THE
Blazer
Gardner Edgerton High School
Gardner, Kansas
Vol. 36 — Issue 2 — November 2015
Settling the debate on
Same-Sex marriage
Information for Seniors
Meet The Collaboration
Intruder Lock Down Precautions
November Events Calendar
2 Information
Table November of Contents 2014 Vol. 36 — Issue 2 News
3 4-5 6-7
Ebola
Gay Marriage Lockdown Button
8-9 11-14 15-17
Feature
Bryan Njogu Android vs. Apple Jake Huppe Open Lunch
Sports & Activities
21-23 24-25 26-27 28-31 32
Editors-in-Chief Shelby Simpson Kracinda Mitchell Copy Editor Starla Stephens Adviser Lindsey Ross
Staff Writers Jaclyn Adamson Brooke Boyer Savannah Cox Alex Cross Connor Nuessen Ryan Shirley Jaycee Zeck
2014 Editorial Policies
Opinion
20
2014 Newspaper Staff
School Spirit
Team Captains
Entertainment World Series 2014 Fall 2014 Events Calendar
The Blazer is the official high school publication of Gardner Edgerton High School, printed by Osage Graphics in Burlingame, Kan. This is a student publication and may contain controversial matter. Gardner Edgerton School District No. 231 and its board members, officers, and employees disclaim any responsibility for the content of this student publication; it is not an expression of school district policy. Operating with an open forum, students and editors are solely responsible for the content of this student publication. Editorial opinions represent the views of the individual writer, not the staff as a whole. Letters to the editor are welcome. All submitted letters to the editor must be no longer than 300 words, typed and signed by the author. Letters will be considered and published on a space-available basis. The Blazer staff reserves the right to edit all submitted material for content and libel. For advertising or other information, please call or write: Journalism 425 North Waverly Road Gardner, Kansas 66030 (913) 856.2640 rossl@usd231.com
News 3
Ebola Affects U.S.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported that the case Savannah Cox fatality rates of the 2014 outbreak is Staff Writer approximately 70 percent. According to the CDC, the disease can be spread in several ways through he current Ebola outbreak is bodily fluids and used medical the largest in history, affecting equipment. people on three continents in eleven Health officials respond to Ebola in a countries as of October 31, 2014. series of steps Vox – general interest “Ebola is a severe, infectious through news site of the 21st century said. The bodily fluid contact, often-fatal disease first step is to identify the virus within that affects humans and nonhuman 24 hours of being exposed to it. Once primates,” as reported by the Centers identified, isolate the patient. Following for Disease Control and Prevention that, find other potential patients that (CDC). The first human outbreaks would have been affiliated with the occurred in 1976 in Democratic Republic isolated patient, of the Congo to keep the and Southern disease from Sudan, NUMBER OF EBOLA CASES AND DEATHS as of Oct. 24 spreading. While according to there still is a 904 deaths Cases A Guinea 1,289 251 CNN. 1,540 cases Deaths 710 194 threat to the “The virus 2,705 deaths Cases B Liberia 965 3,700 community, the 4,665 cases Deaths 1,241 1,464 usually appears patient should Cases C Sierra 483 3,223 1,259 deaths Leone eight to 10 3,706 cases Deaths 986 273 stay isolated 0 Cases 1 D Mali days after in the hospital Deaths 1 case 0 0 infection,” the Cases 28 49 deaths 38 E Congo with the care 66 cases Deaths CDC report said. * * of doctors Cases 4 0 1 death F U.S. According to Deaths 4 cases and nurses. 1 0 USAToday the Cases 0 1 G Spain These steps are Deaths 1 case 0 0 symptoms of * Exact data not available at this time taken by health Ebola include officials to keep headaches, a the patients fever of 101.5 and people from degrees or spreading the higher, intense disease. weakness, Heart to Heart muscle pain, International headache and – a volunteer sore throat. These symptoms are unit who helps people in need – are followed by vomiting, rashes, impaired in Kakata, Liberia making a treatment kidney and liver functions as well as unit for Ebola patients to be finished internal and external bleeding. in November 2014. They are recruiting As reported by Disease Daily, “the case doctors and other medical staff to fatality rate of Ebola—the percentage be apart of this new project and of cases that result in death—is usually help operate the unit, Heart to Heart reported as 90%, this figure is based website said. Kansas City Chiefs player on the first recorded outbreak in Zaire Tamba Hali who grew up in Liberia made in 1976 and is significantly higher than a very generous donation to help the the case fatality rate of the current volunteers make the facility a reality. outbreak.”
T
Ebola report Country / State / Province
Probable/ suspected Confirmed
Total of confirmed and probable/suspected
Student Reactions “I didn’t really care, I didn’t think it would spread that fast.” - Devon Hood
“I was surprised and worried, but I knew we would find a way to handle it.”
-Kenna Gillespie
“It’s not going to be a big deal it’s a couple of people it’s not all over the place.” -David Shute
“I was scared because I don’t want to die from a disease like that.”
-Brooke Carlisle
-Texas/New York
-Madrid
D
AFRICA
S PA I N
A
C
U N IT E D S TAT E S
B
E
Countries in current outbreak Countries with past outbreaks
F
G
F
States with cases
Graphic: Staff Source: World Health Organization, Reuters
Provinces with cases
© 2014 MCT
Scare Hits Close to Home On October 5th, Kansas City had an Ebola scare when a man was tested for Ebola. HCA Midwest Health spokeswoman Chris Hamele said the patient was being treated at the University of Kansas Medical Center. Although the patient did not have Ebola, he had recently traveled to Nigeria and had one symptom of the disease. After this scare KU Medical Center has taken special precautions to be prepared for Ebola. The CDC has recommended procedures and special equipment to use in case Ebola does come into the hospital. The KU Medical Center has spent thousands of dollars on equipment to prevent the spreading of the disease and to keep them safe.
