8211 sterling avenue. raytown, missouri 64138 volume 23, issue 1, september 30, 2008

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3 Looking Towards Change -- Meet the New Super Intendent4 A Long Way From Home Out With the Old...in With the New5 Teonna Wesley: Fourth in Nation Lunch Guy?

6 When Worst Comes First7 College, Here I Come! But I’m a Cool Mom...8 Falling in Love or Barely Falling? Big Mouths Lead to Big Myths9 How Young is too Young? Bring on the Blizzard

10/11 Fall Sports Photo Spread12 Forget What You’ve Heard13 The Bar Has Been Raised No Broken Bones Only Stepping Stones14 Learning How to Deal

15 Calender/Word Puzzles16 Comic/Sudoku17 Word Search: Back to School

18 A Bittersweet Move Where’s the Talent? New Hallways -- New Atmosphere

sports

extra

columnsQuestions? Comments? Tell us about it!

E-mail dempsey.r@raytownschools.org or write us a letter. We’d be happy to hear from

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ews & eatures

The new school year has started off with some new additions to the district. There is a new middle school, a new science building, new teachers, and now we also have a new superintendent. Dr. Alan Markley is the new guy in town. This is his first year in the Raytown C-2 district, but he is really excited to be here and has some new plans for our district. Originally from the Springfield area, he has been married to his wife Kathy, his high school sweetheart, for thirteen years. They have two sons named Seth, 5, and Luke, 3. In his spare time, he enjoys fishing, hunting, playing golf, and spending time with his family. Markley enjoys being a superintendent. He said, “It is a way to affect a more higher number of students. Whatever I could do to help influence the students I could do it better and more effectively has a superintendent.” Markley last worked in the Belton district and moved his family up here last year. Once a spot opened up in the district for a new superintedent, Markley realized it was an opportunity he should seize at once. “It was a great opportunity to come to a bigger district and help more kids,” he said. He also believes that this will be a great place for his two sons to grow up and go to school. Markley knows that this district is not in the city, and that is only part of what he likes about it. “I like the people, great staff, and the fact these teachers care about there students,” Markley said. Although, there are some more districts between this district and the one he worked at before. But he’s learning to adjust to the changes. “The students and employees are more diverse here,” Markley said. “The staff and kids are just like everyday people.” Many people may wonder what exactly a superintendent does. For one, they have a lot of duties and responsibilities. Markley believes that his main job, however, is to be a positive spokesperson for the district. He wants to create resources available for the staff that will create more opportunities for the students. “I want to help provide the best education available,” he said. Markley is just like everybody else. Just because he is a superintendent doesn’t mean he can’t relate to the students and staff. His morning routine is reading the paper, making a pot of coffee, and making two bowls of cereal for two little boys. A high school graduate of Kickapoo High School, Markley still remembers what his favorite cafeteria food is. His first choice, however, is very similar to a cafeteria food served here once a month called turkey slop, which he isn’t familiar with just yet. “Chicken patty with mashed potatoes and gravy served with a hot roll. I also liked it when they would serve fish wedges,” he said. Markley has a favorite football and baseball team. He said, “If I was to choose a football team, it would have to be the Raytown and Raytown South High School football teams. And professionally it would be the Kansas City Chiefs because I am a Missouri boy.” However, Markley is more of a baseball guy and his favorite baseball team happens to be a cross-state rival: the St. Louis Cardinals. Even though this is Markley’s first year in the district, he’s already making plans to build a new soccer field that will be finished sometime next year. “It will be used for soccer, football practice, and band practice.” He said. “It will be able to be used for everything and not just soccer.” Markley is a very cool and interesting guy. He knows why he is a superintendent and loves his job. He knows that there is work to be done in this district and what he will do to help improve it. He is looking forward to this year and hopes that the students and staff are, too.

Looking towardsChange

written by TALOR CARRphotograph by KENNY MARSHALL

>> Let’s Meet: <<Dr. Markley

NERVOUS HABITS

MORNING ROUTINE

HIS FAVORITES

rubbing his chin•talking with his hands•biting his nails•

reading the paper•making coffee•making two bowls •of cereal for his two boys.

football team: KC •Chiefs, RHS, and RSHSbaseball team: St. •Louis Cardinalscafeteria food: chick-•en patty with mashed potatoes and gravy

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Guess what! This year Raytown South has four foreign exchange students. They have come all the way from China, Venezuela, Brazil, and Hungary and all have their own views about Raytown South. Ling Fei, a sophomore from China, said, “This school is bigger than my old school. At my old school they didn’t have air conditioning and we went home for lunch. We could take a two hour nap and then go back to school.” Fei may think her old school is better because she has many friends there, but she still likes this school. There are many reasons why she likes this school and there are for Juan Wulff, too. Wulff, a junior from Venezuela, said, “Thisschoolhasreallynicegyms,andthefutbol,orsoccerfields,arebetterthanthe ones in Venezuela.” Many similarities exists between American schools and foreign schools. But there are also a lot of differences as well. For instance, in China they go home for lunch. Bernardo Gusmao also thinks this school is different. Gusmao, a junior from Brazil, said, “Here the students move, but in Brazil the teachers move.” Another difference was pointed out by Aron Veress, a junior from Hungary. Ver-ess said, “This school is less strict than my old school. At my old school, you can’t just stand up and go somewhere. You have to whisper and there is no connection between the students and the teachers.” All of these students are very interesting and all have different views on Ameri-can schools. To some, this is the only school they have been to in America. Even though they come from different countries, they all have something in common with us and each other.

