The Epic - Issue 2

Photo illustration by Merani Rivarola

Read about students’ experiences with LSD on pg. 19

8800 W. 85th St. Overland Park, KS October 15, 2015 Vol. 54- Issue 2

the epic.

Vol. 54, No. 2, 2015

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Can you beat the clock at Breakout Kansas City?

Read about the band’s preperation for their festivals.

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Students become teachers for the day.

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Learn about students’ experiences with LSD

the staff.

Editors-in-chief Brock Burnett Max Meyer

assistant editor

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Mr. Pledge shares his Korean experience

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See the stats on West’s football team.

Above: The Homecoming Court poses together after being crowned.

Photo by Maddy Shackelford

writers

Colette Balas Isabelle Frankel Caroline Fullerton Lexi Hart Christian Hooper Sami Jansen Spence Lassalle Adam Rellihan Eric Sedlacek Brevin Turner Nick Vance Caleb Walker Jared Walker

Merani Rivarola Nina Williams Rian Stallbaumer

managing editor Drake Mattis

Sylvia Bryan

feature editor Kathleen Gartner

sports editor Drake Mattis

photographers

Grace Armenta Annissa Clark Kelsea Lilla Maddy Shackelford Kenna Swihart Jenna Wilson Kamryn Marshall

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Renny Ma dances for a cause.

a&e editor Logan Peterson

Kristin Wells

photo editors

news editor

cartoonists Alex Ralston Jack Warner

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A timeline of Netflix’s evolution.

adviser

Amy Morgan

Photos and photo illustrations by (counter-clockwise): Rian Stallbaumer, Jenna Wilson, Merani Riverola, Kamryn Marshall, Brock Burnett, Maddy Shackelford, Kristin Wells, and Colette Balas “The Epic” is the newsmagazine of Shawnee Mission West, 8000 W. 85th St., Overland Park, KS 66215. It is produced by a staff of high school journalists dedicated to the principles of journalism: to present facts and occurences truthfully and without bias. Articles of opinion or analysis are labeled and do necessarily reflect the views of the staff and/or the publication. In accordance with Kansas law, “The Epic” staff is entitiled to freedom of the press. Neither the West administration nor the SMSD are responsible for any article, advertisement, photograph, illustration or opinion piece in “The Epic.” “The Epic” encourages letters to the editor, but they must be signed and submitted to room 11. “The Epic” is published monthly. It is printed by the Sedalia Democrat and is distributed free of charge to students. For advertising information call (913) 993-7911.

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Editorial board An opinion of the staff

The competitive spirit, the ferocity shared between fans and athletes that acts as a backbone for all athletic and academic contests, might just turn into exactly that. A spirit, more specifically, something in line with the spirit of Christmas Yet to Come from Charles Dickens’ novel “A Christmas Carol”.

Yes, we at “the epic.” feel that the competitive spirit is being slowly drained away from all manner of sporting events and being replaced with the spirit of sportsmanship. We don’t think that sportsmanship is something to scoff at though. We realize that being respectful and kind to your opponents is a sign of maturity. However, we have begun to notice that the merits of sportsmanship have grown way beyond their means and even begun to stifle competitiveness.

Many students might be quick to blame our own school’s administration and athletic department for being the moderators of sporting events, but blaming our own school is like shooting the messenger in this situation. Our administrators have to be the bearers of bad news when it comes to regulations at sporting events; they are not the ones creating such restrictions and rules about what fans can and can’t do. As a staff, we feel the need to stand up for our administrators, as they can often get painted as the bad guys in this situation.

They’re the ones who enforce things, so students often perceive them as the ones who control what occurs within the student section at a sporting event. This isn’t the case though.

We are dealing with a much greater entity here.

KSHSAA acts as a puppet master, pulling the strings and dictating what crosses the line between being competitive and being a bad sport.

Let us examine some of KSHSAA rulings on what can be defined as good sportsmanship and what crosses the line. The overarching rule that covers sportsmanship for KSHSAA is “Rule 52”. This rule is as follows, “ Art. 1: SPORTSMANSHIP is a general way of thinking and behaving. The following sportsmanship policy items are listed below for clarification: a. Be courteous to all (participants, coaches, officials, staff and fans). b. Know the rules, abide by and respect the official’s decisions. [...] Art. 2: [...] b. The Executive Board of the Kansas State High School Activities Association shall be responsible for the interpretation of these regulations, including “desirable and unacceptable behavior” and shall publish them in the Association’s Sportsmanship/ Citizenship

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Manual.”

Yeah, that’s certainly a mouth full. The most important thing we as students have to grasp is sneakily located at the very end, part B. in Article two.

That chunk there allows the Executive Board of KSHSAA to define what they believe to be good sportsmanship. They can really choose however they see fit. If they find a certain chant offensive or in bad taste, they can find a way to place it into their interpretation of what could be considered bad taste. The problem here is taste is purely subjective. There is no objective way to decide what crosses the line, and so the voices of many a student section are stifled by a group of adults working for KSHSAA. Now, we understand that at a certain point, chants can truly be harmful. Cursing at, threatening and harassing the other team and/or its players through chants surely crosses the line of what is appropriate at a high school sporting event, but there are some chants that KSHSAA decided to disallow that really leave us scratching our heads at. Amongst those chants are the “good-bye” chant, the “scoreboard” chant and the “you can’t do that” chant.

The list of chants and actions that KSHSAA defines as “unsportsmanlike” is absurd. That list is also incredibly long, and in the interest of you, the reader, we as a staff have decided not to go down and provide remarks about each decision KSHSAA makes. However, if one would want to find where exactly such a list is located, one could easily search online for “KSHSAA Sportsmanship Manual” and find said list. Be warned, as that list is full of rules that one may or may not find completely ludicrous.

If you find yourself on the side that finds what KSHSAA has determined to be “sportsmanlike” a bit too restricting, we at “the epic” urge you to email KSHSAA at kshsaa@kshsaa. org. Let them know your thoughts. When you cheer on your favorite sport, you are as much a part of the team as any of the players.

We, not only as a newspaper staff but as an entire school, have an opportunity to make some change in the way sporting events are regulated. Now, will a certain amount of emails tell KSHSAA that their rules are absurd change anything? Who knows. However, if we continue to stand by and let KSHSAA strip away the competitive spirit from our sports, in a few years we will wonder what could’ve been.

Don’t let that happen.

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visit

smwest. com Stay up-to-date with West’s online publication, The Voyager.

and follow us

@SMW

journalism

on twitter

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issue 2

calendar oct

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Writer’s Walk takes place all day in the Antioch side courtyard.

Bring money for hot chocolate and snacks.

Photo by Natalie Derks

31 The West Band is holding a Pancake Breakfast and Auction in the gym. Photo by Rian Stallbaumer

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22 Safe Trick or Treat is held at night at West.

It’s a safe place to bring kids for a fun night. Photo by Hope Erickson

31 Halloween Photo by Hope Erickson

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October November

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The ACT test will be administered at West this Saturday morning.

Photo courtesy (CC) Alberto G.

At the West Area Choral Festival, West choir joins forces with Westridge and elementary school choirs. Photo by Kamryn Marshall

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Begins Dead Week for all KSHAA sports.

Photo by Merani Rivarola

School is closed for K-12 for a teacher workday.

Photo by Jack Gartner

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News

The

contaminated cucumbers

The District was notiďŹ ed of cucumbers recalled due to possible contamination of salmonella.

By Christian Hooper and Caroline Fullerton

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n September 7, salmonella was found in the cucumbers the Shawnee Mission School District was to serve at lunch.

These cucumbers were distributed by Andrew & Williamson Fresh Produce to more than 30 states and 341 people were infected, one person from Kansas. Two deaths have been reported from California and Texas.

This outbreak has caused teachers and students alike to question what standard the district holds the cafeteria food to.

Food that is served in the district comes from many different sources, ranging from an SMSD recipe to Uncle Ben’s, Aunt Jemima, and Tyson, according to the SMSD Food Services website.

The process in which the district follows in selecting certain suppliers includes writing a bid for specific food items. These food items have to meet specific requirements. The bids are then opened and are awarded to the lowest bidder for that item.

