Volume 11, Issue 4 by JagWire newspaper

the

JagW ire

JW 2000 Vol. 11, Issue 4 Dec. 16, 2010

1 0 0 2

2004

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2002

5 0 20 2006 2007 2008 2009

2010

Decade in review As a new decade begins, take a look back at the past 10 years Pages 10-11

Mill Valley High School > 5900 Monticello Road > Shawnee, KS 66226 > 913-422-4351 > www.mvnews.org

Dec. 16, 2010

{briefs}

In this issue:

News: page 4 Security cameras 4

Dec. 16, 2010

{news}

District expands security hanna torline {reporter}

New video surveillance system is being added to district facilities After discussions and negotiations that started back in February, and an official decision made by the school board in May, a video surveillance system is in the process of being installed throughout the district. The school was the first to receive the new cameras, with a total of 103 around the building. Almost every area of the school, with the exception of restrooms and locker rooms, is within view of the cameras in order to prevent and address issues that may come up on school grounds. By the end of April 2011, cameras will be installed by the contractor, Midwest Digital, in all district facilities, including middle schools and elementary schools. District consultant Barney Carroll presented the idea to the school board. “You never know what the cameras will stop from happening in the first place. For the safety of everyone who enters a school building, having these cameras is vital,” Carroll said. Vital enough to cost the district between $800,000-$900,000, according to district director of administrative services and community relations Alvie Cater. The cameras being installed in the building are the same ones used by the Department of Defense and used in airports. Despite rumors that the cameras were only purchased because left over construction money had to be spent, that had nothing to do with why the cameras were purchased. School resource officer John Midiros agrees, that the cameras have been discussed for a while. “It’s been talked about for a while,” Midiros said. There have been mixed feelings on whether the cameras are worth the money or not. “It’s a waste of money, and just unneeded,” junior Sebastian Winchester said. “I don’t think there’s really a need for them.” On the other hand, freshman Becca Bilyeu feels the benefits may outweigh the costs. “If they’re here to keep me safe then they’re worth the money spent,” Bilyeu said.

ONE OF THE recently installed security cameras keeps an eye on students in the main hallway on Wednesday, Dec. 8. Photo by Courtney Cooke

The main goal the district had in mind when installing the cameras was to keep students, administration and patrons safe. Midiros responded similarly in regards to how the cameras would be used. “The cameras would be used to review certain incidents and to make kids think twice about what they’re doing,” Midiros said. “We value our property and keeping our school nice, and we want to hold people accountable.” While the cameras are a new addition to the district, Midiros says most schools in Johnson County have had them for years, making the district one of the last to add security cameras. Shawnee Mission Northwest SRO Mark Coenen estimates their cameras are used on a daily basis, and not just for catching students committing crimes. “We catch a lot of things with the cameras, and it really makes our job here easier,” Coenen said. “They are used as a deterrent, and can also be looked at when trying to find a missing student or finding out what happened in a situation.” Although the cameras have been recording internally since they were installed, Midiros will have a monitor installed in his office, allowing him to see what students are doing. However, the cameras will not be constantly watched.

YouSaidIt

“They will mainly be there so that if there is an incident, we will be able to go back and review the camera,” Midiros said. “Nobody will be watching the screen like a camera jockey.” Still, some students are wary of the cameras being watched and recorded. “I think it’s a violation of privacy,” Winchester said. “I don’t feel comfortable having every move watched. They don’t think we are responsible.” Sophomore Maddie Estell sees the cameras in a different light. “I’m not worried about them because I’m not going to do anything that would be a problem,” Estell said. While the vast majority of outspoken comments from students regarding the cameras have been negative, Coenen gives hope that this attitude may change. “Most students forget the cameras are here [at SMNW],” Coenen said. “They don’t react to them either way, and I haven’t heard any negative comments.” With or without student support, the cameras will stay and be used. Security is the first priority for the district. “Our goal is to provide the safest learning environment possible,” Midiros said. “The new cameras will help us do that.”

TAYLOR AKEY, TECHNICIAN for Midwest Digital, begins his installation near the activity entrance by drilling holes in the ceiling for the camera base on Monday, Nov. 22. Photo by Emily Johnson

CameraFacts > How we compare

What do you think of the new cameras?

> SRO Mark Coenen says the cameras

> Shawnee Mission Northwest has had

“There’s not a need for as many as we have. They’re too expensive.”

have easily paid for themselves

cameras in their building since 1997

> The cameras are used on almost a daily

> The first cameras installed used VCR

{junior Lameese Madi}

basis

tapes to record the video footage

> Cameras at our school

“I don’t mind them because it’s really just for safety reasons.”

> The cameras can see in all directions,

> 491 total cameras were purchased for

> The cost to the district for all of the cam-

> Cameras will be installed throughout the

every district building at $722 each

as well as heat and cool themselves

{freshman Jordon Grundy}

district by the end of April 2011

eras totaled around $804,000

Sources: SMNW SRO Mark Coenen, district consultant Barney Carroll, and district director of administrative services & community relations

Feature: page 9 New mural in Senior Cafe www.mvnews.org

{feature}

Senior leaves her mark on the school by creating original

Art on a larger

scale

DOMINANT: SENIOR KELCIE MARQUARDT’S abstract mural is located on the back wall of the Senior Café. LEFT: MARQUARDT BORROWS A ladder from the custodial staff in order to reach the highest areas of her mural. ABOVE: DURING THIRD BLOCK on Thursday, Dec. 2, Marquardt filled in sketched lines with various shades of paint. Most days, Marquardt works on the mural from seminar through fourth or fifth block. Photos by Nichole Kennelly

THE DISTRICT’S NEWEST board member, Dick Dearwester, talks about his expectations for his first year on Friday, Dec. 10, “I am the newest and oldest, the only one with grandchildren in the system. When we vote on bond issues..I represent..some of us living on a fixed income,” Dearwester said. Photo by Taylor Young

sarah gonzales {reporter}

Senior Kelcie Marquardt adds her own flair to the Senior Café with the addition of a mural

Part of the Senior Café is cluttered with ladders, pieces of cloth and paint brushes. Along with the additions to the school, senior Kelcie Marquardt is painting a mural in the Senior Café, so that the class of 2011 can leave a lasting impression for the underclassmen. “Since they started construction, I knew I wanted to paint a mural in one of the new areas,” Marquardt said. Marquardt had been thinking about what she wanted to paint for awhile. “I was browsing online about different kinds of murals, and I knew I wanted graffiti,” Marquardt said. “I mixed a little bit of old school and new school to come up with a fresh design.” Marquardt talked to both principal Tobie Waldeck and art teacher Jodi Ellis about her idea. “I am always open to the idea of putting up murals,” Waldeck said. “I required a detailed plan and I require quality work. I felt like the plan was a good one and I’ve seen Kelcie’s work before and I knew she has a talent for art. When she presented it, she was very professional.” Ellis also liked the idea of putting up a mural. “I thought it was a great idea,” Ellis said. “Murals do help to personalize the school. The Senior Café is a new addition

and it’s a new space for seniors. It helps make the Senior Café seem more cool and individualized.” While Marquardt was talking with both Ellis and Waldeck, she decided on her final plan. “I came up with a graffiti jungle with a realistic jaguar coming out of it,” Marquardt said. “I wanted to do something not literal and a little more abstract because the Senior Café should have a relaxed feeling.” What helped her come up with the idea was her artistic side. “I have been interested in art since my aunt taught me how to draw in the second grade,” Marquardt said. “To me art holds less of an individualistic purpose and is more a method in which to share and serve.” Marquardt has an explanation as to why she chose her design. “It’s free and fun,” Marquardt said. “It represents the class of 2011 as well as Mill Valley.” Waldeck played a part in deciding if the mural went up. “I decided whether or not it was going to be on the wall,” Waldeck said. “If I feel like it’s not quality work, I deny the request.” Ellis also contributed in making the mural happen. “All I needed to do was see her idea,” Ellis said. “I sent her to Mr. Waldeck, see what supplies she needed and then buy them. I basically got her set up to paint it.” Marquardt does not expect the mural to take much time. “I started at the beginning of second quarter with the idea of having it done by the end of the semester,” Marquardt said. Both Waldeck and Ellis hope that more murals will go up on the walls as the school years pass. “I had a few kids suggest ideas about new murals and I support that,” Ellis said. “I think its great for the kids because they get that recognition.”

