Titan Scroll www.lswestonline.com
Wednesday, May 1 1, 2011
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Volume VII, Senior Edition
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Lee’s Summit West High School 2600 SW Ward Road Lee’s Summit, MO 64082
Titan Scroll 2010-2011 Retiring Staff
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
“I Go Back” written and performed by Kenny Chesney
Jenna Keeble -- Editor in Chief Hayley Brower -- Graphics Manager Martin Steele -- Photography Editor Ben Poeschl -- Sports Columnist Jed Manaco -- Distribution Manager Jean Madison -- Photographer Katie Maloney -- Photographer Rachel Paddock -- Page Designer Eric Dedovesh -- Page Designer Alex Katzfey -- Staff Artist
Senior Issue & 2011-2012 Staff Editor in Chief Sydnee Owens
Photographers Maddy Arsenault Graphics Design Aaron Brower Editor Nicole Conniff Page Anna Hunter Sam Conrad Designers Assistant Ediors Nathan Foster Merrilee Boughan Kathryn Hilger Haley Roach Kalie Emma Justin Hunley Katey Stoetzel Joey Franke Morgan Johnson Gabby Hayden Assistant Judd Kirn Kylie Lanning Graphics Editor Jean Madison Nate Mitchell Jesse Eiskina Ryan Miller Tristan Owen Photography Alex Palmer Derec Owens Editor Steve Rhodes Brooks Rast Ariel Thompson Bailey Romi Meagan Shanahan Assistant Connor Staponski Writers Photography Nikki Andriano Michelle Stout Editors Lindsey Bingham Joey Franke Meg Britton-Mehlisch Judd Kirn Andy Evans Copy Editor Annie Greenwell Taylor Jenson Claudia Guthrie Tiffany Jenkins Advertising Riley Manning Manager Carlie Nash Adviser Gabby Hayden Meg Peterson Carol Ullery Business Adviser Anna Poudel Distribution Anna Schafer Karrie Smythia Manager Aaron Brower 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.
2 • Senior Issue •
Titan Scroll
On the Cover
Music can be the perfect way to describe a moment. Whether it’s about the championship game or about a school dance, songs can trigger the memory in an instant. Lyrics represent those precious moments the Class of 2011 experienced in high school so that as the years pass, every time we hear these songs, we’ll go back to this chapter in our lives.
Volume VII, Issue 11
“Sunday shoes, cap and gown, the whole town gathered round, waited 18 years, now it all comes down to this.”
Social Networking Biggest Network Users
Pg. 4-5
Sports Top 10 Athletes Football Vollyball Cross Country Track Wrestling Westside Girls
College Map
College Map
Pg. 12-13 Pg. 14 Pg. 15 Pg. 16 Pg. 17 Pg. 18 Pg. 19
Pg. 24-25
Senior Advice Advice Letters to Siblings
Pg. 26 Pg. 30-31
Senior Polls Polls
pg. 34–38
Best 11 Memories Memories
pg. 46–47
I’m Not Gonna Cry - Corey Smith
Titan Scroll
“To my favorite teacher, told me never give up” Anna Poudel
way we act. He likes to whine a lot, act like a baby,” said Senior Kelsey Silleck. “The first day of school he couldn’t even pronounce his own name. It’s just all fun, all enjoy seeing Big Timthe time,” said Senior ber [Maxwell] coming Nikki Huggins. through the hallway,” said Students said they Senior Montana Rex. had fun in his class and Maxwell said what is lots of good memories. important for people to “Every Friday we do is try to impact others play darts with Nerf in a positive way. This is darts,” said Senior Jon why he became a teacher; Smith. he had teachers who had “He always yells at positive influences on his this kid who plays his life and he wanted to be guitar in the middle of that to kids. According to class,” said Senior Tyler his seniors, Maxwell has Lewis. accomplished his goal. “Every day is a good “He’s actually my famemory,” said Senior vorite teacher. He doesn’t Garet Laughland. push us to do our work Favorite teacher of 2011, Mr. Maxwell will be Maxwell said that he but you can tell he cares leaving West next year to become a preacher had many good memoand wants us to get it ries from the year, but in Nebraska. done,” said Senior Jenny one topped the rest. Orrick. “My favorite story this year was when I Many students said the best thing about started calls by saying, ‘Today, in lieu of a test’ Maxwell was that he is funny. and one of my students cut me off by saying, “He knows how to make the whole class ‘Oh crap.’ And I said, ‘That means instead of a laugh. He always takes jokes off the internet quiz,’ and he said, ‘Oh, okay, go ahead then.’” and shows the whole class, and he goes into Maxwell will be leaving West with the sedifferent characters. Sometimes he acts like a niors this year as he is going to be a pastor in kid, making fun of the high schoolers and the a church in southwest Nebraska. The favorite teacher of 2011 is awarded to Matt Maxwell, English 12 and Theory of Knowledge teacher. “He seems like a rad dude and I’ll always
The decision to become a Christian preacher is one that brought Maxwell to West in the first place. “I’ve been working on the degree [at Calvary Theological Seminary] for three years,” he said. A lot of students said they were sad about Maxwell leaving. “It’s not good, but I guess he’s got to leave,” said Senior Jeremy Tindall. The staff also had good things to say about Maxwell. German teacher Julie Hume, who will replace Maxwell as the Theory of Knowledge teacher said, “I don’t really know him a lot but I hear kids saying good things about him. They respect him a lot.” Maxwell plans to be involved in the schools in Imperial, Nebraska by subbing and coaching, in addition to being a pastor. He said the town is small which is why he and his wife chose it. They, along with their two sons and one daughter, are used to small towns. “I’ll miss all the kids every day and being with other teachers, but I’ll still be teaching,” said Maxwell. Though Maxwell will be a minister in Nebraska next year, he said he will remember West for a fun and friendly staff and all the times he laughed with the staff and with his students. “Where Are You Now” written by Tom Higgenson, performed by Honor Society
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May 11, 2011
• Senior Issue • 3
“I’m so much myspace.com
xanga
Nikki Andrinao
The class of 2011 graduates have the ability and privilege to stay in touch with fellow members of their class through the use of technology. Not only through the use of cell phones, but through the use of the very popular social networking websites. Xanga was the beginning of the social networking cycle for most. “Xanga was the foundation to my social networking,” said Senior Sterling Daniels. From customizable profiles, to the world of blogging, Xanga helped people enter into online profiles and sharing. “I would blog random things,” said Daniels. “I would always do a little top ten blog, whether it was top songs blog or the cutest girls in 7th grade blog.” Senior Nikki McClaran also enjoyed blogging on Xanga. “I blogged about school and life, and I ragged on my teachers a lot,” she said. Xanga also allows users to customize their profile. Users could change the color, font, and music on their profile. When people viewed online profiles, they could see the user’s blogs, along with the music the user had chosen to post on their page. “There are some things I miss, like customizing your own profile with music and things,” said McClaran. “Facebook doesn’t have that, and neither does Twitter.” MySpace, the “pre-Facebook” as Daniels put it, was the number one social networking site until 2009, when it was replaced with Facebook. With the ability to post music, message friends, and customize the profile with crazy colors and wacky settings, MySpace became the new networking king, leaving Xanga in the dust. “I like that you could decorate, and you had different skins,” said McClaran. “It was like Xanga, only with a different name.” People could view their friend’s profiles, view new songs they were
4 •Senior Issue•
listening to, bands they were interested in, and even see what their friends’ moods were. Today, MySpace still has many regular users and is desperately trying to keep up with Facebook. With installing LIKE buttons, and allowing Chat Now, MySpace has become even more similar to the rapidly changing Facebook. Daniels said, “Now it’s like nobody uses MySpace. I haven’t heard anyone be like ‘Check out my MySpace’ lately, and when people do reference their MySpace, you’re just like eh okay, somebody is still in 2008.” Now Facebook is one of the top three social networking websites in the world. From LIKEing frenzy’s to becoming “Facebook-official,” Facebook has over 500 million users, with a growth rate of 250,000 new users a day since January 2007. “Of course I have a Facebook, everyone does,” said Senior Drake Schroeder. Many take advantage of Facebook to reconnect with long lost friends. “My favorite part about Facebook is you can find old friends from where you used to live and up,” said Schroeder. At one point in time, popularity was based on how many friends an individual accumulated on Facebook. Some people had well over 1,000 friends on Facebook. “I have around 950ish friends and I probably know about half of them, I’m just too lazy to delete,” said Schroeder. Now, people are beginning to delete friends and make their friend list a true list of their actual friends. “I have 411 I know, I’m trying to cut down to those I talk to consistently,” said Senior Hai Kim. Facebook isn’t the only website binding the community together. Twitter brought the new concept of “tweeting,” allowing people stop updating their Facebook status and begin to tweet their latest thought. Although Twitter has become popular among social networkers, not everyone understands the purpose.
