The Northwest Passage: Volume 54, Issue 7

NW PASSAGE

WE HEARD YOU STANDING FOR THE PLEDGE

p. 6

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH COVERAGE

p. 16

NW PASSAGE

The purpose of the Northwest Passage is to relay important and interesting information to the community, administration and students of the Shawnee Mission Northwest High School.

The new Kansas City International Airport Single Terminal has brand new

Coverage of the Kansas City Chief’s victory, the rose sale, a and principal’s leave the Black History Month

As a news magazine, the Northwest Passage will cater to the interests and concerns of the student body. Outside concerns and activities will only be covered if they somehow affect the school or students.

The Northwest Passage is a 24-page news magazine. The paper will be distributed monthly as possible. Subscriptions will be available to the community for $25.

The Northwest Passage firmly supports the First Amendment and

opposes censorship. The content of the newspaper will be determined and created by the entire staff. When questions concerning word choice, legal problems or ethics arise, the editorial board and adviser will discuss the problem to find the solution. In these cases, the editor-in-chief and editorial board will have the power to make the final decision.

Letters to the editor will be accepted and encouraged. The staff reserves the right to edit for grammatical mistakes, length and good taste. Letters may attack policy but not people. In no way will ideas or viewpoints be changed. The editor-inchief and editorial board reserve the right to refuse any letter.

Editor-In-Chief Grace Logan

Editor-In-Chief Veronica Meiss

CONTENT

Copy Editor Morgan Tate

Copy Editor Izak Zeller

Photo Editor Sophia McCraney

Photo Editor Evan Johnson

Asst. Photo Editor Ashley Broils

Asst. Photo Editor Kara Simpso n

WRITERS

Zadie Tenpenny

Elaina Hammes

Sofia Ball

Sophie Delaney

ADVISER

Susan Massy

DESIGNERS

Bella Alvarado

Greta Grist

IT’S TIME TO TAKE A STAND

The intercom buzzes as static echoes throughout the halls. Some eyes glued to the flag, others to their phones.

“One nation under god, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”

After the daily announcements fly through the intercom, students get to make a choice: stand up or remain seated for the pledge of allegiance.

The pledge has been recited across America since 1892 as a way to honor our country. But sadly as times have shifted, so have the wills of students.

Opinions spark heated debates among an amalgam of media platforms. As teens, tweens, soccer moms and grandparents voice their beliefs behind the pledge.

Why has a pledge meant to symbolize unity ended up creating division?

Many see the pledge of allegiance as a government endorsement of religion. Which would violate the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. However according to Britannica (a British-American encyclopedia), diligent reading of the pledge of allegiance reveals “that we are not pledging allegiance to god. We are, instead, pledging allegiance to a republic.”

Injustices that are being recognized and protested in todays world such as police brutality, gender wage gaps and educational inequality have lead people to believe that America is a country unworthy of recognition.

And while educating yourself on injustices throughout our society is a must, it’s important to realize that the pledge of allegiance is by no means

ignore those principles. When we stand for the flag, we aren’t pledging allegiance to specific political beliefs or even honoring past crimes, but honoring the vision that we have for the country.

The pledge of allegiance is meant to mark this country’s intentions for it’s people. It exists to remind us of what we stand for, even during times of oppression and injustice.

And even after taking all of this into account, it doesn’t mean there aren’t valid reasons to stay sitting.

praising our country’s history of oppression.

In fact quite the contrary.

It commends the bravery of soldiers who’ve preserved this country’s freedom for the past 248 years and counting, over 1.2 million of which have died in war.

And although it’s wording may be archaic, respect for the laws in ones country and its unity for which the flag stands isn’t a short-lived principle.

America, at it’s core, represents our freedom and individual liberty under a common law. When someone chooses to stay seated, they flippantly

THE VOTE

A staff editorial is an opinion piece crafted by a single writer and voted on by the entire staff of the NW Passage. It is not an unbiased news article, but an opinion piece tackling a major issue. Here is how the NW Passage voted on this editorial.

America’s past, while far away, still effects it’s citizens and the fact of the matter is that forcing someone to stand completely disregards what the pledge even means.

But choosing to stand, not only acknowledges our progress and the cost of that progress, it also highlights our hope for the nation. It celebrates what we have, while advocating for positive change.

Not only does the pledge of allegiance honor our soldiers, our freedom and our country’s independence, it advocates for the continuous fight against modern injustices.

design by Greta Grist

disagree 7 5 agree

abstain 2 / /

“

“One nation under god, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”

Students need to realize the importance of standing for the pledge

CULTIVATING CREATIVITY

Working through the creative process

To me, executing new creative ideas is like growing a rosebush when I don’t know how to garden yet. The final product can be really beautiful and rewarding, but grappling with it can be thorny and a little painful. But by the time my rosebush is fully grown, I’ve gained some experience and am a little better at gardening.

In terms of my own projects, finishing the Well Dressed Wednesday promotional video as well as continuing to work on the magazine that’s going to release in the near future has given me insight on myself and how to approach future creative endeavors. Here’s what I’ve learned from those experiences:

Just start: The first and, sometimes, hardest step to creating anything is simply getting started. Sometimes new creative projects feel daunting or complicated. This is my biggest enemy to my motivation and is usually

what leads me to procrastinating, even if I like what I’m doing. Progress is not linear. Stressing about making significant progress every time is harmful to keeping my sanity during a project. Before I stress about how my rosebush is going to grow, I have to at least plant it first.

Be OK with bad ideas: Every bad idea provides a learning experience and ground to stand on. Maybe I overwatered my bush and some leaves wilted. A mistake nonetheless, but a learning experience for the rest of my garden and one step closer to the ultimate goal. The bad ideas often lead to the great ones.

Done is better than perfect: I am far from a perfectionist, but it’s easy to get caught up in trying to make something the best it can be. While this isn’t meant to discredit striving for exceptional work, understanding that I won’t always create a perfect rendition of what I had in mind is necessary to avoid getting hung up on small details. Not every rosebud will bloom perfectly.

by Evan Johnson

MY FEAR OF MOVING FORWARD

To graduate early or not to graduate early

Moving on in life can be difficult. Growing up itself can happen so fast. One minute you’re five-years-old watching Disney movies with your mom, the next you are filling out your senior enrollment card for highschool.

