The View Issue 5 Volume 15

the VIEW Under Fire

Situations in the School Call for New Safety Policies and Procedures

Pg. 12

Park Hill South High School February 8, 2013 Volume 15 Issue 5

Love Is In The Air Pgs. 17-19

FLiPping the Norm Pg. 5

The Southside Girls featuring the Southside Boys perform in the Courtwarming Assembly on Feb. 1, 2013.

photo by SHELBY COOPER

February 8, 2013 The View / Issue 5 / Volume 15

Dinner Drought / page 4

Detail

Polar Opposites / Page 7

The Doctor? Doctor Who? / Page 10

Spotlight

Perspective

What Grinds My Gears / Page 16

Rugby: The Perfect Opportunity / Page 23

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weights (page 20), plenty of South students are gearing up for their futures. Seasonal events like Valentine’s Day bring up plenty of topics like gift ideas for a significant other and dating advice from our very own teachers (pages 18 and 19); and while there are a lot of things going on that students can plan on, some things are just spontaneous, like the lockdown we had on Jan. 23 (pages 12-13).

It is a busy, but exciting time for many students. While it may get frustrating or exhausting, it is important to keep your cool and manage your responsibilities the best you can. Just take a deep breath and try to have fun while doing it.

Seniors Tim Dunker and Lizzy Jurries were crowned Courtwarming King and Queen

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

There is no doubt that high school students have a lot on their plates.

Some might rush straight from school to practice and head home for hours of homework. Others might head right to work after the bell at 2:38 or try to get some homework done before a night shift. Whatever the responsibilities may be, most high schoolers have plenty of things to juggle their time with.

The View staff is no different.

There is a lot going on this time of year for high school students and our jobs as journalist is to dig deep into what students have on their plates. With seniors making schedule selections and applying for scholarships (page 7) and freshmen, sophomores and juniors preparing for sports with winter

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Many students and parents are left clueless as to the reason that hot food is banned for the time being from South concessions

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he cheering of the crowd, the stinging buzzer and the smell of a home team win really make you hungry, but if you are at a South home game, do not expect to get any hot food to satisfy your hunger for the next basketball and wrestling season.

Recently, Junior Exec has been banned from selling all cooked food in concession stands, including hot dogs, hamburgers, popcorn and nachos. The decision was forced by the Health Department of Kansas City who noticed that the concession stand does not have a sink that is up to code.

“We didn’t have a three tiered sink to wash whatever in, whether it’s dishes or utensils, which we don’t really have a lot of,” said Mike Hoffman, math. “Also the water needs to reach a certain temperature to clean well enough.”

Since the hot foods banned (hot dogs, hamburgers, nachos) are more satisfying than the candy and chips that are now only provided, some busy families are going to be disappointed.

“Most people came thinking that the hot food would be their dinner,” said Abdi Sarbessa, junior. Sarbessa is a member of Junior Exec and volunteers at concession stands.

How does one help the customer understand that there is a pretty slim chance that they will be fully satisfied?

“I just had to tell them over and over that we don’t have any [hot dogs, popcorn, or nachos],” said Sara Parolin, junior. “It gets old after a while.” Parolin is Junior Exec’s 2012-13 Vice President and also works concession stands.

However, with new rules come new stories in trying to uphold that rule.

“We were doing concessions at a wrestling match and people kept asking for stuff and we’d have to show them the sign and then they’d complain,” said Morgan Keesee, junior. “[A visiting bus driver] was kind of disappointed about it, but she understood because she was in the food industry. She just said she would run to QuikTrip or something.”

The concession stand at South has been measured for the new sink, but it is not likely to be done before the end of this basketball season. Be ready for the hot dogs and nachos for next year’s sports seasons.

thecenterwing They are coming for our guns? The alleged conspiracy surrounding the Sandy Hook school shooting

On Dec. 14, 2012, Adam Lanza allegedly slaughtered 26 innocent people, most of them being children. I am sure everybody is already aware of this, as it is seen as one of the greatest tragedies in our nation’s history.

What some may not have heard, however, is that some are saying what we were led to believe about the shooting may be a horrific cover up. Considering the raging gun control debate that immediately ensued in Congress, some see a motive for the government to stage an incident like this. While nobody likes the implications of these types of statements, they are ones that we need to consider.

I am usually not the one for conspiracy theories, but this one actually turned my head. A 30 minute video published by the usual conspiracy theory community on sites such as infowars.com came across my Facebook news feed one night. Noticing how long it was I thought I would just skip over it,

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d

inner rought

photo by ABBIE RECHSTEINER

but several of my friends had commented on the video and were shocked and intrigued. I immediately saw why.

Instead of a bunch of small, loosely strewn together pieces of “evidence” common in most conspiracy theories, this video looked solely at news clips and actual facts from the day. 30 minutes is a lot of evidence to cover, but I will discuss some of the biggest pieces of evidence. One clip features what we are supposed to believe is the father of one of the victims in the tragedy. You see “Robbie Parker” walk out for a press conference. The problem is he is laughing and joking, then asks, “Are we ready to start?” Afterward, he goes on to do breathing exercises to get into character, much like real actors.

If that does not grab your attention, there is an added level of complexity. Emilie Parker, the girl who was “shot” at Sandy Hook Elementary, is featured in supposed pre-shooting family photos in a red dress.

by ABBY STOKER

by KENNETH HARRIS Robbie Parker’s time in the media had garnered him and his family attention, so much so that they got to meet and be photographed with Barack Obama. The problem is, in their picture with Obama, the same girl that is called “Emilie” is seen in the exact same red dress. That was days after her supposed death.

Let me be perfectly clear. I am not confirming nor denying this conspiracy theory. All I am advocating is that fascist regimes can arise anywhere. In fact, gaining total trust and dependence from the public is essential in their uprising. A shooting like this does happen to serve as the ultimate justification for gun control legislation.

Could the government be trying to “take our guns” and weaken the public? I do not know. All I am saying is that we can never let our guard down and must always remain skeptical.

Nex t b oys’ b a s ket b a l l ga m e i s Tues day @ 5:30. C o m e o ut and s uppor t!

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www.worthharley-davidson.com 816-420-9000 Support the South wrestling team at Districts Feb. 10-13

Changing paper to computer in the classroom

Picture this: every day there is a computer for you to use. Everyday your class uses these computers to take notes, work projects and do assignments. This is not a computer class; this is FLiP. FLiP stands for Future Learner Project, an initiative the Park Hill School District is unveiling this year. FLiP is meant to help students gain skills that will help them in the 21st century.

“Technology is utilized as a tool to help provide meaningful experiences in the content areas while developing these essential skills,” said Susan Rizzo, Coordinator of Instructional Technology FLiP has already been tested out by the fifth grade classes at Line Creek, Renner and Southeast Elementary schools.

After the positive reaction from the fifth graders, FLiP moved on to be tested at the secondary level. Park Hill, Congress, Lakeview and South have one classroom testing out FLiP and Plaza has two classrooms testing it. This semester, Andy Dale, communication arts, was chosen to have his classes test out FLiP at South.

“We asked Mr. Dale because he is skilled in the use of instructional technology and is also a teacher leader that serves on the building Leadership Council and many departmental committees,” said Dr. Dale Longenecker, principal.

However, before they could pull out the computers, Dale had to go through a one day training at Central Office. There, he and the other teachers were shown different

“THIS IS WHAT THE WORLD IS HEADING TOWARD. SCHOOLS SHOULD JUST GO ALONG WITH IT.”

RYANN SMITH (11)

by KENDRA ALLEN

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F L i P p i n g the N o r m

online web tools that they could use to enhance the learning experience. The big thing they did was visit Renner to see the fifth graders using the dislike laptops in person.

The laptops have the FLiP made a huge impact program on the classes. Dale’s CLA 9 and CLA 11 split blocks have perhaps felt this the most. “[The teachers] were kind of awkward sometimes because they have to pause a lot for us to write,” said Aldo Zagada, freshman.

With laptops, students can just type based on a survey of 82 students in Andy Dale’s classes and not have worry about being slow or missing things. Dale with it. He encourages students to make has everything online so now students use of the technology they already know. can access information themselves. Less “What you use at home, I want you to questions have to be asked. use in my class,” said Dale.

Even so, FLiP has its problems. The The plan is to expand FLiP to mousepads can be accidentally swiped classrooms over the next four years. as you type change your cursor location.

Teachers will start using laptops on a daily For some students, the laptops in general basis. Another reason Dale was chosen to hinder them. pilot FLiP. “I’m a little bit of a neanderthal when “The skills and knowledge [Dale] will it comes to computers,” said Valerie Stahl, gain this semester can then be readily junior. “I’m still getting comfortable shared with other staff members at PHS with it.” as we prepare for this instructional shift,” Dale, however, is optimistic about the said Longenecker. program. He feels that the more time that So if all goes well, students may just be passes with the using of the laptops the using a laptop in their classrooms every day more comfortable students will become in the coming years.

