Southwest Standard Issue 7

Standard outhwest

Inside this issue:

Crazy little thing

called love Pgs. 12-13

Up in smoke Pg. 22

Vol. 3 Issue 6 February 2013 Overland Park, Kansas

The musical took place on Feb. 7, 8 and 9.

Are you a true superfan?

Pg. 19

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Editor’sNote:

PrintEdition: 12-13

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True love -doubletruck

Art gallery -photo essay

E-cigs -features

Astrology -special sections

by grant laster opinion editor

It’s easy to say that test scores, past mistakes or a reputation can shape a person, but the only true definition of one’s character is up to him or her to determine.

While editing this issue’s stories, I saw a common theme that reminded me of something that is often easy to lose sight of: yourself. Peer pressure, adversity or unwise decisions can lead people astray from who they believe their ideal person to be.

But it is so unbelievably important to know who you are and to stick to that person. The only way you can be defined is up to you to decide. Personal growth and self-realization give people meaning.

I suppose that’s what high school is all about, finding yourself. Whether it is through extra curricular activities, social groups or self discovery, high school has become less of a step in academic success and more of a place for teenagers to find themselves before entering the real world.

My personal high school journey has been about refining myself as a person, pursuing the things that make my life happy, acting in a manner that makes myself and my family proud.

I began as a over-zealous freshman, eager to get involved in any and every activity high school had to offer. But when I begin applying for colleges next year, I know that my resumé will not define me by the amount of community service hours I have or by the grades I have earned, but I will stand out as an individual for the personal growth I have made.

Therein lies the beauty of high school. Sure, it can be filled with excess drama and early mornings, but in no other place can a bunch of growing adolescents discover themselves.

So if there is one message that you should extract from this issue, like I did, it should be one of self-love and the importance of sense of identity.

Logainne Schwartzandgrubenierre (played by junior Tori Loepp) is surrounded by parents Carl Dad and Dan Dad (played by juniors Alex Peuser and Mason Wilkinson, respectively) as she sings a solo in “Woe is Me,” a number in the second act of the Theater Department’s winter production of “The 25 Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.” Cover photo by Madeline Briscoe.

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Common Core to be fully implemented in Blue Valley school district at elementary, middle and high school levels in 2014

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by meg huwe editor-in-chief

n Feb. 6, Southwest administration held a workshop to introduce the Common Core standards at the elementary, middle and high school levels.

The workshop was a way to help parents transition into the new teaching and learning style.

By 2014, the Blue Valley district hopes to have fully implemented the Common Core standards in classrooms. These standards were officially adopted by Kansas on Oct. 12, 2010.

“I think that students will notice a little bit different classroom where students are asked to problem solve and engage in problem solving,” associate principal for curriculum and instruction Lisa Wilson said.

Common Core offers a new curriculum that covers a smaller array of topics but goes further in depth, however it is not a total alteration.

“This is not a curriculum shift. It’s not like anything new is being added,” mathematics department chair Richard said. “The shift is in learning. Students recognize more as how classrooms change.”

There are multiple ways to approach these shifts.

“Instead, [we] may see teacher discuss concepts and engage in learning conversations around multiple ways to solve a problem,” Lisa said. “It feels a little different.

Ultimately it’s thinking like a mathematician. It’s the thinking and reading like a historian or scientist rather than just sit, learn, do, next.”

Many teachers support the options offered by Common Core.

“I’m totally for it,” communication arts teacher Tyson Ostroski said. “Just because I don’t like being in classes where it doesn’t seem like there is a purpose.”

There is a focus on reading level through Common Core; however, talk exists that Common Core will not support reading literature. This is because the standards recommend reading 70 percent informational text

and 30 percent literary. These percentages go across a student’s day and include all classes.

There will still be a literature focus.

“The nice part is they [the standards] leave open the ability for teachers to use their craft and work individually with kids to get them there. So they’re not so prescribed that it’s not like a cookie-cutter approach to education. Definitely the same destination everyone wants to get regardless of route they take.

One of the main reasons behind Common Core is to better prepare students for college and the work field or their future.

“We’re not training monkeys,” Richard said. “We’re trying to facilitate thinking and faster perseverance.”

Although when Southwest opened teachers made an effort to adopt these teaching methods after full implementation some adjustment will still have to occur.

“It’ll take awhile to get this going and until teachers feel more comfortable and students understand that perseverance is a part of it,” Ostroski said. “It’s okay to struggle through something.”

Capacities of a literate individual based on Common Core • Make sense of problems and persevere • Reason abstractly and quantitatively • Construct viable arguments • Model with mathematics • Use tools strategically • Attend to precision • Look for and make use of structure • Regularity in repeated reasoning

Standards of mathematical practice based on Common Core • Demonstrates independence • Strong content knowledge • Adapt and adjust communication • Comprehend and critique • Value evidence • Tech & media literate • Cultural understanding Courtesy of www.corestandards.org/

For more information on the Common Core curriculum, scan the QR code or check out www. corestandards.org/

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february 2013

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briefs news Literature class takes field trip to watch “Death of a Salesman”

Teacher Marilyn Brewer took her Advanced Placement and regular Communication Arts IV classes to the University of Missouri-Kansas City to view “Death of a Salesman,” put on by the The Kansas City Repertory Theatre.

The play details the life and times of Willy Loman, a traveling salesman, who is forced

to confront his past demons and his sons.

The play is directed by Artistic Director Eric Rosen, and features Kansas City’s own Gary Neal Johnson and Merle Moores as the desperate Willy and Linda Loman.

The classes previously read the play as part of their curriculum.

Senior sweetheart royalty will be announced Friday, Feb. 15 during the basketball game against Blue Valley North.

Nominees for Queen are seniors Maddy Hisle, Meg Huwe, Madi Kupchin, Paige McKinzie and Anna Welch.

Nominees for King are Ben Lewis, Tanner Lund, Colton Miller, Anthony Miller and Dylan O’Dell.

The Sweetheart dance is 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 16.

Sweetheart royalty to be crowned

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southwest by royan black & brianna bogdan online editor staff writer

Dr. Chris Jenson named 2013 Horizon Award winner At the beginning of September in 2012, Dr. Chris Jenson was nominated to be a recipient of the Horizon Award for the Blue Valley School District.

The Horizon award is an annual recognition for a first year teacher who has demonstrated exceptional teaching at either the elementary or secondary level from each district in the Kansas area.

Jenson is one of 32 teachers from across the state recognized as an exemplary first year educator with this award.

Jenson was nominated by principal Scott Roberts for his accomplishments last year.

“It was an easy choice,” Roberts said. “It was a combination of things.

He spent his first year at CAPS, but I knew what he had done as a student teacher and I worked with Mr. Ralston over at CAPS to nominate him.”

Photo courtesy of http://www.bluevalleyk12.org/

To be eligible for the Horizon Award, teachers must have completed their first year of teaching.

Teachers must also have found a way to distinguish themselves as outstanding in comparison to all the other teachers.

