Student Choice Awards 2014 Issue 1 | Volume 2 | Dec. 15, 2014
2 | STUDENT CHOICE AWARDS
Student Choice Awards
Letter from the Editors O
n a sticky July afternoon at the Media Now Journalism camp in St. Louis, we sat across the lunch table from our publication advisers, ate mediocre pasta and talked about newspaper. Out of that conversation came the ideas that grew into the paper you hold in your hands — a collaborative issue between Lawrence High and Free State. Naming such a issue initially presented a challenge. We threw around ridiculous combinations of our respective publications: “The Free Budget,” “The Budget Press,” “The Bree Preget.” Finally, with the help of our advisers, we settled on “The Student Choice Awards” because we wanted to create something that expressed the opinions of both schools’ student bodies and showcased local eateries, recreational facilities, businesses and more. We worked together to decide which categories we wanted students to voice their preference about. We considered “Best Place to Smoke Weed” and “Best Restaurant with Health Code Violations,” but eventually settled on
categories our advisers considered “school appropriate” (lame). In October, we surveyed more than 2,000 students from both schools about their favorite local spots and businesses in 20 different categories. We spent an estimated 2,000 hours tallying the results. (The counting didn’t actually take us that long, but it sure felt like it did.) We got some obnoxious responses and chain store nominations — none of which were considered in the tally. Sorry, but Jesus is not the best senior photographer, McDonald’s is not the best place to buy secondhand clothes and Ebola is not the best dish served in the cafeteria. Frankly, after reading some of your responses, we suggest you seek professional help. You know who you are. This issue came from hours at the library in front of laptops and half-eaten Cosmic brownies, as well as substantial time spent in both schools’ newsrooms ironing out the inevitable wrinkles and hiccups. This issue came from one of our moms having a breakdown after helping count surveys for eight hours. This issue came
from each editor gently and passive-aggressively pushing the other school’s staff toward our own preferences for advertising, design, photography and copy editing until we finally developed suitable compromises, as you see here. This issue is the vessel of the little sanity we had at the end of the semester. Please ignore the blood stains and tears on page 16. Joking aside, the collaborative effort we put into the Student Choice Awards issue reminded
us that our schools relations don’t have to be limited to city showdown games and vandalism. We can form partnerships and, out of those partnerships, true friendships. It’s worth reaching across 15th street every once in awhile. Enjoy. Kyra Haas and Zia Kelly The Free Press and The Budget editors-in-chief
Staff List THE BUDGET LAWRENCE HIGH SCHOOL Editors Zia Kelly Editor-in-chief Jacob Parnell Webmaster Savannah McCollum and Cortlynn Stark Online Co-Editor Kansas Gibler Copy Editor Joseph Anderson Photo Editor Allie Fischer Design & Layout Editor Joaquin Dorado Mariscal Graphics Editor Colton Lovelace Sports Editor Nicole Owens and Keeli Billings Ad Sales Representatives Staff members: Brittany Archer, Cooper Avery, Emma Bentzinger, Hunter Boehle, Jensen Edwards, Cynthia Falley, Jacob Goodwin, Adam GraDEC. 15, 2014 | Page by Zia Kelly THE BUDGET
ham, Dymtro Guzhva, Shawn Han, Brandon Hegeman, Madyson Locke, Lizzy McEntire, Jaycee Mountain, Blake Nelson, Riley Nelson, Ben Rajewski, Kate Rettig, Madeleine Stegman, Nicholas Steichen, Anna-Marie Turner, Julia Wilson, Margaret Wiseman, Isaiah Young, Ryan Yowell. Adviser Barbara Tholen Business manager Pat Treff THE FREE PRESS FREE STATE HIGH SCHOOL Editors Kyra Haas Editor in Chief Ryan Liston Online Editor in Chief Maria Carrasco Social Media Editor/ Print Managing Editor
Catherine Prestoy Online Managing Editor Darian Koenig Design Editor Kristina Foster Assistant Design Editor Fiona McAllister Co-Copy Editor Kenneth Palmer Co-Copy Editor Mary Brady Photo Editor Kaitlyn Foster Business Editor Designers Caylee Irving Drake Riner Sydney Vogelsang Addie Wendel Reporters: Evan Frook, Juliana Hill, Hala Hamid, Maddie Birchfield, Trenna Soderling, Lauren Brittain, Libby Stanford, Erin Friedrichsen. Photographers: Nick Popiel, Sam Goodwin. Adviser Laurie Folsom
PLACES TO EAT | 3
Best coffee shop
Java Break
24-hour coffee shop offers diverse menu and entertainment options Winner
Java Break
Location 17 E. Seventh St. Hours 24 hours a day daily Total votes 302 Best known for Coffee, paninis, cereal bar Year established in Lawrence 1994
By Kansas Gibler THE BUDGET Java Break offers a place for people to grab a chai latte, a bowl of Captain Crunch and sit down to study. Patrons can also head to the graffiti room to mark the walls and benches while sipping on a signature Cold-O-Matic blended drink. Located at Seventh and New Hampshire, Java Break’s basement location provides a unique atmosphere. Low lighting, vintage furniture and separated spaces allow patrons to chat and work on homework in a peaceful setting. Lawrence High School senior Clara Cobb spends most days after school at the coffeehouse, attracted by the atmosphere and drinks. “It’s good coffee,” Cobb said.
