Titan Scroll www.lswestonline.com
Friday, Mar. 4, 2011 Volume VII, Edition 7
Spring Sports Preview
What to do on Spring Break Meet Dr. Sharp
Lee’s Summit West High School 2600 SW Ward Road Lee’s Summit, MO 64082
Titan Scroll Staff 2010-2011 Editor in Chief Jenna Keeble
Photographers Maddy Arsenault Aaron Brower Graphics Design Nicole Conniff Manager Sam Conrad Hayley Brower Kailee Emma Nathan Foster Photography Kathryn Hilger Editor Justin Hunley Martin Steele Morgan Johnson Judd Kirn Copy Editor Kylie Lanning Sydnee Owens Jean Madison Katie Maloney A&E Editor Ryan Miller Katey Stoetzel Alex Palmer Steve Rhodes Advertising Bailey Romi Manager Meagan Shanahan Brooke Admire Connor Staponski Michelle Stout Web Manager Ariel Thompson Anna Hunter Distribution Manager Jed Manaco Staff Artist Alex Katzfey
Titan Scroll
Friday, Mar. 4, 2011
Page Designers Merrilee Boughan Eric Dedovesh Jesse Eiskina Joey Franke Gabby Hayden Nate Mitchell Rachel Paddock Ben Poeschl Brooks Rast Writers Nikki Andriano Lindsey Bingham Meg Britton-Mehliseh Andy Evans Annie Greenwell Claudia Guthrie Tiffany Jenkins Taylor Jensen Tristan Owen Derec Owens Riley Manning Carlie Nash Meg Peterson Anna Poudel Haley Roach Katey Stoetzel Anna Schafer
Adviser Carol Ullery Business Adviser Karrie Smythia
The Titan Scroll is a student publication of Lee’s Summit West High School. It welcomes all letters to the editor, but reserves the right to edit for libel and for space. No unsigned letters will be printed. Letters may be dropped off in Room 2048 or mailed to 2600 SW Ward Road, Lee’s Summit, MO 64082. Volume 7 of the Scroll is published 10 times during the 2010-2011 school year. The opinions contained do not in any way represent the Lee’s Summit West faculty, administration or the R-7 school district administration or school board.
Volume VII, Issue 7
On the Cover Lee’s Summit West Titans anticipate Spring Break. Illistration by Alex Katzfey.
News Meet. Dr Sharp Budget Cuts
SS S
pg. 3 pg. 7
Opinion Staff Editorial Health Freak
pg. 8 pg. 9
Feature Two Job Teachers Spring Break: What to do
pg. 10 pg. 12
Arts&Entertainment Concert Match-Up “Never Say Never”
pg. 18 pg. 19
Sports The Benefactor pg. 28 Spring Sports Preview pg. 30-31
2 •News•Opinion • Feature • Arts & Entertainment • Sports •
Titan Scroll
Dr. Sharp to take the reins Tiffany Jenkins
The current director of Summit Technology Academy, Dr. David Sharp, is the new principal on the horizon for West. Sharp worked as the assistant principal at West in 2006 and 2007, and following his four year tenure at STA he will return as the man in charge next year. “I’m very excited for him to come back to the West family, I think he’ll do a good job, and maybe bring us closer together as a staff,” said Science teacher Mark Lutman. Before West, Sharp was an assistant principal at Fort Osage for four years, as well as William Chrisman for three years. Then he became principal at Summit Tech, and has been for the past four years. Prior to becoming a principal, he spent time in the U.S. Army as a combat solider/M1A1 Tank Gunner. Sharp, who was born and raised in Chicago, has three children as well; twin 15-year olds, a boy and a girl, and a seven year old daughter. Sharp played various sports throughout high school and college including football and track. He also played semi-pro football for two seasons after college. He still participates in sports and plays for the Kansas City Amateur Baseball Association. Sharp said he is excited to come back to West, “I’m
Mar. 4, 2011
Sharp will take West to the next level. “If Dr. Sharp is in charge, change will be in a positive direction,” Bateman said, “I think there will be changes but not in effect from Dr. Sharp, teachers and the tax levy will inspire most changes.” “Once I take over, I want people to view Lee’s Summit West as a great environment to learn with comprehensive and challenging academic, athletic, and cocurricular programs that appeal to all Dr. David Sharp will be principal at West next year following the retirment of Dr. Cindy Bateman in of our students. I June. new principal. Photos by Steve Rhodes. want each student to feel safe, loved, looking forward to working with celebrated and we the students and staff. I’ve never will work hard to design our eduheard any negatives about West,” cational program to develop each he said. student to develop his or her “Dr. Sharp will be good for maximum learning potential,” West, he is all about kids, he said Sharp. knows the schools’ culture, and When it comes to the budget he knows we hold high expecta- cuts, Sharp said he believes that tions, both in the classrooms and he has things covered, “We are in the extracurriculars,” said going to be a fiscal steward of Bateman. the people’s money and we will “I believe that I’ll have a pro- evaluate every program to enfound impact on the social, emo- sure minimal negative student tional, intellectual, well-being of impact,” he said. each student at West. My goal Upon taking his new position, is to become a nationally rec- Sharp said that he wants to “make ognized and celebrated profes- Lee’s Summit West a nationally sional learning community,” said recognized blue ribbon school. Sharp. When the school of choice comes New leadership means about, I want Lee’s Summit West changes, but Bateman to be that school.” said she believes “I plan to continue the outthat West will standing success of West, and get be in good to know the students and staff as h a n d s , well,” said Sharp. a n d “It will be difficult to hand t h a t West over, but less difficult to hand it over to Dr. Sharp,” said.
•News•Opinion • Feature • Arts&Entertainment • Sports • 3
L.A. calls for Lee’s Summit Meg Peterson Members of the choir, band, and orchestra plan to show off what they have been working so hard on this year in Los Angeles, California this Spring Break. Members from Concert Choral, Women’s Choir, Symphonic Band and Full Symphonic and Concert Orchestra are able to attend, although not every student is obligated to participate. Juniors Whitney Harper, Zach Carter, Alison Nill and Jacky Muller are a few of the students planning to attend. In order to help pay for the $1,200 cost of the trip, the music department held many different fundraisers including: selling Christmas wreaths, cookie dough, candy bars, coffee, Taste of Lee’s Summit Auction, and working certain events . “We have been fundraising for over a year and a half,” said Orchestra Director Kirt Mosier. While in L.A. the group will perform at several places including: Pepperdine Stadium, Disneyland, Disney’s Concert Hall, and Universal Studios. The orchestra will work with the Disney recording studio. “The students [that are] a part of choir and orchestra will play at Bardum Hall. We will also play at Disneyland and record a soundtrack to a movie and then the kids will get a DVD copy of them playing music as the movie goes on,” said Mosier. Not only is the trip focused on improving musical talent, but they will also be having a lot of fun. Shopping, going to the beach, Disneyland, and going out to eat are also included on the agenda. “I am really looking forward to performing at Disneyland and Pepperdine Stadium, it will be a great experience and I am hoping to learn a lot,”
said Muller. “Going to L.A will give me the opportunity to see a new part of the United States and while doing so I’ll get to spend time with all of my friends,” said Muller. Muller is a foreign exchange student and part of Women’s Choir. Nill said, “The thing that I am looking forward to the most is performing at Pepperdine Stadium; getting to see the campus will be really cool and a great experience.” These four students think very highly of their teachers, as they are the main reason for all of their success. “Mr. Mosier has really pushed me because there have been times where if it wasn’t for him I would of quit. He makes music enjoyable and has helped me realize it was something that I could do just for myself,” said Harper. Harper is involved in Concert Choir, Una Voce, and Symphonic Orchestra. “Mrs. Krinke has helped me grow as a Choral Musician and has allowed for me to have a lot of experience with different West students have been working hard to do well at types of music,” said Harper. Nill said, “Mr. Thurmond is always there the LA performance. Photos by Katie Maloney so you can always ask him questions. He “After going on trips like these, the kids come is very good at making sure everyone is together as a more Titan family and the tighter succeeding.” Nill is involved in Symphonic Band. “Mr. Thurmond is a very good motivator and the students are the better they play and the betmakes sure we all stay on top of our practicing,” ter music they make,” said Mosier. said Carter. Carter is involved in Symphonic Band, “Going on trips like these really helps our music department out as a whole. We all become much and Symphonic Orchestra. Each said that they are expecting huge success closer and our music always sounds 100 times better,” said Harper. from the trip.
