October 2019

hilife

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LEE’S SUMMIT HIGH SCHOOL

HI-LIFE MAG.

OUR HOUSE IS ON FIRE

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The Hi-Life investigates students’ role in climate change issues. page fourteen

H I - L I F E M AGA Z I N E VOLUME 98. ISSUE 2. OCTOBER 28.

T H E FA L L E D I T I O N

editor-in-chief

AUDREY BADGEROW design editor

C H E YA N N E K E N N E D Y copy editor JORDAN WILSON web editor BIANCA STEWART sports director CAMERON SCHULENBERG photo director JAEDEN MILLER adviser MARC RUSSELL reporters

ELEANOR AMMERMAN, AMBAR APPEL, EMMA BAUMAN, ETHAN FLEMING, L I B E R T Y G E N T R Y, M C K E N Z I E G I B S O N , LEAH HASKELL, ABIGAIL HECK, M AC K E N Z I E H E N K S , TO R I H I C K S , LILLIAN MANN, JAEDEN MILLER, K I N L E Y M O N K , M C K U L L A PA S C K I E W I C Z , R O M A N R E Y E S , FA I T H R O A C H , D A LT Y N S C H A F E R , N O A H S W O P E S , LY R I C W E S T L E Y, J O R D A N W I L S O N , G R A C I E WITHROW

FROM THE EDITOR

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hile preparing this month’s issue centering on the climate-related issues of today, I began thinking a lot about the effect of my actions on this topic.

While I consume minimal amounts of animal byproducts, recycle, occasionally shop AUDREY BADGEROW second-hand, and try to reduce my plastic use - no one is perfect.

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF I slip up on this all the time (like when I think of Whistle Stop’s pumpkin chai). And that’s okay.

While, clearly, not one person can make or break such climate-related issues, there is a certain level of accountability involved. This is mind, it is important to consider the levels and severities that come along with this.

It is not just everyday people with their reusable straws, Hydroflasks, and vegan diets that can make the big impact that will reverse decades of maltreatment and lack of consideration for the planet- it is the people at the top.

Recently, I read an article that noted that out of 7 billion people worldwide, that a group of only 100 companies are responsible for 71 percent of global fossil fuel emissions. That is crazy.

After reading this, I found some groups within the KC metropolitan area who strive to combat this with lobbying and legislative efforts, protests, and strengthening of awareness throughout the community.

Even though using a straw will not initiate the end of the world, I challenge readers to make themselves aware of their effects on the environment.

Sincerely,

new on hilife.jlabmag.com

open lunch - The Hi-Life uncovers if this is a possibility. a look into the impeachment process - Reporter Emma Bauman decodes and simplifies the tumultuous process.

gifted? 23. inspired by technology 25.

ghosted 12.

johnny brackins 4. mr. hawkins 18.

S TA F F E D .

R

pet problems 20.

student bands 6/7.

health + fitness

personality

features

w h e r e ’s t h e w a t e r 8 .

opinions

INSIDE.

educe, reuse, recycle. For years, the importance of taking care of the planet has been preached in numerous ways. Yet, the environment is facing a growing crisis fueled by climate change, pollution, and, most importantly, the negligence of humans.

As concerns for the state of the Earth are growing, many individuals are taking steps to ensure they are minimizing their footprint.

“It is important to take care of our planet because this is the only one we have. I think a lot of people are quick to discount climate change without realizing that not only does it affect our planet, but it also affects us,” junior Raegan Clark said.

In fact, there are many LSHS students

who care deeply about environmental issues.

“I think it is important to take care of our planet because it is our home and we need to have respect for it and the species we share it with. Earth does not belong to humans, and we need to remember that actions that neglect our environment affect future generations,” senior Chloe Erps said.

Diet changes like this can make a big difference.

The animal agriculture industry is known for being harmful to the environment and refusing to contribute to it is one way humans can help the planet.

“I am vegan, so I do not eat animal products. The foods I eat do not require as much water or land to produce, and they also do

powered by plants 24. unaffiliated 26. mental health 27.

not contribute to global warming as much as the meat industry does,” Erps said.

Not only does environmentalism take priority for students, but it is also a focus for some LSHS teachers. Suzy Fowler, who teaches Environmental Systems and Societies, makes it a priority to educate students on what is going on in our world as well as solutions to the Earth’s problems.

“Our planet is 100% in danger. Whether it is an ocean filled with plastic killing wildlife, greenhouse gases in the atmosphere increasing temperatures, or forests being cut down to be cleared for farmland, there are issues everywhere you look,”

Fowler said.

Setting a good example, she makes it a goal to reduce waste and take into consideration her carbon emissions.

“My main focus over the past couple of years is finding reusable products to reduce waste.

Any waste I do create is normally able to be recycled. I also bought a fuel-efficient vehicle, and try to walk or bike more frequently rather than drive to reduce my carbon footprint,” Fowler said.

Though they go about it in different ways, both students and teachers encourage people to take their own steps, whether big or small, to help the planet.

Even if big changes cannot come from one person, one cannot get

discouraged from making small efforts.

“There are so many things that individuals can do to decrease their impact. The more people who make small changes, the more people who can spread the word. Even though more drastic changes can be made at a governmental level, that should not stop people from being the best environmentalist they can be,” Fowler said.

Though the worsening state of the planet dwells on the minds of many, it is important to recognize the little changes people can make to help the Earth.

Time is running short, and there is only one Earth. If enough people take action, changes can be made to help ensure the planet thrives for years to come.

H E Y, J O H N N Y Junior Johnny Brackins is dedicated on and off the track.

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s Johnny Brackins Jr lines up by his blocks, he clears his head and begins to think of nothing but winning first place.

“I started track when I was 10 years old. I started out as a sprinter running the 100, 200, and 400, then shortly after a few meets I transitioned into doing long jump,” Brackins said.

Johnny has made a name for himself around Missouri being the number one jumper around the state and he seems to do even better every time he gets to a meet.

However, Johnny has not been the fastest his whole life. He had to put in work to be where he is at now.

“When I was younger I was always one of the faster kids in school, and I had great agility for my age, but as far as track, I was never the outstanding athlete when I was younger I was just a little over mediocre, it was not until 8th grade when I really stopped going through growing pains and could actually begin intense training.

So all in all I would say I realized I was exceeding expectations my freshman year when I began placing

in meets no other freshman was at,” Brackins said.

Brackins has made expectations for himself so he will always be the best he can be while also keeping a confident attitude he hates losing and will never fear racing the same people over and over again till he prevails.

“I form my own expectation for myself. By that I mean winning is just a title, but if I did not compete to my best ability I am not satisfied, so I stay humble by always thinking and knowing I can and will do better,” Brackins said Brackins has also

Johnny Brackins thinks how he could make his hurdles prelims at KU. “I was thinking to myself that I needed to keep my core tight, as body low, and stay consistent for each hurdle and finish strong.”

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Junior Johnny Brackins participates in the finals of the triple Jump relay at KU. “I made the whole crowd clap to get me hyped and ready to Jump. I was thinking to myself, don’t rush the landing and let the sand come to you.” chosen a sport where his fate is in his own hands if he loses no one else had caused that but him, and he has made a mindset of always doing the absolute best he can.

