in the know
HI. LIFE
SEPT 2010 : ISSUE 1 : JLABMAG.COM : $1.00
HAUNTED HOUSE: PG. 13
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HI.LIFE 2010
Groom’s
Appliance, Heating, and Cooling
CONTENTS:
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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HI.LIFE : THE STUDENT MAGAZINE OF LEE’S SUMMIT HIGH SCHOOL SEPTEMBER : VOL. 92 : NO. 1 : JLABMAG.COM
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ON THE WEB
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The Hi.Life has created a new fashion blog, hilifethreads.tumblr. com, which will be updated biweekly. It currently shows a selection of fall trends.
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Page 11 | Renaissance
Page 16| Halo Reach
This year at the Renaissance Festival, Coralyn Martin is the Faerie of Summer. She was able to give an inside look to everything going on at the festival, located in Bonner Springs. The festival runs through October 17.
Aliens, explosions, and exploding alien heads. It sounds like Halo Reach has finally arrived. The newest Bungie video game has caused a lot of hype in many people, but is it actually worth the praise?
Page 18 | C.C. Interview Charming Charlie is a new boutique in the Summit Fair shopping center. It features a variety of accessories for any woman as well as some clothing items. Manager Kimberly Bragg gave an interview about her store.
Page 23 | Swim Class There is a new swimming class available to LSHS students. It’s a cheaper alternative to Red Cross lifeguard training, which can cost as much as $100. This story can be found in the new health section.
Page 13 | Haunted Ranch The Benjamin Ranch is a haunted house attraction in Kansas City that allows customers to experience some spooky fun at a reasonable price. The Ranch includes various features such as a hayride through the Forest of Lost Cowboys, the haunted stables, and a freak show starring Sheriff Dusty Cadaver.
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Photo of the week is a new weekly online feature on Jlabmag.com that shows a snapshot of the student body at work.
An article on the effect of school colors on study habits and school spirit can be found on Jlabmag. com. JLABMAG.COM
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FREE HUGS!!! From the 2011 BROS
NEW LOCATION!!! 5 SE 3rd St. Lee’s Summit, MO 64063
Order early for Homecoming! $5 discount on corsage/boutonniere sets • Set must be ordered together • Coupon must be presented at time of order
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HI.LIFE 2010
LETTER
LETTER FROM THE EDITORS
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Abigail Jones, Max Belanger, & Julia Duckworth
ou guys have no idea how glad we are that this issue is finally over and done with. The first issue of the school year is always the worst. We have a new staff to teach everything, from the journalism writing style to the design software to the cameras. Even after the first couple weeks of instruction, the first year members probably don’t know what the heck they’re doing, but they try their best to do it anyway. There are always miscommunications that may seem disastrous at the time but eventually get fixed. What we’re trying to say is that being on the Hi.Life staff is stressful. Don’t get us wrong, we love the Hi.Life, and we love our staff, but it sure is exhausting leading the classes and putting everything together. Nonetheless, we wouldn’t trade this experience for anything. Maybe a trip to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, but we’re not greedy. Despite everything we go through, we like the stress for some reason. It might be because of all of the hard work and long hours that we devote to making it, and we don’t want to feel like that time was wasted. Or it might be that the Hi.Life itself is a symbol for us of our time here at LSHS. Yeah, that sounds right. In all of its sappy glory, each individual issue is a symbol of our devotion. The entire Hi.Life staff works incredibly hard to put this together for our readers, that come distribution day, we are all excited to see what everyone thinks about it. Unfortunately in the past, some of our readers were not always thinking great things about the Hi.Life. We know it, you know it, it’s a sad fact. We’ve heard all the complaints about grammar mistakes and the rise in price, and to be quite honest we’re sick of it. So we thought over the summer about how to fix this, and we realized that the blame does not fall on our audience. It falls on us, the staff. You want a serious school publication, and we want to give it to you. So we did a lot differently this year to reach that goal. We have a cleaner, more creative design, better angles on stories, and a variety of content. We hope that you enjoy it, but we also want you to remember that it is a work in progress. So if you find some grammar miztakes, which there are hopefully none of, please take our pride into consideration before marking the Hi.Life up with your red ballpoint pens.
PEOPLE who make it happen
EDITORS-IN-CHIEF : Abigail Jones, Julia Duckworth & Max Belanger PHOTO EDITORS : Bradley Roberts, Laina Gunsallus & Brittany Webster NEWS EDITORS : Nick Capo, Nathan Baker & Luke Jarnevic FEATURES EDITOR : Mikayla Frommer ENTERTAINMENT EDITORS: Lindsay Nelson & Rebecca Wadle FASHION EDITORS : Julia Duckworth & Abigail Jones OPINION EDITORS : Max Belanger & Kevin Adams SPORTS EDITORS : Nate Day, Nathan Williams, & Erin Rottinghaus ONLINE EDITOR : Patricia Sjuts ADVERTISING MANAGERS : Summer Richards & Sierra Lewis PAGE DESIGNERS : Rebecca Wadle & Jordan Shawhan 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, Laura Schierhoff, Paige Seymour, Audrey Stetzler, Miranda Vaughn, Jesse Butler, Tori Carlile, Elaine Fouchia, Jonah Graves, Tre Harvey, Wendy Hayworth, Benjamin Nazworthy, Morgan Pena, Marissa Raukar, Tyler Robertson, Timmy Snook, Ronnie Thomas, & John Wood.
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NEWS
Nutrition Council
STUDENTS BETTERING SCHOOL LUNCHES Improving the nutritional quality of the school lunches has been the number one priority of Lee’s Summit school districts and administrators. For some, healthier food means greener food, or in most cases, poorer tasting food. While standing in the long lines in the cafeteria, many complaints are made by students: “Are we ever going to get better tasting food?” “Why is this food so expensive?” And the most comical question of them all, “What is that supposed to be?” One thing that students can all agree on is that we deserve better food, and that is exactly what senior Pete White, junior Katherine Heim, and other members of the Nutrition Council, plan to give students.
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The Nutrition Council, lead by Jane Hentzler, met on the morning of Tuesday, Sept. 21, 2010 in the school’s cafeteria. This council is designed to get students’ opinions on the various new foods that are going to be served at lunch. In the meeting, they were given two new foods to taste to see which one suited their appetite. The first food was the new chicken-fried steak. They were given the old one first, to refresh their appetite on how it tasted. There was a unanimous vote that the new chicken-fried steak was more appetizing. Next, Hentzler gave the Council meatloaf to taste. There were a lot of head shakes, and disgusted looks on every one’s face. No one enjoyed it. “It is important to hear
New Eats. Every year the nutritional council orders new food to improve nutrition in the school. “My favorite entrée would have to be the spicy chicken,” Dr. Faulkenberry said. The more nutritional quality the food has does not always mean it is better tasting.
