V23I5

8211 sterling avenue. raytown, missouri 64138 volume 23, issue 5, January 30, 2009

se

features

opinion

3 A New America is Near4 Home School to Public School Repetition: Fashion’ Best Friend Top Ten Moments of 20085 A Way to Deal What’s Your Horoscope? iListen

6 Everlasting Ink or Indestructible Regret?7 To Work or Not to Work? Book Review: Diary of a Chav8/9 A Change in Heart

10 Take ‘Em Down Just Keep Swimming Unstoppable Footwork11 Heading in the Right Direction Tight Unbreakable Bonds

12 Calender Sudoku Brain Teasers

13 Living Life in Fast-Forward14 Money, Money, Money Pressures Never Ending Circus Act Real Eyes, Realize, Real Lies

sports

extra

columns

sejan09

Questions? Comments? Tell us about it!E-mail [email protected] or write us a letter. We’d be happy to hear from

you!

index picture: (Mario Tama/Getty Images)cover picture: (REUTERS/Mark Blinch)

0302 sejan09 sejan09

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ews & eatures

On Tuesday, January 20th, 2009, millions crowded into the National Mall to exhibit the inauguration of our new president Barack Obama. As this historic moment awed our fellow countrymen and women, Obama stood proudly at the podium to give his inauguration speech to all who were watching. As he spoke of his beliefs, Obama acknowledged that we are in need of change. With our economy in a continuous downward spiral, jobs being lost, and children not getting the education they deserve, it seems as if our country is in a bottomless pit. “That we are in the midst of crisis is now understood,” said President Obama during his inauguration Tuesday. “Our nation is at war,… our economy is badly weakened,… homes have been lost, jobs shed, business shuttered…, our health care is too costly, our schools fail too many, and each day brings further evidence that the ways we use energy strengthen our adversaries and threaten our planet.”

Forty-three presidents have taken their oath in office before this day, and all the while each has met his fair share of challenges, none have ever had to dutifully overcome the challenges Obama will face during his presidency. During his four years of presidency, President Obama will have to successfully come up with an end to a war overseas, strengthen our education systems, build our economy from its current state of recession, and create thousands of jobs for Americans who can no longer work due to the economy.

“These are the indicators of crisis, subject to data and statistics. Less measurable but no less profound is a sapping of confidence across our land – a nagging fear that America’s decline is inevitable, and the next generation must lower its sights. Today I say to you that the challenges we face are real. They will not be met easily or in a short span of time. But know this America – they will be met,” President Obama said later during his speech. Although classes were in session here at Raytown South High School, most classrooms had the option of viewing the inauguration while doing homework during class. The historic moment dawned on us all. Samantha Martin [12] knew the importance of President Obama’s speech and the significance of what it meant was in store for America in the future. “Our country is evolving,” she said. “America is changing whether people want to accept it or not. And I think Obama knows what we need to do. His changes will be beneficial for everyone.” After decades of living in turmoil and injustice, minorities can now see that truly they can be whoever they want to be. This historic election has proven that regardless of how society was years ago, we can change and we have changed. Elana Moye [12] sees this election as a monumental moment for not only her but other minority groups as well. She realizes the significance of a black president and what this means for everyone, not only her. “It was a really major event,” Moye said. “It’ll be interesting to have a black president. I think more people like him because he is down to earth, and he is the president of this generation. He is in our generation, and he understands how the things of this day and age are run, like how we function as a country.” Many are looking forward to his new policies and his rebuilding of, once again, America into a powerful and influencing nation. Moye said, “Hopefully he will reestablish our country as number one in the world as a reliable power and nation.” Looking back in the history books, it’s amazing that America has yet filled out another chapter of successfully overcoming an obstacle that was standing in her way. Finally, the day that Martin Luther King dreamed of years ago has reached a whole new meaning for Americans. When we look at our new president, we don’t just see an African American man. We see the symbol he represents for all of us. The dream that anything we want can and could happen. “It signified to me that Martin Luther King’s dream has finally come to past. After forty years we finally have a president of another race in office,” said Moye. “You know it’s not just about democrats and republicans anymore. It’s everybody. It’s you, it’s me, it’s Caucasians, African Americans, Latin Americans…it’s everyone coming together to celebrate this event of such great magnitude. It’s incredible.”

A New America Is Nearwritten by JESSICA SCHEETZphoto courtesy of GOOGLE.COM

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Noalarms,noannoyingclassmates,nohomework-someofthedesiredbenefitsof being home schooled. However, what many people don’t know is how much work and dedication is needed to learn at home without any teachers or peers to guide you along. “I was home schooled until the 5th grade,” said James Dawson [11], “but sometimes it wasdifficultwhenyouonlyhaveonetrainofthoughttoworkwith.” Although pajamas are everyday essentials for home school, it’s not everything it’s cracked up to be. Kids who are home schooled aren’t able to participate in the high school sports that many students grow to love. “If I had a choice to stay back then, I would have. But now I’m used to other people and I wouldn’t want to leave my sports behind,” said Dawson. Being around other people all the time also helps one out in the social department. Learning about math and science is important, but learning social skills may be just as essential to have. “I was home schooled all the way until my sophomore year,” said Anna Madasz [11], “I had to make sure I got out of the house every so often.” Being home schooled also allows many students to learn at their own pace. Often times, kids who are taught at home are ahead of most kids their age. “I got to work as fast or as slow as I wanted,” said Katrina Dawson [9]. The parents also helped decide on what their child gets to learn, and it can become very time consuming. Dedicated parents are also key. “If there was something I wanted to learn about, there’d be a book for it, and I’d teach myself,” said Madasz, “if I had stayed with home schooling, I could be attending Longview classes by now.” Disregard any stereotypes you might have heard about home schooling. It’s not as easy as some make it out to be.

From hairstyles to the shoes on our feet, the fashionable way to dress and wear hair today is just as it was 30 years ago. Today teenage girls are caught with Shirley Temple curls, neon nail polish, off the shoulder shirts, a bob, leg warmers and leggings. Boys with high top fades, Adidas, Converse and checkered shirts. Doesn’t all of this sound familiar? Our moms and dads dressed the same way we do today. Fashion, just like the alphabet, repeats itself. Nooneeverfigured,afterlookingattheirparent(s) high school photos that they would be dressed the same way. LaTeisha Scott [10] said, “I would look at my mama’s old high school pictures and say ‘ugh’. But now, it just seems cuter than it did back then.” Jamela Patterson [9] expressed her feelings about today’s trends. Looking back on fashions that were dominant while her mother was in high school, Patterson realizes that she’s always had a passion for 70’s and 80’s fashion.

