The Official Newsmagazine of Dodge City High School •May 19, 2011 • Volume 91 • Special Edition Issue #6

The DodgerSenior Issue

1998 • 1999 • 2000 • 2001 • 2002 • 2003 • 20042005 • 2006 • 2007 • 2008 • 2009 • 2010 • 2011

Remembering the past, looking to the future

Issu

e #6

www.dchsdodger.com • THE DODGER02 Senior Issue | Lineup

The Dodger is a publication produced by the Dodge City High School journalism department. The newspaper attempts to inform and entertain its audience in a broad, fair, and accurate manner on all subjects that affect the readers. The publication seeks also to provide a forum for the opinion of students, the staff of the paper, and the faculty to encourage an exchange of ideas on all issues of prominence to readers. The Dodger staff encourages letters to the editors, as they constitute avenue for student opinion. Due to space limitations, not all letters can be published. The editors reserve the right to edit all letters for appropriate placement as long as the meaning and intent remain unchanged. The letter must be signed to be considered for publication. The opinions expressed throughout the publication are not necessarily those of the faculty, the administration, or USD #443. Unsigned articles are a general consensus of the staff, while signed articles are the personal forum of the writer. All letters, columns, stories, photos and art become legal property of The Dodger at the time they are submitted.

Luke Bunker .....................Co-EditorErin Finley .......................Co-EditorNatalie Cabello ....................OpinionLeann Manriquez ................OpinionDeena Shaath ......................OpinionAlysia Garvalena ..........Student LifeJosie Zordel ..................Student LifeAustin Ridenour .....................SportsBrayden Whitaker ..................SportsBrittiny Moore .............. ContributorAlonso Acevedo ...........Photo/VideoDane Edwards ..............Photo/VideoCindy Moore ....................... Adviser

Dodger Staff

www.dchsdodger.com“Like” us on Facebook

Editorial Policy

On the Cover. Senior pictures of students who were chosen by sponsors of each ac-tivity, club or sport. The years represent the years that this year’s graduating class have attended school.

PAGES 18-19

•Students attending colleges out-of-state•Dodger Asks•Summer Road Trips

PAGES 20-21

•Foreign Exchange Students•Dodger Asks

PAGES 22-23•Senioritis•Dodger Asks

PAGES 04-05

PAGES 06-07

PAGES 08-09

•Senior Columns Luke Bunker Leann Manriquez

•Retiring Teachers•124th Commencement Ceremony

•Senior Spotlights: Activities A-D

PAGES 10-11•Senior Spotlights: Activities D-G

PAGES 16-17

•Senior Spotlights: T-W GSA

PAGE 24

•Honors Banquet

PAGES 12-13

•Photo Recap/Year in Review

PAGES 14-15

•Senior Spotlights: Activities H-TLineup

Senior Issue

Senior Issue | Editor’s Column Issue #6THE DODGER • www.dchsdodger.com 03

Flatland Graphics, Inc.Embroidery and silk screening

Bob Seidl

212 E. Frontview, Suite ADodge City, KS 67801

620.225.0091Fax: 772.594.8372flatland@fairpoint.net

www.companycasuals.com/flatlandgraphics

909 W. Wyatt Earp • Dodge City, KS620-789-JAVA (5282)www.cupofjones.com

Espresso • Jo-Cachino • Italian SodaHomemade Pastries • Sandwiches • Soups

Salads • Fresh Fruit • Catering

Senior and Family Portraits, Weddings, Proms and Events

11216 Tilman Rd.Dodge City, KS 67801

620.253.5518www.joshroesener.com

As the school year winds down. I find it hard to believe that I am almost a senior. However, what is more unbelievable is the amount of goodbyes I will have to say this year. Through band and journalism I have grown close to many seniors and I will miss their presence next year. The hallways just won’t be the same anymore. The senior class of 2011 has been a great one and I respect a tremendous amount of them. Specifically I would like to thank senior Dodger members for all the contributions they have made.

Luke Bunker- you have been a wealth of knowledge and I have

very much enjoyed being co-editor with you. We may have extremely different styles and ways of doing things but I think they balanced each other out. Sure you never had your current event done on time and you like to do lots of online shopping but we always managed to complete our print issues and due to your ideas and desire for perfection. I believe this year’s newspapers are some of the best yet. Expect to hear from me a lot next year with questions about design and layout.

