The Tiger Print — October 2016

THE TIGER PRINT Blue Valley High School — Vol. 47 — Issue 3 — October 2016 — Overland Park, Kansas

PINCHING PENNIES: Part-time jobs allow students to afford necessities, college; help families make ends meet Photo illustration by Melanie White.

2 inthenews October 2016

inside this issue FINAL ELECTION INFO

local • national • international

news explained Oak mites take over Kansas

Many who spend time outdoors this fall have been dealing with itchy welts that appear seemingly out of nowhere. The bites can be attributed to oak mites, and they’ve hit Kansas extremely hard this year.

The bites don’t typically appear right away — it takes a couple hours to a day for the itchiness to begin. There is no

NEWS

4

IN DEFENSE OF STATE SCHOOLS

12

OPINION

TAEKWONDO TRIBE

21

FEATURES

A LOOK INTO FALL

26

ENTERTAINMENT

CROSSING BORDERS

28

SPORTS

Teaser photos by staff photographers.

News photos courtesy of Tribune Content Agency.

Stories by Julie Freijat.

Page designed by Courtney Carpenter.

Clown sightings tear across the country

A string of “clown sightings” has recently taken the United States by storm. The phenomenon began in early fall, with the first sighting taking place in North Carolina. Since then, various states have had reports of clowns on the side of the road or around neighborhoods.

The original sightings were said to be promotion for the upcoming

practical way to rid the state of these bugs, however people can protect themselves by covering up as much as possible when they go out.

Why is this a big deal?

There is no way to truly defeat the mites, and since last year, the numbers of cases have only increased. These mites are responsible for the health problems of many people.

movie “Pennywise.”

However, many have taken the opportunity to embrace the upcoming Halloween season and create a scare.

Why is this a big deal?

While many are taking the strange occurrence as a joke, these sightings have led to more serious rumors.

There hasn’t been a confirmed death due to the clowns, but they have struck fear across the country.

Hurricane Matthew leaves devastating impact in Haiti Recently, Hurricane Matthew left behind a path of destruction in Haiti. The country — which is still recovering from other natural disasters of high magnitude — suffered a heavy impact from the then Category-4 hurricane.

More than 1,000 people have been counted as dead and millions more remain waiting for help.

Why is this a big deal?

Haiti, a currently developing country, has taken the bulk of the impact from this storm. The country was not able to sufficiently prepare for the hurricane and will have trouble bouncing back from it. There is now a fear that Cholera has begun spreading due to the conditions the storm produced. Read more online at bvtigernews. com.

October 2016 payin’thebills 3

IT’S THE DEALER THAT MAKES THE DIFFERENCE

www.boballenford.com • 913-381-3800

9239 Metcalf Ave • Overland Park, KS 66212

YOU BELONG AT PITTSBURG STATE UNIVERSITY SENIORS: Rumble in the Jungle is Nov. 5!

Sign up at pittstate.edu/rumble Includes campus tour, lunch, and ticket to Gorilla Football!

#BeAGorilla

4 inthenews October 2016

D

major party nominees strike chord with some voters, alienate others ocratic Par ty em

L

Hillary Clinton rtarian Par e ty ib

Gary Johnson y

ublican Par p t Re

Donald Trump

PRO

CON

POLICIES

PRO

CON

POLICIES

PRO

CON

POLICIES

Clinton has a wealth of experience in politics, having served as First Lady, Senator to New York and Secretary of State all within the last 30 years.

Though traditionally a Democrat, Clinton has shown a willingness to engage with Republican politicians and voters to achieve bi-partisan goals.

This election cycle has produced two of the least-liked presidential candidates in history.

Johnson offers a platform that is a mix of Republican and Democratic policies, as well as a fresh face.

His supporters are largely made up of those who cannot stomach voting for either major nominee.

Trump’s lack of political experience is actually a part of his appeal. Many voters feel abandoned by the established politicians of either party, so they like the fact that he is an outsider, and find both his promises to end corruption and his tendency to say what’s on his mind refreshing.

Stories by Regan Kassing.

Checklists compiled by Anna Gyori.

Photos courtesy of Tribune Content Agency.

Page designed by Courtney Carpenter.

Though she has never been convicted of wrongdoing, Clinton’s involvement in numerous scandals gives her an air of untrustworthiness among many voters, Republicans in particular. Her willingness to compromise worries more progressive Democrats, who feel she won’t be able to properly represent them. Many voters also simply dislike her personality.

Johnson originally stood a (marginally) better chance of winning, but between a series of foreign policy gaffes and the loss of his VP candidate’s support, he has become largely irrelevant in politcial discourse. Because he has such an infintismal chance of winning, many Americans feel that voting for him would be wasting their vote, even if they do support his platform.

What makes Trump appealing to some voters makes him frightening to others. His sloppy rhetoric often relies on racial stereotypes and general vulgarity.

Several women have accused him of sexual assault. Many of his wild declarations are distinctly undemocratic, from his talk of banning freedom of the press to his recent hesitancy to agree to peacefully concede if he loses.

✓ Legal abortion ✓ Stricter gun laws ✓ Legalization of marijuana ✓ Acceptance of refugees ✓ Paid family leave ✓ Free trade ✓ LGBT rights ✓ Federal healthcare ✓ Stricter immigration laws ✓ Lower taxes for the wealthy ✓ Expansion of green energy ✓ Send troops to fight ISIS

✓ Legal abortion ✓ Stricter gun laws ✓ Legalization of marijuana ✓ Acceptance of refugees ✓ Paid family leave ✓ Free trade ✓ LGBT rights ✓ Federal healthcare ✓ Stricter immigration laws ✓ Lower taxes for the wealthy ✓ Expansion of green energy ✓ Send troops to fight ISIS

✓ Legal abortion ✓ Stricter gun laws ✓ Legalization of marijuana ✓ Acceptance of refugees ✓ Paid family leave ✓ Free trade ✓ LGBT rights ✓ Federal healthcare ✓ Stricter immigration laws ✓ Lower taxes for the wealthy ✓ Expansion of green energy ✓ Send troops to fight ISIS

DECIDE

YOU

October 2016 inthenews 5

Are we in trouble either way?

It’s the final month before the presidential election — this is what BV has to say about it:

CLINTON “Secretary Clinton has experience, a wealth of knowledge and an iron will. Hillary is knowledgeable and pragmatic. She has experience keeping cool under pressure. She knows how to work across the aisle to complete important work in the effort to make life better for Americans. She’s willing to meet with anyone, anywhere, at any time to find common ground and achieve results, but she also knows when it’s important to stand her ground.”

— Sophomore Jack Reeves “I really like that she’s trying to switch to clean energy. She’s raising taxes for super rich and wealthy people to make college more affordable — I just agree with all of it. She actually cares and wants to help people.”

— Sophomore Niki Joshi

Popular Vote

CLINTON TRUMP

50%

90%

50%

90%

Swing States

JOHNSON

TRUMP

“I appreciate that he’s consistently conservative and socially liberal because that aligns with my views. I don’t believe in the democratic party economic-wise, but I do agree with their social views. Hillary, I think, is a pathological liar and Trump, I don’t think is presidential enough.

I understand where they both come from. He’s just not very presidential and [Johnson] is a lot more presidential than Trump, who endorses racism and other bad things.”

— Senior Tate Clemen

“I lineup very closely with Trump’s ideologies. I agree a lot with him on issues, and I like how he tells it how it is and not just what you want to hear. He tells you what you need to [hear]. I agree a lot with his policies [on immigration, health care, gun control and economy] and his plans for office. I'm excited to see what he's going to do when elected.”

— Senior Lexi Palacio “During [Clinton’s] time as Secretary of State, she took large loans from special interest groups in exchange for government favors. Hillary Clinton has been a politician who has betrayed the Constitution many times and done illegal things over the course of many years, and I don’t think that we can have that in our presidency. Generally, I just don’t agree with the policy she holds. I’m a conservative — I’m not a liberal.”

— Junior Chandler Jones

Poll information from fivethirtyeight.com.

Story and page designed by Noma Kreegar.

