Issue 1, Vol.93 November 22, 2011

Hi Life Magazine

What You Need To Know. Now.

2 HI.LIFE 2011

JACOB LAUDIE, DDS

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JLABMAG.COM 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS

On The Cover:

Table of Contents6)Project Grad: Habenero’s helps raise money for project grad.

22) Student Tattoos:Find out what makes students want tattoos

8) Fake Babies:LSHS students deal with fake babies.

23)Extensive Fund rasing:Amy Van Drunen helps I.C. raise money.

30)Girls Swimming:The girls swim season begins with a bang.

29) Staying Fit:Find out how to keep your body fit during any time of year.

27) Debate: Go behind the scenes and find out what debate is all about.

15)FroYo:Yogurtini and Orange Leaf, which will reign supreme.

9) Robotics: Team Driven goes all out creating the robot to win every match.

21) Foreign Exchange:Find outeverything interesting about Jonas.

November Vol. 93No. 3

5 Things You’ll Know After Reading This Issue:

6

8 9

15

Schools everywhere are making some drastic transitions to their learning conditions. See more on Pg.16.

Picture by Nicole Kelleher

21

302927

22

23- How to help raise money for Project Grad-How some Tiger Mentors go above and beyond their duty-Who wins in a Fro-Yo face-off-Trends that many school districts are picking up-What it takes to be in Debate

4 HI.LIFE 2011

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JLABMAG.COM 5

LETTER

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR Starting out as a freshman, it seems like school will go on and on forever, but in reality, it will pass by before anyone can notice. The short time we have in high school is exactly the reason why we should do the things we love. I have had the chance to be a part of so many different things in high school and I have loved every minute of it, but there are a few things that I regret not being involved in a little bit sooner. Times are short, that is why I advise all underclassman to get involved in school. Being in a ton of different activities allows one to meet new people and experience new situations. Plus, if you find an activity you love in your last year of high school, you will regret the times you missed with the activity. There are so many different things that people can be involved in. There is harmony council, theater, journalism programs, sports, and music in general, along with many other clubs and events. It may not seem like it, but there is a place for everyone to feel welcome at in the high school. It could be as simple as going to one Debate class to get you hooked and help you find a passion, or it could be a love for programming and working with robots, but either way, there are accepting people all around the school and that is one of the greatest things about LSHS. So, no matter what grade you are in, or what your interests are in school, make sure that you are getting involved in the clubs and activities provided by the school. The more involved you get, the more friends you will make, the more fun you will have, and the more life experience you will receive.

What You Love

MIKAYLA FROMMER

Editor in Chief: Mikayla FrommerWeb Editor in Chief: Kevin Adams

Photo Editor: Timmy Snook, Nicole Kelleher, & Zac HarrisNews Editor: Mary Jo Roccaro and Michelle Hurley

Features Editor: Tyler RobertsonEntertainment Editor: Haley Gillilan and Shelby McNealy

Fashion Editor: Tori Carlile and Jordan JulianOpinions Editor: Jacob Valentine

Sports Editor: Nick RellihanCopy Editor: Paige Seymour

Ads Manager: Sierra LewisAdvisor: Marc Russell

Writers and Photographers: Paige Allin, Kaelyn Bailey, Jonathon Barr, Darby Beatty, Taylor Berg, Morgan Bruce, Marissa Corcoran, Samuel Eames, Chelsea Englis,Victoria Gardner, Daniel Graham, Aaron Hagan, Joshua Harris, Andy Jarnevic, Courtney Jeffries, Harlee Kelley, Chloe Maberry, Carly McCarthy, Anna Myers, Ian Nickens, Hannan Nickles, Sydney Nyquist, Taelor Oller, Logan Phillips, Andrew Potter, Matthew Rellihan, Jessica Rhoades, James Ross, Jared Shepherd, Kailyn Smith, Jude Spaulding, Arna Steinarsdottir, Sean Stevens, Megan Terry, Tierney VanMeter, Shelby Wagner, Tristan White, Ashley Hagan, Kimberly Tabe, Aaron Wood, Ashley Burrison, Jacob DePeralta, Timothy Snook, Jesse Butler, Wendy Hayworth, John Wood, Victoria Fangrow

MAKING IT HAPPEN

6 HI.LIFE 2011

NEWS

Free Money

Story by Samuel Eames Photo by Josh Harris

Project Habanero’sHabanero’s is chipping in to

help fund Project Grad.

Salsa Support- “Habeneros wants to support the community,” said Project Grad teacher rep Susan Mosier.

Story by Sean Stevens Photo by Josh Harris

Habenero’s is not the only business in Lee’s Summit helping out. “Orange Leaf is also donating a percentage of their funds to Project Grad every second Thursday per month,” Mosier said. However, Project Grad coordinators have high hopes for fundraising this year. “There are parents all year that are working hard at earning enough money for us to do this, through fund raisers, and dona-tions. We’re hoping to get more businesses on board, not just Habanero’s and Orange Leaf,” Mosier said. With all these ways to help fund Project Grad, it is no wonder they continuously meet their financial goals.

F

Think twice before throwing away that research paper, because the Library Media Center is offering a $500 scholarship, and it could be just a few clicks away. In an age where college is becoming more and more expensive for students, any scholarship money available is sought after. The Library Media Center Research Scholarship is no different, and it is relatively easy to apply for. Unlike most other scholarships that require an essay over a predetermined topic, this scholarship simply requires a research paper. Even better, the paper can be written about anything.

Free Money- “Why would you not go for free money that is being given to you for doing what you’re already doing?” library media specialist Michael Russell said.

“Students can submit any research paper they have done on their own time or anything they have done in school,” LIbrarian Michael Russell said. After all the papers have been submitted, the judges, who can be any member of the faculty, will decide the winner. There are a few traits Russell pointed out that winning essays have had. Previous winners have been successful because of their exceptional writing skills, but just as important, Russell said, is the quality of the sources. “The first thing I look at is the works cited page. If I look at the sources and find that they are not up to par, I might put that paper aside and read

the ones that have quality sources,” Russell said. If someone wants to win the scholarship, they would be wise to heed Russell’s advice and make sure their sources are as good as their writing. The Research Scholarship started in 2006, and all the high schools in Lee’s Summit have it. Starting on January 4th of this coming year, students interested in applying for the Library Media Center Research Scholarship can pick up an application form from the library. The applications are due back in early March/

or some, graduation is just around the bend, and with graduation comes Project Grad. Project Grad has always been expensive, with a budget of around

$20,000 annualy, so the real question is how we make all that money. The answer is quite simple. Habanero’s helps out on the first Thursday of each month, and Orange Leaf helps on the second Thursday of each month. Both businesses have been generous enough to chip in. “Our money comes from a general fund. We use the money on a hypnotist, photo booth, food, and some prizes. We need around $20,000 per year just to fund all that we need,“ Project Grad teacher representative Susan Mosier said. Habanero’s reasons for funding the graduation event are completely unselfish. “They just want to support the community, and promote safety after high school,“ Mosier said. Helping out is something that is pretty easy for people to do. “All you need to do is print out a flyer, bring it in, and give it to your waiter. Then they'll donate a percentage of their profits to Project Grad's funds. Anyone can do it. So if grandma and grandpa are going out to dinner, you can ask them to print it out, too," Mosier said.

This scholarship is a great opportunity.

NEWS

JLABMAG.COM 7

Prepare for the future by preparing for the ACT.

When getting ready to take the ACT, students prepare themselves both mentally and physically to for the test that all colleges look at. It is one of the most important tests to take in order to determine the future of students after high school. Preparing oneself for this test can be difficult and stressful, but with the help of the ACT Prep Class, students can experience less stress and more help. The ACT Prep class meets on specific dates in the evening from 6:30-8 p.m. This is not an everyday class, but it is several times a week. Taking this class can show score improvements on the ACT. “Studies show that students perform better on the test if they were to take this class. You have a better chance at getting accepted into the college that you want, and finding the job you like,” ACT Prep Class teacher Matthew Buxton said. Knowing the right strategies and secrets to the

test can really help students out when they take the test. One tip that Buxton wants students to remember is: “Slow down and make sure that you get the easy questions correct.” Senior Katherine Heim reflects on how this class has helped her. “It raised my score by two points,” Heim continued, “I suggest you take it if you really want to raise your score. You might not like it, but it will help you for where you want to go in the future,” Heim said. All the future ACT prep class dates are posted on the school’s website and in the guidance office. If students want to excel on the ACT and get into the college of their choice, then taking this class would be beneficial.

