The Dart: Vol 73 issue 1

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volume 73 | issue one | 20 september 2013 st. teresa’s academy | dartnewsonline.com

e s p !

Th ha e a Fli ut o rt n r!

Da rgo ove k it de ake ec un r m ch ajo o m nt e op

dart ]

SHE’S A PISTOL

Shattering the stereotype of a “macho man” ideal, STA students use guns for both sport and entertainment

BEHIND THE TAG

The Dart explores the underground culture of graffiti by local high school students in public places of downtown Kansas City >> pg. 12

Admission rates rise ›› pg. 4 | Netflix dominates Emmy nominations ›› pg. 27 | Local coffee shops are hangouts for STA students ›› pg. 29

[CONTENTS] the dart | volume 73 | issue one | 20 september 2013

FRENCH IMMERSION // 9

GIRLS AND GUNS // 16 news

4 // Student body population reaches desired number 5 // Seniors recognized as National Merit Semifinalists 6 // Teachers required to wear ID badges

Students receive new netbooks

New pep rally schedule allows for full class time

star spotlight

features A&E

sports

perspectives

last look

cover story

7 // Geneviève Wiedeman

bits & pieces

reviews

2

main ed

9 // An immersion experi21 // Gun rights are not worth 28 // Athlete of the issue ence entirely en Français children’s lives

Team banners rede12 // Behind the tag signed 29 // Golf team recruits players

Star scores 22 // Staying awake in class 30 // Bump, set, slam 14 // Netflix makes history for dummies with 14 Emmy nomina- 23 // Tragedy? Yes. Your tions tragedy? No. 15 // Ratings threaten 96.5

NYC shop’s sack lunch FM packs a punch 31 // Backpack match-up

16 // Shoot like a girl

8 // Photo of the issue

Hot or not

That’s what she said

Instagrams of the issue

METRO SPORTS // 30

20 // The 1975 releases album with many hits, few misses

“This is Us” comes off as boring, bad advertisement

the dart | dartnewsonline.com | 20 september 2013

leisure

24 // Multiple girls, multiple moves

community

26 // Three of a grind 27 // Talkin’ bout TED

in the dno

32 // Gallery: Frosh Fest

Blog: Sincerely, Short Stack

Video: Behind the Tag

Blog: Stars Say

dart OUR STAFF

Editors-in-Chief Sara-Jessica Dilks & Natalie Fitts Adviser Eric Thomas

[ COPY ]

Managing Editor Jordan Berardi News Copy Editor Lindsey Valdiviez Features Copy Editor Emma Willibey Opinion Copy Editor Sabrina Redlingshafer Sports Copy Editor Anna Bauman

[ PHOTOGRAPHY ]

Managing Editor Siobhan Miller Print Photo Editor Adrianna Ohmes Web Photo Editor Hannah Bredar Staff Photographers Jessica Culver, Maria Donnelly, Kelly Fletcher, Julia Hammond, Katie Hornbeck, Anna Kropf

[ PRINT ]

Managing Editor Katie Parkinson Page Designers Jordan Berardi, Madeline Best, Cecilia Butler, Christina Elias, Sara-Jessica Dilks, Natalie Fitts, Cassie Florido, Mary Hilliard, Maddie Knopke, Katie Parkinson, Sabrina Redlingshafer, Emily Wemhoff, Emma Willibey Staff Writers Bridget Jones, Victoria Richardson, Jesse Walker-McGraw

[ WEB ]

FROM THE EDITORS

If you have seen any issue of the Dart before, you can already tell it has undergone a major makeover.

When we were selected as co-editors-in-chief at the end of last school year, we knew we wanted to shake things up. During frees, we would go into every open classroom and ask students what they loved or hated about the Dart. At first, we thought about making some minor tweaks to the page count, page size, fonts or content. In the end, we decided to do it all, making the switch from a newspaper to a newsmagazine.

In your hands, you hold the result of five months of brainstorming and creating. At a week-long journalism camp in Indiana, we conceived the new version of the Dart and relentlessly continued to make changes throughout the rest of summer and beginning of this

school year. It took several meetings and late-night texts, countless re-dos and plenty of critiques from our adviser Mr. Thomas, but we finally perfected it.

In between issues, our website DartNewsOnline is your number one source for everything STA. From sports scores to blogs to videos, you’ll find informative and amusing content being updated almost daily. You can also use the website to give us feedback on the new and improved Dart. Just click the “Contact us” button at the top of the homepage and tell us your opinion.

We really hope you think our hard work and the hard work of the entire staff paid off as much as we think it did. If you have any questions at all regarding the Dart, let us know.

—Sara-Jessica Dilks & Natalie Fitts

co-editors-in-chief

I met Macklemore and Ryan Lewis and took a selfie with Macklemore.

HLY MONSTTION t QUEs the highlri?gh

Managing Editor Anna Leach Web Editors e wa What your summ Scheduling | Lauren Langdon of Multimedia | Libby Hyde Scheduling | Hannah Bredar Blogs Editor Gloria Cowdin Standing Features Editor Katherine Green Social Media Manager Mary Michael Hough Briefs/Breaking News Editor Leigh Campbell

Sabrina Redlingshafer

I went to Colorado and relaxed for 10 days.

Gloria Cowdin

I went on a six-day white water rafting trip through the Grand Canyon.

Katie Parkinson

the dart | dartnewsonline.com | 19 september 2013

A worker of Taylor Swift’s gave me and my friends pit tickets at her concert.

Leigh Campbell page designed by Natalie Fitts

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news

dart EDITORIAL POLICY

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loaded lunch | The freshman class eats lunch during Activity 1 in the Commons in the Music and Arts Building Sept. 1. Because of the freshmen’s large class size, lunch is often crowded. photo by KELLY FLETCHER

Student body population reaches desired amount

The class of 2017 is currently the largest in STA history, putting student count at intended size

“We added tables in the cafeteria and we changed who eats when so that a large class is with a small class,” McCormick said. “But we didn’t have to order lockers this year since

by LINDSEY VALDIVIEZ there were enough already in place. We’ve copy editor gone to using the Windmoor Center as four Each year, the STA administration accepts full classrooms, which we had not done in the past. We had to remodel and add Mr. [Robert] a certain number of incoming freshmen.

They make adjustments to the school to keep Tonnies’s room.”

The STA faculty currently has 58 memstudents comfortable. bers. Five of the teachers have classrooms Past Ten years ago, 511 girls went to St. Tere- in the Windmoor Center, whereas last year sa’s Academy. Fourty-three faculty members the Windmoor classrooms were only used intermittently. worked in the three buildings that made the Though the student body has grown, STA campus. The smallest class had 122 girls. When the class of 2014 (current seniors) keeping the faculty proportionate is vital for STA. The administration, were freshmen, Hudnall said, strives 578 girls attended to keep the student to I like the variety we STA and there were teacher ratio at 12:1. have with a little bit 47 faculty mem“Even though we’re bigger population. bers. According to growing, we’re growing all admissions director — Roseann Hudnall across the board,” Hudnall Roseann Hudnall, said. “It’s not like one side the smallest graduatis suffering. We always ing class in her 18 have to look at the student-to-teacher ratio years at STA had 94 girls. and see how many we can handle.”

Present Keeping the amount of students per adviThis year 605 students attend STA. sory at a figure of 18-20 girls is a goal of the Though this is 26 more students than last administration. To fulfill this goal, director of year, STA only needed to make minor alteradmissions Roseann Hudnall says two new ations to the school’s aesthetic accommoadvisories were added. dations. According to principal of academic According to Hudnall, reaching the populaaffairs Barbara McCormick, aside from lunch tables, many of these accommodations were tion STA currently holds has been part of the 2012-2016 Strategic Plan. already in place.

the dart | dartnewsonline.com | 20 september 2013

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Ownership and Sponsorship DartNewsOnline and the Dart are created by the student newspaper staff and are maintained and published by general operating funds of St. Teresa’s Academy, a Catholic institution sponsored by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet. DartNewsOnline and the Dart will not publish opinions that contradict the teachings and beliefs of the Catholic church, whether on a diocesan or worldwide level.

Editorial Policy The staff of DartNewsOnline and the Dart are subject to prior review by the St. Teresa’s Academy administrative team in circumstances that concern student safety and student illegal behavior. DartNewsOnline intends to be a public forum for voices regardless of diverse ages, sexes, races, cultures, religions or beliefs. Thus, all public forums on DartNewsOnline are moderated by the web staff. Insensitive or derogatory comments may be censored.

Personal blogs and columns reflect the opinions of the writer, not necessarily the staff or school.

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Letters to the editor can be sent in the following ways: in person to Eric Thomas in Donnelly room 205; by mail to St. Teresa’s Academy, Attn: Eric Thomas, 5600 Main Street, Kansas City, Mo 64113; by email to ethomas@stteresasacademy.org or to dartpaper@gmail.com. DartNewsOnline staff and the Dart staff reserve the right to edit or shorten letters for publication.

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“[The administration] feels like that’s where we need to be, and we’re happy with that,” Hudnall said. “I like the variety we have with a little bit bigger population. It enhances [a student’s] knowledge when you draw from a bigger population.”

Future Hudnall said that keeping the student body number similar to this year’s will be a big consideration for the administration.

“I’d say 150 would be the most, but I’m not the final say,” Hudnall said. “We have to keep in mind that we’ll lose and gain some students from other grades.”

STA admits an amount of girls higher than what is desired, Hudnall said, since many incoming freshman choose other schools.

“230 applied last year, and the class is at 168 girls,” Hudnall said. “We take a few more than we want because some people change their mind.”

According to McCormick, the school has no plans for any significant increase in population.

“We’re not going to go to 800 or 700 [students],” McCormick said. “We can hold the capacity of that 600 figure.”

McCormick says that an estimated 400 eighth graders will shadow STA this year.

Though there is no limit on the number of students that can inquire about and apply to STA, Hudnall said that the administration ultimately admits the applicants with the most potential.

“As many kids can take the HSPT as want to,” Hudnall said. “We are looking to get the best students.”

According to Hudnall, being more selective has contributed to improving ACT scores and the number of National Merit scholars.

This also helps STA’s title as a college preparatory school.

“It gives us more opportunity for National Merit and higher ACT scores,” Hudnall said.

“When you have the luxury of being more selective, we automatically have more students that can be in the advanced classes. We’re college prep, and we always want to do the best we can with our student population.” H

lunch bunch | A group of freshmen converse as they eat their lunches. This table, as well as many of the others, had to add an extra chair to their table in order to fit everyone. photo by KELLY FLETCHER

by the NUMBERS compiled by SABRINA REDLINGSHAFER opinion copy editor

crowd control | The freshmen sit in the Commons in M&A Sept. 5.

