The Pride, January 30, 2014

the

PRiDE

Harrisonville High School | hhsnews.com | Thursday,January 30,2014 | Volume XVI, Issue III

Story on page 3 Photo Illustration by, Cassie Long

Information about the Pride

Editor-in-Chief: Crystal Warden

Managing Editor: Madi Dahn

Copy Editor: Brently Probasco

Opinion/News Editor: Mackenzie Eisel

Sports Editor: Joe Cramer

Feature Editor: Lara Floyd

Online Editor: Kayley Brock

Photo Editor: Cassie Long

Video Editor: Amy Roach

Adviser:

Brad Lewis

Staff Members: Alison Schmidt Ashton Taber Bethany Travis Brittany Starr Myers Elizabeth Thayer Emily Priesendorf Tyler Cardinal

Videographers:

Casey Ambrozi

Coressa Ervin

Jacob Ross

Photographers:

Cody Hart

Harrisonville High School 1504 E. Elm Harrisonville, MO 64701 Phone: (816)380-3273 Follow us on Twitter @ HHSwildcatnews The Pride is written, edited and published by the newspaper production class at HHS. The paper is an open forum, distributed to the students, faculty, parents, alumni, and other members of HHS. All decisions concerning grammar, layout, content, and photography are made solely by the editors themselves.

Our mission is to report news truthfully and accurately and to act as an open forum for student expression. Opinions in editorials do not reflect the views of the Cass R-IX school district, its staff or the adviser.

All comments, concerns, and complaints should be forwarded directly to the Editor-in-Chief. If readers would like to submit letters to the Editor, they can do so in room 304.

the pride

Growth of new businesseses stagnant Story by, Bethany Travis-Staff Writer bethany.travis@hhsnews.com Disappointment. Frequently felt

by Harrisonville students as rumors of new business openings are proved false. It is easy to become resentful of city officials as Harrisonville continues to lack popular restaurants and entertainment venues appealing to the younger generations. However, building up a small town’s economy poses more challenges than many realize.

When a business is considering coming to a town, they have strict guidelines that community must fall under.

“They [a business looking at a potential town] have a list of criteria to see if the business will want to go there,” said Rick DeLuca, the Director of Community Development for the city of Harrisonville.

The guidelines that businesses set are strict and clear, and many of them do not include Harrisonville.

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store requires a minimum population density of 80,000 in a 10 mile radius.

They also have other qualifications such as household density and traffic count. These specifications vary from business to business. For example, Buffalo Wild Wings would like a population density of 40,000 in a 3

mile radius, but makes no mention of household density. Starbucks Corporation declares no population minimum however has a limited list of locations that they will agree to settle in.

Each of these three businesses have a list of preferred “co-tenants” or neighboring businesses that they would like to be located by. This gives them the chance to pick out a customer mix that is a part of their target market. For instance, Buffalo Wild Wings prefers to be near entertainment based businesses while Cracker Barrel prefers to be near outlet malls and travel stops.

DeLuca and his team must actively pursue businesses that they would like to see open up shop in Harrisonville.

“We talk to, I’m going to guess, 150 businesses a year,” said DeLuca.

“What we explain is that we have an open site and growing population.”

Despite DeLuca and his staff ’s efforts, it is hard to spark an interest.

“One thing that happens with us a lot of times is what we get is based on the economy,” said DeLuca. “The economy has been so bad that it’s been slow.”

A recent success has been the plans for a Love’s Travel Stop. It will be located at the third exit lead-

Photo by, Cassie Long Westchester Lanes closed last summer after 40 years of business, and has now been demolished.

ing to Harrisonville, just across the bridge from Sutherland’s. According to DeLuca, he and his team have been working on it for three years.

Since they had plans to erect a truck stop in Harrisonville city limits, the city staff were also in contact with Cracker Barrel, hoping the company would see a travel stop such as Love’s as a good neighbor.

“As of right now, they [Cracker Barrel] don’t want to come to Harrisonville,” said DeLuca. “They didn’t give us a specific reason but my guess would be that the population was too low and there wasn’t enough traffic.

We actively pursued it, but is was something that wasn’t meant to be.

However, we are trying to set it up so that the travel stop will bring in more

business.”

DeLuca and his team also do what they can to help out the communities in the surrounding area as well.

“If we have a business and we’re just not going to get them, we try and help out another town,” said DeLuca. “We do cooperate, but it’s one of those things where we’re focused on Harrisonville.”

Despite work many would pass off as futile, DeLuca and his team continue their work.

“We do this all the time and there’s many more failures than successes,” said DeLuca. “The economy right now is not good for new business, but that doesn’t mean we won’t try.”

Under-age gambling leads to repercussions Story by, Lara Floyd- Features Editor lara.floyd@hhsnews.com You cannot smell it on their breath and you cannot read it in their eyes, but there sure is a trail left behind. Gambling is a dangerous addiction and can have devastating effects, especially for minors.

Since the first Missouri casino opening in 1994, minors have been banned from the gambling floor.

Each person employed in a casino is trained to card anyone that appears to be under the age of 30 years old.

An employee is allowed to card for any reason.

“I think that it is a good idea to monitor [under aged gambling],” said Assistant Principal Jason Beavers.

“The chances of someone under the age of 21 making hasty decisions are much higher. Kids can get stuck in a trap and just want to keep going.”

Pathological gamblers and their families can suffer from difficulties stemming from stringent financial hardships. Common results of gambling can include financial issues and

debt, emotional instability, domestic violence, and are more likely to engage in delinquent behaviors such as smoking, drinking, and using drugs in accordance to www.fredonia.edu.

When he was just a measly teenager, Certified Compulsive Gambling Counselor Arnie Wexler began his own story and addiction to gambling. By the age of 17, Wexler was shoplifting from stores and homes to get money to bet with. It started small with candy, then he moved on the comic books, merchandise from sports stores, and even money from his own parents.

Eventually, he pushed his debt into a deep grave with a whopping total of $17,000 by his mid-twenties.

“If you’re as addicted to gambling as I was or even have a remote possibility of becoming addicted, you can very easily get an urge, a flash, a feeling, or a thought of gambling in the middle of the night,” said Wexler.

“Before you know it, you’re in action.

There is no way you can stop it. ” Wexler placed his last bet on

April 10, 1968. Since then, he has dedicated his time and work to helping compulsive gamblers out of their addictive gambling habits.

Now that Wexler is certified in gambling counseling and it is his forte, he knows that minors are extremely susceptible to getting caught up in the gambling web.

‘I don’t really know how they’re going to control the underage gamblers Those are the people that really know the computer inside out,’ reported Wexler to Newsmax TV. One-third of all the calls Wexler and his wife have received in the last five years are from kids, or the parents of the kids between ages 12 and 25.

If students are willing to risk their bank account, relationships or independence, they should at least know the penalties that are in store for them, in or out of school.

“The board policies are pretty broad when it comes to this issue,” said Beavers. “I can give anything between a morning detention or a

conference with me. On more serious cases, I can give between 100 and 180 days of out of school suspension.”

Getting caught gambling under the age of 21 on school property or during school hours can come with some heavy discipline, but getting caught on the casino floor comes with more serious and severe sanctions.