“I was really flattered to be nominated,” Jenson said. “There are lots of really good first year teachers in Blue Valley.”

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Jenson, having found out about the nomination in January, is invited to attend the Kansas Experience Education Network (KEEN) Feb 21 - 22 in Topeka.

“He’s an exceptional teacher,” Roberts said. “What he did establishing Foundations of Medicine goes above first year teachers.”

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briefs news

by royan black & brianna bogdan online editor staff writer

Recycling innovations in art wing After sending its proposal for plastic. these rooms should feel free to Principal Scott Roberts, the National Art Honor Society received clearance to improve recycling procedures in the art wing. Rooms 101, 102, 103, 104, 114 and 116 will be receiving two new bins –– one for the disposal of aluminum and the other

“I didn’t want the group to take on the whole school, and the art wing seemed like a nice place to start since it is the National Art Honor Society,” NAHS sponsor Robert Putnam said.

Students who do not attend classes in any of

to stop by before or after school to dispose items into the appropriate bins. Each container will be decorated and labeled by the members of NAHS, who meet at 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. Thursdays in Room 101.

Spread the word to end the word March 6 is National Awareness day, sponsored by the Special Olympics, to stop the use of the R-word. In order to spread awareness, shirts will be sold on the week prior to March 6 by students of the Interpersonal Skills Class during all lunch hours. Sizes S to XL will be priced at $15 and sizes above

XL will be $17.

For students to guarantee that they have a shirt to wear on March 6, students can preorder by dropping off cash or check, along with a note detailing your name and size information, to Room 207.

Scholastic art winners announced

Among the many contestants that entered the 2013 Scholastic Art Midwest RegionalAt-Large Competition, three students took home awards. Honorable mention went to senior Katie Curry for her colored pencil and oil painting titled “Sweet Freedom.” The

4.) What’s the last thing you ate?

5.) What is the first thing you notice about the opposite sex?

6.) Can you do a headstand?

7.) Something you feel strongly about?

8.) Something you always think “what if ” about?

9.) A quote you live by?

2: Some crooked teeth.

3: When you tell someone a secret and then they blurt that stuff out in class, or something.

4: A piece of cheese and sausage pizza.

5: They’re all crazy.

6: I can do a headstand.

7: My friendship between Hunter Thomas and I.

8: What if I caught my girlfriend cheating on me?

9: Live life to the fullest.

Graphic by Anna Glennon

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The Glitter Girls hosted their own dance clinic for students Pre-K through 5th grade on Jan. 29. There, they taught children how to perform a routine and prepared them to be future glitter girls. Registrants also received T-shirts and framed pictures of

2: I hate when people think they’re above other people, and act like it. I hate that.

3: I hate when you’re eating or someone else is eating and they scrape their teeth with like a metal fork. Or if somebody takes like two forks and scrapes them together; I’m out.

Like, I cannot stand that.

6: If I wanted to snap my neck and die, I don’t know.

7: People relations, I feel like you need to have a strong connection with somebody. It’s important to stay strong and stick through stuff with them, it’s important that you can’t just move on.

8: If I’m in a test or if I can’t think of a lyric or something I think; what if I was trapped in a well for like 3 years? Would I ever be able to ace this test if that’s the only thing I thought about?

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themselves with the Timberwolf mascot and the team. After the clinic, participants showed off what they had learned during Halftime of the Feb. 4 varsity girls basketball game.

Kathryn Pinto

3.) Biggest pet peeves?

1: I don’t have a favorite band, but my favorite artist is Macklemore.

Glitter Girls host dance clinic for elementary school students

Sammy Moulton

2.) What are your biggest turn-offs?

Trenton Anderson

1.) What’s your favorite band?

Silver Key was awarded to freshman Katharine Penrod for her colored pencil drawing, “Airheads,” and junior Johnny Tapp for his colored pencil drawing, “Colorful Candy.”

Students can view these award-winning pieces on display in the art gallery.

Seniors Megan Becker and Jadie Veatch and sophomores Charlotte Davis and Alexandra Griffith gather around a table for National Art Honor Society to try and decide decorations for the upcoming Sweetheart Dance. Photo by Matt Forster.

1: Prince and The Revolution.

5: I try to predict their political affilia-

tion, but next to that; eyes, windows to the soul.

6: I can do a headstand. I can do back bend, a walk over, a round-off. Can’t do a back handspring anymore, probably, might break a limb; but, yeah, I can do a headstand.

7: I feel strongly about the right to vote and that all citizens of this great nation of ours should vote, because if you don’t make the decisions you allow other people to make them for you.

8: I always think ‘what if ’ one of my

students came back and told me they were ready to run for a political office and asked me to join their campaign?

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Coming down with senioritis Guidance to make it through senior year spring semester

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t’s second semester and there are less than 100 days of school until summer. Seniors try to balance their busy schedules of extracurricular activities, college admission, a social life and perhaps even a part-time job.

Somewhere along the year, homework begins to seem less important and spending time with friends becomes a top priority.

Then, college acceptances flow in and high school seems even less important. Grades begin to crumble and school work has no significance. Their diagnosis? Senioritis.

Symptoms include: laziness, an over-excessive wearing of track pants, old athletic shirts, sweatpants, athletic shorts and sweatshirts. Also, features a lack of studying, repeated absences and a generally dismissive attitude. This “sickness” and phenomenon seems to have only one cure known as graduation.

Senioritis is easy to catch and hard to get rid of. Senioritis can have a drastic aftermath and jeopardize the potential of those dreaming to be accepted by colleges close to reach. Regardless of the consequences, it is still tempting to let school work slide. After all, seniors are busy people.

To help fight that temptation, here are some ways to avoid senioritis.

Talk about it

Senior year is sad and exhilarating all at the same time. Friends catalog all the “lasts”—the last first day of school, the last football game, the last prom. But seniors also look forward to graduating and starting

college. The thrills of senior year may take one by storm, but still enjoy the time left with those that have been best friends with for the last four years or since elementary school.

Make senior year count for what it’s worth with those who have been there through thick and thin. Make time for friends, but remember school work, even in second semester, still counts toward the fine line between acceptance and scholarship.

Upcoming graduates, don’t lose sight of the future that’s been imagined for the last year or so. Seniors should talk about their feelings—which can range from fear of leaving high school to stress about college admission to anticipation of the new experiences college will bring. Useful people to talk to are friends (who are going through similar experiences), parents, guidance counselors and other respected adults.

citizen, making choices for the betterment of brain, body and spirit, often offers more benefit for college admission than some plan crafted to impress college admission officers. So don’t get involved in some activity just to impress colleges. There’s no time for that. Instead, seniors should do the things they love, and drop activities that they’re just not that committed to. This does not mean that academics or school work should be put on the back burner because school is not as entertaining as other pastimes.

Plan ahead

Seniors already know what activities they will stay involved in this year, and college applications are coming up fast. Plus, it is important to make the most of time with friends and family. Fitting all of the activi-

by mariem towakoli sports editor

ties in can be frustrating.

