Volume 12, Issue 5

JagWire FEB. 3, 2012 | WWW.MVNEWS.ORG | VOL. 12, ISSUE 5

page 6

Early release aids in student attendance

pages 10-11

Local shelter helps animals and families

page 15

Wrestlers prepare behind the scenes

Divided days Option allows students flexibility in schedule page 8

MILL VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL | 5900 MONTICELLO ROAD, SHAWNEE, KAN. 66226 | (913) 422-4351

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NOTABLES

School adds Thespian Troupe drama club KATIE LINSEY

jagwire.katielinsey@gmail.com

INthisISSUE News:

page 6: Early release

Features:

page 10-11: Animal shelters

Opinion:

page 12-13: Staff opinions

Sports:

page 14: Fantasy football

AUDITIONING FOR THE spring play, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, sophomore and Thespian Troupe member Tori Kilkenny performs her monologue on Monday, Jan. 30.

Photo by Alec Santaularia

“I joined Thespians because I love theater and the people in it,” Patterson said. “Also, it’s a great

way to be creative and have fun with the people I like to be around.

Class to play music at lunch CORY REINOEHL in my junior high.”

The project was first thought As another incentive to stu- up when iPods were allowed to dents, band teacher Debra Stein- be listened to during lunch, and er’s Multimedia Music classes students from last semester also will soon play music during got to make their own playlist lunch. for lunch, including junior Ra“It’s actually a project we chael Blair. do in my Multimedia class.

“Playing music during lunch The purpose is to learn how to would make music available to work the [Adobe] Soundbooth,” everyone even if they don’t have Steiner said. iPods.” Blair said. “Also, it could The project does not just just be the fact that it’s a creative serve as entertainment during way to introduce different varilunch for all the students, but eties of music to people, and it’s also it provides a purpose for the just fun.” students executing it.

Vice principal Jennifer Smith “I thought it would be just will meet with the Student kind of nice for you guys to have Leadership Team next week to [music during lunch],” Steiner discuss the timeline of the events said. “We used to have a juke box that will put the plan into action. jagwire.coryreinoehl@gmail.com

MONTHinTHREE Bowling team

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Thespian Troupe, a national honorary society for gifted actors, has been added as a dramarelated club as of Monday, Dec. 12.

The application based club consists of 10 members and meets one Wednesday a month to arrange activities. The club plans to participate in activities throughout the year, organized by club sponsor Jon Copeland.

“As a new troupe, we are deciding what to do this year,” Copeland said. “We plan to make trips to see other high school drama productions in the area.”

Junior Cierra Patterson enjoys sharing her talent.

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BRIEFS

THE JAGWIRE | WWW.MVNEWS.ORG | FEB. 3, 2012

New Thespian Troupe attracts 10 student members.

Swimming teams will be added to De Soto and Mill Valley High Schools next year after the school board voted 6-1 on Monday, Jan. 9. Estimated costs of the teams are $35,838 based on 24 students participating.

The annual Polar Plunge took place Saturday, Jan. 28 at Shawnee Mission Park to raise money for Special Olympics. The 15-member Science Olympiad team received elite medals at the Northland Invitational on Saturday, Jan. 7. WPA will be a mixer after the Friday, Feb. 24 basketball game. Juniors Marina Bernal, Jessica Dominguez, and Juliana Ayala were recently selected along with 100 others to participate in the 2012 KC BizFest program event in February. Students in the Multimedia class will soon play music at lunch. Clear Creek Elementary school teacher Sara Gehrt and De Soto High School teacher Lindsay Hothan were selected as 2012 Kansas Horizon Award winners. Prom will be held at Club 1000 instead of the Civic Center.

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would be

$1,493.25 per swimmer

The money would go towards:

-Transportation

-Facilities -Coaching -Equipment -Other needs -Bags, practice uniforms -Practices and meets

WPA decision >

Describing the month in numbers

Part- time students

Early release

A&E:

page 19: Headphones

27

Members on the team

57

Seniors who qualified

702

$35,838 for a team of 24 swimmers

Highest number of students qualifying in one week for the month

DISCUSSING THE DETAILS of WPA on Friday, Jan. 27, junior Hailee Windsor shares her ideas of what the event should be like. “I feel like the principal’s considered the dance team’s and cheer team’s perspective, but they didn’t consider it to be an overall school opinion,” Windsor said. Photo by Kelsey Floyd

LISA JOERLING

jagwire.lisajoerling@gmail.com

Despite two girls from both the dance team and cheer team advocating for a formal dance, WPA will be an informal mixer on Friday, Feb. 24 after the basketball game against Bishop Ward High School. The girls met with principal Tobie Waldeck and discussed reasons why they believe the dance should be formal.

“We really had no idea the dance wouldn’t be formal,” junior dancer Josie Hanson said. “We found out about two weeks ago it was still planned as a mixer.”

Junior cheerleader Jenna Middaugh also thought the dance would be formal.

“We figured WPA would be formal this year because Homecoming went so well,” Middaugh said.

The teams presented Waldeck with a list of reasons for a formal dance, including that Homecoming was successful, it’s a fundraiser for both teams, the majority of students would like it to be formal and boys already pay for two dances, this would be one girls would pay for.

Despite the points made at the meeting, the decision remains in place.

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theOUTLOOK

THE JAGWIRE | WWW.MVNEWS.ORG | FEB. 3, 2012

News you need to know from this month Deffenbaugh works to eliminate stench emanating from landfill

LEFT: THE GROUNDWORK FOR Shawnee’s new EcoCommerce Center along the Kansas River has been set. “This project is a 30 year vision. It will take decades for the business park to build out,” Shawnee city manager Carol Gonzales said. FAR LEFT: DEFFENBAUGH SPOKESPERSON TOM Coffman explains the process of deodorizing the local landfill with the new industrial deodorizers.

“The deodorizers have made a huge difference in the odor,” Coffman said.

Photos by Courtney Minter

REGAN JONES

jagwire.reganjones@gmail.com

Johnson Drive and I-435 Highway

The City of Shawnee begins to develop Eco-commerce center RYAN FULLERTON

jagwire.ryanfullerton@gmail.com

K-7 Highway and 47th Street With the intent of providing an eco-friendly business and recreational park, the 182 acres of land near the Kansas River and K-7 Highway will be converted into the Eco-Commerce Center within the next 30 years.

“About eight years ago during strategic planning discussions of leaders in the community, it became apparent that the city was running out of ‘shovel-ready’ land that was appropriate for logistics/distribution and large warehouse-type buildings,” Shawnee city manager Carol Gonzales said. “The success of Perimeter Park … indicated that the city is attractive to that type of business ... it contributes good paying full time jobs and good property tax base support.”

According to Shawnee city engineer Doug Wesselschmidt, the purposes of the center are not only ecological but economical.

“The main goal and purpose of it would be to create space for a new business and industrial park in the city of Shawnee,” Wesselschmidt said. “The purpose of that is to create jobs, services, and to broaden the property tax space of the city.”

Eco-friendly plans include solar street lighting, water conservation, wind power and geothermal heating.

The city was first attracted to the area when the Holliday Sand and Gravel Company approached the city about excavating the sand around 43rd Street and K-7 Highway to create a lake. Since then, the city has become interested in capitalizing on that opportunity to create the center.

“That plan evolved and looked like it would be feasible from a layout standpoint, and that it would be beneficial to incorporate the area north of Holliday’s land also,” Gonzales said. “Work began with Holliday Sand and with the property owners of the northern area to discuss the feasibility.”

Different studies have since been conducted on the costs of utilities such as sewers, gas and electricity, as well as whether or not the site would be financially beneficial to developers.

This information will be presented to both city council and the current landowners, who they must convince to sell their property to the city for use.

“Property owners have indicated their interest in selling their property, but no formal agreements have been made, as we haven’t had a developer step up yet interested in developing the area,” Gonzales said.