“I love the way we [teens] dress today. I have always loved the way my mom used to dress. I was just waiting for it all to come back in style. I think in about 20 years this trend will be back,” said Patterson. Fashion goes through its phases every season, and people will continue to follow suit. The only trend fashion follows is repetition. What will be next to come?

>> TOP TEN <<moments of 2008

From the memorable 2008 election to the tragic death of Heath

Ledger, everyone has their own top ten memorable moments of 2008. Here are some of the top ten most

memorable moments for South students.

written by HALEY NOTHNAGEL

Ryan Donnelley [10]Mizzou vs. KU1. Going to state2. Turned 153. Parties4. Got a Wii5. Went snowboarding6. Got permit7. It snowed8. It got warm9. Raytown South beat Raytown 10. in football

Timothy Gibson [11]Birthday1. Going to Texas2. Obama into office3. Passing any classes4. Making basketball team5. Football going to state6. Going to Disney World7. Swimming with the dolphins8. Buying Madden ‘099. Getting a car10.

Katrina Dawson [9]Spending time with my cousins1. Going to California2. Going to Las Vegas3. Seeing the Grand Canyon4. Going on a mule ride down the 5. Grand CanyonSeeing scorpions6. My uncle getting married7. Obama being elected8. David Cook winning American 9. IdolAnother year older10.

Home School Public Schoolwritten by ERIN EDWARDS

REPETITION: Fashion’s Best Friend written by RYCHINDA JOHNSON

photograph by LIBBY WOLFF

news and features news and features news and features news and features news and features news and features news and features news and features news and features news and features news and features news and features news and features news and features news and features new


Home School Public Schoolwritten by ERIN EDWARDS

written by RYCHINDA JOHNSONphotograph by LIBBY WOLFF

As high school students, we have all had teachers who nag us about doing our homework, coaches pushing us to do better, and unwanted drama within clicks. Dealing with all these can really stress a person out, but having someone to talk to about it all can really help. Most would consider this person a best friend. Candace Mendoza [10] said, “I like having a best friend that knows everything about me because then I can talk to them about anything and they’ll just get it.” Even though every person would like to think it, no one is perfect. Everyone has slipped up a time or two when it comes to talking bad about a friend behind

their back. “I’ve said stuff about my friends behind their backs before, but who hasn’t,” said Lauren Dieleman [10]. A true friend would tell someone like it is, not caring to spare their feelings if they know it is the right thing to do. “I’ve never really lied to a friend when they asked me about something,” said Annalee Ellenwood [10], “I’m a pretty honest person when it comes to advice.” Everyone hates rumors. True or not, if there are rumors going around about someone they care about a person should tell them. “If someone was talking bad about one of my friends of course I would tell them,” said Mendoza, “because then they would tell me when people say stuff about me.” A best friend is a shoulder to cry on, and a person to understand every thought and feeling without question. That’s why a best friend is a good thing to have.

Seventeen, Glamour, Teen Vogue, and Cosmo Girl are four different magazines that have one thing in common: horoscopes. The signs in the back of the magazine that tell us what we should or shouldn’t do this month according to our zodiac sign? The question is are they accurate or just a hoax? For years people have picked up a magazine to read their horoscope. They talk about our friendships, our relationships, and even sometimes how much money we will come across. Some people even follow what the horoscope says religiously, while others just read them for fun and move on. “I sometimes believe in what the horoscope says and there are other times when I don’t. I just read it and move on,” said Alyssa Spader [12]. While some people are somewhat indifferent on the subject of horoscopes, others believe that their horoscopes are true. They believe that a horoscope is just something that guides us towards the right decision and helps us avoid situations we don’t want to be in. “I believe that horoscopes just help you to make the right decision. They don’t really tell you your future, but they do advise you on whether or not you should do certain things. In the end they just help you make decisions,” said Olivia Rogers [12]. Of course not everyone believes in horoscopes. Some people believe that the horoscope is just a way to make money. They might read them for fun, but they never take them seriously. “Ibelievethathoroscopesarejustmorewaysforpeopletoprofitoffofpeople’ssuperstitions.Imay glance at mine every now and then, but I never take it seriously,” said John Richardson [11]. Whether we believe in them or not, we all have to admit that horoscopes are intriguing and entertaining. The simple fact that someone is making money off of telling us whether or not we will get a promotion or come across good fortune is creative. In the end, no one will ever know for certain if horoscopes are true or not.

>> iListen <<

Is your iPod in desperate need for new music? Well, here are a few songs that topped the billboard charts already this year that you

should consider before you go and start downloading (in no particular

order:

written by KIARAH LINDSEY

Heartless- Kanye West•Just Dance – Lady GaGa •ft. Colby O’ DonisSingle Ladies (Put a ring •on it)- Beyonce’Live Your Life-T.I.•Womanizer- Britney •SpearsRehab- Rihanna•If I Were A Boy- Beyonce’•Diva-Beyonce’•Better In Time- Leona •Lewis Love Story- Taylor Swift•Hot N’ Cold- Katy Perry•Let It Rock- Kevin Rudolf •ft. Lil WayneMiss Independent- Neyo•I’m Yours-Jason Mraz•Love Lockdown- Kanye •WestGotta Be Somebody- •NickelbackYou Found Me- The Fray •Right Now (Na Na Na)- •AkonMrs.Officer-LilWayne•White Horse- Taylor Swift•Shattered (Turn The Car •Around)- O.A.R.Closer- Neyo •Light On- David Cook•Can’t Believe It- T-Pain ft.• Lil WayneShe Got Her Own- Jamie •FoxxPlay Ya Cards Right- •Keyshia ColeBird Walk-Soulja Boy•When It Hurts- Avant•Kiss Me Through The •Phone- Soulja Boy ft. Sammie

A Way to Deal written by ERIN EDWARDSphotograph by SHELBI ORBIN

What’s Your Horoscope?written by TALOR CARRphotograph by JASON KEOPHAPHONE

pinion opinion opinion opinion opinion opinion opinion opinion opinion opinion opinion opinion opinion opinion opinion opinion opinion opinio

Everlasting Ink or Indestructible Regret?pro written by KELSEY HARRIScon written by KIARAH LINDSEYphotograph by LIBBY WOLFF

Nowadays, everything is about looking different from the crowd surrounding you. Whether it’s fashion, hair, personality, the way one walks and talks, it all boils down to one thing—individuality. No matter how cute one dresses, therewill always be someonewho has the same exact outfit.The girl next door will have the same switch in their walk, and the guy down thestreetwillcarry thesameswagabout them.It’shardtofindsomethingdifferent about you that someone else doesn’t see in them.