Story by Kim Tabe Photo by Timmy Snook

The time for getting flu shots is now coming to an end. Many do not get vaccinated, but should rethink their decision. Everyone needs to know the pros and cons of the vaccination and figure out if it is right for them. People have different reasons for not getting vaccinated for the flu. One reason is the fear of needles, another is thinking they will get sick from the vaccine. Both problems can easily be solved. Those who do not like the idea of needles can get the flu mist; and those who are afraid of the after-affects have nothing to worry about. There is no difference between the flu shot and the flu mist. The ones who worry about the risks after the vaccine will be happy to know that there is a slim-to-none chance that they will be affected. “There is a very small rate of reaction to the vaccine, and it is very safe,” Harris said

Getting Shot So, are flu shots really worth it? People often ask why they should get vaccinated. Well, getting the flu is not an enjoyable thing to endure. Someone with a bad enough form of the flu can often end up in the hospital. If that person got vaccinated, however, they might not have had such a bad form; they might not have even gotten the flu at all. Now that it is clear why people should get the flu vaccine to prevent the virus, there is still the question of what it is to make it work. “The flu shot and the flu mist actually have a very small form of the virus in them, which is so the person’s body can resist the actual virus when it tries to attack,” Harris said. With all the benefits that a flu vaccination brings, people might think twice about getting it done.

Story by Ashley Hagan Photos by Josh Harris

Ready, Set, Test

Prepare Yourself- The score you get on the ACT will have a substantial impact on your future.

The Prick of a Needle- “A flu shot should be given to those people under 21 and those over 65,” Brad Krause said.

NEWS

8 HI.LIFE 2011

Students can hear their wails from out in the halls and see them being carried around in plastic carriers with a baby bottle plopped in their mouths. Though they may seem to be a distraction to some, these fake babies are meant to teach students all of the responsibilities and commitment it takes to be a parent. “These babies need to be fed, burped, rocked, have their diapers changed, need attention, and even coo like a real baby does,” Family and Consumer Sciences teacher Vicki Powell said. “The babies alternate through a schedule of 15 different babies to show students the diversity of babies.” Though some students and teachers get annoyed when they hear a fake baby go off, there are definitely positives to these babies. Statistics show that fake babies are successful in preventing teen pregnancy. “Before having my fake baby, I was excited about the thought of having a baby,” junior Lauren Huckabey said. “But now I know that I’m not going to have one for a long time.” Television shows and movies have made out fake babies to just be fun and games, but there is a real responsibility that goes along with taking care of them. “I’ve gotten phone calls from childcare services notifying me that they reported a baby being unattended, and sometimes policemen will stop students for the same reason,” Powell

said.

These babies are obviously not real, but students still get benefits from taking care of them. “Some students think that I’m trying to make them not want a kid, but in reality I just want them to see that it wouldn’t be easy for them to have a child now. They should plan ahead and be ready to be successful parents,” Powell said. When students hear the loud screech of a fake baby in a classroom or hallway, instead of just having pity for their caretaker, they should also recognize all of the commitment and responsibility it takes to be a parent. Hopefully students will think twice about their readiness to be a parent so they will be the best possible parents when they are actually ready down the road.

The speedometer steadily climbs higher and higher. All eyes are focused on the two cars as they race down the strip. Fractions of a second decide the winner. This is drag racing. This is the Kansas City International Raceway. “My dad got into a car accident street racing when he was 17,” junior Darci Knowles form Marshall High School said. Knowles’ grandfather brought his son and friends to the track to see the High School Drag. The next week they returned with their own cars. “It’s a safe environment for people to feel the need for speed,” General Manager at KCIR Todd

Bridges said. Knowles began racing in the Junior Dragster Division at age eight. She placed second in her first High School Drag. She now races in the very same car her dad used to race in. “It’s like my home,” Knowles said. Knowles feels like her home is being taken away from her. Recently, the city passed an emergency bill to sell the track in order to build a park. This action has raised many questions. “It’s a loss of revenue and a gain of expenses,” Bridges said. The city will be losing revenue generated by the track, and also local businesses. Cars take money to build and maintain. Participants stay in local hotels and eat at local restaurants when they are in town for a race. Add this to the loss of property and sales taxes and the city is out a hefty sum of money. “It’s a duel edged sword for the economic impact on the city,” Bridges said. In addition to the loss of money, the city will now have to pay for park construction, maintenance, and security. “Anybody that lives around that area will tell you there are security issues,” Bridges said. The land is located directly behind a strip club. There are few neighborhoods nearby and the

land is sparsely populated. This greatly increases the risk of crime. “There are problems at parks in the city. How are they going to afford proper security?” Bridges asked. As of now, the deal has yet to close. If the city prevails, Knowles and hundreds of others will have to travel well over a 100 miles from home to safely pursue their passion.

Fake BabiesA learning experience or just a distraction?

KCIRMany people gather to together to feel their need for speed. However, that may be taken away.

Story by Wendy Hayworth Photos by Vicky Fangrow

Story by Sydney Nyquist Photo by Jessica Rhoades

BIRTH CONTROL. Some of the FACS classes make students think twice. “These babies need to be fed, burped, rocked, like a real baby does,” Family and Consumer Sciences teacher Vicki Powell said.

JLABMAG.COM 9

BEHIND THE SCENES

Members of the robotics team band together in order to construct a functional robot in hopes of bringing home the gold from their future competitions.

BBuilding a robot is easy for the Robotics team. What is hard is getting the robot

to perform specific actions for the competitions. “The hardest part about robotics is the time. To have a successful team and robot, you have to go all year round,” sophomore Adee Dancy said. There are many different jobs for the members of the Team Driven Robotics Team, such as public relations, computer animated design, and building. “My job on robotics changes every day. Nobody is limited to only one activity, but some people do tend to choose an area to specialize in.” Sophomore Tyler Braden said. The team is currently involved in fundraising to prepare for the next robotics season. “Our budget is about 35,000 dollars so we have to fundraise in the off-season,” Sophomore Luke Orr said. Team Driven also hosts

a competitive event called Cowtown Throwdown. “Cowtown Throwdown is a fundraiser and an off-season competition,” sophomore Arijit Jana said. Cowtown Throwdown is also a way to prepare new members of the robotics team for competitions. “This trains our new drivers and kids about what competition is like. We have new equipment that we are learning how to use, and we are always trying to refine our process,” robotics teacher Jim Nazworthy said. The competition is also a last chance for teams to use their robots. “When May comes around you cannot use your robots again,” sophomore Luke Orr said. In competitions, Team

Driven works closely with the teams from Lee’s Summit West High School and Lee’s Summit North High School. “North and West are our sister teams. We try to make a helping alliance where we help each other more than

other teams,” sophomore Stetson Williams said. A lot of work is required to make the robotics team successful. “I have many jobs with robotics. I’m on a few

different subteams, including public relations, website, and dabbling in a few others,” Dancy said. Robotics is a fun experience for many high school students. “I like robotics because it’s a place where you can be yourself and not be judged, and there’s a place for anybody and everybody,” Braden said.

Everybody works together to succeed in competitions. “I love robotics because of the family aspect of the team, the intense problem solving, and the competitions,” Dancy said. Robotics is an opportunity for students to learn more about technology and teamwork. “The project is so rewarding. I’ve had the opportunity to participate in something that had the chance to change so many kids’ lives,” Nazworthy said. The next competition will take place next February, so the team will begin to assemble their robot. “In the end, it’s absolutely worth the time,” Dancy said. To build a competition ready robot, the robotics team must work at raising funds, building parts, and training new members.

story by Andy Jarnevicphotos by Jude Spaulding

Domo Arigato Mr. Roboto

“I like robotics because it’s a place where you can be yourself and not be judged, and there’s a place for anybody and everybody,”

FASHION

10 HI.LIFE 2011

$88 KensiegirlWarm and comfortable with it’s

exciting cheetah print.

BCX $89

This gray peacoat is

warm and

stylish.

