Dec. 12, 2023
The
DART
Issue 3
St. Teresa’s Academy Kansas City, MO Volume 88
As the holiday season approaches, students celebrate the storied history of service and activism inspired by our namesake, St. Teresa of Avila. The Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet founded STA in 1866 with these values in mind as well as a focus on loving the dear neighbor.
The DART | December 12, 2023
In This Issue 4-5 Photo Essay: Friendsgiving 6 POV: Grateful 7 Current Events 8-9 News: New Homebuyers Face a Costly Market 10-11 Star Spotlight: College Counseling 12 Feature: History of Advent 13 Feature: Students Battle Infodemic 14-15 Reviews: Winter Drinks & Dupes 16-18 Cover Story: Activism at STA
19 Editorial 20-21 Feature: Tech v. Toys 22-23 Feature: Plaza Lights & Holiday Performers 24 Sports: Mario Kart 25 Sports: Formula 1 26-27 Columns: Cassie Hallier & Ellie McManamy 28 Reading Nook 29 Community: Stars on Film 30-31 Last Look: Deck the Gingerbread Halls
On The DNO
The Rage for Female Rage Column by Dianne Haake
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A Look Back on Thanksgiving Photo Gallery by Molly Sonnenberg
A New Hope for the Environment Column by Chloe Denk
Scan to watch Dart Vlogmas!
The DART | Letter from the Editors | designed by Jo Marshall
Dear Reader, ‘Twas the night before break, and the staff of The Dart Had all come together to practice their art The pages awaited, the staffers were set With alt-covs and headlines and stories to get Buckley’s photos were hung on 4 and on 5 And on page 7, Maya’s December calendar went live. Molly Sonnenberg’s story covered real estate While pages 10-11 shone a spotlight on our college counselors (aren’t they just great?) Keep on flipping the pages for more holiday treats, Like the history of Advent and news literacy feats. Come 14 and 15, we’ll give you the scoop; Like a Starbucks review and the best gift-giving dupes. Settle in for our centerspread, which in true holiday fashion-Focuses on CSJ values that students adopt with a passion.
The next four pages are all about Christmas: Lights! Performers! And toys on kids’ wish lists! It’s never not time for some good sporty fun, So be sure to read about ESports and Formula 1. Our Dart staffers’ opinions are here too, of course Read all about the memories which make up our force. We wrap up this issue as quiet as a mouse-With a look at photography and a gingerbread house, And as the newsworthy pages rolled off to the press, Mrs. Hirner sprang to her sleigh, to the staff gave a whistle, And away the pages all flew like the down of a thistle. But we heard her exclaim, ere she drove out of sight— “Happy reading to all, and to all a good night!”
Merry Christmas - THE EDITORS Room 301 M&A Kansas City MO 64113 Annie (Grade 12) and Tierney (Grade 12) are wishing you a safe and happy finals season!
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Remembering Friendsgiving Fun The DART | Photo Essay | December 12, 2023
As the year comes to an end, we reminisce on our 2023 Friendsgiving Photos by Tierney Flavin | Editor-in-Chief and Katelyn Buckley | Opinions Editor
Seniors Violet Molloy and Emma Novosel pose in front of the table.
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Senior Liza Newman cuts into a charcuterie board before dinner.
The DART | Photo Essay | designed by Katelyn Buckley
Seniors Lillie Grever and Novosel fill their plates for the Friendsgiving feast.
Grever chats as she waits to eat Friendsgiving dinner.
Dog Nunzio Buckley sports his bowtie in preparation to join in on the festivities.
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The DART | First Glimpse | December 12, 2023
POV:
What are you grateful for? STA students share what they are grateful for as this holiday season approaches Story by Maya Tule | Associate Photo Editor Freshman Lily Remer “I am grateful for my family and friends. I am also grateful for all the obstacles and hardships that I’ve come across and that have shaped me into who I am today. I am grateful for my education and what I have.”
Junior Jillian Garr “I am grateful for my relationships because they bring me so much joy and fun, but they also help me grow into a better person. I am thankful for the beauty of our world and the opportunity to travel and see the beauty. Finally, I am thankful for the security and health of myself, my family and my friends.”
Freshman Naomi Randall “I am grateful for my family, my friends, going to St. Teresa’s and all the privileges I get to have.” Senior Anne Rinella “I am grateful for Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift. I am grateful for the residents at the nursing home I work at and the love they show me!”
Sophomore Mary Meyers “I am grateful for my education. I’m so lucky to come to such a beautiful campus with such amazing teachers!”
Junior Eva Farmer “I am grateful for food because it tatses good; a sweet treat can always brighten my day.”
Sophomore Francie Brewster “I’m grateful for my family because they always support me no matter what!”
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Senior Elaina Lobaugh “I am grateful for my puppies because they bring me so much joy!”
Freshman Carly Cooper “I am grateful for my sister. She drives me everywhere and she always buys me food. I am also grateful for my dog Charlie. He is always excited to see me.”
Junior Gabriella Campbell “I am grateful for my friends because they make coming to school and going out 10 times better than it would be if I were by myself.”
Sophomore Lucy Knutson “I am grateful for the ability to go to school.”
Senior Scarlett Heybrock “I am super grateful for my friends and family who support and love me no matter what.”
Junior Kamryn Harris “I am grateful for my friends and family and for my opportunities. I am also grateful for being able to go to the Drake concert and for my family trips I get to take over the summers.”
The DART | Current Events | designed by Maya Tule
UPCOMING
H liday Festivities
Dec. 13 17
Dec. 14 - 17
KC Repertory Theatre: A
The Nutcraker Ballet show
Christmas Carol
Dec. 17 Away Chiefs Game vs. New England
Dec. 19 -24
KC Repertory Theatre: A Christmas Carol
Dec. 16 Santa Day at the Louisburg Cider Mill
Dec. 20 - 24 The Nutcraker Ballet Final Show Days
Dec. 25 Nov. 20 - Jan. 1
Holiday Reflections at Union Station
Home Chiefs Game vs. Las Vegas Raiders
Dec. 31
Home Cheifs Game vs. Cincinnati Bengals
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The DART | News | December 12, 2023
When local house prices increase rapidly, homebuyers are left at a loss
The Homebuyers’ Heroine
W
hen it comes to important events in life, often it’s characterized into firsts: first birthday, first day of school, first car, etc. However, one “first” that surpasses most and is many’s start to adulthood is buying a first home. But when houses are increasing an average median price of 6.3 percent each year, the anticipated moment of buying a house, especially for young couples, may strike many as a challenge. What was causing this increase in price? That remained a mystery until recently, when a Kansas City group sued the National Association of Realtors and won huge: $1.8 billion to be exact. Lawyer Eric Dirks of the firm William Dirks Dameron answers questions on the who, what, and whys of the case. “So we did some digging around, and we saw that real estate commissions in the rest of the world were like half, or less, then what they are here [in KC],” Dirks said. “We did some more digging, and we found out that the rule that’s posted by the National Association of Realtors (NAR), says if you want to list your home on a multiple listing service (MLS), you must make an offer of compensation to a buyer broker. So we started digging into that, and we realized that it’s a restraining trade under the federal antitrust statute.” Once Dirks found the root of the problem, it became clear that it was the violation of one of the federal antitrust statutes that was inflating homes. The next step was to take this to court, but it wasn’t easy.
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Story by Molly Sonnenberg | Staff Writer
“The biggest challenge was explaining to the court, to the community, and to the jury that this is not about real estate agents; everybody’s got a real estate agent in their family, or a friend, aunt, uncle, whatever, it’s not about them,” Dirks said. “It’s about the system, it’s about the rules and the corporate people who created these rules.” Now that the case is won, what does this mean going forward? Dirks explains the projected change on the horizon. “It’s going to bring the market for real estate agents back to a free, competitive market where folks can actually have a conversation with their agent-whether that’s on the sellers’ side or on the buyers’ side–and negotiate a fair commission,” Dirks said.
“Most important for me is location,” Cuda said. “Since we’ve started searching, prices have stayed the same; I haven’t noticed prices going up or down that much. They’ve just stayed consistently higher than what we’d like.” Cuda knows that buying a house is no walk the in park. Instead, it’s a bittersweet moment, which, despite the stress, should be cherished. “My advice for people that are starting to house hunt would be to take it slow, don’t purchase something unless you absolutely love it because it’s a big investment,” Cuda said. “Also have fun; this is an exciting time.”