What better way to express yourself than through body art? I’m not talking about your average ear piercing that babies get when they’re barely walking, but the tattoos and body piercing that holds special meanings to you. There may be cons of having body art, but there are also the pros that come along with them, too.

A lot of tattoos hold special meanings to the people that get them. Things such as the death of a family member or friend are often tattooed on the body to remind them and others what they hold true to them. The tattoo allows them to remember past memories with the one they lost. Some people choose to go with marks that show their love for their mate. Permanently putting a loved one’s name on their body is simply their prerogative; it shows that there is a strong bond between their relationship. Several people mark themselves because of an experience they pay their tributes to such as a war that they were involved in. In fact, military tattoos are very popular; it is very common towalk somewhere andnotice aflagor somekindofsymbol on their body to recognize that they have fought in war.

Takingprideinagroupthatoneisaffiliatedinisalsoareasonable cause for getting a tattoo. There’s nothing wrong with wanting the world to know what you stand for. What’s the big deal about that? College students get tattoos all the time after joining a fraternity or sorority with their line number on it, and plenty of people have tattoos letting others know where they come from. Just remember before gettingone,theaffiliationwillalwaysbeonyourskin,butmaynotstayonyour heart for the rest of your life.

Tattoos are one of the best ways to express yourself. It causes some togainself-confidence.Attheendoftheday,peoplecansaywhatevertheywant to say about it, but can’t do anything because it’s your body. Whether you want something on the serious side like losing a relative or a tattoo just to say you have it such as a cartoon character, it all results down to expressing yourself. Tattoos let people know who you are, things you stand for, characteristics of yourself, and the list goes on.

Life is way too short to live it under a shelter. Let your guard down, allow your standards to lower a tad, and simply live a little bit. Time is valuable; why not live every minute carefree? Yes, tattoos may be irreplaceable, but every time you look at them, they will be memories of the past.

“Tattoos are cute and they’re not painful. They’re addictive once you get one, creative, and have reasoning. They make you expand your imagination. I have ten tattoos; all of them have meanings except two. Majority of them are names. I regret one on my lower back only because it’s too small,” said A’Miya Jones [12].


Walking down the halls see that body art is taking over everyone’s bodies, however, is that good or bad? This very costly fadisspreadinglikewildfireanddoesn’tseemtobecomingto a hault anytime soon. In some areas body art is becoming a competition people just want to see who can get the most. Although many don’t know how quickly this addiction adds up. Now, the basicearpiercingforboysandgirlsarefine,butsomearegettingalittle extreme. There have even been cases where teenagers do their own piercing at home or a friends’ house using a needle and rubbing alcohol.

Once you get the tattoo, keep in mind the upkeep. Through out the years the tattoo may fade and become unattractive, people will then need to get the tattoo redone, to attempt to make it look as it once did. Then others will have to consider waking up 30-40 years from now, how would the tattoo look then? Will the tattoo stretch and wrinkle along with your skin? How attractive will that seem? What if the tattoo you got as a teen doesn’t match your life style as an adult? Aren’t people trying to be individuals, and not followers? Why follow a fad when it will eventually die out and become a thing of the past?

Another factor people fail to realize is the health risk involved in this permanent commitment. There are surprisingly still many teens that believe that a person’s body is a temple and should be left alone. Many just see this fad as an opportunity and not a risky procedure. For example, tattoos should be done in a

safe and clean environment. There have been many cases where if not done properly bacteria can be passed from the artist to the client in as little as a millisecond. This bacteria is called M.R.S.A. (colonizer). Infections are not only passed from tattoos, but also piercings. Common infections are keloids. Keloids tend to be more common with people of African- American decent, and can be caused due to not sanitizing tools. Besides infections there are other risks with body art as well. Maybe body art can hinder chances from getting the “dream job.” Many companies prohibit any visible body art (other than the traditional ear piercing). Many believe that if a company doesn’t approve of a certain tattoo, laser removal could be an option. This procedure can range from $125-$200 per visit, and it usually takes up to 5-10 visits before seeing the slightest results.

Maybe you can try showing what you stand for on a t-shirt, or a bumper sticker, just not permanently on your body. Many people can show their individuality and beliefs in other ways thenmarkingtheirperfectlyfinebodies,justbecreative.So,beforejumping on the tattoo bandwagon, think before pierce or ink.

The subject itself is and has always been a controversial subject for quite some time now. Some people believe that as soon as a child is of legal working age, they should be working, while others believe that child should not work until the legal adult age of 18. Some believe teenage working isn’t such a bad idea. Crystal Scott, a 16-year-old sophomore discussed why she thinks working as soon as you’re able to is a good idea. “I am happy that I’m 16, just so I can work,” said Scott [10]. “Working gives a good jump on the real world of adulthood.” Most teens are excited about turning sixteen because of all the extra privileges that comes with it. Besides the fact of getting their license, they also get the chance to become independent and have their own income. Some adults feel that working when you are a teen is one of positive things of being 16. “I worked at Super Splash U.S.A. the summer I turned 16 and I loved it,” said science teacher Mr. Haynes, “I worked there every summer until I went off to college. During the school year I would shovel snow or rake leaves. I think teenagers working is a good thing, it helps build character, networking, and responsibility.” But not everyone feels the same way about teenagers working before the age of eighteen. “I feel that working is for adults, when a child is 18 years old they should then begin to work. The only work that children should do is chores around the house and nothing more. Jobs make children grow up too quickly and add more stress to their lives,” said child development teacher Ms. Bright. Whether one works or not should be left up to the child, and not the parent. If he feels that he can handle a job, friends, school, family and extra activities then they should go for it. Teenage working can be a positive or negative depending one’s own personal list of pros and cons. In the end it’s on you, to work or not to work?

written by NATALIE HOWARDphotograph by JASON KEOPHAPHONE

To Work or Not to Work?