written by KIARAH LINDSEYphotograph by KENNY MARSHALL

Out With the Old ...in With the New

“Lights, camera, action” just might be what new teacher Ms. Kristy Hensley willbesayingatthestartofherfirstproductionhereatRaytownSouth.ForyearsMr.Johnson had been a part of our schools theater department, but now there is a new sheriff in town. Hensley, a graduate of Raytown South in 2003, had mixed feelings about coming back to her former high school. She said, ”It was a rush of nostalgia.” Still, Hensley really likes the atmosphere and the teachers. Originally want-ing to become an actress, Hensley felt like being a teacher was her calling. “Education is one of the most important professions, and I am passionate about teaching,” she said. When her students graduate, she hopes they can take with them a few life lessons of her own. “Self expression is an important human characteristic, and stage fright can be overcome.” Hensley also realizes for some students this year maybe a big adjustment, since Mr. Johnson is not here. In fact, she was even one of his former student. One of her most memorable moments happened to be after a school production she starred in. “AfterthefirstnightofperformanceofHarvey,hetoldmehowproudhewas of me, and how much I have grown as an actress.” Mr. Johnson is part of the reason she chose to come to South. As for now, Hensley is excited for a new beginning, and many are excited to take the new journey with her. So be on the look out for the amazing productions Hensley will be directing.

A Long Way From Home written by HALEY NOTHNAGELphotograph by LIBBY WOLFF

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written by KIARAH LINDSEYphotograph by KENNY MARSHALL

written by TALOR CARRphotograph by LIBBY WOLFF

Teonna Wesley: FOURTH in Nation

On June 15th, 2008, four students from Raytown South, two of those being graduates, left for Las Vegas to compete at nationals in debate and foren-sics. One of those students made the top four in the nation reciting poetry. The poetry selection that she performed was called Inner City Mother Goose, which helpedherallthewaytofinalsandhelpedhertoplacefourthinthenation.Hername was Teonna Wesley, and she’s a senior at Raytown South. Wesley was initially shocked by her high- ranking performance. “I came prepared because I felt I could go that far, but I didn’t have high expectations,” she said. Wesley is humble about her performance. Wesley said, “Itfeelslikefirstplace.”Shehasnohardfeelingsaboutgettingfourthplace and is grateful that she made it that far. Wesleyhaspreviouslyqualifiedtonationalinforensicshersophomoreyear but unfortunately didn’t make it as far as she did in this tournament. She practiced hard and often worked with Ms. Morrill, the forensics coach, on this piece. She also took critique from fellow forensics students, which is part of the reason she did so well at nationals. Does she think she can qualify for nationals three times in a row? “Yes I do if I work at it and try my best,” said Wesley. Of course there are many experiences that come with qualifying to any national tournament. Wesley has learned a few experiences. “Enjoy what you are doing and always do your best. Have fun.” Many forensors and debaters want to qualify to nationals this year. Some may see it as a hard thing to accomplish. “It takes dedication and hard work. You have to be dedicated,” said Wesley. This is true advice from a very hard working and dedicated person. If Wesley can qualify to nationals and go as far as making it to the top four, then anyone can make it that far. This gives hope to any debater of foren-sor who wants to make it and place in the nation. If they keep there dreams alive and stay focused like Teonna Wesley, then surely they can be successful too.

Most of us are familiar with the term “Lunch Lady”, but what about “Lunch Guy”? The café has a new manager who happens to be just that--a guy! Students were surprised at the now female AND male cafeteria staff. His name is Chris McCauley and he is a 2000 graduate of RSHS. He has a degree from trade school and has also been an EMT as well as a massage therapist. “I wish for this school to have better quality food and better service,” said McCauley. “On the fourth day of school someone dropped their food on the ground and the next moment he was there and in less than 10 seconds it was cleaned up and no trace was seen.” said Maisha Mitchell [11]. McCauley is happy to be here but also surprised that the puzzled student body didn’t bombard him. “I am enjoying my job here but I was expecting more of what are you doing back there in the back of the cafeteria,” he said. McCauleymaybenewtothestaffbuthedefi-nitely has high expectations. “I am looking forward to working here from this year and years to come,” said McCauley.

Lunch Guy ?written by LYNNE SMITHphotograph by LIBBY WOLFF

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Staying busy at his new job, new cafeteria man-ager Chris McCauley balances the day’s money. “South High feels like home, “ says McCauley.

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pinion

“Beep, beep, beep…” The persistent sound of that old alarm every morning tends to get a little agitating when all one wants to do is hit the snooze button a couple more times. Then again, knowing another dreadful day at school lies ahead makes one’s hand refrain from throwing that pesky alarm clock against the wall. Throughout the world, students have learned to adjust to all the rules that cause them to despise school overall. Whether it is the actions of students who attend or just the “oh so clever” rules everyone must abide by, something always makes students detest the thought of school. The peeves one encounters vary from loud gum smackers to the “no cell phone” policy. When thinking of most obvious pet peeves of school, only one word generates in most minds: hallway. The picture of a quiet yet leisurely walk from class to class would be nice, but things are not that simple.

“I can’t stand walking in the hallways after class. Everyone is pushing and shoving,” says Chloe Davis [10].

Now how’s that for a hallway? Instead of a frolic through the flowers, it’s more of a battle for one’s own survival as each step must be carefully watched and each action thought out. Along with the pushing and shoving, other problems seem to be growing as well.

“I hate when people stop and stand in the middle of the hallway and think its okay. But when I do it, it’s not okay,” said Josie Sharp [10].

Although this may seem hypocritical, it’s the mere fact that the hallway is meant for walking and talking, not stopping and holding up traffic for one’s own convenience. Even a temporary stop could even cause others to be late due to the fact that passing periods are only five minutes long making the possibility of being late an even higher risk. Other than the chaotic hallways, some students find themselves wondering why cell phones are such a big deal.