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“It’s really good. I get americanos a lot, so it’s easy to tell when something’s good when it’s black.” The coffee shop’s 24-hour service makes drinks available day and night. “I like the people that work there,” Free State junior Madi Magnuson said. “I like how it’s open 24 hours so I can go there late at night, and I like the cereal
J&S Z’s Divine Espresso
bar and paninis.” Owner Derek Hogan sees high school students pass through his coffee shop daily. “There’s a lot of great high school kids that come in here that we really like, that are super nice and polite and great customers,” Hogan said. “I think what attracts them is that we’re downtown, we’re comfortable, we’ve got
Open at all hours, Java Break’s basement location at Seventh and New Hampshire is often buzzing with local students. The business has four spaces that give patrons options of study environments. Photo by Cooper Avery|The Budget board games. It’s a place to hang out with your friends.”
4821 W. Sixth St., Suite E 10 E. Ninth St., 1800 E. 23rd St. # A
“What do you LOVE about Lawrence?” “I really like the diversity of Lawrence because it really shows that we can accept people for who they are.” —LHS junior Sarah O’Neill
“I really like the places to shop downtown. My favorite store downtown is Kieu’s. I love all of their dresses and fancy clothes.” —FS sophomore Jessica Ellebracht
“I like that it’s kind of laid back and chill, and there’s a lot of people who ride bikes.” —LHS freshmen Katelyn Mask
“How local it feels. It’s not too big or too small. It’s just the right size.” —FS sophomore Rinny Herndon
Page by Zia Kelly THE BUDGET | DEC. 15, 2014
4 | PLACES TO EAT
Best breakfast
Big Biscuit
New breakfast place takes Lawrence by storm
By Maddie Birchfield THE FREE PRESS ree State senior Andrea Coleman walks into the Big Biscuit on a weekend morning with her dad. They sit down in a sunny window seat, and Andrea order’s her favorite meal, “Jim’s Platter,” because it has a little bit of everything. Opening earlier this year, the Big Biscuit has taken Lawrence by storm. Many high school students flock to the restaurant on the weekends to get a hardy breakfast with friends. The chain started in the Kansas City Metro in 2000, and it has been popping up in surrounding suburban areas ever since. As the name suggests, The Big Biscuit is well known for their large biscuits, but they have other options as well, such as pancakes
Winner
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the Big Biscuit
Location 4821 W. 6th St. Hours 6:30 a.m.- 2:30 p.m. daily Total votes 264 Best known for Big biscuits Year established in Lawrence 2013
and eggs in many different variations. Free State senior Erin Fisher is one of the many student employees. Aside from the biscuits, Fisher’s favorite item on the menu is the banana chocolate chip pancakes. She started working at the restaurant in April 2014.
the Roost Wheatfield’s
Yello Sub
Local sub shop trumps chains
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Opening earlier this year, Big Biscuit is just across the street from Free State, attracting many patrons from the school. Menu-proclaimed favorites include eggs benedict, “Jim’s Platter” and trademarked “Big Biscuits.” The eatery is open 6:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Photo by Mary Brady|The Free Press
920 Massachusetts St. 904 Vermont St.
Best sub shop
By Nikk McCollum THE BUDGET quariums, plants and murals pull together a small sub shop. Smells of warm whole wheat bread flood the noses of customers while sandwiches bake in the oven. Yello Sub, though in an unconventional location, draws high school students into its doors with warm subs and fresh salads. “You just can’t get a sandwich like ours anywhere else,” Yello Sub general manager Nic Beck said. Students are found there reg-
The employees are well-known for their helpful attitudes and quick service. “It’s good and fast,” Lawrence High junior Jeremiah Barbe said. “They get you in and out fairly quick, and it’s quality food. I enjoy getting the Big Breakfast. It has a little bit of everything.”
ularly, carted by family members who enjoy the convenience. “I go there a lot for dinner with my mom and my sister,” Free State senior Jody Willmott said. “We order it to go and we take it home. I think it’s better than Subway, the sandwiches are bigger, and they have really good bacon.” Lawrence High junior Makayla Belcher says the taste of Yello Sub beats any other sub shop. “It’s bomb because they make their whole wheat bread from scratch every morning and it tastes fresh,” Belcher said.
Sandbar Subs
DEC. 15, 2014 | Page by Darian Koenig THE FREE PRESS
1548 E. 23rd St.
Located at 1814 W. 23rd St., Yello Sub draws students from across Lawrence. The shop offers a variety of meat and vegetarian combinations for about $7. Photo by Mary Brady|The Free Press
Winner
Yello Sub
Location 1814 W. 23rd St. Hours 10 a.m.- 10 p.m. daily Total votes 256 Best known for Subs and salads Year established in Lawrence 1979
745 New Hampshire St.
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6 | PLACES TO EAT
Best local burger
Burger Stand
Taking a new spin on old favorites Winner
By Kate Rettig THE BUDGET espite its name, the Burger Stand may be just as popular for its French fries as it is for its hamburgers. Since the Burger Stand opened in 2008 out of the kitchen of Dempsey’s Pub on Vermont Street, Lawrencians have enjoyed gourmet burgers and the legendary truffle fries. After making a permanent home at The Casbah in 2012, its customer base grew, drawing people in with locally-sourced ingredients. “I’d say the food is incomparable quality,” employee Brett Holm said. “It’s a small business, so we
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Burger Stand
Location 803 Massachusetts St. Hours 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. daily Total votes 590 Best known for Burgers, truffle fries Year established in Lawrence 2008
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Burgers by Biggs Jefferson’s Restaurant
are allowed to try ingredients that the corporate chains don’t usually go for.” With low lighting, three floor levels and a French fry sauce bar, the Burger Stand has a nonchalant vibe that patrons appreciate. “It’s a cool place to hang out with friends and family,” Lawrence High sophomore Sam Allen said. “It’s a nice place, and the food is really good.” In addition to its variety of burgers and fries, the Burger
The Eighth and Massachusetts storefront draws locals in with original creations as well as classic American cuisine, all made with local ingredients. Photo by Cooper Avery|The Budget Stand also offers Nathan’s Famous all-beef hot dogs, milkshakes and vegetarian-friendly entrees. “It’s really good, and you get a lot of food for what you pay,” Free State junior Riley Bane said. “You get so much food. I can never eat it all.”