what students think about the lunch that is being served in our schools.” Jane Hentzler said. Hearing students’ opinions about the lunch food is important, but hearing the principal’s opinions about the food that is being served, is even better. “I feel that our cafeteria offers very healthy options, I have been eating the school’s lunch
for about 35 years. My favorite entrée would have to be the spicy chicken,” Dr. Faulkenberry continued, “I think that the school’s lunch is less expensive compared to going out to most of the restaurants in Lee’s Summit. Students just have an idea in their head of what they think the school lunch should be like, but it is healthy the way it is.” by Kim Tabe
by photo Victoria Fangrow
NEWS
ACT vs. SAT TESTING FOR COLLEGE READINESS As high school careers come close to an end, and college application deadlines beckon, many juniors and seniors must make the decision of narrowing down the colleges they want to attend. Students also must make the important decision of whether to take the ACT or SAT. When deciding which test to take, students may want to take into consideration which colleges accept which exam, as far as region wise. “Either test is accepted at any college,” guidance counselor Kris Little said. When choosing which test to take, not
only should students look at where each test is accepted, but students may want to know the major differences between the tests, and which is more beneficial. “The ACT is a curriculum and achievement based test. It tests over content, and is traditionally easier to raise your score. The SAT is an aptitude test, and is harder to raise your score,” Little said. Not only is the testing style different, but the scoring is also different. “The ACT has a maximum score of 36, and the SAT scores up to the thousands. They are two completely different tests,” Little said. After comparing the tests, and making final decisions on which test to take, the last step for students is to make the big decision on where to go to college. by Paige Seymour photo by Victoria Fangrow
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Tricky Tests. There are two tests you can take for college, the ACT or the SAT. “Either test is accepted at any college,” said Mrs. Little. When deciding which test to take think about where you want to go to college and where you want to take your test.
Turf Adaptations STUCK IN THE MUD
There’s a different feeling on and off the Lee’s Summit High School football field this year. No more muddy, messy grass in rainy weather, because this season LSHS’s football team has upgraded to synthetic turf. The turf improvements along with new coaching staff has given our football team a new surge of energy streaming from player to player, with a greater desire for victory than ever. With this years football season just beginning our team has starting off 3-2. A lot can be said about our teams greater act of motivation this
Tough Turf. With a new football season comes a new energy and new turf. “The turf is multi purpose. The field can be used not only for our football team, but also for our band and physical education classes,” Dan Schnell said. Whether it is the turf of the new coaching staff, there is a different feeling on the football field this year.
year, but it really starts with our newly installed turf that they all and everyone else were so excited to get. “I am very thrilled for our students and staff to get something needed for a long time.” Athletic director Dan Schnell said. With the new turf fields it will be easier to maintain a nice looking field with out having to worry about painting lines or keeping it cut. “The turf is multi purpose, the field can be used not only for our football team but also for our band and physical education classes, and the turf is very helpful with rain issues.” Schnell said. The new field isn’t the only thing being done to our football stadium. “The track is getting a new structural spray, and all of our track event stations (long jump, high jump, shot put, and triple jump) are being readjusted to different locations on the field.” Said Schnell. No doubt the new turf is
Our Turf. This year LSHS got new turf and it has everybody at the school talking. “Turf is great. I think it helps you play quicker, it’s better on your feet, and makes a game more exciting,” Tyler Wigger said. With the new synthetic turf it will be easier to maintain the field.
an addition to our school that everyone loves. “We love the new turf field ,such a clean, consistent feel each day. No paint lines to worry about putting on or maintaing the surface because its already set up to play on.”” Head coach Eric Thomas said. Playing on turf instead of grass is a huge improvement, most of the team now prefers the turf over grass due to increase speed of the game. “Turf is great. I think it helps you play quicker, it’s better on your feet, and makes a game
more exciting. Everything is definitely just faster,” Junior, Guard Tyler Wigger said LSHS really appreciates the new field and everyone loves it. It is not only exciting to watch of football team play on it on Friday night, but also in convenient enough that the field could be used for other activities at school; with the biggest convenience being no muddy field and constant conditions. by Najee Sears photo by Zac Harris
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FEATURES
Matt Buxton: The Interview
ENGLISH TEACHER TALKS ABOUT LIFE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL
As the bell rings, English teacher Matt Buxton eagerly stands in front of his students, ready to get started with class. The students, wondering what is in store today, attentively look at their animated teacher in admiration, but cannot help but wonder what his life has been like: wFor an undergraduate degree I went to
Kansas University. It is sort of a sore spot for a lot of people around here. I majored in English. For graduate school I went to San Francisco Sate University. wI knew from a young age I didn’t want to
work in an office. It seemed like it would be pretty dull. I wanted something that was challenging. I like being around young people and I want to help them become the person they want to be. I guess that is what being a teacher is all about. wI took core classes like all of you guys do.
We didn’t have as many electives as you guys have today. I didn’t know what I wanted to be in high school. I just took classes I needed that would help me in college. I played soccer which was my big thing. I played for the club, school team and I was on Varsity for three years. I was a pretty good captain my senior year, if I do say so myself. My real passion was skateboarding, wake boarding, and snowboarding. Growing up in California skateboarding, snowboarding, and wake boarding were pretty popular.
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wI worked at Priceless Drug Store for my first
job in Sacramento, CA. I was in charge of the shampoo aisle. I had to make sure all the shampoo bottles were facing the same way and in the right section and things like that. I think the whole moral of a first job is to get you ready for life. It was a pretty simple job. Not a lot to look forward too. It wasn’t easy to find a good paying first job when I was growing up. It seems like teens here today find better first jobs.
‘hello’ and ‘thank you’ in Chinese and that’s it. However, I think it is really important to be able to speak different languages. It is truly a sign of respect to at least put some effort forward to speak it. It shows that you care enough about their culture when native speakers see you try speaking the language. wI don’t want to say I was a normal kid,
of music because I hate it when people say that. It is like the ultimate cop-out. I enjoy a lot of Indie. Some bands I really like are Broken Social Scene, Arcade Fire, and Animal Collective.
because no one was a normal kid. I enjoyed being active and playing sports, rather than sitting around the house. I liked high school, but unfortunately I don’t think I tried my hardest in high school. It wasn’t until college that I really appreciated knowledge and became interested in my studies. I liked English and History. I struggled with foreign languages and math. Some people liked Chemistry and could excel easily in it, some were mathematicians, and some were simply good at everything. But for me, it was English and History that were my two biggest strong points.
wChina was great.
wMany people have noticed that occasionally
wI like to travel in my spare time.
It is my biggest passion next to snowboarding and wake boarding. Spending time with friends and family is also essential for me. wI’m not going to say I listen to every type
I thought I was just going to observe a Chinese class in session all day long. I suddenly got really nervous when the teacher patted me on the back, casually smiled, and left the room. I was in front of about 60 Chinese students teaching. It made me realize how thankful I am to work here in Lee’s Summit, but at the same time it’s not what most people might think it would be. I mean, kids are kids anywhere you go in the world. Nothing will change that. I can say
my eyes get large in size when something interesting happens. In the English Department during lunch-time others notice that my eyes get wide when I get excited. Mrs. Wilson, I think, was the one who actually coined the term “googly eyes.” It just happens when I get animated or happy.
See Buxton on page 9....
FEATURES
BUXTON
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wLast Halloween I dressed up as a semi-colon, my favorite punctuation.
