Issue 4

Volume 16 Issue 4 - December 19 - Andover Central High School

INSIDE:

The reality of VR

10 gift ideas to support local buisnesses

What it takes to be recruited

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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4.

8.

10

1o. Virtual Reality

Buff Puff Men in each grade compete against one another playing in volleyball matches. Photo by Jason Thompson

Mr. Christmas tree Male Christmas pageant hosted by YoungLife on December 4th. Photo

by Grace Blackman

Check out online at spotline.org:

Spotlight staff tries virtual reality for the first time. Photo by Megan Weisser

14. Byers goes vegan

Evan Byers, a dedicated meat lover, goes vegan for a week. Photo by Drew Wiens

Copy Editor

Production Staff

Maddie Spurlock Claire Monroe Sydney Sagehorn Colton Trowbridge

Kinsley Ochsner

Sage Edwards Clark Schoonover Grace Pool Kylie Roman Holly Shortt Jillian Primm Ashley Zellers

Evan Byers

Buisness Manager Alexandra Shumann

Sports Editor Austin Zellers

2 Table of Contents

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20. Recruiting Process Future collegiate athletes discuss all the time and effort it takes to get recruited. Photo by Jason Thompson

22. Braden Belt

Junior returns from a sucessful fourth place finish at state. Photo by Darryl Givens

Game recaps / Is school spirit dead? / Buff Puff slide show

Editors in chief

Webmaster

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Holli Dreiling Brent Lane Huntor O’Connor

Video and Aurasma Al Genovese

Photo Editor Grace Blackman

Photographers Jason Thompson Drew Wiens Megan Weisser

on the cover: Photo illustration by Claire Monroe Visit page 12 for more Page by Holli Dreiling

Calender 3

Honor concert

Story Jillian Primm

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Drew Wiens, senior, jumps to spike the ball in the annual Buff Puff tournament. The seniors defeated the sophomores and the juniors to bring home the championship for the second year in a row. The seniors amused the students with their uniform choice, white crop tops. “It felt really great to win Buff Puff for the second year in a row. I felt like we put in a lot of work and really came together as a team,” Wiens said. Photo Jason Thompson

Debate season wrap-up Story Alexandra Schumann Page Jillian Primm, Holli Dreiling

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he debate team has been competed in tournaments since the beginning of the year. With post-season coming up, debate coach Dalton Smith hopes to make an impression at State.

“We have a couple more tournaments to actually qualify people. We’re close to having two teams qualify for Two-Speaker State.

Four-Speaker State is coming up on the 15th and 16th of December. If we get a couple wins there I’ll be happy,” Smith said.

Omer Sheikh and Amanda Perez, seniors, qualified for Two-Speaker State which will

4 News Briefs

take place in January.

“Two-Speaker State is more like the real State, and Four-Speaker State is kind of like Regionals. We are quite excited because we’ve been doing well this season. We went 4-2 last year at state and we expect to do better this year,” Sheikh said.

Debaters experienced an eventful season with Smith coming on as the new debate coach in the middle of the season, but Perez embraces the final stretch.

“It’s been a challenging transition, but I am excited to be going to state and being able to relax once the season is done,” Perez said.

Those who do not qualify for Two-Speaker State competed in Four-Speaker state on the 15th and 16th of December.

ach year all band and choir students are strongly encouraged to audition for the district ensembles. After preparing tough audition pieces, very few students in the South- Central District were selected to perform in the honor concert.

Band members Claire Rodgers, senior, Gehrig Hett, Braxton Smith, and Matthew Wong, juniors, Gavin Hawkins and Hillary Tallman, freshmen, participated in the district band, as well as Amanda Perez, senior, in the district orchestra. Senior choir students Abby Griffin, Alex Reida, and John Meineke were selected for the district choir.

“I prepared my music for about five months leading up to auditions. I had rehearsed with my private teacher starting the day I got the piece, so she definitely helped me feel confident and ready for the audition,” Hett said.

This was Hett’s second year participating in the district band, feeling that each experience has been great for learning and improving.

“As someone who wants to be a musician, it’s good to have these type of experiences.

You learn a lot from people you don’t know and it’s great to be in that professional learning environment,” Hett said.

Amanda Perez, senior, and Emily Smith, sophomore, practice for their post-season debate tournaments.