Menus are written based upon the federal guidelines for breakfast and lunch. These guidelines tell how much saturated fat is allowed, all items are to be trans fat free, all grains are to be whole, and milk is offered in a variety of flavors. School meals are planned out by a registered dietitian and nutritionist with the input of student preference and the 250 food service employees.

The bridge is a popular place for students to each lunch every day. PHOTO BY MERANI RIVAROLA

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dancing through the community A dance group focused on preserving chinese culture uses their talents to help the community.

By Sami Jansen

S

enior Renny Ma became a member of the Jasmine Chinese Dance Group in 2008 when it was founded. This year she became one of their two youth directors and was put in charge of their largest event, the benefit dinner for Operation Breakthrough.

“I knew that the dinner would be a huge undertaking, but I have always loved planning and organizing, so I immediately decided to direct the event,” Ma said.

Operation Breakthrough is an early childhood education center that provides children living in poverty with a safe environment to learn and provides social services to these children and their families.

Jasmine Chinese Dance Group Founded in

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The Operation Breakthrough organization is located in Kansas City, Missouri and serves over 400 children daily.

Ma was able to go to the Operation Breakthrough facility to see what the money they raised went towards.

“A few weeks ago, I visited their facilities myself and I loved being able to see all the children that the funds were benefiting. It finally felt like the cause was real, and that all the work that was required was completely worth it,” Ma said.

“Jasmine Chinese Dance Group is a non-profit organization that strives to spread Chinese culture through dance performances and community service.” Ma said.

There are currently 50 members that are part of the group. The dancers dress in traditional costumes and use a variety of props including ribbons, straw hats and fans. The dancers are known for their grace, beauty and elegance. The group is open to all ages and everyone participates in the community service projects.

The group performs at senior living homes, for Chinese New Year, ethnic festivals and has been hosting Moon Festival benefit dinners since 2011. The money

they raise from these benefit dinners goes to Operation Breakthrough, which they have raised $6000 for since 2011.

It took a lot of dedication and time to organize the the fundraiser but it was successful. Classmates of Ma’s even showed up to support her and to experience the culture.

“I wanted to support my friend because I knew she had worked really hard to put on this event,” said senior Lexi Hart.

“All of her work payed off,” Hart said.

“It was really fun to see all the little kids running around in their chinese clothes. All the kids performed a traditional chinese dance or played an instrument.

They were all very talented,” Senior Robert Kunze said.

Ma learned a lot from the experience.

It gave her insight to the problem of poverty that still plagues our community today.

“Seeing all the supportive guests and seeing the children at the dinner so full and happy was thrilling to me. At the end of the night, we presented an $800 check to Operation Breakthrough. The months of preparation had culminated to that very moment, and it was such an incredible and humbling experience.” Ma said.

Ma poses with her Chinese umbrella in traditional Chinese clothing. Ma is a part of the Jasmine Chinese Dance Group to help preserve and celebrate Chinese culture.

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Marching To Victory!

The fall sports season is in full swing, and marching band is no exception.

by Sylvia Bryan

Three tuba players are in line, performing during a football game. Photo by Rian Stallbaumer.

Under the leadership of director Bill Thomas and three student Until this year, dance team performed at games and competidrum majors (seniors Michael Wilson and Meilene Robinette and tions with band. Starting this year, color guard is a separate team junior Christian Peak) marching band is in the midst of its compeand has taken on dance team’s role in the show. Two instructors tition season. were hired for the color guard. Since “Industry” is a visual show, The 120 person force marches pregame and halftime at every color guard is heavily emphasized. home football game, but also participates in outside competitions.

“With the color guard, it’s a refreshing change even though it’s Freshmen march the pregame show, which is the same every year, a little scary like, ‘Oh my gosh are they going to be able to do it?’ with the rest of the band members. Only sophomores and older But the kids have been working really hard,” Thomas said. participate in the halftime show, which has traditionally been based on a musical. However, this year it’s a conceptual show called “Industry.”

“It’s all about the turn of the century when automobiles and mass production came into being. There’s a lot of mechanical kind of sounds and steam engines and conveyor belts and that kind of stuff taking place in the show. I’ve never done a concept show before so it’s a foray into a new area for us,” Thomas said.

“Our show is interesting, it’s just different. I liked Les Mis a lot, we did that my freshman year,” Peak said.

Thomas hired an outside designer to choreograph the show.

“I actually have a drill designer out of Dallas, so I sent him the BAND DIRECTOR BILL THOMAS musical scores and he has that to work off of and then as I listened to it I have some ideas over the summer of what I would like to see happen,” Thomas said.

‘Oh my gosh

are they going to be able to do it?’

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“As much as I loved having the dance team as part of us, this is bringing the true colorguard element to marching band,” Thomas said.

The band participated in the district wide exhibition on September 29, where all five high schools run their shows.

“We had a great show. I felt very good with our kids last night with drill and color guard. I’m feeling really good about where we are at this point in the season,” Thomas said.

Robinette feels the band has done relatively well at past competitions.

“We really do pretty good for our size,” Robinette said.

Peak is also optimistic.

“Our band is looking a lot better this year than we have in past years,” Peak said.

Band will participate in two competi-

tions this year: the Kansas Bandmasters Kansas State Marching Band Competition on October 17 in Topeka, and the Central States Marching Festival on October 24 in Manhattan.

Both use the KSHSAA classifications, so band will only compete against other 6A schools. In past years, they participated in the Festival of Champions in Warrensburg, which was a regional competition where they were up against larger schools.

Since their only competition is other Kansas schools, band will have a better chance at winning competitions this year.

In past years, their comparatively small size was a disadvantage but this year they have an even playing field.

“You just have to do your best, because there’s nothing you can really do about it once it’s over,” Peak said.

Marching Lingo!

Fall in/out: Enter or exit a formation.

File: two or more band members standing behind another.

Rank: two or more band members standing beside another.

The three drum majors, Senior Michael Wilson, Junior Christian Peak and Senior Meilene Robinette preside over the band.

Photos by Rian Stallbaumer, Jenna Wilson and Grace Armenta.

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Change we have not seen

An Opinion By Drake Mattis Alrighty folks, here goes nothing.

So, it’s 2015 and shortly Obama will be beginning his final year as our president. Not much has happened. It’s been underwhelming and overall, uneventful.

One of Obama’s main points when he was first running for office was based around “change.” He was supposed to “change” so much coming in right after President Bush’s rocky second term. I have yet to see such significant “change.” I do realize the fact that it is hard to get much done when you’re a Democratic president and you have a Republican controlled Congress which changes about every two years anyway, especially when Republicans are the way they are nowadays, bible-thumping, hard to get along with, and stubborn.

Now, I am critical of President Obama, but he has had some successes. For example, the number one most wanted terrorist and the man responsible for the 9/11 attacks, Osama bin Laden, was wiped off the face of the earth. Obama was not necessarily directly linked to that mission, but he is Commander in Chief, and he was knowledgeable of the task the entire time.

On another positive note, he withdrew almost all American military utilities from Iraq, a place we never should have gone into in the first place. The War in Iraq was a prolonged war that cost way too much and took far too many lives, American and Iraqi civilian. I applaud Obama for this as he was the one who stepped up and brought our troops home.

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To another point, I know that Supreme Court decisions have little to do with the president, but without a Democratic president, I do not think gay marriage would be legalized nationwide today without a Democrat in office. Gay marriage has been something that I have wholeheartedly supported these last few years. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: it’s about damn time, and I am proud to be an American because of the ruling.

Technically, abortion is legal in every state because of Roe v. Wade, but some states have harsh restrictions and have banned it almost completely. This is something that should be 100% legalized nationwide as well, but it is understandable how it is a state issue. I am pro-choice for many reasons. For example, if a woman is raped, she should not have to be forced have the baby, if the woman becomes pregnant. The woman may be poor and may not be able to support the baby, and then there are two miserable people in the situation. This one may sound morbid, but aborted babies have also contributed to science in ways that were not previously possible. Stem-cell research has proven to work with aborted babies, and what we have found out from that research is vital to modern science. I do not think Obama could have done anything that could’ve directly affected a drastic change in abortion legislation, but it is something that I think will also come down to another Supreme Court ruling in the future.