By the

District selects new board member to replace vacated position

The JagWire found

the facts behind the Café mural numbers Senior

136 bricks will be covered in paint

7 paintbrushes used

$200 spent on supplies

4 hours of work a day

6 gallons of paint used

16 days

josh duden {reporter}

of work since the beginning of second quarter

Photo by Nichole Kennelly

Opinion: page 12 We need half-day finals 12

Dec. 16, 2010

{opinion}

StaffEditorial

Full day finals not beneficial to students or staff Half day finals days would give high school students needed study time

It can be argued that the students who want to succeed will be able to study effectively anywhere they are given an opportunity. However, nearly any student will be distracted by conversations and other socializing that may go on during school. If students were to have this time to study at home these distractions would be taken away. Other school districts in our area, such as the Shawnee Mission and Blue Valley, have half days in place for their high school students during finals week. So it is possible, if the board

time they need to grade any essays they may give as part of their finals. The school district calendar right now is With semester finals almost over, students, not set up to accommodate both the needs of teachers and administration alike have evaluelementary students and secondary students. ated whether or not our current final schedule In order for the schedule to change the school is the most effective. For students and teachers board calendar committee must first approve it, the fact that we have full days almost every day and we encourage them to do so. of finals week and only use half of those days If given the half days students would be able for testing is ineffective and does not allow for to study in their most familiar study environthe most productivity for ment, their home. Studies studying and grading. have shown that students “Giving students the Our current finals work and learn more half days will give them schedule consists of two efficiently in places they the benefit of study time final tests and two study are comfortable. Forcing they may not have had blocks each day. The students to study for before.” district right now requires an extended period schools to have full days of time in an area they during finals week. We are not accustomed to should instead have half studying in is almost days every day we have finals. anti-productive. High-schoolers would study more effectiveGiving students more time to ly if given that time to go home and study as study means they will not need to stay up opposed to being distracted by having friends as late studying. An earlier night means more around them and not having all the resources sleep and when students are better rested they available to them that the study periods cause. are more likely to perform better on their tests. Just as importantly, or even more so, teachSome students also have jobs and extracurers are not given ample opportunity to grade ricular activities that may prevent them from finals before winter break and are then forced studying to the exten they need to succeed. to grade during their vacation, which is not Giving students the half days will give them the really a true vacation. Communication Arts and benefit of study time they may not have had history teachers especially are not given the before.

would approve it. The school board will soon consider whether or not to change the calendar for days when finals are scheduled. School board members should take into the consideration the needs of high school students, whose finals grades and transcripts affect their college acceptances and futures, instead of whether or not elementary students have all the time they need for holiday parties. We hope the district can see that half days for finals is what’s best for high school students.

maya sudduth {reporter}

When I think of technology I think of a large electronic Venus flytrap snapping shut on any creative thought that may flow from a person’s imagination. Technology isn’t just devouring creativity but also our way of life. Auto-Tune is a prime example of technology killing creativity. To put things simply AutoTune is a program that could make the screeching that I call singing sound like a melody sung by Mariah Carey herself. Though this would boost my self-esteem a couple points, it’s a tragedy to the music industry. By creating Auto-Tune real musicians do not get their dues and that leads to the break-

2010JagWire JagWire Office

Members of

down of music. Inspiration is lost and lyrics are dumbed down because the lack of creative drive induced by the massive amount of ignorance that new music is dowsed in. There was once a time when entertainment was about raw talent and expression through meaningful words, but now with the birth of Auto-Tune anyone can call themselves a singer, without earning the right. We have gotten lazy with the advancement of technology. If you spell a word wrong while typing, like a superhero your computer swoops in and fixes it for you saying “Never fear, spell check is here.” Heaven forbid we ever have to use a dictionary or better yet, enhance our vocabulary. If you think spell check is great wait until you get a hold of Google. This magical web device will read your book, summarize that book for you, and write your essay, while supplying images and video to keep you entertained. Welcome to the 21st century people.

Text messaging will be the death of social skills. After talking to advanced piece of metal for so long your communication skills are bound to deteriorate. Texting is impersonal you forget how to talk to people, read emotions, and describe what you are feeling without symbols. We even have songs talking about texting example “lol :-)”. As I typed this column an individual just got excited about the smiley face that has appeared on the screen, it is kind of sad. Our lives are overloaded with technology

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may not incite or promote

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cause a substantial disrup-

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tion to normal school

Journalism Education

sional journalists. These

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Editorial Policy

have the right to edit all

The 2010 JagWire was

ment rights, including the

We value your opinions.

copy that is to run in this

If you wish to submit a

publication.

The JagWire, a monthly High School, is printed by Independence Examiner.

named an All-American

rights of freedom of speech

Feature Editors

will be accepted. However, please understand that we

Hanna Torline

Jill Applegate

Maya Sudduth

Kaitlyn Butko

Kristina Milewski

Photographers

Managing Editor

Ads/Business Manager

Courtney Cooke

Editor-in-chief

No anonymous content

Shawnee, KS 66226 Adviser: Kathy Habiger

publication of Mill Valley

Cartoon by Asia Yates

we need to revaluate our dependence on machines because instead of use controlling them, they are controlling us. It is time to have a 121 chat with ourselves instead of with our computer. Well gtg ttyl ;).

JagWire staff

Austin Gude

Mackenzie Hampton

Naomi Smith

Sports Editor

Reporters

Emily Johnson

Sarah Fulton

Josh Duden

Nichole Kennelly

Photo Editor

Austin Gillespie

Kat Rainey

Ali Judy

Sarah Gonzales

Taylor Young

Joel Hodgdon

Cartoonist

Lisa Joerling

Asia Yates

News Editor

newspaper by the NSPA

and the press, insofar as

column or letter to the

Sarah Darby

and earned an All-Kansas

published items may not

editor for the JagWire, you

A&E Editor

Alyne Roemerman

rating from KSPA.

contain libelous, slander-

can do so by handing it in

Lauren Proctor

Kaitlin Rounds

Sports: page 14 Creatine supplement 14 {sports} New team name hurts KC soccer

kaitlyn butko {editor-in-chief}

Transitioning to sporting clubs will ruin the American version of soccer When the Kansas City Wizards changed their name to Sporting Kansas City, it dealt a blow to America’s version of soccer. By becoming a sporting club (that’s what the “SC” on the new crest stands for), the team began its attempts to Europeanize America’s soccer. It seems that while the team and fans are transitioning to a new stadium, the management decided now would also be the time to transition to a more European style. This is only going to further alienate soccer fans, because the entire outlook on the sport will be changing, and Americans will have trouble relating to it. American professional sports teams don’t normally have crests, they have mascots. In Europe, soccer teams aren’t even just soccer teams. They are formed in clubs, which integrates soccer with rugby and lacrosse all under one organization, with a unifying crest. Sporting Kansas City will eventually grow to include these as well. Sporting clubs are popular in a completely different country, not here in the center of the United States. Americans generally aren’t extremely enthusiastic about soccer, but the Wizards had a loyal following. However, the former Wizards aren’t the first to make the change. F.C. Dallas (F.C. for Football Club, clearly that’s European) was originally Dallas Burn, but changed its name in 2005 as they moved stadiums; the New York Red Bulls were originally the MetroStars, and the name, colors and crest were all changed to mirror European crests when Red Bull purchased the team in 2006. All these teams seem to be trying to change American soccer to reflect Europe. Soccer is already not very popular here, but if we take away the American aspects, the parts that make soccer fit here, then it will lose the popularity that it has gained. The world calls the sport “football,” America says “soccer.” Americans cheer on their sports teams with mascots and chants, and those are likely to fade under this new name. I really can see no mascot possibilities, and you can’t exactly chant “Sporting Kansas City” repeatedly. It just doesn’t have the same ring to it as “Wizards.” Without these aspects that Americans are used to, Sporting Kansas City will not be able to gain a following and will eventually flop. This is an unnecessary change that really has nothing of legitimate value. Even though the former Wizards aren’t the first to transition to a more European style of soccer, by doing so they have encouraged more teams around the country to follow the trend, and nothing could be more detrimental to American soccer.

Dec. 16, 2010

Helpful supplement?

