OUT IN THE SLEET, junior Tyler Nulik tries to scrape ice off the windshield of his car March 27. The spring storm brought ice and snow and caused the early dismissal of classes and cancellations of school activities.

PALADINstaff

STUDENT12 LIFE

Application of high school knowledge offers insight into future career options.

paladin

2 news april

OPINIONS8

SPORTS17

FEATURE10

NEWS3

New technology of 2009 is showcased.

KMC teachers and students discover the health and enviornmental benefits of organic food.

KMC track gives Smithhisler brothers the chance to coach together.

Reviewers explore unique coffee houses around Wichita.

CO-EDITORS IN CHIEFrachel king, max martin

DESIGN EDITORSkayla mitchell, laura schlapp

COPY EDITORkaitlin brennan

PHOTOGRAPHY EDITORperry tretbar

ASST. PHOTOGRAPHY EDITORemily baudouin

ADVERTISING/BUSINESS MANAGERsarah williams

NEWS EDITORemily adamson

OPINIONS EDITORali kryzer

FEATURE EDITORmegan gaudreau

STUDENT LIFE EDITORgabi cleary

SPORTS EDITORnellie schafer

ASST. NEWS EDITORdanielle valliere

ASST. OPINIONS EDITORalyssa bambick

ASST. FEATURE EDITORkatie moore

ASST. STUDENT LIFE EDITORmeredith osborne

ASST. SPORTS EDITORanna le

STAFF WRITERSbailey buer, katie gilbaugh,

victoria gilliam, katelyn real, erika reals, bea tretbar,

maggie wilsonPHOTOGRAPHERS

marcella brooks, sean doyle, kylee gross, andrea munevar, anna ninh, brian norris, chris

poglayen, kelsey prather, lindsay smith, emily trollope,

kealy tully, kylee watson, lindsey wiexelman

ADVISERashley perkins

COVERshot

photo illustrations by emily boudouin and laura schlapp cover by kayla mitchell and laura schlapp;photo by perry tretbar

perry tretbarmarcella brooks

ONLINEjournalism.kapaun.org

Go to the new KMC Journalism Web site for stories, photos, videos and archived issues of the Paladin.

sean doyle

paladin

3newsapril

Large cast contributes to biblically-inspired musicalKATELYN REALbystaff writer

Seventy students audition and seventy students’ names are found on the cast list. This rare occurrence was the case for Children of Eden, which runs April 30 – May 2 and May 7 – 9.

“I think it is harder to work with a large group,” sophomore Allison Dittemore said. “Everyone learns music at a different pace and we can’t move on until everyone knows the song.”

More people may also bring a wider range of talent to the cast, junior Heidi Hurtig said.

“I feel that the cast is really strong this year,” Hurtig said. “We have some girls who can hit the really high notes and the men who

can hit the low ones. Our range of voices is much broader this year.”

The play puts a creative twist on the stories of Adam and Eve, Cain and Abel and Noah’s Ark.

“Children of Eden follows the story of the first nine books of Genesis,” senior Rebekah Baldridge. “However, it is not strictly biblical and has several interesting interpretations.”

Hurtig said the mood of Children of Eden is more dramatic than Seussical, last year’s production.

“Seussical was really fun and vivacious,”

Hurtig said. “This year there is a lot more seriousness and tenderness. There is more

romance, heartbreak, suspense, terror and all the music is denser than Seussical ever was. It is a very moving show.”

Director Michael Parker said he has high expectations for this musical.

“We hope the audience will walk away from the musical with a sense of joy that comes from family and love,” Parker said. “It is our hope

that Children of Eden will touch the audience in the same way as it has touched the hearts of those working on the production.”

“Seussical was really fun and viva-cious. [In Children of Eden], there is more romance, heartbreak, suspense, terror and all the music is denser than Seussical ever was. It is a very moving show.”junior HEIDI HURTIG

infographic by laura schlapp; information obtained by victoria gilliam; photos by perry tretbar

paladin

4 news april

Earning money, gaining time management skills, learning about good customer service and how to work a cash register are some advantages of having a job. The only obstacle a student must overcome to gain these skills is actually getting hired.Some students opt to have jobs year-round, while others seek summer jobs. Either way, they must endure the application process in order to start reaping the benefits of a part-time job.

“Interviews can be nerve-racking,” junior Abigail Zluticky, an employee of Caffe Posto, said. “You don’t know what answer an employer is looking for, so it’s hard to decide what to say. It’s important to stay calm, cool and collected.”

Joanne Tallman, owner of Marble Slab Creamery in Bradley Fair, said she likes to hire teenagers because she gets to teach them about work ethic, schedules and reliability. She employs about 14 teenagers at her store and hires mostly during the spring and summer.

“I look for neat, clean, happy and energetic people,” Tallman said. “I don’t want quiet people or loud and obnoxious people.”

Junior Sam Felts, an employee of Sugar Sisters Bakery and Café since May of last year, said most students want jobs because of the money. Felts said others want jobs because they want to be productive or all their friends have jobs.

“Students should interview for multiple jobs and fill out their resumes,” Felts said. “Make sure you’re fairly formal for the

interview. Just be yourself.”Unavailability and looking sloppy at

the interview are common turn-offs to employers, according to Tallman.

“Go in with a positive attitude — sell yourself,” Tallman said. “Let the employer know why they should hire you.”