Average Home Costs for Popular College Towns:
Even though a light may be showing at the end of the tunnel for future homebuyers, it’s still difficult to find a house for young adults. When factors such as location, price and design come into play, it makes for a tough search. STA alumna Sophie Cuda, ‘17, discusses her journey with finding a house. “The biggest difficulty for buying a house has been how high interest rates are,” Cuda said.“Also, how expensive the market is right now, houses are just priced pretty high.” When the buyer’s wants such as location and design come into play, the hunt for a house can become more difficult. In today’s market, Cuda discusses what’s most important for her and what she’s noticed.
Boulder, CO: $983,863 Lawrence, KS: $294,524 Columbia, MO: $282,596 Chicago, IL: $287,337 Tuson, Arizona: $323,872 Manhattan, KS: $256,008 Fayetville, Arkansas: $343,916 Omaha, NE: $271,409 Whether buyers are looking for a home in Kansas City or California, house prices are skyrocketing everywhere. Even though the Kansas City case made headlines, the future of homebuying still remains unclear, and is no longer an easy “first” for most.B
The DART | designed by Molly Sonnenberg
The Inflation t i t Before l e Christmas Although inflation has returned to pre-pandemic levels this year, the steep increase in purchasing costs over the past few years has shifted the community’s mindset on gift-giving Story by Anna Massman | Features Editor
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hen one considers the villains of Christmas, images of a certain Pumpkin King or a sneaky Dr. Seuss character may come to mind. This year, however, the presents under our trees are facing a new threat: inflation. In the years following the COVID-19 pandemic, inflation rates have skyrocketed. According to the International Monetary Fund, the rate of inflation in 2017 was 3.5 percent. In 2022, it was 8.8 percent–more than a two-fold increase. While inflation has returned to pre-pandemic levels this year, the past year’s spike in costs for nearly every aspect of daily life, from grocery shopping to furniture sales, has changed the spending habits of many students and faculty at STA, especially regarding their holiday purchases. For senior Fiona Fitzgerald, discovering deals at retail stores, such as Cargo Largo, has become an essential part of
shopping for both herself and those she cares about. “I love the Largo,” Fitzgerald said. “I’ve been there so many times, and I always find something that’s both super cute and insanely affordable. I’ve found items
[at Cargo Largo] that, if you look them up online, they’re at least four times the cost. It’s crazy. I’ll definitely be going there a lot during the holiday season.” Apart from year-round establishments, such as retail or thrift stores, many students were able to participate in Black Friday, the annual U.S. shopping frenzy that occurs on the Friday after Thanksgiving. Brands ranging from Lululemon to Coach offer limited-time sales offers on items, often given on a firstcome, first-serve basis. Senior Charlotte Brettell celebrated this pseudo-holiday while shopping at the Country Club Plaza. Brettell notes that despite the exhilaration of the day, it’s important not to be swept up in the masspurchasing energy. “[Black Friday] is super fun, but the influence of so many people around you can be a little [financially] dangerous,” Brettell said. “Going with friends is really helpful, because they can help you decide whether you actually want something or you’re just making a decision out of stress.” The saga continues, however, into Small Business Saturday. The neighbor to Black Friday, this day is focused on supporting local businesses and shops that may not have the scale to launch campaigns of the same scale as big businesses’ on Black Friday. Junior Hannah Baker decided to cross off some items for her friends and family while shopping on Saturday. Baker believes local businesses often have more unique and higher-quality goods– two criteria essential to Christmas shopping. “I love finding handmade items or things that are specific to a store, like the Corner Candle Shop [in Brookside],” Baker said. “They’re making it, they’re crafting those scents–even if you find something similar to it somewhere else, I think that’s really special and people know it.”
Apart from finding deals and steals, both students have changed their whole perception of gift buying in recent years. Brettell has found that setting price limits when buying for friends has unexpected benefits. “When you can only spend maybe twenty dollars, you have to get more creative. You can make something, you can give something you already own, or you can buy a few small things that really remind you of whoever you’re buying for. When you set a limit, you usually have to gift something more creative and more unique to them” So will inflation steal Christmas this year? According to students, it’s a resounding “No.” Fitzgerald emphasizes that although it’s nice to have extra wiggle room with purchasing gifts, a big budget doesn’t define the Christmas experience. “As you grow up, I think you realize it really isn’t about the price of your gift, “Fitzgerald said. “Even if you only have five dollars, as long as you put some thought into who
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The DART | Star Spotlight | December 12, 2023
R A ST HT G I L T PO
S
Debi Hudson and Bryan Smith Story by Katelyn Buckley | Opinion Editor
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The DART | designed by Lauren Rando
What is your favorite part of your job?
What brought you to STA? twice. My first time here was in the fall of 1990. After working in college admissions, my husband and I moved to Kansas City, so it seemed like a natural transition to make. I stayed for 12 years and then went back to college admissions. I then went to Rockhurst for a couple of years. I finally ended up back at STA.”
Mr. Smith: “I had worked in
college admissions just about my entire professional life. Since graduating, I realized what I liked to do most in admissions was working with students. I saw the opening at STA and I applied. I also have some friends who are STA alumni, so I kind of knew the quality of the school and it seemed like the perfect opportunity.”
What advice do you always give to students? Ms. Hudson: “Be open. Don’t assume that the school that fit an older sister or parent is what’s going to fit you. There are thousands of schools out there and you have an opportunity to venture and learn and learn responsibility. Also, it’s going to take time. It is a process and you have to trust the process.”
granddaughter, so that is definitely my main thing. I also love to travel, cook and walk the dog.”
different. Every class is different. Even with all the challenges of the past couple years, the college admissions process is always changing. There’s always something to learn and I love to learn about new schools with all the girls along the way.”
Mr. Smith: “It’s working with
students. Getting tossed into the mix in August, the seniors have a lot of their college search process done by that point, so getting started with a clean slate with the junior class will be really exciting. Being able to meet and be a resource for people during a very stressful time in their lives is important.”
“ Being able to meet and be a resource .
for people during a very stressful time in their lives is important.
BRYAN SMITH
Mr. Smith: “Be really
intentional. Obviously, what you want to study is very important, but you also have to keep in mind it;s where you are going to be living for 4+ years. Take some things you might not be thinking about into consideration. If you aren’t happy in your personal life on campuses than it will be a lot harder to succeed in the classroom.”
What is your favorite thing to do ourside of work? Ms. Hudson: “I have a new
Mrs. Hudson: “Everyday is
“
Mrs. Hudson: “I’ve been here
Mr. Smith: “I really like to
cook, I cook dinner just about every night for my wife and I. Outside of that, watching and playing sports and walking my dog, Buddy.” B
What do you find to be the most difficult part of your job?
Ms. Hudson: “All the change.
Everything from the growth of test optional, selectivity, even supreme court decisions. Technology, though I love it, can really complicate things. Although the change can be really exciting and is sometimes my favorite part, it can really complicate things.”
Mr. Smith: “Every student
has different things that they are looking for and that are important to them and different schools they are super interested in. As much as I would love to help with all of it, I can’t know everything about all the schools. So trying to research and learn the processes of different schools. Also trying to see if a student is truly interested in a school or if there are outside pressures pushing them in certain directions.”