Perez will compete at Two-Speaker State in January at Coffeyville. Photo Drew Wiens

COMMUNITY BOND District begins years of projects of local Andover elementary, middle, high schools Stories by Ashley Zellers, Holly Shortt Page Maddie Spurlock

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fter countless hours of planning, passing, and voting, the district bond issue officially commenced.

The bond issue consists of plans to improve buildings, technology, sports fields/complexes, and overall learning environment for students.

“We’ll be starting on the expansion

of our building at the end of the school year, and we will have the baseball and softball fields done for this upcoming season if the weather is cooperative” Principal Cheryl Hochhalter said.

In the coming four years of the Bond include plans for a, District Stadium renovations and a brand new Central athletic complex. Not only is the bond creating numerous new buildings, it will create a more efficient district, cutting costs and the use of resources.

The time span for the project is about three and a half years, and upgrades will be slowly phased in. This first year’s objective includes extensive planning, but also some advancements for our school. Currently, turf is being installed in the softball and baseball fields, and should be ready for the spring 2018 season. According to Hochhalter, the goal of completing the turf in a few short winter months is zealous, but do-able.

Making the first digs into the sand at the bond issue ground breaking on November 10, Austin Zellers, senior, leads younger classmates in being part of the district’s newest project.

Upperclassmen hope to change classmate dynamic with new inclusion initiative

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ocial studies teacher Kara Belew’s government classes recently began a new initiative which allowed students to create projects to end separation among their peers.

Carson Penny, senior, looked forward to the opportunity to increase inclusion of underclassmen at school.

“I really think this will help the underclassmen more than anything. The transition from middle school to high school is hard and it’d be nice if we could make it a lot smoother by helping them ease into it,” Penny said. “They could have a lot more upperclassmen friends to look up to and feel more accepted.”

The project was originally designed to stop racism, but it left much room for interpretation. Groups hosted events to raise money to further opportunities available.

“I’m part of the fundraising group. We’re going to get money that can be used by the other groups in their projects. We’re going to be hosting a car washing event as well as a bake sale,” Penny said.

Stories continue online at achsspotline.org

News 5

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Believers turn to horoscopes for guidance Story Holly Shortt Page Sydney Sagehorn

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ccording to The Washington Post, only 25% of Americans believe in astrology and zodiac signs.

Horoscope believers are in the minority, but remain extremely passionate about astrology.

Cassie Wefald, senior, has followed her zodiac since early childhood. Her beliefs were influenced while growing up around others who believed in astrology.

“Growing up, my sisters were always really into reading about their zodiac signs which started to pique my interest. I have a bunch of people in my life who believe in it, which really influences how I feel about it. Now we all talk about it and it’s a lot of fun.”

However, Joseph Little’s, freshman, fascination with his horoscope began more recently.

“I believe in it because I read things about my sign that I can

really apply to my life and my mother actually made me a birth personality traits, which only chart. She gave it to me when I interests me even more. You can was about 13 and it was really also use it to figure out other interesting to me.” people’s personalities and make Zodiac fanatics often find sense of their actions and beliefs. themselves the victims of criticism Astrology helps me understand from non-believers, but they who they persist. are as a “When I person read things which is about my really cool,” sign, I can Little said. really see Other how closely believers they relate prefer to how I astrology feel and for its close who I am. It relation to actually alCassie Wefald, senior science, ways makes which sense so I provides a contine to more concrete belief. believe it,” Wefald said, “People “I really like the fact that it’s can think what they think. It based off of astronomy so it’s a won’t change my beliefs.” little science-based in that sense.

Zodiacs provide readers with I’ve been really into it ever since I a closer look into their inner was a child,” senior Shayla Bailey thoughts and personality traits, said, “When I was younger, my something Little thinks is ex-

Cassie Wefald, Cancer Sympathetic Emotional Sensitive Caring

“When I read things about my sign, I can really see how closely they relate to how I feel and who I am.”

Joseph Little, Virgo Routine-oriented Particular Orderly

tremely overlooked.

“I am a Virgo which makes a lot of sense to me. I really like things to be in order and I always need things to work well, which are typical personality traits of a Virgo. I read things and they constantly apply to me,” Little said.

Others look to horoscopes to understand personal feelings.

“I’m a cancer which is very fitting for me. I’m very emotional and maternal,” Wefald said.

Most horoscope believers only follow one zodiac signs, but there are actually multiple signs to a person.