6 inthenews October 2016

1.

News in Photos

September and October

2.

1. Dressed as Donald Trump, government teacher Kristoffer Barikmo performs in Friday Night Live. FNL took place on Friday Oct. 7. “I didn’t realize that it was going to be that intense and crazy but all fun at the same time,” Barikmo said. “It was amazing to see the number of students that worked so hard to put it all together.” Photo by Melanie White.

2. Sitting in the junior Homecoming float,

3. junior Taylor Wilkins waves. The Homecoming parade lasted for about an hour, and the juniors won best parade float. “I’ve been part of StuCo since freshman year and making a class float has always been a fun Blue Valley tradition,” she said. “My favorite aspect of the parade was seeing what we had created and all our hard work had paid off.” Photo by Isabelle Allen.

3. Senior Zack Willis worships during Fields

of Faith, a nationwide gathering of Christian high school students. The BV Fields of Faith event hosted students from all over Johnson County. “[It] is such an amazing way for people who want to further their relationship with Jesus or start a relationship with Jesus to come together as a whole district and worship Him,” he said. Photo by Isabelle Allen.

4. Spinning in a circle, senior Abby Loudenback holds a girl from the younger

October 2016 inthenews 7

4.

5.

6. cheer clinic. She has been cheering for BV for three years and is now a senior captain.

“I love teaching the little girls all the cheers and watching them have so much fun with the games and cheers at the clinic,” she said.

Photo by Meredith Halliburton.

5. Watching his classmate make the incision, sophomore Lucas Oliver assists with dissecting a sheep brain. Anatomy is currently studying the brain and the nervous system.

7.

“I learned a lot about how small a structure can be but how big of an effect it can have on how you function,” Oliver said. Photo by Olivia Gurley.

6. Junior Lauren Scott shakes the hands of the Mu Alpha Theta officers during the induction ceremony. Induction was Oct. 19 at 7 p.m. “[I applied for Mu Alpha Theta] because math is life, and nerds prevail over everyone else,” Scott said. Photo by Melanie White.

7. Smiling, senior Grace Micke waves her flag during color guard’s performance in the Homecoming parade. Color guard is no longer associated with the dance team and performs solely with the band. “[I like color guard because] it brings the whole team together and forms relationships that stay with you throughout high school,” Micke said.

Photo by Olivia Gurley. Pages designed by Meredith Halliburton.

8 outloud October 2016

Gunning compromise necessary for the f r Change security and justice for all

In the state of Kansas, it’s possible to buy and own a gun without a license.

It’s possible to carry and conceal a weapon without a permit.

It’s possible to own a gun without a background check.

Gun control is one of America’s most controversial issues.

Many Americans — 47 percent, according to abc.com — feel that stricter gun laws are needed in this country.

Others think any form of gun control is unlawful and goes against the Second Amendment.

The truth is, the need for gun control becomes more prevalent every day.

Gun users say they need protection, but that’s what the law officials are for. If someone’s robbing your house, having to open your (hopefully) locked gun container, loading it and then potentially using it takes more time than calling 911 and locking yourself in a room.

Some Americans cite target practice or hunting as the main reason for their gun ownership.

If your need for a gun puts our country

of guns deaths are suicides Page designed by Charlotte Rooney.

1 own in a 3 gun americans

sixty percent

more homicides and suicides — 80 percent of mass violence incidents in the U.S. utilize guns as the medium to hurt people.

More than half of all mass shootings involve a semi-automatic weapon — meaning that just a few restrictions on what kinds of guns that can be used and who can use them would have prevented at least some of these shootings.

Through these steps, prevention of mass shootings is possible.

Australia outlawed the use of semi-automatic rifles and shotguns and pump action shotguns. Since 1996, only five mass murders have happened, which is far less than the 62 mass shootings — not including school shootings — and over 450 deaths America has faced since then, according to time.com.

Some Americans might feel safer owning a gun or find hunting or target practice fun, but assault rifles are used in war zones, and semi-automatic guns don’t belong in the hands of civilians.

80 percent of people who carry out mass shootings do so by use of a legally obtained firearm

forty seven

percent

charlotterooney opinion editor

and our society in danger, it’s time to find a new hobby. Using an assault weapon is not a sport.

I’m all for compromise.

If every state had comprehensive background checks and psych evaluations prior to purchasing a firearm, that would be ideal. Outlawing the use of automatic or semi-automatic weapons would also make me and half of the U.S. feel safer. Before buying a gun, classes on responsibility and use of a firearm should be required.

The most frustrating part of the gun control argument is that background checks and psych evaluations are considered too much to ask for. In reality, it will make everyone safer by keeping people like the San Bernardino, California, shooters the Aurora, Colorado, movie theater shooter, from getting their hands on firearms.

They wouldn’t have passed psych evaluations and therefore would have had less of a chance to kill people.

Enforcing background checks, psych evaluations and training isn’t taking rights away from Americans. A gun is not a toy — it’s not something that every person should have access to.

More guns equal

of americans are in favor of stricter gun laws

“

information from abc.com and the washingtonpost.com

For me, [guns] are used for fun, like hunting or target competitions.

Eventually, I will also use them as a tool for protection and self-defense.

— Senior Jacob Hettinger

”

one per week the average number of school shootings in 2015

October 2016 outloud 9

staffeditorial TIGER the

PRINT newspaper

Cartoon by Kaitlin Yu.

Social, academic information must be streamlined on a single medium for efficiency, clarity Occasionally, the announcements come on, and the classrooms are so loud it’s impossible to hear any information given.

Seniors trying to access transcripts are told to “check the website” for forms, and each teacher has a different way of presenting information to their students.

For one class, students have to login to their student email. For another, they have to access Moodle, Edmodo or Weebly or sort through teacher webpages on the Blue Valley website that may or may not be updated.

To access information about colleges and upcoming meetings, students have to attempt maneuvering through Naviance, which is not user-friendly.

The SchoolWay app, while great if a student wants to read the announcements, has little more to offer.

It’s no wonder so many students complain about not knowing what’s going on at school.

Information is not presented in a clear, cohesive way that’s easy for students to access.

BV needs to compile one comprehensive system for students and teachers to easily access, connect and update information and events happening in the school.

At this point, a class group-chat is one of the only ways to get detailed, helpful information.

If it’s easiest for teachers to update using Moodle, then all teachers should use Moodle — or perhaps SchoolWay could be a forum for each teacher to post the classroom schedule or due dates for important projects or papers.

Remembering passwords and keeping up with classes when information is on various online platforms is difficult.

Having a central location to display information would make turning in homework and projects a smoother process.

Listing times and locations of events would draw more student participation.

A few tweaks to what we have now could really make a difference in the way information is provided to students, teachers and parents alike.

co-editors photographers Courtney Carpenter Olivia Gurley Megan Hegarty Meredith Halliburton photo editor Melanie White Isabelle Allen staff writers news editor Allie Ament Julie Freijat Talia Amjadi Marie Biernacki opinion editor Courtney Brown Charlotte Rooney McKenna Cole Sarah Day features editor Kyle Elmendorf Alli Williams Anna Gyori Caitlin Hoy web editor Regan Kassing Emilee Holscher Noma Kreegar Nick Lamberti adviser Loren Reed Michelle Huss Ifrah Sayyada Kaitlin Yu “The Tiger Print” is an official publication of Blue Valley High School, an open forum distributed to all students at least seven times a year. This publication may contain controversial material. Kansas law prohibits the suppression of a student publication solely because it may contain controversial matter. Blue Valley Unified School District No. 229 and its board members, officers and employees may disclaim any responsibility for the content of this publication; it is not an expression of school policy. Student authors and editors are solely responsible for the content of this publication.

Letters to the editor are encouraged for publication. “The Tiger Print” reserves the right to edit all submissions for both language and content. Letters should be submitted to Room 450, emailed to thetigerprint@gmail.com or mailed to: The Tiger Print Blue Valley High School 6001 W. 159th St. Overland Park, KS 66085

10 outloud October 2016

lorenreed staff writer “36 U.S. Code Section 301 - National anthem” states that the American person should face the flag and stand at attention, but it is merely a recommendation.

