March 2014

Issue Five/March 2014 WHAT’S COOKING IN THE CAFETERIA The PH cafeteria not only feeds the school, but is home to a group of people who care for the needs of everyone.

PDA Roaming the halls, it is hard to miss. How does the school feel about it?

CHEAP DATES Running out of money? Need to impress your girl without breaking the bank?

THE

TROJAN

MT

LETTER FROM THE

D

ABOUT THE COVER: Friday, February 21, 2013 Park Hill’s very own jazz band performed at the annual Courtwarming assembly. Several students had solos, including a stand out performance on the saxophone by sophomore Martin Glebocki.

The note range of the soft jazz music filled the new gym and aroused loud applause from all the students and teachers.

“I was surprised how many people clapped when I was done. I didn’t even think about it [the reaction] it just happened,” said sophomore Glebocki.

ABOUT THE BACKCOVER:

CONTENTS

Every year at the Courtwarming assembly, Park Hill step team performs a step routine with boys from throughout the school. Senior Derek Baker joined the team for this performance, taking a primary spot on the front line facing the sophomore and senior classes.

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The Trojan, published monthly during the regular school year, is the official publication of Park Hill High School, and is printed by Antioch Printers in Kansas City, MO. All unsigned editorials represent the opinion of The Trojan staff. Editorials do not necessarily represent the opinion of the faculty or administration including the adviser. The student body receives this paper free of charge to encourage readership, promote awareness of school and community events, and issues, and to showcase student journalistic work. The Trojan welcomes letters to the editors. All letters must be signed to be published, but may be anonymous if the author chooses. Letters may be no more than 350 words and must be delivered to room 350 ten days prior to publication. The Trojan staff welcomes comments, questions and opinions. Send comments to berans@parkhill. k12.mo.us 7701 Barry Road, Kansas City, Mo 64153, or call 816-359-6238.

EDITOR

Dear Readers, Snow days come whether we like them or not.

Park Hill School District’s Facebook page seems to explode any time there is a snow day or potential for one. Parents can be more upset by the district’s decisions than students are. Snow days bring complaints about adding days to the end of the school year. Having school with potential for a snow day brings complaints about the district putting children in danger.

As a senior who doesn’t have to make up snow days, I relish any day off I can get, even though it makes catching up on time lost in class hectic.

Some parents complain of this pushed back end date ruining vacation plans, but the school accounts for this; any final missed by a student at the end of the year is put in the office for students to come and take when they get back.

On the Park Hill 2013-2014 School-Year Calendar it states, “If the district cancels school for snow days, students will make up those days at the end of the year. Those days could include May 27, 28, 29, 30 and June 2 and 3 plus any additional days as needed.”

Others suggest that the school district should take days off of spring break or cut teacher work days. Teacher work days are used as training and a part of the contract teachers sign, so these can’t be taken out. As far as spring break goes, taking out these days could just as easily ruin spring break vacations planned as they could summer plans, with shorter notice.

Every month, in a video series called “Park Hill In Depth,” Park Hill Superintendent, Scott Springston, covers issues in the school district.

This February he discussed how the school district’s decision on whether to cancel school is based upon the safety of students and instruction time because it is so valuable to the district. So when a snow day is called, it is not for the lack of serious consideration of the district. My recommendation would be for students to value the days of rest they get and value the days in school that aren’t rushed to make up work. For parents, know that the safety of your kids weighs heavily on the district, and your summer vacation will still happen.

Mackenzie Thomas

editor-in-chief

THE

TROJAN

PARK HILL HIGH SCHOOL January 2014

FEATURE Funky Phobias

Do you have a weird fear? Well you are not alone, see some of student’s odd phobias on page 6.

What’s Cooking in the Cafeteria?

Meet the ladies who cook your lunch every day and follow them as they prepare your food.

Kansas City

Kansas City has more than just barbeque, find out what makes our city so special on page 18.

DEPARTMENT PDA: Park Hill Displays Affection Sports Myths

What Goes Around Comes Around Dynamic Duos

2013-2014 STAFF

Hallways are for talking, getting books, and....affection? See where students stand on the PDA debate.

A multitude of products promise enhanced athletic activity, but see page 10 for which are true and which are myths.

Trends seem to cycle through our high school rapidly, see what trends are just now coming back.

Nothing is stronger than a friendship.

Check out page 9 to see some bordering bromances.

EDITOR-IN-CHEIF: MACKENZIE THOMAS WEB MASTER: MOLLY WEIS ONLINE COPY EDITOR: SHANNON BARRY ONLINE PHOTO EDITOR: ZOË BUTLER PHOTO EDITOR: KAYLIN LAKE DESIGN EDITOR: BETH COOPER FEATURE & SPORTS COPY EDITOR: CHLOE LANE DEPARTMENT COPY EDITOR: RYLEE STOULIL BUSINESS MANAGER: JAKE BJORNLIE REPORTERS: AMANDA BATTMER.ALLY BUCHBERG.JUSTIN DORWEILER.MATT EBLEN.HARRISON HOSTICK.MOLLEY MARTIN. ABBY PEOPLES.ANTHONY WUSSOW

PDA

CAMPUS

PARK HILL DISPLAYS AFFECTION

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By: Matt Eblen Throughout the halls, one can find many different things: people rushing to class in hopes they can travel across the school in less than a minute, friends discussing events that have affected them in their last block, and people publicly displaying just how much affection they have for each other.

“You probably should not do anything that makes other people uncomfortable, but some people may not be aware of what makes others uncomfortable,” said freshman Jake McPhee, a man who openly admits he has participated in PDA [public displays of affection] with his girlfriend.

PDA fills most schools. Park Hill is no exception; from hand holding to activities most people would be ashamed to talk about, students’ views on the topic range widely.

“It shows the other person that you are with that you care about them enough to show them off in public. It makes them feel good about themselves,” said freshman Elise Villarreal.

Villarreal is the other half of the aforementioned couple, which has given Science teacher and STUCO supervisor Jennifer Paschall a pause.

