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NEWS 4 Everyday lunch menus in the KMC cafeteria are affected by policies, regulations and health requirements.
OPINIONS 8 Four reviewers tell about their experiences in classes essential to the KMC experience.
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AT THE THESPIAN CONFERENCE, junior Gabe Czepiel completes finishing touches on a Cowardly Lion costume for sophomore Andrew Hild Jan. 9. For the “Creative Costuming” event, students received a bag of materials and had to use everything, including the bag.
FEATURE 10 The visual difference between name-brand and off-brand clothing are often minimal, but the social effects may be more significant.
PALADIN staff CO-EDITORS IN CHIEF
rachel king, max martin
DESIGN EDITORS
kayla mitchell, laura schlapp
COPY EDITOR
kaitlin brennan
PHOTOGRAPHY EDITOR perry tretbar
ASST. PHOTOGRAPHY EDITOR emily baudouin
ADVERTISING/BUSINESS MANAGER
STUDENT 12 LIFE
sarah williams
NEWS EDITOR
emily adamson
STAFF WRITERS
bailey buer, katie gilbaugh, victoria gilliam, katelyn real, erika reals, bea tretbar, maggie wilson
PHOTOGRAPHERS
marcella brooks, sean doyle, kylee gross, andrea munevar, anna ninh, brian norris, chris poglayen, kelsey prather, lindsay smith, emily trollope, kealy tully, kylee watson, lindsey wiexelman
ADVISER
ashley perkins
OPINIONS EDITOR ali kryzer
The extracurricular activities of Crusaders are highlighted.
FEATURE EDITOR megan gaudreau
STUDENT LIFE EDITOR
COVER shot
gabi cleary
SPORTS EDITOR
SPORTS 16 Training and exercise methods change to incorporate technology in the 21st century. photo illustrations by kayla mitchell and laura schlapp
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nellie schafer
ASST. NEWS EDITOR danielle valliere
ASST. OPINIONS EDITOR alyssa bambick
ASST. FEATURE EDITOR katie moore
ASST. STUDENT LIFE EDITOR meredith osborne
ASST. SPORTS EDITOR anna le
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cover by kayla mitchell and laura schlapp
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Art competition showcases talent by BEA TRETBAR staff writer From Jan 27 to Feb 22 at the Wichita Center for the Arts, the regional Scholastic Art and Writing Awards is having an exhibition featuring art pieces from four Kapaun Mt. Carmel students. “I have tried my best entering the contest,” sophomore Michaela Lazzo said. “There are so many talented artists at KMC, hopefully their talent is recongnized.” This is the first year the art department is under the leadership of art teacher Lori Sprague after Brent Knott retired last year. “I am nervous about [the competition],” Sprague said. “[Knott] always had successful students in the Scholastics Awards. I feel pressure to be as successful.” Art teacher Steve Cost said when he taught at other schools, he always wanted his
students to compete with those at KMC. “KMC has always had a well-respected art program,” Cost said. “We have a lot of talent, we’ll continue to have a strong program.” The pieces that the judges found the most creative and accurately portrayed received awards. This year, senior Alexander Nguyen recieved the highest award, the Gold Key, which will allow his artwork to be in a National Competition. The contest also helps students wishing to pursue a career in art. “I work at a YMCA camp as an arts and craft director,” senior Kelsey Armstrong. “Next year, I am going to Emporia State and I want to become an art teacher.” For many students, entering the contest is enough for them. “I’ve never entered into it before, so it will be interesting,” sophomore Matthew Fey said. “I’ll be happy with whatever happens.”
perry tretbar
DISPLAYED IN THE ART CONTEST EXHIBIT, senior Jill Wyss’ piece received honorable mention in the regional Scholastic Art and Writing Awards contest.
Damaged field scheduled for repairs by ANNA LE asst. sports editor
kelsey prather
IN DISREPAIR AFTER CONSTRUCTION, the KMC softball field sits under a layer of ice. The field is scheduled to be repaired for the upcoming season.
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Broken glass, large rocks and patchy grass: This describes the Kapaun Mt. Carmel softball field in its current condition. “Unfortunately, the softball field was a victim of the construction of the new student commons,” John Heise, assistant principal and athletic director, said. “A large portion of the staging area took place on the field.” According to varsity softball player junior Courtney Born, the field’s current state makes it difficult for the team to practice. “The balls take weird hops,” Born said. “You have to watch out for the rocks and glass, and there is a higher chance for injury, which worries the coaches that someone
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will get injured and won’t be able to play in a game.” According to Chris Bloomer, assistant principal and activities director, the repairs will include planting new grass and adding another layer of shale on the infield. Efforts to repair the softball field started this year and will be finished before the 2009 softball season. “After the construction, practices will go a lot smoother and we’ll be able to practice to our full potential,” Born said. “We have to work around the bad parts of the field right now, but in the future, it will give us more room and more freedom to do what we need to do.” In addition to the softball field repairs, the KMC track will be remodeled beginning early this summer.