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FCCLA prepares for State Star Events
Anna Poudel Nine FCCLA members have qualified to attend the State Star Events, on Mar. 27-29 in Columbia, MO. “There are 40 events that they can choose from,” said FCCLA advisor Brenda Dumler, “They do a project, they write it up and then share the results with the judges.” Qualifying students won first place in their events at the regional level, which qualified them for State. These students are Senior Nikki Justice for Fashion Design; Senior Katy Ehrhard in Fashion Construc-
tion; Seniors Allison Behm and Eliz- she created. This year, her project pretty confident some will go on to abeth Spurny for Chapter Showcase; centers around a trench coat, which Nationals.” Senior Kelsey Connelly and Juniors she has been working on since Sep- FCCLA has been to Nationals Caitlin Lovelace and Kaitlyn Geiger tember. only once before. “Last year Katy on the Culinary Team; Sophomore Geiger competes on the Culinary Ehrhard went to Nationals and she Sara Mather for Career Investiga- Team, which is new to West this was the first one ever to make it,” tion; and Freshman Bianca David- year. Geiger said, “We’re all pretty said Dumler. Nationals are scheduled for July son for her Nutrition and Wellness confident,” about going to State. Freshman Courtney Rosencrants 10-14 in Anaheim, California. Project. FCCLA stands for Family, Career agreed with Geiger; she said, “We’re and Community Leaders of America. The members compete in events ranging from Interior Design to Budget Planning. “In Focus on Children, they went to an elementary school and taught a lesson. Then they made a poster and did a 15-minute presentation on it,” said Dumler. Behm and Spurny entered a scrapbook of everything FCCLA has done in the 2010-2011 school year and gave a 10-minute speech on it. FACS teacher Ellen Plemons, Kaitlyn Geiger, Kelsey Connelly, Caitlin Lovelace and Ehrhard won second place at Brenda Dumler prepare for State Star Events after winning Regionals. Photo courtesy of Nationals last year for the dress Brenda Dumler.
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•News•Opinion • Feature • Arts&Entertainment • Sports • 5
Thirty DECA students qualify for State Anna Poudel Thirty DECA students qualified at the District Competition on Feb. 10 to go on to the State Competition on Mar. 13-15. Seniors Brett Burns, Paul Walkup, Ben Poeschl, Tim Nathan, Garret Winchel, Alec Jackson, Katie Douglas, Shelby Summerville, Emily Sharp, Hai Kim, Akunna Ofodu, Elizabeth Spurney, Elise Brummet, Payton Chamberlain, Josh Ploegger, Kendall Kapperman, Alex Johnson, Josh Jackman, Meg Sieber, Brittany Shouse, Natasha Shore, and Jessica McLoed; Juniors Kylie Lanning, Dalton Cornell, Stephanie Krogh, Brooks Brewer, Mason Fuller, Trent Miller, and Sophomores Bailey Sharp
and Zach Swinford each qualified. DECA is West’s business and marketing club. West has 110 student members. They participate in any of 44 different events. What they do at competitions depends on their events. “I have some students who do a presentation, some take tests or do series events where they take a test and then do two role-plays. Some compete in team decision-making, where they take a test and then do one bigger role-play,” said DECA advisor Terri Keith. Role-plays are when students are given a scenario pertaining to their event and they have to play the part of a customer or entrepreneur or employee, etc. Examples of scenarios could be car-buying or selling or de-
tried to solve it.” ciding what to stock in a store. Kim researched Worlds of Fun Following State, Nationals will with Brewer for their event of Sports take place Apr. 29-May 4 in Orlanand Entertainment Research. “We do, Florida. Due to Prom scheduled wanted to create a Facebook and for Apr. 30, some of the students in Twitter,” said Kim. Their project cen- DECA will not take their place at Natered around what Worlds of Fun tionals, should they qualify. could do with a Facebook and Twitter account. “My event was Apparel and Accessories Marketing,” said Sharp. “I took a test and a store was having a A team prepares themselves by studying a situation to get ready problem so I for competition. Photo by Megan Shanahan
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Titan Scroll
The after effects of the levy: what happens now Sydnee Owens The infamous budget cuts due to the levy failure are becoming reality as the first cuts were announced at the Lee’s Summit School District Board Meeting last week. The cuts include the elimination of two health clerk positions, abolishing the elementary summer library program and reducing the Parents as Teachers Program. However, what caused an uproar from parents and students is what is to come. Starting next school year, there will be a $50 per student ($200 per family annual maximum) fee for athletics and music activities. “I feel the very worst for the student who because of family finances or financial pressure at home might look at it as not getting to participate, that’s bothersome to me,” said Principal Dr. Cindy Bateman. “I know we’re one of the last school districts to go to that,” said Activities Director Debbie Katzfey. Most of them already have activity fees.” Some students said the pay to play installment would not affect their decision to play sports next year. “It’s stupid, but I’ll probably still play next year because I like playing for the school,” said Freshman Megan Bowman. “It’s not really that much of a fee,” said Junior Myles Cheadle. “We end up paying that anyway for spirit wear
Mar. 4, 2011
and sweat suits for track.” “Some people might get mad and not want to pay it,” said Freshman Turner Henderson. “If there’s someone really good that either can’t pay for it or doesn’t want to pay for it, then yeah it will effect the success of the team.” The elimination of some coaching positions will also take place, those were decided this week. “No one likes what’s happening, but the less the kids feel it the better,” said Boys and Girls Head Swim Coach Colleen Gibler. Gibler said she decided to resign from one of the swim teams next year. “For me, working head coach of two seasons all year while teaching IB, I’ve found I’m stretching myself too thin,” said Gibler. Gibler’s resignation may avoid elimination of assistant swim coaches’ positions. “Even if they did decide to cut staff, my resignation would take care of that. They wouldn’t have to cut anyone else,” said Gibler. It hasn’t been decided whether Gibler will leave girls swimming or boys swimming, she said she does not want to have to pick. But as of now it appears she will probably give up girls. “Right now I have more assistants for girls than I do for boys so it would make sense that I would give up girls rather than boys,” said Gibler.