“As a teacher looking at students, if you do not want to watch me make out, I do not want to watch you make out. The thing is what most people do in public is not nearly the extent of what they do in private, so if you are sucking face in the middle of the hallway, it only leads us to believe you are doing more than that at home, and I do not want to know about that,” said Paschall.

Paschall believes that students who are uncomfortable with the blatant display of passion between their peers do not want to speak up, and therefore, she will gladly point out when students take their PDA too far.

“Mrs. Paschall has yelled at me multiple times in the hallway. ‘Get off of each other,’ that’s something she

would say,” said McPhee.

Paschall has no qualms in separating the two love birds.

“They are like magnets, they are totally attracted to one another, and they have to almost touch all the time.

In student council meetings, we have to tell them not to touch each other. In the hallways one day after lunch, they were hugging and I yelled at them to separate and they did not. So, I stood within two inches of them until they moved away from each other,” said Pashcall.

Others share Paschall’s view on the topic on PDA. “I think it is stupid. You get six hours after school to do whatever you want.

You don’t have to stand in the middle of the hallway reminding everyone of how lonely they are, sit there and make out, and block the halls. So, everyone is late for class and you can not talk to your friends ‘cause someone is standing in the middle of the hall making out with their boyfriend,” said senior Jacob Wilzcheck.

Some think there is a happy medium in-between the two extremes.

“I think it is okay to hold hands and hug and a kiss on the cheek or whatever, but when it gets to the point where you are making out against a wall in front of everybody, I think that should stop because that is a little far. I think it is a private moment and it should stay that way,” said junior Nicole DeMarco.

Despite whatever someone’s view on PDA is, they always have a story. There is always a couple giving the onlookers something to gawk at, including stories of people inadvertently intruding into others’ more romantic moments.

“Walking in between two people as they go in for a kiss and getting kissed on both sides, that was not a fun experience, it was humiliating,” said Wilzcheck.

LIZ

A KEY MEMBER

HENDERSON

By: Kaylin Lake She is the woman behind all the music at Park Hill. She is the accompanist for all the soloist and musical productions.

She copies the music for Mr. Curington, and records music. She is the handler of the music library. She is known as Liz Henderson, or as most students know her, as Mrs. H. Henderson has worked in the Park Hill School district for sixteen years as an accompanist. Her job consists of a variety of things, but the thing that consumes most of her time in the fall is the musical.

Henderson plays the piano for the musical and also does the rehearsals for the orchestra. The soloists in the musical spend a longer amount of time with Henderson than most students because they have to perfect their songs. She continues this routine for ten weeks every fall.

“Mrs. H is there to help whenever asked or needed, whether it is to play your part or get you something for your sore throat, she never fails at being one of the most helpful people at Park Hill,” said senior Sydney Benton.

Henderson has had a long history with musical instruments. She first began playing piano when she was just six years old and has been playing since. She also played the saxophone throughout high school, but she solely focuses on piano now. While she was in high school, she played piano for her school and for her choir at church.

“While I was in college, I played the piano for people in the choir,” said Mrs. Henderson.

In addition to the many hours Henderson spends at school, she spends her spare time working at the hospital for a

couple days a week.

“I work in emitting in the ER, and also give piano lessons,” said Henderson.

Students really appreciate all the things that Mrs. Henderson does for them.

“She is not just a good teacher, she is a great one! She is the type of teacher that stays at school until eight at night just to get work done. She also is very kind and compassionate. She does a lot more work than people think, and she is just an outstanding person overall,” said senior Cody VanHooser.

FUNKY PHOBIAS JUSTIN

FEATURE

6

my family, there were little white crabs and they just popped out of the sand and they were just really creepy looking. I’m also afraid that they are going to swarm around me and stab me or something like that.”

Another ocean critter that is unique is the starfish. Not only do they not have a face of any kind, they have the ability to regrow any lost limbs.

“I am scared of starfish,” said freshman Tess Smith, “I had a nightmare when I was a little kid and I have never gotten over it. The reason being is that I don’t think it’s natural that they can grow back or regenerate from being cut into pieces and they just scare me.”

Yet another ocean animal people are wary of are jellyfish. They also do not have faces and do not have any kind of skeletal structure at all.

“It started out with a movie.

Originally I was never scared of jellyfish, but this movie called “The Sphere”, it’s about these scientists who go on an underwater discovery. One of the scientists is surrounded by these giant, pink jellyfish. They start to close in on him and then they disperse but he is not there anymore so his friend starts to freak out and I’m scarred for life,” said junior Mrudula Gandham.

Many people are afraid of birds.

Many of them are very large and are capable of picking up fairly large animals. But not many people think a flightless bird is that scary.

“I am afraid of chickens. When I was four, my parents took me down to my Uncle Rodney’s house and he had a farm with chickens,” said junior Lauren Handley. “The chickens were in this big chicken coup. At the time they were about half my height. My uncle made me hold one and it pecked me, when I put it down it kept pecking my leg and it chased me. Then I saw the Chicken Run

DORWEILER

Everyone has something they are afraid of; some things that we are hardwired to fear. But, then there are those things that may not be scary to some but can make others pee their pants in fear. Maybe it is a fear of heights, small places, or being buried alive. Many people have perfectly natural fears.

“From the trivial, I am scared of wasps and bees. Those have always scared me. When I was six years old, I got stung by a couple of wasps and my arm kind of swelled up like Popeye’s; not bad like I had to get epi-pened and stuff like that,” said social studies teacher Kyle Howe. “As far as losing my life, drowning, that one gets me and the dreaded phone call from a family member when someone says ‘sit down’ or ‘we need to talk’. I’ve had too many of those and that’s the worst one of my fears.”

Then there are the fears that not many people have. Mottephobia is the fear of moths and is usually triggered by traumatic experiences.

“I am scared of moths and butterflies,” said senior Dianna Swete, “but mainly moths. The thing that terrifies me the most about them is when they are all up in your business and they are fluttering around your head. It’s like they are attacking you and saying ‘I want to bother you’, and you just want them to go away.”