Titan Scroll
cooler online”
“Online” - Written by Chris DuBois, Kelley Lovelace, and Brad Paisley. Performed by Brad Paisley.
facebook “I didn’t like it at first; I was like, ‘what’s the point of this?’ I got my twitter like a year ago, and tweeted like twice,” said Daniels. Twitter is not just for personal use though, it is also used for business purposes. Out of all the accounts on Twitter, only about one-fourth of them are regular users. “I don’t follow that many celebrities on twitter, mainly just ESPN and CNN,” said Daniels. “I follow Drake, Michael Vick, and John Stewart, though.” Although Twitter seems like a popular website, many West students don’t see the use in it. Schroeder, Kim, and McClaran do not have Twitter accounts. “I refuse to get a Twitter,” said Senior Brian Hamm, “I refuse.”
Facebook Fanatic
Derrick Whitney
May 11, 2011
t
witter
Top Tweeter
Allison Tyler Gochenhour Rasmussen
Katie Maloney
• Senior Issue • 5
“I gladly stand up next to you and defend her still today, cause there ain’t no doubt I love this land, God bless the USA” Taylor Jensen
The U.S. Army Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps main motto is to motivate young people to be better citizens, and that’s just what happened in Wests’ Air Force Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) program. Being in JROTC three years now, Senior Taya Ohms concluded what she thought to be the overall goal of JROTC. “To build better citizens. To teach leadership skills and moral standards. Really, just to be better people and to set goals and be prepared for life.” While seniors all take their own routes and achieve different goals, for these three seniors all had the JROTC class in common. Senior Logan Million’s interest in the military started long ago with the two generations before him: his father and grandfather. With his grandpa’s service in WWII, and his fathers fascination of military history, Million was bound to have some interest
himself. “My grandpa was in the military. He earned a silver star and two bronze stars; we’re a military strong family. My dad was actually the one who really brought up being in ROTC to me. We really enjoy looking at military history together and he’s on the Booster club,” said Million. Million became very involved in the program. “I’m the Corps Commander, which is who is in charge of the entire unit. My rank is Cadet Colonel. I’m part of the drill team and I command the armed drill team,” said Million. “I also broke the record for most ribbons ever this year with 31.” His future has always been a work in progress, but is just now starting to become a reality. Attending MU in the fall on a four year full-ride scholarship, worth around $90,000, he’ll be in their Army ROTC program. “I want to do military intelligence and I just don’t want to be stuck behind a desk. So I report in the
summer [to MU] for physical training and I do have to serve for a mandatory eight years after college,” said Million. While JROTC can be a lot of work, there is always time for play, including the junior/senior trip. Million said he went on the trip this year to Washington D.C. where they toured the Capitol Building and Lincoln Memorial, among other sites. “In D.C. we got a tour of the Pentagon, which is rare because they don’t let people in there very often,” said Senior Kelsey Connelly. Although Connelly won’t be joining the military, her three years in AFJROTC haven’t gone to waste. She received the Spencer Knapp Memorial Scholarship and will be working toward her degrees in aviation management and a professional pilot at Oklahoma State University. While Ohms received many scholarships and medals such as the Herald Morlock Scholarship and Military Officers’Association Scholarship, she said the biggest
was her Iowa State University scholarship. Ohms received a Navy ROTC full-tuition scholarship to attend Iowa State, $130,000. “I’m going to study engineering. And after college, I’ll serve in the Navy,” said Ohms. Ohms was the Public Affairs Officer in JROTC, her rank was Captain, and she’ll be serving at least a mandatory five years of active duty in the Navy after college. JROTC gave these seniors many advantages and opportunities; they all agreed they learned a lot. Million had many reasons for enjoying his years in JROTC and just as many for why he’ll enjoy the Army, but a select few stood out from the rest. “I like the sense of being a part of something. There’s always an element of being scared but you can’t know till you get out there. I really want to do this and I’m doing it for the right reasons as long as I’m doing it for my country.”
“Proud to be an American” Written and Performed by Lee Greenwood.
“helping good people when bad things happen” 6 •Senior Issue•
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Titan Scroll
“There’s more to life than just to live”
Haley Roach While some 12-year-olds dream about being an athlete, actress, or President, Senior Julia Fleenor, at that age, discovered a different dream. “I went on a mission trip to Uganda with my family and church and I just fell in love with Africa,” said Fleenor. On this trip, Fleenor helped build a house for orphans. Two years ago Fleenor returned to Africa, but this time she went to
Julia Fleenor helps build homes for many Africans on her summer trip.
Liberia. While in Africa, “I taught sex education and parenthood planning,” said Fleenor. Fleenor is going to Missouri State University for college where she will study psychology, an education she said will be helpful later in life when she becomes what she has always wanted to be; a missionary. During her college years, Fleenor, through her involvement in her church, plans on going on as many mission trips as she can. As Fleenor prepares to go into missions work, she has support from Art teacher, Brandon Briscoe. “I am proud of how God is working in her life and that he has given her that passion. Though all Christians are called to be missionaries, it takes a unique calling for God to move someone to another place in the world,” said Briscoe. Overall, the two aspects leading Fleenor to Africa is a calling from God and her passion for the continent. “I just feel like that’s what God has been calling me to do,” said Fleenor. She also just wants to help the people in Africa. “I’ve been blessed so much here,” said Fleenor, “so being able to help
Celebration
the people out is a pretty cool thing.” Even though Fleenor knows this is what she wants, she said it will still have its challenges. For Fleenor, “leaving everything I know, all the She is also is looking forward to people, will be the hardest part.” living in the culture. She said there are also things she “I like the way they do things,” knows being a missionary could said Fleenor. “The cultures are interfere with. similar in that everyone wants the “Everyone wants to have a family newest gadget and clothes but the so going to Africa kind of complicates people care a lot less about it than things,” said Fleenor, “So that will be we do. They value people.” interesting.” After Fleenor spends time as a Briscoe said, “To be willing to missionary, she isn’t sure what, or if change the way you live and be she will do something different. exposed to different cultures, “Just whatever God leads me to experiencing personal discomforts do,” said Fleenor. “It’s what I’ve for the love of Christ is the greatest always wanted to do so it’s hard to act of obedience one can make.” think of what else I would do.” There is also a lot for Fleenor to be Briscoe said he plans to support excited about. Fleenor by, “prayer for God’s “Just going back there,” said protection and for His blessing in Fleenor, “starting a life there,” is her life.” very exciting for her. “Julia loves the Lord and For Fleenor, being a missionary loves people. She has a passion for will be a rewarding experience. truth. These are the foundational “Being able to see God’s work and qualifications for anyone invested in what He is doing while I am there” is ministry,” said Briscoe. what Fleenor is predicting to be the best part. “Hold On” written and performed by the Jonas Brothers.
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• Senior Issue • 7
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8 •Senior Issue•
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“I’m doing all right, getting good grades. The future’s so bright” Sydnee Owens The class of 2011 broke the record for having the most International Baccalaureate Diploma candidates in West history with 23 graduating this year. “It’s the same number that North has this year I believe,” said IB Coordinator Blake Little. “It’s one of the highest numbers we’ve had in the entire district, so it’s a good number.” “Ever since the seventh grade our class has been super competitive,” said Senior IB Diploma Candidate Rebekah Sikyta. “I guess we’re just abnormally smart. That, or we’re incredibly stupid for all taking IB.” Although the IB program may repel most students, the candidates this year said it was well worth it and helped them receive substantial scholarships. “I got room and board paid for at the University
of Tulsa,” said Senior Brock Fergerson. Fergerson received $160,000 from the Presidential scholarship, which is a scholarship awarded to National Merit Scholars, but he said being in IB helped to convince the college to give him the scholarship. Although it is a lot of work, the goal of the IB program is to prepare students for college or whatever they plan to pursue after high school. “College will seem easy after this,” said Sikyta. “I’m overly prepared for college now,” said Senior Christina Barron. “If they get into a great college because of it then that’s great, but they’re going to be very prepared to succeed in college,” said Little. The Diploma also has a history of opening opportunities for the candidates. “We have a number of kids going to Wash U this
year which is an outstanding school. Not a lot of kids get an opportunity to go there,” said Little. With there being only a few students striving for the IB Diploma each year, a bond is built between them.
“The IB kids are like a huge makeshift intelligent family,” said Barron. “All the other people made it worth it. Even when we were stressed, at least we were all on Facebook together at two in the morning,” said Sikyta. Barron said if the IB Diploma taught her nothing else, it taught her to be “dedicated and persevering when you become frustrated with everything you’re doing.”
“The Future’s So Bright” written by Pat MacDonald, performed by Timbuk 3
Congratulations Seniors!
