Febuary 2011

in the know

HI.L FE FEB 2010 : ISSUE 5 : JLABMAG.COM : $1.00

welcome to

AMERICA p. 13

Expires Feb 18, 2011

Gotta Get Some.

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HI.LIFE 2010

CONTENTS:

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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HI.LIFE : THE STUDENT MAGAZINE OF LEE’S SUMMIT HIGH SCHOOL FEBRUARY : VOL. 92 : NO. 5 : JLABMAG.COM

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27 24 CENTER SPREAD

ON THE COVER designed by Julia Duckworth

Page 6|Budget Cuts

Page 8| Mrs. Prindle

Students at Lee’s Summit High School have felt the strain of budget cuts.

Because the Feb. 8 levy vote failed, budget cuts may get a lot worse.

Art teacher Angie Prindle gives some insight into her personal life by sharing stories about her hobbies and dreams.

Page 24|Cycling

Page 27| Skateboarding

One way to stay motivated and meet that resolution is with a cycling class. Read about the latest fitness craze.

Football, basketball, baseball, and many other sports are accepted by the general public and schools as a sport. Skateboarding is normally left off of this list.

Page 13 | Welcome to America

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ON THE WEB

JLabMag.com is still under construction, but the fashion blog hilifethreads.tumblr.com is up and running

In a country that prides itself on the legacy of being ‘The Land of the Free,’ it is remarkable how oblivious we are to the issues that plague this nation. With the economy on shaky ground, the political gridlock in Washington, and the educational system falling behind, it seems that our freedom has its price.

Have any questions, concerns, or criticisms?

Drop them off at the Jlab (room A227) or give them to any staff member.

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HI.LIFE 2010

LETTER FROM THE EDITORS

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SIA NERO

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LETTER

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Making Decisions

e have to make decisions every day of our lives. When we were in elementary school, we decided who we wanted to play with at recess. When we were in middle school, we decided what to wear to school everyday. Now that we are in high school, we have a lot more decisions to make in our lives, and we hear everyday that the decision-making process only gets greater from here.

High school is usually the time when we start to figure out what it is that we want in life, and we are surrounded by decisions. We decide to get up and go to school. We decide whether or not to do our homework. Although our parents and teachers may give us their advice and tell us what we should do, in the end, we are coming into the age of adulthood, and we ultimately decide what we are going to do. However, there is a consequence for every decision we make. It is best that we make the right decisions in life, because as we have all heard before, life is what you make it. You are the administrator of your future. Every decision that you make in your life will have a consequence, whether it be good or bad, so choose wisely.

Making major life decisions causes us to grow up. We can no longer depend on mommy and daddy for everything; we must branch out and find our niche in society. For instance, when underclassmen are choosing classes for enrollment next year, be sure to choose the classes that you would like to take. After all, it is you that will take the class, not your parents or friends or anybody else telling you what to take. Only you know what you want in your life, everyone else just adds their two cents. Your senior year is the closest to becoming an adult, and reality will hit you quicker than you imagined. No matter what you choose to do with your life after high school, whether you attend a four-year university or stay home to work, that decision will affect you for the rest of your life. In the end, do what makes you happy, for Ethan Embry said it best, “You just have to do your own thing, no matter what anyone says. It’s your life.”

PEOPLE who make it happen

EDITORS-IN-CHIEF : Abigail Jones, Julia Duckworth & Max Belanger PHOTO EDITORS : Bradley Roberts, Laina Gunsallus & Brittany Webster NEWS EDITORS : Luke Jarnevic, Nick Cappo & Nathan Baker FEATURES EDITOR : Mikayla Frommer ENTERTAINMENT EDITORS: Lindsay Nelson FASHION EDITOR : Jordan Shawhan OPINION EDITOR : Kevin Adams SPORTS EDITORS : Nate Day, Nathan Williams, & Erin Rottinghaus ONLINE EDITORS : Patricia Sjuts & Eric Fabi ADVERTISING MANAGERS : Summer Richards & Sierra Lewis PAGE DESIGNER : Rebecca Wadle COPY EDITOR : Sia Nero ADVISOR : Marc Russell

WRITERS & PHOTOGRAPHERS: Jacob DePeralta, Eric Fabi, Jordan Julian, Nick Rellihan, Mary Roccaro, Najee Sears, Haley Gillilan, Kim Tabe, Jacob Valentine, Tyler Wilmore, Aaron Wood, Derek Brooks, Ashley Burrison, MaRyah Cooper, Victoria Fangrow, Ashley Hagan, Michelle Hurley, Shelby McNealy, Hayley Mershon, Jennifer Rhoades, Stephanie Rowden, Roman Kohut, Paige Seymour, Audrey Stetzler, Miranda Vaughn, Jesse Butler, Zac Harris, Tori Carlile, Elaine Fouchia, Jonah Graves, Tre Harvey, Wendy Hayworth, Benjamin Nazworthy, Morgan Pena, Marissa Raukar, Tyler Robertson, Timmy Snook, Ronnie Thomas, Zac Harris & John Wood JLABMAG.COM

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NEWS

Fine Arts Challenge

Barnes & Noble. Book stores are starting to become obsolete. People can purchase book online or download, faster and easier.

Digital Books

AS DIGITAL BOOKS GROW POPULAR, BOOK STORES STRUGGLE TO STAY IN BUSINESS With the invention of digital things currently are for Borders, but books such as the Kindle becoming there is talk of several ‘turnaround increasingly popular, it seems that plans’ in the making. According to real books and book stores may soon several articles on dailyfinance.com become obsolete. and bloomberg.com, if things go Borders, a well-known chain of well, Borders may be able to bounce bookstores, is back from their on the brink of current sales bankruptcy, and slump.

Barnes & Noble If Borders may be following. does go Although online bankrupt, it is sales for Barnes said that Barnes & Noble have and Noble would been on the rise, take up to 18% no one seems to of Borders sales, want to step inside which would a real bookstore bring in up to anymore. Without another $400 both online and inmillion for the store sales, these book retailer. bookstores are

These Bye Bye Bookstores. Digital books are quickly replacbasically set up for ing bookstores. This is bad news for bookstores, articles all such as Barnes & Noble and Borders. People find it failure. indicate that much easier to download a book instead of drive to a Things like the finding a good bookstore.

Kindle are quickly balance between replacing the books we know today. digital books, real books, and just If you purchase a Kindle, you just book sales in general may be the key download books from Amazon instead to saving many struggling businesses of buying individual books. in the future.

It’s unknown exactly how bad

by Mary Jo Roccaro photo courtesy of Associated Press 6

HI.LIFE 2010

Art Galleries. The second annual fine arts show is being held at Longview Community College. Art work from LSHS, LSN, and LSW are being shown.

“This is only the second annual, but we hope to keep the tradition going for years to come,” art teacher Manning Williams said.

LONGVIEW COLLEGE’S 2nd ANNUAL ART CHALLENGE Many people in this school are in art. Those students might know about the art show that is going on. This art show includes exhibitions, galleries, and an awards ceremony. For students who don’t know about this, Manning Williams, one of the art teachers has some info for you.

The second annual fine arts show, held at Longview Community College is going on now.

It started on Jan 21, and is going on until Feb 26.

During this period of time, students’ art work from all three area high schools will be displayed.

All together the school submitted 137 pieces of art and 30 were chosen to put in the show.

“This is only the second annual, but we hope to keep the tradition going for years

to come,” Williams said.

During the first night of the art show, there was an awards ceremony.

This was where students get awards if their artwork was displayed and when the official show begins. The teachers will come to this to give their students the awards and present the details of the show. This was on Jan 21, from 5 - 8 P.M. There is still a chance to get out and see this show, it goes on until Feb 26, but only on Wednesdays through Saturdays from 4 -8 P.M.

by Ashley Hagan photo by Ben Nazworthy and Morgan Pena

NEWS

Budget Cuts

to make

WHAT WILL BE AFFECTING SCHOOL LIFE Students have a lot on their minds.

Keeping their grades up, finding time for friends, and of course getting enough sleep to function properly. However, students should be thinking about budget cuts.

“This school year, a total of $19.5 million has been cut, or around $30 million over three years,” Executive Director of Communications Janice Phelan said.

Over the past few years, the district has worked hard to keep the budget cuts from affecting students too much in the classroom. Even so, students may have noticed teachers cutting back.

This year alone has faced many changes.

With staff down by 103 employees and student enrollment up by 500 since fall 2007, high school teachers have lost an hour of planning time and gained an hour of teaching. Activities and athletics have had

Cutting Costs. The budget cuts made this year will effect not just the school, but the students too. “This school year, a total of $19.5 million has been cut or around $30 million over three years,” said Janice Phelan, Executive Director of Communications.

do with less money and depend more on fundraisers.