Ostraconophobia is the fear of shellfish (crabs, clams, etc.) Some crabs are very tiny and look harmless. Others are so big that they are as big as your chest.

“I am afraid of small white crabs, the ones that like blend into the sand when you are on a beach,” said sophomore Maddie Gravatt, “It is like those crabs in the third Pirates of the Caribbean movie. The reason I’m scared of them is because when I went crab hunting with

movie and that was scary. Then I saw the Jimmy Neutron movie, and that had the giant chicken. My mom left to get popcorn, so I was by myself when the chicken hatched and I was crying and stuff. Then one of my friends, who knew I was scared of chickens, had a chicken that she would chase me around with to get me acclimated with it but that didn’t work because the chicken would freak out and would always flap its’ wings. I just don’t like them around my feet now.”

But then there are some fears that are based on a social aspect of our lives.

Some people are scared of a specific kind of interaction in life. Some are just plain scared of the future. Then there are those who are scared of random encounters.

“My friend Suvi and I were driving in the Wal-Mart parking lot and she just starts screaming like crazy. So I slam on my brakes thinking that I’m going to hit somebody, but she leans over me and starts banging on my window,” said junior Hattie Saltzman.

“So I turn my head a little bit and see Mr. Motta standing there, with his hand up awkwardly just staring at us and my friend just keeps screaming and my windows were cracked open the whole time. The next day in class he comes over to me and stands there for a second and calmly says, ‘Hi Hattie.’ From then on I have been scared seeing my teachers outside of school.”

WHAT’S

YOUR

PHOBIA?

DOLLAR MENU

COMMUNITY

PLEASE

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By: Ally Buchberg There has always been a negative connotation of a cheap date. There is cheap, and there is inexpensive. Some dates occur on a budget.

“If it is a first date, I’d probably go somewhere more expensive. But your date should never be about money,” said sophomore Henry Broja.

Websites like Groupon, LivingSocial, and SweetJack help save money on expensive dates.

“Cheap dates are great because it saves money for the same amount of good quality. You can go on more dates rather than one really expensive date,” said Broja.

A cheap date does not mean a boring evening inside.

There are several alternatives to a night out at a pricey dinner and movie.

“When we go to dinner, we go to Applebee’s and wait until nine so we can get half priced appetizers. Then go back and have a movie night with friends or family,” said sophomore Taylor Wood.

Although it is a further distance, the Cinemark Palace at the Plaza has movie tickets for five dollars, rather than ten dollars at AMC Barrywoods 24.

“We went to the movies, and he bought popcorn,” said freshman Veda Matthews. “I think it would be a cheap date if he did not.”

Time spent together is more important than money spent on each other. The outdoors bring an endless possibility of free fun.

“We went to downtown Parkville when they had all the little shops going on one weekend and listened to free music and explored around,” said Wood. “We go to parks all the time just to get out of the house. We do not ever spend much money.”

Water Works Park offers Frisbee golf for a sporty date, English Landing Park provides a view of the river for a nice day by the water, the Parkville Nature Sanctuary has a trail leading up to a waterfall for an adventurous date, and Happy Rock Park has a playground for a free-spirited date.

Many students would agree that the cost at the end of the night has nothing to do with the experience that they had on the actual date.

“It does not matter where you are as long as you and the person you’re with have a good time,” said junior Causim Entwistle.

It may be overwhelming when dates revolve around the money spent. Some do not realize what truly matters.

“You should be able to have fun with someone and be happy without having money as a factor,” said sophomore Kara Hecker.

DYNAMIC

DUOS

By: Amanda Battmer Calling all gentlemen, ladies, and bros alike: We all know those two guys that seem to be attached at the hip, and now the spotlight has turned on them and their devoted alliance with each other. What better way to kick off the spring season than to watch PH’s finest bromances bloom right before your eyes? Not even Nicholas Sparks would be able to describe the love between these charismatic couples, so sit back and relax; this could be the start of a beautiful friendship.

Freshmen Johnathan Hoefer and Brenden Kvernevig’s friendship fell into place in the fifth grade, when a wise teacher suggested they become friends.

Ever since then, they have enjoyed each other’s company, bonding over movies, video games, and by hanging out at the pool every summer.

“My favorite thing [about our

loving bromance] is that I can be myself around him and he doesn’t care what I do,” said Hoefer.

Although Kvernevig is the more reserved in this dynamic duo, the two can “annoy the crap” out of each other and definitely share a lot of laughs.

“He’s cool, he’s funny, and he has a great personality,” said Kvernevig.

Sophomores Desten Rose and Cooper Fankhauser’s bromance felt its first spark in middle school on an afternoon stroll to Sonic. Their favorite things to do together include running around in the woods and playing X-Box. They love joking around with each other, but their friendship doesn’t come without its bumps here and there.

“Well there is this one time… Every time I think about it, it just makes me boil with anger,” said Rose, referring to

an argument he and Fankhauser had.

Although Rose dislikes how Fankhauser poses his arguments, he considers one of his best qualities to be his fro and believes that their love “runs deeper than Lake Ontario.”

Fankhauser also loves Rose for his “amazing” hair, but couldn’t think of a moment when their friendship was not at its peak.

“Every day I spend with him is special,” said Fankhauser.

Juniors Ethan Hayes and Hunter Roberts’ first encounter was at an epic sixth-grade party, and ever since then they have enjoyed hanging out and playing rec sports together, especially soccer. Although Hayes admires Roberts for his sense of humor, he also recognizes his flaws.

“He can’t drive,” said Hayes.

Nevertheless, Hayes sums up their friendship with the word “love” without hesitation. Roberts believes their closeness is best described as a “TFM” or “total frat move,” yet there is more to this match made in heaven than

bro tanks and flip-flops. Perhaps the greatest bonding they have experienced has been over their impeccable senses of style.