“There are actually multiple signs to a person. The sun sign is what you’ll be facing outwardly, so it’ll be the things that will affect you and occurrences in your life,” said Bailey, “Your moon sign is what you’ll be showing inwardly, which allows for a little more introspection.”

Believer or non-believer, what’s in a horoscope might just be a shocking surprise.

Shayla Bailey, Libra Spontaneous Diplomatic Indecisive Charming

Feature

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Band gets into Holiday spirit Page Claire Monroe Story Jillian Primm

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mmediately following marching season, the band students prepared the holiday concert and seasonal events.

In preparation for the concert, students worked for nearly two months perfecting the holiday tunes. The band members look forward to the first concert.

“Rehearsing this music in class has been a lot of fun because the whole room seems to be in a positive mood.

Playing all of this Christmas music has really gotten me into the holiday spirit,” sophomore Raddek Thomas said.

The holiday performance differs

from all others throughout the year, being the only concert where theband performs in its entirety. Come second semester, students will be split into Concert and Symphonic Bands.

Members see the concert as a great opportunity to play familiar music together.

“It’s a lot of fun to play music that’s recognizable to a broader audience.

This is an event that not only our parents, but our siblings and ourselves too can enjoy because everyone knows the music,” senior Michael Giebler said.

Gehrig Hett, junior, plays the saxophone in the Christmas performance by the band. Photo Drew Wiens

Mr. Christmas pageant brings groups together Story Holli Dreiling

M Jack Bell, freshman, plays a guitar during the Young Life Mr. Christmas Tree pageant.

Photo Grace Blackman

8 Feature

r. Christmas Tree: A four-year Young Life tradition where students from ACHS and AHS compete against one another in a male Christmas pageant. Contestants participate in three categories, interview, talent, and swimsuit. The Mr. Christmas Tree pageant gives Young Life kids from different schools an opportunity to meet.

“One of the best parts of the evening was sharing it with ¬AHS. It’s always really fun to see everyone from their club” head Young Life leader Ike Hedquist, said.

The pageant isn’t limited to just contestants; the audience also gets to participate.

The girls in each grade come early to decorate

Christmas trees.

“Another part that makes it so great is getting to cheer on the representative from your class as they come up with some of the most creative, hilarious things you would never expect to see. At Young Life, we always do things big and love to celebrate kids, and Mr. Christmas Tree is a night where we get to do both of those,” Hedquist said.

The four representatives were Jack Bell, freshman; Banks Wilson, sophomore; Micheal Simon; junior, and Brett Blackman, senior. Blackman stole the show with his talent portion: Vine Recreations.

Choir sings into the season Story Jillian Primm

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he holiday season ushers in concert season for the vocal music department.

Choir students prepared a performance filled with a variety of holiday music.

Having worked on concert pieces for nearly two months, holiday joy was introduced into the classroom early.

“I like how everyone in choir starts to get more cheerful this part of the year.

When it comes to the songs, people tend to pay attention more because they are all in the holiday spirit,” junior Ian DeWitt said.

All choirs, soloists, and duets prepared the concert.

Fifth graders from Sunflower

Elementary joined them in a few Christmas songs.

“Singing songs together that have to do with Christmas give me such a positive feeling. It brings choir even more of a family environment,” DeWitt said.

Following the performance, seven peformers sang at the cookie reception, a new event added to the holiday concert.

“This was our first time doing a reception after the concert. There were many types of cookies there and with all of the singers, I think it was a really cool experience,” sophomore Natalie McCoy said.

Connor Sutton, senior, helps out during the Kids 4 Kids “It’s a Kid’s Christmas” event by wrapping presents. Photo Jason Thompson

Kids for Kids kicks off Christmas Story Kylie Roman

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hristmas time is here and inevitably so are the events that come with. One being the Kids 4 Kids club’s It’s a Kid’s Christmas event.

The affair took place at Calvary Church on Dec. 2. People from Central and Andover high joined together to bring Christmas cheer to children of all ages.

“Most of the kids that come in are in a foster type situation, so otherwise they wouldn’t be able to find gifts for their loved ones,” senior Peyton Burnham said, “A lot of them are excited about picking out the presents

and wrapping them. They also all love the goodie bags that are handed out at the end, but who wouldn’t.”

The day itself was rewarding for everyone involved.

“I love this event because it’s fun to see the kids get happy when they find a good gift.