Dealing with multiple property owners has complicated the process.

“If there was just one property owner...then the city would just be working with one person on how to develop the center,” Wesselschmidt said. “[Having multiple owners] makes the process take longer to build consensus between multiple people instead of just one person.”

The cost of utilities construction alone is $9,475,000-$12,360,000, although where the money will come from has not been determined.

In the end, Wesselschmidt and Gonzales believe now is a good time to start planning, for the same reason.

“These things take years—there are businesses out there who want to build,” Gonzales said. “We need to get the site ready. It will take decades for the business park to build out.”

Deffenbaugh recently installed two deodorizers that help eliminate the odor coming from the landfill.

The deodorizers were bought from Piian Systems for $125,000. As of now, Deffenbaugh spent around $75,000 on chemicals for the deodorizers.

The deodorizers are programmed to spray chemicals through 6,000 feet of hose every time a strong wind comes through the landfill. Once the chemical sprays, it binds onto the odor molecules and eliminates them.

Deffenbaugh spokesperson Tom Coffman said that the deodorizers have been a big help.

“We were having odor problems whenever we got closer to Johnson Drive. So, this increased our waste mask,” Coffman said. “The deodorizers have made a huge difference.”

As opposed to masking agents, which have previously been used, the chemicals work better.

Coffman said Deffenbaugh even attempted to use a coffee scent to cover the smells.

“We tried to use a coffee smell because everyone likes the smell of coffee, but it didn’t really work out,” Coffman said.

Sophomore Alex Grey said that the deodorizers have helped.

“The deodorizers have kind of made a difference over by where I live,” Grey said.

Sophomore Lindsey Jackson disagrees.

“I can’t tell a difference with the deodorizers,” Jackson said. “In the past I never really noticed it much, but it kind of just smelled like a trash can.”

INtheNEWS New attractions that are coming soon to the Shawnee area Chipotle

Johnson County Library

Quivira Road and Shawnee Mission Parkway

Shawnee Mission Parkway and W. 66th Terrace

Chipotle is set to come to Quivira Road and Shawnee Mission Parkway within the near future, however, no date is set to begin development due to issues securing the land.

The Johnson County Library plans to open a new location next to Bank of America, near the intersection of Shawnee Mission Parkway and W. 66th Terrace. The plans for completion, however, are not yet set.

QuikTrip Gas Station Shawnee Mission Parkway and Woodland Drive

QuikTrip has secured land and broken ground to develop a new generation store to be completed in the near future. This store will include not only the typical gas station, but a gourmet coffee bistro as well.

THE JAGWIRE | WWW.MVNEWS.ORG | FEB. 3, 2012

NEWS

5

Photo illustration by Taylor Young and Adam Henderson

Cyberbullying impacts school

courtCASES

Recent events on two social media sites lead to cyberbullying of students online

Cyberbullying cases involving secondary school students increases in recent years

SARAH DARBY

jagwire.sarahdarby@gmail.com

Two incidents on social media sites have recently spurred cyberbullying claims after the sites made fun of students and talk of them spilled over to conversations at school.

The anonymous user responsible for one such account, a Twitter account called @hater_quotez, deactivated the account on Friday, Jan. 13 after being up over winter break. The account targeted a handful of freshmen and eighth grade girls, with tweets bashing them on such topics such as their appearance, weight and personality.

Freshman Hannah Phipps heard about the Twitter account through a friend. The comment about her said, “You’re such a b - - - and you need plastic surgery and facial reconstruction.”

“I definitely think cyberbullying is a show of a really insecure person because if they really had a problem with someone, they would be able to confront them,” Phipps said.

Phipps said @hater_quotez tweeted 16 girls, saying things like they were ugly or needed to stop bleaching their hair.

Another student, freshman Annie Crouch, tweeted the account back to stop after they tweeted that she wore too much makeup.

“It’s just embarrassing to have your name put on there,” Crouch said. “People will notice if you wear too much makeup because it’s on there…I stopped wearing so much makeup because I wondered if maybe I do.”

Five girls reported the account to school resource officer John Midiros, yet cyberbullying differs from other forms of bullying in that in order to take legal action, Midiros must first determine that the incident takes place inside of school and causes a substan-

tial disruption to the school day. The Twitter account fit neither requirement and was ultimately taken down by the person responsible for it at their own discretion. According to both Midiros and principal Tobie Waldeck, the person behind @hater_quotes has not been caught and neither Midiros nor Waldeck are pursuing the account creator.

“I’ve got so many policies, rules and Fourth Amendment rights I have to abide before I can take action, and it’s frustrating,” Midiros said.

Although the school has limited ability to control bullying outside of school, threatening cyberbullying in any setting can become a felony offense. If someone threatens your life,

“I definitely think cyberbullying is a show of a really insecure person,” freshman Hannah Phipps

you as an individual without the school’s help could go to the police. If the cyberbullying severly damages your reputation and invades your personal life, you can sue the person responsible. Midiros has suggestions in dealing with this kind of bullying.

“For evidentiary purposes, always save it,” Midiros said. “Don’t reply to it, don’t stoop to their level basically and do the same thing.”

Waldeck said students could perceive the school as inactive towards cyberbullying . “...You have a cyberbullying incident taking place and news travels fast and people think it’s not being addressed when it actually is,” Waldeck said. “...We take all of these situations seriously and we want Mill Valley to be

a place where students feel safe.”

Another example, which many call the “roasted” page, began on Facebook and became a forum for harsh student comments.

The page, which the school is aware of but cannot shut down, remains intact with nearly 30 fans, down from a 130 fan high. The page features generally unflattering pictures tagged with the names of students.

Despite these incidents, Midiros says he has dealt with less cyberbullying issues this year.

Freshman Averie Niday became affected by the Twitter account after rumors spread she was behind the posts. Niday had never heard of the Twitter account before but had posted on the roasted Facebook page.

Niday says both pages prove a similar idea.

“It just shows people in these grades can be really cruel and not think for anybody else,” Niday said.

The “roasted” page seemed less harsh to Niday.

“I didn’t find it that bad because they didn’t find people who didn’t know about it,” Niday said.

Niday’s point shows how cyberbullying can sometimes be hard to define. Comments on the page seemed to express the idea that it was not bullying.

“It’s obvious people are a little too sensitive in this group…” one comment said.

Despite legal action sometimes being tricky, Midiros emphasizes the importance of telling someone about your experience.

“They’ve got to understand there is help out there. Their friends have to help the most,” Midiros said. “[But] as we live in this free speech nation, can we stop everything that everyone’s saying?...We have to learn as a society how to deal with this stuff...There are mean people out there who thrive off of negative comments. It happens every day of our lives.”

KAITLIN ROUNDS

jagwire.kaitlinrounds@gmail.com

>

>

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Snyder v. Blue Mountain State District An eighth grader in Penn. made a MySpace account parodying her principal.

Even though the account contained hurtful lies, since it did not cause “substantial disruption,” the court ruled in favor of the student in on June 13, 2011.

Kowalski v. Berkely County Schools Kara Kowalski, a high school senior from West Virginia created a MySpace page of one her classmates, based off cruel and vulgar details. The 4th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled against the Kowalski saying she used the page to target and attack one student. The official decision was made on July 27, 2011, but Kowalski has appealed to a higher court T.V. and M.K. v. Smith-Green Community School Corp.

Two female students, a 15 and 16 year old, posted raunchy pictures of themselves on Facebook with captions that parents found offensive. The photos were reported to the principal and the girls were suspended from extracurricular activities. The court ruled in favor of the girls on Aug. 10, 2011 because they did not cause “substantial disruption” according to the Tinker v. Des Moines ruling.