There are barely enough seats. photo by KELLY FLETCHER

The Dart staff compiled information from the administration concerning admissions, students and staff.

94 girls. administration strives to maintain student-to-teacher ratio at 12:1. there are 58 faculty members. there are 605 students this year. 5 teachers have classrooms in the Windmoor Center. there are18-20 girls per advisory. about 230 girls applied last year. an estimated 400 eighth graders will shadow this year. there are168 freshman,158 sophomores,145 juniors and 135 seniors. the smallest graduating class since the 1990s had

Seniors recognized as National Merit Semifinalists

The National Merit Scholarship Corporation honors four students

by LINDSEY VALDIVIEZ news copy editor

The administration formally announced the National Merit Scholar Semifinalists from the class of 2014 last Wednesday. Seniors Abbey Haines, Katie Parkinson and Shelby Hawkins scored high enough on the 2012 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/ NMSQT) to earn this recognition.

According to a release from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation, they honor high school seniors across the country “who show exceptional academic ability and potential for success in rigorous college studies.”

Haines and Parkinson both said they took a class put on by math teacher Jo Weller and English teacher Kelly Fast to study for the PSAT. According to Hawkins and Haines, after receiving their PSAT score reports they weren’t totally confident they had qualified to be Semifinalists until college counselor Debi Hudson notified them.

“Ms. Hudson called me into her office to let me know,” Hawkins said. “But I guess National Merit has some kind of rules that you’re not supposed to publicize or let others know until [Sept.]

11th, so I had to keep it a secret.”

Haines said that though she must apply to receive a finalist status, the scholarship would be rewarding. The application to become a finalist is similar to a college application, with personal essays and a required transcript. “[Being a semifinalist] is pretty exciting because of the opportunities it opens up,” Haines said. “Now there’s more work to do to become a finalist, but hopefully it will pay off.”

According to Haines, the fact that three girls in the class of 2014 are semifinalists attests to STA’s quality of education.

“I’m proud that STA has three and I’m sure tons of other girls had really high scores too,” Haines said. “I think it’s a good representation of our class and STA as a whole.” H page designed by Christina Elias

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news

Teachers required to wear ID badges as precaution

The admisinstration implemented new safety measures, including badges for all STA staff and faculty members

Pep rallies will occur at activity to avoid cutting into class time

by ANNA BAUMAN sports copy editor

by ANNA BAUMAN sports copy editor

This year, the STA administration is requiring all faculty and staff to wear an identification badge stating their name, job title, the year and their school photo. If there were ever an incident on campus, officials could determine which adults are associated with STA and which ones don’t belong on campus. Name tags are also given to visitors.

According to principal of student affairs Mary Anne Hoecker, the decision was a result of the administration’s work with Homeland Security officers and police officers.

“It’s better if we ever had an incident that they could identify adults,” Hoecker said.

“We’ve been moving towards this in the past couple of years.”

History teacher Mike Egner agrees that it is beneficial to the school’s safety, though it may be a slight inconvenience.

“I know its really hard for teachers to remember to wear them because its something new,” Egner said. “I’ve tried wearing mine [on my hip] and then I take it home with me, so I have to remember to bring it back the next day.”

French teacher Alice Amick believes the

Students receive new netbooks for 2013-2014 year This year, the administration provided new technology for sophomores, juniors and seniors

by ANNA BAUMAN sports copy editor

This year all freshmen, juniors, and seniors received new Lenovo ThinkPads to replace the Dell netbooks used in previous years.

Last year, the class of 2016 tested out the Lenovo ThinkPads, which they will keep from last year. With funds available

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New pep rally schedule allows for full class time

badge of honor | French teacher Alice Amick displays her teacher badge as part of new security measures. photo by ADRIANNA OHMES

new rule is a “good idea.”

“A few years ago I might have thought it was excessive, but when you see these incidents on the news it makes you think it really is a good thing,” Amick said. H from the technology budget to purchase new student laptops this year, technology coordinators Jeff Zimmerman and Matt Stewart chose the Lenovo ThinkPads because of the successful trial run they had with them last year.

The Lenovo trial run proved that the new laptops were stronger and had fewer issues than the Dell netbooks. The Lenovo has a significantly larger screen and is faster than the netbooks.

So far, Zimmerman has had fewer technical problems to fix. The most common problems he has dealt with are hard drive failures and printer installations, as well as the normal random hardware issues.

“When you order such a huge shipment, you’re bound to have some failures,” Zimmerman said.

So far students have been pleased with

the dart | dartnewsonline.com | 20 september 2013

The STA administration has moved pep rallies to activity period this school year to decrease the amount of lost class time. The entire school will attend the pep rally first activity and then eat lunch in advisory second activity. Each class will remain 40 minutes like they are on a regular schedule.

Last year pep rallies took place at the end of the day, with a special 35-minute schedule. Teachers proposed an alternative schedule because they were losing class time. The administration understood their desire for a full 40 minutes of class. According to principal of student affairs Mary Anne Hoecker, it was best for teachers.

French teacher Alice Amick agreed.

“There are so many special schedules that any effort to give us a regular school day really helps,” Amick said. “It benefits the students as much as the teachers.”

While some students appreciate full-length classes, others would prefer shorter class times.

“I mean I would like any day to have shorter class periods,” junior Maggie Hutchison said.

Hutchison, a Spirit Club member, believes that moving pep rallies to earlier in the day could affect the pep rallies themselves.

“I think it might take away from the build up of excitement throughout the day,” Hutchison said. H some aspects of the new netbooks and unhappy with others.

“I like the bigger screen but I don’t like the mobility of the mouse,” junior Grace Sly said.

Several other students added that they like the battery life of the new netbooks compared to the previous ones.

“I like how you can see how much [battery] you have left,” junior Allison Bresette said. H

star spotlight

GENEVIÈVE WIEDEMAN

Sophomore Geneviéve Wiedeman is an actress who has been an extra in “The Hunger Games” and starred in short films. Here she describes her favorite things and defining moments. by NATALIE FITTS | co-editor-in-chief

north CAROLINA

“It basically [has] every type of environment and scenery. [There are] mountains, the beach...and the cities.”

tory BURCH

“I like the Plaza a lot. [My favorite store is] Tory Burch.

[My favorite pair of shoes are] my Tory Burch shoes. I love Tory Burch!”

on STA

“The people, for sure [are my favorite thing about STA]. The girls are a lot nicer [than the girls at my boarding school].

And it’s so nice to be able to just wake up and not have to think about what you’re going to wear.”

aspiring ACTRESS

“I first was a dancer. Then I did more musical theater, which turned into more drama, which made me want to do less of the whole singing and dancing and more of true acting.”

mean GIRLS

“What do I not love about it? I love the quotes from [it] that I can use every day.

It’s a fun movie to watch with friends.”

hunger GAMES “[In this scene,] I stand directly right next to Prim [actress Willow Shields] so we chatted a bit.”

pages designed by Christina Elias & Jordan Berardi

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bits & pieces

instagrams

OF THE ISSUE

PHOTO OF THE ISSUE

Each issue, the Dart chooses the best instagrams from STA students. This month’s theme was pets.

Photo by senior Rachel Smith “Headshots by Rachel #hmu” @biglipfool

Chalk it out | The STA Art Fair is an annual chalk drawing competition that happens on the first day of Frosh Fest. Frosh Fest is a week dedicated to introducing the freshmen to the St. Teresa’s sisterhood. photo by Maria Donnelly

or

HOT NOT?

COFFEE

FASHION FASHION

The latest trends and non-trends in pop culture today, as voted on by the Dart staff.

that’s what SHE SAID Here are the most relatable, humorous and original tweets from STA students, chosen by the Dart staff.

Don’t forget to follow @dartnewsonline on Twitter.

HOT NOT

Photo by senior Molly Corless “horsin’ around #dartnewsonline” @mollscorless

“Warm Bodies” World War Z

Forever 21

H&M Photo by senior Meghan DeRuyter “The newest member of the DeRuyter family” @meghanderuyter

The Roasterie

Latté Land

NEXT MONTH’S INSTAGRAM CONTEST THEME:

LAUGHTER

hashtag your photos #dartnewsonline

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the dart | dartnewsonline.com | 20 september 2013

en fran cais

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An im

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features

mersion

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ly it re

Parlez-vous franรงais (Do you speak French?) Senior Emma Mullen spent seven weeks speaking French at an immersion camp this summer.

drawing by Melissa Le graphic by Katie Parkinson pages designed by Mary Hilliard & Katie Parkinson

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features

dance-off | Lac du Bois campers perform a dance for International Day at Waldsee, the German immersion village. During International Day, the different camps came together to share their respective cultures. photo submitted by EMMA MULLEN

Lost in TRANSLATION Senior Emma Mullen shared French phrases and expressions that were used at Lac du Bois Oh zut!

Literal translation: Oh crap!

Meaning: Oh crap!

Avoir un faim de loup

Literal translation: Hungry as a wolf Meaning: I’m starving

J’ai bien manger

Literal translation: I ate well Meaning: I’m stuffed

Revenons à nos moutons

Literal translation: Let’s return to our sheep Meaning: Let’s get back to the topic at hand

Faire le grasse matinée

Literal translation: To make a fat morning Meaning: To sleep in

Coup de foudre

Literal translation: Bolt of lightning Meaning: Love at first sight

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24 hours, 7days a week ofFrench

by KATIE PARKINSON | managing editor of print

Regardless of where you went over the summer, chances are you spoke English.

You spoke English when you hung out with your friends, when you checked out at the store and when you visited with family.

For seven weeks out of her summer, senior Emma Mullen did not speak English. She spoke French.

Mullen was a junior camp counselor at the immersion camp Lac du Bois in Bemidji, Minn. Lac du Bois is part of Concordia Language Villages, an organization that helps promote “understanding and appreciation of cultural diversity” as well as “communication with confidence and cultural sensitivity in more than one language,” according to their website’s mission statement. “[Lac du Bois] is trying to create a village,” Mullen said. “The campers come with fake passports and they ‘cross the border’ into a new country, and so we refer to them as the ‘villagers.’”

After “crossing the border,” villagers picked a French name and gave up their American materials such as books, magazines and cell phones.

“I think that total immersion really gets the kids interested in the language, and

the dart | dartnewsonline.com | 20 september 2013

that’s what they work on all the time,” Mullen said.