It’s also just a great experience because you get to be with your friends while spreading Christmas cheer and giving back to the community,” Burnham said.

It’s a Kid’s Christmas was one of the best opportunities to give back to the community.

The Chamber Chorale sings festive tunes together during the choir’s holiday concert. Photo Megan Weisser

Feature 9

Members of Spotlight staff try virtual reality headsets for the first time Story, page Sydney Sagehorn

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he future is here, and it will let you experience the world without leaving the comfort of your own home. Virtual reality is one of the hottest Christmas gifts this year, so the Spotlight staff put different headsets to the

test to find the best.

VR is in its earliest stages, but companies are already seeing its potential in gaming and film.

As of now, there are two main categories of VR headsets: those that hold a smartphone and those that connect to an external gaming console. The ones that

rely on smartphone technology are significantly cheaper than the alternative, but they offer less interactivity and gameplay options.

The staff tested two phone-operated headsets, the Google Cardboard and the VR Tepoinn, and the PlaySta-

The staff members that tested the Google Cardboard were surprised with the quality of the headset. “For how much it costs, its very immersive,” sophomore Brent Lane said. It lacked the ability for much interaction and movement, but it is easily the cheapest of the mainstream products. “It’s a good way to try it out if you don’t want to spend a lot of money,” Lane said.

$15

The VR Tepoinn headset has the most traditional look of the three VR headsets. While it is heavier than the Google Cardboard, the extra padding around the eyes felt more comfortable and allowed for less light leakage. “I felt pretty well-removed, but I was still kind of aware of what was going on around me,” junior Alexandra Schumann said.

$20

The PlayStation VR headset allows for the most customization and gameplay. It is controlled by two remotes in each hand that detect the player’s movement. “You really felt like you were a part of the game,” senior Colton Trowbridge said, “every part of the world was interactive rather than just being able to sit and look around.”

10 Feature Review

tion VR headset. We set up our phone-headset simulation using a 360-degree video of a roller coaster, where we had the staff sit in a swivel chair and face a fan to simulate wind, and the horror game Sisters. For the PlayStation headset, we tested its capabilities on the video game Skyrim.

What the future holds

$450

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hese aren’t the only VR headsets on the market. Other popular devices include the Google Daydream ($70), the Oculus Rift ($400) and the HTC Vive ($600). It is simply up to the consumer to decide what level of immersion is best for them. VR has a long way to go before it lives up to the standards that sci-fi movies envision, but it is definitely an entertaining bit of technology to experiment with.

Alexandra Schumann, junior, plays the horror game “Sisters” on the Google Cardboard. Photo Megan Weisser

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If you’re looking for a unique, funstyled book, Vortex Souvenir is the place to go. Located off of 2nd and Hydraulic, Vortex also sells greeting cards, artwork and other novelties. If you make the trip to this artsy store, make sure to check out their Wichita-themed pinball machine.

10

Perfect gifts fo

For lovers of ICT, The Workroom, located right off of Douglas and Cleveland, sells Wichita-themed goods made by locals. A popular purchase is their scented candles based on different areas of the city, like Delano and College Hill. The Workroom also has locally-made art and housewares.

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Farris Wheel Hatman Jack’s Hats are a fun fashion statement sure to make the day of whoever receives it. At Hatman

12 Center Spread

Jack’s, located on Douglas in Delano District, you can purchase a custom fitted hat sure to be loved by

everyone who sees it.

They also have pre-made hats that would be perfect for any occasion. This hat shop has been operating in Wichita since the 1870’s.

Candy is a universally loved gift, especially during the holiday season.

At the Farris Wheel, located at 21st and Webb, shoppers can enjoy premade gifts of candy or even make up their own compilations to their own likings.

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for the holidays Nifty Nuthouse

Almost every candy imaginable is available for purchase at The Nifty Nuthouse. House made fudge and other candies are a popular choice for buyers at this Wichita staple, located off of St. Francis and Elm Street. They also has candies from throughout the decades Let out your inner nut at this local gem!

DeckPerception Evan Byers, senior, has a local business himself. Deck Perception, a board game that Byers’ family created is available on DeckPerception.com. Bringing this to any holiday party is sure to make for a great time with any crowd.

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his holiday with local gifts Space Station The streetwear style of clothing is becoming more popular every day.