$69 Sunny

Leigh

Great with

a colorful top and leggings.

$59 Sunny Leigh Perfect for a dressy

outfit, just add a cardigan and some boots.

GRAY IS THE COLOR NEEDED TO FINISH OFF A FASHIONABLE LOOK.

Color of theGray is seen in many places of fashion. It can be a wonderful accent color or just to make an ourfit with.

JLABMAG.COM 11

FASHION

month: Gray

GRAY IS A SUBTLE

COLOR, WITH THE

RIGHT ACCESSORIES

IT MAKES A

FANTASTIC LOOK.

Gray is seen in many

places, and that’s the

reason it is the color

of the month.

These heels are great for adding sparkle to a holiday party.

Accessorize

this necklace

with a black

dress to turn

heads.

This heart

bracelet will add a romantic feel to just

about any

outfit.

Perfect for keeping your toes warm during the cold winter days, while still making a fashion

statement.

FASHION

12 HI.LIFE 2011

Future Faces of FashionThree students strive to pursue a career outside of the box.

the designer the makeup artist the model

Name: Allyson ScharrerClass of 2012

Future Career: Fashion Designer

Name: Morgan SouthClass of 2013

Future Career: Makeup Artist

Name: Courtney Buchanan Class of 2013

Future Career: Fashion Model

I have a boho-chic look. I like floral patterns, and bold colors.

FAVORITE DESIGNERI really like Lauren Conrad

because her designs are more boho than some other designers.I FEEL MOST SYLISH WHEN

MY LOOK

I was in San Francisco last summer taking fashion de-

sign classes at FIDM.WHAT SETS ME APART

I think I have a more artistic view on things than some

other people.STYLE ICON

Emma Roberts because she was featured in Seventeen as

the most stylish celebrity.

MY LOOKI always make my makeup match what I am wearing.

FAVORITE MAKEUPI usually buy my makeup from Sephora or MAC because they

have quality products.I FEEL MOST SYLISH WHEN

People compliment me on my makeup, or when they

ask me to do theirs.WHAT SETS ME APARTI put a lot of time and ef-

fort into doing my makeup everyday.

STYLE ICONMy style resembles Amy Winehouse because it is

unique.

MY LOOKI like to branch out and wear

everything. FAVORITE DESIGNER

I don’t have favorite designer, but I love to shop st Forever 21 because they have everything.

I FEEL MOST SYLISH WHENI get a lot of compliments on an outfit. I love the leggings,

cute shirt, and scarf look.WHAT SETS ME APART

The personality I put into my outfits sets me apart. I’d rather

be a leader than a follower.STYLE ICON

I like Faith Hill because she doesn’t stick to just one style. Her outfits are conservative and edgy.

Photo courtesy of Melody Beachnerbeachnerphotograpy.com

Written by: Jordan JulianPhotos by: Arna Steinarsdottir

JLABMAG.COM 13

ENTERTAINMENT

Modern Warfare 3 A new year, a new Call of Duty

Music SuggestionsVampire Weekend<<<

311>>>

Weird Al <<<

Gogol Bor-dello>>>

Rise Against<<<

Flogging Molly>>>

Adele<<<

Florence + The Machine >>>

If you like.....Why? 311, like Vampire Weekend, has a lot of songs that are very upbeat, catchy, and just fun to sing along to.Songs to listen to ‘All Mixed Up’, ‘Hey You’, ‘Beautiful Disaster’

Why? Florence and the Machine has music that sounds a lot like Adele’s, and Florence has a voice that sounds almost identical to Adele’s.Songs to listen to include ‘Dog Days are Over’, ‘You’ve got the Love’, ‘What the Water Gave Me’

Why? The two group’s music does not sound very similar, probably because Flogging Molly is an Irish folk-rock band and Rise Against is an American punk band, but both bands have anthems that stand up for and encourage the “other 99%.”Songs to listen to ‘Drunken Lullabies’, ‘Revolution’, ‘What’s Left of the Flag’

Why? Unlike Weird Al, Gogol Bordello does not parody popular songs, but his polka sounding music along with the fact that he sounds like a drunken vampire would appeal to Weird Al fans. Songs to listen to include ‘American Wedding’, ‘Immigraniada’, ‘Supertheory of Supereverything’

Gamers have crowded outside of Gamestops all across the globe, camping for weeks to cement their place in retrieving their own copy of Modern Warfare 3. Some gamers became so impatient that they decided to steal the game from others on or before the game’s launch date. Is this newest addition to the Call of Duty franchise going to exceed the high expectations that was set by the restless gamers? Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 appears to be quite a decent game. This game is divided into three sections: Campaign, Spec Ops, and Multiplayer. Each one of these is a major component which helped this game become a success, even though most gamers ignore one or even two of these sections. Campaign is short, sweet, and breathtaking. 17 missions may appear to be overwhelming, but that could not be any further from the truth since the campaign has eight to ten hours worth of game play. The campaign does wrap the story of the past two Modern Warfare’s up, but there was an absence of the shock and awe moments. There was a part where the player has 15 seconds of zero gravity to kill five enemies. Survival Spec Ops is just adrenaline pumping fun. This game mode has the players trying to survive wave after wave of enemies that come after them. It can take as long as a minute to countless hours to play through this. Each kill that the players make adds money to the players’ scores and they can

use this money to buy weapons, equipment, and air support. The best part of Survival Spec Ops is the variety of enemies, which vary from the regular unarmored and unarmored to the Juggernauts. The Juggernaut is an enemy or a player that obtained a suit of bulletproof armor. The player or enemy that has the Juggernaut suit needs many bullets put in them before they go down. Finally, it is time to address the main event of Modern Warfare 3, which is multiplayer. There are new maps that are based on locations throughout the campaign, new weapons, new perks, and an improved leveling up system. Gamers now have to level up weapons so that upgrades for that weapon can be received. There are different types of kill streaks now in which the ways to obtain them and their rewards are different. These are just a few of the new things that were added, but these changes make gameplay much more interesting. Call of Duty’s campaign and Spec Ops missions are not necessarily what gamers are attracted to, but the multiplayer and Spec Ops Survival mode rockets this game to success. The fast-paced fire fights that this game is known for are still great, but this game still has some room for improvements. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 deserves 4 out of 5 stars, losing a single star due to the how anti-climatic the campaign was.

by Jesse Butler

story by Jared Shepherdphotos form Associated Press

ENTERTAINMENT

14 HI.LIFE 2011

Step by Step with the Steppers

Here are some steps to get beginner started.

There are many dances that are well known, but the Steppers bring something new to the dance floor.

Hit legs with hands Clap hands Snap finger with right leg up

Stomp right legClap while you bring your left leg up

Stomp left leg on the ground

The FounderLyrics:

We are the tigersWe came to yell

We came to woot and holler and make people swell

We are the “T”We are the “I”

We are the “G,E,R”Thats right we are the steppers

This is our team we came to tear it out

By Tristan White Photos by Chelsea Englis

Stepper Jade Hayles

JLABMAG.COM 15

ENTERTAINMENT

Yogurtini

Orange Leaf

The ultimate battle between Lee’s Summit’s biggest fro-yo faces. Yogurt: Orange Leaf offers a rotation of 16 of 53 flavors at a time. People who like their yogurt to stay thick as they’re eating, as most of do, Orange Leaf Frozen Yogurt is the place for them.

Fruity Forte: 29 of the 53 flavors at Orange Leaf are fruity, including Raspberry. Orange Leaf fruity flavors also include flavors such as: Mango, Strawberry, and Grape.

Chocolate Craving: 24 of the 53 flavors at Orange Leaf are sweet and dessert friendly, including the must have, Brownie Batter. Orange Leaf chocolate flavors also include: Wedding Cake, Chocolate Mint, and Cookies & Cream.

Toppings: Orange Leaf switches out their 34 toppings, based on the flavors offered at the time. Some toppings Orange Leaf offers are: Oreos, an assortment of fruits, an assortment of candy (including M&M’s, Butterfinger, Reese’s Cups, and Gummy Bears), and syrup toppings.

Healthiness: Out of the select few of Orange Leaf’s flavors, most of them include less than 50 calories, and over half of them are gluten free.

Prices: Orange Leaf’s yogurt is 39 cents per ounce, that’s a lot of Fro-Yo for a really cheap price!