Stop by this summer for our cold treats May 11, 2011
• Senior Issue • 9
“There comes a time, when every man must fight; When he believes in justice and right”
Tiffany Jenkins Senior debaters and national qualifiers Hai Kim, Codi Caton, Katie Lutz, and Alex Chang have their lives planned out and are ready to take action due to their hard work in debate. Debate well prepared these national qualifiers for the lives ahead of them. “Debate helps make every aspect in life easier, like getting a job, and it helps you to persuade people and take advantage of situations. You get your way a lot more, and learn how to work the world. Debate gives me my best friends and the role model of life—Mr. Miller,” said Caton. “I can figure out how to research and do it with quality in the research, and it also helped me with public
Caton, who is planning on attendspeaking too. Debate has given me all tionals this year. the friends that I have now and my Each of these students, although they ing Truman State, said he was unsure current grades reflect my work in de- were all vigorously involved in the de- of whether he would take a path of bating world, creative writing or teaching. bate,” Lutz are taking Only one of them is sure they will said. As far as s e p a r a t e continue debate in college-Chang. “I paths down plan on debating in college at UMKC. individual achievethe career I want to major in psychology but my road ahead plans are kind of towards where ever m e n t s of them. Kim life takes me,” said Chang. go, Caton said he plans Both Caton and Lutz are either unand Kim on study- decided or unable to continue on in are both National ing business debate. “Mizzou does not currently with empha- have a debate program but some of Forensic sis in mar- my friends are trying to start one League keting at the and if they are successful I’ll definite(NFL) AllUniversity of ly join,” Lutz said. Americans. Hai Kim will work towards business marketing at MisMissouri. Caton said, “If I get money I will Lutz has souri University. Lutz plans continue debate but if I don’t I won’t placed in 27 to double major in biology and politi- have time because I’ll need to work individual events. more and earn money.” All of them will be attending na- cal science. “We Can’t Be Beaten” written by Angry Anderson and Rob Riley, performed by Rose Tattoo
Carpani and Gordon, PA 913-226-8265 cgordon@caglegae.com 10 • Senior Issue •
Titan Scroll
“I want to be a billionaire so frickin’ bad”
Another senior earning a scholarship, well, make the school a letter asking if there was anything Katey Stoetzel that three scholarships, is Lauren Culbertson, else that I could do or send to show them I was The class of 2011 is finding out just what a right for the school,” he said. “They were very who is planning on attending Boston College. big deal it is to earn a scholarship to the school impressed by the letter and decided to add the Culbertson received a scholarship from working they most want to go. In fact, this class totals over $11.1 billion worth of scholarships, with six at HyVee, one from the Lee’s Summit Educational money to allow me to go.” He was worried that the one scholarship would students getting a scholarship for over $100,000. Foundation and one from the Rotary Club. not be enough, which is what prompt She had other offers, but turned them down. In order of amount, Brock Fergerson and “After visiting [Boston College] it just seemed ed him to send in the letter. Taylor Geiger earned $160,000; Theresia Ohms, the best suit and the best opportunities. I can just Hamilton plans on majoring in film, which is $130,000; Rebecca Sikyta, $118,224; Greg something he has been doing since his freshman see myself there,” she said. Phipps, $116,000; and Lynette Larty with $107, year at West. “I couldn’t imagine myself doing However, she is still uncertain on what she 200. anything else,” he said. After college he plans Senior Allison Behm is one of them. She is a wants to do while attending Boston College. “I applied undecided but am thinking on getting a job with a production agency in Los getting a scholarship to Truman State next year. “It’s a combination of things. I got it partly international relations. I enjoy traveling and Angeles and continue working on films for the because of my academic grades, A+ and learning about other countries and cultures. After rest of his life. Brightflight,” she said. Brightflight is based on college, I would work at an embassy in another In fact, it was this aspiration that led him to ACT scores. Each year, the minimal score one can country or something along those lines,” said Columbia College. At the end of the year, a big production agency in LA offers the students an Culbertson. get to qualify for Brightflight changes. Behm said that she hasn’t decided what she Receiving the Trustee Scholarship to Columbia internship. wants to major in yet, but is thinking about College Chicago for $5,000 a year is Bret Hamilton. “I felt like all of my hard work and IB classes and all-nighters that I’ve done in high school is But that’s not all. history or political science and a minor in art. However, she said “I feel like I’ve done my time “I also received a recognition award for an extra finally paying off,” Hamilton said. $4,000 a year because I sent one of the Deans of here and I’m ready to be out.” “Billionaire” written by Travie McCoy, Bruno Mars, Ari Levine and Philip Lawrence, performed by Bruno Mars and Travie McCoy
May 11, 2011
Grooming and boarding available
• Senior Issue • 11
Titan Scroll’s “It doesn’t matter who won or lost, only how we played”
Demarcus Edwards
Chelsey Phoebus Sports Played:
Cross Country and track
Plans after High School
Sports played:
“I do plan on running after high school. I will be running at the collegiate level and if I improve I could go even further.”
Football
Favorite Sport:
Favorite Sports Memory:
“Winning state all four years in cross country, winning state in track and becoming an all American.”
“Football, I just did my other sports for fun.”
Favorite Sports Memory: “Winning state in football.”
Jean Madison
Sports Played: Swimming
Plans after high school “I plan to continue swimming after high school. I am attending Florida International University and will be going on a scholarship.”
Favorite Sports Memory:
“Some of the best memories that I have from swimming are during my freshman year – the dive coach, Coach Mix, read a children’s book, accomplishing so much,... getting 9th overall at state and being all state in every event my freshman year as well.”
Alex Katzfey
Adam Klausing
Sports Played:
Sports Played:
Volleyball, basketball and track
Football, track and basketball
Favorite Sport: “Volleyball has taught me perspective through adversity because it is a team sport so every player is equally important and needed.”
Favorite Sports Memory:
“A highlight of my volleyball career was going to State with the six seniors that we had this year. It was a great way to end my senior year, even though we didn’t win, because we have all been in the program for four years and it was awesome the way it ended us all together.”
12 •Senior Issue•
Favorite Sport:
“It’s tough to compare them because they are so different but I think it’s either football or track.”
Favorite Sports Memory:
“I think realizing that we were state champions in football was probably my favorite memory.” “I’m Not Gonna Cry” written and performed by Corey Smith
Titan Scroll
Top 10 Titan Athletes Ben Poeschl Sports Played:
Sports Played:
Football and wrestling
Favorite Sport:
Football, baseball and basketball
Favorite Sport:
“Football was my favorite because of State, but I’m more passionate about baseball.”
Why baseball over football?
“It’s hard to choose because both have better qualities. I like wrestling because of how individual it is and if you mess up you know it’s your fault and not your teammates. But, I just love football. I love the game. I basically just love hitting people.”
“It feels like I can go further with baseball then football.”
“Winning State in football, and the State championship match in wrestling.”
La
Sports played:
Track and Field and Cross Country
ur
Cam Johnson
Favorite Sports Memory:
en
Plans after High School
ea
Ch
“I plan to continue track after high school, I will be attending Southern Illinois University of Carbondale, I will be running there on a full ride scholarship and I couldn’t be more excited about it! I get to continue what I love to do for at least another four years.”
d
Favorite Sports Memory:
Sports played:
Football, baseball and track.
Favorite Sport:
“Football, I just love the atmosphere of football. And the coaches are really cool.”
Favorite Sports Memory:
“My favorite memory is running onto the football field my Sophomore year for my first varsity game.”
le
“My best memories from track and field are from winning state last year as a team and individually in two of my events. It was very surreal and we had a lot of fun doing it.”
Katie Douglas Sports Played:
Basketball, volleyball and track
Plans after High School
“I will not be playing volleyball or basketball after high school, I am going to Mizzou.”
Favorite Sports Memory: “The best memory I have is by far winning state [for volleyball] my freshman year.”
Ryan Hillier May 11, 2011
• Senior Issue • 13
“Fans goin’ crazy for the boys of fall” Andy Evans
10 20 30 40 50 40 30
“It was just a crazy atmosphere. It was so loud, it was unbelievable,” said Senior Ryan Hillier. “I was nervous. I almost threw up. I really didn’t know what to think going into the game,” said Senior DeMarcus Edwards. “I was almost at peace. I just wanted to go have fun with it,” said Senior Adam Klausing. These were just a few of the emotions members of the 2010 Titan Football team were feeling as they entered the Edward Jones Dome in St. Louis on November 26. It was on this day that West dethroned the reigning State Champions Webster Groves to take the throne themselves. A few of the seniors on the Varsity squad went to the 2007 State Championship game their freshman year in which West defeated Parkway Central 35-0. “It was really cool watching the ’07 team. I went my freshman year to spectate. I
loved the atmosphere of it,” said Hillier. The seniors then worked for three seasons before getting a
title of their own. “It [the State Championship] meant so much because of how much we put in training and preparing for it. It’s like something that you dream about but it actually happened,” said Klausing. Hillier said he believes that one contributing factor to their victory was the senior leadership of the squad. “The seniors were a huge factor on the field. You know what the coaches are thinking even when they aren’t talking to you because you’ve been
in the system for a few years when some of the younger kids haven’t,” said Hillier. Klausing agreed with his fouryear teammate and said, “It was really important to have people out there to keep the team focused.” But, being State Champions by no means came without a price.
the team, the seniors have some parting words-of-wisdom. “Never stop working and always remember that there is someone else who wants your spot. Always remember that there is another team that wants to beat you. And never be satisfied,” said Hillier. Edwards said, “Stay together as a team and as a family.” “Have fun and enjoy the season. Football is meant to be fun,” said Klausing.