Now to the negatives; let me start with Obamacare. Health care reform is still a very controversial subject in my opinion, despite the passing of the Affordable Care Act in 2010. Obamacare does help millions of families, and that is fantastic.

However, I do not believe that it is fair to millions of other hard working American families for obvious reasons.

Obama’s foreign policy has been something that has irked me since his

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inauguration as well. Our president has not been a great negotiator. For example, the Berghdal exchange. Bowe Berghdal was an Army Sergeant who left his post in Afghanistan and was captured by the Taliban. As a military soldier, you are never supposed to leave your post. Berghdal is a traitor, and to get him back from the Taliban, the Obama administration decided to approve a transfer that would release five convicted terrorists from Guantanamo Bay and send them back to the battlefield in the Middle East. I really don’t think that could’ve been botched any worse that is was, and it was a disappointment to Americans and an embarrassment to our military leaders as well.

Another topic that Obama has seemed to brush aside is immigration reform. In 2008, immigration was a huge topic, and it still is today because nothing has changed, and nothing has been done to repair or even standardize immigration. It is all a huge cluster. Who should be granted citizenship? Should all illegal immigrants be deported immediately? Should they be allowed to stay if they are in good standing with the law? These are all questions that have yet to be answered during Obama’s presidency.

Now that these points have been laid out for you, I can say that personally, I believe Obama has had a somewhat successful presidency. He hasn’t done anything that has significantly negatively ruptured our country, politically, economically, or socially. Though his approval ratings were sometimes lower than they should’ve been for the president, his terms have been an interesting ride. I’m excited to see what will happen as his presidency comes to a close, and I think all Americans should pay close attention to the upcoming election, so we can come to a rational decision (anti-Trump 2016). God bless America.

issue 2

pda: public distraction to academics

An Opinion By Nick Vance Mark Twain once said “The lack of money is the root of all evil.” Change the words “lack” and “money” to “abundance” and “PDA” and you end up with the realest quote of 2015. What is PDA you ask?

PDA. Public Displays of Affection.

This has infected West like a virus. Like a tiny parasite wiggling its way through the dankest and deepest corners. No one is safe. This is I, Robot and I’m Will Smith trying to tell everyone about the wrongdoings of the robots. This is Terminator: Judgement Day and I’m Arnie Schwarzenegger, protecting the students

from that one bad terminator. This is I Am Legend and I’m Will Smith once again. I have to stay alive and keep my dog safe, but even my best companion succumbs to the virus, and I am once again alone. This same kind of story happens in so many movies. What is the movie industry trying to tell us? They do not condone or support PDA and want to see it decimated from the world.

PDA can happen anywhere. Some couples decide to use some trickery and do the deed under a staircase. Others just seem not to care. They mooch and slobber on each other’s faces on the very benches that previous West greats have sat on. Couple by couple, they defame every hallway. The science hallway where young men and women are transformed into young scholars is soiled by two individuals who decide to settle down for a little kiss. C’mon Nick, what’s the harm in that? I say that’s disgusting and no one wants to see that.

Just think of the teachers that have to witness PDA everyday. They have to see

you and your significant other mooching and smooching and groping. It’s just awkward for both the teacher and the student.

I think there should be designated areas where PDA is acceptable. It’s like smoking: no one likes to be around it, the smell is terrible, and it’s unhealthy (don’t get mono kids).

Just imagine a utopian school setting where PDA is nonexistent. Tardies would be diminished significantly. Have you ever seen a couple early to class after they share a kiss? No. They are always on dead-on sprint to their next block. It’s very unsafe.

Our ACT scores would be higher because students would be more focused during school, hence making them study more often.

Is there any way to really stop PDA? Probably not. Does anyone want to see it?

Nah. As the Black Eyed Peas would say: Where is the love? I say outside of school.

Just get it out. For the love of SMW, let’s try to take it easy on the PDA.

back to the future - again

An Opinion By Kathleen Gartner The year is 1989. Hair is big and gas prices are low. This is the year that Back to the Future Part II is released. In the franchise’s second installment, Marty McFly is sent into the future: October 21, 2015.

For those of you that have never seen any of the Back to the Future movies, each movie follows Marty McFly and his mad scientist friend, Doc Brown. In Part II, Marty is sent into the future to save his future son from making a terrible, history-altering decision.

I highly encourage you to go out and

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watch this movie. Not only is it a classic, but it’s hilarious to the 2015 viewer. It’s bizarre to watch an old movie set in its future, our present. Flying cars dot the busy skyline, pedestrians walk by in self adjusting clothes, and families cook self-hydrating pizzas in a mere 15 seconds.

In addition to practical innovations, the filmmakers also try to predict the future pop culture. For example, Princess Diana visits the United States and, with tonguein-cheek, the Cubs win the world series.

Yet despite these discrepancies, the filmmakers did guess a few things right about 2015. For example, the characters in this movie use video communication (like Skype) as well as wearable computers.

Even more eerie, parts of the Hill Valley news are reported using drones.

Now I know this is only a movie, but in a way it is a time capsule of how people thought only a few decades ago. Back to the Future Part II helped to capture some

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of the expectations and hopes for the future.

This movie was only made 26 years ago, and it is astonishing to see that in that short amount of time so much has changed.

We may not have hoverboards, but we do have the internet. Our world has been revolutionized by the ease of access to information. In a sense, the world has shrunk. Distance has decreased as technology has increased. We are so much more advanced than anyone could possibly have predicted in 1989.

So that brings me to the next question.

What will the world be like in 2041? Do you imagine yourself being able to have holographic communication and the cure to cancer available to all?

Or, like our parents’ generation, be unable to imagine what our world will transform into?

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Classic for a reason

An Opinion By Max Meyer Rap, country, classical, pop and rock: all these genres of music can create great sounds, but one is much better than the others. Classic rock is a genre of music that can never be matched.

Those genres of music are all great and I’ve listened to all of them at one point in my life. In seventh grade I was really into rap music (yes, I listened to Lil Wayne).

In eighth grade and freshman year I really liked country music. However, it wasn’t until the winter break of my sophomore year that I found the type of music that I could listen to at any time, day or night, happy or sad, and it will never get old. It is classic rock.

I know what you’re probably thinking.

“The music our parents listened to? No way, that’s terrible.” At one point that’s how I felt, but then my view on music changed forever. I am going to tell you

how and why classic rock is the greatest genre of music there is.

There is no genre of music that covers such a broad range of sounds as classic rock does. Because of this, there are songs and artists that everyone can like.

Whether it is the more subdued, soothing sounds of early Eagles music or the harsh, energy-filled music of AC/DC, there is something there for everyone.

Many classic rock artists experimented with their sound throughout their careers.

That is part of how classic rock has such a wide array of sounds. The Beatles are the best example of this. They have slow, soothing music such as “While My Guitar Gently Weeps”. They also go to the other end of the spectrum with songs that include more harsh vocals in “Oh Darling”.

They even have music that is heavily influenced by eastern sounds because the band spent time in India.

There is one major difference between classic rock and modern music. Bands created a listening experience. Instead of creating songs that are entertaining to listen to by themselves, they created albums that were meant to be listened to in one sitting. These albums are also referred to as concept albums. One of my favorite bands, Pink Floyd, really pioneered this.

They created one of the greatest albums of all time, “Dark Side of the Moon”, and it was a concept album. In this album there is almost no break between songs.

The songs flow right into each other and the beginning and end of songs are used as transitions. These albums can be much more entertaining than just listening to random songs.

There is one test that never fails me when I identify really incredible music. I know it is great when I begin to get chills running down my back. It is a feeling that is really indescribable. The chills are a sense of excitement and relief all at once.

The first time I remember feeling the chills was when I first listened to Desperado

by The Eagles. The chills never go away either. When I find a truly great song it doesn’t matter if I listen to it every day for two weeks or once a month, the chills still come. The chances are, if you’ve never experienced the chills you haven’t found the type of music that you really love.