College decisions are something that everyone makes at some point in their lives, whether it be what college to go to, or if they even want to go to college. The decision I am facing right now is not about attending college, but rather the decision whether or not to graduate high school early.

Of course when making a decision like this, I ask for advice and other people’s thoughts on the idea. Some say I should do it, “It will give you more experience in the real world,” others say, “Don’t do it, why would you want to grow up faster?”

In my mind, I can see both sides

of those answers. I don’t think I will be missing out on high school experiences. If I go through with it, I am able to still attend dances and walk across the stage along with my other classmates. Those are memorable experiences I will still be able to encounter. If I decide to graduate early, I think I will undergo more experiences that will prepare me for my future.

In all honesty, I can say I am not worrying about missing out on high school. I do not want to spend more time attaching myself to a building which I am inevitably leaving anyway. Graduating early doesn’t mean I am “missing out,” I think I am just ready to move on.

Yes, I am afraid of growing up, but that is a fear everyone must face one day. Better sooner than later to face your fears. The more I think about

growing up, the more adrenaline I feel. No matter the decision I make, I look forward to what life has to offer. I look forward to the adventure that I will go on.

by Elaina Hammes

Junior Elaina Hammes wears wa cap and gown Feb. 27 in front of the West entrance.

photo by Anna Marie Torres

Senior Evan Johnson sits in his creative studio Feb. 20 at his house. After his sister moved out of the house to attend college, Johnson repurposed the room as a space to work on creative projects.

photo by Evan Johnson

We Heard You

Students

share their

opinions on standing for the Pledge of Allegiance

by Kara Simpson design by Sophia McCraney

“I’m half Native American on my mom’s side, and I feel as if it’s a big cover-up or lie. A flag cannot erase the genocides, rapes and kidnappings of my people. How can we be what the flag stands for if we refuse to acknowledge that this country was inhabited and built by otherpeople?

I’m also Mexican and, when so many politicians want to keep people like my relatives and me out, doesn’t that destroy the purpose of standing united in a nice, democratic society?”

— senior Samael Caraveo

I find it uncomfortable to engage in a tradition that not only is based on the messaging of a denomination I am not a part of, but also is a message of pointless patriotism to a country and government built on genocide, conspiracies and pointless wars to fund the ultra-rich. I would like to be my own person and not pledge allegiance to a set of beliefs I do not believe in.

— sophomore Braylon Lindberg

I come from a military family. They put their lives on the line for the people in this country. The fact that people can’t stand up for less than a minute to honor all the people who have served is completely ridiculous.

— freshman Valentina Maslovaric

It’s not that I disrespect the military, my great uncle died in Vietnam. I do stuff to honor him but I don’t stand because I feel like it’s not living up to what it says it’ll do. Most people aren’t seen as equal in the United States unless you have the means and you’re worth to society.

— junior Lily Reiff

I want to be respectful of the people that [made] sacrifices for the country. People have died for us and our rights, so the least I could do is stand for 30 seconds out of respect. I don’t shame people for not standing, as long as they’re respectful during the pledge, because it’s a personal choice. —freshman Sofia

Ellison

“I stand for the flag because it’s respectful to acknowledge all the people who have fought for our freedom, but it’s a personal choice. There are a lot of systematic issues in our country to address, but we can work toward reconstruction.”

— sophomore Brynn Emery

I do not stand for the Pledge of Allegiance because it doesn’t represent how I feel about America. I don’t pledge allegiance to the republic. It doesn’t have my undying devotion and love. The inclusion of the word God excludes me even being able to consider it because I don’t pray to that God.

— junior Tristen Newell

Usually I stand for the flag because I’m an Eagle Scout and, to me, it’s a sign of respect for the service of men and women who have died for our country. Personally, I don’t care if people stand for the flag or not. At the end of the day, it’s not up to me or anyone else to decide that it’s wrong. Both are valid opinions because they are, in their own ways, true.

— senior Nick Ruschill

The only time I really [stand is when I’m] playing for the band. I don’t stand for a lot of stuff happening in the country currently. Not standing up is one of the most patriotic things you can do because you are exercising your right to free speech.

— senior Lilly Harris

The flag doesn’t represent what this country is. I don’t believe the pledge is good. If people want to stand, that’s their personal belief. They should know what the pledge and this country are about before they choose to stand for the flag. In the pledge, it says ‘Justice for all,’ but there’s barely justice for anybody.

— sophomore Evan Eaves

I stand for the pledge of allegiance, because ‘allegiance’ means loyalty. We should [stand]. We pay back 30 seconds of our time to people who risked their lives or lost family members to earn our freedom.

— sophomore Maddie Vanlandingham

I stand because I’ve stood my whole life. It’s kind of a habit. When most people around you stand, it’s almost like peer pressure. But it’s also to honor those who served. My great grandfather served in Vietnam. That influences me to stand.

— junior Joey Bartkoski

I don’t stand for the pledge because I don’t believe I should have to if I don’t agree with everything it claims.

If others believe [in] ‘one nation under God,’ they can stand if they want. But it’s kind of biased. You can tell who [a] person is, based on if they stand or not.

— junior Piper Stackhouse

Connecting KCI

The Kansas City International (KCI) Airport Single Terminal opened Feb. 28, with new restaurants, new artwork and new amenities for flyers to enjoy.

The new 39-gate terminal features hemlock ceilings at the south end to complement a hanging art installation “The Air Up There,” by Nick Cave. Cave graduated from the Kansas City Art Institute. Most of the art featured in the new terminal was created by local artists.

The south end of the check-in

by Veronica Meiss & Sophie Delaney design by Bella Alvarado

The new Kansas City International Airport Single Terminal has brand new features for all flyers to access

hall will be “Let the Music Take You” by George Rodriguez, which includes large scale figures of jazz band members. Complementing Rodriguez’s piece, the north end of the check-in hall will feature “Wings” by John Balistreri, another large scale ceramic piece.

The new security checkpoint will consist of 16 lanes in the center of the check-in hall. The terminal and Clear, a traveler program, are partnering to help travelers get through the checkin process faster.