>>

Gathering food for an elderly woman, Taelor Barrett-Jones [12] feels like her job is just another item to add to her to-do list. “I work at Apple Market because I want the money. I don’t particularly like the job, but it’ll have to do.”

opinion opinion opinion opinion opinion opinion opinion opinion opinion opinion opinion opinion opinion opinion opinion opinion opinio

Every girl has, at one time, written in a diary or journal in their life that reflects their personal thoughts, opinions, and fantasies. This is no different for Shiraz Bailey Wood who gets a diary for Christmas and begins to write about her life in the period of a year in Diary of a Chav by Grace Dent. This story takes place in a town called Good-mayes, England; a small town that is about 15 miles away from London. In the story, Shiraz recounts the events of the year starting on December 25th and ending on the same date the next year. This book is hilarious and Dent does of good job at illustrating the main character’s feelings in her diary. The situations that Shiraz gets herself into are funny and charming. Dent writes a story that is both funny and heartwarming by making you sympathetic for her when she gets into a situation she can’t handle. Sometimes this book tends to drag in some places where it doesn’t really seem to flow. There are some subjects in the story you sometimes wonder why she writes about, and you would like for her to move on. Fortunately for the reader, those sections are only a paragraph long and don’t last throughout the story. Another thing that was sometimes frustrating was the fact that since the book takes place in England, so they don’t speak using American vocabulary but English vocabulary. Luckily there is a glossary in the back that tells you the definition of these terms. It would be better for the reader if they read the glossary before diving into the story, so you will understand what she is talking about. Overall this is a good book with good humor that teaches you a lesson at the end, which is that family should stick together. Writing a book in the form of a diary seems to be the trend these days because not only is this written that way but so is The Princess Diaries Series, Spud, The Georgia Nicholson Series, and In Search of Mockingbird. If you like books written that way then you will like Diary of a Chav. Overall this book gets three and a half out of five stars.

Diary of a Chavwritten by TALOR CARR

book review • book review • book review • book review • book review • book review • book review •

book review • book review • book review • book review • book review • book review • book review

image courtesy of GOOGLE

Everlasting Ink or Indestructible Regret?pro written by KELSEY HARRIScon written by KIARAH LINDSEYphotograph by LIBBY WOLFF


Bringing up the creativity, this idea will require a lot of thinking and patience. Take five pieces of spare, little papers and write, “Will you be my Valentine?” The trick is to have

only one word on each piece of paper and hand them to random, dependable people. His or her closest friends will work, but it will be sweeter to have people that they don’t

normally talk to because it will be more shocking. By the end of the day, they should have put it all together and have your answer waiting for you!

Charming foods like cupcakes are simply irresistible. Bake just enough to spell out a cute saying, such as “Be Mine?” Making the icing pink or red with strawberry flavored cupcakes, topped with colored sprinkles and top

everything off with a cherry. Who can’t say yes to this because you never go wrong with the sweets! [photo courtesy of: flickr.com]w

ays t

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out your valentine

Irresist

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Piece

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This holiday makes waves each year making greeting card companies everywhere filled with delight. Nearly 188 million cards are exchanged on this holiday, making it the second most popular greeting-card-giving occasion (Hallmark). With 2.2 million marriages taking place on this day, it averages out over the year to be nearly 6,000 each day. The history of this remarkable holiday is filled with mystery. For some, it all began with the patron saint this holiday is named for—none other than Saint Valentine. February was always regarded to as “the month of romance” for years now, but the relation of this patron saint to the holiday has long been a mystery of the sorts. Celebrated between lovers, friends, relatives, and siblings, Valentine’s Day is one of a kind truly. With cards flowing between people everywhere, it’s hard to see anyone being left alone on this unique day. In the United States, traditions are kept simple. Cards are exchanged, flowers (particularly red roses) are given, and chocolate of all kinds is handed out. This holiday isn’t in favor of the single population though, but for most there is still time left to spare. Even with Valentine’s Day approaching fast this year, it’s not too late to be someone’s valentine. In fact, each year hundreds of men and women are left without someone to share this remarkable holiday with. However, by the fourteenth, most people have already found their significant other. Afraid cupid might forget some of us this year? Don’t worry! With these cute tips and tricks she, or he, will be dying to say yes.

A Change in Heart+

To keep things simple, yet cute, spark up a game of Tag. Play with a group of friends; unlike any other time, volunteer to be the “tagger.” Give everybody time to run off and cover some ground. Chase after the boy/girl you plan on asking. After you finally catch them, if you do, then instead of the old-time saying “Tag you’re it,” shout out “Tag you’re my Valentine!”

[photo courtesy of: flickr.com]

Bringing up the creativity, this idea will require a lot of thinking and patience. Take five pieces of spare, little papers and write, “Will you be my Valentine?” The trick is to have

only one word on each piece of paper and hand them to random, dependable people. His or her closest friends will work, but it will be sweeter to have people that they don’t

normally talk to because it will be more shocking. By the end of the day, they should have put it all together and have your answer waiting for you!

Piece

s of t

he P

uzzle

Tagging your sw

eetie

This holiday makes waves each year making greeting card companies everywhere filled with delight. Nearly 188 million cards are exchanged on this holiday, making it the second most popular greeting-card-giving occasion (Hallmark). With 2.2 million marriages taking place on this day, it averages out over the year to be nearly 6,000 each day. The history of this remarkable holiday is filled with mystery. For some, it all began with the patron saint this holiday is named for—none other than Saint Valentine. February was always regarded to as “the month of romance” for years now, but the relation of this patron saint to the holiday has long been a mystery of the sorts. Celebrated between lovers, friends, relatives, and siblings, Valentine’s Day is one of a kind truly. With cards flowing between people everywhere, it’s hard to see anyone being left alone on this unique day. In the United States, traditions are kept simple. Cards are exchanged, flowers (particularly red roses) are given, and chocolate of all kinds is handed out. This holiday isn’t in favor of the single population though, but for most there is still time left to spare. Even with Valentine’s Day approaching fast this year, it’s not too late to be someone’s valentine. In fact, each year hundreds of men and women are left without someone to share this remarkable holiday with. However, by the fourteenth, most people have already found their significant other. Afraid cupid might forget some of us this year? Don’t worry! With these cute tips and tricks she, or he, will be dying to say yes.

A Change in Heart+

Little known facts:

73% of people who buy flowers on this holiday are •men; only 27% are womenAbout 3% of pet owners everywhere will give gifts to •their petsCalifornia produces 60% of American roses, but the •majority sold on Valentine’s day are importedApproximately 110 million roses (majority red) will be •sold and delivered on this dayThe first Valentine gift was sent by Duke of Orleans to •his wife after he was captured in 1415“Love birds” derives from the belief that birds choose •their mates on this holidayAbout 15% of women send themselves flowers on •Valentine’s dayThe first Valentine’s Day box of chocolates was •introduced by Richard Cadbury in 1868Teachers receive more valentines than spouses, •children, and couples.Women give about 39% of all gifts received•Men spend an average of $130 on their dates that night•8 billion conversation hearts are made each year; •that’s enough to stretch from Rome, Italy to Valentine, Arizona twenty times and back again.

sports sports sports sports sports sports sports sports sports sports sports sports sports sports sports sports


portsWrestling is a sport that the spotlight often misses, but in fact it deserves much recognition.