Above, students in Andy Dale’s class use laptops in the FLiP program.

17%

83%

like the FLiP program

photos by KENDRA ALLEN

Nex t g ir ls’ b a s ket b a l l ga m e i s Mo n. @ 5:30 against Le e’s S um m it West

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the STRUGGLE is REAL

As the end of the year approaches, seniors are feeling the effects of Senioritis

by JESSICA HAYES

“I don’t have the drive to do anything anymore. I’m just ready to graduate already.”

“There’s less of a point to try because it’s so close to the end and everyone’s been accepted to the colleges they want to go to now.”

Alex Augspurg

Dani Lake

“I’ve been procrastinating more this year because I’m just lazier since I don’t care that much anymore.”

“Sometimes I feel like I have senioritis because I hate doing all the busy work, but I’m still motivated to get good grades.

Josh Boehm

Karlie Bischoff

“I procrastinate a lot more this year. Since I don’t have a first block, I always end up doing my homework the morning that it’s due.”

“Senioritis is when people stop caring and stop giving 100 percent. I’ve had senioritis since like junior year.”

“Even though I don’t have a lot of homework, I never want to do it. I just want to hang out with my friends instead.”

“I don’t think I have senioritis but I’m definitely expecting to get it. First semester went by so fast that it wasn’t that bad.”

Caroline Chambers

Chris Blevins

by JAKE PAROLIN

#1 a comparison of number one hits from 2010 and 2013

Jordan Fitch

BOOK

Hannah Earel

The Help by Kathryn Stockett vs.

Safe Haven by Nicholas Sparks

SONG GAME FILM

TiK ToK by Ke$ha vs. Thrift Shop by Mackelmore

Red Dead Redemption vs. Far Cry 3

“Avatar” vs. “Mama”

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Congrats to junior Samantha Roy for being the KC Star Athlete of the week

by KENNETH HARRIS

South Seniors try to impress colleges for scholarships This coming fall, over 300 of South’s current students will be gone. While all these seniors will be doing different things with their lives, most of them will be at an entirely new school next semester. This is what their entire high school life has led up to. One of the biggest challenges for these seniors, though, is figuring out how to pay for college.

Scholarships are regarded as signals of high achievement. That is why a lot of the best athletes go to college for free. However, not everyone is Craig Scott. So what are those who still need to pay for college supposed to do?

Luckily, football players are not the only ones who receive scholarships. As this article is being read, seniors across the country are finishing up their applications, including applications for scholarships.

Schools, private companies, the government and other organizations offer a seemingly infinite number of scholarships each year. In fact, according to College Planning Services, the Department of Education alone dishes out $46 billion a year in scholarship money.

How does one get their share of the billions of free college dollars handed out each year? Well, one has to simply apply. How hard can that be?

“It’s a pain in the butt,” said Mariah Bowser, senior. “There’s just so much you have to get in by each deadline. It’s not all that hard, it’s just a lot of work.”

It is easy to see why scholarships can be so much stress. Each individual probably has multiple places they are thinking about going to school. Each school also has multiple scholarships to apply to. The number of applications a student now has to fill out is already growing exponentially in this logic and that is before factoring in private companies and government scholarships.

Most of the time, each scholarship will ask of a student a lot of tedious work. Each scholarship probably has at least one essay to write. On top of that, some scholarships may ask for additional letters of recommendation, a resume or something else that can college or scholarship giver can use to figure out exactly what type of a student they are rewarding.

Bowser went on to advise juniors, sophomores and freshmen, by saying, “Start even as a junior. Don’t let deadlines sneak up on you and get involved with your community and school. That’s what schools are looking for.”

The stress felt by seniors certainly is not for naught, though. The payoff lies in the following education that, hopefully, will be the foundation for the future success of that student. Scholarships make available certain opportunities that otherwise would not be possible.

“Scholarships make Truman [State University] affordable for me,” said Caleb Seibert, senior.

Next fall is only a few short months away. In the meantime, seniors across the nation will wait in anticipation to see not only who is going to pay them to go to school, but ultimately where the entirety of their future will start.

“IT’S A PAIN IN THE BUTT.”

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SellingSuccess

polar

OPPOSITES

by DANIEL KERWIN

South seniors are on different ends of the spectrum in their schedule difficulty

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enior year: the time to load your schedule with electives to get assigned as little homework as possible. Or is it a great opportunity to receive some weighted grades and get college classes out of the way before college?

“I don’t like to waste my time at school,” said Jessica Lee, senior. “I’d rather be at home than take an easy class.”

Between first and second semester, Lee enrolled in four AP classes for her senior year as well as Chemistry II. Tim Dunker, senior, enrolled in five AP classes this year and said he believes that students are not the only ones enticed with the opportunity.

“Teachers teach better in advanced classes. They have more fun with it,” said

Dunker. “I’m a scholar, plain and simple. I need to be challenged.”

While many look at seniors taking extra electives as being lazy or enrolling in “blow off classes,” there are reasons behind some South students taking on a lighter workload for their last two semesters.

“I don’t regret enrolling in these classes,” said Daelen Eiberger, senior. “I have more time to work and save money for my future with the lack of homework.”

While Eiberger is thinking about his future financially, other seniors, like Stuart Miller, are taking the classes that will help in his major of Engineering.

“I took AP classes in math and science to get dual credit and skip them in college. It

should make things a lot easier,” said Miller.

It is clear that some seniors enjoy their rigorous schedule and others do not regret coasting through their final year. But for any South student not graduating on May 20, how should they handle their senior year?

“Take some tough classes along with some easier electives. It’s the best of both worlds,” said Eiberger.

While some students may go back and forth pondering their futures and the consequences and benefits of their senior schedule, Miller has a simple philosophy to the process.

“Take the schedule that will best prepare you for your life after high school,” said Miller.

FM P ap p l i cat i on s a re d u e Fe b. 25 to M s . O r w lo s ki in ro o m B 101

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Students at South show off their favorite Winter Fashions

by HANNA BLACK and JESSICA HAYES

Audrey Rothers, senior

“

“My favorite thing to wear in the winter would have to be a scarf because they are so cute.”

-Morgan Cade, junior

“My favorite “In the winter thing to wear in the I love to wear my winter is leggings, leggings, uggs, and uggs, sweatshirts, a scarf because its and long socks.” comfy, simple and - Abbey Whisnant, warm.” freshman -Madi Boucher, junior

by MEGAN MCMULLEN

Assistant Head Custodian

6 YEARS AT SOUTH Every day something crazy happens at South... especially the geese.

“

MR. LAWERNCE JONES

“

Campus Supervisor

Receptionist

MRS. SUSAN MARTINEZ

“

RIDING BOOTS

staff spotlight

6 YEARS AT SOUTH

I love seeing kids I enrolled at Southeast [Elementary] now as seniors.

Shay Jackson, sophomore

Sydney Sanders, junior

“I like to wear my sweats and sweat shirts in the winter because I like to be comfy and warm.”

-Aubree Wilkerson, freshman

MR. STEVE HOLT

Melissa Dods, sophomore

“In the winter I like to wear big sweaters and scarfs and boots because they are so comfy.”

-Bridget Welch, junior

TALL SOCKS

south

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VESTS

INFINITY SCARVES

“I love sweaters in the winter because they are not only comfy but very warm at the same time.”

-Olivia Post, junior

“My favorite thing to wear in the winter is leggings with a baggy sweatshirt and Uggs.

I like that outfit because it’s simple but comfy and cute at the same time.”

-Hilary Wilsbacher, sophomore

“

4 MO. AT SOUTH [My favorite part about coming to work] is dealing with the teachers and kids... some of the kids.

“

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WINTER FASHION AT ITS FINEST

Good luck to all students taking the ACT on Sat. Arrive at South by 7:45 a.m.

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Atte nt i o n s en i o rs : 1 0 1 days until Graduatio n o n M ay 20

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Students share how coffee plays a role in their everyday life

the doctor?

DR. WHO?

TV series “Doctor Who” reaches their 50th anniversary this year

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un. You hear this single word almost every episode of one of the world’s undoubtedly greatest sci-fi series’ to ever air. It is the word that Whovians around the world wish to hear one day if the main character of said sci-fi series ever actually existed. The word that you would hear the Doctor tell companions, allies and anyone else he meets.