Rachel Stuhlsatz, the Metro Health and Fitness Director for Greater Wichita Area YMCA, said there are many things one should do before an interview.

“Practice before you go in for an interview,” Stuhlsatz said. “Mock interviews with parents, friends or siblings can help you to be less nervous during the actual

interview. Also, dress to impress. Even if you’re just interviewing for a lifeguard position, you want to look impressive.”

Zluticky said avoiding nervousness is a key element to a successful interview.

“Tell yourself that getting that particular job is no big thing,” Zluticky said. “If they don’t hire you, it’s not the place for you. There are always other job opportunities.”

Some mistakes can ensure that a person will not get the job he or she

is applying for, Stuhlsatz said.“Take time to do your resume,”

Stuhlsatz said. “Sloppy, poorly done resumes imply a bad work ethic. No employer wants an employee like this. Be early by at least ten minutes. Don’t act like you know it all. If you don’t know the answer to a question, tell the truth.”

Junior Christian Kehr, who has worked at Rockwood Recreational Facility for the past two summers and will work there again as a lifeguard this summer, said having a summer job is ideal for him because of sports

“Teens need to work while going to school because it’s a learning experience that helps later on. I started at the YMCA at age 16 as a lifeguard. This gave me a great running start in my career after college, because people I was up against had no work experience. Having a job gives teeens the real-life working experience they need.”RACHEL STUHLSATZ

perry tretbar

Summer jobs can provide students with steadyincome, job experience but may be hard to find

DANIELLE VALLIEREbyasst. news editor

perry tretbar

perry tretbar

1

2

3AT WORK, (1) junior Shannon Brown rings up tanning lotions at Bahama Mamas Tanning Co. Brown started in March in preparation for summer. (2) Senior Blake Hollingshead works as lifeguard at the East YMCA pool. (3) Junior Alex Peck chops carrots for salads at Knolla’s pizza. Peck started working at Knolla’s last August.

arthead by laura schlapp; photo by emily baudouin

paladin

5newsapril

and homework during the school year.“When you have a summer job, it’s nice

because you can relax during the school year, but still have money from the summer,” Kehr said. “You can also work mornings, so you can hang out with friends during the afternoon.”

Felts said his job has allowed him to do things that he would not have been able to do otherwise.

“[Having a job] has enabled me to buy my truck, which allows me to go places and to hang out with my friends,” Felts said. “My job has helped me to set attainable goals. I’m happy I have a job. I like money and I like spending money. My job allows me to do this and have more freedom.”

Zluticky said her job has helped her to rely more on herself.

“[My job] has helped me to branch out,” Zluticky said. “I’ve met a lot of new people and broadened my horizons.”

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, teen unemployment is increasing. It reported that teen unemployment was 21.6 percent in February 2009,“Getting a job can be a difficult task for students in this economy,” Zluticky said. “It’s hard for a teen to get a job when there are experienced adults competing for the same jobs.”

Stuhlsatz said that although getting a paycheck may be a teenager’s favorite part of his job, it is not necessarily the most important.

“Teens need to work while going to school because it’s a learning experience that helps later on,” Stuhlsatz said.

“I started at the YMCA at age 16 as a lifeguard. This gave me a great running start in my career after college, because people I was up against had no work experience. Having a job gives teen the real-life working experience they need.”

perry tretbar

perry tretbar

perry tretbar

4

5

6AT WORK, (4) junior Rachel Kubik straightens a clothing rack at Forever 21. Kubik has been employed at the store since its opening at Town East Mall last summer. (5) Sophomore Brooke Polestra makes change at FUSA in the Town East Mall food court. (6) Senior Kevin Ragan prints a receipt at Dillon’s customer service.

poll of 153 students; infographic by kayla mitchell

infographic by laura schlapp; information obtained by katie gilbaugh and bea tretbar

paladin

6 news april

NEWSbriefs

news briefs by danielle valliere

Students elected to youth boardJunior Alex Fondaw and sophomore Jared

Dreiling were elected to the Diocesan Catholic Youth Board at the Diocesan Catholic Youth Conference March 28-29. They were installed by Bishop Michael Jackels at the closing Mass. Throughout the 2009-2010 school year, Fondaw and Dreiling will represent high school students from Andover, Augusta, El Dorado and Wichita.

Prom to be themed “starry night”Hosted by the Junior Class Student Council,

Prom will take place April 25 in the commons, 8:30 - 11:30 p.m. The dance’s theme is “Starry Night.” The cost is $25 for a single ticket or $40 for a couple. Students will sell tickets during lunches through April 24. T-shirts will be included in the price of the ticket. Service hours will also be given to students who help with set up March 24. Students who want to help should contact junior Marcella Brooks. Students must arrive by 9:30 p.m. to be admitted into the dance. After Prom will take place at All-Star Adventures, 12-3 a.m. Students must pay $7 for a ticket in advance or $14 at the door and arrive no later than 12:30 a.m. in order to be admitted.

Service hours given for phonathonThe Student Annual Fund Council will be

holding Phonathons April 13 and April 14, 6-8:30 p.m. Service hours will be given and pizza will be provided. To sign up, see Director of Development Kevin Arkin. Students present at the most successful Phonathon will receive $20 gas cards.

