Free Press | Issue 2 | Oct. 2023

THE FREE PRESS Pg. 10

PINK PRIDE

Pink out football game brings awareness to Issue cancer 2 | Oct. | Edition 28 breast

THE F EE PRESS

Issue 2 | Oct. 31, 2023 | Edition 27 Photo by Mallory Thompson

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The Free Press

FOR BREAKING NEWS AND MORE CONTENT VISIT OUR WEBSITE!

FSFREEPRESSONLINE.COM

opinion

3 - Absenteeism Attack

infographic

4 - School Scaries 7 - Domestic Violence 11 - Firebird Fall Sports 13 - Art Program Budget Cuts 15 - Sports Betting

5

features

5 - Trunk-or-Treat 5 - Tunnel of Horror 12 - Starving Artists 13 - Student Art Gallery

5

a&e

5 - Upcoming Horror Movies 8 - Lawrence Vintage Mash-up 9 - Surfing The Dollar Rack

6 10 16

news

6 - Domestic Violence Awareness Month

sports

10 - Pink Pride 14 - The World of Sports Betting

photos

16 - October Photo Recap

October is denoted as Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

According to the CDC, about 240,000 cases of breast cancer are diagnosed in women and about 2,100 in men in the United States annually.

Throughout the month, students wear pink to sporting events, and others incorporate pink into their uniforms. For sophomore Jacie Butler and her dance team, they decorated in pink and used pink pom poms for the month. Cover Photo by Mallory Thompson, Graphics by Allison Mayhew

Socials

@fsjournalism

NEWS MAGAZINE STAFF. NEWS EDITORS EDITORS-IN-CHIEF Allison Mayhew Lilly Wall

contents.

3 4

4700 Overland Dr, Lawrence KS, 66049

Mission Statement Curious Free State journalists will amplify voices, gather superior sources and tell pivotal stories of our community in a visually creative way in order to serve our audience and foster quality scholastic journalism in Lawrence, Kansas.

MANAGING EDITORS Ember Klein Jayne Landers DESIGN EDITOR Sarah Masterson COPY EDITOR Stella Mosier PHOTO EDITORS Lady Ortega-Perez Mallory Thompson SPORTS EDITOR Nick Sprecker

SOCIAL MEDIA Maile Hickman ASST. SOCIAL MEDIA Elizabeth Hare REPORTERS Emi Stone Emma Wiley Evie Chancy Grant Lincoln Maria Mosconi Phoebe Morris Simon Williams Thomas Patton PHOTOGRAPHERS Amelia Wiles Anders Benson Baila Love Chloe Cook Eli Roust Elinor Russo Geneva Sabatini Gregory Mayhew Isabelle Pro Keat Hockenbury Rachel Bruffett DESIGNERS Ainsley Linhos Geneva Sabatini Katie Campbell Lola Cloud Mylie Brillhart Luna Hu

The Free Press

Design By Lola Cloud & Sarah Masterson

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ABSENTEEISM ATTACK Editorial staff discusses misdirected concerns around student absenteeism

S

tatistically, 39% of all high schoolers are chronically absent, and 49% of seniors face chronic absenteeism every year. According to Unified Insights, any student with less than 90% attendance is defined as chronically absent.

Because of these alarming statistics, school administration has begun to address chronic absenteeism in many ways.

Around the school, there are signs broadcasting class attendance, presentations preaching perfect attendance and strict policies encouraging students to make it to class on time.

Despite these efforts, staff has yet to acknowledge the potential causes behind students alarming truancy rates. In reality, many students are dealing with an overabundance of stress, with rigorous course loads, rocky home lives, sports seasons, work obligations, unreliable transportation or a lack of comfort at school.

These stressors, which are seen all throughout different members of the student body, will not be solved with a simple presentation, after-school detention or a call home to parents.

Although good attendance is important to a student’s education, being absent does not always directly equate to bad grades. Even with good attendance, students are inevitably faced with issues that will reflect on their grades.

For students dealing with issues at home, being marked “present” in class does not necessarily mean they are present in their learning. The conditions students are faced with outside of school do not leave at the doors of the school building.