According to Gibler, the only effect for swimmers with less coaches next year is the size of the roster. “A couple years ago we had 90 girls come out for the swim team, we’ll never be able to do that again. We’ll never be able to hire enough staff to take care of that so there will be cuts,” said Gibler. “I would say we probably couldn’t go more than 30-35 on a team next year.” Sports are not the only ones taking a hit. There may be some tension in the classroom too as teachers await the announcement of the elimination of some positions. “Nobody wants to lose a friend or lose a teacher in their department,” said Katzfey. “Everybody’s nervous, the unknown is always scary.” Teachers and staff are also frustrated about the changes that will take place in the classroom next year. “Will they see less resource base? The answer is probably. Will class sizes go up? Yes,” said Bateman. But Bateman is confident that the faculty will do what they do best, despite the circumstances. “Educators are here to work with kids. They’re passionate about teaching kids. I think that will happen with exceptional results,” said Bateman. The question some asked following the levy vote was why? Why did the community vote no? “I would have thought that the
community would have passed the levy, and they didn’t,” said Bateman. “But I believe the community supports Lee’s Summit West and I believe they will continue to hold high standards.” “This is not a vote against the school district,” said Bateman. “It’s a request that we look at how we spend money. However, at the level of current levy and current state funding and the programs we have in the school district, we have a gap. And that gap was to be filled by an 89 cent levy, and it wasn’t,” she said. Despite the changes that are currently taking place and the changes that are to come within the next few months, Bateman and Katzfey keep a positive outlook. “I don’t think we will falter in having our students be successful. Whether that’s academically, athletically, or in extra curricular activities,” said Bateman. “Things are going to get tough before they get better, but I think we’ll rise to the occasion, I know we’re going to be okay and we’ll make it through,” said Katzfey. According to Gibler, it is extremely important to make sure the kids are not affected too much. “For those of us who are old and have been doing this [teaching/ coaching] for years and years, a couple of rough years is nothing, but for you guys, these are your only years in high school,” she said.
•News•Opinion • Feature • Arts&Entertainment • Sports • 7
Staff Editorial: Go green or go home!
Jenna Keeble As springtime finally draws near, the first things that come to mind are stepping outside and taking that first big breath of clean, crisp air, the pleasure and warmth of the sunshine and the beauty and vivid coloring of budding flowers. Most don’t take the time to realize however, that each one of these luxuries is a natural gift from Mother Nature, and a very fragile gift at that. With each passing year, human civilization damages a small fraction of the Earth’s natural resources, and over time, these small amounts begin to add up. Too many people take advantage of the world around them and mostly without even realizing how much damage their actions cause. Today, the most common way
Americans dispose of trash is by placing it at the end of their driveway for the trashman to pick up and be hauled off to a landfill. Most don’t ever think twice about this typical, weekly ritual. However, what many don’t realize is that nearly 70 percent of all garbage is put into
landfills and of this amount, nearly 80 percent of the waste could have been recycled! Along with this pollution, air pollution becomes more of an issue with each passing day. With the constant raise in gas prices, hybrid cars seem to be a cheaper and more beneficial option. Every year, thousands of animals are illegally killed mainly for purposes of pleasure, or to sell pieces of the carcass on the high demand black market. This has caused thousands of animals to be placed on lists of endangered or extinct species.
The Earth has tried to warn her inhabitants that we cannot continue to abuse and take advantage of our home with an increased rate of natural disasters. Many help organizations have since been created, yet too many continue to harm the world around them. It is commonly thought that it is unnecessary to worry about going green because the long term effects of pollution won’t be faced for hundreds of years. This however, is a myth. The Earth is degraded on a daily basis. After enjoying the first few days of Spring, appreciate it’s beauty and get involved in the green movement. Buy a recycling bin, join a conservation group, or help in another way so that every generation of the world can enjoy this beautiful Earth the same way.
Well if you ask me:
Bieber SHOULD speak of politics
deal with today. Justin gave his honest opinion on abstinence, abortion, rape and politics and it started a storm that swept across the nation because people didn’t think a 17-year-old should be asked those questions. In reality I think he should have, he is 17, but he still has to deal with all of these issues. Being a teenager doesn’t shield you from the real world and if opinions aren’t formed now what you stand for later can become cloudy. I think that Justin has Guest Commentary by an extra responsibility to be inFreshman Mason Fender Justin Bieber was recently in- formed because he is a role-modterviewed for a Rolling Stone el, but we should all have opinions article and he was asked about and know what is going on in the difficult topics people have to world. Drugs, abortion, absti-
nence and many other issues are all part of our lives right now and we have to make decisions about them so we should have stances on them. We are in high school so we might not know how we feel about every topic, but that is why it is a great time to start thinking about them. We are in a sheltered environment where we can find out more information about things from people who care about us, so when the time comes to make a tough decision about something, you already have an opinion and the choice will be a lot less confusing to make. I have a feeling that the only people who didn’t like Justin Bie-
8 • News • Opinion • Feature • Arts&Entertainment • Sports •
ber being asked tough questions either didn’t like him or the opinions he gave. There is always going to be someone who doesn’t agree with the opinions you have, but that does not mean you shouldn’t have them at all. Think how boring your conversations would be if everyone only saw one view! Even though other people may challenge you, find out how you feel about issues and form opinions now. Don’t wait until you leave high school to decide how you view important subjects. And even though some of you may not agree with the opinion that I’m about to share, here it comes! I still think Justin Bieber is adorable even with his new haircut!
Titan Scroll
Health Freak:
Spring Dieting
Alex Katzfey As spring approaches the eagerness to sport shorts and skirts is obviously overwhelming here at West. In addition to beautiful weather looming in the near future comes the thought of summer. And personally, the first thought that comes to my mind when I think of summer is swimsuit season. Not only is spring a fun time to get out and enjoy the sunshine, but it is also a crucial time to prepare for those months when girls and boys are mostly, well, under-dressed. And usually the question I have to ask myself is how should I prepare? I am a high school student who loves to eat whatever and whenever I want and I have no time to keep up with a strenuous dieting plan. This is where fad diets come in. Recently some popular fad diets in the news have been the Acai Berry diet, the Grapefruit diet, and the Cookie diet. But do they work? Here are the basics.
Acai Berry Diet: The acai berry is a reddish, purple fruit that is native to South America and can be put into the same category as other berries such as blueberries, raspberries, and cranberries because it is rich in antioxidants. This socalled “superfood” that has been claimed to help with weight loss, cancer, cholesterol, and arthritis even though research on this berry is limited and the health claims have not been proven yet. Forms of this berry include juice, pills, and powder. This weight-loss stimulator is still continuously advertised as completely effective without the verification. Mayo Clinic: Katherine Zeratsky R.D., L.D.
Grapefruit Diet: This diet has been around awhile and is based on the ingredient in grapefruit that supposedly trigger fat burning, which then leads to weight loss. A person on this diet would have to eat about ½ of a grapefruit with every meal or drink unsweetened grapefruit juice for a total of about 800-1,000 calories a day. The grapefruit is a healthy food due to its low-calorie nature loaded with fiber and vitamin C, but so are others. Even more importantly is that there is no evidence this fruit contains fat-burning enzymes. Web MD Expert Review: Kathleen M. Zelman, MPH, RD, LD
The Cookie Diet: This special amino acid enhanced cookie developed by Dr. Siegal in 1975 is formulated to suppress hunger and force a person to consume less. A person on this diet is supposed to eat a cookie whenever hungry, which adds up to about 4-6 a day. Then for dinner one is urged to eat a regular meal for a daily calorie intake of less than a 1,000. If you need a diet where very little decisions are made or if you are always on the go then this could be right for you! Mayo Clinic: Katherine Zeratsky, R.D., L.D.