If I have done nothing I else with this column, I hope I have inspired you to go listen to some classic rock music. If you just go into with an open mind, you are bound to find a classic rock band that you like because it is a genre like no other.

election excitement

An Opinion By Jared Walker

Election time. It’s a great time in my opinion. Presidential ads just about everywhere you look. Social Studies classes flooded by discussions or rather arguments about the debates that had happened the night before. Social media outlets blowing

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up with funny videos of Donald Trump’s expressions and excessive criticism or praise for responses expressed during the debates. Or now, the growing FAD, using snapchat animation filters on the candidates.

It seems like when elections come closer and closer everyone becomes more and more of an expert on the prevalent issues facing the country. Don’t get me wrong I do it too! Acting like one of the people that gets interviewed about their views on the debates on national television.

But like I said I do like election time, whether it be presidential or more local, because students and possibly faculty

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become more informed about what’s happening or not happening in the country and what needs to happen about it. In my opinion politics should be a graduation requirement because it has more “real world” values that the mass of the student body will have to use sometime in their life more than, say a Fine Arts credit.

As the anticipation for November 8, 2016 greatens the campaigning starts directing calling out other candidates. Which makes it clear who doesn’t participate in the “school yard bullying” and is more focused on the future of the country rather than paying attention to what other candidates are saying.

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Feature

food truck frenzy These mobile restaurants are popping up all over town.

By Spence Lassalle and Colette Balas

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Recently more and more food trucks have been popping up in different cities. The food truck trend started a few years ago and has grown tremendously. The food ranges from gourmet type food to fast food. Usually prices are rather reasonable. Many food truck companies have started using social media as a platform to communicate when and where they will be. These mobile restaurants have gained so much popularity that some cities have even started food truck festivals. Below are a few trucks that visited the Lenexa Food Frenzy Festival.

pie hole

little italy

meat pies made from scratch

traditional italian pastas

el tenedor mediterranean and spanish cuisine

flossie mae comfort foods

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food trucks in the Kansas City area

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a step back in time Kansas City welcomes the 38th annual Renaissance Festival.

By Caroline Fullerton and Christian Hooper

T

he Renaissance Festival has been a Kansas City tradition since 1977, attracting an average of 180,000 patrons a year seeking to take a trip back in time to the Elizabethan era. The festival kicked off September 5 and will continue every Saturday and Sunday until October 18. A $17.95 general admission ticket gives access to over 50 family activities, 150 shops and vendors, and 20 entertainment stages. The event occupies more than 16 acres in Bonner Springs.

The Renaissance Festival is generally known for attracting families, but a few (unpaid) patrons choose to LARP in Elizabethan attire. LARPing is the slang term known for live action role playing, and is where a group of people act out a fictional scene, dressing, interacting, and speaking to one another as if the scene were real life.

Junior Sam Knaus is planning on auditioning to be a gypsy in next year’s renaissance festival.

“I go almost every year, yes.

I normally go in costume, but I couldn’t borrow any clothes this year, so I went in normal clothes.

My favorite part would have to

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be either the gypsies, or the royalty that walk around. It’s fun if you’re in costume, because you’re expected to bow/curtsey to them (the royalty, I mean).”

The festival is not limited to bodices and full metal armor, but welcomes a wide range of characters from the fantasy realm, such a wizards, fairies, and elves.

Freshman Patricia Byram’s parents are professional fire spinners who perform at the festival.

“My mom was performing with a drum tribe and then she met my dad, my dad was spinning some fire and so was my mom, then they started to perform together.”

Spinning fire is just one of the few spectacles to be seen at the Festival. Expect to see Bob the incredible juggler climb a freestanding ladder or juggle anything you throw at him, Lord Budro the hypnotist put people under a spell and watch them fall completely under his control, or the King’s Royal Magicians offer close up magic and non-stop comedy.

If you’re looking for something adventurous to do this weekend, the renaissance festival is an experience fit for a king.

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th

annual

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Issue 2

a look at the renaissance Fest by the numbers

180,000 patrons per year

almost

150

characters october 15

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15

students can be teachers too Students can get a jump start on their careers while still in high school.

By Kristin Wells Pennington has known for a long time that she wanted to be a teacher. This program gives her a head start.

“I wanted to be in it because I knew since third grade I had wanted to be a teacher and I knew this would be a way to get a good experience of being a teacher,” Pennington said.

One of the most unique parts of this program is that the students have the

“

“

A

ll teachers had to start somewhere and the students in the Teacher’s Ed program are getting their start now.

“The teacher ed program is a class where you can go to an elementary school and help out in the classroom with a teacher and get the overall experience of being a teacher,” Senior Jenna Pennington said.

The program has two levels, Teacher’s Ed 1 and Teacher’s Ed 2. Both levels get to go out to elementary schools multiple times a week. The first level typically visits the elementaries three times a week where the higher level goes out four times a week. When not at the elementary schools, the classes work on projects such as children’s books and portfolios to present at the Research and Development forum.

“I go out to my elementary school, which is Rising Star and I help out in the classroom. I can test the kids, I just help them with their work, I can make lesson plans and help the teacher out. It’s like I’m experiencing it all,” Senior Fallon McGinnis said.

“It just makes me happy I can make a difference in these kids’ lives,” -Jenna Pennington

ability to work hands on with elementary students.

“I know what to expect when I become a teacher, I get to see how the classroom environment is, I really enjoy it, getting to work one on one with students, something I normally wouldn’t get to do if I wasn’t in teacher’s ed,”

McGinnis said.

The high school students are a big help to the kids in many ways.

“Sometimes students will come in having a bad morning and I help them understand that it’s okay to be sad but we can’t let it affect their learning,” Senior Macaela Anderson said.

While working with children can be rewarding, it has its difficulties too.

“I think the most difficult part of teacher’s ed is getting the kids interested in learning and trying to get them to understand what you are saying. It is harder than you think because you are so used to for example addition and subtraction and when you have to explain it and why you do it, it become a little trickier,” Pennington said.

“You have to know your boundaries with what’s okay and what’s not okay, but you also have to let them know who’s boss. That’s really hard, knowing how to discipline,” McGinnis said.

The program is open to anyone who wants to be a teacher, or do anything involving children.

“They really look up to me. It just makes me happy I can make a difference in these kids’ lives,” Pennington said.

TEACHER’S ED BY THE NUMBERS

16

50

04

Approximate number of students involved in the Teacher’s Ed program

Number of hours spent per week at the elementary schools

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issue 1

1.

1. Rising Star elementary student Eliu Pres enjoys his time with the high school teacher’s ed students. “The kids love it. I get along really well with them, it’s easy to work with them,” Fallon McGinnis said.

2. Senior Macaela Anderson reads a book to her class at her elementary school.

3. McGinnis helps instruct her students at Rising Star elementary school.

PHOTOS BY JENNA WILSON

2.

3.

October 15

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Mathnasium of Overland Park 9339 W. 87th St Overland Park, Ks 66212 overlandpark@mathnasium.com 2nd grade - 12th grade

mathnasium.com/overlandpark

ACT & SAT Test Prep

(913) 642-MATH

Follow us on Twitter and Instagram! @smwjournalism

www.smwest.com Your source for school news

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the epic.

issue 2

Students recall past psychadelic trips while on LSD.

By Max Meyer, Drake Mattis and Logan Peterson.

Photo illustration

by Merani Rivarola.

October 15

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19

I

magine seeing the world through a kaleidoscope and having your senses magnified to the highest level.

That is the temporary world for people who are on Lysergic Acid Diethylamide (LSD), or more commonly known as acid.

LSD is a drug that stimulates the serotonin receptors in the user’s brain. The brain contains 15 serotonin receptors in all, but LSD specifically stimulates the 2A subtype. A person’s impulsiveness is controlled by the serotonin receptors therefore it greatly affects the user.

The drug was first synthesized in 1938 during medical research by Albert Hoffman of Switzerland. However, in 1943 Hoffman accidentally consumed some LSD and discovered the hallucinogenic effects of it.

This hallucinogenic drug has for decades been associated with “hippy” culture. In the 1960s and 70s, at the height of the Vietnam War, rock music, and Watergate, the United States was moving on from marijuana to more mature and visceral drugs that could truly enhance the senses. Many of the users at this time started using the drug as a way to enhance their experience while listening to music.