“Some places put you in jail if they catch you gambling under age,” said Wexler. “They have the right to fine you. You can lose the right to your license as well.”

Gambling is a dangerous sport, but gambling as a minor? It is a risky choice and does not have many benefits, if any at all.

“If you find that you or someone you know has a gambling addiction, get them to a gamblers anonymous meeting as soon as you can,” said Wexler. “Do not try and pay off their debt. They need to get themselves out of the mess and see how much damage they have caused for themselves.”

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Eating disorders pose threat to teens’ health Story by, Emily Priesendorf-Staff Writer emily.priesendorf@hhsnews.com “I wasn’t comfortable in my body,” said a student who has asked to remain anonymous. “I felt so fat compared to most people in my grade. I was depressed.”

In the United States, 20 million women and 10 million men suffer from a clinically significant eating disorder at some time in their life.

According to National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA), 95 percent of those who have eating disorders are between the ages of 12 and 25.

Anonymous dealt with anorexia throughout middle school, but she did not feel the need to tell anyone about her disorder.

“I had no energy, I was tired all the time, and depressed.” said anonymous. “Everyone around me already knew; they noticed I didn’t want to eat, they knew I didn’t like my body or myself, I just didn’t have to tell anyone.”

Dr. Kathy Knapp, a pediatrician at Pediatric Professionals, has seen several patients with eating disorders, much like Smith. The patient’s ages range from late teens to early twenties.

“Eating disorders are much more common than diagnosed,” said Dr. Knapp. “Usually they are greater in the college age.”

There are three main types of eating disorders. These types are binge eating, anorexia and bulimia.

Bulimia is described as a “potentially life-threatening eating disorder by a cycle of binging and behaviors such as self-induced vomiting designed to undo effects of binge eating,” according to the NEDA’s website.

As reported by the National Association of Anorexia, the mortality rate associated with anorexia nervosa is 12 times higher than the death rate associated with all other causes of death for females 15-24 years old.

Anorexia is self-starvation and

Photo Illustration by, Cassie Long Students with eating disorders are lead to believe that their apperence and their bodies are not good enough.

excessive weight loss. This is the third most chronic illness among adolescents.

The last of the main types of eating disorders is binge eating. Binge

Students ignoring dehydration symptoms may be at risk Story by, Joe Cramer- Sports Editor joe.cramer@hhsnews.com

Imagine enjoying a day of nice weather outside doing activities, after a long cold winter, when all of a sudden you realize you have become sthirsty. You shrug it off as nothing, and continue to participate in the fun with your friends. What you may not realize is that your body could be beginning to suffer from dehydration.

Dehydration is defined as a large loss of water in the body. This can be an especially dangerous issue, as your body depends on water to keep it’s systems and organs functioning.

With water being a large factor in keeping a human functioning, it is important to know what can cause dehydration and steps to prevent our bodies from suffering the effects.

Dehydration can be caused by multiple factors, one of which being not drinking enough water or fluids.

Water is vital to the body, without it our body would completely shut down. Head Pharmacist at Gillen Pharmacy, Leanne Dickerson states that different aspects of the body will begin to go awry if it is suffering from dehydration.

“The chemicals in your body will start to become imbalanced,” said Dickerson. “Your body’s sodium and

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Photo by, Cassie Long Students should drink eight eight ounce glasses of water a day to avoid dehydration.

potassium levels will begin to suffer.

It can also cause heart issues as well.”

In some cases, there are other factors that play into not taking in enough fluids. If an illness is present in your body, Pharmaceuticals can cause it to not want to take in any water.

“If you are sick, medicines can make you not want to drink any water,” said Dickerson. “This can be a dangerous thing.”

Certain signs can be an indicator that your body has lost a large amount of fluids, but can be disregarded as nothing of importance.

“If you are working out or playing sports and aren’t sweating, that could mean your body does not have enough water in it,” said Dickerson.

“Also, if you are unable to produce tears when crying that is a sign that you could be dehydrated. Nausea, vomiting, and headaches can also be early warning signs.”

No matter what the age, one should drink at least eight ounce glasses of water per day.

“Everything depends on how severe the case[of dehydration] is,” said Dickerson. “A big help to your body would be to replace your electrolytes by drinking gatorade or drinks of that kind.”

Noticing early warning signs that your body is sending out can be one of the easiest ways to prevent dehydration. A main thing to do is attempt to replenish fluids the body may have lost during various activities. And if activities are coming up that will take water from the body, hydrate beforehand to prevent dehydration.

eating, as stated on the NEDA’s site, is simply recurrent binge eating without the measures to counter the binge eating.

“Eating disorders impact teens who feel that they have no control over their lives,” said counselor Andrea Laughlin. “Eating, binging and purging is something the teen can control in his/her life.”

Symptoms can include extreme moods or behavior, huge weight loss or gain or anxiety about weight gain.

Treating eating disorders is a lengthy process and is best treated with intense counseling and seeking the advice of a nutritionist.

“This disorder can be deadly and usually requires some family therapy in addition to individual counseling and appointments with nutrition specialists,” said Laughlin.

As stated by Dr. Knapp, these types of disorders last longer than what most people first suspect.

“I am very close to the patients I have because this is a chronic dis-

ease, not a one time event,” said Dr. Knapp. “It is life long.”

For those students that have a friend or know someone suffering from these disorders, Laughlin has some advice for them.

“I would advise friends that if they think one of their friends has an eating disorder, to let a trusted adult or counselor know,” said Laughlin.

“It is important to get help. Eating disorders can have long-term health risks.”

Anonymous never gave up. She ended up overcoming her disorder after the many years she was haunted by it. She hopes that others take her first hand advice.

“Not eating is not the answer,” said anonymous. “People have different body shapes, just because you have a different shape doesn’t mean you’re fat. Never stop eating. If you aren’t comfortable with your body, exercise is the answer.”

1 N H1 All Need

To Knows

In 2009, H1N1 became a new type of influenza. Originally, it was better known as “swine flu” because it occurred so often in pigs.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, teenagers and young adults are more prone to this virus. This year, H1N1 has seemingly taken over Missouri; 10,212 reported cases.

Symptoms of H1N1 include: cough, sore throat, fever, respiratory problems. In some cases of H1N1, one may experience vomiting.

Prevent the spread of H1N1

1. Wash hands and use disinfectant regularly.

2. Cover your mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing.

3. Do not share drinks.

4. Avoid excessive mouth to mouth contact.

5. Get a flu vaccine. the pride

News

Students afraid MacBooks threaten traditions

Story by, Kayley Brock-Online Editor kayley.brock@hhsnews.com I am a student that loves being in a classroom where we are have conversations and manage to work together to think things through. Class periods that we spend the entire 45 minutes talking and having class argument over a book we are reading. Now students will spend those 45 minutes having their heads behind a computer screen typing all hour and not having any conversation or human contact at all.

I feel like MacBooks will be a bigger distraction than it will be an improvement to student life. Teachers and the administration criticize students for having their cellphones out because they aren’t doing anything school related. How are they going to stop students from logging on to Facebook, twitter, or even perfect a way to message their friends. They cannot.