“I chose track because I do not like to depend on other people for my success, much like in most team sports, track and field allows athletes to show your true ability and whatever you do is factual unlike in sports like football and basketball where some ones ability is expressed through opinions and word of mouth. Over all I chose track and field because it is the most raw and uncut sport, and I feel it shows my ability better than other sports do,” Brackins said.

Brackins has made it clear in his mind that losing is not an option and he will keep competing until he has come out on top and has showed he is the hardest worker.

“Losing makes me want to compete against the same people 1000 times until I win, but also losing can be bitter sweet.

If I lose and I competed up to my very best ability then I can not be mad, just makes me want to work harder so I can exceed those limits.

As Brackins leaves the blocks he pushes his limits and finishes in first place as he finishes he is filled with excitement as he breaks the school record for the 200-meter dash.

Wr i t t e n b y : D a l t y n S c h a f e r, P h o t o s C o u r t e s y o f : J o h n n y B r a c k i n s , Designed by: Audrey Badgerow

P R K I NPGR O P S Students have ideas to boost creativity and brighten the campus.

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t the bottom of B building, a place in need of brightening is going through a change. Senior Lauren Kroh had the idea on how to change how her fellow classmates view something as simple as a gym locker room.

This project will have a few hands on deck to help with ideas and placement of the murals, like local artist Jamie Lyon, and science teacher Susan Mosier.

Part of the reasoning behind this is due to the fact that the hallways can often feel sterile and boring and the initiative to paint the lockers plans to change that.

“I wanted something to spruce up the campus,” Kroh said.

Supervisors agreed that this would be a

fantastic addition to the school, so Kroh and her team began planning.

“She put all of her ideas into a powerpoint first to see what she was going to do and when she wanted to start.”

Mosier said.

All ideas have been discussed as well as the locations.

The locations are the offices of physical education teachers Angela Oswald and Kevin Pettit, as well as the boys’ locker room and the girls’ locker room in B building.

“When you come in from a bad game of Volleyball or Basketball and are in need of something to cheer the team up, that is what I’m hoping that my murals will do,” Kroh said.

Each mural must have an idea behind it, so the boys’ B gym locker room will

have a sports-themed mural, the girls’ B gym locker room will have a flower mural.

The flower mural idea will carry over into Oswald’s office.

“My main thought is that these murals will influence the students at Lee’s Summit High School to become more creative and take an initiative to show off their artistic ability.”

Kroh said This new art project plans to take the previously bland and unremarkable areas of the school and transform them into an area of inspiration and positivity.

Another form of creativity being brought forward is to have the students paint their parking spots.

“It would definitely show a sense of individuality in our students.” principal Kari Harrison said.

Expression of creativity would also be a benefit.

“I think students having the power to show their voice at the school is a positive.”

Harrison said.

Despite this, there are problems involved in the implementation of this.

“It’s more than likely not going to happen in the next few years.” assistant principal James Oyler said.

One of the main issues in this matter would be that the school is the only school in the district with numbered parking spots. This would create issues for the fact that each student’s parking spot changes every year.

“It just depends on how much the students are willing to pay to get the materials to paint and to remove the paintings. As well

as the fact that the parking spots change annually.” Harrison said.

Students would need to be able to put up with the hours of effort that would need to be put into painting, as well as getting rid of the murals. Despite this, the creative and expressive aspects still hold.

“There would be no concerns. It would be a day or two where we would have an event and everyone can have fun, both students and parents in that.”

Harrison said.

There have been plenty of outreaches to try and introduce a sense of individuality and creativity on campus over the years, but with painting the locker room and painting student parking spaces, it will be a big push to student interaction.

Written by: Noah Swopes, Photographed by: Kinley Monk, Designed by: Audrey Badgerow

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DOWN WITH THE SOUND GUITAR A look into the musical

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ALEX RIPPLINGER

n the first Friday of September, the sound of guitar filled the bustling PAC lobby as senior Alex Ripplinger gave his first guitar performance. He is one of many LSHS students who have taken the floor for this event, and for him, it is only the beginning.

“I have been playing guitar since my freshman year,” Ripplinger said. “It just seemed really cool to me.”

Finding inspiration from other bands, he has found a very certain type of music that appeals to him.

“I just learn songs I think are cool. I feel like practicing like that makes me really only learn the stuff I think is cool, and that can be good, but it does not make me well rounded.”

However, Ripplinger is not just a solo act. He has even formed a band called Yellow House with three other people, and it is an endeavor that he is looking to pursue.

“Honestly, just playing in a band is super cool. I would love to see myself playing shows at least a couple of times a month,” Ripplinger said.

It is obvious that Ripplinger’s strumming has grown into a passion, as he has gone from appreciator to performer in a few short years. As he looks towards a hopeful future of playing shows with his band, Ripplinger continues to be an impressive example of an LSHS student who will go far.

Practice Makes Perfect Frequent playing is always important to success. Senior Alex Ripplinger takes a more relaxed approach to his musical growth. “I play at least every other day, but it depends on if I have free time,” Ripplinger said.

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talent of LSHS Students.

Better Together Sophomore Raven Ryan loves the experience of performing with others. For her, the most gratifying part of performing is the crowd. “The lead guitarist and I have been in the same band since I was eleven years old, but the drummer, rhythm guitarist, and bassist are different people,” Ryan said.

D

VOICE

RAVEN RYAN

rums beat and colored lights flash as Raven Ryan waves her arms, enthusiastically preparing to sing the opening lines to Sweet Child O’ Mine. Always moving, she lights up the stage as her band gives a crowd-pleasing performance. When hearing this music of such epic proportions, it is hard to believe that this is the work of teenagers.

Ryan, a sophomore, is the lead singer of the band Rock U America. Music has been a long-time passion of hers, and she feels great connections to what she does.

“It has mainly made me much more comfortable in my own skin,” she said.

Ryan strives to replicate the authentic sounds of the original vocalists in the music she sings.

“I love the challenging music I sing like Livin’ On a Prayer and Sweet Child O’ Mine,” Ryan said.

Though she may look up to many artists, Ryan is also trying to forge her own path in music.

“I am working on some original music now. I want to be a music producer or singer, but that is reaching higher points,” she said.

No matter where she goes with her music, there is no denying that Ryan has spark and talent that can take her far.

Riding Solo For the past two years, junior Caitlyn Rogers has used music as an outlet for growth and self expression. “I do not play with other people much; I get kind of uncomfortable with the idea because I have not been playing as long, but I am still learning, it is a process,” Rogers said.

L

GUITAR

CAITLYN RODGERS

earning any instrument is hard, but teaching yourself is a whole other story. Dedication and perseverance courses through the veins of any self-taught musician and junior Caitlyn Rogers is no exception.

Rogers found her love for guitar from giving one of her grandpa’s guitars a try.

“Because I was going through a rough time transitioning into high school, I found comfort in playing my guitar,” Rogers said.

As Rogers is breaking down her personal barriers with strums and chords, she is also exploring the world of original music.

“I really like to write my own original stuff but I still have a long way to go,” Rogers said.

Playing an instrument is not just a hobby, it is an outlet, and it does not need to come with rules.

