University of Kansas Neumont University Jacob Zamora
Avila university Hayley Newlin
Jessica Budy Glynis Castaneda Allison Crist Danny Cygan Angie Harrison Nicole Kneebone Erin Krueger-Foster Morgan LeBlanc Nathan Lucas Reese McDowell MaryBeth Pedroza Sara Rehm Katie Tindell Brent Waller
Z Hair Academy Rachael Bell
Hutchison Community College Nick Chaney
Tabor College Chloe Freemire
McKendree University Brooke Wilson
St. Mary’s
Bret Fritz Victoria Smith
Bethel College Emily Powell
Friends University Carter Kleoppel
Creighton university Taylor Cameron
Talia Armstrong Spencer Brown Rebecca Carroll Alexander Coleman Zach Crouss Malorie Crutchfield Alexis Douglas Breann Drew Anthony Drury Rachel Eberth Jacob Hall Tristan Hayes Zach Holtgrewe Brandon Kerns Mercedes Montoya Sean Potter Kyle Ross Chase Ryder Tim Sanders Mikayla Schad Connor Scherer Taylor Sherley Stephan Struzzo Eli Vinson Duncan Witt Chase Younger
Barton County Community College Chellcy Miller
Washburn University Natalie Engler Alex Gorman Kayleigh Schoenfelder
Baker University Johnny Fulkerson
Fort Hays State University Laina Griffith
MidAmerica Nazarene University Dalton Inlow
Neosho County Community College Candice Jennings
Emporia State University Bryan Crowe Abe Ruffcorn Rachel Savner
Paul Mitchell School Haskell University of Cosmetology Ally Laney
Kori Nichols
CLASS OF 2014
Military service Jack Bergeron (Army) Samuel Billquist (Army) Josh Summers (Air Force) Justin Summers (Air Force) Zach Teeters (Navy)
Johnson County Community College
Houston Community College
Alex Jackson
William Penn University John Hopper
Central College Cory McCleary
Kansas City Kansas Community College Tori Bejarano Tyler Carey Kyle Christenson Zach Cordry Austin Cushman Madison Derry Keith Dodds Kanyon Edwards Zach Fry Zach Hamel Dakota Letzig Andrew Magana Justin Mance Jordan Nirschl Jay O’Bryan Brooke Olesen Jacob Price Taylor Ray Layne Roberts Ellen Seaba Brad Stout Tyler Taylor Brittni Wilhelm
Highland Community College Katie Lackner Allison Kasick
Kansas State University
Emily Dye Katie Eberth Susette Garcia Nick Genz Allison Heinen Clayton Kaminski Rachel Kamm Jack McCraney Jake Phillips Tori Powell Tanner Tavis Mark Vitt Makayla Weiser
Manhattan Christian College Jeff Storms
Pittsburg State University JP Downing Haleigh Linden Otto Metzger Austin Sinclair Gage Wiser
Ottawa University Julie Lough
Benedictine University Broc Lindsay
DESTINATIONS University of Washington at Seattle Eric Purrington
? Undecided/Unknown Avery Fliger Kyle Foster James Handke Matthew Higgins Tyler Lane Zach McNabb Jacob Merrick Cindy Roberts Austin Rowland Brianna Torrez Alex VanErem Brittni Wilhelm Breonna Yungeberg
University of Arkansas Amber Garver Courtney Payne
Harding University Shelby Wicker
University of Colorado at Colorado Springs Hailey Robinson
United States Air Force Academy Luke McGowan
Workforce Jake Bailey Amanda Batesel Jacob Hicklin Courtney Jordan Logan Potts Justin Stevens
Biggest fear after high school
Most creative excuse to get out of homework
Emily Dye: “Using the bathrooms at the community college.”
Rebecca Carroll: “I accidentally caught it on fire.”
Kate Lackner: “Becoming a cat lady.” Malorie Crutchfield: “Getting fat.”
Jack McCraney: “I was too busy trying to become a Pokemon master.”
Justin Stevens: “Staying in Basehor for the rest of my life.”
Kate Lackner: “I got the runs.”
Kayleigh Schoenfelder: “Being wrong about what I want to do with the rest of my life.”
Jake Phillips: “I don’t believe in Tuesdays.”
MaryBeth Pedroza: “Losing contact with my closest friends, not being successful.” Taylor Sherley: “Living in my parents’ basement for the rest of my life.” Ally Laney: “Not being able to handle all of the stress.” JP Downing: “Not staying in touch with some of my friends.” Zach Crouss: “Graduating from college and not being able to find a job.”
Advice to your 10-year-old self
Reese McDowell: “I told Tina that my mom was locked out of the house.” Zach Teeters: “Getting Mrs. Shields to forget about the homework and tell stories.” Allison Crist: “Frequently missing Calculus because it’s ‘emotionally distressing.’” Sara Rehm: “LOL… I don’t have one. That just shows you that I’m a loser and haven’t lived.” Breann Drew: “I need to drop some timber. Can I please use the restroom?” Justin Stevens: “I never really lied to get out of class, I just left or never showed up.” Danny Cygan: “Bassoon repair.”
Rebecca Carroll: “Your worst enemy is yourself.”
Three Best Accomplishments in High School
Jacob Zamora: “Put down the cookies.” Malorie Crutchfield: “Quit being awkward and lose the straight across bangs.”