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The DART | Features | December 12, 2023
The H story of
Advent
Advent is a liturgical season within the Catholic church when members prepare themselves for Christmas. Story by Isa Glover | Associate Sports Editor s Christmas approaches, Catholics begin celebrating the stay focused on the goal, which is to celebrate Christ’s birth, which liturgical season of Advent to prepare for the celebration of through his birth and salvation, eternal life was possible.” Christ’s birth. There are many other traditions aside from the candles, such as Advent was developed as a season of the church year in the late Advent calendars and the Jesse tree, which represents the family tree fourth century. The church created Advent primarily to provide a time of Jesus Christ. Each ornament on the tree shows a story from The for the final preparation of candidates for baptism. Bible that tells about God’s people before Jesus was born. Advent means “coming” or “arrival,” and now emphasizes both the Knifong uses the Jesse tree to celebrate scripture. celebration of Christ’s birth and also the Lord’s second coming. The “The Jesse tree represents different celebrations from the Old first portion of Advent from the first Sunday to Dec. 16 is preparation Testament from Hebrew scripture that we remember that paved for the second coming of Christ. The second portion, from Dec. 17 to the way for the Messiah,” Knifong said. “The Jesse tree is where the 24, prepares for the commemoration of Christmas. modern Christmas tree transformed from. More popular right now STA theology teacher Adrianna Knifong recognizes the importance are Advent calendars, this idea that we are preparing and doing little of Advent. things to get ready and excited for Christmas.”B
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[Advent candles] mark the four weeks before Christmas and help us to stay focused on the goal, which is to celebrate Christ’s birth, which through his birth and salvation, eternal life was possible. Adrianna Knifong
“
“Advent is a liturgical season in the church,” Knifong said. Advent is a time of preparing your heart and soul in order to celebrate Christ’s birth. Obviously, Jesus came a long time ago, but [Catholics] recelebrate this new year, and the incarnation which made salvation possible. “[Catholics] revisit the different stories, revisit the different themes throughout the year. Advent is starting a new year in the church.” During the season of Advent, there are many traditions that represent aspects of the Catholic Church. One of these is the wreath with candles that are lit every Sunday of Advent. The wreath originated in Germany in 1839. Johann Hinrich Wichern, a pastor in Germany, built a wreath out of an old cartwheel to help the children in his school count the days until Christmas. The candles are lit every Sunday of Advent and represent hope, peace, joy and love. Knifong notes the significance of the candles. “The Advent candles help symbolize different virtues that we [Catholics] should practice in order to prepare ourselves for Christmas,” Knifong said. “They mark the four weeks before Christmas and help us [Catholics] to
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The DART | designed by Tierney Flavin
Students Battle the ‘Infodemic’
As students peruse social media, they encounter news — both reliable and misleading. Story by Tierney Flavin | Editor-in-Chief
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eniors who walk into the AP US Government and Politics and Government classroom are greeted by reminders of upcoming local elections. As students approach the legal voting age — some seniors already 18 themselves — news becomes a vital aspect of informed voting and participation in civic engagement. On June 29, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) held a conference on “Infodemiology,” a term which they defined as the study of the influx of information which emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic. Since then, the WHO has continued to publish bi-weekly updates on misinformation and ways to fight it. Government teacher Robert Flynn brings news into the classroom in order to enforce his students’ awareness of current events. He finds ways to tie news articles into his curriculum. “I try to present some of the more important things, especially with having to do with the government,” Flynn said. “But we could examine anything in our life and the government’s going to touch it.” Social media has played a major role in the rapid and significant spread of information, according to the WHO. In a poll of 34 STA students, 38.2% said they consume most of their news on social media platforms like Instagram or TikTok. Senior Megan Turley has noticed this trend. She notes the amount of misinformation and the patterns in which it impacts students’ worldviews. “I think a lot of people just get [news] from social media, which I do too,” Turley said. “[You get] really quick facts, you get the basics. But I think it can be really problematic, especially if you’re chronically online. I think some people get caught in a trap where they only get an echo chamber of things that they kind of agree with…and it’s not realistic.” As high schoolers amidst the Infodemic, as well as in the Information age, students filter through more content than ever to find truth. In the student poll, only 8.8% said they feel completely comfortable with their ability to discern truth from falsehoods or exaggerations. Sophomore Ski Rohlf has picked up on how social media contributes to the spread of distruth. “I do see a lot of [misinformation] on TikTok and Instagram,” Rohlf said. “I feel like that affects students because a lot of people who are making their own personal videos are talking about their own personal experiences instead of the whole situation.” Rohlf says she consumes news on many different platforms, from television to social media. She has strategies to confirm information that she sees online, but notices different tendencies in other students. “I look for things that are victimizing one [party], making the other seem like the bad guy or things that are impartial,” Rohlf said. “I feel like a lot of my peers don’t read the news as often as older adults in my life, so we don’t often talk about issues that happen in the news.”
Flynn himself tries to stay away from social media. He does, however, see students trying to differentiate authenticity from inaccuracy, despite not having skills that come with age. “One of the things that will improve with age is impulse control, typically as the brain continues to form,” Flynn said. “There is impulsiveness there, though, which may not be about being educated, but just by virtue of age. So active sharing would probably be a struggle [for students on social media].” He offers some advice which he tries to convey in classes through sources like All Sides, which provides balanced news and bipartisan perspectives on current events. “The skill is just to pause,” Flynn said. “If it sounds sensational or unbelievable. It’s probably for good reason and should not be believed.” Turley feels like STA, as well as at her grade school, she has been given tools to access information in a positive way. “At STA, we have a million different databases that we can get on if we need information,” Turley said. “And in my freshman journalism class, our teacher made us go through and decipher what part of an article was fake.Also, in my religion class, Ms. Harmon keeps things really recent. Like one of our projects was to make prayer cards for people in Gaza and then, she actually showed us two really in-depth videos about the history.” Rohlf explained how her classes maintain pertinence with current events, but that there is still progress to be made to improve students’ abilities to decipher misinformation. “I think in a lot of classes where current events are relevant like History and English, we do talk about the news sometimes,” Rohlf said. “I don’t know if we’re hearing enough about things that are going on right now, though.” Turley is not yet 18, but many of her friends are. She says that she has seen students’ excitement as they vote for the first time, but that there are disparities between young people and adults’ knowledge about the political climate and attributes this to time spent on social media. “I think it’s good to try to be literate and read the news and media,” Turley said. “But I also think it’s important to take a step back because sometimes, the internet is just not sustainable.I feel like a lot of people just don’t even know when to vote and what it’s for, or how to prepare.” Through incorporating current events into coursework, providing information about opportunities for activism and research databases, STA vies to “educate young women to think critically.” Flynn believes that these strategies are empowering students through reliable information to form their own beliefs and implement them into the world around them. “We have a lot of problems going on in the world,” Flynn said. “We need [young people] who are smart and motivated and passionate to go out there and solve them.” B
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Warm-up with these Winter Drinks The DART | Reviews | December 12, 2023
I tried popular Starbucks Christmas drinks; here’s what I thought. Story by Wynnie Sprague | Staff Writer
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s the wellloved pumpkin spice latte says its goodbye for the year, we welcome the Starbucks Christmas drinks and get into the festive feel. Every day, there are many Starbucks holiday cups in the hands of STA students walking throughout the quad. There is a big variety to choose from, so I decided to try three drinks in different categories from Starbucks: a peppermint mocha, a gingerbread chai and a sugar cookie latte. The easiest way of describing the peppermint mocha is Christmas in a cup. When I first picked up the drink, there was an immediate smell of peppermint emanating from the cup. It reminded me of the hundreds of candy canes I had when I was little. It tasted like hot chocolate with a lot of caffeine and a lot of peppermint. In the beginning, it tasted amazing, but as I kept drinking, it started to taste less like hot chocolate and only like peppermint. My stomach definitely did not have the best reaction to the peppermint overload. Overall, I would rate it a 2/5.
Next up was the gingerbread chai! Starbucks brought the gingerbread chai tea latte and iced gingerbread chai back to the menu after it was discontinued in 2019, and it was definitely a smart choice. It encompassed the flavors that feel most like the holidays: cinnamon, ginger and nutmeg. It tasted like the perfect chai mixed with the right amount of gingerbread, where it wasn’t too overpowering. The taste stayed consistent from the beginning until the end. Overall, I would rate it a 5/5.
AAAAA Lastly, I chose to review the iced sugar cookie almond milk latte. The first thing I noticed about the drink was the festive green and red sprinkles on the top. It combined the flavors of a buttery sugar cookie with a creamy latte. I was expecting it to be very sweet because of the sugar cookie part in the name, but it was not too overpowering. I am not the biggest fan of coffee, but I really enjoyed this drink. Overall, I would rate it a 3/5.
