The View Vol 20 Issue 4

Social media has many severe effects on teens’ self-esteem and communication levels.

pages 16-17

park hill south

December 15, 2017

Issue 4, Vol. 20

Issue 4, Vol 20 December 15, 2017

It is officially the holiday season, and that means winter break is coming. After next week, you have 12 days to yourself to relax, explore or whatever you want to do (pg 15).

Hopefully, the break isn’t the end of our time off from school this winter. Find out how much snow we can be expecting, and how many snow days we can expect along with it (pg 6).

Around this time of year, tradition seems to be a big theme, and at South, and a beloved tradition is Big Cat. Christian Holferty, senior, took home the win this year, but read more about the other contestants (pg 7).

The year is coming to a close, and as we look back on 2017, it was a social media takeover. Check out what happened this year (pg 32), and also read about how social media can impact people’s real lives (pg 17).

Editors-in-Chief Nicole Beaubien Scott Brewster Bali Cortes Ethan Farrow Cali Gadd Hannah Graves Cristine Gurrola Madelyn Hill Christian Holferty Alli Majors Kate Maness Shane McCullough Gabby McDowell Sage Norsworthy Andrew Robaska Alex Rodriguez M.J. Walker Rowan Wilson

Bret Vanice and Hailey Deeds

Managing Editor Elyssa Bezner Copy Editor Reilly Scott Section Editors Anne Price Joe Leluga Hallie Vandeven Max Ghasemi Garrett Osbourn Digital Media Editor Noelle Alviz-Gransee Art Director Cienna Newett Advisor Megan Palmer

Co-Editor in Chief

K

ansas City voters approved the new $1 billion airport on Nov. 7, 2017. With a final vote of 49,950 to 16,378, it was clear that KC was ready for a change.

People love the simplicity and efficiency of the current airport, but it is outdated and bland.

“The organization needs to be better; more security gates, more places to check luggage, more carousels for baggage claim,” Sadie Franklin, junior, said.

Edgemoor Infrastructure got the contract to build the new airport. To cater to the citizens of Kansas City, Edgemoor has held several meetings in November and will continue to hold some in December to get ideas from the people of Kansas City.

They already have plans for a two story fountain, and as the Kansas City Star reported, “Tech to flash colors and images against the cascading water.”

We can also expect live jazz and a neat ceiling design of rolling hills and wheat fields. The Kansas City Council has met with local designers to see their images of what they think should be put into the airport. The parking will be better which is a big thing for junior Payton Havermann.

“The parking is very inefficient and they really need to fix that with the new one,” said

Havermann.

Kansas City Mayor Sly James has commented on the new airport; he believes that a new airport will be great for KC and it will help turn this into a world class city.

James was quoted in the KC Star saying, “This is exactly what we’ve been needing and wanting.”

The design of the airport calls for a one terminal, two concourses and 35 gate system was designed by SOM Architects. The two story building will have arrivals and departures on two different levels but both will have curbside service.

Many people are worried about how it will be funded. It will be funded by airport users, which is good for Kansas Citians. The reason they did this is because surveys by the KC Star showed that only 12 percent of the airports passengers use the airport. That means that 88 percent of airport users don’t live inside the city limits, so taxing Kansas Citians to pay for this wouldn’t be fair.

For Kansas City, this is a huge deal.

KC is in the right state for a new airport to really upgrade our town. This could finally put KC on the map as a major city.

Sky High Hopes Voters approved a new KCI and FLYERS ARE EXCITED

by: Ethan Farrow

The View // DECEMBER // News

03

S H P

Student laptop use brings conflict over monitoring and policies BY: ROWAN WILSON

“By using this computer or accessing the PHSD network, you agree to: Be subject to monitoring, recording, and logging

of all activity.”

We see this notice every time we turn our laptops on, but does anyone really read it? Students simply hit OK and go on with their business, but by doing so, they are agreeing to be monitored by the district.

There are a multitude of policies in place concerning laptops and how they are used. From the webpages visited, to the words typed, there is a way for it all to be seen by the administration and the district technology team. To most students, the technology handbook is something never touched or even looked at. This lack of awareness has gotten quite a few students in trouble over the past two years.

Some students see laptops as simply a piece of technology that is loaned to us, to be used for whatever purpose they see fit. Many students have different programs on their laptops that aren’t allowed, and have ways of getting past the barriers put up by tech and administration. From downloading games to hacking programs, there is a lot of activity going on that isn’t permitted.

It’s easy to avoid getting in trouble. However, you may be doing things that could be incriminating without even being aware of it. Being logged in to any social media site on your laptop, even if for just a minute, means that all of your direct

messages and posts are out there to be scrutinized by the administration. This includes things sent or received outside school, or even on different devices.

“There are multiple misconducts that are deemed inexcusable and have set disciplinary guidelines,” said Brett Lackey, assistant principal. “They can all be found in the Parent/Student handbook online.”

The Acceptable Use Policy states that students must “use appropriate language in all digital products and communications,” and that any “laptop is subject to inspection at any time without notice and remains the property of the Park Hill School District.” So, if any of the posts or messages on a social media profile has profanity or questionable content, you run the risk of getting in trouble.

Despite potential consequenes and discipline, some students find ways around the restrictions put in place on school laptops.

“I have seen people get around the administrative restrictions plenty of times, In order to do things such as playing games, etc.”

said Alex Mack, junior.

Some South students have differing opinions on how much administration monitors online activity. Dallas Sissel, senior, has gotten into trouble in the past, and thinks that the tracking of our social media is a step too far.

“They are here to teach us, not to get social with us. It’s our personal privacy; if we can’t [look up] our teachers, then they should abide by the same rules they present,” said Sissel.

There are several reasons the administration keeps an eye on questionable social media activity. Safety is the most important aspect of this surveillance. Whether it’s an online bomb threat or someone harassing a fellow student, being monitored can prevent and help these types of situations.

“The main purpose is to make sure that the staff and students are using laptops appropriately and safely,”

said Joshua Klumpe, tech support.

No matter what your stance may be, being aware of this surveillance is crucial to stay out of trouble. Students should avoid logging onto personal accounts when possible and be very careful with the content shared online.

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The View // DECEMBER // News

ALL THE

VAPE

ABoard Express

The prevalance of vaping among high schoolers is growing at an exponential rate BY: REILLY SCOTT Jewels and Juuls - both expensive and cherished by those who own them.

But that’s where the similarities end. Jewels are precious stones typically used for jewelry, and Juuls are precious items to the high schoolers who own them and use them for vaping.

There is a variety of tools people use for vaping, not just Juuls. Juuls are small black rectangles that resemble flash drives. Also, vape tools can be disguised as pens, virtually impossible to distinguish to a non-vaper.

“Since they’re smaller now, they’re more convenient to take around, and that’s making people want to take them everywhere they go.

That makes them become addicted, to the point where they have to do it every two hours,” Sarah Nasseri, senior.

The tricks, the yummy flavors and the notion that vape is safe all make it appealing to high schoolers. When exhaling the vapor, ‘tricks’, which are can be done like the French Inhale, Tornado, Ghost and O’s, the most basic. Students deal vape supplies during class and have been known to vape in the bathroom, both of which are against school policy. “[Vape] is a huge thing. It feels like the whole junior class has one in some type of form,” said Claire Hoy, sophomore.

Findings from the 2014 National Youth Tobacco Survey show that current e-cigarette use (use on at least one day in the past 30 days) among high school students increased from 4.5 percent in 2013 to 13.4 percent in 2014,

44% of South

students that vape have been vaping for 3-6 months

rising from approximately 660,000 to 2 million students.

The general consensus from the scientific community about vape is it’s safer than cigarettes, but not necessarily safe. Vape has not been around long enough for scientists to know what the long term effects are. The most dangerous element of E-Cigs is the nicotine - a highly addictive substance that is easy to become reliant on.

“There are studies that explain how nicotine is as bad for you as caffeine. It’s also as addictive as caffeine,” said Mik Valentine, \

senior.

Some potential harmful chemicals are in vape formaldehyde, the chemical in antifreeze, and acetaldehyde.

The lethal effects of vape are anywhere from 9 to 450 times less than cigarettes, but the levels of formaldehyde are similar, according to Scientific American.

“The main process of vaping removes the need to combust anything, removing a handful of the harmless chemicals. Studies on the vapor suggest there is a significant difference between the number of carcinogens found compared to cigarette smoke, with over 20+ chemicals found in cigarette smoke compared to only a few in the vapor. A few chemicals found in vapor are Nicotine, Propylene Glycol (Vegetable oil) and Acetaldehyde,” said Officer Matt Westrich, School Resource Officer.

The attorney general has deemed vape “a major public health concern.”

Cities and states have already begun banning the use of e-cigs in public places, including Boston, Chicago, New Jersey and North Dakota.

Vape by the

NUMBERS

In a study, 90.3% of vape bottles contained nicotine, but only 53.9% had a health warning regarding nicotine use (Source: Science News for Students)

29% of South

students say they vape every day

The View // DECEMBER // News

05

B IG CAT

on campus

by: SCOTT BREWSTER

There are a plethora of students at South, and many of them are really talented, each in their own way. Whether they are great athletes on the field, great performers on the stage or great students in the classroom, lots of students have that one thing that makes them stand out from the rest.

Scott is involved in the theater department, newspaper, South Boulevard chamber choir and A Capella Choir. His hobbies and pastimes include video gaming, cooking, and learning new talents. The reason he did Big Cat : it’s his senior year and he wants to make the best of it.

For seniors, what better way to show off those talents than Big Cat? Every year, many seniors audition for Big Cat. Some people spend months getting their act perfect where others get their act together in the last second. Regardless, talent is in large quantities and quite diverse among the student body.

In the end though, only five seniors were selected to be contestants for the show.

Josee is involved in FCA, Yearbook, NHS, Natural Helpers, FANS, NEHS, South Boulevard Chamber Choir, and A Capella Choir. Her favorite hobby is petting her cat. The reason she did Big Cat: because Anna Hermelink called and asked her to.

SCOTT BREWSTER JOSEE GENTRY

ZACH NAY JOE LELUGA Zach is involved in soccer, Joe is the Vice President of Senior NHS, & FCA. His hobbies include video gaming, arts & crafts, and sports. The reason he did Big Cat: because it’s funny and he likes being involved.

CHRISTIAN Christian is part of the football team and he is involved in Newspaper, NHS and Young Republicans. His hobby is hunting with his bare hands and collecting antique gas lanterns.

The reason why he did Big Cat: because he wanted to hopefully make people laugh.

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Exec and the Community Service and Suicide Prevention Chair of Natural Helpers, and is also involved with FANS, and captain of the golf team. His hobbies include playing guitar and spending time on social media.