“Overall, there will be staffing reductions that will result in increased class sizes, reductions and/or elimination of some programs, and activity fees for extracurricular activities such as sports and music. District wide budgets would also be cut, impacting all areas,” Phelan said.

While some notice the cuts more than others, it is easy to wonder how it is decided which programs will be affected.

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“The R-7 Citizens’ Advisory Committee, working with PTA leaders, developed the recommendation as part of a comprehensive study in fall 2010,” Phelan said.

Predicted reductions for the high school level include: health room clerk reductions, athletic programs, band programs, choir, theatre, jazz groups, Air Force Junior ROTC, candlelighting, broadcast journalism, etc and this list does not even begin to scratch the surface.

The district asked all adults to vote on the Feb. 8, 2011 levy issue. The passing of the levy would have helped the district avoid a vast majority of additional cuts.

This levy could have resulted in a propertytax increase of about $28 per month. This estimate is based on a $200,000 home.

More of this information can be found through the district site. Although, do not be fooled by the length of the article, most of it is repeated information.

The Citizens’ Advisory Committee and the PTA are working to spread the cuts out, so as not to affect certain areas more than others. Regardless, students still cannot help but notice the effects and worry about changes to come.

by Wendy Hayworth photo by Ben Nazworthy

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FEATURES

ANGIE PRINDLE THE INTERVIEW PROFILE ON THE VISUAL ARTS TEACHER

After the bell rings, still full of energy, art teacher Angie Prindle sits down for a while after a busy day to tell a story of her life.

Tell me about the first time you realized that you want to be a teacher.

I was a teacher assistant helping Tom Christian, the art teacher, during my senior year. I helped him do a class within a class, and I actually helped him teach. That felt so natural that I just decided that was the best thing for me to do.

Where did you get an education?

I went to UCM (University of Central Missouri).

Tell me how you discovered that you like art.

I went to a parochial elementary school and we didn’t have art, so I didn’t really know I like it, until I took my very first art class here, at LSHS. It was Foundations of Design and it was in the room across the hall from where I teach now. That’s where I discovered that I love art. After that, I took every art class available. At the time I was really shy, which is hard to believe, because now I cut up and I have a great time. Going out on a limb and taking art was a stretch for me, but then I found out I loved it and I took every art class available here at the school.

How long have you taught in LSHS? I was a teacher in Campbell Middle School, but after two years I began to teach in a high school. It’s because I was getting my master’s degree in Computer Art and it really didn’t allow for me to teach it to the caliber that I wanted to teach it, so it was kind of natural to go to the high school and propose Computer Art. That’s how I got started. I have been a teacher in LSHS for 20 years.

Tell me about the most interesting thing about your job?

I love getting to know the kids and their personal lives and all the fun, exciting things that they do, their hobbies, their interests. I live vicariously through them a little bit.

Describe the funniest situation in your classroom.

I have lots of funny situations in my classroom; it’s hard to pick the funniest. I laugh at myself and allow the kids to laugh with me. I’m a human and let them see that. I try to keep it a real experience for them.

What was your part time job as a teenager?

I worked as a lifeguard and taught swimming lessons.

Then “Camp Summit” opened up and it allowed me to do arts and crafts with kids. That went through my college years, so I was able to get a lot of experience with kids.

What do you do in your free time?

I like to paint. I’m raising my two boys, that’s pretty much what I dedicated my life to. My oldest son Cole is a sophomore in college. He 8

HI.LIFE 2010

graduated from LSHS. My youngest son Austin is a senior at RayPec. He is going to play soccer next year for MCC Blue River.

I like to hang out with my friends and I love to travel.

When you were little whom did you want to become?

When I was in elementary school I really thought I wanted to do something with animals, because that is probably my second love.

I have three dogs and three cats, and I would have more if I could. I probably could do it if I was better in science and math… it wasn’t my calling. I’m not good at those two things. But when I was a little girl, I wanted to work with animals.

Was anybody from your family a teacher?

I’m the oldest of four in my family. My sister, who is 16 months younger than me is an English teacher. Both of my brothers are science teachers.

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

If I could change one thing, I don’t think I would change anything in teaching, because I really learn from my mistakes and build from those. I don’t call them mistakes, I call them life lessons. And if you learn from them you grow and get better.

Describe the most significant or creative presentation that you have had to complete.

I’m really good at starting things, not real good at finishing them. I mean, as far as I start a lot of examples to show students and then I usually let them to do the final experience. I guess, probably my favorite is when I’m working one-on-one with someone, with a kid and they get it, and they’re really proud of themselves that they actually can do it, so not just one.

What do you enjoy doing during the summer vacations?

During summer vacations I like to sleep-in. I’m not a morning person. If I really had control I would be a high school teacher at night. I’m a night owl. I would have lots of students, because I think that teenagers have the exact same clock as me.

Once an LSHS student herself, Mrs. Prindle encourages her students to do their best. The classroom door decoration, a tiger’s paw playing the guitar, is a result of their mutual effort and proof of her and her students’ imagination and creativity. Her openness, sincerity and friendly attitude let her students see a human in their teacher.

by Roman Kohut photos by Tre Harvey

ORANGE LEAF FEATURES

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ORANGE LEAF IS THE NEW HANGOUT SPOT TO RELAX AND ENJOY A TREAT

When one thinks of frozen treats, the first idea that comes to mind has to be ice cream. Baskin Robbins, Dairy Queen, Custard’s Last Stand, they are all the same.

Orange Leaf presents frozen treats in an entirely different form; frozen yogurt.

“We are the fasted growing yogurt place in the nation,” Orange Leaf owner Rick Blackham said. “We currently have 60 locations and will have 85 soon. People want something healthier. Our yogurt is made from scratch in our very own homes with all natural ingredients.”

Orange Leaf has become the talk of the town. Various ice cream parlors are all similar in the way that the ice cream is served. It consists of waiting in line, ordering, watching the employee scoop your ice cream, then paying accordingly. Orange Leaf has a completely different process when it comes to serving. This process includes three steps; Pick your flavor, throw on some toppings, then weigh and pay. The customer will select the size of cup they desire to fill with frozen yogurt. Then, they will fill the cup with their flavor of choice. It does not cost extra to mix up these flavors.

Once the frozen yogurt is in the cup, the customer may then move on to the large

selection of toppings. When the customer is satisfied with what he or she made, they will then weigh the cup on a scale which tells them how much they will pay for their treat.

This allows everyone to put as much yogurt and as many toppings as they want in their cup. That quality cannot be found in any ice cream parlor.

When it comes to flavors, Orange Leaf goes beyond the typical vanilla and chocolate.

“We have everything from vanilla to classic tart. Some other unique flavors are kiwi, green tea, lychee, honeydew, eggnog, pumpkin, cake batter, passion fruit, and mango pomegrante. At one time we have 14 flavors out. Seven machines run at once with two flavors in each machine. There is also a middle lever on the machines that will actually mix the flavors,” Graham Sims, Orange Leaf employee said.

In order to eat frozen yogurt properly, customers must pile on some of the endless variety of toppings Orange Leaf also offers.

“We have a huge selection of toppings.

One of the more unusual toppings we have would probably be the moshi balls. They are some kind of Japanese ice cream topping.

Then of course there’s your typical crushed

candy bars, fruits, and nuts. We also have fruity pebbles, pear, gummy bears, and granola,” Sims said.

Not only is Orange Leaf a great place to have a healthy dessert, but it is also a great place to hangout.

“At Orange Leaf, we make the yogurt.

It is low fat and made from all natural ingredients so it is a lot healthier than ice cream. It’s also pretty affordable. It only costs 39 cents per ounce. As far as atmosphere goes, it is a pretty cool place to hang. We always have music playing and free Wi-Fi so you can get on the Internet while you’re there. We have Pandora Radio, too,” Sims said.

Orange Leaf is unique in the sense of atmosphere, process, and product. For those looking for a new and interesting treat, Orange Leaf is a great place to let your creativities flow and taste true quality frozen yogurt.

by Tyler Robertson photos by Timmy Snook and Tre Harvey

Out With The Old, In With The New IN:

OUT:

Twitter- Lots of people including favorite celebertiess use Twitter

Soulja Boy- The lyrics are played out and stale

Snapback hats- These retro hats have been revived from the dead

Facebook- Facebook is slowly declining to become not as popular

Wiz Khalifa- Hot new rapper climbing to the top Crewneck sweatshirts- A style slowly becoming popular with teens iPad- These expensive, yet efficient machines are on the rise Blake Griffen- New high flying, young sensation to the NBA Wiz Khalifa- Hot new rapper climbing to the top Aaron Rodgers- Mr. Rise-To-The-Occasion is leading his team to the Superbowl

iPod touch/ Laptops- They are being replaced by the all purpose iPad Silly bands- These overnight sensations are now a little to silly for wearing Plaid shirts- These shirts are a played out style that no one wears Brett Favre- He is respected for his work, but washed up for the NFL LeBron James- Over hyped and no one cares what he does anymore

by Najee Sears photos courtesy of Associated Press

JLABMAG.COM

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. Terrific TOMs FEATURES

TOM’S IS A SIMPLE WAY TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE

In times where fashion and charity are usually associated with high-class events Toms shoes has shown how anyone can help change the world.

