JagWire newspaper: Volume 17, Issue 8

JW

Jagwire

mill valley high school volume 17 issue 8 may 18, 2017 mvnews.org

Thank you, seniors; this one’s for you class of 2017 senior issue

In this issue ...

NEWS 04 05 06 07

Noah’s bandage project senior success undecided majors college map

FEATUREs 10 12 13 15

04

give yourself an award seminar bonds senior timeline senior superlatives

12

OPINIONS 19 staff editorial 20 senior opinions

SPORTS 22 24 25 26 27

baseball field renovations intramural sports athletic signees Apex climbing gym overtime

16

22

A&E 28 24-hour food 30 perfect picnic

PHOTO ESSAY 32 archeology trip

02

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Design by Madison Ferguson

27 Cover by margaret mellott

32 mill valley high school

Jagwire

letter

from the editors

A

fter finishing 24 issues of the JagWire since our sophomore year, we can say that we’ve left our mark on Mill Valley. Over the past three years, we have been able to cover sensitive topics such as anxiety, sexual consent, and the presidential election. However, we would not be capable of publishing such topics without the students, teachers and most importantly, our staff. We wanted to express our thanks to the following: To the school: It’s been a sweet four years here and an amazing three years on staff.

This year has flown by and it’s astonishing that it’s coming to a close. We have loved every second of covering major events, like Relay for Life, three state championship teams and the addition of district superintendent Frank Harwood.

To the staff: It’s been such a joy to watch

JAGWIRE OFFICE

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

PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS

Kansas Scholastic Press Association National Scholastic Press Association Journalism Education Association The 2016 JagWire was named a Pacemaker winner and an All-American newspaper by the NSPA, was inducted into the NSPA Hall of Fame and earned an All-Kansas rating from the KSPA. The Mill Valley News website was also named a two-time Pacemaker winner by the NSPA.

SOCIAL MEDIA

you grow not only as staffers, but also as people. We’ve been through the good, the bad and the ugly together, but oh man, has it been worth it. You all have learned so much, but most importantly, you have taught us so much. We wish you all the best of luck on your journey without us.

To Habs: We remember taking your class freshman year. We were scared little freshmen at the time, but we’ve graduated to editors-in-chief of the paper. None of us would’ve guessed we’d be where we are now without you. You’ve been a wonderful mentor to us through these years, and it’s so hard to say goodbye. Thank you for everything.

We also want to thank every reader of the JagWire over the past three years who has helped us grow into the journalists and people that we have become. Without the support we’ve received over the years, this publication wouldn’t be where it is today.

Jagwire 2016-17 staff EDITORs-IN-CHIEF Madison Ferguson Margaret Mellott Braden Shaw

managing editor Morgan Gurwell

copy editor Alison Booth

photo editor Victoria Wright

business manager Madison Ferguson

Hunter Ristau

news editors Katya Gillig Annie Myers Margaret Mellott

features/a&e editors Claire Boone Tricia Drumm

Braden Shaw

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 and may not cause a substantial disruption to normal school activity.

EDITORIAL POLICY

We value your opinions. If you wish to submit a column or a letter to the editor for the JagWire, you can do so by handing it in to a member of the staff or to the print journalism room (C101). Additionally, you may email any member of the staff with opinions, as well as tweet us at @millvalleynews.

Anonymous content will not be accepted.

Please understand that we have the right to edit all copy that runs in this publication.

opinions editors Nora Lucas Ally Nguyen

sports editors Anika Roy Jakob Twigg

social media editors Lexi Flipse Abby Layton

ILLUSTRATOR Avery Sheltra

REPORTERS & Photographers James Ball Carter Lawson Joe McClain Michael Sandri Marah Shulda Chris Sprenger

Twitter: @millvalleynews Facebook: Mill Valley News

Jagwire mill valley high school

Design by braden shaw

staff information

03

together

by ALLY NGUYEn

opinions editor jagwire.allynguyen@gmail.com

Mill Valley teamed up with Noah’s Bandage Project from April 10 to April 14 to raise funds and bandages

n

oah Wilson was six years old in April of 2014 when he was diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma, a rare cancerous tumor that grows in or around bones. He passed away in June of 2015, but not before starting an organization that would come to help many children in the Kansas City area: Noah’s Bandage Project.

According to its website, Noah’s Bandage Project has two goals: to “help provide cool and fun bandages to kids that need them” and to “help raise funds for pediatric cancer research.”

The project has been successful thus far in terms of meeting its goals. In August of 2016, it granted Children’s Mercy Hospital $100,000 to conduct research over Ewing Sarcoma and it hopes to issue another grant in 2017.

It also has raised over 50,000 boxes of bandages, or one million individual bandages.

“[Noah] shows how you can pay it forward.”

STUCO SPONSOR ERICA CRIST StuCo decided to start a fundraiser to support Noah’s Bandage Project that was led by Student Body treasurer Bella Hadden and junior representative Jus-

cided to co-lead the project not only because he was inspired by Wilson’s story, but also because he wanted to create a new tradition within the school.

“It’s wonderful that Noah was doing something that can benefit the world,” Grega said. “It’s beautiful. There should be more people in the world like him.”

$30 Raised 104 boxes collected

Seniors

$4 Raised 48 boxes collected

Juniors

$15 Raised 130 boxes collected

ABOVE: Dropping a box of bandages into the bin, sophomore Matt Smith donates to the Noah’s Bandage Project on Friday, April 21. Photo by Chris Sprenger

The freshmen class was victorious with the project being a Class Cup competition

Sophomores

Freshmen

classclash

tin Grega. The fundraiser lasted from Monday April 10 through Friday April 14.

Hadden believes that Mill Valley should participate in this drive because it is a unique charity event. “[Noah’s Bandage Project is] significant because it’s local,” Hadden said. “[Wilson] had a lot of passion and he cared more about other people than a typical six-year-old would.”

In addition, StuCo sponsor Erica Crist believes that Noah’s story can provide inspiration for students and staff. “[Wilson’s] important to Mill Valley” Crist said. “Though he was going through a really rough time, he was thinking about how he could help other kids like himself who were in that same situation.”

The drive ended with a total amount of $200 and 377 boxes of bandages being raised. The freshmen class raised the most bandages with a total of 130 boxes.

Sophomore Sydney Clarkin donated bandages because she wanted to help a project that she genuinely believed in.

“Noah had a passion and desire to help people and if there is any way Mill Valley can partner with that, we should,” Clarkin said. “Mill Valley does a lot of community activities and this is just another thing we could be a part of.”

In agreement with Clarkin, Grega de-

$18 Raised 95 boxes collected

What advice would you give to underclassmen?

“ 04

Don’t procrastinate, be prepared, don’t miss a lot of days because it’s not easy to make up. Talk to [your] teacher ahead of time if you are planning on not attending school that day. senior Keonna Jackson

news

Design by Anika roy

Mill valley high school

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Class of 2017 p money offered

n o i l l i m $5.6 l

ho

sc tal

to

hi ars

1 ay

*as

of M

Hardest classes 1 2

3

top

Calculus AB

Anatomy

favorite memory

Ratio of boys to girls in the senior class

175 169 boys

67%

State football championship November 26, 2016

59

Survey of 314 seniors reflecting on their high school careers

VS

seniors will attend Kansas State University

51

girls

of seniors will attend college in Kansas

seniors will attend the University of Kansas

3 College Algebra favorite teachers 1 science teacher Eric Thomas 2

social studies teacher Chris Dunback

arts teacher 3 communication Kristen Crosbie Majors 1 27

Students majoring in business

2 26

2

26

Students majoring Students majoring in engineering in biology

What will you take away from your four years at MV?

“

You only get four years to do you, be you and learn from good and bad memories to improve yourself. senior Abby toalson

Jagwire

mill valley high school

design by Victoria Wright

NEWS

�

05

majorlyundecided

by ALISON BOOTH

copy editor jagwire.alisonbooth@gmail.com

A

s seniors say their last goodbyes, many look forward to college already knowing what they want to major in. However, 10 percent of seniors are undecided on what they want to major in come college.

According to counselor Chris Wallace, some seniors choose to go into college with an undecided major in order to use college to determine specific interests.

“Since high school provides a variety

of opportunities to pursue [different] subjects, it can be hard to find one that’s that specialty fit,” Wallace said. “Sometimes, students choose to use college as that testing ground to find that opportunity for them.”

Senior Claire Anderson plans on attending Johnson County Community College with an undecided major and said that she thinks not declaring a major will make her college education more well-rounded. She plans on taking “general classes, like math and communications.”

“I think it will better my education because I’ll have that background

ABOVE: Ten percent of the 2017 graduating class is entering college declaring as an “undecided” major. These students will then have the opportunity to discover a passion that they will be able to pursue in college. Photo Illustration by Claire Boone

major majorities

A comparison of undecided students between Mill Valley and the nation

Many students head to college not knowing what they will major in

knowledge before I actually go into university studies,” Anderson said.

2016 graduate and Pittsburg State freshman Natalie Golden has yet to declare her major. For Golden, having an undecided major doesn’t have a large impact on her whole college education.