Quarterback Colin Kaepernick, number 7 for the San Francisco 49ers, chose to take a knee to recognize the maltreatment of minorities in the United States.

Although his action may be seen as a form of disrespect, Kaepernick is purely expressing his First Amendment rights, which are the freedom of speech, press, religion, assembly and the right to petition in which our military fights to ensure.

Los Angeles Rams defensive end Robert Quinn and receiver Kenny Britt held up fists. Chiefs’ Marcus Peters also raised his fist in response to the current outbreak of the situation.

NFL commissioner, Roger Goodell recognizes Kaepernick’s right to protest and said he would not punish him.

“I am not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses black people and people of color,” Kaepernick said.

“To me, this is bigger than football, and it would be selfish on my part

to look the other way. There are bodies in the street and people getting paid leave and getting away with murder.”

He has every right to kneel, as veterans do to salute — in fact, it was the perfect way to draw attention to America’s race issues. No other national athletic league — NBA aside — is more dominated by AfricanAmerican athletes.

As race issues in America cease to end, the smallest things can make a huge impact. Although Kaepernick is receiving death threats in regards to the matter, he remains strong on the topic.

We think we have overcome so much as a nation — we have, but look how far we still have to go.

There is no such thing as a perfect country — conflicts will constantly remain until action is taken to resolve them.

Yes, the Emancipation Proclamation, Women’s Suffrage and the Civil Rights Act are all important American milestones, but how did we get there?

Attention had to be drawn to the conflicts in order to make a change.

Kaepernick is attempting to bring light to another situation — as racial equality is still lacking. We are all human, for God’s sake — why can’t we exercise our freedoms in order to make that change?

People want to see progress made in this world, yet they are unwilling to change — disrespect in this matter was necessary in order to draw attention to such a large issue.

Americans have done absolutely nothing to ensure the freedoms that our infantrymen die for.

Step it up politicians— Kaepernick has a point.

TO KNEEL OR NOT TO KNEEL: Kaepernick continues to take a knee, is rightful in doing so

Pages designed by Courtney Carpenter.

October 2016 outloud 11

SIGNIFICANCE IN STANDING

Kaepernick is unethical in choosing not to stand for the national anthem

sarahday staff writer The national anthem is something citizens of the United States often become accustomed to hearing at sporting events.

It’s something people usually don’t give a second thought to the significance of singing.

You see it during high school games — the announcer tells the fans to face the flag, and we do — but people often talk through the anthem or are on their phones.

It’s time to remember what this ritual truly represents.

The U.S. flag and “The Star-Spangled Banner” are things that should be revered.

Think about it — most Americans have never seen the horrors of war. It isn’t fought on home soil, and we can turn a blind eye to the fighting if we so choose.

People who live in the U.S. are blessed enough to feel safe from war without a second thought — meanwhile, in other areas of the world, bombings and attacks are common and just another part of daily life.

Soldiers who volunteer their lives for ours deserve the utmost respect. One of the easiest ways they can be honored is through citizens standing for the national anthem.

On Aug. 26, 2016 San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick chose not to stand for the song to express his views that people of color in the U.S. are not treated equally.

“I am not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses black people and people of color,” Kaepernick told reporters.

Although Kaepernick was constitution-

ally within his rights to decline standing for the anthem, it was not ethically correct.

I’m sure Kaepernick’s intention isn’t to be disrespectful to our troops, but that’s what his actions portray.

Regardless of why he doesn’t want to participate in the anthem, there are a whole host of reasons why he still should — the most important one is to recognize U.S. history and all that our country has overcome.

Even though we are still facing social issues and inequality, there is significance in celebrating the reforms the U.S. has been through — women’s rights, freedom of slaves, constitutional rights for all people, acceptance of immigrants — all changes that have made our country what it is now. After all, America has developed into what it is because of the mixture of cultures, people and ethnicities.

I understand the importance for all people to recognize that our country still is not entirely equal. It is proven that women and people of color aren’t always paid or treated fairly compared to white males, but Kaepernick could have expressed his opinion in a better way that would not have included something that could be viewed as disdain toward the military.

There is a time and a place for raising awareness toward any type of issue, racial issues included.

During the national anthem is not that time.

12 outloud October 2016

No Place Like Home

local colleges are quality schools, should not be looked down upon

meganhegarty co-editor Both of my parents attended the University of Kansas.

My family has had season tickets to KU football games for the last 20 years.

I’ve been going to KU games since before I could walk.

I went to the Orange Bowl and countless NCAA Basketball games.

My twin brother will be at KU next year to play baseball.

KU has literally been my childhood.

So why, since the day I started high school, have I been told I can go to a school “better” than KU?

2003

Page designed by Megan Hegarty.

Sure, my test scores could — most likely — get me into a top-tier college, but all of those schools cost upward of $60,000 a year.

And what makes those schools so much better besides ridiculously low acceptance rates and high prices?

A Harvard diploma might have some sway in a future job interview, but getting that job ultimately depends on you and your qualifications for the position.

It’s not like companies hire based solely on where you went to college.

Let’s be honest — the quality of education at any major public university is just as good as the education at a private one — just like Blue Valley’s education is comparable to that of St. Thomas Aquinas.

Not to mention, KU is one of only 30 public schools in the Association of American Universities for being an outstanding research institution.

All of the Kansas state schools have

2016

so much to offer to anyone who attends.

As much as it pains me to admit it, “Caturday” football games at Kansas State University have an incredible atmosphere, and there is no better basketball arena in the country than Allen Fieldhouse.

KU and K-State both have prestigious programs, from business to engineering to veterinary medicine.

KU encompasses everything I want in a college — Greek life, good sports and a quality education. And cost-wise, I won’t be in debt until the day I die.

People come to KU from all over the country because it’s so highly esteemed.

KU’s quality of schooling does not decrease simply because it’s only 40 minutes away from home.

With such great colleges in our area, no one can go wrong when picking one.

No matter where I end up, I know I won’t be settling — even if it’s close to home.

October 2016 upclose 13

REPLICATION DISLOCATION lorenreed staff writer

In a seemingly neverending cycle, a circuit of injuries prevents senior Lauren Schaffer from accomplishing her goals and dreams of the future.

The majority of athletes have struggled with an injury of some sort, but Schaffer seems to have a tough time recovering. After a total of six surgeries and seven dislocations, starting at the age of 11, Schaffer said the realization of the truth for her set in.

“Growing up, I used to be the athletic girl, who was always on the course, always on the field or always outside,” she said. “I don’t play sports anymore because it’s definitely not worth the risk [of reinjury].”

Her injuries result from shallow knee grooves — where the knee sits in place — making it more prone to dislocation. In full health, Schaffer said running and athletics were a big part of her life.

Seeing the best of the situation, Schaffer said she realized the overwhelming number of injuries hasn’t knocked her down.

“It’s made me stronger physically because every time

I have to go into rehab, the first session after every injury [or] surgery, I have the same goal for myself — to get myself stronger than where I was before,” Schaffer said. “I know that after I finish every round of physical therapy that I’m stronger than I was before.”

As her shallow kneecaps prevent her from playing golf, and any physical activity, Schaffer chooses to remain positive, although it deems to be extremely irritating.

“Emotionally, it’s really frustrating,” she said. “I’ve been going through the same cycle since sixth grade. I’d get myself back up on my feet after having an injury, and I’d just have another one. I have a better sense of how hard work pays off.”

Becoming a yearly ordeal, injury after injury, Schaffer said her future slowly started to shift. Though she aspired to be a college athlete, her dreams kept getting pushed back.

“I saw myself playing sports through high school and possibly in college, but now I really have to focus on my academics,” she said. “I know I am not going to be a college athlete or an athlete as a profession.”

After two college visits, one to Creighton University

What happened when?

2011

2010

first dislocation//R//S

and one to Pittsburg State University, Schaffer said she is leaning toward a career in nursing, as her bad experience with her knees has enlightened her likings to medicine — appreciating what these schools have to offer.