Blake Mycoskie, the founder of Toms shoes, came up with the idea ‘One for One’ while he was on a trip to Argentina. He noticed the children there did not have shoes, and knew that was a problem. Not owning a pair of shoes can cause many problems for the children. A major problem of this lack of footwear is the harmful things their feet are exposed to.

Toms shoes are sent to 24 different countries around the world, and each pair of shoes are designed to fit their specific enviroment. There are other ways to get involved, other than purchasing a pair of shoes. On April 5, there is an event called ‘One Day Without Shoes’. This is a day where many people around America leave their shoes at home, to heighten awareness of Toms. Many participated last year, and were able to tell others about the movement ‘One for One’.

Mycoskie has transformed charity into something that anyone can choose to take part in. People who purchase Toms shoes are coming together, and are making a difference through something simple.

iPad vs. iPod

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE? At some point there was this big deal about this oversized iPod, but a mini computer called the iPad. Many did not quite understand the difference between the iPod and iPad. One can read newspapers, magazines, websites, and ebooks on both the iPad and iPod touch, the only thing that differs is that the iPad has an iBook store, and a bigger screen. It has a better on-board output than the touch, and the screen is also bigger for video game playing. While all of that is great, someone can get all of these things on their regular iPod touch.

To be far though, research on the iPod touch was done.

Since the little device is lighter it would be easier to stick in your pocket and carry around. The iPad is good for video gaming, but when sitting in class it is a lot easier to get away with playing games on the iPod touch.

Both devices are great to use, but only for certain occasions. The iPod touch is more for cleaning around the house, or being on the go. While the iPad is more for actual computer use and long car or plane rides.

Those are the differences, both of them are good, but overall, one is just bigger

by Ma’Ryah Cooper

by Jennifer Rhoades photo courtesy of Associated Press

Would You Pass?

by Ronnie James

Everyone has to take a test if they want to drive. If there was a new law issued that said you had to take it again after several years, would you still be able to pass?

4.When parking uphill on a two-way street with no curbs, you should: A.Turn the wheels to the right (away from the street).

B.Park on a different street.

C.Turn on the emergency brake.

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HI.LIFE 2010

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The percentage of test takers that pass the test.

The percent of people who pass the test first time they take it.

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The percentage of people who do not take the test a second time if they failed.

There are more than 1000 accidents while taking the driver’s test in a year. *Entire USA statistics

1000 Answers: 1.C 2.B 3.C 4.A

1.When merging onto the freeway the driver should be driving: A.Slower than the traffic on the freeway.

B.The posted speed limit for traffic on the freeway.

C.At or near the same speed as the traffic on the freeway.

2.When driving in the fog drivers should use: A.Fog beam lights.

B.Low beam lights.

C.High beam lights.

3.A school bus ahead of you stopped with red lights flashing. You should: A.Stop, then proceed when all children have exited the bus.

B.Slow to 25 mph and pass cautiously.

C.Stop as long as the red lights are flashing.

FEATURES

Trying to Decide Education on Education. “It’s not how old a school is, not how big a school is, not new books, but it is a great teacher that helps students learn better,” principal John Faulkenberry said. Many people have teaching degrees, but never put them to use. This is because some schools cannot hire new teachers.

Decreasing Teaching

HOW THE ECONOMY IS AFFECTING THE NUMBER OF TEACHERS AND THE RESULT IT HAS ON STUDENTS The downturn in the economy has not only affected how much money people make and what job they have, but it is also affecting the education system. There are more people that have a teaching degree than the number of people that are actually teaching. The decreasing number of teachers may be decreasing the quality of education some students are receiving.

According to the National Education Association, half of all new teachers quit within the first five years of teaching because of low pay and poor working conditions.

What remains are professionals that are more highly educated than ever before. Over 50 percent of all teachers hold a Master’s degree or above.

“It’s not how old a school is, not how big a school is, not new books, but it is a great teacher that helps students learn better,” principal John Faulkenberry said.

“In order to attract good people to teach, schools don’t need to give a high salary, we just need a competing one,” Faulkenberry said.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, because the the recent dropout of so many teacher there will be plenty of job openings for teachers over the next 10 years.

“We must face the fact that although our current teachers are the most educated and most experienced ever, there are still too many teachers leaving the profession too early, not enough people becoming teachers and not enough diversity in the profession,” NEA President Reg Weaver said in a statement.

Statistics show as more teachers change professions, more middle and high school students are at significant risk of dropping out of school. One-third of entering ninth-grade students will drop out of high school before attaining a diploma, according to 2001 research

by Harvard University.

Major changes have to happen in order for great teachers to be convinced to stay in the system.

Until those changes happen, the mass exodus of excellent educators will continue.

by Jesse Butler photos by Tre Harvey and Timmy Snook

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ENROLLMENT CAN CAUSE SOME STRESS, BUT IT DOES NOT HAVE TO Starting off freshman year, college is not one of the

main things that comes to mind. However, as the years roll on and the second semester of junior year begins, college and the future can become an overwhelming subject.

Every year high school students are given a piece of paper and are told to pick their classes for the next year, but how do they go about it? How do they know what classes will help them get to their future if they are unaware of what they want to be when they grow up?

Teachers always stress how important it is to get good grades and to stay on track, but they do not always know how to help when it comes to enrolling. Students are told that they should pick classes that will help them in their major for college, but that is not helpful for everyone. We all know we want to go somewhere in life, most of us just are not exactly sure where that somewhere is.

Even if we do not know where we want to go quite yet, we can not just stop time until we figure it out.

So here are a few tips when trying to figure out future classes: 1) Take classes that take some effort. Just aiming for an ‘easy A’ will have students sitting there bored and falling asleep. Harder classes go more in depth on subjects and truly give the student more, valuable information.

2) Try something new. Taking a variety of classes, specifically electives, will give the student a wider view of occupational opportunities.

3) Take it while its free. There are many different classes that the school provides and they are free. In college, if a student wants to try being in a new class, subject, or major, then it costs a lot of money. It is easier to try different classes in high school.

The biggest tip of all though is that we cannot rush for the future, we are still kids, so it does not matter if we know exactly what we want to be when we are adults, we have several more years to decide. We all need to take the time to think about our futures instead of rushing in without a clue. Do not let the future overwhelm you.

by Mikayla Frommer photo by Brittany Webster

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CENTER SPREAD

illustration by Spencer Bowers

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HI.LIFE 2010

CENTER SPREAD

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In a itsel countr f y “The on the that pr rem Land o legacy o ides ar f f are t kable h the Free being o o th e iss w obliv ,” it is io u this es that us we plag nati on ue

by Nick Cappo, Nathan Baker, and Derek Brooks

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CENTER SPREAD

Health Care

AS POLITICS IN WASHINGTON BECOME INCREASINGLY DIVIDED OVER NEW HEALTHCARE LEGISLATION, IT IS IMPORTANT THAT AMERICANS AS A WHOLE CONSIDER THE HEALTHCARE CRISIS IN ITS CURRENT STATE

I

t is a debate that has gone on for decades, yet its final resolution in the United States will have a tremendous impact on our lives. For years, people have been divided over the issue that is healthcare, and while we as a country like to make the issue black-and white, there is actually an entire spectrum of color that has to be considered.

Within the U.S., the issue with medical coverage centers around two growing problems: There is a large percentage of Americans who lack health insurance, and the cost of having health insurance is rising swiftly. These problems are only heightened by their connection to each other: As healthcare coverage becomes more expensive, people either cannnot afford to continue purchasing it, or young adults choose not to. When the healthy youth chooses not to buy health insurance, the HMO’s (Health Maintenance Organizations) are forced to jack up the price even more because they have a profit quota that they need to fill; and they cannot achieve that quota if most of their customers get sick or injured often.

As this problem continues to worsen, the U.S. government, which is already dealing with a struggling economy, has to find a way to deal with the situation. Interestingly enough, the problem with healthcare is partially rooted in the economy. The United States, in 2008, spent about 16% of the GDP (Gross Domestic Product) on health-related expenses, nearly twice as much as other foreign powers such as the United Kingdom, 14

HI.LIFE 2010

“The average household in the U.S. pays around $12,600 annually just for health insurance” France, Germany, and Canada. However, while these countries have universal health care and pay for their medical expenses through higher taxes, the average household in the U.S. pays around $12,600 annually for health insurance.