Every day, villagers experienced these core components: 1. Meals Before going into breakfast, villagers posed a question to the camp dean in order to enter the dining hall. These questions ranged from “What’s your favorite color?” to “If you were stranded on an island with a parrot and a cow, what would you do?”

“Whenever [they] would ask a question, the kids would always say, ‘How do you say this?’ ‘How do you say that?’ in French,” Mullen said.

After gaining admission, breakfast usually included fruit, a popular French cereal made of oats, nuts and corn-flakes called muesli and a freshly-baked basket of bread with butter and jelly.

Dishes for lunch and dinner were made from scratch and came from various francophone countries such as Senegal, the Ivory Coast and Belgium.

“Food’s just a really important factor in French culture,” Mullen said.

2. Super Français In order to motivate villagers to speak French as often as possible, a daily

Lac du Bois Daily Schedule 8 a.m. — Mettre les tables — Set the tables 8:15 a.m. — Questions pour entrer — Questions to enter breakfast 8:30 a.m. — Petit déjeuner — Breakfast 9:15 a.m. — Nettoyage — Cleaning 9:45 a.m. — Explorations/Cours 1 — Explorations/Class 1 11 a.m. — Pause fruits — Snack time 11:15 a.m. — Passe-temps culturels 1 — Cultural activity 1 12:20 p.m. — Déjeuner — Lunch 1:30 p.m. — Sieste — Nap time 2:30 p.m. — Temps libre — Free time 3:45 p.m. — Activitée en pavillion — Cabin activities 4:35 p.m. — Passe-temps culturels 2 — Cultural activity 2 5:20 p.m. — Stage/Cours 2 — Internship/Class 2 6:20 p.m. — Présentation du repas — Meal presentation 6:30 p.m. — Diner — Dinner 7:15 p.m. — Poste du Lac du Bois — Mail delivery 7:45 p.m. — Plaisirs d’a mour — Soap opera 8 p.m. — Veillée — Evening progra m 8:45 p.m. — Feu de ca mp — Ca mpfire 10 p.m. — Lu mieres éteintes — Lights out

challenge called Super Français was offered Participants’ goal was to speak the target language the whole day. If he or she succeeded, a “cool” star bead was put on his or her name-tag. “[Participants] want to do it because they want the bead, but they don’t realize that by doing it they’re really getting the whole experience, and they’re really learning much more than they would had they spoken English,” Mullen said.

3. Family Time A time for counselors to get to know all the villagers, family time could be difficult because of the language barrier.

“I spent 15 minutes trying to explain to one girl [the game] two truths and a lie,” Mullen said. “We went back and forth trying to help her understand what was going on...and once she did, it was like, round of applause all over.”

According to French teacher Alice Amick, this kind of requirement to stay in the target language rather than seek English explanations helps people “get over the butterflies of using a new language and increase fluency within a short time.”

4. Soap Operas At the end of the day, counselors performed 15-minute “soap operas” for the villagers. Each night brought a different

episode, and the acting helped further villagers’ understanding of the language.

Activities like the soap operas exposed villagers to a constant stream of French culture and language.

“You definitely saw the kids be more open to learning the language, and they weren’t nearly as nervous about speaking it as they were when they arrived,” Mullen said.

According to sophomore Eileen Kerrigan, who attended the camp before coming to STA, Lac du Bois provided her with a better understanding of French, although it had been difficult to speak French 24/7.

“Some [villagers] come in totally fluent and others come in not having spoken a word,” Mullen said. “Trying to figure out how to work between the two is difficult, but it works. Everyone is there to help each other out.”

While an immersion camp might be a big adjustment, Mullen said she would recommend it because it’s really “where you learn the language.”

According to Amick, immersion camps are an excellent learning tool.

“I think [immersion camps] give students a wonderful opportunity to learn a language,” Amick said. H

A+ effort | Senior Emma Mullen poses with a villager during “mysterious counselor.”

Counselors gave small prizes to villagers they thought had made an effort to learn French that day. photo submitted by EMMA MULLEN

hot off the stove | The kitchen staff receives applause after a lunch. Campers typically stood up and sang after particularly good meals. photo submitted by EMMA MULLEN page designed Katie Parkinson page designed by by Katie Parkinson

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features

behind THE TAG

Local high school student illegally graffitis public property in secrecy

by SARA-JESSICA DILKS | co-editor-in-chief

Disclaimer: The source for this story is a senior at an area private high school who wished to remain anonymous because of his illegal activity and instead will be identified by his spray-painter alter ego name, “Scuba Steve,” a reference to the film “Big Daddy.”

T

here it was: a relatively low green highway sign above a secluded exit road near Interstate 35, one that was already defaced by black, scrawled letters that someone else had made. Scuba Steve spied his perfect target; a prime place to, in his words, “make history,” and a way for him to fulfill his wish of being “unnoticed for noticed art.”

He ordered for the car he was riding in to stop immediately in the isolated darkness.

The driver pulled hesitantly into the median,

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and Scuba Steve bolted instantly to the side of the highway, which bordered a densely wooded area. He was ready with a can of purple spray paint and a handmade stencil in hand; his signature scuba mask was suctioned to his face, a cheap disguise to protect his identity.

Those still in the car first shouted for him to return, but they soon just watched in awe as he vanished into the darkness, just barely visible as he managed to scale the 20-foot overhead sign, shaking slightly as he climbed it like a jungle gym.

When he returned to the car a few minutes later, he breathlessly explained how he had completed his mission to tag the sign; he had branded its front with his signature stencil that he had created during art class and free time. Scuba Steve described a

the dart | dartnewsonline.com | 20 september 2013

feeling of utter “liberation”—an adrenaline rush that the his friend , the driver, said most people cannot experience everyday.

“Yeah it was scary, my heart was beating,” Scuba Steve said right after, eyes still wide with excitement. “That was so worth the thrill. Yeah man, and I snapped a pic of it up there.”

“Dude, don’t put that on Instagram,” the driver replied, smiling still with disbelief.

The scrawled, splattered work of graffiti writers on public and private property can be seen throughout Kansas City—on street signs, bridges, light poles, walls, sidewalks, garages and dumpsters. Yet, the creators are not nearly as visible as the residue itself that covers so many surfaces in this city.

“The best part [of graffiting] is knowing that no one knows it’s you,” Scuba Steve said.

property. For them, it’s just a different Most graffiti artists and writers participate in secrecy because their work is illegal, canvas.”

Scuba Steve’s initial canvas for spray for graffiti vandalism is a misdemeanor and in more severe cases is considered a felony, painting was in “Graffiti Hall,” a secluded according to Kansas City Police Department tunnel in Prairie Village that over the years Is graffiti an art form or a crime? The Dart detective Alec Lepper. Lepper also said that has been covered with amateur graffiti. gathered these fast facts to help you decide.

According to Scuba Steve, Graffiti Hall is one graffiti on public property, which is known as a city misdemeanor, carries up to a $500 of the most “basic places” to spray paint; he considers it to be a vandalism destination fine and a maximum of six months in jail.

Graffiti is the most for beginners. His wishes to go beyond the “The bottom line from being a police co mmon type of propbasic led him to vandalize other, more public officer, is that if you’re writing on property ert y vandalism. parts of the metropolitan area. without permission, that’s not artwork,” “I’ll do it anywhere,” Scuba Steve said.

Lepper said. “For the [property owners] who “Like if I make a mark, then I got it, dude.” bear the brunt of it, it’s detrimental to their Alan Lankford, father of STA senior business and property.”

Paige Lankford, has dealt with graffiti as According to Lepper, those seeking the a the owner of Lankford + Associates adrenaline rush from doing graffiti can in downtown Kansas City’s Crossroads cause serious issues for the Kansas City District. His office building and event space Police Department. have collectively been graffitied about five “It hurts the response time...it’s gonna types of re several a re e h T ng, hate times. Each time, the take that officer off cluding, ga in , ti ffi ra g clean-up costs between the streets for an hour, c.

The best part [of $350 and $600. While two hours, to [deal with and generi graffiting] is knowLankford accepts that the graffiti]...when they ing that no one vandalism is just “part could be responding to knows it’s you. of the life of owning a more important crimes,” Crossroads business,” Lepper said. “Would — Scuba Steve he also disagrees with you want [an officer] to the messages that respond to a shooting, Appro xi or to someone who’s upset about their prop- graffitists produce for the community. of gra mately 15% ffiti va “Art has a meaning and purpose, but erty being [tagged or graffitied]?” nd young The driver of the car, a local high school graffiti is unmeaningful,” Lankford said. “Tags femal als are es. and graffiti just give people a negative feelsenior as well, wished to remain anonymous due to his involvement with the illegal ing about the area...it can make your building activity; he concealed his identity behind the [seem] unprofessional.”

This past July, Kansas City began an efwheel by wearing a horror film-style white fort to combat and prevent the same type of grimacing mask. He mainly acted as an assistant while Scuba Steve independently graffiti that Scuba Steve tags and that LankThere are four ford cleans up. The Oak Park Neighborhood tagged surfaces in parts of downtown primary motivating fact Kansas City—including underneath a bridge, Association was one of several neighborors for graffiti vandalism: fam in a parking lot bordering railroad tracks, on hood groups that Kansas City provided with e, rebellion, free power washers and cleaning materials, street signs and on the sides of buildings. self-expression and power. according to the Kansas City Star’s article According to the driver, the act of graffiti is “Tired of Graffiti?” just an opportunity for young people espeBut when it comes to Scuba Steve, it cially to express themselves in a unique and appears his main concern is his work. thrilling way.

“My Scuba Steve stencil looks good, and “It’s important to remember the act itself [of spray paint art] isn’t vandalism,” the driver that’s all I know,” Scuba Steve said. “You just compiled by Emily Wemhoff have to think of it like, ‘Why not?’” H said. “It only is once it’s on public or private

writing ON THE WALL

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“

source: graffitihurts.org

mask-erade | The driver, also a local high schooler, concealed his identity with a mask. photos by MARIA DONNELLY

diving deep | Scuba Steve created his own stencil to be identified for his art around the KC area.

on a mission | Scuba Steve graffitied walls, signs and other public property of the downtown KC area. page designed Emily Wemhoff pagebydesigned

by Emily Wemhoff

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A&E

Netflix revolutionizes primetime with 14 Emmy nominations Internet-streaming company became the first of its kind to be recognized in TV categories.

gra

Casting for a Drama Series” and “Outstanding Cinematography for a Single Camera Series for a Drama” at the Primetime Creative

by TORIE RICHARDSON | staff writer Arts Emmy Awards Sunday, Mashable wrote. Primetime Since an adjustment of eligibility rules in 2008, televi- nominations include “House sion-streaming service Netflix of Cards,” “Arrested Develophas been the first Internet-dis- ment” and “Hemlock Grove.”