“Cell phones should be able to be used in lunch and during passing periods. I really do not see a problem with it as long as we are not on them during class,” says Alex Alderton [11].

Sharp [10] agreed but also added her own view towards the “no music” policy. She said,“It should be changed because it helps me concentrate and as long as there are

restrictions and people can be mature, we should be able to listen to them.” As technology improves each and every year, it will become harder and harder for

schools to enforce such rules upon the student. So maybe a little leniency on them will help kids from having that nagging urge to check their phone. Additionally there is the infamous PDA policy and the debate on whether or not teachers should take it so seriously. Usually PDA in school is not taken over the top even though it is enforced accordingly; though can be the occasional blow up.

“I can’t even look at my girlfriend without a teacher saying ‘PDA, PDA’,” says Deeken Hardiman [10].

Overall, PDA is a reasonable rule, yet the occasional hug or peck on the lips or cheek shouldn’t exactly be thrown the red card. All in all, these are just minor pinpoints on the faults of schools and the dislikes of students who attend. Many would agree with those stated above, even though there are pro’s and con’s to every event, thought, or action.

f i r s tWhen Worst Comes

written by MEGAN VAUGHNphotograph by TABITHA WALTERS

”“I hate it when

people stop and stand in the hallway.

- j o s i e s h a r p

>> TOP PEEVES <<of high school

ONE.

THREE.

FIVE.

TWO.

FOUR.

start times

crowded hallways

electronics policy

teacher’s pets

Public Displays of Affection

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”I hate it when people stop and stand in the hallway.

- j o s i e s h a r p

TWO.

FOUR.

Logging on to Facebook, Pettyjohn tries to stay con-nected with old high school friends and family. This day and age you find people of all ages on Facebook.

written by HALEY NOTHNAGELphotograph by LIBBY WOLFF

College, Here I Come!

Need to get into college? Ever thought about taking some of the A.P. classes? Although they may not be so nice, they are excellent for college ap-plications. Mrs. Houston, who teaches AP United States History, said, “This class isverychallengingandalsoverydifficult.” AP classes can also be fun, especially if it is taught by a teacher who is passionate about the subject. The teacher appreciating the course makes that much more enjoyable. Coach Allie, who teaches AP History, said, “I do enjoy teaching this class because the students are pretty motivated to learn. Plus, you get more in depth with the topics.” Depending on the teacher and whether they like to teach, it makes the subject a little more tolerable. Clearly Coach Allie and Mr. Nunn have common taste in the class curriculums. AP Biology teacher Mr. Nunn, said, “I love it. I think it is the best. I wouldn’t teach anywhere else.” They may require a lot of hard work and dedication, but ultimately they can be extremely rewarding. Especially since they allow students to get college credit early. What’s better than that?

Logging into Facebook, one takes notice in his or her new requests. Typically, they are from the latest applications, tag requests, new friends or old acquaintances, but then the jaw-dropper comes in. Mom has sent you a “friend” request. A teenager’s natural reaction is “What is my mom doing with a Facebook?” It’s shocking to see a request from a mother, father, a friend’s parent, or even a teacher. “First thing I say is ‘what are they doing adding me?’ ” said Dennis Turner [10]. “It’s kind of surprising.” Today,adultsareflockingtogetaFacebook.Asadolescents,webelieve that the only reason for adults to have a page is to keep their eyes glaring at a screen full of juicy gossip and latest relationships. “I think that parents and teachers are on just to be nosy,” said Turner [10]. Could parents and teachers want a page for the same reason as a teenager? Communication is one reason that adults may choose to be on Facebook. “It’s a good way to keep in contact with people,” said Mr. Shanna-han. Some teachers have a page for notes and schoolwork that helps students. “I have two pages: one for students and one for friends,” said Mrs. Runkle-Smith “The one for students is to make announcements, remind for tests, assignments, and post notes. I feel like most students have one so it’s an extended piece of technology to help students. The page for my friends is tostayincontact,butmystudentscan’tfindit.” Facebook was originally just for college students, but it is now open to anybody that wants a page from younger siblings to principals. Everybody has the freedom to communicate, but some believe that there is a line drawn when one shouldn’t have a page. “You should get rid of your page after freshman year in college be-cause you have better things to do than to be on Facebook,” said Antonique Flemons [10]. Having a page on Facebook is an easy way to stay in contact with people,meetnewfriends,andevenfindoldschoolmates.Itisnolongerconsidered just for the younger crowd, but now appeals to everybody. There is always an option to decline a friend request, but it would be quite amusing to see a mom commenting on pictures or saying “Hey” on a wall.

written by KELSEY HARRISphotograph by KENNY MARSHALL

But I’m a Cool Mom…

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written by KELSEY HARRISphotograph by CHRISTINE KEIGHTLEY

Falling In Love Or Barely Falling? A four-letter word that connects the human heart, mind, body, and soul to another heart is usually referred to as love. As teenagers, we have school, sports, homework, part-time jobs, and for some, even church to busy up schedules; but let’s not forget the joys and pain of being in love. Love has a very strong impact on teenagers, especially when we don’t always know the choices we are making and the outcomes they may bring. It can make us the happiest person one day, but leave then us with nothing but tears on our pillow the next. “I believe that love isn’t a feeling, but a choice,” said Courtney Wall [11]. Love can sometimes be confused with infatuation or even the term that is very popular now- puppy love. “I think puppy love is more of the ‘I like you’ kind of thing. True love is when you can connect and problem solve,” said Wall [11].

