January 2015 Patriot by SMS Patriot

THE

PATRIOT JANUARY 2015

STARVING ARTISTS

Students face the harsh realities of pursuing their passions past high school. Page 14

Vol. 49 Issue 5 Shawnee Mission South 5800 W. 107 St, OP, KS 66207 (913) 993-7500

CONTENTS New Custodians Page 6

Staff Editorial Page 11

Stats Page 8

New Clubs Pa g e 4 WPA Page 7

Early Decision Page 5

Friends Forever Page 20

Cover Story Page 14 The Debate Page 12

Future Arts Major Page 10

Twitter Photo Contest Page 22

Q&A Page 18

ON THE COVER From left: junior Lauren Rosenstock, senior Jonathan Wittbrodt and juniors Leorah Addadi and Kate Anderson demonstrate the “starving artist” cliché. PHOTO BY JENNA FACKRELL

MISSION STATEMENT The Patriot Editorial, which represents the views of the editors. Under the First Amendment and Kansas Law, The Patriot letters to the editor, but they will only be published if signed. The editor-in-chief reserves the right to refuse or edit any letters for reasons of grammar, length and good taste. Letters can be sent to Room 195 or e-mailed to patrioteditors@gmail.com.

Jan. 2015 table of contents

The Final Say Page 23

Raider Nation Page 27

Reviews Page 25 Top Apps Page 24

Athletes in College Page 28

Dressed to Impress Page 26

I Canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Breathe Page 29

Angles Page 32

Fitness Resolutions Page 30

MEET THE STAFF Rola Alasmar Editor-in-Chief Opinion Editor

Emily Wilkinson Asst. Editor-in-Chief Web Editor

Rose Pollina News Editor Infographics Editor

Lauren Rosenstock Sports Editor Social Media Manager

Nanae Urano A&E Editor

Amelia Holcomb Ads Editor

Autumn Mock Features Editor

Regina Yan Copy Editor

Jenna Fackrell Photo Editor

Arturo Sanchez-Vera Photographer

Katie Imes Photographer

Savannah Morgan Photographer

Rachel Larberg Writer

Kate Anderson Writer

Andrea Smith Writer

Sophia Belshe Writer

Avery Dorsey Writer

Kendall Barker Writer

Julie Fales Adviser

table of contents

Jan. 2015

THE END OF THE TOP TEN

Flying on his broomstick, sophomore Sam Shneck masters the Photo by Tegan Goodson

Students are no longer ranked by grade point.

I SOUTH’S NEW CLUBS

“I think [my favorite thing

earlier in the year by Rachele AMELIA HOLCOMB

KENDALL BARKER

Jan. 2015

news

DECISIONS, DECISIONS... photo Illustration by SAVANNAH MORGAN

Seniors opt for early decision college acceptance odds.

s high school seniors nervously prepare for the college application process each year, some students are more stressed than others, as they opt to apply early decision. Many of South’s own students who have “[Applying early decision] means that if they’re accepted, they have to withdraw any other applications they’ve made and attend that school. If it turns out they can’t go for can’t have any other applications,” gifted teacher Stanley Stern said. early decision and was accepted. “[Applying early] gives you a better chance of getting in and I knew that’s where I wanted to go and I didn’t really The early decision process can boost a student’s chance

FRONT DESK SECURITY

well. don’t have to worry about it for the rest of the school year, that takes out a lot of the stress,” Stern said. Despite the heightened acceptance rate that is one of the process, some students prefer to apply during the standard application period for a multitude of reasons. “I did not [apply early decision],” senior Megan Stollsteimer said. “I think it’s kind of binding and I like to keep my options open.” Indeed, only a handful of students from South apply early decision. “I wouldn’t say a lot [of students apply early decision], would say that it’s not that common. There’s early decision and there’s also schools that do what are called rolling admissions to where you send your application in and they tell you their decisions at earlier deadlines, so a lot of there for a long time,” Stern said.