Though some shows never tributed network to aired on televireceive awards sion, viewers in top Emmy had the chance Award categoto stream shows ries, according over the Internet. to USA Today.

“Emmy voters Netflix’s recognized that “House of Cards” great television is scored “Outstanding great television, and they didn’t pay attention to how it got there,” Ted Sarandos, Netflix’s chief content officer, said in USA Today’s article. “[The awards announcement] really validates Internet television as a viable form of the highest-quality entertainment.”

Many critics compare Netflix to HBO, which made its own history years ago by popularizing the concept of premium programming and recently received 108 Emmy nominations, according to the Los Angeles Times.

But Netflix is more than “the new HBO,” technology analyst Tim Bajarin said. “[HBO and others] all understand that delivering content on-demand to any c phi

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E by

AW

BEY

I ILL

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the dart | dartnewsonline.com | 20 september 2013

device is the future,” Bajarin said in a Time article. “But Netflix’s leadership position at this time in history cannot be underestimated...Netflix has to be perceived as a direct threat to cable companies’ current position as the primary providers of TV and video content.”

Netflix’s production of shows might just change our future, according to Bajarin.

“This nod from Hollywood allows Netflix to play with the big guns in the cable world and, more importantly, cements its position as the industry leader in providing OTA (over the air) services that will eventually change the way most of us receive our TV and video content in the future,” Bajarin said.

Netflix is set apart from regular television and other services in that for $8 a month, subscribers can skip the commercials.

“I don’t sell advertising,” Sarandos told the New York Times Daily News. “I’m not jockeying for a position with cable operators.”

This means that viewers can stream original Netflix shows like “House of Cards,” a political thriller that received half of Netflix’s nominations, without interruptions. The accessibility of “House of Cards” draws viewers like sophomore Kelsi DeStefano. “[‘House of Cards’] was interesting, but also a lot about politics and...dark political

spacey out | “House of Cards,” a Netflix original starring Kevin Spacey, was released Feb. 1. The political thriller received nine of Netflix’s 14 Emmy nominations. photo courtesy of MCT CAMPUS

secrets,” DeStefano said.

After watching a couple of episodes, DeStefano said that Netflix deserved its nods.

“All the actors were really good and the story was different, but it was also told really well,” DeStefano said.

“House of Cards” is Netflix’s most-viewed series, according to the Daily News, but Netflix will not reveal the series’ number of viewers. “[Netflix] won’t have any data to share,” a spokesman told the Daily News. “We’re happy with the great reception the show has had, both in the traditional media and on social media, as well as the many great reviews our members have written on Netflix.com.”

Whether it receives a Primetime Emmy, Netflix’s Creative Arts honors confirm its TV influence. Watch out for Netflix at the 2013 Emmys Sept. 22. H

RATINGS THREATEN 96.5 FM Talk show host starts “Save Reardon have attended these concerts. the Buzz” campaign to keep “[96.5 the Buzz] gets alternative station on air. really good bands for different

shows,” Burnette said. “All of the different bands would play similar-ish music that goes Waking up on school days, together. They’re so good at sophomore Maggie Hodes their headliners and getting does her normal routine: good bands to come.” brushes her teeth, washes However, talk show host her face, puts on her uniform, Lazlo launched the “Save gets in her carpool’s car and the Buzz” campaign for the turns on KRBZ FM 96.5 (“96.5 second time since the radio the Buzz”). Hodes listens to station was created in an the alternative music and talk attempt to bring up ratings so shows in the morning to start that the station will not be tak- clap it up | Los Angeles, Calif. band Grouplove performs at a concert her day. However, with the for 96.5 the Buzz. Junior Basil Burnette said she has spent over en off the air. Multiple phone station’s existence threatened, calls to the station requesting $1,000 on concerts alone since the beginning of her freshman year.

Hodes is unsure how she will photo by BASIL BURNETTE comment on their financial adjust. situation Kansas City, Reardon hopes it success, “I listen to 96.5 every time from the does not close.

Lazlo I get in the car,” Hodes said.

The Buzz is the only Dart went “Mix 93.3 and 95.7 are all, started “I honestly don’t know what station that plays cool unanlike, the pop hits, but on 96.5 the same I’d do if [96.5 the Buzz] went alternative music, so I’m swered. the Buzz, all this new good camoff the air. The Buzz is the not sure what I’d listen After stuff that’s not necessarily, paign only station that plays cool to without it. disconlike, pop culture-y is played,” this year. alternative music so I’m — Maggie Hodes, sophomore tinuing alReardon said.

As not sure what I’d listen to ternative According to Radio Online, well as without it.” music 96.5 the Buzz is currently play96.5 the Buzz is known for in 1999 to instead play more ranked 12 out of 22 Kansas ing a variety of music, the promoting new bands such popular music, 96.5 the Buzz City stations. The ratings station “plays more local-type as Cage the Elephant, accorddecided to change back to have decreased throughout alternative bands,” Keller said. ing to junior Basil Burnette. its roots in 2003, according the year, wrote KC ConfiThrough “Homegrown Buzz,” Concerts featuring bands to a KC Confidential article. dential. Yet only commera playlist on Sundays from 8 like the Lumineers and Of However, the station owner, cials and occasional on-air to 9 p.m. where 96.5 the Buzz Monsters and Men raise Entercom, had to decide discussions mention Save plays local bands, you can money for 96.5 the Buzz. between canceling 96.5 the the Buzz, leaving listeners see which artists are in your Some concerts include Buzz or a jazz station that unsure whether the station is area, Burnette said.

“Buzz Under the Stars”; “Buzz same year to make room for endangered.

“96.5 the Buzz does a good Beach Ball,” which Phoenix a sports station.

“I think [“Save the Buzz”] is job of keeping their station headlines next Friday and Lazlo launched “Save the a marketing gimmick,” Burreally original and diverse and individual concerts for bands Buzz for the first time, which nette said. “I think [the station unique,” Keller said. such as MGMT. Students like raised ratings to redeem the is] just doing this as someWith 96.5 the Buzz being Burnette, sophomore Gabby station. In the hopes of similar the only alternative station in thing funny.”

Keller and senior Giggy Students like Burnette think “Save the Buzz” is a hoax, while listeners such as Reardon believe it. With fans of the station continuing to listen and attend concerts in support, there is no say of whether 96.5 the Buzz will on-air guitar | Popular band Two Door Cinema Club performs for listeners. Junior Basil Burnette said she was introduced to 96.5 the Buzz by her mother, Diane Burnette. photo by BASIL BURNETTE leave the air. H

by KATHERINE GREEN standing features editor

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page designed by Emma Willibey

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cover story

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1 the dart | dartnewsonline.com | 20 september 2013

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shoot like a

GIRL The Dart explores how STA students use guns for sport and entertainment, as well the recent proposed gun control law in Missouri

by CHRISTINA ELIAS | news editor and JORDAN BERARDI | managing editor of copy

1. Security guard Dana Peterson shoots at

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Crossfire Shooting range in Independence. photo by ADRIANNA OHMES 2. A Ruger LC9 Raspberry pistol at She’s A Pistol, LLC, a female-owned gun store in Shawnee. photo by ADRIANNA OHMES 3. Missouri Governor Jay Nixon speaks in 2011. photo courtesy of MCT Campus.

4. Stainless steel waterbottles sold at She’s a Pistol, LLC, which specializes “in providing a comfortable, non-gender-centric environment to learn self-defense techniques. photo by ADRIANNA OHMES 5. STA senior Natalie Rall went hunting with friends in Great Bend, Kan. photo by ADRIANNA OHMES page designed by Sara-Jessica Dilks

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she’s a PISTOL

cover story

As female gun ownership climbs, gun laws are debated. The Dart investigates these new trends and laws, both on the local scale and within the STA student community. by CHRISTINA ELIAS | news editor

A

female-owned gun shop in Shawnee, She’s a Pistol, LLC, targets a largely female audience. Their website advertises their specialty “providing a comfortable, non-gender-centric environment to learn self-defense techniques.”

Co-owner Becky Biecker said although the store focuses primarily on empowering and providing protection for women, they attract a male clinetele as well.

Biecker said they can schedule self defense just for women, but anyone is allowed.

Most women, according to Biecker, want their boyfriend or husband to accompany them for various reasons.

“Just like you have to learn to take care of yourself as you grow up and gain new responsibilities, you have to learn to protect yourself,” Biecker said.

“Life events very quickly show you that people can’t always be there to protect you, and over time you have to learn to do that by yourself,” Biecker said. “We saw that in the market most of the shops were catered towards male customers . . . so we sought to change that.”

The New York Times reported earlier this year “a growing number of women are learning to use firearms.” In an article by Erica Goode, 73 percent of gun dealers reported an increase in female customers in 2011, according to a survey by the National Shooting Sports Foundation. The article also stated “women’s participation in shooting sports has surged over the last decade.”

Biecker said there are a number of reasons why a women might want a gun.

“Maybe a spouse had passed away, or maybe they’re going through a divorce,” she said. “Maybe they just live alone and something has happened to them that made them

gunned down:

THE FACTS

The Dart asked 80 students about their experiences and beliefs regarding women and guns.

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locked and loaded | Security guard Dana Peterson shoots a target at Crossfire Recreational Center, LLC in Independence Sept. 11. Between 25 and 50 percent of their customers are women. photo by ADRIANNA OHMES

more nervous. Sometimes it’s a news article, sometimes a personal event. Something happened. Some event triggered the reaction for them to want to be safer.”

The Missouri State Senate failed to override Governor Jay Nixon’s veto of House Bill No. 436 Sept. 11. The bill would have nullified any and all federal gun law authority in Missouri.

HB 436 would have established the Second Amendment Preservation Act, a measure stating state law enforcement officers would have the right to arrest federal agents enforcing national gun laws.

According to CNN, “Lawmakers had ar-

Have you ever shot a gun?

gued that what they were proposing was not only constitutional but essential to protect the rights of gun owners.” The news network also wrote the bill “would have made it a criminal offense to enforce background checks or to publish the name and address of a gun owner in the state.”

According to The New York Times, “Mr. [Jay] Nixon said the federal government’s supremacy over the states’ ‘is as logically sound as it is legally well established.’”

The Kansas City Star writer Yael T. Abouhalkah decries the bill in his opinion piece, “Missouri’s illegal pro-gun law gets bipartisan love,” as “inane” and “pettily absurd..” H

Should gun control laws be stricter?

YES

40% YES 60% NO

Are guns more masculine, feminine or neither?