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Regulations, policies affect the cafeteria food students eat each day by EMILY ADAMSON & DANIELLE VALLIERE news editor & asst. news editor Long before most students’ alarm clocks ring on school days, there is activity in the kitchens of Kapaun Mt. Carmel. At 5:30 a.m., the ovens are turned on and preparations for breakfast begin. Soon, the focus shifts to lunch, and by 11:10 a.m., a complete meal is prepared for the more than 800 KMC students who may be eating in the cafeteria that day. Beyond the actual preparation, many other factors play a role in what food is on students’ plates every day. One of the largest aspects affecting lunches is government regulations. “Because we offer free and reduced lunches to students that qualify, there are strict regulations to be followed,” KMC President Mike Burrus said. “It is strict as to what you can charge, how much profit you can make and where we use the profit.” According to Jodi Mackey, Director of
Child Nutrition and Wellness for the Kansas State Department of Education, school menus must meet nutritional standards set by the Food and Nutrition Service of the United States Department of Agriculture. Regulations for public and private schools are identical. “It is never easy to provide meals that meet strict nutritional requirements, to operate within the limitations of tight budgets and time schedules, to prepare enough food, but not too much, to keep the food safe and to comply with a wide variety of complicated governmental requirements,” Mackey said. “However, dedicated school food service employees across Kansas routinely meet these challenges and produce quality meals that are enjoyed by students.” KMC head chef Denise Unruh, who has been at KMC since 2003, said other requirements include manufacturers putting special labels on any pre-made food that is purchased and keeping track of the amount of food used in the cafeteria each day. “I like cooking from scratch, so if I can I want to make it myself, so then I don’t need a little label,” Unruh said. “I just can record 50 pounds of meat in here, and a can of tomato paste in here…” The school Wellness Policy is one of the factors most affecting students due to the visible changes it has enacted. Burrus said
the Wellness Policy is in its third year in the diocese. “The most obvious way the Wellness Policy has affected the cafeteria is that we now have more balanced prepared meals,” Burrus said. “Before, not much attention was being paid to making sure all the food groups were present. Now, all the food groups come along with the main entrée.” Some of the most noticeable changes carried out by the group at KMC include the pop machines being shut down during parts of the school day and the transition to smaller cookies in 2006. “I think that not having [pop machines] is a positive,” junior Cody Saunders said. “A lot of people drink it and don’t realize that it’s detrimental to their health. Also, not having [pop machines] shows that our school promotes good nutrition.” Taking all of these policies and regulations into consideration, Unruh has prepared menus for 50-60 different meals, of which she chooses about 20 of the healthiest and most popular to be regularly cycled into the monthly cafeteria menu at KMC. “I just want more variety,” Unruh said. “I wish I could spend more time with individual kids and find out what they really like…and cook more things, not just the high calorie stuff.”
infographic by laura schlapp
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arthead by laura schlapp
infograpic by laura schlapp
perry tretbar
MOVING THROUGH THE LUNCH LINE, sophomore Luke Campbell scans his finger so cafeteria worker Gabriella Huber can charge his lunch for the day.
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perry tretbar
WITH A PAN OF FRESH FOCCACIA BREAD, head chef Denise Unruh prepares the main cafeteria entree for the day.
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NEWS briefs
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Hall of Fame to induct Kriwiel
Longtime Kapaun Mt. Carmel coach Ed Kriwiel will be inducted into the Kansas State High School Activity Association Hall of Fame Feb. 13. The induction will take place in the KMC gym on Senior Night during halftime of the boys basketball game against Bishop Carroll. Seats are being reserved for alumni who played for Kriwiel. Large crowds are expected. Seats will also be available in the commons, where the games and induction will be televised.
Debate competes at state
The debate team placed third of 39 teams at the 5A State debate tournament hosted by Washburn Rural Jan. 23. Senior Jake Lazzo and junior Geoff Atkinson had a 5-1 record and made it through the quarter-finals, but lost in the semifinals. With a 4-2 record, senior Andrew Patton and junior Katie Sol just missed the quarter-finals. The forensics team will have its first meet Feb. 7.
Science olympiad places third
The Science Olympiad team placed third at the Thunder Invitational Science Olympiad Tournament Jan. 17. First place medalists were seniors Jason Lund and Alison Sanchez in Chem Lab and sophomores Seamus Bann and Michael Schlapp in Remote Sensing. Second place medalists included Lund and senior Daniel Glover in Physics Lab, Sanchez, senior Alexander Crownover and Glover in Experimental Design and Sanchez and sophomore Erika Demel in Disease Detectives. Glover and junior Alison Huffman placed third in Health Science. Fourth place medalists were freshmen Aaron Wolf and Aaron Nguyen in Elevated Bridge and Trajectory, Sanchez and Bann in Forensics and Lund and sophomore Andrew Betzen in It’s About Time. news briefs by danielle valliere
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Addiction to name-brands comes at high cost to character, economy Abercrombie & Fitch shirt: $50. American Eagle jeans: $49.50. Nike shoes: $100. Owning the perfect, name-brand outfit: far from priceless. One cannot turn on the television without being bombarded by dozens of commercials advertising the latest in fashion and technology. Every mall is full of stores offering high-end (and highpriced) name-brand clothing. There is nothing wrong with owning nice things, but at what cost do we surrender ourselves for the latest and greatest products? Consumerism and materialism in the United States are like an epidemic. From movies to magazines, music videos to television shows — every media outlet is telling us that we need to buy and buy name-brand. Teenagers and adults alike are victims in this trap and are choosing to buy high-priced products for label recognition and the consequential image boost. Today, society promotes the ideal that the clothing really does make the man, especially if that man is wearing namebrand. Our addiction to wellknown labels comes at a high
Will work for food. Spent all money at the mall. PALADIN opinion
leah grant
cost. Today’s economy offers little wiggle room when it comes to extra spending money. According to MSN Money, the average American household carries more than $8,000 in credit card debt. Now, more than ever, we need to be conscious of how we spend and reconsider the purchases that we make. The transition can be made one step at a time; no one has to quit spending cold turkey. This
means passing over label brands for their generic counterparts, which often surpass the competition in both cost and quality. The little things we do to cut spending will make our wallets and bank accounts much happier. A change in perspective is also necessary. Less emphasis should be put on material possessions and more added to personal character and actions.