At first he seems crazy, a complete lunatic you just met, saying words you have never heard, pulling out a flashy device he calls a Sonic Screwdriver and telling you to trust him. What do you do? You trust him, you do as he asks, maybe because you are confused, maybe because he seems trustworthy, but whatever reason, you trust this man you just met with your life. More than often, he succeeds in saving it and you are glad you trusted him.

“Doctor Who” is now the longest running sci-fi series on air and since this year is its 50th Anniversary a lot is expected to be done for this event. “I want every single episode ever played,” said by Amber Arens, senior.

Doctor Who’s current Doctor is played by Matt Smith and is about a time lord going around through time and space in what looks to be a police phone box, but is actually called the TARDIS, Time And Relative Dimension In Space. The Doctor is generally known as the ‘Mad Man and his Box.’ The reason the show has been able to air so long is because its main character changes. Although right now the Doctor is Matt Smith, past Doctors have included David Tennant as the tenth and Christopher Eccleston as the ninth. Whenever he dies, the Doctor regenerates as a new Doctor, allowing the series to continue, even though the first Doctor is gone. Doctor Who has a variety of

by EMILY ORVOS

percent of 18-24 year olds have drank coffee in the past two weeks

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my drinks.”

McKenzie said that her coffee drinking really spiked when she started driving. She now goes to Caribou Coffee or Starbucks at least four times per week.

“My sister likes coffee also, so I’ll get her some to make her happy,” said McKenzie.

However, for senior Josh Hunt, his caffeine addiction is much less recreational. He says that if he can “contain his energy,” it helps him focus during class and gives him an energy boost.

“It’s gotten to the point where if I don’t have a cup [of coffee] right when I wake up, a cup when I get home and a cup around 8 p.m., I get a massive headache,” said Hunt.

If Hunt skips a cup, he said he feels irritated and “wants to sleep.” Jordan Cox, senior, feels the same way. After attempting to give up coffee for a week, Cox fell asleep in all of her classes.

“I don’t want to depend on coffee and sometimes I feel like I do,” said Cox. When that annoying alarm clock starts blaring in the early morning hours, many South students turn to steamy espresso for an extra morning boost.

mg of caffiene in a 12 oz Starbucks drink, which is five times more than a can of Diet Coke

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Waking up to a screaming alarm at the break of daylight is never pleasant. From grogginess to droopy eyes to speed-of-sloth movements, the struggle of waking up persists in most students’ lives.

However, some have a solution to their lack of morning cheerfulness. Caffeine is a simple answer to early morning drowsiness and some students admit that they are dependent on shots of espresso for focus and success.

“I would definitely say I’m addicted [to coffee],” said Emary Langhorn, freshman. “The sad thing is, I need it sometimes to wake me up.”

Langhorn drinks coffee at least every other day, otherwise she feels “groggy.” She said she prefers it out and if money allowed it, she would have Caribou Coffee every day.

Unlike Langhorn, Shannon McKenzie, junior, drinks coffee from home every day. She said she will drink up to three cups per day and has always loved the bittersweet drink.

“My parents are big coffee addicts,” said McKenzie. “When I was four, I wanted to try it. So my parents put a little bit in my milk.

I really liked it, so I kept drinking it and eventually there was more coffee than milk in

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mochas&lattes&frappes, OH MY!

hours is how long caffiene stays in the body

info from NPD Group

by ANDRE SHAVER

enemies, including Daleks, Cybermen and The Master.

While some just hope to see another grand adventure for the 50th anniversary, or just want to see “more episodes air.” Others want to see something big happen. The biggest thing that could possibly happen, is the big question that has been asked from the first episode being answered, the question that has puzzled people forever. What is the Doctor’s name? So many episodes have aired, so much has happened, so many questions asked, but that one never answered.

For people hoping to learn about this series and start watching it themselves and plan on asking someone to explain it, do not.

“You can’t explain Doctor Who,” said Arens.

However, you can start watching it, starting with the ninth Doctor, Netflix is streaming “Doctor Who”. Do not worry about not knowing what is going on if you start with the ninth, everything is explained well enough that you can actually start at that Doctor. But, it is not a bad idea to start with the older episodes, because everyone has their own favorite Doctor. That is one of the great parts about the series, every main character has their own personality, something that makes them...them.

However, the Doctors are not the only ones to love about the series, the companions are a big part about it too, as each Doctor has either one or two different companions throughout the seasons that accompany them. This gives Doctor Who fans and people just getting into the series plenty of reasons to fall in love with the show.

So, next time you hear the single word “Run” from someone you do not know, look around and see if you can find a blue box, because you may have just found the ‘Mad Man and his Box.’

“YOU CAN’T EXPLAIN DR. WHO.”

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South recently earned the Red Quill Legacy Award for ACT Prep excellence

unaffiliated

16.1%

other religion

4.7%

source: religions.org

“I THINK THE BIGGEST MISCONCEPTION IS THAT PEOPLE DON’T THINK WE ARE REAL CHRISTIANS.”

Jarvis said that she always had those standards that the Church of Jesus Christ and Latter- Day Saints believe in. One of Jarvis’ concerns was telling her parents.

“My mom knows that I converted and she supports it. She likes that the religion has good values,” said Jarvis.

There are often many misconceptions about the Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-Day Saints.

“I think the biggest misconception is that people don’t think we are real Christians,” said Barnhart.

What separates people of the Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-Day Saints and other Christians is that they believe really strongly in no sex before marriage and no use of drugs or alcohol, which can sometimes include caffeine.

“I’ve been searching for someplace to fit in and now I’ve found it,” said Jarvis.

“My resolution is to get to know all of my followers on Tumblr. [I] want to expand my range of friends, including on the internet.”

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Keenen Smith, sophomore.

“My resolution is to get this top hat with goggles on it from Naka. It’s over $200, but I can get it.”

Hannah Williams, sophmore.

Could you imagine making a life changing decision while you are in high school?

Many students at South were born into their religion. Most of these students’ lives have been set up by what situation they have been born into. Brandy Jarvis, sophomore, has taken her life into her own hands and has converted into what is most commonly referred to as Mormonism.

“Mormonism is just a nickname, what I really am is a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-Day Saints,” said Leah Barnhart, sophomore.

Barnhart was born into The Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-Day Saints.

Although she was born into the Church, it was her grandparents that were converted into the Church.

“I was really interested in Leah’s religion and wanted to know more,” said Jarvis.

by ELIE QUIROZ

Paige Kennedy, junior.

Sophomore recently converted into the Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-Day Saints

South students make New Years Resolutions every year, but his year, some plan to change something more than the typical resolution.

“My resolution is to keep my relationship going. I have an anxiety disorder that makes it hard for me to not be clingy. But I know I can make this last if I try my best.”

Leslie Malcolm, junior.

christian

78.4%

CE NI VA LE KY by

R

eligious RESOLUTION evisions beyond the basic

“I want to be more ballsy. It means just to tell it how it is. Before I felt I wasn’t saying what I wanted to say. Now I am.”

>>scan here to read the Top 10 New Year’s Resolutions of 2013

No sc h o o l o n F r i d ay, Fe b . 1 5 o r Mo nday, Feb. 18 due to co nferences

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TAKING BACKPACKS BACK New Policy Prohibits Backpack Usage in the Locker Room Area

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ix minutes. That is the amount of time given for students to depart their classroom and then make it to the next class on time.

Throughout the passing time, a majority of students choose to spend their precious minutes catching up with one another within their unique cliques or making kissy-faces at their significant other in front of the whole school. Others take advantage of the rather long countdown to zero as they speed past their fellow classmates so they can get a head start before the bell rings.

However, starting at the beginning of this semester, students enrolled in any sort of Physical Education class had their social and passing time cut down.

On Jan. 7, the athletic quadrant of the building began a new policy which would affect over a fourth of the school. From now on, students visiting this part of the building during the day would not be allowed to carry their backpacks with them into the locker room area.

This new policy was both a result of recurring theft and simply because there was nowhere to put students’ backpacks besides their gym lockers which were already occupied, according to Mark Simcox, Physical Education. “[The policy] was department created and the Administration supports it,” said Dr. Dale Longenecker, principal.

There are two sides to each locker room; one is reserved for athletics which houses much larger lockers in order to fit sports equipment in and the other is for students that only use their locker for gym class. These “P.E” lockers are relatively small and the chances of fitting a backpack in them are slim to none.

“You can’t say, ‘you guys can bring [your backpacks], you guys can’t’,” said Simcox. “It didn’t seem fair.”

Although the new policy made was not school-wide, it is comparable to classroom-specific rules that no food or liquids would be allowed in the computer lab, according to Longenecker. He said the statement that South is trying to make is that only certain things are needed for certain classes.