0% FEMININE

NO

52% MASCULINE

NOT SURE

38% NEITHER

compiled by LAUREN LANGDON | web editor the dart | dartnewsonline.com | 20 september 2013

NATALIE RALL: GONE HUNTIN’

target typically thrown in the air to practice targeting a shot.

Senior Natalie Rall and her best friend “She finally hit the clay pigeon and her of eight years, Notre Dame de Sion High face immediately lit up,” Keenan said.

School senior Maggie Keenan, departed Rall admits that after hitting her target, from Kansas City Aug. 30 at 3 p.m., their she liked shooting. However, she believes destination Great Bend, Kan., population the pure danger of guns is the most 16,000. It was in this town, on Rattlesnake “nerve-wracking” part of shooting.

Ranch, an 800-acre ranch which Keenan’s “It’s scary, but I think everyone should family owns, that Rall shot a gun for the try it as long as they’re safe about it,” Rall first time. said. “I mean, you might as well try it out.”

“I was a nervous wreck,” Rall said. “But I Aside from the fact that she enjoyed it, tried to suck it up.”

Rall believes hunting and shooting guns is Keenan recalls her father, who was “not really a girly thing to do.” teaching Rall the proper way to shoot, “Honestly, it’s kind of gross,” Rall said. picking up on her nervousness.

Three days and several shots later, Rall “My dad … kept saying ‘You know, headed back to the Kansas City metropoliNatalie, you don’t have to do this,’” Keenan tan area, population 2.3 million. said.

“We’re already joking about going back After “sucking it up,” Rall was successfor goose hunting,” Rall said. ful in shooting a clay pigeon, which is a

by JORDAN BERARDI | managing editor of copy

on the hunt | STA senior Natalie Rall, left and Notre Dame de Sion senior Maggie Keenan hunted at Keenan’s family’s ranch in Great Bend, Kan. photo by ADRIANNA OHMES

BETH MITCHELL: HIT ME WITH YOUR BEST SHOT

by JORDAN BERARDI | managing editor of copy

her first time shooting.

Mitchell and her boyfriend, Rockhurst “I wanted to do it, but you’re scared High School senior Austin Brown, prefer adventure over the “dinner and a movie” date. because you realize what you could do with that thing,” Mitchell said.

“Oh, we’ve been dating for about a The consequences of one thing going year and four months, now, I’d say,” senior Beth Mitchell said with a smile. “But we’ve wrong led to Mitchell’s uneasiness.

“I was thinking, only been to the ‘I have this responshooting range sibility in my hand two or three times, and if I were to shoot maybe.” someone, I would Shooting range? never forgive my“The first time I — senior Beth Mitchell self,’” Mitchell said. went to the range Though Mitchell [with Brown] my dad drove me and stayed for a little while,” said she knows the responsibility when she holds a gun in her hands, she believes the Mitchell said of the date. “[My dad] helped lack of responsibility in others is what leads me load and reload the gun and practice to gun violence. my aim.”

“A gun is just a tool,” Mitchell said. “The Regardless of her father’s help in addiperson behind the gun is what can be tion to Brown’s, Mitchell was still nervous

“

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“For a beginner I’d say I was pretty successful.”

SABRINA SALERNO: RANGE ROVER

by JORDAN BERARDI | managing editor of copy

The first time she shot a gun, she thought it would be a magical moment and she would finally be able to call herself a country girl.

But when she walked into Centerfire Shooting Range, the magical moment was far off.

“My confidence level slowly starts decreasing,” senior Sabrina Salerno said. “I saw more people sending the target on a rotating

rope and they looked like they meant business. So I put on my big-girl face as if I was born doing this.”

Salerno’s dad helped her load the first shot and put on the ear mufflers and the safety glasses. After sending the target out, Salerno’s nerves were heightened.

“I pulled the trigger, it jolted and I nearly peed my pants,” Salerno said.

After the bullet was released and the kickback had scraped skin off her hand,

dangerous.

Despite the stress of the situation, Mitchell was successful in hitting the clay pigeons.

“For a beginner I’d say I was pretty successful,” Mitchell said. “I probably hit four out of 10 [clay pigeons].”

Mitchell’s boyfriend, Brown, said he enjoys shooting with Mitchell because it “brings out her competitive side.”

“A bit of friendly competition can really make the sport more interesting,” Brown said.

Although Mitchell enjoys shooting, she said does not think she would go shooting without Brown.

“It’s more fun with him,” Mitchell said.

“I have never really had the feeling that I needed to go shooting, but when I have the opportunity to go with him, I’ll go.”

Salerno set the gun down and proclaimed that shooting was not for her. But after watching her mom shoot a few rounds, Salerno felt determined.

“I went for it once more,” Salerno said.

“I was surprised that I didn’t rip more skin off, but my target was better aimed. I was proud.”

Overall, Salerno enjoyed the experience.

“It reminded me that girls can do anything guys can do,” Salerno said. page designed by Sara-Jessica Dilks

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reviews The 1975 releases album with many hits, few misses

by Natalie Fitts | co-editor-in-chief

More than 10 years after becoming a band, The 1975 released their self-titled debut album Sept. 3. The British alternative rock group’s first EP to debut in the United States came in May of this year. They had previously released three EPs internationally throughout 2012 and 2013. The band is currently touring in the UK, but are planning to come to the US in October and November, including a stop in Kansas City Oct. 17 as part of 96.5 the Buzz’s Halloweenie Roast. The following is a review of some of the tracksThe 1975’s self-titled, 16 song debut album. The rest can be found on DartNewsOnline.

“The 1975”: One of the only things I dislike about this album is how it opens. This mediocre “introduction” song, though not nearly as painful, is reminiscent of the clips 90s pop stars such as Aaron Carter would put at the beginning of their albums, welcoming fans to their CD. The space this song takes up definitely could have been occupied by better music, which listeners know the band can create based on the rest of the album.

“M.O.N.E.Y.”: This song introduces listeners to The 1975’s more electronic-inspired side, which they use throughout the rest of the album. Like many of the band’s songs, the lyrics tell a story. This song’s story is of a man’s struggle with drugs. The lyrics definitely match the somber sound of the song.

“Chocolate”: While this song has been

playing on alternative stations since early spring, pop stations are starting to pick it up. It is easy to see why as the song has the perfect mix of indie and pop that listeners have been so enamored with lately. The meaning of the song is up in the air, but the beat is so fun, it hardly matters what the lyrics are saying.

“Sex”: It’s clear from the title of this song that it cannot be defined as “appropriate” or “family friendly.” Once you accept that though, it’s easy to see “Sex” is one of the best songs on the entire album, both lyrically and musically. The lyrics are clever, while the beat manages to be fun and intense simultaneously. It’s no wonder the band used it as the first single from this album.

“Talk!”: When reading over the lyrics, I had to look up some words in the dictionary.

This just exemplifies how much thought and energy goes into the lyrics of each song from this band. Overalll, the song is relatively simple, allowing lead singer Matthew Healy to show off his unique vocals.

“Girls”: The band will release this as their

photo courtesy of the1975.com

next single in October. From the first beat, it feels like an ‘80s song you can dance to. It wouldn’t be surprising if this song was played on both alternative and pop stations, much like “Chocolate” has been.

“She Way Out”: This song features more prominent guitar than nearly any other song on the album. The lyrics also draw on some of the band’s favorite topics--girls, messed-up relationships and drugs. Overall, it isn’t a bad song, but certainly doesn’t shine on an album full of star songs.

Overall, The 1975’s debut album appeals to several different tastes in music and can be played on a variety of stations, from alternative to pop to rock. This versatility will allow them to draw a huge fanbase and therefore dominate the charts in the coming months. H

‘This is Us’ comes off as boring, bad advertisement

by Emily Wemhoff | page editor

I came into “One Direction: This is Us” with a clear, non-hating mind. I was pretty neutral about the European boy band.

I didn’t adore their music, but I didn’t hate it. I wasn’t a superfan by any means, but I thought they had some catchy songs.

I walked out of the movie and made the decision to never listen to them again. Yes, that’s right ladies, I’ve come to the conclusion One Direction is a money-sucking, fake piece of our culture.

This 3D movie opened with introductions to each of the boys: Liam, Niall, Zayn, Harry and Louis. The theater that I was in was screaming and ba-

20

sically slowly dying out of love for each of them. Meanwhile I sat in the back attempting to dismiss their antics.

Then we were blessed with a bunch of flashy concert clips of the group (lip)singing their hits; about 10,000 reaction shots too many of girls crying; and footage of the boys running around on tour buses and sharing their “innermost” thoughts.

But these parts weren’t even real. The answers felt like the most choreographed part of the whole movie. No one is that happy all the time. No boy has his shirt off 99 percent of their waking hours. And I don’t think 20-year-olds play hide and seek.

Maybe that’s just me?

the dart | dartnewsonline.com | 20 september 2013

Everyone went into the theater expecting it to be a fun concert movie with a behind-the-scenes look into the pop stars’ lives. Instead it quickly turned into a gimmick that was merely there for the money. We didn’t get to see any disagreements, any partying, any girlfriends. The clips of the boys that we did see showed them as fun-loving, carefree and always smiling. That may be entertainment, but it’s not reality and it’s not interesting.

I don’t blame four of the five boys for the terrible movie that

was created about them, but I guess I blame Harry Styles a little. He’s just not a nice guy. The whole movie he comes across as stuck-up and better than everyone else in the band.

“One Direction: This is Us” just didn’t even go anywhere near the 2011 concert movie “Justin Bieber: Never Say Never.”

That’s not saying much.

I took off my 3D glasses about an hour in because I didn’t care anymore. I tried to fall asleep. I walked out 30 minutes before it ended. Best decision I ever made. H

editorial

editorial cartoon by MARY GRACE MASCHLER

Gun rights are not worth children’s lives

The staff editorial reflects the views of the Dart editorial board.

Ana Marquez-Greene, 6 years old.

Daniel Barden, 7 years old. Emilie Parker, 6 years old.

Last year, 20 children, barely more than babies, were shot and killed at Sandy Hook Elementary School.

Dylan Hockley, 6 years old. Chase Kowalski, 7 years old. Catherine Hubbard, 6 years old.

All these names were people once.

They had entire lives, living and laughing and loving. But one person with three guns changed that. And much of the country says there should be no gun control laws. Since these babies’ lives were cut short, new gun control laws have been implemented. But according to USA Today, some laws have relaxed restrictions. Unless stricter gun laws are put in place quickly, more children will die.