“Progress is progress. You just have to be dedicated to your work and you can achieve anything,” she said.

Music helps people in all kinds of ways, and by exploring it individually, one can truly discover a love that they did not realize existed.

GUITAR

S

LUKE HARRISON

chool, work, studying, applying for colleges, and everything else fills the life of a typical high schooler. Most could not possibly imagine taking on an endeavor as large as releasing original music. Yet, this is exactly what senior Luke Harrison has done.

Music has always been therapeutic for Harrison.

“In eighth grade, things between my parents were not that great. I remember listening to a Led Zeppelin album. It helped me through a lot of stuff. I wanted to help people in the same way,” Harrison said.

The process of establishing yourself as an original musician takes time.

“It probably took two months. I had so many drafts of the first song I ever released, which was I Don’t Feel Like Singing. I probably went through ten drafts of it before I finally settled on it,” he said.

When looking towards his future, Harrison is interested in sharing his love of music with others.

“My ambition is to become a music teacher. I have always wanted to teach music,” he said.

Having a life so dedicated to music, Harrison firmly believes in the importance of practicing.

“It is very important to me that I get my daily practice in, for at least 45 minutes,” he said.

This dedication is what makes a true musician.

“It does not matter where you go, music is around you. Music is life. I just want to be a catalyst for that,” Harrison said.

If music is life, then he is certainly living it.

Standing Out Senior Luke Harrison works hard to make his music like no other. “I definitely try to make my own stuff, I try to distinguish myself from other artists because I do not want people to listen to my music and go ‘That sounds just like Prince’.

I want them to go ‘Oh, that sounds like Luke’,” Harrison said.

Written by: Emma Bauman P h o t o g r a p h s C o u r t e s y o f : A l e x R i p p l i n g e r, Ca i t l y n Rogers, Raven Ryan, and Luke Harrison Designed by: Cheyanne Kennedy

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WHERE’S T H E W AT E R ?

LEE’S SUMMIT

Do you really know where your water is from?

7

million gallons a day. Over 98 thousand people.

The city of Lee’s Summit receives water from two suppliers.

Independence as well as Kansas City contribute to the water available around town.

According to both Independence and Kansas City’s website, the water supplied comes from the Missouri River and its Alluvial Aquifer.

Lee’s Summit has the ability to bring in 7.5 million gallons of water from Independence and up to 25 million gallons from Kansas City.

“As water demand increases over 7.5 million gallons a day, so does the amount of water we purchase from Kansas City,” water utilities director

KC water primarily comes from the Missouri River.

Mark Schaufler said.

The weather and humidity can also impact the amount of water used.

“Due to the hot, dry weather we experienced in 2012, our demand for water peaked at 25.5 million gallons a day,” Schaufler said.

Even though Lee’s Summit residents use water daily, most are unaware of how it gets to them.

“Independence pumps water from an underground aquifer, and Kansas City pulls water from the Missouri River,” water utilities employee John Thomas said.

It may seem like a lot, but that is just one of the many steps for residents to get their water.

“All water is treated and pumped through

large buried pipes all the way to Lee’s Summit,” Thomas said.

The next step is getting it into residents homes by one of two ways.

“Some water is pumped into water towers, and the elevation of the towers provide pressure all the way to your faucet,” Thomas said.

The way water is brought into homes does not impact the quality.

“Other water is stored in underground reservoirs. A series of large pumps provide pressure to get water into residents homes,” Thomas said.

With the population of 98 thousand people and counting, water safety is one of Lee’s Summit’s top priorities.

To make sure the water

In case of emergency, the KC water plant is connected to six other local water suppliers.

is safe and clean for Lees Summit residents, Water Utilities watch for certain things that could impact the quality of the water.

“We continuously monitor the level of chlorine residual, which prevents the growth of bacteria in the water,” Schaufler said.

Lee’s Summit Water Utilities collects samples weekly.

“Over 100 samples per month are drawn from 26 customer sites, which are spaced out geographically over the entire city.” Thomas said.

Samples are then sent to a 3rd party laboratory to be tested. The laboratory then provides results back to Lee’s Summit and also to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

“Lee’s Summit’s

The water treatment plant can handle up to 240 million gallons of water per day.

water system is comprised of over 600 miles of water mains, 35 million gallons of stored water, 14,000 valves, 5,000 fire hydrants and 4 pump stations” Schaufler said. Lee’s Summit also has 9 water tanks and elevated towers.

“Our staff not only takes providing clean, safe and reliable water services very seriously, they also take pride in the overall customer experience,” Schaufler said.

With 65 full time employees and 100,000 customers, Lee’s Summit Water Utilities strives for excellence in their everyday work. Lee’s Summit Water Utilities is a big importance to the community through business and through everyday greetings.

Color, taste, and odor changes occur from variations in the Missouri River, but KC water is always healthy to drink.

https://www.kcwater.us

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W r i t t e n b y : L i b e r t y G e n t r y , Designed by: Audrey Badgerow

FOREIGN EXCHANGE Introducing the 2019-2020 exchange students.

INDIA

POOJITA KRISHNA -NURTHY

ITALY

CELESTE MUSI

ITALY

ERMINIA MARINO

SPAIN

HELENA REYGONZALEZ

F

rom across the world, students come to share points of views.From Italy, Germany, Denmark,and Spain, Celeste Musi is just one of the eight foreign exchange students.They are meeting new families and making new friends to form friendships that could last a lifetime.

Musi is on the softball team and thinking about joining the basketball team and the soccer team.

Back at Musi’s school in Italy, they do not have any sports nor do they have computers. One thing that she dislikes about America would be sugar and deep fried foods, amongst other things.

“Most of the people in Italy are mean but they are real with you. Here they act all friendly and then stop talking to you.”Musi said.

Dennis Boetner is a foreign exchange student from Germany. He is the starter kicker for JV football and the backup kicker for varsity and this is only his first year. He watched the NFL back home, so he does know a lot about the teams.

“Back in Germany you would not switch classes, but the teachers would switch classes instead.

Also we don’t have any sports or teams in my school in Germany..”

Boetner said.

Even though his school

Written by: Ambar Appel Photos Courtesy of: The Exchange Students Designed by: Cheyanne Kennedy

did not have any sports he still played soccer outside of school. Boettcher favorite football team is the LA Rams but he also likes the Kansas City Chiefs. The Royals Stadium is so far his favorite thing so far here is Missouri, but in the United States as a whole it would be New York.

One of the things that Dennis loves is the food in America, especially Chick Fil-A. Poojitha Krishnamurthy is a foreign exchange student from India.

“You have much more choices of what you want to take and what you don’t want to take here”Krishnamurthy said.

Krishnamurthy is in Bowling Club, Tiger Smart ,and Project Positive.

In India, each state has their own language, traditions, and festivals.

“My favourite festival would be the Diwali festival,” Krishnamurthy said.

Some of the things that Murthy finds difficult would be the studies, and the food is a lot more different.

“When I got to school it was all confusing but everyone was very welcoming,” Danish exchange student Askel Schmidt Oellgaand said.

“I love traveling, I have been to all the continents except for

Africa.”Oellgaand said.