Today, the age group that has the most users of LSD is 18 to 25 year olds. 6.5 percent of people in this age group have used LSD at least once according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse.

Though only a small amount of these people are high school age, the second most users for an age group is ages 12 to 17. West is no

”

”

You don’t really see anything, it’s the distortion of the light really. It’s these patterns that your mind is perceiving.

It’s just these patterns everywhere.

exception to this. There are students at West who have used and continue to use LSD. The students that now use LSD often had their first experiences with drugs when they smoked marijuana.

“Was marijuana a gateway drug - yes. It led me to other drugs such as acid,” Phil Mahogany*, junior, said. On the street, marijuana is more common than hallucinogens.

“When it comes to busts, hallucinogens are much less common than marijuana,” SRO officer Hutchcraft said.

The use of LSD has dropped significantly over the past two decades. In 1997, 13.6 of high school seniors had used LSD at least once, compared to the aforementioned 6.5 percent. Even though the percentage has dropped, its presence is still felt among some

20

students at this school “First time I did acid was going into junior year, so that summer,” John Doe*, senior, said.

Doe decided to do LSD for the first time because he wanted to try a new drug.

“Some of my friends and I, we had never done it before, so we wanted to see what it was like for the first time because we had been hearing about it on the street.” Doe said. “We really wanted to

”

”

You start to HALLUCINATE. You see patterns on walls, and people look different than they normally are.

experiment with something new.”

The effects of LSD are much stronger than that of marijuana.

“You start to hallucinate. You see patterns on walls, and people look different than they normally are,” Doe said. “In your mind, you can almost taste sound and see sound. It’s kind of like vibes.”

Perhaps the biggest change that is caused by LSD is the shift in mindset of the user.

“You’re not there anymore, you’re gone. Your mind’s taken over.” Doe said. “Everything you know has just been kind of thrown away. You kind of get this new mindset. You’re not yourself.

Your personality is gone.”

Though the effects are stronger, Doe says the hallucinations are not as strong as many people think they are.

“That’s one thing I want to say. When people think about acid, they probably think you see all these monsters and crazy stuff going on,” Doe said. “You don’t really see anything, it’s the distortion of the light really. It’s these patterns that your mind is perceiving. It’s just these patterns everywhere.”

“There isn’t a specific reason why I do it, it just gives you a good time and it feels really good,” Mahogany said.

At West, LSD has not been an issue at school, but outside of school is a different story.

“I haven’t run into any issues with narcotics at West yet, but I’ve only been here since April,” Hutchcraft said.

LSD is a not addictive because it does not produce the cravings that other drugs such as meth or heroin do, according to National Institute of Drug Abuse.

“I’m not addicted to LSD, I mostly use it at parties,” Mahogany said. “But I don’t have any plans on quitting. It’s not that dangerous, as long as you’re cautious.”

“I wasn’t addicted or craving to do it again. It’s not like molly,” Doe said.

Neither Doe or Mahogany use LSD very often. Doe uses it about once every two or three months while Mahogany waits at least one month between each time he uses it.

“If you do it within a week or two you don’t get the full effect of tripping because you still have some of that in your system from the last time you tripped,” Doe said.

Though many users focus on the positive effects of LSD, medical professionals have found that LSD has many negative consequences.

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According to the Encyclopedia Britannica, “The use of LSD outside a clinical setting can be dangerous. Mood shifts, time and space distortions, and impulsive behaviour are especially hazardous complications to an individual who takes the drug. The individual may become increasingly suspicious of the intentions and motives of those around him and may act aggressively against them.�

It has also been found that LSD users can have flashbacks to their hallucinogenic state long after they used LSD. These negative effects led the drug to be made illegal by the United States government with the Drug Abuse Amendment of 1965.

25.9% 2.5% 1.9% 0.3% October 15

LSD is also classified as a schedule 1 drug by the Drug Enforcement Administration. This means that it has no known medical uses and is ultimately only harmful to the individual who uses it.

The world of drug use continues to be one of change; enhancement of the senses is the main objective of the users, but when will this fun become a hazardous endeavor that put the lives of these young people in danger?

of high school seniors in 2014 said they had easy access to LSD, according to Statistia.

of high school seniors have taken LSD in the past year according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse.

of high school sophomores have taken LSD in the past year according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse.

increase in the amount of people ages 12-17 that have used LSD in the past year.

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Paying the Price Some view LSD as a party drug that has no real negatives attached to it.

However, LSD has some very negative side effects and is illegal.

Punishment for being caught using LSD can vary from state to state, but typically punishment results in

Physical Side Effects - Dilated Pupils - Irregular Body Temperature - Sweating or Chills - Loss of Appetite - Sleeplessness - Tremors

1-3

years

in jail (or on some sort of diversion program) with an additional fine ranging from $1000 - $25000.

Mental Side Effects - Delusions - Visual hallucinations - An artificial sense of euphoria or certainty - Distortion of one’s sense of time and identity - Impaired depth perception - Impaired time perception, distorted perception of the size and shape of objects, movements, color, sound and touch.

- Severe, terrifying thoughts and feelings - Fear of losing control - Panic attacks - Flashbacks, or a recurrence of the LSD trip, often without warning long after taking LSD - Severe depression or psychosis

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Overdosing on LSD is very uncommon. However, if taken in large enough doses, LSD can result in: - High Blood Pressure - Rapid Heart Rate - Hyperthermia

If someone you know has a drug abuse problem, and you want to get them help, call:

1-866-645-8216 to reach the Kansas Alcohol and Drug Abuse Hotline.

issue 2

Games Can you solve our crossword puzzle about current events?

Sudoku

Tic-Tac-Toe

Across 2. Francis; the head of the Roman Catholic Church 4. A prolonged period of abnormally low rainfall 6. A storm with violent wind and rain, ex. Joaquin 7. The fourth planet in our solar system where water was discovered in September 8. A town in Oregon where there was a school shooting that killed ten and injured four others 12. Military attacks made by aircraft; ex. Russia against Syria in September 13. The president of Russia who launched ruthless military attacks against ISIS in September Down 1. A real estate mogul and controversial Republican presidential candidate 3. A Mexican drug lord who is now the most wanted man in the world after his escape from prison 5. A traditional autumn festival held annually in Munich, Germany 9. Lacking enough money to run something; happened to Greece recently 10. The Muslim pilgrimage to Mecca in the last month of the Muslim calendar 11. A Jihadi extremist militant group located in Iraq and Syria

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FOREIGN FACULTY Andrew Pledge spent three years teaching in South Korea.

By Eric Sedlacek and Caleb Walker Imagine to moving to a foreign country where you cannot speak the language. This is exactly what Andrew Pledge, an economic and history teacher, experienced during his journey to South Korea. He attended Kansas State University and received a degree in education. Pledge graduated at the end of first semester during his fourth year. Because the school year was in full swing, the demand for new teachers was extremely low. While in college, Pledge met a fraternity brother who was originally from South Korea. Conversations with this friend sparked interest in South Korea.

After exploring options for international travel, Pledge moved to South Korea and found a job in the teaching industry.

“My first year there I work at a place called the Hagwon, like a private academy where kids would learn English,” Pledge said.

During his second year, Pledge found a similar job to his first.

“My second year there I taught at an elementary school called Daewang, which is day one elementary school. I taught first graders to sixth graders. By my last year there I was teaching some kindergarten classes in the morning and I would then teach in the elementary school from around

ten till four and then I would go teach private lessons in the afternoon. I worked at this place called in Dapsimni, which was an international and professional academy. I taught mostly kids there who were either going to study in the United States or Canada or who already had. There, I taught English Literature and history,” Pledge said.

While his pursuit in the education field

It also has given me a unique perspective on many issues, influenced my opinion on international relations, and made me more culturally aware.

It also encouraged me to get my Master’s degree in English for speakers of other languages provided Pledge for the basis of his visit, he soon found another reason to stay longer than he intended.