Liking somebody just for their looks and things that have is not the state of being love; most consider that lust. Yet some consider it hard to know if true love even exists at such a young age anymore. “Yes I believe in love because I’ve been there before,” said Dajuan Beard [12]. The saying, “nothing lasts forever” can be true at times, but is not always the case. “Yes I did believe in love. It is something good to be in but eventually you fall out,” Makayla Price [12] said. Being in love for the first couple of months usually brings nothing but smiles and cute giggles, but sooner or later reality stops by and leaves a heavy load of tears and a broken heart that is too heavy to hang on to. Love can be breathtaking, but is it sometimes worth the hurt? “Sometimes it is worth the hurt because if you’re truly in love then you don’t care what goes on, but with teenage love it’s hard to tell if it will last,” Avia Harper [11] said. With so much going on in a teenager’s life, love is probably not the first priority, but no where near the last. Good things never happen unless effort and determination is put into it. With something like love, it takes two. Love will only last and be as good as one makes it, whether young or old. “If you really love someone it will work, unless it was never there in the first place,” said Price. “When you’re really in love then you are willing to go through hell or high water for that person. Even after they hurt you so much, you still give them another chance,” stated Harper.

Love has its pros and cons that more than likely everyone will experience. Nothing last forever, or does it? Always be ready for the never-ending excitement or the unbearable pain. Always think through choices before making a final one because whatever love may bring, there will also be a lesson learned quick to follow-up.

Myths: we’ve all heard of them. There’s the famous “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” to “popping your knuckles gives you arthritis.” These myths may be commonly said throughout the world, but they are just that--myths. Many people complain about the huge zits they get on their faces because of the amount on chocolate they’ve eaten, or freak out because they swallowed a little piece of gum. But what they don’t realize is that these are just myths. Chocolate doesn’t really cause acne and the worst thing swallowing your gum can do is give you a stomach ache. Elvis isn’t still alive, he was found dead on his bathroom floor in 1977, and a person who mixes pop rocks and soda pop together isn’t going to have a big whole in their head. Which just goes to show that one can believe everything they hear.

BIG Mouths Lead to BIG Myths

written by NATALIE HOWARDphotograph courtesy of GOOGLE.COM

Proving that high school relationships are not point-less, Makayla Price and Dajuan Beard meet together in the courtyard for a picture. They are no longer together, but Makayla states, “ True love lasts forever.”

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written by KELSEY HARRISphotograph by CHRISTINE KEIGHTLEY

written by NATALIE HOWARDphotograph by SHELBI ORBIN

written by KIARAH LINDSEYphotograph by LIBBY WOLFF

How young is TOO young?

Bring on the BLIzzARD

The National Youth Rights Association has proposed that the legal drink-ing age should be lowered from 21 to 18. Major debate has occurred throughout the country because of this. However, many people believe turning 18 brings upon many new responsibilities. “I think that they should lower the drinking age,” Houston Leaton [10] said. “18-year-olds are independent enough to make their own decisions, and if they choose to make the wrong ones that’s their choice.” Zoe Arvizu [10] also agrees this is a good law to change. “18 year olds are old enough to vote and decide who is best to run our county.Theyarealsoabletofightforourcountry,sotheyshouldbeabletodrink.” Others are not so sure that this is such a great idea. Leah Ramey [10] said, “I believe that if 18-year-olds are able to drink, they’ll take that power to their heads and take things too far. They’ll buy for underage friends and on the week-ends they’ll never be home.” But one agreement between these strong debaters is the link between car accidents and the number of drunk drivers on the road. Lowering the drinking age could lead to more drinking and driving, but it could also lead to making young adults more responsible for their actions. “They should be more strict about the drinking and driving thing,” said Mrs. Parker. “I just think there is so much more they could do.” However, less than ten countries throughout the world have a legal drinking age of 21. Most countries drinking age is already at 18 and some even younger. In Brunei and Libya there is not even a drinking age set. There are many pros and cons to lowering the drinking age in the U.S. But only the people of this country can truly decide if they are responsible enough to drink at a younger age.

Sighs of sadness, moans, and groans is what will probably be heard from seniors if the date May 26th is brought up. For those who don’t know, seniors will no longer be getting out a week early during the school year. They will be going to school all the way until the end of the year and get out May 26th, which is not only the last day of school for seniors but also graduation day. “All the other seniors in the past got out May 16th, and I don’t think it’s fair we have to stay,” said Makayla Price [12]. Other seniors have different opinions on getting out later in the year. They think those few weeks in between last year’s graduation date and this year’s should be used as time for preparation. “Ihavefamilyflyingheretoseemegraduate,andIwantedsomeextratimeto prepare and relax before graduation,” said Aaron Mitchell [12]. Even some teachers don’t agree with the change. Mrs. Roller said, “It’s sad to see the tradition gone.” Someseniorsdon’tunderstandwhygraduationwasmovedbackinthefirstplace. Toddrick West [12] said, “In the past seniors were let out early. Why did the tradition have to stop on our senior year?” Seniors such as Ronald Mitchell [12] agree with the majority of their class as well. Many are puzzled by the sudden change. “There was no point of taking the tradition away, and the extra time could have helped me better my future at a rapid pace and at an earlier time,” said Mitchell. No matter how much seniors complain, the rules won’t change. Luckily, seniors won’t have to make up snow days at the end of the year, so most seniors are hoping for a blizzard.