letter from the editors:
While being bit by the love bug is not necessarily a bad thing, the word ‘love’ should hold more meaning than just a nice expression. Next time you Over the years, the word “love” has tell someone you love them, actually taken on many different meanings. Back mean what you are saying. This way the in kindergarten, love was a word we said person will know you care about him or to our mom before walking into school. her and are not just putting on a show. Around fourth As you are grade, or second filling out your for those of us a bit While being bit by the love bug Batman or Dora ahead of the game, the Explorer it brought more is not necessarily a bad thing, valentines, do not serious implications the word ‘love’ should hold forget about the as we finally Paladin staff. In mustered enough more meaning than just a nice Room 215, we are courage to say it expression. always looking for to our sweetheart love. Write us a (Although we letter of 200 words usually had a friend, through a friend, or less (it does not have to say I love through another friend, do the talking.) you) and tell us about any comments Now in high school, love is or criticisms you may have about the everywhere. Logging-on to Facebook, school or our publication. Potentially one sees that Sherry Ray is “I LOVE libelous statements will not be printed. JOSH SO MUCH!!!” Walking down the Please drop it off in Room 215 or mail it hallway, one sees lockers with colorful to the address on the right. signs saying “Happy birthday Kelly, we Rachel King & Max Martin love you.” Simply put, teenagers are not co-editors in chief usually shy about expressing their love.
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opinions
What we wear does not define who we are. Although first impressions are often important, judgments of character should not be based solely on our outerwear. An expensive exterior does not make up for a flawed interior. Society should revert its thinking and reconsider its famed saying because it is the man and his character that make the clothing, not the other way around.
EDITORIAL policy The Paladin is a monthly, student-produced newsmagazine, published to inform and entertain the Kapaun Mt. Carmel Catholic High School community and educate journalism students. Each issue is produced with the guidance of a faculty adviser. Student staff members will be offered opportunities to inform, investigate, entertain, interpret and evaluate: all accepted functions of traditional American press. Included materials will be those of responsible journalism, including restraint by the students and adviser in matters such as libel, privacy, obscenity and copyright. The staff chooses to reflect the mission of Kapaun Mt. Carmel, a diocesan Catholic high school, to serve the interests and needs of the community and to provide fair, objective, accurate and truthful materials. Opinions do not necessarily reflect views of anyone other than the Paladin staff. Digital photos have not been altered to manipulate reality. Photo illustrations are labeled to reflect any technical alterations. Anonymity may be given in the following cases: the information is unable to be presented another way, the information warrants anonymity, the source’s privacy and/or reputation requires protection and the source must be protected from damages. A student or faculty member death during the coverage period will be covered with a short obituary. Advertising must meet the same guidelines as editorial content. Acceptance of advertising does not constitute an endorsement by the school. Students pictured in advertising must sign a release and accept no 8506 E. Central monetary compensation. Wichita, Kan. 67206 Advertising rates available Phone: (316) 634-0315, ext. 232 on request. School organization discount rates Fax: (316) 636-2437 are available. kmcjournalism@kapaun.org Corrections of errors will appear in the appropriate section of the next issue.
KAPAUN MT. CARMEL paladin
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Multiple personality disorder, OCD, schizophrenia: all are rare, but can be found in one class at KMC: college psychology. Renee LaFever’s Diet Coke fetish and laid-back personality make learning entertaining. Not only does she select documentaries that are appealing, but also she has an ability to bring perspective to the lessons while making everything understandable and felt on a personal level.
I dislike school dances. decorated car, your date’s name There, I said it out loud. Each written across the skyline of dance I tell myself this will Wichita — it never ends. It all begs the question, why be the one; I will enjoy this Homecoming or this Sweetheart. do we put up with these silly But as the time creeps closer, the traditions? We are a completely different generation than our monsters begin to surface. parents and grandparents. Afternoons of torment We no longer need corsages begin at the mall where my and hour-long couples’ well-intentioned mother pictures to complete our throws dresses at me that high school experience. I can never quite squeeze Perhaps we into. Then the terrors of should start our own searching for stilettos that traditions. Ones where could double as medieval we could have all the torture instruments arrive. fun, social aspects of the The battle of finding night without the added what to wear, however, pressure of dressing up pales in comparison to the and attending a politics of finding school function who to go with. First, by ALI KRYZER that is supervised “The Group” must opinions editor by the same people be decided. These who give us our allegiances are formed six weeks before the dance. All detentions. How about an all school the while, behind-the-scenes negotiations concerning how camping trip where the only to “package” couples and acceptable form of footwear accommodate “two for one” would be tennis shoes? Also, deals would rival Middle Eastern no hairspray allowed (unless to Foreign Policy debates. Many start the fire). Or how about we a switch-and-ditch has been just listen to a local band rather performed, too (think Colin than Shout, Soldier Boy and the Electric Slide? Powell). Although most of my ideas As if that pressure is not enough, now guys have to come could be called ridiculous, I am up with a clever way to ask sure someone could dream up the girls. It is like running for several other proposals. I know office; each campaign has to that I am not the only school be stronger than the last. For dance misfit. But hey, if the shoe example, a sign on a locker, a doesn’t fit, don’t wear it. Right Up Your Ali is a monthly column
graphic by kayla mitchell, laura schlapp; reviews by megan gaudreau, ali kryzer, max martin, meredith osborne
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information obtained by katelyn real; information from www.artandwriting. com,www.betseyjohnson. com,www.marchforlife. org,www.reviews.cnet. com; infographic by laura schlapp
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Which type of clothing - namebrand or off-brand - do you prefer more and why?