Although she said her future is looking as bright as ever, a fear of restarting the recovery phase and redislocation will continue to linger. Taking the recovery at a slow pace will be key in the next few months.

“There is always a fear of it happening again,” she said.

“I’m afraid, and I don’t think I will never not be afraid. I want to be confident enough to go play a quick game of basketball with friends, or kick around a soccer ball.”

She said staying positive and strong has gotten her through her ups and downs, and she said she hopes to recover with great strength.

“You just have to keep going, no matter what,” Schaffer said. “You’re going to get through whatever you’re going through.

You have to want to get through it. I know that I can get through it and anything that I am faced with.”

2013

patela fracture/dislocation//R//S

2012

dislocation//L//NS

dislocation//L//S

BV student undergoes 6 surgeries, 7 knee displacements

R//Right Knee Injury L//Left Knee Injury S// Surgery NS//No Surgery

2015

dislocation//L//S

2014

dislocation//R//S

2016

dislocation//L//S

Page designed by Loren Reed.

14 upclose October 2016

WORKING “

My two older sisters were in college, my mom had just had a fifth kid and money was tight.

They didn’t really have money for school clothes or anything that wasn’t essential.

”

­­­—senior Natalie Outlaw

The median household income in 2014 in the United States was approximately $50,000. In Johnson County, the median household income was about $74,000 in 2012, according to the U.S. Census Bureau and jocogov.org.

Sometimes, as Blue Valley students living in one of the richest counties of Kansas —

Photos by Melanie White. Stories by Julie Freijat, Kaitlin Yu and Alli Williams.

and furthermore, a wealthier area of the United States — it can be difficult to remember there are people in the community who don’t have the luxury to be financially carefree.

These people are friends, co-workers, teachers and family — The Tiger Print believes it is important that students step out of their own personal worlds and listen to the stories of other community members, especially if they lead very different lives.

October 2016 upclose 15

class

Students balance school and work to support family, gain financial stability

for the future Out of the BV students who have jobs, 16 percent work more than 16 hours a week during the school year.

BV senior Natalie Outlaw is a gymnastics coach at Blue Valley Recreation.

She works around 20 hours a week during the school year. In the summer, she works additional jobs, like babysitting, to get her closer to 45-hour weeks.

“I started working [when I was 12] because my parents didn’t really have a lot of money,” Outlaw said. “My two older sisters were in college, my mom had just had a fifth kid and money was tight.

They didn’t really have money for school clothes or anything that wasn’t essential.”

She said her parents did not pressure her to get a job, but she wanted to relieve them of some of their stress.

“When I got my first job, I didn’t make a ton, but I made enough to pay for my own clothes and things like that,” she said. “Now, I have a car, so I pay for my gas and insurance every month. [I pay for] my clothes and all of the fees associated with color guard. Aside from that, my parents don’t have anything saved up for my college, so I’m trying to save a little each month for that as well.”

When it comes to grades and school, Outlaw said she stays on top of it because she knows scholarship money will help her on her way to college.

“I try to keep up a 4.0 at least by semester marks,” she said. “Usually, that means I’m running on very little sleep on days that I have both guard practice and work because I’ll have a couple hours of homework on top of that.”

However, Outlaw said her social life suffers the most. “[It] just doesn’t exist for these first few months of school,” she said. “Long weekends and breaks like Thanksgiving and winter are really the [only] time I have for my friends and boyfriend.”

As far as life outside of high school goes, she said she tries to not let money be a determining factor for her decisions.

“I know if I really want something, I can make it work,” Outlaw said. “It’s good for the future because I want to be a middle school teacher, and they have to make due with a salary that’s not exactly ‘living large.’”

For college, Outlaw said she is relying on scholarships and loans.

“I didn’t want to stay in Kansas for school, so I looked at a few colleges I was interested in and made sure I could qualify for in-state tuition before I applied,” she said. “My dad is trying to help me out by redirecting some of what he would have paid to child support and giving it to me for college, so I am really grateful for that.”

Outlaw’s plans for the future include attending Missouri State University and earning a Bachelors degree in middle school education with a double focus in language arts and math.

“I am a huge grammar nerd, so ideally, I’ll get to teach English,” she said.

“However, as a woman going into teaching, choosing a STEM field is extremely marketable and might help me out with money in the future.”

Pages designed by Alli Williams.

SUPPORTING THE FAMILY Five percent of BV students who are and her family. However, she also said employed work to support their families, that her work has an affect on both her including a BV junior who works as a social life and student life. hostess for 14 hours on the weekends.

“My weekends are usually full,” she During the weekdays, she works a total of said. “I have a few hours I can spend time six hours at different part-time jobs. with friends, which sometimes works out.

“At first, it wasn’t necessary for me to Student-wise — it’s awful. I have tests work,” she said. “My family’s financial sitI can’t study for and homework I can’t uation was stable. It was around last year do. I can’t focus because I get home late when I really had to take more sometimes.” hours and different part-time I hate that I can’t She said the decisions she jobs.” makes about her future are work [for enjoyThe junior said she gives influenced by her need to approximately 80 percent of ment] — I work for work. what she makes to her parents stability. It makes “It definitely has imwhile 20 percent goes to her me feel like I’m an pacted my [desire] to be in college funds or personal she said. “There’s adult already — pre-med,” needs. She said she doesn’t a lot of bills you have to pay. generally like working, but it and we’re still kids. It all evens out when you is necessary for her family’s finish, but if you can’t financial situation. even [get] the degree, then what’s “At first, I did enjoy it,” she said. “But the point?” [with] every job you have, there are always The junior said her first prigoing to be things that bring you down. ority when it comes to work I like the aspect that I get to meet differis her family, and they are ent people, [but] I hate that I can’t work a factor in what she will [for enjoyment] — I work for stability. It end up doing in her life. makes me feel like I’m an adult already — “I think of my family and we’re still kids.” first, [but] I would love to The student works around 20 hours a be able to get through preweek during the school year and 31 hours med,” she said. “If my family is during the summer. She chose not to disstruggling, I can’t just leave them. close the amount she makes at work but Right now, I just want to get my said she makes enough to support herself family back on their feet.”

“

From poll of 205 BV students.

67% of BV students have a job

“

EMPLOYED STUDENTS

average hourly wage [including tips]

50 45

$7.01-$9 $9.01-$11 $11.01-$13

$13.01+

15 21

# of working students

57%

of working students work at least 16 hours a week in summer

Pages designed by Kaitlin Yu and Alli Williams.

16%

of working students say their job has negative impacts on their school work

TOP REASONS STUDENTS DON’T HAVE JOBS don’t have time don’t have a car not old enough TOP JOBS STUDENTS HAVE babysitter/nanny restaurant worker tutor

TEACH

English teacher both observed as a as a student the effe school.

Knueven said w school, she had to h personal bills as we “I was never giv money for clothing a car until college, working, even thou athlete almost year to afford my necess She said she thin so much to student night.

“Mine was not t food on the table fo there were some tim money, and I just w Knueven said. “I’ve fun situation to be When it comes t working can have o she has observed b impacts.

“For some stude actually budget the said. “[For others,] 4 to 10, and they ge not matter how gre skills are if they jus time. That’s one of with kids who have As a teacher, Kn

WHAT IS SECTION-8 HOUSING? assists in paying the monthly rent in homes, apartments or called HOUSING CHOICE residences certified VOUCHERS PROGRAM to participate in in the US: the program

ACHER PERSPECTIVE

even said when she was in high she had to have a job to pay for her l bills as well. as never given lunch money [or] for clothing,” she said. “I never had til college, and I paid cash for it. My g, even though I was still a full-time almost year-round, was because I had d my necessities.” said she thinks this is why she relates h to students who work until late at

ne was not to the extent that putting the table for dinner was an issue, but ere some times I didn’t have my lunch and I just wouldn’t have lunch,” n said. “I’ve seen that, and it’s not a ation to be in.” n it comes to the repercussions that g can have on a student, Knueven said observed both positive and negative . some students, it forces them to budget their time accordingly,” she For others,] if they’re working from and they get home at 10:30, it may ter how great their time management e if they just physically don’t have the That’s one of the big struggles I’ve seen ds who have to work.” teacher, Knueven said she makes ex-

90%

of these households

25%

make less than $20,000 a year

ceptions if she is aware of the of families who meet the qualifications are student’s circumstances. assisted by this program.