The best tool is a calendar or day planner. Write down all deadlines for applications, papers, tests and so on. Then note other activities, such as sports schedule, drama or band rehearsals, SAT or ACT day or college visits. Then, map out what must be done. To complete that English paper, when should one begin working on it? If the big game is the night before the due date, plan to finish the paper a few days ahead of time.

Senior year isn’t supposed to be a headache or a downer to a high school career.

Make the most of it and it is still possible to have time during that busy schedule for friends, college acceptances and school work.

Don’t obsess

Senior year is stressful already. It’s easy to get caught up in the college admission process and forget about the here and now. The worst thing to do is obsess over college admission.

Going about the business of being a good student and a good

Signs of high school senioritis: Poor grades Incomplete assignments Does not make it home for curfew Cut classes Increased absences from school Concern from teachers and school administrators Lackadaisical attitude about homework and school projects

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What needs to get done

Graphics by Morgan Vietti

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Message

ARIES the Ram March 21 to April 20 Aries are fiery and warm; they are very self-expressive and have the drive to act now. This is not a patient sign, action is immediately taken on thoughts.

in the

TAURUS the Bull April 21 to May 21 The Taurus personality is patient, grounded and reliable. They are very in tune with the environment and will often be found trying to preserve it.

by brianna bogdan staff writer

About Aquarius

Element: Air Most compatible with: Libra, Gemini,

Aries, Leo, and other members of Aquarius Not compatible with: Scorpio, Taurus, Virgo, Cancer, Capricorn Beneficial foods: Pomegranates and pineapples Common Ailments: Injuries to lower legs, ankle problems, poor circulation, blood disorders, nervous disorders, insomnia Light side: Those born under the sign Aquarius think ahead of their time and revel in anything different. As Aquarius thinks today, the world will think tomorrow. This sign specializes in taking small bits of information and compiling it in order to see the bigger picture. The facts and gossip they are so adept at finding seems to be detected by their own private radar- Aquarius has its sources.

Dark side: This sign can be very unpredictable; jumping from chaotic to calm and from stubborn to flexible. Also, those born under this sign may go to unreasonable extremes in order to appear unique. They do not care what the world thinks and instead act on their own knowledge and values. Because of this, these “water bearers” often become isolated. But this is unbeknownst to them; despite their ability to pick up on small details, Aquarius often misses the obvious.

How well do you fit YOUR sign?

Are you ... ?

Sensitive Maternal Cautious Patriotic Good Homemaker

Are you ... ?

Adaptable Witty Logical Chatty Up-to-date

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CANCER the Crab June 22 to July 22 This is the sign of the parent. Those born under this sign are sensitive, kind and sympathetic, with a willingness to nurture and protect the people close to them.

LEO the Lion July 23 to Aug. 21 Leo are regal, self confident, and give quality work. They also have a knack for organizing events–‑ but only if they get to be in charge. This is the sign of the ruler and king.

VIRGO the Virgin Aug. 22 to Sep. 23 Virgo are critics and tacticians. Their character is marked by a sharp intellect which is typically used to analyze the natural order.

LIBRA the Scales Sep. 24 to Oct. 23 The diplomat, Libra, is a sign that values peace at all costs and is very fair minded. In the event of a dispute, they will be the ones to seek compromise.

SCORPIO the Scorpion Oct. 24 to Nov. 22 Those born under this sign understand and accept the feelings that other signs cannot. Scorpio are not afraid of the darkness in people, so this sign often makes an ideal investigator.

Senior Veronica Buendia

Sophomore Shannon Black

Are you ... ?

Humanatarian Independent Quirky Progressive Inventive

GEMINI the Twins May 22 to June 21 Gemini are known for their dual personalities and ability to change mood from moment to moment. Not much troubles a Gemini or stops their constant chatter for long.

Senior Jake Moulton

SAGITTARIUS the Archer Nov. 23 to Dec. 22 Sagittarius prefer to live freely and without much responsibility. They interact spontaneously with life and thirst for travel.

CAPRICORN the Goat Dec. 23 to Jan. 20 One of Capricorn’s best assets is its sense of humor. This sign tends to be very grounded in its ideals, seeing things in only black and white; right or wrong.

AQUARIUS the Water Bearer Jan. 21 to Feb. 19 Aquarius are extremely independent and will not be tied down for long. Sailing in the opposite direction of the crowd comes naturally to them.

PISCES the Fish Feb. 20 to March 20 The most sensitive and poetic sign. Pisces are empathetic and compassionate, those belonging to this sign cannot bear to see others in pain.

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Evading illness:

southwest

Quick tips on how to stay healthy this season by jessica skaggs managing editor

Gastrointestinal Illness:

While it’s common for people to get sick during the winter months, it’s possible to avoid the illnesses by following some of the tips suggested by both school nurse, Jill Stevens, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

“The best way to avoid getting sick this time of year, is to just practice the common sense stuff,” Jill said.

Most common symptoms

Often times, people mistake symptoms seemingly similar to those of the flu, as being the “stomach flu.” However, there is no such thing as the “stomach flu.” Doctors most of the time refer to the sickness as a gastrointestinal illness. It is caused by a number of factors including viruses and bacteria.

Cold:

Colds begin once the immune system starts attacking a virus. Germs that cause the illness are very contagious.

Most common symptoms (provided by WebMD) • clear, watery nasal drainage • sneezing • fatigue • cough

(provided by WebMD) • low grade fever (99 degrees) • stomach pain • abdominal cramps • nausea • vomiting • diarrhea

Influenza:

Most common symptoms

This contagious respiratory illness is caused by influenza viruses that infect the throat, lungs and nose.

(provided by WebMD) • high fever • severe aches and pains in the joints and muscles and around the eyes • generalized weakness • ill appearance with warm, flushed skin and red, watery eyes • headache • dry cough • sore throat and watery discharge from your nose

1. Avoid close contact.

Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others, too.

2. Cover your mouth and nose.

Cover with a tissue or your elbow when coughing or sneezing.

It may prevent those around you from getting sick.

3. Clean your hands.

Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs.

4. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.

Germs spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.

5. Practice good health habits.

Disinfect frequently touched surfaces at home, work or school, especially when someone is ill. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food.

Courtesy of www.cdc.gov

5 Immune Boosting Foods Chicken Soup

This classic soup can not only help one stay hydrated, but as well as loosen up nasal airways, as it raises the temperature of the body.

Yogurt

Eating “good bacteria” or otherwise known as probiotics, can help one’s immune system work more efficiently, as well as improve digestion. This is key in combating illnesses.

Green Tea

Add a squeeze of lemon, and a couple drops of honey into this plant antioxidant rich beverage. It is these plant polyphenols, that are believed to boost the immune system.

Vitamin D

Salmon, or other fatty fish, as well as Vitamin D supplements, can aid the immune cells that destroy viruses and bacteria that can cause illnesses.