My family jokes that I can not screw in a light bulb, let alone to be trusted with a thousand dollar MacBook. I would much rather be trusted with making sure I bring a piece of paper and a pen to each class. I do think that if a student thinks having a laptop would help them succeed in school then they should be able to have one. What about students like myself that do not particularly want to have one? It cannot just sit in my locker. It would be a waste of money if I do not utilize it.

I understand that schools are trying to change their teaching systems to proceed to the ideal 21st education system, but that will take centuries before it truly happens. They could start with smaller projects that would cost less money.

Letting each student have a laptop at the retail price would cost the school 929,070 thousand dollars. That is a lot of money for an idea that may not work. Every students will be held responsible for a thousand dollar piece of technology.

Another fear of mine is that since we will all have laptops at our fingers teachers will take advantage of e-books, online textbooks and websites that would allow students to do projects online. I am student that could sit down and stare at a computer screen for hours and never be able to figure out how to make that website work and or figure out how I am supposed to utilize it. I want a piece of paper. I want to hold a textbook and be able to write it down on a piece of paper with my pen.

the pride

Students, teachers to receive MacBook Airs Story by, Emily Priesendorf-Staff Writer emily.priesendorf@hhsnews.com A device that is seemingly thin as paper, obtains the battery life to last an entire school day and has the durability to hold up for years has caused a lot of talk in the hallways.

This exchange of discussion is all about the sleek, new MacBook Air, which was announced to be the device handed out to every student next school year.

Last year, administration debated and considered many different pieces of technology and eventually narrowed it down to four devices: the Chromebook, HP mini laptop, IPad, and the MacBook Air. “At the beginning of the year 10 students and 10 staff members were selected to participate in the program,” said Superintendent Dr. Bryan McDonald. “We asked the students to try to use the device exclusively in classes and look for ways they could do some assignments differently using technology. Teachers were asked to use the device as they currently use their computer.”

Junior CJ Semler was among the group of tech pilot students. She wanted to be a tech pilot because of

her love of technology.

“I thought it would be fun to try out different computers,” said Semler. “I also like the idea of being a part of making the decision of which device the school will be using next year.”

After the tech pilots tried out each device and weighed the pros and cons of each, they voted on their favorite. The votes were added and administration discussed each device and thus the MacBook Air was chosen.

“The MacBook Air was my favorite because it is light, portable and it has a quick startup,” said tech pilot teacher Allison Willson.

Ever since the announcement of the new technology, the halls have been filled with talk, some positive and some negative.

“I am a big fan of the MacBook Air as an instructional tool for our students,” said principal Andy Campbell. “It provides the most possibilities. I think it is up to the imagination of the students and teachers on how it can be used.”

Despite the excitement coming from school administration, there is some skepticism from some students.

“I don’t think that people are go-

ing to take care of them,” said junior Christia Stein. “The Wi-Fi will get run down with so many people on it.

There may also be problems with the software because some students are more familiar with Microsoft instead of Mac.” There are also some students that believe it is not necessary for students to have a MacBook Air in order to learn.

“I think it would be better if students had the option to not take the device because some students prefer paper and pencil,” said sophomore Robby Pence.

According to Apple.com, the MacBook Air’s starting price is $999. This has been leaving students wondering how the school is going to financially obtain these devices for every student.

“We decided up front that price is important, but we did not want to purchase something that would not do what we wanted for our students and staff,” said Dr. McDonald. “We will be working with the Apple Representative to finalize price. We are leasing the devices.”

Another lingering question from students is what will happen if a student were to lose the device or cause

damage to the brand new MacBook S Air. e “We are reaching out to other

districts that have been through this and we will make it fit to what s we are doing,” said Campbell. “The f expectation is that kids will take care i of these. We have got to make it to c where this device is just as important m to them as their cell phone or what- s ever is important to them.” h Even though there is sevs eral months before students will

be receiving the new technology, Campbell is enthusiastic about the s c MacBook Airs.

“It levels the playing field for our m s students,” said Campbell. “Everybody is going to have access to one t of these. Every student, not just the a ones that can afford it. Ultimately its s not about the MacBook Air itself, it’s about the kids having access to be s o able to do all of these things.”

There is still much to be deter- g mined and announced regarding the l MacBook Airs, however, there will r be a parent and student information s

meeting about the MacBook Airs prior to school starting.

Hidden costs in classes, activities affect students Story by, Madi Dahn- Managing Editor madi.dahn@hhsnews.com

As students begin to think about the classes they want to take and the activities they want to be a part of next year, it is important to think about the requirements in order to participate.

Though some activities may require a pre-class, a teacher signature or out-of-school-hours weights, the possible costs associated with them are not always the first thing on students’ minds when the new year excitement begins.

Though when the students or parents do not consider the cost when signing up for classes, it can become an issue.

“My older brother was also in Music Makers, and we couldn’t afford the payments for both of us,” said senior Jocelyn Donegan who dropped out of Music Makers last year. “I was really upset because it was something I really wanted to do.”

Donegan is not the only student who has had an issue with being able to pay the fee for an activity. She knows of at least one other student who has also been unable to pay for Music Makers.

Most activities make an effort to keep the cost to a minimum for

Costs for Extracurricular Activities and Classes Robotics: $50 initial fee Cheerleading: $400/new member; $250/ returning members Football: $5 physical fee; $50$120 for cleats; (possible) camp fee Dance: $455/year Basketball: $5 physical; shoes and equipment

students, however.

“There’s usually about three or four students a year [that have issues paying],” said show choirs director Kip Mathew. “They can apply for fee assistance, but it depends on needs if they get it. It will depend if the family needs help or just wants help; there’s an application form they have to fill out.”

Different activities provide different ways to make up the fee if necessary for the student.

“We work with students to make payments or do some extra work if they cannot pay the fee,” said Robotics adviser Jake Kohl.

Even classes offer ways for students to lower the costs they have.

According to counselor Kari

Volleyball: $60-80 shoes; $80 for dinners on away games for the season; $30 summer league Music Makers: about $400 Forefront: about $250 Softball/Baseball: $5 physical fee; bats and gloves $100-$300; cleats $30-$100; gloves $50$250 AP Classes:AP test $89

Bliss, students who qualify for free/ reduced lunch or for ACT testing waivers can receive $26 off of their exam, making it $63 per test instead of $89.

In some situations, coaches may go out of their way to help a student if the payment seems unreachable.

“If the cost is an issue, the athlete either chooses not to buy or go, or we as coaches recognize the potential for the need,” said volleyball coach Gina Eberle. “I have personally paid for the student myself so they aren't left out.”

There are other ways for participants to receive money.

“We do fundraising to help raise money, too,” said cheer coach Heather Emokpae. “This year they

e t didn’t, but they could’ve used that p money from the fundraisers to take t off from the fee. It would’ve taken off b about $50 a girl, they opted to use it t s for other things though.”

Coaches and teachers do their best to express any costs for activi- c e ties.

“The up front costs get commu- C

nicated to parents through a team g meeting at the beginning of the year A and if an unexpected cost arises t then a letter or E-mail goes out,” said t Eberle. t Mathew takes further measures i to help ensure the cost for the stu- g a dent can be paid.