Unnecessary dehydrator? joel hodgdon {reporter/ads}

rich foods, your body gets half of the creatine you need from what you eat, and half of it is Students take controversial naturally biosynthesized from different amino substance for muscle gain acids,” Harrington said. As the competitive atmosphere of high Senior Trace Linton takes creatine to imschool sports becomes more and more ag- prove his weight room and baseball perforgressive, athletes are turning to dietary mance among other benefits. supplements like creatine to gain an extra “It’s helped me get to my goals in the weight advantage on the field. room, like gaining weight, and it can help you Licensed dietician and Shawnee Mis- feel better about yourself with the muscle sion Medical Center ICU employee Diane gain,” Linton said. Harrington sees firsthand cases of creatine Because dietary supplements like creatine abuse. are not regulated by the federal government, “Creatine is a substance that you pro- creatine and its side effects have been closely duce to help supply energy to your muscles. studied by pharmaceutical companies and uniIt is also found in meat and other protein versities since it became available in 1992. Recent studies at the American College of Sports Medicine and James Madison University have taken stances against creatine. Citing health problems caused by this substance, among them dehydration and kidney failure, both universities found that creatine can hurt as often as it can help. These two studies are reflecting a growing trend of health professionals aligned firmly against the use of this substance. “I wouldn’t recommend creatine to anybody for several reasons,” Harrington said. “There are just a huge list of side effects thirst, anxiety, blood clots, headaches, kidney failure…it’s not worth any benefits you might receive from it.” Despite these effects, creatine is legal in the United States and in most high school and college athletic programs. The National Collegiate Athletic Association SENIOR TRACE LINTON pours his creatine into a bottle of water before bans coaches from distriba workout on Monday, Dec. 6. Photo by Austin Gude uting the substance, but

does not ban creatine itself. District athletic director Steve Deghand explains. “There is no policy, creatine use is legal so it’s up to the individual,” Deghand said. “But I wouldn’t take it. There is no substitute for hard work, there’s no magic pill, you just have to sweat a little bit.” Head football coach Joel Applebee thinks using creatine is a personal choice. “Creatine is a different animal, there’s a lot that can be good about it and a lot that can be bad,” Applebee said. “I always tell kids to eat your proteins, your fruits and vegetables, be balanced in everything. Everybody needs to decide for themselves.” Harrington disagrees, believing creatine is a danger to athletes and should not be used. “But some people are going to do creatine no matter what. I would encourage them to talk to their doctor and make sure they have no preexisting conditions that can compound the bad effects,” Harrington said. She also said that weight and strength gains from creatine can be accomplished just as effectively with everyday food found in average households. “You can find natural, safe, creatine at your house right now,” said Harrington. “Try low fat dairy products, bagels, peanut butter, or any lean meats like tuna. The people marketing this substance just want to make money off you.” Whether athletes are receiving the benefits of creatine from food or in supplement form, creatine can produce the results they are seeking. “I’ve seen results, yeah, some big gains in my strength and endurance,” Linton said. “I would recommend creatine as long as you follow the directions, drink a lot of water and in general do it right.” Linton said that creatine without hard work would get an athelete nowhere. “As long as you’re working in the weight room being smart you don’t need creatine,” Linton said. “You’ll get where you want to be, but creatine does make the process faster.” Harrington agrees. “There really is no substitute for good nutrition and training,” Harrington said.

How to safely take creatine > Take 5 to 10 grams a day

> Mix creatine powder with natural

> Take immediately after a

> Make sure to drink plenty of water,

depending on your original body weight.

workout for best results.

juices, like apple or grape, not sports drinks.

> Cycle your usage: take cre-

atine for a month, abstain for one to two weeks.

> Limit or cut out caffeine

twice as much as normal training.

which reduces muscle gains.

Information from www.muscle-building-guide.com

A&E: page 18 Gingerbread houses 18

Dec. 16, 2010

{a&e}

The JagWire challenged four students to a gingerbread house making contest. The contest was judged by choir teacher Sheree Stoppel, and freshmen Amanda Dotts and Emily Rice. Here are the results of

JagWire VS

Illustration by Asia Yates

Extreme Home Makeover: Gingerbread Edition

hanna torline {reporter}

> Team members:

Junior Brayton Young, sophomores Megan Marquardt and Riley Vomhof, and freshmen Chandler Nuenstedt and Donna Gentry.

> What they did:

Taking the “It’ll be okay,” approach, the Extreme Home Makeover: Gingerbread Edition team put all their effort into having a gingerbread house that stood up straight. When everything fell apart in the beginning, they made the best of the situation and stayed in the competition with creativity on their side.

> The experience:

> Panel Ratings:

FAR ABOVE: JUNIOR BRAYTON YOUNG and freshman Donna Gentry work on separate elements of their house to get work done faster. ABOVE: FRESHMEN JUDGES AMANDA Dotts and Emily Rice discuss various aspects of each house before deciding on their scores for each category. Photos by Nichole Kennelly

ER!

WINN

put hard work and effort into it,” Yates said. “Newspaper helps build creativity and teach teamwork, so we learned good qualities to apply.”

Neatness: Creativity: Sturdiness: Use of Materials: Total:

Stoppel-Dotts-Rice 10-8-8 26/30 8-6-8 22/30 10-9-9 28/30 10-8-7 25/30 38-31-32 101/120

>Panel Comments: “Both teams did a good job, but [The JagWire] gingerbread house won on neatness,” Stoppel said.

lisa joerling {reporter}

josh duden {reporter}

Last month seminars collected donations for our school’s fourth coin drive. This year it raised $1,426.52 towards the Shawnee Mayor Christmas Tree Fund, which helps families in need through TLC for Children and Families, an emergency shelter for abused or neglected children up to age 18. The JAGS community service club got involved with the program and collected money during seminars. Art teacher Jodi Ellis was in charge of the donations and thinks donating was worthwhile. “I think it’s a really important thing to help with, Mill Valley rose to the occasion as they always do,” Ellis said. Ellis hopes to make the coin drive an annual event. “With a bigger school population, more people will be willing help,” Ellis said. Freshman Alyssa Hobson agrees. “We all chose to go, everyone helped,” Hobson said. “It’s a really good place to go because [TLC] probably doesn’t get a lot of help.”

NHS will be participating in the Tony Bowl’s Fashion Show Sunday, Jan. 9 at 2 p.m. at the Overland park Convention Center to raise funds to support future endeavors. The show is being put on to support organizations that participate in the show, such as NHS. Tony Bowls is one of the top homecoming dress designers and is supporting the show through his dress donations. The models will be students in the organizations, such as NHS. This fashion show is taking the place of NHS’s involvement in the Alli’s Runway Fashion Show. Tickets are still for sale for $5 and may be purchased from NHS sponsor Kristen Chavez or any NHS member. According to Chavez the goal is to make enough money to support their involvement with other organizations such as the Mitten Tree. “We hope to make enough to buy groceries for Meals On Wheels,” Chavez said. “[We would also like] to make a donation to the Wimmer Student Fund.”

Upcoming events:

> The experience: “We > Panel Ratings:

NHS fashion show

JOURNALISM STUDENTS FROM both newspaper and yearbook staffs pose for a picture with their various awards on Saturday, Nov. 13. Submitted Photo

Journalism staffs earn awards maya sudduth {reporter}

The newspaper, yearbook and broadcast programs won several awards at the JEA/NSPA Fall National High School Journalism Convention held on Nov. 11-14. In the Best of Show Competition, The JagWire newsmagazine earned 7th place in the Newsmagazine category, the 2010 JAG yearbook earned 7th place in the Yearbooks 225-274 pages, and the site, www.mvnews.org, earned 9th place in the Publication Website small school contest. In the JEA National Write off Competition, there were 1,963 participants. Seven of our students walked away with awards. Seniors Aleksandra Milewski and Miranda Wagner earned superior ratings. Junior Jill Applegate and senior Camden Bender earned excellent ratings. Senior Kaitlyn Butko and junior Sarah Darby earned honorable mention ratings. Sophomores Kylie Andres and Josie Hanson earned honorable mention ratings.

The JagWire

ton and Sarah Gonzales, and sophomore Austin Gude.

Taking a completely different approach, team JagWire built a small house, with neat decorations. From the beginning, they knew what they were going to do, and they stuck to the original design, creating a traditional gingerbread house. The well built house gave them good ratings, and made the judges believe that their gingerbread house was stronger and neater.

Stoppel-Dotts-Rice 8-7-5 20/30 10-8-9 27/30 8-6-5 19/30 10-8-9 27/30 36-29-28 93/120

> Panel Comments: “The mobile home was really creative,” Dotts said.

> Team members: Senior Asia Yates, juniors Courtney Cooke, Sarah Ful> What they did:

“There are okay gingerbread houses, there are good gingerbread houses, and there are great gingerbread houses,” Young said. “Ours was great, especially the car.” Neatness: Creativity: Sturdiness: Use of Materials: Total:

“I represent a cross-section of the community that is on a fixed income or about to retire,” Dearwester said. The board makes decisions with regards to all 12 schools in the district. Dearwester has always had an interest in education and hopes he can make sure the valued education he received will also be possible for the students. “I want the quality education I received to continue on to the next generation,” Dearwester said.

Collecting coins

Cartoon by Asia Yates

In today’s society everyone is always at the keyboard We shouldn’t be so obessed with the technology surrounding us

Westside Church’s counseling director Dick Dearwester was selected as the new Board of Education member on Monday, Nov. 8. He will take the place of Janine Gracy, who stepped down due to her relocation to Colorado. Dearwester’s first night as an active board member was Monday, Dec. 13. Dearwester says he is excited to be selected to fulfill this position. “I was honored, humbled, totally amazed and excited to [be selected],” Dearwester said. Dearwester hopes that as the new addition to the board he can bring a new perspective.