Olivia Engel, 7 years old. Josephine Gay, 7 years old. Jesse Lewis, 6 years old. Charlotte Bacon, 6 years old.

One argument against gun control is people must have a way to fight

right on TARGET Each issue, the Dart asks three people their views on the main editorial.

against the government if it becomes a dictatorship. But even the people who have guns could not stand against an army. People say they need guns for hunting, but why do they need semi-automatic rifles? If people collect guns, that’s fine. But they should be modified so they can’t fire. If they want to go to a shooting range, fine. But keep the guns at the shooting range. What legal use

[

6 of 7 editors voted in support of this editorial.

]

would you have for them anywhere else?

Benjamin ­Wheeler, 6 years old. Allison Wyatt, 6 years old. Avielle ­Richman, 6 years old.

The Second Amendment to the Constitution is famously helpful to the anti-gun control movement. It involves the people’s right to “keep and bear

arms.” The Constitution is vital to American freedom. It enables us to speak our minds and gather peacefully. But the Second Amendment was added in 1791. At that time, people needed to hunt for food. They needed guns while expanding west. But not every law from the past has been kept. Slavery has been outlawed. Divorce is now legal. Times change. Do we need guns now?

Jessica Rekos, 6 years old. Caroline Previdi, 6 years old. Noah Pozner, 6 years old. Jack Pinto, 6 years old.

The pictures of the dead children stare out. They look so happy. There is currently no way to stop a tragedy like the Newtown shooting. Is the ability to hunt or go to a firing range more important than the lives of innocent first graders? Is anything? The Sandy Hook victims are all frozen now, smiling out from their pictures. They will never grow up.

Grace McDonnell, 7 years old.

James Mattioli, 6 years old. Madeleine Hsu, 6 years old. H

Who should be allowed to own guns?

art teacher Lisa Dibble

Police or service people, people in the military. And if you’re going to hunt and kill animals and watch them die a slow death, then hunters.

I think professionals that know how to use them and only them have a necessity for guns. junior Lily O’Neill

The man of the house should have the licence to get the gun and have it in their house as a form of protection. sophomore Laura Dierks

page designed by Sabrina Redlingshafer

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perspectives

s s a l c n i e k a w a g n i y a t S

S E I M M U D FOR

ert during school

re are tips to being al

her, he rived student to anot From one sleep-dep

by SABRINA REDLINGSHAFER opinion editor

Tell me if you have found yourself in a similar situation.

Seven minutes into your period 7 class, your teacher turns off the lights, flicks on the projector and fires up a...wait for it: Powerpoint presentation!

You best pull out your note-taking materials and you better be paying attention: god forbid your teacher calls on you.

Then it hits you. Your previous night of (not so much) sleep is coming back to bite you. You try to continue paying attention to the

SMART Board, but struggle. How bright is that brightness? Those dimmed lights in the classroom are definitely not helping.

Your eyes suddenly droop. Your neck starts to strain. Then you cannot help but to half-eyed stare into to the now-fog/haze of the projector.

You make the heavily avoided eye contact with your teacher, the exact eyes you have been avoiding.

Aaaaand shoot. Am I going to be caught? Does he/she hate me now? Will I be receiving an SBR? Am I even a good student? Should I just pack up my bags and clean out my locker now? How am I going to tell my parents?

But all this thinking just lulls you into a daydream. Then your eyes suddenly give up and lose the fight.

Game over. You are out.

Eyes open, you are back again.

“Oh my gosh how long was that?”

Looks at clock: 19 seconds. 23 minutes left in class. No. No No. No. NO. So here is my formal apology to any teacher I have ever looked and/ or will look in the eyes while dozing off in their class.

I am really very sorry, teachers.

It is not that your class is boring or does not stimulate my brain. On a good day with a substantial previous night’s sleep, it does. But the going gets tough for a student in a five-day, eight-hour school day with extracurricular activities piled in.

I am sorry that I am now pondering frivolous thoughts. I am sorry that I am counting down the minutes until I can get up from my desk. Lastly, I am sorry that I made eye contact with you when I was dozing off.

Please find it in your heart to forgive me, for I know you were once a student too. H

three steps to staying awake Sit in the front

Sitting closer to your teacher will help sustain attention. Students are less likely to fall asleep when they are closer to the main source of volume and activity.

22

Stay hydrated

the dart | dartnewsonline.com | 20 september 2013

Cold water or caffeinated drinks help students stay alert. Just remember to have caffiene in steady intakes so you do not crash later.

Get up

Take a break from notes and excuse yourself from class to use the restroom or get a drink of water.

This will trigger your muscles to wake up.

Tragedy? Yes. Your tragedy? No. Human life bids inevitable tragedies that stimulate empathy for victims.

However, as media has canopied 21st-century American lives, the true connection to tragedy has skewed. Essentially every person who hears of tragedy, whether through news TV or social media, nationally or locally, feels the need to connect their life to a tragedy with which they are unassociated.

Since the start of the 21st century, the USA has experienced terrorism like the 2001 World Trade Centers bombing the 2007 Virginia Tech shootings, the 2012 mass shootings in Newtown, Ct. and Aurora, Co. and this year’s Boston bombing.

As soon as the most recent event hits the news, Americans thrust the tragedy upon themselves, which begs sympathy from others.

Even 12 years after the 9/11 attacks, people are quick to find an association with the tragedy.

“

“

by JORDAN BERARDI managing editor of copy

Maybe your uncle’s third cous- ing weak connections to tragedy in’s dog breeder’s grandfather seems more prevalent with the was supposed to be on flight 93, local tragedies our community but was he? No. Stop pinning has recently witnessed. a landmark terrorist attack to For example, the JJ’s Restauyour bulletin board of life events. rant explosion was one of the Those needing sympathy are closest tragedies in proximity to the survivors of the attacks or STA in the past two years. The “it-could-have-been-me” stories the families of those who died.

On the annual 9/11 anniversurfaced almost immediately: “If only it would have happened sary, people come forward with a week ago, I could have been their stories. Some tell survival stories: a businesswoman dead!”

That may be true, but that is rising from the wreckage to find aid. Some not necessarily noteremember worthy. It loss: a Stop pinning your could have daughter landmark terrorist happened spending attack to your to any 12 years bulletin board of without her person who life events ever walked father. But through some tell “almost” stothe doors ries. They talk of the hectic week of JJ’s in its existence. Just like any person who bought a plane which led them to cancel their NYC flight and how they could ticket to NYC during the course of their life could have been have been killed on a trip which killed, but was not. probably would have been canceled anyway. They talk of their Every single person in the house rattling in California, when world could have been on a flight that was hijacked, but unless it probably had more to do with they were, its “almost” status a fault line than the World Trade should not be mentioned. Each Centers attacks.

However, the problem of find- person in the world could have,

at some point in their life, been in a building that exploded, but few were, and the ones that were not, should refrain from trying to make connections.

The bottom line is this: if you heard about an event on the news, whether a national tragedy or a local death, you most likely are not closely involved. It is the people who knew about the incident before it hit the media that are truly involved and connected.

Though the connection we try to find may not be necessary, that is not to say the support we offer those who are connected must cease.

Countless times I have witnessed the STA community send out prayers via Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. Our support of those affected by tragedy is dependable and appreciated, and it should stay that way. But there is a thin line between sending prayers to those connected to tragedy and trying to be connected to tragedy.

Never stop keeping victims of tragedy in your heart, but please, let the thoughts and prayers be given to the people who were directly affected. H

NYC shop’s sack lunch packs a punch

me.

One week later, I select Peanut Butter & Co.’s cinnamon raisin peanut butter, vanilla cream cheese and apple

by EMMA WILLIBEY features copy editor sandwich as my standout meal.

Served with carrots and chips, Hole-in-the-wall Chinatown the fast-food delight left me joints and four-star seafood awed at its obscurity. If millions experiences fill travel guide “Fodor’s New York City 2013.” I purchase quick-fix cheeseburgexplore menus, note vegetarian ers, how many would crave a options and debate ditching the “Peanut Butter BLT”? If pasta extravaganza Noodles & ComUpper West Side for Brooklyn pany dominates the USA, so frozen yogurt. Under Greenwich Village, I find a restaurant Peanut Butter & Co. merits local success. specializing in peanut-butter To readers rolling their sandwiches. I decide to visit eyes, kids’ meals are promPeanut Butter & Co., but its grade-school gimmick worries ising. Fort Worth, Tex. and

Richmond, Va. café Cereality features the Golden-Graham, Cocoa-Puff, mini-marshmallow and chocolate-chip concoction “S’More Than You Know.”

Denver, Colo. original Chedd’s Gourmet Grilled Cheese boasts the mac’n’cheese, bacon and mozzarella melt “Mac Attack.”

Cereality and Chedd’s maintain a cult following that enables locations in separate states. Peanut Butter & Co.’s quirkiness would resonate with a city whose skyline is crooked from the Kauffman Center and Bartle Hall Convention Center towers. As the NYC location attracts New York University

students, a Kansas City spot could draw UMKC’s Pizza 51 fans. Meanwhile, the residential setting invites families.

However, serving a household staple raises questions.

Why order PB&J one can create in the kitchen? Why enjoy Cinnamon Toast Crunch in public, not pajamas?

Cereality doubles as a coffeehouse, and Peanut Butter & Co. carries salads and fish sandwiches for those desiring legitimate dishes. The latter welcomes kids and critics by applying its sack-lunch aesthetic to various snacks. However, a Bagel Nosh pleases this customer any day. H

page designed by Sabrina Redlingshafer

23

leisure

multiple girls

multiple moves

by Gloria Cowdin | blogs editor

Juniors Molly and Evelyn Heck moved from Florida to Kansas City this past summer so their dad, Andy Heck, could become the KC Chiefs offensive line coach.

There was a buzz in the hallways of the had.”

After the first month, however, Andy Bolles School in Ponte Vedra, Fla. A buzz was offered a job as offensive line coach that meant big news. Some people were for the Kansas City Chiefs. This news disappointed by it; others cheered and excitedly spread the word: the head coach came bittersweet. Evelyn and Molly agreed they “wanted him to get a job, but for the Jacksonville Jaguars had been at the same time, fired. Social media [they] didn’t want to websites such as move.”

