the
dar
St. Teresa’s Academy Kansas City, Missouri
THE REALITIES OF RAPE
Girls ages 16-19 are four times more likely than the general population to be victims of sexual assault. STA job openings for next school year ›› pg. 4 | Digital design summer camp ›› pg. 23 | Track and field program includes javelin this year ›› pg. 26
CONTENTS
the Dart
vol. 74
23 April 2015
issue 8
26
tossin' it around | Junior Kathleen Herrington prepares to throw a javelin for track and field practice April 16. This is the first year javelin has been offered as a sport at STA. photo by GLORIA COWDIN
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no second guesses | Various public high school volunteers, including Shawnee Mission North and Blue Valley North West, presented skits for Rockhurst High School students through Safehome. photo by ARINNA HOFFINE
news
a&e
5 // Bakery to open in Brookside
23 // Digital design summer camp to be offered
8 // Junior finds a calling in equestrianism
24 // "Reaper Day" is not a joke
10 // Downtown pizza dive worth a try
26 // Javelin now available for student athletes
15 // Origin of STA apparel traced to prison
28 // Classic STA recipes you can make at home
18 // Sexual assault: an unfortunate reality
30 // Seniors walk the runway at luncheon
star spotlight reviews
features
cover story 2
30
stretch it out | Wearing Lulu Lemon, Olivia Bellatin, Anna Meagher, Hannah Bredar and Averie Stapp perform yoga as they stretch down the runway at the mother daughter luncheon April 19. photo by MEG THOMPSON
perspectives sports
community last look
From the
Editors
As our time on the Dart comes to a close, us editors found it crucial to discuss one last impending topic of debate: rape culture and the nature of consent. Considering STA’s safe surroundings, our all-female student body may find itself shielded from the prevalence of sexual predators. Yet, in light of recent events, it has come to the attention of the Dart staff that young women must be informed of these realities and aware of how to protect themselves. Through the use of nation-wide studies as well as personal, student anecdotes, the Dart attempts to bring this issue to light. As our students mature and several prepare to depart for college, these statistics will become reality. Unfortunately, many of the impersonal numbers read in the article will soon represent your sorority sister, best friend or even yourself. It is our hope that students take every possible action to prevent this. We hope that the information provided in this article will spark a discussion among students; a discussion that needs to happen. As you explore the rest of the Dart,
look to the news pages to learn more about STA student involvement in STEM club. In addition, catch an update on senior athletes signing for colleges. For a less traditional sports fix, head over to Star Spotlight for a Q&A with horseback rider Kelsi Destefano. Remember to check out DNO for more STA coverage you can’t find in the
print. Readers are encouraged to post online comments as well as send in letters to the editors. We love to hear from you. As always, enjoy the issue!
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Staff List
Editors-in-Chief Libby Hyde, Siobhan Miller, Emma Willibey Adviser Brad Lewis
Copy
Opinion Editor Torie Richardson Sports Editor Leigh Campbell Features Editor Mary Hilliard News Editor Anna Bauman
Projects Coordinator MaryMichael Hough Cultural Correspondent Emma Willibey Breaking Local News Editor Meredith Mulhern Graphics Illustrator Mackenzie O’Guin Page Designers Mary Hilliard, Gloria Cowdin, Anna Bauman, Bridget Jones, MaryMichael Hough, Maggie Knox, Maria Donnelly, Mackenzie O’Guin, Christina Elias, Torie Richardson, Amy O’Leary, Siobhan Miller Staff Writers Linden O’Brien-Williams, Alexandria Davis, Alexandra Frisch, Elsa Feigenbaum, Molly Bird, Helen Wheatley, Clare Kenney, Anna Hafner
Photography Web Editor Hannah Bredar Print Editor Jessie Culver Journalism Projects Editor Arinna Hoffine Staff Photographers Lauren Zastrow, Meg Thompson, Maddy Medina, Katherine Mediavilla
Web
Copy Editors Audrey Carroll, Madi Winfield Social Media Manager Katherine Green
Monthly
Question
by TORIE RICHARDSON and ALEXANDRIA DAVIS trichardson16@stastars.org adavis17@stastars.org
What is something new you tried this year? Are you glad you tried it? “I did Dance Club and I loved it. it’s my favorite club so far." Sophomore Maura Knopke " Sushi, and yes, I am glad." Junior Lexi Holsapple “I parallel parked at the Plaza. It was stressful, and I was shaking a little bit, but, you know, it worked." Sophomore Libby Hutchinson
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Editorial Policies
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 world-wide 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 Catholic doctrine, student safety or illegal behavior. DartNewsOnline and the Dart will not publish reviews of student work or performances. Personal columns reflect the opinions of the writer, not necessarily the staff or school.
Letters & Reader Interaction Policy
DartNewsOnline and the Dart encourage the community to post comments on the website. Letters to the editors can be sent in the following ways: in person to Brad Lewis in Donnelly room 204; by mail to St. Teresa’s Academy, Attn: Brad Lewis, 5600 Main Street, Kansas City, MO 64113; by email to blewis@stteresasacademy.org or to dartpaper@gmail.com. DartNewsOnline and the Dart staff reserve the right to edit or shorten letters for publication.
Comment Policy
DartNewsOnline and the Dart encourage readers to comment on all posts. However, DartNewsOnline and the Dart reserve the right to monitor and edit all comments on DartNewsOnline. Comments that disagree with the editorial policy will not be published.
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Corrections Policy
DartNewsOnline and the Dart will publish corrections as soon as possible after the error is discovered.
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Faculty interview, hire new teachers With job openings available at STA, current faculty members work to find qualified individuals.
for an in-person interview. “I think this will be a great opportunity for her,” Weller said. “She’ll get to come to STA and be in an all-girls environment and be part of a departby ALEX FRISCH ment. I think the students will really afrisch17@stastars.org learn from her and I think they’ll really When a new teaching position is like her so I’m really excited.” open at STA, the administration careAnother department with a job fully filters through and interviews the opening is the music department. The applicants, according to math teacher hunt for a new teacher in this departJo Weller, who is involved in selecting a ment was led by Greg Monsma, head new math teacher this year. of the STA music department. Because “You definitely have to filter through music and math are different, so was [the applicants],” Weller said. “People the search process. want jobs and all kinds of people are “Music is a very niche field, especially applying whether they are remotely choral music,” Monsma said. “Choir qualified or not. When you see [appliconducting is basically it’s own type of cants] that have potential, that’s when performance; we’re on stage too. So you follow up half of the job is with an intereducating and the You definitely have view.” other half is making According to sure that you’re to filter through [the Weller, when it a highly qualified applicants]. comes to a math musician as well.” — Jo Weller, math position, the According to teacher main requireMonsma, 36 people ments are teachapplied for the post ing experience and five of them and a strong math background. This were brought in for interviews. Of the includes at least a bachelor’s degree five that were interviewed three were in math, though many applicants have actually brought in to teach STA singers master’s degrees. The administration for a class period. also looks for teachers with teacher “That gave us a sense of their teachcertification, a good transcript, and ing style and and expertise in teaching plenty of classroom management music,” Monsma said. skills. If a potential teacher fulfills the According to Monsma, more teachrequirements then they are brought on ing requirements included having sang campus for an interview. at a university level, lots of musical ex“Several people have applied,” perience, and a track record of having Weller said. “We have interviewed eight students succeed at national and state and we have hired one person.” wide festivals. Monsma also stated According to Weller the recently that of the three people who came in hired teacher currently works in Illinois to teach a class, all three had master’s and is one of the only faculty members degrees and at least five years of teachin the math department at her school. ing experience. Weller also said that because she lives Although he is not yet allowed to in Illinois, throughout the interview pro- announce any names, Monsma said he cess she skyped and emailed her and has made a decision and will announce was even able to bring her on campus the newest teacher fairly soon. H
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news
STA alumna to open bakery in east Brookside neighborhood Owners plan to use mostly local ingredients in the products served at Heirloom Bakery and Hearth. by HELEN WHEATLEY hwheatley16@stastars.org
STA alumna Kate Meinke and her husband Scott plan to open Heirloom Bakery and Hearth in eastern Brookside this spring, May 1. The bakery will offer various breads, pastries, beverages and breakfast and lunch items that will change according to the ingredients in season. Over half of the bakery’s ingredients will be locally sourced and organic, as they hope to expand and bring awareness to what the Kansas City community offers. The bakery will be mostly self-serve and feature seven to eight different kinds of breads daily, like challah and pesto-asiago, depending on what’s in season. During the morning hours, breakfast pastries, homemade granola and yogurt parfaits, egg sandwiches and more will be available. Around noon and into the afternoon, a daily homemade soup will be offered, along with various sandwiches and salads. Baristas are available all day to serve teas, coffee, and more. Despite their interest in other areas of the city, the couple say they were initially drawn to Brookside because of its neighborhood and community feeling. “[We] started looking for properties in Kansas City,” Scott said. “We looked in The Crossroads, looked in 39th Street area, and also in Brookside as well.” “We liked the idea of being part of a neighborhood, being kind of a central gathering spot,” Kate said. “We want to bring more life back into this east side of Brookside.” Kate and Scott both have a background in baking, as Kate has always
baked goods | The Heirloom Bakery and Hearth is a new bakery in east Brookside owned and run by STA alumna Kate Meinke and husband Scott Meinke. photo by ARINNA HOFFINE
enjoyed the artistic side of cooking, she says, and Scott worked in a bakery throughout college in Washington D.C., where the two met. The pair decided to create their own place in Kansas City, where Kate grew up and Scott enjoyed visiting from his childhood home in Oklahoma. According to Scott, the couple spent the last few years of their time in D.C. “formulating a menu and figuring out what [they] wanted to make," before they moved to Kansas City in 2013. “We were really into the whole locally sourced movement that’s going on,” Kate said. “We wanted to try to incorporate that idea into a bakery concept… so we decided to come back and make our dream happen in Kansas City.” Kate and Scott decided early on that they would want to include locally sourced ingredients in their products.