Being a very rigorous sport, the members of wrestling have to face many challenges, such as cutting weight.

“You have to wear plastics, sometimes you can’t eat all day, and when you do eat it has to be healthy, like fruit and tuna,” said senior Isaac Enriquez.

It is quite the feat to be able to go all day without eating, or eating very little, and then be expected to perform at your very best at that night’s competition.

“I’ve had to cut weight in the past years, but this year I’ve been about 145 pounds naturally, so I haven’t really needed to,” said senior Terry Hodge.

Isaac Enriquez and Terry Hodge, the two senior leaders, are hoping to make it to state this year and so far have had a very strong season.

“If we made it to state it would be the best feeling in the entire world,” said Enriquez. “If I make it to state then I’ll probably go to college for wrestling.”

Hodge said,“It’s kind of up in the air, but if I make it to state then it would be easier to go [to college] for

wrestling.”No matter where these boys end up, they are making great accomplishments with every

wrestling match they compete in. “Hard work,” as the wrestlers say, is the answer to everything.

They live, breath, and swim chlorine. Everyday at three in the afternoon, the Ray-South swimmers enter the pool to swim strenuous workouts. With a new coach this year, Coach Laney, the swimmers have adapted to new workouts and new procedures for the third year in a row. “It takes a lot of dedication to wake up at 4:30 am every Tuesday and Thursday to swim, “ said Captain Kelly Ford [12], “but it’s worth it.” Seven seniors lead the team this year. The girls’ main focus is to drop as much time as possible. One way they work at this goal is by swimming through one of the toughest weeks of the season, deemed “Hell Week.” This will prepare the girls for their biggest swim meet of the year-conference. “I want the school to realize we have a swim team with a lot of potential and we need support,” said Captain Cassie Thonen [12]. Conference will be held on Thursday, February 5 at the YMCA, so come and support them!

written by JULIA BIAGIOLIphotograph by SEAN O’REARTake ‘Em Down

Just Keep Swimming written by ERIN EDWARDS

When looking back on the previous season, the games that tend to stick out the most are the highly anticipated games against the heated rival.Thegamesthatfillthestandswith awed onlookers and jittery players. Austin Steward [10] said, “A rival team is people we train hard to beat, that we’d feel worthless if we lost against.”In Raytown, the two big rival schools are the Raytown Bluejays and the Raytown South Cardinals. “Raytown is what I call a rival school because our school and theirs are on the same level,” said Kristi Ramey [11]. “We strive to be better than them.” Everyone comes to rival games. Whether it’s football, basketball, track, or any other sport. They come to support their schools. “I go to the rival games so if and when we beat them I can rub it in Raytown’s face,” said Gabe Lee [10]. Rival teams create friendly competition within schools. “Competition can sometimes be a good thing,” said Steward. “Players don’t want to lose to other teams because if they do they would have done all that work for nothing.” Players tend to try harder and play better when it comes to running up against their rival team. Lee said, “If they don’t [try harder], they should. I did in swimming, and it helped me out a bunch.” Even though there might be small tension between the two rival teams, they are the sister schools to every hard working student and each person would show support if it came down to it.

written by NATALIE HOWARD

It’s Just Friendly

Competition

written by MEGAN VAUGHNphotograph by JASON KEOPHAPHONEUnstoppable Footwork

Time is now too precious for the Raytown South Cardettes. Soon, all of their hard work will be critiqued by judges who will decide their fate. With just a couple of months left of the ‘08-‘09 season, the Cardettes still have a few goals in mind that they don’t intend to leave astray.

“We are working on dancing bigger, trying our hardest, but also having fun at the same time,” said Morgan Hopper [10].

This year regionals are taking place at Lee’s Summit North High School where they will compete to gain the wondrous title of “State Champs”. They will be performing their Hip-Hop and Pom routine in hopestoflatterthejudgeswiththeiroverallteamwork,charisma,andcreativity.Butoptimismisdefinitelyacharacteristicthatthecardshavean abundant supply of.

“We just want to do well and come back with good awards,” said Hopper [10].

With good spirits and their never ceasing determination, the Cardettes are ready to take on any obstacle thrown at

their feet. Nothing can stand in their way.

sports sports sports sports sports sports sports sports sports sports sports sports sports sports sports sports

When looking at our boys basketball team, it’s easy to see the numerous bonds that have been made over the year. These bonds aren’t just between the players though; they’re also between the coach and players. Coach Oestreich has been coaching most of the players for their entire duration here at Raytown South, which has helped with developing teamwork and camaraderie that can be seen at every game. The players create their bonds with each other by spendingtimetogetheroutsideofschool.Theyusuallywillfindoneoftheplayershousetogorelaxtoorfindagymtogoshootaroundat.

This year the coaching staff is being a little stricter with the team, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Being more strict as a coach means more practicing and time together as a whole. This year every practice, game, and loss is taken a lot more seriously than just a tally to their record.

Home games are where our boys really “click.” This can be seen by a well-positioned “fast break” pass to number 24 Shawn Henderson [12] or by an “alley oop” pass to, number 5 Rian Pearson [12]. This is more than likely why, when we look at the boys home record for this season,wewillfindthattheyareundefeated.

MostoftheseboyshaveplayedsidebysideonthecourteversincetheirfirstyearatRaytown South Middle. Over these years, the boys have gotten to know more and more about what they need to give them an extra boost during a game. When making important plays each individual player will know what to do at the precise moment. When it comes to a point when ourleadscorerfindshimself“double-teamed,”heknowsexactlywhohecantrustwiththeballduring that situation.

These tight knit bonds will always be in place. The years that they have spent together won’t be forgotten. This camaraderie between these boys is what makes each and every game run smoothly and a great experience for spectators to watch and remember.

“Every time someone yells out ‘Jet Lee,’ I make my free throw,” said Taelor Barrett-Jones [12.] Barrett-Jones said it is because of her love for all of the Jet Lee action movies. This year the girls basketball team has been very active on the court just like Jet Lee in his movies. While the girls’ record isn’t exactly what they had hoped for this year, the margins of their loses were very minimal. Usually, not more than a few points. Every second of each game these girl’s play their hardest. That is due to the great coaching they have been receiving from Amber Bloecher. Coach Bloecher is the new coach of our girls’ varsity basketball team, who transferred here from Raytown High School. This has helped us with our rivalry games against Raytown. Their practices this year are tougher than the last due to the change of coaches, but they are well worth it. This year they practice a lot more on free throws and “down and backs” to gain endurance. Coach Bloecher also helps the girls by giving them step-by-step advice on how to defend the offensive plays that the Bluejays are more than likely to run. All the girls had good things to say about her. “First class or no class,” is the motto for the girl’s basketball team this year. This motto helps with maintaining good sportsmanship, no matter the situation. Junior Emma Street, forward, said that to her this new motto means more than the literal message to her. She said, “Either havefirstclassordon’tbethere.”