Leann Manriquez- It has been a wonderful experience having you on staff this year. You are a great writer and you’re always willing to complete an extra task. You have great ideas for stories and we

appreciate the fact that you were always willing to write the stories you suggested even if you really didn’t want to. Oh and thanks for taking all the pictures when I didn’t want to. They were much better pictures because of your skills.

Brittiny Moore-Although you only started writing for the paper second semester as an independent contributor I am grateful for your willingness to write reviews. For some reason nobody ever wants to write them. You have a great style of writing and I always enjoyed reading your pieces. I will miss your bright smile but look forward to continuing our friendship. Thanks for being part of our staff for a short time.

I would also like to thank

-Erin Finleyevery member of the Dodger staff for contributing to a great and successful year. It has been a year of trial and error and everyone has done a great job of being flexible.

To the entire senior class- Congratulations! You have the potential to accomplish great achievements in life. It has been a pleasure to attend high school with you for three years.

To the class of 2012- It’s our time to shine now. Let’s be great leaders and a great senior class. Let’s enjoy every minute of our last year of high school and make memories that we can cherish for the rest of our lives.

Farewell class of 2011 and good luck in everything you do.

Farewell, Seniors

Issu

e #6

www.dchsdodger.com • THE DODGER04 Senior Issue | Staff Senior Columns

-Leann ManriquezYour heart thuds as your name

is announced and, as you walk across the stage, applause roars. You grin stupidly as you realize that you’ve finally made it. Then, when it ends, caps and cheers fill the air as hugs are passed around. The constant fear that you’d be the one to trip and fall flat on your face, forever to be remembered as the class klutz, has finally passed.

The graduation ceremony has wound down and families

scatter along with their graduates. Memories float around and the goal of a great future is finally within grasp.

The memory of a summer camp and the friends you met there, or the first time you realized that

you don’t know a third of your classmates, flit around in your brain. You remember the good times with your friends and the bad, such as the first time you failed a class or the memory of your first breakdown when you were overwhelmed with homework. You laugh as you recall all the inside jokes your group had.

Graduation day is one filled with reminiscing, not only with friends, but also with your family. Your mom might cry as she remembers

Manriquez: Looking towards the futureyour first steps; your dad might choke up as he grasps your hand firmly and whispers, “good job;” and even though you’ve had your differences with your siblings, you smile and laugh with them also. Pictures of your progression

from baby to adulthood are passed around and as the tears are left behind, the future is viewed upon with a smile and trepidation.

You think about your plans for your last summer and you know that it will be the best summer ever. Maybe a road trip is planned, a party or two. Whatever it is, you know you will enjoy it because it’s your last summer as a free man or woman. Some of us will work to save up for college while others will laze away the day.

But we all know that after this summer, responsibilities will again be heaped upon us. And yet, we welcome the challenge in order to prove that we’re strong enough to make it. Our minds again drift as we finally reach our destination, our future.

We’ve picked our college and we hope we don’t regret our choice. We know that we have done all we can to ensure a good first year at college. Supplies have been bought and shipped to campus and two or more of those boxes contain our college diet: Ramen Noodles. We have done all our paperwork, dotted every “i” and crossed every “t.” We’ve visited the campus and ensured that we do not look like a chicken with its head cut off at the start of school.

All that’s left for us to do is to take that first step on campus. Because as soon as we do, that day will be the start of new memories.

-Luke BunkerAs I emotionally prepare myself

for graduation and the accompany-ing parties, I think back on my time at DCHS. It’s no coincidence that I have procrastinated writing this column, missing my deadline by a good week or more… Perhaps I’m not yet ready to say goodbye to this school I was so scared to enter just four years ago.

Over those four years, I en-countered the wonderful, com-passionate, caring and talented teachers and staff; as well as the

helpful, protecting, excellent and fully-competent administrators. I discovered a place where students were free to be themselves in a comfortable environment where they could paint and draw, sing and play instruments, read, write, and do arithmetic.

But I also recall the pep assem-blies that had so much pep that extra police officers had to be on stand-

by, the less-than-gourmet lunches, the way-too-crowded hallways and stairwells, and the parking lot situ-ation. Oh, how I will absolutely not miss that horrendous display of all that is wrong with society and the teenage driver!