Facebook and Twitter We just got a good feeling According to were run amok with [at STA] that we weren’t Evelyn, football had thousands of different getting at other schools. already been the people’s opinions of — junior Evelyn Heck cause of multiple the fired coach. This moves in the sisters’ seemingly harmless lifetime, from Illinois news eventually sped to Virginia to Florida, its way to the ears of juniors Molly and Evelyn Heck. Upon hear- but this one to Kansas City would be the biggest by far. Evelyn and Molly were only ing it, however, they knew immediately seven the last time they moved, young that their lives were about to change. enough for it all to be one big adventure, When the head coach for a football young enough to forget old friends and team is fired, the entire staff is usually fired as well, according to Molly. Molly and start fresh with few regrets. But now it’s Evelyn’s father, offensive line coach Andy different, Molly said. Now they have left Heck, was among those fired. In the blink behind friends, teachers, school, shared of an eye, the Heck family’s future shifted memories, everything. Instead of just being the kids next door, or the tall girls who gears, Molly said. They all knew moving was inevitable, but when it would happen run cross country, Evelyn and Molly are and where they would go was a mystery. known as the “Florida girls” or the “Chiefs kids.” The spotlight is on the Hecks now “There was a month of just not knowand will remain there until the excitement ing,” Evelyn said. “We didn’t know if [our dad] was going to get a job in that period. eventually dies down.

A mere month after discovering they That was the most stressful time I’ve ever

“

“

game changers

kickoff | 1996- 1999 The Heck sisters are born in Chicago while their dad is playing for the Chicago Bears.

Junior Evelyn Heck describes her father’s football career.

24

would soon be leaving Florida behind, Molly, Evelyn and their triplet brother, Charlie, flew to Kansas City during their spring break to shadow various Kansas City high schools. In May, Molly and Evelyn returned to shadow STA and make their final decision on a school.

According to Molly, STA “stood out academically as the best.”

“We just got a good feeling [at STA] that we weren’t getting at other schools,” Evelyn said.

The Hecks’ life-changing move had the potential to be disastrous, but according to Molly, “Midwestern hospitality” and the “welcoming nature” of STA created the perfect environment for a relatively easy adjustment.

“Since the moment Molly and Evelyn shadowed, everyone was excited to not only have two new sisters, but to have two people who fit so well into our school already,” junior Gracie Fleming said.

“Because of their enthusiasm everyone welcomed them with open arms.”

One of the biggest factors that helped make Kansas City feel like home, however, was football. According to Evelyn, when her dad is coaching a team, the team becomes like extended family. During team dinners and games, athletes and their families support each other and build last-

the dart | dartnewsonline.com | 20 september 2013

first down | 1999- 2001 Heck plays for Virgina Red Skins. “We still have the house in Marshall because we love it so much.”

biggest fans | Junior transfer students Evelyn, left, and Molly Heck, pose on the school seal. Molly is a member of the STA Spirit Club and Evelyn is part of Care Club. Both sisters run JV cross country. photo by GLORIDA COWDIN

ing relationships. Being constantly associated with football is something Molly and Evelyn accept now, although according to Evelyn, “there are some instances when it’s awkward.”

“One time in my classroom [in Florida], the teacher didn’t know I was associated with the Jaguars and he went on a twenty-five minute rant about how he hates the Jaguars and how the offensive line is terrible,” Evelyn said.

In instances like these, Molly and Evelyn agree that negativity is just “part of

the game, it’s just how it is.”

Although football has been the cause of multiple moves around the country for the Hecks, Molly and Evelyn both said that the sport is a source of comfort. Football is football, wherever you are in the USA, according to the sisters.

Despite the negativity sometimes associated with football, Molly and Evelyn admire the sport.

In the end, football is a good thing to be associated with … winning and losing is just part of the game.” H

biggest fans | Junior STA Spirit Club and Evelyn is part of Care Club. Both sisters run JV cross country. photo by GLORIDA COWDIN

touchdown

second down | 2001- 2003 Heck begins his first coaching job at the University of Virginia. The family moves to Charlottesville.

third down | 2004-2012 The Heck family travels to Jacksonville, Florida where Heck coaches the Jaguars. “I consider Florida my home.”

The Hecks move to KC and attend STA and Rockhurst High School. page designed by Cecilia Butler

25

community COFFEE DRINKS: GRINDED DOWN

Here are the five most common espresso-based drinks and their seven common ingredients

Three of a Grind

Cafés Aixois Bistro, Lattéland and The Roasterie offer quality brews to familiar faces

by EMMA WILLIBEY | features copy editor

The Roasterie Café

THE LATTE

THE MOCHA

Three minutes separate the Roasterie from senior Mattie O’Boyle’s home.

However, O’Boyle said that little else distinguishes the two. “[The Roasterie] being in Brookside kind of just adds to the more quaint, you-knoweveryone-there kind of feel,” O’Boyle said.

O’Boyle frequents the Roasterie for chai tea and chocolate croissants, but sales and branding manager Eli Rami said that coffee is the shop’s pride.

To distinguish itself from chains, the Roasterie utilizes unconventional brewing and “top-of-the-line” ingredients like Shatto milk.

The Roasterie | 6223 Brookside Boulevard Kansas City, Mo. 64113

Lattéland Espresso & Tea

THE CAPPUCCINO

THE AMERICANO

Senior Rachel Moran can be “technical” when describing Lattéland’s coffee-bean quality. Knowing nothing about blends before joining Lattéland’s 47th-Street team, Moran can now explain why caramel macchiatos do not exist.

Moran said preparing coffee is simple, although requests like “sugar-free, French vanilla, soy, no foam, extra-hot latté, decaf” baffled her as a beginner.

“None of the drinks are super difficult when you get the hang of [making them],” Moran said. “A lot of it’s muscle memory.”

Passion for the job dictates Lattéland’s coffee-making process.

Latteland | 318 West 47th Street Kansas City, Mo. 64113

Aixois Bistro

THE MACCHIATO

KEY espresso steamed milk foamed milk milk froth water chocolate shavings chocolate syrup infographic by Sara-Jessica Dilks source: finedininglovers.com

26

According to senior Madeline Cozad, Aixois’ sociability translates to staff-customer interaction.

The coffeehouse’s position between Brookside and UMKC ensures familiar faces.

According to Cozad, limited seating does not enable Aixois to grow stifling.

Cozad said that the shop’s soft-rock soundtrack by musicians like contemporary artist Norah Jones create an ideal study space.

“There’s something about the environment that’s very soothing and helps me focus,” Cozad said. H

the dart | dartnewsonline.com | 20 september 2013

Aixois | 251 East 55th Street Kansas City, Mo. 64113 photos by HANNAH BREDAR | web photo editor

talkin’ bout

TED

TEDxYouth@StateLineRoad branch holds inaugural event for KC youth Sept. 7 focusing on youth culture

by Bridget Jones | staff writer

T

ED or Technology, Entertainment, Design is a nonprofit organization that focuses on spreading free knowledge around the world.

Since its start in 1984, TED has opened many branches around the world. One of the larger branches is TEDx. The goal of TEDx is to give communities the chance to experience a TED conference, but on a smaller level.

Kansas City started a new branch called TEDxYouth@ StateLineRoad last year. The organization held its inaugural event Sept. 7 in the Truman Auditorium of the Kansas City Public Library’s Plaza Branch.

“Our goal is to build a movement that inspires youth and advocates in the city to engage in the creative work of transforming our city’s youth culture experience,” Ted’s website said.

Every few weeks, a group of 11- to 24-year-olds met on Thursdays to watch and discuss global conferences called TED Talks and plan the event that was held Sept. 7.

The Sept. 7 event’s theme was Re:Emergence, meaning that the event focused on “looking at multiple perspectives to move into the future,” according to curator and founder of the event Beth Sarver’s opening speech. The event started at 1 p.m. with

the first session titled “System Upgrade,” which focused on global conversation about the future. The session featured poetry, speeches, music and dances by local performers.

System Upgrade also included a few TED Talk videos that were shown. TED Talk videos are filmed around the world at different TED and TEDx conferences and events and are then uploaded to their website, www.ted.com.

After “System Upgrade,” there was a break during which a mapping activity was done and a screen printing on T-shirts was given out. The mapping activity was run by senior Anna Leach and was about showing where youth culture happens in Kansas City. Participants could type on a map anywhere they had been and where youth culture was present.

“The mapping activity was partially a success,” Leach said. “It could have been in a better location and had more explanation, but that’s just the way it goes. You win some, lose some. For the first event, I don’t think we did too bad.”

After intermission, the second session of presentations was titled “Ecosystem of Mutuality.” It included musical and dance performances and other local speakers who focused on preparing and listening to the youth of today.

TED in red | TED youth co-organizer Beth Sarver and senior Anna Leach pose at the TEDxKC conference at the Kauffman Center for Performing Arts Aug. 20. photo submitted by TEDxYouth Facebook page

Sophomore Sarah Wunder had the chance to attend the event. “[The event] made me think about the different aspects of people’s lives,” Wunder said. “It was a really unique experience and [the speakers] had a lot of good points. If I get the opportunity, I will definitely go again.”

Founder and curator Beth Sarver wants to involve more youth in the organization.

“We want it to be all youthled elements,” Sarver said. “[My] vision is to have the event be predominantly run and built by youth, and adults just as a support structure.

Youth bring ideas and creativity, but we aren’t there yet.”

Sarver said she is looking for youth who want to do TED instead of sports or other school-run activities.

“TED is a creative outlet that has nothing to do with school,” Sarver said. “It’s great for homeschool [students] and other youth who are looking for something to do in their spare time.”

TEDxYouth@StateLineRoad is also working on

finding sponsorships and supporters like the library and other youth organizations.

“In the future we hope to officially bond with TEDxKC,” Leach said.

TEDxKansasCity is one of the largest branches of the TEDx world as far as most significant and most popular talks. The branch started six years ago and its latest event cost $7 million to put on, according to Leach. “[TED event planning is] all volunteer work,” Leach said.

“Like anything with volunteers, it will only go as far as we want it to. Everyone working with us still has jobs or school. It’s a group of people who are passionate about something they want to do in their spare time.”

As of now, TEDxYouth@ StateLineRoad is working on getting the video content from the event online and finding more youth and sponsors.

“I wish I could grow with [TEDxYouth@StateLineRoad] more,” Leach said. “I might not be here in college, but I will always keep in touch and support it.” H page designed by Madeline Best

27

sports

ATHLETE

Team banners redesigned

of the

ISSUE compiled by LEIGH CAMPBELL breaking news editor

Freshman Katie Donnellan finished in 12th place at the varsity/JV cross country meet at Longview Community College Aug. 31. Donnellan was the sixth place finisher for St.Teresa’s, making her the top freshman runner for STA. “Katie ran a great race, especially for her first time racing,” three-year varsity runner Ann Campbell said.

Donnellan finished the two-mile course in 13 minutes and 34 seconds, according to an email sent out by head coach Karen Moran. Donnellan said that she did a lot better than she expected for her first race.