Shelby Miller’s Graphic Design 1 class works on their design principles. Photo by Isabelle Pro, Photo Illustration by Allison mayhew

Furthermore, for students already troubled at home, a constant barrage of emails and calls to a parent or guardian or forced detentions could cause more problems instead of fixing things.

These conditions can also foster a negative teacher-student relationship, which are especially important for students who lack connections. Teachers and administrators are supposed to be able to provide support students who are struggling, but when they are punishing students for their absences caused by nuanced issues, they only push students further away.

For a student who is already struggling to attend school, staff members placing further difficulties, such as detention, as a form of punishment will not encourage them to attend school or fix attendance problems.

Additionally, these policies disproportionately affect students of color and low-income families, though that should not lead to disproportionate punishments for student demographics.

Attendance issues should be treated with care for each individual student and work to find a solution that can help a student, rather than reducing them to a statistic plastered on a poster board.

If someone is struggling with their mental health, the last thing they need to hear from their parents and administrators is, “15 minutes late, 30 minutes late—marked absent, five days absent—facing truancy.” They should be asked what they need to feel comfortable in a school environment.

It is crucial for students to have multi-faceted support rather than punishment. The possible interventions provided by the school should be implemented and promoted for all students, regardless of their attendance status.

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The Free Press

SCHOOL SCARIES Student boday dicusses whether there should be school on Halloween or not

13% voted YES

Then the next day when you’re done trick-or-treating, you can stay home and eat candy and chill with your family.

“ voted NO

Student Drew Rosenthal

[It’s really not] the greatest thing that we’re staying up late and not everyone’s making the right decisions that night.

TUNNEL OF TERROR

“

87%

“

Student Ian Warner

“

Collected by Jayne Landers

Theatre department collaborates with Tommy’s Car Wash to host haunted house Story by Evie Chancy

T

o get into the fall season, Free State Theatre [FST] hosted their annual “Tunnel of Terror” in collaboration with Tommy’s Car Wash.

For the last 2 years, FST has created a haunted house for people driving into the local business, Tommy’s Car Wash. Student participants dress up to scare cars pulling in by dressing up and doing things like going up to guests’ car windows, as well as handing out bags of candy to children.

According to Craft, FST plans to do even more interactio ns and scares than they did last year because of the uptick people.

“All the people that are out there have a blast,” sophomore Laura Turner said. “There is a lot of laughing but also lots of screams.”

The Tunnel of Terror is held as the theatre department’s halloween event. FST works with Tommy’s Car Wash to host the event to gain more money for their program.

Some students, like senior Becca Craft, do it to dress up scary and practice horror makeup.

“It has been a lot of fun coming up with costume ideas and has absolutely made me feel more excited for the Halloween season,” Craft said.

The amount of students participating in the Tunnel of Terror has tripled from their previous year.

Sophomore Laura Turner approaches cars to scare them. Theater students volunteered by dressing up in costumes to help with the Tunnel of Terror at Tommy’s Car Wash. “The experience was everything I wanted and more. There was a much larger group that volunteered this year which made it a very interactive experience,” Turner said. Photo by Baila Love

The Free Press

Design by Luna Hu

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ALL NEW HORROR MOVIES NO ONE WILL SAVE YOU

THE NUN II

FIVE NIGHTS AT FREDDY’S

SAW X IT LIVES INSIDE

Column by Emma Wiley Five Nights at Freddy’s - A new security guard is hired

to work the night shift at Freddy Fazbear’s Pizzeria. He soon stumbles upon the realization that this job might be more than he had expected. What happened in this pizzeria years ago will soon be exposed.

The Nun Two - Sequel to The Conjuring: The Devil Made

Me Do It– In 1956 France, a priest is brutally murdered. Sister Irene begins to investigate the gruesome murder. She once again is faced with an unearthy evil.

It Lives Inside - Sam rejects her East indian culture to try to be like others. However, when a mythological demonic spirit

latches onto her best friend, she must reclaim her heritage to defeat it.

No One Will Save You - Brynn, an exiled homebody,

finds solace in her childhood home until she is faced with an unearthy visitor. Now she must battle this intruder who has found its way into her home.