My thoughts? JUST EAT SMART AND EXERCISE! Fad diets are not effective. Sure you may lose 15 pounds by actively participating in the Grapefruit or Cookie Diet, but could you eat 4-6 cookies a day for the rest of your life? Or could you only eat 800-1,000 calories a day? I sure couldn’t. That is why these diets are not helpful, after you stop one of these diets you will only gain back the weight you lost. Just check nutrition labels, eat your daily vegetables and fruits, get your heart pumping hard everyday, and don’t follow fad diets!
Mar. 4, 2011
• News •Opinion• Feature • Arts&Entertainment • Sports • 9
Teens aren’t the only ones with part time jobs Meg Britton-Mehlisch started out helping someone she knew who was a Like Bailey and O’Neil, Guental got help from a swim teacher for some extra cash, but then grew friend to get her position at White House|Black Teachers like English teacher, Jennifer Bailey, to love the job. “When I was young I worked as Market. “Laura Theodorrow who used to be an Guidance Counselor, Joni O’Neil, and Special Ed- an assistant to someone who did [teach swim les- English teacher here worked at Ann Taylor and so ucation teacher, Heather Guental, show students sons], so that gave me the idea, and then I found she got me a job, I think about three years ago, that while balancing two jobs can be stressful at that I loved swimming and I really love watching at Ann Taylor. And then my manager moved to times, it can also be manageable and fun. people learn to swim and helping people over- White House| Black Market so I moved there,” Today, with the economy in shamsaid Guental. bles, many Americans are looking for While Guental’s position at White a second job for some much needed House |Black Market is different financial support. But both Bailey from her job here at West, she finds and O’Neil said that they were not herself using some of the same dependent on the second income. skills at both jobs. “ In my job here “It’s helped me from taking out I deal with a lot of different types loans and I don’t have a credit card of people and I think that helps. I balance, so it’s kept me away from mean my [sales] numbers are usucharging and having loans and movally pretty good, and I think that’s ing toward being debt free. I’m not because I’ve learned to relate to a lot debt free yet, but it’s helped me to of different kinds of people.” stay as debt free as I can possibly Guental comes into contact with a be,” said O’Neil. lot of people, balancing her teaching Guental said for her, a second job job, her position as a cheer coach, gives her financial support and seand her job at White House curity. Aside from her teaching job, |Black Market, year round while Guental also works as a sales perBailey and O’Neil work their part son at White House | Black Market. time jobs during the summer. Guental looked for a second job “be- Teachers such as Jennifer Bailey, Joni O’Neil and Heather Guental work additional Though O’Neil, Bailey, and Guencause I’m a single teacher, I bought jobs outside of West. Photo courtesy of Jennifer Bailey tal have all found themselves in a house, I needed the money, and I second jobs they enjoy, they both wanted the discount.” come fears.” echoed the concerns of many Americans that Both Bailey and O’Neil said that they very O’Neil said that she has grown to really love there might not be an opportunity for two jobs much enjoy working outside of West. Bailey just teaching swim, partially because it’s so different or even one job for all of the current generation got her real estate license for her part time real- from her job as a guidance counselor at West. But because people already in the workforce are taktor job and O’Neil has been working as a swim she said that she never expected to be doing it for ing part time jobs on the side to deal with the ecoteacher for over 25 years. as long as she has. nomic situation. Bailey said that she is excited for the opportu- O’Neil has found that teaching swim has Guental said she feels there has been a rise in nity to experience a new job . “I think it’ll be really brought many small joys into her life, such as people working two jobs through her job here at fun, I like to talk with people and I’m learning a watching her swimmers grow up. “I also have West.”I’ve noticed a lot here at school with parlot about housing and how to build houses and some students here at Lee’s Summit West, I have ents, with kids too. Kids are having to go home sell houses which I think is a good life skill any- like 4 or 5 that I taught when they were little. So and having to let themselves in because their parway,” she said. it’s really fun to see that one of them is even on ents have taken on second jobs and aren’t there.” Bailey’s new realtor position offers many perks the swim team now and it’s fun to see them grow O’Neil called upon her observations as a guidto her life. “My husband is a real estate agent and and continue their swimming,” she said. ance counselor to backup her feelings on the rise he works for a builder of a new housing develop- Similarly, Bailey said she never expected to one of second job workers as well. “One way I know ment and is also in the military so he’s also going day have a real estate license. “I never thought I that is some of our students who are looking to to be in military training over the summer. So would be in a sales position,” she said. work, there aren’t as many jobs out there because I thought I would kind of help out in the family Baliey and O’Neil repeatedly said how they en- there are people who are working through the day business and get my [real estate] license so that joy their second job, but Guental gave a slightly and then taking on a part time job on the side. I could work with him and this builder over the different side to the story. “I am a little tired of it And I think the economy has required that.” summer and kind of keep things rolling while he after three years; tired of working two jobs. But I was in training,“ she said. mean it’s fun, it’s something different from what O’Neil had a similar start to her second job. She I normally do.”
10 •News • Opinion • Feature • Arts&Entertainment • Sports •
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What do you do if you’re staying home on SPRING BREAK?!? MOVIES COMING OUT: “Battle: Los Angeles” “Mars Need Moms” “Red Riding Hood”
“I’m not doing anything because i have highschool soccer practice and we can’t miss or we can’t play in the games! I’ll probably just hang out with friends and enjoy my last spring break.” -Senior Allison Gochenour
Concerts:
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“I’m looking forward to Spring Break so I can hang out with my friends and do hood rat things. Plus, less school is less worries. And I can sleep in more and not have to worry about school.” -Senior Drew Conkling
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Titan Scroll
Are you the next Mr. Titan? ??
Contestant Requirements - Must be a senior - Commit to evening practices including April 6, April 10 and April 11 -Available for tux fitting prior to March 10 -Complete bio and turn it in by deadline -Choose an escort -Share talent -Model Swimsuit (subject to approval) Sign-up by Monday March 7 in room 1227 or the Guidance Office
Mar. 4, 2011
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See who is crowned April 13 at 7 p.m
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Proceeds benefit Project Grad
$2.00 off
A dozen glazed donuts expires 4/26/10
Two convenient Lee’s Summit Locations 705 SE Melody Ln Lee’s Summit, MO 64063 816-524-5515
3801 S 291 Hwy Lee’s Summit, MO 64082 816-537-9851
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School days added,
summer begins sooner 9-11 grade, last day is May 27
Seniors 46 more days
Two new days added to the schedule; March 11 and April 28
Seniors last day, still May 11
9-11 58 more days
BM Lawn Service
Brock Morgan 816-582-6256 “helping good people when bad things happen”
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Frank and Son’s Woodcrafted Pens
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Titan Scroll
Titan Scroll wants to know...
Andrew Argotsinger
“Broke my toe playing dodgeball.”
wh at’s you r em most bar rass mo me i n nt? g
Brandon Rice
“My backpack spilled down the stairs.”
Mohammed Abuoun
Blake Eagleburger
“I was in the wrong class for three days.”
“They happen daily.”
Patrick Hoard
Brianne Orr
“At Una Voce camp this year me and two other girls were skipping and singing and all of a sudden I just went rolling down a hill and landed at the bottom flat on my back.”
Mar. 4, 2011
Brian Hamm
Sydney Hollowell
“Someone threw up in the lunch room and I slipped in it.”