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Working Hard toSucceed

It’s the beginning of the year and everybody is talking. A clean start to a new school year. For sports teams, this means adjusting to an entirely new team since the seniors from last year are now long gone. But for students, it’s just what they’ve been looking

forward to all summer: fall sports. Between the Friday night football games to the long distances run by the Cross Country

runners, this season has just about everything and anything sports lovers come to see on game days.

photographs by SEAN O’REAR, JASON KEOPHAPHONE, LIBBY WOLFF, DOMONIQUE JOHNSTON, and TRACY OKOJIE

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Working Hard toSucceed

It’s the beginning of the year and everybody is talking. A clean start to a new school year. For sports teams, this means adjusting to an entirely new team since the seniors from last year are now long gone. But for students, it’s just what they’ve been looking

forward to all summer: fall sports. Between the Friday night football games to the long distances run by the Cross Country

runners, this season has just about everything and anything sports lovers come to see on game days.

photographs by SEAN O’REAR, JASON KEOPHAPHONE, LIBBY WOLFF, DOMONIQUE JOHNSTON, and TRACY OKOJIE

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Forget What You’ve Heardwritten by MEGAN VAUGHNphotograph by ANDREA THARP

Throughout the United States, thousands of teenagers are facing great amounts of stress due to their packed schedules. But having a big agenda also comes with some positive outcomes that can lead to a better tomorrow. Among the numerous amounts of good and bad outcomes there are a few that stick out the most and affect teens overall. Whether it is in school or at home, those who go to school, have a job, and participate in extra curriculars find it hard to have a life outside of the activities. Therefore for playing on multiple sports teams has its own pros and cons. From losing sleep to falling behind on homework, playing sports is definitely not for fickle athletes.

Time is something that feels as if it flies by when one’s agenda is overflowing. Imagine having a part time job, rigorous sports schedules, and on top of that school work and hours upon hours of studying. The average teenage agenda looks somewhat like this, which shows that time is definitely shorthanded. Cory Northrup [11] is one out of millions of high school students who feel the pressures of playing on multiple sports teams.

“Going straight from a sport that that beats on your body to another that beats it down even more, you don’t exactly get a resting period,” said Northrup. “But in the long run, it keeps you in shape.”

Along with the fact that playing multiple sports hurts your body physically, if not given the proper resting time, it also affects your academics. Usually after a tiresome game one’s mind is focused on one of two things, if not both: a shower and then some sleep. Chris Mason [11] and Gabby Wedel [10] both agree.

“Stress was overwhelming. Going straight from cheerleading practice to a soccer game. Then going home and not wanting to do anything but sleep,” said Wedel. “Homework was the last thing on my mind.”

It seems as if all teenagers have felt the same way after an incredibly tiring day, but being able to keep up and have stable grades should be first priority.

There are also positive aspects of playing on multiple sports teams. Many students find themselves trying new things to look for new friendships whether or not they like the sport. But all in all, the friendships and bonds each team begins to create are remarkable.

“On the football team, it’s more of knowing you have a family that loves the same thing and you can beat on one another without getting in trouble,” said Northup. “In the wrestling team it’s a bit more of a closer family. It takes a lot more effort.”

One would notice that being a part of a team does not mean it is all about one person, it is about the team as a whole-as a family.

Overall, people normally think that the bad out weigh the good. It’s natural, but at the same time both ends should be taken seriously. Being on multiple sports teams during the school year not only takes heart and dedication, it also takes a lot of time and effort, and along the way one creates memories that will last a lifetime.

”“Going straight

from a sport to another beats [you] down even more.

- c o r y n o r t h r u p

>> Derek Blevins [12] knows just how hard it is to participate in more than one sport. Last year as a junior, he participated in soccer and football during the fall.

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”- c o r y n o r t h r u p

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Waiting for the kick off, the RSHS varsity football team prepares to face North Kansas City. “We feel like we’ve performed to the best of our abilities. We hope to continue our success,” says Coach Allie.

written by SAMANTHA WOODWARDphotograph by LIBBY WOLFFThe Bar Has Been Raised

With injuries of all different kinds last year, from broken ribs and collarbones, the boy’s soccer team is looking to try and start off fresh. With two freshmen and two foreign exchange students on the team, they are hoping to improve this season with no injuries. “Last year we were unfortunate with injuries and this year we have a strong team and a lot of talent to build from,” said Vince Torello. [12]. “We have high expectations for this season.” Overcoming teams such as Blue Springs South and Rockhurstwillbeundoubtedlydifficultfortheteam,butJacobDraisey [12] has hope. “We’ve had some speed bumps to overcome, but as soon as conference starts we should rise to our expectations,” Jacob Draisey [12]. They also are ready to be a conference contender. Now with the hardest part of their schedule out of the way, they can focus on conference. If they play smart and play their best they can be one of the top contenders in their conference. They boys would like for everyone to come out and support them on October 6, as they face Fort Osage at 4 o’clock in a conference game at Little Blue Trace.

They’re at the 20, 15, 10, 5… TOUCHDOWN!!! The Cardinals have started off this season with a bang. Al-ready they’ve managed to have two successful wins against Staley (52-9) and Platte County (26-2). After ending last sea-son 4-7, this season is expected to be a big improvement over last year. With many starting seniors on defense and offense thisteamisfilledwithasignificantamountofleadership. “We have great leadership and a great supporting role,” said Daniel Criss [12]. The boys in the red and white have their goals set high this year. From only winning the district title last season, they want to win conference, win districts, and win the very firststatetitleinschoolhistory. “We want to go to State. We want to put money in the bank and cash out,” says Eric Brantley [11]. “Talk is cheap, but the cardinal actions are raw and we are headed to the bank for a cash withdraw.” With the excitement of playing with numerous amounts of talent and having one of the best-unmentioned football teams in the city, our boys are ready to take on a very difficultscheduleplayingLee’sSummitWest(nowclass5A)and Fort Osage. “Our hardest competition this season will be Lee’s Summit West, Fort Osage, and ourselves. A lot of people get cocky and lose focus, passion, and the “want-to” and forget what and who we are,” said Sean King [12].