KENDALL BARKER

Front door desk provides improved security for South.

old air rushes in as the main door opens and a parent enters. “Can you please sign in?” says the new security guard Greg Merchant. After the 7:40 a.m. bell, school doors are locked except the front east door. When non-students visit after that time, they must sign in at the security desk at the front doors. Merchant believes this is a better system than signing “Before, visitors could go right or left down the halls and not sign in,” Merchant said. Before becoming a security guard at Shawnee Mission ”’I am making sure school is safe and people who are coming in have a good reason to be at the school,” Merchant said. The school district is coming up with new security that causes people to come through a “pinch point” — a single central door. “In the fall security will be more intense,” Merchant said. Security might include having a silent alarm if a door is opened and having more cameras. Also, when students

the school safe. PHOTO by Arturo Sanchez-Vera the front one will be locked during the school day. Students will have to use their IDs and adults their driver’s license to enter through the pinch point. “It’s kind of stupid [having all the doors locked] because either way, you’re going to see that person come in. It’s just inconvenient to have to open a door and have to walk all the way over there,” junior Tegan Goodson said. Although it may be inconvenient, it will make school safer. “It will make school a lot more secure. Right now any one can get into the school,” Merchant said. ANDREA SMITH

news Jan. 2015

As part of the new custodial collects the trash from the bathrooms. photo by Katie Imes

A CLEAN SWEEP

Thirteen new custodians break out the brooms.

“The school just seems cleaner in small ways but all the little things add up,” senior Emily Arnold said. Along with revamping the custodial system, the district

Shawnee Mission School District decided to reorganize and revamp the custodial department. “The responsibilities, schedule and job descriptions

“The district is setting up a grounds crew that will go to each individual school,” Flurry said. “They will come through and hit our campus in a few hours once a week rather than having someone who is dedicated to going out there and mowing.”

the halls with a new attitude and motivation. The

said Ryan Flurry, the administrator overlooking the custodial department at Shawnee Mission South. The changes within the custodial department caused a facelift to the school which is a result from the higher to top notch,” said Brett Daane, the building manager. “One of the things that I know to be true about South is that it is a top notch school academically and we want to bring this school up to the highest standard when it comes to the facility being clean and well maintained.” With small changes already improving the school, to go.

department, Daane is working to add a new spark to the customer service possible to the people of this building and people who visit our building,” Daane said. “This also includes our regular duties and cleaning but also we have people coming in from the outside and it’s about how do we create a welcoming environment and it’s a matter of RACHEL LARBERG

FOR THE LOVE OF MUSIC

Masterworks concert brings together choir, band and orchestra for a night of music.

hoir, band and orchestra will be joining musical forces for the Masterworks concert Thursday, Jan. 29. The concert contains a variety of musical selections performed by each group. At 7 p.m., the auditorium will open for this free annual event. The music department has been rehearsing since early January. “We were working on it right after [the winter choir concert] because there’s only about four weeks to put it all together,” choir director Elise Peterson said. “It’s a push.” To practice, the choir sings through the song and then steer the members in the right direction. This process is repeated for every piece. The choir also sings with the orchestra, further emphasizing the collaborative aspect. with the other sections of music,” senior choir member Tom Lundine said. “It’s something we don’t usually do...it’s really unique.” from the Messiah composed by George Handel. In addition to that group piece, one senior soloist from each will

a way that the campuses will get more attention but in less time. The team will help to make the district campuses look more maintained.

Jan. 2015

news

soloist parts in December. Seniors Deborah Hass, Rachel Fisher and Carlie Johnson received soloist parts. Hass, the piece. For Fisher, the vocal soloist, this has been a longstanding goal. something I have wanted since freshman year.” Students who auditioned prepared a piece, and some had an optional accompanist. For most, the anticipation for the audition was worse than the actual performing itself. “Once you get in there, it wasn’t stressful at all,” Johnson said. Students usually knew the teachers they were performing in front of which made the process less stressful. “It’s kind of intimidating,” Fisher said, “but then again, you know all these teachers.” Overall, Masterworks is a great opportunity for abilities of the music departments in their combination of genres. “It’s cool to see all the themes come together,” Lundine said. KATE ANDERSON

MESSAGE FOR MY SWEETHEART Student Council prepares for the Sweetheart dance.

he winter season is approaching and that means the Sweetheart Dance is around the corner. Student Council is planning to transform the Auxiliary Gym into a Norwegian Night. “We plan to have decorations to make a fun environment reminiscent of

the Scandinavian country,” said senior Isaac Lanan, Dance Committee Chair. Snow and Norwegian lights are ideas they are incorporating into the dance. While the theme is just a small part of the dance, Student Council needs all hands on deck when planning a dance this big. “Once the dance committee decides on a also have to nail down little details,” said Cynthia