“I was sitting by my girlfriend at the time and I got up from the couch. I told her not to take my seat, but when she did I proceeded to sit on her. She gave me a bear hug and I flagellated.”
“About a month ago, I was talking to this girl in a car and I was about to give her a hug, so I was having to bend over and It was icy so I slipped and hit my head in the bottom of the car door.”
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Modest hero receives recognition
smoke inhalation. “The little girls were crying. One of the little girls said ‘this can’t be happening, it’s Christmas, this can’t be happening,’” said Danielle. Lee’s Summit Master Police Officer Michael Isberg was the first officer to arrive at the scene and was able to help Pearce and the others with what he said to be extraordinary courage and action. Titan dad Tim Pearce helped pull two children out of a burning house in his neighborhood “Tim’s prompt and fast response was absolutely needed to save those last December. Junior Danielle Pearce shared a moment with her father after her received a people,” said Isberg. letter of appreciation from the Lee’s Summit Police Department. Photo by Ariel Thompson. That is why Pearce was chosen to be recognized during a ceremony this week. For the past 17 years, the Lee’s Summit Police Department has Taylor Jensen recognized officers and citizens who have played a special role in assisting others in the community. Heavy smoke rolls, a mother yells for help and the neighbors come to the Several citizens and groups received certificates and medals for their rescue. For the Pearce family, Dec. 2 had been an ordinary day until their outstanding actions as uniformed officers, relatives and appreciative neighbor’s home at 445 SW Rivulet Drive began to blaze. citizens looked on. Titan father Tim Pearce said, “I was just sitting in my living room watching Pearce and two of his neighbors were among those receiving a letter of Thursday night football. My daughter Danielle and my wife Christy heard appreciation. somebody screaming outside.” Receiving word about the ceremony, Tim wasn’t sure what to think. “All of the sudden we heard someone screaming so we went outside,” said “When I found out, I didn’t want to go, I just didn’t want to do the TV Junior Danielle Pearce. They were saying ‘get a ladder, get a ladder!’ Whenever interview,” said Tim. we walked down to the neighbor’s house all we saw was black smoke coming out “It was a group effort. I don’t consider myself a hero; it was just a of the house.” natural reaction. If someone needed your help, you would hope others Tim said, “I didn’t know why I was grabbing a ladder; I didn’t know what was would do the same,” he said. going on. I just took off out the front door and ran down the street with it.” “KCTV5 News came and he didn’t really want to do the interview. He’s Seeing smoke billowing out of the house, Tim’s natural instincts kicked in and really modest about it. He didn’t want anyone to know it was him. He’s he knew what he had to do when he saw the mother and her children inside the just one of those people who didn’t want the publicity,” said Danielle. burning house. Regardless, Danielle said she thinks highly of her father’s deed. “She was in the second floor hanging out the window and had the kids in each “I see him as a hero and I look up to him even more than I did before. arm. By the time I got down there, a police officer had shown up and the two of I now know that in any situation he could do anything,” she said. “It was us proceeded to pull the two kids out first and hand them off. The little girls had really brave.” just gotten baths and my wife wrapped them up in blankets and took them to “It was great. I appreciate my family supporting me,” said Tim, modestly the ambulances,” he said. adding, “It was good to be recognized for doing nothing.” Danielle said, “It was really scary; I didn’t know what to expect. It was Isberg, who was recognized for his life-saving efforts said, “Sure, I overwhelming.” have this big, fancy award but the fact is, the awards they got were just as Tim said he believed the only injuries suffered in the fire was the mother’s
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Titan Scroll
important.” “What I think is great,” Iseberg said, “is that community is all about taking care of each other. Tim’s actions helped save three lives by him being there. He showed magnificent character.” Tim said, “It is a big deal in some people’s eyes. Although I don’t consider myself a hero, you just do what you have to do. I just hope that other people would react the same way for me.” The family is okay, but as for the house itself, it will be awhile before it’s back to a safe condition.
Mar. 4, 2011
“The entire inside was ruined. All the windows were busted out. The door was busted down so they could get in,” said Danielle. “The whole lower level was engulfed in flames and the rest of the house had extensive heat and smoke damage. The house is completely boarded up right now,” said Tim. The house hasn’t been worked on since the fire, nearly two months ago, and the family has since relocated.
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Concert Match-Up Usher
Date: November 27th, 2010
“I left half way through Usher because I didn’t think it was that good, but his opening act Trey Songz was amazing.”-- Sophomore Rachel Hilton
Songs: “OMG”
“DJ Got Us Fallin’ In Love”
“There Goes My Baby”
Linkin Park
Date: January 29th, 2011
“The concert was awesome, everyone was just going crazy and it was even better than I thought it would be.”-- Sophomore Elias Duckworth
Songs: “Waiting for the End” “What I’ve Done” “New Divide”
Photo courtesy www.ushernow.com
Ke$ha
Date: February 20th, 2011
“It was really cool, she was so much fun on stage. She had really cool outfits, and she just looked like she had a lot of fun up there. She looked like a complete natural which made the concert so much fun.”-- Senior Alexis Perkins
Songs: “Your Love Is My Drug” “Tik Tok” “We R Who We R”
Photo courtesy www.linkinpark.com
Date:February 15th, 2011
Innerpartysystem
“A current Indy rock band, they are pretty sweet. The show was amazing. I can’t even explain it. Along with their music they have a big light show to go with it. So they were just up there jamin for like two hours. They went pretty hard.”-- Junior Spencer Chaney
Songs: “Don’t Stop” “Obsession” “Die Tonight Live Forever” Photo courtesy www.innerpartysystem.com
Photo courtesy www.keshasparty.com
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Titan Scroll
“When you smile, I smile” Review by Carlie Nash
For the past few years, Justin Bieber has been a teen heart throb around the world. To share his journey with fans leading up to his performance at Madison Square Garden, Bieber m a d e “Never Say Never 3D” followed by “Never Say Never 2.0” which hits theaters today. Photo by Ryan Miller In addi-
tion to the original version of “Never Say Never” the Directors Cut, also in 3D, was released last weekend. It is mostly the same as the original give or take a few scenes. In the Directors Cut, more footage of Bieber’s friends and home life are included. Viewers get to see how important family really is to Bieber. “Never Say Never” is about Bieber’s life on and off stage. Viewers get a peek of Bieber’s hometown of Stratford, Ontario. It was there that Bieber began showing signs of becoming a star at an early age. I think that this movie gave everyone who saw it an insight on the boy behind the luscious locks. “Never Say Never” included everything from home videos to concert footage. Personally, I thought the concert
footage was incredibly entertaining. It included all of Justin’s hit songs like “Baby,” “One Time” and “Never Say Never,” along with his impressive dance skills. The music that was featured in the movie was great and kept the audience involved. The movie included new songs by Bieber including “Born to be Somebody” and “Overboard featuring Miley Cyrus.” Both songs can be heard on Bieber’s new album “Never Say Never- The Remixes” which debuted number one on the Billboard Top 200 album chart. Bieber’s story to fame is very interesting to watch. The movie put his life into a different perspective and showed that he really never said never. Along with showing the start of Bieber’s career, “Never Say Never”
opens the doors of a behind the scenes look into Bieber’s life to his fans. Although his lifestyle is far from normal, the movie shows that he is still a normal kid who likes to have fun, play pranks on his team, and hang out with friends. The movie introduces viewers to Bieber’s friends, who fully support his career and attend many of Bieber’s shows. In the movie, one of Bieber’s best friends, Chaz Somers, said “we cherish the time that we have together because it’s not a lot.” For me, this movie made me love Justin Bieber even more although it did not have the same effect on others. Some people think that Bieber is just going to be around for a couple years and then fall silent. But after seeing the movie, I think he’s going to be around for a very long time.