The Kansas City Air Travel

Experience will debut in the new terminal. Flyers, particularly firsttime flyers, can practice buckling their seat belts and locking the lavatory door to help them feel as comfortable as possible on their flights. This action is in efforts to make the airport more accessible to anyone planning to fly.

With the new terminal, international and out-of-state flyers will have a different experience when they land in Kansas City. For more information regarding the new airport, go to smnw.com.

A rendering of the new Kansas City International Airport Single Terminal from buildkci.com

feature | 11

THE COST OF AN EDUCATION $

S

For some students, it’s easy. The cost of college isn’t a major concern and their grades are enough to get them into the college they have always wanted. For others, the decision just isn’t as easy.

“Some people consider only community college.” college adviser Connor Davis said. “The tuition is just so much lower. Most are going to choose the more affordable option.”

The difference between tuition changes drastically depending on which college a student decides to attend. In-state schools, for example, offer lower tuition rates.

eniors all around the school are preparing for college: requesting transcripts, writing essays and searching for scholarship applications. Constant stress is a vital aspect of college application season.If students can’t afford to pay for college without help, they can search for scholarships, grants, and student loans.

Several types of loans are available to fund university expenses including tuition and housing, but, according to the Education Data Initiative, 93% of incoming college students choose federal loans. A federal student loan comes from the United States government for the purpose of paying for educational expenses. About 30% to 40% of all undergraduate students, according to the Urban Institute, take out federal loans. Although most students choose to get a loan from the government, some choose a private loan.

Zadie

College debt is common, but there are ways to avoid it

credit score can have a negative impact later in life when a stellar credit rating is needed to secure a loan for a large purchase such as a house.

$ NW Passage

$ $ $ $

The University of Kansas (KU), charges Kansas residents from $18,890$27,665. A non-resident’s tuition is much higher: $35,758-$44,533. This cost would be similar in most state schools in Kansas

“The cost was extremely important in making the decision,” senior Annaliese Nguyen, who is going to KU, said. “It’s especially important to my parents that I graduate college with no debt. Since they’re paying for it, they don’t want that pressure on them or myself.”

But tuition doesn’t always stop people from applying to the school of their dreams. Doing that brings on an additional set of challenges.

“Depending on situations, or maybe as a result of a specific relationship with a bank, [some students] can get a loan,” Davis said. “But those are called private loans. I don’t encourage students to go that route because the interest rate generally is higher. Through financial aid, FAFSA and the U.S. Department of Education, they can delay the interest increase on some types of loans.”

The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is a form that must be completed in order to apply for financial aid, receive grants and – at some schools – qualify for scholarships. Most college counselors recommend that all students complete the FAFSA, even if they don’t know if they will need financial assistance. The long-term effects of college tuition debt on a graduate’s

It Costs HOW Much?

Without financial aid of any kind, the first columns shows the cost of housing, tuition, meals and fees for six area schools vs. what the average student pays after scholarships and grants

Listed cost Average cost after financial aid

: $20,500 $19,195

: $49,500 $30,191 out of state tuition

: $21,700 $20,569

: $42,340 $23,629

: $28,600 $17,883

: $16,000 $12,646

by Izak Zeller & Elaina Hammes &

Tenpenney design by Greta Grist

NEWS RECAP

A Kansas City Victory

The Kansas City Chiefs won the 57th Super Bowl

For the second time in the past five years, the Kansas City Chiefs won Super Bowl LVII. The final score was 38-35, with the Chiefs just barely taking the victory.

“I was just in shock after we won,” senior Sam Baldwin said. “My brain couldn’t comprehend that we were actually world champions again. After we kicked the

game winning field goal, everyone around me was screaming and hugging each other. It [was] one of the best feelings ever.”

After Rihanna’s halftime performance, a back-and-forth battle between the Philadelphia Eagles and Chiefs left every football fan on their toes.

“That game took off about ten years of

my life,” Baldwin said. “The [second] half was the biggest roller coaster of emotions I’ve ever felt. I’d go from being 100% sure we’ve lost to 100% sure we’re world champions in a matter of minutes. [Patrick Mahomes] likes to keep everyone on the edge of our seats, that’s for sure.”

by Veronica Meiss

Giving high-fives, tight end Travis Kelce walks on Grand Boulevard in the Kansas City Chiefs’ Super Bowl Championship Parade Feb.15. Kelce has taken the phrase, “you gotta fight for your right to party” coined by the Beastie Boys and made it his own after winning two Super Bowls within the past three years. “This is the most beautiful scene I’ve ever witnessed in my life,” Kelce said at the celebration rally. “I love this city to death. I promise you, from here to the end, I cherish every moment with y’all and I promise you everybody here feels the exact same way.” photo by Sydney Jackson

With love, your not-so-secret admirer

The Rose Sale raised $________ for prom

Classes throughout the building halted when well-dressed Prom Committee students carrying roses entered the room looking for a specific student or students.

Attached to each rose was message from a friend or significant other.

The annual Rose Sale began the Friday before Valentine’s Day. Students and faculty could purchase roses for $3.50 a piece. On Valentine’s Day, Prom Committee members passed the roses out to surprised students.

“It was really fun passing out the roses,” senior Maddy Stone said.

by Veronica Meiss

“Sometimes, the whole class would get excited.”

Several teachers, including social studies teacher Todd Boren, read the messages attached to the roses out loud to students.

“Any time you can read some kind of message that would have romantic sweet nothings, shall we say, in front of 26 other people, that’s always fun,” Boren said.

The Prom date, April 15, was announced . The theme is “A Night in the Clouds.”

Tickets will be sold for $25 per person during lunches in the mall from April 10-14.

A Bittersweet Goodbye

Associate principal Eddie LyDay accepts head position at Horizons

by Veronica Meiss

After 26 years of working at Northwest, associate principal Eddie LyDay has accepted the position of principal Shawnee Mission Horizons High School beginning in the fall of 2023.

“I always told myself that if [the position] opened again I would apply,” LyDay said. “It was a very difficult decision to apply, and even more difficult to accept because I’ve been here for so long. It’s just bittersweet. I’m definitely going to miss the people here in the NW community. This is such a great place to be. The community is so great, the staff, the students. I’ve really enjoyed my time here.”