Hartwell, Student Coucil sponsor. “We have to nail down a DJ and Photo Booth that will be at the dance. We also must include PTSA who provides the refreshments at the dance.” There are many components that go into the dance but without each detail the dance would not have the spark it should. This romantic and fun environment gives students an opportunity to dress up and have a safe night. Tickets will be on sale during lunch Feb. 1-5 for $15

each or two for $25. Student Council will be selling tickets at the door but each ticket will be $15. “The main goal of the dance is to provide a fun atmosphere where the students feel welcome to come and have a good time,” Lanan said. “[The theme] is a unique idea that allows us to be creative when decorating and exploring having a ton of fun. We hope to see a lot of students having fun on the night of the dance as well.” RACHEL LARBERG

SWEETHEART CANDIDATES Guys:

Anei Anei-Yor Alejandro Diaz Trenton Flagler Zachary Gerber Brian Harness

Daniel D. Keller Benedict Luancing Thomas Lundine Peter McAtee Ethan H. Stone

Takee... Not ANDREA SMITH &

Girls:

Taylor Cossairt Deborah Hass

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graphics by Rose Pollina

news Jan. 2015

STATS OF THE ART STATS COMPILED BY ROSE POLLINA

15% 17% 27% 41%

Performance instruments, vocals, acting.

33%

Visual drawing, photography, video.

Creative writing. Physical sculpting, clothing, pottery, interior design.

55%

24% 28% 36% 12%

Somewhat important.

45% 55%

TECHNICAL AND CREATIVE MINDS: Technical

Jan. 2015

news

of students are considering majoring in the arts in college.

of students believe the arts shouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be mandatory in their education.

49%

Creative

44%

Extremely important.

of students take instruction classes about an art outside of school.

themselves. (ex: visiting museums, going to book readings, etc.)

29%

Mostly important.

of students believe that a career in the arts

of students are considering to pursue a career in the arts.

74%

HOW IMPORTANT THE ARTS ARE IN EVERYDAY LIFE TO STUDENTS: Not important.

of students believe that the arts are important to their education.

55%

WHAT KINDS OF ARTS STUDENTS PURSUE IN THEIR FREE TIME:

86%

A statistical breakdown of Shawnee Mission South students and their opinions and experiences regarding the arts.

of students play an instrument.

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‘A Major’ in the Arts Consider studying the arts in college.

hungry painter hunches over her artwork, meticulously outlining her portrait in a dim studio. A malnourished street musician strums his guitar, softly serenading passersby in an empty corner. “Starving artist” stereotypes depict images of poor artists and musicians, and it’s easy to see why many people are hesitant to pursue studies in these Sometimes it seems like everything in life sets us up to get a good, high-paying job. Elementary school prepares you for middle school; middle school prepares you for high school; high school prepares you for college; college prepares you for a art and music were integrated into elementary school days, they soon became optional electives as opposed to the required english, math, science, social studies courses. Remember when your kindergarten self wanted to be a rock star, but how that eventually turned into a more “practical” career choice? Art and music are often considered to be better suited as “hobbies” rather than careers, and a quick look at salary statistics shows why. The typical orchestra performer makes $54,000 a year while the median salary

of an orthodontist is $129,000. But, numbers can be deceptive. Painters and photographers can sell works for thousands of dollars, while the salaries of solo musicians can reach up to $60,000 per performance. True, those are examples of the “few and far in between” but people can (and do) make a living through music and art. Even if they struggle, most still have secondary jobs or love their craft so much that salary isn’t a concern. And that’s why I want to study music in college and possibly score composer. Sure, I know it’s a risk - that’s why I’m minoring in music and majoring in economics. But I would rather pursue my passion than study something that doesn’t inspire me. I don’t want to lay on my deathbed thinking of all the “should’ves” that “could’ve” happened if I had studied music. So do what makes you happy, whether it’s artistic or practical, creative or technical. I’m not saying everyone should throw out everything they’ve learned and blindly pursue their dreams, but I do believe there is so much value in chasing after a passion. Heck, be that rock star your 5-year-old self aspired to become if that’s still what you want to do. The whole point of college and life itself is to end up doing what you enjoy doing. And getting paid to do something you love - that’s what a dream job is for, right? regina yan

Photos by jenna fackrell

Jan. 2015 opinion

Cartoon by regina yan

STAFF EDITORIAL

State of the Arts

School Musical

High

9/9 EDITORS AGREE WITH THE VIEWS EXPRESSED IN THIS EDITORIAL

opinion Jan. 2015

No: Sophie Belshe

THE DEBATE P Are South’s new security changes necessary?