An even bigger issue with backpacks than simple space limitations is theft. According to the US Department of Justice, in 2010 there were over 470,000 victims of theft reported between the ages of 14-18 at the high school level. Half the time the crime does not even get reported to the school officials, according to John Carr, Assistant Principal. “iPods are always the biggest stolen item,” said Carr, adding, “Another big one is ear buds.”

The main reason why belongings are stolen is because lockers are not closed all the way or people leave their things out, according to Carr, therefore making a case for students to take more responsibility than before.

“If you don’t want your stuff stolen, then don’t leave it out,” said Bailey Thompson, junior. “Backpacks are not going to change that.”

Although it seems a hassle to students, securing backpacks in

another location is beneficial for some.

“My little brother had his phone stolen right of his backpack,” said Alex Leonhart, junior. “I feel this would reduce a majority of the thefts.”

Despite many positives, one way that the policy is affecting students is their arrival times to both school and class.

“My backpack usually just fits in my gym locker,” said Brian Kissee, senior. “[I] don’t see why we have to get to school before 7:15 a.m. to be on time to class.”

Kissee and the rest of first block gym classes are not the only ones to complain, though, as other blocks experience the same issues every day.

Aliza Russell, freshman, and Richard Fullerton, sophomore, have gym class fourth block and are both typically tardy most days.

“I have to go straight to my locker during passing time,” said Aliza Russell, freshman, “and I’m still tardy.”

Even with the six minutes given to travel from one destination to the next, it can be hard for most people to not be tempted to join in on a conversation. “[There is] no point in having your backpack on other side of the school fourth block,” said Fullerton.

To make things worse, students with gym fourth block who park in the athletic parking lot now have to use their lockers on one side of the school and after the dismissal bell at the end of the day, go back and get their backpacks, only to retrace their steps back to exactly where they were.

“This is making it worse,” said Kissee, “students have to go more |out of the way now.”

There have been rumors that this policy will continue throughout years in the future, but now these accusations have slightly been put to rest, largely because of new renovations being added to the school starting this following year.

“We won’t be looking at not allowing backpacks everywhere,” said Longenecker.

Toward the end of this school year, a new addition and remodel project at South will begin that includes expanding the size of both locker rooms, which may or may not result in changing the policy, as P.E. teachers have been happy with the results.

“It’s gone a lot smoother for us on our end that I would’ve thought,” said Simcox.

In addition, following what the district called a “called in threat” to the school on Jan. 23 and the resulting two-hour lockdown, safety could become more of an issue and banning backpacks outright for all classes could play a part in keeping students safe, according to teachers.

As of now, though, South students can count on using their backpacks next year and be able to spend more of their precious six minutes of passing time on socializing rather than sprinting across the school.

“I FEEL THIS WOULD REDUCE THE MAJORITY OF THE THEFTS.”

12

by CJ WHISNANT

A DAY TO REMEMBER

The events that took place on that day wil pose an important question: Are we safe at school?

J

an. 23: 2013, a day that will live in infamy. A phone call reporting “a threat of danger” did not just take two hours out of the school day. It took some student’s peace of mind of coming to a safe environment at South, as well.

At about 12:15 p.m., South was placed on a schoolwide lockdown. Students at lunch and in the Athletic Wing were sent to the gym, while student in the Academic Wing remained in their classrooms. This lockdown took place for two hours, during which students and teachers were unaware of what was going on.

While most details about the threat are still under wraps at press time, some parents and students, including freshman Lexi Berry, are uncertain about how the situation was handled.

“Sure I’m happy that I missed class, but that text the school district sent out scared me a lot,” said Berry.

Bradley Wright, sophomore, did not think too much of the lockdown, especially since the teachers and staff in the gym were “so relaxed.”

“The teachers were talking and laughing the whole time,” said Wright. “So it was awesome for me... I got out of class for two hours, and I just got to chill in the gym with my friends.”

However, students locked in classrooms had different experiences than their peers stuck in the gym.

“I knew that if a gunman was in the school, I would have heard gunshots,” said junior Isaiah Jones, who was locked down in Adrian Singletary’s, social studies, classroom.

Dr. Dale Longenecker, principal, was impressed by the response

of the students and staff, saying in an e-mail to staff that “the commanding captain was extremely complimentary... [the hallways] were a ghost town” upon the arrival of Riverside police.

“No plan is perfect, but we had to follow the plan we had to ensure everyone was safe” said John Carr, assistant principal. “It wasn’t John Carr - it was everyone involved.”

However, now that the day’s events are over, students and staff are left recovering from the threat that challenged the safe school environment we once had. A week later, another incident occurred in the school district, this time at Park Hill. A loaded gun was brought to school by a student, reigniting debates about school safety. Many people, including Carr, still say that there is “absolutely nothing to worry about” in the Park Hill School District.

“The Riverside Police are the best in the area. They are all about Park Hill South,” said Carr. “[South] is the safest place you can be.”

Carr is not the only one who thinks that; many others, including senior Reed Hughes, feel that South is a safe school.

“I know that no matter what disaster happens at South, we will always be safe,” said Hughes. “The staff will do all it can do to put us out of harm’s way if something like this happens again.”

The weekend after the lockdown, the Greater Kansas City Crime Stoppers offered a $1,200 reward for any information “leading to the arrest of the offender”, with South contributing an additional $200 to that reward.

Although this crisis took place over two weeks ago, one thing’s for sure: Jan. 23, 2013 will be a day to remember at South.

“SOUTH IS THE SAFEST PLACE YOU CAN BE.”

by CHAD BREWSTER

UNDER FIRE

Two totally separate situations at South both address safety of students and their valuables at school

13

score • perspective • spotlight • detail • 411

3 E K A

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d ovie e m e l b u cial do

d e n i a h nc

ngo U EB FENNER

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by CA

oscar favorites

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jango Unchained was far and away my favorite film of the year. Quentin Tarantino’s latest masterpiece boasts an all-star cast featuring Jamie Foxx, Christoph Waltz, and Leonardo DiCaprio. Django is the story of a slave (Foxx) freed by a dentist turned bounty hunter (Waltz). After they round up some criminals wanted by the government, they set out to find Django’s wife, Broomhilda (Kerry Washington).

There they have to go into the home of plantation owner Calvin Candie. Crazy events ensue and all I can say is things get bloody.

“AN EXHILARATING THRILL RIDE.” As usual for a Tarantino films, there is stylized violence, a fantastic script and a variety of musical soundtracks including songs by Rick Ross, John Legend and 2pac. There are fantastic performances and Waltz has a good chance at winning Best Supporting Actor, after winning the Golden Globe.

Tarantino also has a shot for original screenplay. It is an exhilarating thrill ride and by far one of the most entertaining films in recent years. Though chances for Best Picture are slim, Django is my favorite movie of the year. 5/5 stars.

oneGIRL

oneV I S I O N Crash! You will not believe your eyes.

Jules Demarco was your average teenage girl. She goes to school, crushes on guys she cannot have and has a good time with her siblings. Except there is much more to her than that.

“Crash: Visions Book One”, was written

by Lisa McMann who is the New York Times bestselling author of the Wake trilogy. It was released in January 2013.

14

neGER O y k Luc LECHIN

The by KATIE B

W

romance movies

ho needs a boyfriend this V-Day when you have the absolutely perfect Zac Efron on your TV? “The Lucky One”, released just last year in 2012, is a movie about a Marine who finds a photo of a young woman who he believes to be his good luck charm after he is saved from a near death experience. When he returns to America, he travels to Louisiana to find the mystery girl.

I thought the storyline was really well written. It was a classic story of love with a few twists and the ending was totally unexpected--maybe a little much for me, however.

The casting was done very well.

I can not think of any girl, young or old, who does not love a movie with Zac Efron. His performances are always excellent, even in his early “High School Musical” days.

“I ADMIT, I DID CRY JUST A LITTLE.” In “The Lucky One”, his role as Logan was a much more serious one, similar to his character in “Charlie St. Cloud”. And I have gotta say – he can do anything. I really thought he nailed it in this one.

Taylor Schilling, who plays the role of Efron’s love interest, does a stellar job as well. You can tell that she really connects with her character and portrays her emotions well too. Though Schilling is a beautiful woman, her character Beth could have used a few wardrobe changes throughout the film.

Even though the plot was not as original as some of Sparks’ other stories, the characters had personality, the actors did an excellent job, and I admit, I did cry just a little. 4.5/5. Great job, Sparks.

>>scan each QR code or log onto phsview.com for the other two of each Take 3 set from this issue

Jules Demarco, the main character, has been in love with the same boy since she was in grade school. The only thing stopping her from trying to get with “Hottie Anglotti” is that fact that his family owns the Italian restaurant that rival’s her family’s. Oh, and the fact that she keeps having a vision where Sawyer Anglotti’s family restaurant explodes and he ends up in a body bag beside eight other people.