Senior Ella Huggins reads the note tied to senior Braylon Harvey’s rose Feb. 14 in Room 122. The note was given to Harvey from a fake girl as a prank. The note read, To: Braylon Harvey; From: Brooke from softball. “It definitely felt like it was a prank because Erin [Moody], Comfort [Adegoke], Grace [Karlin] and everyone working the rose sale all came in to give it to me,” Huggins said. “My class made a bunch of jokes but it was actually really funny.”

photo by Brody Carlson

Not As Planned

Snow days force the cancellation of the Black History Month assembly

by Sofia Ball

With organizational and scheduling problems presented as the complicating issues, Principal Lisa Gruman announced on Feb. 21 that the Black History Month assembly scheduled for later that day had been canceled.

Black Student Union sponsored a Spirit Week from Feb. 21-24 to celebrate and bring awareness to Black history.

For more Black History Month coverage, scan the QR code.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

A principal, a Latinos of Tomorrow leader and a future study-abroad student tell their stories for Women’s History Month design by Veronica

Meiss

SOMETHING BIGGER

by Sophie Delaney

Senior Perla Moreno admires the ofrenda she helped Latinos of Tomorrow members set up in the display cases by the office. The offering presented during the Mexican Dia de los Muertos celebration was decorated with an array of fake candles and framed pictures. While a slide show of additional ofrendas plays, she reflects on how joining this club was one of the best decisions she has ever made.

“I love when we do something and people are really happy about it,” Moreno said. “That’s my favorite feeling.”

In her sophomore year, Moreno wanted to lead others and organize events to celebrate her culture. Now, she is community relations lead of the club.

“It feels really good to be a part of something bigger than yourself,” Moreno said, “to know that other people appreciate what you’re doing in your community.”

A WORK OF HEART

Principal Lisa Gruman continues to follow her dream of helping students pursue theirs

by Sofia Ball

Students walked across the stage, palms sweating, blinded by the harsh lighting of the Shawnee Mission North stadium.

The moment was now.

Diploma in hand, tears pooled of her eyes as one by one, Principal Lisa Gruman shook the hands of the 2019 graduating class. This one was a soon-to-be collegiate athlete, that one would become a teacher, that one was headed to a career in science.

Her job was done, but yet unfinished.

“Part of your role as principal is to create a school culture and environment where people can thrive,” Gruman said. “And to make sure that [they’re] ready to be successful in a career. Having a high school diploma makes such a difference.”

Fresh out of college, Gruman’s dream was to teach and she arrived here in 2000 to teach math.

“From day one, I knew that’s what I wanted,” Gruman said. “I was focused on being a math teacher. I loved every minute of doing that job.”

In 2004, Gruman moved out of the classroom and into an associate principal’s office. She remain there for eight years, becoming the interim principal in 2013 and principal in 2014.

“A lot the projects I’ve completed are rewarding. But when we talk about how we can help our students be more successful that I feel I’ve actually accomplished something,” Gruman said in the 2005 Lair. Sounds just like her today.

HOMESICK BLUES

Evelyn Bachamp will miss her senior year to spend in Thailand

by Morgan Tate

Evelyn Bachamp won’t get a real senior year. She won’t get to see her friends at their senior prom. She won’t even be able to go to Worlds of Fun Halloween Haunt.

But it’s all worth it in her mind. Bachamp will get to spend her senior year in Thailand.

“I think it’s a really good opportunity and I’ll make it worth my while,” Bachamp said.” I know there will be struggles, but in the future, I will think it was worth it.”

Along with traveling to a foreign country, Bachamp also decided to graduate a year early, allowing her to start college at the same time as her peers. She will graduate with the class of 2023, but will miss friends and family.

“I know I’m gonna get homesick, I know I’m going to be sad about leaving,” Bachamp said. “But I think it’s definitely a cool opportunity that sets me apart from other people.”

Perla Moreno is the community relations lead for Latinos of Tomorrow

PERIOD.

Shame surrounding menstruation has evolved throughout history, but the stigma remains

by Sofia Ball, Morgan Tate & Sophie Delaney; design by Veronica Meiss

The clock read 8:30 a.m..

“Shoot, shoot, shoot.”

Senior Aly Ramsey sprinted from the seat of her ’91 Mustang convertible to the doors of the band room, breathing heavily, coffee in hand.

She hustled to the field.

Panic overcame Ramsey as she flipped back through the morning’s events in her mind.

She had awakened in pain.

She couldn’t move.

Sharp pains that no amount of ibuprofen could resolve coursed through her abdomen.

According to the National Library of Medicine roughly 10% (190 million) of the female population experiences endometriosis: a condition caused by the growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterus, resulting in extreme pain.

Ramsey is one of them.

The condition may be somewhat uncommon, but the pain stemming from menstruation isn’t.

“A lot of people make jokes about periods,” senior Ally Urich said. “They don’t really understand the pain and all of the trouble that comes with it. I’ve had times when I’ve laid in bed crying because I was in so much pain.”

Not only is the pain belittled, a blanket of shame cloaks the monthly cycle.

According to “Her,” a women’s lifestyle magazine, over 58 percent of females have said they have felt embarrassment or shame when they get their periods.

Periods have been stigmatized throughout history. Many cultures have labeled those menstruating as impure or unclean.

Religion has been a perpetrator of this. For example, the Torah (Leviticus 15:19-30), which is also the third book of the Bible, says “When a woman has a discharge, her discharge being blood from her body, she shall remain in her impurity for seven days; whoever touches her shall be unclean until evening.”

While a lot has changed in the past few thousand years, the shame and disgust surrounding menstruation has not dissipated.

“I think a lot of men see periods as gross and something you can control,” Ramsey said. “I think many people tie menstruation to maturity which can make it uncomfortable to talk about because there’s an inherent sexualization of it” Menstruation affects everyday life, however the topic is not something many females (especially students) feel comfortable talking about. Many feel squeamish even at the thought of asking for a tampon.

“I noticed [menstrual products] in the [female restroom] about a few months ago,” Ramsey said. “A lot of my friends were very happy about it and I think that having menstrual products available is a positive thing. It decreases the shame and the fact that they are basic human needs and should have the [same availability] as toilet paper.”