As I contrast my memories of this place, I understand that some of the best years of my life will have been spent here. It’s the place I entered in 2007, a nervous and

nerdy freshman, and will exit on May 19 a more confident and com-fortable-in-his-own-skin senior. This is the place where I lost and, more importantly, gained friends; finally took in a football game my senior year (thanks to the Pyle fam-ily); and learned so much about the very nature of humankind, for bet-ter and for worse. For all of these experiences, I feel I have been

changed for the better.But with reflection also comes

the regrets. I do regret not taking the more difficult AP classes that I had always told myself I would. I also regret, just a little bit, not join-ing the choir or taking part in the musicals. I almost experienced the regret of not going to Prom – so glad I let myself be peer-pressured into that one! But, paired with those regrets comes the realization

that I had more free time to do as I pleased and I didn’t have to memo-rize anything, which would have added more stress to my life.

So, what can underclassmen take from my experience? One is to challenge yourself and get involved. If there is an organiza-tion you would like to participate in but are too nervous or don’t think you’ll fit in, join it. My big-gest regret of all was not getting involved with journalism until halfway through my high school career. Getting involved in clubs and activities lets you meet people who share goals and values similar to yours and is a rewarding and ful-filling experience all in its own – it will make high school so much more enjoyable (although I’d be ly-ing if I said less stressful)! for you. You’ll be missing out on a crucial part of the high school experience if you just coast through and don’t get involved in something you en-joy or that challenges you.

>> Continued on next page

“Memories float around and the goal of a great future is finally within grasp... The future is viewed

upon with a smile and trepidation.”

“For all of these experiences,I feel I have been changed for the better.”

Bunker: Looking to the past

Senior Issue | Graduation: Location & Speakers Issue #6THE DODGER • www.dchsdodger.com 05

Kelly S. Henrichs, D.D.S.

Carroll SturgeonRealtor®620.227.2129 Business620.338.6764 Cellcsturgeon@coldwellbanker.com

Hancocks of Dodge City, Inc.2300 First AvenueDodge City, KS 67801

100 Ross Blvd., #2CDodge City, KS 67801

620.225.6555

Proud to support the Demons

3001 Avenue ADodge City, KS 67801

Phone: 620.225.8400Fax: 620.225.8403

www.westernplainsmc.com

<< Continued from previous pageSecond, if people limit you,

make it your goal to prove them wrong. If people encourage you to do something, think hard about it and make the decision that works best for you; lasso your passions and make them work for you.

Be yourself and make high school the best possible on-ramp to the highway of your life. You’ve got only four years – well, for most of you, anyway – so make them the best ones possible.

On a different note, as I finish putting together this issue you are now holding, I recall all the great memories of Room M109 and its inhabitants over the years. I will miss the companionship and ca-maraderie of working on this staff, the stress and adrenaline of trying to work on deadline, and the many laughs, tears and tantrums we’ve shared and endured. But above perhaps all else, I will miss Mrs. Moore, with her wicked sense of

humor, no-nonsense approach to life, and our varied and sometimes impassioned talks and discussions. Our adviser-student relationship was not without its ups and downs, but I wouldn’t be the same person if I hadn’t met her.

All in all, high school was a great experience: I met people here who I know will be life-long friends, encountered teachers who I will consider to be my mentors and friends long into the future, and shared in memories that I will never forget.

On that note, I say goodbye, but not farewell, to DCHS. To say farewell would imply that I am bidding good riddance to this place, but we have too much his-tory to say goodbye forever; I look forward to coming back and seeing what and who comes out of it. I look forward also to the grand ad-venture that I foresee the rest of my life as being, never forgetting good ole Dodge High.

Letting Loose. After a stressful year of meeting deadlines, writing stories, taking pic-tures and selling ads, publication seniors Mikeyla Wilson, Leann Manriquez, Luke Bunker, and Stevie Herrera show their true colors. • Photo Moore

through,” said Robb. “I have enjoyed my years at DCHS, from the years in the old high school through my years in the new building.”

According to Feist, “Mrs. Robb brought a very practical and real world approach to her classroom and her stu-dents every day, [making] sure her stu-dents were prepared for whatever they were choosing to do after they left high school.”