“He’s girly. I don’t know, I kind of am too. We both dress nice and talk about our clothes,” said Hayes.

Amongst the two’s similar interests are shopping at Dillard’s and Polo.

“I like how Ethan always has the same ideas as me, like style-wise, and we always want to do the same things when it comes to the weekend,” said Roberts.

Seniors Simon Huntley and Phil Eckert first walked into each other’s lives three years ago, but did not truly feel the closeness they now share until this school year. They love long-boarding and hanging out together and have even started their own production company, Definite Entertainment.

“We pretty much like doing anything together because a bromance is all about being able to do everything you love together,” said Huntley.

Although they do not agree on every topic (pickles being one of them), the love between these two is real and everyone around them can see it.

“Last year, a lot of our friends went off to college and that’s when we really became friends. Now we are just one person,” said Eckert.

Some of these two’s similarities include their sense of humor and what they do during their free time (which is usually spent in the comfort of each other’s arms).

“We get on each other’s nerves sometimes, but our friendship is a ‘keep it real’ friendship, meaning if we ever think something is wrong we bring it up and never hide anything,” said Huntley.

“We are the brothers we never had.”

johnathanHOEFER&brendenKVERNEVIG

destenROSE&cooperFANKHAUSER

hunterROBERTS&ethanHAYES

philECKERT&simonHUNTLEY

SPORTS

MYTHS

Keeping ease of mind may be reason enough to keep up with current nutritional trends, though many of these don’t hold strong evidence of effecting overall health along with athletic performance. These movements arise from the internet, television advertisements and word of mouth, typically created as a marketing ploy to sell different performance enhancing supplements and products. Many of these sports “myths” do in fact hold true to an extent. However, many of these have little to no proof or explanation. With this in mind, even more accurate sports-nutrition information gets twisted and embellished over years of passing down tips. Regardless, certain trends tend to stick around and are followed adamantly by athletes and non-athletes alike. It is important to stay aware of facts behind products and diets, particularly for athletes who partake in these trends and routines in order to increase endurance and improve their athletic performance.

Will Sports Drinks Really Quench Your Thirst?

SPORTS

- As a young athlete, drink a combination of water and sports drinks.

- According to the Mayo Clinic, water is usually the best choice; but if you have been exercising for more than 60 minutes then you should use a sports drink.

- Sports drinks maintain your electrolyte balance

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and they give you more energy because of their carbohydrates.

“I feel like they [sports drinks] actually slow you down rather than hype you up. I feel like you just become more and more dehydrated,” said junior James Moss.

Dietary Supplements Do Not Increase Endurance - Many supplements are marketed to increase endurance and energy of athletes - These include caffeine, beta alanine and carnitine - There is no scientific

backing that these – or any supplements – do help fortitude - This can be achieved through consistent exercise.

Drinking 64 oz. of Water a Day Is Not Right For Everyone - This number is a good guideline, but it is not the best choice for everyone.

- Everyone needs different amount of fluid based on their size and amount of exercise they are doing every day.

- They also must consider the type of environment they are in.

- In actuality, the amount of water consumed, should be in proportion to the persons weight.

GET ON OUR LEVEL

where is state at?

By: Abby Peoples Hard work, perseverance, and desire are key parts to every high school athlete’s dream—competing at State. In every MSHSAA sport, State is not just another game; it is the highest level of competition. Students across the country have dreams to make it to their State competition, but only a select few actually make it.

This past month, three of Park Hill’s winter sports competed at the State level. Wrestling, dance team, and girls swim and dive traveled to their state meets with a desire to score big.

“I think all sports desire to go to state. It’s the last event of the year, and definitely the most fun,” said senior swimmer Jasmine Jones. “For swim, we take vans, stay overnight, and hope to succeed while still having fun. It’d be great to have fans at state, but we know students don’t want to have to make the trip, so we still like having our fans cheer us on from home.”

State events may seem like all fun and games to the outside eye, but the athletes involved see the process differently. Most sports have several levels to pass before having the honor to compete in the State competition. In most MSHSAA team sports (i.e. soccer, basketball, football, Kansas Cityetc.), a Dance team Blue SpringsSoccer

ColumbiaCheer, Wrestling, Baseball, Basketball

SpringfieldTennis, Softball

must go through a district and sectional tournament to even qualify for State.

“Swimming is a bit different than other sports. To go to State, we have to make our state cut—a qualifying time that must be achieved in order to go to state,” said junior swimmer Madison Heydinger.

These levels are a bit different in each sport, but still require the same amount of determination in order to get to the highest level.

“We work hard all year in order to go to state, and we have improved each year. Competing with the team at State is one of the best parts of our season, and the outcome of doing well is the most rewarding,” said senior Dance Team Captain Skylar Suppes.

State has been said to be the most exciting event of the season, but it can also be the most stressful.

“This year’s a lot more intense because I made top sixteen at state last year, so the pressure is on for making top eight. I qualified in six events this year, but will only be able to swim four, so I chose the ones I’m best at,” said Heydinger. “State is great for team bonding because only a few people go. You work for it all year, so it’s great when you make it to your end goal.”

The end outcome is what most athletes wish for. This season, dance team placed third in hip hop and pom, ranking them first in the Kansas City area. The swim team was successful at State this past weekend, with several girls placing in the top 16.

Wrestling won the State title with Ke-Shawn Hayes, Colston DiBlasi and Sean Hosford placing first, John Erneste placing St. Peter’ssecond, and Canten Marriott and Ethan Koan placing fourth Swim and Dive in Class 4. The team beat out the competition with a 32-point St. LouisFootball Jefferson Cityspread between them and the second place team.

Cross Country, “Winning is like a sigh of relief,” said junior State champion Track and Field wrestler Ke-Shawn Hayes. “We put in a lot of work during the season and off-season, so it’s nice to have it finally pay off.

Every year the expectation is to win a state title. We set our goals high so we always have something to strive for.”