4801 Bauer Farm Drive 743 Massachusetts St.
Best local pizza
Pizza Shuttle
Inexpensive personal-sized pizzas draw in students for lunch Winner
F
WALK-IN SPECIAL $ 4 00 One Pizza One Topping One Drink
Pizza Shuttle
Delivers
Location 1601 W. 23rd St. Hours 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. daily Total votes 577 Best known for Personal pizzas Year established in Lawrence 1984
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By Riley Nelson THE BUDGET or students on a tight time frame and a tight budget, Pizza Shuttle fits the bill for many with its made-to-order personal pizzas. Located on 23rd Street, Pizza Shuttle is students’ go-to pizza place. With the funky ceiling full of different paintings and a fun atmosphere, the restaurant is appealing to students across Lawrence. Manager Gretchen Longmire is grateful that students gravitate
Rudy’s Papa Keno’s Pizzeria
DEC. 15, 2014 | Page by Allie Fischer THE BUDGET
toward Pizza Shuttle. “Students make up a huge amount of our sales,” Longmire said. “We want to do everything we can to keep them happy and coming back.” They excel at getting students to return. Some students go to Pizza Shuttle multiple times a week. Lawrence High junior Aubrey Goscha is especially fond of going to “Shuttle” when she needs to satisfy her pizza cravings. “I like Pizza Shuttle because it has really good pizza, and it has
704 Massachusetts St. 1035 Massachusetts St.
the different sizes so I can finish one by myself,” Goscha said. “I always order cream cheese and bacon.” Although Free State is across town from the restaurant, Firebirds also enjoy eating Pizza Shuttle regularly. “I don’t go to Pizza Shuttle, Pizza Shuttle comes to me,” Free State junior Nixi Swedlund said. “I get delivery. It’s really good for being cheap. I like that it’s from Lawrence. It’s like a Lawrence classic. Their cream cheese and bacon pizza is probably heaven.”
PLACES TO EAT | 7
Best place to eat before prom
Paisano’s
Italian restaurant accommodates large groups By Libby Stanford THE FREE PRESS hen Free State sophomore Molly Reed goes to Paisano’s, she is always excited for the unlimited breadsticks and Italian food. The low lighting and romantic atmosphere add to Reed’s experience. “I go there when I really want spaghetti or breadsticks,” Reed said. “You go in there, and there’s Italian music playing. It makes it feel more Italian.” Paisano’s Italian Ristorante
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has been in Lawrence since 1999 and has been under current management since 2003. The restaurant features multiple dining rooms for large dinners and get-togethers, making it an ideal place to eat before prom. The menu offers Italian cuisine, which includes everything from pasta to eggplant Parmesan. “Our personal service along with our homemade food is what makes our business unique,” general manager Wes Whirrel said. “We are most
Encore Cafe The Mad Greek
known for our homemade lasagna.” The romantic atmosphere at Paisano’s is popular among its customers, perhaps contributing to why it was chosen as the best place to eat before prom. “I feel like the atmosphere is very built around a traditional, classical theme,” Lawrence High senior and Paisano’s employee Kyle Berkley said. “It has a good atmosphere. It’s romantic enough, so you can feel like it’s a personal dinner with a significant person, so that’s nice.”
Winner
Paisano’s
Location 2112 W. 25th St. Hours 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday-Saturday Total votes 544 Best known for Homemade lasagna Year established in Lawrence 2001
1007 Massachusetts St. 907 Massachusetts St.
Best frozen treats
Sylas and Maddy’s Local legend makes ice cream in-house Winner
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Sylas and Maddy’s
Location 1014 Massachusetts St. Hours Noon-10:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday Noon-11 p.m. Friday-Saturday 12:30-10:30 p.m. Sunday Total votes 581 Best known for Ice cream and fudge Year established in Lawrence 1997
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By Cortlynn Stark THE BUDGET n July, people could walk down Massachusetts Street. without seeing Christmas lights or needing to rub their hands together to keep warm. Instead, they could see high school students lining up at the door of a local legend to get the only homemade ice cream in Lawrence. Lawrence natives Jim and Cindy England opened Sylas & Maddy’s in 1997. Their daughter Sarah currently manages the business. “[High school students come in] all the time,” employee
Tad’s Tropical Sno Juice Stop
Haley Ford said. “I’d say they’re probably one of our three biggest demographics that come in here.” One of the most popular flavors is “Da Bomb,” which is blasted with cookie dough, Oreos and chocolate flakes, and is set on top of fresh, handmade waffle cones. Additionally, the shop concocts freezes, which are drinks that have homemade sherbert as the main ingredient. “The sherberts are always really good,” Free State sophomore Chandler Wiggins said. “The orange sherbert is the best.” The shop has a good location,
Talking with a customer, Sylas and Maddy’s employee Haley Ford stands behind the counter filled with original ice cream flavors. Photo by Jake Goodwin|The Budget on the southern part Massachusetts Street. The busy sidewalks in front of the building allow for a flow of customers everyday. “It’s a really good place to go to on any day that you’re downtown,” Lawrence High senior Jasmine Keys said. “You can get some wonderful flavors. It’s just a really great place in the community.”