He knows six languages and he is fluent in two of them.

He is planning on joining basketball.

Oellgaand plays soccer, karate, and plays the piano.

“I was excited and curious. I got to see new things and an amazing host family” Clemens Lange said.

Rey was excited to meet her new family and a new high school. Some of the things that she likes would be math, basketball, yoyoing and video games.

In Rey’s school back in Spain they do not have any clubs, and they stay in one classroom all of the time, only the teacher changes classrooms. “ Many things are different.”foreign exchange student Erminia Marino said .

For example, the school is different.

“In Italy they stay in the same class and the teacher just switches.” said Marino “ I find it an honor to know the kids, get there perspective to know what it is like in there country,” said Jesica Crawford one of the English teachers.

These foreign exchange students that come from different countries and different backgrounds all across the world.

GERMANY

TABEA WAGENER

GERMANY

CLEMENTS LANGE

GERMANY

DENNIS BOETTCHER

DENMARK

AKSEL OELLGAARD

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FALL FOODS Fall weather is finally starting to roll in this year. That means pumpkins, changing leaves, bonfires, Halloween, decorations, Thanksgiving, and so much more.

One of the best things about the fall season is all the warm and tasty food it brings.

Caramel Apples INGREDIENTS 10 - 15 tart apples 1 cup butter 2 cups brown sugar 1 cup corn syrup 1 can sweetened condensed milk 1 teaspoon vanilla

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houseofnasheats.com

DIRECTIONS 1. Line a baking sheet with wax paper. Wash and prepare the apples by getting rid of any residue. Dry them and stick a popsicle stick into the center of the apple from the top. Place the skewered apples on the prepared baking sheet and place in the freezer for 20 minutes while preparing the caramel.

2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium to high heat. Stir in brown sugar, corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk with a wooden spoon. Continue cooking and stirring over medium to high heat until the caramel reaches 235-240 on a candy thermometer. Stir constantly to avoid burning the caramel on the bottom of the pan.

3. Remove the pan from the heat and stir the vanilla in immediately.

4. Pull the apples out of the freezer and dip them, one at a time, into the caramel. Flip the apple upside down quickly and hold it for 20 seconds to give the hot caramel a chance to set up on the cold apple before placing it back on the wax paper.

Repeat with all remaining apples. Move the apples to the fridge for 15 minutes to set completely.

Buttered Noodles

INGREDIENTS

delish.com

DIRECTIONS

1. Cook pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until fully cooked. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot. Add butter and stir until melted. Then season with salt and pepper.

12 oz. egg noodles 4 tbsp. Butter Kosher salt

2. Serve with Parmesan on top.

Freshly ground black pepper 1⁄4 c. freshly grated Parmesan

Pumpkin Roll

INGREDIENTS

3 eggs 1 cup sugar 2/3 cup pumpkin 1 tsp. lemon juice 3⁄4 cup flour 1 tsp. baking powder 2 tsp. cinnamon 1 tsp. ginger 1⁄2 tsp. salt 1 cup powedered sugar 6 oz package cream cheese

Laura Long Recipe Book

DIRECTIONS

1. Beat eggs on high speed for one minute.

2. Gradually add sugar then add the rest of the ingredients in order.

3. Spread in greased 15 x 10 x 1 inch pan.

4. Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes.

5. Turn out on towel sprinkled with powdered sugar.

6. Starting at narrow end, roll towel and cake together.

7. Let cool.

8. Beat filling ingredients until smooth.

9. Unroll cake and spread with filling.

10. Re roll and wrap roll in foil.

11. Chill.

4 tbsp. butter 1⁄2 tsp vanilla

Written and Photographed by: Kenzie Henks Designed by: Cheyanne Kennedy

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GHOSTED As social media becomes more available, ghosting becomes commonplace.

S

he worriedly taps on her phone, hoping to see a message from her boyfriend whom she has not heard from in days. Sighing after seeing no new text messages again she sends one more message along with the other ten she sent earlier.

“Ghosting is the intentional act of ceasing communication with a person that you have an established relationship of some sort which can be friendship, romantic relationship, or an acquaintance,” school psychologist Kay Kelly said.

Ghosting happens the most on social media and dating sites, as it is possible to be in a relationship on

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platforms like this either without seeing each other in person or not knowing where to find the person.

“Some students might be able to move on; however, if the individual had invested themselves in the relationship it can be confusing and hurtful that someone isolates them completely. They could internalize the feelings and blame themselves or generalize the feelings that since this person did not uphold or reciprocate mutual feelings of respect that they are not worthy of respect as a person,” Kelly said.

When someone goes through this situation it can be scary and can cause them to worry

at first. They would probably wonder if something bad happened to the person they were in a relationship with.

When a long time of no responses or word from the other passes, the ghosted party would have feelings of abandonment and would be likely to have aversion to future relationships especially the online kind.

“I would imagine ghosting happens in the earlier stages of a relationship rather than later,” school counselor Sally Sabata said.

By reason of, when in an early stage of a relationship both in friendship and romantic relationships, people are less attached so in the case of ghosting the ghoster will have a less

difficult time doing so.

“When someone is unable to communicate a desire to call things off it can be a sign of social or emotional immaturity.

Sometimes people are nervous or scared about the repercussions or the ensuing conversation that’s likely to happen if they break it off verbally,” Sabata said.

Due to the fear of consequences, the idea of ghosting may go through someone’s mind. While plenty of people do not choose to ghost, there are many who choose to.

Social media and dating apps make this more likely to happen.

“We got together in 2017 and my boyfriend cut me off in 2019.

We said goodnight one night and then the next

morning I was blocked on all social media,” sophomore Taylia Ellis said.

Ghosting happens suddenly with no warning, and because of the lack of closure and lack of contact, the breakup is more difficult.

“I was really upset because there was really no reason for it. I cried a lot and if I were being honest it was one of my worst breakups,” Ellis said.

Being ghosted is a difficult experience and is something that can happen to anyone in an online or offline relationship. Speaking with someone you care about and trust is a course of action that can help you through this difficult time.

Written by: Lyric Westley, Photographed by: Leah Haskell, Designed by: Audrey Badgerow

L S H S HISTORY The Hi-Life delves into forgotten school history.

1953 PRESENT

1953: First-year in this building.

1964

Red Cross works with LSHS to help hospitals and send messages from foreign exchange students back to their families.

1957 Paul D. Coverdell, United States Senator and the namesake of the Media Center graduates from LSHS.

1959

Track Team wins first in Kansas City Suburban conference.

1968

2010

Football wins Suburban Seven Crown.

LSHS receives the prestigious Gold Star award for academic achievement.

1984

1988

Future President George Bush visits LSHS on the campaign trail.

2005 Lee’s Summit West opens its doors.

Girls Basketball goes to the Junior Olympics and place fourth nationally.

1994

1980

Girls Cross Country goes to the state for their first time and Boys Cross Country goes for their tenth in a row.

Lee’s Summit North opens to decrease LSHS’s overcrowded student population of 3,000.

2002

Tiger painting is added to the fieldhouse.

1998

Boys Cross Country wins the state championship for the first time in 24 years.