The fact that Jules has to talk her family’s rival and love of her life into believing her is just a little extra suck on top of the fact that she has to drive a pair of balls (her family’s meatball food truck) to school every day. Only this suck is not just about people laughing at her, it is about saving lives and she cannot do it without help.

Now, at first I had to admit that I was not

super into the book. I figured this would just be another one of those stupid books where some girl crushes on some new boy that comes to town and it is all about fickle new love. However, I was pleasantly surprised that this did not happen.

This book was amazingly funny and suspenseful for such a quick read. I would recommend it to anyone who wants a book that will keep them on the edge of their seats and wanting more. Lisa McMann has a writing style that I personally cannot get enough of; it left me sitting there waiting for the sequel.

I give this book five out of five stars. It has stellar writing and an amazing plot line. It is definitely worth the time to read it.

by EMILY “MAXX” BESHEARS

Spring Break is March 8-17. Only 28 days left until then!

Bieber Rheumatic Fever

by SPENSER BRAYMER

Justin Bieber’s fans react to marijuana rumors in unconventional ways

L

ife as a highly touted musician is beginning to carry an even larger bag of cons these days.

I never thought I would see the day that the blood curdling screams conjured by millions of teenage girls for teen pop prodigy Justin Bieber could turn into a blood bath of slit wrists with one slip on Bieber’s part.

Though recently announced as a hoax, pictures of slit wrists from Bieber’s fans took Twitter by storm in an effort to show the disappointment and disapproval that Justin’s fans possess after he was caught smoking marijuana this last month.

The pop star has yet to come out and make a statement on his recent “Bad Boy” activity. Even more frustrating to a nice chunk of Bieber’s followers is that he failed to ever publicly acknowledge the #cutsforbieber trend, along with the gruesome images sweeping the Twitter nation. While many people felt the whole ordeal was legitimately Bieber’s fault, it is not hard to see why some of his fans are disappointed that he continued to tweet about progression on certain songs and his tour dates.

Should Bieber care, hoax or not, if his fans are inflicting self-harm on themselves due to his own actions that they are not involved in?

Absolutely not.

You might call me a big fat jerk for this one, you may call me some other names that would never be allowed to publish in a school newspaper, but whenever we stop living life the way we wish to, we have nothing left.

Imagine that you got caught smoking weed and all the kids in your Algebra class decided to shoot themselves in the foot. Would you feel bad about it?

Because I would not. It is the same exact thing. People can argue all they want that “Justin’s a celebrity, he needs to be a role model,” or “His fans are so young, I can’t believe he would do this to them,” but are you kidding me? Since when did being a celebrity require one to be a role model?

The difference is, Jackson’s fan base tended to be much older and wiser.

In Bieber’s case, the majority of his fans still attend elementary schools and early middle schools. In fact, just the other day my 7-year-old sister told me she was in love with Justin Bieber. All the attention he receives gets eaten up by the young teenage girls and we just keep on getting fed more and more Justin Bieber, which is why a lot of older males dislike the guy.

An obsession with his music, his style and his image begins to develop in those young girls. They are not mature enough yet to realize what any of it means. That is why I think when parents see this kind of behavior; they should nip it in the bud right then and there because it is obviously unhealthy.

On another note, self-harm is a serious problem in the U.S. and should not be joked about. I am sure that even being associated with such acts has embarrassed him, even if he does not personally care about those girls.

Moral of this story is this: do not live your life through someone else’s. As much as you like to think you know your favorite artist, whether it be through lyrics, interviews or through the grapevine of tabloids, you do not know them until you have sat and had a nice seafood dinner with them. And even then, you do not know them.

You can live through their words that inspire you, but if they are involved in some type of sketchy scandal outside of the studio, let it go. It is not your problem.

“IMAGINE THAT YOU GOT CAUGHT SMOKING WEED AND ALL THE KIDS IN YOUR ALGEBRA CLASS DECIDED TO SHOOT THEMSELVES IN THE FOOT. WOULD YOU FEEL BAD ABOUT IT?” Look at Kanye West, Lindsey Lohan and Miley Cyrus. They have all had their fair share of scandals to go around. Just because his fan base tends to be young teenage girls does not mean he should be held accountable for their actions. It is not like he can choose his fan base.

Nonetheless, I think all this drama starts with the parents. Although the U.S. has been graced by screaming teenage girls since N*SYNC and the Backstreet Boys from the ‘90s, we have never seen one person have this much attention since Michael Jackson.

score • perspective • spotlight • detail • 411

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15

score • perspective • spotlight • detail • 411

School Safety

Inside South’s halls, security guards roaming the halls at all times make for a safe environment and while some would complain about the need to wear student IDs, they help identify the people who walk around our halls every day.

As stated earlier, no matter how safe any place can be, there is always a possibility of a surprise threat like the one received on Jan. 23. The staff performed the proper lockdown procedure very efficiently and fluidly. An official of the Riverside Police Department told principal Dr. Dale Longenecker that South was “like a ghost town” when the crew arrived at the school.

With other high schools such as Park Hill and North Kansas City being right in the heart of busy roads and easily accessible to visitors, students at South should feel very safe with the protection and security at South. With the help of many caring staff members and boundaries that are nearly impossible to get through, many people ensure South is a safe place for all students.

Although some students believe that things could be handled better, there is no doubt that South is a safe environment. We have now seen how everyone responded to a legitimate threat and it is obvious that we are in good hands at South.

viewstaffeditorial

S

chool safety has been a hot topic since the tragedy of Columbine High School on April 20, 1999.

While the seriousness of the topic goes without question, the precautions taken come with good reason.

On Wednesday Jan. 23, South was put into lockdown after a threat to the school was called in at approximately 12:05 p.m. The faculty and staff ran the procedures thoroughly and after a school-wide sweep, students were released for the day.

While many believe that South could potentially be a dangerous place, it isn’t. Of course any place could be a target for a dangerous act, but many features make South a safe place for more than 1500 students and staff members.

Being at the top of a hill, South is a place not easily seen from highly traveled roads, such as Park Hill in its relation to Barry Road. While there are two entrances to 4500 River Park Drive, the back gate is locked up during all school hours to ensure that no danger can be brought into South unnoticed. With Laura Heflin, better known to South students as Rowcat, on security at the parking hut (past the only open entrance to school), any suspicious visitor would be stopped and reported to local authorities and/or administration.

whatgrindsmygears:

Sleazy Saints

by EMILY ORVOS and JAKE PAROLIN

DISCLAIMER: These are simply our thoughts and opinions. In no way are we trying to force anyone to think or believe a certain way.

Late Saturday night, a typical Twitter feed looked something like this: “I drank way too much tonight” or “Omg I can’t believe I just got with him.” Wake up Sunday morning and you will have read half The Holy Bible with a few scrolls.

The connection? The girl who drunk tweeted from last night’s huge party is the same girl who’s preaching to her followers this morning.

Ironic? Maybe. Hypocritical? Most people would say so, but I would not. People judge these girls so harshly for the way they live their lives, when they should not. Coming from a religious standpoint, all sins are the same. Adultery is no worse than lying or cheating. Yet, the sins these girls commit are made out to be so much worse.

What annoys me is that people expect Christians to be perfect and never do anything wrong. We are not perfect; we simply serve a perfect being. I have made more than a handful of poor decisions.

Does this mean my beliefs are weak?

Everybody sins; everybody sins differently. If a girl can sit through church Sunday morning and live with the decisions she has made Saturday night, then by all means, go for it. As Christians, they would normally ask for forgiveness and try to repent. However, what they choose to do with their lives is their choice in the end.

Moral of this rant is that people are way too judgemental of others. If I copy someone’s answers on a homework assignment, why does nobody think less of me? No sin is any better or worse than another. Accept others as they are, because nobody is perfect.

16

Girls girls girls. Probably the most confusing, and at times the most annoying, people on Earth. It is like some of these ladies have a hard time admitting to themselves who they really are. It really grinds my gears when harlots spend their weekends doing not-soladylike things then claim to be a “good girl.”

Newsflash, you are not an angel. Just because you go to church and participate in Young Life does not dismiss the activities you partake in. If you are going to get Bible verses tattooed all over your body, but do not even follow what they say, then please take a minute to slap yourself in the face.

Most girls I know claim to be good girls. They call other girls trashy and ratty and think of themselves as God’s angels. Take a long hard look in the mirror and please tell me you are not any different from the girls you harass.

A good girl is one who can practice what she preaches. She does what she wants and accepts who she is. She does not claim to be innocent then go and party it up on the weekends. She does not belittle those whom she does not like. A good girl is hard to come by when high school has already poisoned most of them.