Market Day coming April 24The Youth Entrepreneurs of Kansas class

will be hosting Market Day April 24 during all lunches. YEK students will offer different food options to students. Profits from Market Day are split between groups.

please patronize our paladin advertisers

When we were little, our responsibilities reached only as far as keeping our rooms clean and making a “happy plate” at every meal. As we grew older, duties increased and encompassed entire sections of the house with chores such as clearing and setting the table, helping with dinner or washing dishes. Now that we are quickly approaching adulthood, our responsibilities are extending much farther than basic chores.

In a time where we are encouraged to be involved in multiple activities, it is hard to imagine that we are supposed to have any job other than being a well-rounded student. In this economy, however, it is important to realize that we are often called to have an actual job.

Times are tough and we cannot expect our parents to shoulder the financial burdens forever. Whether we take on a part-time job during the school year or a full-time position this summer, we must recognize the need to contribute in some way.

Not only does a job offer extra financial help, it also provides us with life experiences. Having a job fosters a sense of responsibility that is separate from the one we gain in the

Tough economic times force students to take on extra responsibilities

The Paladin is a monthly, student-produced newsmagazine, published to inform and entertain the Kapaun Mt. Carmel Catholic High School community and educate journalism students. Each issue is produced with the guidance of a faculty adviser. Student staff members will be offered opportunities to inform, investigate, entertain, interpret and evaluate: all accepted functions of traditional American press.

Included materials will be those of responsible journalism, including restraint by the students and adviser in matters such as libel, privacy, obscenity and copyright.

The staff chooses to reflect the mission of Kapaun Mt. Carmel, a diocesan Catholic high school, to serve the interests and needs of the community and to provide fair, objective, accurate and truthful materials. Opinions do not necessarily reflect views of anyone other than the Paladin staff.

Digital photos have not been altered to manipulate reality. Photo illustrations are labeled to reflect any technical alterations.

Anonymity may be given in the following cases: the information is unable to be presented another way, the information warrants anonymity, the source’s privacy and/or reputation requires protection and the source must be protected from damages.

A student or faculty member death during the coverage period will be covered with a short obituary.

Advertising must meet the same guidelines as editorial content. Acceptance of advertising does not constitute an endorsement by the school. Students pictured in advertising must sign a release and accept no monetary compensation. Advertising rates available on request. School organization discount rates are available.

Corrections of errors will appear in the appropriate section of the next issue.

classroom. Employers are dependent on us to be reliable and get all tasks completed. Interpersonal skills are sharpened and time-management abilities are constantly tested as we try to find a balance between work and school.

This is not to say that we should drive ourselves crazy trying to get in a full work-week while letting our grades slip. In no way should our grades suffer

for the sake of having a job, but we should put forth the extra effort to make both work.

If we are too busy for a job, we must find other ways to fulfill our responsibilities. Taking up extra chores, volunteering to baby-sit siblings for free or just staying out of trouble are great ways to ease the strain many parents are feeling today.

Whether we decide to spend our time sweeping floors at the

local grocery store or we choose to go a month without allowances, we must find ways to give back to our families. By contributing in little ways, we show our parents that we are growing into responsible teenagers, and we appreciate everything they do for us. Although the transition from “happy plates” to happy wallets may seem difficult, we cannot waiver in our attempts to make things easier for our parents.

KAPAUN MT. CARMELpaladin

8506 E. CentralWichita, Kan. 67206

Phone: (316) 634-0315, ext. 232Fax: (316) 636-2437

kmcjournalism@kapaun.org

paladin

EDITORIALpolicy

7opinionsapril

PALADINopinionkate cunningham

letter from the editors:

Rachel King & Max Martinco-editors in chief

On a track, the homestretch is the final part of the race from the last turn to the finish line. It is often one of the most crucial portions of the competition, as races can be won or lost in the final moments. The runners that finish strong down the homestretch are often the ones that come out on top.

It is fair to say our school year is officially in its homestretch. Spring break is gone and graduation lies just a month away. As summer draws closer, thoughts of beach vacations and endless hours by the pool fill students’ heads. With so much to look forward to, how is one to stay focused for 29 more days of school?

The answer lies in the importance of a strong finish. By working hard now, one can give himself a solid position entering finals week. Good grades

on papers and tests today can relieve pressure and unneeded stress come the last week in May. If you stay committed to your studies, the arrival of summer will only be that much more satisfying.

Here in Room 215, we want to know if there is any way for us to help as we come down the homestretch.

Write us a letter of 200 words or less and tell us about any comments or criticisms you may have about the school or our publication. Potentially libelous

statements will not be printed. Please drop it off in Room 215 or mail it to the address on the right.

The Paladin would also like to announce that the Kapaun Mt. Carmel journalism department has gone digital! For updated stories, pictures and videos, please check out our new Web site at http://journalism.kapaun.org.

Good grades on papers and tests today can relieve pressure and unneeded stress come the last week in May.

Track meet:a20-hour work week:aCollege applications:aHomework: aChores:aSleep: maybe later

Right Up Your Ali is a monthly column

paladin

8 opinions april

ALI KRYZERbyopinions editor

With change being stressed in today’s political world, I got to thinking. If I were the Barack Obama of Kapaun Mt. Carmel, what would I change? As my four-year-term comes to a close here are my final day proposals.