Anita Salem, who taught English and Writing classes at DCHS, “taught her students a great deal more than the literature and creative writing her stu-dents learned in her classes,” said Feist.

“[Salem] modeled for them, through her actions here in our building, what it means to be generous and thoughtful. She was always one of the first people in our building to help out whenever someone was going through a crisis situation, regardless of the situation,” said Feist. “This is not something we can teach students, but we can definitely model for them the importance of lend-ing a helping hand, and Mrs. Salem did this often and never wanted anyone to know about it.”

Salem declined to comment for this story.

Other teachers leaving DCHS in-clude Michele Mitchell (Language Arts), who will be teaching at DCMS next year; Claudette Katzenmeier (Lan-guage Arts), who moved with her hus-band to Iowa in December and now teaches at a community college; Darci Schroeder (Special Ed.), who will be moving to another community in Kan-sas; Janet Keeten (Special Ed.), who will be transferring to Soule next year; Jacque Schawe (Special Ed.), who went back to school; Ai-mee Kratzer, who is moving to be closer with her family. Tammy Peterson, who has taught Chemistry at DCHS, will instead “be teaching Spe-cial Education at DCHS next year,” according to Feist. An-drew Sever (Social Studies), Adam Keda (Orchestra), and Phil Schut (Business) will also be retiring. Some of these po-sitions have been filled but will not be published until all have been announced.

Issu

e #6

www.dchsdodger.com • THE DODGER06 Senior Issue | Retiring & Leaving Staff, Poem

1712 Central • P.O. Box 176Dodge City, KS 67801

620.225.2888 • 1.800.779.0753Fax: 620.227.3970susie@parkerhaskins.com

Susie Reardon

On Leaving DCHSBy Kenneth Campbell

The school years arrive and too soon departThis year has come and gone and so time to go.The future once beckoned like a distant starBut without warning it’s arrived, no longer far away.Arriving in town a decade ago, I made my wayTo Dodge City High School, for a change in career.Taught wood-shop, then English and Broadcasting here.Many students passed through my classes,Their names may be forgotten but their faces are not.Concerts, plays, and musicals galore.I taped them all, enjoyed them more.What will I miss? What will I not?The people I will, grading papers not.Advice I can share with those left behind?Be kind to others. The evil you do comes back ten-fold.Add to your treasury of memories, your one sure bank.Learn all you can. Appreciate the gifts you’ve got.Many would trade all they have to be in your spot.Don’t be just an observer – be a doer do!Future plans? Time will tell. I’ll be busy, I’ll be swell.I’ll leave you with this by wise Mark Twain:“The person who doesn’t read is no better offThan the person who can’t .”And this from W. Somerset Maugham:“To acquire the habit of reading is to acquireFor yourself a refuge from almost all theMiseries of life.”Almost as good: a great movie. Go see one, rent one,Go to the library and borrow one.Cinema is mankind’s latest greatest art spree.The marriage of music, drama, and mise-en-scene.There are at least a thousand great ones you should see.Sample some music outside of your sphere.Opera and classical have been around for years–There must be something great about it to make it last this long.Don’t feed your body and soul entirelyOn junk food and short-lived ephemeral song.I envy the young – there is so much to discover for the very first time.Yet I would not give up my past – it has made me the person I am.“Youth is wasted on the young” but, heyI didn’t listen any better back in my day.Many a memory time may soon dislodgeBut it’s time, as they say, to get the heck out of Dodge.

Teachers prepare to say goodbye to DCHS-Luke Bunker

At the end of this school year, three teachers will be retiring and several oth-ers will be resigning or transitioning within the district.

Kenneth Campbell, Maryalys Robb, and Anita Salem will be retiring after their last day of teaching on May 26.

“Mr. Campbell’s interests in collect-ing and recording events as they took place at Dodge City High School al-lowed all of the students at DCHS to be able to have keepsakes of some of their most memorable events” said DCHS principal Jacque Feist.

Campbell “graduated from North-western Oklahoma State College in 1972,” attended KU to obtain his mas-ters degree in Radio/TV/Film, worked at the NBC TV station in Kansas City, and ran the “media department of Cow-ley Community College” before com-ing to DCHS. He also taught in South Haven, Kan., completed his Masters of Library Science Degree at Emporia State University, and “was looking for another position” when he heard about Dodge City.