I went to the West Hollywood Halloween parade in West Hollywood, obviously. There were over 1,000 people attending it. I had a lot of different responses when I wore this elaborate costume. Through these I could judge their knowledge of grammar. I had an Australian guy who asked me, “Hey mate! Isn’t that like an exclamation mark or something?” I mean does a semi-colon really look like an exclamation mark? Another woman said that her English teacher would be so proud of me. One man approached me and said “Doesn’t that connect two sentences?” I responded with “Well technically two independent clauses, but yes.” Other people just really understood it instantly. So yeah, it got some very mixed reactions. Wasn’t that a great costume idea though? I thought so. Like moths to a flame, students instantly enjoy Buxton’s unique teaching style and constant humor. Once a cool teen himself, he can easily connect with every one of his students differently. Since everyday is unlike any other, being in Buxton’s class is truly fulfilling. by Tyler Robertson photos by Tish Sjuts & Morgan Pena
By the Numbers ALL THE SPORTS NUMBERS COME TOGETHER
10-25
320
The number of kids seen by physical therapists during one day
6 -8
Approximately the rolls of tape used on athletes during the football season
Weeks
Months
Average time for a teenager’s bones to heal
400,000
The estimated amount of concussions within a year
by Jacob Valentine
Word Blurb THE WORDS THAT EVERYONE SAYS
UGH:
“I’ve said ugh because the hallways are always so crowded,” -Allura Anderson
LOL:
BTW:
EWW:
“When Casey spilt “By the way, the school “The chicken strips at lunch made me say eww,” paint all over the floor in dance is Oct.2,” brodcasting,” -Allison Derks -Hailey Jarrett -Corey Hall
by Shelby McNealy
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FEATURES
Exchanging Experiences THE HOST’S VIEW ON THE EXPERIENCE There are many students who walk through the halls of Lee’s Summit High School, but the school grounds are something new to all of the foreign exchange students. Not only are they new to the school, they are also new to American ways. Junior Ashley Neeley is new to the cultural ways of her exchange student. “Someone told us about hosting, so we prayed about it. Then we decided to host. We talked on facebook before she came. We also skyped her!” Neeley said. The process to choose an exchange student did not take long for the Neeleys. To choose an exchange student, Neeley read
letters and looked at pictures of different students. Eventually, they chose Chotika Phoolsurksiri because of how similar their lives were. “Chotika Phoolsurksiri is from Thailand, and she will be here until the end of June. I have a sister now, we have a lot in common,” said Neeley. Phoolsurksiri and Neeley have not had any problems so far. They enjoy spending time together. They also like to go shopping, and they watch the same T.V. shows. “I have learned from hosting that it takes a lot of work, and you always spend time together. We have become closer, and have learned more about each other,”
International Besties. Junior Ashley Neeley and her family is excited to welcome her new ‘sister’, Chotika Phoolsuksiri, from Thiland. She will be living with the Neely’s until June.
Neeley said. Since Phoolsurksiri came, there have been changes in the living situation at the Neeleys. They have learned to work around each others schedules. “We both share a room and a bathroom now, and we are in the basement. I like sharing a room,” Neeley said.
Hosting an exchange student is an experience Neeley will never forget. She has had to make changes in her everyday life, like her living situation, but Neeley has enjoyed hosting. Phoolsurksiri has been introduced to the American culture, and Neeley has been introduced to a new relationship. by Jennifer Rhoades pic by Laina Gunsallas
$10 off if you bring a friend 10
HI.LIFE 2010
Karen Graves Independent Sale Director and Beauty Consultant www.marykay.com/karengraves 816-686-3388
. A RENAISSANCE LOVE A-FFAIR FEATURES
The small girl’s eyes were locked on the faerie named Tsuyu as she swiftly reached into her pocket and whipped out a large pouch of pixie dust. She sprinkled some in the young girl’s hands and explained how the blessing worked. The joyful expression on the faerie’s face gave the whole story. They were both experiencing the magic of the Renaissance Festival. “Tsuyu has a character named Coralyn Martin, and Coralyn Martin has a character named Tsuyu.” Coralyn Martin put simply as she lounged in the shade. Clad in grass green tights and covered in glitter, she seemed quite comfortable in her alter ego. “Tsuyu is very playful. She likes climbing trees and swimming, but in reality, I think that’s the most dangerous thing you could ever do. She likes people who don’t wear shoes. It’s the little things that matter when you are talking to people,” she said. Even though Martin is Tsuyu, (pronounced ‘Soo-soo’) the faerie of summer, this year at the Renaissance Festival, she was frank on admitting that the character was someone completely new. “Personally, I hate summer. I’m not like myself. I’m not really happy, peppy, dancy. If there was an adjective for having a lighter heart, that’s what I would use. It’s uplifting and I get to make children happy. Being a fairy is special, even healthy,” she said. Kicking off the long day at the Renaissance Festival, Martin is awake at 6 in the morning. Getting into costume takes half an hour, and the festival is 40 minutes away from her Independence home. Her first appearance in character is the fairy dance at the Maypole. The rest of the day consists of talking to festival goers and having “Fat Time” when the Faeries can eat and hang out. At 5 pm, they can leave their area of the Wildewood and talk to other cast members, but 7 pm is closing time. “The day is not as long as people complain,” Martin said. Whether the day is long or not, Martin loves her job, even though it’s more a give
than a take. “This is my first year, so I don’t have pay. There is pretty minimal pay all together. People ask if the Ren Fest is all you do, but there is no way. This is for people who love acting. I love it for the social aspect. It looks good on your resume, and it’s a great life experience,” she said. Experience does come with a price; entertainers at the Ren Fest pay for their costumes. “Costumes are expensive. I’m glad I’m not a court lady. Their dresses can get up to over $1000, not including the expenses people pay for the seamstress,” she said. Not only do they make one’s pocketbook feel lighter, they can make one’s stride a lot heftier. “If you’re in a court dress, and it rains, you’re going to have a terrible time. The water absorbs and it gets so heavy, they can’t hold their skirts up.” Luckily, Faerie costumes tend to be easier to take of…sometimes. “I’m a costume designer, so I can help out with mine. I think costumes are a lot of fun. Besides the fact I’m wearing four different leg layers, all made of stretchy material, so that makes going to the bathroom impossible.” Lavatory issues aren’t the only problems the Fae have to encounter. “Some have trouble with their wings, but I made mine, so they are low maintenance. Fae costumes aren’t a big deal to take care of. Some people use silk, which is a really bad idea, because it’s impossible to wash.” Martin shares a sentiment that most other Renaissance Festival entertainers have.
“I always loved dressing when I was a little girl. This is like playing dress up everyday.” Whether it’s rain or shine, Martin promises that an afternoon at the Ren Fest is an afternoon well spent. “It’s fun, entertaining, and unique. This truly is a unique experience. Its top notch here, as far as Ren Fest’s go,” Martin said. Besides, everyone needs a little escape from reality every once in a while. “Honestly, I love it here. It’s a wonderful vacation from who you are.” Until Martin’s vacation ends, she will be blessing children until her glitter pouch is empty, and settling in her summer skin until by Haley Gillian winter comes.