4 U.S. News
An
Unconstitutional
Kracinda Mitchell Story Editor
A Day in Court There has been much debate in The United States about whether or not same-sex marriage should be legalized. On October 6, U.S. Supreme Court refused to review the rulings made by lower courts, including the 10th Circuit Court, on the subject of samesex marriage. By doing so, it upheld the 10th Circuit’s June decision that bans on same-sex marriage in Utah and Oklahoma violate the U.S. Constitution. By default this ruling would affect all states within the 10th Circuit Court’s jurisdiction — including Kansas. Currently, the Kansas Constitution, states that no same-sex relationship is to be legally recognized in Kansas. In 2005, 70 percent of voters declared their desire for same-sex marriage to be banned within the state of Kansas by voting for this law, according to the Kansas City Star. Bans on same-sex marriage have been ruled unconstitutional because they violate the Equal Protection Clause of the U.S. Constitution by giving married couples more benefits than those not allowed to marry. Since the Equal Protection Clause is located in the U.S. Constitution it technically takes precedence over the Kansas law due to the Supremacy Clause, also located in the U.S. Constitution. After the Supreme Court made decided against hearing same-sex marriage cases, a county clerk in Johnson County was ordered by Judge Kevin Moriarty to start issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples on October 9. Government teacher
Ban
Derrick Abromeit said that this judge skipped a step in the judicial process in an attempt to avoid more debate. When same-sex couples applied for licenses in Kansas and were denied, this would result in an appeals court case to be allowed to marry based on the 10th Circuit Court’s ruling. Abromeit said he felt the judge skipped a step because he knew that same-sex couples would be ultimately be granted a marriage license, and he did not want to have to make them wait longer than what was necessary. The licenses were not available for long, however, as Attorney General Derek Schmidt issued an injunction on marriage licenses in Kansas for samesex couples on October 10. He also asked that the state nullify the already issued same-sex marriage licenses in Kansas. A hearing to review this conflict is set for November sixth, according to FreedomToMarry.org.
upon the suit are not as worried about being recognized as a married couple by the state — both couples were married in California — as they are about being allowed to have the same tax privileges as other married couples. As of now, these couples have to file as single taxpayers, according to Notice 13-18. According to the Kansas City Star, the Department of Revenue claimed that this notice “is an advising document, not a rule.” Brown, came back with “it is a rule or regulation because if taxpayers do not follow it they are subject to penalty of law.” Brown also argued inequality since his clients have to fill out extra paper work and, as a result, have to pay extra fees that “other married people don’t.” The two couples under Brown are fighting for equality, rather than to be recognized as married.
Tax Equality Being recognized as married allows couples to receive tax benefits. A court case was filed in 2013 by Kansas Attorney David Brown, called Nelson v. Kansas Department of Revenue, according to the Kansas City Star. The samesex couples who brought
Created on October 21, 2014
U.S. News 5
Chain of Events Making
History
Circuit Court of 1. 10th Appeals rules gay marriage
appeals this decision 2.Utah to the U.S. Supreme Court.
October 6, 2014, the 3. OnU.S. Supreme Court refuses
6, 2014, is the 6. November hearing date set to review
5. Attorney Schmidt
9, 2014, a Johnson 4. October County clerk starts issuing
bans are unconstitutional in Utah and Oklahoma, now allowing same sex marriage to take place, on June 25, 2014.
the conflict over same-sex marriage licenses in Kansas.
Peter Schmitt, 74, center, and Jim Hook, 65, pose for a photographer after getting married on Friday, Oct. 10, 2014, in Las Vegas at Chappelle de L’Amour. (Molly Hennessy-Fiske/Los Angeles Times/MCT)
General Derek issued an injunction on marriage licenses being issued in Kansas on October 10, 2014.
Aaron Merckle and Jason Roberts stand together outside the Mecklenburg County and Courts Office building after getting their marriage certificate on Monday, Oct. 13, 2014 in Charlotte, N.C. (Jeff Siner/ Charlotte Observer/MCT)
to handle the nation wide debate over same-sex marriage; therefore, the court of appeals’ decision will stay in place.
same-sex marriage licenses.
Terrence Hall and Christopher DeCaria hold their marriage certificate on Monday, Oct. 13, 2014 in Charlotte, N.C. Monday was the first day that gay couples could marry in Mecklenburg County after a judge’s ruling. (Jeff Siner/Charlotte Observer/MCT)
6 School News
L ck D wn Safety Connor Nuessen Staff Writer
Schools and local police departments in surrounding towns have started to adapt their lockdown drills and procedures due to the continuing occurrence of school shootings. From sitting in meetings to receiving training from local law enforcement to actually having mock armed intruder drills, staff members and administrators across the United States are becoming informed on the importance of establishing a good lockdown procedure. Students may have noticed the new red buttons that have been installed around the school. These buttons are another tool to help keep students safe.
to inform students and staff that there is an intruder in the building, and to take necessary measures to be safe. On the outside of the school there will be blue flashing lights signaling that the school is on lockdown. The system also notifies the Student Resource Officers. At the high school, Officer Anthony Garcia contacts the Gardner Police Department to send additional law enforcement to the school.
Who can push these buttons? The answer is simple, anyone. If a student or staff member physically sees a threat in the building they have the power to put the school in lockdown. However, if a student hears a rumor and a threat is not actually seen, then in that situation it should be reported to a staff member or administrator as soon as possible. The punishment for falsely pushing a red button is the same as if a fire alarm were falsely pulled, and can range from a 10 day suspension to expulsion.
How will these buttons make GEHS a safer school?
When a student or staff member pushes the button, a recorded notification will play over the intercom
The buttons do not take much time to notify students and staff of a threat when pushed, whereas a person in the office actually reading a message on the intercom would take more time. The red lock down button is used only for intruders. The goal of the new system is to alert students and staff faster, allowing them more time to
react and make smarter decisions on what they need to do in order to stay safe.
What is the drill if there is a real intruder in the building? Run. Hide. Fight. If students are in a classroom where they could quickly evacuate from the building or have a door leading outside like in the art classrooms, they are encouraged to get out of the school and run to a safer place. If students are not able to evacuate the building, then they should barricade themselves by moving heavy items from the classroom in front of the door to create more of an obstacle for if the threat were to get into the classroom. After the barricade is built, students should look around the room for things that could be used to throw at the intruder or used to protect themselves if they end up having to fight the threat. If a real intruder was in the building and the alarm went off the administration believes the school could be pretty chaotic. This is an event that students and staff will never be able to practice through a safety drill in full extent. The only time students will ever use the Run, Hide, Fight method is when there is a real threat in the building. It is important for students to note that if you see something suspicious or hear something out of the ordinary the school can go into lock down until further direction. The alarm does not need to go off to create a lockdown.