“I had applied for a job in the tech-nology department, but they needed someone to cover a woodshop and tech class because the teacher for that class had just resigned and school started in two weeks. So, I accepted that position and eventually began teaching language arts classes,” said Campbell. “When the new high school opened in 2001, I began teaching Broadcasting full time.”

Robb, a special education teacher at DCHS, has lived in the Dodge City area since she got married.

“My kids went to Dodge City schools, so this is where I needed to be when I decided to return to teaching,” said Robb. “I like working with the students and staff at DCHS, and that is what I will miss the most as well.”

Robb hopes to spend more time with her grandchildren in Texas and North-east Kansas as “they grow up fast and they are still young enough to enjoy my company,” said Robb.

Robb also had some advice for the person who will take over her position at DCHS, as well as some reflections over her career.

“I would advise the person who takes my place to be consistent and when something is promised, always follow

Three teachers to retire at end of year, several others resigned

Senior Issue | Graduation: Location & Speakers Issue #6THE DODGER • www.dchsdodger.com 07

-Erin FinleyEthan Reimer and Friyana

Shah have been chosen as the class speakers for graduation. The Mo-ment of Reflection speaker is Jus-tin Dewell, and Miguel Lopez and Sebastain Thomas will be the class historians.

“This is a huge honor for me,” said Dewell. “I really enjoy speak-ing in public. I hope that, after hearing my speech, everyone un-derstands that the next chapter of our lives will be even greater than this one. Even though we have a lot of fear and uncertainty, we need to start leaving our fingerprints on this world.”

Dewell, as Moment of Reflec-tion speaker, will also discuss “how whenever we reflect, we can’t help but look forward as well.”

The class speakers and the Mo-ment of Reflection speakers are chosen “by the top ten percent of the senior class,” according to Christopher Doussa, senior class sponsor. The top ten percent of the senior class meets at the beginning of April and the speakers are cho-sen from within that group. At the meeting, students nominate an in-dividual to be a graduation speaker.

If that individual is willing to be a speaker, then their name is placed on a list.

At the end of that meeting, the students vote and “the top two vote-getters are the class speakers and the third is the Moment of Re-

flection speaker,” said Doussa. The class historian is chosen

from within the senior class. The job of these speakers is to address the senior class as a whole. The

Class Speakers: Reimer, Shah

Moment of Reflection Speaker: Dewell

Class Historians: Lopez, Thomas

Graduation Speakers

The 2011 graduation ceremony will be held at United Wireless Arena.

-Brayden WhitakerWhen students of the Dodge

City High School class of 2011

Old Faces, New PlacesDCHS moves graduation ceremony to new arena

walk across the stage to receive their high school diplomas at grad-uation, they will be the first to do

so in the friendly confines of a new locale.

That’s because this year’s grad-uation ceremony has been moved to the United Wireless Arena west of Dodge City.

“The plan has always been to use the arena once it was built/open,” said DCHS principal Jacque Feist. “It will hold the same num-bers we can at the stadium.”

The graduation moves from Memorial Stadium, the long-time host of the ceremony. Before moving to Memorial Stadium, the ceremony was held at the much smaller Civic Center.

Moving into the new arena has multiple advantages, including get-ting away from the crazy weather

that Southwest Kansas is known for.

“Mainly we are able to [predict] the weather indoors,” said Feist. “The last two years we fought wind and rain, and that won’t be an issue any longer.”

The students will have the cozy confines of the arena to celebrate one of the more important events in their high school careers. And it looks like graduating classes for years to come also won’t have to deal with the unpredictable weath-er.

“At this point in time, the plan is to host it there yearly,” said Feist.

The new arena is expected to bring new memories and excite-ment to the graduation ceremony.

class historian is responsible for giving a speech about the history of the class.

“This year’s seniors that were chosen for the speaking roles are all excellent speakers. Their speeches are excellent and will

bring some closure to the seniors at their graduation.”

Reimer, class speaker, is feeling the pressure to give a funny speech.

“It is a tremendous honor to be

chosen by my peers to speak for them,” said Reimer. “However, it is a lot of pressure to write a speech when everyone wants it to be funny.”

