Volume 71 Journalism Issue

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senior graduation!

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F I G T

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junior ------> kairos

ou’re sitting in your period 9 math class, staring at the clock on the wall.

Ten. Nine. Eight.

You have your car keys in your hand and are itching to get home.

Seven. Six. Five.

You’re planning what dress you’ll wear and who all you need to pick up.

Four. Three. Two. You’ve waited for this moment since Monday morning.

One. Weekend.

2 | weekends | dartnewsonline.com | the dart | May 4, 2012

Don’t sleep the night away Freshman Lizzy Keller and her father debate whether sleepovers encourage teen rebellion

by SIOBHAN MILLER journalism student She’s in high school now. All grown up. So why does she not have the same privileges that she had as a child? More maturity, more freedom, right? Yet when freshman Lizzy Keller, along with other girls in her class, entered high school, her parents took away the privilege of spending the night at a friend’s house on the weekend. Some parents worry their children are more likely to use drugs or alcohol when spending the night at a friend’s house, so they create a curfew to prevent inappropriate behavior. It’s late and the idea that their kid isn’t upstairs tucked into bed frightens some parents. Unsupervised and alone, who knows what could be going wrong? Keller’s dad, Mr. Pat Keller argues that the reason he enforces this rule is to protect his children from unsafe situations.

“I definitely don’t think a parent should make decisions for their kid,” Pat said. “A parent who [makes decisions for their kid] is doing more harm than good. But we as parents need to make sure that we don’t put our kids in situations that require them to make decisions from a whole host of bad options.”

But that’s them. Not her. She’s a good kid. She knows what she should and shouldn’t do. Pat admits that not all teenagers are making bad decisions constantly, yet the negative pressures surrounding them can affect their behavior. Everyone else is doing it.

The high will wear off by morning. It’s not a big deal.

“It’s hard for teenagers to make good decisions because there are lots of pressures on [teenagers] such as sex, drugs and alcohol particularly in high school,” Pat said.

You wouldn’t even know! Sleepovers aren’t like that at all! Lizzy disagrees with her father’s point of view on what actually occurs during sleepovers.

While some parents tend to believe that dangers are constantly present at sleepovers, Lizzy argues her personal experiences.

“I think parents enforce this rule because [parents] think that [teenagers] will do something stupid or something bad when we really just talk,” Lizzy said.

During a sleepover freshman Taran Smith, along with other freshmen, attended on April 14, the girls grabbed snacks and magazines as they collapsed onto the bed. They swapped pictures, videos, texts and stories, giggling and shrieking over the latest high school drama. There wasn’t any drinking. No one felt pressured. It was just fun! So what makes parents believe teens are doing something inappropriate?

Pat argues that sleepovers tend to be dangerous because they are frequently poorly monitored by parents. Without constant supervision over their children, parents’ questions are left unanswered.

Who’s there? What are they doing? Is someone bringing something in to the house that is illegal or inappropriate?

“Sleepovers feel like the slippery slope once things start to go bad,” Pat said. “If they do, there is nothing to grab on to to save the fall.”

Smith, whose parents allow her to participate in sleepovers, argues that parents should bring their child’s past behaviors into context when deciding whether or not to let them sleep over.

“If the child has gotten into trouble in the past for doing things they are not supposed to be doing, then I think the [no sleepovers in high school rule] is good,” Smith said. “But for kids who never get in trouble always do the right thing, they should be able to have sleepovers. I think my parents let me have sleepovers because of the girls I hang out with. My friend group is a bunch of well-behaved, well-mannered and all-around good girls.”

Mrs. Therese Smith, Taran’s mother, supports sleepovers within her daughter’s friend group based

girls' nightH Freshman Elaine Kerr, from bottom left, Caroline Crockett, Caroline Strader, Taran Smith and Kylie Ceriotti sit in a circle and talk at a sleepover at freshman Siobhan Miller’s house April 14. The girls attended the sleepover after the Notre Dame de Sion High School “Morp” mixer. photo by SIOBHAN MILLER on the trust and mutual opinions shared within the group. They support her and care for her. I know these girls are making good decisions and their encouraging her to do the same. So why shouldn’t they be able to have sleepovers?

“Right now I feel like my child and her friends are showing support and responsibility for one another, and I feel they don’t want to jeopardize the good things they have going for them,” Therese said.

Pat is not saying that banning sleepovers is a

matter of trust. It’s the parents’ personal decision on whether or not they are comfortable with their child left unsupervised. Although Pat does not permit sleepovers in high school, he still allows his children to go out. While wanting his children to be social as well as safe, Pat sets a curfew for them.

“I remember my dad saying, ‘Nothing good happens after midnight; it’s either illegal or [immoral],’ and from my own life experiences, I have come to understand that he was probably right,” Pat said. H

Friends get ready for a night of ‘Fun.’ Freshmen get dolled up for a night of fashionable ‘fun’ with makeup, clothes and hairdos at a friend’s house

agle’s hair. Freshman Gracie Fleming was applying make-up in front of a small mirror. Within the first 10 minutes of this lengthy process of getting ready to go to the Fun. concert April 7, Ptacek had tried on three different outfits, going from jean shorts, to high waisted shorts, then to white shorts.

by LIBBY HYDE In the hour before the friends left for the Fun. journalism student concert, a lot had been accomplished -- a complete transformation from wild hair and bare faces, to perfect hair and lips now thickly coated with lip “Sinead, you’re supposed to tuck that IN!” gloss.

“Will you PLEASE do my hair!?”

“How long everything takes really depends on “Where are my shoes?”

“It looks weird tucked in.” if I have to shower, or if I blow-dry and curl my hair and shave my legs.”

“I don’t want to wear Fleming said. this. I’ll get too hot!”

Fleming was “Oh, Gina, that looks so wearing a pair of cute!”

It’s a lengthy process faded jean shorts “How long everything takes really and a blue striped for STA girls to get ready depends on if I have to shower, or if I crop top on the day to go out on the weekends. blow-dry and curl my hair and shave my From picking out what of the Fun. concert. legs.

She expressed that you’re going to wear, to Grace Fleming the clothes she hair and makeup, let’s freshman wears are mostly admit it. You’re going to be practical and pieces spending a while standing in front of the mirror. that fit her “style.”

Fleming’s rouClothes laying all over tine on the weekends often involves getting ready the room of freshman Basil Burnette’s room-- fallwith her friends at one of their houses. Fleming’s ing off of hangers in the closet, thrown across the friends often ask each other to do their make-up floor in a hurry to pick out something to wear, and and hair. Ptacek sometimes asks Fleming to do overflowing drawers. It didn’t take much to realize her hair and make-up, and they often borrow each this place was in a frenzy. others’ clothes and make up. The group often asks Freshman Gina Ptacek was rummaging through Burnette’s clothes, covering most of the floor, each other for help on hair, make-up and style tips.

What’s so different about getting ready with looking for something to wear; freshman Gretchen your friends? Fleming says she is sometimes a part Dudley was hurriedly eating a bowl of macaroni of her friends’ routines for getting ready to go out while Burnette was doing freshman Sinead McGon-

“

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getting readyH Freshman Gracie Fleming, center, applies makeup while she and her friends prepare for the Fun. concert. Fleming said her routine for getting ready to go out usually includes showering, blow-drying her hair, curling it, shaving her legs, doing her makeup and getting dressed. photo by LIBBY HYDE on the weekends.

“When I get ready with [other people], I usually do my friends’ make-up, because I’m good at makeup.” Fleming said. “We all help each other pick out our outfits, and sometimes help each other with our hair.”

But why do STA girls spend so much time get-

ting ready? Why do they dress the way they do?

“I think girls at STA invest so much time in getting ready to go out, because at school [students] don’t try at all. We only get one or two chances a week to really look nice, and we use those chances.”

Fleming said. “We don’t get to see guys often, either.” H

May 4, 2012 | the dart | dartnewsonline.com | weekends | 3

The Nightly Nomads Teenagers wander around Waldo as a way to have fun with their friends and to get out of their houses

by SINEAD MCGONAGLE journalism student They take you almost everywhere. Ariel from “The Little Mermaid” sold her voice for a pair of her own. They take you through mud puddles, up hills and on long walks on the beach. So what are these beautiful, wonderful, magical things? They’re feet!

STA freshmen Olivia Bellatin and Megan Ehrnman find them perfect for walking around Waldo.

Being a freshman without a driver’s license can result in a limited amount of freedom, but who wants to be stuck at home with their parents? So these teens walk. Up hills, down stairs, across streets and all along side fellow freshmen Sam Scovell, Nathan Hill, Joey Cantrell, Fallon Mitchell and Sean O’Toole.

Ready to go wherever their feet decide to take them.

“We only walk around to have something to do,” said Ehrnman. “It’s a great way to just talk without your parents breathing down your neck.”

“You don’t have to be a certain place,” comments Bellatin.

Megan, Olivia and Sam lead the group while Nathan and Fallon fall behind. Stuck in their own little world of iPhones and fatbooth (an iPhone app walking in WaldoH STA freshmen Meghan Ehrnman, from left, Olivia Bellatin, and Rockhurst freshman Sam that allows you to see yourself heavier), giggling and Scovell lead their friends towards Waldo. The group set out around 8 p.m and walked until 10 p.m. photo by flirting the whole time.

SINEAD MCGONAGLE “Where are we going again?”

“I don’t know. We should go to QuikTrip!” decorations for and sprinted. It was war. Sean turned into a human The journey to Quikoverlooked sweets. bulldozer constantly trying to plow Sam off of the Trip brought about new Though scarce, swing while Sam clung tightly, his 5’3 frame wound It was a fun night. We didn’t do anything discoveries. Such as, you can a certain level of around the swing protectively. Sam teasingly stuck mix Fanta with a slushy for maturity was preshis tongue out, provoking Sean even more. Surprisillegal, except maybe jaywalking, but it the ultimate sugar high, and ent, until a swing ingly, no one was hurt in this World War III worthy was still fun. lollipops are curiously underwas spotted and battle. priced these days. everyone’s inner “I think Sam won because he somehow stayed on Megan Ehrnman “You’re getting SIX toddler revealed the swing even though he’s so small,” said Ehrnman. freshman tootsie-pops?!” itself .