“I met my wife when I was in Korea and we started dating the end of 2006. My wife went to middle school and high school with

50.22

seoul is the capital

24

a friend that was Korean and her friends husband was in the U.S. Army stationed about three blocks from my house and since we were neighbors and we were both foreigners, we became friends. His name was Anthony and he was from California.

So I started hanging out with Anthony and Anthony’s wife was friends with my wife.

We met through that,” Pledge explained.

“My wife didn’t speak great English so we had to bring a translator and I would start to speak broken Korean. But her English has gotten really good and my Korean has only gotten so so. We moved back in 2009, and she had a fiance visa. She had to go back to Korea in October to finish her papers. She came back in 2010 in January and we got married. We’ve been married for almost six years.”

South Korea proved to be different from the United States in many ways. Pledge described the culture to be one that he very much enjoyed.

“Culturally, I really liked how the students really respect their teachers and elderly. I feel like they are a lot more polite to the people they don’t know. Its really clean, I felt safe. There’s no crime. If I felt I was in the bad part at two in the morning, I wasn’t worried (that) I would get mugged,” Pledge said.

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Issue 2

Although Pledge’s South Korea experience was loaded with positive experiences, there were a handful of details that caused him to miss the U.S. “It’s hard not to get homesick. The transportation can be a pain because I had to take a taxi, bus, or subway around. There was a lot of traffic, so it would take a while to get places. I started to miss watching football because it would be on at three in the morning,” Pledge said.

Pledge described his stay in South Korea to be “an adventure.”

“I got to live in a different country. I got to go Japan and China when I was there. If I was frustrated with work or tired I could just look around and see the neon lights on the street,” Pledge said. “You are here, enjoy this. That’s another cool thing, nothing closes. You could get coffee or get food at three in the morning. Going out and being social is a pretty big thing about their culture,” Pledge misses his time in the foreign country.

“I wish I could go back. My wife goes back once a year, twice if she’s lucky. It’s expensive, so we don’t do it. I would think I would go back, but we have our roots here so it would be hard to do that,” Pledge’s everyday life continues to be affected because of his extensive stay in South Korea.

“The most obvious effect is that my family is Korean and I celebrate some Korean traditions, speak Korean at home, and get to visit Seoul every few years. It also has given me a unique perspective on many issues, influenced my opinion on international relations, and made me more culturally aware. It also encouraged me to get my Master’s degree in English for speakers of other languages,” Pledge remains “a fan” of the country and says that he believes Korea has a lot to offer.

South Korea

Seoul

Mr. Pledge holds up a scarf for the Samsung Lions, a Korean baseball team.

Photo by Kamryn Marshall

october 15

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AGAINST THe CLOCK Can you escape Room 13?

"Epic" Staff members colette Balas, sami jansen and lexi hart try One of kansas city's hottest new attractions, Breakout KC.

Y

ou wake up confused in a strange shabby hotel room.

Crumbling bricks line two of the walls and dust covers the floor. Furniture falling apart; dim lighting; key pads on the walls. This is the one of the multiple room settings available at Breakout KC. Breakout KC is a live escape room game where you have an hour to break out of the room. Each game can consist of two to eight players and in a public game, your group could be partnered with anyone . Your game is controlled by an employee who watches and monitors your game with several cameras located throughout the room. There is a monitor in the corner of the of the room that shows your time and allows the employee to provide hints and clues. There are three free clues that don’t add any time to your

26

score, but every clue you ask for after those three add three minutes to your overall escape time.

Room 13 is an exciting adventure that tests both your patience and problem solving skills. Although it may not be evident at first, there is a story line within each escape room. The room includes many combination locks, some with numbers and some with letters.

Each combination is hidden throughout the room and it is up to you and your team to work together to match the combination to the lock.

The minds behind Breakout KC have developed a design plan that may include secret passages into different rooms that can be discovered throughout game play.

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Although we were somewhat skeptical about being partnered up total strangers, our experience was positive. Our team quickly learned to work together as we tore apart Room 13 in search for the next clue. Some clues were hidden in plain sight while others took several steps to reveal the true meaning.

What started out as a confusing challenge turned into a complex storyline when a DVD was discovered describing the true predicament. The DVD revealed that the room was not just a simple hotel room, someone had locked us in the room and “they come for us every hour�.

Breakout KC is a new and exhilarating experience for people who like a challenge. Although some people, especially young children, may struggle with the challenge, with a little help and encouragement, anyone can complete and enjoy the game.

Want to learn more or sign up for an attempt? visit: http://breakoutkc.com for more information.

Four Different Rooms.

Four Different Breakout experiences.

A casino themed room filled with slot machines. two to eight players 28% success rate

River Quay Casino A room filled with Asian influences. Paper lanterns fill the room. two to eight players 24% success rate

Szechuan Secret The classic. A old hotel room with a few secrets. two to eight players 34% success rate

Room 13 Extra!

The toughest room at Breakout KC. do you think you can do it? two to eight players 18% success rate

The truman room October 15

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Sports

“W” Is For West The Royals’ “W” man has a special connection to West.

By Adam Rellihan The man, the myth, the legend…

KayCee. He’s come to be known and loved. He’s arguably the face of Kansas City. Most know him as the “W Guy”, but little know that he’s a Viking too.

KayCee, or his real name, Dave Webster, is the father of two former Vikings.

His oldest, Kurt, now teaches and coaches here at West. Webster is also the official scorekeeper for the West baseball team. He has done it since his sons were in school and has ever since. He is the second official scorekeeper in the team’s history.

Webster has worked for the Royals since 2009, when the Hall of Fame was added out in left field. He started out as a Kansas City baseball historian and would tell visitors about earlier KC teams. This eventually developed into the KayCee character, when he would wear authentic replicas of old uniforms.

As the Royals continued to improve each year, Webster thought that there should be something special done after home wins, to get the fans more involved.

The placing of the ‘W’ on top of the Hall of Fame was an idea of his own. When he was told he could try out the idea, he found an old sign at the ballpark and went to work. He took it home, cut it out in his kitchen and spray painted it in his garage.

“The first ‘W’ was very crude,” Webster said At the second home game of the 2014 season, Webster went out with his homemade ‘W’ a thus, KayCee was born.

“That first time I put it up, people did notice to my surprise, and the popularity of KayCee and the ‘W’ exploded,” Webster added.

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Since his debut, KayCee has put up the ‘W’ after every home win, including the entire 2014 World Series run. He is scheduled to celebrate his 500th straight game during May of the 2016 season. Whether he’s hoisting up the ‘W’ in front a sold out, 40,000 person crowd at Kauffman Stadium during the World Series or a “small” crowd of 20,000 on a Tuesday night, Webster always has fun with it.

“I am always a little nervous and a lot excited every time I walk out on the roof to put up the ‘W’. It never ever gets old,” Webster said.

The Royals’ popularity has skyrocketed this past season and with it, KayCee’s too.

He’s become a Kansas City celebrity. He takes pictures with fans and signs autographs. He’s stopped in public by random people. Children have showed up to games dressed up as him. With those chops and the cleanly waxed mustache, he can’t help

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but be recognized. He’s even been featured in the Kansas City Star. Safe to say, this little promotional stunt worked.

It was recently released that the Royals had the best TV ratings in baseball for the 2015 season. KayCee is a large reason why. He is what the fans want to see after a win. They look forward to it just as much as the classic Salvy gatorade bath. Webster received a 2014 ALCS Championship ring; and why not? He’s part of the team.

He’s helped bring life back to Kansas City.

This city thrives on it’s professional sports teams and will for years to come, thanks to great people like Webster.

After every home win Webster brings the ‘W’ out on top of the Hall of Fame in left field at Kauffman Stadium.

Photo courtesy of (CC) Tyler Thompson

Issue 2

Students and teachers both find fun in virtual football leagues.

By Drake Mattis

Playing Pretend

“Epic” Staff Fantasy Football Star Players Photos Courtesy of:(CC) Jeffrey Beall and Thomson20192

Larry Fitzgerald, WR Drake Mattis, Sports Editor

Odell Beckham Jr, WR Logan Peterson, A&E Editor

Julio Jones, WR

Max Meyer, Editor-in Chief

October 15

The immensely popular online game known as fantasy football has increased annually since its online debut on cbssports. com in 1997. For some, the purpose and understanding of it is complex and complicated. Fantasy football is an online game where players manage teams of NFL players, from various NFL teams, and they earn points based on their on-field statistics.