No Broken Bones Only Stones

>>Huddling together, the RSHS varsity soccer team prepares for victory. “Huddling together helps to unify the team and get us focused and pumped for a game,” says Chris Lopez.

written by SAMANTHA WOODWARDphotograph by CHRISTINE KEIGHTLEY

>>

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Deal>> FALL STATS <<

Tiger Woods once said, “No matter how good you get you can always get better and that’s the exciting part.” He couldn’t have said any better for our girl’s golf team as they start off the season. Most of them have a year or two undertheirbeltandarereadytofight. “We are doing good and we are progressing everyday,” said LaSheena Brown [11]. With the team continuously improving, they see their season only get-ting better. “The team is a lot better this year. More girls are shooting a lot better scores then last year,” Alyssa Buck [11]. With conference and districts coming up the girls are working to improveandbecomereadyforthesetwodifficultmatches.Letsgooutandsupport the girls.

>>

Practicing, Kammrie Ridley, sophomore, works on her swing. “Most of the girls have made a lot of improvements since last year because last year they were all beginners and now have a year of experience. They’ve worked really hard to get where they are,” says Coach Peck.

written by SAMANTHA WOODWARDphotograph by JASON KEOPHAPHONE

Learning How to

FOOTBALL 5-0@ Fort Osage

Belton (homecoming game) Thursday Oct. 9

@ TrumanNortheast

Raytown Saturday Nov. 1 @ 2pm

BOYS SOCCERLee’s Summit West - 9/23

@ Raytown - 9/26@ Staley - 9/30

@ Hickman Mills - 10/2Fort Osage - 10/6@ Belton - 10/9

CROSS COUNTRY@ KC Metro @ Ray-Pec - 10/4

@ Conference - 10/10@ District @ Lake Jacomo - 10/25@ Sectional @ Lake Jacomo - 11/1

SOFTBALLFort Osage - 9/23

Hickman Mills - 9/24@ Raytown - 9/26

@ Fort Osage - 9/29Park Hill - 10/1

North Kansas City - 10/2Blue Springs South - 10/6

BOYS SWIMMING@ YMCA - 9/26

@ Gladstone - 9/29@ YMCA - 10/1

@ Independence Invitational - 10/3-10/4

@ YMCA - 10/8@ North Kansas City - 10/10

GIRLS GOLF@ Hodge Park - 9/23@ Winterstone - 9/26

Conference @ Paradise Point - 9/29

Districts - 10/6

VOLLEYBALL@ Lee’s Summit West -

9/30@ Fort Osage - 10/2

NKC - 10/7@ Belton - 10/9

Lee’s Summit West - 10/13

4-5

3-3

4-12

2-6

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October 2008Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat

29 30 1 2 3 4GGolf: Conference @ Paradise Point4pm: JV FB @ LSWJV/V SB @ Fort O9th VB vs. Hickman MillsBSW @ Gladstone

5pm: JV/V BSccr @ Staley

5:30pm: JV/V VB @ LSW

4pm: 9th FB vs. Fort OSB vs. Park Hill9th VB vs. Liberty

6pm: BSW Meet @ YMCA - LSW

3pm: JV/V SB @ NKC4pm: JV/V BSccr @ Hickman Mills5:30pm: JV/V @ Fort Osage

BSW @ Indepedence Invitational

7pm: V FB @ Fort Osage

BSW @ Indep. Invitational9th ‘A’ VB Tourn @ RSHS9th ‘B’ VB Tourn @ RHSJV/V XC @ Ray-Pec

6 7 8 9 10 11GGolf @ District4pm: JV FB vs. Fort OsageJV/V BSccr vs. Fort OsageSB vs. BSS9th VB vs. Ruskin

5:30pm: JV/V VB vs. North Kansas City

4pm: 9th FB @ Raytown @ RCMS5pm: 9th VB @ Belton6pm: BSW Meet @ YMCA

5pm: JV/V BSccr @ Belton5:30pm: JV/V VB @ Belton7pm: V FB vs Belton (Homecoming)

BSW @ NKC Invitational

XC @ Conference

7pm: Homecoming Dance

BSW @ NKC Invita-tionalJV VB @ Pleasant Hill Tournament9th ‘A’ VB @ Truman ‘A’ Tournament

13 14 15 16 17 184pm: 9th VB vs. RaytownJV/V BSccr vs. Grandview5pm: JV FB @ Belton5:30pm: JV/V VB vs. LSW

4pm: JV/V BSccr vs. NKC

5:30pm: JV/V VB vs. Raytown

5pm: 9th VB @ Fort Osage

4pm: 9th VB vs. O’Hara5pm: JV/V BSccr @ LSW5:30pm: JV/V VB @ Winnetonka

BSW @ Blue Springs Invitational

4pm: 9th FB @ LSW

7pm: V FB @ Truman

BSW @ Blue Springs Invitational

V VB @ Harrisonville Tournament

20 21 22 23 24 254pm: 9th VB vs. GrandviewJV FB vs. Truman

4pm: JV/V BSccr vs. Raytown

5:30pm: JV/V VB @ Ruskin

4pm: BSW @ NKC9th VB @ Hickman Mills9th FB vs. Ruskin

5pm: JV/V BSccr @ Winnetonka

7pm: V FB vs. Northeast

XC @ District @ Lake Jacomo

27 28 29 30 31 14pm: JV FB @ Northeast

5pm: JV/V BSccr @ Harrisonville

4pm: JV/V BSccr vs. Truman

JV BSW @ Glad-stone/Conference

5pm: JV/V BSccr @ Fort Osage

V BSW @ Gladstone/Conference

XC @ Sectional @ Lake JacomoV BSW @ Gladstone/Conference2pm: V FB vs. Ray-town

Key: GGolf: Girl’s Golf; FB: Football; VB: Volleyball; BSW-Boys Swimming; BSccr-Boys Soccer; XC-Cross Country

I’m typically in front of the classroom, and I have hands.