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THE JAGWIRE | WWW.MVNEWS.ORG | FEB. 3, 2012

NEWS

Early release affects attendance Early release incentive lowers number of absences and tardies ALYNE ROEMERMAN

jagwire.alyneroemerman@gmail.com

DOMINANT: SOPHOMORE DREW BOATWRIGHT signs out for early release. “I like [early release] because I can get out of school earlier,” Boatwright said ABOVE LEFT: SITTING IN AN empty classroom, sophomores Stephanie Huddleston and Becca Bilyeu work on homework after not qualifiying for early release on Friday, Jan. 13. “I didn’t get [early release] because I had a doctor’s appointment,” Bilyeu said. ABOVE RIGHT: SENIOR MORGAN OTTESEN jumps for joy on her way out of school after earning early release on Friday, Jan. 20. “I was really excited because I was getting new reeds for my saxophone,” Ottesen said. Photos by Alec Santaularia

BYtheNUMBERS 10%

Excused absences

20%

Percentages represent the decrease in excused absences, excused tardies and unexcused tardies since last year

30%

40%

50%

60%

70%

80%

90%

33%

decrease

83%

Excused tardies Unexcused tardies

Early release on Fridays, a policy put in place as part of the districtwide initiative Positive Behavior Intervention Supports, or PBIS, succeeded in improving attendance last semester according to associate principal Jennifer Smith.

Smith calculated that excused absences have decreased by 33 percent, excused tardies by 83 percent and unexcused tardies by 41 percent.

“I’ve heard a lot of feedback, both positive and some things that people would recommend to make it better,” Smith said. “...one of the main reasons why we put it in place was to increase attendance and it has had a significant impact on that.”

Sophomore Drew Boatwright enjoys the incentive.

“I like getting out early,” Boatwright said. “I like how they reward us for getting good grades and trying hard in school.”

According to Smith, staff also benefits from the policy.

“I think a lot of teachers enjoy having their students in class so they can actually learn what’s being taught,” Smith said.

Social studies teacher Chris Dunback agrees with Smith that early release is a positive change.

“I thought it was very successful,” Dunback said. “I think we found something that the kids are willing to work for a little bit so I think it was a good change.”

During the second week of third quarter, between Monday, Jan. 9-Friday, Jan. 13, 702 students qualified for early release, the highest yet.

Smith hopes students who qualified

for the first time will be motivated to keep their grades up and not miss school in order to qualify again.

“I’m hoping that…more people have that opportunity to take advantage of the early release,” Smith said. “I really am excited every week when I see the list come through of how many students are actually qualified because that means students are getting more out of their education.”

Smith recognizes the frustration felt by students who do not qualify for reasons such as doctors’ appointments that cause them to miss school.

Recommendations from teachers for future changes include adjusting the policy to account for absences such as appointments during seminar or using emergency tardies.

Some students, however, are unable to leave early even if they do qualify, such as junior Stephanie Ciston.

“I just don’t have a ride and it’s easier to stay here,” Ciston said.

She also said she would rather be able to add up her early release time and get a whole day off of school at the end of the year, rather than only getting to miss 40 minutes a week.

The administration plans to continue working with the student leadership teams put together first semester to assist with the implementation of PBIS to consider policy changes and future incentives, such as playing music in the cafeteria.

Smith hopes future incentives will improve the school culture as a whole.

“We talked about things we could do to get people excited about activities and games and things going on in our school to build that community feel,” Smith said. “You have to all work together to develop that climate and to make it a place people want to be.”

decrease

41%

decrease

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My Life: PART-TIME SINCE SENIOR PART-TIME students Kyle Hoener and Jessica Nguyen now only have four classes each, they have a chance to spend more time at home, community college and work. Photo illustration by Brandon Burnworth and Kelsey Floyd

A large increase in part-time students allows schedule flexibility KRISTINA MILEWSKI

jagwire.kristinamilewski@gmail.com

While most students spend seven hours at school, part-time students may only be at school for a few hours or may even come every other day. With 57 part-time students currently, there has been a noticeable increase from the 40 part-time students last year.

Senior Kyle Hoener decided to do part-time school in order to work more at his job as a dish washer at Fritz’s.

In addition to working, Hoener also has more time to do things he enjoys. “[Part-time school] is beneficial because now I have time to do my hobbies like knitting and cleaning,” Hoener said, jokingly.

In order to apply for part-time school, an application must be filled out and approved by administration.

“You fill out a form first semester

and write down the classes to keep,” tional Therapy.

“I just have a lot more time to focus Hoener said. “Then I had to write a letter to the principal. They look it over on necessary classes,” Nguyen said. “I like being able to focus.” and then make a decision.”

Nguyen starts her day around 7:40 Senior Jessica Nguyen decided to go part-time in order to spend time with a.m., taking her sister to school. Nguyen comes home, exercises, then gets her family.

“I have more time for my siblings ready for school. After school, Nguynow,” Nguyen said. “I take them to en attends JCCC classes three times a week. She likes school and take care part-time school of them.” because she gets Since beginning to see her parents part-time second semester, Nguyen “I just have a lot more time to more often. focus on necessary classes,” “I like that is only at school for senior Jessica Nguyen I get to see my two blocks per day. parents and have “I’m only here breakfast with for four hours a day, them,” Nguyen so the school day said. goes by much fastNguyen said the positives of parter,” Nguyen said. “I can endure school time greatly outweigh the negatives. longer.”

Nguyen also takes classes at John- The only downside is not being able to son County Community College to see her friends as often, though she enget prerequisite credits before attending joys being with her family instead.

“This morning before school, I Rockhurst University to study Occupahelped my dad decorate for Chinese New Year,” Nguyen said. “I love spending time with my family. It’s nice being with them.”

PARTtimeLIFE senior Jenna Dickman Part-time student Jenna Dickman shares her schedule

> 7:15 a.m Wake up and get ready for school a.m. College Algebra with math teacher >7:50 Allison Blanchard a.m. English with English teacher Lindsey >9:20 Prewitt >10:50 a.m. Government with social studies teacher Chris Dunback. >12:38 p.m. Go home and sleep p.m. Sociology and Composition I classes at >2Johnson County Community College 4:20 p.m.

Work at Lifetime Fitness as a swim > instructor

ABOVE: SENIOR JESSICA NGUYEN spends her mornings with her parents now that she is a part-time student.

On Thursday, Jan. 19, preparing for the Chinese New Year, Nguyen helps her father set up their tree. “I get to spend more time with my parents...it’s nice to have some morning time with them,” Nguyen said. RIGHT: RUNNING ON HER treadmill, senior Jessica Nguyen appreciates that she has more time in the morning to do things she normally couldn’t. “My parents had bought me a new treadmill last year and I didn’t really have the time to use it much until now,” Nguyen said. Photos by Kelsey Floyd

STUDYING IN ENGLISH on Monday, Jan. 30, senior Kyle Hoener enjoys a lighter school work load with only two classes a day. “The only bad part [about part-time] is that you don’t get the masterfully crafted fab school lunch everyday,” Hoener said. Photo by Kelsey Floyd

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Kill vs. no-kill shelters No-kill

Kill

Piecing it together The JagWire explored a local animal shelter to see how they’re helping to piece together the lives of animals and families in the community SARAH FULTON

jagwire.sarahfulton@gmail.com

A straight quarter-mile-long road leads to a parking lot lined with kennels and a single building.

A rectangular room filled with desks and a wall of leashes welcomes visitors, volunteers and staff as they walk through the tight hallways of the Heartland Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Adoption Center.

Located in Merriam, the Adoption Center, along with the Medical and Lost Pet Centers, house the SPCA. CEO and executive director Courtney Thomas says the overall mission of the SPCA is clear.

“Our strategic goal is to be the driving force behind a no-kill Kansas City. We want there to never be a pet who is adoptable, has a treatable medical or behavioral problem, euthanized in our city,” Thomas said.