Now I am not saying every girl is bad. I am not saying you girls should stop going to whatever it is you go to, or stop believing whatever it is you believe in. I am just saying that you do not make a good name for yourself when you blow up Twitter with your religious tweets, then go against everything those tweets say.

The art of practicing what you preach is what makes you the good girl you so claim to be.

Basketball records (as of Feb. 5) Girls: 17-2, Boys: 13-5

South students share their thoughts on teenage sexual activity

VIRGINS vs. VIXENS

“Nothing good comes out of having sex in high school,” said Garrett Hunt, sophomore.

It has become an indisputable fact that the age when teenagers lose their virginity is steadily dropping. The average man now loses his virginity at the age of 16.9, according to the Kinsey Institute of California State University. However, women tend to keep their virginity an additional half year, losing it at an average age of 17.4.

“I don’t have a reason to wait; if the opportunity presents itself, why not take it?” said Jack Summa, senior.

While the rate may be steadily dropping, a selection of students still retain their innocence and virginity. Only 13 percent of teenagers have had sexual intercourse by the age of 15, or their underclassman years of high school, according to guttmatcher.org. However, by the age of 19, seven in 10 teenagers have had intercourse.

“I kind of wish I would have waited a while, because I’m only in high school,” said Karson Lenger, junior.

Whatever the reason may be, a selection of students have chosen abstinence, as opposed to losing their virginity while in high school. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Center for Health Statistics, 27 percent of 15 to 24 year old men “have never had any form of sexual contact”; 29 percent of females within the same age group have never had sexual contact, either.

“I don’t think I’ll wait until marriage [to lose my virginity], but it will be awhile,” said Hunt.

According to guttmatcher.org, teenagers, more specifically 38 percent of females and 31 percent of males, give the reason of being “against [their] religion or morals” as to why they chose to keep their virginity.

“In the Bible, it says sex is between a married man and woman” said Mason Keller, senior. “I believe the Bible.”

However, those at South who have chosen to have intercourse and lose their virginity have their reasons behind it as well. Several give the reason of being in a committed relationship with a long-term partner or choosing the correct time.

“It was both of our choices [to lose our virginity] because we were in a long term relationship,” said Lenger.

Seventy percent of female teenagers and 56 percent of male teenagers say that their first sexual experience

by MEGAN MCMULLEN

was with a “steady partner”, according to guttmatcher. org. However, 28 percent of teen males and 16 percent of females report losing their virginity to someone “they had just met” or “just a friend”.

“I think it’s important to who you lose your virginity to,” said Mandy Dunn, freshman. “You shouldn’t just throw it away.”

Whether teenagers like it or not, parents, guardians or close relatives play a big part in their sex life and the decisions they make. From the initial first “talk” to basic genetics, parents greatly contribute to a teenager’s sexual choices. “[I got ‘the talk’] when I was younger and started hanging out with boys more,” said Kylie Hoffman, junior.

A recent study conducted by the Kinsey Institute of California State University revealed that genetics and heredity may play a part in the loss of virginity as well.

The study has shown that certain inherited traits, such as impulsivity or shyness, can “make a person more or less willing to have sex” at a younger age.

However, are some parents only passing on their genetics to their children without giving advice, as well?

According to caps.ucsf. edu, a national survey found that mothers with children 11 and older rated themselves “unsatisfactory” on talking with their children about issues revolving around sexual intercourse.

“We just don’t really talk about [sex] in my family… it’s just kind of understood,” said Dunn.

Thirty-eight percent of these mothers feel “unsatisfactory” about discussing “how to tell when youth are ready to be sexually active”, 40 percent on preventing HIV, 47 percent on sexual orientation and 73 percent of mothers on how to use a condom.

“I’ve never really had a talk from my parents, until they actually found out,” said Lenger. “Maybe their talk would have made me wait.”

Whether they are educated on the matter or not, it is an indisputable fact that teenagers are having sex at a younger age than ever before. However, many teens are regretting that decision as well.

“It’s something special,” said Lenger, “and I think you should wait for it.”

“NOTHING GOOD COMES OUT OF HAVING SEX IN HIGH SCHOOL.”

S o u t h ’s w r e s t l i n g t e a m i s c u r r e n t l y t o p 5 i n t h e s t a t e

photo by DEREK BRAUN

17

the smell of LOVE in the AIR

South students show their displeasure with the Valentine’s holiday

“THERE’S ALWAYS CHOCOLATE ON SALE AFTER VALENTINE’S DAY...SO THAT’S ALWAYS A PLUS.”

18

SOPHOMORES

Dakota Karns and relaxed when it comes to the Claire Butcher young love trend.

DATING: 6 months “I think if you find someone MET: in reading class in 8th grade in high school you really like, FAV THING TO DO: go to the Lake then you should date them,” of the Ozarks said Nelson. “But the fact is that people are going to leave for college, and you’re just going to end up heartbroken.”

Some people would say Nelson’s views are overly pessimistic, and she is too hard on high school relationships.

However, it has been a common trend for teens to move away from serious relationships. They prefer to take a laid back attitude Jake Ditto and Sammi Nay when it comes to hanging out with the opposite sex. The teens DATING: 1 year 4 months of today are much more likely MET: in weights class freshman year FAV THING TO DO: watch TV to have a good friend of the opposite sex that they spend a lot of time with, rather than be in a full-force relationship.

Because of this, Rilie Barnes, freshman, thinks commitment is a reason teens have been so against Tara Evans and Josh Hall Valentine’s Day. DATING: 2 years 3 months “It’s unnecessary really,” said MET: at Josh’s best friend’s Barnes. “If you want to be in soccer game a relationship you should be FAV THING TO DO: play FIFA showing the person that you’re in a relationship with signs of affection every day, not just on one specific day of the year.”

However, even with the lack of love in the air, there is still some good that comes out of Valentine’s Day. “There’s always chocolate on sale after Valentine’s Day,” said Nelson. “So that’s always a plus.”

Though there may be an awesome surplus of chocolate, In Sam Boling and Tyler Blyth the end, Brentano, Nelson and DATING: 7 months Barnes agree: Valentine’s Day is MET: 8th grade at Battle of the Bands just another day of the year.

FAV THING TO DO: watch movies

JUNIORS

Ah, Valentine’s Day -- Love is in the air, there are smiles on Keller Anderson, junior many faces and there is a song “I would get a girl a classic box in everyone’s heart. Well, if the of chocolates, some roses and a love in the air makes you want night on the town.” to vomit, the smile on your face is due to the ridiculous amount of chocolate you have consumed and the only song in your heart is a rebellious anthem, glorifying the single life you adore more than anything, then you may Chandler Adams, sophomore fit into the new trend sweeping “My dream gift would have the teens of America: Antito be lots of flowers and a Valentine’s Day. surprise weekend getaway at This holiday that teens grew the Lake of the Ozarks.” up loving is suddenly starting to fall to the wayside as we grow up.

Teens are starting to have new opinions on the idea behind the holiday. Valentine’s Day was once seen as a universal day of love, Logan Gillespie, junior but is now “I would get my significant other the biggest teddy bear I looked at by some South could find.” students as annoying and gross.

“My view on it has definitely Madi Sanders, freshman changed now that I’m older,” said “My dream Valentine’s Day gift Greg Brentano, senior. “When I would have to be a puppy.” was younger I just wanted the candy.”

Valentine’s Day is often attributed with candy. In fact, for a long time, Cupid was basically the chocolate tooth fairy, who would deliver candy every Hunter Norton, senior February. The only hint of “love” “I would get my special was embedded in the heart someone a massage and shaped chocolates that we ate so some flowers.” fast, we did not even realize.

Being in high school, students do not care all that much about relationships and significant others. It is looked at as too serious and mature for our age Chelsea Ghasemi, junior group. Sarah Nelson, junior, said “My dream Valentine’s Day she thinks that people take high would have to be a puppy school romances too seriously (white bull dog) with a pink and we should just all be more bow around its neck.”

FRESHMEN

couples REPUGNANT by COURTNEYcorner CLAASSEN

SENIORS

by HANNA BLACK South students share what they would like to receive or give for Valentine’s Day

by KEVIN BRIODY

precious presents

Congrats to the following students for qualifying for State in girls’ swim:

school of Clay and Laura Lenhert - AVID/Art Love at first sight? Although they did not date in high school, that was where they first met each other, which would eventually lead to being married for over 22 years.

Clay Lenhert and Laura Lenhert both fondly remember the day they met each other.

“I was coming inside after a band practice, and I saw her sitting inside the orchestra room,” said Clay. “I stopped walking, pulled down my sunglasses and just started looking at her.”

Laura wondered if it was her he was looking at, she turned around and asked “Me?” “I just nodded my head, put my sunglasses back on, and walked away,” Clay said. “After that day, I ‘stalked’ her for the next three years.