“

“ They don’t really understand the pain and all of the trouble that comes with it.

– Aly Ramsey senior

FASHION

Students showcase their outfits for Black History Month

Maliyah Williams, junior

“It shows an authentic self. At Northwest there’s a certain type of dress. [This outfit] gives me a sense of identity.”

“One of the big things for African American ‘cultural attire’ would definitely be street style. I feel like that came from the ’90s.”

“My West African Guinean dress is pretty simple. my family is Muslim, so during Ramadan, we celebrate the Ghanaian Independence Day and we would wear during those weddings and so I just thought it was you know, very nice to wear to represent everything.”

by Zadie Tenpenny

“This is my brother’s jersey. I don’t think it’s like an official jersey. I think it’s just Nigeria on a baseball jersey. I’m from Nigeria.”

& Grace Logan design: Sophie Delaney photos: Kara Simpson

Comfort Adegoke, senior

Fanta Fofana, senior

Rah’ki Walker, senior

2.5/5

by Greta Grist

The Taro Ube Milk Tea didn’t have a very complex flavor. The boba in this drink was a little soggier than the ones we had tried before, and it left me needing more. If there’s not enough boba or taro in the drink it can taste a lot like milk. Six dollar milk. It’s a good introduction to boba, especially with how customizable it is, and it’s not that different from everyday beverage. Definitely order this drink if you’ve never tried boba.

3/5

by Sophia McCraney

In the past, I had a negative experience with taro milk tea, so I was very hesitant to try it at first. However, I was pleasantly surprised and enjoyed this drink. A very subtle natural sweetness that’s not overbearing or underwhelming. It tasted like coconut but not in an artificial way. Although the color of taro milk tea is slightly off-putting, I would definitely get it again.

B ba ! FORKS DOWN: Fat Bee edition

by Sophia McCraney & Greta Grist design by Sofia Ball

Taro Ube Milk Tea from Fat Bee Cafe Feb. 16. photo by Claire Reed

by Sophia McCraney

I’ve heard other people say this is their favorite drink from Fat Bee, however the drink is not to my taste. It’s very fruity and very tart. The texture of the floating crystal boba was unlike any other I’ve had before. It was very chewy and not saturated like brown sugar boba typically is.

2.5/5

by Greta Grist

The strong flavor of this drink overwhelmed me with the first sip of the tangy tropical flavors. The after taste came back ten times stronger. To be honest, I’m not sure if I enjoyed this or not. I’m kind of 50/50. The drink left a chalky residue on my tongue. I imagine it’s from the unfiltered tea leaves at the bottom, which didn’t seem to go away until I finished the drink. With the addition of the orange on the top of the drink and the crystal boba pearls, it was a rather refreshing drink. It was good to try something new, but it wasn’t for me.

TROPICAL VIBE

CREME BRULEE BOBA LATTE

by Sophia McCraney

This Boba Latte is gorgeously layered with coffee, brown sugar and creme. The sweet creme on top compliments the flavor of coffee and milk. Breaking the burnt layer of creme brulee adds a torched contrast to the sweetness of the drink. It brings to mind coffee ice cream. If you’re a lover of boba, Fat Bee is the place for you. They do not neglect the amount of pearls you receive.

by Greta Grist

The beverage looked beautiful, and tasted even better. The amount of boba in the drink provides the perfect ratio of boba and tea. The milk tea had a super rich and creamy flavor, and with the foam beneath the crisp sugar layer added a nice texture. The coffee flavor mixed with the sweetness of the brown sugar boba created a nice balance of bitter and sweet. It had a super warm and cozy flavor, and it was my favorite of the three drinks.

Tropical Vibe from Fat Bee Cafe Feb. 16 Photo by Claire Reed

4/5

4/5

Creme Brulee Boba Latte from Fat Bee Cafe Feb. 16. photo by Claire Reed

$6.80

$6.75

No one is a stranger to the name Skyler Wilson. Maybe some have seen him walking the halls, interviewing students for his YouTube Channel, “Stay Wavy Will.” Maybe others know his clothing brand, “Wavy Apparel.” Maybe it’s the way Wilson carries himself –a way that people can’t ignore.

He’s a funny guy, always the loudest in the room.

But people don’t really know Skyler Wilson.

They don’t know that he wakes up at 6:15 a.m. for school after working the closing shift at Wingstop until 12:30 a.m.

They don’t know that he loves Chipotle, but not as much as he loves making people smile and making his mom proud.

People know the Skyler Wilson of today, but haven’t seen the work he put in to establish his own identity.

Growing up, Skyler did everything with his brother, Sam Wilson III. Same friends, same activities, through thick and thin, Skyler followed his brother.

Year after year, the two were tied at the hip. Then Sam, annoyed with the constant presence of his little brother, finally said: “You keep following me everywhere.”

Skyler’s first thought was: “Well, what else am I going to do?”

“I sat down and realized he had a point,” Skyler said. “I really didn’t have my own identity.”

Freshman year, things were going to change. And they did. Wilson made new friends and began to focus more energy into what he enjoyed: art.

Wilson hoped to monetize his drawings, but many high schoolers weren’t willing to match the price of his work.

He found himself at a juncture: sell his art for under the value or find another way to profit from his skill. But he knew one thing for sure: giving up this

behind the MYTH

creative outlet wasn’t an option.

Wilson wanted to make the smartest financial decision. At his first job at, Wilson spent paycheck after paycheck. He knew he couldn’t do that again.

Clothing, that’s what Wilson would make.

“Everybody buys clothes,” Wilson said. “It’s an interest that I can get into and capitalize on. It’s [been] pretty swell. This is a way for me to express myself and help others express themselves. It makes me smile when I go out and see people wearing my clothes. That’s a different type of feeling you don’t [have] everyday.”

In April of 2020, during the quarantine, Wilson began doing research and purchasing the materials needed to get his business started.

Sewing Machine, check.

T-shirts, check.

Cricket Machine, check.

He has been selling clothes through @swodapparell ever since. However, with the stress of school, Wilson has put a pin in the production of Rich Bum clothing. This coming summer he plans to release more clothing.