Photos by jenna fackrell

Yes: Kate Anderson

f you’ve walked in late to school in the past couple of months, you may have noticed a new face with a check-in sheet at the door. That’s Greg Merchant, the new security guard. He runs a sign-in sheet that students’ parents and other guests must sign in on if they arrive at South after 7:40 a.m. With school shootings and violence being a large topic In 2013, Adam Lanza’s attack on Sandy Hook Elementary stimulated fear and concern regarding school security systems. There have also been cases for need of better police training such as in the Santa Barbara shooting with Elliott Rodger. There is obviously no overnight plan that will solve these violent and sensitive topics, but we can start at the root of the problem: school security. There is no reason that a safer, more secure learning environment could be a bad idea. According to the Washington Post, school shootings are statistically rare, lasting and real. On average, 300 shootings occur every this is not a compelling argument for increased school security, and I understand the fear of a school becoming too overprotective. But the fact that there is a threat, even a small one, of shootings occurring means we must take precaution. Even though it is still in its rudimentary stages, the system will be updated by summer. A card system for teachers has been implemented that opens certain doors in the building. In the future, Merchant would be can only expect great things at this point. A safe environment is necessary for any school. Even though there haven’t been any serious hazardous incidents at South, it is good to take precaution. The security system can be used as a preventative measure as well. The system isn’t any inconvenience to the students, so why not? Even if there aren’t many technological improvements soon, it is a good place holder for future use. Better safe than sorry, as the saying goes.

Jan. 2015 opinion

arents, teachers and students across the nation have been on edge about security in schools since events like Sandy Hook and Columbine shook the public in recent years. But when you really stop to think about the unlikely odds of something like that occurring in our area, is it really worth using resources to monitor the front doors all day, every day? Increased security has recently been implemented in our building so that the main doors to the school are being and leaving the building at the moment, but all outside visitors have to sign in and out. However, this system is only temporary. If the $223 million bond issue passes, changes will be made this summer that could include more security cameras and a new addition to the school for visitors to sign in and out. But where does it stop? Eventually, will there be airport level security checks for everyone entering the building? I can understand why people may think that locking That would be a reasonable change. Maybe we could start making changes to the building itself in order to make it more safe, like putting in reinforced windows, stronger doors on classrooms or more security cameras. Those seem like good ideas. Even having more code red drills to better inform the student body of procedures in case of intruders could help. But having a security guard sit there doing close to nothing except telling people to sign in and out on a slip of paper all day seems a little extreme, considering that our school has had no major security issues in recent years and the odds, according to psychlawjournal.com, that a shooting would take place in a U.S. high school in a year are 1 in 21,000. And even so, only 17 of the 106 school shootings that have occurred in the U.S. since 2010 have been allegedly committed by people not associated with the school. Knowing who is in the school and making it harder for outside visitors to enter is not always going to stop incidents from occurring. we have been conducting it so far seems to have taken it to the extremes.

The Results are in... Head 41% Heart 59%

Students of South voted on if you should follow your head or your heart when making decisions. Go online to smsouthnews.com to vote for your opinion on this month’s debate!

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Starving Artists Students face the harsh realities of pursuing their passions past high school.

PHOTO Illustration BY Katie Imes

Jan. 2015 cover story

TUITION INTUITION

2 3

Senior Tom Lundine draws in a sketchbook in the hallway after lunch. photo by Katie Imes lancing across the halls of Shawnee Mission South, one can see several

aid.

Tuition increased...

2.9%

for public in-state students. ($9,139 average yearly tuition)

are optimists, realists. Dreamers. As college approaches, some of these students are realizing the sobering truth about pursuing their passions: their dream jobs in the arts may not support them

3.3%

“In the United States, there is a focus on money, and that how much wealth you accumulate is directly part of your value and identity. We lose sight of what makes us human,” social studies teacher Ed Doris said. “There is value in art, because there is value in the perspective that comes from it. That perspective is needed in society, regardless of what money you’ll make from it. Art is how we struggle to identify meaning in life. It’s important that we have artists. We need artists. Art is a part of our humanity.” With successful careers in the arts undervalued in society, many potential art students are forced to consider fallback plans in case their dream jobs end up as just that: dreams. “Theater is not always as stable a job as we want it to be,” junior and theater costumes crew head Mona Jahani said. “I want to study something academically aside from theater as well, so I’ll have better chances of getting a job straight

full-time students rely on some kind

for public out-ofstate students. ($22,958 average yearly tuition)