“It means that I am not taking any classes that count towards a specific major right now,” Golden said via email.

“It’s not too big of a deal because I am actually getting a lot of my general education courses out of the way.”

Anderson agrees that not declaring a major right away can be positive, but also said there is a stigma attached to it.

“It makes me a little nervous because [I] feel like I don’t have my life together,” Anderson said. “At the same time, I have to realize I’m not the only one in that boat.”

Wallace said that there are both positive and negative sides to having an undecided major, but thinks that the decision is ultimately a personal one.

“It can sometimes delay the time that it takes them to graduate, ” Wallace said.

“Often times, it allows them to have more of an open mind and experience some different classes and subjects early on.”

Golden agrees, and hopes to declare a major by the end of next year.

“Other people can only help me so much — I’m realizing that ultimately I have to make my own decision,” Golden said. “I’m excited to finally decide and to be able to visualize the future a bit more easily.”

10 20-50

percent of Mill Valley students are undecided about their major

percent of students nationally are undecided about their major

Survey of 312 students

According to Penn State

What has been your best memory from high school?

“ 06

My best memory from high school was being a manager on three state championship teams. It’s pretty awesome to be a part of history. senior james bock

news

Design by katya Gillig

mill valley high school

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Jagwire

1 5

6 2

1

230

1

28 4

1

1

1

5

2

1 1 2 1

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1

The Next Chapter

1

This year’s senior class will travel to 19 states and two outside countries for college. See their majors and destinations*

*Only students who returned a survey were included on this list

ALABAMA

Oakwood University Rishon Taylor: Music

ARIZONA

Arizona State University Haley Pultz: Biology

ARKANSAS

University of Arkansas Hannah Brady: Political Science & Pre-law Megan Breninger: Business Cat Dunwiddie: Pre-Law Justin Hopper: Kinesiology Cole Ivey: Kinesiology Erika Marsh: Nursing Collin Petigna: Marketing/ International Business University of Central Arkansas Jack Campbell: Political Science

COLORADO

Colorado School of Mines Ethan Hansen: Engineering Physics University of Colorado Boulder Jasmine Cousins: Biology & Psychology

HAWAII

University of The Nations Gabe Jasso: Missions Ministry

ILLINOIS

University of Illinois Kasey Meeks: Natural Resources & Restoration Ecology

INDIANA

Indiana University Kristen Kelly: Athletic Training

IOWA

Iowa State University Jesse Bowden: Mechanical Engineering Jordan Junkins: Cosmetology Raya Lehan: Graphic Design University of Iowa Thomas Kopatich: Biomedical Engineering Brady Rolig: Physiology & Spanish

KANSAS

Avila University Brady Rowse: Business Management Baker University Elise Jamison: Psychology Olivia Jamison: Nursing Morgan Thomas: Biology Benedictine College Derek Graviette: Exercise Science Cloud County Community College Jackson Blancarte: Business Emporia State University Alec Bergeron: Education Andrew Bock: Undecided James Bock: Undecided Austin Geise: Undecided Kara Mason: Music Education Margaret Mellott: Secondary Education Joshua Watts: Psychology Fort Hays State University Aaron White: Agricultural Business Fort Scott Community College Dawson Cantwell: Physical Education Hutchison Community College Blaine Boudreaux: Undecided Johnson County Community College Justin Ackhavong: Undecided Ross Acree: Political Science Claire Anderson: Undecided

Brayden Arnold: Computer Science Elena Artis: Sports Management & Marketing Jack Bauer: Construction Management Austin Berner: Undecided Peyton Blankenship: Dental Hygiene Rowdy Boatwright: Education Mason Brown: Biology Sam Brown: Undecided Joshua Cafer: Undecided Travis Collins: Undecided Ashley Creiger: Pre-Med Kirstin Graham: Marketing Gary Gentry: Biomedical Engineering Ethan Gonzalez: Criminal Justice Sydney Hall: Education Bryce Hart: Undecided Kalina Heckman: Architecture Grant Henderson: Social Working Ashlyn Hendrix: Construction Management Natalie Hertog: Nursing Brianna Hoffman: Culinary & Entrepreneurship Tristan Milne: Firefighting or Paramedics Grant Moberly: Fire Science Keonna Jackson: Dental Hygiene Gabby Kornis: Cosmetology Jack Knight: Undecided Nicole Lozenja: Neonatal Nursing Truc Nguyen: Medical Trinity Panuco: Undecided Hannah Friesen: Zoology Draek James: Business & Technology Garrison Jones: Undecided Seth Myers: Medicine Nathan Palcher: Computer Science

continued on pages 8-9

What advice would you give to underclassmen?

“

” 07

It’s so easy to sit there and push your assignments to the last minute, but you’ll not only feel good about yourself, you’ll also have a bunch of time to do what you want. senior lesa tilden

Jagwire Mill valley high school

Design by Annie Myers

news

continued from page 7

Jason Pentecost: Graphic Design Lauren Moores: Teaching Jack Knight: Undecided Kelsey Poje: Nursing/Pre-Med Maria Porzelt: Natural Resource Management Brayden Parrish: Mechanical Engineering Grace McGill: Liberal Arts Miguel Madrigal: Nursing Ariana Moore: Business Schuyler Miller: Criminal Justice John O’Hara: HVAC Nathaniel Rule: Criminal Justice Kellen Robinson: Undecided Alexander Sambevski: Undecided Taylor Sanders: Undecided Toby Sayalinh: Business/Computer Hardware Derek Simms: History Devin Simms: History Dylan Smith: Physics Benjamin Swearengin: Business Kelston Swift: Fire Science Nathan Thow: Hydroponics Jacob Tiehen: Mechanical Engineering Technology Lesa Tilden: Music Education Abby Toalson: Arts Therapy Hayden Vomhof: Undecided Laken Wagner: Culinary Apprenticeship Cody Westberry: Psychology Jonathan Winn: Auto Tech Juliane Winn: Dentistry Sydney Williamson: Psychology Joshua Winscott: Biology Kansas City Kansas Community College Alexander Derritt: Exercise Science Hanna Hurt: FACS Education Hunter Paxton: Marketing Kansas State University Sam Andres: Secondary Education Riley Arthur: Biological Systems Engineering Lauren Atchley: Business Jett Bendure: Mechanical Engineering Kennedy Brown: Education & Business Meghan Clark: Engineering Jack Cooley: Professional Piloting Jackson Cooper: Undecided Camden Davis: Physics & Math Joel Donn: Business Management Brianna Duden: Pre-Med Garrison Fangman: Business Madison Ferguson: Pre-Vet Payton Frye: Athletic Training

Jordan Fullerton: Mechanical Engineering Adam Gillette: Engineering Victoria Hall: Pre-Vet Benjamin Hartman: Engineering Emily Heinking: Psychology/ Sociology Carter Hey: Undecided Griffin Hey: Undecided Marc Hinnen: Unmanned Aircraft Systems Christopher Hoog: Graphic Design Sydney Hookstra: Business Thomas Hopkins: Physics Julia Kemp: FACS Education Skyler King: Elementary Education Aaron Kofoid: Marketing Hanavan Kuhn: Computer science Sidney Lawyer: Sociology/ Criminology Paige Lewis: Marketing Jazz Loffredo: Computer Science Danielle Mansfield: Forensics/ Criminology Lance Marx: Secondary Education Tom McClain: Economics Aaron Middaugh: Spanish/French Education Kaylie McLaughlin: Journalism & Mass Communications Sarah McLaughlin: Elementary Education Sheridan Morris: Sociology/ Criminology Joey Pentola: Engineering Victoria Robinson: Communication Disorders Kat Rouse: Graphic Design Christian Rule: Fine Arts Rachel Rule: Social Work Lauren Schath: Education Kristen Schau: Political Science Hayden Scott: Architecture Emily Smith: Criminology Austin Snyder: Mechanical Engineering Benjamin Stadler: Business Savannah Sunderman: Agriculture Braden Timmons: Mechanical Engineering Ashlyn Voth: Undecided Taylor Weber: Education Camryn Willett: Biology Mitchell Willoughby: Physical Anthropology Brooke Wiebe: Architecture Grace Van Inwegen: Psychology McPherson College Shelby Bonn: Biology Mid America Nazarene University Tyler Ciston: Sports Management

Neosho County Community College Brady Garrison: Undecided Luke Sosaya: Business Ottawa University Jackson Flack: Biology Hannah Pasley: Pre-Med Pittsburg State University Jakob Coacher: Constructional Engineering Megan Eckman: Education Jackson Eber: Construction Management Josh Jill: Marketing Max Jones: Construction Engineering Reno Kostynuk: Exercise Science Tyler Lamb: Heavy Diesel/Heavy Equipment Mechanics Payton Marlow: Business Tiffany Painter: Nursing Gracie Pringle: Psychology/ Criminology Alina Ruiz: Undecided Eric Tibbetts: Safety Management University of Kansas Sarah Anderson: Nursing Daniel Archibong: Biology Karsen Ashby: Marketing Taylor Barth: Aerospace Engineering Zachary Bellus: Biomedical Engineering Quintin Bossert: Finance & Sports Management Jacob Campbell: Biology & Political Science Courtney Carlson: Accounting/ Finance Alexa Cash: Nursing Emma Dandridge: Nursing Samantha DeWitte: Pre-Med Andrew Eggers: Business Tyler Eppens: Psychology Andrew Fauth: Sports Management Mahlet Fikru: Biology Maci Foerderer: Pharmacy Kevin McGraw: Computer Engineering Meg Green: Chemistry/Human Biology Adam Grube: Business Paige Habiger: Anthropology Brady Herron: Business Management Ben Hoepner: Linguistics & Speech-Language-Hearing Sciences & Disorders Dru Jones: Civil Engineering Kyle Kappes-Sum: Interdisciplinary Engineering Caytlin Knight: Business

If you could, what would you tell yourself as a freshman?