In the spring, other organizations such as DECA, Cape GirardeauFCCLA, and Speech and Debate will compete in their Golf, Volleyball State competitions as well. For results from all State competitions, please visit myparkhill.com or follow @WeAreParkHill on Twitter. #StackTitles

#LastOneFastOne

#PHDT

Walking down the halls of Park Hill, make sure to congratulate the following students who have made it to the State level in their sport: Cross Country: Kyle Pudenz and Kimberly Rau. Golf: Sydney Paulak Tennis: Blake Barnard, Brooke Barnard, Abby Peoples and Kaylin Lake.

Track and Field: Kyle Pudenz, Kennatte Harris and Hanok Tekle.

Swim and Dive: Madison Heydinger, Rebecca Shaw, Meg Feeley, Lynn Huynh, Jasmine Jones, Ariel Jones, Daryn Bourne, Kelly Feeley, Martin Glebocki, Barry Chang, Jared Weger, Evan Donnelly, Danny Jones and Henry Eckold.

Wrestling: Sean Hosford, Ke-Shawn Hayes, Canten Marriott, Colston DiBlasi, John

Erneste, Anthony Wussow, Anthony Enriquez, Emmerson Gardner and Hunter Roberts.

Dance Team: Skylar Suppes, Caitlin Flagler, Courtney Soliz, Sydney Benton, Allison Maier, Victoria Handford, Kensie Himmelwright, Marlo Craghead, Tara Forte, Kara Stickland, Ashley Geddins, Mallory Geisinger, Raven Reed, Olivia Daley, Olivia Woods, Jordan Elder and Colleen Joyce.

Cheer: Kensie Slone, Kellen Hammons, Carly Moyer, Catie Paine, Cayli Beer, Nadia Lee, Victoria Newlove, Hayli Brown, Julianna Reyes, Annamarie Enriquez, Ashley Williams, Valori Samborski, Chris Atkins, Breanna Reno, Ellie Diamond, Sam Reneau, Mica Slone, Brittany Panzica, Cassidy Robinson, Hayley Robinson, Carol Hayes, Kaitlyn Decker, Emily Connor and Lexi Smith.

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SHANNON

BARRY

FEATURE

WHAT’S COOKING IN THE CAFETERIA

he cafeteria: a meeting place where meals are shared, friends are made and a much needed break from the school day all occur in just a twenty-five minute period. At Park Hill, students are offered a plethora of options to eat during this time of relaxation, but what most students don’t know is the time that goes into the preparation of all the different foods and the work of the cafeteria staff to keep nutrition and variety a part of student’s daily lives.

At the beginning of each month, a calendar mapping out the lunches offered every day is printed and made available in the office. This calendar lists regularly priced ($2.45) and premium priced ($2.75) lunches provided for students and staff.

In each meal, there is a main dish and a required side. This side is not only part of what the student is paying for but also a way to ensure students get a member of each food group on their plate.

Over the years, the lunch menu has changed considerably especially due to the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010.

With the signing of this act came the implementations of many regulations to the chagrin of the student body. These regulations included a six cent

T

cost increase in the price of the premium lunch option, the calorie count maximum for lunches being 850, and taking a fruit or vegetable in your lunch becoming mandatory.

“The government doesn’t require protein to be a part of each meal but the district does and next year we will move into a 100 percent whole wheat for the pasta and breads,” said said Shawna Powell, cafeteria manager, “We want everyone to have nutrition. It affects the way you learn. You’re almost adults and you can choose what you eat but we want the options to be healthy.”

In an effort to bump up the approval rates in the cafeteria, Powell and the rest of the cafeteria staff created focus groups of students ranging in eating habits to get their input about what they want to see in their lunch everyday and make them feel better about what they are putting in their bodies.

“I would like to see more vegetarian options,” said senior Derek Baker before the focus group meetings on Tuesday Feb. 11 and Thursday Feb. 13, who made the commitment to vegetarianism at the age of five.

“It seemed like we had more options in the past and I am wondering why that is. It is like some days I go to lunch and have tons of options and other days there’s next to none.”

The eight focus groups met for thirty minutes for an open discussion about improvements students think should be made to the cafeteria including the use of social media to get student opinions about food that is sampled in the cafeteria from time to time.

“We want to hear from you and meet your needs,” said director of nutrition services for PHSD Ronda McCullick, “We want satisfied customers.”

A hot topic during the focus groups was the slim pickings of options for vegetarians and clean eaters. Most meals in the cafeteria serve one form of meat or another which makes it difficult for specific kinds of eaters to find a lunch every day.

“We want you to have a full meal and not have to just pick and choose,” said McCullick.

From these focus groups, the PHSD nutritional services got the student input needed to suit the needs of more of their growing student body of about 1400.

“Now, instead of only having vegetarian options on like a Tuesday, they have them every day,” said Baker.

During lunch now students are offered Naked Juice, assorted flavors of smoothies, and soon the edition of a garden pizza, making it much easier for different eaters to find lunch every day.

ANDREArodgers

How long have you worked at PH? “I’ve been in the district for twelve years and at Park Hill for four years.”

What’s your favorite meal to cook at home?

“Gumbo.”

What is your job specifically?

“I’m the assistant manager, I do the paper work, inventory, and I oversee all the ladies here.”

What would you want the students to know about the cafeteria?

“The ladies and I really care if you guys eat and that what you eat is keeping you healthy.”

What is your favorite part of working here?

“The ladies, they’re hard working and helpful. There’s a lot of teamwork here.”

PEARL day

How long have you worked at PH? “I’ve been at the district for eighteen years. I was at Park Hill for seven years then I went to Congress, but I’ve been back at Park Hill for four years since then.”

What is your job specifically?

“I’m a main dish cook. I cook the pasta, burgers and pizzas.”

What is your favorite part of working here?

“Serving the children. I like the

communication with them, it cheers me up to see them.”

What is your favorite meal to cook at home?

I eat and cook more vegetables at home and my husband and I barbeque.”

What would you want the students to know about the cafeteria?