AAABB AAA So to wrap this up, I think Starbucks did a pretty good job with this season’s Christmas drinks! The peppermint mocha is the way to go if you love peppermint hot chocolate, the iced gingerbread chai would be great to try if you are a chai girl and like cinnamon and the iced sugar cookie latte would be great for you if you like coffee with sweet creamer. B
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The DART | designed by Anna Stout
Dupes the Best Dupes: Idea for the
Holiday Season Read all about the lovely dupes that are circulating this holiday season. These dupes are perfect for all of your gifting needs! Story by Anna Stout | Co-Design Editor
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ost teenagers aren’t swimming in funds for holiday gifts. Because of this lack of cash, “dupes” are the best and most affordable choice for all of your holiday presents. A dupe is essentially a cheaper alternative to other brands that still performs the same or an “off brand” item. While historically “off brand” has a negative connotation, the term “dupe” has a positive one due to the optimistic feedback received by the public once the term blew up on TikTok. Over the last couple of years, the search for highquality dupes has gone to the extreme. Every large influencer frequently posts dupes, and many followers frequently buy them. I am entirely guilty of giving into dupes. I buy makeup dupes, clothing dupes and jewelry dupes nearly every week because they are just too good to pass up. As the years have gone by I’ve accumulated hundreds of dupes, and I am here to provide feedback on each of my favorites and least favorites. Recently, due to the winter pale starting up, I have caved into the Elf Halo Glow as a dupe to the Drunk Elephant Bronzing Drops. I bought mine from CVS, but Target and other drug stores carry this product. I can confidently say that this product is a staple for your winter makeup collection. I use it when
I don’t want to wear any makeup, and am looking for a nice tan glow. I mix it with a moisturizer, then rub the mixture on my face, and that’s it. I swear you need this product in your cosmetic bag this winter. Around two years ago there was a huge surge in UGG boots all over the globe. The brand tends to be a little pricey, so dupes are essential. Amazon has several different options for your UGG needs. They have brands like “BearPaw” and “Amazon Essentials,” both of which are amazing dupes for the furry boots. These dupes look identical to the UGGs, and I promise no one will know the difference. Another popular item on everyone’s Christmas list is the Stanley cup. Unfortunately, the metal cup costs around $40-50, so dupes are essential. The Simple Modern and the Owala tumblers are both amazing options as a cheaper alternative. The cups come in a million different color options, and are also made of metal. Why would you buy a Stanley when you could have a dupe? Purchasing one of the dupes is a no brainer. Lastly on the long list of dupes is jewelry. One of Bottega Vaneta’s most popular pieces, the drop
earrings, run for $820: not cheap. However, as always Amazon comes to the rescue. There, the brand EASYHAUTE has drop earrings that look IDENTICAL to the designer brand. They come in gold and silver, and received 4.5 stars from Amazon reviews. As the Christmas season continues, dupes prove to be perfect for gift giving as well as to add to your list. Hopefully these dupes help you out for the holidays this year! B
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The DART | Centerspread | Dec 12, 2023
Activism at STA
In the midst of major world-wide events, The Dart discusses how STA can utilize the CSJ values to address issues that expand beyond the school community. Story by Lina Kilgore | Sports Editor Jo Marshall | Staff Writer Rebecca McGannon | Staff Writer Alt-cov by Anna Massman | Features Editor
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n the morning of Oct.13, STA president Siabhan MayWashington and academic principal Barb McCormick joined Adam Tilove, the head of the school of Hyman Brand Hebrew Academy in assisting at the school’s student drop-off point. May-Washington and McCormick were not the only guests, as leaders from multiple schools including Cristo Ray, Horizon Academy, Notre Dame de Sion, Oakhill Day School, Pembroke Hill, Rockhurst High School and others stood alongside them. These school administrators joined together to show unity in light of the ongoing conflict that began on Oct.7 with the attack in Israel. “That particular day was shortly thereafter the Israel conflict occurred and [there was] just lots of fear in their community,” MayWashington said. “Many people were pressuring [Tilove] to close school even that particular Friday, but he did not want to do that. He felt that if the community was surrounded by love, everything would be okay.” In face of this division, May-Washington recounts the solidarity found at the drop-off point. “[There were] tears of joy from the head of school and their teachers and the kids and their parents,” May-Washington said. “It was really great to support them and let them know that we care.” In addition to STA faculty and staff practicing the CSJ values by getting involved in larger issues within the Kansas City community, students have also taken initiative to learn about the world
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around them. The CSJ values are derived from the practices of the Sisters of St. Joseph, and one particular value, “loving thy dear neighbor without distinction” comes to light through community participation. One group in particular, the Current Events Club, practices this value through making a point to address and educate students about global, national and local news. Current Events Club, led by Elizabeth Connor and Sydney Smith, discusses one global, one national and one local news story each meeting. A goal of the club is to create a safe environment where students can learn and voice their opinions. Connor and Smith prioritize respect within the club, especially when certain issues are discussed. “If we’re discussing a polarizing issue it’s basically understood that everyone is going to be respectful of everyone’s opinions and no one is going to go around sharing other people’s opinions,” Smith said. “We do have both sides on a lot of issues and they respect each other.” Connor and Smith emphasize the importance of the club in the STA community. They say it covers an aspect of education that isn’t always addressed throughout all four grade levels. “[The club] makes me more aware of the things going on around me,” Smith said. “Because normally as a high school student you don’t take time to read the news or become well versed in what is going on. It just brings awareness for us.”
The DART | designed by Anna Massman Recently, the club has been discussing the conflict in Israel. Since it’s such a large topic on the news, Smith and Connor agreed it was important to raise awareness of the ongoing issue to the student body as well as club members. “I don’t know how much effect we have on the whole student body but we do fundraisers,” Connor said. “We are planning one right now that relates to current event issues. We will probably do a fundraiser for something involving the Israel-Palestine conflict so it brings out the issue to the rest of the student body.” Smith and Connor hope to highlight current global issues in order to create an impassioned and educated STA student body. Both recall how beneficial the club meetings and presentations were to them as underclassmen. The club allows students to comprehend the news in non-biased and digestible ways. “I think it especially impacts freshmen and sophomores in the club because I know that as a freshman and sophomore I knew nothing about what was going on in the world,” Connor said. “But I think telling them about [current events], it’s just a really great resource.” The officers of Current Events Club encourage using the news as a resource to become an active and prepared citizen of the community, the country and the globe. Connor stresses that she does not want to be ignorant to the news, and strives to inform other students about current events. “It is so important,” Connor said. “Being the one to make the slideshows has made me become just that much more aware of what’s going on because again, I didn’t know anything about current events. But I would come out of those meetings and think, ‘Okay, this is what’s happening and I’m someone who knows about the world I’m living in.’ Because the worst thing I want to be is that private school kid who is totally ignorant and I think it’s very, very important to talk about current events.” The Current Events Club is not alone in their passion for increasing students’ knowledge about diverse faiths, cultures and issues. Senior Abby Margolin is a member of the Jewish faith, and for the past two years has led an interim about Jewish culture. “In the course, we talked about all of the different Jewish holidays, what we do during those holidays, what we eat during
those holidays, and so on,” Margolin said. “My goal was to share a part of myself and my faith identity with other students at STA who might not know much about the Jewish faith or the Jewish community. People still tell me how much they enjoyed the class, and it means a lot to me. I got to teach people about a big part of my life that’s important to me and see what they got out of it.” Interim courses are not the only place students can receive education about other religions at STA. Margolin notes that her current favorite class is World Faiths, taught by Jamie Bannister. “It’s by far my favorite religion class that I’ve taken in my time at STA,” Margolin said. “We’ve learned about so many different faiths, and Dr. Bannister does an incredible job at teaching the course. She has opened the floor up to so many conversations about current issues and anything else that we want to discuss. I appreciate that STA encourages us to learn about many different faiths.” Margolin is grateful to STA for welcoming her as someone of the Jewish faith. “Even though we’re at a Catholic school, everyone here does such a good job of making it clear that all are welcome here, whether you identify as Catholic, Jewish, Christian or Buddhist,” Margolin said. “I love STA and I’m grateful that I have been completely welcomed. I’ve never felt even a tiny inkling of someone here not accepting me as a Jewish person.” One opportunity students have to grow their leadership skills and CSJ values is the annual trip for incoming juniors to the motherhouse in St. Louis. Theology teacher Adrianna Knifong helps organize and run this camp. “The camp is just a couple of days, where [students] get to interact with the Sisters of St. Joseph on various levels,” Knifong said. “They’ll hear different talks about how we can play an active role in society very much like how the Sisters of St. Joseph did when they were first starting and how they’ve continued that legacy.” Juniors Nora Kramer and Lucy Boxx feel that the experience made them closer to their classmates and helped them appreciate the roots of their high school. However, the high point of their time at the motherhouse was their exposure to leadership in new and different ways. “I think I definitely used what I learned because I learned a lot about leadership and how it’s not necessarily just one person in charge leading everyone, but more recognizing each other’s strengths and all working together,” Kramer said. “So I think that’s something I’ve really carried through socially, when working in
STA Outreach by the Numbers
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the DART | Centerspread | December 12, 2023 group projects or just in any other group, recognizing each other’s strength and using that and playing to that advantage rather than one person is in charge and they decide everything.” Kramer and Boxx highlight how the activities on the trip like reflections, eating with the Sisters and team building helped them come together. However, they point out how the planning of Mass at STA improved their leadership and collaboration skills. “One of my favorite parts was that we got to plan a Mass or prayer service,” Kramer said. “Everyone was given a role and you would choose what you wanted to do. I was on one of the Scripture parts, the Responsorial Psalm. We also had music there, like Danni Haley and I played the piano and Eve played the violin. Planning the Mass was really cool.” In addition to the Mass, the CSJ Leadership campers also planned prayer services in St. Louis. “The prayer services were really inspiring and I really liked us working together to make it happen,” Boxx said. “We also worked together to make a Mass at STA happen. It was really great to feel like my skills I got from being at the motherhouse were also used for that Mass.” The campers also appreciated their time they got to reflect. Boxx feels she was able to learn how to be a good person while also being a strong leader. “I knew about being a good person but how can I do that without being pushed around?” Boxx said. “I feel like I did learn a lot from it. Afterwards, I thought a lot about who I am as a person. Overall, I felt like it was a really fulfilling experience.” Knifong hopes that students will continue to leave this camp with a new perspective which grants them values and skills that extend past the STA community. “I think what’s really important is that we are giving our students this passion, this energy for them to go and make a change,” Knifong said. “Giving students this opportunity to stand up, have a voice and know that what they have to say is very important and that it can change the world.” In order for students to acknowledge and apply this passion, Knifong believes teachers play a pivotal role in creating a safe place of conversation to motivate and empower students of various different beliefs. “I feel like teachers really have the opportunity to show students how to have respectful conversations, and to be able to look at several points of view so they’re thinking not so narrow minded,” Knifong said. “When we open up to all the different possibilities that we have in this world and different ways to think, then we might be able to actually come to appreciate a different viewpoint.”