Environment: People who look for a open, hang out type of place to eat their Fro-Yo, should choose Orange Leaf.

Location: 111 SE MO State

Yogurtini offers 43 flavors, in 16 flavor rotations. But, people who choose this place for their

Fro-Yo have to eat quick, because Yogurtini’s yogurt doesn’t stay frozen for long!

Fruity Forte: 20 of the 43 Yogurtini flavors are fruity

and refreshing, including the extremely tasty, Green Apple Tart. Yogurtini flavors also include: Peach Mango Tartini, Bananalicious, and Pineapple.

Chocolate Craving: 23 of the 43 Yogurtini flavors are chocolatey/sweet. This includes the ever popular, Chelsey’s Cheesecake. Some other tasty treats Yogurtini offers are: Grandma’s Apple Pie, Snickerdoodle Cookie Dough, and Ultimate

Chocolate.

Toppings: Yogurtini offers a whopping 52 toppings (not including the 9 syrups they offer as well), for ANY of your Fro-Yo choices. Yogurtini must have toppings include: Graham Cracker Crust, a HUGE assortment of fruit, and candy toppings, along with syrup.

Healthiness: Yogurtini’s yogurt seems to be a lot higher in calories than Orange Leaf, but most of them are fat free.

Prices: Yogurtini’s Fro-Yo is also 39 cents per ounce, so it’s a toss up on which to choose, if you’re basing it strictly off of price.

Environment: People who look for a more secluded, classy place to hangout and chit-chat with their Fro-Yo, should choose Yogurtini. Yogurtini also offers their combinations favorites to go off of, for first-time visitors.

Location: The new Summit Fair shopping center at 880 NW Blue Parkway, Lee’s Summit, MO 64063

By Tierney VanMeter Photos by Courtney Jefferies

Stomp right leg

16 HI.LIFE 2011

CENTERSPREAD

TAKING ON SOME ACADEMIC TRANSITIONS

JLABMAG.COM 17

CENTERSPREAD

Trends pave the pathway for students all their life. Trends dictate what students wear, what they listen to, and even how they learn. Schools across the nation are beginning to follow certain trends.CONDITIONS OF FACILITES Everyday technology integrates itself into the lives of students everywhere. Lee’s Summit High School was built in 1953 and consequently was not built with technology in mind. “We want to make sure kids have access to be 21st century learners,” principal John Faulkenberry said. When comparing Lee’s Summit High School to schools like Lee’s Summit North and West, one cannot help but notice the differences. “While we may look older on the outside, there aren’t any services we can’t provide,” Faulkenberry said. Both West and North were built with the internet in mind. However, students at here may notice that the internet may be accessed from all corners of the school. Considering the fact that the internet was hardly a household commodity when the school was built, this is a remarkable feat. “Students are so plugged into technology outside of school. They shouldn’t have to shut down during school,” English teacher Stacy Allison said. Many teachers see the benefits of technology use in schools. One advantage, of course, would be going paperless. One way to do this would be to provide every student with a laptop or tablet. “I would teach differently if students had their own laptops,” Allison said. Going paperless would cost the school a large sum of money. Student responsibility must also be taken into account. That does not mean Lee’s Summit High School is not up to date, however. “Since North was built in 1995, the Lee’s Summit School District has poured money into making sure the facilities at our school are up to par,” Faulkenberry said. Lee’s Summit High School is far from ill supplied. “Lee’s Summit is the only school in the district with a SMART board or projector in every classroom,” Faulkenberry said. Students at the school can function comfortably and will continue to thrive. “Newer is not always better,” Faulkenberry said.

CENTERSPREAD

18 HI.LIFE 2011

TRENDYTRANSITION

Later School Days Many students will agree that the worst thing about school is waking up early. “There is very solid research that older students should start school later in the day,” Faulkenberry said. In fact, many schools have begun to adapt this practice. “In America we try to make as many opportunities available as we can such as musicals, plays, sports, debate and so forth,” Faulkenberry said. If school were to start later in the day, students would get home even later. For afterschool programs such as sports and musicals this presents a problem. “We want to still deliver all these programs and get kids home by dinner,” Faulkenberry said. Starting school early in the day allows for more activities after the final bell. The later the school day starts, the less time activities have after hours. “It helps to start early,” Faulkenberry said. The Lee’s Summit School District works hard to do what is best for the students. This includes staying up to date with research and making the necessary changes. “It’s not as easy as the research says this so let’s automatically do it,” Faulkenberry said. A later school day would benefit the teachers too. “I like that teachers will be given the opportunity to work together during the school day instead of before or after school or having to take a sub day to collaborate,” Allison said. The idea was brought before the public a few years ago, and it was voted down. “I think parents will have conflicts with their work schedules. I think that’s part of the reason they voted against doing this,” Allison said. For now, the first bell of the day will ring at the same time it has every day.No Homework Every student has been there: the night teachers assign pages of homework; the night before an important project is due; the night before a big test in multiple classes. At some of the most prestigious private schools in New York, students used to experience nights like this every week. Now, their school administrators are easing up on homework. One school in the Upper East Side decided to stagger tests and papers so that students would not become overloaded with work and studying. Another school is coordinating tests in one subject with papers, labs, and other projects from a different subject. A third school is enacting ‘homework holidays’, where there will be no homework on designated days of the year. The main goal of decreasing homework is to relieve some of the stress and pressure put on these students to perform. “Homework can sometimes undue stress especially if they have a lot to

Conditions of Facilities. Even though our school is a lot older than North and West, our school is very well equipped. “Newer is not always better“ Principal John Faulkenberry said.

JLABMAG.COM 19

CENTERSPREAD

Schools are changing how they run things.

Late Start. Some schools in America are considering starting he school day earlier. “It’s not as easy as the research says this so let’s automatically do it,” Principal John Faulkenberry said.

do, but I think that kids need to understand that in college, [professors] really don’t care about that,” assistant principal Dr. Jamie Argotsinger said. In many teachers’ opinions, homework is important to learning and becoming a better student. “Homework reinforces the main objectives of the day and lets you practice what you’ve learned so you can retain that information. There are times when work needs to be done outside the scope of the classroom in order to be successful at test time,” Argotsinger said. Our district does not have any policy in place right now regarding homework or the amount given; however, administrators see the effects too much homework can have and realize that sometimes homework is unnecessary. “Certain weeks, like those of EOC testing and the Plan Test, we ask our teachers not to give students an extraordinary amount of homework,” Argotsinger said. Less homework is given during these weeks because teachers and administrators want to ensure students get plenty of sleep to elevate their performances on such exams. However, losing sleep any time during the year can lead to detrimental effects, as district administrators in New York found after seeing a documentary that showed that ‘over-programming’ students leads to counterproduction, less sleep and an overall less happy life. With the extreme pressure those advanced students feel to excel in all aspects of their lives, the schools in the Upper East Side decided that homework is not worth it in the big picture. Being one of the top schools in the country and similar to those students in New York, school administrators in our district recognize the stress kids in our school place upon themselves, whether in academics, athletics, music, art, theatre, or something else. With this realization, administrators in our district are willing to keep their minds open in regards to a new homework policy. “If they can show what they’re doing is effective and helps promote achievement, it’s worth looking into. We don’t do the same thing year after year and times are progressing, so it may be something worth changing,” Argotsinger said.No Textbooks For many years, students have dreamed of this day. In many districts across the country, this day has finally arrived. Finally, students do not have to lug heavy backpacks across campus and can actually feel their arms when they arrive to class. In today’s technological world where many teens are more computer-savvy than their parents, old-fashioned textbooks are being replaced with modern e-readers and laptops. Districts in Texas, Indiana, Michigan, and the entire state of California have already adopted this ‘no textbooks’ policy to adjust to this changing and advancing world. Two reading classes here at our school, taught by Mrs. Palmer and Mrs. McClain, have followed the trend, utilizing Apple iPads in class. “The benefit of e-readers are that they are more efficient and easier to use and there is also less to carry around,” assistant principal Chad Hertzog said. Another benefit of e-readers is that they can be easily and cheaply

updated. They can also provide an enhanced learning experience with access to videos and interactive games and quizzes to help teach students. “I think it’s good anytime students can use technology in school because the more you can educate them while in school about technology, the better they’ll be in the real world after they graduate,” Hertzog said. The flip side to using e-readers is that it can be expensive to provide every student with one. “[Our district] is coming off a tough couple of years budget-wise, and it would definitely be something we’d have to consider,” Hertzog said. Our school district recognizes the changes other schools are making to adjust to changing times, yet has not made the schoolwide push for technology for every student with money troubles holding them back. However, the superintendent and other administrators are willing to consider eventually making the switch to e-readers. “I think it could be a possibility down the road. It’s not out of the realm of possibility; it’s just awhile down the road,” Hertzog said.

stories by Shelby Wagner and Wendy Hayworth photos by Nicole Kelleher and Timmy Snook

No Homework. Some schools in America are weighing the benefits of assigning students less homework. “It’s worth looking into” Assistant princip

FEATURES

20 HI.LIFE 2011

Maria Pabon: The Interview Many students do not realize that our Tiger Head could inspire people. Our School is full of interesting teachers and students do not even realize it. One of these teachers is Senora Pabon who just happened to be in the right place at the right time.