3.7%

photo by Jenna Fackrell out of college. Ultimately, my dream is to design costumes professionally, but until then, whatever work I can get would be After college, students are thrown into the workforce immediately to be especially taxing on art and music

for private school students. ($31,231 average yearly tuition)

Statistics gathered from College Board “Trends in College Pricing 2014”.

cover story Jan. 2015

PHOTO BY LEORAH ADDADI

Emily Wilkinson

THE ART OF JOBLESSNESS 16.2%

8.1% 16

Jan. 2015 cover story

7.4%

7.3% 7% cover story Jan. 2015

PHOTO BY LEORAH ADDADI

Emily Wilkinson

THE ART OF JOBLESSNESS 16.2%

8.1% 16

Jan. 2015 cover story

7.4%

7.3% 7% cover story Jan. 2015

Q&A WITH NATALIE PRAUSER 18

Sophomoreâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s passion for music carries over Photo by katie imes

Jan. 2015 features

u s i c h a s b e e n a passion for sophomore Natalie Prauser for as long as she can remember. The multi-talented Prauser can play pretty much any instrument that could come to mind. She began writing music when she was just 10 years old. It started out as a hobby but is now something Prauser hopes to do for the rest of her life. Prauser attends South for two hours a day and gets the rest of her credits through online school. She spends most of her time writing and rehearsing, determined to make her dreams come true.

How did you get started performing?

I went to a recording studio because I needed to record songs for an audition so I had to post them online, and someone who performs at Groundhouse saw it and asked me to perform with him.

Where have you performed? I do it on the second Saturdays every month.

How much goes into rehearsing?

A lot of middle-of-the-night rehearsals because that’s when I have the most time, so I don’t get a lot of sleep because I tend to practice and write between 2 and 4 a.m.

Who has helped/ encouraged you most?

Probably my parents and my friends because they come and watch me perform every time, and every time I write something new I send it to them and get their opinions.

Biggest music related regret/failure?

Probably the songs I wrote when I was like 10. Not gonna lie, sometimes the lyrics I wrote will get stuck in my head, and I’m like, ‘Why did I write that.’ It’s haunting.

Who are your musical role models? I really like Bob Dylan. I listen to him religiously. I just like how he writes. I’d say he’s my main

What is your biggest music related goal?

I just want to play more gigs shops.

Is performing what you want to do as a career? Yeah, I know it’s not stable but if it’s what you enjoy doing then money doesn’t really matter.

What do you think about people saying the arts isn’t a practical career choice?

A lot of people who make a lot of money are not happy with what they’re doing. Happiness doesn’t depend on how much money you have. Just as long as you’re content with what you’re doing. Rola Alasmar Photo courtesy of natalie prauser

features Jan. 2015

From Womb to

Tomb 2nd

Three pairs of students have been friends since the beginning.

t isn’t always easy for teens to maintain a solid friendship through petty high school drama, hectic schedules including school, sports, clubs and even jobs, as well as the looming decision of what happens in the future when high school ends. But South isn’t short on students who have been friends for years and plan on keeping it that way for a long time.

Marin Sanders & Meghan Gunter grade through school, soccer and recess time. They don’t play any sports together currently, but they are both active members of the Feminist Club. And despite being friends for so long, they have never had any major arguments. minutes,” Gunter said. The pair hopes to remain friends after high school, even if their college plans aren’t the same. Gunter said.

Ryan Donnelly & Matthew Hollingsworth Seniors Ryan Donnelly and Matthew Hollingsworth met in second grade when they played baseball on the same team. Now the duo continues to play baseball and are both captains “We make fun of each other, but that’s about it,” Donnelly said. After high school, Donnelly is planning on going to Arkansas University, whereas Hollingsworth is going to to remain friends. “We probably won’t be as close, but I’m sure we’ll stay in contact,” Hollingsworth said.