“The parents have to sign a letter s agreeing to pay the fee before the i student may even audition,” said r Mathew.

I Even with this, Donegan feels e that even though the cost was there a for a reason the school or activity h should take a step to be willing to

help students more. i “I mean obviously there are J s necessary costs, but it’s not fair if someone can’t participate when they g can’t get help,” said Donegan. s k t

4

Students should prepare for colleges, future Story by, Emily Priesendorf-,Staff Writer emily.priesendorf@hhsnews.com Even though winter is still in full swing, the time of year to sign up for classes is drawing near. Although it may seem easy to take blow off classes for the rest of high school, it may not be the wisest decision.

University of Missouri Admissions Representative Allison Bailes has some advice for students when signing up for classes next year.

“I would tell students to make sure to have an idea in mind of the colleges (or types of colleges) they may be interested in attending,” said Bailes. “That way, they can use those schools’ course requirements as guidelines for the courses they should take in high school.”

It may appear to be simpler to skip math your senior year since you only need three credits of math to graduate. However some colleges, like Mizzou and Missouri S&T, require four years of math in high school.

“You need to think about future

Photo by, Cody Hart Most colleges require three years of math, but it is suggested that you take four.

goals,” said counselor Julie Zaring.

“The classes you sign up for need to help your future.”

There is also another type of class that students may need to take into consideration according to Zaring.

“Students may not be aware that a lot of big colleges require foreign language,” said Zaring.

Some colleges that require two years of the same foreign language include University of Missouri Kansas City and Truman State

University.

Each college is distinct and has a unique set of requirements and according to Bailes, researching admission requirements is necessary.

“Typically, colleges will require a pretty basic set of courses, but sometimes those may be different from the graduation requirements set by the state,” said Bailes. “So it is definitely beneficial to the student to research the requirements for certain colleges early on in their high school

career to make sure they are able to fit in the required courses,” In addition to checking out college requirements, Bailes suggests that students also consider signing up for advanced placement or college level classes.

“Taking AP courses can be very beneficial for students to take during high school in addition to their basic core courses,” said Bailes. “This will allow students to come into college with courses already completed, which gives some flexibility as a college student and also an understanding of what a college course is like.”

According to Zaring, you can make your college life easier by planning ahead for what they want and being extroverted.

“Look at future plans, check requirements for graduation, try something new and out of your comfort zone,” said Zaring.

Students will begin the process of enrolling for classes in February during their advisory class.

Expectations have positive, negative effects on students Story by, Ali Schmidt, Staff Writer alison.schmidt@hhsnews.com

“High expectations are the key to everything,” said Sam Walton. Expectations are what push students to accomplish their goals. With parents wanting the best for their children, students begin to feel overwhelmed with trying to please them along with teachers and students.

“At times I feel pressured to be a certain way, or to live up to everyone’s expectations of me,” said junior Douglas Croy.

Students that rank high in their class generally have more to live up to.

According to Child Trends Databank, the expectations that parents would like their children to want and achieve for themselves in school are set by their influence. Expectations can range from grades in school to performance in activities.

“My parents expect me to receive straight A’s, play the best of my ability in soccer and to act in a proper and respectful manner in order to do what I know is right,” said Croy. “My peers expect me to be the ‘smart kid’ that always knows what he is doing and to have good advice.”

Croy is not the only student who is expected to live up to these goals.

Juniors Melissa Watson have similar standards given to them.

“My parents expect me to get good grades, but that isn’t what it’s all about,” said Watson. “It’s about being able to know the information so I can use it in the future.”

The Greater Expectations National

5

Story by, Cody Hart While working on an assignment Senior Olivia Stryon uses other students as resources.

Panel has two theories on students.

First, that many students are not achieving what they should at secondary and postsecondary school levels. Secondly, that if expectations and support for learning are increased, more achievement will occur.

This foundation has looked at extensive research that shows how much influence expectations contribute to the behavior or students and teachers.

The foundation goes on to compare expectations to a double-edged sword; they have the power to raise or lower the outcomes according to the positive or negative nature.

By being placed with positive conjectures, Watson believes they will push her towards her future.

“The expectations placed on me have helped me learn a lot in class,” said Watson. “They have allowed me to reach my goals and figure out what I

want to do in my future. If I can reach all of my expectations I would have the possibility to have a good future. I could go to a good college and have good relationships with people around me.”

Croy also believes that the expectations he was given are for the better.

“If I follow and live up to all of the expectations parents, peers and teachers have for me, it is possible for me to do or achieve anything,” said Croy.

Although these expectations can help a student, sometimes they become too much.

“These expectations make me work hard because I don’t want to let people down,” said junior John Kusmec. “It gets annoying though because some people expect me to know every answer.

They try to get the answers from me without doing their own work” Senior Olivia Styron has noticed how these influences have affected her.

“Usually these expectations are good; they are motivation to not give up on my goals,” said Styron. “When people expect these good things from me, it makes me feel like I am worth something and that people care how I conduct my life. However, sometimes it can be really stressful to have all the pressure from so many people.”

While trying to live up to all of these expectations, these students must accomplish all of the homework that they bring home.

“Between advanced classes and general studying, I spend anywhere from one to three hours on homework,” said freshman Reagan Holden. “I try to finish things in the order of when they’re due.”

Like Holden, Styron works hard at home and school to finish each assignment.

“I probably spend a solid two hours doing homework at home,” said Styron.

“We have groups that get together to work on homework. That sounds really nerdy, but it helps me and it’s more fun than staring blankly at textbooks and problems alone.”

Today, these expectations have allowed her to accomplish many things for her future.

“Meeting these expectations is already paying off,” said Styron. “I have received scholarships and recognition for my hard work. I get to go to a good college and I will get a decent job. High expectations are a good thing; they push a person to reach their full potential.”

news

MacBook Pros relevant to students

Story by, Brently Probasco- Copy Editor brently.probasco@hhsnews.com

When I found out we were all receiving MacBook Airs, I was that student jumping with joy. No longer am I being forced to borrow a laptop from the journalism wing or go in there every spare second of my day.

My happiness was not only at the convenience it brings to students like me, but it made me proud of our district. With the addition of MacBook Airs, the district is taking a step in the right direction and embracing the growth in technology. No longer are teachers and staff hindering students performance, they are encouraging it.

Many students, like myself, own a smartphone or tablet, but that is not adequate enough for one’s education. I am one who cannot stand when I have to do anything on my phone beyond checking social media and E-mail. School work deserves special attention that is not done on a 4-inch screen with small buttons.

Beyond the basics, the MacBook Air gives students access to learn anytime, anywhere. Students are now able to spend their fourth hour working in their advisory doing assignments without the worry of getting a stamp to the library. If you are anything like me, you avoid spending any amount of time in the LMC, little on your entire fourth hour. All complaints are irrelevant-- the MacBook Airs are opening doors for students that never had access before.

The administrators are saying this is leveling the playing field for students, and I wholeheartedly believe it. Students are now allowed opportunities to work outside of class that were not necessarily there before. Even without Internet connection, one can use Microsoft Word and complete assignments on the handy MacBook Airs, something that was not available with other devices used in this year’s tech pilot, for example the dreaded ChromeBooks.