So how can this dilemma be solved? One solution that has been proposed is for the United States to adopt a universal health care system; however, this solution has been brutally shot down by conservatives. The reason that universal health care is rejected by the masses in the U.S. is the fear of increased taxation. In a public opinion survey, it was shown that 80% of Americans like the universal health care system in countries like the United Kingdom, but 50% declared President Obama’s move toward regulation of HMO’s, or “Obamacare,” as wrong for the country. While Americans like the idea of universal healthcare, it appears they don’t like the idea of paying for it.

Unfortunately, beyond universal healthcare, there is little else that could remedy the current healthcare crisis. Some push for less regulation of the HMO’s, in the belief that this greater freedom given to the HMO’s will allow them to fix the monetary problems without government interference. However, this deregulation would have to begin with the repeal of President Obama’s healthcare bill, which would potentially lead to thousands of American citizens losing the healthcare coverage they have finally been able to obtain through regulation of HMO’s, since many of them previously were denied coverage due to “pre-existing conditions.” Further, this deregulation would also give HMO’s the ability to continue raising prices in order to increase profit.

It is clear that the current standard for healthcare in the U.S. is not acceptable. As the issue continues to grow, thousands of American citizens are being forced to choose between insane health insurance prices and the dangerous tight rope that people walk when they go without that health insurance. But the U.S. populace is afraid: Afraid to take the burden of the country on their shoulders; afraid to put trust in their own government; and afraid to make change. One day the United States will solve this crisis and make the change necessary to help its own people; the question is how many people will have to suffer before its resolution.

by Nathan Baker

CENTER SPREAD

Education

SOLUTIONS TO THE PROBLEMS FACING AMERICAN EDUCATION ARE CONSIDERED

Education is the key to a better future, both individually and nationally. A higher education opens the door to jobs that keep this country afloat. Teachers, parents, businesses, and many other groups are always stressing the vital importance of an education, but to a country that values education so highly as America, it is surprising to see how fast other countries have caught up or passed us in the quality of the educational system.

Ashley Boyer, a graduate assistant, and Dr. Burnette Wolf Hamil, an associate professor at Mississippi State Univ., wrote an article in 2008 titled: Problems Facing American Education. The article explains some of the

Economy

BAILOUT LEAVES UNCERTAIN ECONOMY

Rourke of Modern Survival Online describes the economy like dominoes. One domino falls and it hits the next one, then the next one, and the one after that. Soon, all the dominoes have fallen over. The domino effect is an analogy for the US economy over the past couple of decades and the first domino started to fall in 2006. That domino was the housing market.

The chain reaction started with what seemed like a good thing. The economy was

major issues in the education system one of the problems is the rate at which teachers leave their jobs and the money spent to hire new ones.

A 2006 study concluded that 46 percent of new teachers quit their job within five years.

Also 90 percent of new teachers hired are hired to replace teachers who have quit work for reasons other than retirement. With so many teachers leaving their jobs it can only be imagined how much money is spent to find and hire new teachers instead of being used to fund school activities.

Another problem that the article talks about is the alarming reading rate of students.

“More than eight million American students cannot read or comprehend what they read even at a basic level,” Boyer and Wolf Hamil said.

They go on to say that more than seven thousand students drop out of school each day because they do not have the reading skills needed to do well in school. Although it is not clear how many students drop out because there reading levels, there is no denying

that the number of students dropping out is a problem and that low reading levels are a contributing factor.

Politicians and educators spend a lot of time talking about the faults in the education system, but they are also talking about what they are doing to help improve the education of students. D.O.E (Department of Education) has proposed to transform the education system by using more technology in the classroom.

“Schools that use technology effectively to support teacher collaboration, to facilitate personalized learning, and to nurture a community of learners have been found to improve student learning,” the D.O.E said.

With America realizing how the educational system in America has room for improvement, politicians, parents, and even students are asking for major reforms to help close the gaps between America and other countries, and those changes could be coming sooner that expected.

increasing and so inflation went up, making things actually cost more than they were really worth. The big thing here was houses.

People took out mortgage loans so they could buy a house, however, they were paying more than they normally would have. Some people even bought a house so they could live in it for a couple years and then sell it for even more as the inflation rates kept going up.

However, with rates going up, some people could not pay their mortgage payments and the bank foreclosed their houses making them cost less and bringing down the values of all the houses around them (the prices had to go down to match the bank’s low foreclosure price). Prices went down and people lost money--some to the point where they went

bankrupt and could no longer pay the bank for their house, which they foreclosed and then the whole process started over. Then even more dominoes started to fall.

Banks soon found they were not getting any money for the mortgage loans they had given out. The banks went bankrupt themselves and people got scared. People started being financially conservative and pulled out of investments. More people lost money and the economy went spiraling downhill. Someone had to do something.

The government decided to step up to the plate. President George W. Bush went through with a bank bailout plan that invested money in banks so they would not go bankrupt. Then President Obama signed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 in order to stimulate the economy with 787 billion dollars in various areas such as transportation, housing, research, and education.

The future of the economy is not certain even with the government’s help. A lot of printed money means the US dollar’s worth goes down which could lead to more problems such as inflation. Also, with unemployment at a high, people find themselves in tons of debt after college and no job to pay it off. The government has more debt than ever in its entire history, but if the people can not save the economy on their own, the government has to. Only time can tell the future of the economy, but everything is being done to help it out.

United States Money Distribution $288 Billion Tax Relief $144 Billion State and Local Relief $111 Billion Science and Infastructure $81 Billion Protecting the Vulnerable $59 Billion Health Care $53 Billion Education and Training $43 Billion Energy $8 Billion Other 0

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ENTERTAINMENT

Just Dance Review WHAT BETTER WAY TO GET A WORKOUT IN FOR THE DAY THAN DANCING TO UPBEAT TUNES

J

ust Dance is the perfect game to play with yourself, friends, and it is a hit at family events.

Just Dance will have everyone on their feet awaiting the moment they can take hold of the Wii controller and fist pump the night away in the living room.

“This is by far my favorite game.

When playing, you place the Wii controller in your right hand and mirror the person dancing on the screen and mimic their moves as big and as best as you can,” senior Kaylie Tipton said.

Just Dance has a wide variety of songs ranging from Can’t Touch This to Hot n’ Cold. This game is finally the first dance game where the player does not have to press any

buttons, get up off the couch and look as ridiculous as possible and as the title says, just dance.

“My friends and I had a day long competition with matching shirts and socks. This game was a fun and exciting way to stay out of trouble and have a fun night with my favorite people,” Tipton said.

It seems as though most of the songs on this game are from years past. Many buyers would rather have songs that are more recent.

“I would love to have some more recent songs such as Just Dance by Lady GaGa, hence the fact that is what the game is called,” Tipton said.

With 4.3 million copies of the Just Dance game sold, it is apparent

that the future of dance games is going to continue to expand.

Just Dance has already made a Just Dance 2 with 45 new songs that will allow fans to dance their feet off once again. Also a related game in honor of Michael Jackson, The Experience, has been made to groove up anyone’s living room and the Xbox 360 Kinect has recently come out with Dance Central.

Just Dance is an opportunity for everyone to have no shame and dance around and have a good time with their favorite people. Grab ahold of the Wii remote, secure it on your wrist, and just dance the night away.

by Miranda Vaughn

NO STRINGS ATTACHED

TWO FRIENDS ATTEMPT TO BE MORE THAN FRIENDS WITHOUT COMPLICATION d, an extremely amusing, but often inappropriate, atalie Portman and Ashton Kutcher team up to star in No Strings Attache that; no strings attached. romantic comedy where two good friends attempt a relationship with exactly s In Vegas), are two people that just can’t Happen Emma, Natalie Portman (Black Swan), and Adam, Ashton Kutcher (What

ships and careers and family events. relation -- through stop crossing paths. Over the years, they keep running into each other the next level. They both agree to to hip friends After a drunken Adam wakes up at Emma’s house, they decide to take their like a fun and clever plan, seemed What l. physica keep emotions out of the equation and to keep the relationship strictly and Adam.

Emma ck lovestru a with however, proved to mean more than expected, and the audience is left however, are done with scenes, l physica The d. expecte No Strings Attached is rated R, so inappropriate moments are to be Watching this with shown. is ry necessa than more tact. The very first physical scene is questionable, but from then on, nothing one’s mother, however, would be an awkward experience. movie gets funnier. Watching Adam present After the beginning of the movie, the relationship gets cuter and the overall

moment, yet it is still amusing. The arming heartw Emma with a bouquet of flowers on their first official date is a surprisingly ), is Emma’s friend and roommate, and Office The ( Kaling supporting cast adds many more humorous moments to the film. Mindy she always has ), Adam’s boss, is quirky and very talkative, a role she something to add to any conversation. Lake Bell (What Happens In Vegas played very well.