Jenna Alfaro & Dottie Powell Freshmen Jenna Alfaro and Dottie Powell became friends before

picnic for their siblings before their kindergarten year. “We were just these two little girls, and we were like, ‘Let’s play princesses on the playground,’” Powell said.

school the summer before third grade until they were reunited at Indian Woods Middle School in seventh grade. They used to play soccer on the same team but haven’t played any sports together in recent years. However, they are planning on joining the track team together in the spring. Sophia belshe PHOTOS by jenna fackrell

Jan. 2015 features

Semester

Bucket List

Win a KSMS contest

They provide a variety of activities and contests for your entertainment. Enter a contest and win prizes such as a T-shirt or gift card.

Go to 3

events showing your support for the school’s sports teams.

Dress up for every spirit day

Show your school spirit and excitement for South events by dressing up for spirit days.

Join a new club

You never know what you could end up loving. Try something you never thought about doing before.

Try a new food

Step out of your comfort zone a little bit and try a food you’ve never had before. Go out for sushi, Indian food or authentic Mexican cuisine, and a new favorite dish. Rola Alasmar

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REVIEWS Album Review

Club Meds showcases artist’s new sound.

Dan Mangan + the Blacksmiths is a folk/rock artist from Vancouver, Canada and a two-time JUNO Award winner. Mangan’s new album Club Meds came out Jan. 13, and it is reminiscent of the Foals and Hozier. Sounding more electronic than any other album the band has produced, the music features a synth that provides a new sound as opposed to Mangan’s usual acoustic feel. The album’s Oh Fortune in 2011. This is a good album to listen to while studying or feeling sad, and Mangan’s sound is tasteful and well-produced. His vocals have an R&B style. beat and a longer intro and sets the expectations of the album with a softer tone. which I prefer. His third song, “Mouthpiece,” is a bit faster, but the lyrics are more intense and make you think. His baritone voice also makes for a very on a lighter note with additions of a saxophone.

Katie imes

Movie Preview

cast of project almanac share the inspiration behind their roles.

hat would you do if you had a time machine? Who, what or where would you want

plans to build and use a time machine. Things later get out of control when they overuse the machine. Drawing from experiences in high school, the cast of the Michael Bay movie Project Almanac shared in a conference call how their past experiences molded their character’s personalities. “I wanted to be someone who everyone could relate to,” actor Jonny Weston began. “My character (David Raskin) was addicted to controlling everything whether it was the time machine or people, just the idea of control was his addiction.” such as Taken 3, Under the Bed, Chasing Mavericks and John Dies at the End. These young actors all agreed that, when playing high school students, they wanted their characters to be easily relatable. “The script was made so well that it was very easy for us to try and connect with a younger audience,” in Project Almanac after being a part of

Immigrant, Skins and Gossip Girl. With Project Almanac movies Bay has produced. This movie Found footage is a technique where or video recordings. This technique is most commonly used in horror and thriller movies, and most often the protagonist. “None of us had experience with found footage, but we all think it’s very cool because it breaks the fourth wall and it grounds the movie as well,” actor Sam Lerner (Quinn Goldberg) said. By watching over the whole production, as Weston explained, scenes over and over again to point out areas of improvement, whether or sound.

Project Almanac concluded in middle to late 2014, and the movie was originally scheduled to release in late December 2014. “The issue was,” Weston began, “we shot the movie and it was all set to release, but some of the directors and

producers went back to shoot more.” This built the ending of the plot and led the release of the movie to be rescheduled for Jan. 30, 2015. After deciding the release date, the actors and crews participated in more interviews and activities to raise later release date. Lauren rosenstock

A&E Jan. 2015

“i have an on and off relationship with my clothes.”

DRESSED TO

IMPRESS

SWEATER | FAYETTE CHILL PANTS | AMERICAN EAGLE SHOES | CLARK’S

SENIOR SANDIS SIMCHUK PHOTOS BY Katie Imes

WATCH | TARGET

CLOSER LOOK

BELT | GIFT

SOCKS | FLANNEL | TRI-STATE OUTFITTERS URBAN OUTFITTERS

Jan. 2015 A&E

JEANS | LEVI’S

RAIDER NATION RAIDER NATION

1 2

1. Raider Nation stands proud during the boysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

basketball game, Tuesday, Jan. 13, in the South Main Gym. The theme for this game was Beach themed, letting students dress up in Bermuda

2. Senior Emmy Niewald, junior Tamera Thorton and members of the varsity cheerleading team chant and cheer to keep the crowd involved and enthusiastic during the games. PHOTOS BY JENNA FACKRELL