But that day laid the framework for the whole relationship.”

Sly techniques like that may have worked in the past, but both Clay and Laura recognize that the dating process has changed, especially how they communicate.

“Back then, you could pass notes in class or call each other at night,” Laura said. “Now, you text each other all day, every day. If someone doesn’t get an immediate response, they freak out.”

Still, Clay knew some things about high school dating, especially things that would help in the future.

“I knew better than to date [Laura] in high school,” explained Clay. “I knew I wasn’t ready for the good ones yet. I still had to learn the ropes.”

Laura also knew that dating in high school had its consequences. Sometimes it can “stop you from being involved in school” or “hanging out with friends.”

“Don’t let them be your only friend,” Laura said. “Be yourself. That’s the most important thing.”

LOVE

Class is in session and today’s lesson is Dating 101 Adrian Singletary - Social Studies Girls today dream about dating the captain of the football team. That has not changed since Adrian Singletary was in high school.

“A lot of girls wanted to go after the big dog in school,” Singletary said.

Although girls going after him was not unusual, Singletary has noticed that a lot more girls are asking out guys than they did when he was in high school.

“I try to stay out of most of the drama...

But girls asking out guys is definitely a plus for the guys,” said Singletary.

Singletary never needed a pick-up line, but he did have a cheesy one ready to go just in case.

“Are you tired? ‘Cause you’ve been running through my mind all night!”

Although Singletary has not been out of high school for that long, he knows that a lot goes into making teenage relationships work and they need to talk in order to get the most out of that relationship.

“Communication is key in any relationship,” Singletary said. “Both people need to know what they want out of that relationship.”

However, there is still some hope for you love birds: Singletary met his wife nine years ago in high school; they have been together ever since and married three years ago.

by CHAD BREWSTER

Kirk Henry - Social Studies “#Yolo. That’s what it’s all about.”

Many students know Kirk Henry as an American History teachers, but a lot do not know that he also doubles as a dating teacher.

“I never was really known as a ladies man,” Henry said. “But that doesn’t mean I’m not one.”

In high school, Henry did not date much, but he said he recognizes that dating has changed a lot since then.

“If you asked me what grinding was in high school, I would have absolutely no idea what you were talking about,” Henry said.

Although Henry is known as a man of many words, he was not a man of many pick-up lines. His finest pick-up line was a simple one: “Would you like to go out with me?”

“Whenever I asked girls to dances, they would always tell me they had a funeral that day, a root canal scheduled or that they had planned to do their hair that night,” said Henry. “Now, I know more rejection lines than pick-up lines.”

However, that has not held him back.

Henry is now married and has been for 15 and a half years. His advice for today’s teenagers is to “treat everyone with respect, kindness and respect. #Respect.”

Tori B ee ler, fres h m a n ; A n n a R i ekho f, f res hm an; O liv ia M cC lain, juni or;

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WEIGHTS winter As the spring sports season comes up, student athletes go to weights to get back in shape.

by CALEB FENNER

A

s you pass by the locker room, you hear blaring music and the sounds of weights clinking up and down. For many of South’s athletes, these noises have become a sign that their sports season is close.

“Weights get you in shape because you do a lot of reps and there is a large variety of lifting,” said Eli Gaitley, sophomore.

Although lifting is very important, running is important as well.

“You get a perfect balance of lifting and running by doing lots of reps and lots of different running” he said.

Some of the running includes snakes, ten meter sprints and running up and down stairs.

“Snakes are definitely my least favorite,” Gaitley said.

Snakes consist of running from the bottom level of the school to upstairs, then run through that hallway and then go back downstairs. Repeat that and then do an exercise. Multiple sets of these exercises are done.

Lifting, however, has a greater variety and there are more exercises you can do. Squats, bench press, jump rope, hang cling, rubber band pull ups and Russian twists are all mainstays of the lifting session.

“I go for soccer and track,” said Kyle Brewster, sophomore.

“I’m building up speed and endurance to prepare me for the season,” he said.

The coaches play a big role in the success of the players with showing how to do exercises, and motivating players to work as hard as they can.

“They tell me if I’m doing something wrong, and what to do to fix it,” said Brewster.

Since High School sports have become more demanding, the expectations have been raised for the players. Working hard in the offseason gives you that extra edge over your opponents. Many of South’s athletes are taking that opportunity.

“THEY TELL ME IF I’M DOING SOMETHING WRONG AND WHAT I CAN DO TO FIX IT.”

FreshOut of the Water

photos by JOSH BOEHM

by DANIEL KERWIN

Most varsity sports in high school are senior heavy. Led by experienced and proven athletes, varsity teams are the top of the food chain in high school athletics.

South’s girls swim and dive team defies those generalities with stellar performances from freshmen proving their worth.

With two freshmen already qualified for state for individual performances, these girls are much more than fresh meat.

“These girls have a ton of potential,” said Tim Busenhart, varsity head coach. “They’re some of the best freshmen we’ve ever had.”

While many student-athletes in her grade are competing at the freshman or junior varsity levels in sports, Victoria Beeler, freshman, is not phased when it comes to competing at the highest of levels.

“It’s really not that scary. I’ve swam yearround for a long time so I’m used to it,”

Freshmen are lapping their competition in the water this year

said Beeler.

While Beeler and fellow freshman Anna Riekhof are impressing as just ninth graders, older South swimmers are having their fair share of success as well. Helen Yeater, sophomore, and Olivia McClain, junior, have also qualified for the State tournament.

Although there are freshman enjoying success, many of the girls on the team still look up to seniors for leadership.

“Samantha Scott and Abbie Moyes do a really good job of getting everyone together,” said McClain.

Some girls on the team, such as Beeler, look to the older girls for what to do when he gets mad, Busenhart praises his upperclassmen for their leadership.

“They do a great job organizing team bonding events like pasta parties and keep

everyone photo by MADI BOUCHER really calm at meets,” said Busenhart.

Although there might be a few small fish in the big pond that is varsity swim and dive, these swimmers are holding their own and making their way to the top of the food chain.

>>scan here to watch a video about South’s three-sport athletes

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Helen Yeater, sophomore; Sammie Scott, senior; Maggie Hickey, freshman;

by DYLAN WORTH

T

ie up the boots, zip up your coat and hit the slopes South. Ski season has arrived and what better place is there to spend your winter then at Snow Creek?

Snow Creek has been providing the greater Kansas City area with premier skiing and snowboarding for over 25 years now. It may be small but for a 30 minute drive there is not a lot to complain about. Based on the fact that many of the big time Ski Resorts in America are at least a 10 hour drive from here, Snow Creek offers the next best thing.

“Snow Creek is our only choice so I’ve gotten used to it, plus they have a really good terrain park,” said Jacob Randall, junior.

The terrain park at Snow Creek stretches from the top of the lift to the very bottom and is home to multiple ski and snowboard freestyle competitions every year.

Snow Creek is also a great place for first time skiers and boarders to try and learn the sport. They offer both group and private lessons for almost half the price of big ski resorts. Plus the majority of Snow Creek is beginner’s terrain since it is more of a

[

]

hill then a mountain. They also have slow lifts that are easy to get on and off, which is a lot harder than it sounds.

“My first time ever snowboarding ever was at Snow Creek, I’m glad I learned there because some of the bigger resorts can get pretty intimidating,” Jade Macken, Junior.

If this sounds interesting to you, South has its very own Ski Club that provides south students with the perfect opportunity.

Ski club is the cheapest and easiest way to go to Snow Creek, you can get a lift ticket for 20 dollars instead of 40. Another incentive is that you get to ride a bus out instead of paying over three dollars a gallon to drive all the way out to Weston.

South has had a ski club ever since South’s first year and Mrs. Umscheid has been a part of it every year.

“My first year Coach Fay needed an extra sponsor so I tried it out and ended up having a blast,” said Mrs. Umscheid, Science.

Mrs. Umscheid says she plans on being the president of ski club until she retires and someone else takes over. So if this sounds interesting to you, visit Mrs. Umcheid in room A208 to pick up your form today.

“...I’M GLAD I LEARNED [AT SNOW CREEK] BEACAUSE SOME OF THE BIGGER RESORTS CAN BE PRETTY INTIMIDATING..”

rugby:

by CHASE WHORTON Have you ever thought of playing a socalled ‘Gentleman’s Sport’ that involves a ball, blood and tears? Rugby is the sport for you. Students at South now have a chance to join this successful team.

“In comparison of the other spring sports, it is the ultimate team sport,” said head coach Jon Holland. If a student is trying to decide between rugby and another spring sport, Coach Holland believes they should choose rugby because of the team atmosphere rugby presents to the players.