“A lot of time. Hours and hours of film study in the weight room. Just more time and energy than anyone can imagine went into that title,” said Hillier. With this team’s seniors moving on and this year’s juniors taking over their position as the leaders of
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20 “Boys of Fall” written by Casey Beathard and Dave Turnbull, performed by Kenny
14 •Senior Issue•
Titan Scroll
Riley Manning
“Get out of your mind”
Senior Kylie Rice and Head Coach Mark Rice after a victory.
Senior Kaitlyn Drawe and Assistant Coach Amy Drawe at the end of the year banquet.
Titan Volleyball girls celebrate after winning distrits.
May 11, 2011
“Outta Your Mind” written and performedby Lil Jon and LMFAO
• Senior Issue • 15
“All I do is win, win, win; no matter what” Meg Peterson Seniors Johanna Kleinsasser, Alex Moase, and Chelsey Phoebus won the State Championships all four years, and made history with being the first team in Missouri to do so. Freshmen Kierstin West and Kennadee Williams joined the seniors by winning individual state this year. Many hours each day and throughout the week are needed to be devoted toward running and practicing for each race because like everyone knows, practice makes perfect. “The amount of miles I run a week varies, but the highest I’ve gotten to is 50 miles per week,” said Kleinsasser. “It takes a lot of dedication to win State, especially in a sport that requires so much training. When you are
Chelsey Phoebus 16 •Senior Issue•
competing at a high level, running is not just a sport; it is a lifestyle,” said Kleinsasser. Kleinsasser has made many achievements throughout high school besides winning State all four years. She also got All-State two years and almost qualified to the national meet last year. “You have to be focused on
running the right amount of mileage, eating right, hydrating, and getting enough sleep. You have to be mentally tough because when your body is begging you to stop, you have to be mentally strong enough to keep pushing through the pain,” said Kleinsasser. Not only do the athletes have to put many hours a week practicing, but the coaches put so much time into it as well. “The coaches contribute so much to the team, both in our successes and in just becoming a stronger team. They know what they need to do to help us run our best and have fun at the same time,” said Kleinsasser. Head Coach Jesse Griffin has coached at West for three years, since these senior girls were sophomores.
“Griffin is known as the strict coach that pushes everyone to keep going,” said Phoebus. “[They have made me proud] by consistently working in the off season and sacrificing their time for the team, they are all such great leaders,” said Griffin. “I am going to miss them a lot. They are an irreplaceable part of our team. The younger girls have been passed the torch, but the seniors will be missed.” While trying to compete against other tough schools and having very hard practices, the team is a very tight knit group and has formed strong bonds throughout the past four years that will last forever. “There have been so many memorable moments in the last four years of cross country, like winning State, going to Regionals, our trip to California, and our camp in Colorado, but my favorite memories will always just be the times where we hung out together and had a good time. A lot of the time we are all just really goofy and we don’t really worry about what other people think,” said Kleinsasser. “Over the past four years I have had the chance to meet so many new people and make a lot of memories with them,” said Kleinsasser. “One time at State our whole team got up in front of
everyone with a couple of other teams and danced at the awards ceremony. We are all really close and it makes cross country so
Alex Moase
much more enjoyable to have a team in which everyone gets along.” High school may be coming to an end for them, but all three of these seniors are planning on continuing running during college. Kleinsasser will be attending Oklahoma Baptist University, Moase will be attending Pittsburg State University and Phoebus will be attending Oklahoma State University. Although it’s a bittersweet good bye, the girls will continue to run and become even better athletes in college in the years to come.
“All I Do is Win” Written by Christopher Bridges, Cordozar Broadus, Faheem Najm, and William Roberts. Performed by DJ Khaled
Titan Scroll
“Run baby run, don’t ever look back”
Carlie Nash Over the years, Track at West has been extremely successful. The girls have held two state titles and the boys have placed second three times. “It feels pretty good to win State. It feels like all our hard work has paid off,” said Timberlake. “We have a lot of leadership on the team to set a good example and to make the younger girls want to be stronger and better,” said Alex Moase.
Keith Marks participates in Lee’s Summit West Titan Track.
May 11, 2011
Getting to this level of success didn’t come easy. “We run all year round. I mean, you’re going to get success if you run all year round and work hard all time,” said Moase. “Also our excellent coaches make us successful, too.” “We work really hard at practice. I’d say that we are the hardest working team out of the other two schools,” said Jacque Timberlake. No matter how hard it gets, track athletes never give up. “We keep at it everyday. We keep that drive. We work hard in practice and try to get better at every meet,” said Russel Muffoletto. Konnor Cordes has experienced this first hand. “I placed first in conference, third in districts, fourth in sectionals and ninth at state in the high jump,” said Cordes. “It feels really cool to know that I did it, especially my junior year. It was really nerve racking also. I felt like I was at a NFL game; there was so many people,” he added. Even though the number of seniors has decreased since this classes freshman year, the team is still fully dedicated. “We have about eight seniors on the team as opposed to having roughly 25 their freshman year but they have
persevered and consequently they’re enduring success,” said coach Bob Klausing. Timberlake has enjoyed running with the same girls. “One of the best things about track is being able to run with the people I ran with in middle school. I feel like we get along easier and have built a better friendship together,” said Timberlake. Others have different reasons to run track. “I really like being good at track. I also like the competition in it. It keeps it interesting,” said Cordes. “I like hanging out with my friends and I really like just running track,” said Keith Marks. “We work hard and do work,” he added. Klausing agreed. “We don’t have a huge bunch of seniors but those who we have had all four years to work hard, do what they need to do and lead by example. They have all been Adam Klausing warms up with speed extremely coachable,” said Klausing. drills. Although they know how to have The team is looking forward to fun, the past four years have taught a favorable end to the season and them when to know when they need hopefully another state title. “I have enjoyed working with this to buckle down and get serious. “I think over the years we’ve all group of athletes. They have bought matured together. There’s not a lot of into what we are all trying to do,” playing around anymore, especially said Klausing. so close to districts and state,” said Marks. “Check Yes Juliet” written and performed by We the Kings
• Senior Issue • 17
“Now go tell them we sold out, like we’re the ones who changed” Andy Evans Titan Wrestling is saying goodbye to two four-year veterans of the team: Seniors Ben Poeschl and Andrew Niehaus. Both seniors have enjoyed successful careers as Titan wrestlers with Niehaus finishing in the Elite Eight at State his senior year, and Poeschl taking second at State his sophomore, junior, and senior years. “[State] just kind of topped it off. You want to finish strong. You want to peak when you’re finishing,” said Niehaus. Both Poeschl and Niehaus were given 1st Team All-Conference honors at the end of the season;
Poeschl’s third time being selected, and Niehaus’ second. Poeschl received four varsity letters for wrestling; Niehaus received three. But, being seniors means it was their final opportunity to compete in high school. “I knew it was my last chance and I just needed stuff done,” said Poeschl. Niehaus agreed with his teammate and said, “I didn’t really worry about it. I mean, I definitely wanted to do well, but I tried not to stress out about it. I just went out there and had fun with it,” said Niehaus. According to Poeschl, a major reason for the team’s fifth place finish overall was the leadership of
the seniors on and off the mat. “[The senior leadership] was very important because we had to really give an example as to how to wrestle and act at State,” he said. Although the two can agree on their love of the sport, the things the seniors love about it are complete opposites. “I love that it’s an individual sport. It’s just you on the mat and if you lose, it’s all on you, but if you win, you get all the glory,” said Poeschl. Niehaus enjoys an entirely different aspect of wrestling. “I love the team. You make a lot of good connections with the teammates. You don’t just go to
practice, leave, and that’s it. It’s a lifestyle. The other guy’s on the team become your best friends,” said Niehaus. One thing the two could agree on, however, is their feelings about the coaching staff. “Coach Hauck is great. I’m really going to miss Coach Spurck, though. I love Coach Spurck,” said Niehaus. For Poeschl, the wrestling career is over. Poeschl plans to walk-on to the football team at the University of Arkansas. Niehaus, however is undecided if he will walk-on the wrestling team at the University of Central Missouri.