Written by: Ethan Fleming, Photographed by: Abigail Heck, Designed by: Audrey Badgerow

1973

Nobel Prize Co-Recipient Robert K. Dixon graduates from LSHS.

1976 New Science Wing opens.

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OUR HOUSE iiIS ON

FIRE

As the clock ticks over the fate of the Earth’s future, KC organizations strive to get the community involved.

I

n 1968, Planet of the Apes described it as mankind being dethroned as the dominant species.

In 1979, Mad Max described it as a consequence of resource scarcity turning deadly. In 1999, The Matrix portrayed it as the result of a friction between sentient machines and humans. NASA currently describes the end of the mankind as a result of result of global warming.

The uncertainty present in the inner workings and precise details of the climate change debate are part of what generate the predicament of how to move forward.

The absence of advancements on this front has results in unrest throughout communities of environmental activists.

Surrounding the environmental protests of the past month, a rapidly increasing amount of pressure has begun being placed

upon civilians and the government alike for a common objective - - change.

“People are seeing the impact of climate change playing out now -- floods, wildfires, extreme storms -- whereas previously we were talking about things that would happen in the future. For that reason, we’re seeing more members of Congress, including Republicans, talking about climate change and the need for action.” Citizens Climate Lobby communications director Steve Valk said.

The Citizens Climate Lobby is a non-profit grassroots advocacy organization that focuses on achieving this change by working with the government to initiate development on this front.

“Citizens’ Climate Lobby empowers people to engage with members of Congress, in a constructive way, to generate the political will for an effective price on

carbon, which most experts agree is the best first step we must take to reduce carbon emissions.”

Valk said.

This organization’s clear plan in combating these issues makes this goal seem just a little bit closer.

“Our volunteers lobby their members of Congress for passage of a bipartisan bill, the Energy Innovation and Carbon Dividend Act, which places a steadily rising fee and carbon and returns revenue from that fee to households.

Because of our efforts, this bill now has 65 cosponsors, more than any other

carbon pricing bill has ever gotten.”

Valk said.

Indivisible KC is another organization centered on community involvement.

“Indivisible KC is focused on helping everyday folks become civically engaged, and to advocate for the issues that matter most to them. We provide people with news and talking points for communicating with legislators and info on local events where they can learn about climate change and get plugged in with volunteer

organizations.”

Indivisible KC member Sarah Smith said.

The heart of this cooperative lies in the group effort of achieving legislative goals.

“This means talking to your legislators at the national, state, and local levels. To get your point across, you need your legislator to hear your personal story and why preventing climate change is important to you.”

Smith said.

Indivisible KC encourages face-to-face interactions, phone calls, and written correspondence for optimal results.

“If your legislator seems immovable on climate issues, replace them. Find a candidate you believe represents your views and volunteer for their campaign. Talk to your friends and family, and even strangers, and get them excited about voting. Elections are won by enthusiastic volunteers.” Smith said.

The Climate Council of Greater Kansas City is another organization with the intention of educating and advocating for climate-related issues through public presentations, and regional climate festivals. This group more so focuses on the educational aspect, while simultaneously encouraging changes within individual lives.

“People can lower their personal carbon footprint by using LED bulbs, composting, using mass transit and electric vehicles, and eating a healthy plant-based diet.

They can join with others to attend climate actions and events.” CCGKC president and founder Bob Grove said.

With the heightening levels of accessibility in terms of social media, this resource has become indispensable in the grassroots movement.

“Social media has been extremely useful for local

organizing, because we can post and share event info easily, even on short notice if we need to.”

Smith said.

Its accessibility aside, social media can also harness negative aspects.

“You’re constantly exposed to false or misleading information, and your information ‘bubble’ is much more closed off than it was in the time of broadcast media.”

Smith said.

This can lead to those with beliefs aligning a certain way, only being able to consume media that coordinates with their views, which can lead to misinformation.

Although many can be quick to pinpoint this as an unresolvable and hopeless situation, contemporary technology has opened up a vast amount of products and solutions to increase sustainability across the board. Some of these prove to be more economically beneficial than their predecessors.

“Renewable energy production options, like wind & solar, have become cheaper than fossil fuel energy production. Electric vehicles, like KC’s streetcar, are making mass transit more effective. Energy consumption reduction solutions, like LED light bulbs and rooftop solar, have become much more efficient and cost effective than traditional solutions.

Plant based diet options are becoming increasingly available in grocery stores and restaurants. Home composting solutions have become widely available and help lower recycle and landfill demands.

Compostable plastic alternatives are becoming increasingly available and cost effective.” Grove said.

The real change lies within the collaboration and coordination of legislation, personal change, and group effort.

“Young people can become involved

with youth-led climate groups like the Sunrise Movement KC which led the recent Climate Strike in KC. They can choose a climatepositive lifestyle and become a climate ambassador on social media, at school and at home.” Grove said.

Although these stories of postapocalyptic ruin are intended and designed to initiate a reaction of fear and alarm, it might just be the reality of the Earth’s state that should be eliciting this response.

Written by: Audrey Badgerow, Photographed by: Leah Haskell, Designed by: Audrey Badgerow

REDUCING YOUR CARBON FOOTPRINT bike commute REDUCE ANIMAL INTAKE Recycle

USE LED BULBS

SOLAR PANELS

PUTTING A SPIN ON TEACHING,

HAWKINS STYLE Mr. Hawkins’ teaching method is like none other.

F

or some students, math is the most difficult subject there is. If the student can not understand certain functions in math, they will not be able to advance to the college credit classes like PreCalc or Calculus.

Math teacher Paul Hawkins knows that his students are intelligent, just not well versed in math. With this knowledge, Hawkins changes how math is usually taught in order to keep it as stress free as possible.

For Hawkins, not giving out homework was how he began teaching.

“When I started, I taught kids who weren’t going to do homework even if I gave it to them,” Hawkins said.

Starting 16 years ago in the Kansas City School District, Hawkins’ students had block schedules so he could teach the lesson and give his class their homework at school. Doing the same thing but without block schedules, Mr. Hawkins teaches what needs to be taught in the time that he has.

“The fear

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and panic that homework gives you, is what teachers have used for effort,” Hawkins said.

Giving students homework to practice math is not an effective way to help them learn math or motivate them, especially when they are forced to do it for a grade.

When students are not motivated to do their work, they begin to cheat and share answers, taking away the practice element in math.

“We are the gatekeepers in math for you to be able to do different stuff,”

Hawkins said.

If a student is in Calculus now, they are preparing for a job or college that requires that knowledge. A student that is learning math at a lower level is still learning math.

“There’s other stuff, I feel like we are so hesitant to tell kids that,” Hawkins said.

Not every single job or degree requires the math knowledge that is taught here.

All students have the same subjects available to take, but after a certain amount, Hawkins believes some students require no more knowledge in math.

“I feel like my job is to

make things not seem scary and complicated,” Hawkins said.

Mr. Hawkins keeps his class entertained and engaged, and teaches in a way that any student trying to learn the material can. In the end, it is truly the student that decides if they want to learn at this point.

Written by: Cameron Schulenberg Photographed and Designed by: Cheyanne Kennedy

BESTIES TO ROOMIES Can your friendship survive the transition?