Fiber

Foods such as carrots, apples and oats are rich in fiber can fight bacterial infection.

Strive to consume 25 to 38 grams of fiber a day. graphic by matt forster.

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Courtesy of http://www.eatingwell.com graphic by brianna bogdan.

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Physically emotional pain Students struggle with self-harm by molly sharp staff writer

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ccording to the American Counseling Association, an estimated 14 to 20 percent of teenagers have or still are self-harming.

Self-harm is deliberate harm of ones body without the intent of suicide. For many this subject is very prevalent in their lives.

Self-harm is considered an addiction.

Doctors give a list of reasons for self-harm: to distract from emotional pain, to punish one’s self, relieve tension, make emotional pain physical, according to www. selfinjuryfoundation.org.

For all who harm, there is a list of triggers- what makes them want to cut. Many times, stress, sights, memories or certain situations are a trigger according to www. selfinjuryfoundation.org.

In mid-January, this topic had been brought to light in a not-so-realistic way: #cuttingforbieber. No one is sure about exactly how it started, but the reason is as follows; Justin Bieber was supposedly caught smoking marijuana.

In turn, a few fans decided to cut their wrists and forearms until he stopped smoking.

The thing is, it isn’t a fans’ decision what a celebrity chooses to do with their life.

Counselor Kristi Dixon had strong views on the subject: “Nobody gets to be held hostage, and that is basically what is happening,” Dixon said.

Many students know someone who has or is still self-harming. For example,

opinion

junior Gabi Bailey knows about four people.

“I feel sad when I find out and confused,” Bailey said. “You don’t expect these people to hurt themselves.”

Not only students see those who struggle with self harm, staff members do too.

“I worked at a psychiatric hospital and worked with many girls in particular who cut,” wrestling coach Dustin Dooley said. “I was able to help them want to live again and have a real life.”

The first time I ever selfharmed was in the beginning of freshman year. I burned the word ‘heal’ into my arm as a symbol of getting through my depression and a rough situation. That was what I thought was the last time.

With each trigger, I had a new burn on my leg. Soon enough, burning myself became an everyday affair.

By the time winter break started, my thigh was covered in scars and fresh blistering burns. I promised myself and my boyfriend I would stop. But I gave into the urge after 134 days.

When my parents found out, the lighters I used were taken away. Like any other addiction, I became desperate to harm.

I went into my bathroom and found a razor. It took me about five minutes to take it apart. There were three thin blades laying on my bed.

After many more months of cutting, I decided I wanted my life back.

Now, it has been over 100 days. The scars

that cover my legs are a constant reminder of the emotions I was feeling and my desperate attempt to escape.

There are many great websites I used, and others have used, to seek help. To Write Love on Her Arms is a non-profit origination with the goal of helping people with depression, self-harm, suicide, and addiction.

If one of your friends self harms, don’t react with anger or sadness.

Let them know it hurts both you and them. Have them tell someone or you yourself tell someone.

• • • • •

WAYS TO STOP Snap a rubber band on your wrist Tear up paper Write down exactly what you feel Draw what you are feeling or thinking about Talk to someone you trust FORMS OF SELF HARM • Cutting • Burning • Scratching • Bruising • Pulling out hair • Scalding with water • Punching or hitting • Stopping healing of wounds

Courtesy of www.selfinjury.com

Ages when self harm begins 25 percent sixth grade

12 percent ninth grade 3 percent other

60 percent seventh or eighth grade Statistics courtesy of Counseling Today

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southwest

Flirting with the edge by meg huwe editor-in-chief

A National Suicide Hotline: 1-800-273-8255

couple weeks ago, my uncle’s friend committed suicide. He was 48, the same age as my own father. He had four children; his youngest is only 8.

I never personally met this man, though I heard all about his youngest son. My cousin and his son are best friends. Their friendship is the reason my cousin never wants to spend time with our own family.

So aside from instances when my little cousin was talking about his friend, this family never crossed my mind. Now, I think about them quite often. I’ll continue to think about them frequently too. I don’t know what their home-life was like, entirely. As far as I know, they were a happy and put-together family. He

was an incredibly successful man with a pleasant demeanor.

That being said, I can’t help but wonder what could possibly have led him to this end result.

Suicide is permanent.

That may seem like an obvious statement, but I feel like the gravity of the decision to kill oneself doesn’t always register with someone who is suicidal. All that matters is that moment. That chance to escape, but it’s only an escape of temporary problems. An escape that lasts a lifetime for everyone else.

The choice my uncle’s friend made will have an impact on his wife, children, friends and family forever.

They can’t escape his decision, which almost leads me to want to say suicide is selfish. However, maybe that’s the point. All the pressure to live for everyone is overwhelming.

I realize that I don’t know what my uncle’s friend’s home life was like or the demons he struggled with, and I assume he thought about all of this.

The Southwest Standard editor-in-chief meg huwe

features editor ananda bhatia

managing editor jessica skaggs

opinion editor grant laster

web editor royan black

sports editor mariem towakoli

news editor caroline fronczak

special sections editor anna welch

photo editor anna glennon

opinion

photographers matt forster kylie norcross morgan vietti staff writers brianna bogdan jordon fields sawyer like molly sharp adviser heather lawrenz

Still I can’t help but wonder: why?

Why would this man not want to see his son graduate high school? Why wouldn’t he want to grow old with his wife? Why has he left his children to a world of hurt and confusion as they grow older?

I’ll never have the answers to these questions, and neither will anyone else.

I’ve only heard one explanation for suicide that helps me understand. Suicide simulates being at the edge of a cliff. Many people flirt with the edge but most see a bridge: some means of hope. Those contemplating suicide see no bridge, no rope. Just an ending.

These endings have a lasting impact which I assume that impact is thought about.

The concept that I struggle with most is how one can willingly wish for this ending when so many people are resiliently fighting for their own lives.

Whether these people are battling a terminal illness or off serving our country.

There is no justice in that.

Maybe it may seem like there isn’t anything worth living for, but there isn’t necessarily any event or circumstance that is worth dying for. No human being is worth more dead than he or she is alive. Every person on this planet has something to offer and the ability to change someone’s life.

Every person.

I want to be clear that the purpose of this article is not to judge my uncle’s friend or anyone who has committed or even contemplated suicide, because that’s not my place. I admit I’ve been in dark places, but never to the point where I saw only one ending in sight. Since I haven’t been in a position like that one, it would be unfair of me to judge someone when I haven’t been in his or her shoes.

I just know that, as we grow older, events like this become more likely and it’s possible we’ll know someone who wants to make such a choice. I want us to avoid that if at all possible.

The Southwest Standard is published ten times a year for students, faculty and surrounding community of Blue Valley Southwest. It is an open forum for student expression. Therefore, the opinions expressed within this paper do not necessarily reflect the views of the administrations of Blue Valley Unified School District #229.