“The Downfall of Us All” written by Thomas Denney, Jermery McKinnon, Alexander Shelnett, Neil Westfall and Joshua Woodard, performed by A Day to Remember
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816-241-5800 18 •Senior Issue•
Titan Scroll
“My chick bad, badder than yours”
Haley Roach As the Westside Girls see their years of being a part of the high school dance team come to an end. “It’s bittersweet,” said Senior Kelsey May. But as the year ends, the girls said they have a lot to be proud of. Since this group of seniors; May, Lauren Brady, Kayla Nunemaker, and Morgan Smythia, started their freshman year they have won State three times. May and Brady are both captains of the dance team. They took their State champion titles in ‘08, ‘09, and ‘11. “They just work really, really hard,” said Coach Veronica Scott, “and to have
three State titles with them is really had a reputation to uphold,” said Nun- things here and there, like when they cool; it’s a first for me.” emaker, had to put in extra hours choreograph Brady said, “We have put a lot of The girls said that being able to be ing a routine. time and effort into making our rou- apart of dance team throughout high For the girls there are things about tines clean, so to know that it paid off school has been a positive experience. the team that they said are hard to is an awesome feeling.” Brady said, “it’s been a good school leave. Winning State championships has activity because it lasts year round.” “I got to dance with my sister this also helped the girls throughout the “Dance team was an awesome expe- year so it’s sad I won’t do that again,” years. rience,” said Nunemaker. said Brady. “It’s kept me motivated,” said May. But part of being on a year round Some of the girls don’t have to say “My freshman year we won State so team also meant giving up other goodbye to dancing altogether though. we knew the feeling that winning gave things. “I’m glad my dance team career isn’t us” said Nunemaker, “so each year we “I used to be in competitive dance over and I get to be a Golden Girl [at the used that feeling to give us motivation but I had to give that up because it was University of Missouri],” said Brady. as well as give the girls who hadn’t been conflicting with school dance team and For others, they aren’t sure what on the team when we won.” school work,” said May. dancing will look like in their future. This year to help get ready for state “Dance team took up a lot of time Nunemaker said, “I’m not dancing the girls found their videos of state and was exhausting going from prac- next year in college. I decided there are from freshman year to remind them tice to work to doing homework,” said other things I want to try and focus on what winning looked like and “to get Nunemaker. in college. Maybe my sophomore year I that drive back in us,” said Smythia. “Coming into my freshman year will, but who knows.” At the beginning of this year the I still played volleyball and softball,” Smythia doesn’t know if she will Westside girls also set a goal to do well said Brady, “obviously dance was most dance again, “I feel like that time in my at Regionals because in the past they important, but I still had to give those life is over.” haven’t been as successful there as at up.” “I wish they could stay the same and State. Last year the Westside Girls state never leave,” said Scott. “This year we finally got it down,” competition and the Chorus Line per- Nunemaker said, “I don’t think it said Brady about Regionals. formance were on the same day. has really hit me that my dance team The team also set goals, “to become Smythia, May, and sophomore Pay- career is over.” really close as a team so we would ton Lyon had to miss the state compe- “After doing it for four years I felt like work well together,” said May. tition. I was ready to be done,” said Smythia. Scott said, “They all got along really To miss state was a big sacrifice for “It’s weird not going to dance team evwell.” the girls. ery day. I definitely do miss it.” The girls also had some smaller “My mom had to call me, and be “I am really proud of the recognition goals they wanted to achieve. like ‘Hey, you guys won state!,’” said the Westside Girls get, the school be “We always wanted to perform Smythia. lieves in us,” said Smythia, “It’s nice to Westside girls turn in sync during a halfthe best that we could because we The girls said their were also small know that we please the crowd.” time performance. “My Chick Bad” written by Christopher Bridges, Onika Maraj, Samuel Lindley and Derrelle Davidson, performed by Ludacris
May 11, 2011
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• Senior Issue • 19
“Find a world of happiness without the hate and fear; Figure out just what I’m doing here, In my next thirty years”
What’s Your Biggest
“To be president.” –Codi Caton
Goal ?
“I’m going to college to pursue a career in the music business. My biggest goal would be to write and play music to a point that I was selfsustained.” –Ian Dobyns “ Invent a product that will change the world.” –Corben Gailey
“I’m going to get out of high school and establish an empire with all of the gingers of the world and create new world supremacy of ginger-kind.” –Jon Smith
“To get into law school after my bachelor’s degree.” –Katie Lawrence
“ To find a Sugar daddy.” –Sophia D’Anna
“My Next Thirty Years” written by Phil Vassar, performed by Tim McGraw
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“I’ll spread my wings and I’ll learn how to fly, I’ll do what it takes till I touch the sky”
Anna Schafer Senior Abby Dorning made her mark at West with her passion for costume design. “A long time ago my friend designed a wedding dress and I got jealous so I just designed my own wedding dress. Then after that I just started designing clothes my freshman year and people saw my clothes and then asked me to join Costume Crew,” Dorning said. Theatre Director Brad Rackers has great things to say about Dorning’s costumes as well. “She has a really impressive design for the age that she is, she also has a really good sense of design as well,” Rackers said. Dorning has a lot on her plate that needs to get done in time for a show. “I design costumes then I make the patterns from scratch, or I take clothes already made and adapt them from scratch,” Dorning said.
May 11, 2011
Rackers said that he believes Dorning’s work helps the theatre department in great ways. “She makes it so we can create really amazing things, and when she makes the costumes herself she financially helps us as well,” Rackers said. Dorning has designed costumes for many plays and musicals, during this time she figured out what types of designs she likes best. “I do Shakespeare in the Park and I love working on those costumes. They’re so big and elaborate and also I really liked working on the Wizard of Oz munchkin costumes. They were a lot of fun,” Dorning said. Not only does skill and talent take part in making costumes for Dorning but the actors do as well. “My friendship with the actors really is important, I draw inspiration and passion from them and look at their characteristics on stage, and look at them in their world and it helps me draw out inspiration,” Dorning said. Dorning said that she intends to continue cos-
tume design in her future. “I’m going to Webster University Conservatory of Theatre Arts and I’ll major in costume designing there and later on hopefully I’ll get to design costumes for Broadway or musicals. If not, then I’ll stay local,” Dorning said.
Abby Dorning has designed costumes for many plays and musicals, including the Wizard of Oz and Shakespeare in the Park. “Breakaway” written by Avril Lavigne, Bridget Benenate and Matthew Gerrard. Performed by Kelly Clarkson.
• Senior Issue • 21
“If it wasn’t for you, I would never be who I am” Anna Schafer
Best Best Friends
Seniors Madi Walker and Katelynn Keeble have been friends for a decade now. They met when they were in the same third grade class. “We were like, ‘We both like sports, let’s be friends!’” said Walker. With all the things the girls have in common, it’s not surprising why they’re so close. “We both really like watching movies. We’re Disney fanatics, we know everything about Disney,” said Walker. Both girls also love Harry Potter, and they also like the same music. They even look similar. “We look more alike than Katelynn and her twin do,” said Walker. “And we have similar humors and brains.” Walker and Keeble both participate in concert choir, and in their free time they like watching movies together and hanging out with their other friends. “Our friends usually invite us together, they don’t usually just invite one of us,” said Walker. The girls have also taken mul-
tiple trips together over the years. They’ve gone to Disney World twice, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, New York, and the lake every 4th of July. “Madi’s humor and willingness to be around me 24/7 is my favorite thing about her,” said Keeble. “Katelynn will tell me the truth about anything,” said Walker. “She’s a loyal friend, too.” Keeble and Walker will not be attending the same college next year. Walker is going to the University of Arkansas, while Keeble will be going to the University of Missouri. Despite being apart, they plan to stay in touch. “I’ll probably Skype her about everything. It’s going to be weird not talking to her about everything,” said Walker. “We’ll also text and talk on Facebook,” said Keeble. Seniors Cam Johnson and Demarcus Edwards haven’t been best friends for a very long time, but that didn’t stop them from being voted Best Best Friends. “We’ve been friends since freshman year,” said Johnson. “We
were both in Mrs. Smythia’s English class.” Johnson and Edwards both play football for West. Johnson said that one of their favorite memories from their friendship was winning State in football this year. Along with football, they enjoy playing baseball together. Johnson also plays on the Varsity baseball team. “We both hang out with the same people. We like to play sports like football and baseball,” said Edwards. “We like to party.” “We both like the same music and everything,” said Johnson. “We’re both outgoing,” said Edwards. Johnson and Edwards will at-
tend different colleges next year. They plan to stay in contact, since their schools will only be an hour away from each other.