FAR ABOVE: JAGWIRE TEAM MEMBER junior Sarah Fulton lays the foundation for their house using icing and begins to think of a plan of action. ABOVE: CHOIR TEACHER SHEREE Stoppel writes her scores in a spiral before giving her final evaluation. Photos by Nichole Kennelly

Cover by Ali Judy

At the Midland Theatre, on Saturday, Dec. 18, 98.9 The Rock sponsors Twisted Xmas. The first band will being performing at 7:30 p.m.

NeedToBreathe will perform their “Young and Far From Home” tour at the Beaumont Club on Saturday, Dec. 18, at 9 p.m. Tickets are available at ticketmaster.com.

On Monday, Dec. 27, there is a Shawnee City Council meeting. Held at 7 p.m., the meeting will be at Shawnee City Hall. All are welcome.

www.mvnews.org

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Dec. 16, 2010

{news}

District expands security hanna torline {reporter}

ONE OF THE recently installed security cameras keeps an eye on students in the main hallway on Wednesday, Dec. 8. Photo by Courtney Cooke

YouSaidIt

What do you think of the new cameras? “There’s not a need for as many as we have. They’re too expensive.” {junior Lameese Madi}

“I don’t mind them because it’s really just for safety reasons.” {freshman Jordon Grundy}

TAYLOR AKEY, TECHNICIAN for Midwest Digital, begins his installation near the activity entrance by drilling holes in the ceiling for the camera base on Monday, Nov. 22. Photo by Emily Johnson

CameraFacts > How we compare

> Shawnee Mission Northwest has had

> SRO Mark Coenen says the cameras

> The first cameras installed used VCR

> The cameras are used on almost a daily

cameras in their building since 1997 tapes to record the video footage

have easily paid for themselves basis

> Cameras at our school > The cameras can see in all directions,

> 491 total cameras were purchased for

> The cost to the district for all of the cam-

> Cameras will be installed throughout the

as well as heat and cool themselves eras totaled around $804,000

every district building at $722 each district by the end of April 2011

Sources: SMNW SRO Mark Coenen, district consultant Barney Carroll, and district director of administrative services & community relations

www.mvnews.org

{news}

Dangers in parking lot continue to be an issue

sarah darby {news editor}

Students speak about traffic hazards and safety concerns

DOMINANT: PARENTS WAITING IN line to pick up their students at the middle school interfere with the high school traffic trying to get home on Wednesday, Dec. 1. Sophomore Mackenzie Conklin was rear-ended this fall. “People aren’t cautious enough in the parking lot,” Conklin said. ABOVE: STUDENTS, ALONG WITH parents, eagerly await their turn to exit the parking lot on Friday, Dec. 10. Photos by Austin Gude

Accidents and school traffic continue from last year, despite parking lot renovation, patrols and the issuing of tickets by school resource officer John Midiros. Last year, due to 50 less parking spots, cars were allowed to park in no-parking spots without being ticketed. Attempting to see around a parked car while pulling out into the main parking lot lane, senior Cassie Gerhart t-boned a parent during seminar. “I probably should have looked a little closer but the car being parked there blocked my vision,” Gerhart said. Gerhart’s 2001 Volkswagon Jetta Turbo had limited damage but caused the parent’s car around $500 in damage. Gerhart’s insurance also doubled. This year, Midiros will issue tickets to anyone parking in a no-parking space. Midiros issues about 30 tickets a year for parking and traffic violations. In the spring and summer of 2011, an additional small parking lot will be built near the north activity center on the gravel lot construction workers used to park in. “It will give additional parking spaces which is always an issue,” district director of safety Jack Deyoe said. Deyoe, who continually looks for safe-

ty improvements for schools in the district, says additional marked crosswalks, signs and sidewalks will be built in the coming spring and summer but no other major changes are expected for future years. An average of 15-20 accidents happen in the school parking lot every year. This year, Midiros says traffic accidents have persisted at the same rate as in years past. Sophomore Jillian Mullin and senior Jessica Lopez were in an accident in November. Mullin was rear ended by Lopez waiting to turn left at the traffic lot by the parking lot’s south exit, nearest to Monticello Trails Middle School. “She wasn’t expecting me to slam on my brakes,” Mullin said. “She wasn’t ready for it to happen and paying attention at all times would have prevented it.” Around $1,500 in damage was done to Mullin’s 2010 Mazda 3, paid for by Lopez’s insurance. “I knew instantly it was my fault and I was scared because I already had a lot on my plate and this would be another money issue,” Lopez said. “I’m just really careful now and always aware of what I’m doing.” Mullin believes distractions like loud music and texting and driving can easily stray any driver’s attention.

“Driving in general is a privilege and we shouldn’t take advantage of it,” Mullin said. With around 600 students, teachers and parents exiting everyday, accidents are inevitable. “There is just no good way to mass exit,” Midiros said. “What’s unique to us is that the middle school is right next to us and gets five minutes after us. That’s a lot of people you’re trying to get out in two exits.” Despite some continuing problems, Midiros is still positive about the traffic situation. “We’ve had our share of accidents, but we do a fairly good job of exiting safely,” Midiros said. “We could do a better job at slowing down, being more courteous to other drivers and being patient.” To improve traffic conditions,Mullin believes separate exits for the middle school and high school along with additional stop signs would ease traffic in the parking lot. “If we had some sort of 4-way stop, it would help because it’s not guaranteed that someone is going to let you go,” Mullin said. Deyoe says patience is the most important way to insure safety in a parking lot. “Nobody’s time is worth any more than the next person,” Deyoe said. “Nobody’s time is worth someone getting hurt.”

Officer Midiros gives the JagWire his top five most dangerous areas of the parking lot:

3. Monticello Road 2.

North entryway

“There’s no controlled stop light. It puts you at risk because you’re not moving on a light, you’re moving at your awareness of your surroundings.”

1. Parking lot lanes

“We are not coming to a complete stop and looking to get the clear picture. When the line is backed up, you have to be aware of cars pulling out or going the other way.”

“The thing that makes it more difficult is two schools trying to converge.”

4. South traffic light

“The primary concern is the kids crossing, there’s heavy crossing. It’s very likely to have to slam on your breaks if you’re not paying attention.”

5. South stop sign “High schoolers are making it a dual turn lane and going into oncoming traffic. I don’t encourage going around that.”

Graphic by Asia Yates

Dec. 16, 2010

{news}

ABOVE: SENIOR SEAN MCDUFFIE shares a story of harassment brought on because of his sexual orientation. RIGHT: GSA CREATORS, SENIOR Kayla Vognsen and sophomore Misty Adkins, and sponsor teacher Jeff Wieland proposed the question ‘What do we do about it?’ at their meeting on Friday, Dec. 3. Photos by Kat Rainey

QandA with

{Kayla Vognsen} Senior GSA president Kayla Vognsen answers questions about starting the club > Why did you decide to start GSA? “Misty [Adkins] and I started it because some of our friends were being picked on for their [sexual] orientation.”

> About how many members do you have? “Around 30. That has been the most at meetings.”

> What are your main goals for GSA? “Basically to talk about the issues surrounding the LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) community and find solutions for them. And for it to be a place they can come together and speak their mind without being made fun of.”

> How do you hope GSA will affect students? “My hope is that people will kind of learn to accept people no matter what gender they are and that they’re people just like everybody else, and to be tolerant.”

> What advice would you give to people who are hesitant to join due to fear of stereotyping?”

“Basically, we don’t go around saying who was at the meetings, that’s that person’s own business. We keep it private. If someone wants to come, just drop by, they’re welcome.”

> How do club members approach the topic of their sexuality?

“We don’t make people tell if they don’t want to. If they want to, there are people who share their stories.”

