo by Emily Decoursey)

Hilgenfeld goes over student’s questions in her College Algebra class. (Photo by Emily Decoursey)

Flipped Classroom: Students can work with each other, discuss, and answer questions in class; students watch video and learn on their own at home

Purposes:

-Teacher becomes a faciliator, versus a lecturer -Students can work at their own pace -Teach students how to find the right information on their own

-Allows for discussion -Class can run efficiently and cover more material -Khan Academy: website used for learning tutorials

features

The

BY SHANNON LAIRD Reporter

HEART

Heart disease. It is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States, according to the Center for Disease Control. Age. As we get older, our risk for heart disease increases. Bodily health. As we continue to age, the healthier we eat, the less risk we have for developing heart disease. But we have nothing to worry about, right? Wrong. The way we live our lives now can and will affect the way we live our lives later, according to the Heart Association of America. People and teachers everywhere are taking steps to increase awareness and change the way people think about the body and the heart, including through our own halls. Science teacher Kathleen Teel, is involved in the A Change of Heart Campaign funded through the University of Kansas Hospital. The campaign focuses on three important factors. First, to be aware of your risk for heart disease. Second, to have an assessment to find out your “baseline” risk. Third, to be an advocate for a healthy heart and spread the message to your friends and family. “The more our students see people taking care of themselves, and the more they learn about healthy habits, the more likely they are to do these things for themselves and share what they’ve learned with their friends and family,” Teel said. “Our students need those positive role models.” In her Biology II ACCP class, Teel ensures her students leave understanding the importance

of bodily health for all ages. Every year, the girls choose a topic on bettering the human body or why certain diets are horrible for your body. This year, junior Jae Pearl chose how to gain weight in a healthy way. “I struggle with keeping on weight and losing too much weight at a given time, so that prompted me to further explore what I could do to put on weight in the healthiest way possible,” Pearl said. “I used this project as my starting point to live a healthier lifestyle.” Heart disease alone is not the only thing women and teenagers need to be aware of and focus on from a young age to prevent later in life. Being healthy from a young age includes focusing on bone health, nutrition, staying active and more. But, according to Teel, it is not as daunting a task as it seems. All it requires is moderation in what you eat such as lean meats. It is important to be active. “Girls, women in general are so concerned about weight,” Teel said. “A healthy weight maintains a healthy body.” Senior Fallon O’Reilly, a student in Teel’s Biology class, is writing her presentation on women’s bone health. She picked this topic because women already have increased risk factors, but risks can be decreased if awareness was available at a young age. “Because women already have multiple risk factors that are uncontrollable,” O’Reilly said. “I wanted to discover what one could do to control their own future bone health.” Despite the knowledge that heart disease, bone disease, weight issues, poor nutrition and so much

Heart Disease Facts:

more only effects women much later in life, it is undeniable that the most important time to make healthy habits it now: in our teens. According to Pearl, old habits die hard and the older you get the harder it will be for your body to adjust to new lifestyles. O’Reilly, too, believes healthy lifestyles now is the most important thing. “It is important that awareness for women’s body health is provided,” O’Reilly said, “because one doesn’t think that the way they live and the actions they take now affects the way they live later in life.” According to Teel, everything we do has a cause and effect. But, the way we live now can have an even greater affect twenty, thirty, even forty years from now. “Understanding how carbohydrates and proteins fuel our body is part of my standard curriculum,” Teel said. “But I also want my girls to understand how important it is to take care of yourself when you’re young.”

Science teacher Kathleen Teel discusses bodily health with junior Hope Kimzy. (Photo by Ali Swee)

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the United States. More than 2,500 Americans die from heart disease each day, equaling one death every 34 seconds. Laughing relaxes and expands blood vessels, which helps protect the heart. A person is more likely to have a heart attack on Monday morning than on any other day of the week.

Fruits or vegetables Foods broiled, baked, grilled, steamed or poached Lean meat, fish or skinless chicken Fat-free, 1 percent fat, and low-fat dairy products Fiber-rich, whole grains Foods low in saturated and trans fat, cholesterol, sodium, and added sugars.

Information from: http://www.texasheartinstitute.org/hic/topics/hsmart/children_risk_factors.cfm, http://facts.randomhistory.com/heart-disease-facts.htm, http://www.cdc.gov/dhdsp/data_statistics/fact_sheets/fs_women_heart.htm, http://www.goredforwomen.org/heart_healthy_at_any_age.aspx

features

Eat healthy

Children and teens can lower their risk of getting heart disease by changing or controlling risk factors that can lead to heart disease later in life.