Empty 16 oz QuikTrip cups in hand, the tired “Yeah, they’re only fifteen There it was, teenagers sit down in the middle of the street to talk cents.” a beautiful strip and rest their sore legs. Conversation topics range “No way! Where?” of wood attached to two flimsy pieces of white rope, from a heated gay marriage debate to Disney movies, Weighed down with arms full of candy, the gighanging off of a big Oak tree. It was gently swaying constantly being interrupted to move for passing gly teens made their way back toward the Waldo in the breeze to the tune of “catch me if you can!” cars. neighborhoods. As if his candy craving wasn’t already Rockhurst freshman Sam Scovell and Shawnee Mis“It’s not smart [to sit in the middle of the street] satisfied, Sam checked the neighborhood’s Easter sion East freshman Sean O’Toole made eye contact, but i think we do it to feel rebellious,” said Scovell.

“

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just keep swinging H Shawnee Mission East freshman Sean O’Toole, from front, battles with Rockhurst freshman Sam Scovell over possession of a swing.

“I’m pretty sure I won,” comments O’Toole. photo by SINEAD MCGONAGLE Around 11:30 p.m. cell phones are being pulled out of pockets and carpools are being arranged. Soon, Mom’s in mini-vans are arriving to pick up their somewhat independent teenagers before curfew.

“I can’t wait to drive because once we can drive we won’t need to walk anymore,” said Bellatin. “Then we can drive around instead!”

“It was a fun night,” said Ehrnman. “We didn’t do anything illegal, except maybe jaywalking, but it was still fun.”

After arriving home Bellatin and Ehrnman reflect on the day’s activities. What they thought was going to be a boring waste of time turned into an entertaining night of bonding.

“Teenagers have more imagination than we give them credit for,” said Bellatin. “Who else could make an adventure out of walking?” H

Cruise control until we lose control

by KATIE TAMPKE journalism student

by Katie Tampke “So you drive around a lot, where do you usually end up?” I ask.

“Well, we usually end up at union,” Emma Kelley answers.

“Union?”

“Union Station.”

“What happened last Friday night?”

Kelley goes on to tell the story: We emerge from sophomore Frannie Wilkinson’s basement at 8 pm.

“Guys, let’s just like go,” Kelly Gardella says as she hops into her 1998 Honda Accord.

“Go where, Kelly?” I ask.

“Like anywhere it doesn’t matter, just like follow me,” says Gardella.

“No Kelly, I am not doing this again” I told her.

Too late. Gardella attempts to run over others

as they pile into Kelley’s car.

“Emma, just trust me,” Gardella says.

Haven’t heard that from you before Kelly...

Rockhurst sophomore Luke Kenney sits in the passenger’s seat and plugs in my iPhone.

He grabs my auxiliary cord and drops it into my water cup.

No, Luke!

It’s empty.

“Haha, that would have sucked!” Kenney says.

He connects it to my iPhone and blasts “Sail”

by Awolnation vibrating the entire car until you can feel the bass rattling your bones.

Gardella turns onto Wornall Road.

I know where she is going.

You can see the beacon from a mile away.

The red glow of “QT” draws everyone in.

The safe haven of soft drinks and candy.

The usual murmur of “Hey, can I borrow $2” and “I have money if anybody needs it” travels around the vehicle.

They storm the Quik Trip and ask the cashier his horror stories of working at the gas station.

“Kelly, seriously where are we going?” I ask.

“Fine! Let’s just go to Union!” Gardella says.

“No!” nearly every teenager present groans.

“WHERE ELSE ARE WE GOING TO GO?”

Gardella yells. and up we go. Up, up and away through employee only signs, past vandalism, up a ladder and Silence. through a trap door.

“That’s what I thought. Let’s go,” Gardella says.

Fifteen minutes in the car until we reach I can feel the night air on my face, we swing our feet on to the rain gutter and then to the ceUnion Station. Fifteen minutes of a caffeine high.

Fifteen minutes of bass. Fifteen minutes of pure ment pyramid. The boys race to the top as adrenaline pumps in my blood, unadulterated laughter and my hands get sweaty. with friends. We exit the car feeling excited and I reach it. The view that I reach it. The view that matches no devious. matches no other. On top I look at Rockhurst of the world, or just Union other. On top of the world, or just Union Station. Somebody checks sophomore Joe Cochran.

Station.

No, you are not doing Katie Tampke the time 10 minutes later. that!

“Shoot, Emma!” STA sophomore “Joe! You take that sophomore Natalie Rall Quik Trip cup out of my says. “I have to be at the Wilkinson’s in 10 minutes.” glove compartment and Driving, we spent the whole night driving for put it in the trash!”

Everybody laughs as he slams the door, leava 10 minute view, only to drive again. We pile in the car and race home. Luke, in the next car, ing the cup and runs into the towering building. throws trash at us. Natalie Rall gives the thumbs “Good luck getting home Joe!” Everybody knows where to go. up sign to a man in a hoodie at the bus stop, who They reach the elevator and press the button. waved back, making the whole car laugh.

3.

As Emma finishes her story I wonder: Do they drive in her blue Mazda to see the view at the top The room the elevator takes us to a small of Union or do they go to Union to see the view room. Five doors. Despite our experience we forget each time. Finally, Ed Wilkinson finds it, from her blue Mazda? H

“

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Friday nights, Emma Kelley drives her friends around until they find themselves at Union Station

4 | weekends | dartnewsonline.com | the dart | May 4, 2012

It’s more than just a game Two students from the University of Kansas sacrifice weekend social life to coach juniors club volleyball

by CASSIE FLORIDO journalism student

bump set spikeH Sarah Lickteig passes the ball during a break at the HOA Gold Series at New Century Fieldhouse on April 7. photo by CASSIE FLORIDO

There are hundreds of teenage girls. Whistles, cheering and screaming is heard everywhere. For most of the girls this is just another weekend. Another weekend with a volleyball tournament. Another weekend they can’t attend the biggest party.

Another weekend they have to cram homework in on Sunday night. They most likely won’t leave until late in the day. But giving up these things are not new to them. It takes dedication to play club volleyball. But the players aren’t the only ones making these sacrifices. It also takes dedication to coach club volleyball.

The two coaches of the Slam/pva team, Sarah Lickteig and Monica Powers, sacrifice many things in order to coach. The two have been friends since high school, and their bond has created a better bond within the team. The University of Kansas

students have devoted much of their time to the team. While Lickteig sits alone in the corner studying for an upcoming final, it shows how coaching and attending college are two things that are difficult to balance. Not to mention throwing a social life in the mix. However, Lickteig and Powers are able to find a balance.

“I see [coaching] as part of my social life,” Lickteig said as she takes into consideration being with the girls and coaching alongside one of her best friends.

As Lickteig and Powers laugh about knowing they wanted to coach together since birth, it shows why the team has such a close bond.

The Slam huddles are unique. During team huddles, Powers sometimes does the “Call Me Maybe” dance and Lickteig occasionally pops girls backs as they lay on the floor. And the team always uses their traditional cheer to break the huddle.

As chants of “Boom Swag” ring out from the huddle, Lickteig and Powers bounce the ball on the ground repeatedly as the team cheers around them. On the final “Boom Swag,” Lickteig and Powers throw the ball on the ground as hard as they can as the team breaks the huddle with a final “slam.” During this routine pre-game huddle, the

team’s chemistry is on its best display.

“It’s easy for us to relate to the players because it wasn’t long ago that we were in their position,” Powers said about how being close to the players age makes the team bond better.

“I think because [the coaches] are younger they understand us a little better than an older coach would,” Rachael Gardner said.

Being comfortable with coaches is something that is important to create team chemistry. As the team bonds with their coaches, it shows that Slam/pva has a special chemistry.

“You can be yourself which is the best part about it, because we are all weird in our own ways,” Lickteig.

Weird. Goofy. Crazy. Dorks. This is how the Slam/pva coaches and team see themselves. It’s easy to see that while on the court, things are serious but they still know how to have fun.

Off the court, the seriousness is quickly gone.

Whether it’s the coaches playing Catch Phrase with the players, or the coaches taking a whole practice to take the girls to Sonic, the team always knows how to have fun. The environment is relaxed and crazy at the same time, all because of the coaches’ chemistry bringing this team closer together. H

Welcome to the Cauldron Fans of Kansas City’s soccer team Sporting KC attracted to the game because of spirit and athletics

by LINDSEY VALDIVIEZ journalism student “I. I believe. I believe that. I believe that we. I believe that we will win,” echoes throughout the Livestrong Sporting Park. At the heart of the park lies the trademark KC Cauldron—a seating area where the die-hard Sporting fans enliven the pace of the game and the stadium itself for the cost of general admission.

The Sporting KC soccer team, otherwise known as “the famous SKC”, outfitted in their sky blue uniforms, stride onto their home field in preparation for their game against Real Salt Lake.

Just five minutes earlier STA junior Courtney Coppinger ventured into the clamorous KC Cauldron. With the help of seniors Lane Schulte, Hannah Reinhart and Megan Hodes, Coppinger was able to get into the Cauldron without even purchasing a general admission ticket. Coppinger and her family regularly spectate from their suite, but this time she decided to be a more active part in rooting for Sporting. She found herself in the chaotic Cauldron.

“The suite is more comfortable and easier to watch, but if you’re in the mood for cheering and getting into the game then the Cauldron is for you,” Coppinger said.

“Here we go, here we go, here we gooooo!”