I would begin by reform in our health initiative. This could be solved easily by nixing power lunches. The ban on soda drinks should be lifted. Who cares if it is eight in the morning or three in the afternoon? If they want a Coke, they should be able to have a Coke. Before we know it, we will have a KMC Speakeasy and students will be brewing bootlegged Mr. Pib and Sierra Mist in the bathroom stalls. Underclassmen, you are lucky. You were never even tempted by these glory days. Woe to our once plentiful chicken tenders, assorted mega-muffins and Monday-Friday fries. Potato wedges will not solve our obesity problem. Government intrusion on our private food choices must be stopped.

Next on the list is reforming the motor vehicle department. Traffic laws must be put in place by denying parental access to the student parking during peak hours. To the uninitiated,

it may seem like we students drive like maniacs at 7:45 in the morning, but there

is a very intricate system which minivans only sabotage. When parents

inconveniently dump their loads in the lot

this messes up the flow of traffic. It is as if they

are trying to pay with cash in the K-Tag lane on the turnpike. Let’s keep it simple: students use the parking lot; parents, the circle drive. Some things just need to be set in black

and white.Thirdly is

our flawed “prison system.” Detention should actually deter

criminal activity. Nowadays detention at KMC has become a relaxing study hall. This is backwards. I think more punitive punishments should be inflicted. Scraping gum off desks, crawling around on all fours with tape strapped to your hands and knees to pick up trash or hand-cleaning the toilets with a toothbrush should be the norm. Make detention something to be feared, not just an early morning study session.

We could call it the KMC Stimulus Package. All we have to say is “Yes we can.”

infographic by sean doyle, laura schlapp; information obtained by katelyn real; information from www.dol.ks.gov

Sugar Sisters has the perfect atmosphere if a student is looking for a quiet place to study. There is a variety of espresso drinks, including the White Chocolate Mocha. This drink can be served iced or hot. The price, $3.59, and taste is comparable to a Starbucks White Chocolate Mocha. One can choose from many more espresso and specialty drinks at Sugar Sisters.

F o r h a r d c o r e

coffee addicts, Caffe Moderne is an ideal destination. Thouh employees name a simple latte as the signature drink, the beverage will not disappoint. If a plain latte is too bitter flavoring such as vanilla and carmel are available to help tame the taste. Though more costly than a typical Starbuck’s

This quiet eatery

hidden in Clifton Square, Bay Leaf Café offers

assorted coffees as well as hot chocolate. The chocolate used in the drinks is rich and creamy. The price, $2.99, is worth the unique taste. Bay Leaf Café, is the place to drink a simple, but

If one is in need of a change from the typical mocha, Mead’s Corner offers that opportunity. The raspberry mocha is a customer and employee favorite. The price is slightly higher than their commercialized competitors; however, it is a nonprofit coffee house. All proceeds go back to the community.

infographic by kayla mitchell; photos by emily baudouin, sean doyle,perry tretbar; reviews by alyssa bambick, kaitlin brennnan

”

How you dress - if you show up in jeans and a T-shirt they won’t hire you. Also first thing, shake the interviewer’s hand. They like that.

How they’re dressed - if they’re dressed sloppy their job will be done sloppy. Also first impressions - if their responses are rude or obnoxious they will not get hired.

“

paladin

9opinionsapril

What is the most important quality employers look for when hiring a teenager for a job?

TOM FREYsenior

EMILY LOUfreshman

MOLLY DWYERjunior

CHRIS CAIREsophomore

Availibility versus e x t r a - c u r r i c u l a r activities - if you have a lot of consuming activities, you will be more likely to change your work schedule.

Attitude and appearance - during the interview, they can tell if you’re a positive person or a flunk.

”

”

”“

“

“

information obtained by bailey buer

Nicholas Cage movie Knowing fullof twists, suspense, special effects

U2 receives praise for new album

BEA TRETBARbystaff writer

KATIE GILBAUGHbystaff writer

Imagine knowing exactly when the end of the world is going to happen. Imagine thinking you were the only person who could stop it from happening. Although a bit cliche, these ideas are central to the theme of the new sci-fi action thriller Knowing, which opened March 21.

Knowing has everything needed to be a great thriller film, but it does have its weak points. Still, special effects and massive disaster scenes make it hard to keep one’s eyes off the screen.

John Koestler, played by Nicolas Cage, is a professor at MIT. His son, Caleb, played by Chandler Canterbury, brings home a message filled with an ominous list of numbers that was written 50 years ago and sealed in his school’s time capsule.

Intrigued by the numbers, John starts to find patterns in them. He discovers that they represent every major disaster occurring around the world in the last fifty years, including the exact latitude, longitude location and the total number of deaths. There are three events in the message that have not occurred yet.

Unusual instruments, inspiring vocals and ingenuitive lyrics are all trademarks of the ever-popular Irish rock band U2, and their newest album is no exception.

March 3, No Line on the Horizon was released, making it the band’s 12th album in 33 years. The album has 11 tracks, about 54 minutes of music. The featured single, No line on the Horizon, sets the mood for the rest of the CD. The lyrics, written by Bono, tell a love story that is likable for any generation of listeners.

The strongest feature of this album is its use of different instruments. A cello was played in Moment of Surrender and I’ll Go Crazy if I Don’t Go Crazy Tonight. The French horn played in Unknown Caller and White as Snow added to the rock feel of the entire album.