Located just inside the main East entrance at Towne East Mall, Space Station sells

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The Spice Merchant Being a professional chef is not a requirement to shop at The Spice Merchant & Co., located on Douglas and Cleveland.

Along with their house mixtures of spices, The Spice Merchant also sells teapots, coffee mugs and

other novelty items. While you visit this deliciously aromatic store, make sure to try a sample of their housebrewed coffee and teas that will definitely warm you up on a cold day. The Spice Merchant has been open for 25 years and is still a popu-

lar designation for Wichita locals today. If making it out to the store is not what you had in mind, The Spice Merchant also offers online shopping and two day, free shipping! Their staff is always avaliable for questions. Make sipping the Spice Merchant’s tea your next winter holiday tradition.

their own brand: Not Human. If you are looking for a gift for someone with an original style, check out this locally made clothing.

10.

Spektrum Music Vinyl records, cassettes and CD’s from Christmas’s past and present are for sale at Spektrum Music, located on Douglas within the Delano District.

Although the used albums are generally cheaper, Spektrum also supplies completely new ones. Help someone venture into new music by buying them a gift from this local record store.

Center Spread 13

Meat-lover does the "unthinkable"

Byers goes vegan in week-long quest to experience lifestyle

Story Evan Byers Page Alexandra Schumann

Introduction

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s many people know, I am not fond of the ideology behind veganism. Vegans do not eat meat, milk, cheese, eggs, or any other products derived from animals. I firmly believe livestock is to be eaten by humans, and while they should be treated respectfully, organic and free range farms are unnecessary. I eat meat with almost every meal. I just don’t understand why people would willingly give up animal products if the animals are already being butchered and eaten by the vast majority of the world. I hope to learn the benefits of veganism and why people that make the switch stick with it.

1

This was a readjustment day for sure.

Every time I went to eat a snack I found myself checking labels and most of the time putting it back down in disappointment. Most bread and baked goods contained egg or milk, making it hard to eat almost everything. I ate granola bars, hummus and pita, peanut butter, and a banana throughout the day. For dinner I ate a vegan tamale, and I really missed the pork that was supposed to be inside.

Day 2

2 3

This day was better than the first. I consumed a lot of hummus and pita and ate Chipotle for dinner. I had a bowl with rice, beans, veggies, corn salsa, and guacamole. This was outstanding.

Day 3 Reflection

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ating vegan for a week was not as difficult as I thought it might be. I got used to checking labels and ate an insane amount of hummus and peanut butter. Restaurants had significantly better options than I was expecting, although I enjoyed some (Chipotle and Red Robin) more than others (Taco Bell). I felt better digestively than I ever had, but physically I was tired and fatigued most of the week. This could be due to my sudden switch and quitting animal products cold turkey. I gained a new respect for the self discipline long-time vegans have, yet I am still confused on why anyone would ever give up the delicious flesh of animals.

Photos Drew Wiens

14 Column

Day 1

On day 3 I did not eat breakfast, ate vegan burritos at Taco Bell for lunch, and ate more hummus and pita, along with peanut butter, for dinner.

By the end of this day I was tired, hungry, and I wanted the challenge to end.

Day 4

4

I ate two granola bars for breakfast.

Then for lunch, I went to Red Robin and ordered the Banzai Burger with a veggie burger and other vegan modifications.

This was incredible! The patty was absolutely scrumptious and I felt full by the end of the meal. For dinner I ate more hummus and pita, still feeling full from lunch. This was the best day of my immersion in the vegan world.

Day 5

5

I did not eat breakfast this day, had a salad from Cheddars for lunch (with no animal products on top and a vegan dressing), and more hummus and pita and peanut butter before the basketball game.

It’s a Jungle out there...Go gettem’ Jags!!!

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Holly jolly money bags Is Christmas spirit replaced with holiday greed?