Letters to the editor and reader responses are encouraged for publication. The Southwest Standard reserves the right to edit all submissions for both language and content and encourages letters to be no more than 350 words. All letters must be signed and names will be published.

www.bvswnews.com

While this may not seem like a predominant issue currently, I’d rather write something as a precautionary measure than see this become timely. I imagine there are people toying with the thought of suicide even at our school.

So be sure to look out for those people who are struggling. You never know how much of an impact reaching out can have. And don’t think that people who are successful have it all together. Sometimes, they’re the ones who struggle the most.

And those of you flirting with that edge right now, please think about who cares about you. Think about all the potential your future has. Think about all the people you’ll never meet, all the opportunities you’ll never come across.

Think about who wouldn’t find you.

And no matter how hidden or obscure it may seem, think about that bridge and know it’s always there.

Letters should be submitted to room 118, emailed to bvswnews@gmail.com or mailed to: The Southwest Standard c/o Blue Valley Southwest High School 17600 Quivira Overland Park, KS 66085

The Southwest Standard also encourages guest photography. Photos should be submitted to room 118 with information pertaining to the photos.

february 2013

staffed: Show

W

by ananda bhatia features editor

hat happened to us?

We used to be one school. Sure, students transferred here because we were a new school with new people, but stayed because we were different. There wasn’t the same exclusivity between groups — everyone got along. Remember “#lovemysouthwestfamily?”

So when did we go wrong? It’s only been three years.

It’s hard to believe that once the novelty wears off, we’ll turn into just another cookie-cutter replica of high school clichés. We used to be unique in our desire to be different.

Now, that’s starting to change.

Take, for example, the rising tension between the sophomore and senior classes. While it’s present elsewhere around school, it’s easily noticeable at assemblies: 10th graders out-shouted the seniors with their class cheer twice this year. While this resulted in spirited rebuttals from both sides, it wasn’t the kind of spirit the pep rallies are designed to provoke.

Now, competition can be a great thing; it can drive a team to win a State championship or motivate a student to excel in school. The only challenge lies in learning where to draw the line. Unfortunately, we crossed every line when we disrespected other students, and that absolutely needs to change.

To be blunt, we shouldn’t make lists of the “Top 10 Hottest Girls.” More than once. On the internet. What’s next, our own burn book?

“It just makes me angry because people don’t realize how much this hurts people’s self-esteem,” sophomore Chelsea Schupp said. “I honestly didn’t care that I wasn’t on the list; it just made me really frustrated because people don’t actually know how much that can bring a person down.”

As a result, the incident hurt several people in our school’s community, whether they were involved or not, because it changed everything we once stood for.

Everyone can’t get along 100 percent of the time, but as a school, we should make everyone feel valued and safe. Not

11

some respect now

just safe from direct verbal abuse, but also safe from judgment by our peers.

Our school can still be that “Southwest family” everyone said we were, but we have to decide what will become of us together. And that’s a decision we can’t put off for

What is your opinion on the top 10 list on Twitter?

““

opinion

I think it can end up as a disaster. People could feel left out and that would make the people at the top of the list feel better about themselves and start hurting other people’s feelings.

Freshman- Trevor Agonis

www.bvswnews.com

five years, when our novelty has completely worn off. We have to make that decision now.

staff vote your vote

standard

yes - 14 no -0

Go online to bvswnews.com to cast your vote for this month’s editorial question. Read other student responses and comment on the editorial. Make your voice heard at www.bvswnews.com or mention us on twitter

““

I just think it’s stupid. Girls freak out about it because they’re not on it, and it’s not really a big deal. sophomoreAlisha Nguyen

february 2013

12

Crazy little A three-sport jock and a girl thing called with a mini skirt

love

Bill Lowe and Deanna Sell pose for a picture before heading off to their senior Prom. Photos submitted by Deanna Lowe.

doubletruck

13

southwest standard

by anna welch special sections editor “Can I borrow a pencil?”

Little did anyone know that those five little words would be the beginning of a beautiful love story.

In the summer of ‘72, two hearts met for the very first time. A three-sport jock, Bill Lowe, would have his prayers answered when the new girl, Deanna Sell, sat behind him in his history class.

“I prayed all summer, and then on the first day of school there was a new girl,” Bill said.

“She was from Alabama, and she had a Southern accent and a mini skirt, and I was in love.

I just knew she was the one for me.”

While Bill knew in his heart that she was the girl of his dreams, Deanna wasn’t so sure about him.

“He was annoying,” Deanna said. “He sat in front of me in history class and would always ask to borrow a pencil.”

Bill had asked Deanna for a pencil every day, however he waited until February to ask an even bigger question on his mind.

After school on Friday Feb. 2, Bill hid behind Deanna’s locker and asked her if she would want to go with him somewhere after the basketball game that night.

At first, she said no. She was having a slumber party with a bunch of her friends at her house.

As a heartbroken Bill

began to prepare for the game, a phone call changed everything.

“Well maybe, maybe I can come,” Deanna said.

Even though Bill sat on the bench the entire night, he was excited for the double date that was waiting for him at the sound of the final buzzer.

The date was a success and ended with a dessert of Bill’s watermelon jolly ranchers he had stuffed in his pocket all night to calm his nerves.

Their next date was a mixer the following weekend, and they stayed together to enjoy their senior prom.

The Lowe’s have gone through ups and downs throughout their marriage, but the glue that held them together is their faith.

“We’ve always trusted God through the tough times that marriage brings and having four kids,” Bill said. “In marriage, you have to have something you both can grasp onto, and for us, that would be our faith.”

Although the Lowes got married young, and have been together for 40 years, they both think that marriage at 18 in society today isn’t a good choice. ““It’s important to have an education in our society now,” Deanna said. “Now, it is a lot harder for women to support themselves without an education. But, for us I wouldn’t have changed anything.”

Photo by Anna Glennon

by caroline fronczak news editor “I like you, do you like me? Check yes or no.”

The nerves, the anticipation, the emotions of first love all mixed into a simple saying as that person scribbles down an answer and passes it back.

Penning love letters on Valentine’s Day, has become obsolete in the era of technology. Between texting “luv u” and tweeting about one’s significant other, the pleasure of a handwritten love letter is largely lost.

It may seem a little spark has disappeared along the way between the time of Shakespeare’s Sonnet 18 and today’s process of picking a Valentine on Feb. 14.

As society progressed from the time of St. Valentine, these letters were replaced with emails, webcams, and texts.

This quicker way of keeping in touch with people’s loved ones has ultimately replaced the time-consuming and old-fashioned love letters of Shakespeare’s day.

“Valentine’s Day has been made a lot less personal because of technology,” junior Lauren Zahner said. “People hide behind a screen instead of saying their feelings faceto-face.”

It is so easy to send text messages to somebody like “take care” or “I love you” anytime of the day, and tweet how much one misses them. And sure, an email can explain the depths to which one loves one’s “Dearest Creature,” but it just doesn’t look

the same on the brightly glowing screen as it does scrawled on a scrap of notebook paper.