But, in the meantime, Wilson has found other ways to remain creative – posting on his YouTube Channel.

“I try my best to spread positivity and make people smile,” Wilson said. “You know, sometimes people are having a bad day. [If] you make them laugh, it can change their whole day..”

People know Skyler Wilson. They know his brand, “Wavy Designs.”

They know his YouTube Channel, “Stay Wavy Will.” He’s a funny guy, always the loudest in the room. But people don’t really know Skyler Wilson.

People know Skyler Wilson’s name, brand and his YouTube channel, but don’t know what Wilson has done to establish the man

by Grace Logan photo by Evan Johnson

Following a crochet tutorial, freshman Alexis Berg makes a bracelet Feb. 16 in Room 7. “Crocheting bracelets is fairly easy,” Berg said. “You [make a] row, you tie it all together and then you’re done.”

EASILY HOOKED

Crochet Club takes shape; begins meeting

Crochet Club started up in January and has been meeting up once a week on Tuesdays or Thursdays in room 7. They are crocheting stuffed animals that will be donated to Children’s Mercy at the end of the year. Since the first meeting, the club has attracted a regular turnout of both experts and hobbyists.

“[At the first meeting], there were some people that were making clothes already and there were some people who didn’t know how to hold the yarn or the crochet needle,” art teacher Kimberly Ruttan said. “It balanced out to where there were enough people that were

by Morgan Tate & Grace Logan

knowledgeable that they could go around and help out.”

Crochet Club was originally started by Isabelle Boshart, who wanted to share her passion for crocheting with Northwest.

“She loved [crocheting],” Ruttan said. “She thought it would be really cool to try and not only spread it here, but to make figures to donate to Children’s Mercy patients. She has truly taken [Crochet Club] and run with it.”

If Crochet Club sounds like it’s for you, contact Ms. Ruttan or Isabelle Boshart for more details.

Freshmen Marie Herring and Isabella Santana-Perez help each other create a foundation ring Feb. 16 in Room

7. “[When I make a foundation ring], I start with two slip knots on the hook,” Herring said. “Then I put the yarn over the knots.” photo by Cooper Evans

PAYING OFF

Students participate in state KMEA

by Veronica Meiss

The Kansas Music Educators Association (KMEA) hosted state music events for choir, orchestra and band Feb. 23-25. One student got Gold Band, First Chair horn, which is the best position in the best band.

“When I saw the results, and found out I got first chair overall, I was absolutely thrilled,” senior Justin Stratton said. “I jumped out of my bed and ran downstairs screaming to tell my parents. I called my brother, horn teacher and a few of my friends to tell them. It was great so see

all of the hard work that I’ve put in, and the work that my band teachers put in to get me where I am musically, pay off.”

To qualify for the state music event, musicians must first audition and [verb] into districts. Then, they qualify for state.

“This is my first time ever making state,” Stratton said. “Last year I had the opportunity to audition, but wasn’t able to due to getting COVID-19 a few days before. That means that this year was my only chance to audition, and I made it!”

design by Morgan Tate

photo by Cooper Evans

ART ADVANCEMENT

Senior Aly Ramsey wants to keep improving and evolving her art

by Morgan Tate

It was like an art wonderland when she was younger. Her mother’s room was filled with acrylics, ceramics, oil paints and markers. There was every art supply senior Aly Ramsey could ever dream of. She was called to create. That didn’t mean she didn’t occasionally dry out a brush or two, but she still painted.

“Every kid experiments with their colors and their drawings,” Ramsey said. “I think I didn’t actually start to look at what actually makes art good until middle school. I started getting really into color theory in high school.”

Ramsey’s goal has always been to improve. She takes small steps, focusing on color theory or human anatomy, and she’s always had people to help her. Her mother has been essential in helping her grow with critiques.

“You benefit from never thinking that you’re good enough,” Ramsey said. “You benefit from always seeing what’s wrong. Having someone else to point that out can be difficult at times, but I think it’s very helpful. It greatly helps me and I know that she wants me to improve.”

One of her favorite pieces

was a multimedia selfportrait involving acrylic paints and embroidery. She intentionally painted a disjointed-looking portrait to evoke the idea of how people value aesthetics rather than the whole person. It isn’t her favorite just because of its quality, but because she learned from it.

“I think I went through a lot of trial and error,” Ramsey said. “There were a couple iterations of the main painting. I think I challenged myself a lot with that piece. I’ve improved greatly and ended up with a work that I’m really proud of.”

The worst pieces for Ramsey are not the ones that turn out poorly, but the ones where she learns nothing from the experience. One of these pieces was a watercolor painting she made of her room and Ramsey wished she would’ve pushed herself.

“Watercolor is very much not my thing,” Ramsey said. “It was definitely experimental, but I didn’t push myself to learn what watercolor could really do. I still think I don’t know what watercolor can really do. I didn’t challenge myself at all and it ended up

looking very bland.”

There are many things that keep Ramsey from progressing as an artist and this frustrates for her.

“Creating anything takes a lot of energy,” Ramsey said. “You’re recombining ideas you’ve witnessed throughout your life and making an entirely new thing. The sheer time and energy that takes can be a huge barrier to creating more stuff.”

Ramsey is enrolled in IB Art which has given her the time and structure she needs to grow and create.

“Having a dedicated time and space where everything is readily available is very beneficial,” Ramsey said.

“Having deadlines and someone else to witness what I’m doing is also very helpful in terms of trying to create more art.”

Ramsey has grown from a child working with her mother’s art supplies to a full-blown artist. She’s developed her style and technique, but that doesn’t mean she’s done. She wants to keep going.

“I hope to be more unique in my art and learn to have more control,” Ramsey said. “I would like my art to properly communicate what I would like it to, and I would like the effect it has to be intentional.”

Senior Aly Ramsey describes this piece as “a representation of identity, perception by one’s self and others, while leaning toward a focus on physical attributes and compartmentalization of characteristics.”

IN HER BLOOD

Sophomore Mia Butler places first in the girls’ regional wrestling championship

by Zadie Tenpenny

Nickelback plays through sophomore Mia Butler’s headphones as she prepares for her last match against Jay Yoder from Spring Hill. She’s nervous. One wrong move could jeopardize it all.