Assigned usually at the end of each class. Forget to do me, and you’re sure not to pass.

I help the students learn everyday. But in college, they refer to me by another name.

A sport played on most Fridays after school.

Unscramble the letters:

____ ____ ____ ____ ____

____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____

____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____

____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____

____ ____ ____ ____ ____ ____

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comic by DEREK HUTCHENSSummer’s Over

Sudoku Brain Teasers

Now that summer’s over, Johnny quickly learns that staying up late and falling asleep on the first day of school is NOT the best idea.

7 3 96 8 1 51 2 78 3

7 4 5 14 7

1 2 69 4 8 5

6 1 3

>> MEREPEAT1. GR 12” AVE2. FAREDCE3. K K 4. C C U U T T S S word word word word R 5. Y S GESG 6. SEGG GEGS GGES

B 7. A S L E E P GEEEEEEEEEEC8. you cont ol r9. N N N N N N N 10. A A A A A A A C C C C C C C D H 11. E T A

ANSWERS: 1. repeat after me 2. one foot in the grave 3. red in the face 4. two stuck up for words5. syrup 6. scrambled eggs 7. down sleeping bag 8. tennessee 9. 7-up cans 10. death valley

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Word Search: Back to SchoolPERI

METERGVPERI

MTERIANBRPHJSOFTBALLSSM

EABBSVCWSFBXWQFBOOYUILMGCRGZYCFTFOLPAA

NOTEBOOKTAMCAWIAUSROIN UJAQEXCCKJIHGN ST

CQIVFJNSBEXZSEVRSOQIVFJNRWOCXXTESATRGH

IYOPGBNUNRBWPREPAPYOPGBEDEMAALPLMNGFAE

LMMIHCEI

MTATLTTTAHMMIHCWNREDLLFRTTYAUM

AYKHJACPPYCYSYYAFOTZXCVSITTFMNCHOIRHMA

BUYRLWTIXIKUEUJBMMTSETRTLYRGAHHUGFFJJT

SBTEPFITVMPISIGCROSSCOUNTRYJ

MAETLGSKKI

RNPDEJOXTIAOUONFARTCYGTUEIKKAEEYDUALPC

EKLCRKNQANCPCPMAFEOLJAYGROTLTTRMXTSMOS

TLJVMLSEXSKSENIORSPLFBTHDPSPEYLNCYRNIS

UAHFAPNRWWJNAMSTAFDVGVYBTMDORCEAVUEBUL

PTUTNOESANHMCNERZDSBHVPVAPOIEQAFBIHVYU

MYYHEYVTXEXZEBRVESAJJOMCXSJUTZDRNOCCTE

OJTYNTTNGWQBRVFOOTBALLJEBDHYHXEGDPAXRC

CVNJTIRMBRWVPXRARLGYLLHROGGTGRRHMEEZSN

HAMKMOECZARCECEFDOZUMETTYBFRIESJ

MNTASE

FCPMAAAXNBTXMZSMEPMINYEYSVSQLTQIVFJTWI

THWORLDGEOGRAPHYIPBODBXHSZAWHYYOPGBZEC

EURYKAUSTBSANAMNUTNPYATJOAZEGUMMIHCXSS

XOEREDHGGCZSOSEAOZJLFLRMCSXCIIALGVXCDF

TLTTRULERRADIDNVRQIVFLUNCHCVHONKBSLVRT

BMGGBABTAOGGNFMPZYOPGBAVEAVBGSJOMALBTE

OAKVTAARPSMHTZKLSMMIHCXBRGBNHNIPXZANYG

OJPBYGCSHTAJEGLYTTANFAYNESNMFHCNERFMFR

KKZMHTKMICTLMHPFLOGSLRIGTSAZDBSFAZTAGO

TMXOLBPPNOGONJOUPOULRMRJHNMXAHGGGPYSLF

AAYPPNAOGULPOKINOPTATNYFJAGNI

MMI

WSSYOB

FJDLVCOMPOSITIONILWNYVUGKHAHEXTRARPAAE

AGCLCHKNATAKILYEUKEIUCI

MLNMJSGNMIJUDTL

DNVMFYABPRPUTPTLYGRDICOMI

MEKYTZPLMASTR

BWBNTJCMEYBYSORCTHAROXKUUSDUZDTXSTUEUK

NQTBRLJSRALTENEARCCAPZLLSAAYGTYUIKMUNS

ASRKAPUOXFGEUKWKEDCCAFRIDAYWQLMVTSTTUJ

NADLJPANYCNWQLQEWLKMDGGCDADFGHLPOIUTFA

LPKUTASITIROINESQHJKLMNHYTGEDGHKMBFRFD

PENCIL BACKPACK SOPHOMORES HIGHLIGHTERNOTEBOOK GRAPHING PAPER PAPER FALLPERIMETER COMPOSITION PRECALCULUS TEACHERSCONNECTIONS FRESHMEN GEOMETRY FRENCHPERMANENT MARKER FOOTBALL SOFTBALL TUESDAYCOMPUTERS VOLLEYBALL MATHEMATICS BOYS SWIMMINGTEXTBOOK LUNCH SCIENCE GAME DAYWORLD GEOGRAPHY BOYS SOCCER CARDETTES FRIDAYRULER CROSS COUNTRY CHEERLEADERS CARDINALSFUNNEL CAKES SENIORITIS SPANISH FRENCHCIVICS JUNIORS ALMA MATER GIRLS GOLFSENIORS