The reason he did Big Cat: because he never had the spotlight and he thought he’d give it a try.

HOLFERTY

The View // DECEMBER // News

Wet, and Mild at Times

Milde r Avera , and Below ge Pre cipitat ion

About this time every year, it starts getting cold, the leaves begin to fall, and the thought of snow and the holidays all come into our heads. But possibly the biggest one of all is snow days. Will we have a lot, or will we have not so many?

As students, most of us wish for a white filled winter and extra days off, and according to local meteorologists, snow days and snow are on their way.

For the past two years, Kansas City has suffered from mild winter syndrome. Above average temperatures and below average snowfall began to look normal around the metro, but don’t get ahead of yourself; Kansas City has never had three years in a row of less than 10 inches of snow, and it’s not going to happen this year.

“This year currently is favoring a below average temperatures, and near or above average snowfall winter,” said Gary Lezak, Chief meteorologist at 41 Action News.

This is a result of pieces of a winter puzzle, that over the last two years haven’t really come together in our favor. But this year it’s looking different.

Starting with El Nino, and La Nina, which is above, or below average temperatures in the tropical Pacific.

“A weak La Nina is in place, but it definitely has the potential to strengthen to a moderate La Nina,” said Joe Lauria, meteorologist at FOX 4.

Arctic Oscillation and North Atlantic Oscillation have large effects on temperatures in North America over the winter months as well. Simply put, when these are deep negative, which they are trending that way, cold arctic air blasts south into the States, creating bitter cold temperatures.

“The AO, and NAO, have the great chance to dip deep negative around three times this year, increasing our chances of heavy snows,” said Lezak.

Below Tempe Average rature s, snow y

Harsh Cold Blasts, Near or Above Average Snowfall

,

ld Co

y ow n S

Wintry Chill, Average Snowfall

Milder, and Below Average Precipitation

So just how cold could it get this winter? And when? Well, very cold to answer that. If the AO dips once, you can expect 10-14 days of bitter cold, twice: 20-28 days, three times: 30-42 days of bitter cold.

“I don’t have very early dips early in the season. However, the middle to end of December is looking to take a harsh noticeable turn,” said Lauria.

January could participate in a nice thaw out in temperatures, before reversing to harsh cold again in February. Local meteorologist forecasts from 41 Action News, Fox 4 and KCTV5 all have an average coldest temperature forecast of a -10 degree surface temperature, not including wind chills. If you include wind chills, -20 to -30 degrees is realistic.

Lastly, snowfall. Will we have a lot? Will we get snow days? When could we expect it? Forecasting snow this far out over the long term is nearly impossible; however, knowing about how much is much easier.

“I am forecasting 21.5 inches of snow for the metro area this year,” said Lezak.

Others are a little more optimistic.

“I wouldn’t be surprised if we hit 23 inches of snow this winter, with 3-5 heavy winter storms,” said Gary Amble, chief meteorologist at KCTV5.

And some aren’t so confident in this year’s setup.

“I’m holding steady at 16 inches of snow this winter,” said Lauria.

Snow days this year are a given, and you can expect much more than the last couple of years, maybe the first one between December 8 and December 22.

by Garrett Osbourn

The View // DECEMBER // News

07

Like

Elephants

by: Anne Price Synesthesia is a rare condition that effects the way that some students experience the world around them someone were to say the word elephant to you, you’d see an elephant automatically. But for people with synesthesia, it’s like they hear a sound or hear a song or a word, and that immediately gives them a certain image like a color or sound,” said Mercedes McGonagall, junior.

Synesthesia, or to perceive together, is an extremely rare condition in which a sensation produced by one of the senses is applied to another sense. For example, sound may produce the visualization of certain colors, sight could cross with depth perception or sound can create a sense of touch or texture.

“What [synesthesia] is, is there’s a little part in the brain (parietal lobe) that takes all of the input from all of your senses and it figures out where they’re supposed to go. It sends the sight to the visual processor and it sends the sound to the audio processor, sort of like a computer. But what happens with synesthesia is that a few of the wires aren’t completely separated, they have a few points where they intersect....

What I like to call crossings of inputs,” said Kevin Pugsley, junior.

Synesthesia is extremely hard to analyze because the way that “the wires cross” is different for everyone. For example, McGonagall’s sense of sound crosses with sight and touch.

“For me it’s all about shapes and textures, so it’s less that I see colors and stuff and more of I can see a shape and I can see a texture,” said McGonagall. “Certain instruments have their own shape. Songs have their own color scheme. I like songs with a lot of synth in it ‘cause the shapes

“If

that synth gives me are really clear and really colorful.”

Pugsley’s sense of sound crosses with sight and touch, much like McGonagall, but his sense of smell intersects with sight as well.

“I smell and I get the visual sensation of green. Or, sounds can have textures. Like, if I’m listening to music, sometimes I get the feeling like I’m running my hands over different kinds of fabric, and I feel the texture of the sound,” said Pugsley.

Many people born with synesthesia learn later in life that they have this condition - and it usually comes as a surprise.

They don’t realize that the common man doesn’t see songs with their own color scheme, because for them, it’s natural.

“When I was younger I kind of just assumed that everyone saw things that way. Until I was in like fifth or sixth grade I said something like, ‘I hate this song, it’s just too purple and boxy for me,’ and someone was like, ‘are you on drugs,’ and I was like ‘no,’ because it was a shocker for me,” said McGonagall.

While it may seem that synesthetes might be on something, synesthesia is a scientifically proven condition. Dr. Peter Grossenbacher, a psychology professor at Naropa University, stated in “The Infinite Mind,” that synesthesia “could be as common, perhaps, as 1 in 300 [people].”

If every 1 in 300 people are synesthetic, then what makes them different than the rest of us? How is synesthesia different than association?

Synaesthetics consistently see the same images and colors every time they hear or see specific words and shapes, which means that synesthesia is not quite like imagining elephants.

The most common form of synesthesia is...

Color Grapheme

SynesthsiA Types of ChromesthesiA Synesthesia Lexical gustatory synesthesia the Associaton of colors to specific numbers and letters.

Many famous artists and musicians like, Pharrell Williams and Duke Ellington have/had... in which a sound produces a certain color.

Less than 0.2% of the population have

Where words have a taste, entire conversations can be a full course meal 08 08 View // DECEMBER // features The

Holiday

Affectiveness

Reasons south students are stressed during the holidays

Disorder (HAD) This time of the year is known for the holiday cheer, charity, and chivalry; but the reality for a lot of people is very different Do you think you are better off than you were a few months ago? Are you happier now during the holidays than the rest of the year? Most people would reply yes to these questions, since the snow is falling, the stockings are hung, and everyone just seems nicer to one another.

However, 30 percent of South students polled get more depressed during the holidays at the same time as charity donations and community service goes up.

Why is that?

According to Steve McLauglin, a director or product management at Blackbaud, told USA today that people tend to give more during the holidays. About 34 percent of all charitable giving is done in the last three months of the year; 18 percent of those are given in December alone.

“Probably just because they know there’s a lot of people out there that don’t have as much as them and knowing that the holidays are right around the corner makes them think about others more,” said Jill Hazel, school social worker, “so that’s why they would tend to want to give back to their community.”

In 2011, a group of over 150 CEOs came together and started to give over $14 billion in annual corporate givings. They created #GivingTuesday, the global day of giving back.

“I feel like that [people are] obligated because you enter the time of Thanksgiving and Christmas, and it’s like literally called the season of giving and I feel like people need to have a reason to, which is unfortunate... I think it just gets you in that mindset to give to everyone,” said Ellie Knetchel, senior.

People feeling like they need to spend a lot of money both on presents and on charity leads to the biggest stressor of the holidays: finances and gift-giving. According to drugabuse.com, the average American spent $760 on presents. This not only stressed people out more, but it caused anxiety, depression, and even substance abuse.

At South we have another stressor adults don’t have: finals.

“I would say 100 percent finals is why I’d be stressed. I need to get good finals because what I can do is limited by the grade I have in my class, and my finals really affect that... getting a great score on all of my finals is really important to me,” said Julian AlvizGransee, freshman.

Another reason why students might feel more down during the holidays could be more psychological.

“There’s a lot less sunlight out and it’s known that sunlight can help boost your vitamin D levels, which releases your serotonin levels in your brain, which gives you the feeling of happiness,” said Hazel.

There are ways to combat feeling down during the

winter months and avoiding seasonal affectiveness disorder (SAD) by going outside a little more and being exposed to the sun. Andrew Cantrell, psychology, tries to walk around more often now in the winter to do so.

“I like the cold weather and stuff like that. I enjoy these kinds of months, but that doesn’t mean I’m not susceptible to mood changes. I don’t know... thinking right now, I’m more energetic and more excited about things than I was in the beginning of the year, which is the opposite of what I think everyone is feeling,” said Cantrell.

While some Americans are dealing with that, others are excited about the idea of holiday spirit and what it brings.

“I like the mood of Christmas and everything that’s going on, and the presents, not just that, but me and my mom always watch home movies and that just always makes me happier,” said Avelina Navarro, freshman.

Others are more excited by the seasonal food December brings.

“What hypes me up is egg nog, because I love egg nog so much, and you’re only able to get it like the end of November and in December. That really gets me excited and hypes me for Christmas,” said Alviz-Gransee.

It’s good that a majority of students here are happier during the holidays, but there still are those who find this time of year very stressful.

“It’s always the worst month for me. You have seasonal affective disorder (SAD) which does affect me. But it’s also the holidays, specifically Christmas...

I mean, for most people it is about getting together with family, seeing people you haven’t seen in awhile, but my family is different... we never get along,” said Knetchel.

Knetchel usually spends Christmas at her dad’s house, where they don’t have a tree or listen to any Christmas music. They do have family dinners, though, and give presents.

Need help starting off the New Year the right way? Cantrell has some great advice.

“I see it like the beginning is filled with possibilities,” he said. “I think part of it is changing the way you think and interpret. Over time of doing this, you can see something that would have been traditionally negative as being a little more positive I guess?... I think of the beginning of the year as a good thing.”

14% Gift Giving Family

14% Stress 12% Finances

60%

Finals

Neutral

24%

46%

Happier

Depressed/ Anxious

30%

How South feels during the month of December

BY: NOELLE AG The View // DECEMBER // features

09

The ups and downs of having your birthday near Christmas

B

irthdays are a time of celebration; the one day that is all about you.

Getting presents, eating cake and enjoying yourself : all things we love about birthdays, but if your birthday is near Christmas you may not get the same enjoyment.

Having your birthday near Christmas has its pros and cons; you may not get all the presents you want, or the attention is taken away from you. But, there are some things to love about it.