The only complaint I have is the length of each track. The longest song is longer than seven minutes and others are around six minutes long. This is

not always a bad thing, but in a few of the songs the tune and melody becomes monotonous. Much of the song is not

vocals, but instruments.After listening to every single

track of this album multiple times I can confidently say No Line on the Horizon is a success.

The band waited almost five years after their last album, How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb, to

release their newest CD and it was worth the wait. I give the CD four stars and I am looking forward to their upcoming tour.

The U2 360° tour starts June 30 and the band will visit Europe and

North America. The tour will include a stage that is visible from all sides. Anyone who has enjoyed past U2 CDs will enjoy the latest edition

to the U2 legacy. I recommend No Line on the Horizon; and if the whole CD is too expensive the top tracks to buy are I’ll Go Crazy if I Don’t Go Crazy Tonight, Magnificent and No Line on the Horizon.

John thinks he and his son received this message for a reason, and it is their responsibility to stop the three events from happening.

Filled with twists and complex ideas, I thought the movie had many appealing aspects to it. The action and special effects were intense, and kept

my interest throughout the film. The instrumental music fit along with the action of the movie, giving it an

eerie feel. The acting was mediocre, but very realistic, even in the movie’s unrealistic plot.

This movie, however, had its weaknesses. It was hard to follow, because there are many plot twists that

took away from the main focus of the film. Rather than worrying about whether or not John and his son will save the world, audience

members will be distracted by sub-plots. Not even the superb special effects of the film can save Knowing from this tragic flaw.

Even with its flaws and missteps, Knowing was suspenseful and had me on the edge of my seat. A three star film, it can entertain anyone at the movies with its visual effects and fast-moving story.

paladin

feature april10

Eating nutritious foods beneficial to esteem, health;Crops produced by natural means more nourishing

“The farmers who grow organic food rotate crops, replenish the soil with natural amenities and use natural predators to prevent crops from being infested with pests,” general manager and co-owner of Food for Though Melinda Foley said. “Ladybugs are used to take care of aphids and praying mantises are used for other types of pests that eat the crops.”

Theology teacher Kevin Ford recently started an organic farm west of Wichita. He said if an organic farmer integrates his farm, he can provide all the fertilizer and organic matter necessary to grow healthy food without utilizing off-farm supplements.

“Modern farming methods are completely unsustainable and extremely destructive,” Ford said. “Organic farming is much better for creation. It does not involve poisons and other toxins being dumped onto your food often on a daily basis. It uses what is available to do what it is meant to do.”

Not only does organic food benefit the environment, it is also beneficial to the consumer.

According to http://www.organicconsumers.org, studies show that organically grown fruits and vegetables show higher levels of cancer-fighting antioxidants than their conventionally grown counterparts. In addition, increasing one’s intake of vitamins and minerals can also have a significant impact on health.

“Good food is indeed healing, organic food is just the first step back in the right direction,” Ford said. “This has been seen in the fact that [organic foods] become much less susceptible to diseases in the field. This works just like someone with a strong immune system: we become less susceptible to diseases. Eating good food is essential for health.”

It is one thing to grow organic food, but

Approximately 1.6 billion adults were overweight in 2005, according to the World Health Organization. The WHO

predicts that this problem will only increase and by 2015, approximately 2.3 billion adults will be overweight. Despite how common this issue is, the cure remains simple: exercise and healthy eating habits. Although a nutritious diet is acknowledged to be a key component to weight loss, some may question what exactly is a healthy diet.

Senior Brandon Esposito said he thinks eating healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables and lean meats is not only beneficial to one’s body, but will help with other aspects of one’s life as well.

“When you eat healthy and exercise, it makes everything else in your life fall into place,” Esposito said. “If you feel good about yourself, it will help you gain confidence with other things, like sports and school.”

Last year, senior Matt Haley decided to avoid junk food and started eating only healthy foods. He has not had pop or fast food for over a year.

“It is important to eat healthy so that you can live a better life,” Haley said. “You’ll see the results in the outcome, in being lean. If you have a better body, you will feel better about yourself.

In addition to avoiding fattening foods, people interested in healthy eating have turned to organic food. According to the Food and Drug Administration, to qualify as “organic,” crops must be produced without using “synthetic pesticides, bioengineered genes, petroleum-based fertilizers and sewage sludge-based fertilizers” and livestock must be raised without growth hormones or antibiotics.

the average city dweller may question where he can get organic food. Today, the answer is “everywhere.”

It used to be thought that the only place to get organic food was at a hole-in-the-wall run by an aging hippie. Today most grocery stores offer an organic food aisle or department. Organic food is now a big business.

“Organic foods are a little higher priced than conventionally farmed foods,” Foley said. “The cost to produce these fruits, vegetables and grains are more

O’Naturals1551 N. Rock Road

316-634-0222

MEGAN GAUDREAUbyfeature editor

Located inside Genesis

Health Club, O’Naturals

is an organic and natural

food cafe providing healthy

meals and snack foods.

emily baudouin

paladin

11featureaprilfeature april10

Going organic. Some deem it necessary for the body’s health; some, silly and a hippie cult following. Whichever side of the organic garden fence one might be on, many may wonder if there really is a distinct difference.