“I know I have had students every year who are working from the moment they leave school and at night and sometimes on the weekends,” Knueven said. “If I am aware of the situation, I always make accommodations for those students as far as homework and assignments go.”

Even though the students attend the same school, Knueven said many times, people can go unaware of others’ plights. if they’re working “Because so many of our students [don’t from 4 to 10, and they need to work], they don’t see that we have students that need to work to pay bills,” she get home at 10:30, it may said. “They may know that some have to not matter how great work, but they don’t fully realize the extent because they’ve just never experienced their time management it themselves, and so they’ve never been skills are if they just exposed to it. We have kids that don’t even know what Section-8 housing is and the fact physically don’t have that we have [it] in Overland Park.” the time.

Despite this lack of knowledge, Knueven — English teacher Rebecca Knueven said that as a community, we can begin to understand more if we create an open conversation. “[It] is hard because I know from my personal experience, I never would have shared in class that my parents basically had financially cut me off the second I was 16,” she said. “But I think that depending on what class it is, [or] if you’re in certains groups like DECA, where economics is a discussion, we can foster dialogue.”

“

“

ish teacher Rebecca Knueven has served as a teacher and experienced dent the effects of working during

1.1 MILLION live in public housing 2.1 MILLION utilize housing vouchers

Information from Gosection8.com and National Low Income Housing Coalition.

18 payin’thebills October 2016

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October 2016 upclose 19

helping hand

lending a

Hospital volunteers share experiences with patients, reflect on service’s effects ifrahsayyada staff writer Many students from Blue Valley volunteer at hospitals and research centers as a means of gaining experiences and more education. One of these students is senior Sid Hegde, who has been volunteering at St. Luke’s South Hospital for three years.

“I transport patients, so I take them in their bed or their wheelchair from different wings of the hospital,” he said.

“Sometimes I discharge them, too.”

Junior Anisha Kodwani recently started volunteering at Children’s Mercy Hospital in August but has been working at the Veterans’ Affairs (VA) Medical Center for the past year.

“At Children’s Mercy, I’m a pathfinder, so I work at the information desk, and I take [patients] wherever they need to go,” she said. “I calm people down, and I usually walk them where they need to go.

At the VA Medical Center, I shadowed the doctors and did research. We were growing huvec cells — umbilical cells — and it was fun. I made solutions [and] cleaned the equipment in lab, but I didn’t get to go into the culture room.”

Both Hegde and Kodwani said they volunteer for more health care experiences. As they both gain more exposure, they complete tasks that familiarize them with different areas of the field.

“When I was at the VA Medical Center, I liked going in the mornings and making the solution every day,” Kodwani said. “It was so cool because I know all the chemicals that go into each solution, and I felt like I did something. For Children’s Mercy, I like taking people places and

having authority, but I also like calming them down, talking to the families, making them feel better and learning about them.”

Hegde said his favorite aspect of volunteering is the patient interaction.

“They all have interesting stories they tell me of how they got in the hospital,” he said. “The patients are better because they’re more interactive and more fun.”

Kodwani and Hegde both plan to continue volunteering at hospitals through high school and beyond.

They said their experiences as volunteers have helped influence them in what they want to pursue in the future.

“For research, I’m 100 percent sure I’m not interested in that anymore,” Kodwani said. “I thought I would be going into the research side for the longest time. After doing it for a whole summer, I realized it was so routine. We were doing the same thing every day — we would grow the cells, look at them through the microscope and we’d see 52 one day and 53 the next day, and [the researchers] would be so excited because the results stayed consistent.

I wasn’t expecting that, but at Children’s Mercy, seeing the doctors was really exciting — it was like a rush there.”

While Kodwani’s experience changed her career pursuit, Hegde’s experience confirmed his future plans.

“The interactions with patients that I’ve had affirmed my decision to be a doctor,” he said.

Both volunteers said they enjoy time spent with the patients and families.

“I just adore helping people so much,” Hegde said. “My favorite part is seeing the joy of a patient who is being assisted.”

Page designed by Regan Kassing.

20 upclose October 2016

‘For me, it’s like a little-kid-dream-come-true; it’s something I love so much. I’m able to wake up and be happy to do it, no matter how hard it is.’

Senior finds passion in helping animals, volunteering in wildlife rehabilitation juliefreijat news editor For many, the dream of a job where one could interact with animals on a daily basis was common as a child.

For some, that dream lasts well into adulthood.

Senior Ashley Mercer spends her sixth and seventh hour shadowing veterinarians as well as volunteering at Operation WildLife.

“I get to help with the healing processes of animals that are injured or sick,” Mercer said. “I also get to help with daily needs at [vet clinics].”

Field biology teacher Kale Mann said Mercer is very spirited when it comes to animals and wildlife.

“She’s a super positive human being in general,” he said. “It will make her really good in any field she wants to pursue. She’s really passionate about the environment and the environment she lives in, and [she] wants to learn about it.”

There are many reasons someone would consider a career in animal care — Mercer draws hers back to her love for both animals and health practice.

“I’ve always loved animals,” she said. “I have a creek in my backyard, so my whole life I’ve been outside with animals. I like Mercer [medical care,] so I Page designed by McKenna Cole.

started shadowing vets going into junior year. I learned about what it’s like to be a veterinarian and different kinds of careers where I could be outside working with animals.”

Mann said others may pursue a profession in life science because they want to keep the Earth in good health.

“I think [people] see the actual importance the [animals] play in the environment,” he said. “They do things to protect the environment and keep it healthy.”

“Seeing God’s creation and the amazing details — I mean we go from a bald eagle to a tiny little hummingbird — just gives me chills.”

Getting the opportunity to leave during school and spend time elsewhere involves a process of getting it approved by administration. Mercer said she had to fill out a form, explain what she was doing and why and then have it approved by first her counselor and then by assistant principal Mark Dalton.

Before any of this is completed, she needed to have a plan for a location to work. While Mercer shadows a vet, she also recently began volunteering at a wildlife rehabilitation center.

“I was looking into wildlife rehabilitation as a career,” she said. “We were looking around to see if there was anybody we knew or anything around here we could actually look into to see what it was like, and we found OWL here in Kansas.”

A career in this field requires a special love for animals, Mercer said. She said her favorite experience is working with the bald eagles.

“You see them in the wild — it’s far off in the distance flying, and it’s really cool,” Mercer said. “Seeing God’s creation and the amazing details — I mean we go from a bald eagle to a tiny little hummingbird — just gives me chills. It’s amazing.”

While working with animals can be difficult and take immense dedication, Mercer said she believes it is worth the challenge.

“One of the things they said at OWL was that it is our privilege to be the animal’s caretakers for animals that can’t be released back into the wild,” she said.

“To be able to work with something you love so much is a daily reward.”

In all, Mercer said she is fond of her volunteer work.

“For me, it’s like a little-kid-dreamcome-true,” she said. “It’s something I love so much. I’m able to wake up and be happy to do it, no matter how hard it is.”

S

parring iblings

mariebiernacki staff writer

Two Blue Valley sisters tested at Ko Martial Arts to become black belts in taekwondo Oct. 8. Sophomore Hiba Atra and senior Hadil Atra started taekwondo in 2012 — Hiba was 12, Hadil was 14. “[Hiba] wanted to join because her friend was in [taekwondo],” Hadil said. “We decided to join [together.]”

When they began, Hadil said she didn’t think she would become a black belt.

“At first [taekwondo felt] weird,” Hadil said. “I [thought] ‘This is strange.’ But then, as I grew up, I began to love it more — so I decided I would become a black belt.”

Hadil Both sisters said they were anxious before their test began.

“Overall, I was nervous because it was scary to test in front of [people],” Hadil said.

During the assessment, they had to perform several different tasks: combinations, forms, sparring and board breaking.

Each expressed what they felt were their strengths.