939 Iowa St. 812 Massachusetts St., 3514 Clinton Parkway, 4821 W. Sixth St. #F Page by Allie Fischer THE BUDGET | DEC. 15, 2014
The University of Kansas
2015 MIDWESTERN MUSIC CAMPS
Middle School Music Camp: Band and Orchestra June 14-19, 2015 High School Music Camp: Band, Orchestra, and Choir June 21-26, 2015 Jazz Workshop July 12-17, 2015
music.ku.edu/mmc
The University of Kansas
2015 MIDWESTERN MUSIC CAMPS
Middle School Music Camp: Band and Orchestra June 14-19, 2015 High School Music Camp: Band, Orchestra, and Choir June 21-26, 2015 Jazz Workshop July 12-17, 2015
music.ku.edu/mmc
AROUND TOWN | 9
Best place to volunteer
Lawrence Humane Society
Shelter provides more than home, animals By Riley Nelson THE BUDGET he Humane Society is a unique place to get volunteer hours, and make some furry friends along the way. With 534 voted from both Free State and Lawrence High, the Humane Society topped many other places as students favorite place to volunteer. With the large paw prints painted on the outside and the wide variety of animals on the inside, many students go to the
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Winner
Humane Society to see the animals and help out. Free State senior Brendan Phillips especially enjoys the cat section of the Humane Society. ”I really like cats,” Phillips said. “My favorite part was when [the cats] would curl up and go to sleep on you.”
Humane Society
Location 1805 E. 19th St. Hours 11:30 a.m.- 7 p.m. daily Total votes 581 Best known for Cute animals and an active volunteer program Year established in Lawrence Built 1995
Humane Society cat, Tater, licks his chops in the cat room. Tater is a 7-year-old domestic shorthair. He can be adopted for $40. Photo by Joseph Anderson|The Budget
Lawrence Memorial Hospital Pet World
325 Maine St. The Malls Shopping Center, 711 W. 23rd St. #26
Best place to work
Dillons
Store opens doors to students By Maria Carrasco THE FREE PRESS alking into the Dillons on Massachusetts Street, Free State senior Andrew Chavez enjoys the wafting aroma of mochas and lattes from the in-store Starbucks as he clocks in. The store bustles with customers as high school-aged employees bag groceries, ring up merchandise and stock shelves. Dillons first opened in Lawrence in 1960, establishing a chain of four grocery stores in town and was ultimately purchased by Kroger. Dillons is known for its willingness to hire young employees. As a starting job, Dillons provides an easy platform for students to immediately start working.
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Hy-Vee Salty Iguana
“It’s just another simple job, so don’t stress out about it, just be honest with the information you’re giving them,” Chavez said. Dillons offers employees the chance to work in various positions throughout the store. Chavez, who’s been working at Dillons for two years, has had the opportunity to try out many different jobs. “I bag groceries, get carts and I’m also a checker,” Chavez said. “... I do the cash register and everything like that.” Like Chavez, Lawrence High junior Patrick Buchanan balances working at Dillons with homework during the school year. “During the school year I work about 10-15 hours [per week] and during the summer I would say about 25,” Buchanan
A common study spot for Free State students, Dillons caters to both sides of 15th Street, offering many students their first job. “It’s pretty easy to get hired there, so I guess that would be a pretty good reason to give them the [award],” senior Stewart Merz said. Photo by Sam Goodwin|The Free Press said. Along with job accessibility, Dillons gives many perks to its workers, including a 10 percent discount off of all Kroger and Apple products. “Weekly paychecks are a big perk because I’m terrible at budgeting my budget,” Free State senior Stewart Merz said. Dillons provides job experi-
Winner
Dillons
Location 3000 W. 6th St. (24 hrs) 1015 W. 23rd St. (24 hrs) 4701 W. 6th St. (6– 12 a.m.) 1740 Massachusetts St. (6– 12 a.m.) Total votes 73 Best known for Offering many job opportunities for high school students Year established in Hutchinson 1913
ence to students, teaching them skills for future jobs. “It’s a pretty solid place to get some job experience and how to do customer service and basic skills,” Merz said.
3504 Clinton Parkway, 4000 W. Sixth St. 4931 W. Sixth St. Page by Darian Koenig THE FREE PRESS | DEC. 15, 2014
10 | AROUND TOWN
Best local gym
Genesis Health Club Student athletes frequent health center By Evan Frook THE FREE PRESS ntering Genesis health club, Free State junior Jordan Patrick is instantly energized. He finishes his warm
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Winner
Genesis
Location 3201 Mesa Way, 2339 Iowa Hours 8 a.m.-7 p.m. Sunday 5 a.m.-11 p.m. Monday-Thursday 5 a.m.-9 p.m. Friday 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday Total votes 266 Best known for Customer service and workout programs Year established in Lawrence 2011
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up, puts in his earbuds and heads over to the weights section. With two locations, both less than two miles from the two high school campuses, Genesis Health Cub offers a complete exercise experience. Students from both schools and all walks of life get involved with the gym at varying levels. The establishments offer freeform workout equipment, classes and workshops, and hire trainers for a more personal experience. Genesis also employs high school students. “I love it. It’s promoting everything good,” Lawrence High senior and Genesis employee Elizabeth Harms said. “I like working out and being healthy, so it’s a great place. I work there also, so I’m typically there like four days a week. I usually workout after my shifts.” Some gyms don’t allow mi-
Rock Chalk Park The Summit
nors, but Genesis tries to accommodate everyone. “High school students are eligible to work out at the club,” Genesis club manager Lisa Erickson said. “We have several students on family memberships and they are seen in the gym quite often. We provide results-based training that can be customized to different athletic goals for students who participate in sports.” Besides the club-endorsed workouts, camps and training sessions, there is also a classic, freeform gym area, which includes weights, benches, treadmills and other machines.