R

olling out the rugs, fluffing the pillows, cramming as much personality into a tiny room as possible. A weary freshman hangs up pictures from home, and she is reminded of the wonderful memories she made with her high school best friend. Now, she is ready to make more.

For many students, the option of rooming with a friend can help ease the tough transition into college. Former LSHS students and now college freshmen Bailie Prier and Presley Davis have chosen to take on Mizzou side by side.

“We were both having a hard time trying to find a roommate, so we decided that it would be best if we did not try to go random and just room with each other,” Prier said.

Though the two have different schedules, they have managed to find ways to hang out with each other, and their friendship has grown throughout the process.

“We are able to talk to each other about anything,” Prier said.

“We are more similar than we ever thought we were.”

Both agree that living

with a familiar face has helped ease the transition into college life.

“I think it is comforting for students, especially if they are going away to college, to have somebody that they are familiar with,” LSHS counselor Stacey O’Connell said.

However, O’Connell warns that students must be cautious when making their decisions about roommates.

“Some may have gone through the experience and actually lost friendships because it was maybe not the best situation to be in. Sometimes people change when they go to college,” O’Connell said.

College is an important time to form new relationships and discover more about oneself. By choosing to room with a friend, one could be potentially missing out on some experiences.

Nonetheless, if they find the right balance, they can take new chances and meet new people.

“We have both already made different friends! We have no problem rooming together, but we are both down different paths,” Prier said.

This thoughtful mindset is exactly what one needs when pursuing a college roommate. When picking a roomate, it is crucial to think through the future and how a roommate might have an impact on it.

“Really think about it, and have open conversations. Dorm rooms are small spaces, so set up some parameters.

Be open and honest, and be clear about what your expectations are,” O’Connell said.

This rooming advice can go for anyone looking towards college, as sharing a tiny room with any other person is naturally going to have its challenges. Still, lifetime memories and friendships can be made throughout this time. The key to living with another person is always communication and compromise.

Leaving home for the first time can be scary, but with thoughtful planning and an open mind, college freshmen can ensure that their college years will be fun, educational, and prepare them to enter adulthood with confidence.

Written by: Emma Bauman Photographs Courtesy of: Bailie Pr i e r a n d Pre s l e y D a v i s Designed by: Cheyanne Kennedy

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PET PROBLEMS F

Puppy mills provide for deadly consequences.

or most kids, getting a dog is a dream come true, but for one family, it became a nightmare. Freshmen Devony Thorpe and her family purchased a dog, Bear, from Petland.

They were ecstatic to add this adorable bull mastiff to their family.

After only 3 days, the dog was rushed into the emergency room at the vet. Thorpe says that it took more than three months for the family to get over the loss of their dog.

“Ever since then we have not supported Petland because of this incident, ” Thorpe said.

“We got Bear from Petland. They had said

that he was just a little sick and in a few weeks he would be fine. Both of my parents are in the medical field so after a few days they noticed something was wrong and we took him to the vet. It is very upsetting that Petland never said anything.

Bear clearly had major heart problems and had to be hospitalized immediately.” Thorpe said.

According to The Humane Society of The United States, there have been more than 1,300 reports of puppies getting sick and passing away weeks, or even days, after being purchased from Petland.

“We will never

go back to Petland,” Thorpe said.

There are many ways to get dogs without having to associate Petland, like animal shelters. One of them is Wayside Waifs, they usually have about 120 dogs and 80 cats.

They need more people to adopt because they always have new animals coming in, but they do not always have enough room for them.

“For one child born, there are 45 cats and 15 dogs born,” Wayside Waifs worker Amanda Smasal said.

“Clearly there are not enough people to take care of all of these animals. By adopting from a shelter, like

Wayside Waifs, instead of a commercial pet store you are helping stop the overpopulation of animals in the world,” Smasal said.

The biggest reason one should adopt is because places like Petland, get their dogs from puppy mills. Puppy mills are breeding facilities where dogs live in terrible conditions with no food, water or air conditioning. These conditions might even be to blame for the animals getting sick and passing away. If people continue getting animals from Petland, they are supporting puppy mills and everything that they stand for.

“Adopting animals from shelters saves the lives of others coming in. Being able to contribute in that way can make a person feel good about their decision. Plus, the animals are so loving and deserving of good homes,” Smasal said.

Getting animals from local shelters is such a simple way to improve the animals life and help end the overpopulation of animals in the world, these animals have been abused, forgotten and mistreated and are so deserving of kind and caring homes.

A D O P TA B L E S

Furry friends from Wayside Waifs that are ready to be adopted.

2 month old female shorthair KAREN

4 yr. old male shorthair LEROY

CARAMEL 1 yr. old female terrier

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ZEUS 6 yr. old male labrador retriever

Written by: Kinley Monk, Photographs courtesy of: Wayside Waifs Designed by: Audrey Badgerow

YOU KNOW THE D DRRIILLLL

What needs to change about safety procedures at LSHS?

T

he alarm is blaring and everyone is panicking and trying to recall what to do in case of an emergency, so hopefully, the drills that have occurred throughout the school year are enough.

If an event were to occur that is a threat to students then the parents would be informed and an announcement would be made over the intercom system for students. Students would then hide out of sight of all windows and doors.

“Dissemination of safety goes out to parents when practical,” resource officer Darnell Sims said.

The first thing the staff would do is inform the authorities then secure the school and ensure the students’ safety.

The teachers would then lock their rooms. They would then also tell the students to get into a place out of view.

“The school would lock all doors and communicate together with staff on locating further resources if need be. I would act in accordance with LSPD protocol and assist the district as needed,” Sims said.

The doors being locked during class definitely is inconvenient if a student has a class off-campus or needs to travel between buildings during class. This inconvenience is necessary because it is the first defense against an intruder entering our school.

“I don’t like that the doors are always locked during class because I come from Summit Tech Academy,” junior Katie Dustin said.

When the drills are scheduled now they often do not happen in different hours from the previous drills this leads to students not being aware of what to do in every classroom and situation. If every hour was tested then students could act quicker in getting safe.

“I think we should practice our drills for every hour so that we know what to do for the individual classes,” junior Veronica Dyer said.

Students most likely would not know what to do if there was an alarm that went off during passing period or lunch.

The goal of the drills is to prepare students in case of an incident, so it would be relevant to have drills during a variety of circumstances.

“We should also have drills during passing period, so students would

Written by: Jordan Wilson, Photographed by: Fa i t h R o a c h , D e s i g n e d b y : A u d re y B a d g e ro w

know what to do in case of an emergency,” Dyer said.

Having a drill for each hour separately would

keep students safest and the most prepared for an emergency that could occur.

This system would also

allow for staff to secure the school while the students followed the plans that have been practiced previously.

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FAKE NEWS

How does the older generation decipher through the fake and real news compared to the younger generation ?

S

tudents look for articles based off of headlines, go to the most interesting headline and read it, not checking if the sources are legitimate. “ There’s a lot more responsibility on the individual to have digital citizenship, and to make sure that they are researching what they are reading,” school psychologist Kay Kelly said.