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Overall Knifong finds that the CSJ camp and meaningful classroom conversations reflect back to the values in which STA was founded on, and still apply to our world today in face of extreme global conflicts. “It goes back to the Sisters’ mission which is also our mission, and that’s really just to love the dear neighbor without distinction,” Knifong said. “No matter where they come from, no matter who they are, what they look like, what they believe, that is our mission; just to love and we can do that in so many different ways.” Despite the encouragement and daily manifestation of these CSJ values found throughout the STA community, May-Washington recognizes that people can doubt true goodness in the midst of global conflicts. “I know we can feel helpless,” May-Washington said. “It seems like the conflict is so far away, but yet we’re impacted by it.” In order to combat feeling helplessness or having no power to make a difference, May-Washington firmly believes in the strength of the individual. “What we can do is in our own sphere of the universe,” MayWashington said. “It’s one person at a time so every contact that St. Teresa’s students and community members have, that’s making a difference, just one person at a time, standing up for love and saying that there’s no place for hate in our hearts.” May-Washington encourages daily action in order to make this difference. “The CSJ charism has to be not sometimes, not just on Sundays, not just on Holy Days, but every day,” May-Washington said. “It’s up to us being intentional with every interaction.” By being intentional with every interaction through the lens of the CSJ values, May-Washington has confidence light will triumph in face of darkness. “There was a late Congressman [John] Lewis, a man who loved to talk about how light can overcome darkness” May-Washington said. “If we continue to be the light, that’s going to make a difference.” In a continuous effort to embody this light in times of extreme turmoil May-Washington finds it of great importance to remember what it means to be a part of the STA community— a community fueled by sisterhood that has persevered through generations. “We don’t live in a bubble; we’re a part of humanity, and our Catholic values propel us to care,” MayWashington said. “Our charism is to love your neighbor without distinction and so our founding sisters, the Sisters of St. Joseph, from the very beginning, have always been about helping others. That is why St. Teresa says to care.” B
93% of students feel that STA has empowered them to change the world *out of 86 students
the DART | designed by Anna Massman
Right on
Target
Do STA students exemplify the values of the CSJ outside of school? Editorial by Jo Marshall | Staff Writer
At St. Teresa’s Academy, it’s no secret that the CSJ values are taken very seriously. Teachers weave the maxims into their lectures, students sneak them into essays and each morning as prayer is announced, it’s routine to hear some variety of “love thy dear neighbor” echoing through the halls of every building. While these values are heavily implemented into the curriculum at STA, many may wonder how the values truly carry over into students’ daily lives. This poses the question: “Do STA students exemplify the values of the CSJ outside of school?” When asked this, The Dart staff members unanimously answered “yes,” but their reasoning varied. Many agreed that due to the emphasis of CSJ values at STA, following them becomes somewhat instinctive. One staffer pointed out STA’s sportsmanship on and off the court. The student section gets excited without sacrificing respect for
the opposing team. Furthermore, there has never been a physical altercation at a STA game. STA does not have a “Barstool” account on X. STA also offers safe and understanding environments to have important (yet complicated) discussions. Classes such as World Faiths provide students opportunities to learn about diverse opinions and beliefs. However, like many high schools, STA has seen its fair share of controversy over the years. A few staffers agree that outliers are inevitable, and some students may not exemplify the CSJ values outside of school. Despite this, STA has embraced and exemplified the teachings of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet for over 150 years. When students wear their uniforms, class rings or any STA merchandise, everything they do will be representative of STA and its cherished values. B
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the DART | Feature |
the DART | Feature | December 12, 2023
TECH vs. Toys
The Dart investigates the ‘iPad kid’ epidemic during this Holiday Season
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“Jack will 100% want more technology when he is older,” Henson said. “A lot of his friends want iPads, so he is like ‘I want one.’” With this taken into account, Henson believes that technology can be great learning tools for young children and for parents to entertain their kids with. “Jack has my old cell phone with parental controls and kid-appropriate games,” Henson said. “Tech can be beneficial, like games that cause them to use their imaginations more. “ If parents decide to purchase technology of some sort, many, like Henson, decide to establish balance in their child’s life between the gadget and real life. “In our house we try to set a limit on screen time,” Henson said. “Whether it’s watching TV or playing games on the phone, we will tell him no more screens, time for toys.”
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The big tech thing that scares me is I dont’t want him to get addicted. That’s probably inevitable, but not when he is five. Sarah Henson
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s Christmas lists pile up and parents scavenge for the best deals, technology will somehow earn a place in Holiday crazes, whether that be an iPad for a 6-year old or a Fitbit for Mom. The recent addition of all these gadgets on want lists prompts the question: Have iPads and phones taken prominence in children’s lives over conventional Christmas toys? Recently, technology–ranging from Tamagotchi to a high end iPad Pro–has been on many kids’ Christmas lists. History teacher and parent of Jack, 5, Sarah Henson notices technology’s effects on children’s toys. “More toys are having tech components to them now,” Henson said. “It’s hard to get a toy that’s just a toy anymore.” Jack is intrigued by technology, like many other young children. Henson guesses his interest may come from the immediate dominance given to him; he is in control. Not many children get to have much control elsewhere. “Jack likes not only playing games but switching from app to app, so he can see an immediate effect,” Henson said. “It’s instant gratification.” Despite this addictive aspect, many kids still enjoy the less technological toys. The selling of toys in the U.S has generated about $29.2 billion in 2022, according to the Toy Association. “So far, [for Christmas] Jack wants a baby Yoda Squish Mallow and a remote control tank,” Henson said. Though this is Jack’s Christmas list, other kids long for technology during the holidays. Those who possess and obsess over their electronics are known as “iPad kids.” The term “iPad kids” is used by young people in the media to poke fun at children who only find entertainment through their technology. This idea can be cruel, but gadgets have become an obsession for most kids because of instant gratification and societal standards,especially online. Henson feels these standards around the holiday season. “There is a lot of pressure on social media, but not so much in my personal life,” Henson said. “You see all of these parents giving their kids big gifts.” As Jack gets older, Henson can see him asking for more technology on his Christmas and birthday wish lists, as most children do.
Story by Stella Baska | Staff Writer
This dependency on technology makes many parents nervous, including Henson. “The big tech thing that scares me is I don’t want him to get addicted,” Henson said. “That’s probably inevitable, but not when he is five.” The unnerving thought of technology’s effect on kids’ lives is one reason why conventional toys have always been a priority on parents’ shopping lists.
the DART | Feature | designed by Stella Baska
ENDO NINT CH SWIT
“I am really big on always playing with blocks or art projects,” Henson said. “I like toys that encourage their imaginations.” Another reason for conventional toys’ prominence during the holidays is that technology for kids is a fairly recent phenomenon. “When I was a kid there was no tech,” Henson said. “I think the Light Bright was the most advanced. When I got to middle school, a Cabbage Patch doll came out that you could feed, but that was pretty much it.” Today’s parents may not know dangerous aspects of technology because it was not a part of their lives, but Henson believes that it is important to teach parents how to safely and positively introduce technology to their child’s lives. “It can be hard,” Henson said. “Sometimes the best solution is to say ‘Let’s go play outside!’ where there are no toys or tech.” b
Jack plays with a building toy. photo courtesy of Sarah Henson.