The SPCA was formed in June 2011 through a merger of No More Homeless Pets KC and Animal Haven with a goal to change the lives of the 18,000 pets who come through their combined facilities yearly. Thomas was part of the merger.

“Both organizations independently were looking at ways that they could have a broader impact on the commu-

nity,” Thomas said. “Overall, it has to Blair, the most gratifying part of her allowed us to have a stronger connec- job is reuniting pets with their owners.

“A couple had reported their lost tion to our community.”

Thomas also said that the merger Pomeranian with us and they called allowed the programs to save money looking for their dog for about six by combining staffs and services. The months,” Blair said. “Finally, we reSPCA is a 501(c)3 non-profit organi- ceived a dog matching their lost dog zation, meaning that, of its $4 million and called and they were reunited after six months of being apart.” budget, $2.3 million is from donors.

According to Thomas, 68 percent “Everything we do is funded by of dogs are returned the benevolence to their owners and of our commuthe ones who are nity,” Thomas not begin a govsaid.

The 4,000 “Each time you adopt a pet you ernment-required animals brought are essentially saving two lives.” holding period of Director of marketing and three to 10 days, afto the society annually communications Emily Amos ter which they officially become propare processed erty of the shelter. through Intake During the holding Center.

The period, the workers shelter has contracts with animal controls from 12 begin to form connections with the different Johnson County municipali- pets and even name them.

“We name the animals about one ties, including Shawnee, meaning that every animal picked up in those mu- week before they are officially introduced into the shelter,” animal care nicipalities is brought to the SPCA. “Johnson County does not have services team member Jason Herold another shelter, so we are their only said. “After a while you get to know their personalities and we try to give option,” Thomas said.

Intake Coordinator Wendy Blair them a name that fits.”

Names like Asparagus and Beatrice began working for the SPCA seven years ago, after volunteering with the Rose follow the pets to the Adoption organization for 16 years. According Center where 3,000 pets are adopted

animals are euthanized when space becomes too limited to accept new animals

often set qualifications for adoptable dogs and cats, such as good personality or good health

animals who have been at a shelter for the longest period of time will be euthanized as new animals are taken in

dogs and cats deemed unadoptable due to illness, injury or temperament, etc. will still be euthanized

A

S

have to turn animals away when shelter space is full Source: No-Kill BC

Process:

1. Do some research. Know what breed and qualities you want in your pet.

2. Stop by the adoption center. Some shelters require an appointment, but Heartland SPCA is open for you to stop by whenever they are open. Keep in mind that the adoption process takes about two hours.

3. Spend some time. Get to know any pet you are interested in. Heartland SPCA recommends spending 30 minutes with each animal, and that you introduce it to all members of the family, including other pets.

4. Fill out an adoption application. This is to ensure that the pet you want is suited for your lifestyle.

How to adopt

Source: Heartland SPCA

annually.

The center has two cat rooms and several rooms filled with kennels. Volunteers and workers mill about, ready to give recommendations. Adoption coordinator Kara Erickson shared about a cat named Melvin, explaining that he is a heart healer because he loves to cuddle. Finding pets like Melvin their ideal family is a priority of the SPCA according to director of marketing and communications Emily Amos.

“We take pride in really making that match,” Amos said. “Our program does a really great job making that connection.”

According to Amos, the most difficult part of having pets adopted is the cost, range in price from $90-$250, but the shelter often hosts events that waive the adoption fees.

“Each time you adopt a pet you are essentially saving two lives,” Amos said. “The one you adopt and the one that now can occupy its space.”

Thomas believes that all programs offered by Heartland are important as a whole to the 250 animals who call it home everyday.

“For our goal of creating a no-kill society, all of the programs we have are essential,” Thomas said. “Bottom line, the reality of what we are doing is saving lives.”

Top

10 reasons animals

end up in animal shelters

t b S s s a t

t a t t

s

S

v

Dogs: 1. Moving 2. Landlord issues 3. Cost of pet maintenance 4. No time for pet 5. Inadequate facilities 6. Too many pets in home 7. Pet illness[es] 8. Personal problems 9. Biting 10. No homes for littermates

Cats: 1. Too many in house 2. Allergies 3. Moving 4. Cost of pet maintenance 5. Landlord issues 6. No home for littermates 7. House soiling 8. Personal problems 9. Inadequate facilities 10. Doesn’t get along with other pets

Source: Pet Population

H a

W b g c c

W o

F to w s p a b

THE JAGWIRE | WWW.MVNEWS.ORG | FEB. 3, 2012

FEATURE

LEFT: Due to the high amount of animals, towels for pets at the adoption center must be outsourced to a different company for laundering. Heartland SPCA accepts any donations for the homeless pets.

BELOW: Heartland SPCA is funded primarily by donations. Marketing and communications director Emily Amos said that people often donate various dog and cat foods which go to pet owners in need.

Pets are fed Hill’s Science Diet while kenneled. Photos by Kristina Milewski

Adopting the animals

Senior Lindsey Christopher and family foster shelter animals until adopted

senior Lindsey Christopher SARAH GONZALES

jagwire.sarahgonzales@gmail.com

As Shawnee citizen Shanna Christopher walks through the door, she is bombarded by four dogs and two cats.

Shanna and her children, senior Lindsey Christopher and sophomore Brayson Christopher, foster animals that are about to be euthanized or those that are strays.

“I am on an email list and sometimes I get urgent emails to pick up animals,” Shanna said. “Sometimes they send pictures in the emails and they get to me.”

Shanna started fostering animals started in 2001 with a Chihuahua

11

named Chico.

“We had Chico and my greatgrandmother was looking for an animal,” Lindsey said. “We are a little bit different from most foster homes; we are kept on the down low. Usually it is family of friends that we contact to see if they know anybody who would be willing to adopt or if they are looking for a specific type of animal.”

According to Lindsey, the animals that they foster are family-sponsored and paid for out of their own pocket.

“The amount of time that they are here really depends on the animal,” Lindsey said. “We had two cats that were recently adopted and we had them for four years.”

With fostering animals, there are many good and bad aspects.

“I think foster animals are the most appreciative of what you do,” Shanna said. “I think they love you so much more because you saved them. I personally think they can tell when they are saved.”

Shelter

volunteer sophomore Jordon Grundy RYAN FULLERTON

jagwire.ryanfullerton@gmail.com

How did you get involved in animal shelters?

When my mom first opened her business she thought it would be a good idea to get some of the dogs cleaned up to get them a better chance of getting adopted.

What do you do to take care of animals?

For one thing, I encourage people o spay and neuter their dogs so we don’t have as many dogs on the streets. I also encourage other people to go to kill shelters and adopt an animal from there before going to a breeder’s place.

Why do you like to get involved?

Pretty much, to me, I don’t see why people have to abuse dogs by over breeding because they don’t spay and neuter their dogs, so it’s good to give them another chance.

What is your favorite part about volunteering?

I like being able to have confrontation with animals and also, knowing that I am helping animals, I feel better about myself because some people abuse animals whether they know it or not.

FAR ABOVE LEFT: Full-time Heartland SPCA employee Kara Erikson cuddles on Tuesday, Jan. 4 with Melvin, a new-comer to the adoption center. “[Melvin] is really sweet and loves to be held,” Erikson said. “He’s my favorite cat.” Photo by Kristina Milewski ABOVE LEFT: A KITTEN WAITS to be adopted at Heartland SPCA on Tuesday, Jan. 4. This year the shelter is looking to find homes for around 35,000 animals. Photo by Miranda Snyder ABOVE MIDDLE: Shawnee Mission Northwest High School junior Mary Hellmer plays with the homeless cats on Tuesday, Jan. 4. She has been volunteering at Heartland SPCA for about one year.

“I really like getting close to all the cats and getting to know their personalities,” Hellmer said. ABOVE RIGHT: Washing machines at the Heartland SPCA medical center were recently purchased with money received through a grant. The Heartland SPCA veterinary clinic is open to the public and services 18,000 pets each year. Photos by Kristina Milewski

What negative aspects are there?