Story Grace Pool Page Maddie Spurlock

F

or generations, Christmas has deemed itself the most popular and widely celebrated holiday throughout the U.S. and the world. With Christmastime comes decorations, music, movies, and it has even developed into its own “Christmas Season”. A wide variety of holiday food and drinks are released, and students look forward to the end of the semester and the end of their stress. However, in the holiday hype it’s easy to forget the The Andover Central Spotlight is the reason for the season: celebrating official student newspaper of Andover Central High School and makes an effort to religions, spending time with supply readers with unbiased stories and accurate family, and counting your detail. The Spotlight is a forum for student expresblessings. sion and not subject to prior review in accordance Despite the joyful cheer with the Kansas Student Publications Act. The staff is comprised of Andover Central High School newsin the air, Christmas can paper students. Views expressed do not necessarily cause a significant amount reflect upon the views of the faculty, students or of stress on families. Many community as a whole. Letters to the editor are apadults rack up overtime at preciated. Please note that letters and messages are subject to editing for clarity or brevity. The editorial work, coming in earlier and board reserves the right to reject a letter that is leaving later to make some perceived as inappropriate. extra cash, causing fatigue.

While working extra hours, shopping and buying gifts can also be a stressor; many feel obligated to purchase elaborate gifts for their loved ones and rack up a huge Christmas bill, only to pay it off throughout the dreadful month of January. Decorat-ing and preparing for the holiday can also seem like a chore.

Some people look forward to decorating and putting up lights for the whole year,

16 Staff Editorial

while others dread setting up trees and get too caught up in the stress of all of the things that need to get done. During Christmastime, it’s easy to get caught up thinking about the things you don’t have when you’re too busy thinking about all the Has Christmas become things you want. too comercialized?

Children brought up in the mentality that Christmas is all about gifts, watching movies, and making cookies can be detrimental. There * of 23 Spolight staff is nothing wrong with enjoying the polled season and participating in the regular traditions, but when kids are taught that this holiday revolves around materialistic things, can ruin the entire season once they mature and realize that gifts can only make you so happy. After this it’s hard for them to value anything other than money, and have a rude awakening coming once they move out of their parent’s house and have to provide for themselves.

Many people feel the post-holiday depression after the season is finally over.

That Christmas magic seems to disappear when the kids return to school, adults to work, and decorations are packed up only to be opened again a year later. It’s difficult after the holiday season to get back into the swing of things once there’s not much to look forward to throughout the rest of the winter. However, if, as a society, we decided to focus on things we are thankful for and the people that love us, Christmas could become more meaningful and that “holiday magic” would be available year-round.

y: 22 n: 1

Real Christmas trees stay true to tradition, festivity Artificial arbor leaves holiday season incomplete Story Alexandra Schumann Page Kinsley Ochsner

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s the holiday season comes into full swing, festive decorations appear all over households in order to get into the Christmas spirit. One of the most well-known staples of Christmas is the famous Christmas Tree. There are two types of trees: real and fake. This brings about the question of which type of tree is better. The answer to this ageold dispute is quite obvious. Real Christmas trees are and will always be the best option for hanging holiday ornaments on.

First of all, real Christmas trees have been

used since the beginning of holiday celebration. If Christmas is all about tradition, shouldn’t one of the oldest customs of a fresh tree still be in practice? There is something special about going to a Christmas tree farm with the family and picking out the perfect tree. The wonderful pine aroma fills the house and serves as a reminder of the happy holiday. The miniscule efforts such as watering the tree and being aware of pine needles add to the authenticity of the tree. Instead of taking the easy way out with unboxing a seven-foot piece of plastic and wire, the fresh Christmas tree is a necessary component to the holiday season.

Fake trees ease stress, inconvenience of holidays Lasting beauty outweighs messy, costly alternative Story Kylie Roman

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eal Christmas trees are a hassle. People haul them in the house, off the roofs of the vehicles and hook them into the tree-stands. The whole time, needles fall off left and right, creating a huge mess which results in a lengthy clean up time. Once set up, families leave the tree up for lasting beauty; however, the act is hazardous. Western Reserve Fire writes that Christmas trees start up to 250 house fires every year. Furthermore, CNN explains that most trees are disposed of via landfill; those trees decompose slowly all the while releasing methane gas, a gas that is harmful for the environment.

Purchasing an artificial tree prevents the risk of damaging house fires since branches

will not dry out. According to the American Christmas Tree Association, 80% of households own a fake tree because of the benefits. Fake holiday trees are durable; most will last up to ten years without falter. Therefore, people will save money each year by not spending at least $80 at tree farms. False trees have an easier set-up time with pre-strung lights, which means families are less likely to argue during the holiday season. They are also better for families with allergies. If a person is allergic to pine, an artificial tree still provides the joy of the holiday tradition without reaction.

Granted real trees have different benefits to fake trees, but in the long run, artificial is the way to go. This Christmas make the right choice, buy a fake tree that will bring just as much joy and last longer than the estimated four weeks of a real tree.