“I love having my birthday close to Christmas, I get more presents and I feel that December is the perfect birthday month because you get treated special since it’s the last month of the year,” said D’Onna Taylor, sophomore.

Everyone has their own opinions, and like always, there are two sides.

“I think it sucks having your birthday near Christmas because you get less presents and all the attention gets taken

By:Bali Cortes

away from you and is drawn more towards Christmas,” said Ella Thompson, sophomore.

Being able to get what you want for your birthday, having the joy of opening gifts and having a smile so big, and seeing the happiness on your parents’ faces knowing they have succeeded is a great feeling for many students.

“I always have the biggest present wish list every year. I make sure to do chores and make sure that I am on my parents good side in order to get what I want, but I always return the favor by getting them a card,” said Sophia Hernandez, junior.

Whether your birthday is near Christmas or not, it is a time to celebrate, and have everyone come together and celebrate you.

How Christmas evolves as you do over the years

C

hristmas is the most wonderful time of the year. That is, if you’re still seven. When we think about Christmas, we think about the Christmas tree and rushing down the stairs to see all the presents left underneath the tree. But instead of rushing to unwrap our own presents, lately we rush to wrap presents for others.

Simply put, Christmas evolves as you grow up.

It’s suddenly not all about the gingerbread houses and waking up super early to grab your presents.

It’s about the survival of your bank account, and how many gifts you’ll have to buy for other people.

Some say that as you grow older, Christmas loses its magic. Your adult life doesn’t have room for Santa Claus and Rudolph and rather it becomes trying to find a last minute pair of fuzzy socks for your sister to pull off as a present.

Not only that, but Christmas just seems to overall become a little boring. It’s the same routine that we once looked at with joy and excitement and now drag the icing over the cookies in a slow, bored draw.

So why does it change so much even though

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The View // DECEMBER // features

nothing really changes? It’s simple. Because you change.

As you grow older, your parents don’t really expect you to wake up early with the same excitement you did as a kid, even though they put the same amount of effort into it every year for your younger siblings. It’s just simply considered normal for the interest to dull as you grow older.

You can still enjoy the holidays, even if it’s no longer filled with Santa and Rudolph. Making gingerbread houses with your family, decorating the tree with ornaments you made as a kid, and the smiles that light up everyone’s faces when they open their gifts are more than enough to keep some of the magic alive.

By: Nicole Beaubien

BY: CALI GADD Do you feel pressured during the holiday season?

magine rushing around a store with a cart full of your favorite items. You pull up to the cash register, ready to pay. However, the price comes out to be way more than you expected. It turns out you don’t have enough money to pay for everything! You had picked out a present for each important person in your life, so how do you choose what to put back?

Stress can be very common during the holiday season. It can come from many different things, including over-spending, unrealistic expectations and family issues. So how can you minimize financial stress during the holidays?

Setting a realistic holiday budget and making sure to stick to it are the first steps to a more affordable and less stressful season.

All of us feel a little pressure during Christmas time. The key to containing this stress is staying calm and preparing.

Lina Navarro, freshman, said, “I sometimes plan my budget beforehand if I know I’ll be buying presents that cost a lot more than others.”

With people’s high expectations and stores raising their prices, Christmas shopping is nerve-racking this year.

Navarro said, “To be honest, things are really expensive and it’s a terrible feeling when someone gets you something and you didn’t get them anything. That’s why I normally try to save up before the holiday season.”

High school students can feel extra pressure since they have lower incomes than adults.

Gavin Redman, senior, said, “I feel financial stress during the holiday season just because there’s so many family members and friends plus my girlfriend to buy gifts for. Plus, I always want to get everyone something really nice.”

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1

2 4

On the other hand, some people are perfectly fine with spending all their money.

Taylor Mulligan, senior, said, “I don’t get very stressed because I enjoy spending money on other people, but I could see why people would get stressed because they realize how much money they are spending.”

The National Retail Federation estimates the average American will spend $700 on holiday gifts and goodies this year, totaling more than $465 billion.

Amanda Brewington, teacher, said, “I think the end of the year is a stressful time financially as a lot of bills come due such as property tax. There is a lot of pressure to provide the ‘best’ holiday and keep up with what others are doing. We all want our children to have a special Christmas or holiday and many equate that with more presents.”

Based on research, nearly 65 percent of people use social media to search for gifts.

Brewington said, “Social media does not help this as it serves as another way for people to compare what they are doing to others. We are also all very busy and it is easy to overspend when you do not have a plan and go on impulse.”

Whether you’re an adult or high schooler, you will most likely experience stress at some point in your life during the holidays. All you have to do to keep this stress at a low is plan things out beforehand and set money aside for certain gifts. This will ensure a great holiday season!

Tips to ensure that your holiday season stays stress-free: Create your budget beforehand (this can be done in excel, your phone or just a piece of paper)

Use cash whenever possible to limit overspending (credit/debit cards make you feel like you aren’t spending as much)

3

Practice being thrifty by finding bargains (thrift stores, coupons, online shopping)

Make your own gifts (sewing a blanket, hot cocoa kit, bookmark)

5 6

Stay organized and make a plan (decide which stores you are going to and figure out what you are getting everyone beforehand)

Don’t buy something if you can’t afford it (do not overspend, find the deals)

The View // DECEMBER // features

11

evo l ut i o n of BY: ALLI MAJORS

There were many different holiday figures around the world before the jolly man we love this time of year was created. Santa Claus as we know him today – reindeer, sled, red coat, gifts galore, and the big white beard of course – was not the creation of the Coca-Cola Company. Although their Christmas advertising campaigns of the 1930s were key to hype the image, Santa can be seen in his latest form decades before Coca-Cola’s illustrator, Haddon Sundblom, got to work. From the description given in Clement Moore’s “A Visit from St Nicholas” (or as we know, “A Night Before Christmas”) through the vision of many different artists, Mr. Claus gradually shed his various, sometimes scary, images and became the jolly red-suited Santa we know today.

Pere Fouettard BELSNICKLE KRAMPUS St. NICHOLAS In eastern France, Pere Fouettard carries a rod or whip to beat the naughty children. Although he isn’t as visually terrifying as Krampus, he’s said to be “an evil butcher” who murdered three boys. Www.Indobase.com describes Pere Fouettard as a older man with a frizzy beard to go along with his long black robe and cane.

“He is a really evil Santa from Germany,” says, Logan Crow, senior.

He looks just like the rest of us on the surface; he could be anywhere, taunting us and we wouldn’t know it.

Much less intimidating than Krampus, Belsnickel is a man covered head-to-toe in dark furs who sneaks a sock or shoe full of candy into children’s rooms. Like Krampus, though, Belsnickel will put his foot down; if the children have been naughty, they’ll wake up to a shoe full of coal.

The Huffington Post says even in earlier centuries people would dress up as Belsnickel at night and go through the city. This was called “Belsnickicking” but now has been out of mind thanks to St. Nick.

With his humongous horns, beastly hair and fangs, Krampus, half-goat half-demon, prowls through the night torturing bad children and takes them away to his lair.

“He’s basically anti-santa,” said Joey Ford, senior. Unlike St. Nick, who rewards children with candy and goods, Krampus is known for beating children into being nice. The legend is part of a centuries-old Christmas tradition in Germany, where Christmas celebrations begin in early December.

Lately, thanks to the “bah humbug” attitude in pop culture, Krampus has been making a comeback.

Does Santa have competition?

St Nicholas, whose name was changed over the years to Santa Claus, was a real person, a bishop in the church in the fourth century. Nicholas was neither fat nor jolly but developed a reputation as a fiery defender of the church.

He then became the most well-known saint in Europe.Finally, in 1931, illustrator Haddon Sundblom drew a series of Santa images for the Coca-Cola Co. It was used in all the company’s Christmas advertisements.

This campaign is what brought Santa to life.

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A Fantasy Adventure Game comes back to life

by HANNAH graves

After weeks of planning the campaign, your Dungeon Master finally calls the party together to set off on your extensive quest.

Dungeons and Dragons is an interactive role-playing board game introduced in 1974. D&D was wildly popular with the… indoor types. Nerds, geeks, freaks, whatever you want to call it, only they played and understood Dungeons and Dragons.

Since the release of the 2016 Netflix Original “Stranger Things” the game has become popular with groups of people that never considered playing the game, and has invoked nostalgic joy in those who played it in their parent’s basement with their friends in middle school.

Kirk Henry, social studies, said he played D&D in middle school as “The Sword of Courage,” an elf.

Despite the fact that I died every time, you know I never won, it was fun and I had a good time playing it. I really enjoy all that stuff,” he said.

Of course many parents and teachers have fond memories of playing the game nearly 30 years ago, but now the opportunity has arisen tostart a new campaign in 2017. Despite what some may think, one does not need extensive game pieces, boards or instruction manuals. All you need is paper, a pencil, the basic rule books, and a handful of multiple sided dice.

There are multiple versions of the game, so it’s important you stick to the rules and regulations of said version. Most would recommend the most recent version so it doesn’t get confusing.

Evan Morris, Senior, has played D&D since middle school.

“I started out at this place called The Basement in Zona Rosa. We would meet every Wednesday, and the campaigns would take us a few weeks or maybe a month to finish,” he said.

Morris spoke about the extensive online versions of the game, as well as variations and even comparable games. Both he and Henry described it as a live action version of the Oregon Trail game online.

To get started on your in-person game you’ll have to buy a couple of rule books. If you’re planning on playing with a certain group of friends you could all go in together to pay for the three basic handbooks: The Player’s Handbook, The Monster Manual, and the Dungeon Master’s Guide. While there are online versions available, most players opt for a paperback copy of the rules, available at places like GameStop (if they aren’t sold out, which they sometimes are) or Amazon.

Within these books you will find a guide to the types of players and their stats, as well as their enemies mirrored info. The Dungeon Master’s Guide helps whoever the DM is that round create a storyline and different

quests for the players.

The Dungeon Master is a very important player because they do not have a player in the story, but they’re the narrator. It’s their job to create the “map” of the game (can just be a crude drawing on canvas paper or as Henry suggests, get a good artist’s help) setting the tone of the quest.

Aiden Espinosa, senior, has played as Dungeon Master many times.

“It is hard, and it does take a lot of time, but it’s very fun. Being able to come up with those characters, the new places and getting to surprise the players with all the different tricks you can pull out of your hat.” he said The Dungeon Master can spend weeks at a time planning an elaborate quest based on the characters you’ve created for yourselves, the monster stories provided, and pure imagination… that’s supposed to be the fun part. There are no set-in-stone rules to each game. Those, the entire back story, and the quest at hand are all created at the will of the Dungeon Master.