TAYLOR SHERLEY
1. Joining Yearbook 2. Passing Chemistry 3. Getting first place in a photography contest
Clayton Kaminski: “I wouldn’t change anything. My mistakes made me who I am.” Abe Ruffcorn: “Study harder and get stronger.” Tanner Tavis: “Don’t cut up the pictures kids give you, because you’ll lose recess.” Ally Laney: “To enjoy life as long as you can. Set goals and reach as many of them as possible. Don’t give up. Keep trying. Anything is possible.” Chloe Freemire: “Don’t listen to stupid boys, and help your grandparents. You don’t know when you’ll lose them. Sam Billquist: “Start saving money for a car.”
2010
1. Hiked at Philmont 2. Finished senior paper 3. Got a girlfriend
BRENT WALLER
1. Finishing my senior research paper 2. Got all A’s my senior year 3. Going to state powerlifting
KATIE LACKNER
1. I made it through three years of weights...I think that’s worth three achievements!
Football wins district championship
Homecoming Representatives: Amber Garver & Jp Downing
ZACH TEETERS
Earthquake in Haiti
Premier showing of The Seussical
Courtwarming Representatives: Breonna Yungeberg & Sean Potter
What you wanted to be when you grew up when in elementary school Alli Kasick: “Britney Spears.”
What are three words you would use to describe your class?
Sara Rehm: “The Easter Bunny.” Austin Cushman: “An astronaut.” Katie Tindell: “Race car driver.” Rachel Kamm: “Dolphin trainer.”
Where do you see yourself in ten years? Kate Lackner: “Married to George Clooney.” Rachael Bell: “Owning my own salon and being more famous and richer than Bill Gates.” Jacob Zamora: “CFO of a large game design company.” Brad Stout: “Being a sports announcer for baseball.” Brooke Wilson: “Married, living on a base somewhere, teaching and/or running a waterpark. Justin Mance: “Working for the city of Shawnee as an engineer.” Danny Cygan: “Working for medical reserach or writing books.” Tristan Hayes: “On the cover of Forbes Magazine.”
Favorite or Worst part of high school Tyler Carey: “When Stephen Struzzo windshield surfed on a car and almost died.” Rachael Bell: (Favorite) “Leaving.” Tanner Tavis: (Worst) “My beloved Pontiac blowing up.” Austin Cushman: (Worst) Getting up early to come to school.” Dalton Inlow: (Favorite) “Signing to play football at MNU” Tanner Tavis: (Favorite) “Qualifying for state cross country.” Katie Tindell: (Favorite) “State powerlifting.” Brooke Olesen: (Favorite) “Graduating early.”
Girls basketball takes third at state
Apple iPad is unveiled
Osama Bin Laden Is killed
Top song of the year: “Like a G6” by Far East Movement Top movie of the year: The Twilight Saga: Eclipse
Baseball and softball go to state
2011
Courtney Payne
Which was your favorite sport/club/activity in high school and why? That’s a tough choice between basketball and the musical this fall. I love basketball and playing with my best friends for 12 years made us feel like a big family. The musical was great too because it allowed me to show a different side of myself. Which of these activities were you most surprised you were involved in? The musicals and forensics because I grew up my whole life playing sports, but I hadn’t done much acting until freshmen year here. What is the funniest thing that has happened in one of these activities? My junior year at basketball, we were doing a half court shooting contest as a bunch of wrestling teams were coming into the gym. I ran up and face planted falling straight on my knee while throwing the ball only a few feet in front of me. Not my most graceful moment... Which was your favorite sport/club/activity in high school and why? Softball and powerlifting are my favorite because I am a very competitive person and I enjoy working hard at something.
Alli Kasick
Which of these activities were you most surprised you were involved in? I would have to say powerlifting. When I was moving up to high school I was excited to be in a bunch of activities and powerlifting was not one of them. I thought it was manly, but I absolutely loved it. What is the funniest thing that has happened in one of these activities? Probably the time at my softball game junior year. I had a nice hit against Blue Valley and when I was running to first, I faceplanted halfway and had to crawl to first base.
Which was your favorite sport/club/activity in high school and why? Sports in general were my favorite. I made so many friends, and they all gave me some experience that made me grow as a person.
Sara Rehm
Which of these activities were you most surprised you were involved in? Definitely softball was the thing I was most surprised about. I never saw myself as a softball player. That was always my sister. I decided to try out my freshmen year, and I actually enjoyed it. What is the funniest thing that has happened in one of these activities? Anything I experienced from my activities is just funny in general. I was always injured myself or did something stupid which is just funny in general.
Clayton Kaminski
Which was your favorite sport/club/activity in high school and why? Debate because I enjoy arguing with people, and it is very poised which is something else I enjoy. Which of these activities were you most surprised you were involved in? The school plays, definitely! I always thought I would be too scared to get on stage in front of people, but, I actually enjoyed being up there and making everyone laugh. What is the funniest thing that has happened in one of these activities? All of the activities I am involved in are really fun and I have funny memories from all of them so I can’t just name one.
1 1 0 2 BLHS wins blue ribbon award
Homecoming Representatives: Alex Gorman & Broc Lindsay
Courtwarming Representatives: Talia Armstrong & Chase Younger
Premier showing of Willy Wonka
Amber Garver
Tanner Tavis
Most Involved Students of the Class of 2014
Which was your favorite sport/club/activity in high school and why? Theatre was my favorite because of how outgoing it made me, and I met so many new people. Which of these activities were you most surprised you were involved in? I never would have thought my freshman year that I would be so involved in anything like a play or musical, but now I’m glad I did those things.