Sporting made the first touch on the ball. The Cauldron went berserk. With each move of the ball the fans hollered. As the game rolled on, Coppinger noticed the advantages and disadvantages of watching from the cauldron.

“When you watch from the suite, you can really see the whole game,” Coppinger said. “But in the Cauldron, you can see the players really close. I did miss being able to sit down during the game, though.”

“Shot shot shots shot shot shots shots shots shot shot shots, EVERYBODY!” In the heat of it all, it was Sporting’s turn to take a corner kick with the ball at Sporting midfielder Graham Zusi’s feet. Everyone in the Cauldron froze and anxiously waited as Zusi placed the ball in the small arc at

i believe H Junior Courtney Coppinger talks to Rockhurst High School senior Zach Herriott before the start of the Sporting KC game at the Livestrong Sporting Park April 14. Sporting KC defeated Real Salt Lake, the highest ranked team in the Western Conference. photo by LINDSEY VALDIVIEZ the corner. He raised his hand. Shot.

The ball sailed into the air, met Salt Lake defender Aurelien Collin’s sweat-beaded forehead, and whizzed into the net. Instantly, all the fans in the Cauldron leaped into the air in excitement.

Screaming. Laughing. Cheering. Relief. A legion of blue confetti attacked the players and the Cauldron. The confetti carried satisfaction and the knowledge that the goal counted.

“It was crazy,” Coppinger said. “Everyone was

jumping up and hugging each other, and we knew we were on our way to victory in the 6-0 season.”

“All I need now is for them to just blow the whistle,” Coppinger said. The ball spent the remainder of the game in Sporting’s territory. The fans restlessly stooped in the Cauldron. Waiting for the whistle. Hoping for the win. Hoping for 6-0.

In the final seconds of the game, the Cauldron was something of the likes of a mosh pit. Blue

and white flags rippled. The beat of uneasy drums fluctuated with every move of the ball.

A feeling of pride swept over the fans. The whistle blew. They won. The score was 1-0 over Real Salt Lake. Sporting KC becomes only the second team in Major League Soccer history to win six straight matches. “We love ya, we love ya, we love ya! And where we go we’ll follow, we’ll follow, we’ll follow. Cause we support SKC, SKC, SKC, And that’s the way we like it, we like it, we like it.” H

May 4, 2012 | the dart | dartnewsonline.com | weekends | 5

Just having a BALL For local team, Brookside soccer league is more about fun on bench than actually playing in the game

by SABRINA REDLINGSHAFER journalism student

snack attack H Rockhurst High School sophomore Luke Kenney feasts on Oreos during halftime at St. Teresa’s Academy April 14. Coach Stephen Dilks often provides snacks for the players to eat. photo by SABRINA REDLINGSHAFER

Car loads of teens adorned in purple jerseys arrive at St. Teresa Academy’s Kevin Gray Field Saturday evening 10 minutes prior to game time.

A clamor of cleats hit the concrete as players with QuikTrip drinks in one hand and shin guards in the other rush to join about 20 sophomores in the grass.

“Hey guys, join our team stretch!” one player says jokingly, as the group is getting situated in a horde of sprawled out soccer balls, socks, and jerseys. A Rockhurst High School boy finishes stripping out of his Vineyard Vines khakis and Polo shirt into a jersey and athletic shorts and quickly grabs the nearest pair of shin guards he spots.

Coach Stephen Dilks stands aside watching his Brookside Soccer team, also known as the P-Squad, as they eat Oreos, get into uniform, take pictures and reconnect after the school week.

All the while, their opponents practice penalty kicks and jog around the field. Within minutes, 11 people are counted out to play, the whistle is blown, the ball is kicked and the soccer match has begun.

Dilks, father of sophomore Sara-Jessica Dilks, believes the team is a great way for sophomores from a variety of schools to socialize. The schools represented on the team include STA, Rockhurst, Bishop Miege High School, Shawnee Mission East High School and Lincoln College Preparatory Academy.

During these games, not all action takes place on the field.

“We don’t always use our energy when we’re on the field playing, but more so on the sidelines being social,” Sara-Jessica said.

The P-Squad lounges on the sidelines in a midst of snacks, phones and bags while socializing and cheering on teammates. Activities like taking pictures, attempting somersaults, juggling soccer balls, playing Gameboys, texting and joking around are common on the bench alongside the field.

“Every now and again I’ll have to start telling people who are just messing about on the sidelines to go on and sub for other players...but no one ever does because they like the sidelines better,” coach Dilks said.

Players on the P-Squad believe the social aspect of Brookside soccer is more important than playing.

“The best part of Brookside Soccer is definitely being with the people on the team more than actually playing the soccer part,” Rockhurst sophomore Luke Kenney, who plays soccer competitively, said.

“Brookside Soccer is like 400 times more relaxed [than competitive soccer] because it’s with all your friends.”

When the players kick the ball for the last time, the referee blows the whistle and the match is concluded with the P-Squad’s 4-1 victory. Proud purple jersey-ed sophomores jog back to the bench while doing celebratory dances, some attitudes more cocky than others.

“I think we could go to the Olympics,” Rockhurst sophomore Jack McHugh said.

“Wait did we win?” Shawnee Mission East sophomore Greer Madole asked.

“Scoreboard,” Rockhurst sophomore Eric Rudis replied.

After shaking the other team’s hands for a “good game”, the P-Squad poses for a weekly team picture and plans where the after-party will be.

The sophomores trek across the turf they just made their own as calls of “shotgun” are made.

The players loads up their cars and head off to Smoothie King to celebrate their victory. H

True life: addicted to lacrosse STA freshman finds balance between time–consuming lacrosse schedule and teenage social life

by LEIGH CAMPBELL journalism student “Line drills, good, this calms me down. Focus, you can do this. Don’t be nervous, don’t be nervous!”

This is what STA varsity lacrosse player Anna Meagher thought before taking her final sips of water and putting her hair in her signature high bun. Before she knows it, the whistle is blown for the first draw.

In the meantime, freshman MaryKat Hoeser scours Target for the perfect birthday present.

Finally settling on a an empty gallon of gas with four dollars in it, marking the price of gas for the birthday present of a 16 year old, she heads home to get ready for the party.

Five girls are already there and have decided to watch “America’s Top Model.” They are saving their energy for when the rest of the group arrives so they can watch scary movies, sleep in a tent outside, and run around the neighborhood playing flashlight tag. However, they are missing one of their friends. According to Hoeser, ever since Meagher made the lacrosse team it is more difficult to hang out.

“It’s a lot harder to hang out on the weekend

but we still make an effort,” Hoeser said. “We’re all just so tired from the busy week so we do relaxing and non-stressful things like watching TV all day. The regular things we do have definitely altered since [Meagher] started lacrosse.”

At the fields, it’s all tied up with 15 minutes to play: STA 5, Barat Academy 5. Meagher has a chance to score. The crowd holds their breaths as she takes the shot. Too far to the left.

“I was feeling a lot of pressure because I really wanted to make the shot for the team,” Meagher admitted.

The sharp sound of the whistle marks the end of the game. STA defeats Barat Academy 6-5.

Meagher picks up the cones that mark the end lines and searches for any stray balls. She heads to her car with her mom, her bun making her easily seen in the crowd of people outside the field.

At the sleepover, the smell of freshly roasted marshmallows fills the air. Freshman Ellen Weitkamp’s phones rings. It’s Meagher—she’s coming to the party, she just has to take a shower, according to Weitkamp.

The arrival of their missing friend causes a game of hard-core hide and seek to be implemented. After hanging out at the park, they eat cake and watch a horror movie in a tent outside.

Thunder claps outside as Meagher, Hoeser, Weitkamp and another friend huddle in a corner watching “Insidious.”

By the end of the night, everyone is dead

stars on three H The STA varsity lacrosse team huddles before their game on Kevin Gray field April 13. STA defeated Barat Academy 6-5. photo by LEIGH CAMPBELL

asleep. The only thing that can be heard is the thunder and Meagher snoring, according to Weitkamp.

Many athletes like Meagher say their sports sometimes get in the way of their Friday and Saturday nights. Although Meagher admits that lacrosse does not totally get in the way of her social life because she has learned to work

around her schedule.

“We still call each other after school for homework help, hang out together during frees, we carpool everywhere and if she doesn’t have a game we hang out during the weekends,” Weitkamp said. “Just because she is busy and we don’t hang out as often doesn’t mean we don’t talk.” H

6 | weekends | dartnewsonline.com | the dart | May 4, 2012

Star crossed bonding in high school play Actors in Rockhurst High School’s “Romeo and Juliet” experience cast bonding, chaos behind the scenes

by MARLEY SCHMIDTLEIN journalism student Stage makeup litters the table down in director Annie Barney’s classroom. High school students from around the area rush to have their fourteenth century up-dos and heavy makeup finished by their pre-show meeting. Hairspray is thick in the air, and curling irons steam against the newly sprayed hair. Upstairs, people are beginning to file into to Rockhurst High School’s Rose Theater, but downstairs, the cast is still a whirlwind of activity. The Romeo and Juliet cast members help each other out, putting makeup on each other and finishing curling each other’s hair. A handful of mothers were even sewing last minute tears and fixing seam rips on costumes.

“There was chaos between the changing, finding props, holding back laughter, running into techies and looking over and seeing someone just sitting among the set.” junior Kate Sanders, who played the Capulet nurse, said. “It was crazy, but it was a bunch of fun.”

Freshman Ellen Weitkamp helped with hair for the show.

“Backstage can be hectic, especially with such a big cast, but if everyone is calm and staying in one place, [doing] their hair is fun,” Weitkamp said.

Any cast member will tell you that the last minute details are important, but it’s the little traditions that make being backstage one of their favorite parts.

Between the random show quotes and millions of inside jokes, pranks are quite common backstage at Rockhurst.