Q: Where were you born and raised?

A: I was born in the island of Puerto Rico and was raised in New York city.

Q:What was your life like growing up?

A: I grew up with a mix of two cultures. I learned two languages at the same time. One was spanish spoken at home and English was my school and social language. I would live in Puerto Rico during the winter months and in New York during the warmer months. I went to two schools at the same time, one in New York the other in Puerto Rico. This helped me develop language skills and also the skill of easily adapting to new situations.

Q: Describe your first teaching job.

A: I began my teaching career 33 years ago. My first teaching job was as a kindergarten teacher. I really enjoyed teaching little kids, but as time past I went back to school and eventually began teaching high school. I have taught all levels from K to 12 and also at the university level.

Q: Why did you become a teacher?

A: I come from a family of educators. Both of my parents were teachers. They always spoke of the fulfillment they felt in working with students and seeing them achieve their goals. I wanted to have that same experience and I also became a teacher.

Q: What did you do before you started teaching?

A: Before teaching I worked as a secretary for a law firm. I did not enjoy the work and that’s why I eventually went back to school to study education.

Q:What brought you to Lee’s Summit?

A: My family and I moved to Missouri from Puerto Rico 16 years ago. My sons were going to go to the university here and we did not want to be far away from them. Q:Why did you choose Lee’s Summit?

A: The Tiger Head inspired me to apply for a job here. I was driving on 50 Highway and saw the Tiger Head (the mascot at my Alma Mater was also a tiger). I came into the building and looked around. I liked the school and the atmosphere here so I applied and got the job. Q:What is your favorite class to teach and why?

A: I like all of them, they all have different aspects. The levels one and two are fun because you see the growth in the language that the students acquire. Level four is fun too because you also see the depth that the student acquires in the language.

Senora Pabon has been teaching here for many years. Many students have been affected by her great classes. She has helped Lee’s Summit students by giving them the gift of learning a new language.

by Kailyn Smithphotos by John Wood

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??? Junior Jonas Bodtlaender comes from Germany and is a welcome guest here at the school. Jonas had been learning English for the past six years, longer than most people here have been studying foreign languages. His favorite classes here are Sociology, the study of the behavior of people in a group, and weights. Another activity Jonas partakes in is fall soccer. This year he made the junior varsity team. “One of my favorite things about America are the sports that they have at the schools. I like how the schools fixate on and support sports. Plus, everything is bigger.Germany is much smaller than America,” Bodtlaender said. Germany is indeed a small country. “Germany is small enough that most people just rely on public transportation to get around. There is more public transport in Germany than here in America,” Bodtlaender said. Public transportation is so popular that not many Germans own cars. That leaves the roads emptier than they are in the United States. “In Germany, there is no speed limit like

there is in the United States.” Bodtlaender said. Botlaender is enjoying America, but there is one problem. “Some people still believe that Germans are bad,” Botlaender said “they think that Germans are still as evil as they were in the World War II era. I think this problem could be solved if everyone was more informed about this matter.” What happened in World War II is not the case anymore. No one has those same beliefs. America and Germany are two very different countries, but Jonas has adapted well to America and will be here for another great year and seven months.

Gutentag, Jonas!In the hallways many pass by him and see no difference. The thing is, he is from Germany.

photo by Aaron Hagan

Jonas the German: Jonas is a great soccer player he has played soccer for about eight years. “I like soccer because you have a lot of freedom and you can do almost anything,” said German exchange student

Jonas Bodtlaender.

by Ian Nickens

Proving Insurance and Financial Service

Sue Frank Ins Agcy IncSue Frank LUTC, Agent

10014 East 63rdRaytown, MO 64133-5102Bus 816-353-4400Fax 816-356-0387

FEATURES

22 HI.LIFE 2011

The Stories Behind Tattoos Tattoos are a form of body art that one gets to express their love and creativity for a person, place, or thing. Its popularity has continued to increase tremendously among teenagers. More and more teens are wanting tattoos or body piercings of some sort. Tattoos are sometimes looked down upon and degraded. What most stereotypes of tattoos fail to realize is that behind every tattoo lays an amazing story and meaning. “My tattoo is a cross with a snake wrapped around it that says, ‘Don’t tread on me.’ ‘Don’t Tread On Me’ was one of the first American flags. The snake was used by the Marines and was first cut into sections to represent the different colonies but then came together to represent the unity of America.”- senior Morgan Vinning said. Tattoo can show one’s love for their family. “On my chess, I have two hands making a heart with my brothers’ names in the middle. This represents my love for my bros. I also have zombie hands because I am really obsessed with them and scary stuff.”-senior Devan Tyson said. Woods explains the reason behind her tattoo. “My tattoo is a orange leukemia ribbon that has the word. ‘survivor’ wrapped around it. The reason why I got this tattoo is because I had cancer, and I survived it.”-senior Bailey Woods said. The day one was born can mean a lot to them. Malique tells why his date of birth is significant to him.“The tattoo on my chest says, “Established 1995.” This tattoo represents the year that I came into this world. This is important to me because it was the year that I was born and it is who I am.”-junior Malique Brown said. Everyone has a story and a different way of expressing themselves. Some express themselves through music, writing, poems, and etc... But these individuals wanted everyone

to see their stories through body art. Their tattoos are not only there for style and creativity, but they are there for meaningful purposes and that

purpose is to tell a story.

Students tell Hi-Life the reason why they got their tattoos and the stories behind them.

by Kim Tabe

photos by Taylor Berg

What It Means To Them: The art speaks for itself when it is placed on people. Many tattoos mean something or a struggle they have gone through in life that they have overcome. Some tattoos might also represent some-one that is very special to them. People judge these people with these tattoos when they do not even know what they mean to the person that has them.

Popular PeppermintPeppermint Patty

With the holidays just around the corner, everyone is getting out the peppermint food and chowing down. Everybody likes something different, but there are some foods that are commonly liked.

Sold by girl scouts since before anyone can remember, Thin Mints are a delicious little cookie, and to top it off, you get a whole box full of them.

25% like peppermint patties over anything else.

After-Dinner MintsA staple of grandma love for decades, after dinner mints are good for relaxing an upset stomach, and best of all, they help make even the worst breath smell better.

35% like after-dinner mints over anything else.

Thin-Mint Girl Scout CookiesSold by girl scouts since before anyone can remember, Thin Mints are a delicious little cookie, and to top it off, you get a whole box full of them.

25% like these Girl Scout cookies over anything else.

Peppermint MochaAnything mocha, from a mint mocha latte, to just simple coffee with mint creamer is good for a quick pick-me-up. They are especially warm and refreshing after a cold night.