Which was your favorite sport/club/ activity in high school and why? My favorite was basketball because I’ve grown up my whole life loving the sport and watching our high school team so it was amazing to finally be up here an on the court. I’ve also always played with the same girls, so they have really became a family to me.
Which of these activities were you most surprised you were involved in? I was most surprised I was involved in things like musicals. I loved coming to them and I love being creative, but I am very untalented when it comes to performing. I found a place backstage that suited me well. I also met so many new and wonderful people. What is the funniest thing that has happened in one of these activities? The time that Courtney Payne faceplanted in front of all the wrestlers in front of Mill Valley. She went to shoot a half-court shot and landed on her knees. She was bruised up for weeks after that.
What is the funniest thing that has happened in one of these activities? The funniest memory I have is when a few of us were taking an ice bath after cross country, and Luke had his shorts rolled up to get in. Keeler came in and had to do a double take to see if Luke even had pants on and asked him to pull them down a little more.
Crossword Puzzle Answer Key (from p. 16) ACROSS
4: Sara Rehm 8: Alli Kasick 10: Morgan LeBlanc 11: Victoria Smith 13: Johnathan Fulkerson 15: Bret Fritz 17: Nicole Kneebone 20: Chase Ryder 23: Tim Sanders 24: MaryBeth Pedroza 26: John Hopper 27: Stephan Struzzo 28: Jay O’Bryan
DOWN
1: Lexxi Pike 2: Tanner Tavis 3: Emily Dye 5: Allison Heinen 6: Amanda Batesel 7: Tori Bejarano 9: Shelby Wicker 12: Kayleigh Schoenfelder 13: Makayla Weiser 14: Angie Harrison 16: Eric Purrington
18: Luke McGowan 19: Julie Lough 21: Cory McCleary 22: Spencer Brown 25: Kyle Ross
Forensics Takes Third at state
Boys Basketball wins state
Top song of the year: “We are Young” by FUN Top movie of the year: Hunger Games
Softball places Third at state
2012
EMILY DYE
by Allison Crist
Leadership and Service Compared to how she came into high school, Emily Dye is now leaving a transformed person. Throughout her four years, she managed to break out of her shell and become extremely involved. With accomplishments such as qualifying for state debate every single year and being nominated for Kansas Academic All-State, Dye has a lot to be proud of. “Looking back, I had no idea that I would be so involved in the school. I credit Ms. Knowles and Ms. Harris for pushing me to become a confident and well-spoken individual. They have brought out my talents and shaped my leadership abilities tremendously and I would not be the same person I am today without them in my life,” Dye said. She can also credit her now unreserved personality to debate. “Debate really taught me how to live outside of my comfort zone and to have all my hard work pay off was a great experience. Also, being able to share those accomplishments with Ms. Knowles and my friends/partners Maddy, Tanner, and Clayton is something I will never forget,” Dye said. Now that she’s managed to succeed in multiple aspects in regards to high school, Dye is ready for her future. “I believe that
the school has given me a great work ethic to help me achieve my future ambitions. It has greatly challenged me and shown me the importance of being educated. I also think it has given me the tools to know how to balance my time wisely and efficiently,” Dye said. She will be attending Kansas State University in the fall to major in public relations and marketing. “I’m also considering a minor in leadership,” Dye said. Once there, she is considering rushing a sorority. “Rushing has always been an opportunity I have considered doing. The philanthropy work that they do is outstanding,” Dye said. Looking even further ahead after college, Dye hopes she can find a job that she loves despite the salary, rather than a highpaying job that she cannot stand. Aside from work, Dye plans on traveling to Italy, Greece, and Australia. She also wants to learn how to surf, speak fluently in another language, and potentially meet Tom Hanks (with help from Mr. Earnhart). Considering the mark she’s made on this school, there’s no doubt Emily Dye will prove to be successful in whatever she does.
JOSH AND JUSTIN SUMMERS From Wrestling to the Air Force
Unless you know them well, Josh and Justin Summers can be difficult to tell apart. They share many of the same interests, including wrestling. The Summers twins have been wrestling for 15 years. Josh represented BLHS at the state wrestling tournament, and both twins have earned many championships and medals throughout their wrestling careers. However, they do not just have a passion for wrestling, they have also been very interested in the United States Air Force since before they can remember. After graduation, they plan on taking the ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery) test and proceed into basic training for the Air Force. There are many reasons to want to join the armed forces, but Justin has a specific reason. Justin explained why he wants to join the Air Force, “Because of the respect I will get from others, and also because I want people to be able to look up to me, and the Air Force seemed like a good place for that.” The twins said that their biggest fear about joining the Air Force
2012
Volleyball goes to state
Homecoming Representatives: Sara Rehm & Zach McNabb
by Liz Morris
is how they are going to miss their family and friend immensely. Despite the intense commitment they’re making, they said their mother supports their decision. Good luck to this astounding set of twins here at BLHS.