3. Seniors Anei Anei-Yor (11) and Brian Harness (1), junior CJ Hill (32) and freshman Yor Anei (34) quickly discuss strategy in a huddle during the game against Olathe South. The boys won 60-57.

sports Jan. 2015

Counting on College

Athletes talk about college, committing to a university. Creeping upon the last few semesters of high school, applying to colleges becomes more and more important. Decision making for each their desired majors at colleges of their dream. It’s not uncommon that on what path to take in life. Some have known their whole life that

continuing into college someway or another. “I have wanted to play football in college for a long time. It just always has been; I love playing and I couldn’t imagine being done now,” senior Ned Bingaman said. Watching college athletics on ESPN you can’t even imagine the hard work that each and every athlete put in to be where they are now. A student athlete not only in the classroom. Some students in the classroom didn’t even fathom college athletics till late in high school.

“I never even considered running past high school until my junior year of track. I loved running way too much to stop. If I can’t make the team for cross country, indoor track, or outdoor track I’ll continue just run by myself until the next tryout, while doing my other hobbies like cycling and downhill skateboarding,” senior Sandis Simchuk said. Senior Taylor Christie has already committed to the University of Kansas to play soccer and senior Nikki Norton has signed with Avila for basketball. “Sports controlled all aspects in my college decision because that is what I wanted to go to school for. It has always been a dream of mine to play soccer for as long as I can,” Christie said. While Chirstie has already committed to KU, Ned has gotten interest from Division II schools but if sports don’t work out he will fall back on Kansas State University or the University of Nebraska. “Some small NAIA schools are interested in me so far, but I will run wherever I end up going. University of Idaho, U of Washington and the U of Oregon are at the top of my list,”

Simchuk said. The feedback of success and hard be the best they physically can be. “It’s kind of like my escape so on my mind except soccer and it makes my stress go away and it’s sort of peaceful even though you’re playing an intense and fast game,” Christie said. Pushing oneself to the limit brings satisfaction to the person. “I love competitive running and I want to continue doing it. I enjoy it and I’m fairly good at it. I like to push myself and running is one of those sports that you get feedback on how you’re doing every time you compete,” Sandis said. No doubt counting on college athletics seems slim but a few determined student athletes will stick with their love of the sport, even if they don’t play collegiately. The key to a bright future after college is a back up plan. Falling upon engineering (Christie), environmental science (Sandis), way (Bingaman) student athletes have a backup plan to their athletic dreams. Avery Dorsey

The National Collegiate Athletic Association released information about athletes from Division one, two and three universities.

Each year 6 percent of an average student body participates in athletics. 28

Jan. 2015 sports

Stats gathered by Lauren Rosenstock

On average

In high school an average 7.6 million students play sports in the U.S.

53 percent of all athletes receive some level of athletic aid.

Football Coach Steps Down

Despite making the

coach Ryan Lonergan resigns.

or the past four years, many students, parents and faculty have come out to support the Raider football team led by Coach Ryan Lonergan, but next year will coach on the sidelines. “It was very unexpected. We already had plans and goals for next the whole team,” sophomore Bremen Scholz said. “I think our team was progressing with him as a coach, and I will miss him for sure.” While the resignation of the coach appeared sudden, the players’ reactions varied. Some players will greatly miss Lonergan as their coach while others are ready for a change

in the program. “It’s a change for sure since he has been here all three years I’ve been at South, but I think change will be good. [We] need a coach to bring in new tradition and build the program,” junior Alex Renfrew said. Lonergan’s resignation was not a spur-of-the-moment decision, but “I made my decision based on what is best for myself and my family in the future. I prayed a lot prior to making any decisions on how to handle this situation and was led to move on and resign from here,” Lonergan said. Over the past four years, he has spent an uncountable amount of time training and building the South football players, along with creating close bonds. “I will miss the relationships I’ve built with the boys on the team the most,” Lonergan said. “I’ve made many lifelong friends and wish nothing but

the best for the boys in this program.” The new coach for the football team has not yet been determined, but the administration will be hiring one in the near future. Adjusting to a new coach can be exciting yet nerve football players will not only have to learn a new playbook, but also adjust to his coaching style and personality, as no coach does his job the same. “Senior leadership will be even more important now to keep us active group of players that will work hard and be successful next season,” junior Steven Erbacher said. No matter what the future holds, Lonergan has still left an impact on many at South. “I wish him the best in wherever he goes, and I know he wishes us the best in the future,” Erbacher said. Autumn Mock PHOTO BY JESSE YORK