Best friends Cam Johnson and Demarcus Edwards “Where Are You Now” written by Tom Higgenson, performed by Honor Society
Maddi Walker and Katelynn Keeble were voted best, best friends
22 •Senior Issue•
Titan Scroll
Dear Senior Class of 2011, Today our countdown is finally over, our last day of high school has arrived! It’s a bit surreal to remember our elementary school days, to coming together in middle school, growing up together through the past four years of high school and accept that it is suddenly over. In the next couple of days the strangeness of high school actually being over will set in and a bit of sorrow will take its place. Although we’re all anticipating our futures, these past four years have still been the most significant of our lives thus far. We’ve grown up together, learned about ourselves, and most importantly realized the things that are most important in life. During these four years we have been witness to the
recession, the election of the first African-American president, the Royal Wedding, and the killing of Osama bin Laden. As a class we have become one of West’s most successful. We have claimed 11 State Titles, had the most participants working toward the IB Diploma, and fortunately have not lost a member of our class to tragedy. Through these years each one of us has experienced heartbreak, success, disappointment, and joy. Everyone has made mistakes but hopefully learned to grow from them. However hard these lessons were, I hope that we never forget them or those people that forced us to accept them. Today, I encourage you to take the time to let your teachers, family members, and mentors know how
grateful you are to them for helping make today possible for you. As your Titan Scroll Editor-in-Chief my top priority was to always report on what the students were most interested in reading. It is my sincere hope that in some way the work of myself and my staff has intrigued you, taught you something, and provided sound advice. As a voice for the student body, I hope that each one of you felt represented through our newspaper. What we have experienced and learned throughout high school has already assisted in making some of the most important decisions of our lives. But choices and struggles will only continue to present themselves in the future. I wish all of you success in
whatever you choose to do. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone, live a life that you can be proud of, and never take the people in your life for granted. Above all, I think we can all agree that the relationships that we have built these past four years are among the things we value most. This is the sole reason that saying goodbye today is so hard. As tough as it is to admit, many of the relationships we have now won’t be important in the next few years. No matter what, our lives are drastically changing and the only thing we can do is make the best of it. Appreciate those who are important to you, value your time together and don’t let yourself get too distracted and lose touch with each other.
Together we have experienced some of the best times of our lives and only bigger and better things are ahead. Cherish these memories and allow them to mold the brightest future possible. Congratulations class of 2011, we did it! For the last time as your Titan Scroll Editor-in-Chief, Jenna Keeble
“It’s a bittersweet goodbye, but I’m not gonna cry”
Dear Class of 2011, We have finally made it. After all the time we have spent counting down, we have arrived at our destination…Graduation. As we reflect on the last thirteen years some of us have spent together, let us remember all the pictures we colored, kickball games we played,
May 11, 2011
“I’m Not Gonna Cry” written and performed by Corey Smith
and songs we sang. Though we are all leaving to face the world on our own, we will still all be a part of one family,theLee’sSummitWestClass of 2011, and that is a pretty big deal. We have accomplished so much as a class. We have been known as the over-achieving class since day one and we have sure lived up to this expectation. We have won numerous State titles, had the highest number of IB diploma candidates, and the strongest showings at academic awards. As you look back on the last four years of high
school, I hope you remember all of classmates. You guys are incredible. lives,rememberwhatitmeanstobe the debates in English class and Mr. I am so blessed to have spent the a part of the Class of 2011. Keep in Rossiter’s life lessons. I hope you last four years with all of you and to touch, good luck and may you find remember the taste of the cookies have served as your Student Body happiness and success as you move at lunch and the taste of victory at President. We have shared so many on toward the future! the dome. I hope you remember smiles, laughs, and the occasional God Bless, the year all the girls fell in love with tear.Aswestartanewchapterinour Lauren Fender vampires and werewolves, and last I hope you remember the Friday nights the Thomas D. Hilton Painting and whole crowd Contracting, Inc. sang Sweet Caroline at Contact us! • Interior / Exterior paint the top of their lungs. 816-853-5343 • New Homes Finally, I tdhpaintkc@yahoo.com • Commercial would like TDHPaintKC.com • Existing Homes to thank my
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• Senior Issue • 23
“If you go somewhere close like UCM, you’re far enough that you can get out of town but close enough to still be able to drive back and see family.” -Shawn Snowden
“The further away you go the more expensive it is.”-Nate Littlejohn
Military:
Navy: 2 National Guard: 2 Airforce: 4 Army: 4 Marines: 1 ROTC:1
Colleges being attended in the East:
Southern Weselyn University(SC): 1 Appalachian State University(NC): 1 Wingate University(NC): 1 Western Michigan University: 1 Liberty University Christian College(VA): 1
“Out of state colleges are better because you don’t have to be near your family.” –Shalese Fuel
“Leaving here is like going home for me since I have a lot of family where I’m going and I’m originally from there. It’s like going back home.” -Hayden Simpson Colleges being attended in the
Colleges being attended in the West: Colorado State University: 1 Arizona State University(Phoenix): 2 Arizona State University(Tempe): 1
Midwest:
“I’ve waited my whole life, now I’m gonna fly right outta here.”
“I’m Not Gonna Cry” written and performed by Corey Smith
24• Senior Issue •
“I feel like our class is really divided. Like half of us are going to college and half of us are starting our careers early. –Jamie Beard
University of Kansas: 3 Pittsburg State University: 5 K-State University: 5 Baker University: 2 University of Arkansas: 6 Harding University(AR): 1 John Brown University(AR): 1 University of Oklahoma: 2 University of Tulsa: 1 Oklahoma State University: 1 Vanderbilt University(TN): 1 Belmont University(TN): 1
Titan Scroll
Schools being attended in Missouri:
Longview Community College: 23 University of Central Missouri: 18 Missouri State: 16 University of Missouri: 33 Southwest Baptist: 2 Northwest Missouri State: 11 University of Missouri- Kansas City: 7 State Fair Community College: 1 Missouri Valley College: 1 Webster Conservatory of the Theatre Arts: 1 Missouri University of Science and Technology: 1 Coffeyville Community College: 1 Missouri Western State University: 1 Missouri Southern State University: 1 Washington University: 1 DeVry University(Kansas City): 1 DeVry University(Springfield): 1 Kansas City Art Institute: 1 Park University: 1 Truman State University: 2 Missouri Valley College: 1
Colleges being attended in the South: Rice University(TX): 1 Baylor University(TX): 2 Prairie View A & M University(TX): 1 Florida International University: 1
May 11, 2011
• Senior Issue • 25
“Even though you want to, please try to never grow up” “If you’re not book smart, then make sure you got some street smarts. And smile, really pretty, it’s the best & worst thing you can do to someone.” -May Nguyen
“Nobody regrets getting good grades and doing good in school. Surround yourself with good people and follow your priorities.” -Tyler Roach
“Have as much fun as possible and don’t wish it away. Keep close friends you can trust, and don’t worry about so much of what everyone else says; and work really hard in school, even though it sounds nerdy, it will help in the long run for college.” -Becca Kirn
26 •Senior Issue•
“High school isn’t all about social status. Don’t care if you are in the popular group. Who you were friends with in high school will not matter later in life. Just be concerned with being the nicest person you can to everyone no matter what their social status is.” -Jenna Goodall
“Enjoy the times you have; don’t take it for granted because high school goes by so fast and you can’t do it all over again, so make it the best you can.” -Kaitlyn Drawe “I would focus on keeping grades up and getting A+. Start building for your college career because you’ll be thankful when it comes easy.” -Nick Wharton
“Never Grow Up” written and preformed by Taylor Swift
Titan Scroll
May 11, 2011
Congratulations Dr. Bateman on your retirement! The Students, Staff, and Parents will miss you greatly! We wish you the best!
I Love You Jakey! Love, Your Favorite Cousin
• Senior Issue • 27
“Remember when. . .I was young, and so were you” Morgan Maddox Freshman year was one of my favorites because everything was so new. I played two varsity sports and loved all of my older teammates! Friday football games were definitely one of the highlights and we won state that year! Alie Davila My favorite memories from freshmen year were going to state for football, anything that involved my JV Cheer squad, FNL, and going on spring break with my best friend at the time, Katie Douglas, my group of friends was always having fun no matter what we were doing. We were so stupid.
Brandton Shriner “I remember wailing on cars with water balloons like there was no tomorrow.”
Garret Winchel I remember playing soccer as a freshman, I had to do anything the upperclassman wanted whether that be picking up cones, balls, or moving goals. It’s funny to see how everything has changed now that I’m one of those seniors.
“Remember When” written and performed by Alan Jackson.