Saw X - John Kramer travels to Mexico for an experimental

medical procedure, Only to figure out the whole operation is a scam to target the most vulnerable. Armed with a newfound purpose, the infamous serial killer uses torturous devices to turn the tables on con artists

TRUNK-OR-TREAT

Annual Trunk-or-Treat hosted by IPS Story by Lilly Wall

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n Oct. 26, Interpersonal Skills [IPS] hosted their annual trunk-or-treat in the school parking lot. Students and faculty dressed up in festive, creative costumes to celebrate Halloween.

The event entailed car trunks popped open in the school parking lot with spooky themes. Many different school programs decorated trunks and out candy to community members. Additionally, many families came to experience the holiday spirit. Over 20 cars lined up in the parking lot with

their trunks open and decorated filled with candy.

Throughout the planning process, IPS members hoped to give back and create an inclusive, welcoming fun event for people to attend.

“I went for Speech and Debate, and it was the highlight of my October getting to participate in an experience that made so many people so happy,” junior Kaitlynn Sedich said.

“From dressing up, decorating a car, or just getting candy, you can’t go wrong in being a part of such a valuable event.”

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The Free Press

DOMESTIC S VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH

ymbolized by a purple ribbon, October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month which brings attention to abusive relationships and victims. According to the Department of Justice, domestic violence is harmful behavior in a relationship to maintain or gain power over the victim. It doesn’t look just one way: physical, sexual, emotional or psychological abuse by anyone is considered domestic violence.

According to the CDC, about 27 million people report experiencing forms of relationship violence before they turn 18, making it likely that many students have been victims of domestic violence. Social worker Meg Lyles has been a part of the mental health team for a decade; over that time she has dealt with several domestic abuse cases.

October brings education and awareness for domestic violence Story by Maria Mosconi

“It’s important because high schoolers are starting to be in relationships of their own for the first time,” Lyles said.

“It’s really important to have an idea of what things they should look out for.”

To educate students, the organization Be More Like Claire gave a talk on domestic violence to students during ECT. Be More Like Claire was founded by Shannon VanLandingham in honor of her daughter, Claire, who was murdered by her abusive ex-boyfriend. Be More like Claire’s mission is to teach what healthy looks like in the hopes of preventing violent relationships.

“It all can be prevented,” VanLandingham said. “It’s dangerous when it’s a pattern and it is hurting someone.”

From the outside, a relationship may seem obviously abusive, but to the person being abused, the warning signs can be easy to miss. An anonymous student recalls the manipulation their abuser used whenever toxic behaviors were discussed.

“You feel like you deserve it,” they said. “Then when you talk to them about it, they spin it on you and make it seem like you’re the bad person.”

This type of manipulation leads to many victims accepting the abuse instead of reporting it, even when it is reported there is little done about emotional abuse alone. Because of this, under 24% of domestic abuse is reported to the police according to the National Center for Domestic Abuse, and abusers often get away with it until it’s too late, like it was for Claire.

“I know that he was using all kinds of abuse against her,” VanLandingham said. “None of it was physical, but the non physical kinds of abuse are just as lethal and dangerous.”

The Free Press

Design by Sarah Masterson

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DOMESTIC VIOLENCE Stats collected by Maria Mosconi from the CDC and National Violence Hotline

1 in 3

1 in 4

48%

experience severe physical violence from a partner

experience severe physical violence from a partner

48% people have experienced psychological abuse

women

“

men

Consequences:

1. Experiencing depression and anxiety symptoms

Social Worker

Meg Lyles

Students see withdrawal, depression, isolation from peers and when it is a student who’s coping with those kinds of struggles at home, it can be really hard to manage because it’s chaotic and unpredictable.

2. Engaging in unhealthy behaviors like using tobacco, drugs and alcohol 3. Exhibiting antisocial behaviors like lying, theft, bullying or hitting 4. Having suicidal thoughts

“

WARNING SIGNS -Telling you that you never do anything right.

-Showing extreme jealousy of your friends or time spent away from them.

-Preventing or discouraging you from spending time with others, particularly friends, family members or peers.

-Insulting, demeaning or shaming you, especially in front of other people.

-Preventing you from making your own decisions, including about working or attending school.

-Controlling finances in the household without discussion, such as taking your money or refusing to provide money for necessary expenses.