In addition to this location on Iowa, Genesis is in the middle of a remodel of its Mesa Way location, giving students more fitness opportunities. Photo by Sam Goodwin|The Free Press “I go to Genesis whenever I can, and I enjoy all the weights and workout apparatus,” Patrick said.“It’s very convenient.” Genesis is currently renovating its Sixth Street location. “We should be finishing our major renovations in early 2015, so expect a brand-new beautiful facility, new equipment and more space,” Erickson said.
George Williams Way 901 New Hampshire St.
Best recreation
Holcom Recreation Center
Winner
Students frequent recreation facility for after school entertainment By Ryan Liston THE FREE PRESS tepping on the court after a long day at school, Free State sophomore Tyler Winsor enjoys a game of basketball. Holcom Park Recreation Center is one of several recreational facilities in Lawrence. Visitors are able to do everything from lifting weights to playing foosball. Yet Winsor, Free State sophomore Alex Pettit and Recreation Center Programmer Alison Dudley agree that basketball is the most
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popular activity. “It’s just a place for guys to come after school or after work,” Dudley said. “They can borrow some of our equipment, and they can get a pickup game going with whoever is here ... It’s kind of like a safe haven for them to go to instead of being out doing something they shouldn’t be doing.” Dudley sees high school students daily. Lawrence High senior Oliver Woods is one of them. “I go to Holcom everyday after school to play basketball,”
South Park Clinton Lake
DEC. 15, 2014 | Page by Zia Kelly THE BUDGET
Woods said. Holcom features a full-size gym, a game room, a weight room with cardio equipment and a racquetball/handball court. While Lawrence has other recreational facilities available, Dudley believes Holcom is unique because of the diversity of the people who attend. “The variety of different kids we get to come through our doors and that attend the rec center, just the variety of people (is unique),” Dudley said.
12th and Massachusetts K-10 and Clinton Pkwy
Holcom Rec Center
Location 2700 W 27th St. Hours 7 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Thursday 7 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday 1 p.m.-6 p.m. Sunday Total votes 162 Best known for Basketball court, sand volleyball pits, game room Year established in Lawrence 1976
AROUND TOWN | 11
Best study spot
Lawrence Public Library
Newly remodeled building gives students study options, resources Winner
Lawrence Public Library
Location 707 Vermont St. Hours 9 a.m.–9 p.m. Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Friday 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday Noon-6 p.m. Sunday Total votes 389 Best known for Books, movies, Teen Zone, recording studio, study rooms Year established in Lawrence 1854
By Kansas Gibler THE BUDGET s of July, city residents have had a new, more modern public library. Complete with meeting rooms, a gaming area and recording studio, the building is a free and educational place for the people of Lawrence to enjoy. The library’s modern redesign and numerous amenities attract students for study sessions, Lawrence Public Library director of operations Sherri Turner explained. “We want the library to be warm and welcoming to all kinds of people in the community, and we’ve tried to create a variety of spaces to meet those varied needs,” Turner said. “Sometimes people want to work alone, sometimes in groups, sometimes they
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Dillons Java Break
want quiet, other times a bit more interaction. My guess is that the same is true for teens, and that’s why they like to come here. Plus, if they need help, our friendly staff is always nearby.” The library’s many meeting and study areas allow for individuals and groups work in a calm environment. “I go [to the library] to get tutored in Spanish,” Free State sophomore Ella Sullivan said. “I like all the things that are available for people to do.” Since the $18 million remodel that Lawrence voters approved in 2010, the library’s atmosphere is no longer the dated building that it was. The former library was traded in for a large, open workspace. “All the natural light and the beautiful design of the building
Wide windows fill the Teen Zone at the Lawrence Public Library with natural light. Inside, students can find a cozy spot to play video games or hang out. The newly remodeled building opened in July. Photo by Cooper Avery|The Budget make it a pleasant place to come to,” Turner said. “And we have coffee.” People and families of all ages find places for themselves within the many areas of the library. “To me, the Lawrence Public Library is so significant because it approaches reading and knowledge in a fun yet educational way,” Lawrence High sophomore Tehreem Chaudhry said. “Not only that, there is something for everyone. The library accommodates all sorts of people, which only makes it feel more like home.”
Artwork hangs in the wide open spaces of the new Lawrence Public Library, which opened this summer. Photo by Cooper Avery|The Budget
3000 W. Sixth St., 4701 W. Sixth St., 1015 W. 23rd St., 1740 Massachusetts St. 17 E. Seventh St. Page by Zia Kelly THE BUDGET | DEC. 15, 2014
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AROUND TOWN | 15
Best concert venue
The Granada
Old movie theater packs in music fans for local and national acts
By Kansas Gibler THE BUDGET rom local to international, bands of all genres have played on the old wooden stage at The Granada. Built by the Boller Brothers in 1928 as an entertainment hall, The Granada transformed into a movie theater soon after. In 1993, the building was once again renovated to the concert venue it is today. The venue hosts many big bill musicians such as Marina and the Diamonds, Haim and The Neighbourhood. Typically, these shows are more affordable at The Granada than at Kansas City venues. “I’ve been to a lot of concerts there and their prices aren’t too
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Liberty Hall Lied Center
expensive,” Lawrence High junior Lydia Caldwell said. “They are just a generally friendly venue. They have a really big variety of bands that play there so that’s good. They cater to basically everyone.” Several local high school bands have played at the venue. Earlier this year Free State sophomore David Krejci performed at The Granada with his former band, WhereTheWildThingsAre. “Playing there was exciting for me mainly because it’s a place where a lot of bands that I listen to and that inspire me to play music have played there,” Krejci said. “Playing at The Granada is definitely a different experience than playing at smaller venues
The marquee at the Granada shows the lineup of acts for the month. This former movie theater hosts bands from throughout the country. Photo by Sam Goodwin|The Free Press like the Jackpot and the Replay.” The Granada aims to create a safe place for patrons to enjoy live music. “I think high school-aged students are attracted to The Granada because we pride ourselves on creating an environment where all ages can feel comfortable, safe, and welcome,” Granada marketing director Drew James said. “When I was young and seeing shows in large concert venues, I often felt alienated and
Winner
The Granada
Location 1020 Massachusetts St. Box Office Hours 12-6 p.m. Monday-Friday 12-5 p.m. Saturday Total votes 774 Best known for Affordable tickets to see rock, country and rap artists, among other things. Year established in Lawrence 1928
somewhat unwelcome, but I feel that we go the extra mile to make people of all ages feel at home at the Granada.”