“ 08

To stop worrying about what other people think about you and do things that would make you happy. Hard work pays off. senior Morgan thomas

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Jagwire

MINNESOTA

Mallory Koca: Biology David Kuk: Business Management Taylor Lutz: Undecided Jansen McCabe: Business Kevin McGraw: Computer Engineering Alexis Medina: Speech, Language & Hearing Kiana Melendez: Finance Blake Montgomery: Finance Sarah Morgan: Pre-Pharmacy Kaley Muir: Science Charlotte Muttai: Biology/ Chemistry Kathy Nguyen: Microbiology Megan Pastine: Pharmacy Vanessa Pennington: Education & Spanish McKenzie Pitts: Undecided Braeden Riffel: Creative Writing Sophie Rosen: Biology Gabby Rossetti: Elementary Education Braden Shaw: Journalism Seohee Shin: Pre-Pharmacy Jayna Smith: Graphic design Kate Stone: Biology Alexis Strauss: Behavioral Neuroscience Lauren Tracht: Biology/Pre-Med Chris Weber: Marketing Ryan Younger: Biology/Chemistry Washburn University Sharnelle Bennett: Nursing Michaela Brown: Actuarial Science Meghan Burke: Forensic Investigation Emma Hansen: Criminology/ Psychology Jacqueline Januzska: Criminal Justice/Forensic Investigation Darius McLemore: Accounting Peter Soderling: Political Science Wichita State University Natalie Carrera: Musical Theater Samantha Dale: Social Work Joseph Gray: Electrical Engineering Gabby Hopkins: Education/Exercise Science Melissa Kelley: Biology

Evangel University Lisa Earlenbaugh: Musical Theater & Psychology Charlsey Seidel: Sports Management Kansas City Art Institute Rhiannon O’Brien: Animation Missouri State University Kacey Blair: Nursing Maddie Sprenger: Interior Design Missouri University of Science and Technology Dana Schath: Chemical Engineering Missouri Western State University Keegan Zars: Finance Rockhurst University Brooke Haring: Pre-Med/Biology Truman State University Elaina Bartlow: Communication Disorders University of Central Missouri Haley Freeman: Marketing Danielle Graviette: Radiology Lexi Moore: International Studies Lauren Niss: Undecided Claire Rachwal: Nursing University of Missouri Brooke Carson: Nursing Riley Doyle: Journalism University of Missouri-Kansas City Paramvir Ballagan: Finance Sarah Butler: Chemistry Connor Davis: Mechanical Engineering Nathan Gawith: Computer Science Harmandeep Kaur: Pre-Dental Mary Petropoulos: Business & Political Science Allison Saab: Communications Quinn Sheehan: Undecided Spencer Smith: Music Performance/ Jazz Studies Anthony Meljanac: Biology/ Pre-Med Cindy Meljanac: Nursing Marcell Meljanac: Biology

MASSACHUSETTS

NEBRASKA

Boston University Nick Nelson: Film/Television Production Northeastern University Sam Lopez: Finance

MICHIGAN

Hope College Parker Billings: Nursing

Minneapolis Community College David Cardoso: Undecided

MISSOURI

Northeast Community College Dalton Bray: Energy Theory University of Nebraska-Lincoln Dylan Gowin: Biology Cailin Hieb: Undecided Emma Mantel: Criminology/ Psychology Eli Soell: Broadcasting & Sports Communications

Noah Veal: Business Administration

NEW YORK

Columbia University Sue Kim: Business & Political Science Fashion Institute of Technology Bella Italiano: Fashion Merchandising/Design Fordham University Emma Wilhoit: International Studies Pratt Institute Jason Chen: Industrial Design University of Rochester Jessica Mitchell: Biological Sciences

NORTH CAROLINA

Lenoir-Rhyne University Maggie Bogart: Exercise Science & Psychology University of North Carolina Wilmington Andrea Ayers: Marine Biology

OKLAHOMA

Oklahoma Baptist University Savannah Chappell: Multilingual Communications Baylen Kelley: Kinesiology Southern Narazene University Mason Haydock: Finance University of Oklahoma Kacie Kinley: Biology

TEXAS

University of Texas Matthew Dennis: Computer Science

WISCONSIN

University of Wisconsin-Platteville Spencer Butterfield: Aerospace Engineering

MILITARY

Savannah Hurd Julian Johnson Landon Smith Anastacia Torson

OVERSEAS

Tatumn Iskra: Australia Michelle Schuster: Germany

UNDECIDED

Jake Atkins: Construction Management Duncan Bicknell: Art Nicholas Blackwell: Culinary Arts Kristen Higgins: Radiology Cameron Ingram: Economics Abigael Rich: Biology/Pre-Med

WORKFORCE

Victoria Nicholson Alexandria Tiehen Bo Wells

what will you take away from your four years at mv?

“

” 09

How important education is and how lucky I am to have been at a school that gave me the opportunities to learn at such a high level. senior joel soderling

Jagwire

mill valley high school

Design by Annie Myers

news

After voting for overall class superlatives on pages 15-18, seniors give themselves an award of their choice rage at a rave again Justin Ackhavong // become your professor Ross acree // dye her hair ten different colors Claire anderson // be sleeping sarah anderson // never be free sam andres // become a member of the migos daniel archibong // be broke because of Yugiou brayden arnold // say profanity in a public situation riley arthur // work for Nike headquarters in Oregon elena artis // go bankrupt from shoe shopping karsen ashby // be in the Olympics Lauren atchley // quote Mr. Howard andrea ayers // bench without a spotter and die paramvir ballagan // build a robot in space taylor barth // marry mac and cheese elaina bartlow // get kicked out of class for laughing jack bauer // be the most sarcastic zach bellus // have her own talk show called Sass for Days sharnelle bennett // be a pro tennis player alec bergeron // wreck his car drifting austin berner //eat a dog parker billings // marry Brady Rolig kacey blair // succeed peyton blankenship // ‘yam on Shaq rowdy boatwright // become a professional ping pong player andrew bock // [not care] about what other people think james bock// be called out during announcements by her dad Maggie bogart // major in binge watching Netflix shelby bonn // not know what to write for this jesse bowden // not talk to any of these people after graduation hannah brady // own a fleet of lions dalton bray // waste her life savings on clothes megan breninger // throw a parking lot party mason brown // play in the Pro Bowl sam brown // adopt all of the animals at Wayside Waifs meghan burke // work at a daycare sarah butler // still be driving his Civic at age 35 spencer butterfield //hold public office jack campbell // serve two terms as the President of the United States jacob campbell // own a pet tiger dawson cantwell // exceed everyone’s expectations by far david cardoso // be adopted by Angie DalBello courtney carlson // be a drama queen the rest of her life natalie carrera // own a dog of every breed brooke carson// be late alexa cash // live in a foreign country with an indigenous tribe, speaking their native language savannah chappell // travel to the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea jason chen // “just watch me” tyler ciston // know all of the words to Disney movies meghan clark // become a professional Yo-Yo-er jakob coacher // trip over absolutely nothing travis collins // get hurt playing pick up basketball jack cooley // create his own clothing line jack cooper // have the most Mill Valley parking tickets jasmine cousins // take an amazing nap ashley creiger // die young sam dale // come home from college every weekend emma dandridge // continue driving Jeeps for life connor davis // go to space and never return camden davis // repel out of a helicopter bryce dean // post spicy memes matt dennis // wear Crocs alec derritt // trip on stage at graduation sam dewitte // wear state rings when he’s 80 years old joel donn // be a pinterest-crazed mom riley doyle // wreck her car again brianna duden // be single forever cat dunwiddie // do KC professional theatre lisa earlenbaugh // be late to everything megan eckman // have no idea what to write for this tyler eppens // drown in a pool of mayonnaise garrison fangman // have a job with the Royals drew fauth // be the newspaper mom madison ferguson // be a cat lady mahlet fikru // become a professional outdoorsman jackson flack // cry everyday of the week maci foerderer // do gnar gnar stunts aaron fouts // be late to her own wedding haley freeman // have a wicked bruise with a boring story Payton Frye // be the next Brian Rodkey jordan fullerton // get asked if she’s wearing pants under her long t-shirts she wears (the answer is yeah, most of the time) alina garcia // set the joose loose austin garner // be CEO of his own company nathan gawith // become Kurt Russell austin geise // to not do nothing gary gentry // own a shaving company adam gillette // have a pet alligator ethan gonzalez // be a millionaire dylan gowin // win the lottery kirstin graham // marry her high school sweetheart dani graviette // steal your girl dj graviette // run a marathon joey gray // die in organic chemistry next year meg green // show up to Chick-fil-a on a Sunday adam grube // have a pet capybara paige habiger // be a soccer mom sydney hall // pay more for a tattoo than food victoria hall // bring a blanket to their wedding emma hansen // laugh at the wrong moment brooke haring // grow a foot long beard bryce hart // be MVP of the Okun Basketball Men’s League mason haydock // forget how to breathe kali heckman // adopt an entire dog shelter emily heinking // get rich grant henderson // own her own business ashlyn hendrix // drink some soda sometime brady herron // watch a movie exclusively for the soundtrack natalie hertog // do something and say it was his brother carter hey // live near the ocean griffin hey // sleep through college cailin hieb // leave Kansas and never come back kristen higgins // win national championships with never touching the field josh hill // be a drone racer marc hinnen // evangelize BANKS’s music ben hoepner // be a cat lady brianna hoffman // be in a sorority sydney hookstra // wear khakis every Monday thomas hopkins // go to the Olympics gabby hopkins // lose a limb justin hopper // travel the world savannah hurd // beat Lil’ Marcelo in a rap battle cam ingram // come out for an english paper tatumn iskra // be a fashion designer bella italiano // be named iciest man alive cole ivey // have the craziest hair