Butler takes a step on the mat. Her worries fade..

If Butler wins, she isn’t just victorious in another match, she wins the regional title for her weight class.

And it’s only her first year wrestling.

Butler jumped right into the varsity wrestling team at the beginning of the season and has been competing in the championship bracket. It’s not only one of the toughest sports physically, Butler says, it’s also about mindset.

“I was taught to keep the mentality of ‘Oh, I did this,’ maybe I can learn from that mistake and keep pushing forward,” Butler said. “There have been times where I’ve thought about quitting; but then it’s like, the next time I can just get better. I can do better.”

Wrestling runs in Butler’s blood. Her uncle, who has supported her the most, was a wrestler.

“He’s always been there to watch me when he can,” Butler said. “When he can’t, he’s always checking the brackets to see how I’m doing and asks to watch the films when we see each other.”

Her grandpa placed won the state championship in wrestling 50 years ago.

“{My grandpa is} a mentor for me,” Butler said. “He gives me advice on what to do and what not to do.”

Fast forward back to the present.

The match ends.

A hand is raised, declaring the victor.

Watching Butler compete during regionals, wrestling

coach Zachary Davies had little to be anxious about.

Davies knows that Butler is tough. Mentally and physically. He supported her the entire way through regionals, and maybe that’s why in the end, it wasn’t her opponent’s hand that was raised up high.

“I honestly almost started crying,” Butler said. “Because, as a first year wrestler, this is something I never thought was going to happen.”

Surrounded by smiles, high fives and cheers, Butler placed first place overall.

“ “

“I don’t have to worry about Mia giving anything but her best,”

- Zachary Davies

Sophomore Mia Butler holds her ready position Feb. 24 in Room 151. Butler is a first year wrestler who qualified and placed seventh at the state meet. “[Going to state showed me] that hard work will always pay off,” Butler said. “You can always accomplish something if you put your mind to it.” photo by Sidra Sakati

design by Greta Grist

Junior Graeme Hobbs wrote to the Kansas CitybStar about bowling and the unfairness of self-transportation

“I am a junior at Shawnee Mission Northwest High School. One thing I have noticed is the disproportionate amount of money allocated to programs. I especially notice this difference as a member of our school’s bowling team.”

On Jan. 28, junior Graeme Hobbs sent a letter to the editor to the Kansas City Star about the “disproportionate” attention the bowling team gets in comparison to other sports such as basketball and football. He expressed this by detailing his frustration with the school’s transportation policy. He claimed the bowling team “can’t even get” one bus to transport the team to and from meets.

“On the bowling team, we have a lot of passion and love for what we do,” Graeme said. “I think it’s unfair that it feels like we get overlooked, even though we put a lot of time and effort into [bowling]. I’m frustrated with not just transportation, but lack of recognition. We don’t get mentioned at pep rallies for our records or achievements like other sports do.”

The letter was originally written for an Eagle Scout requirement, however Hobbs’ concerns had been on his mind for weeks.

“I had to think about something I wanted to fix [for the project] and this issue came up,” Hobbs said. “I don’t think it makes sense that having a car is almost a requirement of being on the bowling team, especially with the younger guys on the team who can’t find rides.”

After writing the letter, Hobbs’ teammates expressed their approval and gratitude for publicly expressing what teammates had felt since they joined the bowling team.

“Everybody in my family was surprised and proud of me, but not very many people know about it,” Hobbs said. “Not many people my age read the Kansas City Star. From what I heard, it was well received and people were glad I was pushing to make some kind of change.”

None of Hobbs’ teammates or coaches

knew the letter had been written o5 sent before they saw it in the Kansas City Star.

“Coach [Billy] Dent said that he wished I had talked to him before sending the letter,” Hobbs said. “[Athletic director Angelo]Giacalone talked to me in his office and explained the bus driver shortage and transportation issues. Other than those two interactions, I haven’t gotten much other feedback.”

Hobbs said he didn’t do any research about the topic prior to writing the letter, instead relying on his own experience..

HPUSHING FOR C A N

“The whole picture was not portrayed,” Giacalone said. “Bowling is not the only sport that self transports. We are not the only district that self transports. All of this stems from the fact that there is a bus driver shortage. If we want to have athletics, we’ve got to be able to get creative with it. That’s the picture that needed to be out there [for] everybody to see.”

Due to the bus driver shortage, buses are only available before 1 p.m. and after 4:30 p.m. Most bowling meets begin between these times.

If the team was picked up before 1 p.m., they would have to wait for hours before the meet would begin.

“[Knowing what I know now], I would’ve written it differently, but I still believe in the purpose I wrote it for — not necessarily the contents of the letter,” Hobbs said.

by Veronica Meiss design by Greta Grist

SPORTS RECAP

The February summary of the winter sports

by Bella Alvarado, Izak Zeller, Sofia Ball, Zadie Tenpenney, & Katie Burke design by Greta Grist

OXYGEN’S OVERRATED

Boys’ swim team finishes

the season strong by Sofia

Ball

Senior Kyle Vogel comes up for air Jan. 7 at SM Aquatic Center. Vogel placed 3rd in the boys’ 200-meter freestyle with a time of 36.05. “[During a race] I try to keep my form as good as I can while also keeping up my arm tempo,” Vogel said. “I thrive off improvement and I love looking at the board after a race and seeing a new best time.” photo by Evan Johnson

The boys’ swim team placed 12th in the 200-yard medley relay and 13th for the 200-yard freestyle relay. Team captain Will Ensley placed 7th in the 100-yard breast stroke in the state 6A tournament

The tournament was held at the SM Aquatic Center.

“I think we had a great year,” sophomore Mac Herbst said. “For the number of people we had, we beat a lot of schools we were predicted to lose to. A lot of us hit personal records. All those who joined [this] year did great.”

IT’S NEVER EASY STREET

Hageman and Hageman place in the wrestling state tourney

The boys’ wrestling team competed in the state tournament Feb. 25 and 24 in Park City.

Two out of the five wrestlers placed: sophomore Adam Hageman placed third in the 157 lb. weight class and senior Lucas Hageman places 3rd in the 190 lb. weight class.