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graphic by laura schlapp
“PC or Mac?” I cannot deny their appeal. Not only do When this question is asked in the they come in exciting colors and shapes, movie Burn after Reading, I address the but they appear to be more basic TV with my answer “PC, of course.” than PCs. Despite my inexperience As a firm patron of PCs, I have found with Macs, I like to think that with myself surrounded by Microsoft time and practice I can eventually Windows all my life. My first master the supposed simpler computer was a classic, complete programming. Although Macs are with a colossal monitor and thick not as common as PCs, they are beige keyboard, and Windows ’95. not plagued with as many viruses. Presently, I have a computer with There is a wide range of pros and Windows XP that has been by my cons. side for four years. I aim to master a Mac sometime My first experience with a Mac in the near-distant future. I realize was nothing less than traumatic. I that I cannot be acquainted only with opened the MacBook trying to find PCs because Apple has as much, if something familiar within not more, to offer than its the desktop, yet nothing by GABI CLEARY counterpart. But since I came into view. Searching student life editor was raised with Microsoft, for Internet Explorer, I I prefer remaining with my found Safari; hoping to PC for now. Watching Burn after Reading locate Outlook, I found Entourage. After the next time, I will find myself thinking embarrassing myself with this Apple twice after the question “PC or Mac?” is product, I realized it would be safer to asked; nonetheless, I do not think I will return to my friendly PC. be able to stop my lips from forming the Experimenting further with Macs, letters “P”-“C.” “Hi, I’m a Mac. And I’m a PC.” This is someone preferred Photoshop, then the opener for a popular Mac commercial there is a simple fix — Macs can upload where the PC is represented as a nerd any program quickly while you are and the Mac is a cooler and more laid on the Internet. PCs may have back guy. These funny commercials are the reputation for allowing more definitely entertaining, but there are creativity, but Macs can also allow many other reasons why I will never creativity. part with my Mac computer. Then one day, an intruder I cannot remember a time entered the household. My dad’s when I did not have a Mac. work required him to get a PC My Mac has helped me through laptop. I was curious at first. My countless hours of grueling homework brother and I tried the games, but and 12-page papers. When the power as soon as I got on the Internet I would go out because of bad weather, lost interest fast. The Internet I knew I would not have to worry; my speed could not compare to that of Mac has a “Time Machine” my Mac. So after that initial button. I can set it to by KATIE GILBAUGH week of curiosity, the PC automatically and wirelessly was left untouched. staff writer save all data on my computer The war between every 5 minutes, every hour Macs and PCs will never or in whatever increments I choose. end. Some people swear the Mac is lifeUploading and editing pictures is also changing while others believe the PC easier on the Mac. My iPhoto application cannot be outdone. Myself, I cannot be lets me organize pictures based on time persuaded to make the change. Using or event. I can also get rid of red-eye or any other brand of computer would feel fix basic problems through iPhoto. If like a betrayal to my own precious Mac.
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If it’s cheaper, you will risk the structural integrity. It’s fine to go off-brand you just have to be careful you are not sacrificing quality for price.
ALEXANDER CROWNOVER senior
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Off-brand. It is basically the same thing except namebrand has a logo. I’m not going to waste my money just for a logo.
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STEPHANIE SOLIS junior
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O f f - b r a n d because I can be a leader. I always want to be unique, different and start something new.
AMANDA MARRONE sophomore
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I don’t have a preference. I never grew up with namebrand clothing, but in high school, seeing other people wearing it definitely influences you.