15% like a peppermint mocha over anything else. photo by Mikayla Frommer

by Sean Stevens

FEATURES

JLABMAG.COM 23

Invisible No Longer The soldier zips through the trees, his bulky machine gun bouncing against his small frame. His feet pound the ground, stirring up a cloud of dirt that masks his tracks. Sweat trickles down his mud-streaked face; frantic breaths escape his lips. His heart races in anticipation: anticipation of being found, anticipation of being freed. Sounds like a lot to handle for a nine-year-old boy. Senior Amy Van Drunen first heard about this deadly war in northern Uganda a year ago when an organization called Invisible Children visited her church. “Invisible Children is a movement to bring peace to central east Africa where children are being abducted and forced to fight in the LRA,” senior Amy Van Drunen said. Their story spoke to Van Drunen, and she knew she wanted to help. “This is such an important cause because if we don’t stop this war, who else will?” Van Drunen said. Van Drunen, along with the help of Tiger Smart advisor Angie Prindle, was able to bring Invisible Children to our school for the first time last year, but it was not easy. “I went to a retreat and the whole time I felt God was telling me to do this and to do it now, so I did. It took a lot of time and work, but I got it going,” Van Drunen said. This year, the organization returned on Oct. 28, making a bigger impact than ever. “When Invisible Children came to Lee’s Summit High School, it was simply incredible. The effect it had on people was wild; even the most superficial people who I thought didn’t care about anything but themselves came out of the screening in tears. The mentality of our school completely changed,” Van Drunen said.

One student makes a big difference

T

Medal Winning MentorsSome mentors go beyond expectations Over one-hundred people in this school have decided to become Tiger mentors. Three could not stop there, though. They had to go above and beyond their call of duty. The three mentors, seniors Victoria Utter, Austin Canaday, and Kara Pressly, all had different reasons for wanting to become mentors. “I had a bad experience with my tiger mentors,” Utter said. “So I wanted to share my experience with the freshman and do a better job than my mentors did.” Utter wanted to set a better example than her mentors did. Canaday’s main reason was that “I was told about the job by my teachers. I always liked helping others out and being a teacher for them.” Pressly said: “My tiger mentors helped out a lot and I wanted to help too,” Utter and Canaday work together in Language Arts teacher Vicky Metzler’s advisory. Their advisory won the door decorating contest for homecoming. Utter, Canaday, and Pressly all enjoy their advisory classes. “I enjoy getting to do activities with my class and hanging out with them. It is a nice change of face,” Canaday said.

That is one reason that these mentors enjoy advisory. “They are a fun group of sophomores, and Mrs. Metzler makes things fun,” Utter said. A reason different from the others is “I am friends with the other Tiger mentors. I also like being thanked whenever I help out one of my kids,” Pressly said. Canaday and Utter both said: “ We get to know our kids and like to talk to them in the hallways after advisory,” Pressly tries to make advisory fun and encourage spirit. As for what they do best, Metzler said, “I have watched advisory evolve, and these three students represent the perfect Tiger mentors because they are role models of perfect students. They have great character and they are involved. Austin, Tori, and Kara take ownership of advisory and understand that they are leaders,” Metzler said. Simply put, Utter, Canaday, and Pressly are great examples for all Tiger mentors to follow.

O

Last year, Van Drunen and Tiger Smart ran a fundraiser for Invisible Children and raised over $3200. For her never-ending efforts, Van Drunen was honored at national leadership conference over the summer in San Diego. “I felt it was an honor to go because only 85 teens were invited from across the United States. The conference was indescribable; the best way to say it is to ‘Live it Out,’ which is what I’m trying to do again this year,” Van Drunen said. After she graduates, Van Drunen plans to postpone college to fulfill one of her dreams, combining her love of art and her desire to help. “I’m going to spend a year at an orphanage called Maisha International. This school stood out to me this summer when I was introduced to the mission work by the Invisible Children conference this summer. I will be living with and teaching these kids art for a year. I want to help, and we are never too young to make a difference,” Van Drunen said.

. When Mrs. Metzler was gone, they took it in their hands to decorate their class’s door for homecoming and ended up winning the award for best door.

“I want as many people to experience the change and passion that develops from this inspiring organization,” Amy Van Drunen said.

The Stories Behind Tattoos

24 HI.LIFE 2011

OPINIONS

The thought of going a day without being asked for a dollar, or a piece of gum is a nice thought to many LSHS students, but it likely will not happen. Students at LSHS are extremely diverse in our ethnicities, culture, and even our families’ income. Students should become more self reliable in order to please the whole student body. This could teach us many life lessons, other than just fixing the problem of being asked for money and gum. One could say that the student body has sort of a student code we follow. If someone asks us for a piece of gum, it can be assumed that the answer will be no, or that the person being asked will make a comment that they have some in their mouth and will reply ‘it was my last piece’. It is always very convenient that it is their ‘last piece’. When students ask for a dollar, it is just as convenient you do not have your wallet with you. For the students that do give out their hard earned dollar or their prized piece of gum, everyone knows what will happen. If you give out a dollar, do not be mad when you never see that dollar again, you will likely not get it back.

by senior Christina Jones

In my opinion, November and December are the most exciting months of the entire year. Not only are we half way done with the school year, but we also have the holidays to look forward to. Spirit is recharged throughout this time of year. I’’m not only talking about school spirit, but the spirit of giving as well. Almost everyday at lunch, there is an organization that is supporting a great cause that is special to them. Some examples are the Dance-a-thon hosted by NHS on Dec. 3 to support the B Positive Organization, and the dedicated group of students who are always striving to support Invisible Children. It makes me incredibly proud that our school not only will have the loudest cheering section at the basketball games, but also supports such a variety of organizations. I am hoping to see and all-time spirit high this winter at LSHS. There will be so many opportunities to not only show your spirit at basketball games and wrestling meets, but though giving as well. All of the fund raisers in our school are for great causes. I, however, am especially attached to Special Olympics. It is a wonderful opportunity for students to succeed. One way that every student can join together to support Special Olympics is the Polar Bear Plunge. I would love every student to join the senators as they wade in to some chilly water this winter. As an experienced plunger, I can say with first-hand knowledge, that it isn’t nearly as cold as it seems. Regardless, the feeling that comes with seeing the athletes’ smile is worth the moment of cold water. The plunge is January 28th at Longview Lake. Registration for youth plungers is $50, and the money is meant to be fundraised. If you have any questions about participating in the plunge, feel free to email me at ccjones1018@lsr7.net. I hope you all join us!

Christina’s

You could say the student body at LSHS

has sort of a student code we follow.

Understanding the student code, regarding giving out gum and vasts amount of money that you will never get to see again.

Making Things Happenby Opinions Editor Jacob Valentine

“ “

The solution to these problems could be very simple. For once, you could go get a job to support your wants and needs instead of relying on another student to pay for your bag of chips. Having a job could also fix the problem of not having gum. If you had a job, maybe you would have money to go support yourself to buy

a pack of gum, and then you could chew all of the gum you feel the need to. If you want gum, but are still too lazy to go get a job you could always ask your parents or guardians to pick you up a pack at the store when they go grocery shopping. Maybe it’s just me but I don’t think a 98 cent pack of gum will throw them off budget, but in that case you can come get a piece of gum from me. This could teach us many life lessons, other than just

fixing the problem of being asked for money and gum. It can teach students responsibility, and it could possibly teach a life lesson that if you want something, you work for it. If you personally work for one of your possessions it will make having that possession worth more to you and you will enjoy it and appreciate it much more.

Column,

JLABMAG.COM 25

OPINIONS

Staff Editorial

Man on the Street

THE SCHOOL IS ALWAYS TRYING TO SAVE MONEY, COULD SWITCHING TO iPADS FROM TEXTBOOKS HELP THIS PROBLEM? Homework- it is the one thing that keeps students from playing Xbox or hanging out with friends after the ringing of that sweet 2:28 bell. Homework may be beneficial, but it always seems to have a negative vibe to it. Two reasons why students complain about homework are the stress that homework brings about and also that homework cuts in on their free time. Well, some of the most elite schools on the East coast are now starting to take notice of the effects of homework on their students. “Armed with neuroscience, self-analysis and common sense, some of New York City’s most competitive high schools, famed for their Marine- like mentality when it comes to homework, have begun to lighten the load for fear of crushing their teenage charges,” according to Jenny Anderson, cited from The New York Times. Many administrators and teachers would probably be opposed to this though. A reason why they would disagree would be the limitations of the teachers’ ability to teach a student and then have their lesson be reinforced with an assignment. “It would severely limit teachers’ individual ability to put students in a position to practice necessary skills or research pertinent content,” principal John Faulkenberry said. However, there is a solution that could still allow teachers to achieve what they want without giving out a lot of homework. This solution is to restructure the time period of classes that would allow the teachers to teach their lesson in the first half of period and then the second half of the period would be for students to complete the assignment

given by the teacher so the teacher could still reinforce their lessons. Another part of this solution would be that the assignments would have to be restructured so that they could be completed within the time frame given. A student still might have homework, but the load would be lightened and students could enjoy even more free time. Teachers and administrators would probably believe that a no-homework policy or even lightening the homework load on students would not be beneficial to their learning; however, it is popular belief that students would have a better attitude about school and would actually learn better. by Jon Barr

illustration by Madeline Moore-Porter

“I think it’s great!” said junior Barret Sassaman

“I think a no homework policy is a good idea because not using all that paper would help save trees. Also, a lot of kids don’t get a lot of sleep because of it. I think homework is just a bad idea.” said sophomore Sam Batts

Question: Would you support or be opposed to a no homework policy?