Since the Newton Elementary Tragedy
74
School Shootings
53
People injured in the shootings
Information from the Washington Post online. Current as of June 2014.
39
Took place in elementary, middle, and high schools
36
Students injured
30
Shootings inside of a school building
School News 7
What would be your first reaction if there was a real armed intruder lockdown? “I think my first reaction would be to either get us out of the building if we weren’t in immediate danger,” math teacher Emily Basham said. If Basham’s fist plan does not work out her backup plan is to lock down and arm her students. “You all [students] are getting heavy books that you can block yourselves with, and I probably have some scissors “See if I can get out of and compasses in my room...,” she said. “We will sit here the building,” family and fight back. We are not just going to sit in the corner and consumer science and wait.” teacher Shelly Valvero said.
“Thats a hard question,” English teacher Stacy Audsley said. “My first reaction would be where am I right now, where are my students. I would probably sweep the hall to see if we could run out the side door.”
= Button Location
in 2012 there have been...
20
Incidents were at least one person was killed
19
Took place in school or campus parking lot
10
Students killed
5
Shooters attempted suicide after the event
3
Staff members killed
8 Feature
There and Back Again Alex Cross Staff Writer The journey began with an approximate 20 hour flight, jumping across nine time zones. (360 travel guide) It lasted for a month and a half. Senior Bryan Njogu‘s long awaited visit to his family last summer in Kenya, Africa finally took place. During his vacation, he visited numerous places in the area and spent time with his aunts, uncles and cousins. “Most of my family lives there, everyone except my mom and dad,” Njogu said. “Seeing them was my favorite part of the trip.” It was not just his family that he enjoyed, but also the culture of Kenya as well. “The main difference between Kenya and the US is that the people are more appreciative,” Njogu said. “Even something like going out to eat is a bigger deal. It is a time for family to get together and it can be more expensive.” This is due to the fact that, according to the CIA World Factbook, Kenya’s economy is not as strong as the US, with a lower Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and higher unemployment rates, leaving families with less free-to-spend money. This lack of expendable income also affects the availability of modern conveniences such as high speed cell phones and laptops according to Njogu. “Technology which we view as common, they view as precious,” Njogu said. Instead of being so focused on material possessions, “their lives are based more on family connections,” Njogu said. Some of the ways Njogu and his family spent time together were traveling to places like Nairobi—the capital of Kenya—and Mombasa Beach,
experiencing both the busy city interfere. Njogu’s trip to Kenya was no environment as well as the relaxing different. time by the ocean. “While there, I was attacked by “It [Nairobi] is like the New York of two dogs. Neither time was Kenya. It’s a crowded really serious, but I certainly city with lots of was not expecting people there,” Njogu said. While in the city, Njogu’s cousin, Caroline Gakuria brought him to work with her. “She works at a place called Standard Charter. It is basically a big bank,” Njogu said. According to UN data, Nairobi is the largest city in Kenya, containing over three million people. Roughly 300 miles to the southeast of Nairobi is Mombasa and its beach, touching the Indian Ocean. The waterf “Hanging all flows into Photo by: a pool on th Bryan Njog out at the e Kimwea e u state. beach was awesome,” Njogu said. “Seeing the ocean is always an experience, and getting it,” Njogu to swim in it is cool because it isn’t said. something you get to do in Kansas.” Another not-so-bright side of Njogu’s Going even further from the bustling trip was the time difference between city life, Njogu traveled to his aunt’s Kenya and Kansas. house with his cousins, to ride dirt “It was really difficult to talk to my bikes on her estate out in the country family and friends here,” Njogu said. of Kenya. “We were never awake at the same “Riding dirt bikes is great. My cousins time.” and I had a lot of fun. We raced one Even through the ups and downs, another and drove on outdoor trails the trip as a whole was a nice vacation, around her place,” Njogu said. according to Njogu. A vacation that he However, as with any vacation, the fully intends to do again when time unexpected always finds a way to allows.
Feature 9
A vacation in 8,438 miles Numbers
ow
sd rain
: l rfal Photo by e t w. wa The ge belo folia
he
t n on
u.
jog
an N Bry
ther andfa
gr ith his jogu. w s e s o nN jogu p Photo by: Brya N n a Bry ea. h Kimw p e s o J
45 days 20+ hour flight 11 countries crossed 9 time zones 2 connecting flights 1 unforgettable Journey
A pi c Kimw ture pe rf ea e stat ect scen e. P eo hoto
f
the by: B ryan Njog u.
10 Advertisements
Mazee
Nails & Spa Your Hometown Full Service Pharmacy
131 E Main (913) 856-8106
www.gardnerpharmacy.com
Cosentino’s
Manicure Pedicure UV Gel
Pink and White Acrylic Nail Design
(913) 605-1012 P
nail care for ladies and ge l a n o i ntlem ss rofe e
305 N. Moonlight Rd Gardner KS 66030
n
Gift Certificates Available
Proud supporter of Gardner Edgerton High School
830 E. Main Gardner, KS 66030 Phone: 913-856-8380 Fax: 913-856-5686
A Family Tradition
Salon Hours: Mon - Fri: 10:00am - 7:00 pm Sat: 9:30 am - 8:00pm Sun: 1:00pm - 5:00 pm
Appt and Walk Ins Welcome
12 Feature
45%
ITunes & App Store
Emoji Keyboard
55%
GEHS Students
Preference
Supports more
connects you and your Apple devices and insures you have the latest version of everything.
Commons Attribution-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported
4.7”
This file is licensed under the Creative Commons AttributionShare Alike 3.0 Unported
ICloud
IPhone 6
Fingerprint ID Passcode
Do Not Disturb
5.5”
IMessage
Siri
IPhone 6 Plus
Facetime
LTE bands than any other smartphone so you can roam in This icon is provided by icons8.com as Creative more places.
$199
“They are better in photo quality. [And] there’s facetime.” -Sophomore Lisa Thepsouphanh
“I feel that it is more reliable. My [Android] phone glitches all the time.” -Sophomore Kinsey Thompson
for IPhone6
Iphone 6? 51%
“I like the set up.” -Senior Abby Weems
“They have a better layout, cooler settings, more apps, [and it’s] user friendly.” -Sophomore Jewell Carter
Passbook
which allows you to pay in stores and within apps.