Sportsmanship from other team’s is sometimes scarcely found. Coach Bloecher is heading this team in the right direction. On top of helping these girls improve their skills on the court, she is helping these girls keep their heads up no matter what the game entails. Just like the boys, the girls spend a lot of time together outside of school and off the court. They usually end up going shopping at themall,butsometimesfindthemselveswatchingamovie.MorethanlikelyaJetLeemovieifit’sBarrett-Jones’choice.Thisbondthathasdeveloped throughout the many years that these girls have played together can be seen on the court as well, which will ultimately make it that much harder for the younger girls when the seniors, who they see as their role models, go on and pursue their future goals next year. Finishing up this season, they will look back and remember the bonds and connections that were made. Not just between themselves as players, but also with their new coach.

Heading in the Right Direction written by MATT LIPSCOMBphotograph by SHELBI ORBIN

Tight Unbreakable Bondswritten by MATT LIPSCOMBphotograph by LIBBY WOLFF


Wrestling is a sport that the spotlight often misses, but in fact it deserves much recognition. Being a very rigorous sport, the members of wrestling have to face many challenges, such as cutting weight.

“You have to wear plastics, sometimes you can’t eat all day, and when you do eat it has to be healthy, like fruit and tuna,” said senior Isaac Enriquez.

It is quite the feat to be able to go all day without eating, or eating very little, and then be expected to perform at your very best at that night’s competition.

“I’ve had to cut weight in the past years, but this year I’ve been about 145 pounds naturally, so I haven’t really needed to,” said senior Terry Hodge.

Isaac Enriquez and Terry Hodge, the two senior leaders, are hoping to make it to state this year and so far have had a very strong season.

“If we made it to state it would be the best feeling in the entire world,” said Enriquez. “If I make it to state then I’ll probably go to college for wrestling.”

Hodge said,“It’s kind of up in the air, but if I make it to state then it would be easier to go [to college] for

wrestling.”No matter where these boys end up, they are making great accomplishments with every

wrestling match they compete in. “Hard work,” as the wrestlers say, is the answer to everything.

They live, breath, and swim chlorine. Everyday at three in the afternoon, the Ray-South swimmers enter the pool to swim strenuous workouts. With a new coach this year, Coach Laney, the swimmers have adapted to new workouts and new procedures for the third year in a row. “It takes a lot of dedication to wake up at 4:30 am every Tuesday and Thursday to swim, “ said Captain Kelly Ford [12], “but it’s worth it.” Seven seniors lead the team this year. The girls’ main focus is to drop as much time as possible. One way they work at this goal is by swimming through one of the toughest weeks of the season, deemed “Hell Week.” This will prepare the girls for their biggest swim meet of the year-conference. “I want the school to realize we have a swim team with a lot of potential and we need support,” said Captain Cassie Thonen [12]. Conference will be held on Thursday, February 5 at the YMCA, so come and support them!

written by JULIA BIAGIOLIphotograph by SEAN O’REARTake ‘Em Down

Just Keep Swimming written by ERIN EDWARDS

When looking back on the previous season, the games that tend to stick out the most are the highly anticipated games against the heated rival.Thegamesthatfillthestandswith awed onlookers and jittery players. Austin Steward [10] said, “A rival team is people we train hard to beat, that we’d feel worthless if we lost against.”In Raytown, the two big rival schools are the Raytown Bluejays and the Raytown South Cardinals. “Raytown is what I call a rival school because our school and theirs are on the same level,” said Kristi Ramey [11]. “We strive to be better than them.” Everyone comes to rival games. Whether it’s football, basketball, track, or any other sport. They come to support their schools. “I go to the rival games so if and when we beat them I can rub it in Raytown’s face,” said Gabe Lee [10]. Rival teams create friendly competition within schools. “Competition can sometimes be a good thing,” said Steward. “Players don’t want to lose to other teams because if they do they would have done all that work for nothing.” Players tend to try harder and play better when it comes to running up against their rival team. Lee said, “If they don’t [try harder], they should. I did in swimming, and it helped me out a bunch.” Even though there might be small tension between the two rival teams, they are the sister schools to every hard working student and each person would show support if it came down to it.

written by NATALIE HOWARD

It’s Just Friendly

Competition

written by MEGAN VAUGHNphotograph by JASON KEOPHAPHONEUnstoppable Footwork

Time is now too precious for the Raytown South Cardettes. Soon, all of their hard work will be critiqued by judges who will decide their fate. With just a couple of months left of the ‘08-‘09 season, the Cardettes still have a few goals in mind that they don’t intend to leave astray.

“We are working on dancing bigger, trying our hardest, but also having fun at the same time,” said Morgan Hopper [10].

This year regionals are taking place at Lee’s Summit North High School where they will compete to gain the wondrous title of “State Champs”. They will be performing their Hip-Hop and Pom routine in hopestoflatterthejudgeswiththeiroverallteamwork,charisma,andcreativity.Butoptimismisdefinitelyacharacteristicthatthecardshavean abundant supply of.

“We just want to do well and come back with good awards,” said Hopper [10].

With good spirits and their never ceasing determination, the Cardettes are ready to take on any obstacle thrown at

their feet. Nothing can stand in their way.

extra extra extra extra extra extra extra extra extra extra extra extra extra extra extra extra extra extra extra extratures news and features news and features news and features news and features news and features news and features news and features ne

Brain Teasers4 6

9 6 74 36 3 1 7

3 89 1 5 8

5 4 9 68 2 6

5 8

February 2009Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat

2 3 4 5 6 79th GBB @ Lee’s Summit ‘A’ Tournament9th BBB @ Lee’s Summit West ‘B’ Tournament9th BBB @ Raytown ‘A’ Tournament

9th GBB @ Lee’s Summit ‘A’ Tournament9th BBB @ Lee’s Summit West ‘B’ Tournament9th BBB @ Raytown ‘A’ Tournament5:30pm: JV/V BBB @ Belton5:30pm: JV/V GBB vs. Notre Dame De Sion

9th GBB @ Lee’s Summit ‘A’ Tournament9th BBB @ Lee’s Summit West ‘B’ Tournament9th BBB @ Raytown ‘A’ Tournament