Furthermore, it forces students to become comfortable with technology. Wake up and smell the roses people, it is the 21st Century and technology is growing to be more prevalent within our society.

Most jobs today require you to at least be acquainted with the tech realm and students need to be prepared for that. I do not want to leave high school blindfolded and lost in an ever-changing world.

It is disappointing that I will only be a part of this advancement for a short period of time, as I will be a senior next year, but I cannot wait to see what future students will accomplish with the upgrade.

the pride

Features

Valentine’s Day misses the point

e arg t B n e yla o swe e D To: are s s mak u o You alway ter. Y ne i t and ay be genu d st my he mo on s . t per r met are eve e I’v

My Perfect V

Story by, Mackenzie Eisel- News and Opinion Editor mackenzie.eisel@hhsnews.com Valentine’s Day is a day of love. It is a day of cards, candy and flowers.

Valentine’s Day is also a day of deep pockets and an annual opportunity for men who can, in one day, redeem themselves for a year’s worth of wrong doings.

Society has created a lovey dovey idea that if you are alone for that day, you are seemingly “below” those who have a significant other. What society fails to mention, however, is that Valentine’s Day can easily be hypocritical to the true meaning and idea of love.

In genuine relationships, couples should express and share love at some point throughout each and every day. Valentine’s Day is an “easy way out” for a guy, and even a girl, to shower their significant other with gifts and sweet words that are not normally present in the relationship.

For myself, my most memorable, well my only Valentine’s Day with a boyfriend, was celebrated not on February 14, but on February 15, so that flowers and teddy bears would be fifty percent off. So sweet, right?

So you have the loser boyfriend who redeems himself with only a box of chocolates because he does not give his girlfriend anything to compare it to the rest of the year.

And, then you have the poor fella on the other end, who treats his woman like a princess all of the time, so he has nearly impossible standards to meet on Valentine’s Day. Even if that man showers his significant other with love and affection every day of the year, on Valentine’s Day, the burden will still beat down on him, and he will be expected to create a magical and over the top experience for his girl; all because we all have taken part in making this distorted and unrealistic world, commonly known as Valentine’s Day. Eisel Opinion continued on page 9

the pride

I do To: N wel n’t kno ik Ree se l w like but wh you all t . Yo at I h and d u seem ’re sm o, I re at a a lly rt in guy . I o gly m , funny y , n saw ly wis perfec h t you you I do like .

To: Jackson Mcguire If I had to rate you I would rate you a 9 ‘cause I’m the only 1 you need.

Hall n a e S To: e and t u c e r You’ e I see m i t y r eve et you I g in my s e i fl r butte ch. stoma

Mackay To: Sam yo u, but like I really ’t tell yo u n I wo uld think yo u I becasue ’t talk wo uldn to me.

My perfect Valentine’s day

up on the beach, wi only, watching the s

sneak into my significant heart shaped box of chocol

I would get two w

on a picnic w bring me flow

a petting zoo…

go to a nice d red roses… M would surprise me w full of blankets and w pasture and w

Compiled by students at Harrisonville High School: juni Davis, Jacob Filler and Caitlin Hargis; and freshman Kee

6

Valentine’s Day

To: Jare d Wo uld y Johnson o u g ive me a chanc e, I don ’t care tha t I’m a senior an d what pe o ple wo uld s ay. I wa nt a chance to be w ith yo u.

would start with… Waking

ith me and my crush sunrise… Then I would…

other’s house and put a red lates on her pillow… Next…

white roses… And… go

where he would wers and go to

… Then… I

want to dinner and get My day would end with… he with the bed of his truck we would cuddle in the watch the sunset.

iors Abbey Huston and Madi Phillips; sophomores Myyon egan Hix. Compilation by: Kayley Brock- Online Editor.

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d Foo : o T ’re You here ys t ed a w l a I ne n e wh oxo x u yo

You To: Chr is are a re arou ally fu Angerm out nd. I lo n pers an on ve an You d talki hangin to be n are g real g to yo and ly swe u. sup et cute er .

n row B e has ver y C To: ou’re I nd a Y a t e e swe s hav ith w ay alw time at ! gre you

Features

Valentine’s day, the day of true love

Story by ,Ashton Taber- Staff Writer ashton.taber@hhsnews.com

Valentine’s Day gives people the chance to show how much they love someone. Whether it be a mom or dad, brother or sister, friends, or your significant other, the person gets the chance to tell them how they really feel.

Valentine’s Day is a wonderful holiday. It is every girl’s dream to have that special guy in her life that makes this day magical. It is always been my dream to have that special guy make my Valentine's Day magical.

When you think of this holiday, you think of spending lots of money. It does not have to be that way. You can stay home and watch movies together; it does not matter about the cost on Valentine’s Day. What matters is how much someone means to you.

This day is not just for younger ages. It is a special day for everyone. A lot of weddings happen on this day. Many people want to their wedding day, anniversaries, or engagements on Valentine’s Day. According to an article from CNN called Valentine’s Day by the numbers, 6 million people are expecting marriage proposals on that day.

Valentine’s Day for most has been a day filled with fun and festivities for as long as they can remember. We all remember when we were little, how we made our crazy valentine boxes at school.

Then, you all filled each other’s boxes with lots of different cards and candies. Back then that is what we thought Valentine’s Day was for, and then as you start to grow up and become young adults you realize that there are even greater things that can happen on that day.

For all the cynical people who do not buy into the romance and magic of Valentine’s Day, I hope that maybe, just maybe, Valentine’s Day 2014 will be an unforgettable day that can change their minds.

the pride

news/Features

School food nutrition brought to light Story by, Bethany Travis - Staff Writer bethany.travis@hhsnews.com Plopped on plastic, red and blue trays, school food is dished out to the winding lines of Harrisonville students. Day after day students accept this food without a second thought of what they are putting in their bodies.

According to the Medicine Dietary Reference Intakes macronutrients report in 2002, a female teenager should be taking in around 1,800 to 2,400 calories a day. A male teenager should be taking in around 2,200 to 3,200. These numbers depend on the amount of activity an individual partakes in each day.

Every Tuesday the option of nachos is offered, but hidden beneath the layers of cheese and meat are a surprising number of calories; 355 to be exact. Harrisonville’s nachos are also laced with 16.5 grams of fat and 640 grams of sodium.

For students who enjoy the healthier option of the salad bar, be wary of the ranch. 1.5 ounces of the school’s buttermilk ranch holds 220 calories, 24 grams of fat, 15 milligrams of cholesterol and 240 milligrams of sodium. To put this in perspective, that is 10 calories more than three mozzarella sticks.

Every Thursday an oriental plate is offered to students looking for

Photo by, Cassie Long Sophomores Tanner DeVore and Dylan Johnson get their lunch after waiting in line. The students do not consider the nutritional values their lunches may, or may not, have.

something to spice up their weekly menu. Each plate is served with an eggroll that has 200 calories, 11 grams of fat, 35 milligrams of cholesterol and 400 milligrams of sodium.