Coach Holland also brought up the success the team has as well to help persuade kids.

“We’ve been to state two years in a row, so it’s an absolute expectation that it happens again,” said Holland.

That is mostly the reason behind Kent Masters, senior, joining the team for the first time this season.

“I haven’t won a State title in high school yet,” Masters said. “And this is my last real chance, I want to win before I’m done.”

Masters possesses the qualities that most people would say make a great rugby player,

the perfect opportunity

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SHRED SEASON

South students kick off another ski season on the slopes of Snow Creek

South Rugby is on the map for State again, and you have the chance to be a part of it

including his size, strength and speed.

According to Masters, he will most likely play a forward position.

However, it is a false stereotype that you have to be big and strong to succeed in rugby. Just ask Andrew Saunders, senior and four-year rugby player.

“I’m not very big, but I am fast and can kick the ball pretty well,” Saunders said.

There are positions in rugby that are a better fit for some smaller, faster students, including the backs.

According to Saunders, he is playing fly half this season. To the sport most recognize, that translates to the quarterback on a football team.

“I have knowledge of the game most others don’t, so I think that’s where I’ll help the team out the most this year,” Saunders said.

Official practices are held Tuesday and Thursday from 4 -6 p.m. and on Saturday from 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. The first

game is on March 2 and the Panthers will be at home taking on Shawnee Mission East at noon.

Coach Holland says to not be scared to reach him at (816) 729-5403, or talk to any other rugby player about playing.

According to the current players, it is a great sport to be involved in. Also, as of now, they say you will most likely be exposed to being a part of a State champion team at South.

photo from PARKHILLSOUTHRUGBY.COM

a n d M ar iah R a m i rez , j u n i or. S tate is Feb. 15- 16, co m e and s uppo rt!

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Troubledtigers

C

by ZAC RICKETTS

Missouri basketball has underachieved so far this season in the eyes of their fans

oming into the season, as a fan of Mizzou, I had pretty high star, Laurence Bowers scores and rebounds easier than anyone on expectations. Expectations that, looking back on it now, the court and they have some really good role players in Earnest almost seem unreachable. Along with many other fans who Ross, Alex Oriakhi, Keion Bell, Jabari Brown and Negus follow Mizzou basketball, I thought they had the best point guard Webster-Chan. in the country, a chance at going undefeated in conference play But sometimes they just do not look in sync on the court. There and a good chance of winning the conference - maybe even to play are times where the only person that touches the ball on a 15 in the Final Four. second possession is Pressey and that is not his game. He is at his Then, all of sudden things changed. Mizzou got dominated by best when he is creating good opportunities for others. On the Louisville, who is the number one team in the country. Whenever other hand, one thing Mizzou does really well is rebound, they are you think you are a team where the the number one rebounding team sky’s the limit and you think you in the nation with just under 45 “MISSOURI HAS THE TALENTS TO STILL rebounds a game. have a chance to play for a National Title, it does not matter who you Mizzou wants to be the team MAKE A DEEP TOURNAMENT RUN, BUT thatIfthey play, you play them competitively were supposed to be, they and give yourself a chance to win. need to start finishing games off THEY NEED TO FIGURE THINGS OUT I do not feel like Mizzou did this better and get Laurence Bowers FIRST IF THEY WANT TO COMPETE against Louisville. The Tigers also back. They also can not lose bad to lost one of their best players and teams they should beat like IN MARCH.” someone who could have taken a lot Ole Miss. of pressure off of star point guard Missouri has the talent to still Phil Pressey in Mike Dixon because of rape charges. make a deep tournament run, but they need to figure things out The Tigers’ only win against a ranked opponent came against fast if they want to compete in March. They will have a chance to Illinois on Dec. 22, who at the time was the number 10 team in do this when they take on Ole Miss tomorrow, a team the Tigers the country. It seemed like a huge win for Mizzou at the time, but have already lost too and they also play at Arkansas, at home now Illinois is struggling even worse than Mizzou. Now that win against Florida and at Kentucky three games in a row. These are could end up not really even helping except for the fact they beat probably the three biggest games on Mizzou’s schedule. What a team from the Big Ten; the significance of that is the Big Ten Mizzou does from here on out is what will really define looks like the best conference this season. their season.

On the court Mizzou does do some good things. Pressey is a

College Hoops Picks College Hoops Picks

by Isaac Brizendine

South makes their picks on this Park Hill South makes their picks on this year’s college basketball. season.

year’s college basketball season

with ISAAC BRIZENDINE and CHAD BREWSTER Isaac Brizendine, Chad Brewster, junior senior

Jill Owens, A+ coordinator

Mitch Henderson, Ryan Welty, sophomore freshman

National POTY

Doug McDermott, Creighton

Cody Zeller, Indiana

Mason Plumlee, Duke

Mason Plumlee, Duke

Deshaun Thomas, Ohio State

Big 12 Champ Big 10 Champ Big East Champ SEC Champ ACC Champ PAC-12 Champ Final Four

Kansas

Kansas

Kansas

Kansas

Kansas

Michigan

Minnesota

Michigan

Ohio State

Ohio State

Louisville

Syracuse

Louisville

Syracuse

Syracuse

Missouri

Missouri

Missouri

Kentucky

Missouri

Duke

Duke

Duke

Duke

North Carolina St.

Arizona

Arizona

Arizona

UCLA

Oregon

Syracuse, Michigan, Indiana, Florida

Duke, Indiana, Gonzaga, Ohio State

Louisville, Florida, Gonzaga, Indiana

Kansas, Duke, Louisville, Butler

Butler, Arizona, Michigan, UNLV

National Champ

Indiana

Indiana

Louisville

Duke

Butler

22

Pink-out Game for girls’ baksetball is Thursday, Feb. 14

YO U R S U C C E SS B EG I NS H ER E.

Park University offers many choices for degree programs on campus and online in a variety of academic disciplines.

UNDERGRADUATE DEGREES

PAR K ’ S PRO M IS E : Serving ThoSe Who Serve Their CommuniTy and CounTry WiTh PerSonalized,

• business administration

• psychology

• nursing completion

• economics

• criminal justice administration

• public administration

• sciences

• graphic design

• athletic training

• information and computer science

To get a full list of our academic programs and to learn more about all the wonderful opportunities available at Park University, visit us at www.park.edu/view. We look forward to helping you take that next step toward your bright future!

globally-relevanT

Contact Park's Admissions Experts Today:

eduCaTion for life.

(816) 595-3582 • e-mail: enrollmentservices@park.edu • www.park.edu/view

score • perspective • detail • spotlight • 411

PARK UNIVERSITY

On Campus + Online

Since 1875.

Go Pirates!

Campus Locations (Kansas City area):

www.park.edu/view

Parkville • Downtown Kansas City • Independence • Online

Complete the crossword on the back page and bring it to C200 for a prize!

23

VIEW WORDS Find the answers to crossword clues throughout this issue of The View

by KENDRA ALLEN

Submit your completed crossword to Ms. Hughes in C200 by the end of the day for a prize--and you will also be entered in a drawing for one of three Quick Trip giftcards!

ACROSS

1. Current ongoing college sport 2. Bieber is a ___ 6. What most South students turn to for a boost in the morning 7. Author of Crash 9. Cause of lockdown 10. The future medium of learning 11. What wasn’t up to the Heath Department Code in the concession stand 12. One reason for backpacks being banned from locker room

DOWN

1. Department of education gives out $46 __ in scholarships each year 2. Closest place to ski 3. ___ is in the air 4. The “disease” seniors get at the end of the year 5. Current portrayer of Doctor Who 8. The chocolate fairy

Editor-in-Chief S p r i n g 2 0 1 3 S t a f f

Editors

: Daniel Kerwin Managing Editor: Emily Orvos Copy Editor: Megan McMullen Web Editor: Emily “Maxx” Beshears Art Director: Derek Braun Public Relations Manager: Jake Parolin

Design Team: Kyle Vanice Katie Blechinger Kevin Briody Abby Stoker

Reporters Elie Quiroz Andre Shaver Dylan Worth Zac Ricketts CJ Whisnant

Spenser Braymer Jessica Hayes Kendra Allen Chad Brewster Caleb Fenner Isaac Brizendine Hanna Black Kenneth Harris Chase Whorton

Adviser

Megan Hughes

The View published 8 times during the regular school year, is the student news publication of Park Hill South High School in Riverside, Mo. Editorials and opinions expressed in this student publication are that of the student journalist and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the Park Hill South School District.

For editorial policies or to submit a letter to the Editor, visit our website at www.

PHSVIEW.com.

The View us a member of the Missouri Interscholastic Press Association and National Scholastic Press Association and is printed by OsageGraphics in Olathe, Kan.