“The best part is seeing their faces when you pull out the miniature of the big boss, you know that final fight the grand reveal,” said Espinosa The players can read The Player’s Handbook and decide what sort of character they’d like to be (like a druid, a paladin, a warlock, etc.) and can specify the character to fit their personality--for example, Henry’s elven character The Sword of Courage.

A lot of players also chose to sketch a picture of their player to further “illustrate” it. Henry suggested you find a good artist to help you both with your character picture, and the drawing of your maps and dungeons, “That’s one of the most important parts,” Henry said.

As a last little detail, the multiple sided dice are used to determine the outcome of a situation the DM has constructed. For example, in the first episode of “Stranger Things” (NO REAL SPOILERS, DON’T WORRY) Will the Wise encounters a monster called the Demigorgon. He can either fireball the beast, or cast a protection spell. He chooses the fireball, but in order to successfully slay the monster, he has to roll a 17 (which the DM determined from the handbook). I won’t spoil the rest for you, but as you can guess it’s the starting conflict (so, NOT GOOD) .

If you’re still having trouble imagining what it would be like playing D&D, just imagine what it would be like to live in Middle Earth. Imagine your brave, cunning Dungeon Master leading you to what could be your victory, or your demise…

The View // DECEMBER // entertainment

13

BY: MADELYN HILL

The news anchor on the TV is talking about the worst ice storm Kansas City has ever seen.

Your parents are running to the store to get food and items for the storm, but all you can think is that “This storm is being too hyped up,it won’t be that bad.” The next day you head out to your friend’s house and as you get on the back roads, the snow and ice pick up and you find yourself stranded. Luckily your parents packed you a winter survival box!

MatcheS small candles and a flashlight A small candle and a pack of matches can keep you warm until you get in touch with help, and a flashlight help you track down passing vehicles.

First Aid Kit In case of a minor crash, any small wounds can be fixed with a first aid kit, a full Red Cross first aid kit costs $19.99 and has all the tools you need for small injuries including a Red Cross certified instruction guide.

Spare Tire and Jack It might seem irrelevant but knowing how to change a tire yourself is very important, especially if emergency services are busy. Most cars come with a spare tire and a jack so check and make sure your car has both. Also a good extra to have is a set of tow straps so that you don’t have to wait for a tow truck; instead, a car with good four wheel drive will work.

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Windshield ScrapeR This is one of the most important items to have in your car. A scraper allows you to clean your windshield and to open your door if it is iced over. You can buy one of these at almost any store; there are many at Walgreens for under $15.

Food and Water Non-perishable foods like dried fruit, nuts, and granola bars are good snack foods that will keep you energized if you get stuck. Having two or three plastic bottles of water in your car is also a good idea so you can stay hydrated.

The View // DECEMBER // entertainment

Road salt sand or cat litter Road salt, sand, and cat litter are all good ways to try and get traction if you slid into a large snow bank or just off the road.

Layers Having extra layers in your car is essential because if you were to get stranded, it is only safe to run your car for 10 minutes an hour, so for the other 50 minutes you will need to stay warm. Also if you are close enough to a gas station and you decide to walk, you will need extra layers to either put on or change into.

Charging block and cableS Most teenagers have a phone charger in their car, but a portable charging block is convenient if you get caught in a storm. It is unsafe to have your car on for an extended amount since the carbon monoxide that your car emits will mix with the AC system in your car which will eventually cause carbon monoxide poisoning.

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Friday, December 22 We have a half day.

Finals have fried our brains and we need a break so invite your friends pick up some snacks (maybe some popcorn from our local friends at Pop Culture) and have a holiday movie.

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We all hope and beg for break to just hurry up and get here so we can have time for us to chill or go hang out with friends and family, but let’s be honest, break can get boring. If you are the kid reading this, saying you never get tired or bored of break, I dare you to go look at your 4G and wifi usage and see how much time you spent on social media or Netflix last break.

We have 12 days this year-- if that feels short to you, then you’re right.

The way days fell this year our break is shorter than the last few (sorry seniors). Regardless, the chance for boredom is still there, so here are 12 things to do over your 12 days of break. BY: Shane McCullough

Wednesday, December 27 The holiday season is the season for giving, but that doesn’t always mean presents. It also includes charity and volunteer work, which makes break a great time to clean out your room and get those clothes you don’t wear anymore or the chair in the corner you never sit in out of the house. Take it to any local thrift store.

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2Saturday, December 23 It is two days away from Christmas-- it’s time for last minute Christmas shopping for the present you forgot or just couldn’t find the right thing for. Take a day, go out to Zona Rosa and look at the lights, crowns and the tree. While at Zona, go get a candle for mom from Yankee Candle, or go to Dillard’s to get dad a new wallet.

3 Sunday, December 24 Christmas Eve. One of

Kansas City’s most well known traditions is the Power and Light’s Plaza Lights. Spend Christmas Eve walking around the Plaza looking at lights and drinking hot cocoa from Starbucks or Kaldi.

Thursday, December 28 You have been cooped up in the house with family, so now it’s time to get some space. Go down to Westport for some shopping and thrifting at locally owned stores.

Stores and entertainment: Mills record company World market The bunker Re-runs Arizona trading company Wonderland vintage Run 816

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Monday, December 25 Christmas Day is always exciting, going downstairs to open presents and laugh with family. But later, the day becomes naps and boredom. After the wrapper ripping and sugar high, get ready for the day and go see a movie.

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Friday, December 29 Assuming that we actually get winter weather this year, the Friday night before New Year’s is a great night to spend with family or close friends and play some board games or card games around the fireplace.

10 Sunday, December 31 New Year’s Eve:

everyone has a tradition but one very common thing to do is have parties and watch the ball drop. Here are the top channels to watch until the countdown.

Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest (ABC) New York City and L.A. New year’s eve with Carson Daly (NBC) New York City Pitbull’s New year’s revolution (Fox) Miami New year’s eve live with Anderson Cooper and Kathy Griffin (CNN) New York City

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Monday, January 1 New Year’s Day: waking up with a headache and no motivation after such a long loud night, maybe you should stay in. You could binge watch a new show or finish that movie that’s been sitting in your list unfinished. Don’t want to dedicate time to a multiple season shows? Here are one season shows you can finish in a single day.

“Atypical:” A comedy with a twist of drama following a unique american boy Sam Gardner who is on the autism spectrum looking for romance. To do this, Sam must become more independent which sends his mom, Elsa into a life changing spiral and his sister, Casey and father, doug on their way to find what is normal in understanding Sam. “Big Mouth:” Here comes another adult crude cartoon comedy, but this one is definitely unique following a group of middle schoolers through puberty and their sexual awakening.

“Scream:” “You can’t do a slasher movies as a TV series, well….slasher movies burn bright and fast. TV has to stretch things out,” says Noah Foster in his episode one monologue.

MTV has found a way to do just that.

5 Tuesday, December 26 The morning after. For most people, the day after Christmas is time for naps and cleaning up, but what do you do when you’re done sleeping in and cleaning the mess of wrapping paper and wrappers?

Why not make a snack or dessert, like this two ingredient chocolate fudge, a fan favorite for the winter season.

3 cups chocolate chips 1 10oz can of condensed milk Microwave in a bowl for 3 minutes or in saucepan over medium heat until smooth Pour into greased foil lined 8x8 pan chill until set then pull foil with fudge out of pan and cut into 1 inch squares

9 Saturday, December 30 Kansas City is lucky to have an incredible art museum like the Nelson Atkins. The Nelson tends to have a revolving exhibit and it got one of the world’s most renowned and famous artist’s gallery this past month: Pablo Picasso: Through the Eyes of Picasso. Tickets are $16 a person (adults) open 10 to 5 on Saturdays.

1 2 Tuesday, January 2 The last day of break. It’s time to get reenergized before school starts again with new classes and a whole new feeling. Check out these coffee houses to get organized and recharged for school.

Mildreds - Crossroads Parkville Coffee House Westport Coffee House (has entertainment) Quay Coffee - River Market

The View // DECEMBER // entertainment

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percent of people would panic if they lost their smartphone

percent admit to checking their phone “while lying in bed.”

Social media has become a prime form of communication in our society.

We now have limitless options of which app and device we choose to partake in.

One of the most used and growing apps for ages 12-24 in 2017 is Snapchat. This app uses pictures as a way of communication more so than words.

There have been several questions about whether or not Snapchat is bad for self-esteem. “Seventeen” magazine asked teens how Snapchat made them feel about themself. Most of the teens surveyed said that they love Snapchat, but rely on its filters to feel good about themselves.

“I never take a picture without a filter on. It just doesn’t look good and once my pictures are out there I can’t take it back so I know it has to be a good one, it just sometimes takes a while to get that good picture,” said Jose Montoya, sophomore.

Teen use of technology studies have shown that in 2017, 81 percent of the US has some form of a social media account, a five percent growth rate just in the past year.

As the rate of how many people have social media increases, so does the amount of time people are active on it. AdWeek reported that teens spend up to nine hours a day on social media. That is the equivalent of a good night’s rest. After taking nine hours of sleep and nine hours of time spent on social media, that leaves only six hours.

With the downfall of time spent communicating in person, social skills are at risk for extinction. This will not only affect someone’s social life, but also their career. If someone isn’t able to hold a face to face conversation with ease, then getting a job becomes even harder.

“The way that kids use social media can be used in a positive way, but it is a lot of times used in a negative way that can cause extra stress, depression and some anxiety. If it is used in the right way it can be an extremely positive thing that is a way of communication and just fun, but you

teens who use social media for at least five hours a day were seventy percent more likely to have suicidal thoughts or actions compared to those who used them for only an hour a day source: Clinical Psychological science

have to have a good balance,” said Glynis Chambers, counselor.

As different apps surface and improvements are made, talking to people who are far away, or even new people, has become easier.

Meeting new people online comes with the chance of meeting the wrong person. Anyone can put pictures up and say they are someone they’re not, and they may not be safe at all.

Dr. Linda Mintle, licensed family therapist, said that “predators are everywhere on the internet, they know which sites kids tend to populate to and pose as someone a teen may easily talk to.”

CNN did a story on a 14 old girl who thought she was starting an innocent conversation with a teen boy on KIK, but it didn’t end so innocent.

Her mom opened her door one day after church to find her daughter hanging from a belt in her room. It was found out that this “boy” was a grown man who she was on the phone with as she was hanging from a belt just because he told her to.

That was just one example of social media taking a nasty and deadly turn. It is not always as drastic as death or even bad necessarily. It just all depends on how you use it.

There is nothing wrong with expanding your social horizons and talking to people who may not go to your school or live in your community, but take precautions to ensure your safety.

There can be healthy ways to balance the use of social media and social interaction face to face. In fact, some jobs even require that you have social media to advertise their platform, such as public figures, and public relations.