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March 6 Rascal Flatts Concert Sprint Center 13
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240 N.W. Oldham Parkway Lee’s Summit, MO 64081 20 • News • Opinion • Feature • Arts&Entertainment • Sports •
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ACROSS 1. Sport that involves running, relays, and passing a baton 4. Missouri is in ____ alley 5. The holiday that combines a rabbit and eggs 7. The newest sport at West 8. A week long vacation high school students crave 9. A piece of clothing everyone diets to fit into 10. Sport that uses a bat, makes home-runs, and has nine innings 12. Falls from the sky, helps plants grow
DOWN 1. Competition to get on a team 2. Sport played with a racket on a court 3. Multiple colored plants that smell good 6. A common place to ski 8. The season that starts March 21st 11. A popular spot to go on vacation (near an ocean)
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Oscars VS. Grammys Results of Grammys
Results of Oscars:
Album of the Year: “The Sub-
Best Picture: "The King's Speech"
urbs,” Arcade Fire
Best Animated Film: "Toy Story 3"
Best New Artist: Esparanza Spalding
Best Visual Effects: "Inception" Best Pop Vocal Album: “The
Best Actor: Colin Firth-"The King's Speech"
Fame Monster,” Lady Gaga
Grammy Award
Oscar
Best Rock Album: “The
Resistance,” Muse
Best Actress: Natalie Portman"Black Swan"
Best Alternative Music Album: “Brothers,” The Black
Keys
Best Director: Tom Hooper-"The King's Speech"
Best Contemporary R&B Album: “Raymond V Raymond,” Usher
Best Supporting Actor: Christian Bale-""The
Fighter"
Best Latin Pop Album: “Paraiso Express,” Ale-
jandro San
Best Supporting Actress: Melissa Leo-"The Fighter" Best Film Editing: "The Social Network" Freshman Kiersten West: "Most memorable
moment was Anne Hatheway singing."
Best Rap Album: “Recovery,” Eminem Best Country Album: “Need you now,” Lady Antebellum
Junior Emily Marriott: “Memorable moment was when
Arcade Fire winning album of the year.”
Freshman Gretta Roettgen: "Best dressed was Natalie Portman."
Freshman Kennadee Williams: "Most comical
moment was James Franco in a dress."
Freshman, Kiersten West: “Most interesting moment was Lady Gaga in an egg on the Red Carpet.”
Freshman Gretta Roettgen: “Most comical moment
was Christina Aguilera falling and best dressed was Rihanna.”
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Titan Scroll
Stieg Larsson’s literature carries on
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Mar. 4, 2011
ing seven flights of stairs to his office. Fortunately for the literary world, he had already written the transcripts for all three of the books and made a three book contract with the publishers. Instead of leaving a will behind, Larsson left a huge mess to clean up between his girlfriend and his family. His girlfriend of more than 30 years, never marrying because of Larsson’s work as an editor of an antifascist magazine called “Expo,” to keep her safe from any attacks, Eva Gabrielsson was left nothing. Everything of Larsson’s, the rights to make decisions about the books, his estate and even the apartment went to his father and brother, Erland and Joakim, according to Entertainment Weekly. Eventually, Gabrielsson was given the apartment. However, no final settlement has been reached. Also according to Entertainment Weekly, Gabrielsson found the beginnings of a fourth book on a laptop in her apartment. She did mention that it could be publishable, but nothing will happen until she and the Larssons can come to an agreement. Also, as a disclaimer, the books do contain a lot of rated R material, but that shouldn’t stop teens from reading them. The sexuality parts of the books only bring about the entire meaning of the novels, but that’s for the readers to figure out on their own.
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Katey Stoetzel a Swedish boxer and has a part in the books plays Back in the summer of 2010, one of the biggest himself in the movie which I think is pretty cool. celebrities began to make an impression in the But yeah, they stick to the storyline.” United States. Often she was, and still is, referred Even the movies, which require, of course, to as The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo, The Girl English-speakers to read the subtitles, are a big Who Played with Fire, and The Girl Who Kicked hit in the United States. But even more exciting the Hornet’s Nest. But her real name is Lisbeth than that is director David Fincher (“The Social Salander, the fictional computer hacker out of Network”) is taking on the books. Yes, that’s right Stieg Larsson’s books by the same titles, which folks. Hollywood has stepped in once again. The first originated in Sweden. American version of “The Girl With the Dragon In their June 25th issue featuring the first book Tattoo” is set for release on Dec. 21 of this year on the cover, Entertainment Weekly pretty much summed up all three books in two sentences: “At the center of all three novels are two unusually compelling figures: the anti-social, emotionally damaged computer hacker Lisbeth Salander and the crusading investigative journalist Mikael Blomkvist. Together, they battle bad guys, solve mysteries, and uncover deep-rooted institutional corruption.” Or more to the point, they are murder mysteries, but you won’t find any Nancy Drew plots in these. They are also filled with a ton of back stories, mostly revolving around LisTwo of the books in Stieg Larsson’s last trilogy before he passed away. beth’s mysterious life. Senior and Sweden foreign Photo by Kalie Emma exchange student Katarina Rylander is just one of many who enjoy these and stars Rooney Mara as Lisbeth and Daniel books. Craig as Blomkvist. “They are very well written and quite easy to “It’s going be fun to see how they film it and read. They are very exciting so you don’t want to because the Swedish ones became such a huge hit. put the book down, just keep reading,” she said. If they’re going to try to make it better, it’s going “They are not really like any other books. Many be pretty hard. Plus, it’s set in Sweden too, so it’s people write about adventure, but these books are going to be interesting seeing that as well,” said very deep and go right down to the depth of soci- Rylander. ety and all the secrets within our community and But no matter how interesting the books and stuff like that.” movies are, there’s more to the story, so to speak, Rylander is from Stockholm, the exact same than meets than the eye. For one of the most place all three books are set. intriguing aspects of the books, flip to the front Tacking onto the popularity of the books are cover and look at the bottom at the name of the the three Swedish films, which according to Ry- author: Steig Larsson. lander, are just as good as the books because they In late 2004, months before the publication of stick to the story line pretty well. “The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo,” the first in the “They follow the books and even a guy, who is trilogy, Larsson died of a heart attack after climb-
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Lady Titans fall short at Sectionals
Senior Emma Bellman reaches out to recover the loose ball. (photo above) JacQue’ Timberlake, left, looks for her teammate to pass the ball. Photos by Judd Kirn.
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After winning Conference and Districts, the Lady Titans wrapped up their season Wednesday night in the first game of sectionals against Blue Springs High School. The girls put up a hard fight against the Wildcats, keeping the score close in the first half. But Blue Springs had a challenging defense and West accumulated quite a few fouls, with a final score of 60-41. Last week, the Titan girls basketball team won the district tournament against cross town rival Lee’s Summit High School. The Titans were seeded number one in the district tournament at a seeding meeting held by the coaches a few weeks ago. After Districts, the team advanced to Sectionals, where the state assigned the teams’ schedules. After learning that the team would face the Blue Springs Wildcats in Sectionals, Head Coach Darin Hall said, “We were beat by them earlier in the season and we are hoping to avenge that loss. They get up and play and are aggressive, but if we take care of our defense, it should be a close game. These last few weeks we’ve played our best, and this is the time we want to be playing our best,” said Hall. Senior Katie Douglas added, “It’s been a really good season. It started out rocky, but we’ve stepped up and started to play well.” Douglas also said that winning Conference this year for the fist time in Titan history, was one of her favorite memories of the season. Junior Erin Dohnalek said, “The season has gone really well. Our team works good together and when we play there’s a good turnout.”