Information from barrel.net.

October 2016 upclose 21

BV students perform in taekwondo assessment, discuss learned skills “I was really proud of my board breaking and my poomsae forms,” Hadil said, “I had practiced [them] a lot.”

The sisters said they are delighted with their results — both of them are officially black belts.

Hadil said she was happy the test was done — this opens up new opportunities for her.

“I’m really glad it’s finally over,” Hadil said, “I’m excited to officially be an assistant instructor.”

Hiba said she had the highest score out of those who were eligible to become a black belt.

“I’m really happy [about my score],” Hiba said. “I strive to be the best.”

The virtues Hadil has learned — and will continue to learn — in taekwondo will assist her later in life, she said.

“It teaches me discipline — how to be Hiba respectful to elders and how to act [properly] around them,” Hadil said.

Those who are unsure about participating in taekwondo should join, Hiba said.

“It’s a really good workout,” she said. “At the same time, you don’t feel like you’re working out. It’s an art — it’s something different.”

TAEKWONDO...

2divisions:

is influenced

HEAVILY

by Japanese poomsae Karate. can be traced back to

50 B.C.

originated in South Korea

has

and sparring

was made an official Olympic sport in

2000

Photos provided by Atra siblings.

Page designed by Marie Biernacki.

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October 2016 centerstage 23

CHANNELYOUR YouTube gaming channels captivate millions

A “Let’s Play” (LP) is a video or montage documenting the playthrough of a video game, usually including commentary, whether that

be humorous, critical or irrelevant to the game.

In the past several years, recording LPs has grown to be a hobby and a profession taken on by YouTubers.

Here are several different YouTube channels to check out.

“GHOSTROBO”

REAL NAME: Zach Drapala YOUTUBE SUBSCRIBERS COUNT: 1.70 million COMMONLY PLAYED GAMES: “Destiny,” “Evolve,” “Dark Souls 2,” “The Last of Us”

“Ghostrobo” posts gameplay walkthroughs with commentary, and as he plays, he reviews the game. “L.A. Noire” caused him to break out onto the YouTube scene, and ever since, his “Destiny “and “The Last of Us” walk-

throughs gained him more popularity.

He also posts unboxing videos with his family, and he hosted in the concluded podcast, “Can’t Stop Playing.” If you’re looking for a family-friendly gamer, this YouTuber is for you.

“

Chamberlin

It’s not always about the video game that’s being played — mostly, it’s about the personalities that are playing. They’re generally entertaining and funny people to listen to.

-senior Alex Chamberlin

“

kaitlinyu staff writer

LIKES: Achievement Hunter, Game Grumps

“LET’S PLAY”

CHANNELS DISPLAYED: “Achievement Hunter,” “Cow Chop,” “Funhaus,” “ScrewAttack,” “Kinda Funny,” “The Creatures” YOUTUBE SUBSCRIBERS COUNT: 3.65 million COMMONLY PLAYED GAMES: “Grand Theft Auto V,” “Minecraft,” “Dead by Daylight” channels featured often collaborate together. Each have their own characteristics and video styles, though they all share a vulgar sense of humor.

“SEANANNERS”

REAL NAME: Adam Montoya YOUTUBE SUBSCRIBERS COUNT: 5.58 million COMMONLY PLAYED GAMES: “Garry’s Mod,” “Minecraft,” “Call of Duty,” “Grand Theft Auto V”

“SeaNanners,” or “Nanners,” is popular for his short and sweet videos full of game highlights. He commonly collaborates with other gamers like “Mr. Sark,” “GassyMexican” and “Chilled Chaos.” In addition to gameplay

videos, “Nanners” also posts animations and gameplay montages. He is infamously known for his dolphin-like laugh and Never Trust Nanners, which emerged due to his sneaky actions in old Trouble in Terrorist Town videos.

“

Green

I enjoy [watching LPs] better than actually playing the game because then I get somebody playing it as well as commentating it.

Moments that don't seem very significant when I'm playing it — they make it very funny or enjoyable.

-sophomore Noelle Green

“

“Let’s Play” originated from Rooster Teeth, an entertainment production company, and its purpose was to create a community for LP gamers. The five

LIKES: Bodil40

Page designed by Kaitlin Yu.

24 centerstage October 2016 I

I

T ’s

A

B

Students in Child Development care for simulation babies allieament staff writer On Sept. 9, 2016, “Jonathan” was brought into this world weighing 8 pounds, 13 ounces and measured 20 inches long. Blue Valley became a home to Jonathan, and his mother was sophomore Abby Solomon.

In the last month, walking around the halls of BV has become quite interesting since students in Human Growth and Child Development have taken on the responsibility of caring for a baby.

From hallways filled with just students to hallways now filled with baby carriers, BV has a whole new atmosphere.

The class teaches students the fundamentals of parenting and provides a better understanding of children. The reason behind the real-care baby assignment is to see first-hand how caring for a baby presents its own challenges.

This project also raises awareness about teen pregnancy and is supposed to show teens what kind of hard work is required in caring for a child on your

n” “Jonatha y bo : r e d gen onths age: 2 m .2 lbs 10 weight:

Page designed by Allie Ament.

own. The project is serving its purpose, and so far, all students have come back ready to hand over the baby for good.

Junior Kaysha Foil took home his real-care baby the first weekend, Sept 9.

“Carrying my baby around the school attracted a lot of stares and questions but mostly made people laugh,” Foil said.

“My favorite part of the project was handing the baby back over to Mrs. [Kendra] Smith,” Foil said. “I want my sleep and social life back.”

BV students realize caring for a baby has some major drawbacks when still wanting to enjoy freedom and independence.

“The project may seem fun and a little stupid at first, but caring for a baby doll isn’t as easy as it sounds,” Solomon said. “The hardest part was trying to sleep. I’d wake up to the sound of a baby crying and screaming at 3 a.m. and have to change its diaper, feed it, rock it or burp it. It was exhausting.”

Taking home the real-care baby didn’t stop students from participating in their daily routines — they just now

“M.J.” girl gender: onth age: 1 m lbs 6.8 : weight

Y O had to do everything with a baby in their arms.

“I was out to eat, and the baby started crying,” senior Grace Bamburg said.

“Right then and there, I had to figure out what was wrong and drop everything I was doing.”

Junior Grace Euler is on the cross country team, but she said having the responsibility of a baby didn’t stop her from running three miles.

“I brought a stroller from my house and wrapped the baby with a scarf so the baby wouldn’t bounce around and just ran till I heard the baby cry,” she said. “At times, I had to stop and feed her for 20 minutes but coach [Manal] Siam was super sweet and pushed her stroller while I fed her. It was really funny to see all the looks I got pushing a stroller and being so young.”

Though most students found this project overwhelming and exhausting, they gained experiences that can’t be taught in a classroom.

“Overall, it was a unique experience,” Bamburg said. “It’s something I’ll take away and remember my whole life.”

“Pablo” boy gender: ths on age: 3 m .5 lbs 13 weight:

October 2016 centerstage 25

What Are You Afraid Of? KC haunted houses offer spooks, frights

SCARE RATING

(out of 5 ghosts) 3rd street asylum

[

]

the edge of hell

[

] worlds of fun haunt

[

Haunt Worlds of Fun: In Kansas City, Missouri, Worlds of Fun opens terrifying haunted houses and mazes towards the end of September, leading up to the night of Halloween, with people walking around dressed up like monsters and all of your fears in one place. There are eight main mazes: Asylum Island, Blood on the Bayou, Bloodshed, Corn Stalkers, London’s Terror Square, Lore of the Vampire, Miss Lizzie’s Chamber of Horrors and Zombie High.

Cost: $45 per person.

Page designed by Nick Lamberti.

Story by Caitlin Hoy and Nick Lamberti.

]

Fear Farm: On an old farm in Gardner, Kansas, be prepared to pass all six levels of mazes. Experience the scary side of Kansas by going through mazes like a tent full of clowns, a classic Kansas twister or a horrifying corn maze filled with terror at every turn.

Cost: $20 per person.