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mill valley high school

Jagwire

draek james // travel to every continent elise jamison // become a backup dancer for Beyonce olivia jamison // not be on a list for school activities jackie januszka // open a coffee shop gabe jasso // be a marine julian johnson // not know what to put for their senior superlative dru jones // have 10 dogs jordan junkins // let someone else fill out his survey kyle kappes-sum// become a millionaire harman kaur // adopt a goat and teach it how to do open heart surgery melissa kelley // out sass anyone kristen kelly // get cold on a summer day julia kemp //be on Forbes 100 sue kim // OD on Diet Coke skyler king // marry a professional athlete kacie kinley // be a rad dad jack knight // be the shiest caytlin knight // save the bees mallory koca // legalize ranch aaron kofoid // be the next Kent Murphy thomas kopatich // never know what’s going on gabby kornis // become a seven time Mr. Olympia winner reno kostynuk // survive a DDOS attack hanavan kuhn // live in a box david kuk // keep his chill tyler lamb // become a literal ball of stress raya lehan // have her dog in her wedding paige lewis // be asked, “Ya like jazz?” jazz loffredo // force his future roommate to move out so he has a room to himself sam lopez // be late to everything nicole lozenja // become a NASCAR driver taylor lutz // a Halo champion miguel madrigal // look 15 until she’s 30 danielle mansfield // husk corn emma mantel // return to MV as a history teacher lance marx // sing that one really high note in every song ... really loudly kara mason // be late to everything jansen mccabe // cry during the Star Wars title sequence tom mcclain // ask to be reminded of something later grace mcgill // be on the Forbes top 100 kevin mcgraw // laugh at her own stupidity kaylie mclaughlin // have their handwriting turned into a font sarah mclaughlin // hit his head on objects darius mclemore // open a sushi restaurant alexis medina // literally not be able to walk at graduation kasey meeks // own a business kiana melendez // give plastic surgery to your wife anthony melijanac // unknowingly be too caring and nice cindy meljanac // make it big in the rap industry marcell meljanac // go D1 in managing basketball margaret mellott // be with her dog, Larry laura meza // referee in the World Cup aaron middaugh // win a BBQ competition tyler miller // move to Alaska schuyler miller // date a super model tristan milne // be ID’ed at 30 jessica mitchell // go to jail grant moberly // to play intramural basketball blake montgomery // be ID’ed when she’s 40 lexi moore // have a talk show ariana moore // say sorry for no reason lauren moores // be mistaken as a middle schooler into her late 40’s sarah morgan // wear sweats to graduation sheridan morris // have her name spelled or pronounced wrong kaley muir // make more money than her husband charlotte muttai // have a sunburn nick nelson // win X factor tori nicholson // travel the world lauren niss // make a cartoon rhiannon o’brien // ride a motorcycle to school johnny o’hara // move out of the state after college tiffany painter // be a CSGO pro nathan palcher // have too many childern trinity panuco // gamble money away brayden parrish // live in a foreign country hannah pasley // die choking on a grape hunter paxton // be too lazy to attend her own wedding vanessa pennington // become a YouTube star jason pentecost // use anything and everything as a percussion instrument joey pentola // win America’s Best Dance Crew alone collin petigna // spontaneously move to another state or country mary petropoulos // have the most braclets on kenzie pitts // wear Crocs to a formal event kelsey poje // work at a national park maria porzelt // have 10 or more kids gracie pringle // never return to Kansas haley pultz // be asked if she still goes to Mill Valley claire rachwal // be a backup dancer for Beyonce abby rich // juggle flaming chainsaws braeden riffel // play the clarinet like Squidward vicki robinson // be overinvolved in college brady rolig // look 12 forever sophie rosen // live abroad gabbie rossetti // own five or more pugs kat rouse // succeed brady rowse // win top chef christian rule // laugh at her own jokes rachel rule // have to Google teen lingo ally saab // crash trying to drift alex sambevski // get arrested at Area 51 taylor sanders // be late in the morning toby sayalinh // attend a One Direction reunion tour dana schath // never shave her legs lauren schath // turn in their senior superlative late kristen shau // be fluent in German michelle schuster // not come to the high school hayden scott // smuggle a puppy into the dorm rooms charlsey seidel //have his calves featured on the cover of “Men’s Health” Braden Shaw // teach quinn sheehan // own a sushi bar seohee shin // eat all of the pasta derek simms // be on the news for doing something ridiculous landon smith // become a crazy cat lady emily smith // sleep through college spencer smith // not come back to high school reunions dylan smith // find the positive in situations jayna smith // have a [cool] car austin snyder // trap outta subway joel soderling // end up on ESPN eli soell // be the next Kenny Powers luke sosaya // make movie or song references at the most inappropriate times ben stadler // move to Florida and never talk to anyone again kate stone // go home from college everyday to see her dogs alexis strauss // daily drive a liter bike ben swearengin // become roommates with Ian Nichols kelston swift // improve the city rishon taylor // asked if she is mixed morgan thomas // be offered multiple jobs eric tibbetts // become a famous artist alex tiehen // build a race car jacob tiehen // listen to one song over and over again lesa tilden // trip at the finish line of life Brady timmons // win a food eating contest abby toalson // be successful stacia torson // be a stay at home dad hunter turpin // marry a professional athlete grace van inwegen // live in Daniel Archibong’s basement noah veal // lift hayden vomhof // live in Hawaii ashlyn voth // be the next Gordan Ramsay laken wagner // open his own gym Chris weber // drive a Civic bo wells // be working on graduation aaron white // fail a unit circle quiz brooke wiebe // start a revolution emma wilhoit // win loudest laugh contest camryn willett // go to Hogwarts sydney williamson // move to one of the coasts mitch willoughby // build a race car jon winn // hunt and kill a sasquatch josh winscott // win a hot dog eating contest ryan younger // sleep through graduation keegan zars //

Jagwire

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forty minutes of family

Seminar class strengthens the relationship between student and teacher after several years together

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ABOVE: During seminar, senior Eli Soell enjoys the company of broadcast adviser Dorothy Swafford. “I feel like I can come in here [anytime],” Soell said. “I come in here every day before school and hang out.” Photo by Hunter Ristau

by ABBY LAYTON

social media editor jagwire.abbylayton@gmail.com

A

fter a long day of classes, students end their time in school by spending 40 minutes in their seminar class.

Many students spend most of their high school career in the same seminar, and this is the case for senior Eli Soell.

He has had broadcast adviser Dorothy Swafford as his seminar teacher since his sophomore year, the year he also had her for his Pre-AP English 10 class.

The pair uses seminar as a time to catch up, reflect and joke around, ac-

cording to Soell. This helps to strengthen their relationship by giving them a time to relax away from broadcast.

“We do have that chance to just chill and talk about random things,” Soell said. “Seminar is just a time for us to hang out, talk and decompress after the day is over.”

As a result from spending their seminar time together, Swafford believes there are many mother-son qualities to their relationship.

“I think it’s great, because we [tease each other] and joke all the time, because I treat him like he’s my son,” Swafford said. “We talk and have good times.

seminar seniors RIGHT: Standing in front of social studies teacher Angie DalBello’s room, seniors Sam DeWitte and Chris Weber Photo by Hunter Ristau

I feel like I can go up and ask [Soell] anything, and I hope he can tell me anything.”

Junior Bailey Heffernon, a fellow broadcast and seminar student of two years, believes Swafford and Soell’s relationship also reflects the relationship the seminar class has with Swafford.

“I feel like all of us have the same relationship with Swaff, so then it’s just fun because we can bounce off of each other,” Heffernon said. “It’s not just those two; it’s just a whole dynamic between all of us which is really fun.”

Soell believes the reason the two have such a strong relationship is because of the numerous similarities in their personality.