You can’t help every dog or every cat or animal that goes to a shelter.

It happens and you just have to get over it.

Should other kids volunteer?

I think so... especially if you love animals, it’s a good thing because it encourages people to do the right thing.

Donation drive for the Humane Society of Greater Kansas City

Upcoming events

Kansas City Pet Telethon Sunday, March 4 6:30-9:30 p.m.

Channel: 38 The Spot

Ends Sunday, Feb. 5

Sweetheart Yappy Hour at Pete & Mac’s Lenexa, KS Feb. 8 from 4-7 p.m.

This drive is occurring to gather supplies that can aid in the rescue of animals. Visit www.prlog.org for a wish list.

Event to raise money and 12th annual pet telethon, support for the Humane hosted by meteorologist Society of Greater Kansas Gary Lezak.

City. A $5 donation is sugPhotos by Miranda Snyder and Kristina Milewski gested.

OPINION

JAGWIRE OFFICE 5900 Monticello Road Shawnee, KS 66226 Phone: (913) 422-4351 Fax: (913) 422-4039 Adviser: Kathy Habiger khabiger@usd232.org The JagWire, a monthly publication of Mill Valley High School, is printed by Sedalia Democrat.

MEMBERS OF Kansas Scholastic Press Association National Scholastic Press Association Journalism Education Association The 2011 JagWire was named an All-American newspaper by the NSPA and earned an All-Kansas rating from KSPA. CENSORSHIP POLICY Kansas Senate Bill 62 guarantees the same rights for student journalists as are guaranteed for professional journalists. These rights include, but are not limited to, all First Amendment rights, including the rights of freedom of speech and the press, insofar as published items may not contain libelous, slanderous or obscene statements, may not incite or promote illegal conduct, may not cause a substantial disruption to normal school activity.

EDITORIAL POLICY We value your opinions. If you wish to submit a column or letter to the editor for the JagWire, you can do so by handing it in to a member of the staff or the print journalism room. Additionally, you may email any member of the staff with opinions, as well as tweet us at mvjagwire. Anonymous content will not be accepted. Please understand that we have the right to edit all copy that runs in this publication.

JAGWIRE STAFF editors-in-chief Sarah Darby Jill Applegate managing editors Sarah Fulton Sarah Gonzales copy editor Alyne Roemerman web editor Kaitlin Rounds photo editor Taylor Young staff Cory Reinoehl Alana Flinn Mackenzie Eckman Ryan Fullerton Sydney Wilson Eric Howes Katie Linsey Brandon Burnworth

sports editor Hanna Torline news editor Josh Duden feature editor Kristina Milewski a&e editor Austin Gillespie opinion editor Emily Johnson briefs editor Lisa Joerling ads manager Austin Gude Karlton Kinley Regan Jones Kelsey Floyd Jack Lopez Courtney Minter Alec Santaularia Miranda Snyder Adam Henderson

THE JAGWIRE | WWW.MVNEWS.ORG | FEB. 3, 2012

YOURopinion 60 Number of students

12

50

37 %

We asked 150 students about Valentine’s Day

How much money do you spend?

How do you feel about Valentine’s Day?

What’s your favorite aspect?

Receiving gifts 22%

40 30

22 %

21 %

20

13 %

10 0

27% dislike 60% like

7% $5 or less

$5- $10

PROcon

$10- $20

Valentine’s Day represents major subconscious motivator Common holiday theme holds deeper significance than believed

EMILY JOHNSON

jagwire.emilyjohnson@gmail.com

Love influences most, if not all human actions. Love for family, friends, possessions, success and even ourselves. Doesn’t it make sense to celebrate the emotion that drives us?

Allow me to clarify: acting out of love does not mean doing the right thing all the time. Love makes us do some stupid, reckless things, but it is always in the backs of our minds.

For this reason, Valentine’s Day is worth recognizing. It allows men and women, young and old alike, to express the feelings behind their actions.

If you are one of those Valentine’s Day haters that say it isn’t a real holiday, I’ve got to ask, what constitutes a holiday? Easter, Thanksgiving, Veteran’s Day and many more are

13% don’t care

$20- $30 $30 or more

Traditional holiday becomes pointless as society processes

all considered holidays and serve a Holiday causes unnecessary similar purpose as Valentine’s Day. expectations along with anxiety Each is meant to emphasize and recognize a person, figure or event that plays a significant role in our lives.

This is not to say that we shouldn’t value these things every other day; it is just a chance for the nation to collectively celebrate.

KAITLIN ROUNDS Love is also not reserved for a jagwire.kaitlinrounds@gmail.com romantic relationship. People tend The 2010 movie Valentine’s Day to be misled, thinking that Valenwas a pretty accurate representation tine’s Day is useless to the romantiof what Valentine’s Day is really like: cally uninvolved. This is completely an over-exaggerated holiday that’s false. It’s the perfect opportunity to only fun if you’re movie star atremind friends and family that they tractive or are with someone that’s are in our hearts. Every year I usually weirdly invested in a “holiday” that spend a few dollars on small things no one even gets time off for. It was for my closest friends as a reminder also a really hyped-up movie filled of how much I care for them. At the with disappointment, despite Ashvery least, most people send a nice ton Kutcher’s beautext or make a fun tiful face, and Valencard. tine’s Day is a really Sure, Valentine’s hyped up holiday also Day is commercialfilled with unnecesized, but so is every 20 10 sary disappointment. other holiday. So just think V-Day think V-Day Valentine’s Day sit back, relax and is a worthis a worthfeel the love. It’s all while holiday less holiday has filled a lot of otherwise smart people around you so why Out of 30 staff members with false hope that not enjoy it?

STAFFvote

ADAM’Sanimations

Giving gifts 17% Going on a date 17% Flowers 14% Candy 12% Cupid 3% Other 15%

it’s OK for them to make reckless decisions regarding love. The movie industry has overindulged in storylines that involve unappealing guys getting a girl because they have a leap of courage on Valentine’s Day. That’s not how real life works 99 percent of the time.

There are some creepy people that thrive off the opportunities Feb. 14 provides them. As flattering as getting an anonymous love poem and flowers sounds, there are many occasions in which it mocks stalking.

Valentine’s gifts are not practical whatsoever. While you may be jealous of the person sitting next to you that got the world’s biggest box of chocolates, put things in perspective; half those chocolates are probably filled with an unidentifiable nougat filling that makes your tongue itch, while the others will just go stale.

Valentine’s Day has gotten to a point where it’s become more of a hassle than something to look forward to. It’s OK to use it as an excuse to go out for a nice dinner. Just don’t get hung up on gifts or pleasing anyone, because you are almost always guaranteed to disappoint.

A monthly cartoon

Illustrations by Adam Henderson

THE JAGWIRE | WWW.MVNEWS.ORG | FEB. 3, 2012

OPINION

13

YOUsaidIT STAFFeditorial How does student Cyberbullying problem begins to worsen cheering affect As cyberbullying becomes more prevalent students need to take initiative to end it As the number of social network users rises, so do the number of reported cases of cyberbullying. Our school proves no exception to this, and the number of times harassment on sites like Facebook and Twitter has infiltrated our student population has gotten ridiculous. At our school in the last year, there’s been a Twitter account and Facebook group that targeted some of our students. Cyberbullying has become too common place and the people partaking are ignoring the possible consequences of their actions.