-Pressuring you to have sex or perform sexual acts you’re not comfortable with.

-Pressuring you to use drugs or alcohol.

-Intimidating you through threatening looks or actions.

-Insulting your parenting or threatening to harm or take away your children or pets.

-Intimidating you with weapons like guns, knives, bats, or mace.

-Destroying your belongings or your home.

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The Free Press

New Lawrence Vintage Mashup brings a niche community together Story by Phoebe Morris

A

fter a surprisingly good turnout from the first event in September, Lawrence Vintage Mash Up held their second market on Oct. 8. Local vendors joined back together to advertise their new businesses.

Influenced by the KC Pop Up, this vintage loving community started their own market in south park. While each booth has its own unique variety, it mashes together sellers in the area.

“It brings a certain type of demographic together and it’s just a really fun way to meet new people,” senior Jake Hedges said.

Held at South Park, Downtown Lawrence threw a Vintage Mash-Up on Oct. 8th. Combining a variety of different styles ranging from Y2K, 90s, 80s, and more makes this event a prime place for sellers to advertise their unique pieces.

Photo by Amelia Wiles

This mashup gives the opportunity for vendors to sell their finds, while also inviting people to practice sustainable shopping. According to student newspaper Niner Times, returning one item to the circular economy reduces the carbon footprint by 82%.

“It’s good to reuse clothes versus buying a bunch of new stuff that you’re probably going to get rid of,” senior Madi Brosa said.

Each vendor finds used clothing to later fix up for the market, which not only reduces waste but also follows trendy styles. Ultimately, this mashup draws together a While the event allows vendors and customers to connect little community to share their love with the public. over their shared interests, Lawrence High School junior Opal Morris finds it to be a male centered group. By “Its own niche community. I’ve met a lot starting her own booth, she hopes to advocate for other of cool people that I wouldn’t have met female sellers and break that wall down.

“We’d also love to get more female vendors, because it’s a very male dominated space,” Morris said. “[Another female colleague] wasn’t sure if she wanted to do a booth, but she met us and it gave her the confidence to do it again.”

otherwise,” Hedges said. “That’s just bringing in a better scene to Lawrence overall.”

Even though Morris said this makes the industry harder for them to work in, everyone is there for one reason: they love thrifting.

“You find that one gem that you can get for like $4.99, and it just makes me so happy having unique items that nobody else really has,” Morris said.

Appealing to a large demographic of people, the Lawrence Vintage Mash-Up brings a unique shopping experience to the downtown area. Inspired by the many vintage pop-ups in the KC area, bringing this market to Lawrence unites the community together through their shared interest of purchasing one of a kind pieces. Photo by Amelia Wiles

The Free Press

Design by Mylie Brillhart

SURFING THE DOLLAR RACK

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Looking for low cost, high quality, or interesting finds? Arizona Trading Company’s dollar rack delivers Story by Simon Williams

For those familiar with the thrifting and second-hand shopping scene in downtown Lawrence, Arizona Trading Company [ATC] is usually a well-known spot. The store, one of three local storefronts under the same ownership with locations in Kansas City and Lawrence, has been serving the community for the past 30 years.

In existence since week one of the store opening, the dollar rack has been a significant feature of the store. ATC employee Izzy Wills believes that it adds a reality of accessibility and a sense of community to the store at large.

“There are people who come in here a few times a week to check on the dollar rack, and they find some of their favorite pieces there,” Wills said.

The dollar rack, a favorite of community members at large, is also an attractant of the student community of Lawrence. The cost affordability and wild card nature of the rack is something sophomore Lillian Hethcoat has always appreciated.

“The most interesting thing I’ve gotten is this little red sweater that had embroidery all over it of flowers and little butterflies,” Hethcoat said. “It looks like something my grandma would make for me, and that’s almost the entire reason I got it.”

With low prices and quality clothes, ATC has become a popular spot for students on a budget. Senior Leah Rule likes the dollar rack because of the random shirts. “Every time I go there, I buy at least one T-Shirt from the dollar rack,” Rule said. Photo By Elinor Russo

While you do get what you pay for, Hethcoat believes that the clothing for sale on the rack is never low-quality, and that there are gems to be found amongst the more basic clothing items available.