“We’re both kind of reserved, but at the same time, once we get comfortable with each other, I feel like it’s just out there,” Soell said. “I’m laid back always, but with [Swafford] I get really sassy because I know I can, but I couldn’t do that necessarily with any other teacher.”

Swafford believes the two share a special bond, one that will carry into the future.

“I love Eli,” Swafford said. “He’s great.

I think of him as a son, and I’m truly going to miss him next year. I just think that he’s going to be so great post high school … [and] he’s just so genuine.

That’s what the world needs more of and I’m blessed to have had him these past three years.”

Close friendship develops between students after having social studies teacher Angie DalBello’s seminar for multiple years “We sat by each other in assigned seats, and there was no one else in that class to really talk to. It was just us.”

Senior sam dewitte

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“We spent a lot of time together, [and had] forty minutes to talk each class. I feel like there wasn’t that many people who talked besides us.”

Senior chris weber

What about the future are you looking forward to the most?

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I am looking forward to my future with working on space shuttles and possibly even going to outer space. senior taylor barth

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in the

by KAtyA GILLIG

news editor jagwire.katyagillig@gmail.com

A timeline of important events since 2004

RIGHT: Former President Barack Obama delivers his inagural address at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. on Tuesday, January 20, 2009. Looking back, senior Derek Simms thinks this has been a significant event. “It was important because he was the first black president,” Simms said. “It was really special because we took the whole day watching it.” Photo from MCT Campus

Mark Zuckerberg launches Facebook

February 4, 2004

Hurricane Katrina hits Louisiana

August 29, 2005

Twitter is founded

March 21, 2006

Steve Jobs announces invention of the iPhone

January 9, 2007

Barack Obama is inaugurated, becoming the first AfricanAmerican President of the U.S.

January 20, 2009

Earthquake occurs in Haiti, killing 230,000

January 12, 2010

Osama Bin Laden is killed

May 2, 2011

Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio is elected Pope, taking the name Pope Francis

March 13, 2013

Boston Marathon bombings

April 15, 2013

Gay marriage is legalized in the U.S.

June 26, 2015

The Royals win the World Series

November 1, 2015

Donald Trump is elected president

November 8, 2016

ABOVE: After the Royals win the World Series, fans gather around Union Station on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2015. Photo from MCT Campus

What advice would you give to underclassmen?

“

Go to activities and have fun, you’ll regret it if you don’t. But focus on school work, teachers are willing to help. senior kristen higgins

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‘

‘17 senior superlatives

r o i n e s s e v i t a l r e sup

by AB BY LAYT ON

editor social media layton@gmail.com by ab e. ir gw ja

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by M ARerAHanSHd UL photographer

ail.com report ahshulda@gm jagwire.mar

242 rvey among su a d e ct u d ass awards e con this ye ar’s cl The JagWir n o w o h w nd out seniors to fi

If you could, what would you tell yourself as a freshman?

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I would tell myself that I could do anything I put my mind to, even if I thought I could not do it. senior travis collins

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” 15

senior superlatives

most likely to... return to mv as a teacher

SENIOR LANCE MARX

“I wasn’t really surprised, because a lot of people know that I’m going into teaching and that I want to be a teacher.”

be on espn SENIOR JOEL DONN

“I actually want to come back here to teach as a high school teacher.”

“I think I won this award because of my successful football season and my legendary long jump at relay for life.”

SENIOR KASEY MEEKS

SENIOR HANNA HURT

“I love sports … it’s cool that people know I’m athletic.”

be on broadway “I was a little bit surprised, but not too much just because I know I love broadway stuff, I just haven’t been involved in Broadway in a while.”

“It would be a dream to be on broadway but really I just want to make a career out of performing.”

SENIOR NATALIE CARRERA

SENIOR QUINN SHEEHAN

What advice would you give to underclassmen?

“ 16

Don’t stress about the little things. People don’t care about the things you stress about. They aren’t going to remember two years later. So, live your life the way you want to live it. senior grace mcgill

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best bromance and galpals

“I think I can say for all of us that we’re really happy. Shocked that people knew our names.

We didn’t think people knew who we were all together. But they did.

So thank you.”

“We’ve just been best bros forever. It’s been nice, he’s actually been a really good friend. We do everything together and when we see everybody we’re always together.” “[I think we SENIOR DALTON BRAY won] because we’re “I think it’s perfect. always That’s just who we together are. It’s a lot of fun like 110% of [and] we’re always the time.” together.”

SENIOR LUKE SOSAYA

SENIOR JASON CHEN

“We’re best gal-pals.

We’re always together.

We live behind each other, are constantly together.”

SENIOR ELISE JAMISON

win project runway “I’d say [I’m] fairly surprised, I haven’t made much clothing, so I don’t know why I’d be on project runway, but I do dabble in the arts.”

SENIOR SKYLER KING

SENIOR OLIVA JAMISON

have more cats than copeland

SENIOR MAHLET FIKRU

“I was really excited.

I watch a lot of project runway so its fun that people think I could go on the show.”

SENIOR MELISSA KELLEY

“I’m excited that I won this award … I kind of expected to win since I don’t know any other senior males who are as into cats as I am.”

“I feel like I’m destined to be a cat lady, and I think it just shows that I love cats and other people see that as well.”

SENIOR COLLIN PETIGNA

If you could, what would you tell yourself as a freshman?

“

To be more involved. High school goes by so quick and I wish I would have done more. senior shelby bonn

Jagwire

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Design by margaret Mellott and annie myers special section

” 17

senior superlatives

be the next bachelor/bachelorette

most contagious laugh

“I was quite astonished, I didn’t think I was going to win. I have no idea [why I won].”

SENIOR ROSS ACREE SENIOR SYDNEY HOOKSTRA “I watch The Bachelor and The Bachelorette. So, I think it’s a fun show and I’m excited I got nominated.”

“It’s pretty cool to be nominated for something like this and be chosen by your class ... I laugh a lot, and it’s usually because I’m awkward a lot and laughing is my go to.”

“I’d say infectious would be one way to describe [my laugh] …

Laughing is a way to kind of clear the air and to keep the mood light. I just like to laugh.”

SENIOR BRADEN SHAW

bring their dog to college

SENIOR MAGGIE BOGART

share a “lady and the tramp” moment

“I post pictures of my dog [almost] every single day on Snapchat, I have an instagram for him, and my license plate on the back of my car is “My heart belongs to a Cocker Spaniel.”

“I feel like my pup Maverick would be even more honored but I am honored that my classmates gave me this award.”

SENIOR DANIE GRAVIETTE

SENIOR PAIGE LEWIS

SENIOR SPENCER BUTTERFIELD

SENIOR HUNTER PAXTON

“To me it means we are a very well known couple in our class.”

“I think we won this because we’ve been dating for almost four years.

What advice would you give to underclassmen?

“ 18

Don’t take anything for granted, it’s gone by too quick. “Don’t let someone tell you that you can’t do something.” senior jack blancarte

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senior columns farewell from the staff Staff members say their final goodbyes to the seniors

madison ferguson

T

o some, you were a thespian. To others, a starving artist. To the JagWire, you were a mother figure. Through all the ups and downs, you gave us a place of comfort when we needed someone. We’ve enjoyed seeing you be a part of Mill Valley, whether on the stage in “Hello, Dolly!” or on the soccer field taking pictures.

All your guidance and kindness has made us better staff members, better friends and better people. Whenever we mess up, you’re always thinking of a solution, ready to try new things. We’ve benefited from your design advice and your dedication to this publication, and we are forever grateful for welcoming us into your world.

Thank you for taking us under your wing and giving us a rock to lean on.

We’re so excited to see what amazing things you do next year and beyond. No matter what, we know you’ll be a superstar.

love,

James Ball Claire Boone

Alison Booth Tricia Drumm Lexi Flipse Katya Gillig

Jagwire Mill valley high school

braden shaw

margaret mellott

here are many things we call you on staff, from Rango to B-Shaw to Stats Dad. I think all of us would agree, however, that our favorite is editor-in-chief. We know you’ve been busy juggling state titles, but somewhere between running 10 miles and writing 500 words every day, you’ve been a role model to us.

It’s no question that we look up to you. All of us can recall some memory where you’ve had to sit down and crank something out with us, but you were never rude. You were always kind. You never gave us any reason to suspect you were anything but a statistically advantaged father.

You’ve grown a lot since K.C. Sports Kids, and we’re excited to see you pursue a future in journalism. Your impact will stay at Mill Valley for classes to come, so just remember us when you’re on ESPN. West 60th will not be the same without you.

argaret, you always told us the story of how upon entering newspaper, you were the “warning kid.”

You might disagree, but we think you’ve done a great job. It’s been incredible to watch you become a leader throughout your three years on staff, and you continue to inspire us inside and outside of the J-room.

You got to watch your beloved girls basketball team go to the state tournament, and you even got to see this journalism department win state last year.

A lot has been accomplished in your time here, and it seems like a lot of our school’s success traces back to you.

We will never forget all the wonderful things you’ve taught us about journalism and life in general. You’ve probably said “thank you” a million times throughout the years, but now it’s our turn to say thank you for being such a beautiful, patient, and wonderful help to all of us.