Attached, the movie is full of cute moments and Although there are some inappropriate moments throughout No Strings

ts of humor, romance, and comedy make elemen ed combin funny jokes, which make up for the more awkward scenes. Overall, the for a great movie.

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by Mary Jo Roccaro

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HI.LIFE 2010

Roll It

Book Worm

Unwind. After the Second Civil War, the government passed the Bill of Life, which gives parents the decision to have their children from ages 13 to 18 to be unwound, a process that harvests everyone of their body parts to be used for later use. Three teenagers are now on the run for their lives as they try to outlive their set fates.

Thirteen Reasonss Why. One night, Clay Jensen returns home to find a box containing several cassette tapes. He discovers that on them, Hannah Baker, a classmate of his, explains the 13 reasons for why she decided to take her own life. A person is only sent the tapes if they are one of the reasons and to figure out why he is one of them, Clay must listen to Hannah give a detailed account about what pushed her to commit suicide.

Beastly. A modern re-telling of Beauty and the Beast. When Kyle Kingsbury, the richest and most popular guy in his school, decides to bully an outcast, he finds himself transformed into being just as ugly on the outside as he is on the inside. Now he must find someone who could love him before time runs out.

Hate List. Valerie Leftman has to confront her guilt as she returns to school after her boyfriend opened fire in their school cafeteria.

Although she saved a classmate’s life, she is seen as a killer since she came up with the names that her boyfriend used for targets.

Boot Camp. In the middle of the night, Garrett Durrell is taken from his house and sent to Lake Harmony, a boot camp where his parents sent him to stop him from dating his former math teacher. As Garrett is subjected to torture and both physical and mental abuse, he tries to prevail against his counselors’ efforts to force him to admit he is wrong.

by Erin Rottinghaus

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WHAT MOVIE IS WORTH YOUR MONEY THIS MONTH

CHECK OUT THESE FASCINATING BOOKS IN THE SCHOOL LIBRARY The Hunger Games. Katniss must fight for her survival when she takes the place for her sister in the Hunger Games, a brutal game invented by the Capital to keep the 12 colonies under control by having one boy and one girl from each colony fight to the death until one person remains.

ENTERTAINMENT

by Entertainment Editor Lindsay Nelson

T

he Oscar nominated remake of a John Wayne classic is holding its ground in the race for Best Picture. Directors Joel and Ethan Coen, along with a superb main cast of three, recreated the western True Grit.

True Grit is the story of a fourteen year old girl who is out to avenge her father’s death by bringing a man named Tom Chaney, Josh Brolin (No Country For Old Men), to justice. Mattie Ross, Hailee Steinfeld, hires U.S. Marshall Rooster Cogburn, Jeff Bridges (Crazy Heart), to help her along the journey. The day before departure, Texas Ranger LaBoeuf, Matt Damon (The Bourne Identity), offers the young Ms. Ross his assistance on her journey.

She declines. The next morning Mattie finds Cogburn and LeBoeuf about to depart together in search of Chaney—leaving her behind.

She is determined to go with them, so she rides her horse across a rushing river to catch them. Cogburn decides Mattie can tag along.

The next morning, LeBoeuf does not like how Cogburn is letting Mattie handle things and he rides off. That evening, Cogburn and Mattie stake out a cabin as they await the arrival of the Ned Pepper Gang—a group Chaney is affiliated with. Before the gang arrives, LaBoeuf trots up. Gunfire ensues and Cogburn takes out several men, none of which are Chaney. LaBoeuf was shot in the shoulder and nearly bit through his tongue. After another day of endless riding, and drinking in Cogburn’s case, LaBoeuf gets fed up and packs his things. The next morning when Mattie goes to get water, she finds Chaney on the other side of the river. She succeeds in shooting him in the side, but he is still able to carry her away.

Cogburn devises a plan, and runs into LaBoeuf while doing so.

LaBoeuf succeeds in killing Chaney, but, in the struggle, Mattie falls into a pit, catching her leg on a vine. She reaches for a knife but sticks her hand into a pile of snakes. Cogburn is able to retrieve her, but not until she has already been bit. Cogburn races for the doctor, and when the horse cannot go any further, he carries her on foot. Cogburn saves her life.

Hailee Steinfeld was truly remarkable in her first role in a feature film; the Academy seems to agree, nominating her for Best Actress in the 2011 Oscars. At only fifteen, talent just radiates from her. She definitely held her own, which is a lot being on screen with such great actors as Jeff Bridges and Matt Damon. Bridges had big shoes to fill, taking on a role John Wayne had once portrayed. I say The Dude would have made The Duke proud. Bridges’ sarcastic, down-at-heel take on Marshall Cogburn pleased audiences. Damon was an incredible Texas Ranger. His southern accent rolled through his dialogue effortlessly. While Steinfeld and Bridges were excellent in their roles, it was most compelling to see Damon in such a different role. The second half of the movie he had to talk with a swollen tongue, highly entertaining.

True Grit is definitely worth the money—I saw it twice.

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FASHION

Femininity with an Edge

The tough-girl fashion obsession is out, and a softer, more feminine look is making a comeback. Dressing girly doesn’t mean having to throw out edgy items, though. With a fashion staple for every school day of the week, a splash of black can be added to the most girly outfits, and you’ll be turning heads five days in a row. photos and story by Jordan Julian MONDAY Brown lace sleeved shirt- American Rag $24 Pair with...

-a long silver necklace with a key pendant -light wash skinny jeans -black slouchy boots -a light pink satchel

TUESDAY Brown motorcycle jacket- Guess $76 Pair with...

-a cream colored lace mini dress -gold flats -black tights -gold chandelier earrings

WEDNESDAY White tee with artFresh Brewed $14.99 Pair with...

-a hot pink skirt -black tights -lots of jeweled bracelets -a thin silver belt

THURSDAY Lacy polka dot shirtOne Clothing $31.99 Pair with...

-a black camisole underneath the shirt -dark wash jeggings -a long layered crystal necklace -gray slouchy ankle boots

FRIDAY Studded brown mini dress- American Rag $35 Pair with...

-white cardigan -a silver chain necklace -black lace leggings -boots with silver detail

Edgy Beauty Products

THE FOLLOWING PRODUCTS CAN FINALIZE AN EDGY LOOK

by Tori Carlile photos by Stephanie Rowden

Benefit blush, Thrrob $28

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HI.LIFE 2010

Laura Geller Mascara $15.50 Sarah Jessica Parker NYC Perfume Starry-Eyed I Am King Cologne $74 $49 eyeliner $17.50 Lancome Eyeshadow $48

Meghan Rothschild didn’t think indoor tanning would hurt her.

She was wrong.

UV light from indoor tanning, especially when exposed at an early age, can increase your risk of melanoma... the deadliest form of skin cancer.

That’s what Meghan developed when she was 20 after being a frequent indoor tanner since she was 17.

Current estimates show that 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer.

Do you want to be the one... like Meghan?

Indoor tanning is out.

To read Meghan’s skin cancer story or to learn more about protecting your skin go to www.aad.org/media/psa

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OPINIONS

Making Things Happen

by Opinions Editor Kevin Adams

WITH VAST SUMS OF MONEY LEFT OVER AFTER ALL THE SCHOOL’S SPENDING, WHAT ELSE IS BOUGHT? Each year, our school district receives a certain amount of money to spend on various expenses and improvements to our schools and facilities throughout the school district.

The most important things would usually be covered first, teachers’ salaries, building maintenance and upkeep, and perhaps even the building of a new school every now and then. However, with leftover funds, some may ask what is all this extra money put towards?

Sure, it may seem fair to put money into funding for smaller programs with a few students, it may even be economical and environmentally friendly to install solar panels atop the roofs of various buildings throughout the district. Not only does this help the environment, but it would also drastically reduce the electrical bills of all the district’s schools. But is the extra money put toward these ideas? No, no it is not.

Instead of taking measures to lower utility bills or support smaller programs, our district sees it fit to spend money on frivolous things.

However, certain purchases do in fact save money, like the new turf field for example.

People might ask how a turf field saves money, but think about it. Each year that grass would die, it would have to be replaced. And it takes money to buy the grass seed to be planted for the coming season.

Once the new grass seed arrives, somebody is needed to plant it. Not to mention, when the newly planted seeds are in need of hydration, water must be purchased from a utility company to keep it alive, growing, and healthy. So perhaps the purchase of the new turf was not as wasteful as many previously thought.

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While this turf may save watering and seeding costs, could it really be the most effective way to reduce expenses, or should another method be considered?

When there is money to be spent, there is always the question of what it could be spent on. An alternative to the new turf could have been another, possibly even greater money saving investment.