“Once you start tasting it and using it in your baked goods, it tastes so much fresher. It’s also nice because you know you can have a conversation with the person that grew your strawberries,” Kate said. In addition, Kate and Scott have been and will continue selling their goods at the Brookside Farmer’s Market, where they enjoy working with local growers and makers. “It’s a cool town, especially right now it’s really blossoming, the food scene, arts scene, music scene,” Scott said. “There’s lots of that entrepreneurial spirit here, and I think people really support that,” Kate said. “People are all about buying local.” H
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news
STA administration enacts new STEM initiative
The intiative gives students the opportunity to explore the fields of science, technology, engineering and math. by MAGGIE KNOX mknox16@stastarsorg
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grand discovery|Freshman Olivia Matlock locates the first geocache of the day during STEM club April 17. The girls used GPS applications on their phones to locate the geocaches, which contained different sizes of prizes. photo by MARIA DONNELLY
understanding of the world in general and an appreciation for everything.”
Holly Streeter-Schaefer, an attorney at local engineering firm Burns and McDonnell and a member of STA’s THE IMPORTANCE OF STEM STEM Initiative Committee, also sees “[When beginning the STEM Initiathe importance of a STEM education in tive], we decide what steps we need to her career field. take to make ourselves marketable in “For me, STEMM has two Ms – Scithe future,” ence, TechnolMcCormick ogy, Engineering, [STEM] is about getting said. “We’re Math, and Medistudents and young feproducing a cine,” Streetermales interested in science great product Schaefer wrote in and math fields. Whether at STA, [but an email. “STEAM we need to includes the Arts, that’s a health service inconfirm] that which plays an dustry, or a contractor job, our product, important role in or computer science. which is our our lives, culture — Barbara McCormick, prinstudents, will and careers. cipal of academic affairs have the skills Although I am to compete not an engineer, in the world of tomorrow, because that my [engineering] education provided world is going to require sound math me with a base for problem solving and and science skills if we’re going to creanalytical thinking. I believe [these are] ate entrepreneurs of the future.” the core of a STEMM education and
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STA has expanded its opportunities in the STEM field, a category of career including science, technology, engineering and math, according to principal of academic affairs Barbara McCormick. This field is occasionally written as STEAM, which includes art. “[STEM] is about getting students and young females interested in science and math fields,” McCormick said. “Whether that’s a health service industry, or a contractor job, or computer science. So, it’s really about inspiring and building confidence in young women to seek out professions … that would require them to utilize a sound math and science background. That includes even the arts fields, [which] require you to be artistically talented, but also need you to utilize your math and your science background knowledge.” STA science teacher Terry Conner also realizes the importance of getting young women interested in the field. “The current emphasis on STEM education is geared toward how students learn, use and apply science concepts,” Conner said. “That way, students aren’t just memorizing to be able to repeat it to me on a test.” According to STA junior Sarah Cigas, who wants to study a science or math field, a STEM curriculum is an important basis for all education. “STEM is how things work,” Cigas said. “You understand why things work and how they function. You have a better
college degree. I use those problem to what they would like to pursue in the girls.” solving and analytical skills in my ocfuture. Cigas recognizes the gender gap in cupation as an attorney.” “We have the best girls in this city, so the field of STEM, especially in computJunior Payton Seever, who plans to it’s important for us to create the best er science and engineering, and thinks study neuroscience, also uses concepts product in the city,” McCormick said. that more women in the field would be from her STEM courses in other parts “We want our young women to be global beneficial. of her academic life. competitors. Whether that’s being an en“[The field of] engineering has been “The pragmatics required in STEM trepreneur, or an inventor, or a creator, dominated by males for the most can be seen in the or a missionpart,” Cigas said. ‘So, getting more girls formatting of classary person, involved helps expand [the quantity of] “[The field of] engineering es,” Seever said. “I it’s so that you ideas and innovations.” has been dominated by males see this[in] nearly have lots of Conner hopes that students will use for the most part,” Cigas all of my classes. opportunities STA’s STEM Initiative as an opportunity said. ‘So, getting more girls In ceramics, Ms. for success to explore the career field for their own involved helps expand [the Dibble incorporates in the future. interests. quantity of] ideas and innovachemistry and geAnd I think “My dream is that students here tions.” ometry into our aswe’re moving would realize that science and technol— Sarah Cigas, junior signments. I hope in the right ogy [fields are so large],” Conner said. to see this expand direction. We “There’s so many other great fields in in other classes, because the world of have an Initiative to create a heightened science and technology for women othmath and science is amazing.” awareness [of STEAM] with more oper than the medical field, so if we could This year, STA administration has portunities and experiences. We never just open our students’ eyes to at least encouraged students to attend events close our doors to new ideas on how to explore those possibilities, we would [be such as an engineering info night at incorporate STEAM experiences for our successful in the STEM Initiative].” H Burns and McDonnell, a local girls STEAM workshop at Visitation Catholic School and a construction camp this The Dart compiled statistics coming summer through The Builders’ about the percentage of women Association, just to name a few. participating in STEM careers. Cigas has used a few of these programs as an opportunity to further compiled by BRIDGET JONES and MAGGIE KNOX explore her interests in the field of bjones16@stastars.org, mknox16@stastars.org STEM. environmental scientists “The engineers at my job shadow chemists and material scientists and geoscientists day described how everything in a building on a construction site all worked together,” Cigas said. “I’m in STEM Club, which is fun because we do experiments, use critical thinking and practice science.”
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by the
NUMBERS
MOVING FORWARD
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“I think that if we look at the research and we look at society as a whole, globally, we’re linked,” McCormick said. “We're connected and we’re in an information age where we’re using technical tools to be not only consumers of information and skills and concepts, but producers. It’s important that we become knowledgeable and willing to adapt and utilize knowledge and skills in tandem with one another so that we can be a candidate for the business world in the future.” McCormick also realizes the value of encouraging STA students to take time to explore the field and how STA’s current endeavors in STEM may relate
39%
women
27.9% women
industrial engineers
mechanical engineers
17.2%
7.2%
women
women
source: US Department of Labor
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star spotlight / bits & pieces
Kelsi
Destefano
by MOLLY BIRD, photo by MADDY MEDINA mbird17@stastars.org, mmedina16@stastars.org
Junior Kelsi Destefano turned her love for animals into a passion for horseback riding.
When did you start horseback riding?
“I started riding when I was 6 years old. It was my birthday present, and I started with R & R Stables and still ride with them. I had always loved horses, and my family wanted me to try riding. It's been the most important part of my life, and I'm sure it will stay that way. I wouldn't be who I am today without it."
What is your favorite thing about it?
“My favorite thing about riding is the bond I get to share with such amazing animals. There’s nothing like it. The feeling of having something trust you so much that they are willing to do anything you ask of them… A horse’s first instinct is to flee from any danger, or anything they might think is dangerous, and knowing that they are counting on you to keep them safe, and are counting on your confidence, it’s just an indescribable feeling. Not only the bond with them, but with your trainers and others who ride with you. My barn family is as close to me as my real one. When I have a bad week, I know they'll be there waiting for me at the barn. It's great to have that support, because without it, like any other sport, it would be almost impossible to do. Thankfully, I have some amazing people who support me in and out of the show ring."
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How often do you ride?
“I ride at least twice a week. I work out at the barn every Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to about 6:00 or 6:30 p.m., sometimes we get out of there a little earlier. During the summer, I try to be out there even more often. In all honesty, I hate not being out there. It's been like a second home for me for so long, so I hate leaving, even when I know I'll be back out there in less than a week."
What events do you compete in?
“I will be competing in the National Championships this year and, hopefully, next year I will be competing in the World Championships. My horse and I will be entering two divisions; show pleasure and pleasure equitation. Last year, in Academy, we were almost undefeated, so hopefully we'll do as well this year as we did last year."
Why do you think that more STA girls aren’t involved in horseback riding? “I think that most STA girls aren't involved in riding because it is very expensive, and it, like all other sports, requires complete dedication and passion, otherwise you're just throwing your money away."
Why would you recommend it to STA students?
“I would recommend this to any students who love being around horses, or are interested. If they are willing to commit to the sport, then they should go for it! It's the best thing that has ever happened to me.