Students need to not just read the headlines but read the full articles. This is key to avoiding fake news, especially with teens, who like to go the lazy route because they do not want to spend the time reading a full article. “ In the past, I feel like that trust was handled by journalists, “ Kelly said.

63%

Today, teens are faced with numerous websites, all holding different variations of the truth, but maybe only a limited few are reporting on the real truth. There is an unease about using certain sites more so than there used to be in the past. “ I’m not sure who would be more targeted, but I think both extremes are very at risk, “ Kelly said.

All age groups could be necessarily lazy and not read the actual article after reading the headline.

The headline is made to make you be gravitized towards it and encapsulate you what you might read but once you get there you can pretty easily figure out if the content does not match the ‘ bait click’ of that article. “ Opposed to an older generation and might not know the risks, “ Kelly said.

say the news makes them feel afraid, angry, and/ or sad or depressed.

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The younger generation is more technology savvy, and has more experience with online, and social media. Though, they may still need to learn how to decipher fake news and real news more efficiently.

Whereas some of the older generations read over the news again and again because the information the author is telling them does not seem true.

They go back and they research it, they look for another source, unlike the younger generation who believe what is easiest to believe.

Today’s generation, look for information in the wrong places sometimes, most of the time. They research what they are looking for and only read the headlines.

Nonetheless, it is not just one generation at risk for reading fake news, its multiple generations.

commonsensemedia.org

1 in 4 teens think the

news online is “very accurate”.

LESS THAN HALF

of kids agree that they know how to tell fake news from facts.

kids shared a story online in the last six months that they later found was wrong or innaccurate.

31%

44%

of children feel that they can tell fake news stories from real ones.

Written by: Katie McKitterick Photographed and Designed by: Cheyanne Kennedy

GIFTED?

A

6% of elementary students take part in gifted programs.

These programs are necessary for some students’ success, who need more challenge.

Gifted students may develop in different areas (emotionally, academically, etc) at different rates.

Gifted students still have learning disabilities/ struggle in school It is important for their needs to be met in a specialized manner.

Students share their experiences in elementary school gifted programs.

group of students gathers around a piece of paper, their eyes wide with excitement. Their eyes scan over numbers and sketches, trying to decipher what is written on the page. Brows furrowed with concentration, one would think they were trying to solve a complicated math problem. However, upon further investigation, it is realized they are making a plan for their latest project, something that seems out of place for a normal elementary classroom.

Learning like this is happening every day in elementary school gifted classrooms. From their early years in elementary school, students can test into the program. If they make it in, they leave their classroom twice a week to work on enrichment projects, which include topics not normally explored in their standard classroom. AIM (Achieve, Imagine, Motivate) and ASPIRE (Achieving Student Potential in Reaching and Expanding) allows for certain students to explore beyond the boundaries of the normal curriculum. The brightest young minds come together to create, collaborate, and quench their thirst for learning.

“In the gifted classroom, children come through the door eager to learn something new,” gifted teacher Sandra Welcher said. “They want to

be challenged. I try to pose questions for them to ponder, create situations in which there are many possibilities, and allow them to search further than they are normally allowed to search in a regular classroom.” Welcher said.

This type of expansion and learning allows for growth not only in a child’s mind but with their relationships with others.

“I got to meet people that I did not have in my regular class. It was a completely different set of people,” former PVE gifted student Fiona Martin said. “I was really close to all of the kids in the program.”

Being involved in his elementary school gifted program helped junior Diego Ortiz make the transition to his new school a lot smoother.

“I moved in from Kansas City. I did not really have as many opportunities over there, and I was very hesitant about joining,” Ortiz said.

Despite these hesitations, he decided to give the program a try. Before he knew it, he was having a great time.

“It was fun hanging out with all of the kids I did not typically talk to because I was new,” Ortiz said.

Not only are positive relationships formed with other students, but they are formed with gifted teachers as well. A good amount of time mixed with positive mental and emotional stimulation makes for worthwhile relationships between teachers and students.

“I build strong bonds because once a student is tested into my class, they are with me for several years. I care about their learning and what inspires them,” Welcher said.

Though leaving the program after elementary school may make for sad goodbyes, students find themselves eager to challenge themselves in their new academic environment.

“Being in ASPIRE helped me with wanting to achieve higher academic goals, such as advanced classes and keeping my grades up,” Ortiz said.

Though classes may now be harder, and expectations may now be higher, students are able to reflect on the time they spent in their gifted programs with sentiment and appreciation for all of the opportunities they were given.

“I had a really good time. I enjoyed being able to do fun topics outside of the normal class curriculum,” Martin said.

“It was fun working on a vast variety of projects that a normal class would not focus on,” Ortiz said.

Elementary school equips children with the tools they need to grow and be successful, and there is no doubt that gifted programs help expand a student’s love of learning. Even as the years go by, the memories made in these programs will stick with a child and give them the motivation to work hard for their education and keep striving for intellectual growth long after they have left.

https://www.fractuslearning.com/facts-about-gifted-children/ https://elearninginfographics.com/facts-about-gifted-children-infographic/

Written by: Emma Bauman, Designed by: Audrey Badgerow

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PL LA AN NT T P PO OW WE ER RE ED D P

M

The Hi-Life differentiates popular diet trends.

any people, despite the growing movement, seem to find themselves confused about what it really means. To explore a deeper understanding of the ethical, environmental and health-based diet through the experiences, issues, misconceptions, benefits and lifestyle choices of a vegetarian diet, some vegetarian students provide their own personal experiences.

“It’s really awkward going to a friend’s house when they only have meat because it feels weird telling them ‘well I can’t eat that...’” freshman Kelli Gardner said.

A vegetarian diet in a culture that is heavily influenced by the meat market can make meatless food hard to find. Gardner’s advice for getting food, whether on the go or for home, focuses on preparedness.

“When your mom or dad is going to the grocery store, asking for something specific to have something to eat at home... When you’re going somewhere and you’ll need food, bring snack food or something else you can eat.”

Gardner said.

Staying prepared is key to keeping healthy and making the diet

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24

easy and convenient to maintain; however, other factors can make maintenance a little more difficult.

“Kids would make fun of me because I wouldn’t eat meat” freshman Dielon Newall said.

“They would shove a hamburger or something in my face and say ‘eat this’ and just make comments about it. A lot of people are just not accepting of it.” Gardner

said.

People can often be scared of things they do not understand - so politely explaining the reasoning of the diet, and maybe changing scenery can make everything much easier.

“People just don’t understand, they think it’s stupid - but I don’t get any big insults anymore. I moved tables and sat with people who were nicer.” Newall said.

The more someone understands why you do it, the more accommodating and kind they will be about your diet. Not only can other people affect the diet, though; a lot of presumptions and stigma surrounds it.

“I think the biggest misconception is that it’s hard to go vegetarian overall, going vegetarian really isn’t hard.” senior exchange student

Clemons Lange said.

“You have to make some sacrifices, but it’s not as bad as it may feel in the moment. By now, a lot of places have fake meats and plant-based meats. At home I have a lot of pasta.” Lange said.

While temptation is normal, especially at first, his advice to anyone considering going vegetarian may be surprising to some people.