On today’s market, many consumers are looking towards cheaper means of electricity. In most cases, this means the use of energy that is produced by nature itself. In some areas of the country, where the winds are strong, and citizens are smart, one could see an abundance of enormous wind turbines whirring in the gusts.

These wind farms, as they are known today, are one of the more recent adaptations to cleaner energies. Some schools across the United States have chosen to purchase these massive machines to replace electricity costs with the sweet sound of savings.

Others may still be purchasing their power from the various electric companies, however, Lee’s Summit High School, and even the entire district, could be among the first to take the initiative to cut costs by buying and installing solar panels across school rooftops. Even going as far as installing motion sensor or timed lights could save money. If lights in the hallways are only active during passing periods or are set to motion, this could save the district money for every minute that each light is inactive.

Even if the technology for these money saving wonders is expensive, the school district does not have to pay the bill for them all at once.

Some may wonder how this is possible, money does not just grow on trees, but it can be loaned by the state. At least, according to Senate Bill 54, it does not.

Back in 2007, the state legislature had finalized the plans on a renewable energy policy. It stated that by 2020, at least 11 percent of all energy consumed by the state needs to be from a renewable resource. In order to help promote this new program, the Energy Revolving Fund would provide loans to pubic schools, as well as higher education institutions, cities, and counties to aid with energy costs. The loans could then be used for various energy-saving equipments ranging anywhere from simply increasing insulation, or even as far as wind turbines. The financing of these investments could then free up tax dollars that would be able to fund other necessary projects.

While several people may argue that the turf field was a waste of money, others may feel pride in seeing their tax dollars at work, saving money and drawing public appeal to the fields of Lee’s Summit High.

Instead of taking measures to lower utility bills or support smaller programs, our district spends money on more frivolous purchases.

“

Dear

Editor,

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Seniors and some juniors should be allowed to go outside for privileges. We can go to the library, cafeteria, the gyms, and some class rooms. What I want to know is why we can’t go outside on the track for another possible area during privileges. Spending time outside, and not just in a gymnasium, is really relaxing if you just want to walk around the track or sit on the grass while talking with friends. I know going outside for privileges would be taken away if students went outside to smoke or stay outside and skip their next classes.

If that would be a problem, then students should only be allowed on the track area in the center of the field, and there could be more administrators or teachers watching the students while they are outside. I still believe that we should be allowed to go outside for privileges. by senior Hannah Socha

OPINIONS

Staff Editorial

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A FEW YEARS AGO SNOW DAYS WERE BUILT INTO THE SCHOOL YEAR BUT NOW THE DISTRICT HAS CHOSEN TO REMOVE THEM Many students have felt the effect of not having two built in snow days.

Everyone but the 2011 Seniors are going to have to make up our snow days this May. According to Principal John Faulkenberry, the last time Lee’s Summit has had two days built into our curriculum for not having to make up the now days was about three or four years ago. The rationale behind taking these snow days out of our curriculum was simply saving money.

When snow days are built in, if the district does not use them, then the staff will get payed for those two extra days, which can cost the district a million dollars. Living in the Midwest, students may think getting two snow days would be easy to get, but with the current budget cuts, we cannot afford the risk.

School districts around us handle their snow day situation in a variety of ways. Most Kansas schools have four snow days built in, other schools have built in snow days where you can miss two days and not have to make

Man on the Street “I think a little bit of time should be added to the end of the day after a snowday,” freshman Cameron Olson said.

them up, while other districts have an agreement with the community about each snow day they get; they take one day off of the students’ spring break.

Dr. Faulkenberry’s personal opinion follows the district’s, it is way too much money to risk for built-in snow days.

The possibility of spending over a million is an extremely high risk when the school district could use money elsewhere. Keeping our spring break at the same time and having it be the same length is also important to most students who go on trips. If the time period of spring break was altered, many of the planned trips would have to be canceled or moved, costing families unnecessary expenses.

So, without having snow days built into the school year and while living in the Midwest, students are required to stay longer into their summer due to the massive amounts of snow we have receive.

by Jacob Valentine illustration by Madeline Moore-Porter

When should snowdays be made up?

“End of the year cause I don’t want to have to take away from spring break or winter break,” sophomore Alexis Lowe said.

“If you had to make them up then end of the school year. Summer is right there and with no school,” junior Elijah King said.

“The underclassmen should make them up at the end of the year,” senior Mayra Ramirez said.

photos by Morgan Pena and Benjamin Nazworthy

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.Editorials OPINIONS

Censored Classics

The Bush Dynasty

MARK TWAIN’S NEW MAKEOVER CANNOT BE IGNORED g

Haley Gillilan

“Don’t let schooling get in the way of your education.” Mark Twain could not have said it better. Nearly 100 years after his death, Mark Twain’s voice is still relevant in today’s culture.

Even great voices such as Mark Twain, however, experience criticism. The latest concern of Mark Twain would be the sanitation of his literary classic, Huckleberry Finn. The ‘n-word,’ which occurs 219 times, is being changed to the word ‘slave.’

This is not the first, but by no means the last, case of appalling censorship.

By taking out the ‘n-word’ in Huckleberry Finn, history is being deleted. Censorship is creating an inaccurate view of reality, because Mark Twain was recording the jargon and conversations of the time, and thus recording history. By doing this, he has made a teaching tool for children to learn about moments in America’s past. Children reading watered down versions of Huckleberry Finn are not going to get the full effect of the lesson that it presents.

Many believe that the use of the ‘n-word’ in Huckleberry Finn is offensive because it is racist. It is not racist, however, to accurately portray racism, especially in a time period where it cannot be blatantly ignored. Racial slurs are all about the meaning behind the word. When the word is used to cause harm, it is not okay. Racism in literature is used as an example and is meant to teach, not to ridicule. When censorship like this occurs, it is calling attention to an injustice that is not even occurring. It is giving more power to the word than there needs to be.

Teachers in classrooms across America are uncomfortable teaching Huckleberry Finn because of the profanity, yet stories like Huckleberry Finn are great models in revealing history, truth and freedom of speech. Fear should not be the reason that teachers decided to ignore this novel. Kids should not be denied an education that they desperately need, and ultimately deserve.

The censoring of Huckleberry Finn is wrong because it denies the voice of the people. It smothers creative expression and assumes the reader is too naïve to think critically. It is a shame that people think they can simply erase whatever makes them uncomfortable. In a world where no one gets offended, diversity disappears.

This will continue for another 100 years, if the world lets it.

Adults will learn to delete history that they believe their children are too ignorant to handle. If children don’t learn about history, they are doomed to repeat it; and that’s the truly frightening thing about censorship.

POL ICY 22

THE ERA OF THE BUSH FAMILY CONTINUES g Jonah Graves

Having been critiqued by disparage, this family has been through a lot over the years. Both father and the eldest son went through calamities and had to stand their own against some of the most vicious press in history. Most people in this situation would cash out but the Bush family hasn’t quite had enough.

Jeb Bush, brother of the former, but recent, President George W. Bush, has announced that he will be running for President in 2012.

Throughout George W. Bush’s term, people could not seem to bash him enough. By the time it came to 2008 for the next election President Obama won, promising everything George Bush wasn’t because by that time the majority of U.S. citizens wanted nothing to do with Bush. A real question to ask though is if George Bush was really all that bad, and if the heat that Bush went through was cause by uncontrollable circumstances.

Jeb Bush’s first position of office came as Governor of Florida from 1998 to 2007. When Bush left this position, he had over a 60% approval rating. Comparing this to his brother’s rating of 30%, Jeb clearly stands out. During his tenure, Jeb practically turned around the economy in Florida, provided more money for schools, and enhanced other state programs all while lowering taxes. The man obviously didn’t earn his reputation by just his name.

However, many people fear that bringing another Bush into office could only bring the same problems as the last two Bush presidents did. Both George senior and junior were plagued with a poor economy, and struggled to fulfill their campaign promise of lowering taxes. The two also were heavily involved in wars in the middle east that took the lives of many young Americans. So one could see why it might be tough to vote for another member of their family.

Although, Jeb Bush boosted Florida’s economy while lowering taxes, and boosting state programs. Jeb’s father and brother were also sucked into their own wars, by terrorist attacks and other threats against the U.S. All three of these men have shown morality and willingness to stick to what they believe, and perhaps that is what we need as a nation, a President who does what’s best for our country, and not just what gets him votes.

Over the next two years, Jeb Bush will go through a challenging campaign while trying to out live his father and brother’s legacy. He will endure a bloodthirsty press, and push through his war torn colleagues. However, he has proven to be a sturdy competitor who is ready to fight for what he believes.

The Hi.Life is an open forum to provide up to date and pertinent information compiled by high trusted publication that raises the bar of high school journalism. The Hi.Life newsmagazine is a readers is to provide credible, reliable, and unbiased information to the student body. None of the of the Lee’s Summit R-7 School District.