Instagrams OF THE ISSUE Each issue, the Dart highlights students’ Instagrams. This month’s theme: style. by HANNAH BREDAR hbredar15@stastars.org
PHOTO OF THE ISSUE petal to the metal | Pink dogwood petals rest on the seal in the quad April 13. The trees bloomed for about two weeks before shedding their petals for the spring. photo by MADI WINFIELD
My life sucks // My life rocks Here, a student shares a moment that really made her cringe.
by KATHERINE MEDIAVILLA kmediavilla16@stastars.org
Here, a student shares an especially exciting experience. by KATHERINE MEDIAVILLA kmediavilla16@stastars.org
My life sucks
My life rocks
“It was my first time babysitting for this family and within 20 minutes of the parents being gone their 4th grader maced herself. She somehow got my keychain with pepper spray on the chain off of a cabinet with a toy lacrosse stick and she thought it was perfume and wanted to smell it. The best part is that the family still asks me to babysit for them.” -Meghan King, junior
“I found out that I am going to be traveling all around Europe this summer with my sisters. My sister Molly is going for a friend’s wedding and my sister Rosie is going for a new job. So it all worked out that we can all go together and travel around the UK and Germany for a month! I’m so excited!” -Mary Campbell, junior
That’s what
she said
Each issue, the Dart shares entertaining student tweets.
by ANNA HAFNER ahafner16@stastars.org
Photo by junior Charli Lorenz @charlilorenz
Photo by junior Jewell Allen @je.we.ll
Freshman Mamie Murphy @mamie_murphy on the bright side, no breakup i have will ever be harder than this one @zaynmalik Sophomore Allie McDill @allisonmcdill77 My dad just told me that he fell in love with my mom on their first date when all she ordered was a 75 cent grilled cheese sandwich
Photo by senior Natalie Behnen @nataliebehnen
Next theme:
senior year
#dartnewsonline
Junior Emma Fernandez @emma_fernandez_ “Emma have you heard of Google drive” -mom
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GRINDERS
2015 concert roster certs 0-40 con 3 s t s o h Grinders outdoor venue. its a year in O'GUIN KENZIE by MAC ars.org 17@stast moguin
May 8
Cherub
May 16
Alligator Fest with Bon Ton Soul Accordian Band & Az One
May 22 May 23 May 30
Sister Hazel
Turnpike Troubadours
Wakarusa Pre Party Tour with Andy Frasco, Wick-It the Instagator and Mouth
secures spot as KC favorite Grinders Pizza offers gritty atmosphere, great experience by LINDEN O'BRIEN-WILLIAMS lobrienwilliams17@stastars.org
HHHH When you first walk in, the first thing you notice might be all the stickers on the front door. You may be struck by the pizza/ hamburger-esque smell. Or you might notice all the writing all over the walls and the chalkboard menu. As you walk in to seat yourself, the table with airplane seats as chairs might be what sticks out to you. No matter which quirky element you notice first, one thing is clear: Grinders Pizza is far from typical. This Kansas City favorite opened at its present location 10 years ago and has made a name for itself in the decade it has been open. Not only does Grinders have patio seating, but it has an outdoor concert venue in the back, hosting 30 to 40 concerts a year. Just next door is Grinders West, with a neater, more modern vibe. The two restaurants share staff, customers and a menu. I opted to try the meatball grinder, thinking a restaurant with the name “Grinders” ought to have a good grinder, and I turned out to be right. The melted cheese on top of the sandwich and the perfect amount of sauce complimented the nearly foot-long piece of bread. When the sandwich got to my table, I had to mentally prepare myself for how I was going to eat it. Though I may
have needed both a fork and bib and my pants wouldn’t button when I was done, the grinder was well worth it. Next, I moved on to try the New York style pizza, which is light, quickly made, and flavorful. Though the name may suggest their pizza is their only specialty, the restaurant has a great menu, complete with clever names and a wide range of foods. While I wasn’t adventurous enough to try the “Big Ass Fries,” I did enjoy the light house salad. Among Grinders’ other popular items are the philly cheese steaks and “World Famous Death Wings”, according to many Kansas Citians (and Grinders’ website.) Foodies and journalists all across the nation see something special at Grinders. The restaurant was featured on the Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives. Grinders is frequently mentioned for its hot sauce both locally and nationally.. The media seems to love Grinders’ uniqueness - just take a look at the long list of mentions and articles about the restaurant on their website. If you’re looking for a Kansas City favorite with a special experience, I’d encourage you to give Grinders a try. Not only is it inexpensive, but it is flavorful, quick and interesting every time. Grab yourself a grinder and hey, you could even catch a concert in the back. H
June 2
Scott Bradlee's Postmodern Jukebox
FULL SCHEDULE AT
KANSASCITY.EVENTFUL.COM
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the daily grind| Grinders has three locations, the original located in the Crossroads in Kansas City. photo by LINDEN O'BRIEN-WILLIAMS
Singer-songwriter showdown
The first fight I can remember getting into with my best friend was whether Ed Sheeran or Ben Rector were better. This proved challenging to argue because I
Ed Sheeran
1. "Drunk" 2. "The City" 3. "I'm a Mess" 4. "Nina" 5. "Tenerife Sea" Sheeran’s latest music swerves more towards pop and branches back to his hip hop roots due to collabora-
by MARY HILLIARD mhilliard16@stastars.org
thoroughly enjoy the music of each artist. I believe Rector and Sheeran are some of the most talented singer-songwriters of our generation. Their music styles are
"We are surrounded by all of these lies And people who talk too much You got the kind of look in your eyes As if no one knows anything but us" - Ed Sheeran, "Tenerife Sea"
While these are lyrical highlights, it's hard to listen to Rector or Sheeran without finding some short phrase that has the perfect amount of rhythm so it just sounds right. Additionally, though a quote isn't featured above, Sheeran's "A Team"
Analyzing the qualities of two of this generation's best lyricists: Ed Sheeran and Ben Rector.
best lyrics
similar: alternative, folk like even, rock with eloquent lyrics and catchy hooks. In order to properly compare the two, it is necessary to delve into the work of each artist.
"I was 16 with an open heart windows down in a beat-up car When I was dumb and the world was young and She was beautiful" - Ben Rector, "Beautiful"
is a lyrical masterpiece, capturing pain and regret, making the listener feel for the girl he sings of. That being said, Rector captures the power of simplicity in "I like you,"; a short, simple and sweet song that says exactly
best songs tions with the likes of Pharrell Williams. Rector, on the other hand, maintains the usual singer-songwriter vibe
what it needs to without overcomplicating the message with flowery language and empty words. "When a Heart Breaks" somehow puts into words the feeling of going back to square one while feeling rather lost on what to do next.
1. "Beautiful" 2. "Forever Like That" 3. "Follow You" 4. "When a Heart Breaks" 5. "When I'm with You" with heavy use of piano and accoustic guitar.
album art
Ed Sheeran’ s “Multiply” is a bold graphic with eye catching color, while Ben Rector’s “The Walking In Between” features a photograph of Rector. Neither are
particularly out of the ordinary, but both aid in portraying the kind of music each artist produces. Sheeran's cool-colored cover depicts his urban and alternative
sound while Rector's laid back cover perfectly embodies the scene one might listen to his music in. H
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features
12
plaid-skirted | Junior Erin Burroughs stands in the third floor hallway of the Donnelly Building. Burroughs attended public schools for her entire life until attending STA for high school. photo by MAGGIE KNOX
Life outside the private school system
by ELSA FEIGENBAUM efeigenbaum17@stastars. org
A
lready attuned to the life of plaid skirts and small classes, many STA students know of only a life in private schools. However, there are also the few who come from public schools. These receive the opportunity to experience a completely different school system. There are a small amount of girls at STA who have had their fair share of both worlds, knowing first hand the differences between public and private schools. These differences span farther than just boys and outfits; they include opportunity and diversity. For Shawnee Mission East sophomore Emma Vaughters, these two differences affected her decision to transfer out of STA after her freshman year. Vaughters was in Kansas’ Shawnee Mission School District since kindergarten,
attending Belinder Elementary School and Indian Hills Middle School. According to Vaughters, she was ready for a change of scenery by eighth grade. However, at STA, she began to notice a major difference in opportunity between the school systems. “I feel like whenever I was enrolling at STA I was just surprised at the lack of elective choices,” Vaughters said. “I just really envied all the opportunities [Shawnee Mission East students] were getting.” As well as a greater number of electives, East also offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. According to Vaughters, this program allows one to follow the same curriculum as others student in IB across the globe. A student in an IB school in Kansas is learning the same thing as in an IB school in China. The Shawnee Mission School District also offers a program allowing students to skip a year in math, starting in sixth grade. For Vaughters, this included qualifying with her fifth grade math scores, then waking up early every day of sixth grade to attend Pre-
Algebra at Corinth Elementary School. After taking Algebra I in seventh grade, she and around 40 other students at Indian Hills went to Shawnee Mission East during their first period of every school day to take Advanced Geometry. “I did not enjoy the process of having to switch schools every single morning,” Vaughters said. “It was definitely hard having a teacher that wasn’t at your school, because at the end of the day if I wanted to go see my teacher I couldn’t.” According to Vaughters,
value with the majority of her homework now completed at home. The next major difference for Vaughters is the matter of life with boys. “I felt like girls were a lot more themselves [at STA],” Vaughters said. “They weren’t afraid to be funny or raise their hands in class and be smart, because there weren’t any boys around to be degrading.” STA sophomore Kelly Hulsey also shares this opinion. Hulsey attended Missouri public schools RaymorePeculiar East Middle School and [STA girls] weren't afraid Raymoreto be funny or raise their Peculiar hands in class and be High School smart. before — Emma Vaughters, transferring Shawnee Mission East to STA for High School sophomore her sophomore year. “I definitely one of the main things she feel like girls tried too hard to misses about STA is the free dumb themselves down to get period system. She believes a boy to like [them],” Hulsey it taught her valuable study said. “Girls would paint their and time management skills. faces with makeup.” At East, she quickly learned it’s
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Students explain the differences between STA and public schools.