“Texting in particular takes something away from love,” junior Sabrina Castle said.

“You don’t get to feel like that time spent with them wouldn’t be otherwise spent texting; it’s just not the same.”

A survey done by The Daily Telegraph polled 2,558 people and two thirds had never sent a love letter before. Seventy percent of women polled said they would like a letter while 53 percent of men agreed.

Sixty-nine percent admitted to having said “I love you” by text message.

“I’ve received love letters before,” Zahner said. “And let me tell those letters meant so much more to me than any text any guy has ever sent me.”

The way the world communicates has certainly changed, and it may be quicker to use email or text, but it does have drawbacks.

“Today, Valentine’s Day is about the flowers, the chocolate and the gifts,” Zahner said. “It doesn’t focus on the couple’s feelings for each other anymore.”

Showing love to others has certainly changed, from Valentine’s Day, to the great bard himself. People become less worried whether to text “I love you” or write it down in cursive.

If Shakespeare were here today, he wouldn’t have time to write Sonnet 18.

First, because the sonnet wouldn’t fit in the 140 characters used on a tweet. Second, because it would be a much simpler question: “Yes or No”.

Graphic by Anna Glennon

poll out of 100 students Graphics by Brianna Bogdan.

www.bvswnews.com

Graphic by Anna Glennon.

february 2013

14

southwest

Off to college, but not to lunch W ith an influx of royan black students online editor getting their licenses, the parking lot is filling up faster than ever. Every day, students with licenses drive to and from school, and if enrolled, students drive all the way to 151st and Metcalf to the Center for Advanced Professional Studies (CAPS).

“If they come from CAPS, they can bring in food,” junior McKenna Oldson said. “ It makes me mad because it’s giving certain students privileges. It’s singling students out.”

For students with licenses, driving is an everyday thing, and there are students who skip out on lunch in the cafeteria to head to local restaurants and fast food joints against the rules. With that trust, now may be the time to introduce off-campus lunches.

High school is a place where students are meant to grow and accept new responsibilities. Students are supposed to be allowed to thrive and grow.

“I was supposed to go to Blue Valley Northwest,” Oldson

opinion

said. “I have a lot of friends still there and every time I see them, they brag about getting to go to Sonic or Panera for lunch. It is not fair to the rest of Blue Valley students for one school to get off campus lunch and not the rest. I understand that Southwest is kind of far away from civilization, but at the same time 151st is not that far away.”

The rule against off campus lunches creates a double standard in the same district that allows students to drive to and from school and to CAPS, but does not allow them to drive to lunch.

“We have closed campus lunch as a safety policy,” principal Scott Roberts said. “Twenty-seven minutes is not enough time to go to lunch and get back in time, due to the fact that we’re so far out here.”

A student’s safety is his or her own responsibility some of the time, and students are just as likely, or more so, to have a deadly car accident while driving to or from school or between CAPS as they are when driving to. Whether the district acknowledges it or not, students’ safety on the road is their own responsibility, and should be treated as such.

It’s understandable that the district wants to protect their students, and themselves from lawsuits, but there’s easy ways to prevent that.

If the district insists on refusing to allow off campus

www.bvswnews.com

lunches, they can allow students over the age of 18 to sign a waiver for themselves, and let younger student-drivers have the option of letting their parents sign one for them. Anyone without a waiver would fall under the current closed campus rule, and therefore would not be able to head off to off campus lunches.

“In today’s society, securing entrances during off-campus lunch is not feasible,” Roberts said. “There’s no way to keep watch on every entrance and there’s no way to keep it secure.”

There are more than five entrances at Southwest, but it seems that the three main entrances are the doors in the office, the doors in the commons and the doors down by the gym. During off-campus lunch, it would be easier to lock the doors down by the gym steps, leaving the office and the commons the only way to enter the school, where both entrances are already guarded by S.R.O.’s and the office aids anyway.

Especially in the case of upperclassmen, students are reminded that they’re adults and need to behave so in getting their homework in, on doing their projects, but there would be no better way for students to demonstrate adulthood like having the responsibility of off-campus lunches.

graphic by morgan

february 2013

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wintersports briefs

by sawyer like staff writer

15

Wrestling team competes at Regionals

With the season drawing to a close, the wrestling team will compete Saturday, Feb. 16, at Mill Valley High School for the Regional Tournament. Throughout their season, the team has picked up important wins, winning the Johnson County Classic and taking fourth at the Beloit Invitational.

The team will compete to qualify for the State Tournament being held at the

Hartman Arena in Wichita on the Feb. 22 and 23.

“Our team has done a tremendous amount of work, both in season and out of season that has contributed to our success this year,” senior Joe Lemieux said. “I’m very excited for the challenge, and want to keep climbing to that next level.”

With swimming season drawing to a close, Friday, Feb. 15 and Saturday, Feb. 16 are the last chances to see the boys swim team in action.

The boys State swimming finals will begin at 2 p.m. on Friday and 3 p.m. on Saturday.

The competition will take place at the

Hummer Sports Complex in Topeka.

“We spend a lot of time in the water swimming and the variations are sprinting and distance to build endurance,” junior Dennis Caldwell said. “We spend way too much time in the water in my opinion, up to the point that we may grow gills.”

Boys swim team splashing into State

Girls bowling to compete at Regionals

Junior Adam Pelfrey works to score the takedown against Gardner-Edgerton’s 120 pound wrestler. Blue Valley Southwest will wrestle Gardner-Edgerton again at EKL. Photo by Anna Glennon.

Nearing the end of bowling season, the girls bowling team will be competing Thursday Feb. 21 at the Regional Bowling Tournament.

The girls have only competed a few times this season, with JV taking first with Senior Hannah Michael earning the top

bowler spot with a score of 169. Senior Laura Vanderheiden bowled a 203 at practice. However, the level of competition is yet to be determined for Regionals.

“I am not sure about Regionals yet,” coach Kimberly Spencer said. “It is still too early.”

Girls basketball to begin Sub-State games The girls basketball team will be proving their mettle beginning next week as they begin the series of Sub-State Tournament games, beginning Wednesday Feb. 27, with another game on March 1. The team has had a successful season thus far, with important wins over Blue Valley as well as

Bishop Miege.

The State Tournament will be on March 6-9 at the Expo Center in Topeka.

“This is the best year we’ve ever had so we are all really excited for Sub-State,” junior Haley Fahnholz said. “I think we are going to go pretty far.”

Boys basketball wrapping up season Wrapping up the season, the boys basketball team will be competing at the Sub-State tournament, competing with other local schools to be able to advance onto the State Tournament.

The boys have won some important games, defeating Blue Valley West, Blue Valley, St. Thomas Aquinas and GardnerEdgerton.

sports

“I love my team and we are all very excited for Sub-State,” sophomore Steven Anderson said. “I think we have a very good chance at winning and I’m looking forward to winning.”