“My internship is focused mostly on marketing and with social media being as big as it is there is no better way to appeal to customers then through showing them all of the products we have in the village at Briarcliff,” Delaney Barnicle, senior, said.

Social media can be a positive experience but you must have boundaries that are tailored to you and are good and balanced. Snap away, but make sure that social media is not the center of your world.

What’s your snapchat?

Hey, go like my pic.

RT. Check your DM’s

Pin it.

How many streaks do you have?

Teens who were extremely active and also emotionally invested in their digital lives reported worse sleep quality, lower self esteem, and higher instances of anxiety and depression when compared to their peers who cared less source: University of Glasgow

by: Gabby McDowell

With over 255 million active users, snapchat is taking over the world. Can we live without it?

W

By: Kate Maness

On Snapchat, I seek out the commercial content. hat is one of the first things you check Short stories from companies like from Buzzfeed when you get up in the morning, and one of the last or Cosmo which is also presented in a cool way things you check before you go to sleep? Your phone. that you don’t see anywhere else. This is definitely But, even more specific, most teens would say their something I know a lot of people use. This is good for Snapchat. companies who want advertising, and also good for Snapchat started out as something foreign to all the viewers because they enjoy the entertainment. of us: it was a camera that didn’t save anything that Snapchat has taken our society under it’s wing, you took a picture of unless you wanted to, it sent to someone for 10 seconds or less and then it was gone without it the entire communication and social aspect of the internet as we know it would change. forever.

The most popular thing it’s known for is the temporary part of it all - the ability to post and send things you wouldn’t normally on other social media platforms. At the time back in 2011, that was foreign to us all, but eventually it caught on. And now it’s like---how can you not have one? experiment to test whether With such a simple concept with over In an or not Snapchat was honestly 200 million users, some say it’s dumb, good for me, I found it to be but without it they would miss it. Why an extremely pointless, time consuming, has something so simple become draining activity. Although some might such a phenomenon in our socimention that it allows for better ety? Snapchat is more than just communication with your friends an app; it has developed into a and in turn better relationships part of our culture and takes up with them, a large portion of a huge part of teen’s lives. It is “Snapchatters,” use the app for a one of mine and many others different reason. main forms of communication.

Snapchat has made itself the Without it, I think our culture perfect app for scandalous activity. would be a lot different.

For anyone unfamiliar with Snapchat, Snapchat gives us a way to the basics are you send other users connect with our peers. Whether pictures that have a timer on them, it’s watching stories, looking at peowhen they open your picture message ple on the snap maps, or keeping they have a limited amount of time (the streaks, it’s a form of communication amount of time is decided by the sender) we don’t want to lose. Snapchat gives before the picture disappears and can only teens a way to connect socially, so without be replayed once. After using your one replay, it, the way we interact with one another that message cannot be seen by anyone anymore. would change.

It even has more than just connecting with Unsurprisingly, this features’ primary purpose isso you can send inappropriate material without it friends. If there’s an event like a big game, being saved or without there being history of you sending it (although Snapchat’s creators probably Snapchat collects snaps from users who are won’t admit it). The perfect app for “harmless” sexting, right? participating in the event and builds then into a The only problem is, pictures you take can be saved by using the screenshot feature on your phone. single story. As far as I can tell, this is pretty This means senders can easily be manipulated to send inappropriate pictures under the false premise of it unique to Snapchat, and it allows us to disappearing after their set amount of time. keep up with the world in a quick and What’s arguably worse about this app is that it has made being loyal in a relationship a struggle for some. easy way.

“These girls ain’t loyal,” a well known line from a popular hip-hop song, is made very relatable for many because The advertisements Snapchat of Snapchat. Any conversation can be had between any two people without there being any history of it. puts out feels less commercial As you might have guessed, this makes Snapchat the perfect app for cheating and going behind your partner’s than on other social media back.

Would you feel comfortable in a relationship where your partner regularly Snapchats 10-20 people of the networks (for the most part). opposite gender along with a couple of their exes... yeah, me either.

The sponsored content on If you’re not convinced already, let’s talk about how draining this app can be and how it will demand all your time.

Twitter and Instagram Constantly replying and taking pictures of your forehead to send to someone who will usually just send back a picture of a always seem to be blank stare on their face but who will also get mad at you if fail to respond. Back and forth you send each other pointless pictures kinda “in the way” every day to amount to a streak, almost as treasured as a participation trophy. to me like they’re But wait, if that didn’t sound cool enough, every Snap you send earns you points that combine into a score. It’s almost as if interrupting Snapchat wants its users to be able to boast how much time they’ve wasted on the app by giving a score you can show off. what I’m I’m not telling you to delete the app, just to consider taking some time off of social media and unplug yourself from the full-time job that doing.

Snapchat can be. Ask yourself if it is really worth the time you put into it.

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By: Sage Norsworthy

18 The View // DECEMBER // sPECIAL SECTION

NEWLY AWARE

South administration is implementing new protocols on suicide prevention and the student body is taking notice.

BY: ELYSSA BEZNER Suicide is sometimes called the thing we don’t talk about: the huge weight that tight-lipped families carry in their daily lives and refuse to acknowledge.

While that still might occur, in this new day and age, suicide is a constant topic of conversation.

With South administration rolling out new protocols and new campaigns for mental health as a whole, the question arises of why there is a bigger emphasis on suicide awareness and what the impact will be.

South held an assembly about suicide awareness last year, a couple of tutorials here and there have focused on it, and now the freshmen receive lessons on mental health every week from their FANS. Some at South, like junior Alex Mack, believe the counseling department is blowing out of proportion a problem that doesn’t exist.

“I feel like sometimes the way they portray it.. it’s kinda not that big of a deal. They are kind of talking about it because they have to, and not because it’s a problem,” said Mack.

However, the stricter protocols began after an unacceptable amount of deaths by suicide at Park Hill and Lee Summit North High School. Also, recent data from the Missouri Department of Mental Health puts Platte County as one of the highest counties in Missouri for young adults reporting suicidal ideation.

This study reported that in 2016, 13 percent of Platte County students who were surveyed reported seriously considering death by suicide. Of this 13 percent, 182 students were reported to have actually attempted suicide.

The rates overall were higher in Platte County than the rates seen in all of Missouri as a whole.

This data directed the Park Hill School District (PHSD), with the leadership of Stephanie Amaya, Director of Park Hill Professional Studies, to put suicide awareness as a top priority for Park Hill schools.

Amaya is heading the charge of school-based mental health professionals, which includes counselors and social workers, in this campaign and says that suicide is something so easily preventable, which makes the recent deaths all the more tragic.

“Knowing that the research says that it’s preventable, we have to be more vigilant,” said Amaya.

Freshman Laura Distefano struggles to see the overwhelming benefits of the weekly mental health lessons in freshmen tutorials.

“Sometimes I think we should focus on [suicide] a bit less because it’s almost too much, but I think some of it’s good,” said Distefano.

Liam Dai, senior on the FANS Board, agrees there has been a major shift

in focus to mental health in this year, but notes that those presentations are not for every single person in their tutorials.

“Maybe for the vast majority of people who don’t learn anything, [the lesson] doesn’t help them but there’s definitely a handful of people that [mental health] does affect.

So, if we can help a handful of people, then I think it’s worth it and not excessive,” says Dai. The plan put forth by Amaya and the counseling department has only been in effect this school year, and Andy Schuerman, counselor, says it is still too early to see if the effect is positive or negative, but mentioned one clear outcome of this new order.

“It is working to the extent that we have an influx of students who are coming to us either about themselves or a friend about whom they are worried,” said Schuerman.

Schuerman pointed out that their plans might feel like too much to those who are not struggling with suicidal thoughts. While many may feel that the constant suicide conversation may make more struggling students consider the act more seriously, Schuerman denies this.

“The more that we talk about it in the way that is about intervention and about getting help, the better because when students are thinking about it, then they will know where to go, and to whom to go,” said Schuerman.

Amaya agrees with Schuerman and pointed out that all these students considering suicide want to do is talk about it.

“People who are having those thoughts say it’s a relief to talk about it. They’re just looking for someone to listen,” said Amaya.

Reilly Scott, senior and President of Natural Helpers, said FANS and the counseling department especially are doing a phenomenal job getting the message that students can and should come get help out there.

“The counselors here are so awesome. Go tell one of them or a teacher or even like [your friend’s] parents. We just don’t have a good community where students are comfortable telling adults about their friends who are struggling,” said Scott.

South may have to wait to see what effect this all has on the student body, but Amaya and her team plan to continue their efforts for the next two years.

“We are always going to err on the side of supporting students who struggle with suicidal thoughts”

The View //DECEMBER // SPECIAL SECTION

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Breaking Books BY: CRISTINE GURROLA

Always Emily by Michaela Maccoll Two sister who have the same passion for writing but are opposites, but end up coming together when they start to figure out there are connections between local blurgaries. Rumors that the death in town may not have been accidental, and noticing a handsome stranger that just walked into town. They have to untangle all the knots before someone else gets killed.

You’re laying in your bed wrapped in warm blankets, not wanting to get up and go out with your friends. You’re tired of scrolling on social media and you’ve watched so many things on Netflix you can’t find anything else to watch. What better way to pass the time than to read a book that will have you occupied for hours?

Skipping Christmas by John Grisham This book sounds just like it’s title. Written by John Grisham this book is about the Kranks who skip christmas and decide to take a Caribbean cruise instead. Although when as they try skipping Christmas, consequences comes along.

Stolen Life by Jaycee Dugard All The Bright Places by Jennifer Niven Teen Violet is very saddened by the recent death of her sister, and Theodore is at the lowest point in his life in need of something good to happen to him. When Violet and Theodore get paired for a science project, romance begins to build. That is, until Violet begins to grow and Theodore begins to shrink.

My own Review of The Beginning of Everything

By Cristine Gurrola At first I was confused as to why Ezra kept on saying everyone has their own tragedy, but then it made sense.

He no longer could play tennis since his car crash. It turns out he meets a girl but she has a mystery of her own. I liked how it has the cliche cute relationship between the two and how Ezra is becoming happy again. I think it makes everyone happy when they are reading a book with cute lovey dovey relationships. Although things take a turn in the end and his girlfriend takes a turn and things go right back downhill, I certainly wasn’t expecting that and it was all the more interesting. In the end, I didn’t end up reading the book I thought I was going to, but instead got a plot twist which made it a good book.

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The View // DECEMBER // opinion

Every parent is afraid of losing their child, but knowing that your child may or may not be alive somewhere in the world takes a toll. In the book “Stolen Life” written by Jaycee Dugard herself, the book is about the time that Jaycee spent away from her family and friends when she was kidnapped at the age of 14.