Reduce Risk Heart Disease:

Don't smoke Maintain a normal weight Be physically active

BALLROOM DANCING I

BY EMMA EVELD News/Editorial Editor

t’s Monday night. You hop onto your couch and click on the television. Dancing with the Stars is on right now. You love watching the celebrity - professional duos ballroom dance, shake and shimmy their way across the expansive floor. It’s so poised, classic and entertaining to watch. For junior Alex Lozano, though, this ballroom dancing is a reality, not just something she can watch on Dancing with the Stars. Lozano has danced all her life, and recently, for a little over a year now, has begun ballroom dancing. She caught an interest to this sort of dance when her dad’s client and close friend recommended she check out Louis & Company, a ballroom dance studio located in Overland Park. After one lesson, she was sold. “Ballroom dance is definitely my favorite type of dance. I absolutely love it!” Lozano said. Ballroom dancing entails a lot of practice, two to five times a week to be exact, and therefore, also a lot of competitions. According to Lozano, at each competition she has 4 to 5 dances to perform, and not only does she have to perform them once, but usually she has to repeat these dances three times for the judges. The judges score each individual performance, so sometimes Lozano does really well on one dance and not too great on another. “It just depends,” said Lozano. These competitions take place all over the city, and in some cases, away from Kansas City. According to Lozano, it all depends on the certain competition. Lozano has had two partners so far during her ballroom dancing career but for “regular, social dancing” Lozano gets to share her talent with many other ballroom dancers. And the dancing is just the half of it. Lozano also enjoys the fun outfits each competition brings. “They [the outfits] usually come in bright colors with lots of glitter or anything that makes them stand out. Depending on the dance, the outfits can range from being almost like swim suits to full ballgown dresses,” Lozano said. As for the music that starts all of this ballroom dancing, it could be anything from Elvis, when Lozano is swing dancing, to Shakira or Usher when she is salsa dancing.

“You can ballroom dance to just about anything!” Lozano said. One of Lozano’s favorite parts of ballroom dancing is the new people she gets to meet everyday from practices and competitions. “I definitely meet a lot of new people at competitions and even at the dance studio. There are always new people coming in for lessons or just to watch the dancers, so I definitely get to see a lot of new faces,” Lozano said. Meeting new people and sharing the same interest is Lozano’s favorite part about ballroom dancing. One thing some don’t realize is that dancing in those long dresses aren’t as easy as it looks. According to Lozano, it takes a lot of practice and poise. “Probably one of the most embarrassing times for me was when I completely wiped out during a practice in front of everyone!” Lozano said. “I was working on this spin with my partner and I was in a full length dress and as I came out of the spin my dress got caught under my foot and I completely fell backwards on the floor. Everyone was watching me. It was terrible!” Although Lozano loves every detail that comes along, even the embarrassing ones, she can’t deny that she especially loves winning medals after she competes. “I don’t know where ballroom dance will take me, but I will definitely continue to dance for as long as I can,” Lozano said. Junior Alex Lozano dances with partner Alex Bar in a competition judging their ballroom dancing routines. (Photo submitted by Alex Lozano).

features

The

Monogram Trend

N D Initials, just three

smple letters, have made a comeback from the 80â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. Visitors cannot walk down a single hallway without spotting a monogram printed on - well, you name it. Tote bags, cell phone cases, bracelets, and headbands all have been decorated with bright colors and curly fonts. Junior Maggie McLiney (right) even has a monogrammed bumper sticker. McLiney works at The Monogram Shop in Overland Park, and she owns quite a collection of monogrammed items herself, including a laptop, rainboots, pillows, and earrings.

Sophomores Maggie Keenan and Lilly Schaffer review together before school. Keenan owns six monogrammed headbands, which she bought at The Monogram Shopâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sion Night in February. (Photo by Maura Eveld)

last look

Sophomore Mackenzie Hayes walks to the commons before school. Hayes purchased her monogrammed tote from landsend. com for $30. Adding the monogram cost $6 extra. (Photo by Maura Eveld)

Senior Caroline Shay calls her mom before school. Shay got her monogrammed cell phone case for Christmas, but similar cases cost $49.99 at lipstickshades.com. (Photo by Maura Eveld)

Junior Mary Kate Kelly takes a sip of water during chemistry class. Kelly received her monogrammed tervis tumbler as a Christmas present from her sister Sarah. (Photo by Maura Eveld)