New club hopes to unify austin gillespie {reporter}

Gay-Straight Alliance created in hopes of bridging the gap between sexual orientations

considered a “social taboo.” “It took a long time to get approved by the administration. They were a little bit not very nice about it. We got the applicaRecently formed Gay-Straight Alliance began meeting at the tion and it took about a month [for the club to be approved],” beginning of November in hopes of raising awareness and to Vognsen said. Principal Tobie Waldeck clarified that he has no problem with serve as a safe forum where students of all sexual orientations this club in particular. can offer each other support. “People are people. It doesn’t matter race, Sophomore Misty Adkins, vice presigender, whatever. I want people to be able to dent, says she decided to start the club work together in a calm, decent atmosphere alongside senior Kayla Vognsen, presi“People are people. It and improve the community,” Waldeck said. dent, when they realized how people doesn’t matter race, “And as long as a club or organization, or even of different sexual orientations were gender, whatever. I just an individual person, [is] working toward treated. want people to be able that goal, that’s a good thing.” “We heard kids calling friends of ours to work together,” Complications occurred when Waldeck names that we knew were inappropriate principal Tobie Waldeck found out that no application process was in and rude,” Adkins said. “We just felt like place for the school, despite a board policy everyone needed a place to come tosaid. stating one was needed along with a congether and talk about issues surroundstitution. Most of that time, Waldeck ing sexuality and stuff like that.” was working on creating and developVognsen hopes the club can positiveing an application form and process ly unite students of all sexual orientations. “I just hope we can educate people about the stereotyping and and a constitution. After realizing no other clubs have had to go through this new spread tolerance and awareness so people don’t have biased opinapplication process, Waldeck decided to go ahead and approve ions anymore,” Vognsen said. The club has had a maximum of 30 members attend meetings. the club. This new process will be put into place next year, where According to Adkins this number was higher than expected, but each club will go through board approval. The club is now concerned with different things. Each meetGSA still has hopes of expanding their members. “We hope to really grow and include a lot more people in the ing, GSA focuses on a specific topic and occasionally will devote school and we would really love for it to be a school-wide thing,” time to answering anonymous questions entered into a basket by its members. Such topics GSA has touched on or plans to include Adkins said. Despite a positive turnout and positive goals, negative set- opposition, Gay History Month, and dealing with coming out. backs have gotten in the way. Within two school days, 30 post- The club plans on participating in events such as Day of Silence ers advertising the club had been slashed with keys and pencils, in April and possibly Trunk or Treat. “What I hope to accomplish is to turn everybody’s mind on in ripped off the walls, and thrown in trashcans. Sophomore Alex Maupin, secretary, was mad about what the GSA to be safe and comfortable in their own skin,” Maupin said. “And not be afraid to be out of the closet, gay, straight, lesmight be a display of homophobia. “It most likely might be fear. Homophobia, it’s a big thing,” bian, bisexual, transgender, whatever.” So far, the club has been successful at working together toMaupin said. “But most likely it’s just students being stupid.” Both Adkins and Maupin agree that not a lot of effort was wards a common goal. Club sponsor Jeff Wieland agrees. “The kids are all very supportive of one another,” Wieland put into the posters. Therefore, Maupin feels the club did not do said. “I’m actually amazed at how well everybody gets along and their part in preventing them from being destructed. But before working to spread word of the club through post- what a positive atmosphere it is when we have our club meeters and word-of-mouth, GSA had trouble with something else: ings.” Meetings are Fridays at 3:05 p.m. in Wieland’s room. All stugetting the club approved. Vognsen claims that the administration was a bit hesitant to approve the club because it could be dents, regardless of sexual orientation, are encouraged to join.

www.mvnews.org

{ads}

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8 {feature}

Dec. 16, 2010

“It’s the ‘I get it’ light you see in their eyes”

mackenzie hampton {managing editor}

Subs new and old help out students and share their knowledge Dr. Carolyn Conklin, Danielle Begeron and Jim Peters all have one thing in common: Substitute teaching. All of them share their love for teaching and getting to interact with students on a daily basis. Dr. Carolyn Conklin, more famously known as “Dr. C,” is well known throughout the school and more than qualified in education. She started off with a bachelor’s degree in English Literature, History, Psychology and Physiology. Then she went to Kansas State University to get her master’s in counseling physiology. Soon after that she went out to pursue a P.h.D. for a minor in organizational communication and a major in educational policies and leadership. Conklin has been substitute teaching at the school for about four to five years now and has certainly made her mark in and out of several classrooms. Most students have experienced her loving personality but they do know when to not cross the line with her. “I have an invisible line that kids stay away from when I get angry. My eyebrow goes up and kids just know,” Conklin said. Senior Sara Gillespie said she enjoys having a substitute because the days are easier but found that sometimes it’s hard to get help if a sub doesn’t know much about that subject. “If you need help on something you’re working on for a certain class they’re not very helpful because they don’t know what you’re talking about,” Gillespie said. “Some of them can be grouchy too.” Conklin enjoys subbing for all classes and said she’s always delighted when the lesson plans teacher leave are easy to follow. “If it’s a class I know something about I really enjoy it,” Conklin said. “Lesson plans that are easy to follow make the day so much easier. The staff here has always been very nice to me.” For Conklin, every day is a new adventure. Her favorite thing about being a sub is the same thing that is present when one teaches. “It’s the ‘I get it’ light you see in their eyes. That’s what teaching is all about, so students can

understand,” Conklin said. “It’s also all about establishing relationships with the students so they trust you. When they trust you as a teacher they’re more likely to listen to you.” Conklin believes that subbing keeps her up to date on what’s going on in education currently and new methods that are evolving. Bergeron is currently subbing for Rebecca Martin’s computer classes while Martin is on maternity leave. Bergeron is much newer to the school but like Conklin, she is well known by students. “I’ve subbed so many times here that kids don’t really get away with much. I’ve gotten about 20 cell phones,” Bergeron said. Bergeron got her B.A. in education from the University of Kansas and already received her master’s in education from KU as well. Next year, she plans to get her ESL endorsement. This will allow her to teach kids who are learning English. Bergeron has been substituting for a year and a half and benefits from both long-term and short-term subbing. “Short-term benefits are at the end of the school day you get to go home and not do any work. Long-term benefits are that you have a real paycheck,” Bergeron said. Even though Bergeron receives experience and benefits from being a sub, she said there are still dislikes about it. “If I’m subbing for the day some kids don’t care because I’m not their teacher and they can be disrespectful,” Bergeron said. “ Also, sometimes teachers leave bad lesson plans and if you don’t get a class you like when you are long-term subbing, you’re stuck with it.” Jim Peters isn’t a well known sub at the school but shares the same ideas as Conklin and Bergeron. “Subbing gives me the opportunity to come to high schools and interact with the students,” Peters said. “I prefer substituting at high schools rather than middle and elementary schools because they’re more intellectual and have more ability.”

LEFT: Helping Sophomore Sidney Snyder with her homework, substitute teacher Carolyn Conklin substitutes for Honors Economics teacher Cory Wurtz on Thursday, Dec, 2. Photo by Kristina Milewski Bottom LEFT: SUBSTITUTE TEACHER DANIELLE Bergeron helps juniors Mackenzie Acre and Stephan McCabe by giving them an example of how to do their assignment in computer teacher Rebecca Martin’s class on Tuesday, Dec.17. Photo by Taylor Young Below: SUBSTITUTE JIM PETERS fills in for Spanish teacher Jennifer Dillon on Friday, Dec. 3. “I like subbing for high school because they are intellectual and have more

Substitute teacher Joe Wimmer new to school that [substitutes] don’t get to be in those environments that often to interact. Q: What classes do you enjoy subbing most for? A: I’ve done gym a lot. My best day was for a computer class. I was in a position where I was able to share my knowledge and it’s a lot more rewarding. Q: How long have you been a substitute teacher? A: Just this semester. It’s my first.

Q: What kind of schooling have you received? A: I have my undergrad at KU and I’m currently working on my masters there as well.

Q: What is your favorite thing about being a sub? A: Just the opportunity to interact with students and be helpful. The bad thing is

Q: Do you have any funny stories to share about your substituting experience?

A: I was at Mill Creek Middle School teaching gym and decided to grab something from the vending machines. A teacher walked by and barked at me because they thought I was a middle school student. I guess they’re not supposed to use the machines during school. Q: How often do you sub here at Mill Valley? A: Only a handful of times. I’ve only subbed a few weeks here. Q: How do you think students here compare or differ with students from other schools you’ve subbed at? A: I honestly don’t know if they’re any different. Kids are generally good everywhere

but sometimes you get those troublesome kids. Q: What is your least favorite thing about being a sub? A: Having to be strict. Any time that I’m being adamant about them doing their work they take it the wrong way. There’s always just a few people acting up in the class. I feel more like a babysitter than a teacher. Q: What kinds of benefits do you receive as a sub? A: Pay, first of all. Second, the positive interaction with students and getting classroom experience. Q: Why did you start substituting?

www.mvnews.org

{feature}

Senior leaves her mark on the school by creating original

Art on a

larger

scale

sarah gonzales {reporter}

Senior Kelcie Marquardt adds her own flair to the Senior Café with the addition of a mural

By the

numbers >

The JagWire found the facts behind the Senior Café mural

136 bricks will be covered in paint

7 paintbrushes used

$200 spent on supplies

4 hours of work a day

6 gallons of paint used

16 days

of work since the beginning of second quarter

Dec. 16, 2010

{feature}

DECAD

kaitlyn butko {editor-in-chief} alyne roemerman {reporter}

2000

2003

2002

2001

Technology: Apple released the first iPod. On 9/11, two hijacked planes

World Event: struck the World Trade Center,

killing thousands. The first season of Amazing Race debuted. Red, white and blue is everywhere. Flying flags on cars is popular.