T

Morgan Gurwell Carter Lawson Abby Layton Nora Lucas

Joe McClain Annie Myers Ally Nguyen Hunter Ristau

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Chris Sprenger Anika Roy Michael Sandri Jakob Twigg Avery Sheltra Victoria Wright Marah Shulda Design by nora lucas and ally ngyuen opinions

19

senior columns

JagWire seniors reflect on their time in high school

my childhood blog sparked my passion for journalism podcast, K.C. Sports Kids.

We learned a lot through our time on K.C. Sports Kids, whether it be editing our stupid mistakes in our podcasts to putting up frequent content online.

Heck, we even had the opportunity to go to a Sporting K.C. training session for a few interviews. The content may not have been great, since our editing skills were in their infancy, but we were able to improve through trial and error.

by braden shaw

editor-in-chief jagwire.bradenshaw@gmail.com

49 stories i 0 photos 11 designs I 3 years on staff

E

ver since I was in the fifth grade, I’ve wanted to be a sports journalist. Granted, back then I didn’t even know what that entailed, but I liked to write and talk about sports, so it sounded good to me. My friend Jimmy felt the same way, so we naturally started up our world-renowned sports blog and

Journalism is more than just giving people news.

Through the run of our website — fifth grade to freshman year — I began to realize that this is what I wanted to do with my life. It became more than just a hobby and joining the newspaper staff was a natural next step. I started as a reporter and worked my way up to an editor-in-chief somehow. It’s taken a lot of hard work and learning from my wonderful fellow staff members over the past three years.

Journalism is more than just giving

What will you take away from your four years at MV?

“ 20

Procrastination is not your best friend. senior charlotte muttai

opinions

people news. My time on the JagWire has provided the foundation for what I hope to be a long-time career in journalism. I’ve learned since I was just a naive fifth grader. This journalism thing is hard work, but it also provides new relationships and determination to uncover the truth for the common people.

I never would have thought that some crazy idea as a sports blog and podcast would blossom into my hopes of pursuing a career in journalism. I hope to take all of the skills that I’ve attained over the last eight years — more specifically, the past three — and put that towards my future endeavors.

Sometimes, I think what my life would be like without journalism. I wouldn’t have met some of my closest friends, I wouldn’t have told as many stories, and I probably would have had a lot more free time. It would probably take a lot of stress out of my life. However, I wouldn’t trade any of the experiences, good (such as covering state basketball) or bad (killing the briefs page sophomore year), for anything. Being a part of this staff has made me a better writer, friend, leader and mentor.

I can’t thank everyone who has helped me along the way enough from the bottom of my heart, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for both myself and this wonderful publication.

” illustration by avery sheltra mill valley high school Jagwire

Live on the edge and Do something out of the ordinary S ince I joined staff three years ago, I have struggled with getting myself out of my comfort zone, as exemplified by a car ride I experienced with editor in chief Braden Shaw after a boys soccer game. It’s hard to believe this now, but I honestly did not want to go out that night due to the incoming storm. It rained so much that the streets started to flood and we had to pull over to wait it out.

by madison ferguson

editor-in-chief jagwire.madisonferguson@gmail.com

3 stories i 228 photos 22 designs I 3 years on staff

I have allowed myself to let loose.

Thanks to newspaper, I have found myself eager to go out onto the field to experience riskier situations. Not only have I become more open, but overall I have allowed myself to let loose more.

These experiences encouraged me

to join the drama department as well, which happens to be one of my favorite extracurriculars now.

If I had not pushed myself, I would definitely not be the same person as I am today. I would most likely be spending most of my time reading or drawing instead of being stressed every day due to assignments. I wouldn’t be able to meet or work with new and unique people. I wouldn’t lose sleep over late night Walmart runs, running lines, Christmas light adventures, the dread of someone forgetting to bring snacks on work nights and the terrifying drive home after a game.

I am so thankful that I was given the opportunity to be a part of the journalism and theatre department and actually took the chance. It’s strange to think about how I thought joining staff and the theatre department was me living on the edge, but I am glad my freshman daredevil self took it upon herself to push herself into this life. I wouldn’t change a thing.

you will never regret getting involved in orginizations W

by margaret mellott

editor-in-chief jagwire.margaretmellott@gmail.com

19 stories i 45 photos 27 designs I 3 years on staff

ow, I can’t believe my three years of newspaper are already up. It really doesn’t feel that long ago that I was called down to the office my freshman year and told I was going to be on the JagWire staff. Being a part of staff has forever changed my life and the benefits will continue to impact my future. The connections and memories I’ve made are irreplaceable and I’m forever thankful. So, get involved while you still can.

I couldn’t even begin to imagine how I would’ve turned out if I hadn’t joined newspaper. I would’ve probably lost touch with some of my closest friends (they also happen to be in journalism) and I don’t think I’d be as adventurous or outgoing as I am now. I probably would’ve never managed basketball or made as many friends. I don’t even think I want to keep going with this list.

Regardless, I wouldn’t be who I am today without the JagWire.

One of the most life-changing things

on newspaper was the day I became an editor. I was no longer a sophomore just trying to figure out how a camera works. I was a leader. Having the new staffers come up to me and ask questions was amazing. They looked up to me (I hope), and it’s something I’ll never forget. I loved being able to help and teach them. Now, they’re passing on the knowledge that I once gave them.

This is why, after four years of high school, I advise the underclassmen, or even upperclassmen, to get involved.

The things you learn and the people you meet will forever change you. It’s such an important opportunity to get involved in high school, so do it. It’ll grow to be a part of who you are.

I talk about all these great memories I have, but it’s more about the learning and knowledge that I’ve gained. So, as I leave the staff behind, I leave this one, final piece of advice: Don’t take your time on staff or in high school for granted; it goes by way too fast.

what will you take away from your four years at mv?

“

I’ve learned how to work hard through sports. Winning two state championships showed me how hard work and commitment pays off. senior brady garrison

Jagwire

mill valley high school

Design by nora lucas and ally nguyen

opinions

” 21

o

ABOVE: After a hit to the outfield, junior Gage Miller throws the ball to first base on Monday, April 24. The game was the first one played on the newly renovated and revamped on-campus field. Photo by Morgan Gurwell

ver the past few offseasons, the baseball team, along with local has helped refurbish and renovate the on-campus baseball field in hopes of one day playing every home game there.

The improvements, costing about $200,000, have been assisted by head coach Jeff Strickland and local construction companies. These additions include a two-story brick press box, two 34 foot dugouts, a rebuilt mound and home plate area along with a 30 feet by 20 feet two-tier viewing deck in right-center field.

Five of the team’s games are scheduled this season at the campus field, but if the field acquires stadium lights, the team could potentially play on it all of next season.

In his four years as a player, senior first baseman Mason Haydock has watched the field evolve immensely.

“When I was a freshman, there wasn’t a scoreboard, there wasn’t a press box; it was basically just an infield

a field of dreams

by ANIKA ROY

sports editor jagwire.anikaroy@gmail.com

by BRADEN SHAW

editor-in-chief jagwire.bradenshaw@gmail.com

Baseball coach Jeff Strickland helps design renovations to the on-campus baseball field

Scoreboard Viewing Deck

Renovation Location

An illustration of the new additions

Dugouts Press Box

What advice would you give to underclassmen?

“ 22

Don’t let what other people think bother you in any way. High school is only temporary. Just keep being yourself; don’t change for anybody. senior kara mason

sports

mill valley high school

” Jagwire

and outfield,” Haydock said. “The field was a lot worse and the dirt was a different kind. When I was a sophomore we got the scoreboard, and then junior year into senior year we got the press box and the new dirt.”

With the other home games being played at the 3&2 Baseball Complex, sophomore second baseman Johnathan Contreras prefers playing on campus.

“The campus field is really close,” Contreras said. “I think it’s so much nicer than the field we play on now.”

Players, along with Strickland, such as senior pitcher and outfielder Dawson Cantwell have had to do their part in off-the-field fundraising in order for these changes to be made prior to the beginning of the regular season.

“I’ve had to raise a bunch of money through selling coupon cards and mulch,” Cantwell said. “I’ve put a lot of individual effort into it. We’re big on working hard before the season starts to raise a lot of money and lots of that

What’snew?

RIGHT: The two 34 foot dugouts have been refurbished and a fence has been added in front of them for protection from foul balls.

Photo by Joe McClain

money goes into the field.”

Not only has the team put in many hours of work into the field; Strickland describes his personal investment in the field as a “labor of love.”

“I enjoy seeing the improvement. It’s actually been pretty fun for me,” Strickland said. “I’ve done quite a bit of labor of my own sweat equity. I’ve been pretty hands-on with my approach as far as selling advertising, acquiring advertising, purchasing materials ... that type of thing.”

Haydock has witnessed Strickland’s dedication to the renovation over the past four years and appreciates his hard work.

“I remember I’d come to the field during the summer … and [Strickland] would be up there laying brick on the press box by himself or something,” Haydock said. “Some mornings I’ll see him out there mowing the grass before school starts. He’s just put in all kinds of work.”