Premier showing of The Wizard of Oz
Barack Obama is reelected
Scholars Bowl goes to state
According to the Mayan Calendar, the world was supposed to end
CARTER KLEOPPEL
By Alyssa Foster
Future Zoologist and Expert Artist You might have seen his detailed artwork showcased in the halls or him racing throughout to get to his next honors class before the bell rings. If you’ve never talked to him before, he is definitely a person that everyone should get to know due to his wonderful talents. This intelligent person is Carter Kleoppel and he has an exciting and adventurous future ahead of him. When spring comes around, most of the seniors talk about where they are going to college. Some might choose the University of Kansas, or Kansas State University, while others choose Johnson County Community College or Kansas City Kansas Community College. Carter chose to go a different route, being the only senior to choose Friends University. Kleoppel was attracted to Friends University because of its unique zoo science program that he was admitted to a few months back. This program is a blend of taking traditional college courses at the university and taking specialized classes at the Sedgwick County Zoo. “I’m so excited about getting the hands-on experience from taking classes at the zoo,” Kleoppel said. Completing the Zoo Science program at Friends results in a Bachelor of Science degree and additional on-site experience working among other zookeepers in animal exhibits. It was an honor for Kleoppel to be accepted because admission to
the program is limited, and outside experience was a must for acceptance. In addition to studying at Friends, he plans to continue using his drawing and art skill as a hobby. If you’ve seen the picture from when Kleoppel asked fellow classmate Sara Rehm to Prom, you can see that his artwork showcases his hard work and dedication to such a hobby. “I enjoy art like I do because I love when I have an image in my mind and am capable of putting it down on paper,” he said. Kleoppel was practically born with a pencil and sketchpad in hand. For those aspiring artists out there who dream to follow in Kleoppel’s talented footsteps, he has some advice: “Practice, practice, and never give up.”
ERIC PURRINGTON
By Mitchell Mikinski
The Next Great Aerospace Engineer Eric Purrington has big dreams, in fact you could say that the sky’s the limit. Eric plans on majoring in Aerospace Engineering and joining the Air Force ROTC at the University of WashingtonSeattle. “It has a great Aerospace program and I want to get the heck out of Kansas.” Purrington said. But Eric’s talents don’t end at the classroom. In addition to excelling in events such as the Math Relays, Eric captained the soccer team this year and won two individual state championships in powerlifting.
Courtwarming Representatives: Laina Griffith & Tim Sanders
Why Aerospace Engineering though? Where does Eric draw his inspiration from? Eric’s older brother chose a similar path and Eric admired it. He saw the difference his brother made and it impacted him, plus who wouldn’t love the thrill of flying a fighter jet? Eric had some great moments in high school. He said that the thing he will miss most is the time spent with friends doing extracurriculars, like forensics or powerlifting. But all he feels now as his time here comes to an end is relief. K-12 in the Basehor-Linwood School District is a strenuous and long journey and Eric is happy it’s over, “ It had good moments, but ultimately I’m glad it’s over.” Eric also wished to impart a little bit of wisdom before he walks across the stage in the gym, “Do push-ups and study hard.”
Prom Representatives: Alli Kasick & Reese McDowell
Whitney Houston dies
Youthfriends changes name to Care Cat Mentors
Top song of the year: “Thrift Shop” by Maclemore Top movie of the year: The Dark Knight Rises
2013
BROC LINDSAY
By Mitchell Mikinski
The Fearless Leader of the Best Student Section in the KVL
One of the first things anyone noticed when they went to a basketball game this year was the boisterous student section. But who made the student section what it was? Undoubtedly it was senior Broc Lindsay. His influence on the students of this school, not just the class of 2014, is immeasurable. When the boys basketball team went to state, everyone was asking “Is Broc going? His influence was the reason for so many people’s joy and entertainment, he did us all a wonderful favor. How did this start though? He had discovered by the end of junior year that basketball wasn’t his thing, but he had so many friends from the years of basketball. So he made his decision, he’d create the best student section in the Kaw Valley League and cheer his team to victory. Mission Accomplished.
The things that the student section did could have their own article. Broc said that his favorite thing was the Moses skit where he “parted the Green Sea”. Another one of the great things that he organized with the student section was the “SuperMcBride” sign. But the greatest thing the students did was make the season as memorable for its off-the-court happenings as the on-the-court events. Broc’s impact on our school is a rare type of impact. It was a commitment to the school to have fun and at the same time support our teams. The student section made every game memorable, exciting, and at times, humorous. Undoubtedly it will hold many of our favorite memories from BLHS.
TAYLOR CAMERON
By Alyssa Foster
Master of the Act
During the Academic Awards ceremony on April 23, Taylor Cameron received a scholarly award for scoring a 32 or above on the ACT in Kansas. She was the only student from BasehorLinwood High School to be recognized with this award. Achieving this prestigious award didn’t come easy to Taylor. She had to take the ACT test four times before she finally achieved a 32. She went from getting a 27 the first time she took it, to getting a 29 the next two times, and a 32 to finish out strong. For Taylor, the easiest sections for her included reading and English. “I’ve always been an avid reader. The English part is really just knowing the test and what it wants you to choose,” Taylor said. Although half of the tests weren’t a struggle, the science section was a challenge for her. “I struggled with the science section. Focusing my energy,
2013
Boys CC places 6th at state meet
Homecoming Representatives: Amber Garver & Cory McCleary
practice, and examining what the question was really asking helped raise my score.” Taylor plans to attend Creighton University in Omaha in the fall. Although she’sunsure of her major, she will begin with a premed track and possibly a minor in music. For those students who are having trouble with getting an ideal ACT score or just want to improve their score to match hers, she has some advice. “To do well on the ACT, practice, practice, practice! Take the class here at school; it’s really the reason my score improved so much. Take the test several times, all of them are different, and you have to find ‘your’ test. It’s also important to make sure you’re mentally ready. Sleep well the night before and eat breakfast! I drank a Red Bull right before I took it.” Good luck to Taylor as she heads to Creighton!