The people who take advantage of the anonymity the Internet grants them for negative purposes are not only cruel, but they are also cowardly. The majority of what online comments would never be said in person. Many people don’t think twice about what they’re posting an how it may affect others around them and simply just do it for a laugh. They know who they are, too; calling someone names on Facebook or sending a tweet commenting on a classmate’s weight is never an accident. It’s done strictly with the intent

Lack of immigration to the United States is a positive sign Immigration is more prominent in Central and South America

SARAH GONZALES

jagwire.sarahgonzales@gmail.com

Immigration. It is a word that many people do not like to hear. In the past couple of years, major laws have changed in the U.S. For example, Arizona created a new separate law from the rest of the country regarding immigration. Yet, immigration was lower last year than it has been since 1972. The U.S. is not the attraction that it once was, which means America can now focus on cleaning up our own problems and not having a negative attitude towards immigrants.

Central and South American countries have had lots of immigration between them. Mexicans are moving away from the U.S. border.

Natives of smaller cities are noticing that when people are moving into their city, they are bringing new

or not. Even just talking to a friend can ease your mind.

The people who say these things have no credibility. They’re simply people who have nothing better to do or feel the need to qualify themselves among their friends by putting others down.

Bullies focus on your insecurities, and the details are often fabricated or exaggerated. Even though you go to school with someone, it doesn’t necessarily mean you know them on a personal level.

Just because you heard that someone did something embarrassing over the weekend doesn’t mean you have the right to tell everyone on Twitter and Facebook.

The only way to prevent the effects of cyberbullying is to stop bullying altogether. If you get the urge to say something negative about another person, just don’t say it, and especially don’t say it online, where everyone has the opportunity to see it, and it will be there forever. You could be criminally liable for what you say.

To truly end cyberbullying, we need to stop fueling it. Stop looking at it, stop watching it and stop talking about it in the hallways. Only students can end this Cartoon by Adam Henderson vicious behavior.

to hurt another in mind.

For people who have been bullied, the best advice is to ultimately let it roll off your back. But if you are truly bothered by something said about you online, tell someone. Tell your parents. If you don’t want to tell your parents, tell a trusted adult at school like social worker Debbie Gudenkauf or resource officer John Midiros. They will only want to help you. Somebody needs to be aware of your situation, whether it’s a worst case scenario

problems like conflicting views over how local governments should run.

Chile has made recent discoveries about illegal workers, and this says that the U.S. isn’t the only country with immigration problems.

The International Organization for Migration says that the Bolivian population in Argentina has increased by 48 percent since 2001.

Also, Argentina’s Paraguayan and Peruvian populations have grown.

With all of the movement in Central and South America, the region isn’t like a compass pointing north to the U.S.; it’s like the hub of a wheel with many different spokes.

From papayas being grown

by Bolivian farmers in Argentina to the discover of exploited illegal workers in Chile and conflicts over local government in southern Mexico, this intraregional migration in Latin America has become a challenge for them and a promising start for the U.S., though we should not be happy about any of their failures. The shift means fewer migrants crossing the border illegally and greater debate over whether the expanded budgets for immigration enforcement still make sense.

Chants break KSHSAA rules, creating problems at games Student section at basketball games calls for behavior check

ALANA FLINN

jagwire.alanaflinn@gmail.com

During recent basketball games, the student section has been directed by athletic director Matt Fedde to cease with some of their chants.

While observing some of the students, I could see an angry reaction to the requests. However, the game supervisors are well within their rights to stop and further prevent what could be perceived as offensive cheers.

As part of Rule 52, according to the Kansas State High School Activities Association, “any nonsupportive chants, cheers, or actions which are directed toward the opposing team; chants or actions which single out individuals” such as air ball, scoreboard, a sequence of plays (dribble, dribble, pass, dribble, etc.), are all included in the

category of Unacceptable Behavior.

Early in the third quarter at the home game against Bonner Springs High School on Tuesday, Dec. 13, the Jaguar fan section decided to start yelling “scoreboard” at Braves fans after the Braves’ cheering section yelled at a Jaguar player “you can’t do that,” directed towards the foul our player had just acquired. Not only did “scoreboard” register complaints from opposing fans, we also lost the game, which made the cheer not only against the rules, but also embarrassing.

The student section needs to keep in mind that Fedde is simply trying to promote common sportsmanship.

Complaints issued to the KSHSAA could result in fines that would come from the activities budget, which would hurt all activities, not just the basketball team.

I love to cheer on our team as much as anyone else, but there has to be a line drawn between supporting the Jaguars and tearing down the opponent. If everyone wants to continue to enjoy the games as much as they have been, the respect level needs to increase to avoid bringing further damage to the reputation of the Jaguar cheering section.

your game?

“ “ “

“It builds us up and gets us pumped. When we hit big baskets [the cheering] makes us excited.” sophomore Nick Freisner

“The noise gets me hot to trot.

The louder the fans are the better the game feels.” sophomore Drew Boatwright

“If the gym is quiet we play quiet. The crazier the chant the better because they are more fun to play to.” junior Austin Moylan

“If they’re good it helps us play better...but our fans can’t do anything so that sucks.” junior Kyle Kain

SPORTS

14

THE JAGWIRE | WWW.MVNEWS.ORG | FEB. 3, 2012

Fantasy player enjoys the game despite losses JOSH DUDEN

jagwire.joshduden@gmail.com

est ranked player on the board, though.”

Rounds checked his Fantasy team every day but, in the end, the strategy that he used didn’t help him win his match-ups against the rest of his league, as he placed 13th out of 14 in his league.

“The fact that I lost every week was kind of disappointing,” Rounds said.

Though he lost, Rounds still enjoyed playing Fantasy and competing against his friends.

“Talking trash is probably the best part,” Rounds said. “[The fact that] all of us are such close friends made us different from other leagues. It was a pretty light atmosphere [but] it got competitive at the end.”

Standing in front of his Fantasy drafting board, sophomore Alex Rounds shared his experience with Fantasy Football and the ups and downs of the game.

Each time a team or league is created, a player starts with the Fantasy draft, and this was no different with Rounds’ league.

“I had everyone over one afternoon and we had a draft party,” Rounds said. “Each person had 10 minutes on the clock to take your pick. This went on for around five to six hours. It got pretty boring.”

Rounds said that his strategy for selecting the players for his team was not only his own, but from a book that taught him a game strategy, too.

“I had this little book that I purchased for around $15 from Walmart to help choose my team,” Rounds said.

“It told you who to draft, like Fantasy EXPLAINING FANTASY DRAFTING on Sunday, Jan. 22, sophomore 101. I pretty much Alex Rounds reviews his draft board. “A draft board is fairly common,” grabbed the high- Rounds said. “It took five to six hours.” Photo by Emily Johnson

How many hours a day do you spend on your Fantasy Football team?

8% 6%

14%

72%

4+ hours

2-3 hours

0-1 hours

I don’t play

SUPERbowlXLVI New York GIANTS

“Giants because Lawrence Tynes is their kicker and he’s my cousin’s husband.” junior Stephanie Lichtenauer

“My dad has played Fantasy for years and so have my friends, so I thought, why not play too?” Mense JOSH DUDEN said.

After taking up Fantasy Football, jagwire.joshduden@gmail.com Mense worked to develop a strategy for the draft, one of the most diffiAs he sat down to watch the NFL cult parts of the Fantasy experience. football game each Sunday, junior “Early on, my strategy was to get Brennan Mense checked his Fanthe best player available,” Mense tasy Football team and score report. said. “Then after the best were Fantasy Football provided a means gone, I went position by position to not only watch the games, but and once everything was filled, I just to be involved in them by choosing tried to fill the bench.” the players to build his ideal team.

Along with drafting, Mense said The points scored by the player in it takes work to maintain a team. the actual games added to his total “Watching your players and byescore for weekly match-ups against weeks are hard,” Mense said. “You the friends within the league. have to do a lot of line up shuffling...

Mense said that he got involved which can be a pain.” with Fantasy because he saw that Mense checked his Fantasy team those around him already played. almost every day and placed first in his league during the regular season, but lost the championship game.

Mense said the best part was winning each week. “[My favorite part] of Fantasy is Monday morning when you just kicked your friend’s butt,” Mense said.