The speeches have no require-ments except they must be ap-proved by principal Jacque Feist. They should be about three to five minutes long.

“I’m giving a speech about all the people in our lives and how they’ve made an impact on us,” said Reimer. “I hope people will understand that the people in our lives are not there for convenience and we shouldn’t take them for granted.”

Having seniors make the speeches at their own graduation is usually more meaningful than other speakers.

“The student speeches are much more meaningful to the graduating seniors than if someone else makes the commencement speech,” said Feist. “This is their day and we have tried to keep the focus on the students.”

The 124th Commencement Ceremony will begin at 7 p.m. on May 21, 2011 at the United Wire-less Arena.

Five seniors elected to speak at graduation

United Wireless Arena. The exterior of the United Wireless Arena in Dodge City, Kan. The 2011 graduating class will be the first to graduate at the new arena. File Photo • Luke Bunker

Issu

e #6

www.dchsdodger.com • THE DODGER08 Senior Issue | Senior Spotlights: Art-Bowling

A’zlynn Thompson• Girls Basketball •

Aaron Delzeit• Boys Bowling •

Blaise Jensen• Girls Bowling •

Leann Manriquez• Band •

Benito Sotelo• Boys Basketball •

Erik Barraza has been selected for the art senior spotlight by Steve Rankin, art teacher.

“Erik produces consistently wonderful

artwork and shows regularly in art shows,” said Rankin. “[He] studied in three areas of art: Drawing & Painting I-IV, Sculpture and Ceramics I-III, and Art Photography I and II.”

Barraza has been involved in art since second grade.

“People around me have always positively motivated me to sharpen my artistic ability,” said Barraza. “Art has always been an activity that I look forward to learning more about. I also enjoy appreciating others’ artwork because I understand the time it takes to complete a piece,” he said.

His greatest achievement is being “truly satisfied with an art piece” and doing well in competitions.

“I placed first in April for the Western Heritage competition,” he said.

He has several plans for his future.“I want to continue painting, drawing and

sculpting at a higher level of skill,” he said.

Benito Sotelo was selected as the spotlight for boys basketball by coach Dennis Hamilton

Sotelo was a member of the basketball team in

his four years of high school.“Ever since I was a little kid, I loved playing

basketball and I always wanted to play in high school,” said Sotelo.

Sotelo was highly regarded among his teammates, being voted most inspirational player, best defensive player and team captain by his teammates.

“As a two-year letter winner, he was a part of teams his junior and senior years that won two WAC titles, had a first and a third place finish at the TOC, won two sub-state titles, and made it to the 6A final four,” said Hamilton.

Sotelo is planning to attend Dodge City Community College and go through the nursing program at the school.

“Benny has been in our program for four years and showed improvements every year,” said Hamilton. “His competitive nature and will to succeed allowed his to accept whatever role it took for the team to win.”

Aaron Delzeit was selected as the senior spotlight for boys bowling by coach Tyson Clark.

Delzeit was a two-year varsity letter winner on

the bowling team and a four-year team member. “I had friends who were already on the team

and they encouraged me to join,” said Delzeit.Delzeit enjoys bowling because it’s

competitive and a challenge. As far as his most memorable moment, he says it was bowling a 237 in the final game of a series where it boosted the team score to beat Garden City by a single pin.

Besides being a good bowler, Delzeit brings other aspects to the table that make the team better.

“He was willing to always help anyone on the team,” said Clark. “He always brought a positive attitude and strong work ethic to practice and meets.”

Delzeit is planning to go to Wichita State University, where he will work towards a pharmacy degree.

Blaise Jensen has been selected as the senior spotlight for girls bowling by coach Tyson Clark.

Jensen, a four-year letter winner in bowling,

finished ninth individually at this past season’s state tournament. She considers this to be one of her biggest accomplishments.

Jensen’s most memorable moment happened this past year.

“Going to state as a team this year [was my most memorable moment],” said Jensen. “It was a lot of fun.”

Jensen is planning on attending Emporia State University and majoring in elementary education.

Jensen has the confidence of coach Clark that she can use the experiences bowling that grew her as a person.

“She was concerned about the success of the team before individual success,” said Clark. “She worked hard to become a good bowler, student and person. She displays the tools necessary to be a very successful person.”