Winter Play

9th GBB @ Lee’s Summit ‘A’ TournamentGSW @ Conference9th BBB @ Lee’s Summit West ‘B’ Tournament9th BBB @ Raytown ‘A’ Tournament

Winter PlayDebate & Forensics

9th GBB @ LS ‘A’ Tourn.GSW @ Conference9th BBB @ LSW ‘B’ Tourn.5:30pm: JV/V BBB @ Columbia Rockbridge5:30pm: JV/V GBB vs. St. Teresa’s

Winter PlayDebate & ForensicsUMKC Jazz Fest

GSW @ Conference

9am: V WR @ Lee’s Summit West Tournament

9am: JV WR @ LSN

9 10 11 12 13 14Raytown Choral Festival

5:30pm: JV/V BBB vs. Fort Osage

5:30pm: JV/V GBB @ Raytown

5:30pm: JV/V GBB @ Fort Osage

NO SCHOOL

Debate & Forensics

5:30pm: JV/V BBB vs. Lee’s Summit West

Debate & ForensicsWebb City Jazz Fest

16 17 18 19 20 21 PRESIDENTS DAY - NO SCHOOL

5:30pm: JV/V BBB @ Fort Osage

5:30pm: JV/V GBB @ Grandview

5:30pm: JV/V GBB vs. Lee’s Summit West

Debate & Forensics

GSW @ State

5:30pm: JV/V BBB @ North Kansas City

Debate & ForensicsUMC (Warrensburg) Jazz Fest

GSW @ State

23 24 25 26 27 28V BBB @ District

V GBB @ District

V GBB @ District V GBB @ District V GBB @ District Debate & Forensics

V GBB @ District

Debate & Forensics

2 3 4 5 6 7Academic Night Small Ensemble/Solo

Contest

NFL Districts

Small Ensemble/Solo Contest

NFL Districts

Key: GBB - Girls Basketball; BBB - Boys Basketball; WR - Wrestling; GSW - Girls Swimming

VA DERS1.

E2. CONOMY ABCDEFGHIJKM 3. NOPQRSTVWXYZ L 4. O V E COVER 5. COVER HEAD COVER COVER KNEE 6. YOU’RE FULL OF

PumPkinPie7. WINEEEE8. TAILR 9. RIALT AIRTL TLRIA EXIT LUNCH 10. LUNCH FAMILYYYYYY11. 1. 12. 2. BLAME 3. BLAME EILN PU13. M1LLION14.

You can look online on our web site (http://southern-exposurenews.webs.com/) for this issue’s answers!

Sudoku

Living Life in Fast-Forward


extra extra extra extra extra extra extra extra extra extra extra extra extra extra extra extra extra extra extra extratures news and features news and features news and features news and features news and features news and features news and features ne

olumns Life, in the eyes of those who hurry, is always a blurred image. It becomes a hazy picture of recollected images, both past and present. I realized as I was on my way to practice just this past week that we are always in a hurry. Either we’ve got to be here or there, while never just stopping to take in the moment. Ashighschoolstudents,welivetokeepbusy.Ourhandsarealwaysfilledwithsomesortof project, task, or last minute thought. On the weekends, we’re out with our friends, and on the weeknights, we are busy with homework, sports, and, more times than not, a job. We live life to the fullest. That’s how we’re made to be. As we progress to adults, we keep this same mentality. We go to college full-time and then continue onto our job later on in the evening or during the weekend. We drive way too fast to our intended destination, and we speed walk through malls in hurry of missing out on the latest bargain. Never stopping once to think about how while trying to conserve time, we’re wasting what little time we have. I can’t even remember the last time I actually sat down just to relax or spend time with my family. Most of the time I’m busy keeping up with my A.P. classes, after school activities, or work; and my free time on the weekends consists of the much-needed sleep that I’ve been missing out on all week. I go to bed at midnight, sometimes later in the morning, while enduring a full day at school the next day and then attend volleyball practice four times a week while keeping a part-time job and participatinginatleastfiveactivitiesactively.Ittendstogetoverwhelming,butIcan’taffordtostop. Even while driving, I can tell the difference between when I’m in a hurry and when I’m not. UsuallyIkeepaconsistentfiveover,whichistypicalformostdrivers.Onthewaytopractice,whichis normally considered to be a thirty minute drive, I make it in twenty. On the way home, however, I learn to take my time. I manage to pull into my driveway a little more than a half hour later. AsIseethecarsflyingbyonmyleft,Ican’thelpbutnoticethatthey’reallthinkingthesame way that I am.

“I’ve got to go, I’ve got to go.” Or perhaps they’re listening to the same station I am on the radio and are too busy to take

noticeattheongoingworldthatsurroundsthem.InoticethetimeflyingbythemostwhenI’minthepassenger seat. I take in the scenery while on long distance drives and let my surroundings sink into my eyes. When I’m driving, however, the feeling is the opposite. Instead of enjoying the surroundings for what they are, I’m silently anticipating the much-needed change in scenery that will let me know I’medgingthatmuchclosertomyfinaldestination.

If we all took a moment just to slow down, we could appreciate life more the way that it is. Instead of focusing so much on rushing through everything, we should learn to take our time while going somewhere. We just need to learn to slow down.

Life is too precious of a gift to waste, and we’ll never fully realize it until the last possible moment we may have, which can sometimes be too late. When I look back on my high school years, I don’t want to remember the constant schedule I abided by while I was always in motion. I want to remember those lazy days where I sat out on the front lawn talking to my neighbors, or the weekends that I spent sleeping in over at a friend’s house because we stayed up way too late the night before.

I don’t want a blurred image. I want a perfectly clear picture.

written by JESSICA SCHEETZEDITOR-IN-CHIEFphotograph courtesy of GOOGLE.COM

Living Life in Fast-Forward>> TEN ?’s <<to ask yourself

If you had only six months • to live, how would you change your life?Who or what is getting • shortchanged in your life now?If you only accomplish one• more thing before you die, what would it be?What adjectives would you• use to describe you life up to today?If they wrote a book about• your life, what would be the title?What three things can you • do today to change the quality of your life?If you could start your life • over, what changes would you make and why?Why are you in such a • hurry?What would be the benefits • in your life to slowing down and getting conscious as you move though all your present moments?

If you find yourself in a hurry, you may want to consider asking yourself these questions:


columns columns columns columns columns columns columns columns columns columns columns columns columns columns columns southern exposure staff southern exposure staff southern exposure staff southern exposure staff southern exposure staff southern exposure staff


Car. Gas. Extra food. Going out with friends. Clothes. Occasional dance. Presents. College. Money seems to be heading in every direction except my bank account. Sure, I have direct deposit so my paychecks can sit in the bank for about two days before I withdraw them, but with all these wants and needs, it seems as though my net worth stays at a pretty low rate constantly.