TV Show: Popular Fad:

World Event: The United State invades Iraq. TV Show: The popular show NCIS premieres. Dance Dance Revolution, or DDR,

Popular Fad: grew popular and left its mark on our generation.

“I just couldn’t believe [9/11] was real. I wanted to grab my family and keep them close. I felt great grief, sorrow.”

“I think Skype is a really good tool to keep in contact with friends... it’s different than just talking on the phone.”

{math teacher Laurie Deuschle}

{junior Megan York}

Department of Homeland SecuWorld Event: The rity is created in response to 9/11.

TV Show: The American Idol legacy begins. Popular Fad:

Technology:

World Event:

The first thumb drive replaced floppy disks as a portable storage device.

The potential crashing of all computers during Y2K sends the world into a panic.

Suddenly, people everywhere are donning Crocs.

show Gilmore Girls airs and ran for seven seasons.

Popular Fads:

must-have toy for kids of all ages.

“[H the eve life

{so Ja

debuts, revolutionizing the Technology: Facebook world of social networking. An earthquake occurs in the Indian Ocean causing a tsunami that kills 300,000 in and around India. After ten seasons, Friends ends with “The Last One.” Livestrong bracelets showed up, beginning the trend of bracelets for a cure.

World Event: TV Show: Popular Fad:

“[Crocs] are too drafty. I don’t like the style, they’re like made out of foam. The strap just gets in the way.”

“I grew up with [Friends] and watched it with my parents. My favorite was Pheobe, she was so random and crazy.”

{freshman Clifford Vaden}

{junior Brendan Kendall}

{junior Carly Granato}

“I love [Gilmore Girls], because it has really witty dialogue and kind of reminds me of my mom. I record it every single day when it plays and I have the seasons on DVD. I like Jess because he’s The series premiere of the hit Razor scooters emerge as the rebellious, sexy, and he reads.”

TV Shows:

Technology: Guita World Event: Hur stru TV Show: The Office h Popular Fad: Mag featu

is introduced, allowing for easy Technology: Skype face-to-face communication anywhere.

Technology: Segways are released into the market.

200

2004

Then to now: Gas Prices: 2000:

2010:

$1.48 $2.89

per gallon

Video game sales: 2000:

2009:

$6.6

$19.6

billion

Letter 2000:

55.1 billion

Blogs

2004:

million

www.mvnews.org

{feature}

in review

As another new decade begins, take a last look back at the past 10 years

2006

2007

2008

has its first episode.

Technology: The Amazon Kindle is introduced. opens fire at VirginWorld Event: Seung-Huicho ia Tech, killing 32. Up With the Kardashians brings TV Show: Keeping more drama to T.V.

gazines and newspapers began uring Sudoku puzzles.

Popular Fad: over two million times in three

ar Hero is released to the public.

rricane Katrina leaves mass deuction behind in New Orleans.

The “Numa Numa” video was seen months.

Hurricane Katrina] was e most devastating ent I’ve seen in my etime, minus 9/11.”

“A planet’s a planet, no matter how small. Give Pluto a chance.”

{sophomore Allison Mackey}

rs mailed:

iPods sold: 2002:

2010: billion

130 million

2010:

381,000 52.3 million

29.8

2010:

response to the iPhone, Verizon Technology: Inreleases the Motorola Droid. GM files for bankruptcy, represent-

World Event: ing the recession’s wide reaching effects. The Jersey Shore has its first episode.

TV Show: their way onto wrists across Popular Fad: Working America, SillyBandz were irresistable. “I like that you can get on the Internet anywhere, without WiFi, and [the Droid] has an app for everything.”

{sophomore Riley Vomhof}

social networking site Twitter is Technology: The founded in response to Facebook. World Event: Pluto is demoted to a dwarf planet. TV Show: The first episode of Heroes runs. card game Apples to Apples was Popular Fad: The released.

Facebook users: 2004:

2010:

500

million

Source: TIME magazine

2010

2009

“[Numa Numa] was just really dumb. It just makes me laugh because it’s so stupid.”

ophomore Sarah ane Clark}

{sophomore Taylor Hunter}

are released, bringing laptops Technology: Netbooks to an even smaller size. Barack Obama is elected the 44th presi-

World Event: dent making him the first African American president. The hit show Fringe premieres.

TV Show: off-brands like the Slanket, Popular Fad: Spawning the Snuggie rapidly gained followers. “Snuggies are the most creative invention and I wish I had invented it, then I’d be a billionaire.”

{freshman Alana Flinn}

{social studies teacher Chris Technology: World Event: Apple releases the iPad, a tablet North Korea opens fire over Dunback} with a 9.7 inch touch screen in- their southern border on a “It’s very scary. I don’t know why [North Korea is] doing it. It seems like they’re increasing tensions irrationally... Basically, the South Korean government says that if it happens again, they will open fire. It’s not good when you’re going against a country with nuclear weapons.”

terface.

South Korean guard post, the first shootings between the countries since 2007.

TV Shows:

Popular Fads:

Featuring inspirational people from all walks of life, World of Jenks premieres on MTV.

3D brings movies to life in an entirely new way, inspiring movies such as Avatar and Pirahna 3D. Photos by: Taylor Young and Ali Judy

Dec. 16, 2010

{opinion}

StaffEditorial

Full day finals not beneficial to students or staff Half day finals days would give high school students needed study time

Cartoon by Asia Yates

In today’s society everyone is always at the keyboard maya sudduth {reporter}

We shouldn’t be so obessed with the technology surrounding us When I think of technology I think of a large electronic Venus flytrap snapping shut on any creative thought that may flow from a person’s imagination. Technology isn’t just devouring creativity but also our way of life. Auto-Tune is a prime example of technology killing creativity. To put things simply AutoTune is a program that could make the screeching that I call singing sound like a melody sung by Mariah Carey herself. Though this would boost my self-esteem a couple points, it’s a tragedy to the music industry. By creating Auto-Tune real musicians do not get their dues and that leads to the break-

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{opinion} 13

www.mvnews.org

AP classes aren’t the only Christmas should be a time of way to show off your smarts family, not bargain hunting lisa joerling {reporter}

AP classes can be rewarding, but you have to weigh your options

“I have so much homework.” This is something I hear daily from my friends, especially the ones who are taking numerous Advanced Placement, or AP, classes. With the recent addition of AP classes, more and more students are packing on the work. Teachers and administrators should focus more on the gap between the above and below average kids. They can do this by adding more classes that will appeal to students on all levels. Studies show more students are taking AP classes and tests up 12 percent in Missouri alone. AP classes are great for GPA’s but not taking them doesn’t mean you won’t get into a college or get a good education. Our school and schools around the country are putting more emphasis on students who perform above average and students who perform below average. Just like many of our students, I am one of those in the middle. I don’t take any AP classes and I’m not in any interactions classes, I take the normal classes for my grade and am right on track. Taking AP classes shows and highlights your work ethic, but I don’t think it necessar-

ily means that you are smarter. Being smart is shown in different ways other than just a grade on a test; you can be “smart” or good at playing musical instruments, sports and speaking different languages. I don’t think studying for six hours straight a night proves you are the smartest. Experience plays a role into knowledge. Going places and learning things there teaches you a lot about the world, places and people. AP classes can be rewarding but you have to weigh them against other activities in your life. It’s better to do well in a regular class then do poorly in an AP class. People need to realize it’s not about a grade in a class, or a college you attend, it’s about making the academic choices that are right for you.

kaitlin rounds {reporter}

Holidays should be family bonding time, not shopping for deals time Think back to Black Friday this year. A good portion of the United States population woke up at unnatural hours in order to get the best deals on Christmas gifts. However, the deal searching does not end with the last weekend of November. The entire month of December is filled with trying to find the cheapest gifts and at the same time spreading your money as thin

Cartoon by Asia Yates

as possible to please as many friends and relatives as possible. Soon, any Christmas observer will be filled with the desire to shop and will forget about slowing down to enjoy the holiday season. In the last few decades and this one especially, the focus on the commercial aspect of Christmas has completely overcome the family aspect. Think about how Christmas in America was 100 years ago. Children were thrilled to receive one toy and Christmas dinner with their family was the highlight of the season. In modern time kids expect dozens of toys, and no one has a problem with receiving gifts that cost hundreds of dollars, like iPads and smart phones. The over-commercialization of Christmas has escalated to a ridiculous point over the last few years. Americans need to step back and reevaluate what is really important this holiday season. If buying and receiving the most gifts possible is what’s important to you, Christmas may not be the best holiday for you anyway. Christmas is a time to take a break from the real world of work and enjoy the company of those who are closest to you. Taking the focus away from this happiness are advertisements encouraging people to buy and spend their way into the hearts of loved ones. Instead of winning love superficially through gifts, Christmas celebrants should bond more over family movie nights or sharing memories in front of the fire.