644 Massachusetts St. 1600 Stewart Drive Page by Allie Fischer THE BUDGET | DEC. 15, 2014
16 | AROUND TOWN
Best bookstore
Dusty Bookshelf Used bookstore, hidden jewel Opened in Lawrence in 1996, The Dusty Bookshelf allows bookworms to read to their hearts’ content, nestled in comfy nooks between shelves. Photo by Cooper Avery|The Budget
Winner
Dusty Bookshelf
Location 708 Massachusetts St. Hours 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. Monday- Thursday 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. Friday- Saturday 12– 6 p.m. Sunday Total votes 429 Best known for Books and Alice the cat (RIP 2014) Year established in Lawrence 1996
By Cortlynn Stark THE BUDGET f you’re looking for a great book, most students agree that there’s only one place to go: the Dusty Bookshelf where books go for a new home and cats go to lounge around. The first Dusty Bookshelf shop opened in Manhattan in
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1985 and moved to Lawrence in 1996. The Dusty Bookshelf has since created a legacy of a wide selection of used books, a calm atmosphere and adopted cats. “We have a variety of books at a very reasonable price because they’re all pre-read,” Dusty Bookshelf sales associate Holly Hurley said. “I love to see anybody read,
Raven Bookstore Signs of Life
especially the high school crowd.” Lawrence High senior Miranda Pratt is among those who favor this bookstore over all others, because they supply selections that cater to her interests. “I liked the cat a lot,” Pratt said. “I also like their art and film section. There was a Degah drawing book I saw that I really want.”
The bookstore in addition to buying and selling books also makes trades, exemplifying the calm feels and good vibes of the space. “I like that it’s cozy,” Free State junior Jessica Vanahill said. “I like the atmosphere, it’s really nice. I like finding little books you wouldn’t usually find.”
6 E. Seventh St. 722 Massachusetts St.
“What do you LOVE about Lawrence?” “I like how it’s a college town, but at the same time it’s quiet and not very busy.” -FS sophomore Abbie Stewart
“Downtown, because the shops there are unique, and you can’t find them anywhere else.” - LHS freshman Elijah Jackson “Francis Sporting Goods. It shouldn’t shut down. I like that it’s local and their sign that says, ‘60 Years of Kicking Mass’ is cute.” - FS freshman Beth Grinage
DEC. 15, 2014 | Page by Darian Koenig THE FREE PRESS
“(Lawrence) is a great community. It’s a great mix of athletics and arts, and we have a really good balance with stuff like that. And we have a really awesome downtown where people can hang out and shop.” - FS junior Ruby Morris
AROUND TOWN | 17
Best secondhand store
Plato’s Closet Resale store affordable, stylish
Plato’s Closet offers teens a chance to buy and sell stylish brand name clothing for a fraction of the original price. Photo by Mary Brady|The Free Press
Winner
Plato’s Closet
Location 3514 Clinton Parkway Hours 10 a.m.– 9 p.m. Monday- Saturday 12– 6 p.m. Sunday Total votes 414 Best known for Buying and selling stylish, gently-used clothing for cash on the spot Year established in Lawrence 1998
By Juliana Hill THE FREE PRESS teenage girl flips through racks of colorful floral dresses and trendy knitted sweaters. Her excitement is due in part to they are stylish, but mostly because they are affordable. Plato’s Closet is a secondhand shop that sells clothes
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ATC Ditto
“I like that there are lots of local shops. I feel like, in general, we have a lot of creative people living in town, and I like that it’s a college town.” - FS sophomore Eli Jost “I like that it’s not as big as other cities, so you get to know everybody and what’s around you” - FS freshman Nathan Munsch
at low prices and buys gently used clothes for cash. Manager John Nichols believes the store is known for its variety, style and convenience. “I’d say our store is best known for our trendy styles,” Nichols said. “When someone brings something in to sell, we pay cash on the spot.”
He also notes the contribution college students make to the store’s merchandise. “The variety is a huge selection because of the university,” Nichols said. Free State senior June Brooks likes the variety of brands, along with the atmosphere. “It’s got some pretty decent
brands,” Brooks said. “It’s a nice overall store to go to.” Lawrence High freshman Stephanie Reed appreciates the affordability and quality of the clothes. “It’s a great store,” Reed said. “You can get cheaper clothes that are in style.”
736 Massachusetts St. 4000 W. Sixth St.
“I like all the welcoming people.” - LHS junior Elanna Goodwin “I like the sporting pavilion over there. I like the indoor turf because you can go over there when its snowing, and I like to play soccer.” - FS junior Marcela Ellebracht
“I really like Billy Vanilly downtown. My favorite cupcake is the chocolate with vanilla cream frosting, and then they dip it back in chocolate.” - FS junior Laura Crabtree
Page by Darian Koenig THE FREE PRESS | DEC. 15, 2014
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AROUND TOWN | 19
Best radio station
95.7 the Vibe
Radio station attracts fans with mix of pop tunes By Lauren Brittain THE FREE PRESS t 3:15 p.m. on a Friday, Free State sophomore Chandler Drewel hops into his parent’s car, ready for the weekend to begin. Drewel rolls down the windows a bit, punching the radio a couple times until reaching his favorite station, 95.7 the Vibe. “... I got a blank space, baby, and I’ll write your name,” a familiar voice sings. He quickly looks around to see if he knows anybody in the nearby cars, then he decides he doesn’t
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care. Suddenly the volume is at 25, Taylor Swift is belting “Blank Space” and 95.7 has once again come in clutch with Drewel’s favorite hits. Run out of Mission, Kan., 95.7 the Vibe began broadcasting in 1962, and has undergone changes in management and musical directions. The station is currently owned by Cumulus Broadcasting. Lawrence High sophomore Sydona Kegin enjoys listening to the station with her family. “It plays cleaner music, so I can listen to it with my mom and my 11-year-old brother,” she said.