“In the first few weeks of the season, Katie has impressed me with her work ethic, enthusiasm and willingness to learn from her teammates and coaches,” Moran said. “She loves to compete and I believe she has a very bright future ahead of her in cross country.”

Donnellan’s teammates have also recognized her work ethic.

“I see that Katie works really hard in practice and it showed in our first meet when she got sixth place for STA,” senior captain Michelle Dierks said.

Donnellan first started running in grade school by doing road races with her dad and running the mile for the Visitation School track team.

“I like cross country because of how you can work together as a team by pushing your teammates to do their best,” Donnellan said. H

28

— Coach Karen Moran

“

“

Katie impressed me with her work ethic, enthusiasm and willingness to learn.

empty rafters | The State championship banners are the only banners that remain hanging on the walls of the Goppert Building. photo by KELLY FLETCHER

STA plans to replace old banners with new team banners to save wall space

by MARY HILLIARD | staff writer

The bright yellow banners that used to hang on the walls of the gym in the Goppert Center were removed over the summer, leaving only the State championship banners. However, their removal is only temporary. According to STA athletic director Mark Hough, the banners were removed because their was not enough room on the gym walls and ceiling. The old banners had to be taken down to make room for new and updated banners according to Hough.

“We didn’t have enough room to add the most recent banners from the past two school years and want to update the qualifications in which student-athlete achievements are recognized to include all-state, All-American, sectional, conference and individual state honors,” Hough said.

Space was not the only issue. The old banners were hung from the rafters in chronological order, which meant the most recent ones were above and unreadable to the audience in the bleachers. Their position on the rafters also caused problems. Many were in contact with heat from the gym lights, causing them to melt.

According to Hough, school administration, coaching staff, alumnae and student-athletes played a part in the decision to remove the banners. In the past few years, they have been discussing the banner updating, along with the addition of sectionals, conference and individual honors.

The new banners will include a team banner for each sport as well as banners for individual accomplishments. They will be hung from an aircraft cable

the dart | dartnewsonline.com | 20 september 2013

strung along the walls between rafters, rather than on the rafters. The championship banners will now be displayed front and center with team banners on the wall of each end of the gym.

Many students were surprised on the day of orientation to see the gym ceilings so bare.

“I realized the banners were gone quickly,” sophomore Emily Laird said.

“Without [the banners], the gym looks empty.”

According to Laird, many people, not knowing it was only temporary, thought only displaying State banners minimized the accomplishments of STA’s student-athletes. Laird was a member of the third place state cross country team last year.

“I was sad [that our banner wasn’t up],” Laird said. “We had worked really hard for our number three spot, and I don’t feel like it was recognized.”

Hough believes by replacing and redesigning the banners, they are doing the opposite: they are doing this to include more achievements of student-athletes. According to Hough, the old system did not recognize individual accomplishments of State champions in golf, tennis, cross country, swimming or track.

The old banners that were removed will be reused in the upcoming years.

According to Hough, there are plans to create a Hall of Fame in Verheyen. The Hall of Fame would include plaques and pictures. Initial plans call to honor the top four State team finishes as well as individual honors for those that have earned special recognition. Alumnae athletes would also be featured, such as those who letter in college. It will be up this year and updated each year, according to Hough. H

STAR SCORES compiled by CASSIE FLORIDO page designer

Volleyball

the three birdies | Sophomore Gabi Dorrell, from left, junior Jesse Culver and junior Suzie Fiss carry their bags into the club house after practice Sep. 10. The team is working on their short game this year which includes putting and chipping. photo by SIOBHAN MILLER

Golf team recruits players After a low turnout at golf tryouts, the team has added many new members

grown from five players in 2012 to seven players in 2013. Varsity has five new golfers.

by EMILY WEMHOFF | page designer “This year will definitely be a growth ‘“The start of the 2013 season has been and learning curve year because we are not only building our JV but also our varpretty crazy,” golf senior captain Frankie sity by teaching new players,” Neunuebel Neunuebel said.

After losing three varsity golfers (Jackie said.

According to varsity junior golfer Ellie McGee, Emily McCann and Alex Jackson) Shorter, golf is “so fun to graduation last once you know what The new players are year, tryouts began you’re doing.” really starting to get with a disappointingly “This team has abthe hang of it and are low turnout. solutely gotten closer starting to work on more “We knew we were this year, even though specialty shots. going to have to get things have been — senior Frankie Neunuebel some other people to harder,” sophomore join if we wanted this player Gabi Dorrell said. to be a successful year,” Neunuebel said.

Shorter and Neunuebel are both In two weeks, Neunuebel and athletic excited that the new girls will improve and director Mark Hough were able to recruit continue to learn about the game. six new players.

“Everyone is getting better with every “I got a list of prospective freshman practice,” Neunuebel said. “The new playplayers from Mr. Hough and created a ers are really starting to get the hang of it Facebook page to communicate with and are starting to work on more specialty everyone,” Neunuebel said. “I told people shots.” about our new assistant coach Martha According to Shorter and Neunuebel, [Linscott] and how she would be able to although the team is mostly new, they still really teach them how to play, even if they have large hopes for postseason play. have never picked up a club before. I didn’t “The two best teams in the area, Blue forget to tell them about [head coach Springs South [High School] and [Notre Teresa Borchert’s] amazing chocolate Dame de] Sion High School are both in our chip cookies that she makes for us if we District so making it to Sectionals will be win putting contests in practice. I knew if difficult,” Neunuebel said. “I guess we will nothing else, the cookies would get them have to work harder than ever before in to come.” order to prepare.” H Since recruiting, the varsity team has

“

“

Varsity loses to Blue Valley (2-0) Varsity defeats Lee’s Summit (2-0) Varsity defeats Raymore-Peculiar (2-0) Varsity defeats Sion (2-0) Varsity loses to Blue Valley (2-0) Varsity defeats Blue Valley West (2-1) Varsity defeats Kearney (2-0) Varsity loses to Lafayette (0-2)

Softball Varsity loses to Blue Springs South (11-0) Varsity defeats Central (5-3) Varsity loses to Raytown (5-0) Varsity loses to Smithville (5-1) Varsity defeats Raytown South (10-0) Varstiy defeats Mid-Buchanan (10-0) Varsity defeats Grandview (14-1) Varsity defeats Sion (10-0) Varsity loses to Raymore-Peculiar (2-0) Varsity loses to Staley (5-0) Varsity defeats Smith-Cotton (12-3) Varsity loses to Warrensburg (5-3) Varsity loses to Raytown (15-2)

Tennis

Varsity defeats Blue Springs South (6-3) Varsity loses to Rock Bridge (8-1) Varsity defeats Pembroke Hill (5-4) Varsity loses to Barstow (5-4) Varsity defeats Park Hill (5-4) Varsity loses to Sion (7-2) Varsity defeats Pembroke Hill (5-4)

Cross Country Varsity takes first place in the Solsberg XC Invite Varsity takes second place at the Raymore-Peculiar Meet

Golf Varsity loses the Pembroke Hill tournament 189-192 page designed by Cassie Florido

29

sports Varsity volleyball loses to Blue Valley High School in the fourth annual Metro Sports Slam

by CASSIE FLORIDO | page designer

The varsity volleyball team kicked off their season in the fourth annual Metro Sports Slam Aug. 31 at St. James Academy against Blue Valley High School. The Stars lost the match in two sets. This was the Stars’ second loss in a row in the Metro Sports Slam after losing to Lee’s Summit West High School last year.

The first set of the match was close, but in the end the Stars lost 25-20.

In the second set, the Stars jumped out to a quick lead. However, Blue Valley fought their way back. The Tigers won the set 28-26.

After the loss, when asked how she felt about the team’s performance, head coach Abbie Lane only had one word: disappointed.

Senior right side hitter Abbey Haines added that she felt the team struggled.

“I think there were moments we performed well, but more moments when we didn’t,” Haines said. “We never found a good rhythm or momentum we could maintain.”

Haines said she felt the team responded well after losing the first set.

“We established an early lead in the second set, but we couldn’t hold it,” Haines said. “Once we started struggling, our mentality went downhill, and I don’t think we felt collected as a team.”

Coach Lane said moving forward in the season, the team needs to work on their serving.

The Stars missed seven serves in the match, many of those serves coming in the last set as the Stars tried to force the match to three sets.

“We need to make our serves more consistent in pressured situations,” Haines said.

Despite losing the season opener, senior Miranda Schultz said the team still has an expectation of reaching their full potential.

“Of course the ultimate goal is State, and given that we have a harder schedule than normal, we plan on [achieving] this goal because of the practice and hard work we’ve done to get there,” Schultz said. H

30

team spirit | Members of the team scream with excitement on the bench during the volleyball match Aug. 31 at St. James Academy. photo by KATIE HORNBECK

the dart | dartnewsonline.com | 20 september 2013

Bump, set, slam

2

1

3

1. Head coach Abbie Lane, center, preps her team before their match against Blue Valley.

The Stars ended up losing to the Tigers 2520, 28-26.

2. Senior Abbey Haines serves the ball during her volleyball match Aug. 31 at St. James Academy. Haines’s serve was a key point with the game tied 25-25.

3. Senior Meghan DeRuyter clutches her jacket during match point. photos by KATIE HORNBECK

Mady Sargent, seniorw

backpack

last look a.

match up b.

How well do you know your backpacks? See if you can match which backpack belongs to which one of your fellow stars.

Eleanor Lueke

Mady Sargent

Meg Duffy

Laura Dierks

sophomore freshman

d.

senior

sophomore

Lauren Zastrow junior

c.

e.

answers: a. Duffy b. Zastrow c. Sargent d. Lueke e. Dierks

pages designed by Cassie Florido & Maddie Knopke

31

in the

DNO

the online student news source for st. teresa’s academy

Like the new look of the Dart?

Check out the newly redesigned DNO at www.dartnewsonline. com for more stories, photos and multimedia content!

photo gallery: frosh fest

During Frosh Fest, a week dedicated to welcoming freshmen, advisories competed in the STA Art Fair and skit introductions to win a $50 gift card to Waldo Pizza.

video: behind the tag

blog: sincerely, short stack

Senior Jordan Berardi introduces her new blog, which will be released every Tuesday.

blog: stars say

STA’s new weekly photo blog that asks the questions you have for your peers.

32

the dart | dartnewsonline.com | 20 september 2013

As alternative coverage to the story on pages 12 and 13, DNO is featuring a video with live footage from two local high schooler’s graffiti excursion.

Scan this QR code to visit DNO!

page designed by Maddie Knopke