The healthiest meal offered by the school is the shredded barbeque pork sandwich with 234 calories.

This is normally served with sweet

potato tots (87 calories), and a carton of milk (80 to 150 calories). Best case scenario, this adds up to 401 calories.

Junior Madi Phillips tries to track what she eats using a calorie counting application but finds it hard to fit a school lunch in a manageable number of calories.

“Just one hamburger is 254 calo-

ries, I mean that’s over half of what a lunch would be,” said Phillips. “It makes me want to pack my lunch, really.”

Junior Douglas Croy agrees with Phillips. “[If I knew the nutrition facts in the past] I would quit eating it, I would not go anywhere near any of

“It’s not the greatest job, but it would help if people had a little more respect for the bathrooms,” said Isaacson.

Spending every day in a high school leaves janitors reminiscing on their own high school days.

During their high school years, many of the janitors were involved in extracurricular activities “I wasn’t involved in many activities, but I gave it my best shot in basketball,” said Williams. “But I found out it wasn't exactly my best skill real quick.”

Isaacson was also involved in school activities, but had more success.

“I was in color guard for one year, it was a lot of fun,” said Isaacson. “I earned multiple ribbons at camp and had some pretty cool mentors.”

Just as students, the janitors have embarrassing moments they wish they could forget. Some even remember the embarrassing moments from their past school days.

“When I was in high school, I didn’t think anyone was around and

I belched really loud,” said Williams.

Some of their most embarrassing moments are caused by students. According to Williams and McDaniel, their most embarrassing moments are when they need to clean the girls restrooms, and they yell in the doorway “Custodian anyone in there,” but they receive no reply, so they go on in and find a girl in the restroom.

“Those are some of the most embarrassing moments I’ve experienced, it would be so much easier if girls would reply,” said McDaniel.

Some of the janitors wish students could understand how hard their jobs really are.

“Respect goes a long way, respect our jobs,” said Williams. “We do a lot for the students, even on our own time.”

Becoming a janitor was not their first dream or goal in life. They had other plans. Williams wanted to be a counselor because he loves helping students and kids solve their problems.

“I always dreamed of being a

belly dancer, it’s just something I love to do outside of work,” said Isaacson.

Janitors may have dreamed of other jobs but they enjoy the one they have, making it a priority to do their job the right way, and the best way possible.

Janitors do more than just clean up

Story by, Ashton Taber- Staff Writer ashton.taber@hhsnews.com When students litter the halls or the floors of their classrooms, they often do not take into consideration the people that will have to come along and clean up that mess.

Janitors often work behind the scenes, day and night, to ensure that the school is sanitary and safe for all students.

There are a total of six janitors, one during the day, and five who come in after school.

Each janitor has a specific job assigned to them. James Williams and Gary McDaniel are both floor technicians, which means they clean floors and pick up all the trash that students have left behind.

Wanda Ohler is the day custodian.

Ohler is here early in the morning and leaves around three in the afternoon. Afternoon janitor Tiffany Isaacson’s job is to clean the restrooms. She wishes students would do their part in the cleaning process by flushing toilets and picking up their own trash.

the pride

Photo by, Cassie Long James Williams is an evening floor technician that works after hours.

this stuff,” said Croy. “Now that I know this, I’m going to bring my lunch everyday.”

Other students are not so health conscious. Sophomore Max Cook does not care much about calorie counting.

“I don’t really care about calories,” said Cook. “Unless it’s going to give me a heart attack, I don’t really pay attention to it.”

Seeing how the nutrition facts stack up in school meals, some students are discouraged to eat school lunch.

“This is unhealthy,” said freshman Andy Deppe. “I would probably bring a lunch if it’s that bad.”

Sophomore Connor Tracy welcomes the extra calories.

“I guess just thinking about it 330 calories is a lot for just a chicken sandwich,” said Tracy. “Well that’s good because I only weigh 104 pounds.”

Senior Luke Cooper thinks that the school should be doing more to offer students healthier options.

“So the school can spend money for every student to get a MacBook Air, but we don't have the money to spend on healthy food?” said Cooper.

Harrisonville janitor passes away

Story by, Aston Taber-Staff Writer ashton.taber@hhsnews.com Harrisonville maintenance worker Bruce Michael Simpson passed away on December 16, 2013 from injuries sustained while working at his job for the Harrisonville School District.

Simpson grew up in Kansas City and received his high school diploma from Ruskin High School. He was a U.S. Navy veteran and was married to his wife Darra Murray for 28 years. He then moved to Harrisonville in 2007 and completed his HVAC (heating, ventilation and air-condition) degree. After receiving the degree, he worked for Harrisonville Schools, and was in charge of heating and cooling.

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Stop taking my parking spot

Story by, Madi Dahn- Managing Editor madi.dahn@hhsnews.com Because mornings do not already suck enough, pulling in to the parking lot to find someone else’s car in my spot only adds to the feelings of total resentment of coming to school.

At least twice a week for three weeks before break up until now I have either come to school or back from A+ to find myself driving around the parking lot, trying to

find another place to park because someone else thinks they deserve that spot that I have earned.

Currently, the only consequence for taking a platinum card numbered spot is the person getting asked to move their car and not do it again.

Though I am not asking for the person to be arrested, I think a little more could be done. A five dollar fine every time, revoke their numbered spot for a week if it was another platinum, just something small to get the point across; if someone’s willing to deal with that for a parking spot then by all means, take it. You must need that spot pretty bad.

The little number on my parking pass matches a number painted on the ground in the parking lot and means that I earned that spot. By earning it, I have the right to expect that it will be open for me when I get to school. I should be able to

park there everyday. But other students come in and decide it’s theirs for the day; students who have not earned it and not worked for it.

The numbers are not there for no reason, people.

I have heard many reasons for it from other people; “It’s cold, I don’t want to walk,” “No one could see where they were parking, there’s snow on the ground!” “Well someone took my spot, so where was I supposed to park?” or my personal favorite, “Senior privileges.”

The system is simple: if you do not have that number on your parking pass, do not park in that numbered spot.

The excuses regarding it being cold or snowy are crap. If you have a car, my guess is you have a coat; use it. And snow, no matter how much, does not make you confuse the front of the parking lot with the back; if it does, I do not feel safe with you having a license in the

first place.

The senior privileges excuse is potentially a little more understandable, but still is not really worth it. Once again, I earned that spot. A senior on the other hand has managed to make it through school thus far; while this is a noteworthy achievement, so have I, and so have the seniors who have platinum cards and still have reserved spots. It is not like the school is cutting seniors out of the deal. If a senior wants to be mad about this not being a “senior privilege,” take it up with the administration, but leave me out of it.

I just want one of my privileges to be protected, if this means the school intervenes more to ensure that rights given to the top students are being kept, I think that is a reasonable request.

Soccer deserves more recognition in the U.S.

Story by, Lara Floyd- Features Editor lara.floyd@hhsnews.com It is such a shame that a majority of Americans do not recognize soccer as the number one sport.

That percentage of the population should open their eyes and see soccer as the wonderful and beautiful sport that it is and how hard it really is to play.