“If everyone has salami pizza and that’s all they have, don’t feel bad for taking a slice. It’s not the point to feel bad about it and it’s not the point to be 100 percent all of the time.” Lange said.

How someone transitions into the diet is very circumstantial; for Gardner, the craving for meat has not been as strong since her transition.

“I never feel like I’m lacking something, and I haven’t craved meat in a really long time,” Gardner said.

How being vegetarian will affect someone’s life will vary based on that person’s circumstance; however, other people can be valuable resources to learn how to overcome different obstacles and understand the overall choices of others.

Written by: Eleanor Ammerman, Photgraphed by: Lillian Mann, D e s i g n e d b y : Fa i t h R o a c h

w

S

IIN NSSPPIIRREED D BBYY

TTEECCH HN NO OLLO OG GYY

Has technology helped students’ creativity?

tarting a new project can feel overwhelming, so the next logical step is to start researching what has already been done online, but is that really the best idea?

With technology sometimes an aspect of the creative process is lost because a large part of art is making small mistakes and learning from it. “​Some times technology prevents us from being creative because it gives us a finished product and cuts out the best part of art-making which is the process​,” art teacher Olga Burwell said.

Technology can also have a positive impact on students’ projects by allowing them to come up with inspiration very quickly and view how professionals have done it already. “​A student can google giraffe art and find thousands of artistic pieces on that same giraffe concept​,” art teacher Melissa Chaney said.

Originality continues to be more difficult because most of what you have an idea of has been done and uploaded online. “​A student can

google giraffe art and find thousands of artistic pieces on that same giraffe concept.

However, now it is harder to come up with an original, different art project for that giraffe without being influenced by what is seen​,” Chaney said.

Technology has been very beneficial for the speed of the creative process, but this newfound speed could lead to a lack of originality.

Written by: Jordan Wilson, D e s i g n e d b y : Fa i t h R o a c h , P h o t o b y : Fa i t h R o a c h

25 feature

UNAFFILIATED

T

Lacrosse players struggle with the team not being affiliated with the school.

heir sport can be rough when they get hit on the throat or someone slashes them but it is fun all the same.

Besides they are going to high school and they could represent their school on the field. Their disappointment can hurt more than the injuries. Their sport is lacrosse which several students at LSHS play but not for their school. ¨It would be nice if I didn’t have to go somewhere else¨ Athlete Wyatt Hartenstein said.

Hartenstein is a player on the Lee’s Summit United High School Boys Lacrosse Club. Hartenstein has enjoyed his time on the lacrosse team even though it is not affiliated with Lee’s Summit High School.

Many other students have a similar desire

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26

to see lacrosse become an official sport or club at LSHS. Though some see benefits to the current situation. ¨Students from North are on the team too.¨ Troy Huffman said. ¨I do not think I would like a team with just LSHS kids as much.¨ In Missouri, lacrosse is categorized as an emerging sport which means that it is not officially recognized by the Missouri State High School Activities Association commonly known as MSHSAA. Lacrosse used to be a recognized activity at Lee’s Summit High School, but the lack of state recognition led to the team being disbanded. This may all change soon, however. Professional organizations like the Premier Lacrosse League have been

growing and this may drive up interest in the sport as a whole.

More players would be a welcome change for many current lacrosse athletes who are frustrated by the limited number of opponents and teammates. ¨Not, a lot of people know about lacrosse, but it’s fast-paced and fun to learn.¨ Huffman said.

Lacrosse doesn’t have the publicity of sports like football which could also lead to people making assumptions and having misconceptions about the sport that drives them away. All of the players seemed to share the opinion that lacrosse is fun and that more people should play it.

Lacrosse has a long history dating back to the Native American tribes of eastern North America. During

the 1800s the sport gained a great deal of popularity in Canada and quickly expanded into an internationally recognized sport. The sport didn’t take root in the United States as strongly as in other countries though as previously mentioned lacrosse has seen rapid growth in recent years.

Lacrosse is a game of sticks, nets, bruises, dislocations, concussions, and goals that can be off-putting to some but highly enjoyable to others. Recent data indicates that more people are finding the sport whether through friends or their parents. Perhaps one day lacrosse will graduate from an emerging sport and be fully recognized in Missouri. There may even be a day when lacrosse returns to Lee’s Summit High School.

FAST FACTS Lacrosse is the fastest growing sport in the U.S.

The French were also credited with setting the game’s foundations.

The game was originally played by Native Americans.

The rules were created in 1794.

Written by: Ethan Fleming, Photgraphed by: Leah Haskell, Designed by: Audrey Badgerow

http://www.10facts-about.com/ Lacrosse/id/75

M E N TA L H E A LT H

What needs to change about the mental health discussion?

A

s the outdated videos play describing the signs of suicide half of the class is making jokes and the other half is not paying attention. Sadly, this is all too common with the dated videos that are used to discuss mental health.

The best action our school can take is to educate about mental illness and

Do not try to fix somebody’s mental health, instead, you should recommend them to a professional that can help.

“We do the signs of suicide lesson because students will tell other students they are suicidal before they would go to an adult,” Sabata said.

Students could feel disconnected from the videos shown because they are representative of a different time with technology and fashion, so students may fixate on the flaws rather than the message.

“We are going to update the videos that we show for mental health because the ones we have now are outdated,” said Sabata.

Do not try to fix somebody’s mental health, instead, you should recommend them to a professional that can help.

“You can talk to anybody that you trust and they can refer you to somebody that can help you. If you have to betray somebody’s trust to save their life then it is worth it,” Sabata said.

Most people think that their friends would be angry if an adult was informed about their situation, but often when they tell a friend it is a cry for help.

“From my experience when you tell an adult the friend won’t be angry,” Sabata said.

As the discussion of mental health evolves the requirement for current, relatable, and relevant mental health education becomes even more crucial.

remove the stigma around it.

“We bring awareness to mental health, and go over what could be causing mental health issues,” counselor Sally Sabata said.

The burden is not only on the school to help but also on the students because a desperate student is more likely to reach out to a friend rather than an adult.

Written by: Jordan Wilson, Photographed by: Lillian Mann, Designed by: Cheyanne Kennedy

1 in 6

youth ages 6-17 experience a mental health disorder each year.

People with depression have a

40%

higher risk of developing cardiovascular and metabolic diseases than the general population.

nami.org

27

h&f

HOMECOMING Band Day: Saxophone player Lindsay Abrams

works hard during Homecoming week. “It was a little stressful, but our band directors handled it really well and made sure we weren’t freaking out about stuff.”

Queen Calls: Senior Eghosa Ogbevoen won Homecoming Queen. “It was like a bunch of weight off my shoulders because I wanted it so badly and now it was finally mine.”

Cheer on: Sophomore Tigerette Zach Garver

prepares to performs at the Homecoming assembly. “It’s always the best part of an assembly day because I get to dance out the nerves that have built up throughout the day.”

Saving Saint: Junior Hayden Terry takes a lead

role as the Saint in “The Witch and the Saint” the 2019 Golden Tiger Marching Band show. “I think it’s a great opportunity to show my talent and my skills with my family and team. I’m very thankful for the opportunity.”

Prince and Princess help to start off the Homecoming royalty.