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Titan Scroll
“If you wanna make the world a better place, take a look at yourself, and make a change” Carlie Nash Changing the world is a lot for two people to handle, but the senior class of 2011 may have it covered. Seniors voted Seniors Jasraj Marjara and Lynette Lartey as most likely to change the world. During his high school career Marjara has been highly involved in West. “I got fourth at a debate tournament last year and fifth this year. I also got first AllConference congressional debate,” said Marjara. But for Marjara, making a difference at West wasn’t all he had up his sleeve. “I helped start a charity for an orphanage in Kenya,” said Marjara. “I heard about it from my dad. I just really wanted to help.” The charity is Lynette Lartey, voted the most non-profit which likely girl to change the world. means all of the
money goes to the kids in Kenya. said Lartey. “We take donated art from different artists and Lartey is also involved in Christian fellowship hold exhibits where people can come and buy the programs including Club 121 and Shine Club. artwork. We also send “I really tried to pictures of the artwork pursue the things to Kenya and they look of Christ boldly at the artwork and tell us at school through what they think of it in an Shine and Club essay and we sell those es121. We did all says alongside of the artwe could such as work,” said Marjara. wearing t-shirts “I really enjoy sendand making a float. ing the pictures to Kenya I think my whole and seeing what the kids’ senior year Chrisresponses to them are. It tian clubs have makes you feel like it’s gogreatly improved,” ing to someone who actusaid Lartey. ally exists,” said Marjara. Lartey also “It gives you a different wants to leave perspective on the things West with a legathat we take for granted.” cy. As for Lartey, she also Voted most likely guy to change the world is Jasraj Marjara “I was recenthas a long list of accomly chosen to be a plishments. ‘Trail Blazer’ which is when a leader leaves such a “I’ve lettered all four years academically and unique and impressional trail for others to blaze freshman and sophomore year I lettered in Varsity and I want to leave a trail that people knew me as Soccer. I was also on drumline, I’m a part of Lee’s a strong Christian and that I acted kind, nice, and Summit Cares Teen Council and I’m NHS Presi- laughed a lot,” said Lartey. dent,” said Lartey. “I was also elected Homecom- Marjara plans to attending Washington Univering Queen for this year.” sity in St. Louis to major in Chemistry, and then “I hope that I’ve honestly been able to break the go to medical school. Lartey plans on attending barriers of our school. I’m just glad that I’ve been Baylor University to study pre-med and minor in able to be a different person to win a difference,” Biblical Studies. “Man in the Mirror” written by Siedah Garrett and Glen Ballard, performed by Michael Jackson
Congrats Class of 2011! May 11, 2011
• Senior Issue • 29
“I hope you never fear those mountains in the distance, never settle for the path MORGAN STAAB to TRAYNER WILSON Hey Trayman, It’s your big sis. I just wanted to write you a letter to give you some sisterly advice and to tell you how proud of you I am. For starters, I wanted to tell you how proud I am of you and your sports. You are an amazing little athlete!. You had an awesome wrestling season and even lettered as a freshman, that’s freaking sweet, but You had a pretty good football season too. I know that once your body grows into your talent you’re going to be unstoppable out there on that field, and I’m going to be here to watch that happen. Who knows, maybe your class will lead our school to another State title. I’ll drive myself to it though, no more spirit buses for me. I’m also very proud of you and your grades. School has always been so easy for you. You make amazing grades, just make sure you stick with it. Having good grades this early is really important. You could get good scholarships, and trust me, they help make college planning less stressful. I wish I would have known all of this back when I was in your shoes. I also wish I would have known how fast these years really do go by. Make the best of them. Go out with friends, have fun. Don’t be afraid to try new things, and most importantly live life for you. Don’t worry about making everyone else happy and doing what you think everyone else wants you to do, do what you want to do. Be safe, and be careful though. I will come back home and hurt you if you do anything stupid. I’m always going to be here for you bub. Whenever you’re in trouble, our parents are driving you crazy, or you just need someone to talk to, I’m always only a text or call away. I love you bro-bro and I always will. Your big sis, Morgan B. Staab Justin to Jacob and Amber Jewell Stay out of trouble. You’re going to be a junior, only two years left to go little bro. After high school, your life will come together. You have to make good choices, don’t make bad ones. Love, Justin Dear Amber, I will always be there for you. High school goes by so quick. After high school your whole life will start to come together. I hope you continue the street of success, and hope your life goes the way you want it to go. Love, Justin
Hanna Bowman to Megan Bowman I can’t believe that soon I’ll be graduating and you’ll be a sophomore. More than that, I can’t believe that after a few months I won’t see you everyday. You keep growing up into an incredible girl, but like everyone else, you’ve still got a ways to go. If you take anything from this letter, besides how much I’ll miss you, take my advice: no matter what, stay true to you. High school can be tough, friends can change, but don’t ever forget what a smart, sweet and funny Christian girl you are. Work hard everyday to become the person you were meant to be; it’s never easy, but if it was, it wouldn’t be worth it. Never forget that I’m proud of you and that I love you. You’re going to do great things, that I can promise you. Love, Hanna
Adam Klausing to Jenna Klausing I can’t believe you’re going to be a senior next year. Even though we have had our fights like the time you tried to hit me with the rake, I still love you for all the tough times we made it through. I’ll always think of you as my little sister, and wish you the best with your acting in your senior year. Matt. 5:16 -Adam
“Hope You Dance” written by Mark Sanders, performed by Lee Ann Womack
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of least resistance. Living might mean taking chances, but they’re worth takin’” Kendall to Shelby and Tracy Kapperman I just wanted to tell you that I cannot imagine what it would be like growing up without you two. Even though you guys drive me crazy sometimes, you will always be a part of me. I am going to miss having you two around every day. Even some of the annoying things you do, like go off into “twin world” and ignore everyone else around you, or when you get the “grumps” in the morning. More specifically you TRACY! But what I am really going to miss is all the good times we have had and how we are always there for one another no matter what. I laugh every time I think about how I told grandma to take you guys back when you were brought home from the hospital. I didn’t want to share mom and dad with anyone else especially twins with blonde hair. But now I think back, and I am glad you both are in my life. I will keep the many great memories we have had close and look forward to many more. I just wanted to thank you for all the laughter, and yes, arguments throughout the years. Dad still will not let us forget about the broken mirror. Growing up together has been so much fun. It is important to me that we stay close. Next year is going to be weird. We won’t be rushing off to school, going to work, or eating dinner together. However, I am blessed and thankful to be your big sister. I love you both and I will miss you guys more than anything. Before I go, I feel like I should leave you with some advice. I know it sounds cheesy and cliché, but it’s true – don’t take anything for granted, always remember anything is possible and don’t look back and have regrets. And finally – KAPPER GIRLS RULE THE WORLD! I love you both! -Kendall Ann Kapperman
Akunna to Ayaka Ofodu It’s unbelievable that I’m actually going to college and I won’t be going to school with you anymore. I love you so much and am extremely proud of you. Although you are my little sister, I look to you for advice and inspiration in my life. Even when I go to college, I’ll only be a phone call away. You are a beautiful person, and I want you to stay that way. You are a mature girl, who has always had her head on straight. Don’t grow up too fast and never give into peer pressure. Be patient, control your anger, and laugh off the haters. Amaka, we’ve gotten so close in the past couple of years, and you’ve become more than just my sisteryou’re my best friend. I love you so much, and I’m going to miss you so much. Stay Golden Ponyboy, Akunna
May 11, 2011
Lauren to Lindsay Brady I have enjoyed being a senior while watching my baby sister mature as a freshman. I am going to miss dancing with you and believe it or not you were my inspiration. You are such an amazing and talented dancer and I want you to continue pushing yourself to improve. Winning State while we were both on the team is like a dream come true. We could not have done it without you freshmen and all of you really impacted our team. I encourage you to stay out of drama and stay away from girls that like causing drama. High school will fly by so quickly and you do not want to have any regrets. Get involved in as many activities as possible and keep your grades up for mom and dad. You are a beautiful and strong girl who will go far and succeed in life, I have no doubt about it. Keep an eye on your bro when he gets here, he’ll need his big sis to have his back. I love you sissy and will miss you next year. Love, Lauren
• Senior Issue• 31
Congratulations and good luck 2011 seniors from Lamar’s
32 •Senior Issue•
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Titan Scroll
“We were the kings and the queens as they read off our names” King: Ben Poeshcl
Prom 2011
“Long Live” written and performed by Taylor Swift
May 11, 2011
Queen: Lucy King
• Senior Issue • 33
‘10-’11 Senior Favorites
“When I’m feeling sad, I simply remember my favorite things” Favorite place to eat:
Favorite shoe brand:
40 •Senior Issue•
Favorite song: Firework
Favorite place to hang out: Friends house
Favorite Cookie:
Favorite movie:
“My Favorite Things” written by Mary Martin and performed by Julie Andrews
Titan Scroll
“Well I’ve been afraid of changin’, cause I’ve built my life around you. But time makes you bolder.”
Lindsey Bingham Katey Stoetzel
Most Changed
Over the four years one spends in high school, it is almost a guarantee that people will change. Some will do so in seemingly insignificant ways like changing their hair style or updating their wardrobe. But some make big changes that are hard to go unnoticed. According to the senior polls, the two who have changed the most since freshman year are Seniors Kayla Kemp and Tyler Kirn. The biggest difference Kirn said was that he was “incompetent” his freshman year. This was mostly due to the fact that he was not taking anything seriously.
May 11, 2011
The change came his sophomore year when he “had a revelation.” “A voice inside my head told me to [change] and it worked,” he said. Now, in his senior year, he is taking school more seriously because “my grades were awful and I needed to pull myself together,” he said. However, not only did his attitude change, but his physical appearance changed as well. “I used to be terribly obese,” Kirn said. He also said that he did not know how this part of him changed, just knows that it did. “I spent all summer watching movies, eating pizza and swimming and came back not terribly obese.”