I know that I should really keep that $20 here and $30 there in the bank account, but it is just so tempting to go to Buffalo Wild Wings with my friends, or go on a shopping spree with my sister. We’re teenagers! Aren’t we supposed to just go out, have fun, enjoy our widening freedoms, and be carefree? Nope. It’s not that easy. We have to start learning responsibility,findouthowtodependonourselves, and get ready for what life will be like in just a few short years when we are out on our own.

My dad has already given me the speeches about how I “go through money like water” and may not be putting myself in a good positionfinanciallytopayforcollege.Ihaven’tfollowed the footsteps of my sister, who was dedicated enough to put every single paycheck in the bank account, and leave it there to accrue interest. Paying for my gas and part of my car insuranceisonething,buyinganewoutfitformy birthday is another, so sometimes trying to make a case to defend myself fails miserably. I suppose the thing to remember is that we can go out and have fun, but be smart about it. Enjoy ourselves, but set ourselves up for a stress free future. There has to be a perfect medium between being that carefree kid and the responsible adult, too.

Never Ending Circus Act

Real Eyes Realize Real Lies

Money, Money, Money

Pressureswritten by JULIA BIAGIOLIeditor of NEWS AND FEATURES

written by ERIN EDWARDSeditor of OPINION

written by MEGAN VAUGHNeditor of SPORTS

Swim practice, youth advisory council, church, the movies, and NHS plans- so many things that add up one by one. It’s amazing how I’ve become part of a circus and I’m the one juggling everything in to my busy life. Sometimes it’s a challenge and everything is really hard. You want to quit, throw down your cap and goggles and just give up. But then you realize how much potential you might have. You’ve seen the rewards and you know all this hard work will eventually pay off in some way or another. I’m not saying you’ll win an Olympic medal or the Nobel Prize, but it can teach you the meaning of hard work. It will help you work those habits into your everyday life. It will help you prepare for college, grow up, and get a job. The other morning at 6:00, I was in the pool. Swimming back and forth, working my butt off (literally), and I found myself getting frustrated. Angry that I wasn’t hitting that 1:20 on my last 100. Angry that I wasn’t able to drop time at the last swim meet after all these hard weeksofpractice.Gettingupat4:30amonTuesdaysandThursdays.Sacrificingmyweekendsfor swim meets and not being able to stay out too late on Friday nights because I knew I would be dead tired in the morning if I didn’t get some sleep. I looked at that red digital clock and wondered if my life was just ticking away one second at a time. But all of a sudden something sparked. I like working hard. I like being tired. I like it because I want more than anything to just succeed. One day I want to get somewhere with my life. I know that everyday it gets harder and harder, but it’s worth it. All these hard days of practice during my years at high school will have taught me one of the most important things I’ll ever learn in life- never give up.

Takealookaround.No,closer…Attempttofeelthetextureofeachfixture,eachmorsel of matter, with each pupil. Try not to blink. The possibility of missing something is far too precious. What has been discovered? Utter the words slowly and piece each thought together as if it were a puzzle, life’s puzzle. What was the over all out come? Is there even asignificantdefinitionoflife’swhereabouts?Suchquestionsbareanswersthatmaynotorcannot be described or analyzed by word of mouth. Our eyes make up for our illiteracy. They havetheabilitytocapturevividscenes,photos,andeventhereflectionoftheearlymorningsunglisteningoffanemptybedroomshardwoodfloor. So why not expand the horizons of those amongst ones midst? Don’t allow others to be oblivious to the world’s beauty, as if blind yet not diagnosed, not even close. Use that 20/20 vision to its full potential. The phrase “seeing is believing” can apply and in a sense is correct. Without sight life can’t fully be endured. Others may disagree, but on this note, let’s agreetodisagree.Lifewithoutoneofthefivesenseswouldbeunattainableinmyeyesandthe thought just sends shivers up my spine. I can’t begin to imagine what it’s like for those who aren’t so fortunate. How this topic came to mind… plainly the mere fact that people don’t truly appreciate what the have until it’s no longer within their grasp. If I told everyone that I have never and will never take things for granted, I would undeniably be the world’s biggest hypocrite and most impressive liar. It’s an uncontrollable and unintentional action that is indescribable in ways that cannot be described in any sort of comforting manner. The point is, is that others’ who don’t have the ability to hear, see, walk, etc, would more than likely kill to be in the shoes of those who can. Waking up each day knowingthatoneifnotmultipleofthefivesenseswhicheachhumanbeingbaresisnolongerthere would be far from petrifying. I believe that I don’t appreciate how lucky I am to be able to walk, run, feed myself, listen to music, and at times I wonder about others as well. Live for the people who no longer have the freedoms we posses, because one day, we may not be so lucky. Live to your full potential.

Editorial Policy

columns columns columns columns columns columns columns columns columns columns columns columns columns columns columns southern exposure staff southern exposure staff southern exposure staff southern exposure staff southern exposure staff southern exposure staff

1502 sejan09

written by ERIN EDWARDSeditor of OPINION

written by MEGAN VAUGHNeditor of SPORTS

Meet the Staff

Third row (from L to R): Matt Lipscomb, Haley Nothnagel, Kiarah Lindsey, Kelsey Harris, Julia Biagioli, Jessica Scheetz, and Megan Vaughn.Second row (from L to R): Libby Wolff, Rychinda Johnson, Shelbi Orbin, Natalie Howard, Erin Edwards, and Talor Carr.First row (from L to R): Lynne Smith, Christine Keightley, Jason Keophaphone, and Kenny Marshall.

Tell us what you think!(Please give us your feedback on the paper. It’s greatly appreciated.)

Name: _______________________________________________

Grade (circle one): 9 10 11 12

Comments (likes, dislikes, suggestions): _________________________

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____________________________.

Editorial PolicyThe purpose of the Southern Exposure, a monthly newspaper, is to entertain, inform, and to provide an open forum for student expression. The views expressed in the newspaper do not necessar-ily represent those of the Raytown C-2 School District or the Southern Exposure Staff. Letters to the editor are accepted, but we reserve the right to publish only letters that are appropriate and non-libelous. Letters to the editor may be published anonymously at the editor’s discretion but must include the author’s name and a means of contact.Letters can be written to:

Rhonda Dempsey c/o Raytown South High School 8211 Sterling Avenue Raytown, MO 64138-2647

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