Christmas LIst!! Nintendo Switch Barbie doll
slime Baby Yoda plushie
Remote Control tank
Hover board
american girl Doll
Lego sets Hot wheels calico critters sets Jack, Henson’s son, plays with tecnology. photo courtesy of Sarah Henson.
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the DART | Feature | Deccember 12, 2023
History of the Plaza Lights As the Christmas season continues in KC, the Plaza Lights remain a historical symbol of the season and an iconic part of KC’s history
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Story by Olivia Cooper | Lifestyle and Web Editor
he Plaza Christmas Lights, an iconic Kansas City tradition, have been lit for their 94th official year. Beginning in Nov. 1929, the Country Club Plaza hosted its first official lighting ceremony featuring the designs of lights known today. This was not the first time lights had been strung on the buildings, though. That tradition actually began in December 1925 with a simple string of twinkling lights. The Country Club Plaza completed construction in 1922, becoming the first outdoor shopping center of its caliber in the country. J.C. Nichols, the owner, faced much doubt and criticism for his idea of an eclectic building design, Spanish Revival; this project would soon become known as Nichols’s Folly. The critics were proven wrong as The Plaza became a major success. In 1925, two years after The Plaza was opened, Charles Pitrat, a J.C. Nichols Company maintenance supervisor, hung a string of 16 twinkle lights on The Plaza’s first structure, the Mill Creek building. This tradition of stringing lights continued to grow and in 1928, Pitrat marked the opening of The Plaza Theater by stringing lights across 47th street and the adjacent business storefronts. On Thanksgiving 1929, in the midst of the Great Depression, the first formal lighting ceremony was held. Many saw the lights as a beacon of hope during such tough times. The iconic building pattern, which is still used today, was also established on five Plaza buildings. The ceremony remained as a shining symbol of Christmas for many years until 1942 when the United States officially entered into World War II. During those three remaining years of the war The Plaza remained dark as a way to honor those fighting abroad. The only other time The Plaza lights did not shine was in 1973 when President Nixon called on Americans to not light Christmas lights during the energy crisis. Over the years, the lighting ceremony has grown immensely; now it is a full-scale live production with performances and even celebrity guests who flip the official switch to turn on the lights. Some of these performances include “Stage Right Performing Arts Center” which senior Anne Rinella performs alongside at the lighting. “I love going to The Plaza lighting because I get to sing and perform with all of my friends and we feel very cool and official, we get backstage passes,” Rinella said. The ceremony has also played host to many local celebrities, who are given the honor of flipping the switch. Some notable guests over the years include: Paul Rudd (1998), STA alumna, Kate Spade (2003), Jason Sudeikis (2009), Eric Stonestreet (2011) and Rob Riggle (2013). Each of these celebrities have remained involved in the Kansas City community, so it is not surprising that they would be chosen for this important Kansas City event. This year’s honored guest was “Red Kingdom” rapper, Tech9 and some of the performances included Soundproof, Quixotic (both local performance centers) and “The Voice” contestant, Kate Cosentino. Rinella also feels that having local performers
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Many people gather for the Plaza Lighting ceremony on Thanksgiving. Photo courtesy of The Kansas City Star.
and artists is a great way to support Kansas Citians and helps promote them to a larger audience. “It’s a really good way to support the arts in Kansas City, and get artists out on live television, get them on a big stage and share their work with a give them a performance opportunity that they otherwise may not have had without The Plaza lighting,” Rinella said. When COVID-19 hit in 2020, some changes needed to be made in order to follow CDC guidelines. There were still fireworks, but the Kansas City police asked residents to not attend the ceremony in person and to instead watch the celebration from home. The lights have also brought together many different people, and Rinella believes that is why the lights are such an important tradition. “Everyone loves Christmas and it’s just a fun way to kick it off, and it really does bring together all of the artists of Kansas City from all different backgrounds,” Rinella said. “So it’s just a fun way to kick off the holiday season and everybody gets excited about it.” For almost a decade The Plaza lights have remained a symbol of hope during the Christmas season, even during times of hardship. What started out as a simple strand of twinkle lights has grown into an important Kansas City tradition and it is all thanks to a maintenance worker who simply wanted to add some light to The Plaza. The lights were turned on Thanksgiving and will remain on through mid-January 2024.B This story contains information from KMBC, KC Star and Kansas CIty Magazine.
the DART | Humans of STA | designed by Rebecca McGannon
Holiday Peformers
Three STA students share about their holiday performances leading up to Christmas
Junior S
Story by Annie Mcshane | Editor-in-Chief
w en s aO ol
I’m in ¨A Christmas Carol” at KC Rep. It’s basically telling the classic Charles Dickens story. It’s a really timeless performance on how Christmas is a meaningful time to give back, so it’s really special to be a part of. This year I’m playing Turkey Boy and Teen Scrooge. Basically, I get to be in the past sequence when the ghost of Christmas past is doing stuff. I get to be Teen Scrooge, who is at boarding school, and then Turkey Boy, who at the end goes and buys the turkey for Scrooge to give to the Cratchits. We have been rehearsing since the last week of October and I have rehearsals from 4:30 to 8:00 most nights except for Mondays. We’re double cast, so I do 25 shows. I do closing night which is exciting because I get to close it out Christmas Eve. It’s a privilege to be able to do shows and to be able to act. I think it’s really special to be able to do something where you’re with a great group of people and you really build yourself a great family and everything during the show process and meet new people.
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Senior B
Junior N
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“The Nutcracker” is a yearly tradition for almost all ballet schools and companies. In the story, Clara’s uncle gives her a nutcracker at her family’s big annual Christmas party and she falls asleep with it. She has a dream that she shrunk down to its size and watches as her nutcracker comes alive and fights rats with the help of soldiers. Once he kills the Rat King, he transforms into a prince and he and Clara go to the land of sweets. There, different groups dance for them, like the Russians, Teas and Marzipan. Each KC Ballet (KCB) student has 10 shows. There are two hours of rehearsal every Friday and Sunday during October and November, then long tech and dress rehearsals at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts the week leading up to opening night. Something fun we get to do during these rehearsals is when the other cast is going, we get to sit in the front sections and watch. Unfortunately, I have only been in “The Nutcracker” once because my first year at KCB was COVID, last year I was too injured and this year, I haven’t been dancing due to my surgery last summer. My favorite part about performing is looking into the audience and seeing all the people watching me do what I love. The feeling of dancing on the Kauffman stage is especially rewarding.
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We prepare a dance and sing a Christmas song and perform it on Thanksgiving at The Plaza Lighting Ceremony. We usually get there that morning and do sound checks and TV checks and then we break for food. When we come back, we get ready and go on. After we finish, we go out into the crowd together and get to watch the actual lighting. It is the best! I performed sophomore and junior year. This year we just used our regular Thursday Vocalocity rehearsals with longer rehearsals the week before the performance. On Thanksgiving, sound check was 11:40 to 4:00 and then our call time was 5:00. I sang “This Christmas” in the pre-show and danced to “You Make It Feel Like Christmas” in the televised portion. My favorite part of performing is the people I do it with. I just love to sing and dance with my friends and my partner for the dance is one of my best friends! It is just always fun to work so hard with such awesome people and then get to share it. B
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the DART | Sports | December 12, 2023
The road t STA’s Mario Kart ESports team has earned many victories this season and is headed on the road to league victory.