Fairy Tales. There are many different types of people at the Renaissance Fest in Bonner Springs. “It’s top notch here, as far as Ren Fests go,” Coralyn Martin said. From fairies to kings to knights to barbarians the festival is definitely full of unique and interesting people.
photos by Elaine Fouchia
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the
HAUNTED BENJAMIN RANCH
WHEN CUSTOMERS PULL UP TO THE BENJAMIN RANCH, they are deceived by its seemingly normal facade. Stepping out of their cars is a different story as they are greeted by a couple of dead folk and are led into the Corral of Doom where they purchase tickets. While waiting in line, their awestruck eyes follow Sheriff Dusty Cadaver’s movements as he jams nails into his face and eats fire. “Are you ready to enter the ranch?” a zombie-like rancher asks as the freak show ends. They timidly nod their heads and follow him into the darkness of the barn.
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ll who dare to enter the haunted Benjamin Ranch will experience an adrenaline rush, severe horror, and the occasional good laugh. They will endure fright from the quarantined animal barn and get lost in the stock pen cage maze where possessed rodeo clowns taunt those who stray, never knowing what happens next or where they might end. The Benjamin Ranch has provided entertainment to Kansas City for over 35 years with their rodeos and farms. “Once we got the idea to create a haunted house, we couldn’t turn it down,” creative director Kelly Jo Blake said. Their ultimate goal was to make it worth the customers’ money. They are not a small attraction, the Ranch has an atmosphere of its own inside the barn and out. Customers also do not have to worry about waiting in long, boring lines- they can grab a bite to eat, roast a hot dog, ride the mechanical bull, or enjoy the freak show by Sheriff Dusty Cadaver. Another feature open to the public is the party barn, which is available to rent for events. “We like seeing people have a good time. We want people screaming from ages 14 to 95, as long as their hearts can handle the horror that is. We have 40 actors here, and a makeup artist who has done work for Universal Studios and most of the Kansas City haunted houses,” Blake said. The Ranch has many main attractions that all visiters should see, the main one being the haunted house that leads into other areas such as the Dead Man’s Saloon and the Tack Room of Mayhem. There is also the cage maze, complete with possessed clowns and an intimidating video. continued on page 15
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CENTER SPREAD The “Fright Show” led by Sheriff Dusty Cadaver will leave viewers perplexed after seeing him lie on a bed of nails, jam nails up his nose, and eat fire. Though the Ranch is all for fun, Blake recalls some spooky situations occurring. “I actually think the Ranch is haunted,” she said. The Benjamin Ranch was created in 1885 by Howard Benjamin, and workers began feeling a ghostly presence after his death. Blake remembers one instance when she made sure to turn off the lights as she was the last to leave, but came back the next day to find them all on. “Chairs would move, doors would slam. People have quit because they have seen things and felt like they were being watched,” Blake added. Despite these scary occurrences, Blake isn’t concerned. “Some parents might not feel safe letting their children go to a haunted house attraction, but they don’t need to worry because it is all very safe,” Blake confirmed, “It’s very secure.” The admission for entry is $10, but the prices may vary on their website. The haunted hayride is another attraction that costs an additional $5. Riders take a journey into the deep forest and encounter the lost cowboys who died long ago on the Santa Fe Trail. So many ideas with many more to come, the Ranch workers are excited to keep adding new features. The haunted house opens at 6 pm but the last ticket is sold around 10 pm. The Zombie Corral of Doom begins at 6 pm and the Haunts start at 7. Closing time is dependent on the turnout. Whether it be the haunted hayride, the freakshow, or just the fun atmosphere that draws customers into the Benjamin Ranch, one thing is for sure: They’ll be dying for more.
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by Tyler Wilmore photos by Bradley Roberts
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HALO REACH
ENTERTAINMENT
Worth Remembering
THE HIGHLY ANTICIPATED GAME IN THE HALO SERIES RECENTLY ARRIVED TO THE JOY OF GAMERS EVERYWHERE AS COPIES FLY OFF THE SHELVES
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or just about anyone, walking into a battlefield of a war is a nightmarish experience. Being surrounded on all sides by intimidating soldiers, explosions coming from different directions and bullets whizzing by would make even the bravest of people feel powerless. Halo Reach’s epic virtual maps and levels seethe with a feeling of war, along with aliens, lasers, energy swords, plasma bullets, and hovering land vehicles, but Noble 6 is anything but an ordinary soldier. For this Spartan, the maddening army of aliens he faces isn’t the end of his home world’s life: It’s just another set of targets to take down. Halo Reach is more than a first person shooter game; it’s the final game produced by the hit company that started the Halo series, Bungie. The Halo series is acting as the ‘face’ of Microsoft’s entire gaming brand. Even though Master Chief is the main character of the Halo series, it seems like that he is not in Halo Reach at all. Instead, Noble 6, the main character of Halo Reach, is paired with his new squad in order to protect planet Reach. While it practically exceeds the high bar set by the previous installments, it could not go any further because of the weight the burden of a couple multiplayer game types put on it. It’s still an epic game that fully shows the Xbox 360’s tremendous capabilities, but is just a bit more different than the fans actually wanted it to be. The Halo series is about two great forces, the Covenant and the UNSC, who are in an intergalactic war against each other. The Covenant is a group of more than 16
HI.LIFE 2010
eight separate alien races that are working together in order to eradicate the human species from the entire galaxy. The UNSC (United Nations Space Command) is the military, exploratory, and scientific agency of the Unified Earth Government. When the UNSC was about to reach certain defeat, they started using a new group of supersoldier, who were trained since they were children before the Covenant appeared, that were known as “Spartans.” Halo Reach has only been out for a little more than two weeks. Halo Reach gets a 4.8 out of 5.0. The only two problems found about Halo Reach are a certain game type and the now uneven advantages that are given in multiplayer. The game type that Halo Reach would have been able to live without is stockpile, because the players on both teams focus more on killing the enemy team instead of capturing the objective. Also, the uneven advantage in multiplayer is only in the game mode called invasion, which is another way of saying Elites vs. Spartans. The Elites have a bigger advantage, even though most of their weaponry cause less damage than Spartan weapons. Other than those two little flaws, the game is awesome. In general, there are about four major ways to play: Campaign mode, firefight mode, forge mode, and of course multiplayer. The campaign is about the newest member of Noble squad, Noble 6. Noble squad, a team of six Spartans, was searching a settlement on planet Reach for signs of rebellion, but soon learns that the Covenant has invaded Reach and that they
will go at all costs to destroy their planet. The storyline doesn’t veer off into any areas where it doesn’t concern anything about the campaign at all, which makes the storyline easier to follow. Firefight mode allows players to try and survive against multiple waves of covenant troops using any weapon that they can find. Forge mode allows players to redesign any preset maps into any way that he or she wants to. Halo Reach’s forge mode has been improved from Halo 3, so now just about anyone can build a barely perfect to perfect map in about an hour whereas in Halo 3 it would take them days to even get halfway done their map would not be exactly as they imagined it. Finally, multiplayer mode is a mode where people can play online against each other but only if they have Xbox Live. There are even new matchmaking game types that are actually more than worth trying and Bungie has recreated some of the old favorite maps from the previous games in the Halo series. For Noble 6 and the rest of Noble squad, they have a nightmarish experience as they walk into the battlefields of war. Even with alien soldiers charging at them with weapons that are more technologically advanced than theirs with a merciless attitude, they don’t feel powerless at all. They are no ordinary soldiers, they are Spartans. So for all of them, the maddening army of aliens they face isn’t the end of their home world’s life: It’s just another set of targets for them to take down. by Jesse Butler