49%
“Because #TeamIPhone.” -Senior Jadon Pearson-Bruce
Feature
48% 9%
13
43%
Neither
GEHS Students Possess
“More user friendly and more customizable.” -Freshman Hunter Fesemeyer
“Apple is harder to break and freezes less.” -Junior Tiffany Fields
“You can transfer information straight from your phone to your computer or any smart TV.” -Junior Karee Hustedde
“I hear better reviews about it.” -Freshman Dauson Bartlett
5.9” Nexus 6
“The setup is way better.” - Senior Lucas Allen
4.5” Moto G
Say “OK GOOGLE” to ask a question, send a text, set a reminder, get directions, etc.
$199
Music Hub
13mp Camera
Play Store
Play Books
Customizable Home Screen
for Nexus 6
Pin, Password, or Pattern lock screen.
6 hours of use from only 15 minutes of charging.
Front facing speakers
Android’s software is named
Ice Cream Sandwich
14 Feature
Technology A Blessing and a Curse Brooke Boyer Staff Writer
V
isualize a peculiar planet where children are forced to go outside and play. The only form of communication is face to face conversations at school or work. A world where you physically have to go to the post office and wait weeks for a response instead of an email. Life, with no technological advances appears to be harder when compared with the easy-tech life of the 21st century: although a world without technology has its advantages too. It would encourage more face to face conversations to improve communication skills. There is a lacking of communication skills in this century due to technology advances, these skills are necessary for job interviews, first impressions, self esteem, etc. Also there would not be any gibberish ‘texting talk’, and no one would find themselves staring at a screen for hours at a time. When too much time is spent with technology it becomes an everyday distraction from the world. The University of Maryland conducted a study proving that “young people are now so addicted to their mobile phones it feels like they have lost a limb when they are without them.” Technology has impacted my life negatively “because I don’t spend as much time as I should with my family,” junior Apple phone owner Brianna Nava said. According to Nava, she spends a majority of her time on her cell phone, usually texting her boyfriend or on social media sites. She loves technology, yet believes she would be involved in more activities if she did not have a cell phone. Nava said technology has been very helpful when she is in need of information. Whether the information is
for the time and location of a practice or to research something quickly in class. Sophomore Android phone owner Griffin Johns has a slightly different view on technology. Johns spends only about an hour a day on his cell phone. “[My opinion on technology in general] depends on what you use it for,” Johns said. “I can live without using my phone everyday.” Johns does however value using his phone for educational purposes. If he is struggling in class, he appreciates being able to access the Internet to receive help on assignments. Even though he does not spend much time on his cell phone, if he did not have a phone he says he would be more active and would not catch himself occasionally spending numerous hours on Instagram. Researchers from the University of Maryland have also evaluated that technology has been proven to negatively affect many relationships and friendships. The distraction of a cell phone can frustrate someone who is trying to have a conversation with you. “Most relationships are more based on texting and all that stuff, and they do not really get face to face time. I think talking to them is an important part of a relationship,” Johns said. It can also impact friendships when rumors or hurtful things are said online about someone. Technology allows people to say things anonymously online and create tension between friends and classmates. “Technology can hurt you. People say mean things [online] to you,” sophomore Apple phone owner Malibu McIntire said. McIntire spends around half the day on her phone and admits to using it too often. She thinks that “without technology we would be more social.” This century’s lack of communication is the main reason why technology is referred to as a curse... however one must take in to account the benefits technology presents the world as well.
A World Without Senior Elijah Lewis come you do not Q: How have a cell phone? I honestly just A:never got one. There was no real need for me to do so. you like to have Q: Would one? How about when you go to college?
I would. It would A: Yes, be helpful when I move out.
you think having Q: Do a phone has certain benefits? Do you wish you had access to those benefits? Of course there are benefits! I, however, would likely only use a phone to call people, so I’m not sure how helpful a superadvanced cell phone would be.
A:
Jake Huppe
The Collaboration
Meet The Band
16 Feature
Encore
“
I started playing at the age of six, I taught myself until I was 14, took lessons from Brandon Miller for six months, stopped taking lessons and got more involved in the studio side of things. I write, record, and edit all of my own songs in my home studio. I started playing music at my church last year and it has inspired me to write Christian music. I’m hoping to get into a college that offers a major in music technology so that I can eventually own my own studio and record/produce music. Music is my love and passion and it’s what I want to do with my life.
”
-Jake Huppe
“
I’ve been playing the piano/keyboard for about 17 years. My parents started me very young. They encouraged all my siblings to take music lessons at some time. I’m the only one [who] still plays consistently. Music has always been a passion of mine.
”
-John Hermes
“
I started on the violin playing classical music (age five), but soon lost interest in that style of music and switched to fiddle playing. I picked up the mandolin when we started a family band at the age of seven (My sister was five). My dad played the guitar, mom played the bass, and my sister and I twin-fiddled as she also played the banjo. Summer of 2013, I had the privilege of being accepted into the Grammy Museum Music Revolution in KC where I met Jake. I’m currently apart of Life Church’s youth group band on the piano, fiddle, and vocals, but mostly fiddle.
”
-Emily Dickie
“
I’ve been drumming for around seven years, started in fifth grade. My parents always said I had good rhythm as I would hit random things in random patterns. I have had many teachers in my time, all have been impressed with my ability to learn so quick. I blame that on starting with Jazz drumming where fast learning is key. I also do a bunch of upper level band stuff (state). I am currently studying under Keith Larson hoping to get some sort scholarship to K-State.
”
-Joey Quigley
The Collaboration is a newly formed band (formerly the Jake Huppe Band) who just enjoys making music together. This small-town group makes a seamless mix of mountain music, country and blues. Made up of Jake Huppe who is the lead vocalist and guitarist, Emily Dickie as the back-up vocalist and plays the fiddle, Joey Quigley as the drummer, and lastly John Hermes on the keyboard. “The band is pretty much just some talented musicians who want to jam and make music together,” Huppe said. While there are high hopes for the band from the fans, schedules often complicate the simplest of things--such as practices and some performances. With Dickie attending Spring Hill High School, Hermes going to Kansas City Community College, and Huppe not living by them, it’s hard to find the time to meet. The Collaboration mostly practices at Huppe’s house when everyone else is able. Lisa Huppe, Jake’s mother, is known to sneak down onto the steps to listen in during rehearsals. Since some members of the band are not able to attend some practices, The Collaboration has guest players joining them for performances. Huppe wishes to add two more members to the mix.