“Backstage was really just a lot of fun,” said senior Christie Fletcher. “One of the funniest pranks that happened was [when Rockhurst junior] Lorenzo Gatapia’s hid throughout the backstage area in the dark in his priest [costume] and when someone got close [to him], he would pop out of nowhere. It seriously looked like a scary scene from ‘The Exorcist.’”

“We tried to keep quiet, but ended up clutching our sides, falling on our knees and even rolling off of [our] chairs as we laughed,” Sanders recalled.

“We had a hard time being quiet backstage,” Fletcher said.

Despite the chaos around them, the actors found time to sit and chat quietly and laugh at countless inside jokes before going through their per-show rituals.

save the drama for your mama H RHS juniors Lorenzo Gatapia, Ian VonFange and sophomore Zach Nickerson joke around during a dress rehearsal for Rockhurst’s production of “Romeo and Juliet.” photo by MARLEY SCHMIDTLEIN After the cast members had gathered around in the backstage “band-room,” the cast listened as Barney ran a few last minute notes and [said] her emotional thank-yous to the cast “for their hardwork.” They formed a tight circle, holding hands right over left, and hopped away from the circle, untangling themselves.

Finally, they preformed the “shake down” to warm up one last time, and ran up the stairs to take their starting places.

All the girls enjoy their time up onstage, but the best part is being backstage bonding with the cast.

“It felt like pretty much everyone got along and just cared about doing what we were all there to do and have fun,” Fletcher said.

As for why they are so interested in theater?

“My cast mates and I have been in a lot of other shows together,” senior Rosemary McGraw said. “And we also share a sincere and insane passion for theater.”

Despite the chaos that goes into the production, the actors agree that being part of the show is definitely a great experience.

“There’s a different world behind the curtain.”

Sanders said. H

star struck H Erica Punch and Drew Jurden portray Romeo and Juliet. photo by MARLEY SCHMIDTLEIN

covergirl H Blue Valley North junior Erica Punch prepares for the play. photo by MARLEY SCHMIDTLEIN

Students SING their little hearts out Students in STA choir spent Friday nights at rehearsal for WorldStrides Heritage Festival April 14

by EMILY COBLE journalism student After school on Fridays, STA is a mess. Students quickly stream out of the doorways of every building armed with colossal backpacks and swinging netties.

Relentless lines of cars clog the parking lot as they haltingly maneuver around girls hurrying to their rides. Huddled groups of students crowd the quad as they chat and make plans with their friends. After a tedious day at school, most girls are thinking about socializing or going home to relax except for the people with extracurricular activities.

Among those people are the STA choir students who traveled to Chicago for the WorldStrides Heritage Festival April 14. The Heritage Festival is a competition against other choirs from across America, which allowed STA to see their choir’s national ranking. To prepare for this performance, the choir students had been practicing after school every day possible the week after spring break; even on Fridays. H

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1. constructive criticism H Piano accompanist Steven Karlin critiques the choir’s performance at rehearsals April 4. 2. belt it H Freshman Annie Huber, from left, freshman Madalyn Schulte, freshman Monica Stanley, freshman Alexia Arrieta and freshman Liz Mitchell practice the song “Now I Become Myself” during the beginning of rehearsal April 4. The choir split into alto, mezzo and soprano groups. photos by EMILY COBLE

CONTINUE THE STORY Scan the QR code below to visit DNO to read the complete story.

guitar HEROES

May 4, 2012 | the dart | dartnewsonline.com | weekends | 7

STA students Brianna Valine, Madison Fitzgerald and Ruby Dibble form “This Is Baltimore” band, writing their own music, jamming out to rock and indie tunes

by MADELINE BEST journalism student

Guitar strumming.

Fingers snapping.

Friends laughing as they forget the words of a song.

Positivity fills the air of band practice for STA students sophomore Brianna Valine, sophomore Madison Fitzgerald and junior Ruby Dibble’s band, “This is Baltimore,” that started earlier this year.

“I live on Baltimore avenue [and] that’s where we practice, [so] we thought that sounded hipster and indie,” Valine said.

One unique thing about the band is that there is no lead vocalist. The girls share the job of

graphic by SARA-JESSICA DILKS

singing and also share a collection of instruments kept in Valine’s room. Valine is the band’s resident guitarist while Fitzgerald focuses on playing the piano. All three girls dabble in playing the ukulele and feature the instrument in some of their songs.

Musical memorabilia and instruments fill every open nook of Valine’s bedroom. Guitars out and music books open, practice begins with the band’s newest song, “Mr. Superhero,” which the band has been in the process of writing for the last two months. After many retakes, Valine and Fitzgerald take a break to send the recorded song to band member Dibble who was out of town.

In the cozy room piled with pillows and stacks of paper, a certain song book goes missing.

“It’s a green notebook,” Valine said.

“Okay, scavenger hunt, let’s go” Fitzgerald said.

The notebook, eventually found under the bed, holds many of the band’s ideas and original songs.

“We lose things a lot,” Valine said.

“Brianna lost a whole notebook of our music once,” Fitzgerald said.

Objects strewn around the room, the group relaxes while they plan what to practice next.

Keeping it casual, there is not usually a set schedule that the band follows once practice has begun.

“We sometimes have a hard time focusing and like to go off on random tangents,” Fitzgerald said.

While there is a relaxed vibe at the practices, the girls know when they have to work. They focus on writing music and lyrics while sitting on pillows in front of a computer. Using the musical influences of pop and folk, the girls brainstorm three part harmonies to sing in original songs as well as musical covers and mash-ups. All three girls pitch into the writing process, although writing original songs is not as easy as it sounds.

“Lyrics get stuck when you’re trying to think of rhymes,” Dibble said.

Ideas for songs sometimes come when least expected for the band.

“Sometimes inspiration comes from the things we say jokingly,” Dibble said.

Between singing, the girls look up music videos on Valine’s computer as a reference for songs they are covering. After a few clicks and seconds of buffering later, Fitzgerald and Valine watch Lady Gaga’s “Born This Way” on YouTube after not being able to decide on what cord to start on.

After pacing the room and some minutes of deep thinking later, the band finally came to a decision.

“The key of C!” Valine said.

While hanging out, playing music, and having fun these girls love to joke around during breaks.

“Your life is going One Direction.”

“Ohhh!”

“Musical puns!”

“This is Baltimore” has big plans for the future including continuing to create original songs and to start playing gigs. The band hopes to become famous in the music business and have fun continuing to do what they love: music. H

jam sesh H Sophomores Brianna Valine, left, and Madison Fitzgerald practice while lounging in Valine’s bedroom April 7. Their band holds weekly meetings at Valine’s house. photo by MADELINE BEST

writer’s block H Sophomore Madison Fitzgerald edits musical lyrics April 7. photo by MADELINE BEST

in tune H Band members play around on the piano at practice April 7. photo by MADELINE BEST

piano man H Sophomore Madison Fitzgerald plays the piano at rehearsal April 7. photo by MADELINE BEST

day GLOW

8 | weekends | dartnewsonline.com | the dart | May 4, 2012

Security woman meticulously screens minors under the influence at DayGlow for their safety

by MALLORY RADTKE journalism student

D

ear Lord, do these kids’ parents know what is going on? She repeatedly thought to herself.

Imagine a 200 pound woman, with a single golden snaggle tooth, blocking your entrance to an event you already spent 45 dollars on.

She wears a red uniform shirt, with her straight black pants. On her back you read: SECURITY, in big bold letters. However, she could do without the uniform, because everyone there knows she means business.

This is Alicia; just call her Alicia.

Alicia stood at the entrance, shaking her head as the frustration became more apparent on her face: They’re all underage. This shouldn’t be happening.

On March 31, teenagers piled into Uptown Theater for “the world’s largest paint party,” also known as DayGlow. As supervisor of security, Alicia attempted to oversee the hundreds of people who wore all white clothes, dressed up as fairies and Star Wars figures, and a few aspiring swimsuit models.

Alicia scanned people’s tickets as her eyes scanned the crowd in search for alcohol or drugs among the teens. She tightened her arms and threw back her shoulders while patting down every attendee. Nobody would get by her if they had “pre-gamed” the event or attempted to sneak anything inside.

We have had a lot of shows, but nothing like this with all the medical calls. Nothing like this.

Sirens could be heard all throughout downtown.

Fire trucks and ambulances could have thrown a party on Broadway street. This was the first time Alicia dialed 9-1-1 over 20 times in one night to help those under the influence, and the event had only

been going on for about 3 hours.

“The fire department responds first, then the ambulance,” Alicia sighed. “We have had so many medical calls and most of them are underage. I don’t think anyone has been 21 yet.”

Alicia is more than just a strict security guard. Her motherly instincts come in after having a 17 year old daughter of her own. One girl strutted with confidence sporting only a swimsuit. “Really? A bikini?”

She thought openly to herself. As if the young girl’s outfit could not get more promiscuous, she wore the shortest jean shorts ever seen.

“I feel bad for the kids,” Alicia said as her sadness became apparent. “A lot of kids here are under the influence and they don’t realize they could kill themselves because they’re so out of it. Being drunk and high and mix that with the heat... It is just bad.”

Teens do not realize how easy it is for adults to determine when they come in under the influence of alcohol and drugs. Alicia had already turned away 10 teens, and she was prepared to prohibit any others from entering, who had the potential to get hurt.

“You really want me to tell you a story?” Alicia thought as she laughed to herself.

There was a 17 year old girl, who decided to take a break from the paint craze and grueling heat from inside Uptown. This downtown neighborhood is not the safest, even for those who are sober. The security guards could tell something smelled fishy when the young girl walked by, and it was not because she reeked of vodka. Alicia followed the scent of alcohol, until finally laying in front of her was the same girl, sprawled in the bushes.