Paul Walker dies
Premier showing of Shrek
Courtwarming Representatives: Victoria Smith & Sean Potter
Debate Team makes it to state
LUKE MCGOWAN
By Breann Drew
Attending the Air Force Academy Every year, a number of Basehor-Linwood graduates make the courageous choice to join the military and help defend our country. Luke McGowan is one of those people. Luke first decided he wanted to join the Air Force when he saw a video at a space museum about Air Force pilots. Who would have thought that at that very moment his life would change forever? The Air Force won’t be a cake walk for Luke, though. During his training process, he will become heavily engaged with rigorous routines of running, push-ups, sit-ups, and speed training. He will also have to be well-rounded physically, academically, and in his leadership. He is most looking forward to the adventure aspect of being a pilot and helping our country. However, he is nervous for the amount of stress that will come with the being involved in the Air Force. Regarding the high-intensity admittance process,
Luke said, “It was indepth.” What he didn’t say was that of all the thousands of people that apply for the Air Force Academy, only 11 percent make it in. So in the future, Basehor-Linwood High School students and staff, whenever you look up into this beautiful democracy-speckled sky of America, look for Luke McGowan soaring high above us.
MAKAYLA WEISER
By Susette Garcia
Miss Leavenworth County
Senior Makayla Weiser was invited to compete in the 2014 Miss Leavenworth County pageant in February of this year. “I never would have imagined that I would have made it so far. But what many people don’t know is the amount of work that actually goes into these pageants,” Weiser said. It’s not all glitter, dresses, and fun like it seems. Before the competition, Makayla had to study many current events, such as gun control, abortion, teen pregnancy, gay rights, and many other controversial topics. She then formed her opinion about each one. She also had to study Kansas facts, Kansas laws, memorize the governor and all of the Kansas senators’ names, as well as other recent bills that had just been passed. Along with this, Makayla had many other things to prepare for her big day. “After all this hard work that I had been working on for weeks, my name was called during crowning ceremony and
the relief washed over me. I looked out to my mom in the audience and the look on her face was rewarding in itself,” Weiser said. Being in pageants also comes with other duties as well. Makayla has been working on speeches and activities to take to the local schools and speak to their classes. Makayla has participated in events such as the St. Patrick’s Day parade in Lawrence and also volunteered at IHOP for national pancake day, where the donation went to Children's Miracle Network. Having this title has been a lot of fun but also a lot of hard work for her. Makayla trains everyday at the gym, keeps a journal on current news, and has many paperwork to fill out for the Miss Kansas pageant. Most recently, Makayla read to children at the Basehor Community Library. “Getting to use my time to help others is truly rewarding! I have big plans to join the Big Brothers Big Sisters organization to really get a chance to put my platform to use,” Weiser said. Makayla’s platform is childhood mentoring, which is teaching children to have a positive and hardworking mentality to better themselves for the future. By teaching them this mentality, Makayla hopes the amount of bullying can be reduced. Lastly, since February Makayla has been preparing herself for the Miss Kansas 2014 pageant which will be held this June. “I really appreciate all of the ‘good lucks’ and ‘congratulations’ I've been getting lately. Being Miss Leavenworth County is truly a blessing. Maybe one day I could be Miss America!” Weiser said.
Top song of the year: “Happy” by Pharell Williams Top movie of the year: Catching Fire
Choir Performs at KMEA
Science Olympiad makes it to state
Tallest waterslide in the world is opened in Kansas City
Prom Representatives: Makayla Weiser & Brent Waller
2014
Justin Stevens I am leaving my experience I have gone through, and the fact that I do not truly care what people think about me. You do what you have to, to get by. Work hard and never give up. I want my sister, Julia, to have a better senior year than I had.
Mark Vitt I will my good looks and fantastic sense of humor to my sister, Emily, and my amazing wits and great sarcasm to anyone who wants them.
Katie Tindell I want to leave my ability to not let anyone tell me I can’t do something to Emily Vitt to help her lead our cross country team through all the tough times. I leave my skills and tenacity at math to my sister Rachel in hopes that she can work through the next two years without me. I leave all my ability in the weight room to Cassy Beattie. She needs it to help her be the best she can be. I leave my ability to hold onto good friends and let go of the bad to my sister, Ia, Casey, and Tess to help them make the most of their time in high school.
Breann Drew When I think about writing my senior will, the person that comes to my mind is my brother, Zain. I want to leave one quality behind for him, and that is motivation. My motivation was our mother. Our mother was the one thing that made my days of high school bearable. High school is filled with many obstacles, good and bad. But with the motivation to strive to make our mother proud kept me going. All I want is for my brother to find something or someone that motivates to him to go after his goals whether it be baseball, our mother, or friends. But once he finds that motivation I never want him to give up on achieving whatever he puts his mind to. Motivation will get you far in high school as well as in the real world. I know you’ll do great things Zain and now it’s time for
Senior
you to prove that, and time for you to make mom even prouder of you.
Zach Fry I leave my jumping abilities to Caleb Metzger. With my passing them down, he someday might be able to dunk.
Anthony Drury I haven’t always been able to deal with people and the way they act. But when you figure out how to handle everything, it’ll be easier. Remember, whatever works, put whatever first.