Titan Scroll
Boys basketball wraps up the season
Lindsey Bingham The Boys Varsity Basketball team rounded off the year with a season of 12-14. The team lost to cross town rival Lee’s Summit High School on
Feb. 22 in Districts play. The final game of the season turned out to be a loss by only three points with a final 55-52, Lee’s Summit. “At times we did really well but at times we struggled. We had all the pieces, but we just couldn’t put the puzzle together,” said Head Coach Michael Schieber. Although the Titans had their ups and downs, according to Schieber the highlight of the season was winning the William Jewell Tournament in December. The team started off the season with a defeat of Raytown 71-54 and another Junior Shaquille Harrison played a hard game, although win with a score of 66losing in the end. Photo by Aaron Brower
Jill Jones
30. Schieber said much time and effort put into the season this year. Players would spend between two to two and a half hours practicing on weeknights and extra time was put in on game nights. Also, tournaments would take place during weekends and more practices were held on the weekends. The team graduates five players this year; Darnay Session, Armand Stricklin, Senior Roderick Clark showed some intensity, but the Lawrence Anderson, Titans weren’t able to hold off Lee’s Summit in the Roderick Clark and season-ending game. Photo by Aaron Brower Garrett Sandbothe. “Some kids will be ready to step Schieber said, “It’s always hard to lose seniors, but it’s up and lead the team next year,” he said. just the reality of what we do.”
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Girl State swimmers finish out the season
Nikki Andriano Five swimmers, one diver and two alternates provided a strong showing for West at their State competition in mid-February. “I take swimmers to state every year. Usually I would say my average is eight to ten athletes a year,” said Head Coach Colleen Gibler. “Diving is more of a smaller group of girls, because it is one event out of twelve.” Sophomore diver Nina Privitera said, “It felt really good because I was the only diver to go and it was my first year I dove. It was really exciting.” Privitera made it in eight out of twelve dives, making it into semi-finals. She placed 18th. “My favorite part of diving is probably the fact that not a lot of people know about diving as a sport,” she said, “It’s unique.”
Senior Jean Madison, Juniors Lyndsey Sherrow, Alyson Raymond, Katey Stoetzel, and Sophomore Joslyn Fergerson also made it to State, with two alternates, Junior Whitney Harper and Freshman Riley Manning. “It was a lot of fun. It was kind of like a normal meet but just so much faster” Senior Jean Madison took fifth at State in the 100 breaststroke as well as 8th in the 200 IM in what was her last high said Fergerson. “I like how school swim compeition. Photo by Riley Manning swimming is both is like a mother to me and always with Stoetzel. They got 32nd. an individual and team sport. Madison also swam in the 200 will be, I could never ask for more There are always relays where you IM and 100 breaststroke placing from her. She has dedicated her rely on your team to do well, then eighth and fifth place, which life to swimming just like me and I in individual qualified as All-State in both am happy to say that I got to swim events you rely events. “My favorite part about for her my senior year. I love her on nothing but swimming is being with all the girls and always will.” yourself to do and representing West. That is one good,” said thing I will miss is representing Sherrow who West for swimming and it’s hard has made it to to let that go,” said Madison. State all three Raymond swam in two years she has individual events, the 200 free and 200 medley relay: four member swam. the 100 fly, placing 40th and 26th. swim (backstroke, breaststroke, S h e r r o w Sherrow swam in the 100 back butterfly, freestyle) swam in the placing 32nd. 200 medley “Gibler is an excellent coach,” 400 free relay: four members along with said Sherrow, “she knows exactly swim, each swim 100 yards M a d i s o n , what to do to make you a better (freestyle) Raymond, and swimmer. She always motivates 200 IM: individual medley Fergerson. The us to do better and always wants (butterfly, backstroke, breastgirls placed us to do the best we can.” 14th in it, which The team as a whole placed 23rd stroke, freestyle) qualified them out of 48 schools, with 31 points. “I 100 breaststroke: individual as an All-State think the girls are passionate, hard 100 yards (breaststroke) H o n o r a b l e workers about their swimming and 200 free: individual 200 yards Mention. they understand the relationship (freestyle) Sherrow, between the work and the goals 100 fly: individual 100 yards Madison, and they are going to get and pay off (butterfly) Raymond also for that,” said Gibler. Sophomore Nina Privitera went to State this year for div- swam in the “I always did enjoy Gibler as 100 back: individual 100 yards 400 free relay my coach,” Madison said, “she (backstroke) ing. Photo by Riley Manning
Swimming Events
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Titan Scroll
Titan Wrestling brings home a State title
Anna Schafer The wrestling team recently turned heads at State in Columbia at the Mizzou Arena. Junior Evan Boehm placed first and wrestled at 285, Senior Ben Poeschl placed second and wrestled at 215. Poeschl lost by one point to a returning undefeated wrestler from Columbia Hickman. Junior Matt Lemanowicz finished third and he wrestled at 140. Also, Senior Andrew Niehaus finished in the top eight at 135, and Junior Andrew Bestgen earned a State trip, wrestling at 160. “For wrestling, it’s a 16 man bracket, there’s a double elimination tournament which means you have
to keep wrestling until you lose twice. Boehm went 4 and 0. Poeschl went 3 and 1, Lemanowicz 4 and 1. Then Niehaus took 2 and 2. Bestgen didn’t place at the State qualifier,” Hauck said. “I’m very much satisfied with the results, not very often do we get to a State tournament; not many kids wrestle up to their potential,” he added. The satisfaction of the results were also shared by the team. Niehaus said, “We got fifth as a team and that’s the best finish we’ve ever had for the school,” “We took five people down to State which is great. At the end of the day we got sixth place, but then thought ‘why not go for fifth place?’ So we all wrestled our hardest, and that’s what we ended up getting,” said Boehm. “Going to State is a blast. So many wrestlers you’ve never seen are there. You just meet so many new people, and you also get to see all the different wrestling styles of each wrestler,” said Boehm. “Seeing my friends all there to come and support me was one of my favorite parts,” said Poeschl. Junior Evan Boehm took first in the 285 division beating his Hauck said opponent 1 to 0. Photo courtesy of Gigi Lemanowicz.
Mar. 4, 2011
West took 5 wrestlers to Columbia to compete. Photo courtesy of Gigi Lemanowicz. he sees a great future for two of his senior wrestlers. “Ben Poeschl was offered a scholarship for football but he could pick up a different scholarship in wrestling as well. Andrew [Niehaus] certainly has ability to wrestle at a college level as well,” said Hauck. Currently Poeschl is at a crossroads determining which path to take for college. “There’s a distinct possibility I might wrestle in college. I don’t know though. Colleges have been talking to me about it but I don’t know which road I’ll take yet,” said Poeschl. Boehm plans to wrestle again next year and possibly at the college level. “Oh yeah I’m going to wrestle next year. It’s going to be hard to get down to weight. But I intend to. In college, football would be my top priority. But to go down to the wrestling room if the coach would let me would be great,” said Boehm. Poeschl said there was a lot of mental preparation it took to get ready for State. “I told myself it was my senior year, and that it was now or never. It was my last tournament I need to put in my best effort. It’s also just having the right attitude and good confidence,” said Poeschl. Poeschl also got to participate in the Parade for the Champions.