MATTHEW GALLEY freshman
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information obtained by bailey buer
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Name brand clothing extension of self, desire for acceptance by MEGAN GAUDREAU feature editor A pair of bootcut True Religion Brand jeans costs $262 at Neiman Marcus. A pair of bootcut Levi jeans costs $40 at JC Penney. Both are similar styles; both are made of blue denim; both provide warmth and protection. Why would a person want to pay $262 for a pair of jeans when they can purchase a similar pair for $40? The answer lies in marketing or branding. According to Matthew Wilson, sales associate at Ralph Lauren in New York City, branding has as much to do with psychology as it does with selling merchandise. Brand managers and employees who create marketing for a designer realize that once people’s basic needs are met, it is human nature for them to want to meet their psychological deficiency needs. When a person sees an advertisement portraying an attractive model in designer clothes, it is often appealing, leaving the person wanting a similar look. “Advertisements for designer clothes grab people’s attention because they are flashy, exciting and unusual,” senior Sara Ragan said. “I definitely think an attractive advertisement can persuade a person to buy a product. If I see an ad with a cute handbag or pair of jeans, it makes me wonder where I can buy them.” Psychologist Abraham Maslow developed a hierarchy of needs one must achieve in order to reach total self-fulfillment. His theory of human motivation states that after physiological and safety needs are met, the next aspect is social needs. “I don’t think it is necessary for a person to have designer clothes to feel confident, but looking nice certainly adds self-confidence,” Ragan said. “I think it
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is more a matter of feeling good in your clothes rather than having the most expensive designer dress.” The type of clothing a person chooses to wear often identifies the image the person desires for himself. “Fashion is an exciting part of our culture and there are lots of reasons people choose to dress the way they do,” Genevieve Gordon, co-owner of Genevieve G Shoes and manager of Brick’s, said. “For some, it is an extension of their personality; some want to be well put together and presentable. Some may want to be in the hottest brands out there.” While some brands aim for the mass market, others target a smaller, more exclusive niche by providing their customers with an interesting design, a well made product, something that has not been saturated in the marketplace. “Quality lies in design, materials and fit,” Gordon said. “That may or may not come with a logo. You can get quality products anywhere. My favorite tank tops are from Target, but for me, I would not invest in a pair of trousers there.” Successful branding creates a subconscious feeling that the brand understands the buyer. It is this sense of well-being and belonging that typifies effective marketing. “For me, shoes, clothing, fashion are among the greatest art forms,” said Gordon. “They are always changing, reinventing, improving products and bringing the market something new to want and desire. It is thrilling to pursue fashion, to shop for things, to try them on, to purchase and finally to wear. It makes you feel good when you are well-dressed for your events of the day.”
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Sweat pants clash with designer duds
graphics by kayla mitchell
While shopping around in Kansas City, there is always one store that I have to stop in and admire — Betsey Johnson. The creativity and design of the dresses can fascinate me for quite some time. I quickly grow disinterested, however, because every time I touch a dress, a disdainful gasp is heard from the corner of the store as if my grubby fingers are lowering the retail value. After a couple times of being treated like a finger painting kindergartner, I decided to do an experiment. That morning, in my T-shirt and sweat pants, I purposely looked more unappealing than my last visit. After getting snide glances, the sales lady curtly asked my mother if she needed any help. She did not speak to her daughter who looked like Pig-Pen from Peanuts. That evening, my mother and I returned. I had showered, put on some makeup and was wearing a name-brand or two -not that it mattered to me. It did matter, however, to the sales lady.. Immediately, I was asked if there KATIE MOORE were any dresses asst. feature editor I wanted to try on and if my mom wanted a beverage. Through this experience, I learned something more than how to put a snobby sales lady in her place. I found out that sometimes in today’s world, it is hard to escape the effect that material possessions have on other people. Every day becomes an opportunity for a person to buy the best things he can, and identify himself with them. The worst part is judgment is sometimes passed on people because of what they have, not who they are. Instead of judging others by the logo displayed on their chest, give them a chance to prove themselves beyond what will be in style next week.
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arthead by laura schlapp
Staffers share experiences with 3 long-standing KMC teachers Voluminous hair, tortoiseshell glasses and an infinite love for her dogs, Foxy Brown and Teddy: these are three of the many things that pop into my mind when I think of English teacher Pat Raglin. Walking into Room 111 for the first time my sophomore year, I was surprised that she recognized my last name during roll call. “You must be Denis’ daughter,” I remember her saying. “I hope you’re not as obnoxious as he was.” I was quick to discover not only did she teach my father, but she also taught the rest of his siblings as well. “It is fun to see how students are like their parents,” Raglin said. “Or, in some cases, the total opposite.” Raglin said her favorite part of teaching is the students at KMC, and that she grows to know them very well. “I like the fact that they’re really good little people, and that they grow up to be my friends,” Raglin said. “I know that if anything happened to me, they would take care of me.” Raglin said she would like to be remembered as an outstanding teacher, someone who made the learning experience fun. “There is no reason why you cannot have fun while learning,” Raglin said. Although her class was unpredictable and demanding at times, I cannot deny how much I have learned — and how much fun I have had in the process. Whether it was dressing up in togas to act out Julius Caesar’s assassination, expanding my vocabulary with words like “Kafka-esque” or penning Chaucerian poems for teachers, the students in Room 111 have a myriad of memories to remember her class by. “I love my students because they become my family,” Raglin said. “They are bright and creative — you never know what to expect. My job is anything but dull.”
1978
story by gabi cleary
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“I heard he could once bench press over 500 pounds.” “People say he studied mathematics with the imperial rulers of Japan.” Rumors swirl about every teacher at Kapaun Mt. Carmel; however, few are as outrageous as those pertaining to Chris Van Sickel. Van Sickel, or CV$ (CVmoney) as he is more popularly known, is originally from Hoisington, Kan., where he was the third of six children. Due to his father’s job in the Air Force, he lived in Germany, Denver, Japan, Georgia and then back in Kansas all before the eighth grade. He majored in mathematics at the University of Kansas. He then worked for two years as an engineer before realizing that teaching was his calling. “I felt I would be more helpful [teaching] than designing business jets for multi-millionaires,” Van Sickel said. In 1990 Van Sickel was hired by KMC and has been here ever since. While most of his time is spent in Room 202, Van Sickel’s hobbies outside of school include working out (he recently started taking yoga classes), walking his dog, reading police/crime stories and riding his Suzuki Boulevard motorcycle. As time elapsed, I looked down at my paper and realized I did not have any questions left to ask him. I was actually somewhat saddened by this because it did not even feel like an interview any more. Rather, it was more like two friends just talking. For anyone who has had Van Sickel, they will know this sense of comfort can be attributed to his character – personable, friendly, easygoing and helpful. Despite this short column, hopefully I have shed some light on the mystery that is CV$. Although he could only bench 355 pounds and he only learned basic mathematics in Japan, Chris Van Sickel is still one of the most recognizable and memorable teachers at KMC.