Amber Garver I want to leave my athletic ability and leadership to Ryann Smith because she is like a little sister to me. I want to leave my patience to Raeney Seaton because I love her, and she needs it. Lastly, I want to leave this thought to underclassmen: always be kind to everybody and never burn your bridges because you never know when you may depend on that person in the future. Also, always trust God’s path for you because he knows exactly what he’s doing.
Danny Cygan I leave behind three ideas. The first is not to let yourself become what you fear. An uncontrolled fear will only begin to destroy and consume your best qualities. Secondly, always pursue a strength. If this strength doesn’t make you happy, there’s always time to change. lastly, when given the chance to do more, always take it. When a leader is needed, become one. Your identity, for now, is flexible to become whatever you wish.
Malorie Crutchfield “I will my dorkiness, sass and sarcasm to my little sister, Emilie. I would also like to will my ability to put off assignments for as long as possible and still get them done in a decent amount of time to Emilie. Emilie will also get my ability to run really fast since she’s super slow. I also will my big frizzy hair to Emilie. A mane like that is too great not to pass on.
Zach Teeters
I want to pass down my way of thinking on life, that is to don’t worry, be happy. More specifically, I want to give it to my girlfriend, Rebekah. She struggles to stay happy without me and I want her to know that even though I’m gone, I will still be with her on the inside. Everyone should leave their pain and sadness at home and be an eccedentesiast.
Tanner Tavis Lacey Tavis, I will you a successful and fun next three years of high school. Also, the ability to make fun of Tarah without me. Zach Fisher, I will you a great duet/ partner for next forensics season. Also I will you Becca Knowles. You’ll have to annoy her without Luke, Clayton and I next year. Peyton Myers, Casey Jones, Zach McKnight, Quinnlyn Walcott, I will you successful cross-country seasons next year. Good luck.
Clayton Kaminski Zach McKnight and Peyton Myers, I will you to stay with cross country, enjoy it and become great leaders. Quinn, I will you success in cross country and track next year, I know you will be great.
Jake Phillips I would like to leave the entire high school student body my cleanliness, and wish they’d take more showers. I would like for them to also retain my excellent sense of witty humor and for my younger brother Justin to obtain my good looks and learn how to finally beat me in 2K. I would also like to pass on my rad P.E. locker that never opened correctly.
Luke McGowan Caleb VanBeber, that he never stops making awkward silences. Quinn Walcott, a strong, stubborn, pain-in-the-butt attitude (Oops, too late). Don’t stop being you. Erin McGowan, my half of our huge movie trivia while I’m gone, but don’t worry, ‘I’ll be back.’ All the Star Wars closet geeks, may the force
be with you. Cross country team, enjoy the absence of my strangeness.
Reese McDowell I would like to leave my social skills and charming appearance to my sister, Madison. Also, I’d like to give her my leadership and confidence. With it, she will do amazing things next year. I would like to give my homework to Gaby Brown because she needs all the help she can get. Also, she can have my massaging abilities.
Chloe Freemire To Elissa Freemire, keep doing what you’re doing.
Allison Crist I leave my outstanding sense of humor to Taylor Keesee. Since the funniest person (me) will be gone, she will take over. I leave my heart with Stephanie Harris. She may have never accepted my friendship, but she will always be my BFF. I leave my hatred for school and tendency to skip class to Morgan Payne. Make me proud. I leave my love for Nicholas Cage to Nathan Kenton. Please carry on my fandom. Most importantly, I want to leave my strength with Raeney Seaton. Finally, I wish to pass on my entire legacy to my young brother and incoming freshman, Austin Crist.
Sam Billquist I would like to leave my stunning good looks and my great personality to all the freshmen who need a pick-me-up.
Rachael Bell I will my matureness and all of my old Basehor clothes to Saralynn Shafer. I will my ability to make the best out of any situation to JuJu Stevens and also my hair curling ability. I will my grammar, punctuation and writing skills to Lizard Morris.
Brad Stout These are the best four years you will ever have in your lifetime. Make a first good impression for yourself and don’t get an AHS. Those are horrible. Treat your
Wills
teachers and your fellow students with respect.
your life.
Rachel Savner
Carissa Mikesic
Brooke Olesen
I will my sister, Michayla, my beautiful hair and tan skin, as well as my job at Bask while I’m away at college. I will Cody June my spray bottle and towel from my real job at Bask. I also will him my wonderful ability of not being able to tell a lie and keep a serious face.
I want to leave one thing and that’s a little piece of advice. Don’t let people’s harsh words of judgment get to you. People say high school has some of the greatest moments in life but really, life starts when you graduate. Do your own thing and don’t depend on others to get things done.
I want to leave you with the desire to become anything you want to be. Sounds cliche, huh? Don’t let other people hold you back from what you want to do with your life. Don’t let them deter you from your dreams. Love the job you have because if you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life.
Carter Kleoppel I leave two philosophies, both originating from Disney. The first is Hakuna Matata - no worries. Don’t worry about small, insignificant details. The second is keep moving forward, no matter what setbacks you encounter. Keep your head held high and persevere.
Rebecca Carroll To Lindsey Laney, I leave my voice. To Jaime Weible, I leave my running endurance. To Quinnlyn Walcott, I leave my strength and to all the underclassmen, I leave my ambition and passion to live the life you want.
Madison Derry
Brent Waller I leave my gym locker, the best locker in the locker room, to anyone who thinks they are man enough to deserve it. It is a double sized locker, top row and it’s on the very end. Yeah, it’s that good.