The Beginning of Everything by Robyn Schneider Ezra was the golden boy at his high school, but during the summer going into his senior year, he was in a car accident and was no longer able to play tennis. Ezra isolated himself from his friends and quit the tennis team. After starting the year he ends up joining the debate team, and makes new friends meeting Thorpe. They end up being together but it takes a turn at the night of their prom night when everything goes downhill.

H

ow would you feel if you didn’t get a full winter break? As most know, winter break will be soon upon us. Most students enjoy their winter break by going on vacation, hanging out with friends, visiting family, and taking part in many winter activities.

However, that’s not the case for all. South has a great amount of athletes in the school for all seasons. Winter sports are different from the other two though, their season is in full swing during Christmas break, which is a downfall for those athletes. Everyone wants a break from school in the middle of the year, but they don’t get that perk.

Every winter sport, girls basketball, swimming, boys basketball and wrestling have to be at the school practicing and getting better while everyone else gets to enjoy their sleep in bed. For anyone that has ever played sports competitively,it’s obvious that they are very time consuming.

You’re going to have to do things you don’t want to do, but it’s important to succeed.

Joe Badalucco, senior, has played basketball for South since his freshmen year. Badalucco loves basketball and is always playing to get better no matter the day of the year.

“I love this sport and always have, I just think that during winter break we shouldn’t have to get to the school at 8:30 a.m. every morning to practice for two hours. We at least deserve to sleep in every night; that’s the best part of breaks,” said Badalucco.

Parker Greenfield, junior, has been a wrestler almost his whole life and continues to wrestle at South.

“Wrestling is just very tough, you have to be physically and mentally strong and also have a great amount of dedication to do it. Just think about our winter break--athletes in the winter don’t get a break like everyone else. We still have to practice every day which isn’t what everyone wants to be doing, but it’s vital for the team to succeed,” said Greenfield Emma Beuerlein, junior, plays varsity basketball for South. Beuerlein said that she thinks basketball is probably one of the hardest sports at South, especially the conditioning they have to go through at practice.

Although she believes it definitely pays off in the end.

Both girls and boys basketball players aren’t getting much of a break

this winter, as both teams are involved in a tournament. The boys will stay here in Missouri while the girls are heading to Orlando to show their dominance.

“It’s super exciting that we get the opportunity to go and play different teams from around the United States, and have some extra fun at Disney World in the process,” said Beuerlein.

In the end, just about every teenager loves and cherishes their sleep.

Most even get fed up when they don’t get the amount they want, but if you’re going to be an athlete dedicated to sports, you’re going to have to give some things up in order to succeed.

By: Andrew Robaska

HOW TO: BE THE BEST

OF TIME SPENT PRACTICING

AMOUNT OF TIME ON BREAK

The boys basketball team has always had high expectations, this year higher than most, forcing the athletes to have maximum dedication and effort

Trusting the

Process The View // DECEMBER // sports

21

Boys and girls basketball teams prepare to face Park Hill on Dec. 20 in a doubleheader

T

he rivalry of the year. The game everyone knows about. Park Hill vs Park Hill South. Out of all the games played, this game is a must win to have bragging rights for the year. This game has been one of the most important games of the season since Park Hill South opened and it continues to get bigger each year.

The rivalry even goes all the way back to middle school. The Congress vs Lakeview game is the first glimpse of what people will see in high school. It’s just as intense and the game is important for the kids to win. In high school the game intensity is multiplied by 10.

The gym is usually so packed they have to stop allowing people to get into the gym. Some people have to stand the whole game.

Park Hill South lost to Park Hill last year in a close game, but South is ready to bounce back this year and dominate the game. South has almost everyone back this year and they have matured a lot and come together as a team.

“Last year, we played selfish but i believe we have grown up this year and things will be different than last year,” said Dawson Owens, junior.

This year Park Hill will be playing without two of their better players because they are suspended for grades. Park Hill still has one major kid to watch - Ronnie Bell. Bell is an elite scorer and he showed it last year, scoring 24 against South.

“He's a good player, but I think we are ready for him this year,” said Harold Ellis, junior.

Park Hill also has very good size with two bigs over 6’4”, so South must rebound and block out to control the game.

BY: MJ WALKER

South ran William Chrisman out of the gym last week, beating them 78-41. This brought a lot of buzz about the team and how far they can go. The team itself has already said their goal is to have an undefeated season and go win State.

“I believe there are few teams out there that can compete with us if we bring our best every night,” said Lamel Robinson, junior.

South plays Park Hill on December 20 at Park Hill this year and all the players want the Rage Cage to be at the game. There will only be one game this year since Park Hill moved out of our conference two years ago.

This is a game you don't want to miss - it's going to be the talk of the school. Our basketball players will need the support of everyone at South as they face their rival and try to come home with a win.

7:00PM

12.20.17 Home VS Visitor Park Hill South 22

Varsity

The View // DECEMBER // sports

Park Hill Varsity

l l a

Baseline

b t e

Paint

sk

8 minute

a :H

BY

quarters Positions Point Guard: The one who calls the plays and

Players allowed only

5fouls

makes something happen in the game.

Power Foward: Similar to the Center. The Power Foward can typically shoot.

Shooting Guard: The person who can make the points and is a good shooter.

Small Foward: Typically shorter and faster.

if you’re fouled while shooting, you get at least one free throw

Girls’ Varsity Roster Dequaria Guillory DYmeria Guillory Kate Eischens De’jaria Guillory

Pos. No.

1 2 3 4 10 11 12 20 25 30 35

Bali Cortes Raquel Reid Emma Beuerlein Addison Howe Alecia Westbrook Jessie Matthews Brooke Jones

TOp of key Circle Free Throw line

KNOW THE COURT

After half-time: teams switch baskets

Point System 3 pt 2 pt 1 pt

Behind the Arc In Front of Arc Free Throws

Red = Starters G = Guard F = FOrward

KNOW your team

G G G G G G G G F F F

mid Court Line

They are able to make threes.

Center: Generally the tallest player who is positioned near the basket to rebound.

* *

three point ARC

Sideline

Ba

y ile

WIng

s

ed De

Pos. No.

G G G G G G F F F F

1 3 4 5 11 24 14 15 22 23

boys’ Varsity Roster

DesI WIlliams Dawson Owen Malcolm williams mj walker lamel robinson saadique perkins dylan brougham joe badalucco Anthony bell harold ellis The View // DECEMBER // sports

23

Going The Distance The 2017 Girls Cross Country team took home a State Championship

“Unpredictable, successful, and all types of great efforts,” is how Pam Jurgensmeyer, head coach, described the 2017 girls cross country season.

This was South’s first team State Championship since girls track in 2002.

The team had a fourth place finish at State in 2016, but an even more impressive finish in 2017: a State Championship title. The 5K race was ran at Oak Hills Golf Course in Jefferson City, Mo. Emma Roth (seventh) and Marti Heit (23rd) took home All-State honors in their final race. Olivia Roth (22nd), sophomore, also took home All-State honors. Keely Danielsen (30th), senior, barely missed All-State honors.

Emma’s fourth state trip ended up being her best--she ran 3.1 miles in 18 minutes and 59 seconds.

“We knew we won after everyone finished. We did way better than everyone predicted; if we didn’t win, something wild would’ve had to happen,” Emma said.

It wasn’t a surprise to Olivia that they won State, either. In her second State race, Olivia had a career best time of 19 minutes and 37 seconds.

Heit had an unbelievable comeback. In her junior year, she collapsed at the end of the state race. She crawled to the finish line to secure a 69th place finish to help South hold onto a fourth place finish.

Heit was diagnosed with CPVT, a condition causing irregular heart rhythms which can be fatal if not noticed. Heit had a procedure done to eliminate the problem. She helped earn her first All-State honor with a 19 minutes and 40 seconds race time.

South Cross Country will be losing three major competitors next year,

2017 Sports Recap Clemson defeats Alabama on last second play to win National Championship

24

but the underclassmen are ready to step up.

“Losing some of our best runners is tough, but I think we have to have the sophomores and freshmen train really hard over summer, and whip the freshman into position,” said Olivia.

This past year’s team had a bond that couldn’t be broken apart. The team felt the combination of all the different ages worked really well.

“I felt like the seniors had great role models for them when they were freshmen and sophomores. Now the underclassmen have had really strong leaders and role models to take after and I felt our graduating seniors did a good job. It’s a good trickle effect,” said Jurgensmeyer.

Jurgensmeyer said she believes that next year it will be a rebuilding season, but she expects the underclassmen to fill the shoes of the leaders.

Sidney Strong, junior, said, “State was amazing, it was way better than last season. We were more positive, chill, really supportive, and finishing first was definitely amazing. It made the season one of the best and we won’t forget it.”

There was very little room for improvement with last year’s fourth place finish, but this year was something else.

“I think it was definitely the combination of girls and how this season happened. We were more laid back than the previous season, and it was from years of running. We had no worries and we approached the season with calm nerves and good attitudes and we took it into stride and not making meets or events bigger than they actually were,” said Jurgensmeyer.

With all the hard work that the girl’s cross country put in, next year South team could look to be repeat State champions.

2/5/17

february

Russell Westbrook wins the MVP award after averaging a triple-double in the 2016-17 season

Chiefs draft Patrick Mahomes, future franchise quarterback

march

“Super Bowl 51 was the biggest thing that happened in sports this year” - Beau Buford, junior

The View // DECEMBER // sports

6/26/17

4/27/17

Tom Brady and the Patriots pull off the biggest comeback in Super Bowl history

January 1/9/17

By: alex rodriguez

april

may 4/3/17

june Golden State wins

North Carolina gets second NBA title redemption by winning in three years, NCAA Basketball Kevin Durant’s first Championship one year after the buzzer-beater loss to Villanova

BY: JOE LELUGA South student hospitalized for days, then recovered to help South cross country win their first State Championship South Girls Cross Country was on their way to winning a State title in 2016, when Marti Heit, senior, collapsed at around the 3 mile mark, in an instant crushing South’s lead and hopes of winning a State championship for the first time since 2002.

After going to get blood tests to see what caused the tragic collapse, more tests were ordered, and Heit showed symptoms of a condition known as catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (CVPT). According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, when untreated, can lead to episodes of ventricular tachycardia may cause cardiac arrest, leading to sudden death. Despite the severity of the condition, she was able to find bliss in the ignorance of not understanding the condition.

“At first, I didn’t really understand what was happening or the severity of the condition, so I wasn’t very emotional or anything,” said Heit.

After being put on a beta blocker, Heit’s adrenaline levels were decreased, making it extremely difficult to run.

“Early in the process I had lots of doctors telling me I shouldn’t run at all,” said Heit. “Some didn’t tell me to quit, but said that running on beta blockers would never allow me success.”