Cartoon by Owen Spurlock

Editorial 17

Page by Brent Lane

BOYS BBALL

GIRLS BBALL

WRESTLING

Shomari Parnell, Xavier Bell, Photo Drew Weins

Record: 4-0

Ryan Stearns, Photo Jason Thompson

R.J. Bethea, Photo Maddie Miles

RESULTS

RESULTS

RESULTS

Record: 3-1

12/1: 55-29 W vs Salina South HS 12/5: 59-42 W @ Campus HS 12/8: 61-28 W vs Goddard HS 12/12: 57 vs 68 L vs Maize South HS

POSTEASON AWARDS

Wil Ullmann, Photo Calian Steward

SOCCER FOOTBALL 1st Team All-State: Jackson Lewallen, Bryce Fimreite, Jacob Cromly, Colton Trowbridge, Davis Joseph

18 Scoreboard

Clark Schoonover - 1st Team All-State K Stratton Stamp - 2nd Team All-State LB Jacob Taylor- 2nd Team All-State DB

12/1: 61-44 W vs Salina South HS 12/5: 69-37 W @ Campus HS 12/8: 49 vs 39 W vs Goddard HS 12/12: 50 vs 37 W vs Maize South HS

12/2: Tournament @ VC: 3rd of 7th 12/9: Tournament @ Douglass 1st of 13, Griffin Baker, Josh Patch, Jake Patch, Gunnzar Gentzler 1st

12/2: W vs Andover (dual) 60-21

SWIMMING PODCAST Cole Stinson, Photo Calian Steward

RESULTS

12/2: @Maize: 2nd Overall, 1st by Nicolas Kruger in 200 Freestyle 12/8: @El Dorado: 2nd Overall, 1st in 200 Medley Relay, 400 Free Relay 12/12: @Hutchinson: 1st Overall, 1st in 200 Medley Relay, 1st in 400 Free Relay

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Recruited athletes discuss future plans Story Clark Schoonover Page Jillian Primm

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or many high school students, planning for college includes more than just picking a major and finding a place to live. Athletics have been a gateway for numerous teens to afford the college experience. While the scholarships may take some of the financial load, they are far from free. The senior class has seen two athletes sign, both to division 1 schools. Cooper Elliot, an infielder for the baseball team, signed to Wichita State University on scholarship. Elliot broke several school records in the 2016 season including batting average and on-base percentage.

“I earned a scholarship to Wichita State because of my hard work and dedication. Most people don’t understand how much work it takes, but you put in what you’ll get out,” Elliot said.

The next athlete to sign was Ryann Stearns, a shooting guard for the girl’s basketball team. She signed to the University of Texas San Antonio on scholarship this fall.

“The most important part is not letting other people influence my decisions and making sure that you look at all the options and weigh the pros and cons of everything.

The main thing that led me to earn a spot at UTSA would

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probably be the extra work I put in outside of practice and games,” Stearns said.

Both Elliot and Stearns play for club teams in their respective sports. Their summers included travelling all over the Midwest for showcases to display their talent.

“We travelled all over the country to showcases in Texas, Georgia, and California. When we played in Frisco Texas, there were a ton of coaches there and that was a very cool experience,” Stearns said.

With their senior seasons still to play, these two look to dominate the show. Another scholarship earning athlete is Becca Dreier, senior, who earned one to Cloud County Community College for soccer. Dreier played for the school her freshman and sophomore year, but then just played for her club team. One special twist however, is that Dreier received this scholarship while playing goalkeeper for a boys’ team.

“I was surprised when they offered. I was really just playing for fun to finish out high school, but now I have signed to play collegiate soccer,” Dreier said.

These three athletes have been rewarded for hard work and steadfast dedication. Playing at the next level is a large transition, but their continued successes in high school will give them confidence moving forward to the collegiate level.

Stearns shoots the ball in the basketball game against Maize South. After her last season playing Jaguar basketball, she will play collegiate ball for San Antonio. Photo Jason Thompson Elliot looks to catch the ball during the Spring 2017 season. Following his last season playing high school baseball, Elliot will play for the Wichita State Shockers. Photo Will Rainey

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“My shot is definitely my strongest skill; I mean, I do work on my shot a lot, but it’s all pretty natural.”