Taylor Sherley I will my brother, Jackson, my sarcasm. Jackson, I know you think you are funny but I’ve got a few things to show you! Sarcasm will help you get through the classes you hate so go forth and use this gift I have granted you.
Spencer Brown An open mind, a blank stare and a book of long-forgotten thoughts.
Jack McCraney
I want to leave the responsibility of answering this difficult question to someone else.
I want to give all of my love to my girlfriend, Erin Rigdon. I love you so much.
Dalton Inlow
Haleigh Linden
I leave my athleticism to Jake Hahn, the ability to pick on Coach Cordts to Corbin Nirschl, the best number in the world (#1) to Justin Phillips and Jake Hahn, my partying abilities to Ashton Findley, my athletic drive and realization that you only get four years to be great to Jackson Brimblecom, Jackson Sherley, Justin Phillips and the Tats.
Kayleigh Schoenfelder The following things I will to my sister Alyssa. I will leave my old notebooks with all of my notes. Also, I leave my drive to excel in the classroom in all that I do, and my leadership in athletics and in extracurriculars, patience, and organization. Have the time of
I will leave everyone with my bottle of salad dressing because everything here is over-priced and not tasty.
Katie Lackner Sorry underclassmen, I have nothing to offer you guys. If you want, you can have my softball abilities and my butt. But the more I think about it, I’ll be needing both of those to go far in life.
Candice Jennings Kali gets my lucky game day underwear. Asia can have my bows. Maddie McDowell can have my butt. Jenna can have nothing because she’s already my twin. Gabby can have my cleats since
she always forgets hers.
always putting in more work than what you want to get out.
Natalie Engler All the notes taken by my sister during Mr. Hopkins’ class that was passed on to me. All the crazy moments backstage during Shrek and the Wizard of Oz (like slicing my thumb...wonderful...). All the wonderful moments shared with friends over the past four years.
Alexander Coleman
I want to leave my motivation to Jade.
I would will my determination to do well in school along with my Bass 3 position on the drumline.
Brooke Wilson
Justin Mance
I leave to the underclassmen a sense of understanding for one another. Everyone is going through something in their life, so be generous and caring and they will do the same.
My athletic drive, friendliness, laid-backness, patience, my want to succeed. I want to pass all of these to my friends in the grades below me.
Emily Dye
Austin Cushman
I would like to leave my extreme sarcasm and awesome fashion taste to Bri Kennedy. I will be leaving behind my sassiness and rad debate skills to Maddy Langford.
MaryBeth Pedroza
There is some advice I want to leave behind for the underclassmen. First piece of advice would be always try your hardest in all of your classes. Also, never get behind in your class work because it’s a pain trying to get caught up. Final advice, try out for high school sports and clubs. This will improve your high school experience and will make it memorable.
Hailey Robinson I leave my patience with kids to Bri Kennedy and my friendliness with Courtney Robinson (lol). If I had favorite gym shorts, I’d leave them to my pal, Nicole Rutherford. Jaime Weible, I leave my UCC dream. To the rest of the volleyball team, I leave my goal of state!
Eric Purrington I leave my Algebra 2 ability to Nathan Lucas.
Cory McCleary I would like to leave my flirtatious and charming personality to Garrett Seuser. To everyone else I want to will the mentality of
Allison Kasick I want to will my lifting belt, hard work, dedication, and love for the sport to Alyssa Foster. I want to will my way of trying to find a positive in every situation to all my softball girls - don’t look at high school in a negative way. Take a step back and enjoy every moment because it goes faster than you think!
Sara Rehm I will my photogenic post-race faces from cross country to Quinn, Calder, Erin, and Claire. I will my weirdness during powerlifting meets to Britney Smith.
Senior Staff Members Say Farewell
Allison Crist Editor-in-chief
Dating back to my childhood years, I always dreamed of becoming a writer. I would spend my free time unfolding my vibrant imagination onto paper. As long as I was writing, I was happy. Just last year, I joined the Express staff. I was timid with my work at first, but that surely didn’t last. I craved big, interesting pieces; however, they required skills I hadn’t necessarily learned yet. That year, Mrs. Loney pushed me to become a much better writer than I was before. She helped me develop my own voice and made me branch out. Going into senior year, I wanted nothing more than to be the editor-in-chief. When Mrs. Loney granted me that opportunity, I was too excited for words. I can’t begin to describe the amazing experience and the amount of gratitude I have to have been able to serve as an editor this year. I have learned so much about the world of writing, newspapers, and how much effort goes into making a successful newspaper. I will forever be grateful for the experience the Express has given me. In fact, my love for writing, the past two years and Mrs. Loney, are all contributing factors that have helped me make my decision to pursue a career in journalism. I will be attending KU in the fall, majoring in strategic communications and minoring in business. Without her and the Express staff, I may have never discovered my passion for this field. Thank you, everyone! It’s been great.
Alli Kasick “High school is a lot like toilet paper, you will only miss it when it’s gone.” This quote could not explain my feelings towards high school any more thoroughly. As a freshman, I was so excited to start school just because I knew that I had four years left until I got to start a new chapter in my life. When sophomore year rolled around, I loved all the friends I had, but dreaded coming to school just to get endless hours of homework. The end of junior year is when it all started to hit me. I have spent 13 years with some of these people. My classmates are the people who shaped me into the person I am today. So, now as I’m writing my farewell to high school, I am so sad that it is coming to an end. I have been extremely lucky to attend Basehor-Linwood High School. I have gained a group of friends that I know I will always be close with, I was able to learn from the most caring and thoughtful people I have ever met, and I grew into somebody that I love. High school gave me the opportunity to join so many things that I never thought I would be in like powerlifting, FCCLA, and even the school newspaper. I am thankful for my four years here and can not imagine going anywhere else. So thank you and a see you later to all of you that have made it so special.