“EsCHECKING HIS GAME cast, junior Brennan Mense manages his Fantasy team. “On Sunday afternoon I just had the game cast up almost pecially if he had a the entire [time],” Mense said. Photo by Emily Johnson bad week.”

Who do you think will win the Super Bowl?

52% 48% Survey of 159 students

Junior finds success in Fantasy Football league

New England PATRIOTS “Patriots, because their offensive line is ridiculously good. There is also the revenge factor.” junior Ryan Gillespie

Photos from MCT Campus

THE JAGWIRE | WWW.MVNEWS.ORG | FEB. 3, 2012

SPORTS

15

ONtheCLOCK

3:45 p.m.

More than a match

The JV and varsity wrestling teams load onto the bus to head out for their tournament at Blue Valley North High School on Wednesday, Jan. 25.

WRESTLING IN THE 138 pound weight division, sophomore Jake Ellis won his match in the home dual against Shawnee Heights High School on Wednesday, Jan. 18, contributing to the team’s 43-36 victory. “Last year I went 25-12 on varsity and I was a state qualifier,” Ellis said. “This year I will be 110 percent better.” Photo by Emily Johnson

A behind-the-scenes look at the events before, during and after a wrestling meet HANNA TORLINE

jagwire.hannatorline@gmail.com

Although students may hear wrestling results, many have no idea what actually goes into preparing for and participating in a wrestling tournament.

The home meet against Shawnee Heights High School on Wednesday, Jan. 18 provided a chance to find out.

At 5 p.m. before the meet started, warmups began in the wrestling room. Wrestlers matched up against a teammate of similar weight and practiced moves and strategies as “Crazy Train” by Ozzy Osbourne played in the background.

“We have to practice hard every day to prepare for our matches,” sophomore Tyler Dickman said. “There’s a lot of pressure that comes with big matches.”

Head coach Travis Keal and assistant coach Kale Mann stood against the wall yelling out instructions, then gradually began walking around the room to give individual advice.

The wrestlers practiced moves, but they didn’t actually wrestle their opponent to the ground.

If a wrestler was knocked down, his partner moved aside and waited for him to resume his stance, then continued to work on moves.

As the warm-up came to an end, the music stopped and the wrestlers circled up. Keal gave a speech as the wrestlers bounced up and down.

“We work hard,” Keal said. “We wrestle hard. Take advantage of that. We’re always hustling. We’re always doing the right thing on the mats. I want to see some aggression.”

As they filed into the auxiliary gym in a systematic line among a row of navy and black Aasics bags, the members of the team took their places in folding chairs lined up along the edge of the large wrestling mat.

The wrestlers stood up and shook hands with their opponents as announcer Cory Wurtz called the weights, schools and names of the opponents in each match up. After all the names had been called, most of the wrestlers took their seats, but some lined up behind the chairs, bouncing on the balls of their feet or listening to music as they prepared for their match.

Following the national anthem, the referee called the team captains, seniors Zach Callahan, Devin Ellison and Christian Service, to the middle of the mat to shake hands with the

favoriteMOVES “The cradle”

sophomore Regan Wright “I’ve got long arms so it’s easy to get [my opponent] into this position.”

captains from Shawnee Heights and call the coin toss.

“Being a captain is a new experience,” Service said. “When you are out there [at a tournament] that’s not usually the leader part. The captain role usually shows at the practice room more than on a competition day.”

After the Jaguars won the coin toss, Callahan yelled in the quiet gym to get his teammates pumped up.

The wrestlers stepped up to the mat in order of weight, starting with the lightweights and ending with the heavyweights.

As each match unfolded, parents, teammates, coaches and friends in the full stands shouted words of encouragement and advice to the wrestlers on the mat.

When the clock buzz signaled the end of the meet, the audience stood up and congratulated or consoled players on their performances. While the match was over for those watching in the stands, it was only a small part of the work and effort of the season in the eyes of the wrestlers.

“A lot of people don’t know what goes on in the wrestling room before and after a tournament,” sophomore Tyler Dickman said. “I don’t really think that people know how hard we work until we actually wrestle.”

5 p.m.

Before warm-ups begin, the varsity wrestlers stretch in the wrestling room as a team, led by senior Zach Callahan.

7 p.m.

“Say your prayers”

“Chicken wing”

senior Christian Service sophomore Jake Ellis “This [position] is hard to get out of and “This was the first move I ever learned it should end the match.” and I’ve been making it better since.”

The wrestlers and coaches shout words of encouragement and advice as the match unfolds. Some of the wrestlers prepare for their match by listening to music on headphones, while others think about individual tactics.

Photos by Emily Johnson

ALANA FLINN

Footloose: Original

Photos by Miranda Snyder Cartoons by Adam Henderson

If you were on MTV’s True Life, what would your episode be titled?

YOUsaidIT

Jan. 11

“I have the physical appearance “I’m going to marry an Irish of a squid.” singer named Niall Horan and sophomore Ben Carrol have fire ginger babies.” junior Morgan Battes

USD232 Nutrition @USD232Food @mvjagwire We are! The bigger question is who’s excited for chicken nugget day tomorrow? :)

@mvjagwire’s tweet pick

Father of the Bride: Remake The Shaggy Dog: Original

#

Bad News Bears: Original

right now?

Photo from Warner Bros.

silly but smart father helps carry the plotline. Though the audience only knows him for a short time, flashbacks throughout the movie help to re-introduce him.

Horn did a superior job portraying Oskar Schell. Oskar’s intricate personality would normally be difficult to capture, but Horn executes it flawlessly.

Though critics gave Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close mixed reviews, I can’t stop raving about it.

I would recommend this movie to anybody. This film was emotional, but it was one of the best movies I’ve seen in awhile.

“The next Old Spice guy.” junior Hugh Ebb

12.7%

“I can’t stop wearing Speedos.” senior Jake Waters

Survey of 165 students

9.1%

American Idol

Jersey Shore

12.1%

Dance Moms

16.4%

Modern Family

49.7%

Televised sports

watching

What are

YOU

secretary Lynn Bath Karate Kid: Original King Kong: Remake The Parent Trap: Either

Friday the 13th: Original

Freaky Friday: Remake

The Longest Yard: Either

Bath decides if she prefers a given film’s remake or its original version

THE

OF

Return Classics

Can you put the pieces together?

Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close is a film about a little boy, Oskar Schell (Thomas Horn) dealing with his father’s (Tom Hanks) tragic death on 9/11.

The movie charts Oskar’s encounters with strangers while trying to find the lock that fits a key he found in his father’s closet.

Oskar sets out on one last “ReMACKENZIE ECKMAN connaissance Mission,” a game that jagwire.mackenzieeckman@gmail.com he and his dad would play.

Your JagWire key to entertainment

jagwire.alanaflinn@gmail.com

* *** *

New Tom Hanks film channels emotion of life following 9/11

He believes that finding the lock for the key is the only way to stay close to his father, even though it means drifting away from his mother (Sandra Bullock).

I walked into the theater with no clue what critics were saying about this flim. I had my own opinions after watching the trailers and didn’t leave disappointed.

Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close is very complex. There is plenty of foreshadowing, though the audience might not piece it together until the end of the film. It keeps you guessing.

Hanks’ loveable personality as a

A worthwhile pursuit

FLIP SIDE

THE

A&E

16 THE JAGWIRE | WWW.MVNEWS.ORG | FEB. 3, 2012

THE JAGWIRE | WWW.MVNEWS.ORG | FEB. 3, 2012

ADS

17

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John F. Williamson, D.D.S. 10601 Kaw Drive, Edwardsville 913-441-3373

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> New content published daily > Sports center featuring sports scores and game schedules

> Live tweeting of football games and other school events

> Google map directions to calendar events We want to hear from you!