I CAN’T BREATHE N

BA players are teaming up to make a statement to the nation about the death of Eric Garner, a 43-year-old Staten Island man who was killed July 17. Sporting a black T-shirt with the words, ‘I can’t breath’ inscribed on it, Chicago Bulls star Derrick Rose made a statement during warm-ups against the Golden State Warriors Saturday, Dec. 6. Rose’s act sent a message to other professional athletes and role models all over to be leaders in the call for equality and justice for everybody. On Monday, Dec. 8, fellow NBA players Lebron James and Kyrie Irving of the Cleveland Cavaliers and Kevin Garnett and Deron Williams of the Brooklyn Nets followed in Rose’s footsteps. rather a peaceful way to touch people and get the point across to not grow up in fear of the police. Rose spoke out about his childhood and, growing up around violence, he knew he had to make a change in how people think. This is especially important for kids in areas like Englewood, south Chicago, where Rose grew up. James said that what they did was simply a way to pay respect to the family. James explained that society needs to improve, which is not going to happen over night. In an interview with Dave McMenamin, James stated

“Rome wasn’t built in a day,” emphasizing his teammate Kyrie Irving’s statement during an interview with Mike Mazzeo that “This is bigger than all of us and it’s truly important that we stand together.” What happened in Staten Island was simply a tragedy that no family, community or society should endure. breathe! I can’t breathe!” The black shirts say it plainly, but the message is even more poweful when the NBA players spread the word. In an interview, Rose said that becoming a parent two years ago changed his outlook on life. Not wanting to see his own children grow up scared and think that situations like this happen, Rose is sending a message across the nation for equality and justice. The purpose of the shirts is also to show acceptance, that the world isn’t perfect and things aren’t fair, but we accept them and learn from them. In opposition to the violence and in retaliation to Garner’s death, the shirts represent the peaceful man Garner was. With the issues the nation has been enduring recently about racial equality and police brutality, the ‘I can’t breathe’ T-shirts raise awareness peacefully. Teaching everyone that it takes more than one person to make a Avery Dorsey

sports Jan. 2015

#NewYearNewMe

What happens when you push your body too hard while exercising?

here is always

Lauren Rosenstock Photo by Jenna Fackrell

[SPORTS SPACE]

As the basketball team undergoes a 360 degree change, we ask the team for their thoughts.

senior Anei Anei-Yor How have the practices changed since last year?

“

freshman Yor Anei Has the team gotten better since the beginning of the season?

sophomore

Bailey

“

Quotes gathered by Andrea Smith PHOTOS by Arturo Sanchez-Vera

How is the team responding to taking over for players that have left?

How has the team changed this year from last year?

“

“ ”

” 30

Jan. 2015 sports

”

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Save money on four-year university tuition with college credits in high school. High school students can earn more than 24 college credits through College Now!

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Shawnee Mission Girls Lacrosse

WANTS YOU!

All female athletes from ANY SMSD high school or surrounding area private school welcome!

The 2015 season is about to start Learn and compete in high school level girls lacrosse this spring with teammates from other schools. From Mar. 1- May 15 our JV and Varsity teams will practice on weekdays and play games on both week nights and weekends.

New to the game? No problem! We will be holding two â&#x20AC;&#x153;Get a taste of Lacrosseâ&#x20AC;? sessions for new players to learn to throw and catch. These will be held on 1/26 and 2/2 from 5:00-6:00 at the Kansas City Sports Club located at 3610 W. 95th Street, Leawood (behind the Price Chopper).

Email: shawneemissiongirlslacrosse@gmail.com

Junior Maddie Krowe throws a KSMS T-shirt out to the crowd at the KSMS Block Party, Wednesday, Jan. 14. “Block Party allows us to showcase all our hard work and accomplishments from the year so far, while also having a great time with everybody,“ Krowe said. photo by Jenna Fackrell

ANGLES

Sophomores Noah Birkel and Joe McAtee made an appearance as their band Chapped Lips. They performed a rendition of “Happy” by Pharrell Williams and “Sabertooth Tiger” by Cage the Elephant. photo by Jenna Fackrell photo by katie imes English teacher Caroline Ewing wrote and performed two songs for the crowd at Block Party. One of them was a Shawnee Mission South folk song that had the crowd laughing.

Jan. 2015

photo essay