The boys will have games on Feb. 28 as well as March 2.

www.bvswnews.com

february 2013

16

Team profiles: Rec Basketball

southwest by ananda bhatia features editor

Rec N’ Balls

What was the most interesting game you’ve ever played?

“The most interesting game was when Ryan Price took me out and the ref ended the game JUNIORS early. Nick Warner chucked Jordan Alberino the ball at JD Putnam and he Jacob Flores got a technical, then I went to Bobby Goheen go in for Nick. So Ryan came and bumped me and I flopped, Ben Hettrick fell to the ground screaming Sawyer Like Garret Marks as a joke, and the ref said the game was over.”

Pate Nowlin -junior Ben Hettrick

Adam Pelfrey Trevor Ware Nick Warner

What’s the best part about playing on your team?

“Garrett Marks trying to shoot free throws.”

-junior Jacob Flores What was the most interesting game you’ve ever played?

“We played one team [Swoll Train] and lost 91

to 19. They were all seniors from Blue Valley, all 6’3” and above and really big.

Toward the end of the game we just started holding the ball so they couldn’t score 100 points on us, and the other team’s coach got really mad. It was pretty fun.”

-junior Garrett Marks

Wolfpack

What was the most interesting game you’ve ever played?

“We played another SW team and we were just jacking around because we knew the other team.

We started throwing the ball off of each other. I thought it was fun – it wasn’t traveling. He [the ref ] brought us in a circle and he said, ‘if you guys don’t stop jacking around I’m calling the game. I JUNIORS have a football game I would rather Jack Ayres be watching than reffing you guys.’

Will Charlesworth He ended up calling the game 6 Alex Davey minutes before it ended and he just Dakota Lebosky kind of walked out.” -junior Dakota Connor Phillips Lebosky What’s the best part about playing? Ryan Price “It’s completely student run – it’s all JD Putnam us. We control the subs, we control Max Putnam the plays and the things we want to Jake Reed do.” -junior Jack Ayres What’s the best part about all the best players take up playing? all the time. Most people “You have a whole lot more jack around and do stupid fun because everyone has things.” -junior JD Putnam equal playing time and not

sports

On Jan. 27, the BVSW Wolfpack competed against the Blue Valley High Kekumbas. “None of us were good enough to make the basketball team so we thought ‘hey, let’s start our own,’” Ayres said. “It’s different in a sense that there are a lot more teams and you can play with a lot of your friends.” Junior Ryan Price gets the ball while junior Jack Ayres defends him.

Kan-Mo Elite

What do you want people to know about your team?

“We go hard every Sunday and we never quit. We are Kan-Mo Elite. Kan-Mo never sleeps. We’re coming for you.” -freshman Zack Keeling What’s the best part about playing?

“We don’t have to get in trouble if we shoot a bad shot. They have refs, but they don’t really care.” -freshman Jack Weidner What do you want people to know about your team?

“Last year we had a spring team, but it wasn’t the greatness that we assembled this year yet. People need to know we’re on a mission to

FRESHMEN Drew Easterday Tyler Greene Zack Keeling Jake Lebofsky Joe Lineaman Toby Magyar Jack Weidner Seth Wingerter Carter Yancey

Juniors Jack Ayres and Ryan Price jump to block the ball. Photos

by Kylie Norcross.

What’s the best part about playing?

“With competitive I was traveling all over the country playing tournaments, but here there are no practices and it’s more relaxed. It’s completely different.” -senior Brett Young What do you want people to know about your team?

“Everybody should come out and watch — it’s a pretty fun show to watch, 12 guys goofing around with referees.”

-senior Sam Lemieux

Why did you decide to start playing? become the best rec team “My brother just needed an ever assembled and to represent BVSW virtues and extra guy on the team, but it’s a fun thing. We don’t take it whatnot. We have a good time ‘hooping it up,’ as you very seriously. We try to have could say.” -freshman Sam a good time.” -senior Joe Lemieux Kersey

www.bvswnews.com

Grizzlies

JUNIORS Jack Raybuck SENIORS Scott Anderson Josh Garber Joe Lemieux Sam Lemieux Aaron Lippert Ryan Mealy Dylan O’Dell Blake Ware Adam Wilmes Brett Young

february 2013

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HOOP FACTS

17

Top left: Junior Sydney Haas makes a basket, personally scoring a total of 8 points for the game. Top right: Junior Kaley Clark passes the ball down the court to a teammate at the game on Jan. 27. The final score was 30-37. Bottom: Junior Megan Starr throws the ball to junior Megan Edwards while a member of team Kreamer attempts to block her. Photos by Ananda Bhatia.

Hot Shots

FRESHMEN Abby Ragsdale JUNIORS Kelsie Bartlett Kaley Clark Megan Edwards Kayla Gruenhaupt Sydney Haas Cassie Johnson Jenn Kealey Kelsi Parmenter Megan Starr

sports

What’s the best part about playing?

“In rec, if you make a mistake no one cares and people don’t get mad at you. Everyone gets the chance to play — you don’t rotate in based on top score.” -junior Jenn Kealey Why did you decide to start playing?

“I’d played on all four teams at school; then I had knee surgery over the summer. I’m unable to play competitive sports anymore, but I love basketball and I didn’t want to be completely be done with it. [With rec] you don’t have to have the pressure of letting your team and coach down and you get to hang out with your friends — it’s the best of both

worlds.” -junior Cassie Johnson

What’s the strangest game you’ve ever played?

“It started off fine, but it just got progressively more intense. One of the girls pushed Sydney out of the sidelines, and they wanted to get intentional fouls.

Cassie had a knee brace on and they were saying ‘Go for the knee, go for the knee.’” -junior Megan Edwards What’s the best part about playing?

“Well, I would say winning if we ever won a game, but we don’t. The best part is probably just getting together with your friends.”

Graphics by Brianna Bogdan.

-junior Sydney Haas

www.bvswnews.com

For team schedules, visit bluevalleyrec.org

february 2013

18

profiles player This winter sports season has brought the most successful season, record-wise, in school history. Girls basketball, boys basketball and wrestling in particular are having strong and productive seasons, and these teams are led by a few prolific student-athletes, many of which are seniors that have committed to take their talents to a higher level at a college or university. Here are two shining stars of the Timberwolf athletic program.

Varsity record: 27-6 Team points: 142-3 Takedowns: 45-16

Near-falls: 16-3

2-Point nearfalls: 4-4

southwest by grant laster opinion editor

Adam Pelfrey Junior- Wrestling

Reversals: 12-1 Escapes: 12-20 First takedowns: 26-5

Colton Miller Senior- Boys Basketball

Points per game: 11.4 Shooting percentage: 50% 3-point Shooting percentage: 50% Rebounds per game: 1.2 Assists per game: 2.0 Steals per game: 1.0

sports

Photos by Anna Glennon

Turnovers per game: 2.0

www.bvswnews.com

february 2013

19

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Graphics by Matt Forster, Anna Glennon and Morgan Vietti.

Are You A True

[

pin falls throughout the season?