With 3.5 billion fans worldwide, soccer is without a doubt acknowledged as the most popular sport on the planet. It not only has the most expansive audience, but is also played in more locations around the world than any other sport. According to the 2006 FIFA Big Count, there were 265 million soccer players in the world. Imag-

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ine that number today.

The game consists of two teams with eleven players on each side.

Both teams battle it out on the field for a total of 90 minutes with the sole purpose of gaining as many goals as possible before the final whistle blows. Reading this, it may sound pretty simple, but from the second that a soccer player steps on the field, it signals the beginning of an all out brawl for the sake of winning the game.

Soccer is more work than people care to realize. It is very demanding on the fitness level.

Players are required to maintain speed, possess strength and acquire agility, all while maintaining balance, dribbling the ball, or defending your teammates. So tell me again, how is soccer for wimps?

During the average game, players cover between five and seven miles. The athletes are constantly sprinting and running in every direction to block opponents, pass, catch, or dribble the ball towards the goal. Goalkeepers as well cover roughly two miles during a game.

Players continuously play for 90 minutes, for goodness sake. There are a few breaks, but short ones at that.

From pivoting on tender feet to diving for the ball, players change paths and tasks every six seconds on average. Each game is played at 75 percent of a soccer player’s limits, in accordance to U.S. Soccer Sports Medicine magazine.

While trying to stop the opposing team from stealing the ball and scoring, players also have to make sure to avoid injuries. The only other sport that is remotely close in diving, blocking and tackling tactics is football. Whereas football players have pads for their upper body and legs, and a helmet for their head, soccer players are only permitted a foam and plastic velcroed guard on their shins and ankle guards.

As if this is not enough to handle, try being the determining factor of who wins the game by a penalty kick shootout.

Quite frankly, I do not think that non soccer players could handle the pressure of a PK shootout.

When a hush falls over the crowd and everyone is depending on you to sink the shot into the net, your nerves will definitely get to you.

In other sports, physical size has a big influence on the position assigned and how well that

assignment is played, but especially in football and basketball. In most football positions, many individuals are expected to be big and have enough strength to knock out the player being blocked. Basketball players have the biggest and best advantage over other players when they are taller. In soccer, physical size has no advantage over another.

A coach is able to place a large player and a small player against each other. There is a greater chance of the smaller player getting past the larger player. Trust me, I know this from experience.

The feeling I get when I step onto the pitch is indescribable. It feels like home. To have someone dog on my sport when they have no idea what really gets put into it, really ticks me off. The passion that soccer players put into perfecting plays and protecting their team can not be matched. Besides, I would much rather be a foot fairy than anything else other sports have to offer.

opinion

Guys, do not worry about the gifts

Dr. Regina Barreca, a professor of feminist theory, writes “for men, all they know is that they’re going to spend time searching for a way to spend money on who knows what for some woman who will, when she receives it, force that little tight smile, like a cat taking a poop, to indicate her insincere gratitude.”

Not only is Valentine’s Day a realm of hypocrisy and failure for lovers, but it is a day in which card companies, flower shops and chocolate stores like Russell Stover can jack up their prices and people won’t even think twice about it.

SeekingArrangement.com, a website designated specifically for men who are looking for good looking women (how genuinely loving), conducted a survey about Valentine’s Day. On average, men spend $218 to get on his honey’s good side.

This fantasy about Valentine’s Day, and what it should be, sends all common sense out the door for women and men alike on February 14 every year. According to the Retail and Marketing Association, there are 180 million cards exchanged annually on Valentine’s Day. Even if each of those cards were the cheapest you could get and only cost 99 cents, there would be 180 million dollars thrown out the window for a card.

Not only do men and women waste money for their significant other on this notorious day of love, but singles are more apt to spend money on this day as well. The same study done by the association shows that at least 14 percent of women who are single will send themselves flowers on Valentine’s Day. Barreca wrote in one blog post, “it [Valentine’s Day] is a day of inadequacy for both sexes and all sexual preferences: either you do the wrong thing for the person in your life, or have no person in your life.”

I must say though, sending yourself flowers is a genius way to avoid ridicule for not having a boyfriend, and no one should ask questions if I receive flowers from “Anonymous” on Valentine’s Day. Wink, wink.

But boys, don’t get caught up in the stress of perfection on Valentine’s Day. Do something sweet for your girl just because you want to. And girls, don’t let the fairy tale movies get the best of you on the much loved, and greatly despised, February 14.

Eisel Opinion, page 6

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sports

Showdown in New Jersey

PeytonManningandtheDenverBroncoswillbefacingRussellWilsonandtheSeattleSeahawksintheSuperBowlXLVIII

Story by,Austin Royal- Staff Wirter austin.royal@hhsnews.com

is that for “I will choose istheanfirstNFLtimefirst,in which NFL history the one scoring offense and Seattle because number the number one total offense squares off against the number one defense wins scoring defense and the number one total defense.

Denver and Seattle are the championships and Both number one seeds in their conferwhich has only happened offense sells seat,” ence, twice. The first game between two one seeds was in Super said senior Nate number Bowl XLIV between the New Orleans Saints and the IndianapoManion. lis Colts.

It comes down to one final game to decide the National Football League champion between the Denver Broncos and the Seattle Seahawks. This year’s Super Bowl will be the first in a cold weather city.

The game marks a new start according to NFL.com. The NFL commissioner Roger Goodell stated that if Super Bowl XLVIII is successful more cold weather Super Bowls would be considered. With the game being set in the northern hemisphere of the United States the weather will be colder than past Super Bowls where they have been held in domes and warm weather cities.

The game is set for February 2 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford New Jersey. The game will be on CBS at 6:25 p.m.

Both teams come into the big game having the same record, 13-3.

Two key points in this year’s games is how the Denver offense will perform against the Seattle defense.

During the season, quarterback Peyton Manning and his offense racked up over 500 yards of total offense per game.

The Seattle Seahawks defense is the number one defense in NFL, only giving up around 172 yards passing per game.

However, the Broncos offense passes the ball on average about 457 yards per game; something will have to give.

This is Denver’s seventh Super

Story by, Tyler Cardinal- Staff Writer tyler.cardinal@hhsnews.com

Bowl appearance in their history however Denver has only won on two of those trips. For Seattle, this will be their second Super Bowl.

The Seahawks have not yet hosted the Super Bowl trophy.

This will be the Broncos’ first Super Bowl since winning it in 1999. While Seattle has had only had one appearance in the big game but came short losing to the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2006.

In this year’s Super Bowl there

There are options for students to go and see the super bowl, one being at the Antioch Southern Baptist Church located at 2601 E Mechanic Street starting at five p.m.

Based on a poll taken around the school Seattle was the favorite to win this years Superbowl.

Senior Jason Vogt believes that Seattle will win but it will be a close game.

“I chose Seattle because I am not a Denver fan but it should be a good game because of Denver’s

offense and Seattle’s defense,” said Vogt.

Senior Nathan Manion agrees with Vogt in that Seattle will win because of one side of the ball.

“I will choose Seattle because defense wins championships and offense sells seats,” said Manion.

Teams could potentially have to worry about more than just their opponent. Winter weather storms are projected to hit the area around the same time as the Super Bowl is scheduled to be held.