We strive to create a professional newsmagazine that

HI.LIFE 2010

school journalists. We will be a bold and student led publication. Our obligation to opinions in our publication reflect the views provides accurate insights and entertainment.

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The Power of Partnership

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HEALTH

Round and Round

Cycling Class. Most students want a good way to stay in shape. Some are finding that cycling classes are a great way to do that. “During the cycling session, we work with leg strength and endurance, plus cardio and heart,” cycling instructor Angela Whitley.

Story by Ashley Burrison

Picture by Eric Fabi

A NEW WORKOUT WITH NEW RESULTS In Legacy Park’s Cycling room, instructor Angela Whitley yells out commands to her class, such as stand up or sit down.

Fifteen cyclists change the speed on their bikes and now it is as if they are pedaling uphill.

Many students look for ways to stay in shape, whether it is from sports or going to the gym. Here is a new twist: Try a cycling class. It is a perfect alternative.

“During the cycling session, we work with leg strength and endurance, plus cardio and heart,” said Whitley.

Cycling classes are effective because they require the use of a lot of butt muscle and a lot of leg endurance. Those are needed because the classes are tough and a lot of energy is used up.

“You could take a cycling class at your local gym. At Legacy Park, we do some virtual rides using a big screen. It is kind of like riding outdoors,” says Whitley.

The classes at Legacy Park are five dollars, even if you are a non-member, but you have to sign up for them in advance. Most of the cycling classes at Legacy Park are 4050 minutes, but vary from other gyms.

“In my class the average person burns 300-600 calories and we bike around 15-

20 miles per class,” says Whitley.

Any new workout will be a challenge and require some adjustment. Whitley’s cycling class normally does a pre-work out before they bike, and she explains how to switch gears and informs you on all you need to know about the bikes.

“Do not be scared to take a cycling class because after awhile, your butt forms a callous and after a couple weeks, your body gets used to it. It is hard at first but after a couple of weeks, it gets better,” says Whitley.

While some might think it is easy and there is no certain way to do it, they are wrong. Pedaling with the heels and legs is the way to do it, not with your toes.

“Think of the full circle of your bike pedals. Imagine it as a clock. Once you reach three o’clock with your pedal, you push with your heel around and up the clock,” says Whitley.

Taking a cycling class is a neat and new way to stay in shape and burn a few extra calories. It is challenging and difficult, but at the same time it builds up energy and motivation. Whether or not a cycling class is a viable option, it is definitely something new to look into.

New Program New Results P90X UTILIZES TECHNIQUES TO PROVIDE RESULTS Someone may use exercise tapes and see that the workouts are ineffective, or one may feel that the ‘starve yourself’ diets will help to lose the most weight. Or perhaps paying for a gym membership that does not show quick and drastic results can be discouraging. The P90X program offers a more extreme workout than some other programs and differs from generic workout tapes significantly.

The P90X program uses the concept of muscle confusion. P90X is a DVD workout program that shatters most user’s concept of home fitness. It shows the user how and when to change their routine for the best results. The reason why P90X confuses ones muscles is because it uses targeted training phases so the user’s body continues adapting and growing. What it does is utilize short training cycles that challenge the muscles with a significant intensity. It also maximizes fat burning and muscle sculpting in different ways. It does not only offer a 24

HI.LIFE 2010

workout plan, it also has a nutrition plan, which can aid in yielding quicker results.

“I started P90X last summer and did it this winter,” senior Sky Roberts said.

The P90X program uses 12 discs that can be varied and used to work on different parts of the body.

“P90X is not the same thing everyday; there’s 12 different discs, you are supposed to do a different one everyday, which switches things up so you don’t get bored,” Roberts said.

Roberts thinks that the way P90X shows improvement is in toning every muscle; even muscles the user may not have known they had.

“The way P90X is different from any other workout programs are you can go your own speed, they have workouts at the maximum potential, but you don’t have to meet them until you are ready so it’s built for anyone,” Roberts said.

The P90X workout is designed to help

Cycling Class. Most students want a good way to stay in shape.

Some are finding that cycling classes are a great way to do that.

“During the cycling session, we work with leg strength and endurance, plus cardio and heart,” cycling instructor Angela Whitley.

people with their fitness needs. It is a hardcore program that uses proper exercise and nutrition. Using P90X is a preferable alternative to the many unreliable workout tapes and possibly harmful diets.

by Tyler Wilmore

photo by Brittany Webster

HEALTH

Calling All Athletes A NEW OFFSEASON PROGRAM PROVIDES ATHLETES NEW OPTIONS “Mediocrity is not acceptable in 20112012.”

These are the words of football/strength and conditioning coach Eric Thomas. After a very successful first year, Coach Thomas lead the Tigers to an 8-4 record, as well as leading Lee’s Summit to its first playoff victory in almost 25 years. Thomas’ goal this offseason is to continue to build on the success of this past season by hitting the brand new weight room with not just football players, but all athletes.

“My goal is not to just improve the football players, but all athletes here at LSHS.” Coach Thomas said after workouts one day.

Offseason workouts are key to keeping in shape and keeping off the ‘rust’. Studies have shown that athletes who do rigorous offseason work do much better in virtually every aspect of their sports than the athletes who don’t workout. Coach Thomas’ workouts focus on a different muscle group every day. For example, day one you may do a leg workout, and day two you would do upper body.

Thomas wants to make it clear that these programs aren’t just for football players.

“We have soccer guys, baseball guys, track guys, and football guys. Soon we’ll have some basketball guys here. These workouts are to improve any and all athlete’s overall explosiveness and agility, not just football players.”

Still even with the variety of athletes in attendance so far, Thomas still wants more people to get to work this offseason.

“The soccer guys should push more soccer

guys to be here, the baseball guys should push more baseball guys to be here. If you want to improve this offseason, then you should be here.”

True, these offseason workouts are not a walk in the park. They are going to test your physical strength, but they will also test an athlete’s mental toughness as well. Thomas encourages everyone who goes to come back the next day and improve even more.

“You will be sore tomorrow,” Thomas said to the group after a workout. “But don’t think you’re too sore to come back, just stick with it and I promise you that you will improve every aspect of your game.”

Now these offseason workouts are not just limited to LSHS. Starting soon, Thomas plans on allowing 8th graders from PLMS to join in the workouts. It’s essential that these middle schoolers get acclimated to high school weight lifting as soon as possible, so all middle school athletes are encouraged to attend all workouts they possibly can. For high school athletes who want to attend, the workouts will start at 2:45 after school everyday. At 4:00, middle schoolers are welcome to come and workout with those high school athletes who are not currently enrolled in a weights course.

So, with a brand new facility and hardcore workout regiment, the Tigers for sure are going to improve this offseason. Certainly, all of the athletes, and future athletes, will be well prepared for the tough trials ahead next season. LSHS will not accept mediocrity in 2011-2012.

by Nick Rellihan

Photo by John Wood

The new weight room. On the eastern side of the Lee’s Summit High School grounds is new weight room, flashy on the outside, but not many people have seen the inside. With a brand new locker room, offices, and, obviously, a new weight room, the students attending LSHS fans can look out for a difference in Tiger athletics next year.

First Fall then Winter

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Story by Nate Day

he evening started out with the sound of “John Wall” resonating through the field house as the teams warmed up. The biggest rivalry in Lee’s Summit sports was gearing up again as the players gathered around for the introductions. Naturally, as all good student sections do, we faced the stands to ignore the introduction of the villainous North players and were turned around and cheering with the introduction of our own. Lots of basketball was played, chants were cheered, we all loudly narrated the free throw process of the North shooters, and Lee’s Summit had the lead going into the final few minutes.

Now to the part that you either remember or heard about from friends. Down by a basket, North tries to even it up and is successful in their endeavor with a basket from Anthony Eller to tie the game at 41-41. With three minutes left, or what seemed like an eternity, we dribbled, passed, and evaded North’s aggressive defense until less than 30 seconds remained.

It’s go time. Sam Sealer puts up a three-point shot as everyone, religious and non religious alike, says some sort of prayer, when the three misses our hearts sink a little bit. But what is this? We have the rebound! The clock is winding down as the gym is tensing up. A quick pass out to Corbin Berkstresser who puts up a last shot, the hope of a win riding on this basket, and the ball soars into the basket. The buzzer buzzes, the crowd cheers, the players make a dog-pile because the game is over and they are on top by a basket, and of course, the referees decide there should be another two seconds on the clock. *sigh.

The eternity of the three minutes previously described felt like one second in comparison to the marathon of timeouts now occurring. To pass the time, those with keys jingle them while the entire student section, in a victorious voice, cheers, “Warm the buses,” to the disheartened North student section. Finally the game is about to start. North runs a play, taking up about 1.2 seconds, which allows them to throw the ball in from mid court. Yet again, North decides a timeout is needed. North throws the ball in, a shot goes up, and their spirits fall down as the shot misses. In a frenzy the student section swarms the court and congratulates the players in deafening cheers. In the end the scoreboard was nice, but what can we learn from the last two seasons of sports?