1:06 at the 100 yard breaststroke?

What is Carson Buel’s fastest time at the 500 yard free style?

How many lanes are in the BVSW pool?

]

Who has a time of

Answers: Brandon Spitler, 5:22, 6

down the most pins this season?

What was Andrea Davidson’s series score at the second meet?

What was the varsity bowling team’s high score at its third meet?

Who has knocked

How many

]

]

buzzer beaters were made by the varsity boys basketball team vs. Aquinas?

Who made the game winning buzzer What was the

beater vs. Aquinas?

score of the varsity girls basketball game vs. Harmon?

Answers: Four, Donnell Bronson, 64-68

Basketball

[

Answers: Hannah Michael with 1242, 383, 1693

Boys Swim & Dive

Who has the most

Answers: Dylan O’Dell, 51-13, Anthony Fitchett

sports

What was the score of the wresting duel vs. Shawnee Mission East?

Bowling

[

]

most major decisions of the season?

Wrestling

[

Who has the

by mariem towakoli sports editor

www.bvswnews.com

february 2013

20

southwest

in the spotlight: art department

artists display some of their best work

Colorful Candy Colored Pencil Johnny Tapp

The Secret World of Peter Cottontail

in the spotlight

Anna Meacham Mixed Media

www.bvswnews.com

Curry Butterflies Katie Mixed Media

february 2013

21

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Portrait

in the spotlight

Jae Young Jeong Graphite Pencil

www.bvswnews.com

Stone Age

Landscape

Matt Forster Copper and Melted Pewter

Alex Lawrence Oil Painting

february 2013

22

southwest by grant laster opinion editor

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Howeve rding their contr gers are consum kes a str to death of high s mains cloudy is ga istrict ta 0, but ena yu rs. re e D ll te a l w n t s o ic c io o n p u a h is d re ty c c e 4 e S ro 8 is d th p 6 y t r a e e a y ll c fo W hat a th th li eV Po nce hing id. ver that t, the Blu n in their Board still searc ever,” Stevens sa g a substa whatsoe o fe. In fac a o ers takin e Jill Stevens is ti s p t ts a a is m h s u th e s w s k n co urs thin nefit campu tobacco , so kids School n absolutely no be om?” e against n aroma c ro a ’s n f th re ta o a s e b h c e Th “ in th as mu iffer. beg to d not have ay with it “Does it ht up and get aw ior Carson Lee, lig , like sen they can ent users d tu s e m So

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m s e t t e r a cig c i n o r t Elec

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Facts

E-CIGS

Abou t EnThi Cigs rty pe rcent ers q o ui f nThe t smoking e-cig usre ar entire e cals in e-c only 20 c ly hemi igs nE-c ig creas sales ha ve in ed by since 2500 2 perce nOu 008 nt to ers in f the 45 m il th use e e U.S., 2 lion smok .5 mi -cigs llion n2.7 perce n adult s hav t of Amer ic e trie d e-c an igs

features

Statistics from Statistics Brain Graphic Illustrations by Matt Forster

www.bvswnews.com

february 2013

23

standard

A horse of a different color

Students take the reigns of a unique sport

F

by jessica skaggs managing editor

or junior Pate Nowlin, riding horses has not only been a fun activity, but also a way of life. He has been riding horses since he was three years old, as his father has worked ranches his entire life.

“Horses have always been a part of my

life,” he said. I’ve always been around them.”

Pate rides in extreme cowboy racing, and in 2010, he was ranked 3rd in the world for his division of extreme cowboy racing.

To read the rest of Pate’s story visit bvswnews.com.

S

ophomore Anna Rademacher spends every Saturday and Sunday at her home away from home, Sunny Stables. The barn, located in Liberty, Missouri, is where she rides a horse by the name of Hallelujah.

Hallelujah, an American Saddlebred, is her trainer’s horse. Anna and Hallelujah have received 50 ribbons, one of which is a champion ribbon. Rademacher competes in an event called “saddle seat.”

“I have to make the horse look good,” Anna said.

According to the American Saddlebred Horse Association, Saddlebred horses Photo submitted by Anna Rademacher. are the “ultimate show horse,” as they are a “spectacle of beauty and grace,” as well as

an “intense athletic competitor.”

While in the ring for her horse shows, Rademacher has Hallelujah trained to walk, trot and cantor. Judges then rate based on performance. She has been riding for 8 years.

“I passed a barn while moving from Florida, and wanted to start riding. I have loved it ever since,” she said.

Horse riding is an important aspect of her life. Her family is supportive of her. Although her friends struggle to understand it, they still think it is a cool activity.

“I would consider it a sport, even though some of my friends don’t,” she said. “It’s challenging in its own way and unique.”

Horse Facts The American Saddlebred Horse • Happy, alert and curious traits • People-oriented qualities • Range in height from 14 to 17 hands • Weigh 800-1,200 pounds

S

ince she was six years old, sophomore Kristin Wyatt has been riding horses. It all started when her mother wanted to get back into

riding.

“My mom rode when she was younger, and wanted to teach me,” Wyatt said.

Kristin has three quarter horses, whose names are: Jack, Meggie, and Dolly.

According the American Quarter Horse Association, quarter horses are “heavily muscled, compact horses” that are capable of “running a short distance over a straightaway faster than any other horse.”

She competes in two events, show jumping and reining. Both require the

sports

The American Quarter Horse • Muscular neck • Deep chest • Range in height from 14.3 to 16 hands high • Most common color is chestnut

Photo submitted by Kristin Wyatt.

rider and horse to be in tune, and complete specific movements, whether it be jumping or pacing the horse into a particular gallop.

Normally she wins her division, and she’s been ranked “Grand Champion” two to three times.

However, Wyatt isn’t all about the victories.

“One of my favorite things is I get to train my own horse,” she said. “Dolly is a baby I’m in the process of training.

As an avid rider, Kristin considers horse riding of any kind to be a unique sport.

“Riding is something not a lot of people get to experience, which makes the sport that much more special to me,” she said.

Hand- approximately 4 inches per 1 hand.

A measurement used for height.

Courtesy of aqha.com/About/Content-Pages/TheAmerican-Quarter-Horse/Breed-Characteristics.aspx and http://www.petmd.com/horse/breeds/c_hr_ameri-

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february 2013

24

girls varsity basketball takes on major rival

The girls varsity basketball team went head to head against the Blue Valley High Tigers on Feb. 5. The Tigers took an early lead in the first half, the Timberwolves managed to catch up by the second half, but the Tigers pulled a win by two points at the end of the game.

Feb. 5

Final score:

32-36

Above: Making her way toward the basket, freshman Rilynne Like keeps control of the ball. Top left: Looking to her teammate, senior Brityn Like searches for an opening in the opponent’s defenses. Bottom left: Senior Hunter Thomas reaches toward the basket with Blue Valley High players at her side. Photos by Morgan Vietti. Graphics by Anna Glennon.

Game On

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february 2013