ENTERTAINMENT
Roll It
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THE MOVIE THAT’S WORTH YOUR MONEY THIS MONTH
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ovies about gang violence, ignorant police, and bank robberies are more popular in the box office nowadays than ever before. So many of them have the same plot, the same characters, and the same lesson learned. Ben Affleck decided to change things up a bit. Having directed only a few movies prior, there was much speculation to how Affleck would do. After the premiere of his latest work The Town, critics agreed he could direct whatever he wanted. The Town is a riveting, new take on the traditional bank robbing movie. The Town, starring Ben Affleck (Pearl Harbor) and Jeremy Renner (The Hurt Locker), takes place in Charlestown, Boston, a small town where everyone knows everyone. A certain group of friends have made their living in robbing banks. They are the most thorough bank robbers to hit the big screen in a long time. The Town has an intriguing take of elaborating on the robbery process. Affleck and his crew do not just barge in and jack all the money. They wear a different mask every robbery, they pour bleach on anything they may have touched, they nuke the security footage, and they do not shoot everything in sight. During one robbery, Renner decides to take the bank manager, Rebecca Hall (The Prestige), hostage. After they let her go, Affleck is assigned to follow her and make sure she does not talk; he ends up falling for her. He finally decides he wants to get out of Charlestown and change his life, and he wants Hall to come with him. Renner had other plans; a final robbery. After being threatened, Affleck agrees. Everything seems to be going according to plan, until Hall gets an unexpected visit from the local authority. FBI agent played by Jon Hamm (“Mad Men”). Hamm corners Hall, revealing information she cannot believe, yet cannot deny. With one phone call from Hall, Affleck realizes what he has to do. Emotions and relationships are tried, bullets are fired, and situations are left in unexpected ways. The Town grips audiences from the start and holds them in their seats through the last scene. Affleck is at his best. His acting continues to impress in every movie, and his unkown talent at directing has surprised audiences all over. If plans have been made to go to the movies, purchasing a ticket to The Town would not be a waste. by Lindsay Nelson
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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FASHION
Editors’ Picks FALL FASHION TRENDS WE LOVE
TREND #1
Splendid Striped Knit Sweater $74
TREND #2 Rocket Dog Women’s Chain Gang Boot $50
FOR MEN AND WOMEN TREND #3 Levi’s Workwear Trucker Jacket $340.00
TREND #4 New Tom’s Botas $79.99
by Abigail Jones & Julia Duckworth
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HI.LIFE 2010
charming CHARLIE
NEW BOUTIQUE WINS OVER THE BEDAZZLED HEARTS OF LSHS STUDENTS To those who are looking for cute, inexpensive jewelry and bright handbags, Kimberly Bragg has the answer. Her store, Charming Charlie, is truly filled with the most charming, trendy accessories, such as necklaces, bracelets, headbands, and even a selection of clothing. Charming Charlie has all the fashion staples a girl could want at the price they want. Q: What would someone expect to see first walking into Charming Charlie? A: “It is a large scale boutique. It’s all organized by color, and it’s an all accessories store. We carry a very large selection of handbags, jewelry, headbands, scarves, etc. There is some clothing, but the main focus is on the accessories. We actually consider the clothing the accessory in our store.” Q: What items sell the most? A: “I would say the jewelry. I mean, we are an all accessories store, so definitely the jewelry. The handbags are also a big hit with customers.” Q: Why is the store called “Charming Charlie”? A: “The actual owner of the store is a man whose name is Charlie. That’s really about it.” Q: Why do you think Charming Charlie has been such a big success in Lee’s Summit? A: “It’s definitely a unique store. We have great prices and tons of merchandising. We have a lot of unique pieces that other boutiques do not have. Charming Charlie is truly a unique, oneof-a-kind store.” Q: In your opinion, what are some of the best trends right now? A: “We actually have a trend table here at Charming Charlie. Previously, there was a focus on animal prints. The trend table is now ‘Vintage Treasure’ which is basically the exact opposite of ‘Animal Print’. The ‘Vintage Treasure’ table is full of antique, pretty jewelry. It’s very cute.” Q: What kind of style would you say most of your accessories/clothing are? A: “There is really something for everyone. I see women of all ages walk into Charming Charlie. From 8 years old to eighty years old, there is something to offer everyone.” Q: What sets Charming Charlie aside from other stores and boutiques? A: “Mainly that every single thing is organized generally by color. Also, definitely the prices. We are cute yet still affordable to people.”
Charming Charlie’s color coded tables make it easy for shoppers to find what they are looking for.
Big rings and necklaces, along with dresses, are displayed at the purple table.
Q: So what is the price range for most items? A: “Everything in the store is under $50. I think there were maybe two handbags that were about $60, but pretty much everything here is very affordable.” Q: Who do you think is the ultimate “Charming Charlie” woman? A: “Everyone can be a Charming Charlie woman. I see women of all ages, ethnicities, and income levels walk in to the store and find at least one thing they like. Like I said before, anyone and everyone can shop at Charming Charlie and be a Charming Charlie woman. It’s so diverse.” Q: Do you have any upcoming events planned for the store? A: “Charming Charlie just had a Fashion Night Out, but our store in particular has something at John Knox coming up. It is Oct 1, at John Knox village. I don’t know the time yet, but I’m sure it will be posted on our website, charmingcharlie.com.” It is hard not to be mesmerized by the beautiful, color-coordinated accessories and clothing. If there is a girl who has not fallen in love with Charlie yet, it is only a matter a time. story by Jordan Julian photo by Elaine Fousche
FASHION
Most Popular Styles
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FIVE STYLES THAT ARE SURE TO BE POPULAR THROUGH FALL
photos by Laina Gunsallus
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Quarter length sleeves are also popular on the runway. Brand: American Rag Price: $30
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For the gentleman, a nice argyle sweater with the collar underneath to create a classy layered look.. Brand: Club Room Price: $27.99
N E M WO
MEN
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These swanky shoes are stylish with any outfit combination. Brand: Madden Girl Price: $60
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This bomber jacket will help you endure the brisk, fall wind. Brand: JouJou Price: $59.99
These beautifully made jeans will endure time and the fashion industry. Brand: MissMe Jeans Price: $89.90
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OPINIONS
Car Burglaries
Over the last year, Kansas City has experienced a large spike in crime. Though one crime in particular stands out more than others. Not assault. Not drug infractions. But car burglaries. The first thing that may come to mind is grand-theft auto, but this generally overlooked crime is much simpler and quicker than that. All it involves is the quick breaking of a window, a quick peak inside, and snatching up whatever looks the most expensive. But in reality, it could all be prevented with a little action from the driver. Possibly one of the biggest reasons why people’s cars keep getting robbed left and right is that they are just blissfully unaware that they might be the next potential targets for thieves. Usually leaving your car alone and valuables left out for even 30 seconds can be enough time for a proficient perpetrator. So, is it really worth it not to take a few extra seconds to relocate any belongings, absolutely not.