As Alicia retold the story her face drooped down with sadness. As the kids’ parent for the night she could not answer any more questions. She could not tell any more stories. She turned away, slowly walked up the hallway and stood silently in the doorway until from a distance people heard: “Don’t you tell me how to do my job fool!” H

May 4, 2012 | the dart | dartnewsonline.com | weekends | 9

somebody to love H Someone displays a single heart above the crowd while mimicking the DJ. This “copy-cat” entertainment continued periodically throughout the night. photo by MALLORY RADTKE

my lipgloss is poppin’ H Sophomore Maddie Knopke puts the last touches of her makeup on as she prepares to leave for DayGlow. “It was just like an environment you can’t explain,” Knopke said. photo by MALLORY RADTKE

confetti shower H Hands fly through the air while trying to catch the falling confetti at DayGlow March 31. The confetti marked the start of the “World’s Largest Paint Party.” photo by MALLORY RADTKE

Dancers compete for selective STA squad and find family Incoming freshmen put others above self, form bonds with other dancers at dance team tryouts

by EDEN KREIGHBAUM journalism student

cover your eyes H Sophomore Katherine Viviano, left, sprays back freshman Meghan Daniel’s flyaways before Daniels dances during tryouts on April 13. photo by EDEN KREIGHBAUM

do the splits H Freshman Gretchen Schloegel stretches in the main locker room during dance team tryouts. photo by EDEN KREIGHBAUM

welcome to the future H A festive couple prepares to get drenched in paint as they walk to the main room at DayGlow. photo by MALLORY RADTKE

Okay, this isn’t that bad, I can do this. I’ve been working hard, I can do this.

Incoming freshman Alex Muehlberger entered the gym.

Why the heck am I doing this? These girls have like 100 times the experience I do. I am so stupid for coming.

Muehlberger had been practicing for a month, in a garage.

There’s no way I am going to remember everything. I

have never learned something like this.

Muehlberger, surrounded by 21 competitors, began warming up for dance team tryouts. An event that put sister against sister, friend versus friend, and pitted incoming freshman against juniors. “[Tryouts] are my absolute favorite time of year,” head coach Savannah Vose said.

Right before the start of tryouts, four different grade levels squeezed into a circle, making room for one more, joined hands, asked “Mary, queen of dance” to pray for them, and became somewhat ready for the process to begin. The girls were vying for a place on a team, with no set number of spots, according to Vose.

Different parts made the dancers uneasy. Learning a routine in two days. The kick-line in the middle of the dance. How to hold arms when turning. A group of incoming freshman.

Nervousness peaked at varying times for everyone, but encouragement was ever-present. Junior Meghan Coble and incoming freshman Alison Yancey reassured each other. Incoming freshmen told each other how awesome they would do.

“You are all beautiful dancers,” junior Caroline Fiss said to the jittery girls before tryouts.

At state this year, the team “aura-cleansed” to get ride of bad energy. Fiss, a varsity dancer this past year, stretched her arms in front of Muehlberger, telling her she was fine. They took deep breaths together. Pretending to struggle, Fiss slowly pushed her arms down the front of Muehlberger’s body.

“As her hands went down me, my nerves were gone,” Muehlberger said. “I kind of calmed down actually.”

Competitors, yes, sworn enemies, no. The dancers

became a family. The seniors helping with tryouts were like parents, offering advice and tips to the younger dancers. Sophomore Katherine Viviano gladly sprayed back freshman Meghan Daniels fly-aways. Freshman Alex Amey started going over nicknames with incoming freshmen.

When the hopefuls went out in pairs to perform technique and the routine, the girls were sent out with hugs. The dancers, clad in black leotards and spandex, filled the time in the crowded locker room with stretching, practicing to music being played through a closed door, sharing stories, comforting each other, laughing, and texting. They had to wait hours for the judges to see the 11 pairs.

“It was like waiting to see if a family member had died or not,” Muehlberger said.

No parties. No date night. No going out with the

girls. The dancers chose to spend their Friday night at tryouts. The girls functioned as a unit. The family eventually found out they lost three members the next Saturday morning, but that did not take away from what they experienced together. It did not crush their hopes.

I thought I had a shot. Yeah, I could not get my splits all the way down and I don’t even know what happened to my kick-line, but I thought I could have made it.

Muehlberger was told she had been cut.

Well, It was just tryouts. It’s not the end of the world. At least now I know I love to dance. And, I know these girls now, they welcomed me.

She did not regret trying out, or all the work it took.

Next year I will still have the friends I made, my month of experience, and an example to set. H

10 | weekends | dartnewsonline.com | the dart | May 4, 2012

Nerves. Anxiety. Stress. Junior ring?

a job well done H Junior Sara Meurer smiles while asking her date to junior ring. Meurer asked Rockhurst junior Robbie Thompson by writing on his car window while he was away on April 20th. photo by SAM SMITH

Junior Sara Meurer experiences nerves excitement while asking her date to Junior Ring dance

by SAM SMITH journalism student Excitement. Anxiety. Unbearable nerves. Eagerly, you wrap white and blue streamers around his car. You have to do this fast, before he gets home.

You hear the roaring of an engine. Everyone stops to look towards the street. A hot pink Volkswagen Bug passes by. Definitely not him. With a sigh of relief your friends resume working. You, on the other hand are terrified. One question is on your mind: what if we get caught? Without a word to your friends, you observe and quietly follow them, fixing every piece of ripped paper that covers the meticulously written words: “Jr. Ring?”

Every year, near the close of the school year,

STA presents the junior class with their class rings at the Junior Ring Ceremony, which this year the ceremony was April 16.

The juniors are allowed to invite a date to the dance. This is the exciting part. This is the part that’s nerve-raking. While some girls would rather ask their date the simple question: “Will you go to Junior Ring with me?,” others would rather plan a creative way of asking their date. Junior Sara Meurer and her friends accepted this challenge.

On April 14, Meurer enlisted the help of her friends to decorate her date Robbie Thompson’s car. First, Meurer and friend, Maddi Hughes- Zahner drove to fellow junior, Janie Thompson’s house.

Meurer’s friends Andie Drummond, Sammy Patterson and Caroline Fiss also came. The girls jumped in their cars and followed Thompson’s directions to her cousin, Robbie Thompson’s house.

Ten minutes later, they turned onto Robbie’s street. They drove past Robbie’s house to “scope the place out.” Once parked, the girls dashed to the ga-

rage, where Robbie’s car was parked. Luckily, one of Robbie’s family members left the garage door open.

Meurer was hesitant to join her friends. She worried about one of Robbie’s family members being home, or even worse, Robbie. But Meurer eventually decided against waiting any longer.

By the time Meurer arrived in the garage, Hughes- Zahner had wrapped white streamers around the car. Fiss carefully wrote “Jr. Ring?” in red car paint on his back window. Drummond and Patterson had decorated the car with blue streamers.

Meurer quickly tied balloons to both side view mirrors of Robbie’s car. With girls working on their own sections, Meurer was able to relax for 5 seconds.

Until she remembered one of the most important part of this project. The invite.

Meurer returned to Fiss’s side to watch as she carefully wrote on the back window. The door connecting the garage to the house opened. Meurer’s face flushed, expecting it to be Robbie.

It was Robbie’s mom. Janie Thompson, being her

niece, walked over to her aunt. The girls, especially Meurer, were relieved when Mrs. Thompson announced that Robbie is in St. Louis and wouldn’t be home for a couple days. Knowing this information, Meurer resumed putting the finishing touches on her masterpiece.

When the car fit Meurer’s approval, the girls thanked Mrs. Thompson and drove away with smirks on their faces. Satisfied, Meurer left the site with a smile. Once back in the car, Meurer finally loosened up and began to crack jokes. Although her part was done, Meurer remained somewhat tense. There was one thing she was waiting for. The response.

Although she has only known Robbie since October, Meurer said she was looking forward to receiving a text message from him with a reply to her decorating of his car. After two days of waiting, Meurer received a response. Robbie’s reply was short and sweet: “Heck yeah I’ll go to Junior Ring with you!” H

Teachers chaperone Junior Ring dance STA hosts its fifth annual junior ring dance as staff helps chaperone the dance to keep it safe and enjoyable

checking in HEnglish teacher Carrie Jacquin marks of students names at the Junior Ring Dance Saturday, April 21. photo by KATIE WONDER

teacher talk H Ms. Robin Good, Ms. Kim Sirridge, and Ms. Diane Hirner go over attendance from the Junior Ring Dance. Good, Sirridge, and Hierner were a few of the chaperones for the dance on Saturday, April 21. photo by KATIE WONDER

all of the lights H Junior Erin Thompson walks out of the Commons during the Junior Ring Dance, held Saturday, April 1. photo by KATIE WONDER

May 4, 2012 | the dart | dartnewsonline.com | weekends | 11

smile for the camera H STA sophomore Christi Backer, left, and Blue Valley North sophomore Laura Vedder pose for a “selfy” picture on Laura’s iPhone April 14 at Laura’s house. photo by CECILIA BUTLER

beauty shop H STA sophomore Christi Backer combs through Blue Valley North sophomore Laura Vedder’s damp hair in Vedder’s room for her prom night April 14. photo by CECILIA BUTLER

surprise H As STA sophomore Christi Backer, left, looks up “cute hair updos”, she is horrified at the look of some of the pictures. The girls then got inspiration from Facebook pictures. photo by CECILIA BUTLER

STA girl helps friend get ready for prom STA student Christi Backer helps Blue Valley North friend get ready for senior prom as a sophomore

by CECILIA BUTLER journalism student As soon as he pulls up in his low Mazda with black rims and tinted windows, the difference between him and her, besides age, becomes apparent. She peers through the white lace curtains in her pale pink room to see him, all dressed up in his taupe bow-tie and white suit. Fourteen tiny stuffed animals lay on her bedroom floor and her torn-up pink rose “blankie” rests on her bed. At last the time is here.