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features According to Hulsey, she also sees a great contrast in school spirit. At Raymore-Peculiar, her Friday nights were reserved for standing in the student section at football games. “You would have sparkles everywhere,” Hulsey said. “You would have bandanas. You would have milk jugs filled with pennies and rocks and random stuff.” Hulsey has also noticed a change in curriculum between the school systems. At Ray Pec, she felt the curriculum was less challenging and more focused on passing. With a graduating class size larger than the entire STA student body, she found it harder to receive personal time with teachers. According to Vaughters, she also noticed this difference transferring back to public school. “At STA I feel like there were teachers that I could go in at any time and they would drop whatever they were doing to help me," Vaughters said. “At SME I think that there’s not as much of a connection just because they have so
MAKING THE LIST many more students they are working with.” According to Hulsey, she has also noticed a different attitude in her fellow students, mostly due to the lack of cliques. “It is nicer here,” Hulsey said. “It is the sisterhood. We don’t really have that in public schools.” STA students like freshman Adeline Kreighbaum, who attended St. Ann Catholic School before coming to STA, have never experienced public school firsthand. However, Kreighbaum still finds the idea of public school alluring. “Public school sounds fun,” Kreighbaum said. “I kind of wanted to go.” According to Vaughters, mindset is key to which students belong at which type of school system. Though she believes STA and East both have a lot to better, she believes her mind fits better at STA. “I just didn’t feel as comfortable at STA compared to Indian Hills and East,” Vaughters said. “I guess it just kind of depends on who you are.”H
BY THE NUMBERS
compiled by MAGGIE KNOX mknox16@stastars.org
The Dart compiled statistics about schools in the US. In 2014, nearly 329 thousand students attending Catholic school in the United States were not Catholic, approixamtely 17 percent.
In 2011, there were 116,240 K-12 schools in the United States, including 85,530 traditional public, 26,230 private and 4,480 public charter.
Junior Erin Burroughs, who attended public grade school, lists the biggest differences between public and private school. compiled by ELSA FEIGENBAUM efeigenbaum17@stastars.org
Class size “I came from being in a class that was maybe three hundred to four hundred kids, and now I’m in a school that is only six hundred students. My school is the size of my elementary school now, which is weird.” Homework “The classes I was in that were in the advanced track at Liberty were much easier and I didn’t have nearly as much homework. I understand part of it is because I’m in high school, but I was also in high school level classes.” Dedication to Education “That is I guess a cliche of what we like to say. But you are surrounded by people who actually care. There were plenty of people who did not want to be in high school [at Liberty High School] and have probably dropped out by now.” Uniforms “They were a lot more strict on what we wore. I like having a uniform because then I do not have to plan what I’m wearing in the morning.”
83% Catholic 17% Non-Catholic
14
source: National Catholic Educational Association
74% Traditional Public 22% Private 4%
Public Charter
source: National Center for Education Statistics
Boys “You appreciate the friendships you have with boys whenever you are not around them as often.”
Inmates unlock potential in design jobs Contract provider Impact Design instills inmates with a sense of work ethic. by CHRISTINA ELIAS and GLORIA COWDIN celias15@stastars.org gcowdin15@stastars.org
The two-lane Highway 5 that winds its way through the fringes of Leavenworth, Kan., seems as unassuming a road as any, bordered intermittently by cows lazily grazing and small barns. About ten minutes into the drive, however, a curve in the road and small upward incline introduce the view of the oldest and largest male detention facility in the state of Kansas: Lansing Correctional Facility. This facility—red brick and surrounded by beautiful landscaping—is broken into three groups of buildings which house minimum, medium and maximum-security inmates. The minimumsecurity facility is seen first with its large outdoor yard area where inmates (wearing their standard white shirts, blue jeans and red caps) play various sports or exercise on the track. The minimum security buildings are noticeably older than the other parts of the facility, owing to the age and long history of the prison. A short walk across the road from the minimum security facility stands a 20,000-square-foot warehouse which houses merchandise produced in separate facilities. When you first walk into the building, you are met with
boxes of promotional products stacked four level high, neon green labels advertising names like Gildan and Adidas. The warehouse is fairly quiet besides the music--there are few people there, working quietly. Occasionally, you’ll hear the sound of men calling out to each other from different areas of the warehouse. These men are inmates at Lansing Correctional Facility. A company called Impact Design
leases this warehouse from the state of Kansas and provides paying jobs to men in minimum and medium-security custody. While this warehouse is the workplace for some men, most of the 250 inmates employed by Impact work in the medium-security facility in the embroidery and screenprinting warehouses. There, employees manufacture goods that are then sold by local and
national apparel distributors, like Adidas or Gildan. Impact Design is a part of a fourpart equation: the customer, the “middleman,” garment distributors and decorators. One of these middlemen is Summit Sportswear, a Kansas City-based collegiate apparel distributor. Summit sells a variety of spiritwear products, including the uniform fleeces sold in the St. Teresa’s Academy Star Shop. The STA patches on each of these fleeces are manufactured and assembled by inmates at Lansing Correctional Facility. According to the Star Shop manager Marcia Warwick, STA has purchased items from Summit in the past, such as the auction sweatpants, and will continue to purchase the fleeces from them in upcoming school years. “If it gives [the inmates] something that they feel good about doing and it helps everybody, then it sounds like a good thing,” Warwick said of Impact’s program at Lansing. Vice President of Operations for Impact Design Matt Bennett is responsible for hiring the inmates, so he frequently interacts with them and remains in contact with some after their release to help them re-assimilate into society. According to Bennet, many inmates are in Lansing due to
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features
“extenuating circumstances” in their “The need and the desire to work inmates with countless more opportulives, which can reappear after their for Impact is tremendous,” Bennett nities for life after prison. release and increased their likelihood explained. “It makes my guys appreciAccording to STA theology teacher of recidivism (relapse into criminal ate what they have.” Michael Sanem, types of programs behavior). Keeping in touch with these Bennett says that “there is not a like Impact in prisons are good forms former inmates—some of whom have lot [Lansing] can do to keep the guys of rehabilitation for inmates and help never used the busy.” He says there give them a sense of dignity again. internet or an are “not enough “[These programs] give them If it gives [the iniPhone—helps programs to keep something constructive to do,” Sanem mates] something that ease readjustthose [1,800] people said. “They really like having jobs and they feel good about ment into socibusy.” That’s where they take pride in their jobs.” doing and it helps everyety and prevent Impact comes in: for Sanem volunteers on a bi-weekly body, then it sounds like their return. employees of Impact basis at Lansing Correctional Facility, a good thing. “Because of Design, the pay is participating in prison ministry. That —Marcia Warwick, the program better, the condientails reading that week’s readings Star Shop manager and what we tions are better, and with the inmates, answering their provide, it is a there is a bigger questions about the readings, and way to give back opportunity to learn giving them some type of exposure to the communiskills they can use to civilians, he said. He began volunty,” Bennett said. after their release, teering at Lansing about a year ago, “Coming here he said. beginning when his mother met a was a way of working with these guys In addition to the obvious benefits man named Dan Dakotas, a member . . . [to] help them figure out some of of working for a company like Impact, of the group Sanem now volunteers that stuff. I’m helping out on the front their time there offers long-term with—the Bethany Group. lines instead of 10,000 feet away.” advantages as well. According to BenAccording to Sanem, he found out According to Bennett, employees nett, employees at Impact have a 90 about their embroidery and screenat Impact make an hourly wage of up percent chance of finding a job after printing operations one day while to $9.50, depending on their posirelease and 80 percent don’t return to he was visiting with medium-security tion within the company. Just under prison within five years, which consticustody inmates. One of the inmates, half—45 percent—of this income is tutes ‘success’ according to the State he said, mentioned that the name St. used to pay the prison room, board of Kansas. Teresa’s Academy sounded familiar to and taxes; a chosen portion is deposAnother job opportunity for inhim. This man worked in the embroiited in a locked savings account, which mates at Landery shop and had is accessible after release; the remain- sing is to work seen the STA emblem The need and the deing amount can be used for personal for Kansas on the fleeces, one sire to work for Impact spending or to send home to families. Correctional of which he showed is tremendous. It makes At Lansing, all prisoners begin in Industries, Sanem. For some inmy guys appreciate maximum-security custody and move making street mates at Lansing, havwhat they have. down to minimum, depending on paint, working ing the opportunity to — Matt Bennett, vice time, behavior and circumstances. in the kitchwork with Impact can president of operations Once an inmate is in medium-security ens, doing be life-changing. for Impact Design custody, he is eligible to apply for a landscaping Greg, who was job with Impact Design. According to and other incarcerated when he Bennett, all employees start work on odd-jobs. was 19, has been an the production floor and can work According to inmate at Lansing for their way up to position in the office. Bennett, these inmates make around 21 years and worked with Impact for Bennett estimates that there are cur$12 a month to buy all personal and 15 years. He works Monday through rently 550 inmates (out of the 1,200 hygiene items, which are sold at Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. as a in minimum and maximum-security regular prices in the prison stores. digitizer— meaning he converts digital custody) on a waitlist to be hired by Conversely, the experience and payfiles into formats the embroidery Impact. ment received at Impact can provide machine can read.