If he expands the band, then practices might be a little easier to come across since the band will have back-up players. “I’ll often have to find substitute musicians,” Huppe said “I am also hoping to add another guitar and bass player.” Even though practices are hard to come by, the band still takes up much of Huppe’s life. Going to school and work while trying to have a social life and be in a band, is just not happening for Huppe. Huppe said he cannot go out as much as he used to. He has chosen to give up many aspects of his former life to be a part of his beloved new musical life. “You [cannot] really have much of a life outside of [the band] if you want to get serious about it,” Huppe said. On the positive side of things, Huppe said this group has taught him brand new cooperation skills. He has gained more skills through practicing such as audio, engineering, and producing music. Also, Huppe stated that this band really helps boost his confidence and his mother loves to see him grow as a person and as her son. “I think he really shines when [he is] on stage, it amazes me to see what a confident person he is when he is performing, I think that is the best
Feature 17 Starla Stephens Copy Editor thing,” L. Huppe said. “We have had music in our home for years, so to see him achieve one of his dreams is a great thing.” Inspiration was, and still is, a key in getting The Collaboration up and running. Brandon Miller, Gardner Edgerton graduate, pushed Huppe to follow his passion and start a band of his own. Miller plays gigs all around Kansas City, Kansas which influenced Huppe to do the same. “He is my mentor in everything I do,” Huppe said. Huppe said that the most populous crowd that The Collaboration has performed for was at Wellsville Days, bringing in an estimated 2,000 listeners. Huppe cherishes the crowd because he feels loved by them. “My confidence has improved tremendously,” Huppe said “There’s no better feeling than when [you are] unanimously loved by a big crowd.” While there are currently no performances set in stone yet, Huppe will be sharing his upcoming performances with students who wish to attend and support him. The Collaboration is invited to play at the Wellsville Days. The performance brought in new fans who cheered them on. Photo by: Lisa Huppe
18 Information
Class of
2015
Senior
T-Shirts Price: $5 each Deadline: Nov. 14 Order from: Dr. Stewart (Blair) or Mrs. Shephard
Voting
Results
Flower: Blue-tipped Rose Song: My Wish - Rascal Flats
Speaker: Mr. Plankenhorn Motto: “You’re only given one little spark of
madness. You mustn’t lose it.” – Robin Williams
Yearbook
Deadlines
Senior ads
Due by: Friday, Nov. 21 at 4 p.m. EIGHTH PAGE $80 No more than 35 words and one photo
QUARTER PAGE $110 No more than 75 words and TWO photoS
HALF PAGE $175 No more than 150 words and up to FOUR photoS
FULL PAGE$275 No more than 300 words and up to SIX photoS
Senior portraits Due by: Friday, Nov. 21 at 4 p.m. Pictures may be submitted with a $30 Late fee until Friday, Dec. 5. Any pictures received after this date will not appear in the yearbook.
Yearbook Purchases Price: $65 Due by: Friday, Dec. 19 at 4 p.m. If there are any extra yearbooks after the May distribution, they will be sold for $65 on a first come, first serve basis. A yearbook is not guaranteed after December 19, 2014.
Questions See Miss Ross in Room 505, forms also available in the office.
Advertisements 19 Your After School Drink & Snack Stop!
Two Locations in Gardner 205 N Moonlight Rd. Gardner, KS 66030 (913) 856-3201 1725 E 175th St Gardner, KS (913) 856-2136
99¢ Any size pop or fries from 3-4:30 pm Shakes, Floats, and Limeaids not included. Sour Cream and Chive, Waffle, Curly and Sweet Potato Fries not included.
Check out our Social Media for more information about current and upcoming stories, contests , and more.
Follow us @GEHSNews
Like us at The Blazer
Follow us @gehsnews
Want to advertise with the Blazer? For more information contact: Lindsey Ross Gardner Edgerton High School 425 Waverly Rd, Gardner, KS 66030 913-856-2640 rossl@usd231.com
Special Rates available for GEHS clubs and organizations.
20 Opinion
Open Lunch Policy Jaclyn Adamson Staff Writer
Waiting in the long, boring lunch line, scrambling for seats not in the sun — now it seems like there is no time left to eat. Students have wanted a longer lunch for a while now, but are no closer to getting it. The school board has talked about getting rid of seminar because students are ‘just using it for a social hour,’ but if they only give us 25 minutes at lunch then that is really all the time we have. Teens need an amount of time to relax from the four, 85 minutes classes they take almost everyday. The Blazer staff as a whole concurs that lunch should be longer, and that leaving for lunch is worth a try. There are definite pros and cons here. The benefits to come out of this change are more time to spend with people in your lunch, not worrying about the volume of a cone or how to write an essay introduction. Students will also have more time to eat and enjoy food instead of just shoveling it into their mouths. As always, where there is good there is also bad; the time and safety restraints, the lack of supervision. When asked about the plan, Mr. Meyer said that it would be ‘‘difficult to provide management for this sort of thing.’’ We have never had this regulation before and it would be a challenge. Even the prospect of a fifth lunch was brought up. The school is growing so fast that we barely even fit in our cafeteria as it is. The amount of kids flocking to a restaurant or cafe might be too much for them to handle, Meyer said. There are several problems with open lunch that need to be thought out before rushing into anything.
Taking out seminar would be an unwise move, students need that extra study and homework time. The leaving school for lunch dilemma is one the school has stood firmly on, but it is time for a change. Offering students a chance to leave to get lunch is a way to build responsibility. It is a privilege, not a right. Setting guidelines and enforcing consequences is an easy compromise to the problem. If you never give teens a chance to prove themselves, then they can never grow. Now, there will be some people who will try and take advantage of this opportunity. There always is, but we cannot let that hinder the decision. There are differing opinions, some kids do not use their seminar and would be okay with getting rid of it. Others do not have the ability to leave school for lack of transportation or funds; however, they could simply get food in the cafeteria and go outside to enjoy the fresh air. There are dozens of holes that could be poked in the idea, but we will never know how it could work unless we try it out. Maybe only have open lunch for a few days a week, or just a certain grade level can go. There are multiple combinations of plans we could try. Students have said time and time again how much they would enjoy a longer lunch. Even things as simple as being able to sit outside and eat with their friends on a nice day. For some kids, coming to school is the worst thing for them. Having this ability to get out and enjoy the day, without having to jog a lap in gym class, is something to look forward to everyday. This new addition is something that would benefit the school in more than one way. It is huge change but a change for the better.