This made track season extremely difficult, especially with events that required strenuous, short bursts of speed.

“We had a feeling that some of the longer races like the two mile would be more achievable for her than the 800 where that faster speed just wasn’t coming like it once had,” said Pam Jurgensmeyer, head girls coach.

“My dosage was increased and I could barely run four miles, so I decided to try a procedure that would allow me to come off the beta blocker,” said Heit.

Heit left for a week during the fall semester of this year to have the procedure done by the prestigious Mayo Clinic in Minnesota, ranked the number one hospital in the nation by the U.S. News & World Report.

Unfortunately, during the procedure, Heit had a negative reaction to the anesthesia, and went into cardiac arrest for five minutes. After receiving CPR and two shocks with a defibrillator, her heart restarted and Heit spent the next three days recovering.

Heit’s career was essentially over; however, she wouldn’t accept defeat.

Only one week after a near death experience, she would run again. Three weeks later, she would be race ready. This didn’t come without its fair share of questions from the coaching staff as to the safety of Heit’s return. Jurgensmeyer said, even after receiving a doctor’s note clearing her to run, she notified both South Athletic Director John Carr and Central Office about Heit’s condition.

“I didn’t want to put her in harm’s way,” said Jurgensmeyer, “but I also didn’t want to her teammates and my assistant coaches in a position of ‘what are we expecting from this athlete, and are we expecting too much?’”

In the end, she accomplished much more than she had ever even imagined was possible.

“It was really hard to come back and I had some really bad races,” said Heit. “I definitely never would have envisioned the end of the season that I had. Becoming All State and winning the team title was a dream come true.”

She couldn’t have done it alone though, she received plenty of help along the way.

“My teammates are truly my best friends and I would not be here without them,” said Heit. “If it weren’t for them, I honestly don’t know if I would even be running right now. I tell them thank you. Thank you for not letting me forget my AED, for being patient with me when I was upset after a workout, and thank you for carrying me to a State title.”

After all the euphoria of the return to running and subsequent win of the state title wore off a bit, we were finally able to ask: what’s next for her?

She is now on a new medication with fewer side effects, but has to get regular stress tests to make sure everything is under control. She says she’s is feeling great and is optimistic for the future.

“I shouldn’t need any more procedures, I’m totally cleared to run and am super excited for track season,” said Heit.

Winning a state title is one of the most prestigious things a high school athlete can accomplish, however most do it under normal circumstances. To have a setback as large as flatlining, and only months later finishing All-State, that’s something you see in movies.

11/16/17

9/15/17

Annika Welty honored with Evelyn Gates Award as top volleyball player in KC Metro

J.J. Watt raises over $35 million for Hurricane Harvey recovery

july 8/3/17 NFL players begin kneeling during the National Anthem at the start of the 2017 season

august

september 10/14/17

Eva Kresovic wins State in singles

october

november

11/4/17 South Girls Cross Country wins State

12/9/17 Baker Mayfield wins 2017 Heisman Trophy

december

BY: MAx ghasemi and Bret Vanice

The View // DECEMBER // sports

25

INDEPTH: A special section created by the Fall 2017 Journalism Class

Movie Making A Rigorous Undertaking Story BY: Kiana Fernandes Photos BY: Breanna Gray

“T

Once shooting has completed, it is time to edit the piece. ake one,” the Second Assistant Cameraman calls out as the SNAP “[Editing] is actually one of the simpler forms of making a movie. If you of the clapperboard fills the set. The film is rolling, but that is not the film correctly, you don’t have very much to do. You will already have your beginning of the movie-making process. storyboard, so when you export your clips you know how they should be laid Before the cameras ever turn on, there is lots of prep work to be done. out. After that, you trim down the clips and add in effects. Color grading, music Scripts are written, storyboards are created and actors are cast. Madison and sound are common ones. I always make my own Flynn, senior, has had an interest in filmmaking since she was sound effects, so if in one of my projects you hear a book a kid, and was ecstatic when the broadcast teacher Justin open, it is because I have created that effect,” said Flynn.

Ford, allowed them to explore their interests more this year.

While Flynn has not yet created something that has hit “You have to figure out exactly what you want to “Gone With the Wind” is the big screen, there will be further steps once she has. film. Everything you do with each shot matters--even the the highest grossing movie Distribution occurs when a film is marketed to a company direction the camera and the actors are facing. You have to and shown on it, be it cable, Netflix or at the cinema. plan frame-by-frame to execute the story,” said Flynn. of all time, making “Movies are a form of communication. They are things After the initial planning, it is time to start shooting. At $3.4 Billion to date! that convey a thought or idea to an audience, which can every stage in the filming process, things can go terribly even be shown through an actor’s interpretation of a wrong, but many issues that occur in a well planned film character,” said Sydney Boutz, sophomore. happen during this stage.

Whether you join the film industry or are merely a consumer of its products, “For one of our film projects we had six days to make a three minute film you now have a brief introduction to how the creations you love are made. based off of a prompt we were given. We ended up losing three days of So, without further ado, it is time to roll the credits. production because everyone was working. We spent the remaining three days filming at every opportunity. Something that made this especially hard was that we had to replace one of the leads four times because of people dropping out,” said Flynn.

During the same project, there were problems with both the casting and filming, as well as the technical aspects of the piece.

“On the last day, I spent essentially 24 hours filming. During this time, one of our lights went out at 1 a.m. After completing the shoot, I spent time editing, and we turned in the final project five minutes before it was due. Everything that could go wrong did, but at least we got it done,” continued Flynn.

Fun Fact

by: Jordan Jones

CHECK OUT MORE ABOUT MOVIES Scan TO WATCH: Video by: Grace Parrott Web Story BY: Austin Kinsey

26

The View // DECEMBER // INDEPTH

Communicating with each other during filming is key for success. Headsets like the ones pictured above help communication. “I never thought I would be into something like this but now that I am I don’t wanna stop and hearing people’s stories and meeting new people,” said senior Valor Bowles.

A pen hits the ground.

A whirlwind of words is flying through the room, looking for a place on a loose sheet of paper. It’s impossible to grasp them all. Doing too many things at once, floods of knowledge return to memory, preparing to strategically incite one perspective or another.

To many of us, this scenario sounds foreign, but a select handful of students at South may relate.

This group of kids is known as the Speech and Debate team.

Members of the team travel to tournaments to compete in different events. These events range from different types of debate to competitive acting and speaking. Topics of discussion are generally centered around current events and things students feel passionate about. The primary basis of the program is to give students a voice.

Debate is one way to argue two sides of a resolution.

“You research and construct cases about national topics to take to tournaments. You must persuade your judge to agree with the side of the topic you are advocating for,” said junior Maya Yildirim.

Forensics is a bit different than debate, however. Rather than compete with direct competition, students perform individual speaking events in hopes of being ranked highest in a room.

The activity is often viewed as purely academic, but there’s more to it than that.

“I think a lot of people believe debate to be either boring or far too hard and complex for them. Debate is not boring at all. There is nothing more exciting than having a good debate round where the margin of victory is very close, it’s just

like competing in any sport,” said Jonathan Amthor, senior and varsity competitor.

Many people compete in individual events, but collaboration is non-negotiable. Second opinions and revisions are vital when taking a case or piece to tournament. The activity takes time to learn, and veterans ensure that the novices are taught well.

“It’s been incredible seeing the people who have been debating for three or four years debate and perform. It’s amazing to see what they can do and they’ve helped me a lot in the creation and delivery of my pieces,” said freshman Caroline Mueller.

“I have no fear to talk in front of people anymore; that’s past me. ” Mueller is no stranger to the program however.

Her sister, Madeleine Mueller, senior, holds the presidency of the team for her second consecutive year. Madeleine’s story perfectly sums up the benefits gained from being a part of the team.

“Through a series of unfortunate scheduling issues, I ended up in Speech and Debate on accident. I thought that class was going to be the death of me. I was painfully shy and sat in the back of the class dreading answering any questions,” said Madeleine. “Flash forward to today, and now I’ve been able to win districts, place third in the state, and qualify to nationals.”

Novice or varsity, any debater can attest that their experience has been indefinitely worth it.

Any event has the ability to drastically improve speaking skills and constructing cases assists with everyday writing. The context of all events also

exposes students to real world problems.

“I have no fear to talk in front of people anymore; that’s past me. I’m learning a lot about relations around the world from what we research, but also just from listening to other debaters talking,” said sophomore and first year competitor, Luci Steele.

The team is ultimately band of close-knit friends.

Whether prepping cases or spending weekends at tournaments, everyone spends a great deal of time together.

“I’ve made many close friends each year I’ve been a member of this team. We prepare together by exchanging evidence and editing cases, so even if you are in an individual event, you have a team of support wanting you to succeed,” said Yildirim.

Sitting in that room, debating at a tournament is exhilarating. The stress and competition can be difficult to overcome, and seem pointless at times. But the reward of taking the time to apply yourself to the activity is ultimately one of the best decisions anyone could make. The purpose of any competitor is simply to make their voice heard.

The South Speech and Debate team never fails to prove that words truly matter.

Talking Up A

Storm

A look into the debate team

By: Amy Graham, Zach CogswelL, Sophie Schulze, Maddie Hardcastle & brooke tiedt

Scan this code to get the inside scoop on German Club and Ping Pong Club

What Club Should You Join?

With over 30 clubs at South, it can be hard to find one that’s for you.

Based on the things you like, find a club that you would like!

Making a Difference

Academics

Culture Freshman Logan Pearson prepares to return a game-ending shot to win his ping pong match.

Languages

Spanish, French, and/or German Club

Other Cultures

Muslim Students and Allies, Black Student Untion, World Culture Club

Science and Math

Competition

Robotics, Scholar Bowl, Science Olympiad

For Others

For PHS

For Fun

Computer Science Club

Natural Helpers, Key Club, Best Buddies, Young Democrats Club

Having Fun

STUCO, FANS, Class Exec.

Art

Games/ Activities

Theatre

Making Things

Sports & Activities

Center Stage

Art Club

Ski Club, Ping Pong Club

The View // DECEMBER // IN DEPTH

Games

Chess Club, Lettuce Club

27

W

eights class. To some, it may sound intimidating, to others it may sound inviting.

Just think about it. A whole semester of lifting, running, and getting yelled at by the coach. Here’s how to survive it.

Some people will say, if the coach isn’t watching, skip a set or a couple of reps. Don’t. The coach may not seem to be paying attention, but they can usually tell when someone is skipping sets or reps.

Ben Goodin, freshman, in beginning weights said, “Some people think it’s so simple, if the coach is not watching I can skip this and just relax. You can’t. And even on the rare occasion you do get away with it, they’ll eventually catch on, and you’ll get in trouble, usually in the middle of class, with everybody watching.”