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Facts released
The Dart compiled facts on local penitentiaries, specifically Lansing. by LIBBY HYDE lhyde15@stastars.org
Kansas Department of Corrections Operates 14 correctional facil-
VS.
ity sites and currently houses over
10,000 inmates.
Missouri Department of Corrections Operates a total of 21 correctional facilities statewide and currently houses over 30,000 inmates.
Lansing Correctional Facility Est. 1868
1859 Construction of then-Kansas State Penitentiary approved by the Kansas legislature 1864 Began constuction on the main building using inmate labor
1867 Completed constuction after delays from the Civil War 1881 Coal shaft opened in an effort to engage inmates. Inmates also began to 1900 manufacture twine and work on the prison Offically changed its name to farm Lansing Correctional Facility
Like many of his co-workers, Greg never held a steady job before his conviction and time at Impact. He cites his experience at Impact as “invaluable” and plans on becoming Adobe Acrobat certified after leaving Lansing. Greg’s ultimate goal is to take classes at Johnson County Community College and become a graphic designer. To further his knowledge of graphic design, he has purchased books about computer
programs with his earnings. Most of his paycheck, however, he places in a savings to use in life after prison. “I won’t have to worry [about money] necessarily right out of the gate,” Greg said. According to Bennett, “Having that financial stability makes a big difference” in terms of succeeding postrelease. Many inmates do not have the opportunity to open a savings account
or gain experience like Greg has, which leaves them virtually helpless after their release. “[We try to] integrate them slowly back [into society],” Bennett said. “There isn’t anybody really to help them. Their world was here. And that’s the mindset they need to get away from. There’s no other support once they get out.” H
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cover story
RAPE CULTURE: FACING THE FACTS AND FEAR The Dart investigates the reality of sexual assault among teenagers in the STA community.
N
by AUDREY CARROLL and MEREDITH MULHERN acarroll16@stastars.org, mmulhern16@stastars.org
o one ever thinks That is one person every one it is going to hapminute and 47 seconds. Also pen to them. No according to RAINN, girls one ever thinks between the ages of 16-19 it is going to hapare four times more likely pen to their best friend. No than the general population one ever thinks their brother to experience rape or sexual would be the one to do it. assault. With numbers like Now, with recent cases that these, it seems that rape have rocked the Kansas City would be a prominent discushigh sion topic I'd like to say yes, school amongst all the girls have all comhigh the education in munity, school the world and know the topic students, what to do, but of rape but this when you're in that has been is not cracked the case situation, there's no open. for every cookie-cutter plan. — Amanda Johnson, But, why school. guidance counselor has it In the taken past, the so long for this discussion to Metropolitan Organization happen, and why did it have to Counter Sexual Assault to wait until alleged rapes (MOCSA) has visited STA a few occurred to spark the discusweeks out of the school year sion? to conduct a seminar with the Statistics from the Rape, sophomore class on sexual Abuse and Incest National assault and dating violence. Network (RAINN) show that Just recently, MOCSA was every 107 seconds, an Ameripresent at an assembly on can is sexually assaulted. sexual assault at Rockhurst
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High School. But the question is, do these seminars and presentations provide students with the right amount of information they need to be safe? According to Rockhurst junior Adam Palausky, Rockhurst does not discuss the topic of rape enough. Aside from the recent optional assembly held at Rockhurst, the school “doesn’t really cover the topic [of sexual assault],” according to Palausky. “It’s more of students educating other students about rape,” Palausky said. Guidance counselor Amanda Johnson believes that for STA students, the MOCSA seminar sophomore year is not enough. “I think we should [provide MOCSA education] all four years,” Johnson said. “I don’t think it should just be something that you do one time and forget about. I wish we continued to talk about it because it’s an issue that affects one in four young women,
so the likelihood that someone in this institution will be raped or sexually assaulted is incredibly high.” Junior Meghan Brownlee admits that the MOCSA seminar sophomore year is helpful, but in reality it does not allow enough time for discussion on the reality of rape amongst her peers. “I feel like I know about statistics and what to avoid, but I wish the grade could talk more about their experiences,” Brownlee said. “Students can benefit more from hearing real-life stories, as opposed to statistics and numbers being thrown at them.” According to Johnson, MOCSA presentations and plays such as “The Outrage” put on by Safehome are extremely beneficial, but the reality is that there is no amount of education that can prevent someone from experiencing rape or sexual assault. “I don’t know that you can ever be educated enough
photo illustration depicting an example of attempted sexual assault involving alcohol by ARINNA HOFFINE
about rape and sexual assault,” Johnson said. “Do I think that STA girls get that education? Yes. Do I think we often fully understand what it means? Maybe not, until I hear something happens to them or someone they love and care about. So I’d like to say yes, all the girls have all the education in the world and know what to do, but when you’re in that situation, there’s no cookie cutter plan. You just have to navigate as you go, and unfortunately, I don’t think we can be ever educated enough on how to
deal with that situation.” The Director of Guidance at Rockhurst, Mike Heringer, has similar views and is ensuring that Rockhurst is making more efforts to further educate its students on rape. One way the school is doing this is by holding convocations, or class meetings, next year that will include discussions about sexual assault and violence. “Each class has [convocations],” Heringer said. “If there are any problems or news that goes on [in the community], it goes into convocations. Next year, speakers will come
in and do a presentation with MOCSA and Safehome as a part of that.” “One of the things we tell the boys is that going off to college, and just living, you’re going to be confronted with different types of scenarios,” Heringer said. “They will experience many situations dealing with sexuality, and you can’t really prepare for that unless you know what your values are. If you stand for nothing, you’ll fall for anything; so, whether the situation is sexual, alcoholic, drugs, cheating, if you don’t know what
you stand for, then you won’t be a in a position to deal with that well.” Although both Palausky and Brownlee agree that there could be more rape education at both schools, both students claim they have a good understanding on rape. “Legally, rape is having sex with someone when they can’t say no or they didn’t say yes,” Palausky said. “Rape falls under the category of sexual assault.” “To me, rape is forced sexual relations of any kind,”
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Brownlee said. There is a difference between sexual assault and rape, and the close similarity between the two terms’ definitions has caused much confusion in recent years in determining whether a case involves rape or sexual assault. The Department of Justice defines sexual assault as “any type of sexual contact or behavior that occurs without the explicit consent of the recipient.” An example of this would be rape. Rape is a form of sexual assault that occurs when either party does not consent to sexual intercourse. In Missouri, the age of consent is 17, so a teenager cannot legally agree to participate unless they meet the age requirements. The age of consent varies based on state, as does the terminology used to categorize rape and sexual assault. However, it is difficult to educate students when so many lines are blurred. Alcohol consumption also makes determining consent difficult. A drunk “yes” is the same as a sober “no,” according to Safehome. According to Crisis Connection, men are more likely than women to assume that a woman who consumes alcohol is a willing sexual partner on a
by the NUMBERS
4X
girls ages 16-19 are four times more likely to be victims of rape or sexual assault.