Running into a convenience store every morning is an extremely quick and easy way to snag some breakfast if there isn’t enough time at home. Grabbing some donuts and a soda will give an energy boost to any student, and it will even let them make it to their first hour on time. But if a gas station is a primary stop for any driver in the morning, then they just need to take some extra time, and hide any of their backpacks, purses, and even laptop bags.
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It could all be prevented
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If it can not be seen, then it is far less likely to be stolen. While leaving a vehicle, simply put anything of monetary or sentimental value hidden under a blanket in the trunk. Even relocating such items to the underside of a passenger side seat can prevent a thief from seeing and stealing them. So if the drivers are able to become more responsible, then perhaps this crime in Kansas City can start to be snuffed out. Car by car, one at a time. By Kevin Adams
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HI.LIFE 2010
Letter to the Editor
IT IS HAPPENING AT AN ALARMING RATE. NOBODY KNOWS WHAT TO DO. HOWEVER, PREVENTION IS KEY.
Dear Editor, I am really enjoying this school year because I have really good teachers that make class fun. There are though, some things about our school that I would like to change. First is the passing period time needs to increase. I know these red stamps in your plan book are supposed to help but you can only use them a few times. The problem with this is that if I use the red stamp every day, I will still end up with tardies because I take the same route to that class everyday. Another problem about the school is that people will stand in the middle of the hallway and completely block it making me late to class. A solution to this problem is for teachers to stand in high traffic areas and tell people to move. Also I think that more door ways need to be installed. It’s really hard to walk through the A building doors because I get pushed and shoved by people walking on the wrong side. Other than these few problems our school is a good place for learning.
- Lauren Chambers
OPINIONS
Staff Editorial
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WHAT EXTENT WILL LEE’S SUMMIT HIGH SCHOOL GO TO TO BE “CLASSY”? Under the Friday night lights, a group of boys take off their shirts sporting painted chests and faces but are told to clothe themselves immediately. “Why?” they ask an administrator, “We paid to get in here, why can’t we show our colors?” Students who harmlessly paint their chests and bellies ask these questions every Friday night, as they feel smothered by the school’s administration. The answer they receive is, “We’re Classy.” Being classy makes the events fun for everyone. It is important how we come off as a school to our community. Football games are one of the few times that the community gets to see the studet body and so far we’ve been successful in giving off a good impression. Another important issue at these games is public safety. Though standing up in the student section is great for spirit, it can pose safety issues where students could fall or bleachers would get damaged. It is hard to argue with rules that are in the student body’s favor, especially knowing that administration is on the side of the students.However, many students feel like they are not treated fairly when they attend these games. Students want to be treated like adults because it is on their own time and they pay to get in. But many students feel as if they are treated like it is a regular school day. Being classy is probably not in every student’s best
interest, but the image of our school depends on those critical hours when other citizens of Lee’s Summit see our student body. Are taking shirts off and harmful chants worth looking like fellow schools around us? Not in the eyes of most.
Clashing on Classy. Administration and some of the student body have opposing views on what gives our school a good image.
>>Man on the Street<<
Should school rules be enfored at football games? “Yes, because we need to make sure that everything goes smoothly and everyone remains safe.” freshmen Emonie Ellison said.
“They shouldn’t because they are not applied at pro sports and it shows school spirt.” sophomore Darby Cronin said.
“No, because I think that guys should be able to take their shirts off and spell “GO TIGERS!” across their chests,” junior Rebecca Foley said.
“Kinda depends, the shirts and stuff I don’t really care about. But safety should always be enforced.” senior Kyle Henson said.
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OPINIONS
Editorials Passing Period Problems
Shoeless Students
STUDENTS FEEL THE PASSING TIME ALLOTTED IS NOT ENOUGH
NO SHIRT, NO SHOES, NO SERVICE.
g Nick Rellihan
g Mary Jo Roccaro
Students begin to hustle down the hallways of LSHS as the first bell of the day rings with or without shoes. Lately, people have been showing up ready to learn and barefoot. But there’s a reason for some of their shoeless-ness. TOMS, a company that donates a pair of shoes to someone in need every time a pair of their shoes are purchased, sponsors a day where everyone walks around barefoot to fully understand how it would feel to go through life in need. Students at LSHS could be taking that day and expanding it into a whole school year of empathy. But going shoeless at school is most definitely against the dress code. Student Administration has started enforcing the rules more strictly this year, so how students are able to get away with being barefoot is a mystery. According to some, this whole ‘shoeless in school’ thing is just a passing trend that got started on Facebook. Social networking sites greatly influence what kids today find cool and uncool. Another theory is that people are only going shoeless to copy off of celebrities. It’s been said that there are students trying to be a sort of toned-down version of Lady Gaga. She wears strange shoes; high schoolers wear no shoes. Pointing out the obvious, LSHS is an old school with old floors that probably aren’t ‘eat-off-the-floor’ clean. Walking through the halls barefoot is basically inviting sickness and dirtiness into everything you do. Not to mention the fact that once cold weather and rain hits, going barefoot would not be the wisest thing to do. If you go barefoot in that type of weather, you will most likely end up getting sick, and then missing school. If going without shoes starts to have an effect on a person’s education, it cannot be a good thing. When people walk around barefoot at school, it is almost like wearing bowling shoes without socks. It is just not recommended or sanitary. It also might be why there are students that look down on their shoeless peers. If students want to walk around without shoes, they have to be prepared to deal with the criticism they may have coming. Although traipsing around high school without shoes may disgust and even irritate some people, there are still kids that will continue to walk around the campus, proudly shoeless.
POL ICY 22
The long hike to get from top of “B” building to the top of “A” during passing period is long, but when it’s raining outside, it’s nearly impossible to get to class on time. Also getting from basement of “B” to “A” is incredible challenging. These are issues that LSHS students have to deal with everyday during passing period. Among the new policies here at LSHS, the 30 second extra-time rule is one of the most controversial. You only get the extra time if you are coming from “D” building, the weight room, or one of the art classrooms. According to administration, this new policy arose from the huge number of tardies last year. So there is good intention behind this policy change. Student Administration’s hope is that the new policy will give students that don’t have extra passing time a little more “motivation” to get to class on time. Here’s the issue, the new policy states that students only get to be late seven times without penalty. Now this doesn’t make much sense. If those students are given extra time to get to class, doesn’t the administration expect them to be late everyday? Administration says that the solution is to walk outside. According to STAD, every classroom here at LSHS is reachable within the six minute time limit. LSHS does have many routes to class outside, but this brings up another question. What should students do when it’s raining or snowing outside? Well, this is where the situation gets a little sketchy. STAD stated that using the extra time gives you a maximum of 14 times to be late without any penalty. Any tardy after that results in detentions. Now, no student here needs to be a meteorologist to know that there will probably be more than 14 days in the entire 176 day school year of bad weather. STAD did say that if your having trouble getting to class, students can request extra time. After a students requests it, someone will escort you to class to determine if that particular student is in need of it. So hopefully, the next time LSHS students make the long trek from back corner of “A” to the basement of “B”, they won’t have to run people over in order to avoid getting that tardy.
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.