Meet Laura Vedder, a Blue Valley North sophomore. Last year, she went to STA, along with her friend Christi Backer. They spent their Friday

nights watching Zac Efron and Channing Tatum on Netflix. They talked about the boys they thought were cute, the girls they thought were mean and how they both probably failed their math test. A name had come up. Ben Magee, a cute boy who was two years older and attended Blue Valley North. A boy neither of them had ever spoken to.

Vedder entered the world of a co-ed school. A world of cheerleaders and “it” boys. Backer stayed in the world of all girls. A world of tampons and Waldo pizza. But then time flew by. Friday movie nights turned into monthly get-togethers.

Tonight, their Friday night is spent a lot differently than it use to be. Backer stands above Vedder, a Chi curling iron burning hot in one hand and a bottle of Aussi hairspray in the other. She’s prepping Laura for prom. Prom with a senior. Prom with Ben Magee.

“My freshman self would have been shocked. I would never believe I would be going to prom as Magee’s date,” Vedder said as she wiggles a bobby pin into her light brown curls.

Backer and the rest of Vedder’s friends say they have seen a change in Vedder since freshman year.

“She’s independent. She’s more into who she is,” Backer said.

Now, she stares at herself in the mirror, looking at the reflection of a totally new Vedder.

Magee is not just a senior. He is the Ben Magee.

The hot senior. The lacrosse, soccer and swimming star. The boy all the girls want. The boy that Laura got.

Most underclassmen at STA wouldn’t even imagine going to prom with a senior. Last year Vedder would have agreed, but public schools do things differently.

“People of all ages will date [each other],” Vedder said.

Vedder thinks that the public school girls are a lot different than STA ones.

“I love the girls, but they’re typical public school girls. They always care what they look like and I’m not like that—I think cause I went to STA.” Even if a senior asks an STA underclassman to

prom, many say they would find it uncomfortable.

“I would think he’s really weird, Backer said.

Like, why can’t he find someone his own age.”

Vedder’s parents were surprised when Vedder told them the news of prom. Mrs. Denise Vedder views the seniors as being more daring and adventurous than younger classmen. “I’m nervous because it’s hard to trust everybody that she’s with,” Denise said.

It’s thirty minutes until Magee is coming to pick up Vedder. Thirty minutes crammed with hairspray, nail polish, blush, and Vedder’s favorite Maybelline black lash mascara. She turns to her mom, “Oh, um, mommy will you make me a peanut butter sandwich?” Vedder asked with her puppy dog eyes and pouted lips glossed with cherry Carmex chapstick.

Backer finally finishes Vedder’s hair and they admire it in the full length mirror.

“So, you nervous?” Bakcer asked.

“Are you kidding me? Vedder asked. I’ve been pooping all day.” H

12 | weekends | dartnewsonline.com | the dart | May 4, 2012

Don’t judge a jam

BY ITS COVERS After hosting for over 25 years, Mama Kay and her band still liven Saturday shows with music, laughs

and Ray both gained musical interest at a young age, and although they are now involved in blues and jazz, are open to play any requested songs.

“We’ll pretty much do anything—any style, any genre,” EuDaly said. “Because of the way it is, anybody that wants to get up and do it can have a

by EMMA WILLIBEY chance.” journalism student Since their formation in 1986, the shows have attracted entertainers not only from the Kansas Upon entering the free-standing building on City area but around the globe. Jose Hendrix, a 85th Street, the first feature you’ll struggle to musician from the Congo, delivered renditions of process is the people—people everywhere. Custhe Police and the Beatles April 14. Renowned tomers pour through doorways, clusters of friends producers and performers such as Narada Michael clog aisles and employees scramble with platters Walden, who is known for working with Sting and of food and iced drinks. Audience members chat Santana, have also appeared. Another sense of novin between bites of elty lingers in the band barbeque sandwiches, members’ trumpet lurching across their solos, drum beats and tables to relay orders duets, which fuse their Everybody was there for the music and over the noise. The laid-back attitudes into good times. You’re sitting at these tables group dominating the sincere tunes that can with a bunch of people you don’t know, next three and a half reach blaring levels. hours, though, can

“[The jam session and you become friends. be found at the front is] not a situation behind their respecwhere you can talk Hank Fullmer tive instruments. After over dinner—it’s pretty B.B.’s Lawnside BBQ attendee being introduced to the raucous,” EuDaly said. crowd, this six-person However, the band launches into an volume doesn’t create “uptempo jazz tune,” in the words of Diane “Mama” an intimidating atmosphere. Instead, the animated Ray, host of the weekly blues-meets-jazz jam at ambiance has proven itself a quality regulars know B.B.’s Lawnside BBQ. and love and newcomers consider a reason to A local landmark for its meals and melodies, return.

B.B.’s hosts a variety of acts during the week, but “Everybody really enjoys themselves,” attendee only on Saturdays from 2 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. are Hank Fullmer said. “[The attitude is] very playful.” the internationally-acknowledged open mic-style Bobbing heads, tapping feet and clapping hands sessions held. Here, customers volunteer to belt are only a few indicators of the unmistakable out blues, funk and country as the audience eagerly energy the blues-meets-jazz jam sessions generate. chimes in. While B.B.’s has roots in the blues (coThe environment thrives so even during breaks, owner Lindsay Shannon is a founding member laughter punctuates the barbecue-scented air. of the Kansas City Blues Society) the melting pot “Everybody was there for the music and good of genres appeals to customers of all ages and times,” Fullmer said. “You’re sitting at these tables personalities. with a bunch of people you don’t know, and you “You’ll go from B.B. King’s ‘The Thrill Is Gone’ become friends.” to ‘Believe’ by Brooks & Dunn to a jazz standard The easygoing, infectious mood of the sessions like ‘How High the Moon’ to a Foo Fighters song,” establishes this bond, and as the crowd unites guitarist Jay EuDaly said. while singing along to the band, it becomes evident Everyone from nine-year-old kids to grandthe musicians’ energy is responsible for the lively mothers participates, and although the skill level aura. of performers isn’t always consistent, the band’s “It’s the international language,” Ray said. “Eventhusiasm toward the tunes never falters. EuDaly erybody knows music.” H

graphic by SARA-JESSICA DILKS

“

“

jam session H Host Diane “Mama” Ray, left, and performer George Robinson liven the mood at B.B.’s Lawnside BBQ with their duet, Al Green’s “Let’s Stay Together”. “Everybody’s always happy,” said Ray of the attendants’ upbeat attitudes. photo by EMMA WILLIBEY

May 4, 2012 | the dart | dartnewsonline.com | weekends | 13

Workin’ weekends Two freshmen and one sophomore work late on weekends, miss out on social events, hanging with friends

by HANNAH BREDAR journalism student When standing in a grocery store, the mood can change very fast. It can go from dead silence except elevator music playing over the intercom to the constant beeping of price tags and crinkling of plastic bags in under 10 seconds.

One minute nobody is in line, the next, customers are coming out of nowhere. That tells you how busy a grocery store can become, especially when it is nearing dinner time. Sometimes it is very busy and sometimes there can be no customers in sight.

A custard shop can go from packed with customers when you can barely hear yourself think to quiet silence except for the hum of the custard processor.

When you walk in the door of Foo’s Frozen Custard your nostrils are overwhelmed with the sweet smell of custard, hot fudge and other toppings. Freshman Basil Burnette, sophomore Beth Dudley and freshman Fee Pauwels work at these stores. They deal with hectic and chaotic people that are hustle and bustling around to finish their errands and get things done.

Basil Burnette describes her work at Cosentino’s Market as “boring” and “tiring.” When

she gets her schedule and sees she is working late on the weekend her reaction isn’t too good.

Burnette goes to her shift because she can’t do anything about it, but sometimes she isn’t excited to do it. She said she isn’t very happy when she sees her late shift so she plans things with friends before because she can’t do anything after. Burnette doesn’t like working at Cosentino’s because you always have to be doing something whether it be sacking groceries, putting away milk bottles or getting carts.

Beth Dudley, who also works at Cosentino’s, doesn’t think working is bad when other people she knows are working with her, but she doesn’t prefer working on weekend nights because she “has better things to do.

“I think working with nice people or people I know makes my shift a lot easier and it goes a lot faster,” Dudley said.

When employees are waiting for customers to come their way and checkout they have casual conversations about how their weekend has been or what happened in school that week. This was an overheard conversation in Cosentino’s: Cashier: “So what are you doing this weekend?”

Bagger: “I have tons of homework and I have to work a lot. Do you have a lot of homework?”

Cashier: “Well kinda, but I have a project due on Tuesday to this crazy English teacher.”

These are the conversations that keep workers moving during their shift without falling asleep when there are no customers in sight.

Dudley described that late Saturday nights there aren’t that many people there because that isn’t necessarily the “prime time” to get groceries.

Fee Pauwels, who works at Foo’s Frozen Custard, said it is a cool place to work but she has had to close the shop with a couple other people around, which means she works a long shift. One night, Pauwels had to work from 2-10 p.m. when she took a double shift.

“It was so boring and tiring that [my friends] came over and hung out with me a little,” Pauwels said.

Pauwels said she gets a good amount of break time between the waves of customers that come in. When there aren’t any customers in the store the workers there talk about other people that work there, funny stories that have happened during their shifts, like when the custard machine exploded and all the custard spilled out.

Even though these girls have to miss hanging out with their friends on weekends, they go home with the satisfaction that they have earned money that they can spend in the future with their friends. H lay it on think H Freshman Fee Pauwels concentrates as she pours hot fudge on a customer’s custard during her shift at Foo’s Frozen Custard on April 14. The longest Pauwels has had to work was from 2-10 p.m. on a weekend when she took a double shift. photo by HANNAH BREDAR

Lending the family a helping hand Freshman helps out her parents, sacrifices hanging out with friends to occasionally babysit her siblings

by CHRISTINA ELIAS journalism student As her baby sister’s whines pierce the air, STA freshman Viridiana Hernandez knows it’s feeding time for 7-month-old Viviana. She gets up from where she was watching TV on the couch and gently moves her sister to the blue and white baby jumper hanging from the doorway. Viridiana keeps a watchful eye on the baby girl balancing on shaky legs as she prepares a warm bottle for the youngest member of the family.