1991
story by max martin
F r o m sixth grade on, I developed a strong dislike of Diet Coke. One can imagine then, how amazed I was to witness Social Sciences teacher Renee LaFever’s passion for the drink. That, however, wasn’t the only thing that amazed me about my first psychology class. LaFever has an ability to relate to students, which is apparent by her “fan base” who loyally bring her 12- packs and two liters of her favorite beverage. Sociology and psychology classes are taught in a lecture format to prepare students for college. Although studying for an all essay test can be a daunting task, LaFever assured my Block 7 class that it too will prepare us for college. “I love that we offer so many college classes for almost no money,” LaFever said. Along with notes, we are shown a video twice a month. Upon watching a video, we are encouraged to pay attention to facial expressions, and I end up learning a lot about the individuals in the video through LaFever’s guidance. My favorite thing about LaFever’s class is the passion she possesses, not only for her field of study, but also for her students. “[At KMC] we offer a great religious education as well as education in general,” LaFever said. “The staff and students are amazing. I think everyone is bright with an intelligent sense of humor.” First hand accounts of working in a clinic make me thankful that she really knows the subject matter she teaches. My class never gets rowdy, because LaFever has an uncanny quality to get everyone interested. Often during class, I’ll find my mouth open, displaying my level of interest. Every B-day, I look forward to Block 7, where I know a funny, highly caffeinated, lady will open my mind to the world of psychology.
1985
story by meredith osborne
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sean doyle
perry tretbar
TO DEPICT STAGE III CONSTRUCTION, senior Alaina Anderson paints on the commons wall Jan. 26. The drawing shows the future commons and gym.
IN A MENTAL INSTITUTION, juniors Nick Catanese and Jennifer Erskin, sophomore Bruce Hadley and junior Schuyler Stump perform in Harvey Jan. 28.
graphic by kayla mitchell
kelsey prather
AT AN ECOLOGY CLUB MEETING, juniors Ellen Bergkamp, Veronica Bello-Ogunu and Stacy Mullen sign up to collect recycling boxes in classrooms Jan. 13.
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student life
emily trollope
TO PREPARE A CHICKEN TENDER MEAL, sophomore Lana L’Heureux chops up poultry in Foods II Jan. 21.
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INSIDE THE LINES
GABE MONTEMAYOR
ACTIVITY: Senior Gabe Montemayor prepares to throw the ball during practice on Jan. 21 at the Alley.
emily trollope
To prepare for matches, senior Gabe Montemayor listens to music, bowling to the rhythm of a certain song. “Usually I listen to rock, anything that gets me pumped up,” Montemayor said. With 12 years of experience, Montemayor is the lead bowler for the Kapaun Mt. Carmel bowling team. “I would watch my parents bowl as a kid,” Montemayor said. “I started in my first bowling league when I was seven years old and have been bowling ever since.” Montemayor is a key player on the team. Whether he is giving the newcomers tips or focusing on the game, he is always there to support the team, according to senior Jessica Shea. “[Montemayor] has a great personality, and he is an important player,” Shea said. “His complete attitude and positive re-enforcement are crucial.” In 2007, Montemayor placed second at regionals individually, and last year the team placed third at state. This year Montemayor hopes the team will place in the top three in city league and then advance to state after regionals. “He bowls consistently and very well,” coach Marie Thomas said. “He goes out and leads by example.” Montemayor is devoted to his sport, according to Thomas. “I have come from a new bowler to third at state,” Montemayor said. The next bowling match will be Feb. 9 against North at Thunderbird Bowling Alley. story by katie gilbaugh
SPORTS briefs Girls team prepares for rematch
The Kapaun Mount Carmel girls basketball team defeated North 51-45 at KMC Jan. 20. Senior Andrea Lantz had a team-high score of 14 points, followed by senior Nellie Schafer and junior Alexandria Rodriguez, both with 8 points. In the first quarter, the Crusaders held a 13-5 lead against the Redskins, but before halftime North made a comeback and the score was 26-28. “We need to limit our fouling, and move our feet instead of our hands,” coach Damian Smithhisler said. By the fourth quarter, KMC had a 7point lead, and held North scoreless for the last 3:30 of the game. KMC scored just enough free throws to stay ahead. “We got into some foul trouble the first half, but by the end of the game, we used zone defense and dominated,” senior Jill Wyss said. The Crusaders play Heights Feb. 6 at KMC. Despite a loss to Heights earlier this season, the team has confidence in this game, and is going to focus on handling
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pressure, finishing the shots and not turning the ball over, Smithhisler said. “We need to not get into foul trouble like the last Heights game,” Wyss said. “If we do that and play smart, it should be a good game.”