- Braden Belt

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n i a g a t i d i

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1. Belt runs through the tunnel created by the student section at the January 2017 Andover vs. Andover Central game. Photo

by Brynn Harding 2. Shooting at the three-point line, Belt tries to score at the December 12 game against Maize South. Photo by Will Rainey 3. In a February 2017 game against Valley Center, Bell drives in for a shot. Photo by Grace Blackman 4. Belt prepares to shoot. Photo by Will Rainey

Belt continues to impress with shooting, scoring abilities early in season Story Hunter O’Connor Page Ashley Zellers

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he basketball team opens the season as the third-ranked team in 4A, returning three of the four leading scorers from last season, along with emerging talent in the underclasses. Among the returning talent, junior guard Braden Belt poses the biggest scoring threat. Through four games, Belt leads the team in scoring. Averaging 18.3 points per game, Belt has been showing out early in the season.

“I feel like the chemistry we have is really, really good, so it is not as hard to just go out

22 Player Profile

and play. I think that’s why we’ve started well,” Belt said.

Belt is a pure shooter, and to start the season, his teammates have not been shy about getting him the ball. He is pacing the team in shot attempts and three-point attempts. This all comes without a decline in efficiency. Belt shoots 50% from the field and 47% from behind the arc. Both of those marks are improvements from his totals last season.

The precision he is displaying is not lost on his teammates, as he is seeing a healthy portion of the team’s offense.

“My shot is definitely my strongest skill, I mean, I do work on my shot a lot, but it’s all pretty natural. I’ve always just been a

shooter,” Belt said.

With all of the pressure Belt will face on offence, he focused on his defensive game this offseason. The experience he gained last season, along with his recent work, Belt has increased his rebounding totals to six per game, which leads the team. Obviously this is a result of more than one factor, but Belt believes his physical development is the biggest reason for his improvement.

“I feel stronger than last year, so I’m a little more confident going up for the ball. Also, just being older, I have a better feel for where the ball will bounce,” Belt said.

The Jags winning streak ended with a loss 68-57 loss against Maize South.

d l vs. o G old Jags to Battle Trojans in historic cross-town matchup

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senion forward Ashtyn Brown

Braden Belt, junior guard, rises for a layup in last years contest against the Trojans Photo Brynn Harding

Ashtyn Brown, senior forward, fights for a rebound against rival Andover Photo Brynn Harding

It’s Geographical.

A lot of the players and students grew up together and it’s a neat social event for the whole community.

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The practice is always better the week we play Andover because everyone is fully focused on the task at hand.

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erived from intense games and electric atmospheres, rivalries in high school sports create an unmatched environment in which a whole city can stand behind a team. Rivalry matchups can range from inter-league games to cross-town rivalries. Regardless of the situation, when a team plays a rival school, everyone brings intensity and support.

“Rivalry games are what I look forward to most throughout the season,” senior Nolan Crawford said. “The atmosphere is more intense and winning those games is always a little more special than any other game.”

Andover Central vs. Andover is one of the largest rivalries in the Wichita Metro area, and each time the teams meet up the game atmosphere is electric. Alongside the intensity, comes a sense of added pressure to get the win. The Jags know all about this, as over the years there has been buzzer beaters and games that have came down to the final seconds. Five years ago, the Jags won a triple overtime game that came down to a last second shot by 2013 senior Zach Winter. No matter the records of either school, the contest is always a highly competitive affair with emotions flowing both on

and off the court. Beating friends and kids you grew up playing against is a unique experience and the student athletes are fortunate enough to have that opportunity.

“Playing Andover High brings out a side of people that you do not always see,” junior Sam Thomas said. “People play with more emotion which creates a great game atmosphere on the field and in the stands.”

Playing against a rival school can pull a squad out of a rut if the season is not going as planned. The matchup forces a team to focus and work together, leading to better team play and more success.

“Getting a rival win always means just a little bit more than an ordinary win and it gives the team a lot of confidence,” senior Ryann Stearns said.

Regardless of whether someone is a sports fan or not, when rival week rolls around and the cross-town trash-talk begins, everyone pulls for their team to come out on top. These games create moments that can last a lifetime for the players and earn bragging rights for the students for the remainder of the season. The Jags will travel to Andover High for the first of two regular season basketball matchups on December 21.

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Story, page Austin Zellers

head boys basketball coach Jesse Herrmann

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