Not only is 95.7 enjoyed by a variety of audiences for its music, but listeners can also enjoy the many contests the station hosts. Some of their contests are aired and people call in for a chance to win. In addition, contests are available on the station’s website. DJs from 95.7 can also be hired for events. With their abundance of services, 95.7 the Vibe is a crowd-favorite. “They play the top hits, share the weather and what’s new,” Drewel said.
Winner
95.7 the Vibe
Location 5800 Foxridge Drive, Mission, Kan. Total votes 236 Studio Line (913) 576-7957 Best known for A mix of pop music
2ND PLACE 103.3 3RD PLACE 105.9
Best local celebrity
Coach Bill Self
KU coach won fans when he coached national champs in ’08
By Hala Hamid THE FREE PRESS arning his 10th consecutive Big 12 Championship last season, University of Kansas head coach Bill Self has the most successive league titles in NCAA men’s basketball history. The KU head coach has also earned five No. 1 seeds in the NCAA tournament, been to two Final Fours and won a national championship. Basketball has always been a big part of Lawrence, but Self contributes to the popularity. “He’s made KU basketball more popular, and the program brings tons of excitement to basketball fans each season,” Free State junior Sidney Zavala said. While KU has always been a blueblood school, Self has contributed to
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consistently putting the Jayhawks in a position for success year after year. Fans are expecting Self to lead Kansas to success again this season with veterans Perry Ellis and Frank Mason and freshman Cliff Alexander. “We keep losing players every year to the NBA … [but] I think we are going to be good this year,” Free State junior Peyton Brown said. “Alexander will definitely be a replacement for [Joel] Embiid and I think [Self] is still trying to find a place for [freshman] Kelly Oubre.” Because of KU’s success, a ticket to a game at Allen Fieldhouse is not easy to acquire. KU has 212 consecutive home game sellouts, dating back to the 2001-2002 season. Allen Fieldhouse is undoubtedly one of the loudest and toughest place for opposing teams to play, according
to espn.com. The atmosphere of a game is something that KU fans take pride in. “[KU] could be trailing their opponent and people continue to cheer and support the team,” Zavala said. “[Allen Fieldhouse] also has so much history, with the displays of all of the banners … It’s just a great showcase of the program.” Self ’s success the past 11 years has given KU fans much to celebrate. “His ability to transform and drastically improve his players is amazing,” Lawrence High senior Christian Espinosa said. “He is able to make average players into leaders and role players. For example, Darnall Jackson, T-Rob and the Morris twins. Bill is a legend.” Illutration by Raegan Koenig
Dennis Tech N9ne Page by Allie Fischer THE BUDGET | DEC. 15, 2014
20 | AROUND TOWN
Best senior photographer
Amy Dye Photography
Local photographer captures seniors’ personalities
By Trenna Soderling THE FREE PRESS ree State senior Allyson Hertig starts her senior picture session in a makeup chair, getting a finishing touch that will be the final piece to her senior photography puzzle. After making sure the last few details are in place, Hertig and senior photographer Amy Dye drive to the Rim Rock cross country course to begin the photo shoot. Brainstorming ideas before the student arrives, Dye hopes that her photography has gained popularity because of her focus on personality. “I try to make it a personal
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experience from the beginning to the end, so it truly is an experience and the senior feels special during that time,” Dye said. Whether it is her pre-questionnaire or the time they spend driving around, Dye tries to get to know the student so the pictures have their own identity to them. “I like to connect with the seniors and make them feel comfortable their pictures are a reflection of them, and not just some stiff pose,” Dye said. Lawrence High senior Ellie Dunlap agrees. “She’s really personable and flexible in her approach,” Dunlap said. “I loved her creativity with
Crystal Image Eternal Focus
DEC. 15, 2014 | Page by Darian Koenig THE FREE PRESS
things like taking my [string] bass in a field or drawing chalk on a silo.” Hertig also believes Dye’s focus on comfort allows the students to make their photos unique. “She would often give me a little pose to do, and we’d try that for a while,” Hertig said. “During transitions, I’d either be messing with something, or playing with a branch on a tree or with my hands, and she’d just tell me to do it again. She was able to catch me in my ‘natural state.’” As well as getting to know the students, Dye uses the environment she shoots in to inspire her shots.