Promoting diversity is counterproductive and contradicting emily johnson {reporter/photographer}

It is human nature to see inherent differences that people possess The goal of promoting diversity is contradictory. The whole point is to encourage acceptance, right? To remind people not to judge based on race, religion, gender, etc. But in order to do this, diversity advocates usually define characteristics that make people different. They enhance them, evaluate them, and make high school students think about differences that they had never noticed before.

This whole process is flawed. It is counter- was the key to getting the blocks into the buckproductive to point out the qualities that are et. But in the end, you knew they were all blocks trying to be diminished. And, realistically, it isn’t and they all end up in the same place. As adults, our brains work essentially the going to work, at least not to the extent that is same way. In our minds, intended. It won’t work we have to find a way to because, from the beginsort all of the information ning, we are programmed “In our minds, we have that we come into contact to group things based on to find a way to sort all with on a daily basis. To their characteristics. of the information that do this, we find similariAs babies, we are taught we come into contact ties and dissimilarities to categorize, sort and with on a daily basis.” with the items in our generalize based on differlife and use these ences be it color, shape or to put them into a size. Our parents give us a group. The same bucket with a lid which has for human characlots of different shaped slots and several colored a p p l i e s Whether intentional or blocks in corresponding shapes. You had to t e r i s t i c s . determine which characteristic, color or shape, not, everyone categorizes people based

their individual qualities and there is almost nothing we can do to stop this. Until the entire world is made up of one race, one religion, and they have found some alternative means of reproduction, there will be bias. In the high school world, diversity can be a point of contention but I believe most issues in high schools about racial or judgmental comments are due to misunderstanding rather than cruelty. While there are definitely people out there who mean intentional harm with the things they say, most people don’t. Most conflict causing comments are taken negatively because, sometimes, we define ourselves as we think others see us, as society has defined us. Then it is assumed that this is a negative view. But truth is, we are all different. That’s how other people see us, and it isn’t going to change.

YouSaidIt Do you think the holidays have become commercialized? “Yes. We need to get back to basics. Everythings about gifts these days.” {freshman Regan Wright}

“Yes. It used to be about religion and faith. Now it’s about profits.” {sophomore Hugh Ebb}

“No. They’re about happiness and family. TV ads shouldn’t matter.” {Junior Morgan Ottesen}

“No. How you celebrate should be based on personal traditions.” {senior Rory Smith}

Photos by Kat Rainey

14 {sports} New team name hurts KC soccer

kaitlyn butko {editor-in-chief}

Dec. 16, 2010

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{sports}

One meet

Preview

Two experiences

Waking up at 5:45 a.m. to be at the school by 6, senior Leo Beck prepares for the Kaw Valley League tournament on Saturday, Dec. 4. The tournament is the first of the year and pits all eight schools in the league against each other. Before the team can leave for the meet, every member must be weighed in and receive a hydration test from building activities coordinator Matt Fedde. “The weight checks are to be sure the athletes are within a similar size range. It’s really a matter of fairness,” Fedde said. “The hydration is purely a matter of safety.” After each wrestler has weighed in, the team came together to eat breakfast and relax before loading the bus for the drive to Lansing High School. “[On the bus], everyone is quiet,” head wrestling coach Travis Keal said. “They are getting ready to wrestle and thinking about what they have to do.” Arriving at Lansing around 8 a.m., the team dressed, relaxed and began to warm up before the competition begins at nine. “I get psyched for the match during warm up,” Beck said. “Then I relax until about the 153 weight class, that’s when the banging music starts.” The team is divided into 14 weight classes, from 103 to 285 pounds, competing in order from lowest to highest weight. Legs shoulder-width apart, arms bent at the elbow, hands clasped, face tight with concentration, offering instructions such as “start at the wrist,” and “hips,” Keal watches every match intently. “I try to treat each boy the same,” Keal said. “I try to stay calm and positive, no matter the outcome.” Beck finally got the opportunity during the team’s second match, winning his first match due to an open spot in his weight class on the Basehor- Linwood team. Shaking the hand of his opponent, junior Emilo Calderon from Bishop Ward High School, Beck bends at the knees and prepares to wrestle at last. Squaring off at first and fighting for dominance, a struggle ensues and after two minutes Beck pins his opponent, effectively ending the match four minutes early. “I always try to get the pin,” Beck said. “The team relies on Zach [Callahan] and I. We are the last ones to wrestle and the last hope for the team to gain points.” Wrestling meets are won based on a system of points; a player re-

ceives two points for a takedown, one point for an escape and automatically wins with a pin. The team who gains the most points overall wins the match and moves on in the tournament. Individuals are also judged on how many points they win individually. Signaling his win, the referee raises Beck’s hand before he jogs over to shake the other teams coaches hands, before returning to his own bench and being congratulated by his teammates. Finally done for the day, after 11 hours at the tournament, Beck, Keal and the team placed fourth and stayed to watch the final heavy weight match that gave Lansing the win, before loading the bus to return home.

Boys Basketball

Playing its next game on Friday, Dec. 17, at home against Turner, the team is looking for its first win of the year. Head coach Justin Bogart expects the team to show energy, like the defense has all season. “We expect to come with an energy,” Bogart said. “That will put us in a position to win the game.”

sarah fulton {sports editor}

A long day of preparation lead to the wresting team’s placement in the first tournment of the year

Girls Basketball

Hoping to improve the team’s 2-1 record, head coach John McFall is looking for consistency in the next home game against Turner on Friday, Dec. 17. “You have to have defense, offense and take good shots,” McFall said. “As long as you do those things well you are in a position to win.”

Wrestling

The team will be competing next at the Johnson County Classic, hosted at Blue Valley,on Dec. 17 -18. Head coach Travis Keal has high expectations for the upcoming meet and every meet. “[I expect] to get first,” Keal said. “To wrestle well and improve our wrestling.”

Player spotlight

Senior Julia Buescher: Basketball

What sports do you play? I play basketball in the winter and run track in the spring. When and why did you start playing basketball? I started off in soccer and that did not work well for me so I moved to basketball and it clicked. What position do you play? Post, the job is mainly to get rebounds and score lay ups, short shots. What are your goals for the season? For the team, I want us to go to state. For me, I just want to get better every day.

TOP: SENIOR LEO BECK and junior Zach Callahan yell praise as senior Andrew Van Holland wrestles in his second match at the Saturday, Dec. 5 dual at Lansing. ABOVE: BECK GOES FOR his second pin of the day against his Lansing opponent. LEFT: HEAD COACH TRAVIS Keal yells direction and encouragement as he watches a match in antidipation. Photos by Emily Johnson

What is your favorite basketball memory? When Emily Eaton scored a half court shot against Bonner Springs. She is a post, that never happens.

Dec. 16, 2010

{a&e}

Looking past The Nutcracker’s

snowflakes dancing rats

mackenzie hampton {managing editor}

Hours of hard work behind the scenes helps this ballet work “Take a step out stage right a little more. Knees up knees up. Right on center.” The voice of Ballet master James Jordan projected through a microphone headset as he critiqued his cast during rehearsal. The Kansas City Ballet’s 38th production of The Nutcracker was a work of art in progress. Jordan has been involved in some form of this production for more than 20 years and is more than experienced with preparations prior to the show. Before the deep red curtains continue to open to audiences Dec. 17-19 and Dec. 21-24, many things must be done. “Rehearsals begin in October once casting is complete. We review and relearn the steps and the blocking with live music and the cast,” Jordan said. “The costume shop repairs and rebuilds the costumes and the production repairs and prepares the sets and props as well. It never really ends.” Many hours are spent practicing for the big performance as well. According to Jordan, depending on the role, to be cast requires a level of commitment in class at the KC Ballet School. Rehearsals are every weekend which ends up being approximately 5-15 hours a week in addition to a member’s class. Senior Kramer Pruitt from Raymore Peculiar High School has been in The Nutcracker since 2003 and

started dancing when she was three years old. She has dedicated her time seven days a week, three to four hours a night and all day Saturday and Sunday to Nutcracker practices and rehearsals. Pruitt sees many benefits out of being a part of the KC Ballet and The Nutcracker. “With the Kansas City Ballet you get an awesome education in dance. For The Nutcracker you get to work alongside the professionals and it gives you a glimpse into the real life of a dancer,” Pruitt said. Pruitt and Jordan aren’t the only ones who are busy getting ready. Ellen McDonald is the KC Ballet’s publicist and does a lot of work behind the scenes to help advertise. “We advertise the good old fashion way. There’s a huge ad in the Kansas City Star, we are online and we have 30 second spots on major TV networks and the radio,” McDonald said. “It also takes about 100 people to run the show behind the scenes including production managers, stage managers, stage hands, three to four light boards and the marketing and box office.” Regardless of the stress and crunch time of the show, Jordan enjoys everything about being a part of The Nutcracker. “To see this entire production come together never fails to move me,” Jordan said. “I’m honored to play a small part in creating this magic for everyone to enjoy,” Visit kcballet.org to view show times, ticket pricing and fun facts about The Nutcracker ballet.