“I’ve never worked at or seen a school with so many options available to the students.”

A DAY IN THE LIFE

FEATURE

Breakfast is served from 7:00 to 7:30

9:00

AM

14

The cafeteria staff starts preparing breakfast

7:00

AM

Cafeteria manager Shawna Powell arrives at school

6:30

AM

AM

5:15

Preparations are made for lunch that day

SHAWNA powell

How long have you worked at PH? “I’ve worked in the district for nineteen years and at Park Hill for two and a half years.”

What is your job specifically?

“I’m the manager, I make sure that everyone does what they’re supposed to and are where they should be.”

What is your favorite part of working here?

“The students, I really enjoy having the chance to touch people’s lives whether it’s through food or not.”

What is your favorite meal to cook at home?

“The Philly brisket sandwiches that my catering company makes. We call them “Brillys”.”

What would you want the students to know about the cafeteria?

“I would want them to know that we are really nice people. We’re not a bunch of Nazis, we just want them to be as healthy as they can be.”

RONDA clopp

How long have you worked at PH? “I’ve worked in the district for eighteen years. I worked at Park Hill for six years total.”

What is your job specifically?

“I make the salads, prepare the vegetable options you can get, and the yogurt parfaits.”

What’s your favorite meal to cook at home?

“Egg noodles, I home make them.”

What would you want the students to know about the cafeteria?

“You’re always welcome to talk to us, we’re not the monsters that some people might think we are.”

What is your favorite part of working here?

“The kids, they’re patient and polite.

I like having the interaction with you guys every day.”

First lunch begins

12:50

PM

The cafeteria staff enjoys their lunch

10:50

AM

The many dishes are cooked

AM

AM

10:00 10:15-10:45

Cafeteria workers have thirty minutes to clean and clock out

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THE TROJAN STAFF

TROJAN STAFF EDITORIAL

HOW IT WE SEE

WE DON’T NEED TO KNOW THAT...

EDITORIAL

f

16

When asked what a high school student could not live without, their cell phone is likely to be somewhere on that list, if not at the top. It is rare to see a teenager not on their phone in their spare time. What used to be a device to simply call a family member or a friend has evolved into a mini life-support system that has become an additional appendage. The use of technology has begun to dehumanize the nation’s younger generation. You can have a whole relationship with someone and not even have to look at them in the face.

People have become so persistent in checking and updating their favorite social media site, whether that is Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram; people are constantly connected.

Due to the fixation of mobile devices and said sites that can be accessed from them, it has developed into a normal hobby to update the World Wide Web on every single activity a person accomplishes in a day, whether it is necessary for anyone else to know or not.

In the romantic comedy, “Easy A”, the main character’s teacher makes a very valid point when he suggests, “I don’t know what your generation’s fascination is with documenting your every thought… but I can assure you, they’re not all diamonds.” There comes a point when enough is enough; not every aspect of someone’s life needs to be posted on these sites.

Leave a little room for imagination people!

With that being said, people have become so accustom to posting a quick picture or post about what they are up to, that they disregard the fact that it will be on the internet forever. Yes, forever. Before you Instagram a picture of your friends and you ‘turning up’ on the weekends or bashing your place of employment, keep in mind your friends are not the only ones who have access to see them. You may think putting your profile on private or blocking certain accounts will protect you from

certain users accessing your page, but business, schools, fraternities/sororities, coaches, etc. do in fact all have the ability to see everything you’ve posted. If you choose to have your Twitter page set on public, everything is visible to anyone, regardless if they have their own page or not.

It would be a shame from someone to lose an amazing opportunity due to a status they uploaded that sheds a bad light on them. What you put on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, or any other media site now, can and will affect the rest of your life. A prime example of this is the firing of New England Patriots cheerleader, Caitlin Davis, in 2008. Davis had been the youngest cheerleader ever to make an NFL squad, but was cut when controversial photos of her 18 year old self spread across the internet. These Facebook posts contained pictures of Davis at a Halloween party next to a man, who was passed out at the time, covered in graffiti, complete with swastikas, profanity, and ant-Semitic remarks. Another example was recorded in 2009 when a teenage girl was canned after posting a status explaining how uneventful her new job was. Her boss discovered the comments and fired her shortly after.

When preparing to update a site, think to yourself, “How will I feel if this pops back up in fifteen years?” If you are worried about what might already be out there to haunt you in the coming years, a fun activity you should try sometime is Google your Twitter handle, clicking Images, and feast your eyes on the many pictures of your friends and you that pop up. Or you can just simply Google your name and find out what comes up. It is crazy how the internet can contain all this information forever, so make sure what you post is worth having the world know for the rest of your life.

Leapheart

HOWSEEIT YOU

what goes around comes back around Each season, trends and fashion evolves into something new and unique to the times. While some styles are new and revolutionary, trend-setters have a tendency to borrow from the past, and bring back certain apparel and accessories. These “refurbished” styles have come back and are taking a stronghold in today’s fashion.

Filled previously with shutter shades and Hollister, the halls are full now full of Sperrys and high wasted pants.

“I’m glad that these trends are coming back, because with all of the derogatory and promiscuous music, television shows, media, and movies good role models influencing our society today. And the path society is going down everyone would be running around without any clothes. It’s nice to bring back old traditions,” said junior Jocelyn Weyer

FLANNEL “It’s grungy man,” said freshman Christian Pollock HIGH WAISTED PANTS “I like high waited pants and shorts because I have a high waist and their really comfortable,” said senior Kendall Wilson.

Morelli Wilson

LEATHER JACKETS “I especially like my leather jacket because my super trendy step mom gave it to me,” said senior Angela Morelli.

“A lot of guys are starting to wear leather jackets and beanies. They went away for a period of time and then came back,” said sophomore Chris Winkie SPERRY’S

“I like that Sperry’s are back because they are cute shoes that are easy to slip on when you’re on your way somewhere,” said junior Raven Reed.