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Story by Annie McShane | Editor-in-Chief
bout three times a week, a group of STA students gathers to practice and compete in race car driving. They race against teams from all over the continent and are on their way to making it to the playoffs this year, all without breaking a sweat. However, instead of hopping out of a car at the end of the race, they just unplug their Nintendo Switches. ESports is a fairly new activity at STA, and the highly awarded Mario Kart team was established only one year ago. Although this sport is atypical, senior Adelina Lopez believes that it is just what STA needed. “It’s meant to give people that would normally not be participating in a sport the benefits of being in a sport,” Lopez said. “You are able to get that teamwork aspect and the benefits of meeting other people outside of your own school, but through the internet and through not sweating as much.” The ESports teams are coached by Sage Garretson and Lillia Nelson. Garretson shared his definition of the game. “ESports is basically taking a video game that we already play and enjoy and adding a competitive element to it,”
Garretson said. The Mario Kart team is made up of JV and varsity levels that have four players on each team. Even though they are participating in an online activity, the team still has vital pregame warm ups. “For competition days, we have everyone run through a series of warm-ups with their hands, shoulders, neck and back so that way we don’t create a systemic problem of hunchbacks and all together bad form,” Garretson said. “Once they have warmed up physically then they practice and play some games with each other.” Although the members of the teams race against each other on competition days, Lopez explains that they are always looking out for each other and working as a team. “We’re all very competitive but it more focuses on being one big unit rather than everyone just being separate,” Lopez said. “We’re all racing against each other, but no matter what, we’re always communicating and making sure everybody knows what is happening.” This year, the varsity team prequalified for the league
The Fun of F1 Formula One, a motorsport, draws fans from across the globe because of its competition and community. “
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ights out and away we go!” Welcome to the world of Formula 1! F1 is a motorsport, popular among people around the world, but most favored in European countries. First held in 1950, the sport is based on a “Formula” that each team must follow in order to compete. This formula encompasses rules in place for the components of the cars in which the racers drive. Mechanical, technological, safety and sportsmanship are all in mind and are enforced to create a more enjoyable race for the drivers and spectators. Engineers work countless hours perfecting the workings of the car between races and seasons. And the catch is, the Formula has big changes every few years. On the course, a viewer will
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Story by Sarah Schwaller | Opinions Editor
see 20 drivers from all around the world, each driver is a part of one of the 10 teams (constructors). Each season, both the drivers and constructors compete for the Drivers’ and Constructors’ Championship; points are distributed when drivers win or place above 11th on the grid. All racers have worked their way up the levels of racing, starting out their professional career at Formula 4. Within the teams there are rivals, as there is typically a “favored” driver. There are 23 races, each called a Grand Prix, each year. Each weekend event lasts three days and races are held in cities across the globe; this year, 1 in Australia, seven in Asia, 5 in
North America, 8 in Europe and 1 in South America. The globality of the sport draws in fans from all walks of life from all corners of the globe. Additionally, this diversity of locations presents an interesting challenge, as each track is completely different. Some, like Azerbaijan, are in old cities, but in some locations, it is just on a normal track. That doesn’t mean that there aren’t regulations for track standards; every track has to be between 3.5 and 7 km (with the exception of the Monaco Grand Prix), can be as many as 27 corners/turns, and the very first corner must see a change of direction of at least 45 degrees, with a radius under 300 meters. This provides intense competition from the very beginning of the race, something that fans love to see, as evident
the DART | designed by Annie McShane
to success playoffs, which means that they are ranked Garretson said. Garretson described the friendships that in the top 10 out of the 64 teams in the With such a unique sport, there are have formed between STA’s players and Midwest division that ranges from Canada potential issues that do not pertain to typical their opponents due to the technological all the way to Texas. Lopez accredits the nature of the game. success of the team to every member. “To compete against [someone] you They believe that every member of the have to add them as a friend so there team is an important component of what have been times where our players have is going to lead them to the playoffs this made friendships with other people year. across the central time zone from just “Everybody is so talented,” Lopez playing games,” Garretson said. said. “It’s weird to say that–everybody Lopez believes that any student who is so talented at playing video games– is looking for a fun activity should join but everybody knows everything and ESports, and shared that students do everybody pulls their own weight. There not need any experience to play because isn’t one straggler that gives only 50%; current team members are happy to help. everybody gives 110% all the time.” “We’re all more than happy to give Senior Adelina Lopez races during a varsity Garretson believes that along with pointers and coach as well,” Lopez said. Mario Kart match. photo courtesy of Garretson. giving immense amounts of effort, the “Our whole entire group has actually team members have formed a close-knit athletics. Lopez shared that the possibility made a manual full of a dictionary of all bond with each other. of technology not working is always a big sorts of different terms for people that come “I really take pride in making sure that stressor on competition days. after we’re all gone. Everybody is more than we’re very inclusive and we make sure “Everything is technically based, so if one happy to bring in people that have never everyone feels like they belong, not just thing goes out, everything goes out,” Lopez played.” B playing video games but here at the school,” said.
by attendees desire to sit close to that turn. Senior Ella Swanson has more recently been involved in the world of F1. “I saw an edit on TikTok of driver Charles Leclerc,” Swanson said. “I soon watched the Netflix show ‘Drive to Survive,’ and then made my whole family watch it, too.” This familial involvement has been something that has further propelled her following of the sport. For race day, Swanson has a bit of a ritual. “My mom and I always watch it together,” Swanson said. “We kick everyone out of the living room because they talk too much, and then she and I watch it together.” The popularity of Formula One is rising in the United States, but it is a traditionally European sport, meaning that there have been some limitations. With the introduction of the Netflix show “Drive to Survive,” accessibility to the motorsport in the US has become much more attainable. “It is one of those things where like now, I feel like a lot of people are starting to get into it and it’s starting to become so popular,” Swanson said. “But I think there’s a good reason it’s becoming so popular other than the drivers being good-looking and stuff. It’s just entertaining to watch.” Junior Eva Bryant has found many things to be excited about
in the world of Formula One racing as well. In addition to the drivers, there are often celebrities, musicians and the wives/ girlfriends of racers attending. Social media has driven this aspect, and Bryant has found that it is ultimately what drew her to F1. “I first heard about [Formula 1] during COVID-19 when Lando Norris was streaming with other F1 drivers on Twitch and I have been interested ever since,” Bryant said. Another one of her favorite things is watching racers get better or seeing the more underrated drivers do well in their races; the constant competition keeps audiences wanting to see more. “I’m not super traditional with the races, especially since most are overseas so they can be at really weird times in the US, but I do like to watch the races if I get a chance,” Bryant said. People from across the world are interested in the world of Formula One due to its exciting elements, but also the ease of involvement, as it can be seen all across the globe. The 2023 season has concluded, with Red Bull racer Max Verstappen being the winner of the Drivers’ Championship, and Red Bull Racing being the winner of the Constructors’ Championship. The 2024 Formula One season will begin on Feb. 29th, 2024 in Bahrain. B
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the DART | Columns | December 12, 2023
Silver and Gold In a world filled with gold jewelry, silver will always have my heart. Story by Cassie Hallier | Staff Writer
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t was Christmas, 2021. Wrapping paper littered the living room, all the presents had been opened and it was stocking time. As the youngest, I patiently waited my turn. I was always last. This Christmas had been amazing, and I wasn’t expecting much out of my stocking. Maybe I’d get some candy or a new lip gloss? When my turn came, I eagerly pulled item after item out; it was exactly what I expected! Some milk chocolate– my favorite–and a pack of Lip Smackers! Then, I got to the bottom. A wrapped box. I paused for a second, wondering why something in my stocking was wrapped, and then I eagerly tore off the paper. An iconic blue box. My eyes began to fill with tears: this was more than I ever could have expected. Tiffany & Co. was my favorite brand long before I ever owned a piece. I had grown up with a sister who was obsessed with Audrey Hepburn, so naturally we spent hours and hours cuddled up on the couch watching “Breakfast at Tiffany’s.” I had also watched my sister wear a Tiffany necklace my whole life, so I wanted to be just like her. The silver beaded bracelet quickly became a staple in my wardrobe. I ditched all my well-worn and well-loved gold jewelry for the shiny new designer piece. I filled my jewelry dish with silver rings and earrings. I quickly became a “silver girl,” standing out in a group of friends who all wore gold all the time. I wouldn’t have it any other way. Winter turned to spring, and 8th-grade graduation rolled around. My parents told me I could go to Tiffany & Co. and pick out any piece I wanted. I had my heart set on a gorgeous necklace before I even walked through the door. Two charms dangled from a silver chain, a heart reading, “Please return to Tiffany & Co.” and a mini pink heart. It was perfect. The jewelry felt like pieces of my childhood that I could always carry with me. Sure, I wasn’t an adult just yet, but I was leaving behind grade school and all my wonderful friends. The jewelry also helped give me confidence as I entered a sea of new, older faces.