“The Parade for the Champions was crazy, there was 2,000 people in the arena just watching you. It was just overwhelming how many people were there. You get a lot of adrenaline going, it felt great,” said Poeschl. Hauck said he is glad knowing wrestling is a part of his life. “One of the things about it is you teach a technique or a move and you see your wrestler perform that at a competition and that’s very satisfying,” said Hauck. “He’s a really good technician; he knows pretty much everything about the sport. He has a way to get everyone working hard and preparing for matches. He’s more than just a coach. He cares more than just a coach would. You can tell he wants you to do good,” said Niehaus. Poeschl also had positive things to say towards Hauck. “He’s the greatest coach I’ve ever had in my life. He taught me so much about myself,” said Poeschl. Underclassmen are also thought highly of by the team. “The underclassmen are doing a great job. If they keep on working hard they have great things to come,” said Niehaus. Overall, Hauck said that he is proud of his wrestlers and the way they performed throughout the
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The Benefactor: The Million Dollar Question
Commentary by Benjamin Poeschl Sitting in my room last night in my bed I began to think about future jobs. It came to me that one of the best ways to make money is to become a professional athlete. My train of thought brought me to the question that needs to be answered: are professional athletes overpaid? According to CNNMoney.com, the average salary in the NFL is
$770,000 a year. This amount of money would support seven families easily. Not only do the players get this high salary, but NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell is proposing to make negotiations that would make billions to pay for benefits for current players, and improved benefits for retired players. The average salary of an NBA player is five million dollars and MLB players make just over three million a year on average. The biggest complaint that most people have about professional athletes is that they do not match what they contribute to society. If this is true it is unfair. Some athletes give back to society but what about the bunch that don’t? The highest paid professional athlete is Tiger Woods. Woods makes
an astonishing $110 million per year. In my opinion, this amount is ridiculous to be paid to a professional golfer. Does Tiger really deserve this salary? It is a hard question to answer. Some would say yes they deserve the money because of their talent, or they would say they are the best at what they do. Some might even say that they deserve what they earn because of the sacrifice they make on their bodies. What I would say to them is if they are the best at what they do then they should love the sport, and if they loved the sport, money would not be an issue and there wouldn’t have to be these crazy negotiations between commissioners and agents. If someone were to say that they deserve it because of the “sacrifice” they make on their bod-
ies, let’s remember the thousands of athletes that have chosen to use some form of steroid or performance enhancing drug. Do not get me wrong I love watching professional sports just as much as anyone, but the debate over salaries of professional athletes should be more well known. What bugs me is that teachers, police officers, firefighters, and military personnel could only dream of the money that these athletes are making each year and possibly deserve it more than anyone. The answer is yes, athletes are being paid an excessive amount to entertain us. The problem is that we can’t take these athletes’ money and the argument to take away their money can barely be justified.
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Westside Girls win State for the third time Claudia Guthrie Westside Girls earned another State Championship, the second year in a row and for the third time in West’s history. Competition in St. Louis last weekend was between 46 teams, with 16 teams in the Westside Girls’ category of 5A. The Westside Girls took State with first place in jazz, and third in hip-hop. The team technically tied for first along with Francis Howell. However, since both schools received the exact same scores, they both received individual State titles. With unusual circumstances such as tying for first, the team agreed that competition this year was even more difficult than normal overall. “It was a lot more difficult than last year. St. Louis came out of nowhere with hip-hop, said Sophomore Raegan Wagner. “I think the competition was really hard, probably the hardest we’ve had. We went up a class, so it was harder,” said Head Coach Veronica Scott. Winning State came as a surprise to some of the girls. “We were good in jazz, but our hip-hop was on the rocks. Knowing our competition, we hadn’t expected to win. No one knew what the outcome was going to be,” said Wagner. “It was definitely our toughest year. In the past we had a good feeling, but this year it could have gone
either way,” said Senior Lauren Brady, who has danced for the Westside Girls since her freshman year. In the days leading up to State, the Westside Girls worked hard to prepare. “We practiced everyday, getting out those last few kinks,” said Wagner. “They’re all just really good danc-
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The Westside Girls look back on this year as one of their best. “It was a really good year, we all got really close,” said Wagner. “It was a fun year because we’re all friends.” “I love competitions because it’s when all our hard work pays off,” said Brady.
The Westside Girls took first in jazz and third in hip-hop out of 46 teams at State, giving them an overall First place State Championship. Photo courtesy of Nina Noe.
Dr. Thomas E. Moore, DDS, PC 13031 Fuller St. Grandview MO 64030
ers,” said Scott. “We don’t have to stop and teach techniques all the time.” Earlier this year, the team took first out of fourteen teams at the Lee’s Summit North competition. “We did really well at the Lee’s Summit North competition,” said Brady.
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Boys Tennis
“I think that we will be a strong team because we have a lot of experience. I hope to be able to win Conference and move on to the State Championship.” -Klene Gardner
Spring Sports
Head Coach: Paul Klene Seniors: Nick Baker, Ryan Gleue, Trenton Piepergerdes, Thomas First Match: March 22nd at Lee’s Summit North
“The team itself has very high expectations to win our Conference and win Districts. It’s going to be hard but we have every bit as much of a chance as everyone else in our District.” -Krey
Girls Soccer
Head Coach: Todd Krey Seniors: Kayla Kemp, Allison Gochenour, Melissa Laurk, Rachel Johnson, Katie Huff, Katie Davis, Lexi Mok First Game: LSR7 Tournament: March 21st at West
“Because of our overall skills as a team, we don’t need one person to carry the team. We will be a tough team to beat.” -Meyer
Baseball
Head Coach: Jay Meyer Seniors: Eric Dedovesh, Jerico Burasco, Jake Admire, Alex Routh, Cam Johnson First Game: Metro Leadoff Tournament March 22-26 at Legacy Park 30• News • Opinion • Feature • Arts&Entertainment • Sports •
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p R e Girls Track v I e BOYS GOLF
Boys Track
Head Coach: Bob Klausing Seniors: Adam Klausing, Konner Cordes, Drew Padget, Blake Bodenhammer, Brent Lapietra, Keith Marks First Meet: March 28th at Lee’s Summit High School “My expectation for the season is to trophy in Conference.” - Coach Shortino
Head Coach: Derek Howard Seniors: Lauren Cheadle, Chelsea Pheobus, Hannah Reasbeck First Meet: March 28th at Lee’s Summit High School
“Our expectations never change, we always want to win a Conference title. We have never lost one, and then the other titles just follow.” -Howard “We’ve got a pretty good group of experienced players. I have very high expectations for the season.” -Myers
Head Coach: Richard Myers Seniors: Jake Kouba, Connor Allwood First Tournament: Drum Farm Tournament: March 21st at Truman Mar. 4, 2011
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Good Luck Estevan Mota! Nominated for best cinematography, best directing, best screen play, and best picture for his short film is Sophomore Estevan Mota. Mota’s work will be in national competition next week at the Independent Studio Media sponsored convention in Orlando. Several members of Titan Broadcasting are traveling to Orlando for the Student Television Network Convention. The nominated film can be seen at lswestonline. Click on multi-media. photo by Martin Steele
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