This uncertainty led me to one place: Green Acres Market, an organic food store. In an attempt to find out if there really was a difference, I decided to try three random organic items and see how they compared with their non-organic counterparts.

Walking into the store, my eyes fell upon a shelf full of energy drinks. I found this very puzzling because to my knowledge, these are never good for a person — organic or not. One promised to give me “organic energy from the

heart of the Amazon from açaí berries.” With such a bold pledge and a berry that sounded like it came from a Greek myth, I decided to try this first.

I was soon very disappointed. The drink tasted like it came from an actual

Amazonian, not a fruit. Also, the powerful boost of Amazon energy that was promised never came. It seemed the only difference between this energy drink and a typical Rockstar energy drink was that the word “organic” was printed everywhere in the ingredients.

Hoping I would not be left disappointed again, I chose Dr. Bronner’s “magic” organic lip balm as my next item to test. It did not come with audacious guarantees or magical assurances, but it stayed on longer and helped my chapped lips much better than regular ChapStick.

Lastly, I knew I had to compare the organic with the non-organic version of one of my favorite foods — granola bars. This purchase was also a failure. After taking a couple bites of my Larabar, I felt like I could taste the nature in it. Some people might like the ultra-healthy taste of these bars, but I discovered I am not a fan, and will stick with my usual NutriGrain bars.

Being left somewhat disgruntled and semi-disappointed, I realized that organic is perhaps not for everyone. Some items seem healthier, but leave a person feeling like they are chewing on bark. At the same time, the tastiest foods are often times the worst for a person’s health. As to whether there is a distinct difference between the two, I am left straddling the organic fence.

labor intensive. In some cases the predators attacking the plants must be picked off by hand if there is not a natural way to rid the farmer of the pests.”

Although organic food may be a sacrifice for one’s wallet, Foley believes the superior nutritional value outweighs any price difference.

“Wichita is becoming more aware of the organic movement,” Foley said. “I think people choose organic foods because they are concerned about what they are putting in their bodies.”

Taste test gives little satisfaction to organic novice

Green Acres8141 E. 21st Street N.

316-634-1088

arthead and infographic by kayla mitchell; information from melinda foley

KATIE MOORE

asst. feature editor

by

An organic and natural

food market, Green Acres

offers organically made

foods and prodcuts such as

chapstick and lotion.

emily baudouin

paladin

12 student life april

Opportunities for service exist through organizations and environment GABI CLEARYbystudent life editor

Service hours are often dreaded by students, whether they are community, parish, school or family. Many organizations in the Wichita community need volunteers, including the Wichita Home for Children, Habitat for Humanity, Kansans for Life, Arbor Days Society and all orphanages, nursing homes and hospitals.

“Even if you are not Catholic, you can still see that human beings have an inherent, universal dignity and so we can still act in solidarity regardless,” Lewis said. “Volunteering is act of solidarity, so we practice it and treat others more humanly.”

Senior Simone Fisher currently has 185 hours of community service. She got 80 of the hours this summer in Spain.

“We [Fisher and senior Christina Campagnola] spoke English to Spanish students to help them become more accustomed to the language,” Fisher said.

Fisher got the rest of her community service hours at The Lord’s Diner, Catholic Care Center, Heartspring and from tutoring.

Lewis volunteers at The Lord’s Diner every fourth Monday of the month.

“Christ gave us a commandment to go out and change the world,” Lewis said. “The Lord’s Diner is in such great need and we

must keep the poor in front of our eyes.”As President of Ecology Club, Fisher

also does various eco-friendly activities around the Kapaun Mt. Carmel campus, such as recycling, picking up trash and planting bulbs in the front lawn.

“Every Wednesday we recycle [paper] in the whole school,” Fisher said. “Also, we have Ecology Club clean up days where we pick up trash around Kapaun [Mt. Carmel], on Tara

and the surrounding streets.”

Fisher said to help the environment while getting community service as well, one could recycle, find a local organization to plant a tree or flowers, pick up trash when you see it or clean up your local parks.

“Recycling is very easy to do,” Fisher said. “In fact, Waste Management makes it really easy. You can throw away all of your recyclables together in one bin and they will pick it up and do it for you. 60 percent of what a family throws away can be recycled – that’s saving about 5000 hours of energy if they do.”

Whether giving time to people or the environment, the community is always in need of attention and care.

“It’s all about helping out your community and giving back,” Fisher said. “It makes me feel good, knowing that I have helped others out. It’s always great doing something for someone else, especially your community.”

“It’s all about helping out your community and giving back,” Fisher said. “It’s always great do-ing something for someone else, especially your community.”senior SIMONE FISHER

arthead, community service graphic by kayla mitchell; go green graphic by laura schlapp

paladin

13student lifeapril

information obtained by meredith osborne; photo illustration by emily baudouin

IN A.P. CHEM II, senior Kyle

Glasgow tests the

safety shower in science

teacher Alan Oberley’s

room March 11. The

shower is supposed

to be tested twice a year. “The funny

thing I remember

about it, was Kyle saying ‘The water’s really cold’.”

said Oberley.

TO FIND HER BLOOD TYPE, junior Courtney Born mixes the antigens in her blood with antibodies for an Honors Anatomy lab March 27.