Lee’s Summit: 2

Lee’s Summit North: 0 JLABMAG.COM

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SPORTS

Build for the Future

Looming Lockout

ROYALS FRONT OFFICE WAITING FOR 2012 On Dec 19, 2010, the Kansas City Royals traded Zack Greinke, 2009 Cy Young Award winner to the Milwaukee Brewers for yet another group of ‘young prospects.’ But as Royals fans know, this is not the first time their team has given a great player away.

Most of the trades responsible for giving away All-Stars like Johnny Damon, Jermaine Dye and Carlos Beltran for sub-par talent like Angel Berroa, Neifi Perez and Mike Wood. Of course, their motive is to get younger-no matter the cost. We saw an example of Kauffman’s youth movement late last year when the team’s best 2010 hitter, David DeJesus, was traded to the A’s for two pitchers. Said pitchers where 22 and 23 years old. DeJesus is 30, which is often considered the time when players are at their peak. After the Royals went out and got light-hitting outfielders. Melky Cabrera and Jeff Francoeur are considered past their prime. Elite outfield prospects like Jarrod Dyson and Derrick Robinson are on the way, but are being blocked by these acquisitions.

Zack is just another in a long, 25-year-old line of bad foresight. As a result, the Royals have torn their team apart ever since their last

Trading Down: With the loss of Zack Grenkie, many fans question the intentions of the Royals’ owner David Glass. A new season and time will tell if newer younger players is the right route.

championship season 26 years ago. The Royals have a better minor league system than any other team; recently being ranked by minor league magazine Baseball America as having the best overall system. Top-ranked players such as Mike Moustakas, Eric Hosmer, Mike Montgomery and others all on their way to help the Royals reach their first playoff appearance since 1985. The lessons those players taught that you cannot rush someone into the big leagues if he is not ready. The Royals front office asking fans to stay patient for a little while longer. After all, they have been waiting for 26 years.

by Aaron Wood

Lacrosse Update THE SCHOOL PREPS FOR IT’S FIRST SEASON

At LSHS we have entered the new club sport Lacrosse.

Lacrosse has been the new hot topic for 2011 sports. Since the beginning of the season will be arriving soon, and sign ups are coming to an end, new information has been gathered, and more decisions have been made.

The sticks are in, masks have been ordered, Lacrosse is set to make it’s day view.

“Next week announcements will be put out for final sign ups,”

A Quick Scoop: Many Lee’s Summit Tigers are new to the sport. Because of this, every Sunday night at Lake Land Community Church a beginners lacrosse camp is hosted.

photo by Zach Harris

Lacrosse coach Kent Reese said.

Feb. 5 will be a sizing day at Paradise Park from 9am to 5pm.

This is the chance for students to come get sized for uniforms and equipment, ask questions, and to get to know the coaches.

“Mar. 1 will be the first practice for the girls, and Feb. 24 will be the first practice for the boys, the first games will be held at the beginning of April,” Reese said.

As far as dividing teams, they will be divided evenly.

“What we will probably end up doing is making the teams divided evenly, no JV or Varsity teams, more like a black team white team thing.

by Paige Seymour

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HI.LIFE 2010

photo by Zach Harris

Feb 5, 2011. The Green Bay Packers beat the Pittsburgh Steelers 31-25 to win Super Bowl 45. Another great game to end another great season. But the future of the league and when the next game will be played is in question now with a possible lockout.

NFL Commissioner Rodger Goodell is pushing for the 18game season that everyone has heard about, while the players and Players Union want no part of this. Currently players that have played three or more seasons are the only ones eligible for the postcareer health care given by the NFL. Adding two more games to the regular season would certainly shorten careers, simple to figure out.

Many of the players have voiced their opinions on the how the league has handled the situation.

Recently, Antonio Cromartie ripped the NFL and the union over the collective bargaining agreement for being slow to start negotiations, landing him all over ESPN and the internet. This season Goodell has been very strict on helmet-to-helmet hits and enforcing more safety to players, even fining James Harrison of the Pittsburgh Steelers $100,000 for multiple infractions. But with the importance of player safety at such a high for the league, many wonder why Goodell would then want to change from a 16 to an 18-game season.

The switch to a longer season goes back on what the league and Goodell have been promoting all season, safety. If Goodell really wants to keep player safety first, they would back off the thought of an 18-game season. Besides, making teams with awful records suffer through two more pointless games does not sound very appealing either. by: Nathan Williams

SPORTS

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Flip It: The language and style of skateboarders are different than that of another sport. “We are very creative and original when we skate.” Sophomore Joe Van Cil.

Skateboarding 101

THE FLIPS AND TRICKS ONE CAN DO WITH JUST WOOD AND WHEELS Football, basketball, baseball, and many other sports are accepted by the general public and schools as a sport. Skateboarding is normally left off of this list.

Peoples’ first opinions of skateboarding is not always positive. Some even label this particular sport as being a ‘crime’. These individuals refuse to focus on the skills involved in this sport. The language and style of skateboarders are very different than that of other sports. Teenagers that skateboard are generally looked upon as ‘bad’ or ‘criminals’. Junior Joe Van Cil explains why.

“People think that we are bad because they’ll see their property scratched up, and

they think that we do it on purpose. They think that skateboarding is vandalism,” Van Cil said.

Skateboarders bring a certain style to the sport that is like none other. Most people fail to realize the sweat and hard work participants put in this sport. It is full of creativity and balance.

“We are very creative and original when we skate. The way we dress is very different.

We wear skate shoes and skate shirts.

Basically, whatever the skate shop sells,” Van Cil said.

Teens that like to skateboard are not to be looked upon as ‘hoodlums’ or ‘convicts.’

They are to be looked upon as teenagers that

bring a certain style of tricks to the ramp.

“Skateboarding is a very positive sport, whether people see it that way or not,” Van Cil concluded.

Being active is always important. So whether one enjoys football,baseball,soccer, skateboarding, or any other sport, being interactive, energetic, and passionate about what one likes to do is always essential.

by Kim Tabe

photo by Zach Harris

A Different Ride BMX RIDERS BRING A NEW STYLE TO THE PARK Expressing yourself is a very important aspect to someones life, it allows passion to burst through what you are doing and can show great works of art. When thinking of BMX most don’t think about the talent and the time that goes into this growing sport.

Everyone has something they are good at, something they enjoy. 25 year old Kris Wallas has had the taste of what this sport has to offer. Wallas has been riding BMX since he was a kid and has been entered into many different races. “I got into it as a kid and loved it. Kept going from there, only took one year off the whole time” said Wallas. Working at the downtown bike

shop, Bike America for 7 years gives him a different view on the sport and things that it has to offer. “I think the best part about riding is that it give me a chance to get away from everything and just do my thing,” says Wallas.

The growing sport has sprouted roots in Lee’s Summit, more and more teens are riding the ramps of the local skate parks.

“BMX doesn’t give you any boundaries other then gravity and sometimes it feels like you can defy that for a second but the best part just riding and cruising around.”said Wallas.

There are 4 types of BMX riding.

1.Freestyle this is when you ride around to

by Marissa Rauker

photo by Zach Harris

get the best tricks and moves then the other riders. This is more about the creativity side of BMX. 2.Ramp riding is where the contestant gets to show off. Ramp riding is a race against time and the best tricks both accounted into your score. 3.Dirt riding this is when the constant rides on dirt ramps going as fast as they can doing tricks along the way. 4.Flatland this is a kind of BMX that has no jumps or ramps the contestant is in it for the speed.

BMX is a sport from kids to well in there adults can enjoy. If but chance age sneeks up on you and you cant ride up and down ramp JLABMAG.COM

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SNOW DAY!

THIS YEARS FIRST BIG SNOW GOT DAYS OF FOR R-7 STUDENTS

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photos by Brittany Webster

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1. Blanketed Busses. The first real snowfall of the new year haulted the city and shut schools down for few days. The snow was so deep it was hard to drive in. Even the school busses couldn’t get anywhere.

2. Throwin’ Snow. A senior enjoys her snow day at the Longview Ruins.

3. Winter Wonder. The snow covered the floor of the Lonview Ruins. It made for a peaceful scene on the first snow day of the school year.

4. Falling Flurries. There were few at LSHS on the snow days. The parking lot was camouflaged in a layer of snow.

5. Fun in the Snow. There are many fun things you can do on a snow day in Lee’s Summit. Many people go to the hill by Lee’s Summit North to sled.

6. Chilly Season. The bus barn was at a standstill because of the snow.

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