Strickland hopes to give his team a sense of accomplishment in their work in helping renovate their playing field.

“I wanted our players to have a special place to play on campus,” Strickland said. “A big part of being a baseball player is taking care of a field. It also gives our entire program something to have pride in.”

Cantwell believes there will be a noticeable increase in attendance at games played at Mill Valley once the renovations to field are complete. “[Having a campus field] changes the atmosphere a lot,” Cantwell said. “People will actually start coming to the games if they’re on the campus field and if we have a nice place to play.”

When looking to the future, Haydock agrees that the atmosphere at a true home field will benefit the team.

“It’s nice because we’ll get a lot more students at the games,” Haydock said.

“There’s definitely a home field advantage when the right field deck is full.”

Some recent additions and upgrades to the on-campus baseball diamond

Dugouts

RIGHT: The new state of the art, 28 foot, LED digital scoreboard stands just beyond the fence in left-center field. It is controlled with equipment located in the new press box.

Photo by Joe McClain

Press Box

ScoreBoard

Viewing deck

LEFT: The two-story brick pressbox holds various baseball and field equipment on the bottom level. At the same time, the top level is used for scoreboard control and announcers.

Photo by Joe McClain

LEFT: The 30 feet by 20 feet wooden viewing deck is for fans who want to support the team from an outfield perch. Photo

by Joe McClain

What advice would you give to underclassmen?

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Don’t be lazy, do your homework the day you get it. Also, pick class project partners wisely. senior Ethan Gonzalez

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Design by chris sprenger and jakob twigg

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No Work AllA Play

ABOVE: As the ball goes over the net, senior Emma Mantel prepares to hit it over. Mantel plans to either participate in intramural bowling or volleyball. Photo by Margaret Mellott

s seniors plan to leave high school, many will look forward to all the opportunities college has to offer.

Intramural sports, the college equivalent of recreational leagues, have been a popular part of the traditional university experience for decades.

In a survey of the senior class, 32 percent said they plan to play intramural sports in college, while 26 percent said they are considering the idea. Intramural leagues are offered in a variety of sports, from quidditch to raquetball and everything in between.

Senior Emma Mantel said she definitely wants to play an intramural sport, but is unsure of which one she will choose.

“Right now, I’m between bowling and volleyball,” Mantel said, “but I kind of want to do a fun one. I know a lot of schools have innertube water polo, that sounds really fun, or dodgeball.”

Math teacher Brian Rodkey, who played intramural soccer at the University of Kansas, said the setup was similar to that of recreation leagues competing in tournaments.

“My fraternity had house tryouts, so a lot of people played the positions they played in high school,” Rodkey said.

According to Rodkey, intramurals are beneficial for those who enjoy playing sports, but are not interested in the

by NORA LUCAS

opinions editor jagwire.noralucas@gmail.com

Seniors and teachers discuss participation in intramural sports and their experiences varsity level.

“I played soccer growing up and all the way through high school,” Rodkey said. “I got some minor offers from some junior colleges to go play, and I wasn’t going to do that, but I wasn’t good enough to play for my college.”

Rodkey believes that intramurals are not only enjoyable for athletes, but for those who simply want to meet new people as well.

“It’s a good way to continue playing the sport you love.”

MATH TEACHER BRIAN RODKEY “It’s a good way to continue playing the sport you love in an organized, competitive fashion and get to know the people,” Rodkey said. “I got to know the guys in my fraternity house pretty well.”

For Mantel, intramural sports are her pathway to staying active and meeting new people.

“I still like playing those sports, and it’s a way to stay active and meet people in college,” Mantel said. “It’s a fun way to relieve stress and have a good time.”

PLAYTIME forever Teachers discuss their experiences in intramural sports and their advice “I played so many sports, you can’t even imagine. Volleyball, basketball, football, pickleball, wolleyball, sand volleyball and so much more

“Anything you can get involved in, any kind of leadership opportunities you can have, anything like that is a fantastic experience.”

Physical education Teacher Amy McClure

Math Teacher Brian Rodkey

If you could, what would you tell yourself as a freshman?

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Do your work and have fun while you can because high school will be over in a heartbeat. senior brady rowse

sports

Design by james ball

mill valley high school

” Jagwire

Rise AND

by BRADEN SHAW

editor-in-chief jagwire.bradenshaw@gmail.com

doubletrouble Two senior athletes have committed to playing two different collegiate sports

Seniors participate in the annual ceremony by signing letters of intent to their future universities.

specifics of signees

ABOVE: Baker University commit senior Morgan Thomas high fives her teammates before a match on Saturday, Oct. 22, 2016. Photo by Margaret Mellott

A look at the various types of athletes committing this year

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1

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Gymnast signing

Basketball player signing

Cross Country runner signing

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2

2

Wrestler signing

Volleyball players signing

Athletes signing twice

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3

3

Softball players signing

Track athetes signing

Football players signing

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13

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Soccer players signing

Female athletes signing

Male athletes signing

Volleyball and Track Baker University “College is a lot different than high school.

It’s a big eye-opener and I’m excited.”

ABOVE: Warming up, Pittsburg State University committ senior Jakob Coacher,prepares for regionals on Saturday, Oct. 22, 2016. Photo by Annie Myers

Cross Country and Track Pittsburg State University “I’m excited about ... being at a different level in a different atmosphere”

What has been your best memory from high school?

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The K-State marching festival when they told us to sing our parts but they didn’t specify that didn’t include the drum line, so we had a sweet acapella drum line session. senior Kaley Muir

Jagwire Mill valley high school

Design by anika roy

sports

by CHRIS SPRENGER

get

reporter and photographer jagwire.chrissprenger@gmail.com

Seniors spend free time rock climbing at Apex Climbing Gym

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ver since the beginning of the school year, seniors Parker Billings and Nick Nelson have been traveling to Apex Climbing Gym to rock climb with their other senior friends.

At Apex, the group of seniors — Billings, Nelson, seniors Sue Kim, Riley Arthur, Camden Davis and Spencer Taylor — do bouldering, a type of rock climbing with no harness or rope to keep you on the wall. The only real equipment is a crash pad on the floor so nobody gets injured too badly.

“I always enjoyed climbing trees and such when I was little, but I never really thought of going to a climbing gym before because it seemed like a place only for people who were super serious about climbing,” Nelson said. “But, when Billings mentioned going there one time at the beginning of school, I was like, 'Take me now.’”

Climbing, according to Billings, is very rigorous exercise physically and mentally.

“You have to have the strength and endurance to stay on the walls long enough to complete the climb,” Billings said. “Each of your moves has to be made with purpose, and each climb you

ip

ABOVE: Gripping the handhold, senior Nick Nelson climbs at Apex Climbing Gym on Thursday, April 20. Photo by Jakob Twigg

do is a different puzzle for your body and mind to complete.”

"I never really thought of going to a climbing gym" SENIOR NICK NELSON

Nelson sees the benefits of climbing as a workout, but it is not the primary reason he does it. During sessions at Apex, Nelson enjoys the company of his friends both as they give him “pointers and cheer each other on.”

Billings said that while at Apex, they always cheer each other on through difficult climbs.

“We generally give verbal encouragement for the climber who is on the wall or on the rock,” Billings said.

one step at a time Senior Parker Billings gives his best advice to first-time rock wall climbers

"Climbing is all in the feet and coordination. Always move up the wall with your feet so that the hands are not the only thing that are supporting your body.”

What will you take away from your four years at MV?

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All the fun times at band events and cross country/track meets and the relationships developed with my teammates, classmates, teachers and coaches. senior adam gillette

sports

Design by tricia drumm

mill valley high school

”

Jagwire

Hey, ho! let's throw! OverTime An insight of the different track and field throwing events

javelin

- 1.8 pounds for boys - 1.3 pounds for girls - Mill Valley graduate Matt Acree set the boys school record at 224 feet and 3 inches in 2011 - Senior Gabby Hopkins set it at 45 feet and 2.5 inches in 2016

shot put

- 16.01 pounds for boys - 8.8 pounds for girls.

- Mill Valley graduate MaCauley Garton set the boys record at 53 feet and 7.5 inches in 2010 - Mill Valley graduate Emma Umbarger set the girls at 137 feet in 2010

the real o’neill

An inside look and additonal coverage on this season’s sports and athletes

discus

- 4.4 pounds for boys - 2.2 pounds for girls - Mill Valley graduate Matt Acree set the boys record at 161 feet and 2 inches in 2010 - Senior Gabby Hopkins set the girls record at 126 feet and 11 inches in 2017

A new coaching opportunity comes for assistant coach TJ O’Neill

by MICHAEL SANDRI

reporter and photographer jagwire.michaelsandri@gmail.com

Jagwire: How long have you been a teacher at Mill Valley? coach tj o’neill: This is my seventh year.

JW: What is the reason for you leaving Mill Valley? to: I got a head coaching opportunity at Olathe West.

Jw: Are you going to stay in contact with anyone at Mill Valley? to: Sure. I have a lot of good friends that are on the staff

here. I live in the community still, so I’ll still be closely connected with Mill Valley. jw: What are you going to miss the most about Mill Valley? to: The students and staff, just the relationships that I’ve built here. I’ll miss seeing them here every day. jw: What are you looking forward to about the new career? to: The new challenges and meeting new teachers and students.