GENERATIONS APART, senior Kristen Tinker spends time with her grandmother on Grandparents Day March 10.

information obtained by meredith osbourne; infographic by kayla

mitchell and laura schlapp; photo illustration by emily baudouin

arthead by laura schlapp

andrea munevar

emily trollope

perry tretbar

please patronize our paladin advertisers

paladin

14 advertising april

paladin

15sportsapril

Three bowlers compete at stateAfter qualifying at regionals, senior

bowlers Gabe Montemayor, Jessica Davis and Nathan Nece qualified for the State tournament. At state, Montemayor placed sixth and scored 698.

“I believe there will be rebuilding for the bowling team,” Montemayor said. “But the team will do well with new players entering.”

Davis said the team bowled well during the season and is looking forward to the possibility of bowling in college.

“My goal was to get to state,” Davis said. “So it was great getting there and bowling my senior year.”

The boy’s determination and the girls’ uplifting spirit helped the teams achieve success this season, according to Davis.

“Our strength is the ability of the team to get along,” coach Marie Thomas said. “The three who made it to state got there because of their hard work.”

Wrestling ends with high finishersSix wrestlers competed in their last

tournament of the year on Feb. 27-28 at the 5A State Championships.

SPORTSbriefs

“Our effort was high,” junior Jon Truman said. “Everyone could see that we all wanted to be there and succeed.”

In spite of an illness, Truman placed fourth in the tournament. Other top places included junior Dylan Matheney who placed fourth, and sophomore Tyler Dryden who placed fifth.

“I’m happy with how we performed,” coach Tim Dryden said. “We handled the things that were out of our control as well as we could.”

According to Matheney, although losing two key wrestlers will affect the team, next season other schools are losing more seniors.

“We’re going to have a high experienced team next year,” Dryden said. “We’ll return three state places and many boys with varsity experience. I feel good about next year.”

Boys basketball loses to LiberalFinishing off the season as sub-state

runner-up, the boys basketball team lost to Liberal 45-58 March 7 at Winfield.

“[We] did not play much as a team,” sophomore Dolan Greathouse said. “We should have [done] better than we did.”

Greathouse said the team was not physically or mentally ready, but the depth at all positions helped a lot.

“Our bright spot was having two

freshmen [Trayte Boswell and Austin Griffith] lead in scoring,” Pearson said. “Hopefully we have a bright future.”

Pearson said the season turned out the best it could for the amount of experience the team had. He said he is going to miss the seniors.

“They did a great job all four years,” Pearson said. “I could always count on them to do what was asked. Coach [Troy] Lallemand and I enjoyed them as people and wish them well in the future.”

Girls basketball falls at sub-stateThe Kapaun Mount Carmel girls

basketball team ended their season with a loss to Liberal in the sub-state final on Mar. 6, 37-61.

“The season did not go the way I expected, because we had one of our worst games at sub-state,” junior Alexandria Rodriguez said.

Even though the loss of key seniors upset the team, according to Rodriguez, there have been lessons learned from the experience.

“Four of our best players were seniors and we will have to adjust next year without them,” coach Damian Smithhisler said. “They were good leaders who worked well

briefs written by bailey buer, katie gilbaugh, anna le and erika reals

INSIDE THE LINESACTIVITY: Senior Adam Sawyer waits for the pitch during a scrimmage March 25.

Six-foot-five-inch senior Adam Sawyer, nicknamed “Big Soy” by his teammates, first showed an interest in baseball at the age of five, when he started T-ball.

“I grew up with my dad coaching my older brother’s team.” Sawyer said. “Being around that atmosphere inspired me to play the game.”

As a freshman, Sawyer played for Ark City. Since then, he has played for Kapaun Mt. Carmel as a first baseman.

“I think he’s humble about his abilities,” assistant coach James Vanek said. “He also works hard and tries to do what his coach asks him to do.”

Sawyer has played for several Ark City teams during the summer. The past two summers he has been with the Wichita Red Sox, who were State Champions in 17-U Hap Dumont Tournament and second place in 17-U NBC World Series. Outside of regular, Sawyer practices hitting and throwing.

“[Sawyer] is a disciplined guy,” senior Aaron Boswell said. “He isn’t afraid to stay after practice and put in extra work.”

Sawyer said one of his proudest moments in baseball was his sophomore year when KMC placed third at state, and he hit a home run.

“I love everything about [baseball],” Sawyer said. “It’s great to get out of school to play a game on a beautiful day.”

According to Vanek, there are very high expectations for the team, considering their history; they placed second at state last year and third the year before.

KMC’s next game is against Bishop Carroll at Newman University April 17.story by maggie wilson

ADAM

SAW

YER

emily baudouin

paladin

16 sports april

Students volunteer at local middle schools; prepare future Crusader athletesNELLIE SCHAFERby sports editor

Some Kapaun Mt. Carmel athletes not only give their all on the court, field or diamond; they also use their free time to help prepare future Crusaders.

KMC students have been assisting middle school sports at various feeder schools for many years.

Mark Sevart, athletic director at St. Thomas Aquinas, said he has seen how KMC students have helped the middle school sports program, whether by keeping score, coaching a team or demonstrating fundamentals at camps and try outs.

“We have had basketball players,

volleyball players, football players, track and cross country athletes and cheer squad members come back to help coach and teach our students,” Sevart said. “In every case it has been positive and beneficial experience. In addition to having the knowledge, they have the physical ability to demonstrate the fundamentals and show the students how to play the game.”