Prior to September, Viridiana’s weekends were virtually babysitting-free. She had the elbowroom to make plans as she saw fit. But since the arrival of her bouncing baby sister, she has had to adjust to the new addition in the house. Before Viviana, it was just Viridiana, her mother, step-father, and her ten-yearold brother Juan.

Viridiana said that adjusting to having a baby in the house has been difficult and a little weird, but the babysitting is even newer for her. She says that her mother just started leaving Viviana with her “like a month ago.” Before Viviana, Viridiana was never required to watch Juan.

“My mom is usually here . . . so I just take care of Viviana to give her a break, not really because I have to,” Viridiana said.

According to Viridiana, babysitting Viviana has not interfered with hanging out with her friends; her mother respects her plans, and Viridiana usually volunteers to watch her sister. From Viridiana’s point of view, babysitting Viviana is a way to bond and spend time together.

“I have never had to cancel plans to babysit,” Viridiana said. “If [my mom] needs to go somewhere, I [babysit], and I would probably cancel some plans if they weren’t important. Usually I just do it to give her a break, you know?” H

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CONTINUE THE STORY Scan the QR code below to visit DNO to read freshman Christina Elias’s complete story

1. staring contest H Viviana Hernandez, left, watches as her big sister Viridiana plays with the toys on her baby saucer on April 15. Viridiana started watching her little sister last month. photo by CHRISTINA ELIAS 2. open wide H Viviana Hernandez, left, attempts to catch all the baby food in her mouth as big sister Viridiana feeds her. Viridiana watched Viviana for eight hours on April 15. photo by CHRISTINA ELIAS 3. snuggle time H Viviana Hernandez, left, cries into her blanket as big sister Viridiana attempts to calm her. Viridiana watched Viviana for their mother April 15. photo by CHRISTINA ELIAS

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14 | weekends | dartnewsonline.com | the dart | May 4, 2012

Thank God it’s first Friday Artist turns empty neighborhood into arts community, complete with shopping venues, restaurants

by KAITLIN O’BRIEN journalism student Mr. Jim Leedy climbed into his car to make the journey from his studio to his gallery that he makes every first Friday. He has driven a few blocks and he sees the iconic red and blue flashing police lights and he pulls over to side of the road.

Leedy rolls his window down and the police officer approaches the window.

“Don’t you know not to come down here on a first Friday old man,” the police officer said. “You could hurt someone.”

“I’m sorry officer, it won’t happen again,” Leedy said.

What that officer didn’t know was the he was talking to “The King of Crossroads,” Leedy. That officer was talking to the one that started first Friday.

The area between Union Station and Downtown is now referred to as the Crossroads and is an area with with life, art, food and people. Before the Crossroads was known as the Crossroads, the area was bare, desolate and a place many people would avoid. That area was a place many people did not want to go to and a place many thought was useless.

Leedy thought otherwise. He saw potential in this empty neighborhood. Many people would call Leedy an artist and a dreamer. He saw this empty area as a place where he could build his dream of an arts community. Leedy opened up The Leedy Volkus Art Center, which was a Leedy’s gallery, in 1985 in the Crossroads. This was the first step in creating the arts community.

“My goal was educate people on art,” Leedy said. “To show art to people who have never seen art before.”

As years passed, more galleries, shops and restaurants joined Leedy and moved to the Crossroads. The Crossroads began to attract attention.

Just as things were going well for Leedy and the others in the Crossroads, 9/11 happened.

People were afraid to come out and participate in the events that were going on in the Crossroads. A group of shop, restaurant and gallery owners and people involved in the crossroads got together to come up with a plan to get people to come out again. The idea of all the galleries, shops and restaurants being open at the same time evolved into first Fridays.

“After 9/11 people weren’t coming out,” Mr. John O’Brien, owner of The Dolphin Gallery said.

“First Friday allowed for people to come out and talk to others again and try to get back to life.”

On the first Friday in March 2002, the very first, first Friday, Leedy was anxiously waiting to see if people where going to show up. People were continually telling people that nobody was going to show up, and people would not bring their children.

“When I saw people walking on the streets with their children going into galleries and shopping and eating I had tears in my eyes,” Leedy said. “It felt good to see people talking to one another, dancing and having a good time.

It was better than any other victory. It was soul enlightenment.”

First Friday has turned into something that can not be defined. First Friday is food. First Friday is art. First Friday is shopping. First Friday is a place for ideas to flow. First Friday has grown into something bigger than many people would have expected it to turn into.

David Hughes, co-director of the Charlotte Street Foundation and non-profit organization

TGIF H John O’Brien, owner of Dolphin gallery, looks at all the people who attended first Friday. O’Brien had not attended a first Friday in a few years. photo by KAITLIN O’BRIEN that gives grants to Kansas City based artists, describes first Friday as “a zoo...its not a bad thing

but it’s a zoo. First Friday has something for everyone, either on the streets or in the spaces.” H

Films and fun: bonding at the movies Girls carpool, dine together Friday night before seeing “Titanic 3D” at Cinemark Palace on Plaza

by MADELINE MELOY journalism student The buttery smell of popcorn fills the air while people file inside, one at a time or in small groups. The chairs creak and squeal, unfolding as the audience takes their seats. The lights dim until only small, orange strips are seen on the walkways, and the big screen lights up.

One by one, phones are silenced and 3D glasses are tucked behind ears. Whispers and giggles emanate from an otherwise silent audience as they are surrounded by the soaring sound of the speakers. And then, just as the ads begin to seem never—ending, the film finally begins. These are the movies.

Almost every teenager has been here. Catching a movie with a group of friends is a great way to hang out and relax on the weekend. April 14, STA freshmen Haley Sirokman and Maddy Niemuth, along with Shawnee Mission East High School freshman Mae Heitmann, all went to see “Titanic 3D” together at the Cinemark Palace at the Plaza Theater. The group agreed that overall it was a good movie.

“I liked the beginning of the 1912 Titanic scenes and when Jack and Rose were together... but I really didn’t like the present day parts when they were searching for the diamond,” Heitmann said.

The girls also thought that the 3D was over-

rated and it was the story line of the movie that made it worth seeing.

“The 3D didn’t really show as much probably because it was a remake and they couldn’t change the entire movie, but it definitely affected some of the scenes and made them more important than it would have been without the 3D,” Niemuth said.

“Well, after a while I didn’t even notice [the 3D],” Heitmann said. “But it gave me a chance to see it in theaters, so I guess yeah it was worth it in that sense. Though I don’t think it had much effect on the movie.”

The girls carpooled to the movie together, and decided to eat dinner at Noodles & Company beforehand. The entire time they were talking and laughing with each other. While seeing a good movie is great, often just the experience of going to see the movie is more important than what they actually see, according to the girls.

Although it was Heitmann’s idea, they said that the choice to see “Titanic 3D” was generally agreed upon.

“Usually my friends invite me to go and I’ll see whatever they want,” Niemuth said.

Heitmann agreed with her.

“If I’m invited by someone I’ll see whatever,” Heitmann said.

They talked about why they like going to the movies, especially with their friends.

“I just like getting to hang out with my friends and talk with them about stuff,” Niemuth said.

“We just forget about all the other things we have to do and relax to watch a movie.”

“I like seeing movies with friends because it is fun to see movies in a group,” Sirokman said.

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1. Movie night H STA freshman Maddy Niemuth, from left, Shawnee Mission East freshman Mae Heitmann and STA freshman Haley Sirokman ride down the escalator at the Cinemark Palace at the Plaza movie theater April 14. The three went to see Titanic 3D together. 2. Heitmann buys a movie ticket at the Palace.

3. Niemuth, left, orders popcorn as Heitmann and Sirokman wait while at the Palace. 4. Niemuth, left, hands Heitmann a pair of 3D glasses at the Palace. photos by MADELINE MELOY “I think the best part of it is discussing the movie with friends when it’s over.”

Going to the movies is also a chance to see friends you wouldn’t normally see otherwise.

“I [go] to catch up with people I haven’t seen

in a while mostly,” Heitmann said.

The girls agreed that no matter what movie is seen, the most important part of going to the movies is being able to see your friends and have fun with them on the weekend. H

May 4, 2012 | the dart | dartnewsonline.com | weekends | 15

Easter Vigil at Visitation Family attends Easter Vigil service, congregates with neighbors to celebrate annual ceremony

by GRACE SLY journalism student Blackness. The darkness envelops the church and there is silence—a quiet almost as dark as the chapel. A flicker of light! The glow of orange and yellow can be seen from the back pews of the church to outside the doors where a fire sits. As the altar servers light their own candles in the fire, they lead a procession of people down the aisle until the priest reaches the alter. The servers use the flame from their candles to light those held by the first attendee in each pew. They, in turn, ignite their neighbors’ candles.

A face recognizable to STA students is illuminated as freshman Carson Beineman receives a flame. She stands between her mother and sister, eyes directed at the altar. This is a familiar ritual for Beineman as one Saturday every year her family observes the Easter Vigil at Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish.

The Catholic church celebrates the beginning of Easter during the Easter Vigil. Every year, families come together and participate in this three hour holy ritual known as the most beautiful liturgy of the Church calender. The Vigil is divided into four parts (Service of light, Liturgy of the World, Liturgy of Baptism and Liturgy of Eucharist) and is celebrated between sunset and sunrise on Holy Saturday, marking the passage of Jesus Christ’s death to life. “[The Easter Vigil is] my sister’s and my favorite mass each year,” Beineman said.