100 YEARS OF DISNEY FAVORITE DISNEY MOVIE “Luca” - senior Kate Carson “Tangled” - sophomore Katie Campbell “Wall-E” - sophomore Nathan Friedman

Collected by Jayne Landers and Maria Mosconi

FAVORITE DISNEY FILM STUDIO

Disney: 54%

FAVORITE DISNEY CHARACTER “Vanellope” - freshman Caitlyn Barry “Nemo” - senior Chloe Mure Limburg “Lightning McQueen” - senior Drew Rosenthal

20th Century Studios: 10% Searchlight Pictures: 1%

Pixar: 36%

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The Free Press

P NK PRIDE

Pink Out football game brings awareness to breast cancer Story by Nick Sprecker

A

cross America, high school football brings together players, fans and communities. Home games become especially important, as student sections rally in support of their teams. To show support for their teams, student sections create themes, that are sometimes lighthearted, and could include construction or western; however, some of the more important themes can have meaning woven into them.

“Pink out” is a common theme in October to align with breast cancer awareness month. For a lot of people, it is their personal experience with cancer that really leads to a deeper understanding of its impact. Senior Lawson Garcia spoke about how she grew up around cancer, and how it equipped her with knowledge down the road.

“Obviously cancer is a very sad topic, but my grandma was very strong with it. It taught me to realize that, yes, cancer is scary, but you’re gonna get through it, you just have to keep going,” Garcia said.

Junior Lola McCollum, whose mother and grandma have been affected by breast cancer, expressed her gratitude for the Pink Out game.

“It’s really cool that everyone is devoted to the [cause], and how we all support breast cancer. It definitely means not only a lot to me, but to everyone there as well, because we all come together during that moment. We make shirts for the game, and a lot of people buy them,” McCollum said.

At the “Pink Out” home football game on Oct. 20, attendees, players and band members sported pink to raise awareness for breast cancer.

Photo by Mallory Thompson

Laura Sengchan, a Free State mom and teacher at Woodlawn Elementary, is a cancer survivor with her own unique story. With a history of breast cancer in her family, Sengchan began having mammograms done at age 35 and would routinely perform self exams, which proved to be life saving.

“I was diagnosed in May of 2018. I went through chemotherapy, radiation and had six surgeries. When I was first diagnosed, I was afraid. My mom had passed away from this disease and I had three children, ages six, nine and eleven. My diagnosis and treatment are both reminders to make the time here memorable,” Senghcan said.

Sengchan also expressed her appreciation for the Pink Out game and said that the game effectively brings awareness to breast cancer. Additionally, Sengchan said that it is the helpful community that makes the healing process so special.

“The disease affected me physically, but the biggest effect on my life was the realization of how many amazing and loving people there are in this world. Our families, friends, school families, work families and sports families all showed up big,” Sengchan said, “Their kindness made a huge difference.”

The Free Press

Design by Geneva Sabatini and Sarah Masterson

FIREBIRD FALL SPORTS

#1

SCORER ON VARSITY LAST YEAR

NEW COACHES FOR GYMNASTICS THIS YEAR

ELAINA Z

UNG

GYMNA

STICS

“My favorite moment so far this season has to be Senior Night. Eating the cake that had my face on it was so much fun.”

Collected by Mason Lester

“My favorite part so far this season is winning our first league game.

The bus ride home was a lot of fun.”

“My favorite part of the season is the team breakfasts when we discuss our goals for the meet and just enjoy each other’s company.”

2

11

ENG

JJ ZH

BOYS “My favorite part about this season is just watching the team come together and being successful.”

WESLEY EDISON

R E C SOC

“So far my favorite part of this season is the bus rides after tournaments, no matter how good or bad we play we are always having fun.”

MERRIT HA FOOTBALL LE G L L I R A L B S GOLF VOLLEY N

A RYAN MORG

10TH

PLACE AT STATE

“One of my favorite moments was going to the Cheese Cake Factory at the Plaza Tournament.”

CAMI LEE

GIRLS TENNIS

#1

IN 6A BOYS IN WEEK FIVES RACING

“My favorite part so far is seeing what we can do as a team and getting the results we have worked for.”