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date, and 40 percent of men who think the future so both parties feel safe and this way believe that it is acceptable comfortable with what happens.” to force intercourse on an intoxicated Along with alcohol and determining woman. rape in that respect, the topic of rape According to Palausky, being drunk culture also comes into play with the “isn’t an excuse for rape.” discussion of sexual assault. “If you’re too drunk as a teenager to “So much of the culture influences handle yourself, it’s another thing people [sexual assault] and the particular images need to be aware of,” Palausky said. “Just of male and female,” Heringer said. “So because you’re drunk doesn’t mean what [Rockhurst has] done is ask, ‘What you’re free of does it mean to anything...I think be a male? What Girls are blamed for people should does our culture rape because of how be able to do teach us? What do they dress, how much the right thing our values teach they drink or how they without being us about [sexual act. I think that the pressured to do assault]?’” world we live in defithe wrong thing, According to nitely influences that. whatever the Brownlee, rape — junior Meghan Brownlee right and wrong culture has a lot to things in those do with percepsituations are.” tions of women. By law, someone cannot give consent “Girls are blamed for rape because of if they are not in the right frame of mind how they dress, how much they drink or or under any influence of substances how they act,” Brownlee said. “I think that that alter their decision-making according the world we live in definitely influences to Safehome. that.” “Legally, you cannot give consent if Heringer agrees that the media influyou’re intoxicated,” Johnson said. “Each ences both girls and boys. case is different, and maybe what I would “In our society, we need to define look at is future implications for someone what is provocative and what looks who wasn’t sure if they were raped or not good,” Heringer said. “It’s an uphill push [because of intoxication]. Create a plan in with Catholic institutions with that when
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cover story
The Dart researched national sexual assault statistics.
compiled by KATHERINE GREEN | kgreen16@stastars.org
2-8% the percentage of rape claims that are false, according to recent research
98%
of rapists will never go to jail
2%
will spend a day in prison
sources: Rape Crisis Center of Medina and Summit Counties; National Sexual Violence Resource Center; Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network
it comes to restrictions on dancing and [on]clothing that goes on at dances, for example.” Another common misconception about the cause of rape is the outfit the victim was wearing. A goal of many organizations like MOCSA and Safehome is to prove that clothing has nothing to do with why rape may occur. Johnson agrees with this goal. “Clothing can’t send signals,” Johnson said. “We can interpret what we choose to, but inanimate objects don’t have that kind of power. However, people send signals and I don’t believe that it has to do with the signals that are being sent. Rape has nothing to do with signals. Rape is about power and control. So, if a person sees that someone is vulnerable in any way, that they have the ability to overpower them, that’s what rape is. It doesn’t matter what she’s wearing, it doesn’t matter what he’s wearing, it doesn’t matter what they’re doing or saying, rape is about finding someone that is vulnerable or scared.” “I think it really says something that most of the time, girls are blamed for being raped,” Brownlee said. “It also says something about rape education that girls kind of just accept the blame, and most girls don’t even consider what happened to them to be rape.” According to Johnson, girls have to pay attention to physical and emotional signs to determine whether they were raped or not. “Besides any physical pain or discomfort you may be feeling, pay attention to the more subtle emotional signs,” Johnson said. “We know that the majority of those who commit rape or sexual assault know their victims. Notice if you’re feeling pressured or coaxed in any way into doing something that you don’t have a way to say ‘no.’ So, just a lot of that verbal and prompting that makes you feel uncomfortable or gives you a feeling that ‘this isn’t right.’ Be conscious and cautious about how you feel about a certain situation, and if you’re uncomfortable, it’s okay to say ‘no.’ If you feel pressured, you should start to think about the kind of
no means no | Safe Home volunteers went to Rockhurst High School to depict abusive relationships through skits and answer questions regarding sexual assault. This is a branch of the organization that educates and involves young adults. photo by ARINNA HOFFINE
relationship you’re in and look for signs of an abusive relationship.” “I think that signs of rape are if a guy is crossing your personal boundaries and you aren’t comfortable with it,” Brownlee said. As for future efforts to further educate Rockhurst and STA students, Johnson and the STA administration hope to collaborate with Rockhurst. “I think there’s definitely an opportunity for collaboration,” Johnson said. “Rockhurst had actually presented the idea that they wanted to join to do this educational video, but unfortunately, based on our schedule, we did not feel comfortable this year with being able to partner with them. It is something we’re going to do, to create a small group discussion with girls and guys. It’s not a one-sided issue and it shouldn’t be taught one way to two different groups. It should be taught all ways to all groups.” “A collaboration would be really helpful,” Brownlee said. “[STA and Rockhurst students] don’t have the same opinions or understandings on what sexual assault and rape is. Talking with Rockhurst boys would give us a different view and would help all of us.”
“I think single-sex schools have a lot of benefits,” Heringer said. “But when you talk about dating...those conferences or meetings are one-sided. Single-sex schools are like, ‘How are you going to talk about this when you only have the opinion of one sex?’” “We’ve all seen the [recent cases] that’ve been in the news in colleges and universities,” Heringer said. “Seeing it in the media, we’re bucking a culture that doesn’t support a lot of respect and dignity...instead, we have hook-up culture, which can be confusing for young adults regarding intimacy.” According to Johnson, a shift in the culture will hopefully cause rape to become more of an issue and less likely. “The reality is that one in ten men rape, so that means there’s nine young men that will not rape or feel that it’s something they have to do,” Johnson said. “So, that’s the good news. I think even with society’s standards and idea about gender roles, the majority of men are saying ‘This isn’t a behavior I’m going to do.’ It’s that one in ten we have to be aware of and be mindful of the messages we are sending through media and education and socializing about gender.” H
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cartoon by MEREDITH MULHERN
main ed / A&E
Sexual assault is a reality that must be faced But, it can end with proper education and awareness.
Last semester, a group of my friends went to a party at another friend’s house. A couple months later, a female friend who had been there casually mentioned a part of the night I hadn't heard. What she described is what I would define as sexual assault, or possibly rape, but she brushed it off as a misunderstanding. She recounted waking up in a drunken haze while a male at the party might have been attempting intercourse with her. Except she doesn’t remember clearly. She doesn’t know if she was actually unconscious or just can’t remember that part of the night. She doesn’t know if she had soberly consented to his behavior earlier, or if he was consciously taking advantage of her. We've all learned that saying yes when under the influence still means no, but does this change if the actions would have still been consensual when sober? Does it change if both were intoxicated?
right on
TARGET
According to an essay by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, about 25 percent of American women have experienced some form of sexual assault; about half these cases involved alcohol in some way. The essay later states that “although a woman’s alcohol consumption may place her at
[
increased risk of sexual assault, she is in no way responsible for the assault. The perpetrators are legally and morally responsible for their behavior.“ I full-heartedly agree, but understanding sexual assault in real-life situations is difficult. Am I or anyone else who has heard my friend’s account of that night
Do you think STA students are well-educated about sexual assault?
The Dart asked students their opinion of the main editorial. compiled by LEIGH CAMPBELL lcampbell15@stastars.org
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4 of 5 editors voted in support of this editorial
responsible for taking action against the alleged attacker if the alleged victim denies any wrongdoing? His story sounds much different when told by his friends, but using information that could easily be interpreted to support either side. If she doesn’t consider it assault, why won’t this situation stop nagging me? Why does it come to mind every time we’re around the “friend” who may or may not have taken advantage of someone I hold dear? The threat of sexual assault or rape doesn’t just exist on dark streets or in “sketchy” parts of town; it exists at parties with people we consider friends; it exists in the ignorance that begins with a lack of education; it exists in the threadwork of our patriarchal society, a stifled issue that is finally, sadly, reaching its tipping point. It is time for both men and women to be educated about the reality of sexual assault in our communities and use this knowledge to end it once and for all. H
Caroline Strader senior
“No, because rape is not a topic we talk about or hear about at school. It is more heard about from the media.”
Ellie Porterfield junior
“I don’t think we are . . . I think we should be taught more tactics to avoid and recognize rape or sexual assault.”
Hunter Loehr freshman
“Overall, no. I feel like STA has assemblies on other topics other than rape like drinking. But in PE we did talk about rape briefly.”
Growing design field encourages STA to host first annual design camp. by MACKENZIE O'GUIN moguin17@stastars.org
For the last 10 years, students in fifth through eighth grade have been able to spend a week of their summer in ceramics and textiles teacher Lisa Dibble’s Art Camp. Dibble believes the camp is a “wonderful way to get with the campus and one of the visual arts facilities." This summer, however, Dibble will no longer be alone in her quest to educate youth in artistic expression with the addition of STA’s first-annual design camp, headed by computer graphics teacher Kelly Scott. “I originally offered to help Dibble with her fine arts camp, because I thought it would be interesting to work with a new age group and do what I love to do,” Scott said. “That evolved into me doing my own [camp].”