Beast/ Edge of Hell/ Macabre Cinema/ The Chambers of Edgar Allen Poe: These haunted houses are the most popular scare attractions in downtown KC, but they are packed with people, making the experience less thrilling.

Cost: $37 per person.

fear farm

[

3rd Street Asylum: This attraction, located in Bonner Springs, Kansas, was once a real insane asylum built in 1918. By 1925, the asylum was housing the most dangerous and criminally insane of the midwest. The most famous inmate was Bob Barber, the Butcher of Bonner Springs, who killed 20 people total, including three children. After the previous group starts, each group must wait five minutes for maximum scare potential.

Cost: $25 per person.

]

26 centerstage October 2016

Pumpkin Spice and Treats that Taste Nice Classic, new fall menu items offer choices at popular coffeehouse chains

Autumn means colorful leaves, sweater-weather and — you guessed it — fall food. Autumn isn’t complete without the classic pumpkin- or apple-flavored foods and drinks, so we reviewed some of these fall favorites for you to try this season.

Dunkin’ Donuts Caramel Apple Croissant Donut: The Description: Glazed croissant donut with apple filling, finished with caramel icing drizzle.

The Rating:

The Review: I am in love with this cronut. This treat is perfection with its glazed, flaky donut filled with tart apple compote drizzled with caramel sauce. This was such a light, balanced dessert and had such an intricate web of flavors, it reminded me of my mom’s baklava. This is the epitome of a fall dessert, so be sure to order this with your morning fix.

Dunkin’ Donuts Pumpkin-Spiced Donuts and Munchkins: The Description: Donuts and munchkins with blended flavors of pumpkin and spice.

The Rating:

The Review: If you like copious amounts of pumpkin and spices in your treats, this is the item for you. The taste of pumpkin and spice fills your mouth with the first bite. I recommend not getting the munchkins at all — they had an overpowering clove taste that I couldn’t get past in my first bite. For the milder taste, get the donuts. They have a more bearable, toned-down flavor as compared to the munchkins. Overall, these are not their best menu items.

Other treats to try:

DD’s Reese’s Peanut Butter Square Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Donut rich and creamy Reese’s peanut but- Muffin pumpkin muffin topped with cream ter buttercream, topped with chocolate icing cheese and sprinkled with caramelized and finished with an orange icing drizzle. pepitas.

Reviews and pages designed by Ifrah Sayyada and Courtney Brown.

Starbucks Pumpkin Bread pumpkin

bread with crushed pumpkin seeds and spice.

October 2016 centerstage 27 The Rating:

Dunkin Donuts Pumpkin Spice Latte The Description: A classic latte of espresso and steamed milk with a pumpkin swirl is topped off with foam and pumpkin spices.

The Review: Unlike its opponent, this drink didn’t have the scent of pumpkin, but boy-oh-boy was the flavor there. As a Dunkin’ Donuts coffee-devotee, I was expecting it to be a thick, creamy blend of pumpkin with hints of coffee but was disappointed by the results. The pumpkin flavor was definitely there, but it was so overwhelming, it masked any hints of spice or coffee. It was very creamy, and the texture and appearance was appealing, but it seemed as if it was a cup of artificial pumpkin. I recommend this drink to coffee-lovers who enjoy strong fall flavors and want more of the pumpkin flavor rather than its counterpart, espresso.

Starbucks Classic Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL): The Description: This latte is composed of a shot of espresso with steamed milk and pumpkin puree, lightly topped off with foam. This is highlighted with notes of pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg and clove and can be topped off with whipped cream and real pumpkin spices.

The Rating:

The Review: The sweet smell of pumpkin can be misleading as evident with the first sip. This drink is a regular latte with faint hints of pumpkin and spices. As a latte lover, I appreciated this ratio of coffee-to-pumpkin that was pleasant and not too overwhelming. The appearance of the drink was very off-putting though, as it seemed to have an oil-like surface floating on the top rather than the promised foam.

I recommend this drink to coffee lovers who want a change of taste that is not overbearing and still contains the coffee flavor.

The Rating:

Starbucks Chile Mocha:

The Description: This drink is composed of a shot of espresso and steamed milk with pumps of bittersweet mocha sauce, a pump of vanilla, cinnamon, cocoa, sea salt, paprika, nutmeg, ancho and cayenne chill spices topped off with sweetened whipped cream and a sprinkle of spices.

The Review: I was very excited to try this drink when I first heard about it, because as an Indian, I naturally love spice. But don’t worry, this drink was not overwhelmingly spicy. As a thick, creamy chocolate-coffee drink, it had the perfect amount of spicy and salty undertones to enhance its flavors. You could really taste the spices and the mocha blending together to create that sweet-yet-spicy flavor. I recommend this drink to coffee lovers who tend to deviate from stronger espresso-flavors and crave something with a kick.

Dunkin’ Donuts Oreo Hot Chocolate: The Description: A new addition to DD’s fall and winter menus, this drink has a rich, Oreo flavor combined with the traditional DD’s hot chocolate.

The Rating:

The Review: When you’re not feeling coffee but still need something to warm you up, choose this drink.

This is the best drink I tasted as this hot chocolate is to die for. It’s so thick, creamy and chocolatey — you can really taste the Oreo in it, too. This drink will make you want to curl up on your couch on a cold winter night with this in your hand as you watch countless movies. I recommend this for everyone because chocolate has no limits.

28 tigerturf October 2016

n i n n g Across Cultures u R Exchange student competes on varsity cross country team, provides new perspective about life in Kansas kyleelmendorf staff writer

Blue Valley hosts exchange students from all over the world. Some of these students decide to participate in a school activity or sport. Of those who decide to participate in a sport, even less compete at the varsity level, mostly because they’re competing with athletes who have been training with BV since their freshman year.

However, exchange student senior Saúl Egido, who’s from a small town in northern Spain, arrived in Kansas City on Aug. 3 and began training with the varsity cross country team within a week of his arrival.

“Over the summer, we got him to come out to a few cross country runs,” said cross country captain senior Adam Owens.

“When he

Photo by Melanie White.

Page designed by Kyle Elmendorf.

4,673

Kansas kept up with the rest of the varsity guys, I realized just how much we needed him.”

At that point in the summer, Egido said he was deciding between two sports.

“The first week that I spent here in Kansas City, I was going to train with the cross country team,” Egido said. “I was [also] trying out for soccer. I love soccer, but I’m very good at running. I decided to join cross country because it was better for my schedule.”

In Spain, Egido said he was very active and participated in many sports.

He said the training is not as intense in Spain compared to the United States — there was not as much competition, and it wasn’t as serious. However, he trained in the mountains, which he said helped him when he came to the low-altitude of Kansas.

“When I was in Spain, I played a lot of sports, especially soccer with my friends, swimming and then cross country, too,” Egido said. “Because of the swimming and the running I did in Spain, I think I’m a better runner here.”

Owens said Egido has helped the varsity team experience a new type of culture, gain a new viewpoint on life in Kansas and become

miles

Spain In the first meet of the season, senior Saúl Egido runs on the Blue Valley cross country course. Egido is on the varsity cross country team. “I love the trainers and [the coaches] are very good. And the people are very nice.” Photo by Meredith Halliburton.

more aware of the different types of people there are in the world.

“He brings a different perspective compared to here because he’s used to Spanish culture rather than Kansas [culture],” Owens said. “It’s a lot different than accepting a new [freshman] runner. It’s instead accepting a foreigner onto the team and getting to know somebody with way different values than a lot of people you might meet.

He’s a really fun guy to be around and he encouraged me to push myself harder in practice along with the rest of the varsity runners.”

Egido said aside from the competition, cross country has also helped him to fit in at BV. “I met people at the cross country team before coming the first day of school, so when I came here first day I already knew some people,” Egido said.

“The people are very nice. Everyone [in] every sport is very nice.”

October 2016 tigerturf 29

Precise on the Ice courtneycarpenter co-editor Gliding along the ice, she picks up speed, pushing herself off the ground and into the air. Twirling and spinning, she lands the axle flawlessly.

For sophomore Olivia Hamilton, this is her normal.