In recent years, fantasy football has made a huge economic impact. Websites such as draftkings.com have made gambling a possibility to add to the fun of the game. Betting is also common when concerning which NFL teams will win in the certain week, which fantasy team will win, and which players will stand out in their fantasy statistics.

Typically, leagues of friends or strangers are grouped together. Before the season begins, NFL players are drafted to the teams, either live or automatically. Then, owners set their lineups week by week and compete head-to-head against other teams.

Many students and teachers play fantasy football, including junior Jay Hawkins and business teacher Kelly Kaczmarczyk.

“I started playing in 2nd grade with a group of players on my football team,” Hawkins said. “And I’ve played every year since.”

The fantasy football season is set up in a way common to the NFL schedule, there are usually 13 or 14 weeks in the regular season, then a few rounds of playoffs.

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“In 2012 I won the league championship, and the loot,” Hawkins said.

Sometimes, all of the players in a league will enter money into a pot and whoever wins the championship collects the pool of money.

“The way we do it in our league, which is my family, we all put in $40 at the beginning of the season and each week, whoever scores the most points earns $5, and at the end of the season, whatever is left in the pot is distributed to the first, second, and third place finishers,” Kaczmarczyk said.

In Kaczmarczyk’s league, there are ten teams, so the stakes are high and it encourages the owners to continue to put in effort throughout the season.

Fantasy football can be an escape from work or school, but it can be time consuming as well.

“Sometimes I can probably spend up to two or three hours a week just managing my team, making trades, picking up free agents and setting my lineup,” Hawkins said.

Being a player of fantasy football can not only be time consuming when actually on the internet but on Sundays as well, when most NFL teams are in action and owners need to be keeping track of their own players to see how they have been doing, watching for injuries and seeing if the certain player should start or sit on the bench the next week.

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By

Ta ke

a

lo

.

ok

at s Ca Co om m le p e o b il f W ed W al b es ke y t’ r a Ke s p nd vin re v Br B io o ev o us in ke fo Tu r. otb al rn ls er ta . ts

FO O Th T ro BA LL w ba c k Photo by Jenna Wilson.

Coach Tim Callaghan’s All-Time Win/Loss Record Against All other opponents

36 30

Opponent Blue Valley Blue Valley North BV Northwest Blue Valley West Hutchinson Lawrence Free State Leavenworth Olathe East Olathe North Olathe Northwest Olathe South SM East SM North SM Northwest SM South

Totals

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Game Win W-L Count % 0-1

1

.000

3-1

4

.750

3-4

7

.428

0-1

1

.000

1-1

2

.500

8-1

9

.888

8-5

13

.615

8-1

9

.888

4-5

9

.444

3-4

7

.428

5-1

6

.833

4-1

5

.800

9-2

11

.818

9-1

10

.900

8-4

12

.666

10-0

10

1.000

84-33

115

.754

issue 21

7 100

He would be the

more wins needed for Coach Callaghan’s

th

W football coach in the entire history of SMSD to do so.

career win.

In West’s past

13 9

4

th

season openers,

have been viking victories.

West has made

2

STATE

Appearances

in the past decade.

With Callaghan as coach the football team has

Never

lost to the Shawnee Mission South team.

September 17 October 15

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3137

We talkin’ Bout PRactice?

Every athlete should cherish the times they practice.

An Opinion By Adam Rellihan “I really don’t want to go to practice today.”

If you’re an athlete, you’ve said this once, twice… hundreds of times. You’ve probably also heard the old saying that you should, “play like it’s your last, because you never know when it will all be taken away.” As cliche as you think it may sound, it couldn’t be further from the truth.

As an athlete, I’ve seen it first hand. Along with personal experiences, I have seen countless friends and teammates find themselves on the sidelines.

There are many different reasons why this may happen, but the number one cause has to be injury. You see those players year after year that struggle with injury, but you simply turn your head the other way.

You can only know the pain when you live it.

Being hurt sucks. We can all agree on that. It’s a feeling of helplessness. Whether you’re watching your teammates win or lose, it’s never the same. Injury is a cruel reality and it eventually catches up with everyone. It can be minor, or it can be major. One week to season ending to months of rehab; it is physically and mentally taxing. Those kids would give anything just to be out at practice with you.

Going to practice every day becomes routine and sometimes you’re just a zombie out there. Going through the

32

motions can become regular and it is oh so tempting to peek at the clock and figure out exactly how long you have until you can get the heck out of there. This isn’t fair to you and it isn’t fair to your coaches who spend countless hours with you, trying to push you to be the best you can be.

Have fun at practice because whether you like it or not, it’s one long countdown.

You only have so many left.

No matter how far you go, it can always be cut short and at some point, it will all be gone.

These are times with your friends that you will never get back. You will talk about it for years to come. Don’t be the one that looks back and has regrets. Coulda… Shoulda...

Woulda. Words you don’t want to be saying to yourself. You want to look back and be proud of what you did. You can be the star athlete that gets all the recognition or someone that is just grateful to be on the team.

No matter your role, you will want to know that you gave it your all.

So leave everything you’ve got out on that field, court, mat, track, course, pool, or wherever else it is that you play. Go to that Monday practice with the utmost enthusiasm. High five that teammate for doing something right. Listen and learn from that coach that is trying to teach you. Play for those who can’t. Above all, just

have a blast. Sports are meant to be fun.

And remember that you signed up for this. You signed up for the grueling workouts.

You signed up for the sore joints and achy body parts. You signed up to be up late doing homework, when all you want is food and sleep. You wouldn’t do it if you didn’t love it.

You’ve put in too much time and effort to waste what you have left.

Think back from the first time you put a uniform on up to now. Time has flown by hasn’t it? You may not have known it, but when your parents helped you lace up your shoes and dragged you out to

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those games where you didn’t know half of what was going on, you were falling in love.

Now you’re in high school and you’re going to lose your drive right before the finish line? No. You’ve got no time to lose.

High school might be as far as you get. So treasure those high fives and cheers because someday it’ll be gone. For some sooner than others. Find a way to leave your mark with the time you’ve got left.

“Man, I can’t wait to go to practice today!”

Football players warm-up before practice.

Photo By Merani Rivarola

Issue 2

Conflix revolution An Overview of the History of Netflix

By Sylvia Bryan

1997: Netflix is cofounded

by Reed Hastings and Marc Randolph.

February 2012: “Lilyhammer” is streamed exclusively in North America on Netflix

February 2013: Emmy-Award winning show “House of Cards” premieres

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May 2013: Netflix’s revival of former “FOX” sictom, “Arrested Development,” premieres

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July 2013: Fan favorite, “Orange is the New Black,” premieres

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August 2015: Netflix’s newest original drama, “Narcos,” premieres

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Life on mars

A Film Review by Logan Peterson

Matt Damon has a way of using a wry smile and a wiseass sensibility to his advantage.

It doesn’t matter the film or the role; he has a magnetic connection with the audience that may be helped by his good looks, but is really his natural talent and charisma.

In “The Martian,” Damon plays astronaut Mark Watney, who is left behind by his research team on Mars after a severe storm hits, unexpectedly. Using his botanist skills and tech savvy, he must find a way to both survive on the desolate planet, while also trying to contact NASA on Earth.

By all accounts, this film from start to finish, is engrossing, suspenseful, and very, very funny. The incredible script penned by Drew Goddard (Cloverfield) blends the analytical intelligence of aeronautics, and gut-busting humor that is right in Matt Damon’s wheelhouse.

This film, as you might guess, belongs to Damon. He commands the screen with his dry wit and endearing spirit. His best moments include personal video logs filled with all kinds of little sarcastic jabs.

Little things like proclaiming, “In your face Neil Armstrong!” and dancing to

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“Hot Stuff” by Donna Summer. It’s almost as if Watney is consistently breaking the fourth wall, having a laugh with the audience at his expense.