1201 Wakarusa Drive 1013 Columbine Court
Local photographer Amy Dye photographs Free State senior Meghan Perry during a photo session across the street from Dye’s house. “Honestly, I don’t know why [my photography is popular],” Dye said. “I’m just glad that it is.” Seniors can set up their sessions by visiting her website, www.amydyephotography.com. Photo by Mary Brady |The Free Press
Winner
Amy Dye
Email amy@amydyephotography.com Phone (785) 748-1180 Total votes 70 Best known for Taking senior pictures with personality Year established in Lawrence 2009
SCHOOL LIFE | 21
Best cafeteria item
Chicken Strips
Students flock to school cafeterias for Tuesday chicken strips
By Erin Friedrichsen THE FREE PRESS lmost every Tuesday, students crowd the lunch line waiting to pick up a serving of four chicken strips. Out of the wide variety of lunch foods, the chicken strips appeal to even the pickiest of eaters. “Honestly, I think the chicken fingers are the best lunch,” Free State senior Andrew Boulton said. “I’m not really a fan of any other foods at school.” According to district director of food services Paula Murrish, all of the lunch foods come from US Foods. The chicken strips are provided by Patuxent Farms in Rosemont, Ill. The farm endorses natural ingredients, minimal processing, and freshness, according to the US Foods website. Overall, the chicken strips exceed students’ expectations of
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Tuesdays are chicken strip days for junior Nathaniel Hoopes in the Free State lunchroom. Photo by Nick Popiel |The Free Press
Winner
Chicken Strips
Location The lunch room Hours FS & LHS Lunch time Total votes 282 Best known for Crunchy exterior
school lunches. “I like the mixture...everything fits together because they supply mashed potatoes at the same time,” Lawrence High sophomore Griffin Nelson said. “It just seems to be a very popular dish because of that combo.”
2ND PLACE Pizza 3RD PLACE Tri-taters
“What do you LOVE about Lawrence?” “One of the real places that I like — it’s really downtown — is the Gamer’s Loft up in Game Nut because you can do anything that you want to, and as long as you pay, they don’t care. They have all the latest consoles up there (and) all the latest games, so you can literally pick anything that you want and they have it up there.” - FS junior Michael Gates “Downtown, because there’s a variety of things to do. It’s weird and sometimes different down there.” - LHS senior Jacob Lisher
“There’s a lot of parties because it’s a college town and there’s fine people.” - LHS senior Kaitlyn Applegate “I like to go to Jaybowl whenever I can. It’s kind of secluded. Not a lot of people go there, and it’s just kind of peaceful there, and you don’t smell smokers. The customer service is a lot better than Royal Crest Lanes. They also have Dance Dance Revolution.” - FS junior Asa Ortega “There’s a lot of great people here, and with KU being here. It’s pretty cool to watch all their athletic events.” - FS sophomore Isaiah Williams
“I like the tennis courts, especially the ones on the KU campus because they’re newer, (and) you’re able to play at night because they have lights.” - FS senior Samuel Solis “I like that there’s always something to do. You can walk down the street and look around and find something to do.” - FS senior Tyler Bryant “I like all of the diversity and all of the events there are to go to. I think the general set of beliefs associated with Lawrence are consistent with my personal beliefs so I feel comfortable.” - FS senior Morgan Noll Page by Darian Koenig THE FREE PRESS | DEC. 15, 2014
22 | SCHOOL LIFE
Best school-sponsored trip
Hiratsuka, Japan
Lawrence Sister City Exchange Program organizes annual voyage for cultural lessons By Zia Kelly THE BUDGET any students’ only knowledge of Japan comes from anime and Americanized sushi restaurants. The Lawrence Sister City Exchange program aims to change that. For the past 25 years, the Lawrence Sister City Exchange Program has facilitated annual trips to Hiratsuka,
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Japan for secondary students. Posters, announcements and student testimonials have made the voyage a popular pick among high school students. This past summer, 18 of the top program applicants got the chance to fly to Lawrence’s sister city, Hiratsuka, which is a suburb of Tokyo, Japan. The group spent 10 days staying with host families and seeing and experiencing the local culture. “While we are in Japan we always get to visit a grade school and middle school, sometimes a high school,” trip coordinator Cathy Hilliard said. “We usually visit a shrine or temple, an active volcano and sometimes the beach.”
Hilliard and her husband, James, have been facilitating sister city exchange with Hiratsuka for 15 years and have taken students four times. The couple hosts the Japanese students when they visit Lawrence for 10 days. The students get into the program because of their ability to illustrate their desire to experience and share different cultures, but what the trip means to them differs individually. “I went to Japan in the summer of 2013,” Free State sophomore Seamus Herrod said. “I wanted to be really able to immerse myself in the food culture of Japan and be able to eat like them. If you go to a Japanese restaurant in America, you’re not really eating like a Japanese person, you’re eating like an American person trying to be Japanese. When you go Japan, you’re really able to eat like the Japanese people eat. I really liked the way we were able to meet a lot of people and make connections internationally.” Aside from trying an array of foreign cuisine, the students get to see an urban setting different than the United States. “The cities are really close Odawara Castle, near Hiratsuka, was one of the spots Lawrence High sophomore Aidan Rothrock visited on the last day of the trip with his host family. Photo courtesy of Aidan Rothrock |Lawrence High
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Chicago Orchestra Trip Washington, D.C.
DEC. 15, 2014 | Page by Zia Kelly THE BUDGET
Members of the Lawrence delegation to Hiratsuka, Japan, posed with a group of woman who taught them a dance they would perform at the Hiratsuka Festival. Photo courtesy of Aidan Rothrock |Lawrence High together, so it’s hard to tell when you leave one city and enter another,” Lawrence High sophomore Aidan Rothrock said. “It’s really weird. It’s so different from here.” The selection process for delegates beings early in the preceding school year. Applicants are interviewed in October by the Sister City board, and 16-20 delegates are selected. As well as traveling to Hiratsuka, delegates are expected to host students from the sister city in their own homes and accompany them to various events designed for the visitors. The Sister City program works to connect students to cultures outside of their own and make connections with people worldwide. Hilliard believes that students gain a broader perspective when they go on the exchange trips. “We hope they gain a better understanding of new cultures and an appreciation of the fact that being an ‘American’ is embracing all cultures,” Hilliard said. “All Americans came from some place else after all. Many of the students that have gone on this trip have made life-long friends.”
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