DENIM “Denim, especially acid wash just goes with everything,” said junior Anna Bay. COMBAT BOOTS “I think combat boots are super cute. They can pretty much go with about any outfit and they aren’t too bad to dance in,” said junior Kara Strickland.

FLORAL PRINT “I love floral print just because of its bright colors and flowers,” said Bay.

Bay Pollock

MOLLY

WEIS

NOT JUST DEFINED

BY THE BBQ

FEATURE

Located in the middle of the Heartland, Kansas City is often overlooked, even by its inhabitants. Viewed by outsiders as another Midwestern town, it lacks recognition and appreciation.

However, despite preconceived ideas about the city, KC is a hub for culture, sports and recreation.

“You always have a different perspective If you have been somewhere else,” said history teacher Damon Smith. “I think a lot of times, because our students have only experienced Kansas City or Park Hill, they don’t know how they have it, or realize the grass isn’t always greener on the other side.”

While attending college at UMKC, Smith attended a class on the history of Kansas City, in which students traveled to different parts of the city to learn about historical and cultural landmarks.

“The Kansas City Star, some years ago, put together a kind of History of Kansas City book. There was just a lot that I did not know,” said Smith. “Particularly just simple little things you don’t know.”

PHHS is a 16 minute drive from downtown Kansas City, which holds an excess of cultural and historical landmarks.

Home to major sports teams, including the Chiefs, Royals and Sporting KC among others, the city is full of pride and enthusiasm. Likewise, once in the city, art and life bloom at museums and musical centers.

“We live here, so we do not appreciate it,” said senior Karrington Prohaska, “if we did not live here and we were not used to it, we would appreciate it more.”

18

Founded in 1995, Sporting Kansas City, previously the Wizards, located in Livestrong Park by the Legends is a breakthrough in Major League Soccer, and a source of immense pride in KC. The stadium holds over 18,000 for games, with exclusive suites and clubs.

“Everyone supports them even if they win or lose, the fans always support them,” said junior Thomas Klender. “It seems like there are a lot of fair weather fans for other sports, but with soccer in Kansas City, we stay true.”

PHHS

Employing dozens of students at PHHS, Worlds and Oceans of Fun effects students every season beginning spring and coming to an end each fall. The two amusement parks attract thousands of thrill seekers every year for games, rides and attractions.

“It’s cool, because they always update either Worlds of Fun or Oceans of Fun every year.

They alternate between the two which is nice,” said senior Abigail Morris.

Buy your very own KCMO T-Shirt designed by PHHS senior Jacob Bjornlie!

Stop by room 350 during first block to purchase the shirt for $10. Black and white t-shirts will be available, with black, white, blue, red and yellow inks. Bring your own t-shirt of any color for a $5 discount!

Gladstone

Parkville Riverside

North Kansas City

Kansas City Located at the Liberty Memorial, the National WWI is the only museum in America dedicated solely to WWI. The museum holds a collection of artifacts from each country involved, along with realistic depictions of war-like terrain including trenches and other forts. “It is by far the most complete collection of information and artifacts from WWI in the country,” said history teacher Robert Brosseau.

“Any museum adds culture to the area because it adds education. The fact that it’s historical adds awareness.”

In September of 2010, the Kauffman Center first opened it’s doors in the heart of Kansas City, offering an array of performances in the two theaters. There, speakers, orchestras, plays and musicals are held for enormous audiences of 1,800 in the Muriel Kauffman Theater, and 1,600 in Helzberg Hall.

The Nelson Atkins Museum of Art is free to enter, and offers expansive collections of American and European paintings, early and modern Asian artwork, photography and Kansas City Sculptures. For a variable fee, the Nelson also offers featured exhibitions. “It’s probably one of my favorite places around town.

I actually had a birthday party there,” said junior Katherine Mathe. “They have a lot of cool exhibits – like I saw Monet’s Water Lilies once.” Not easy to miss, the Nelson is characterized by the sculpture park holding the famous bad mitten birdies designed by Claes Odenburg and Coojse Van Bruggen.

HEY STUDENTS! Check out Restore this Sunday and find out what all your peers have been talking about! Restore is focused on building a strong environment for students to build relationships and grow spiritually. Bring your parents, brothers and sisters with you, we’d love to see you all!

SUNDAY MORNINGS AT PARK HILL | 9:30 AND 11AM SERVICES | RESTORECC.ORG

What is online...

Keep updated on sopomore boys basketball and other sports around the school!

Do not forget to download the Myparkhill App! It features links to our online news stories, D2L, Powerschool and so much more!

For Google Play Store:

For IOS:

EAKFAST R B WITH BETHEL COLL E

YOU ARE INVITED TO JOIN US FOR A MORNING OF CONVERSATION AND EXPLORATION ABOUT BETHEL COLLEGE!

GE

NOV. SATURDAY

9, 2013 10:00 AM—11:30 AM

Meet Bethel students, faculty, admissions counselors, young alumni and the Bethel president.

Find out more about our academic programs, campus life, extracurricular activities, financial aid and so much more!

PLEASE RSVP BY TUESDAY, NOV. 5,

TO MICHAEL UNRUH IN THE OFFICE OF ADMISSIONS

BEST BACCALAUREATE COLLEGE— Ranked #3 in the country according to Washington Monthly 2013–2014

Future students, parents and families are all invited to attend.

For more information, please contact: Michael Unruh, Admissions Counselor munruh@bethelks.edu office: 316-284-5236 cell: 620-382-6560 (call or text)

DOUBLETREE HOTEL 10100 COLLEGE BOULEVARD OVERLAND PARK, KS 66210

BETHELKS.EDU

ur Does yo , or ort p s , club ation organiz hirts? need t-s

Call Jim Stoulil

Simplyyo P H O T O G R A P H SU

seniors-families-kids

TRACY BATTMER 816-728-2026

classifieds

ONLINE

Contact any of the News Staff or Mrs. Beran in room 350 for more info

20

Photos are 1.4 inches by 1.4 inches. Photos cost $10.