Send us your letters to the editor: jagwirenewspaper@gmail.com Tweet at us: @mvjagwire

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A&E

THE JAGWIRE | WWW.MVNEWS.ORG | FEB. 3, 2012 http://www.ultima

Ultimate digital delays

http://www.facebook.com http://www.usd232.org http://www.wikipedia.com http://www.twitter.com The best websites http://www.people.com

to waste your time on

JACK LOPEZ

jagwire.jacklopez@gmail.com

SYDNEY WILSON

jagwire.sydneywilson@gmail.com

imgfave

http://www.imgfave.com Imgfave is an image bookmarking site. You can save any of your pictures you find on the Internet to this site, then share them with others. Scrolling through all of the uploaded material can provide hours of entertainment.

Miniclip

http://www.miniclip.com Miniclip is a free gaming website with over 700 games.

A recent trend in the school, 8 Ball Pool, is a game where the participant can play a game of billiards online. There aren’t many benefits to becoming a member, and guests can play any game.

9GAG

http://www.9gag.com Like imgfave, 9gag is a fun image-sharing website. However, unlike imgfave, the site usually doesn’t contain those dramatic photos with quotes.

Consider it an imgfave for guys: all of the distraction without the fluff. 9gag is all about getting a laugh out of a little procrastination.

The Oatmeal

http://www.theoatmeal.com The Oatmeal features comics about everything from Apple to zombies to English grammar. The comics are known for taking an amusing outlook on situations that people face everyday, as well as situations people never hope to experience.

Cracked

http://www.cracked.com Cracked began as a humor magazine in 1958. Now, this site is best known for its humorous lists and photo manipulation contests. Housing hundreds of articles on a variety of topics, be prepared to spend hours learning about everything you never really needed to know.

StumbleUpon

http://www.stumbleupon.com StumbleUpon is a website that finds other, more obscure websites based on your interests. It is easy to join and spend hours “stumbling” around the internet. The page has a like and dislike button to make stumbles more personalized. The possibilities are endless.

YOUsaidIT When you procrastinate online, what are you most likely putting off?

Photos by Kelsey Floyd

“I’m usually putting off math homework until the last second before it’s due.” junior Brian Benzing

“I’m usually putting off homework. I don’t want to do it and [the Internet] is distracting.“ junior Eleanor English

“I avoid homework if at all possible, and there’s such a range of activities [on the Internet].” senior Whitney Austin

THE JAGWIRE | WWW.MVNEWS.ORG | FEB. 3, 2012

A&E

Sound check

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MACKENZIE ECKMAN

jagwire.mackenzieeckman@gmail.com

KARLTON KINLEY

jagwire.karltonkinley@gmail.com

The JagWire checked out three different pairs of headphones to see how well they measured up

Beats by Dr. Dre Price: $299.95 Website: http://www.beatsbydre.com Bluetooth capability: Certain models

What the website says:

What we say:

“Artists and producers spend countless hours fine-tuning and mixing music to get it exactly how they want their fans to hear it. But the vast majority of headphones can’t accurately reproduce the intricacies produced in the studio. Simply put, Studios can. With precision-engineered, advanced speaker design, powered amplification, and powered noise cancellation, you hear music the way today’s top artists and producers want you to hear.”

Beats headphones sport a colorful look that seems both elaborate and casual. The soft ear pads make them comfortable to wear, and the many available colors add to the visuals. Their “powered noise cancellation” is a great feature that completely blocks out outside sound. However, the quality of sound leaves something to be desired, especially with its claim of “playing music the way it is meant to be heard.”

Sennheiser Price: $129.95 Website: http://www.sennheiser.com Bluetooth capability: Certain models What the website says: “The HD 518 open, circumaural headphones prove that quality and affordability can go hand in hand. They are fitted with Sennheiser’s innovative E.A.R. technology to ensure accurate channeling of audio signals into your ears while their Duofol diaphragms reduce unwanted resonances. And to amplify your listening pleasure even further, their ear pads and headband cushion provide outstanding comfort, even for long listening sessions.”

What we say:

Photos by Alec Santaularia

WEaskedYOU

This pair is designed to wear at home, but they prove inconvenient in public. The design is ugly, and the cord is too long to walk around with. There is also a lot of noise leakage, and other people will be able to hear exactly what you’re listening to. However, the positives outweigh the negatives, as the HD518s have the clearest sound for a pair of headphones at their price.

Skullcandy Price: $39.99 Website: http://www.skullcandy.com Bluetooth capability: None What the website says: “Low-pro style with serious whomp. Forget spinners, wood grain, candy paint, and crackin’ the trunk−this is the only Lowrider you’ll ever really need... The Lowrider features 40mm drivers for head-nodding bass, and a folding design with DJ-style articulating earcups... Select colors include a built-in Mic1 control switch.”

What we say:

Despite the web description claiming “serious whomp,” the Skullcandy Lowrider headphones fail to impress. The sound quality was kind of grainy and didn’t have that “lose yourself in the music” feeling at all. There isn’t any soundproofing, so you’re forced to listen to everyone around you while you listen to your music. The only thing that might set them apart is the variety of designs, but even then, they aren’t as aesthetically pleasing as Beats and the foldable design is just a nuisance.

What do you look for in your headphones?

Sound proofing Sound quality Aesthetics

14%

76.1%

9.9%

survey of 121 students

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PHOTO ESSAY

THE JAGWIRE | WWW.MVNEWS.ORG | FEB. 3, 2012

n g n o i i k i t r i t St the e p t u o com Bowling team proves to be a positive addition to school sports ERIC HOWES

jagwire.erichowes@gmail.com

Illustration by Adam Henderson

After being approved in early November, the bowling team has started off the season with a winning record.

The team brought home first place for varsity boys and girls in three out of five meets as of Monday, Jan. 30.

“So far we’ve swept most of our meets,” freshman Maridee Weber said. “Hopefully we can keep on winning the rest of the season.”

Along with placing first in over half of the meets, according to head coach Adam Wessel, the team has continued to improve as the season progresses.

“So far the season is going well,” Wessel said. “We have continued to get better in every meet.”

Many bowlers find the sport fun and are friends with one another freshman varsity bowler Sloan June

said.

“Everyone on the team is always relaxed,” June said. “We pretty much all get along.”

At the meets, the environment differs from other sports. The players must be seated unless it is their turn to bowl and limit their talking.

Cheering only occurs when someone bowls a strike or picks up a spare, and even then, bowlers can only clap.

“The meets are pretty organized and everyone is mostly quiet,” June said. “We all get pretty excited when one of our teammates pick up a strike but have to be quiet for the next bowler.”

Though bowling is not the most physically demanding sport, it requires mental toughness as many players become aggravated after bowling a poor frame.

“Messing up on one frame is frustrating,” Weber said. “After messing up once, you have to forget about it and get ready to bowl the next frame.”

DOMINANT: TAKING A STEP back from the game, senior Bret Holloway focuses on what pins to hit on Monday, Jan. 23. “It’s pretty fun and the coaches are helping us get better as best as they can,” Holloway said. Photo by Miranda Snyder

PRACTICING AT RANCH Bowl, the bowling team’s home alley, on Monday, Jan. 23, team members prepare for upcoming tournaments. Senior Brett Holloway challenges his aim by attempting different kinds of drills. “When it comes to crunch time practice makes it so I can hit the pins that matter,” Holloway said. Photo by Kelsey Floyd

LEFT: WATCHING HIS FELLOW bowlers, junior LJ Hatch takes a break from practice on Monday, Jan. 23. “It’s great [bowling]. It takes skill to bowl,” Hatch said. Photo by Miranda Snyder ABOVE: CELEBRATING A GOOD frame, freshman Maridee Weber and senior Madeline Webb high-five during practice on Monday, Jan. 23. “When someone does a good job, the whole team cheers them on,” Webb said. Photo by Kelsey Floyd