Student Q&A Would you leave for lunch if you were allowed?
“Yes!”
Mackenzie Henneous Would you be okay with taking out seminar?
“No, I don’t do my homework at home, I need seminar.”
Carson Harding How long do you think lunch should be?
“30 minutes”
Tom Fabing
Students throw baby powder during the “I Believe� chant at the start of the homecoming game, October 3. The theme for the game was white out and StuCo members provided the students with baby powder to throw in the air. Photo by: Jenna Goetzmann Graphic by: Brooke Boyer
We Bleed
22 Sports/Activities
Trailblazers’ Tremendous School Spirit Jaycee Zeck Staff Writer Friends getting together, cheering on their school, and tailgating before the home football games is what many Blazer fans do. And with new traditions starting this school year, and ones still being carried out, it is easier than ever to get involved. According to Student Council sponsor Katie Zahner, students have increased their school spirit throughout the hallways and at the Blazer football games. With spirit weeks, theme nights and Blazer of the game, there are plenty of chances for the students to show off their school pride. “Some people might not think school spirit is cool, but if you look at the college football games, if you are not in spirit, you are not cool.” Zahner said. Student Council members play a role in preparing and creating spirit week and theme nights. “Student Council is who decides the spirit days and the game themes, with the help of the student body, taking polls and asking for opinions among the students,” Zahner said. In order to determine the selection of spirit days, Student Council asks around the school to get student insight of what they would like to see during spirit week. They then take into account which ideas that all students are easily able to participate in. “Student Council wants everyone to get involved in spirit week. Without having to go out and buy things, we want to make things easy and fun for our students,” Zahner said.
After the ideas are up on the board, Student Council members then take a vote. The top four choices make the cut, and Fridays are always Blazer blue out. Theme night is a new tradition that started this school year. “Theme night is something the Student Council wanted to do and started thinking about last school year,” Zahner said. “You look around at all the other schools student sections and you see all these kids in spirit. We want our school to be like that.” Just like the spirit days, Student Council gets an insight of what the students would like to see at the Blazer games and the decision starts from there. Another add on to the Blazer’s school spirit is the ‘Blazer of the Game’, a rewarded title given at home football games. The students who are the best dressed are then selected by a Student Council member. The students names are entered in a drawing and the name drawn receives the title and prize. Currently ‘Blazer of the Game’ is only awarded at football games. It has not been determined whether or not this will carry over to basketball season due to the increase in the number of home games, according to Zahner. However, Student Council hopes the theme nights continue throughout the school year. Whether the students are participating in the spirit weeks, going all out for the theme nights, or they have won Blazer of the Game; the students are participating in school spirit and that is part of what the students call Blazer Nation.
And the Winners are. . . Students Select Their Favorite Spirit Days
#1 Favorite Team
Junior Allison Hansan
#2 Pajamas
Junior Hadley Dappen
#3
Neon Colors
Senior Aislinn Sihamaya Results from poll of 60 students per grade
Sports/Activities 23
#TeamAshton Imagine having a whole team dedicated just to you. Shirts with your name on them, chants just for you. The team name is even named after you. For Ashton Vega, this is more than an imaginary scenario — it has become a reality for this senior soccer player. Three years ago when senior Ashton Vega first joined the soccer team, Team Ashton arose. “Team Ashton is a group of his friends who go to his soccer games, so we can support our favorite soccer player,” senior Jon Beard said. Members of Team Ashton do more than just attend the soccer games.
“Before every game we prepare in the parking lot, getting our costumes and makeup ready, and we always walk into the game with each other,” Beard said. Team Ashton even has their own section on the bleachers that they occupy each game and having their own chants for Vega that they created. “One of my favorite parts of being on team Ashton is the way people look at us and react whenever we cheer. We get pretty crazy,” Beard said. Team Ashton also participates in team bonding. “After the home games we have
team dinners at Perkins to celebrate, which is my favorite part. I just love the atmosphere. We will always be there to cheer on our friend.” Beard said. For the future, Team Ashton has plenty of plans to support and celebrate Vega — with more costumes, better chants and some dramatically “big stuff” according to Beard. “Just wait until senior night when we have our confetti bombs,” Beard said. Even after the school’s soccer season is over, Team Ashton plans to carry on with their traditions at Vega’s club soccer games.
The members of Team Ashton pose outside for a group picture. Seniors: (Front) Hayes Favinger, Peyton Minard, Mally Boutsomsi, Jordan Weyand, Matt Rose (Bottom) Jared Duran, Blake Eckelberry, Anthony Deters, Jonathan Beard, Krista Long, and Sean Lukowski Photo By: Jaycee Zeck
The Star of the Show
Vega’s thoughts on his personal fan club When Team Ashton first started senior Ashton Vega said he was very excited, today he still feels the same. “I feel the same about Team Ashton as I did when it very first started. Honestly I felt like a celebrity. To have a dedicated fan club that gives up their time to come to your games is beyond
Ashton Vega
awesome and I thank every single one of them for it,” Vega said. Vega’s favorite part of the team are the shirts and chants dedicated to him while he’s on the field. “It makes Team Ashton seem like a more official group instead of just a group of fans going crazy,”
Vega said. Vega wanted to be certain that the members of Team Ashton know how appriciative he is of their support. “ [What] I would like to say is basically just thank you, Vega said. ”Thank you for being such good friends and even better supporters. This team wouldn’t have been the same without you guys and you are what completes the team. “
The Leaders of the Pack
Ryan Shirley Staff Writer
24 Sports and Activities
Soccer Theater Dance Senior Dakota Steuber said his responsibilities as soccer co-captain do not stop where the field ends. “I make sure that the whole team is behaving right,” Steuber said. According to him this means not talking back to the referees as well as getting good grades. “I ... am a leader on the field and [in] the classroom,” he said. Co-Captain senior Ashton Vega said being a captain means the team has someone to look up to especially in losing situations. According to Vega he is a leader, but also a player and is “no better than anyone else on the team just a mentor.” “When we warm up I help motivate us. I dictate and guide the field,” he said.