Kemp’s freshman year was a quiet one. “I was shy and nervous around people,” she said. Kemp changed her sophomore year when she began to hang out with different people. “Now, I’m more confident and not nervous around other people anymore,” she said. Kemp said she believes this to be a positive change. “I have more friends now and I’m more outgoing,” she said. Both Kemp and Kirn agree that self confidence is important during high school. “Confidence will help develop connections in high school,” said
Kirn. Kemp said, “Self confidence is very important, you need to be comfy with people or you won’t succeeded.” Kemp plays Varsity Soccer and said she thinks that confidence in her high school career has helped her out a lot. “It helps me make friends and succeed in anything, like sports,” said Kemp. While in high school, one is faced with challenges to overcome each and every day. From fighting to get out of bed Monday morning, to the drama that sometimes lies within relationships. Kirn said he thinks his high school experience has been mostly a good one. “You learn things about yourself and others,” he said. “You can tell who your friends are.” Throughout high school, people begin to change and mold themselves into the people that they will be for the rest of their lives. “High school is life-changing” said Kemp. “People change; everyone changes and you learn a lot.”
“Landslide” written by Stevie Knicks, performed by Fleetwood Mac
• Senior Issue • 41
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42 •Senior Issue•
Titan Scroll
“No need to try out for the school play, you know she’ll get the lead anyway”
Meg Britton-Mehlisch Growing up, certain people become known for their talents. For some, that talent is throwing crazy parties, for others it’s being a straight genius, and for Senior Elizabeth Kouba it’s bringing life to words on a page. Kouba has gained a reputation for her work on the West Side Stage (WSS), one that has grown due to her lead role in the WSS Production, the Wizard of Oz. “For the spring musical, which most people know about, I was Dorothy Gale, a small naïve Kansas girl,” said Kouba. To say most people know about Kouba’s role as the heroine of the Wizard of Oz is an understatement. Outside of all the West students who attended the WSS production and all the families who helped sell out the show, the Wizard of Oz also gained buzz among the world of Cappies. According to their website, Cappies are the “Critics and Awards Program” for high school theater programs both nationally and internationally. The shows participating in Cappies are reviewed by high school journalists from surrounding area and their reviews are then printed in large city papers like the
May 11, 2011
Kansas City Star. The Kansas City Star did in fact run a review of the Wizard of Oz. In the review, the journalist, Brooke Purnell of Grandview High School, praised Kouba for her role as D o r o t h y, called her “a jewel of a lead actress” and said Kouba’s voice was beautiful enough to move the entire audience. While many people know Kouba for her acting talents, Kouba has also gained renown in areas like Debate, All-District Choir and as an applicant for the National Merit Scholarship. In her senior year alone Kouba has been the March Student of the Month for the Titan Debate and Forensics team, was one of 15 students from West selected for All-District Choir, and has distin-
guished herself as a National Merit Scholarship Semi-finalist. Throughout her time at West, Kouba has participated in Lady Titan Soccer and Swimming, National Honor Society, Freshman Mentor Program, Debate and Forensics, Una Voce, and most notably, the WSS. Kouba will be leaving this resume of activities behind to double major in Biology and Theater at Truman State next year. “They have undergrad cadaver work at Truman so that’s kind of cool. I’d like to take Latin classes, I‘ve always been sad that they didn’t offer it here. I plan to still sing in choir and maybe do some recreation soccer.” Kouba said she is already looking forward to the new experience at Truman State.
“It’s pretty exciting, it’s a new chapter. I hope everything doesn’t change, I hope I don’t change, but it’ll be exciting not being in this same environment every day.”
Elizabeth Kouba found great success on West Side Stage.
“Miss Popularity” Written by Jordan Pruitt, Robin Scoffield, performed by Jordan Pruitt
• Senior Issue • 43
“Long live the walls we crashed through, I had the time of my life with you” Annie Greenwell Senior Shelby Summerville, who was voted cutest couple with Senior Cole Prstojevich said, “I didn’t have much expectations going into it, because I was so young, but I did have hopes it would last awhile.” Looking back at freshman year, the couple would have never guessed they would be dating for over three years and eight months. “We actually dated for a couple weeks in seventh grade after being best friends the whole year,” Summerville said, we drifted apart in eighth grade and somehow found ourselves back to being really close the summer before freshman year.” Summerville said “We aren’t a perfect couple, I don’t know if that even exists. But no matter what we went through, I knew I wanted him in my life as my boyfriend more than being single.” When dating someone for so long,
there are many memories; some boyfriend or girlfriend is tough. Summerville said, “I do feel like good, some bad but all special. I relate better “We went to with people who San Antonio are in a long term and New relationship. I also York over the do spend a lot of last couple time with him, but summers and we still make time had such a for our friends.” good time Being together together! for so long can help Every day to strengthen a with her is relationship. a memory I Prstojevich said, never want “There’s nothing I to forget,“ can’t say or do in Prstojevich front of her.” said, “Spend Summerville ing time out said, “ I am one on the lake hundred percent together is always fun for Cutest couple, Shelby Summerville and Cole myself around Prstojevich us.” Finding a balance between him, I never feel awkward and am spending time with friends, and a comfortable enough to tell him
anything.” She sai, “He just puts a smile on my face regardless of what we are doing. It is nice to have someone who cares so much about you and to care for someone so much as well.” When two people are in a relationship, they can easily get frustrated with each other. “I look at it as, everything happens for a reason,” said Summerville, “I wouldn’t change anything because we have only grown stronger.” The two are headed for a new experience as they continue their education. Summerville said “He told me he was going to be playing football at William Jewell and I decided that Mizzou was the best choice for me. We know it will be hard but we both agree our relationship is strong enough and definitely worth it.”
“Long Live” written and performed by Taylor Swift
Congratulations Titan TV Seniors! 44 • Senior Issue •
Titan Scroll
“You’re gonna miss this, you’re gonna want this back” “I’ll miss all the people. You know everybody, so you get comfortable with everyone. It’s nice to go to school and know everyone there that makes you smile and laugh. I won’t miss waking up at 6:30 in the morning.” –Lindsay Brown
“The people. My friends in general that are moving; none of us are going to the same places. I definitely won’t miss the science classes. I’m in anatomy right now and it’s kicking my butt.” –Brooke Reker
“Probably just hanging out with all my friends that are going off to college at different places. I’ll miss being all together and going to the same school. I won’t miss the grind of getting up everyday and doing the same thing over and over again.” –Drew Padget
“Mr. Rossiter. He’s the best teacher ever because he’s a boss. I won’t miss how, in the bathrooms, the toilet paper always get stuck and won’t roll out. It’s ridiculous.” -Brett Burns
“I’ll miss the people the most, all my friends are going to colleges that are hours away. What I’ll miss the least would have to be the school lunches, can you say cliché?” –Alec Mulumulu
“The thing I’ll miss the least is the crowded lunch rooms and crappy lunches. I’ll mostly miss seeing my friends everyday because everyone is going to different colleges next year and it makes me sad.” –Shelby Robertsen
“You’re Gonna Miss This” Written by Ashley Gorley and Lee Thomas Miller, Performed by Trace Adkins
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May 11, 2011
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• Senior Issue• 45
“Memories as good as gold, tearin up those mountain roads, racin’ out 53, from every mistake so there’s no regret,
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BEST 11 MEMORIES
Jared Bokowski “My most memorable moment in high school was doing the haka on Mt. Kwasi during swim team season and all the blood sweat and tears playing with my band at JP coffee.”
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Blake Bodenhamer “Oh that’s a tough one. I guess running track. That’s been fun, and hangin with friends.”Oh and when we did some short films, those were pretty fun.”
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Kyle Matthews “Calculus has been fun. I guess pretty much any class with Mr. Rossiter has been pretty fun.” Shalese Fuel ”My most memorable
moment was my sophomore year when Mr. Mosier’s pants ripped during class.”
3 Katie Alcox “Going to state football senior year.”
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to old Georgetown, sure we made a little trouble, but I’ve learned we’ve done the best we could.. ”
ACCORDING TO SENIORS
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Lauren brady “When Travis Zizza slipped on the ice in the court yard Sophomore year and slid like a seal.”
Adam klausing “Winning the JV basketball game of knock out against Mr. Little.”
May 11, 2011
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Payton Chamberlin “Senior Prom, it was the best dance I have ever been to in high school.”
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Sam Belvin “Either winning conference and districts in Basketball or when football beat Staley to go to state and of course state!”
Haylee Lewis “I loved being in Mr. Klene’s math class my Sophomore year; everyday something funny happened and it was acutally fun to go to math. The people in it were really fun and we all got along really well; we used to play would you rather kiss, bang or marry.”
Celeste Roberts “Watching Haylee Lewis dougie at courtwarming and my junior prom.”
11 “I’m Not Gonna Cry” Written and Performed by Corey Smith
• Senior Issue • 47
Sweet Caroline Bum Bum Bum Good times never seemed so good So good So good So good “Sweet Caroline” written and performed by Neil Diamond
48 • Senior Issue •
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