“I would be very much against a no homework policy. Homework from a lot of classes give practice. Also, it would be difficult to stay on top of grades without homework.” said administrator Chad Hertzog

“If something like that existed, I would worry that I wouldn’t be able to cover material that my students need for their next grade, and life.” said english teacher Matt Buxton

“If a no home-work policy was implemented, I feel it would make everyone ‘more stupider.’” said freshman Dalton Campbell

“ I think it would be a good idea be-cause we’re already here all day and its hard for us, espe-cially people with extra curricular activities, to fit it all in.” said senior Jessie Hicks

26 HI.LIFE 2011

OPINIONS

Tiger Store Price Rises

Heavy Backpack Loads

For so long, students have been accustomed to the Tiger Store charging only one dollar for drinks, but the Tiger Store has recently raised its prices for bottle drinks to one dollar and twenty-five cents. This leaves some students angry. “Because of the contract the school had negotiated with 7Up, we are paying one dollar and two cents per bottle,” Tiger Store keeper Kayla Leatherman said. The Tiger Store buys its sodas in packs of twenty-four, and they were paying $23.48. Because of this, they had to raise the prices a bit just so they would not be losing money on each sale. “We do not like raising the prices,” Tiger Store keeper Karrie Anderson said, “we would much rather have kids pay less. It is all down to the deal we have with the distributor.” What is truly strange, however, is that in the vending machines the drinks still cost one dollar. “The vending machines have stayed one dollar because they cut out the middle man when they sell from the vending machines,” Leatherman said. The canned drinks are also still only 75 cents. “We get food from a different company, so those prices have not changed,” Tiger Store keeper Glenn Baron said. “It started about two weeks ago, and people have been buying less or complaining while they are buying it,” Tiger Store employee Cheyenne Browning said. Due to the way it all works, the prices probably will not go back down either. “I think it sucks,” freshman Caleb Dewitt said, “but I’m still going to buy stuff.” In the end it is only a quarter, so there is no need to start a protest movement and occupy the school yet.

Do student’s backpack’s way too much?

Daniel Grahamg Anna Myersg

The Hi.Life is an open forum to provide up to date and pertinent information compiled by high school journalists. We will be a bold and trusted publication that raises the bar of high school journalism. The Hi.Life newsmagazine is a student led publication. Our obligation to readers is to provide credible, reliable, and unbiased information to the student body. None of the opinions in our publication reflect the views of the Lee’s Summit R-7 School District. We strive to create a professional newsmagazine that provides accurate insights and entertainment.

Editorials

POLICY

A girl, backpack almost bigger than herself, heaves her load around the school. Back hunched foreword to avoid a detremental collapse, she shakily drags herself through the hallways packed with others doing the exact same thing. Excessive weight can cause more pressure and tension to a persons muscles and spine, including their nervous system. Backpacks can cause back pains in all ages but the younger a person is when they start then it is more likely to lead to spinal deformities and arthritis later in life. It can also cause poor posture for all ages. The maximum weight that should be carried in a backpack is 20% of that specific persons body weight. Any more than that can cause major problems such as nerve pain that could last a lifetime. In the human body there are 33 bones called vertebrae that house and protect the spinal cord, each of which act as a natural shock absorber for the nervous system. When a heavy backpack is placed on the shoulders, they are pulled backwards, causing the person to bend forward to compensate forcing their spine to compress unnaturally. This could cause the person to develop neck, shoulder, and back pains. There are many types of backpacks out there. Single shoulder, touts, messenger bags. But even though all of these can be stylish, not all are very kind to backs of their wearers. The double shoulder backpacks cause weight to be evenly distributed in the best way for a person’s back. For backpacks that are not placed on both shoulders, a person would be caused to lean to one side or the other. This can lead to back pains and an alinement problems. If the school switched to using electric tablets or laptops for homework, notes, and textbooks would help lighten the load on backpacks and in turn back pain would be greatly reduced. Another way would be to have a set of books in the class room for students to use during the day and to allow the students have the books at their homes to keep and use at home. A simple and easy way to lighten a load is to use the lockers. Even if it is out of the way, all students should find at least one time per day to use their lockers and to drop off a few things and be ready to head to the next period with a considerably lighter load. Now, stuff dropped off in locker or left at home while wearing the right type of backpack the girl is able to walk standing up strait with no trouble of getting to class on time.

Rises in prices, will it affect buisness?

photo by Kevin Adams

JLABMAG.COM 27

CLUB PAGE

The Real DebateARGUING AND HARDWORK COMBINED TOGETHER MAKE FOR A GOOD CLUB

When most students are enrolling in classes for the next school year, they see Debate class and do not think much of it. Debate has about 60 students now and is getting stronger every year.

There is one problem, however. “People don’t know that Debate exists,” said Nate Smith. Nate Smith is the Lees Summit High School’s Debate and Forensics coach. According to Smith, “A lot of people would be good at Debate but they don’t know what it is.” Debate is a class that anyone can take and no former experience is necessary. It helps students with things such as their speech skills, organization skills, research skills, and confidence. All of these skills are the building blocks for a great student. Your killing two birds with one stone in this situation. Debate is a elective credit and it helps you become a better students. Why wouldn’t you want to be a part of Debate? It gives you chances to meet or debate with your peers. New friends from different schools are made. After hearing about the benfits from Debate there still is another problem. Students don’t know what Debate does to prepare for competion “Students don’t know what Debate does,” said Smith. In Debate students are assigned a topic that they must either defend or attack. To accomplish this cases are built. There are three main types of Debate; Policy, Public Forum, and Lincoln-Douglas. Policy and Public Forum requires two people on a team, while Lincoln-Douglas requires only one. Research is conducted and put together to form the cases. This is hard work but Smith helps along the way. The goal of the debate is to convince the audience that your side of the plan has the most reliable evidence. Judges takes notes about the arguement and decide which team is the most convicing. The most convicing should win the debate. This class is a big commitment, but it is worth it. Most of the things Debate teaches will help you in almost anything. This class is one of the best classes you can take at Lees Summit High School. It may be unknown to some students, but they will change very soon. Nate Smith encourages any student to join the Debate team. “Stop by the Debate room anytime,” said Smith. The Debate room is located at A121.

Story by Andrew Potter Photos by John Wood

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28 HI.LIFE 2011

SPORTS

SWIMMING The boys swimming season may be over, but the memory of their success lives on. This year the boys swim team took fifth place at conference behind the strong performance of junior Zach Knoche, who broke a school and conference record in the 100 meter breast stroke. “It felt amazing. I couldn’t believe it, nor could I stop smiling,” Knoche said. His strategy for doing well is quite simple. “I eat healthy and do what the coach tells me to do,” Knoche said. He attributes much of his success to the strong team atmosphere, claiming that he was motivated by coaches and teammates alike. “The team is great. We had a ton of really great seniors, but we have juniors to step up and take their place next year,” Knoche said. The team’s success is perhaps best demonstrated by their performance in the 200 yard medley re-lay, where the team of Dakota Ewigman, Zach Knoche, Jake DePeralta, and Jeffery Beck took first place and qualified for state. Despite already having a stellar track record, Knoche wants to continue to improve during the offseason. “I plan to swim and train a lot during the offseason to prepare for next year,” Knoche said. Boys swimming made their mark this year, and the solid foundation they have in place is a good sign for the future of Tiger Swimming.