With this years game in New Jersey according to the Farmers almanac the day before the Super Bowl will have intense storm, heavy rain, snow, and strong winds.

Due to the chance of weather, there may be a change made to the game schedule. According to USA Today Sports, it is under consideration to move the game to another date between Friday and Monday.

Wrestling coach lives out his passion For 13 years, Eric Devenney has led the wrestling team to remarkable victories and faced devastating losses. He has been both a highly respected teacher and coach, and been looked up to by countless amounts of students and wrestlers.

The Head Wrestling Coach here at Harrisonville High School, DeVenney, has coached for twenty years overall, thirteen of them at Harrisonville. He does it because it has been his life ever since he was a teenager when he wrestled for his high school. “[Wrestling] is the sport I excelled in,” said DeVenney. “A guy my size is not going to do well in football or basketball, where size is a key factor. And I am not very fast, so track is out. I was never very good at baseball, for some reason I have just always had a knack for wrestling.”

the pride

“When one of my kids asked, why are we running this tournament, I think my wife put it best by saying ‘We are Devenney’s’,” said DeVenney.

DeVenney feels that wrestling is a significant factor in his life, affecting his family and his everyday life.

“I spend quite a bit of time in wrestling, doing wrestling, thinking about wrestling,” said DeVenney. “All of my kids are into it. My kids help run the tournaments, and my wife helps out with the team.

She checks the [wrestlers] grades and she helps run the concession stand.”

DeVenney is extremely grateful that his family has the same

Photo by, Cassie Long For the last 13 years Eric DeVenney has coached the wrestlers to many victorys.

passion for wrestling that he has possessed for a large portion of his life.

“When one of my kids asked, why are we running this tournament, I think my wife put it best by

saying ‘We are Devenney’s,’” said DeVenney. “It is what we do, we wrestle.”

DeVenney’s story of getting a coaching spot here was untroublesome, yet very important to him.

“Fourteen years ago they had an opening here, I applied and they hired me,” said DeVenney.

“I was coaching at North Kansas City High School, and I wanted to coach in a town where the school was identified with the town.

When people talk about Harrisonville, they talk about the schools; there is a link between the two.”

DeVenney’s inspiration to pursue a position as a wrestling coach came from his past in high school wrestling.

“My high school coaches [inspired me],” said DeVenney. “I had great high school coaches. They were great role models, and great encouragers. They held me to high standards in my performance on and off of the wrestling matt.”

There are many joys that DeVenney finds in coaching, but he has a few favorites. “[My favorite part is] helping the students make goals and work hard to achieve those goals,” said DeVenney.

As far as his favorite season, DeVenney feels that this 2013-2014 one is the most rewarding he has had, with their confident personalities and want to set and meet goals.

“This one [is my favorite], this is the hardest group of wrestlers I have ever had,” said DeVenney.

“They are focused, they are very goal oriented, they know what they want to accomplish and what it will take to get it done, and they are willing to pay the price.”

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Winter sports upcoming schedule sports

Women’s Basketball Overall Record: 4-5 Conference: 2-0

Upcoming Games: Jan. 23 vs Odessa at Harrisonville Jan. 28 vs Louisburg Invitational at Louisburg Feb. 3 vs Grain Valley at Harrisonville Feb. 6 vs Pleasant Hill at Pleasant Hill Feb. 10 vs Odessa at Odessa Feb. 13 vs Oak Grove at Oak Grove Feb. 18 vs Excelsior Springs at Harrisonville Feb. 20 vs Grain Valley at Grain Valley Feb. 25 vs Clinton at Clinton Feb. 27 vs Pleasant Hill at Pleasant Hill March 3 vs Districts at Oak Grove

Men’s Basketball

Overall Record: 6-6 Conference Record: 2-0

Upcoming Games: Feb. 4 vs Grain Valley at Harrisonville Feb. 7 vs Pleasant Hill at Pleasant Hill Feb. 14 vs Oak Grove at Harrisonville Feb. 18 vs Excelsior Springs at Harrisonville Feb. 21 vs Grain Valley at Grain Valley Feb. 25 vs St. Joseph Lafayette at St. Joseph Feb. 28 vs Pleasant Hill at Harrisonville March 3 vs Districts at Oak Grove

Swimming

Times Beaten in Past Two Meets: 32 Upcoming Meets: Jan. 25 vs Webb City Invite at Webb City Jan. 28 vs Wildcat Tri at Harrisonville

Wrestling

Overall Record: 5-3 Conference Record: 1-3 Upcoming Matches: Feb 4 vs Grain Valley at Grain Valley Feb 14-15 vs Districts at Bolivar Feb 20-22 vs State at Columbia

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Looking for more information on Wildcat sports? Visit hhsnews.com and click on the Sportscenter tab to see recent results!

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Photo by, Cassie Long Senior Brance Neil faces off against his opponent on the mat.

the pride

features

How well do you...

Senior Jack McCleave

English teacherBrian Bliss

What size of shoe does he wear? 13

correct answer: 12 What is his favorite catchphrase/saying?

“Town n Country Strong!”

correct answer: “Mizzou O’line Men!” What is his secret talent? He can sing, he sings to everything

correct answer: Can cook.

Boxers or briefs? He’s a brief guy.

correct answer: Boxers

What is her favorite song? “You Got a Friend” by James Taylor

correct answer: “This is Not Where I Belong” by Building 429 What is her favorite cereal she eats? Fruit Loops

correct answer: Reese’s Puffs What type of body wash does she use?

Something from Bed, Bath & Beyond

correct answer: Mary Kay What is her secret talent: She can play the drums.

correct answer: I’m really fast at doing puzzles.

What is her favorite color? Blue

correct answer: Purple What is her favorite catchphrase/saying?

“High School Attendance”

correct answer: “Serious!”

What is her preferred drink? Tea

correct answer: Diet Coke What Scentsy smell does she like the most? Snow berry

correct answer: Honeydew

School Nurse Rachel Lindsay

What size of shoe does he wear? 9

correct answer: 10 What is his favorite catchphrase/saying?

“Mizzou O’line Men!”

correct answer: “Mizzou O’line Men!” What is his secret talent? He can grill.

correct answer: Can cook.

Boxers or briefs? Briefs

correct answer: Boxer briefs

What is his favorite song? “Jesus Friend of Sinners” by Casting Crowns

correct answer: Skillet What is his favorite cereal he eats?

Honey Nut Cheerios

correct answer: Honey Nut Cheerios What type of body wash does he use?

Mary Kay, for men

correct answer: Lever 2000 What is his secret talent: Impersonate, he is really good and is very good at acapella

correct answer: Can cook.

What is her favorite color? Pink

correct answer: Pink What is her favorite catchphrase/saying?

“You need to drink a lot of water!”

correct answer: “Stay calm and eat a cupcake!”

What is her preferred drink? Coffee

correct answer: Dr. Pepper What Scentsy smell does she like the most? Christmas Cottage

correct answer: Christmas Cottage

Senior James Pesek

Counselor Kari Bliss

High School Secretary Sue Manion

know your best friend?! the pride

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