ABOVE: Offensive coordinator TJ O’Neill hugs another coach after the win at the state championship on Saturday, Nov. 28, 2015. Photo by Morgan Nelson

What advice would you give to underclassmen?

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Focus on school but make sure you have a little bit of fun by getting involved. senior Brooke Haring

Jagwire Mill valley high school

Design by tricia drumm

Sports

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by LEXI FLIPSE

social media editor jagwire.lexiflipse@gmail.com

by ALLY NGUYEn

opinions editor jagwire.allynguyen@gmail.com

24-hour food

JagWire staff members review the quality of resturants that are open 24 hours a day seven days per week

Steak ‘n Shake

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e began our food tour with the lively and classic Midwestern food chain, Steak ‘n Shake. Walking in around 12:40 a.m. on a Thursday night, we were expecting to enjoy a quiet and quick meal. Instead, the restaurant was upbeat and busy from the start, and because of this, we waited awhile to be seated when we first arrived and waited even longer to have our orders put in.

This was annoying, but with this big of a crowd late at night, it was understandable. As the meal went on, we were even more satisfied because of the waiter and the service. Overall, our waiter was energetic and funny and gave us

Denny’s

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12:40 A.M.

the best service that he could have in the midst of all of the other tables he had to serve.

Our food was pretty good, but it wasn’t as fresh as we would have liked it. The burgers were fine, but the fries seemed like they had been sitting on the warmer for a while and were a little soggy, which was disappointing. Although, the shakes were as fantastic as blended ice cream can possibly be. We gave Steak ‘n Shake a five rating because of the good food and service and it was definitely the best stop on our tour.

1:40 A.M.

ur energy was faltering as we walked into Denny’s at 1:40 a.m., but the atmosphere quickly perked us up. Music played in the background and a variety of people occupied the booths.

Our waitress was a sweet lady who was quick with our food and kindly chatted with us on occasion, but seemed annoyed at having a table consisting of just four teenagers to deal with. Although she consistently checked on us to make sure we were doing OK, it seemed ingenuine at times.

When our french toast arrived, the first thing we noticed was the presentation of it. It was pleasing and delivered with a cute syrup dispenser. The taste of it was just as great. There was just the right amount of sweetness to it because of the combination of powdered sugar and syrup. Because of these factors, this adorable diner received a score of four.

If you could change one thing about high school, what would it be?

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Nothing, I am grateful for all I have and would not change a single bad thing because even those bad things made me better and made the good things so much better. senior Jett Bendure

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” Jagwire

IHop A

2:30 A.M.

t 2:30 a.m. we ended our tour with a quick stop at the popular breakfast food destination, IHOP. We were seated immediately, which we found out was a result of being one of two groups there. Because of this, we ate our food in awkward silence. We also felt a little unwelcome since we were seated in a corner booth despite the availability of many other tables throughout the restaurant. Our waitress was kind, polite and checked on us frequently. However, she gave off the understandable impression that she would rather be anywhere else.

G i v e n these factors, we weren’t expecting much from the food. We were surprised to find that it was just as good as it would have been during the day. Despite having eaten at two other restaurants before, the pancakes, sausage and eggs still looked appetising. With all of these factors taken into consideration, we decided IHOP earned a three.

Staff spills the beans

Waiters and waitresses describe a shocking experience they had from working the night shift

“ I’ve actually seen a lot of people fall asleep in the drive-thru.”

“Four teenagers came in and asked questions about the restaurant.”

“A drunk person at one of my tables barfed literally ten minutes ago.”

STEAK ‘N SHAKE WAITER ADAM GARDNER

DENNY’S WAITRESS TERESA SCHMIDT

IHOP WAITRESS KAREN GONZALEZ

What advice would you give to underclassmen?

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Get involved as soon as you can because the time goes by fast. Step out of your comfort zone at least once. senior Lauren Niss

Jagwire

mill valley high school

Design by claire boone and hunter ristau

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by ALISON BOOTH

copy editor jagwire.alisonbooth@gmail.com

by KAtyA GILLIG

news editor jagwire.katyagillig@gmail.com

planning the

perfect picnic

A detailed guide to organizing the ideal picnic experience based on location, food, drink and supplies

location

LEFT: Shawnee Mission Park offers many options to have a picnic either on the lakefront or near the woods.

Photo by Nora Lucas

Parks with a large abundace of space serve as great picnic spots

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hen picking out the perfect spot for a picnic, make sure to pick an area that’s open and grassy. If other people are also picnicking in the area, be sure to set your blanket down far away from others; it is important to find a balance between the desolate and the overcrowded. Although people-watching can be a fun pastime, too many people nearby can make your picnic unenjoyable.

Make sure to keep weather in mind when planning your picnic. It doesn’t have to be sunny out, but make sure to check the forecast for rain. While clouds are OK — they even help to block out too much sun — a rainy picnic is not fun for any parties involved.

“A park like Shawnee Mission Park [would be best] because it’s really peaceful and there’s a lot of scenery like the lake and everything. It’s a good place to relax.”

sophomore jacob hoffman

If you could, what would you tell yourself as a freshman?

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Don’t forget to yield in the roundabout. It’s not fun to get into an accident and then have to work off $5,000 in damages. senior meg green

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food and drink

Finger foods and fruity drinks that are easy to transport make for a refreshing outdoor meal

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aving the right food and drinks can make or break your picnic. Foods that require cutlery are a no-go — you don’t want your picnic to get too crowded with unnecessary utensils. So, make sure to pack lots of small finger foods to complete your meal.

Fruits, like strawberries and watermelon, provide a nice refreshing taste and also help you to feel healthy. Sandwiches are a classic picnic food for a good reason; they’re easy to eat and require little to no clean-up. Chips are also a nice side item. For a twist, try layering plain-flavored chips into a savory sand-

“Make sure to pick up food or make the food that is easy to travel [with]. You can always make food with your friends beforehand.”

ABOVE: Food and drinks should be easy to transport and not too messy. Prepackaged snacks are often the way to go. Photo by Nora Lucas

supplies

wich to add a satisfactory crunch.

Good drinks could include lemonade or water. Or, if those aren’t for you, try sparking grape juice to give your picnic a sophisticated flare. To enhance the romantic feel of the picnic, bring champagne flutes for your non-alcoholic drink of choice.

For food or drinks that require refrigeration, make sure to bring a cooler.

There’s nothing worse than accidentally making your lemonade warm or your ice cream melt. Be sure to pack all the necessary supplies to enjoy your picnic meal.

senior bella italiano

In addition to a comfortable blanket, bring along fun activities to do

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RIGHT: Bring sunglasses to protect your eyes and a frisbee to keep you busy. Photo

by Nora Lucas

“[It’s important to bring] many blankets. If you’re on the grass, you need to have lots of blankets so it’s not itchy.”

freshman analiese wilhauk

or an ideal picnic, the perfect supplies are vital. Because you’re probably going to be out in grass, make sure to pack a blanket that’s large and comfortable to sit on. A quilt typically works best for this — that way, you avoid the uncomfortable heat of a fuzzy blanket but can also sit on something that’s cushioned.

To pass the time when you’re not eating, bring along a frisbee, a good book or art supplies. Or, just pack something that you like to do. Bringing inside activities to the outdoors can be a fun change, and the fresh air helps to make the experiences even better.

Lastly, make sure to bring friends to share your picnic with — good company, after all, is one of the most important aspects of a good picnic. Talking and laughing with friends in such a friendly atmosphere is extremely beneficial, and helps to make a picnic truly perfect.

What advice would you give to underclassmen?

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My advice would be to take classes that you genuinely enjoy and have interest in. Also, at the end of the day make sure you are always happy. senior Alexa Cash

Jagwire

mill valley high school

photos by nora lucas

Design by morgan gurwell and joe mcclain

a&E

digging deeper

RIGHT: Senior Alex Sambevski hands a stone with hieroglyphics on it to senior Paige Habiger. “Being able to hold things from ancient Egypt is amazing,” Sambevski said.

“It’s a trip I wish everyone could take.”

Photo by Marah Shulda

Archeology students travel to the Clendening History of Medicine library on Wedneday, April 26 for a field trip

Social studies teacher Keil Hileman holds an Sumerian contract scroll bead which was worn when doing official tasks.

Photo by Marah Shulda

ABOVE: As the museum librarian holds up a paper, senior Emily Heinking looks at John Hancock’s signature. “[It is important to preserve] artifacts because there is stuff in there that’s one of a kind,” Heinking said.Photo by Marah Shulda

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photo essay

Design by Victoria Wright

ABOVE: In the founder’s study, senior Sam Brown holds ancient coins touched by monarchs.

“I enjoyed how these artifacts are hardly seen by anybody,” Brown said.

Photo by Marah Shulda ABOVE LEFT: After learning about historical medical instruments, junior Hannah King feels the pages of a medical book. “[I liked] getting to see things you don’t get to see anymore,” Photo by Carter Lawson

mill valley high school

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