Carson, with her parents Mr. Dave Beineman and Mrs. Holly Beineman and her sister and STA alum Alex Beineman, attends the Vigil annually. It has been an ongoing tradition since Carson was two years old and continues through her high school years.

“I know the Vigil is a special time for the Beinemans,” Visitation pastoral associate Peg Ekert said.

“They come every year. It’s a family tradition.”

Seventh grade alter server Lily Wayne agrees, acknowledging that she sees the family at the mass

holy, holy, holy H The host and wine used in Catholic masses sit in Visitation of the Blessed Mary church. These items were used in the Easter Vigil mass that took place April 7. photo by GRACE SLY whenever she attends.

“I love the Easter Vigil because of the baptisms and because you’re more involved than [in] regular mass,” Beineman said. “I think you can connect with [the Vigil] more [than a normal mass], and it is easier to understand.”

This year, Carson and her family gathered with other parishioners around the baptismal fountain to celebrate the baptism of six adults. Each man or woman ready to be baptized made their way to the pool where they wade in the water and, like John the Baptist baptized his followers, the

priest said a blessing as he poured water on their heads. Each newly entered member of the Church was greeted with a welcoming hymn sung by the congregation.

According to Ekert, Visitation is a welcoming community with people who care about their faith, their families and one another. The Beinemans are one of these families.

“I think [there’s a special sense of connection and belonging] because for one night we are all getting the same meaning out of the Vigil,” Beineman said.

sessed with guys and hanging out with them, and we never really think about spending time with our girl friends, and a girls’ night in really gives us the chance to slow down and not worry about guys so much,” freshman Catherine Whitmer said.

The doorbell rings. Weitkamp bounces upstairs to get the door and greet her guest. As evening arrives, guests trickle in, greeted by bear hugs, squeals of joy and an occasional handful of Swedish Fish thrown at them.

But Weitkamp decided to add a twist on her idea of a “girls’ night in”: camping. Weitkamp had a low budget for her party because of her parents’ birthday present to her, attending a performing arts school in New York this summer, but still wanted it to be different from a normal sleepover party.

“I knew we were going to be messing around all night, and if we were outside, my parents wouldn’t be up all night because of us,” Weitkamp said.

To make her camping party a reality, Weitkamp set up a red tent in her backyard and a fire pit to make s’mores in.

As Weitkamp ushers her guests outside to see the tent, there are whispers of “whoa!” and

“awesome!” as the guests marvel at the tent.

Weitkamp stands in front of the tent, proudly gesturing towards it. She leads her guests inside, showing the inside of the tent, which is currently filled with blankets, pillows and flashlights, soon filled with the belongings and sleeping bags of her guests.

The tent becomes illuminated with the florescent glow of flashlights. The girls begin to talk topics from Peeta (from “The Hunger Games”) to points of tangency from geometry class and eventually end up in a giggling heap. A mysterious “Kenneth” prank calls one of the guests, who retorts with math jokes.

After eating an ice cream cake in the early hours of the morning, most of the girls doze off in Weitkamp’s basement, except for a few who decide to watch “Inception” on an iPad in the tent.

In the morning, there was stumbling by the sleep-deprived guests, followed by a breakfast of donuts, bagel and juice. Eventually, the guests left, leaving Weitkamp with new presents, a basement scattered with candy wrappers and a tent in her backyard.

“My party wasn’t like one of those crazy sweet sixteen parties, but for me, it was perfect,” Weitkamp said. H

According to Engler, the different parts of the Vigil such as the waters of new birth and darkness to light point to actual moments of life when we have experienced new life.

Light. The golden hue of candles reveal the identities of the worshipers. The sound of a hundred voices fill the chapel as the church members, both returning and newly welcomed, rejoice together for their savior’s rising. Standing with her family, her church, her community and her friends, Carson smiles as another Easter Vigil has come and gone. H

Girls’ night in: cake and camping Freshman hosts girls’ night in for birthday allowing friends snack, laugh, camp in backyard together

by MARIE SARSON journalism student Freshman Ellen Weitkamp paces the wood— paneled basement of her Leawood home, which is scattered with bags of barbecue Lay’s and Swedish Fish. She is awaiting her guests for her birthday party. Weitkamp, like many other STA girls, threw a GNI, or girls’ night in, party for her sixteenth birthday.

“I wanted a party where I could be as crazy as I want without feeling self-conscious, so I decided on a girls’ night in party,” Weitkamp said. “We can eat our feelings, and no one will care.”

Weitkamp, like many other STA girls, has many friends and was upset she couldn’t invite everyone to her party.

Freshman Rachel Scheffler likes the idea of a girls’ night in and not worrying about looking good for boys.

“I think sometimes we get a little too ob-

GNO H Freshman Marley Schmidtlein, left, freshman Claire Reboulet, center and freshman Ellen Weitkamp laugh together in a tent in Weitkamp’s backyard. Weitkamp set up the tent for her birthday party. photo by MARIE SARSON

16 | weekends | dartnewsonline.com | the dart | May 4, 2012

We all scream for

ice cream

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First Fridays ice cream vender Ice Mike shares sweet treats, stories, memories with customers

by MADDIE KNOPKE journalism student “Yo, man, did you see that ice cream truck on the news?!” asked an over-excited little boy wearing scuffed up converse and a stained polo shirt as he starred up at the man. “It was all flipped over on the boulevard!”

“Well, hey, did you see me yesterday?” the man replied to the three kids standing in front of his van, “No, you didn’t, ‘cause that was me. I was all flipped over and that was me! I’m legend, I know, kid.”

The man’s name is Ice Mike the Ice Cream Man. You can find the legend himself driving a white fourdoor van with stickers of colorful ice cream treats plastered on the sides.

“It was a Nissan that hit me. It was a Nissan, it was like a 1984 Nissan. It was real little.”

Laughing, surprisingly, Ice Mike described the scene that included ice cream all over the van, the street and especially all over him.

But, you still couldn’t help

feeling a bit sad for the guy when he explained that his beloved ice cream truck was totalled.

“No, no it was hilarious.”

Hilarious. Alright then, hilarious.

Sporting a fresh long-sleeve white t-shirt, an A&W Soda Company visor and a giant grin, Ice Mike smoothly pushed his homemade “Tips are Cool” jar to the front of his window and greeted a large group of high schoolers with his usual out-going attitude.

“Hey! Ice Cream guy! I want that Strawberry Shortcake!” shouted STA sophomore Cecilia Butler.

“The name’s Mike, Ice Mike...the ice cream man,” he said.

One day “it just came to [him].” The name, that is.

Nothing can bore Ice Mike; he likes to flavor things up with some fun. And that might have something to do with his monthly appearance at First Fridays.

After repeating “I looooove First Fridays” about six times, Ice Mike clarified that it wasn’t all because of the art.

Aside from exotic art galleries, the event—or maybe party is more appropriate—welcomes you with everything form one-man bands to fire dancers to...a cat whisperer?

Unexpected and random. Yes, that would be one accurate way to describe the scene at First Fridays.

Now, Ice Mike would love to tell you about what it means to be unexpected, random and very surprising...

“Well shoot, what’ve we got here,” he huffed

under his breath.

Two professionally postured men approached Ice Mike’s van. Both wore business suits while exhausting a stern, yet uncomfortable look upon their faces.

“What can I get you, sir?” he asked.

“Well, funny story,” Hah you two, funny?

“So, I just got divorced from my wife because I lost my job and I need a favor...”

Oh man you’ve got problems if you married a chick who leaves you for losing your job, but here goes nothin’...

The man asked Ice Mike if he could take a ride in his ice cream truck. Why? Well, he wanted to take a picture and send it to his ex with the message, “Look, a new job, honey!”

“I really want to show her what I’ve got,” the man said.

What you’ve got, well you clearly ain’t got nothin’ right now brotha. But, I guess I’m up for it...

The man turned to his friend, “Hey Steve, run down the block to get the picture. And we’ll—wait, what’s your name?” “‘I’m Ice Mike the Ice Cream man, nice to meet you.”

“Ok yeah, Mike, and I—“ “Ice Mike, sir.”

1. nice mike H Ice Mike laughs April 6 while reminiscing about a car accident that totalled his ice cream truck two years ago.

2. tips are cool H Ice Mike pushes his handmade tip jar reading “Tips are Cool” to the front of his window. Ice Mike has been selling at First Fridays for four years and has had the tip jar ever since.

3. !!! H STA sophomores Kennedy Reller, left, and Cecilia Butler gasp at the fallen Drumstick purchased by their friend. Unfortunately, they could not salvage the Drumstick.

4. making a point H STA sophomore Kennedy Reller, left, and STA sophomore Lauren Nagle decide between an ice cream sandwich or a cookies n’ cream bar to split at First Fridays. They weighed the pros and cons of each treat for almost 10 minutes, letting four other customers pass them in line. photos by Maddie Knopke Moments later the “executive guy” is flailing his arms outside the window of Ice Mike’s van that is moving at no more than five miles per hour while shouting, “LOOK AT ME WORLD! I’M AN ICE CREAM MAN AND THERE ISN’T NOTHIN’ YOU CAN DO ABOUT IT, PATRICIA!” Assuming Patrica was the ex, Ice Mike laughed along with him as he flaunted his newly-single attitude.

After about three “re-trys” at getting the picture, the man finally hoped out of Ice Mike’s van, just a bit more enthusiastic than when he arrived.

“Oh wait, before I go, I’ll take a Strawberry Shortcake.”

Ice Mike stepped into the back of the van and reached into the freezer. He dug around for a Strawberry Shortcake and laughed to himself, “Never too old for ice cream.”

They got the picture, they got the Strawberry Shortcake, they left, sent it to his ex and a week later received a response: “You’re a butt, sincerely, Patricia.”

The night was definitely an irregular one. An unforgettable one at that. Explains why Ice Mike tells this story to any customer who asks for a Strawberry Shortcake. H