defining DESIGN
As a first-time teacher, Scott has only worked with high-school students, but she still deems it important that younger students be exposed to design and digital art. “It’s a technical skill, but it’s not something you have to be a certain age to be interested in or get into,” Scott said. “The younger you are when you’re exposed to the software and computer programs necessary [for design], the easier it’s going to be when you’re older so you can do what you love.” In addition to being an educational source of summer fun, according to Dibble, the camps are a definitive factor in helping students choose STA. “Years [after the camp], I will often have my summer campers [enrolled] in one of my ceramics or textiles
Employment for graphic designers is expected to grow by 61 percent between now and 2020. by LINDEN O'BRIEN-WILLIAMS lobrienwilliams17@stastars.org
classes,” Dibble said. The design camp, which will teach students the basics of graphic design and Adobe software such as Adobe Illustrator, will run from late June to early July. “The days are only a few hours, but we’ll be covering a lot of material in a short amount of time,” Scott said. “By the end of the week, students should have a fundamental understanding of design priciples, as well as a basic knowledge of how to create quality graphics from scratch.” As design is an increasingly popular field, STA has a growing demand for design courses, according to Scott. "Camps like this weren't available to me as a middleschooler," Scott said. "I just want to help students discover something they're as passionate about as I am." H
design: (noun) visual concepts, created by hand or using computer software, that communicate ideas that inspire, inform or captivate consumers; this includes layout and production design for advertisements, brochures, magazines and corporate reports
annual salary:
$62,000-$65,000
entry-level degree:
Bachelor's
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perspectives
Student insensitivity revealed by Reaper Day leaves me disturbed, disgusted, enraged by MACKENZIE O'GUIN moguin17@stastars.org
When Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) moderator Carrie Jacquin emailed me asking me to participate in Reaper Day on April 9, my first reaction was to send a polite but certain “no, thanks.” However, I still forwarded the email to my mother to ask her advice- should I play dead for a day or not? While waiting for her reply, I reflected on last year’s Reaper Day. Despite STA’s valiant efforts to educate students on the severity of drunk and distracted driving, Reaper Day was filled with students openly scoffing at their classmates’ symbolic "deaths" and, by the end of the day, I had grown disgusted by Reaper Day for making a joke out of something so grave. Upon seeing me visibly upset, some students asked what was wrong, but thought I was overreacting. Perhaps my volatility was due to my friend’s grisly death due to drunk driving a mere six months earlier, and was furthered by listening to fellow students make a punchline out of the carnage. My reflection culminated as I read my mother’s reply to the aforementioned email, stating I should participate in Reaper Day. When I immediately pounded out an all-caps protest of this schoolenforced mockery, she pointed out something I’d never considered: my anger at Reaper Day was misdirected. Reaper Day wasn’t the issue, the students’ reception of Reaper Day was. Upon realizing this, I immediately emailed Jacquin, now somewhat eager to take part in Reaper Day with a fairer outlook. Come April 9, I was hopeful that this Reaper Day would exceed the last, but I was wrong. Throughout
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in a drunk driving accident. She was the day, I watched my “dead” peers at a stoplight when a drunken man, openly ridicule the faux death going approximately 100 miles per described on their signs to the hour, plowed into her car, propelling amusement of others. her into the intersection where At the end of the day, when my she was crushed by several other peers and I lay covered beneath cars. I found out the morning of my sheets in the quad by our "graves," I listened to the commentary of several infamous birthday party, and due to shock, I cannot remember my party students. One student stated that at all. Shock also forced me to repress there was nothing to be learnt from Reaper Day, as “most the dead people nearly all memories of Tiffany, and though I now have recovered some weren’t responsible for their deaths.” memories of her as I’ve learned to To that student: that is the point. cope, I still cannot remember most A key aspect of Reaper Day is the of our times together. I quit dance, knowledge that drunk driving doesn’t one of my favorite things on earth, just put your life at risk, but those and until recently, shut out most of strangers as well. Students must friends and family for fear of losing realize the consequences of their anyone else unexpectedly. The most actions radiate far past themselves debilitating issue I still face is anxiety or immediate family. If the only and paranoia riding in or driving way you learn from Reaper Day is cars. Often, I have panic attacks in by feeling personally at risk, then simple situations such as reckless you are not only incredibly selfish, driving, complicated intersections, but also remarkably inconsiderate. or delayed stops at stoplights. One The more common responses I man’s drunken mistake left Tiffany overheard were those of girls who dead and many like me scarred. This thought their peers lying ‘dead’ was is my personal testimony, and there hilarious. One laughed about how are others in our community facing drunk driving “isn’t even that serious” similar challenges and losses. and how “it’s unlikely for [one] to At STA, we pride ourselves on die like that anyways.” To me, this being smart, compassionate sounds suspiciously like someone young women, yet when who has never undergone the presented with real sheer pain of loss that so world issues, many are many of your peers have uncomfortable and resort experienced. to immaturity. The nervous The main issue at and insensitive jokes about hand is a lack of empathy tragedies leave victims for others. The loss of a of tragedy belittled. friend to drunk driving Finally, I must impart is a disturbing and with any of the horrific experience students who think that resonates in your Reaper Day is a joke: everyday life far past be cautious of what the initial death, "Last year, you laugh at, because and I speak from my friend and you never know who experience. Last year, dance coach, might be listening. H my friend and dance Tiffany, was coach, Tiffany, was killed kille
d in a drunk driving accident. "
How it feels to be black
Recently, I had a conversation with my father and another friend of our family. Though this situation was mostly a conversation (as opposed to an interrogation), the man asked me a question that made me pause: “What’s it like to be black?” He knew, of course - his skin was even darker than mine. But I think he was curious about how I would respond. I’d never really thought about it before. What is it like to be like me? To be treated a certain way based on your appearance? Here is my response: Being black means you have to sit a little straighter to be considered poised. You have to speak properly to avoid being thought of as ghetto. You have to be careful in stores, because you realize people are already suspicious of your blackness, a word synonymous with “thief.” Being black means no matter who you encounter, they will judge you for being black. God forbid your skin is darker than a Hershey’s bar or your
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Being black means you are black, and nothing else
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by TORIE RICHARDSON vrichardson16@stastars.org
name ends in -isha. That, of course, is nearly irredeemable. Being black means cringing when another black person is acting foolishly, because you know it will affect the way people view you. Feeling black means feeling underrepresented everywhere. In the media. In your country’s accounts of history. Even in your own school, where you don’t have any black teachers. Being black means feeling at home with your white friends, but knowing people only notice your differences when you’re together in public. Being black means knowing the worst thing that can happen to a white man’s son is for him to marry a black girl.
Being black means means you should have a big voice and butt to match. It means that you’re hottempered and may be pretty, but only “for a black girl.” At least, that’s what I’ve been taught. But I can’t help but feel as if there is something more. I can’t help but look at my black parents in pride. At my dad, who was the first black man to graduate from UMKC with a
pharmaceutical degree. At my mom, who hates her name because she thinks it sounds ghetto, but is one of the smartest people I know. And maybe the things I mentioned before are how blackness is supposed to feel. But maybe they are projections. Because when I really settle into my skin, it is powerful. To be black means to come from a line of people who stood up for what they believed in unconditionally. Who were so smart they wove code into songs. It means coming from inventors, from geniuses, from hard workers. To be black is to be different. It is not better. But, unlike what I’ve been taught from the world around me, it is not worse. To be black is to be human. It means you are worthy of dignity and respect. It means you deserve a chance. But, for some reason, my blackness seems to cover others’ eyes of the truth. This experience is not perpetuated by one person, though. It is supported by those who laugh at stereotyping and participate themselves. By those who claim they are “not racist,” but continually marginalize those who are different than them. By you, reader, who think of others while reading this column, but refuse to look in the mirror. How does it feel to be black? You decide. H
Criticism from Baby Boomers is infuriating and irrelevant
by AUDREY CARROLL acarroll16@stastars.org
“It was easy to find a job when I was your age; why aren’t you working?” “My summer job was able to pay for my college tuition! Maybe if you worked harder…” “Your generation is so lazy. You spend too much of your time behind screens.” These are just a few of the numerous infuriating comments I hear
from the older generation, otherwise known as Baby Boomers, on a daily basis. The comments are mostly infuriating because Baby Boomers constantly blame our generation, the Millennials, for the downfall of the economy. The reality is that Baby Boomers were born into a period of one of the greatest economic expansions in history and gobbled up all the opportunities and left nothing but the bones for the next generation. They raised the income for wealthy Americans, shrunk the middle class and carelessly borrowed money, driving the economy into a recession. It baffles me how the older generation blames us for the economy and the politics behind it when the American government is
run primarily run by middle-aged white men. We now live in a society where a college education is required to live in the middle-class, or to even sustain an inherited middle-class standing. It’s just time for the older generation to accept that the current standings of the American economy and politics are a result of their actions. While the older generation constantly oh so generously offers advice to us “stupid, lazy Millennials,” I would like to offer them a piece of advice: be mindful of your criticism of our actions, because millennials are probably the most accepting, progressive generation in our history so far, and, after you retire, we’ll be left to clean up your mess. H
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sports
Track introduces javelin throw
STA athletes are competing in javelin this track season. by ANNA BAUMAN abauman15@stastars.org