As the film progresses, we get a look at things back on Earth, as director of NASA Teddy Sanders (Jeff Daniels) wades through hounding by the media, as he declares the “tragic death” of Watney.

But, when NASA mission director Vincent Kapoor (Chiwetel Ejiofor) discovers aerial photos proving Watney’s survival, they spring into immediate action, launching a full scale plan to try and get Mark home.

This creates an incredible dynamic between Mars and Earth. Going back and forth never seemed tiresome; it was a fluid match.

The passing days, known as Sols on Mars, see Watney go about his everyday life, equal parts struggling and thriving.

The overall passing of time is steady and natural, flowing as smooth as a raft on a river (or a rover on Mars).

Of course, what is a great film without a captain at the helm to lead the ship?

Director Ridley Scott seemingly released this film, quietly and hesitantly, so as not to disturb critics-like myself. But, he needn’t worry.

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Scott returns to his science fiction roots effortlessly. Filming in the beautiful red sand desert of Wadi Rum, Jordan, each wide shot of the breathtaking landscape truly exemplifies Watney’s isolation. After several years of making less than great films, Scott finally brings together all of the best elements of his previous work, including an engaging narrative and amazing visual effects.

“The Martian” is truly an achievement in the science fiction genre; it is one of the first of it’s kind to successfully blend silly humor, with gripping human emotional and the obvious visual effects.

Goddard’s screenplay creates an almost relaxed atmosphere in the midst of constant tragedy. He eases through humor and seriousness incredibly well throughout, and I’m sure the success of this film will give him even more creative freedom through the rest of his career.

Damon is amazing and deserving of an Academy Award nomination, and we finally have Ridley Scott returned to his former self. “The Martian” is one of the year’s best.

Grade: A-

Issue 2

Death and all his friends A Film Review by Logan Peterson

One of the most substantial issues facing America today is the subject of the film, “Sicario.”

The subject of the film is the constant and ferocious battle between the US federal government and Mexican drug cartels.

Specifically, the film tells the story of an idealistic FBI agent named Kate Mercer (Emily Blunt), who is enlisted by an elected government task force to aid in the escalating war against drugs at the border area between the U.S. and Mexico.

Aided by CIA agent Matt Graver (Josh Brolin), and a mysterious covert agent named Alejandro (Benicio Del Toro), she discovers the ways they are going about dismantling these cartels may be not be so ethical.

Director Denis Villeneuve delivers yet another taut thriller, that oozes with constant tension. He never rushes through the story; he lets it slowly unfold, meticulously peeling back the layers. He’s thoroughly improved his craft since his underrated 2013 film, “Prisoners.”

The most shocking aspect of the film is Villeneuve’s portrayal of the border town of Juarez. He holds nothing back, displaying many horrific situations. The scenes were proof that while many Americans are aware of Juarez’s conditions, no one could have predicted just how dire the circum-

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stances were.

The film is driven full-heartedly by its complex characters, including and especially Blunt’s character, Mercer. She is one of a few strong female characters to be portrayed on screen this year, so far.

She is driven by an altercation in the beginning of the film, when she is involved in what is supposed to be a hostage situation, but ends up becoming a discovery of over 40 bodies harbored within a drug house in Chandler, Arizona.

Blunt’s performance exemplifies the harsh realities of America’s current war on drugs, and the the line that obscures what is right and wrong. It’s a gripping performance filled with paranoia; as her moral compass is tested throughout the film, the audience is simultaneously left with hard questions that they themselves must answer.

This is what makes “Sicario” one of the most important films of the last decade. Villeneuve asks questions that are difficult to answer-questions that question the morality of law enforcement in America. How far is too far, when it comes to the safety of the American people?

Villeneuve has been accused of having a right-wing agenda, some even saying the film is like a campaign ad for Donald Trump, but this couldn’t be further from

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the truth. The motives of the director lie within the moral ambiguities, and the idea of choice. He leaves it up to the audience to make their own decisions, and whether or not extralegal action should be taken when dealing with the cartels.

While I consider Blunt’s performance to be the best of the film, she is often overshadowed by Benicio Del Toro as the enigmatic Alejandro. His character’s motives are always an absolute mystery up until the bitter end. While Del Toro is transfixing, his presence in the film often rises above the central plot, almost creating a new plot altogether.

Aesthetically, the film is breathtaking, with incredible cinematography from Roger Deakins, the god of film photography. Several sweeping aerial shots create a sense of enormity, leading up to shots right in the middle of the action, one of which is an extremely well shot scene featuring an intense highway showdown.

“Sicario” will go down as one of the most important films of the 21st century; a film that tested the boundaries of morality and political astuteness. This is one of the best films of the year, and frankly, a landmark of cinema history.

Grade: A-

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Drake Mattis’ Review of Iron & Wine and Ben Bridwell’s “Sing Into My Mouth” Beam’s signature susurrus resonance is not completely absent in this album, but it definitely contains much more boom and influence than I have heard from his previous work. Something else that I noticed while listening to this album was that Bridwell and Beam have similar vocal tones, and it can sometimes be confusing who is singing the verses and who is doing the background harmonizing.

Iron & Wine has used a variety of instruments over the years, and specifically the fiddle is quite evident in this particular album, and I admire the use of it because it puts a nice unique twist to the songs that Beam and Bridwell were doing covers of.

Iron & Wine is also known for the song “Such Great Heights,” which was debuted on the soundtrack for Zach Braff’s “Garden State,” which was a film that was also released in 2004 along with Beam’s breakout album.

Overall, Sing Into My Mouth was a very enjoyable listen.

I recommend it to any indie-folk fans who have an open mind going into it. It had a one and done effect on me however, and I feel like “been there, done that” when attempting to listen to it a second time.

Grade: C+

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Sing Into My Mouth is an album of covers by Iron & Wine and Ben Bridwell of the music group Band of Horses that was released on July 17 in the United States. The namesake for the album comes from a Talking Heads lyric from the song “This Must Be the Place,” which is also featured on the album. Iron & Wine is one guy, Sam Beam, and him and Bridwell have been friends for 15 years, since they met in their home state of South Carolina, though this album was their first collaboration.

This album consists of 12 songs that collectively last about 45 minutes. The album sequences as a nice flow of upbeat folk songs that I will reiterate, are not original. All of the songs on the album are covers of previously written songs, they are just folk versions in this album.

Iron & Wine has been around for a long time, as Beam began making music in the late 90s to early 2000s. Though he is not too terribly well known, Iron & Wine is most notoriously known for his album Our Endless Numbered Days which came out in 2004.

Age is prevalent in Sing Into My Mouth, and Beam’s style of vocals has changed somewhat drastically over the years. Iron & Wine had always been known for his whispering, sough tone. In this new album, Beam is heard vocalizing with a more powerful, compelling voice, something that I like as a fan of his.

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issue 1

Issue 8 issue 2

Double Take

r

Nick Vance, Senio

Donald Trump

H T -OR- N X T

You sent us what you thought was #hot and what was #not. Here is what you said.

@nicolettecallag

@tfoss5 SMW Student Section #HOT @QueenTamitha the weather finally getting colder... #HOT @jcompton10 our Orchestra #HOT

october 15

New security system #NOT @GreciaC same minute bell music as last year #NOT @addie_arner when you think senior year is going to be easy and its not #NOT

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West in pictures 2.

1.

3.

5.

4.

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issue 2

8.

6.

9.

7.

1. Homecoming king Ted Clayton kisses Homecoming queen Kristin Wells on the cheek. (Grace Armenta) 2. Junior Camryn Blanton prepares to serve the volleyball. (Emma Arnold).

3. Senior Nick Vance yells to the crowd during the Homecoming pep rally (Rian Stallbaumer).

4.Junior Evan Bigler blows into his didgeridoo during a football game. (Kenna Swihart).

5. Victor Viking looks onward as the football game is being played.

(Maddie Milazzo).

6. Junior Christian Peak directs the band. (Jenna Wilson) 7. Sophomore Jack Gartner runs during his cross country race. (Kenna Swihart) 8. Band members are in line to perform. (Jenna Wilson) 9. Punter Josh Compton punts the football. (Caleb Vering)

October 15

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BackPAge

By Alex Ralston

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