Senior Cooper McGuire has been acting for eight years and has had three lead parts in school plays. His junior year he started a charity for the Mayor’s Christmas Tree Fund; it was a play hosted at the high school that he arranged. He said that to be a leader, you just need a positive attitude and help people look at the rewards of their hard work. Senior Allison Koelzer said she tries to set a good example by “being myself, smile to everyone I see and just be a happy influence on the theater department.” Koelzer enjoys being an actor because its a great way to escape and truthfully portray someone else’s life. Her favorite role was playing an angry bigot in 12 Angry Jurors.
The Blazerettes dance team does not have captains. Instead they rely on senior dance members to take the lead. Senior Amy Eichman said she is in charge of cleaning up the dances and making them ready for competition. In addition to her role critiquing routines, she also make cards for other members of the team encouraging them to do well. Senior Carly Graceffa defines being a leader as a special opportunity that puts her in a leadership role over the other grade levels. Senior Chandler Howard has been on the team for four years. “I am just looking forward to the spring show, ... I want it to be special,” Howard said.
Girls Golf Girls golf captain junior Hope Bruno always tries to set a good example by showing up on time in the proper attire and working hard even when she is not meeting all of her personal golf goals. Bruno said that as a captain “You always need to get there first [because] you need to be there so if anybody needs help then you are there,” Bruno said. “Helping your team even in an individual sport like golf is very powerful.” Her favorite moment as a golfer was watching her teammates work hard and develop better skills. Bruno said that being a leader is a very powerful feeling knowing that the coaches trust her enough to put her in charge.
Sports and Activities 25
Football
Cheer
Senior Colton Mullin, the offensive captain of the football team, is in charge of talking to officials, the coin toss and keeping up team moral. Defensive captain Senior Nick Wohlford has to keep the defense lined up where they are supposed to be and to set a good example for the team. To keep the team motivated during a losing season Mullin said that you must “believe that you can win yourself, one negative person can bring a team down while one positive person can bring the whole team up.” Wohlford however just believes that if he can stay loud and have fun himself then the team will follow his example and, as a result, play better.
To be a captain on the cheer squad, you must have had two years of varsity cheerleading experience. The coaches also talk to the squad about who they believe should be a captain. Junior Cyan Gaeta and senior Ali Haag share the role of captain for football cheer squad. Haag describes the responsibilities of being a captain as taking control over workouts, stretching and making routines. In addition, she calls out the cheers at the games that will be performed. “I try to be a good role model by keeping the mood positive and not to be negative about the things that we as a group need to work on,” Haag said. “To be a leader you need to remain calm under pressure and have a kind heart.”
Cross Volleyball Tennis Country The captain of the Senior Krista Long Raymond Carey volleyball team is junior Allison Weber. Weber is an outside hitter. As a captain she is in charge of the coin toss and is the only one that can talk to officials. Her favorite moment of volleyball this year was playing Baldwin at their home tournament and winning. “Volleyball means a lot to me, I used to play other sports but i had to drop them to make time for volleyball,” Weber said. “It definitely requires dedication.” Weber always tries to be a good role model by being positive and working hard all of the time. She said that having a losing season is difficult and she is there to try and help the team through it.
has accomplished many goals as a tennis player. The last two seasons she has qualifyed for state this year she medaled at 12th place. She said that her responsibilities as a leader are ”to be a role model on and off the court.” She tries to set a good example by being positive and a good sport. “I have to respect the game and the officials,” Long said. Long said its important for her to encourage others to reach work to the best of their abilities — a goal which applies to more than tennis. “Grades and education always come first, try your best in all activities in life,” Long said. “If people see that they will have the desire to do the same”
said that as a senior member and leader of the cross country team, he makes sure that everyone is practicing correctly and not cheating the workout. He also has to make sure that all of the new members understand all of the routines such as team dinners which he describes as “a fun time” “Its good to all get together after working so hard, and we are all one big family,” Carey said. Carey appreciates being a leader because it shows that the coaches trust him to work hard and lead the group. His goal is to try to make sure no one quits the team and sets a good example “If i can do it then you can too,” Carey said.
26 Entertainment
Take Me Out to Royals first baseman Eric Hosmer and third baseman Mike Moustakas celebrate the final out of the game in a 3-2 win against the San Francisco Giants in Game 3. Photo by: Shane Keyser/Kansas City Star/MCT
Fireworks open the show as the Kansas City Royals welcome the San Francisco Giants for Game 2. Photo by: Keith Myers/Kansas City Star/MCT Third baseman Mike Moustakas made a diving catch on a ball hit by Sthe an Francisco Giants’ Buster Posey. Photo by: John Sleezer/Kansas City Star/CMT
Lorenzo Cain strokes a double in the third inning against the Giants. Photo by: Nhat V. Meyer/Bay Area News Group/MCT
Pitcher Jeremy Guthrie throws in the first inning against the San Francisco Giants in Game 7. Photo by: Keith Myers/Kansas City Star/MCT
Royals’ Alcides Escobar attempts to steal second and is tagged out by Giants second baseman Joe Panik, right, in the first inning of Game 2 Photo by: Paul Kitagaki Jr./Sacramento Bee/MCT
Royals fans look ahead during the seventh inning stretch of Game 6 of the World Series against the Giants. Photo by: Josie Lepe/Bay Area News Group/MCT
Shortstop Alcides Escobar snags the ball thrown after a wild pitch, allowing the Giants’ Gregor Blanco to take second base in the first inning during Game 4. Photo by: Paul Kitagaki Jr./Sacramento Bee/MCT
Entertainment 27
the Ballgame The Kansas City Royals and the San Francisco Giants prepare to meet in Game 1 of the World Series . Photo by: Keith Myers/ Kansas City Star/MCT
Royals’ Lorenzo Cain scores in the first inning against the Giants in Game 2. Photo by: John Sleezer/Kansas City Star/ MCT
A fan shows off his giant moose antlers during the 2014 Season Celebration. Photo by: John Sleezer/Kansas City Star/ MCT
The Kansas City Royals’ Mike Moustakas celebrates with the team after scoring a run in the third inning against the San Francisco Giants during Game 4. Photo by: Shane Keyser/ Kansas City Star/MCT
Fans display their signs of support during the 2014 Season Celebration by the Royals. Photo by: John Sleezer/Kansas City Star/MCT
Shortstop Alcides Escobar fields a grounder and tries to throw out the Giants’ Hunter Pence, who was safe at first during the sixth inning in Game 2. Photo by: John Sleezer/Kansas City Star/MCT)
Former Royals catcher John Wathan shakes hands with former Royals third baseman George Brett after the pair conspired to throw out the ceremonial first pitch in Game 2. Photo by: John Sleezer/Kansas City Star/MCT
The Best of FALL 2014
Entertainment 29
The Best of
FALL 2014
{RECIPES}
Whipped Pumpkin Dip Ingredients 15 oz can of pumpkin puree 5 oz box of instant vanilla pudding
1
In a large bowl mix pumpkin puree and cool whip until smooth.