everyday I'm javelin' | Junior Kathleen Herrington practices throwing a javelin after school April 17. Herrington is one of five students who participates in this newly offered track sport. photo by GLORIA COWDIN
This is the first year that STA has offered the javelin as a track and field event. According to the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS), this spring 2015 track and field season is the first time that Missouri high school athletes have had the opportunity to compete in the javelin throw. This new addition was sparked by statewide interest, according to NFHS. STA joins 77 other schools statewide who have added the event. There are currently five STA athletes who compete in javelin, coached by track coach JC Ramatowski. The athletes practice everyday after school to work on specific javelin throwing technique, according to freshman Sophia Giocondo. “At practice we work on getting our footwork down because that is most important,” Giocondo said. “Also we work on getting it to stick in the ground by doing the correct arm movements.” At track meets each
F A S T facts
compiled by ANNA BAUMAN abauman15@stastars.org let it go | Junior Gillian Cutter, left, and junior Kathleen Herrington look on as freshman Sofia Giacondo practices throwing the javelin Thursday, April 17. This is the first year javelin has been offered as a track and field sport at STA. photo by Gloria Cowdin. photo by GLORIA COWDIN
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athlete gets three or four throws and can score by placing in the top seven, according to sophomore javelin thrower Natalie Hull. According to Hull, the javelin can be challenging. “Throwing the javelin is kind of difficult because you have to keep your arm completely straight unlike if you were throwing a baseball,” Hull said. Like any sport, it also has the potential to be dangerous. “You have to be very cautious when you are using the javelin because it is very sharp and can go through someone or injure someone if they got hit by one,” Giocondo said. However, the athletes take precautions. “We try to make sure everyone is aware when people are throwing,” Hull said. Despite the risks, Hull enjoys throwing javelin. “I like it because it’s different and fun to learn,” Hull said.” H The Missouri State High School Activities Association asked all member schools this year: Do you plan on offering the javelin this track/field season? YES - 16% NO - 84%
Looking to LAX After six years of playing lacrosse, Junior Kristina Coppinger has major decisions to make for her athletic future. by MARY HILLIARD mhilliard16@stastars.org
For many athletes, competitions lead to nerves and anxiety. However, for junior lacrosse player Kristina Coppinger, it is the exact opposite. For Coppinger, a feeling of calm comes over her, with nothing but the next hour mattering. “Even in close games, my mind is sharp and my body is pulsing full of life,” Coppinger said. “My mind is constantly analyzing the field and putting me into the correct spot for the best pass or best look to goal. I try to be three steps ahead, because one step ahead is practically behind.” Coppinger has been playing lacrosse for six years, and has “loved every day.” She plays midfield for the STA lacrosse team, and has been on varsity since she was a freshman. She also received the Most Valuable Player award last season, voted on by her team mates. This year, she is one of three captains along with seniors Sydney Edmunds and Anna Meagher. "I really look up to her because of not only her incredible work ethic but her spirit," sophomore Mary Claire Connor said. "When I was having a bad game, she came up to me and told me how great I was rather than trying to point out what I was doing bad. She just really was able to bring my spirits up." At the beginning of this
school year, Coppinger began the recruiting process for collegiate lacrosse with hopes of playing Division 1 if possible. She decided to try to play college lacrosse because “nothing would make me happier than getting to continue the sport I love and making some friends for life.” According to Coppinger, the recruitment process “is simply the most confusing and complicated process that sounds really easy”. The first step depends solely on the player. They must make a list of schools they are interested in based on their own criteria, such as location, majors offered or student population. From this list, the player looks into the lacrosse programs at their “would go” schools and determines the level of competition offered, which could vary from Division 1
to intercollegiate or club. After finding schools that meet the initial criteria created by the player and fit the desired level of lacrosse offered, a new list is created. From there, recruitment is “only an email away”, according to Coppinger. “Emails should include background information, [statistics] and a lacrosse resume...” Coppinger said. “Then it is a waiting game to see if any coach is interested in the talents you bring to the field. Sometimes multiple emails are necessary. Once you start a correspondence via email or phone, the coach will most likely want to see you play in person.” The hardest part of the recruitment procedure, according to Coppinger, has been the time commitment and “putting myself out there.”
“I get so nervous when I have to send emails. However, I force myself to send a few out every now and then.” However, there are positive elements despite the challenges. A quick email reply from a coach makes a player feel wanted, which is “most-of-the-time not the case throughout the rest of the recruiting process,” according to Coppinger. Currently, Coppinger is looking at Marquette University, Purdue University, Northwestern University, and the University of Notre Dame. Marquette is her first choice to play lacrosse and Notre Dame is her first choice without it. “I want to go to the best school possible and make the most of my college experience,” Coppinger said. “If that means that I can continue to play and manage a degree then I will, but a college with a more elite program may only allow me to pursue lacrosse through club.” Coppinger has visited the Northwestern, Notre Dame, and Denver University lacrosse fields. Similar to her racing mind during a game, the feeling of being on a college lacrosse field was “pure energy." “To think that this may be your future or something you will have to give up is hard to describe," Coppinger smile for the camera | Junior Kristina Coppinger practices lacrosse on the field. Coppinger is a midfielder on the varsity lacrosse said. H team. photo by LIBBY HYDE
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community
graphics by MACKENZIE O'GUIN, photos by MADDY MEDINA moguin17@stastars.org I mmedina17@stastars.org
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Bistro serves homemade, made-fromscratch food to the students and staff of STA. We provide a healthy lunch option free of unnecessary additives and preservatives using as many fresh and local ingredients as possible.
Variety
— Scott Brake, Bistro chef
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Bistro’s
iNGREDIENTS 10" or 12" flour tortillas Your choice of guacamole White rice Your choice of beans (black, chili, kidney) Your choice of cheese (cheddar, queso) Your choice of hot sauce Your choice of salsa Sour cream
Directions Spoon warm beans, cilantro rice and guacamole into tortillas. Top with cheese, hot sauce, salsa, sour cream or anything else you would like. Fold edges of each burrito into the center and roll up tightly.
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Montag’s
iNGREDIENTS Yellow Cake Mix (not butter recipe) ½ cup granulated sugar ¼ cup vegetable oil
I am not gonna lie, I get text messages from former students, I have been stopped in the grocery store...[It] makes me smile. I found the recipe on the side of a Best Choice yellow cake mix box. — Mary Montag, science teacher
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Directions Mix sugar, vegetable oil, and cake mix into a large bowl. Spoon onto a cookie sheet. Bake at 350 degrees for 8-9 minutes depending on the size of the cookie. Spread Betty Crocker whipped white icing onto cookies.
iNGREDIENTS
Hart’s
1 cup brown sugar 2 teaspoons cinnamon 1 cup walnuts 16 oz Brie 6 tablespoons butter 2 packages crescent rolls
Directions
sophomore
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My sister [Mary Hart, 2014 alumna] used to make it for every advisory party, and they loved it! My advisory...not so much. I brought it once and no one touched it, but I bet after this article, they might want to try it! — Annie Hart,
Spray glass dish with nonstick oil. Unroll crescent rolls and shape in a circle in the dish. On top of the crescent roll circle, place ½ cup of brown sugar, ½ cup nuts, 1 teaspoon cinnamon and 3 tablespoons of butter. Place the Brie on top. Place the rest of the sugar, nuts, cinnamon and butter on top of the Brie. Fold crescent rolls around the mixture, sealing edges completely closed. Bake at 350 degrees for 40 minutes.
the Dart // dartnewsonline.com // 23 April 2015 page design by Siobhan Miller
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last look
Like mother, like daughter
photos by AMY O'LEARY and MEG THOMPSON aoleary15@stastars.org | mthompson16@stastars.org
strut your stuff | From left, Elaine Kerr, Leigh Campbell, Siobhan Miller, Lauren Zastrow, Hayden Lee, and Gretchen Schloegel swing their tennis racquets at the mother daughter luncheon and fashion show April 19. They wore clothes from The Tennis Set. photo by MEG THOMPSON
chip off the block | Seniors Maggie McClain, from left, Jenny Tilson, Amelia Lester, Courtney Didier, and Shannon O'Rourke get together for a group picture at the mother daughter luncheon April 19. photo by AMY O'LEARY
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eating with mom | Kamryn Lanier and her mother laugh at their table during the mother daughter luncheon April 19. Each girl and their mother received a gift bag filled with information and coupons from the stores seniors modeled photo by AMY O'LEARY
2.
1.
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6.
1. lunch date | At the mother daughter luncheon, April 19, Sydney Edmonds and her mom wear their sunglasses from their gift bag. Country Club Bank provided sunglasses for everyone at the event. photo by AMY O'LEARY 2. walk the walk | Claire Reboulet, Ellen Weitkamp, and Rachel Scheffler strut down the runway modeling clothes from the store Re-Runs at the motherd daughter luncheon April 19. photo by MEG THOMPSON 3. strike a pose | Greta Smithmier works her stuff on the runway modeling clothes from Halls at the mother daughter luncheon April 19. photo by MEG THOMPSON
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4. hitting the catwalk | Basil Burnette walks the runway, following Arinna Hoffine, Gracie Fleming, and Quinn Kernell. This group of girls modeled clothes from Donna's Dress Shop. photo by MEG THOMPSON 5. preaching to the crowd | President Nan Bone begins to lead the STA students and their mothers in prayer at the mother daughter luncheon. photo by AMY O'LEARY 6. work the runway | Natalie Behnen and Meghan Daniels hold hands as they walk down the runway at the mother daughter luncheon. The girls modeled Maria Behnen's Designs, owned by Natalie's mom. photo by MEG THOMPSON
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In the Humans of STA Take a look at the current coverage on DartNewsOnline
High school bands: staying in tune photos by KATHERINE MEDIAVILLA kmediavilla16@stastars.org
High school bands Tall Tales, The Greeting Committee and Santomo discuss what it's like to try to make it. Check out the video on DNO.
strum along| Lead guitarist of Tall Tales Band Pierce Turcotte, left, rests as band basist Jack Ingram plays in the background.
jammin' out| Lead guitarist of Tall Tales Pierce Turcotte plays his guitar during band practice. The band heavily anticipates the release of its first album which will debut this year.
rock band| Lead singer and pianist of Tall Tales Ryland Fisher, left, sings while guitarist Pierce Turcotte plays his guitar.
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