So don’t cheat. People rarely get away with it, and when they do, it never lasts.

Sabastian Campbell, senior, is in advanced weights for the third time.

He said, “I took beginning weights freshman year, and every year since I’ve taken a semester of advanced weights. A common dream as a kid is to be big and strong, and weights is a great way to do it.

It’s an hour and a half every day for a semester, and it’s all about pushing yourself, giving it your best effort, and doing what you’re supposed to.”

A lot of students will probably say, weights isn’t for everyone, and advanced weights is for an even smaller number of people.

Some coaches, like Kent Cramer, disagree, saying, “It’s all about effort. Few things hit me harder than when a student says, ‘I can’t do it,’ and just gives up. I want students to get the most out of this class, and the only way they’re going to achieve that is with effort.”

Bottom line, try. Try as hard as you can, and get it done.

Most importantly, just listen to the coaches, and do what they say to do. They’ve been doing this for a while, they know what they’re doing, and they know how to do it. Coach Melvin Walker has been teaching weights for 25 years, and has seen just about everything.

“It’s definitely frustrating when students question how I teach, but what’s more annoying is when students don’t listen to what I tell them to do,” he said. “I’m only trying to motivate them and make them stronger, both physically and mentally. It might seem like I’m angry at a student when I call them out, but it’s only because I care.”

If when you decide to take weights, or a friend of yours takes weights, just know that you have the tools and the skills to get through it.

HOW TO: WEIGHTS BY: DRAKE CHANDLER-GILLILAND, KATIE HEALD, KYLE TORRAGO, ALEXIS ROSAS & ROBERT THOMAS

SCAN HERE to hear from weights coaches & students

Hang Clean 39% Squat 21%

Bench Press 39%

28

The View // DECEMBER // INDEPTH

Above: Drake Chandler-Gilliland and Connor Campbell

Your Lifeked c a H

By: Dymeria Guillory, Olivia Sevilla, Laura Fabian, Audrey Holland, and Sofia Fatino

Wet your fingers before picking out eggshells so the yolk wont stick.

W

To save your guac from turning brown, sprinkl ewater over it.

e all know that feeling: when you try to do something that should be simple, over and over again, but you still seem to mess it up.

You think, “ This is driving me crazy! I wish I knew an easier way

to do this.”

Well, your cries have been heard, your pleas have been discerned, and your prayers have been answered. Here lies the keys to hacking your life.

Key #1: Snack Style

Key #3: Quick Fix

You zip around your house, desperately searching for your missing earring back. As you look high and low, in couch cushions and under blankets, you hear your mom yelling at you for being forgetful, as your brother continues to ask you where you think you left it last.

You stop abruptly and remember a life hack that can fix your problematic situation. Find a classic, yellow pencil with a clean, pink eraser and cut a little piece off with scissors, about the size of your earring back.

Put it on the back of your earring, and voila’, problem fixed.

Gabby Fatino, senior, has been using this hack since she was in fourth grade after she dropped her earring back in a drain.

“I will continue to use this hack, because the eraser always stays in and it is easy,” she said.

”I used the tinfoil lid on the applesauce as the spoon for the applesauce.”

Are you tired of having to reach your whole arm into a chip bag just to retrieve a single chip, while coating your arm in salt?

Leave the salty arm days behind, and use this simple hack. Fold the bottom of your chip bag inward, making a bowl out of the bag.

This will also push the chips upward, so you don’t have to reach down into the bag.

Brandon Crabtree, senior, uses another snack hack all of the time.

“I use the tinfoil lid on the applesauce container as a spoon for the applesauce,” he said.

Key #2: Controlling the Frizz

You set your hair straightener down on the cool countertop. You inspect yourself in the mirror, meticulously checking for any unruly hairs. Satisfied, you walk outside, heading for your car. You take one last glance at your hair in the side view mirror, just to find that your hair has started to get frizzy. You are freaking out inside, maybe a little bit on the outside too.

No need to worry anymore, because as long as you have a dryer sheet, you can do this simple hack. Take a dryer sheet, and smooth it gently over your hair. This will make it not frizzy and staticy.

Cassidy Hill, freshman, uses this life hack all of the time.

“I think life hacks are really popular, because they make your life easier and everybody wants that,” she said.

O T W

HOW To

HO

M

E R O

SCAN HERE to READ AND WATCH MORE LIFE HACKS The View // DECEMBER // INDEPTH

29

Sophomo re Melody S Max Rosario and fr asser alwa eshman ys twist to th eir relation add a creative ship.

Seniors Re illy Scott a nd can’t help but smile w Joe Leluga h around ea ch other. en they are

Brown d Taylor espie an ch other. ill G n ro a e me ores Ca pporting Sophom back when su ld o h r neve

BY: STEVIE WILLIAMS, AVERY GLOVER, JESSIE HAGEN, NICO LELUGA AND PAYTON KEEDY

C

utest couple? Longest relationship? High school sweethearts? South has a wide variety of couples varying in age, time and gender.

Here’s the scoop on a few of South’s perfect pairs.

Seniors Reilly Scott and Joe Leluga just celebrated their six month anniversary. On their first date, they went to Insomnia Cookies.

Leluga said, “I still remember what Reilly had, an ice cream sandwich with vanilla ice cream and macadamia nut cookies.”

They try to spend ample amount of time with each other despite their busy schedules. Their date nights consist of movies, or finding somewhere to eat but their main goal is to just hang out as much as possible.

Maybe something about how relationships vary for every grade Junior Bethany Danner said, “I’ve never been at a happier emotional standpoint.”

She and her girlfriend Kayley Dustin, also a junior, started dating over the summer. To kickoff their relationship they had a photoshoot with them and some of their friends.

Dustin and Danner both agree that being in a relationship with their best friend is a lot of fun. They try to hangout at least three days a week and

30

The View // DECEMBER // INDEPTH

together they go to Zona Rosa, the movies, have dinner with Danner’s parents and make lots of Taco Bell runs.

Sophomores Cameron Gillespie and Taylor Brown have been together since middle school. It all started when Gillespie asked Brown out walking home from Burlington in eighth grade and they’ve been together ever since.

“One of my favorite things is when she comes and supports me at my events. I perform so much better when she’s there,” Gillespie said Outside of school, they spend roughly 4-5 hours a week together. In their scarce time to hang out, they go shopping, go to dinner and watch movies.

“If I could describe my relationship in one it would be fun because we don’t have to worry about each other, we trust each other a lot,” said Brown.

Wonder if they will follow in their parents footsteps and become high school sweethearts.

One of the newest relationships at south is freshman Melody Sasser and sophomore Max Rosario. Once or twice a week, they hang out and go to Raising Cane’s, the movies or hang out at their houses.

“I love spending time with her because she always makes me laugh and puts me in a good mood,” said Rosario.

Sasser and Rosario both said one of the best parts of their relationship is having someone to talk to.

Holidays at the high school

A

By Lucas bowman, Alex hammond, Kevin ryan, Nick ryan, and Ty rouse

s the calendar turns to December, lights and ornaments go on trees, stockings are hung, and families gather together.

The Christmas season is a very important time of the year to many students at South. The season often comes with many important traditions that families make sure to practice each and every year.

For Andrew Robaska, junior, his family tradition for Christmas is not so traditional.

“My family’s tradition really starts on Thanksgiving when we gather for dinner and open up most of our presents. Then once we’re all out for winter break, my whole family travels to a warm place for Christmas,” he said.

The past couple of years he has gone to Florida and the Bahamas and this year he plans on traveling to Hawaii.

“During the vacation we pretty much just hang out and open up the rest of our presents from each other. Although it isn’t the typical Christmas, I really enjoy it,” said Robaska.

Rather than heading to the beaches, Cameron Koeniguer, senior, heads north to Iowa to catch up with extended family.

“Every year my family here in Kansas City gets together for Christmas. For my younger cousins we always leave out milk and cookies and then carrots in the driveway for reindeer. Then we head up to Iowa to meet with other relatives for the rest of break,” said Koeniguer, While some students enjoy taking their Christmas traditions on the road, others prefer to stay home. Addison Howe, junior, and her family have many traditions that they practice year in and year out.

“Every year on Thanksgiving each member of my family gets a new ornament to add to our tree. Then once we’re 12 days away from the 25th, my family begins our 12 days of Christmas. Each day, my brothers and I get small gifts and on Christmas Eve we always get a new pair of pajamas. Then on Christmas Day we always open the presents that we got each other,” said Howe.

“ALTHOUGH IT So when January hits and the lights and ornaments are stored back into their ISN’T THE TYPICAL boxes, families will know that they have CHRISTMAS, I enjoyed their time together in a variety of different ways.

REALLY ENJOY IT.”

SCAN HERE

TO WATCH KIDS WRAP PRESENTS AND READ ABOUT MORE TRADITIONS

Festive Christmas ornaments are available for purchase at Fulk’s Tree Farm. Fulk’s, a familyowned tree farm, has been in the Christmas tree business for years.

The View // DECEMBER // INDEPTH

31

Wrapping

1 / 1 / 2 017

up The

1 / 7 / 2 017

Day 1 started with someone vandalizing the Hollywood sign

year

Salt Baeiconic meme

1/21/2017 President Donald Trump

by: Christian Holferty & Hallie Vandeven

2 / 1 / 2 017 Travel ban was published

4 / 19 / 2 017

5/1/2017 The Juul outbreak

Starbucks’ Unicorn Frap took the snap by storm

6/15/2017

Albums

7/4/2017 Snapchat’s dancing Charlottesville hot dog

White supremicists attempt to take over the town of Charlottesville, but community rallies together to stop them

8/11-8/12 2017 Hurricane Harvey 77 deaths

8/17/2017

Hugh Hefner Tom Petty Malcolm Young Glen Campbell Chris Cornell Gregg Allman

1. Logan 2.. War for the Planet of the Apes 3. Get Out 4. Baby Driver 5. Wonder Woman

12/8/2017 12/14/2017

1. From A Room: Volume One by Chris Stapleton 2. This One’s For You by Luke Combs 3. Greta Van Fleet by Greta Van Fleet 4. DAMN. by Kendrick Lamar 5. American Teen by Khalid

8/21/2017 Total Solar Eclipse

8/30/2017

Las Vegas Shooting

134 deaths

58 Dead 546 injured

Hurricane Irma

Movies Dearly Departed

4 / 5 / 2 01 7

Most retweeted tweet

Mysterious smell gets us out of school early

10/1/1017 10/5/2017 The Weinstein Effect unveils the celebrity sexual assault charges

iPhone X

11/3/2017

T V Sh ow s 1. Mindhunter 2. Stranger Things 3. American Vandal 4. The Deuce 5. Game of Thrones

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