Rachael Bell It’s been an honor being on the newspaper staff the last few years. Having parties at least a few times a month, playing different games at the end of class all the time, and even a secret Santa gift exchange around Christmas, we have still managed to get out some amazing newspapers. You could say it’s been a fun time. As much as I’ll miss all of it, it’s time to say farewell and move on to bigger and better things. See ya!
Breann Drew I’m going to be one of those people that start my somewhat emotional and heartfelt farewell speech with a commonly used quote that everyone knows and loves. “Don’t cry because it’s over. Smile because it happened.” I believe this quote is very appropriate for this time because graduating from high school is a true blessing. A blessing that gives you the privilege to rid yourself from all the torture teachers cause you, the overload of homework, and the continuous agony of waking up every morning at six o’clock. That is why I shed so many tears of joy and smile with great pride because I know it is finally over. However, graduating from high school can also be depressing, and that is why I use such sarcasm when writing this because in reality I’m a total wreck about it all. Although it’s the end of the year, I want you to focus on all the good times you have had in high school. I want you to create everlasting memories that are spent with the people that mean the most to you because that’s what high school is about, and that’s what helped me through it. It’s about finding your true friends as well as finding who you are along the way. Friends are what make your high school years worth going through. So, my wish for you all is to discover who is most like you in every single way and create a bond with them that can never be broken. I certainly have that with my “sassy six” that I call my friends and I cannot be more happy that I accomplished that in high school. It will certainly be a struggle not seeing them every day, but it’s one that I’m most thankful for because I know they will always be there. High school grants you with many opportunities and experiences that you may never encounter again in the future. Some of my experiences in high school include me being involved in basketball, volleyball, and even choir. As much as you think that these events can’t affect you personally, you are wrong. They can change you completely. It gives you the privilege to meet new people, find new passions as well as make you realize what you don’t like. The point of this being do what you want to do. Do what makes you happy or what interests you, and once you do that don’t let it go or let anyone change that for you. High school is the place that shapes the person you are, don’t take that for granted. Overall, just have fun and enjoy it while it lasts because no matter how fast you want it to go by, you will miss it once it comes to an end.
Susette Garcia I would like to start off by apologizing to the administration, my past teachers, parents, and friends for having to put up with all me and all my shenanigans for the past four years. I’m sorry to my teachers for the lack of effort I’ve put into my work the last couple weeks of school out of eagerness to get out of here. To the administration, I’m sorry for participating in all of the inappropriate chants during basketball games even though we all knew Keeler would be over to yell at us. I’m sorry for the numerous times I forced my mom to call so I could be excused for not being at school or for calling me out of school during the middle of the day when I know that’s not school policy. To my mom, I’m sorry you had to put up with a rebellious teenage daughter who more then likely was in some type of trouble at any given time. But thank you for always letting me know you’d always be there for me regardless of the choices I ever decided to make for myself. To my friends and classmates, instead of listing my apologies I’d like to thank you for all the memories you’ve helped me create the past four years at BLHS. I wouldn’t go as far as saying that these past four years have been the BEST years of my life, but they definitely have been years I wouldn’t take back and years I’ll remember for the rest of my life. When I look back a everything we’ve gone through together in the past four years, it all doesn’t seem as bad as we make it out to be. I can’t express it enough how fast these years have gone by. Once again, thank you class of 2014 for the amazing unforgettable memories we made together. Love, Suse.
How Well Do You Know Your Seniors? ACROSS
DOWN
4. Stuco President 8. Won Big Brother 10. Went to Haiti on a mission trip 11. The oldest person in the class 13. Holds school record in the 2000m steeplechase 15. Played the role of Shrek 17. Last name that’s a body part 20. FCCLA President 23. Quarterback 2014 24. The youngest person in the class 26. Wrestling in college next year 27. Drives a motorcycle 28. Broke his back
1. Went to Africa for a semester 2. The lead role in the winter play 3. NHS President 5. Holds the school pole vault record 6. Can lick her elbow 7. Obsessed with Jordan shoes 9. Moved to Basehor from Germany 12. Has the most letters in their last name 13. Won Miss Leavenworth County 14. Can do karate 16. Going to Washington for college 18. Going into the Air Force Each student’s first and 19. Going to Ottawa last name makes up the to play golf answer. There are no 21. Homecoming King spaces between first and 2014 last names. 22. The tallest person in the class Answers on page 7 25. The first male cheerleader at BLHS
EXPRESS staff
Front Row: Susette Garcia, Allison Crist, Liz Morris, Rachael Bell, Breann Drew Back Row: Cassie Batesel, Alyssa Foster, Mitchell Mikinski, Ashley Novo-Gradac, Allison Kasick.
CONTACT US: expressblhs@gmail.com
Editor-in-Chief: Allison Crist Managing Editor: Mitchell Mikinski Adviser: Kristen Loney
@blhsnews
Make sure you visit BLHSNEWS.COM for the latest photos, news, scores, and videos from BLHS.