State Qualifiers Athletes represent LSHS at state

Lee’s Summit High School prides itself on its cross country program. Year after year, our school is able to send at least one runner to represent LSHS at state. This year, two runners went 128 miles away to Jefferson City to compete with Missouri’s best. Unfortunately, in 2012, our school’s runners were not among the very best of the best, but just being able to qualify for and compete at such a high level is reward enough for senior Jordan Andrews. “I was proud that I accomplished my goal and that I was able to represent the school tradition of sending at least one representative to state,” Andrews said. Undoubtably, the effort needed to even qualify for such an honor made the whole trip worth it in the end.

CROSS COUNTRY

TENNIS Tess Herder had very attainable goals heading into this season of girls’ tennis. In fact, she achieved more than just her goals. Herder has been playing tennis since she was eight and has played for eight years now. In the offseason, Herder put in a lot of long hours and hard work in order to prepare for the season. “I play academy tennis at KCUT and I put in a lot of hard work,” sophomore Tess Herder said. Many athletes have an idol and Herder is no different because her idol is Caro-line Wozniacki. However, Herder said that she does not emulate Wozniacki when she plays. “I feel this season went pretty well for me. I worked hard and did my best,” Herder said. Overall, Herder had a great year in which she made it to the finals of the state competition and proved that she is one of the best girls’ tennis players in the state of Missouri.

By: Sam Eamesall photos by Jake DePer-alta and James Ross

By: Aaron Wood

By: Jon Barr

JLABMAG.COM 29

SPORTS

Bertoncin said. Whole grains have key vitamins and minerals in them that keep people healthy, they are naturally low in fat, and they have been linked to lower risk of heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers, which makes whole grains an essential part of any diet. After choosing delicious and healthy meals for the body, a workout buddy needs to be found. Everyone needs someone to exercise with in order to stay on track and have fun while getting fit. Going to the gym with a friend is a fun way for people to workout and hangout at the same time. This will also help people stay on track and reach their goal of staying fit during the winter months. “Go to the gym together, Extreme Fitness has a free program for teens after school,” Bertoncin said. These are just a few of the tricks available to stay fit during the winter season. With them, nothing will stop people from staying on track and having fun while reaching their goals.

Winter is known for snow, ice, cold air, no school, and for some reason, no exercise. With these obstacles in people’s way of keeping or staying fit during the three long months of winter it can be hard to stay on track, but there are a few workouts that can be done while keeping warm. “Excercise on a regular basis - especially cardio,” varsity softball coach Tracy Bertoncin said. With cardio workouts, a person’s heartbeat will be raised, allowing their body to move more and making there muscles stronger. With stronger muscles comes a more efficient and healthy body. Cardio workouts are not the only things people can do keep a healthy body this winter season, there are other indoor activities available as well. “Machines, indoor pools, run the halls of LSHS,” Bertoncin said. Ellipticals, treadmills, stair-steppers, and other machines are a great way to get in a quick workout before work or school. Swimming at an indoor pool is another workout that can also be fun. Anyone can go to Legacy Park and swim in the pool with their friends and get exercise at the same time. Nobody runs in the school hallways, they can go run inside at legacy though. While these are great workout ideas, exercise is just part of the equation for staying in shape. Eating right plays an important role too. “Look for quick fix recipes that include whole grain pasta,”

Winter FitnessStay in shape, while staying warm

Winter Workout- Staying fit throughout the cold brutal winter can be hard to do,but everybody needs to be able keep off the weight. Try staying fit by going to the gym and running on the treadmill. This is one of the easiest ways to keep of the weight during the winter.

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30 HI.LIFE 2011

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Action in the swimming pool will be heating up on Nov. 14, when the girls hit the pool for the swim team tryouts. A lot of girls are looking forward to this opportunity to get involved. Freshman Megan Black, a swimmer since the age of five, says, “I hope to swim for all four years.” This excited freshman is pumped for the season and can hardly wait to burst into an underwater world, full of support and enthusiasm. If people thought swimming was an easy gig, think again. These dedicated girls start their training even before the season starts. Freshman Zoie Copeland, is also trying out and has done quite a lot to prepare, “We do a regimen during the season to help us stay fit and healthy. I think that the regimen is a very positive idea, and it really does help us during the season.” Copeland said. Black has been training hard in order to prepare for the team, “My family and I take part in a regimen even in the summer and during off seasons,” Black said. So what exactly does this regimen consist of? The girls particapating explained. “No red meat, white flour, or caffeine, and try to stay away from the sweets. Also drink a lot of water, and shift away from Gatorade, Powerade, or any kind of sports drink,” both Black and Copeland said. Both these girls are in it to win it and are hoping to improve dramatically. They hope to push themselves to exel, and succeed. Black and Copeland both said, they were going to

work hard and stay focused on becoming the absolute best that they could be. Their goals are outstanding and many people can not wait to see what they have accomplished over the season. “I am definitely going to letter. There’s no question about it.” Black said, “I am also am going to try hard for varsity.” Copeland, also trying for varsity, loves the water. “ When I’m under water, nothing else matters, it seems like all my problems go away.” It is a large belief that this year’s swimming season is going to be a great one. Students that are looking to get involved should visit Coach Holder and try out for the swim team.

Craig Bears are preparing all the wrestlers for the upcoming meet on Tuesday Nov. 22, 2011. The wrestling meet will be against Belton and Liberty North High School. The meet is for all teams, 9th, Junior Varsity, and Varsity. The meet is in the fieldhouse at 5:00 pm. Future wrestling meets will be against teams such as Lee’s Summit North and Lee’s Summit West. The meet against Lee’s Summit North will be at North on Friday Dec. 9. There is also a Lee’s Summit Christmas Invite which will take place at Lee’s Summit High School on Friday Dec. 16 and Saturday Dec. 17. Everyday wrestlers are sacrificing eating everyday foods to stay in their weight class and stay fit.

Girls Swimming 2011 Season looks bright for Lady Tigers

High school wrestlers do a lot more than one might think in order to prepare for a meet. As wrestlers, people would think that they need to eat to stay healthy and strong. “ I don’t eat the day before or the day of until after weigh in,” senior Josh Aguilar said. During the wrestling season, wrestlers usually do not eat sweets. They only eat healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables, and salads in small portions. Before a meet, wrestlers eat as much food as they can. Then, the day before and the day of they do not eat until after weigh in. Most high school students cannot last a couple hours without food while wresters go 24 hours without it. Also, they cannot drink any soda, but they do drink a lot of water. “ All I drink is water, no soda,” senior Alex Swartz said. In wrestling there are different classes. For each class the participants have to be a certain weight. Some wrestlers are planning to go down a weight class which requires them to lose a lot of weight in a short amount of time. “ Right now I am 145 but I plan on cutting to 138,” senior Jesse Morris said. Before each meet, each wrestler has their own way of preparing. Such as listening to music, stretching, or drinking a lot of water. Head coach Jay McGovern and assistant coaches Mark Hertzog, John Bockover, Bobby Narron, Dustin Conard, and

WrestlingIs weight-cutting a big issue?

Driving into a new season. Mrs. Holder said” I am looking forward to this season and am expecting great things” this years swimming and diving teams are bigger than last year so we can look forward to having some wins.

by Hannah Nickelsphoto by Carly McCarthy

By: Megan Terry photo by Joshua Harris

JLABMAG.COM 31

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WhoCan“Pick The Lock”?

Favorite Thanksgiving Food?

Favorite NFL Team?

Turkey w/cranberry

Turkey

Mashed Potatoes

Larry Bird

Jordan

Larry Bird

Bucs

Dolphins

Favorite NBA Player?

.5 0 0

0 1 0

Lions

ucmo.edu/ced

Choose RED.

of all Lee’s Summit teachers have a degree from UCM.

ls_hi_life_color.indd 1 11/11/11 1:11 PM

Austin Pace

Jake Singer

By: Matthew Rellihan

Drew Lock

32 HI.LIFE 2011

PHOTO ESSAY

LSHS students rough it outside Nov. 10 experiencing homelessness.

1. Students, still warm, check-in to the night.2. A cardboard box is the number one choice for a temporary home.3. Sarah Wienke and Sammie Hopkins claim the box as their own. 4. An advocate from Synergy, a company that helps the homeless, informs the students about poverty.

Photos by Mikayla Fromer

OneHomeless

Night

1

2

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