“[It takes] lots of hard work when no one is watching,”Adam said. “You have to be disciplined in what you’re doing, being the hardest worker in the room, eating healthy and not missing practices/workouts. Wrestling is

a great sport because the outcome of your performance is 100% based on the work you put in.”

Now that the state tournament is over, the team is already recruiting for next year.

“Anyone interested in wrestling should definitely try it out,” Adam said. “Wrestling is by far the toughest sport. It is physically and mentally challenging and it’s not for everyone. However, once you’ve wrestled, everything else in life is easy.”

NOTHING BUT IMPROVEMENT

Boys’ basketball wins substate game against SM East

The varsity boys’ basketball crushed the Lancers in their first substate game, 66-46, moving their season record to 13-7.

The team will advance in the substate tournament to play the Olathe West Owls at 7 p.m., Olathe West on March 3. The winner will become a sub-state champion.

by Izak Zeller by Izak Zeller

“[Throughout the season, we] probably lost a couple games we shouldn’t have, but maybe got lucky and won a couple, so we are probably right where we need to be record-wise,” varsity coach David Birch said. “Lots of young players are playing big roles this year, so there is lots of learning and teaching going on.”

Holding her opponent’s arm, junior Hannah Mott wrestles Dec. 7 in the Main Gym. Mott won 2-0 with two pins. “Strategies I typically use against my opponents are being as calm as possible in the toughest situations,” Mott said. “I focus on being as patient as possible without getting overwhelmed.”

HOW THEY ROLL

READY TO RUMBLE

Sofia Ball

The girls’ wrestling season ended with a 5th place finish at the state tournament. Sophomore Mia Butler finished first in the __ lb. weight class. _____

“Every girl who showed up to practice every day did really well and worked so hard throughout the season,” sophomore Reese Irwin said. “We had a lot of first year wrestlers that really showed how well they are all going to do. Our time has only gotten better.”

by Bella Alvarado

Girls’ bowling team to compete in the 6A state tournament

The girls’ varsity bowling team bowled a series total of 2,399 at the Sunflower League tournament on Feb. 7. The team went on to take 2nd place in the district tournament on Feb. 13, bowling a series total of 1,869. Individually, both sophomore Brooklyn Peck and junior Emma Doleshal finished with the team’s best scores. Peck bowled a 520 series, finishing in 5th place, and Doleshal bowled a 540 series, winning 2nd place. This was Doleshal’s

HOOPS, THEY DID IT AGAIN

The Lady Cougars end the season with a 17-point win

by Bella Alvarado

Coming off of a 47-30 win against the Olathe South Falcons, the girls’ varsity basketball team finished off the season with a record of 11-9. The Lady Cougars will face off against the Falcons again in a sub-state game at 7 p.m. on March 1 here.

Basketball coach Tyler Stewart outlines a plan of action for the team

Feb. 7 at Gardner Edgerton High School. . “I just focus on what Stew is saying,” junior Paige Cheffey said, “and what my role is during the next play.”

photo by Sidra Sakati

second year as the district runner-up and she missed the championship by only two pins. This momentum continued into the regional tournament as Peck and Doleshal bowled their season best series: 2407, placing 4th as a team and just missing the state tournament. Peck and Doleshal, however, qualified individually for the the 6A State Bowling Tournament. The began today at 9:15 a.m., at the Northrock Lanes in Wichita.

photo by Kara Simpson by

MONTH MONTH UPCOMING EVENTS

March 6 Spring Sports Meeting

March 8

March 9

March 10

March 13-20

March 20

Come to the Greg Parker Auditorium at 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. for the meeting.

Jazz Showcase

Come see the jazz band play in the auditorium from 7-8 p.m.

End of 3rd quarter

Get all your stuff in.

No School

Enjoy your day off school.

Spring Break

Enjoy your week off and stay safe.

Board of Education Meeting Comments

The SMSD Board of Education Public Comments meeting starts at 5:30 p.m. at the CAA, with the Board of Education meeting following at 6p.m.

March 31

by Ashley Broils

Spaghetti Showcase

Come watch the Introduction Theater classes perform scenes and monologues.

Spaghetti will be served by upperclassmen.

In front of the Once Upon a Mattress cast, junior Margo Schuerman and senior David Leugers pose for the finale of the musical number “Song of Love” Feb. 13 in the Greg Parker auditorium. Margo played as Princess Winnifred whose nickname is Fred. “I was feeling so accomplished,” Schuerman said. “Just looking out and finally being able to take a breath was the most amazing feeling.” photo by Ashley Broils

Patrick Mahomes raises his Most Valuable Player (MVP) award during the Kansas City Chiefs Super Bowl Championship Parade Feb. 15 on Grand Boulevard. Mahomes was granted the title MVP for the second time in his NFL career. “This is just the beginning,” Mahomes said during the rally after the parade. “We ain’t done yet.”

photo by Evan Johnson

1: Quarterback

1.

IN PHOTOS

IN PHOTOS

bunch of my friends run onto the court to hug me was definitely the best part,” Huggins said. “That picture of us is definitely one of my favorites from the whole night.” photo by Kara Simpson

4: Senior Madalyn Hesterlee and junior Kristina Keys dance Feb. 4 in the Cafeteria. “This was my first time I had danced with Kristina at a school dance,” Hestlerlee said. “I felt so special.”

photo by Claire Reed

3: Posing for a selfie, seniors Erin Moody, Bridgette Opoku, Ella Huggins and Annaiese Nguyen celebrate Huggins’ being crowned Sweetheart Queen Feb. 3 in the Main Gym. The girls are all friends on the Varsity Cheer team. “Having a

2: Sophomore Van Collins dribbles the ball Feb. 10 in the Main Gym. The Cougars won against the Vikings, 68-47. “We came out with great energy and kept it throughout the whole game,” Collins said.

photo by Ashley Broils

4.

3.

2.

Dancing, senior David Leugers and junior Margo Schuerman do the “Spanish Panic” Feb. 13 in the Greg Parker Auditorium. Leugers played Prince Dauntless and Schuerman played Princess Winnifred. The two fall in love at the end of the musical. photo by Ashley Broils