HEALTH
Bad Decisions
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RESEARCH ON MARAIJUANA USE SHOWS NEW EFFECTS ON HEALTH Marijuana and depression. Marijuana and schizophrenia. Marijuana and medicine. Most adolescents and students probably think they have heard it all by now: drugs are bad, say no to drugs, not everyone is doing it, and so forth; but they have not. Recent medical studies are finding serious consequences to the use of marijuana in teens, many that seem to contradict the feelgood image commonly portrayed. “Initially the marijuana user feels a sense of euphoria or a feeling of exaggerated happiness, but regular use causes demotivation, anxiety, depression, and paranoid thought. During the high, heart rate increases causing dry, red eyes, and dry mouth. It’s also widely believed that regular use by smoking, which of course is most common, increases risk of lung cancer,” former nurse and neurological physician Karin Olds said. Recent studies have been conducted over the effects of marijuana on mental illnesses such as schizophrenia. Schizophrenia is a disease in which a person suffers from delusions, usually hallucinates, and cannot separate the reality created in their head
from what is really happening. “It’s impossible to treat a schizophrenic who smokes. For folks with pre-existing mental illness, marijuana is likely to increase anxiety, depression, and paranoid thoughts. Many times with a mental illness there is a co-existing substance abuse, marijuana being the most common,” Olds said. There has been recent debate on the use of medical marijuana. Some epilepsy patients have claimed that the effects of marijuana lessen the frequency of their seizures. This has not yet been proven by medical professionals. “It is widely accepted that marijuana can increase appetite. Medical marijuana is mainly used for the appetite stimulate effect and is mainly used with patients with HIV/AIDS and cancer patients using chemotherapy. It is also thought to reduce eye pressure,” Olds said. On a medical basis, marijuana is heavily controlled by state and federal agencies. Marijuana is not commonly prescribed on any regular basis. “Several patients that tell me they use it say they use it for the calming effect. Most
Basal Ganglia Hippocampus illustration by Julia Duckworth
Cerebellum
Mental Health. Marijuana abuse has been linked to memory impairment because it alters how information is processed in the hippocampus. Marijuana also impares cordination by effecting the cerebellum. It can also impare your unconscious muscle movment by affecting the basal ganglia.
of my patients that don’t admit to using it, probably do,” Olds said. Marijuana is commonly portrayed as a feel-good drug. However, in the long run, it’s the exact opposite. Thanks to new research, we now have a better understanding of how by Wendy Hayworth bad drugs really are.
Swimming 101
NEW CLASS PROVIDES FITNESS OUTSIDE SCHOOL BOUNDARIES
Swim Crew. Charlie Wies does the twenty five meter backstroke in the new Aquatic Center’s Pool. He is practicing his flip turns to make his stroke more efficient. “We wake up every morning and go to the pool and swim. It’s a pretty good workout,” junior Charlie Wies said.
photo by Jacob DePeralta
There is a new class that Lee’s Summit High School students can take that could save them over $100. The new swimming classes are held at the Lee’s Summit R-VII School District Aquatic Center on the campus of Summit Lakes Middle School. Both of these classes are in their first year, and have already started gaining popularity. “There are somewhere between 30 and 40,” swimming teacher Mr. Pettit said. The two classes, Swimming I and II, are both seperated based on a swimmer’s skill. But just about anyone can participate. “Swimming I is for anyone, no matter what skill level. Swimming II is for advanced swimmers and lifeguards.” Pettit said. The classes actually function like other classes in that there are tests and a written final. The fitness and skills tests are to see a swimmer’s “endurance, flexibility, strokes and dive skills.” But in Swimming II, students are also put through lifeguard scenarios. In fact, they can become lifeguard certified for free. If someone takes the American Red Cross Lifeguard Training course, it would cost them “$35 in you plan to work for KCMO and $105 if you plan to work for another organization,” according to Infozine.com. Students can enter Swimming II either by passing a pre-requisite test or by passing Swimming I. Both classes are free co-ed classes. They must provide their own transportation and be at the aquatic center by 7am and a bus can take you back to LSHS. The classes will take up first and second hours, and the bus will arrive in time for third hour. by Aaron Wood
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HEALTH
Who Knows?
The Bare Soul
T
WHAT YOU MAY NOT KNOW ABOUT faster when they do get injured, but FALL SPORTS it is so out of the norm that many runners don’t do it. 1. It can be hard to juggle school on top of soccer.
THE MAN WITH NO SHOES The first few miles without shoes in 2003 felt exhilarating. Rick Roeber had run three miles and spent all 24 minutes barefoot. 1,151 consecutive days running barefoot, and he has run the equivalent of almost 250 marathons, or the distance from Los Angeles to New York 6 times, which is 17,000 miles. Roeber has run 89 marathons, 71 of which were barefoot and 2 ultra marathons, which were each 50 miles. A new challenge is all Roeber wanted. Roeber got his challenge when he read the October 2002 Runner’s World Marathon Forum featuring a ‘Jesus look-alike’ that ran the Long Beach Marathon barefoot. After seeing this, Roeber was inspired. “I no longer support the running shoe companies. I always have my shoes with me,” Roeber said. The running shoes that these companies sell cause over striding which leads to heel striking. Heel striking is when your heel hits the ground first and your foot rolls, causing you to bound off of only one part of your foot. Heel striking causes knee stress. Roeber had injured his knees to the point where he would need surgery to repair his rotator cup ligaments or stop running altogether. “The question most people ask me is, ‘How do you run in the winter?’ Anytime it is above 10 degrees Fahrenheit and less than ankle deep snow, I can run,” Roeber said. In the snow Roeber has sustained several injuries, but nothing has kept him from running the next day. Running barefoot generally reduces injuries and makes your feet heal
Although Roeber’s personal record “ In soccer, players have a tough time with taking shots for the marathon is 3 hours,15 and communication,” Dylan George said. minutes, and 59 seconds and his without-shoes time is 3 hours, 35 Players work hard to keep their bodies in shape and minutes, and 38 seconds. He believes practice harder than many realize. that speed isn’t the important thing. “ We have this exercise that is about 24 minutes, but if Instead, he feels that it is more of a we don’t make it under 24 minutes we have to start all lifestyle that he can use to help people over again until we make it.” in any way he can. Not only do players of fall sports keep their bodies in “‘Do something remarkable shape but they also take a lot of time getting better. everyday, and in time your life will “ Some of us try and put in about 13 to 14 hours a week become remarkable’. If someone says, and we work very hard,” Lisa Weeda said. ‘I went for a barefoot run today’, well, that doesn’t sreally sound that Also, the team members are all having a tough time remarkable. However, if one does it you can be up working on school work as well for a everyday, rain, snow, or sunshine, long time. then in time it does become a very “ When I came to play my freshman year, I unexpectedly remarkable feat. If one continues for found the level of playing to be higher than my earlier months and years, it will become a years,” Weeda said. lifestyle,” Roeber said. “ The game of tennis is surprisingly tough just This is the motto Roeber runs by, watching a game isn’t enough to realize what skills and is the motto he has been running are put into it. by since April 2003 after he ran the “ A lot of people who are in the stands watching don’t see Boston Marathon completely the form of making a good shot just inside the line or that barefoot. is it very difficult to get a good shot,” Amanda Beason said. “Most importantly I like by Audrey Stetzler photo by Cassiti Williamson helping people through my running and after 17,000 miles, I feel great. For me, it has become a rediscovery of something natural and primal that gives me a new found enjoyment for the sport of running,” Roeber said. Although Rick has come a long way since those 3 miles on a cold October morning, he has not once put the shoes back Unknown Stars. Senior, Dylan George studies hard in and out of school. “Before the games, the seniors make warm-up CD’s, that is a ritual,” George said. Whether he is makon for even one of the 17,000 ing goals or making grades, he is one fall sports star to watch. by Zach Harris miles.