Wrestling strives to improve
The wrestling team received a wake-up call after its 22-48 loss against Northwest Jan. 22. “We didn’t give it our best effort and fight for a win,” junior Tim Wescott said. “Mediocrity is not enough. We need to stay tough and actually wrestle for the whole six minutes.” Although disappointed with the outcome, coach Tim Nance was impressed with the efforts of his inexperienced players. “The younger guys went out and gave it their all,” Nance said. According to Nance, the team still has a lot of room for improvement, such as staying consistent and searching for opportunities to set up and take down. “At the duel, we found out we are not the most talented team,” Wescott said. “We need to work harder if we want a chance to hang with the top wrestlers.” The team will face East Feb. 12 at 7 p.m. at Kapaun Mt. Carmel.
Boys basketball beats North
Even with an ever-changing score and two key players fouled out of the game, Kapaun Mt. Carmel defeated North 57-55 Jan. 27. The Crusaders led consistently the first half, but in the third quarter their lead began to diminish. KMC secured the win with a lay up by junior Dyllon Knox with 12.1 seconds remaining in the game. “It was a great feeling going into the locker room,” coach Bernie Pearson said. “We found a way to make a play and have a big victory.” According to Pearson, the game strategy was to contain dribbles, rebound, execute offensively and exhaust North’s players. “We played hard,” sophomore Keaton Lewis said. “It was shaky at times when we let them come back at the beginning of the second half, but we pulled through.” Pearson said the team’s main weaknesses were turnovers and free throws. “[We need] to continue to gel as a team, minimize mistakes, and have everyone contribute when [he has] the opportunity,” Pearson said. KMC plays Heights at home Feb. 6. briefs written by bailey buer, anna le, erika reals
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Technology combines with classic techniques to create alternatives in ever yday workout routines; students weigh pros, cons of methods by NELLIE SCHAFER sports editor
the way through. It doesn’t go from intense to slow, but keeps the steady, upbeat pace the whole time.” According to Goodner, his running Video games and surfing the Web are some of the furthest activities from working playlist is more upbeat, while the one used out and getting in shape; however, as during weightlifting is more hard core, but continuous advancements become available, neither has just one particular genre of music. technology may Junior Caroline Kastor’s become one of the everyday workouts include best ways to stay “When I am not at practices, I will running long distances, healthy. sprinting, light weightlifting The iPod, Wii use my iPod. Music provides high and an abdominal routine. Fit, Dance Dance “When I am not at Revolution (DDR) energy when I’m getting ready for and http://www. a game, and when I’m going into a practices, I will use my iPod and music,” Kastor said. gyminee.com are just “Music provides high energy a few examples of workout it is always fast-paced.” when I’m getting ready for a technology that can junior CAROLINE KASTOR game, and when I’m going improve a workout. into a workout it is always The simplest electronic devices used in exercise generally fast-paced.” Music is not the only electronic device concern music, whether it is played on a CD that can help one get in shape. The Wii Fit or an iPod. “I workout three to four times a week is a program designed to focus on different and I definitely listen to music,” freshman levels of yoga, balance, strength training and football and basketball player Graham aerobics. The Wii Fit is convenient because Goodner said. “My playlist is the same all it can be used at home. Kapaun Mt. Carmel
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math teacher Rhonda McDaniel uses the Wii Fit, and said it has pros and cons. “I like that it records everything, but there is always a long waiting period so you will be active for a short time, but then you have to stop,” McDaniel said. “There are a lot of things that you have to click through and it takes away from your exercise time. It is just not the same as doing cardio at the gym.” The tree pose, deep breathing, leg extensions, torso twists, hula hooping, side to side basic step, ski slalom and the table tilt are some activities on the Wii Fit workout. According to McDaniel, since she works 10 hours everyday she does not have much time to get the on the Wii Fit, but does use it every weekend. “More than anything it is just really fun, especially when I play with my kids,” McDaniel said. “It gets competitive, and we have a great time. You get more hand-eye coordination, especially with the balance activities.” Sophomore Molly Sullentrop uses the Wii Fit every other day to do yoga and run, and also practices balancing in the hula hoop
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Virtual yoga class rivals real-life gym experience
game. According to Sullentrop, the Wii Fit is more convenient than the gym. “I can get on the Wii Fit whenever I want to,” Sullentrop said. “I don’t have to plan out going to the Y in my schedule.” DDR was invented by Konami as a music video game series. and was released in 1999 in America. Players stand on the dance platform and hit colored arrows with their feet to the musical cues. As the player continues to progress they are rewarded with faster-paced music.. Freshman Nick Cook said he uses DDR four or five times a month. “It helps with hand eye coordination and balance,” Cook said. “You have to have quick feet because you constantly move them side to side or forward and back. It’s a really good workout.” Another piece of technology is a Web site, gyminee.com. It tracks weight loss and calorie intake, provides online accountability and motivation. The site allows users to track workouts, monitor diets and reach goals. It’s layout has one log-in and
brings up the home page which includes different workout programs, food diary, social network, fitness groups and fitness and weight loss challenges. The workout program comes with educational and instructional videos. At the same time, the Web site keeps track of reps, weight, distance and heart rate. The food diary shows a database of more than 67,000 foods and recipes. It also watches one’s intake of calories, fats, carbs and protein. “Gymbuddies” are a part of the fitness social network and are online friends that give encouragement when one may fall behind or congratulations when progress has been made. Individuals can also join groups for anything from weight loss to rock climbing. The site helps push people with a more competitive edge by offering challenges based on running, biking, swimming, weightlifting and weight loss. Whether a person prefers reaching physical fitness with weights or a joystick in hand, technology allows everyone the opportunity to design a personal workout plan.