Five years ago, Hamilton was introduced to the sport of ice skating by a family friend and coach.

“This lady was talking to my mom and was like, ‘I coach ice skating out at this ice skating place — I think you might like it,”’ Hamilton said. “I started doing lessons with her and really enjoyed it. I kept doing lessons with her and now I have a different coach, but she’s who got me originally interested in ice skating.”

Because she trains in Liberty, Missouri, a minimum 45-minute drive,

Ice Skating Moves

Sophomore pursues ice skating as personal sport, hobby

Hamilton said she is only able to train once a week.

“I work one-on-one with my coach every Saturday,” she said.

While starting her ice skating career performing in competitions, Hamilton said she prefers focusing on individual training for personal gain rather than for a team or an organization.

“I’ve never liked being the center of attention,” Hamilton said. “I always had to perform by myself or with one other person. Sometimes, there are huge teams of 10 to 20 people that perform, but we never did that. The dresses were really expensive, and you had to do your hair and wear so much makeup for every performance — it wasn’t my style.

I enjoy learning and training by myself for my own personal benefit.”

Her favorite part of ice skating, she said, is the feeling of finally conquering a technique after working hard on it for

axel jump

lunge

extended amounts of time.

“One of my favorite moments is when I land a jump for the first time, or when I start spinning and keep going and going and going and going,” she said. “When I spin, we count how many revolutions I do — sometimes I get up to eight or nine. I just love ice skating — everything about it is so much fun.”

While planning to become certified to coach younger girls pursuing ice skating as their sport, Hamilton said she knows ice skating will forever be a part of her.

“To become a coach, there are tests you have to take,” Hamilton said. “You have to go through and show you are able to do specific types of jumps, moves, edges and other skills. I want to be able to teach my children how to ice skate — I will always love ice skating and will continue it for the rest of my life.”

sit spin

Photos by Meredith Halliburton.

Page designed by Courtney Carpenter.

30 tigerturf October 2016

BV Senior Daniel Hegarty Senior Daniel Hegarty said he’s loved baseball since the day he picked up a bat, so it was natural to try to continue playing in college.

Hegarty has verbally committed to play baseball at the University of Kansas next year. Although he’s guaranteed a spot on the 35-man roster, most baseball players — Hegarty included — are officially considered preferred walk-ons even though they were recruited, due to a lack of available scholarships.

“It’s a funky process for scholarships for baseball because of Title IX,” Hegarty said. “[There are] 35 roster spots and only 11.7 scholarships, so it’s very hard to get a scholarship. Many preferred Walk-Ons [are] given a shot to earn

Current, former student reflect on playing college sports

scholarship money later in their career. I did get my meal plan for free, though, so that’s a $5,000 value each year.”

Baseball coach Tony Scardino said Hegarty’s work ethic helped him find a spot on Blue Valley’s varsity team.

“Daniel works really hard,” Scardino said. “Ever since he’s been in the program, he’s been a team guy who worked his way through [the BV baseball system.] He’s a huge component of our pitching staff. Next year, he’s our number-one guy. Physically, he’s grown into his body in the last year. He’s gained a lot of upper body strength.”

Playing at KU has always been a dream of his, Hegarty said. “[As] a kid, I fell in love with the

coaching staff and the campus,” he said. “I like the business program and academic support at KU. Some colleges in Division-I [only] care about baseball and they don’t really care about the education. At KU they really care about the education first and then playing baseball.”

PURSUING ATHLETICS

K-State freshman Bridget Howard is a part of the school’s brand new athletic team — women’s soccer. Howard was a senior at Blue Valley and was on the varsity soccer team last year.

She said the team is doing well so far and she is enjoying her time there.

“College soccer is definitely a bigger, faster and stronger game,” Howard said. “I’ve learned how to adjust to that and become mentally tougher.”

Howard plays outside Page designed by Megan Hegarty. forward, Photos by Jeff Reglin and Molly Franko.

Stories by Megan Hegarty and Olivia Gurley. which

K-State Freshman Bridget Howard

means she is a part of the main attacking force of the team in front of the midfielders and closest to the opponent’s goal.

“She was a constant scoring threat, having the ability to score from anywhere from 30 yards in,” said K. Dean Snell, BV varsity soccer coach and Howard’s former coach.

Playing a college sport is time-consuming — athletes go from practice to class to studying and then back to practice every day. They don’t get very much time off, she said.

“Soccer takes up all of my time,” Howard said. “I wake up at 6 [a.m.] for weights, then go to practice for two hours, then go to class, eat dinner, go to study

tables and then sleep. There’s not much time for anything else, but I wouldn’t trade it for the world.”

Howard said being a part of the new team a learning experience.

“Like any first-year team, we are going to have our ups and downs,” Howard said. “Overall it’s been really fun and I love all the girls and coaches.”

The team finished the season 4-9-3. Howard said she was very excited to see how the team came together.

“From the beginning of the season to now, we’ve definitely grown as a team,” she said. “It’s been exciting to see us come together after months of hard work and anticipation.”

October 2016 tigerturf 31

TIGER

TURF BV SPORTS

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2.

4.

3.

1. Competing at Rim Rock Farms, sophomore Peter Gessler runs for cross country. Gessler started running when he joined the team his freshman year.

“My favorite part of cross country is the people that are in it,” Gessler said. Photo

by Megan Hegarty.

2. Performing during halftime, freshman Brooke Erdley dances. Erdley has danced for 11 years. “My favorite part of being on dance team is dancing with my friends,” she said. “I’ve made a lot of new friends with upperclassmen.”

Photo by Meredith Halliburton.

3. Grabbing an opponent’s legs, cornerback senior Brody Jacobsen makes a tackle. The undefeated football team is the number-one seed in the eastern division and will play Shawnee

Mission South in the first round of playoffs on Friday. “All the hard work that we put in is about to pay off,” Jacobsen said. Photo by Megan Hegarty.

4. Passing the ball, senior Lauren Stubbs plays on Senior Night. After losing earlier in the season to Mill Valley, the team beat the Jaguars in two sets. “It was a memorable night,” Stubbs said. “It was the last time the seniors got to play on our home court.” Photo by Isabelle Allen.

5. Flying in the air, sophomore Anna Yang cheers at a football game. Yang had never cheered before she started high school. “I like being up high,” Yang said.

“Being able to see everyone when you’re in the air [is one of my favorite parts of cheer].” Photo by Meredith Halliburton.

Page designed by Isabelle Allen.

5.

32 snapshot October 2016

BV seniors participate in annual giving-back events

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1. Senior Abby Helms colors next to a nursing home resident. Seventeen BV students visited Brookdale Assistant Living Center, where they cared for Alzheimer’s and dementia patients. “My favorite part was hearing all of the people’s different stories and getting to spend quality time with them,” Helms said.

Photo by Courtney Carpenter.

2. Seniors Grant Lahr and Justin Underwood search for trash to clean up. Their group volunteered at the Mary Kelly Center.

“We organized and cleaned up the premises to make it look neater for the people who are

2.

4. using it who are less fortunate than we are,” Lahr said. Photo by Alex Roberts.

3. Folding clothes, seniors Regan Hamilton and Victoria Roggy sort through clothing donations. They volunteered at Turnstyles, a Catholic Charities thrift store, to help out.

“The hours I got to spend helping the less fortunate helped me realize how blessed I am while bonding greater with my friends,” Hamilton said. Photo by Megan Hegarty.

4. Handing out tickets for the petting zoo, senior Kirsten Rogers greets a child. Rogers’ group helped out at Deanna Rose Children’s

5.

Farmstead. “The best part [of volunteering] was seeing how excited the little kids were when they would walk into the pumpkin patch,” she said. Photo by Maggy Crawford.

5. Seniors Connor Brandley, Jonathan Wells and Arslan Ali rake leaves outside Lakeview Village. The group raked leaves and helped with maintenance for the retirement center.

“It was a lot of fun helping out,” Wells said. “[The best part] was seeing people’s faces and making a difference for a lot of people.”

Photo submitted by Tracie Mayers. Page designed by Courtney Carpenter.