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HI.LIFE 2010
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SPORTS
Cake Walk
Cutline
Clever Captain: Corbin Berkstresser takes care of his fellow teammates Leader of the Pack: Eric Thomas helps leads the football players and helps lead them in not only the games they play but in life as well. by teaching them valuabe life and leadership skills.
Claiming Captains FOOTBALL PLAYERS TAKE CHARGE AND GET THINGS DONE The title of Captain is earned for most athletes at Lee’s Summit High School through hard work and dedication to teammates. All of the fall sports teams are shooting for the same goal, to be at the top of the ranks by the end of their seasons. The football players are all looking for a state title, which seems to be very accomplishable. “Being a captain of any team helps with the maturation process of players, it helps them later on in life with understanding leadership,” head football coach Eric Thomas said. Not choosing in a typical manner, the football team captains are chosen by their peers. They have a leadership council, these certain players are meant to be the role models for younger players on the team. The team consists of many captains, not just one. “Being a captain means all eyes are on you,” football team captain and starting quarterback, Corbin Berkstresser said. “Everything is magnified on and off the field. Your body
language is watched by your teammates and coaches, it effects how everyone else plays,” Having other players look up to a captain as a big brother is not something that is out of the ordinary. The captain of a team looks out for the all of the other members as if they were little brothers. Shooting for a state title, leadership is one of the necessary components to being a successful group. “We have a lot of confidence going forward into this season and we want to grow with each other through the good times and bad times,” Thomas said. The players are very excited for the rest of the season; they are enjoying their new head coach. The football teams goal of a state title will certainly not be easy, but they are very capable of accomplishing it. Captains on the football team have earned their titles, other fall sports captains have too. by Ronnie Thomas photos by Timmy Snook
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This weekend in college football is the beginning of conference games for most teams across the NCAA. It means the end of non-conference games, but more importantly signals the end of the cake walk for NCAA teams. Non-conference games in the NCAA have become much of a joke, and all about easy wins for big teams. Major colleges in the FBS have scheduled a ridiculous amount of games against smaller schools that are in the FCS, 21 percent of FBS non-conference games in 2009 were against FCS teams. Part of this reason is because of the installation of the BCS, which was first founded and put into play in 1998. That year, only eight percent of FBS nonconference games were against FCS schools, meaning there has been a 13 percent increase in 11 years. Its a simple benefit to both sides though, the bigger school gets the easy win, the smaller school gets a nice cash payout. But these games often provide fans with little excitement and a lopsided score. Last weekend, every team in the Big Ten Conference played against no teams in an automatic BCS qualifying conference, including a couple from the FCS. Colleges from around the area like Missouri, Kansas, and Kansas State also opted for subpar schedules. Missouri sits at 4-0 but played no road non-conference games, including one FCS team. Kansas played one FCS team, and even though they played and beat a ranked team in Georgia Tech, they are no longer ranked and sit at 2-2. Kansas State is 3-0 in nonconference but has played no road games and one FCS team. Nothing is a guarantee, FCS team James Madison beat rank 13 Virginia Tech 21-16, and Kansas lost at home to FCS team North Dakota State, six to three. These types of games come few and far between usually. With the beginning of conference play, there should be a major increase in competitive and meaningful games. It should also mean no more 70 to three blowouts. by Nathan Williams
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SPORTS
HOW IT WORKS A LOOK AT HOW FANTASY FOOTBALL WORKS
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FL fans just can not get enough of football. Games have expanded from just games on Sunday to games on Monday and games on Thursday also. When Fantasy Football is added to the mix, it means fans who need to know the latest scores, what’s up with the team, and how the players are doing the moment something happens. “ Fantasy Football is managing a fake team of players you pretend to draft,” senior Bryan Wolz says. The purpose of Fantasy Football is to have fun and to make money while competing with friends. The way money is made is when the players that the member picked score the most points. The way points are scored is if a touchdown is made, the player who scored receives six points. If the quarterback threw the ball to the scoring player, then the quarterback gets six points as well. Three points are given to the kicker who made the field goal. “ Running backs and wide receivers are high scorers, quarterbacks are not high scorers,” Wolz says.
To draft players, Fantasy Football members go down the list and see who they think is going to score the most points and win them the most money. Fantasy Football usually lasts for up to 14 weeks during the fall NFL season. Whether fans watch games on Sunday, Monday, or Thursday they can keep up with the scores, teams, and players so they can manage their Fantasy Football team.
HOMETOWN FOOTBALL
by Laura Schierhoff
Who was your first pick? Senior Bryan Wolz chose Tennessee Titan Chris Johnson as his first choice in his fantasy football draft.
Fantasy Fanatic. Many students here at LSHS have started playing fantasy football. “Fantasy Football is managing a fake team of players you pretend to draft,” senior Bryan Wolz said. Real or not, the money you can win from it is definitely a perk.
pic by Cassiti Williamson
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HI.LIFE 2010
FROM THE TIGERS TO THE CHIEFS, EVERYBODY IS ON SET TO HAVE A GREAT SEASON
The Chiefs had a third victory last Sunday pushing them to 3-0, a great start for any team but especially for the Chiefs who have won 6 of 41 games coming into this season. Already achieving half of what they achieved in 41 games the Chiefs seem to be on a good winning streak and will enjoy a bye week this sunday before playing the Indianapolis Colts in week five. This success could be due to many factors such as the additions of Arenas, Berry, McCluster, Jones, and offensive coordinator Charlie Weis. Charlie Weis suffered from an infected gall bladder but refused to have surgery in order to be at the game Sunday against San Francisco. Weis had an emergency surgery performed Monday morning and is currently fine. Cassel seemed to finally show some promise in the third game to become the quarterback he was payed millions, and millions, and millions, to be. Cassel was able to connect with Tony Moeaki who had an amazing one handed touchdown catch in Sundays destruction of San Francisco. The Tigers are also doing well with a 3-2 record and are hoping to make it 4-2 this week with homecoming coming up. Even though the Tigers lost to Blue Springs last weekend the Tigers have yet to lose a game in Lee’s Summit and can hopefully continue that streak on for the homecoming game. by Nate Day
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DAIRY QUEEN SOCIAL IN HISTORIC DOWNTOWN LS photos by Zach Harris
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1. For only $3 a ticket, attendees get to choose from a variety of cakes, ice creams, and drinks. 2. Student musicians casually line their cases on the sidewalk in a hurry to perform for the crowd.
3. The reflection in Ben Woodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tuba shows the drumline and band getting ready to play. 4. The crowd patiently waits in their seats, snacking on their sweets. A break in the heat made for a comfortable viewing experience. 5. The orchestra tunes their instruments before Orchestra Director, Russ Pieken, conducts their piece.
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