BLAKE WOHLER

CROSS COUNTRY

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The Free Press

STARVING ARTISTS The effects of the lower arts budget on students and why it matters Story by Maria Mosconi

O

ver the past few years, USD 497 has made significant budget cuts to extracurriculars.

Students from kindergartners to seniors have been affected by the district’s cuts, but previously underfunded programs, like the performing arts, are perhaps being hit the hardest.

Despite the low funding for these programs, they continue their success from past years. Choir Director Joshua East said that although the administration is supportive, the funding isn’t.

“The funding has sometimes not kept up with the needs of the students when it comes to the things that we want to accomplish,” East said.

The most noticeable cut in the budget has been staff reduction. Teachers’ positions, specifically in the performing arts programs, were cut. The teachers and their time are a large part of what makes the programs successful. When the budget doesn’t support this, it could slow the process for putting together shows as well as individual improvement.

“We try not to let it impact student achievement and student support,” East said. “But sometimes it’s not possible to do the same things with fewer hours of staff.”

Two years ago, Russell Clark, the assistant orchestra teacher, would split his day between the high schools due to understaffing then his position was cut altogether. This year, the responsibilities of teachers have begun to fall on the students due to the lack of employed staff. Orchestra Director Heather Madgewick is proud to see her students stepping up.

“We have some of the best students ever,” Madgwick said.

“I do see some students stepping into leadership positions already.”

Although theater students may be the star of their show, they’re often overlooked by administration and the student body when choosing what events to fund and support.

Theater Director Bryce Jones is aware that his students may feel overlooked, and he recognizes the truth behind

Photo by Anders Benson

that. However, Jones makes sure to emphasize that the only thing that’s changeable about the situation is what they do with it.

“You want to be able to offer students as many opportunities as possible and the best environment in which to shine,” Jones said. “It’s a good lesson to learn about making the best out of what you have.”

Each program has been working hard to make the best of their budget. Whether it’s reusing resources or stepping up to make up for absent teachers, these students are succeeding despite the limitations. Sophomore Megan Green is one of these students. Green is Artemis Choir President and is active in theater, and she shared why it’s necessary that these programs are funded.

“It’s important to find things that students are passionate about,” Green said. “Because if they don’t have that, then they’re not going to have motivation to go to school because they look forward to these things.”

With the school year just beginning, it’s hard to know how the budgets will affect these programs, but there are ways to help students continue their passions. Green suggests considering donating to one or these programs, going to shows or even joining to support them.

“I look forward to working with other students to help raise money for the thing we are passionate about,” Green said.

The Free Press

Design by Geneva Sabatini

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Teacher

Bryce Jones Sometimes [students] feel as though they’re being overlooked. Sometimes there could be some truth to that

5%

art program budget decrease

2018-2019

10%

art program budget decrease

Student

Megan Green It’s very evident that it [lack of money for theater] could be a problem in the future

2021-2022

Collected by Maria Mosconi from an interview with Director of Finance Cynde Frick

STUDENT ART GALLERY

S&S Artisan Pub and Coffeehouse hosts month of art showcasing students work Student Artist

Ava Falleaf

Student artwork was collected across the schools art programs to be showcased at S&S coffee during the month of October. Designs, drawings, paintings, ceramics and more were all featured. Photo by Lady Ortega-Perez

“It’s really cool knowing that [my art] is actually being seen because student artists don’t usually get seen.

Instead it’s normally just hidden away,”

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The Free Press

THE WORLD OF SPORTS BETTING

Rise in underage sports betting creates conversation

Story by Thomas Patton and Grant Lincoln

S

60-80%

of high school students say they have gambled for money in the past year, according to the International Centre for Youth Gambling Problems and High-Risk behaviors

ports betting has found its way into Free State. With access to betting sites, students look to gain some cash quickly.

Sports betting is a form of gambling that involves the prediction of a team, player or certain situation that happens within the game. Consumers can gamble on player performance, game score and many other different game outcomes. The more unlikely and risky a bet placed is, there is a larger opportunity to cash out on a big win.

Taking the more safe bets will not flood bettors with cash, but puts a few extra dollars in their pockets.