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In December of my freshman year, I acquired two silver pieces I will always hold near and dear to my heart. The first was a Christmas gift. A pair of shiny silver heart earrings, nestled in a blue box and tied with a bow. The second, a silver bracelet with a pink stone,was a symbol of one of my best friends, my only friend who was a silver girl, just like me. We got customized matching bracelets at Kendra Scott, and I wear mine every day. The bracelet provides comfort in foreign situations and a sense of familiarity when I feel lost. So, when asked if I’m a “silver girl” or a “gold girl,” the answer will always be definitive: Silver stores memories that provide comfort for which I am forever thankful. b
the DART | designed by Cassie Hallier
A Living Lens
I have always held a passion for documenting moments through videography—thanks to my little yellow camera. Story by Ellie McManamy | Social Media Editor
S
ince the Christmas I was given my little yellow camera, I’ve felt the inclination to document every waking moment of my life. I was the child reprimanded for constantly recording, the friend always capturing candid moments to revisit them at a later time. For some reason, envisioning my life as a montage keeps every moment worth relishing. I love videography. In my opinion, compiling bits and pieces through video to relay an impactful message is one of the most effective means of storytelling. If you were to ask my YouTubeobsessed sixth-grade self, my answer would be unchanged. Two summers ago, I bought a $60 camcorder on Amazon—a camera that quickly became my prized possession. Sadly, it no longer works. But for the time it lasted, I lived devoted to a cheap, easily breakable, yet cherished lens. I brought that camcorder with me everywhere. If you were to look through the videos, you’d find clips from Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Italy, Illinois, New York and of course, all over Kansas City. Every clip is soon to be a part of a larger collection of my experiences; a way to relive what I wish to never let go of.
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I will continue to be the friend always recording because I know that when I or those I love need comfort, we will have a source to go to. Every time I press record, I add more to a never-ending story —one that someday, I’ll be showing my grandchildren. I may not be able to use that $60 camcorder anymore, but I know that those clips are just a fraction of my life’s montage. b
Film may simply be a moment in time, but it is a moment in time that will last forever. - Ellie McManamy
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I know many people say that always taking photos or videos removes you from the present moment, but I disagree. I believe that in doing so, you’re providing yourself with the opportunity to experience something valuable time and time again. Every time I rewatch a clip, I notice new hidden details and grow to appreciate the moment more. Film may simply be a moment in time, but it is a moment in time that will last forever.
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the DART | A&E Highlights | December 12, 2023
The Reading Nook
STA English teacher Katie Weber shares a favorite recent read of hers: ‘Hamnet’ by Maggie O’Farrell.
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Story by Lauren Rando | Staff Writer
amnet” is a fictionalized story that takes place in the late 16th century about Shakespeare and the life of his son Hamnet. “It was interesting because I think there is so much negative stuff out there about Shakespeare and his life, but it was a positive spin on things, and I actually really liked it,” Weber said. There is not much known about Hamnet’s short life, but this story allows readers to imagine what it might have possibly been like, and gives new perspectives on the characters. “It was really sad because obviously Hamnet dies, “ Weber said. “But there were kind of elements of magical realism that made it beautiful and attempted to answer some of those unknowns about Shakespeare’s life, like why he wrote and what inspired him to be that prolific playwright.” Even though this story does not portray the true life of Hamnet, it is still a great read for those who want to know more about this time or are interested in the mystery of his life. “Obviously it’s fictionalized, so we don’t know but it was nice to read something positive, as opposed to the negative articles,” Weber said. “It was a nice little twist and really good!” B
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Photo courtesy of Target.com
Staff Picks: Christmas Cravings
STA staffers choose some of their favorite Christmas time Cravings that they can’t wait to eat this holiday season. Story by Lauren Rando | Staff Writer
Peppermint Bark
Buche de Noel
Sugar Cookies
“I love peppermint bark because it’s my dad’s favorite Christmas food too so it’s nostalgic,” sophomore Cassie Hallier said.
“My grandma makes Buche de Noel with my great-greatgrandma’s recipe because my family is French and I love it,” sophomore Jo Marshall said.
“My favorite Christmas food is sugar cookies because I always decorate them with my whole family on the night before Christmas Eve and they’re delicious!” Senior Annie McShane said.
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Stars on
the DART | Community | designed by Ellie McManamy
Film
In recent years, film photography has made a comeback among young people, who are eager to capture moments through a retrostyle lens.
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Story by Dianne Haake | Lifestyles Editor
n a digitally-dominated world where memories of waiting to get a glimpse of photos took days and dark rooms used for developing remain empty, an unlikely photography method of a bygone era has regained its popularity: film. Senior Jullian Cole has been an avid film user since freshman year, and was drawn to its contrast from digital photography for stylistic reasons. “I think probably just the aesthetic of it,” Cole said. “I liked the way that images looked, and it was just really cool.” Learning to use a film camera posed some challenges at first, with Cole having to adjust to a new method of capturing memories. “It was hard to use and I definitely will say I’m not a master even today using it,” Cole said. “I had to learn how to adjust the exposure and the brightness. I had an app on my phone I used to point at my target and then it would tell me what to set it to, which was really helpful and nice.” Cole primarily photographs anything from landscapes to her friends which comes in handy, especially with a camera accessible to her. When it comes to film versus digital, Cole believes timing is an important factor. “I think that the idea with film is that it makes it more fun when you’re an adult because you can go back and you can look at your digital photos,” Cole said. “You can see what’s going on, and it’s right there immediately. It’s so much fun because you’re anticipating getting those cool photos back, and you don’t know what they’re really going to look like, and you hope they turn out. It’s kind of up in the air, so it’s like a little mystery with it.”
Digital photography teacher Jazzmin Earl is no stranger to film, and has had fond memories since being introduced to it in her sophomore year of high school. She is seeing more and more of her students, like Cole, take interest in what she calls a “lost art.” “I feel like digital is very much like the world,” Earl said. “You have it right away. You click, and then there it is, while the film, it’s very much hands on. There’s this kind of baking. You have to do certain steps, touch things and wait.” “I feel like [students] are very interested in the simplicity of [film],” Earl said. “I think they’re curious about it now, and maybe from hearing people my age and how we used to go into dark rooms.” Getting the perfect shot on film requires time and patience, stresses Earl, especially when the digitalization of photography has made the editing process less time consuming. “You can see what you’re about to take a photo of before you take the photo,” Earl said, “Whereas [with] film you’re kind of guessing. There are tools where you can get a pretty good guess on how to set your manual settings, but digital, it’s all right there in front of you. So I would say that’s one of the differences. How you edit things in the dark room, the editing process is manual versus doing it technically like on a computer.” Cole echoes Earl’s sentiments, and credits the old-timey and vintage look for attracting younger generations to film photography. She proudly encourages others to pursue it like she did. “I think it’s definitely fun learning how to use the camera to take photos, because it really makes you live in the moment,” Cole said. “I think people have realized the beauty of film photography, and I think that’s really cool.” B
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the DART | Last Look | December 12, 2023
Deck
THE
Build Your Own Gingerbread House
Alpine ski lodge or classic cabin? Peppermint puffs or candy canes? Freshmen: Classic Cabin; Sophs: Classic Cabin; Freshmen: Candy Canes; Sophs: Candy Canes; Juniors: Candy Juniors: Classic Cabin; Seniors: Classic Cabin Canes; Seniors: Candy Canes Crazy or keep it simple? Gingerbread men or ghost town? Freshmen: Crazy; Sophs: Keep It Simple; Juniors: Crazy; Freshmen: Gingerbread Men; Sophs: Gingerbread Men; Seniors: Keep It Simple Juniors: Gingerbread Men; Seniors: Ghost Town White or colored icing? Do you eat your gingerbread house? Freshmen: White Icing; Sophs: White Icing; Freshmen: Never!; Sophs: Never!; Juniors: Never!; Seniors: Never! Juniors: White Icing; Seniors: White Icing To wreath or not to wreath? *Responses Taken From a Survey of 149 STA Students Freshmen: Wreath; Sophs: Wreath; Juniors: Wreath; Seniors: Wreath
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the DART | designed by Chloe Denk
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2022-23
the DART | December 12, 2023
DART STAFF Advisor
Opinion Editors
Dianne Hirner
Katelyn Buckley Sarah Schwaller
Editors-In-Chief
Web/Lifestyle Editors Dianne Haake Olivia Cooper
Social Media Editor
Annie McShane Tierney Flavin
Photography Editor Jasmine Cervantes
Ellie McManamy
Features Editors
Associate Photo Editor
Anna Massman
Staff Writers
Maya Tule
Design Editors Anna Stout Chloe Denk
Cassie Hallier Jo Marshall Sports/News Editor Lauren Rando Lina Kilgore Molly Sonnenberg Rebecca McGannon Associate Sports Editor Stella Baska Isa Glover Wynnie Sprague
COVER DESIGN BY
Tierney Flavin | Editor-in-Chief
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