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Following the buzz buzz buzz of my cell phone’s alarm, I roll over in my bed, catch a glimpse of the blaring red 5:15 AM on my alarm clock, and wonder WHAT WERE WE THINKING?! The big ol’ move to Lee’s Summit* seemed great at the time, but the early morning wake up call wasn’t my idea of a perfect start to the day. I mean, it seemed too good to be true, get a new house AND have permission to stay at my school for senior year?! It was perfect. But the reality was having the extra fifteen minute drive to Raytown each morning, each afternoon, and any other times I had a rendezvous back in my old ‘hood. Fifteen minutes never sounded like such a big deal…at least until I started waking up with the “cock-a-doodle-doo” of the roosters and got the, now weekly, gas bill. After going on home tour after home tour, from Kansas City’s Parade of Homes to the Spring Homes Tour, I had new house overload. I began to feel like I could design a house better than an architect. I could look at the outside of a house and know the entire floor plan of it. Eventually, out of some miracle, we finally found the house of our dreams, or at least close to it. We decided “this is the one” and before I knew it we were making the plans to move in. The house just so happened to be conveniently located in the middle of my work, the movie theater, the mall, and all my relatives’ houses, just not so conveniently located when it came to going to school or my friends’ houses. My gas tank began noticing the difference and my pocket sure did too. Sometimes you can’t have your cake and eat it too, or so they say. Despite these two unfavorable aspects of moving, my story has a happy ending. I’m staying at Raytown South for my final year in high school. They couldn’t get rid of me that easily. I’m not one to be a huge fan of change, so getting the news that no, in fact, I wouldn’t have to be added to the preppy masses of Blue Springs South High School, was quite the relief. Although my new life requires a little extra planning, I’m beyond grateful to not be completely uprooted from everything I knew my first 17 years.

*MoRS Chapter 167, Section 151

Where’s the talent?

New Hallways -- New Atmosphere

A bittersweet

Movewritten by JULIA BIAGIOLIeditor of NEWS AND FEATURES

written by ERIN EDWARDSeditor of OPINION

written by DANIELLE BOOSeditor of SPORTS

Talent (n.)- a special natural ability or aptitude. Everyone’s got some, but for the contestants on “America’s Got Talent,” a hit television show on NBC, their talent could be worth a million dollars. Watching this show, I saw so many people thinking their talent was special. From transsexual dancers and singers, to cheerleading squads or pyromaniacs, each act was a complete disaster. However, as the show progresses through the weeks, the judges and America have been slowly narrowing down the competition. This show is so fun to watch because some acts are so wildly entertaining because they are so bad, and some people truly possess a talent like none other. Last year’s winner was a man named Terry Fator, who never even had to open his mouth to compete because he’s a ventriloquist. Now he has his own show in Las Vegas and is making a ton of money for what he does. He made an appearance on this season of “America’s Got Talent.” Not only could he ventriloquist, but he could sing extremely well for not even opening his mouth. One act on the show that was downright weird, included a man dressed as Brittney Spears, lip-syncing to one of her hit songs. Surprisingly, he looked just like Spears herself, as he was dressed in a sparkling silver dress, high heels and a bright yellow wig. I was oddly surprised by how much he resembled her. Luckily, he was voted off the show the very next week. Another outrageous act was of two Romanian girls singing and dancing to a German song. First of all, they should be competing in “Romania’s Got Talent,” and second of all they have no talent. They looked like fools as they pranced around the stage singing a strange song about George Clooney. I had to agree with the judges when they disapproved of these girls. On the other hand, some people proved to everyone that they had some real talent. I almost gave up on the show until two young men started playing their violins to a hip-hot beat. At first, the idea of an orchestral instrument stringing along to a modern up-tempo beat sounded insane, but as soon as they started playing, I realized not everyone on this show had just been a reject from “American Idol.” I decided I’m a pretty tough judge when it comes to these talent shows, but I found that many of these people deserve a chance to win a million dollars for possessing an extremely unique talent. Although I wouldn’t take this show too seriously, it is good for some cheap entertainment.

I’ve always been known at the “dreamer”. Someone who would look at how

things could be, always sees the possibilities but never experiences them. Not that I’m not content with how things are, because I wouldn’t change a thing about my life. Some days, I just wonder about how it is on the “other side”. A couple weeks ago, I stopped wondering. As most of you probably know by now, there has been an addition to the school building. A new hallway and classrooms on the first and second level. Walking through that hallway was like walking through the hallway of Lee’s Summit North, for example. Not that our school is terrible or anything, but I’ve always wondered what it would be like to go to school where everything is new. There’s a new staircase and new ceiling to floor windows. And the size? Now that was shocking. Now, don’t get me wrong. It was a complete shock and was exciting to go to that class for the first couple of days… but, after that, it was just another hallway. Just another classroom. Maybe this wasn’t the dream of all dreams and the experience I’ve been waiting for, but hey, it was cool to brag about for a few days.

Editorial Policy

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written by ERIN EDWARDSeditor of OPINION

written by DANIELLE BOOSeditor of SPORTS

Meet the Staff

Second row (from L to R): Natalie Howard, Nicole Bunting, Danielle Boos, Samantha Woodward, Erin Edwards, and Kelsey Harris.First row (from L to R): Haley Nothnagel, Talor Carr, Julia Biagioli, Megan Vaughn, Lynne Smith, Jessica Scheetz, and Kiarah Lindsey.Not pictured: Kenny Marshall, Libby Wolff, Christine Keightley, and Shelbi Orbin.

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): _________________________

_____________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________

____________________________.

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

Yearbookson Sale Now!

Get them at lunch

for $55 or stop by

Room 117Hurry! This price won’t last long!

Be sure to watch out for this year’s fall

play.

You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown

Tickets go on sale the first week in November.

November 7th, 8th, and 9th.