Former castmember Alison Brookhart

gives insight

classes and rehearsed after class and on the weekends.

> What kind of experience was needed to try-

> How many years did you dance with the KC Ballet? Four and a half.

> What roles have you played? My first year, when I was in third grade I played an angel and a gingerbread man. My second year, when I was in fourth grade, I was a party guest in the party scene at Clara’s house. And my third year, when I was in fifth grade, I played a mouse.

> Why did you want to be a part of it?

I loved to dance and looked up to the company members. It was so exciting to be dancing with professional ballerinas. Another reason was because I loved performing.

> How many hours did you have to commit for

the show and other classes at KC Ballet? By the time I was in fifth grade I was taking three one and a half hour classes a week. Once rehearsals for the show started I took my regular

out? Because I was so young, a lot of the try-out process was based on your size. They use the same costumes every year so they have to find the dancer that fits the costume, not the other way around. As you get older and the roles include more dancing you have to dance with the other girls who are going up for the same part.

> What did you take away from your experience?

Performing with the KC Ballet has given me an inside look at what it really means to be a ballerina. It has also opened other doors for later performances. FAR ABOVE: THE NUTCRACKER, THE main role of the play, fights the Mouse King at rehearsal on Sunday, Dec. 5. ABOVE: AT THE KANSAS City Ballet the lead angel dances with her partner while they rehearse Act 1 on Sunday, Dec. 5. LEFT: A DANCER GATHERS children who are performing in the The Nutcracker on stage to go over a scene. Photos by Ali Judy

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We want to hear from YOU. Got an opinion you want to share with the student body? Got a comment about a recent story or topic in the JagWire?

Send us your letters to the editor Drop them by C101 or email them to khabiger@usd232.org. *We reserve the right to edit letters for length or for inappro priate content. Keep ‘em short and keep ‘em clean.

Dec. 16, 2010

{a&e}

The JagWire challenged four students to a gingerbread house making contest. The contest was judged by choir teacher Sheree Stoppel, and freshmen Amanda Dotts and Emily Rice. Here are the results of

JagWire VS

Illustration by Asia Yates

Extreme Home Makeover: Gingerbread Edition

hanna torline {reporter}

> Team members:

Junior Brayton Young, sophomores Megan Marquardt and Riley Vomhof, and freshmen Chandler Nuenstedt and Donna Gentry.

> What they did:

> The experience:

“There are okay gingerbread houses, there are good gingerbread houses, and there are great gingerbread houses,” Young said. “Ours was great, especially the car.”

> Panel Ratings:

> Team members: Senior Asia Yates, juniors Courtney Cooke, Sarah Ful-

The JagWire

ton and Sarah Gonzales, and sophomore Austin Gude.

Stoppel-Dotts-Rice 8-7-5 20/30 10-8-9 27/30 8-6-5 19/30 10-8-9 27/30 36-29-28 93/120

> Panel Comments: “The mobile home was really creative,” Dotts said.

> What they did:

Neatness: Creativity: Sturdiness: Use of Materials: Total:

! R E INN

> The experience: “We

put hard work and effort into it,” Yates said. “Newspaper helps build creativity and teach teamwork, so we learned good qualities to apply.”

> Panel Ratings:

Neatness: Creativity: Sturdiness: Use of Materials: Total:

Stoppel-Dotts-Rice 10-8-8 26/30 8-6-8 22/30 10-9-9 28/30 10-8-7 25/30 38-31-32 101/120

>Panel Comments: “Both teams did a good job, but [The JagWire] gingerbread house won on neatness,” Stoppel said.

{a&e} 19

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Cheesy Holiday Sweater Time With the holidays, awesomely bad holiday sweaters follow lauren proctor {a&e editor}

Senior Kelsie Schuman Q: Why do you love your holiday sweater? A: [I like it] because it smells like moth balls. It’s also itchy and a little too short. There’s nothing I can find wrong with it. Q: Where do you get your holiday sweaters? A: Generally speaking, I don’t purchase them. I find them in dumpsters or in the homes of people who have recently passed away.

Where can you get your own cheesy holiday sweater? > Rusty Zipper

Q: What reactions have you gotten to your holiday sweaters? A: Usually people wrinkle up their noses at me. One guy said, “Hey! That’s the coolest sweater I’ve ever seen. You should knit me one when you’re seventy years old.” That had to be my favorite comment. Q: Who got you into holiday sweaters? A: I’d have to say my inspiration would be Klaus Baudelaire from A Series of Unfortunate Events. He’s my number one role model. Q: What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a holiday sweater? A: $0.45. A whole week’s paycheck, but it was worth it because it had a polar bear on it.

Bow down to this holiday beauty. Price: $32 Visit: http://www.rustyzipper.com.

Senior Max Ravenscroft Q: Why do you love your holiday sweaters? A: [I like them] because they keep me warm and snuggly. You know, I’m lucky I’m actually able to look ravishing in them.

> Buy Ugly Sweaters

Q: Where do you get your holiday sweaters? A: Goodwill, but I wash them like eight times. Q: What reactions have you gotten to your holiday sweaters? A: “Nice sweater,” “You look nice,” “I want to make out with you,” “Have my children,” “Go on a cruise with me,” “Ride off into the sunset on a motorcycle with me.” Q: Who got you into holiday sweaters? A: I just saw some at Kohl’s and I was like “Dang, those are ugly.” So I went to Goodwill and got some. Q: What’s the most you’ve ever paid for a holiday sweater? A: $3.50. For the win. lisa joerling {reporter}

Sophmore Stephen McEnery

Freeze your friends with your fashion sense. Price: $20 Visit: http://www.buyuglysweaters.

> Casual Living USA

Q: Why do you love your holiday sweaters? A: Well, I love Christmas. Q:Where do you get your holiday sweaters? A: I don’t know, I’ve had it forever. It’s older than I am. Q: What reactions have you gotten from your holiday sweaters? A: Honestly, I don’t think anyone notices my sweaters. Q: Who got you into holiday sweaters? A: No one really. When I was younger I would see people with tacky sweaters and I would think wow, that could be me someday.

Photos by Kat Rainey

Q:What’s the most you’ve paid for a holiday sweater? A: I’ve never paid for a sweater. I generally just get them from people who don’t want them anymore.

For those who like to keep it classy. Price: $79 Visit: http://www.casuallivingusa.

Dec. 16, 2010

{photo essay}

Basketball girls take the court

kristina milewski {features editor}

Multiple parts of girls basketball game come together for first win the band,” McFall said. As fans cheered in the crowded stands Thursday, Dec. 7, the girls varsity basketball team ran up and down the court in an attempt to beat their opponent, Blue Valley Northwest. Cheerleaders filled the gym with chants and cheers, fans yelled from the stands, and the band played in celebration after winning 53-49. Many contributing elements go into home basketball games, and without these elements, the basketball event wouldn’t appeal to such a large audience. New head girls basketball coach John McFall said that there are many things that make up the game atmosphere. “It’s not only about the people playing the game, it’s all the different interactions going on such as the fans, the crowd, and

McFall heavily relies on the basketball managers to keep track of the teams’ statistics, filming the game, and numerous other tasks. “There’s a lot of things that people to to making these games possible,” Mcfall said. “That’s where good managers come in. Good managers make me a good coach.” But the most important element, according to McFall, is the enthusiasm of the crowd. “You’ve got to feed off of the enthusiasm of the crowd,” McFall said. “If the stands are crowded, the fans must like the team, they’ve earned the right to play in front of a big crowd.” The jaguars will be back in action on their home court again tomorrow.

FAR RIGHT: SENIORS JULIA BUESCHER, Emily Eaton, freshman Mary Altman, and senior Jessica Lopez celebrate a successful basket during the Tuesday, Dec. 7 game against GardnerEdgerton. RIGHT: THE CUSTODIAL STAFF picks up the players’ chairs after the Thursday, Dec. 2 win against Blue Valley Northwest. The final score was 52-49. Photos by Emily Johnson

FAR left: PERCUSSIONISTS, SOPHOMORE ANDREW Eigsti, freshman Stephen Muir, and junior Ryan Hannah perform the fight song with the pep band. Photo by Emily Johnson Left: Varsity cheerleaders throw sophomore Rachel Allen into the air during the girls basketball game on Thursday, Dec. 2. Photo by Kristina Milewski Above: COACH JOHN MCFALL gives direction to some of the younger players during a time-out in the second half of the game. Photo by Emily Johnson