2
Add the dry pudding mix and the pumpkin pie spice. Stir until all mixed together.
{just the powder, don’t make the pudding}
16 oz container of cool whip 1 tbsp Pumpkin Pie Spice
Pumpkin Whoopie Pies Ingredients 1 1/2 cups light brown sugar 3/4 cup Canola oil 2 1/2 tsp vanilla extract 2 eggs 15 oz can pumpkin puree 3 cups all purpose flour 1 tsp baking powder 1 tsp baking soda 1/2 tsp salt 3/4 tsp ground cinnamon 1/4 tsp ground ginger 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg 8 oz cream cheese 1/4 cup butter, room temperature 4 1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 2 3
In a separate bowl, stir together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg.
4
Add one cup of the flour mixture to the pumpkin mixture at a time until the flour mixture is gone and mix until smooth.
3
Chill for several hours before serving. Serve with apple slices, ginger snaps, graham crackers or vanilla wafers.
Pumpkin Chai Tea Latte Ingredients
2 Tbs. canned pumpkin Chai Tea (pumpkin spice Chai) 2 cubes/Tsp Brown sugar Milk (warmed to room temperature) 2 Tsp vanilla extract Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Whipped Cream
5
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F and line two cookie sheets with parchment paper. The cakes -- In an electric mixing bowl combine brown sugar, oil, and 1 1/2 tsp. vanilla eggs and pumpkin puree. Mix until smooth.
Shelby Simpson Layout Editor
On the parchment paper covered baking sheets drop 2 tbsp sized circles of pumpkin mixture 2 inches apart. Bake for 11 to 13 minutes.
6
Let cakes cool for 3 minutes on baking sheets. Then transfer to wire racks to finish cooling and Repeat with remaining batter.
7
The Filling -- In an electric mixing bowl combine cream cheese, butter and 1 tsp vanilla. Add the powdered sugar in slowly and mix on high until creamy.
8
Assembling -- Sandwich the cream cheese filling in between two pumpkin cake tops. Can be served at room temperature or chilled.
1
Steep/Boil the tea bag with a small amount of water.
2
On the stove top combine pumpkin, tea, sugar, vanilla, and pumpkin spice on low heat.
3
To foam the milk - heat for about 30 seconds, then use foamer, frothier or even magic bullet
4
Combine milk and stove mixture then add whipped cream and sprinkle some cinnamon and pumpkin spice on top.
30 Entertainment The Best of
FALL 2014
{PHOTOS}
Photo by: Carly Graceffa
Photo by: Mekenzi Ford
Photo by: Chandler Howard
Photo by: Amy Hurd
Photo by: Natalie Mullin
Photo by: Brianna Nava
Entertainment 31
The Best of
FALL 2014
{EVENTS}
Louisburg Cider Mill & Country Store Most famous for their homemade apple cider and cider doughnuts, the Louisburg Cider Mill is an exciting place for the whole family. From their pumpkin patch for all ages to their country store, there will be something for everyone to love.
Hours
14730 K68 Hwy Lousiburg, KS 66053 Holiday Open House Mon-Sat 8am - 6pm Sun 9am-6pm
Nov 16/17 -- 9am - 6pm Dec 7/8 -- 9am - 6pm
Kansas City Haunted Houses
Macabre Cinema 1222 W 12th St Kansas City, MO (816) 472-4467
Step into the 1930’s haunted movie theater on 12th street. With its collection of actual horror movie sets and props visitors are sure to be the main role in this horror movie.
Phobias come to life as visitors stand 666 feet above sea level and slide down the 4-story high slide. Established in 1975 The Edge of Hell is the oldest commercial haunted house in the United States.
Chambers of Poe 1100 Santa Fe St Kansas City, MO (816) 842-4280
Edge of Hell 1300 W 12th St Kansas City, MO (816) 842-4279
Step into Poe’s twisted and mad world with paranormal activity and a 4-story window leap. Any visitor will be taken over by the darkness of Poe’s thoughts.
This terror on 13th Street has an open format, a live alligator and front door entertainment from a headless horseman and thriller dancers. The Beast it is sure to give you nightmares.
The Beast
1401 W 13th St Kansas City, MO (816) 842-4280
Crown Center Ice Terrace For their 42nd year, KC’s only outdoor ice skating rink opens November 7. On opening day enjoy free skating along with coffee and hot chocolate from 6am - 9am. Bring friends and family and enjoy a day on the ice. Crown Center also has many restaurants and shops to entertain Kansas City residents.
November 7, 2014 Crown Center Square Reg Admission - $6 Skate Rental - $3 2450 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108
(816) 274 - 8411
November 2014 - GEHS Events Calendar Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
1
Saturday
KU Marching Festival V Volleyball vs. OPEN
3
10
4
5
6
7
JV Scholars Bowl
8
Registration Deadline for Buff Puff - Boys volleyball December ACT tournament for Judy Hart
Athletic Buffer Week GEHS Blood Drive
Veterans Day NO SEMINAR Progress Reports Posted
11
12
13
14
17
18
19
20
21
22
24
25
26
27
28
29
First Winter Sports Practice
Fall Musical for District Employees
Varsity Scholars Bowl
No School Thanksgiving Break
JV Scholars Bowl Fall Musical
JV Scholars Bowl
HAPPY THANKSGIVING
No School Thanksgiving Break
15
KMEA District Auditions Fall Musical 7pm GEHS Dance Competition at Olathe North
Mr. GEHS 7pm