P ARK H I L L the stories in this edition of The Trojan to help you answer U Read the crossword questions. Bring the completed crossword with Z correct answers to room 350 for a special prize! First 3 only.

Z L E S

Across 1. How many seats are in the Muriel Kauffman Theater?

7. What teacher has made it their mission to cut down on PDA? 10. What is the name of the quirky main character of “New Girl”?

12. Where does Erin Smith work?

14. How does Hunter Roberts describe his bromance with Ethan Hayes?

Down 1. What does a swimmer have to meet to qualify for state?

2. What is a company you can sign up for the rewards program?

3. Senior Dianna Swete is afraid of this flying creature?

5. What is the cafeteria manager’s name?

6. What time does Taylor Wood wait to go to Applebee’s?

8. After how ling exercising should you drink a sports drink?

9. What is a print that is coming back in style?

11. At what age did Liz Henderson learn to play the piano?

JOB

OF THE

MONTH Every employer says they will work with students’ academic schedules, but who is more flexible than the school itself ?

The Park Hill School Districts employes hundreds of people each year. The jobs just aren’t for teachers, custodians, cafeteria workers, ground keepers, etc. There are opportunities for students to be employed and to get volunteer hours as well.

“I do the lights for concerts and plays.

When we have the musical, or things like Mr. Park Hill,” said freshman Johnathan Cruickshank. “It is cool because I can get paid to do something that used to just be a club for me.”

Cruickshank spends many long weekday afternoons working on the lighting during the musical season, staying at the school into the evenings sometimes.

Others, like junior Erin Smith, spend all their time here on campus, their weekends being their work days because of their already full weekdays.

“I am a lifeguard and I teach swim lessons at the Aquatic Center all year long,” said Smith. “I really like it because it pays well. I wouldn’t want to work somewhere like The Springs; it is so fast paced. The Aquatic Center is a lot easier because it is more relaxed.”

Take a look at the list below to get options on summer or school year job opportunities. Apply for one of these PH District Jobs: - Lighting - Aquatic Center (snack bar, lifeguard, swim instructor, must be 15) - Adventure Club (must be 16) - Summer Day Camp (must be 16) - Summer Painting (must be 16) Pay values vary

LIFE

22

Designed by Jake Bjornlie

1 2 3 4 5

Skip the latte - Making your own coffee at home can save up to $35 dollars a week!

Sign up for reward programs -Signing up for rewards programs can save you money by receiving free items from the companies. Stores ranging from Panera to American Eagle have them!

DIY Gifts

-Instead of buying a gift for your friends try baking them cupcakes or making them a pintrest gift!

Stay In -Rent a redbox movie or play games with your friends intead of spending money at the movies or dinner.

Save loose change - Whenever you pay with cash, save your loose change in a jar and empty it every six months for some extra cash.

WHO ARE YOU MOST LIKE?

By: Rylee Stoulil

MOSTLY A’S

What is your ideal first date?

A) Rock climbing B) A homecooked meal and a movie on the comfort of your own couch C) date?

Jesse Pinkman Breaking Bad You’re laid back, a little cynical, and helplessly anxious. You may make questionable decisions, but they are usually out of the goodness of your heart. People may see you as rough around the edges, but you have a good heart and value loyalty.

MOSTLY B’S

What do you do to cope with a stressful situation?

A) Get your mind off of it with arts and crafts B) Feel sorry for yourself C) Clean

GUYS

Jeremy Gilbert The Vampire Diaries You are extremely loyal to the bone and will do anything to keep the ones you love safe. You’re someone that keeps to themselves, but isn’t afraid to speak out in someone’s defense. Family is of high importance to you, and even though you may have confrontations with people, it is hard for you to stay angry.

MOSTLY C’S

MOSTLY C’S

Monica Geller-Bing Friends Although you may be a little bit of a control freak, your friends accept you for who you are. You have many talents, which may include cooking, cleaning, dancing, and winning at games. You have always been mature for your age and you can not wait to settle down and start your life.

MOSTLY B’S

Juliette Barnes Nashville You have always dreamed of big success, no matter what you have to do to achieve it. You may feel lonely sometimes, but you are very driven and competitive. You have been through your share of hard times, which have made you strong and independent.

GIRLS MOSTLY A’S

Jessica Day New Girl You are quirky, bubbly, and just adorable. Because of your over-thetop personality, you can be a little over emotional and may not always tackle your problems rationally.

Even though you sometimes put people off with your offbeat personality, you can win them over with your sweet smile and charm.

Sheldon Cooper The Big Bang Theory You are not a big fan of change, and are overly organized. You are very confident in your abilities, and sometimes that confidence can cost you, but you do not care that much. You are stubborn and like to prove that you are right. You are more likely to do what is scientifically ethical over what is the social norm.

How good are you at keeping It’s your birthday! How do secrets? you celebrate?

A) It might slip out, but only on A) Eat lots of cupcakes accident B) Throw yourself a surprise B) It’s not your secret to tell party (just in case your friends C) Lying - or withholding the forget) truth - is not a good habit to C) Hang out with your closest make friends

Your closet has too many...

A) Floral skirts and cardigans B) Sparkly dresses C) Perfectly ironed shirts

How far would you go to protect your family?

A) You might try, but you would not risk yourself B) You would do whatever it takes C) They’re on their own

What do you like to do in your free time?

A) Write a silly song B) Go on a shopping spree C) Hang out in the coffee shop

Which words describes your personality as a child?

A) Troubled B) Uh - Normal C) Antisocial

Your best friend just got Would you consider yourself dumped. What do you do? smart?

A) Take her to an amusement A) You are street smart park to cheer her up B) You are a pretty good B) Nothing student C) Plan a girls night full of ice C) Smart is an insult. You are cream and rom coms a genius.

What would you like to be famous for?

A) I’m good with where I am B) A singer C) A chef

What’s your opinion of breaking rules?

A) Rules were made to be broken B) It depends on what it is C) They are rules for a reason

We’re everywhere!