The thrill of sports betting is credited to its quick results. The payout can occur within minutes of the game ending which means the money is in bettors’ pockets immediately after their bet lands.

“It’s usually instant,” teacher and coach Jamar Reese said.

“It’s a rush, it’s quick, everything’s depending on what is happening within the game.”

56%

of teen survey responders said that they recall recently seeing an advertisement that was encouraging them to bet, as stated by CBSNews

On online betting programs such as DraftKings or FanDuel, bettors can place cash bets on various sporting events. Photo

by Eli Roust and Mallory Thompson

From college to professional sports, every game has some sort of wager available to bet on. Avid sports followers can recognize trends in performance from players or teams that influence their next bet. They can predict if a player is going to have a breakout game based on his last performance or if a team is on a hot streak.

Along with that, many factors are considered before placing a large bet. Reese said when he is preparing to bet, there are many different factors to look at.

“You have to look at it well, each sport is different,” Reese said. “For example, there is a big difference between college football and NFL. You look at what teams are playing and where they are playing, what players are playing, check what the weather’s gonna be like. ”

The Free Press

Design by Katie Campbell

58%

15

of 18-22 year olds have placed at least one gambling wager this year, according to a national survey from NCAA

Bettors use websites like DraftKings or FanDuel to place their bets. These applications require verification processes to identify bettors’ age. In most states, the legal age to bet on sports is 21+.

However, these sites ask for bettors to put their date of birth in manually, so it is easy to get false information approved, allowing large amounts of underage bettors onto these sites. An anonymous student shared how easy it is to access.

“There are a couple ways to go about it,” an anonymous student said. “You can just straight up put in an older birthdate or use the information of an adult. It certainly is not difficult to get around.”

Along with that, sports betting can be risky. Without a great financial conscience, the desire to win could produce an endless cycle of lost bets and lost money. The addiction formed from gambling poses a risk for young minds, which is the main reason why the law sets the legal age to 21. The anonymous student discussed their cap for betting.

36%

of Free State students have or know someone who has participated in sports betting and lied about their age

“I didn’t keep track [of money spent], so I’ve lost quite a bit,” an anonymous student said. “I just hoped my big wins could cover my losses. Nowadays I have to set a limit on how much I bet and how frequently I do to not get hooked.”

However, sports betting brings another thrill to watching the games. Having a bet on a certain player draws the bettor to watch the game that they might not have watched before. It brings a different level of following to the sports they love. Not every bet works out, but as long as it is kept under control, it keeps the games exciting. The student also spoke on the thrill of sports betting.

“It’s like a rollercoaster,” the anonymous student said.

“There’s lots of ups and downs. Safe bets keep me engaged because I know I am likely to win it, but sometimes I feel lucky and go after a riskier bet. You just gotta trust what you know and when you land it, it’s truly exciting.”

57%

of sports bettors prefer to bet on DraftKings according to Drive Research

Preparing for the City Showdown, Free State’s Freddy the Firebird and Lawrence’s Chesty Lion pose together. Photo by Lady Ortega-Perez

Curled up in a student’s hands, ball python Jane Goodall rests safely after being found in a cabinet in science teacher Julie Schwarting’s classroom. Photo by Anders Benson

Shoulder to shoulder, members of the football team and dance team sing the Free State Alma Mater after beating Shawnee Mission South on Sept.

29. Photo by Chloe Cook

Downtown Bakery and Cafe, WheatFields, serves a Pumpkin Spice Chai Cheesecake available in single slice portions, or a full cake. This is a fan favorite to many fall food loving individuals. Photo by Amelia Wiles

Discussing the game, juniors Asher Dee and Ami Bhattachan huddle with the JV boys soccer team during halftime of their game on Oct. 5. Photo by Chloe Cook

Facing the band, junior Drum Major Gage Monse directs during the halftime show. Photo by Eli Roust

Design by Ainsley Linhos

On Monday, Oct. 16, security guard Dee Kemp brought a new puppy named Marlo to Free State.

Marlo joins Wayne in the halls and is working toward a service dog certification. Photo by Mallory Thompson

After Free State wins a point, junior Karsen Chapman and freshman Tessa Nover-Estes cheer on their teammate senior Fiona VanDyke.

Photo by Anders Benson