Junior John Singer helped coach the STA sixth grade boys basketball team with his dad this season.

“It was very time consuming,” Singer

said. “I was at every game and practice. I played with them and gave them tips about what would happen if play at a higher level.”

President Mike Burrus said he loves the students’ involvement in the feeder schools.

“I think there’s no better way to be a good role model,” Burrus said. “Our students are using the talents they have been given for the benefit of others.”

Junior pommie Sam Schuster helped coach the STA eighth grade cheerleaders.

“Practices were four days a week during the summer,” Schuster said. “I was dealing with a huge group of very talkative girls. I gained a sense of patience from the experience and learned how to be a leader.”

According to Sevart, KMC athletes provide middle school students with an insight into what is expected at the high school level.

“Our middle school students look up to high school athletes,” Sevart said. “They respect them and are eager to learn from them.”

“Our middle school students look up to high school athletes. They respect them and are eager to learn from them.”STA athletic director MARK SEVART

arthead, infographics by lauara schlapp; photo illustration by kelsey prather

paladin

17sportsapril

Addition to track coaching staff a familiar faceANNA LEbyasst. sports editor

AT ROLL CALL, Damian and Dennis Smithhisler supervise track practice March 12. The brothers have coached together for three years.

In middle school, Damian Smithhisler was inspired by his athletic older brother, Dennis Smithhisler. Now, he finds himself coaching alongside his role model as the new assistant track coach.

“Out of all my older siblings I connected with him most because he was an athlete,” Damian Smithhisler said. “He was the big, college runner and I wanted to follow in his footsteps.”

Dennis Smithhisler was a distance runner at Southwestern College where he was named a National American Athlete.

According to senior Jacob Pfiefer, the team was taken by surprised when Dennis Smithhisler was introduced as the new assistant coach. The team refers to Damian Smithhisler as “S one” and Dennis Smithhisler as “S two”.

“‘S one’ announced that he would be coaching pole vault this year and that ‘S two’ would be coaching long distance, so we had

to adapt to that change,” Pfiefer said.Dennis Smithhisler coached the Kapaun

Mt. Carmel track team in 2003 and 2004. He returned due to the absence of former pole vault coach Lauren Kirsch, class of 2004.

“I stepped down from coaching because we needed different event coaches and I felt like we only needed one Smithhisler,” Dennis Smithhisler said. “Coming back, I noticed we have a much better coaching staff and we all work well together.”

According to Dennis Smithhisler, coaching with his brother gives them the chance to hang out while working.

“We have grown closer over the years and will continue to do so,” Damian Smithhisler said. “We have the same ideals and philosophy on things.”

The track team has a long and exciting season ahead of them, Dennis Smithhisler said.

“There are great expectations,” Dennis Smithhisler said. “We have a strong girls team and many great individuals on the boys team. This is going to be a great season.”

andrea munevar

information obtained by bailey buer; infographic by laura schlapp; photo by perry tretbar

please patronize our paladin advertisers

paladin

18 advertising april

paladin

19sportsapril

boys Opponent KMCBASKETBALL VARSITY North 2/26 80 59 Winfield 3/5 56 77 Liberal 3/7 58 45 JV North 2/26 57 61 SOPH. North 2/26 52 74 FR. North 2/26 56 71

boys Opponent KMCWRESTLING VARSITY State 2/27-28 20th

CRUSADERscores

girls Opponent KMCBASKETBALL VARSITY North 2/26 36 50 Valley Center 3/4 33 61 Liberal 3/6 61 37JV North 2/26 31 48

boys Opponent KMCBOWLING VARSITY Regionals 2/28 Third

girls Opponent KMCBOWLING VARSITY Regionals 2/28 Sixth

please patronize our paladin advertisers

Seniors are usually expected to lead and carry their team through a victorious season. This year, however, there is only one senior: Mark Riedl.

“Losing our seniors will impact us significantly,” Riedl said. “Last year we counted on them to carry us through, now we all have to fill their shoes.”

This year juniors Daniel Stuart and Kolby Corenjo and sophomores Ryan Lahey and Jack Klenda will join two returning players, Riedl and sophomore Eric George, on the varsity roster.

Also returning to coach for his second year is Chris Stewart.

“Coach Stewart really brings the team together with his energetic and flamboyant pep talks,” George said. “He brings a comedic edge and enlightens the mood.”

In spite of its energetic bond, the team will need to improve on its doubles play in order to have a successful year, according to George.

“We’re going to have a good season,” George said. “This is a good chance for the new players to show their greatness on the court.”

NEWSMAGAZINEKAPAUN MT. CARMEL8506 E. CENTRALWICHITA, KS 67206

YOUR NAME SHOULD BE HERE!

To subscribe, call 316-634-0315 ext. 232

NON-PROFIT ORGU.S. POSTAGE

PAIDPERMIT NO. 1151

WICHITA, KS 67206

PALADIN

please patronize our paladin advertisers

Tennis prepares for season

paladin

20 sports april

perry tretbar

MID-AIR, senior Mark Riedl

receives a serve from

coach Chris Stewart at

practice March 31.

Riedl is the only

returning senior on the varsity tennis

team.

ANNA LEby asst. sports editor

perry tretbar