Whoever said class, the room was dim, physical exercise causes the instructor’s voice was people to feel better about soothing and things were themselves obviously has calm. Under the watchful not met my Wii Fit yoga eye of my instructor, I trainer. could not take the easy way The game begins out on a pose. with my virtual trainer Although virtual informing me of many and actual yoga differed, things. His favorite phrase a couple things is, “Yoga is a great way to remained the improve one’s posture.” same — one being While doing yoga on my competitive Wii Fit, it proves to be nature. I could not an even better way to understand why improve one’s ego — or the woman in the completely obliterate it. corner, who was Wii Fit starts by 50 years my senior, measuring the player’s could do poses that Body Mass Index. This is would have me on where the virtual ridicule the floor. begins. The game has no A n o t h e r problem telling me if it similarity was the fact thinks I am underweight that I have a hard time or overweight. taking things seriously. At After I picked the pose one point, the instructor I wanted to try, the goal told the class, “Be like quickly became the lotus by KATIE MOORE to achieve the plant in the highest score mud.” I had asst. feature ed. possible — even to fight off if this means snickering. bending the rules, and not No matter how hokey my body, just the right way parts of the real yoga to beat the suckers who experience might have tried to top my score. been, it left me a little After this somewhat sore the next day, which negative experience, I was something neither my decided to take an actual Wii Fit trainer nor I could yoga class. Walking into the argue with.
arthead, infographic by laura schlapp
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CRUSADER
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scores
boys BASKETBALL
Opponent
VARSITY Bishop Carroll 1/9 East 1/10 South 1/13 West 1/16 Bluestem Classic 1/22-24 North 1/27 JV Bishop Carroll 1/9 East 1/10 South 1/13 West 1/16 North 1/27 SOPH. Bishop Carroll 1/9 East 1/10 South 1/13 West 1/16 Derby 1/26 North 1/27 FR. Bishop Carroll 1/9 Maize 1/12 South 1/13 West 1/16 North 1/27
69 90 57 59 55 33 64 55 56 49 41 72 29 43 58 44 35 56 26 40 45
girls BASKETBALL
VARSITY Bishop Carroll 1/9 East 1/10 South 1/13 West 1/16 North 1/20 JV Bishop Carroll 1/9 East 1/10 South 1/13 West 1/16 North 1/20 C-TEAM Maize 1/12 West 1/16 Bishop Carroll 1/19 West 1/16 North 1/20
boys WRESTLING
VARSITY JV
Bishop Carroll Inv. 1/10 Southeast 1/15 West 1/22 Southeast 1/15 West 1/22
girls BOWLING VARSITY JV
Bishop Carroll Inv. 1/10 Southeast 1/15 West 1/22 Southeast 1/15 West 1/22
boys SWIMMING
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sports
43 52 75 69 Sixth 57 34 42 52 65 59 54 46 53 60 68 72 47 46 52 58 55
Opponent
VARSITY Northwest 1/8 East 1/8 Heights 1/15 North 12/10
KMC
70 55 42 43 37 54 29 98 45 51 63 55 34 39 24 70 6 72 36 51 26 34 4 41 29 53 46 51 18 37
Opponent
VARSITY Heights 1/18 55 Southwest Classic 1/10 North 1/15 29 Kapaun Inv. 1/17 Northwest 1/22 48
boys BOWLING
KMC
Opponent
KMC 14 Sixth 45 Third 22
KMC
11th 2571 2550 2222 2304 1831 1892 1646 1952
Opponent
KMC
21st 2136 1772 1616 1762 1137 1509 1440 1015
Opponent 66 104 79 21
KMC 117 76 90 73
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andrea munevar
MID-STROKE, junior Christian Kehr competes in the butterfly at Wichita Swim Club Jan. 8.
Medley Relay Places First by MAGGIE WILSON staff writer Though the water was frigid because of a broken pool heater during the swim meet at South Jan. 22, Kapaun Mt. Carmel still managed to dominate the Titans, 73-21. “It was a pretty successful meet,” sophomore Simon Latimer said. “A lot of us swam our best times.” 24 boys participated in the meet. KMC won first place for both the 160-yard medley and freestyle relays, with times of 1:25 and 1:16. The medley relay team included senior Ryan Maloney, junior Cody Lonergan, sophomore Ryan Zwick and freshman Paul Knapp. The freestyle team included junior Daniel Stuart and sophomore Matthew Louis, Latimer and Zwick. Other first-place events included Louis in the 200- and 500-yard freestyle, Maloney in the 160-yard individual medley and the 100-yard backstroke, Zwick in the 60- and 100-yard freestyle, Knapp in the 100-yard butterfly and Lonergan in the 100-yard breaststroke. “Our team has representatives from every class,” Knapp said. “We’ve only lost to East, so I think we have a pretty good chance at winning city.” The next competition will be the Greater Wichita Athletic League championship at Northwest Feb. 12.
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