A’zlynn Thompson has been selected for the girls basketball senior spotlight. Thompson was selected by head coach Justin Briggs.

“A’zlynn was a vocal leader for her team and she also did a good job of pumping up the girls when they were down,” said Briggs.

Thompson has been playing basketball all four years of high school and also played before that. Thompson is now the all-time career lead-er in rebounds with 517 and the all-time leader in blocked shots with 118.

“I play because it’s a good way to bond with friends and I just love the sport,” said Thomp-son.

While playing basketball here at DCHS, Thompson has had a lot of post-season success by making it to state tournament two out of her four years.

“My greatest achievement was taking fourth at state my junior year,” said Thompson.

Thompson’s plans are to attend Arkansas State University to play volleyball.

Erik Barraza• Art •

Erica Fleeman selected Leann Manriquez for the band senior spotlight because of her hard work and dedication.

“Leann plays clarinet in our marching band and top concert band,” said Fleeman. “She has served as a section leader for the ‘PRIDE of Southwest Kansas’ and she is a Pop Concert committee chairperson. She is an excellent set committee chairperson because her organization and dedication are evident. “

Manriquez has been a member of band for eight years and “joined to meet people and get involved.”

Being a member of band has really “brought Leann out of her shell,” according to Fleeman.

“She may seem like a quiet and reserved young lady, but her passion for music, band and excellence in all she does has benefitted our band program greatly,” said Fleeman.

Manriquez’s plans are to attend Arcadia University in Pennsylvania, where she plans to major in International Peace and Resolution.

SeniorSpotlightsClassof2011

Senior Issue | Senior Spotlights: Broadcasting-Drama Issue #6THE DODGER • www.dchsdodger.com 09

Jaime Enriquez• Boys Cross Country •

Rosie Botello• Girls Cross Country •

Sergio Rivera• Broadcasting •

Jaclyn Vogel• Cheerleading •

Rebecca Oberley• Choir •

Jaime Enriquez has been selected for the boys cross country senior spotlight by head coach Brian Lenz.

Enriquez was chosen for this spotlight because he “leads by example, giving 100 percent,” said Bolmer.

Enriquez has been part of the cross country program for two years and ran varsity his last two years. Also, Enriquez was a team captain his senior year.

“It may not seem like it, but running is actually a very intense activity,” said Enriquez. “I also like to push myself beyond the limit.”

Enriquez’s most memorable moment was “visiting Oklahoma State University and Rim Rock Farm at the University of Kansas with an awesome group of guys plus the best running coach in the school.”

Enriquez’s plans are to attend Dodge City Community College or Garden City Community College for two years and then transfer to KU.

Sergio Rivera has been selected for the Broadcasting spotlight by Ken Campbell. Although Rivera has only been involved in broadcasting

for a quarter, he now has a better understanding of film editing and advertising.

“He is creative and has interesting video production,” said Campbell.

Rivera credits his compelling videos to his dual life as a filmer and skateboarder.

“I try to make viewing videos interesting by filming in different perspectives,” said Rivera.

His most memorable moment in Broadcasting was when they would sit in class on Fridays to watch their projects.

“Our projects allow us to be creative,” said Rivera. “One of my favorite short films was about a pill that made someone in the class three inches tall that ended with the little man bouncing on a pogo stick on my hand.”

Rivera’s plans include pursuing a career in business administration, journalism and arts. He also plans to take part in the skateboard industry.

Tanner Slattery• Drama/Acting •

Head Coach Brian Lenz has selected Rosie Botello for the girls cross country senior spotlight.

“Rosie always put the team’s interests ahead

of her own and was truly concerned about her teammates,” said Lenz.

Botello has been running cross country for three years. Botello says she joined cross country to get in shape for soccer season and then she realized how much she enjoyed it.

“I enjoy running because it feels great, and I love the feeling I get when I feel like I ran a great race,” said Botello.

Botello’s most memorable moment was when she made it to state her junior year.

“It was something so beautiful to feel,” said Botello.

Botello has chosen to attend Dodge City Community College and then transfer to Fort Hays State University to major in counseling.

Jaclyn Vogel has been chosen for the Cheerleading senior spotlight by Coach McKenzie Lueders. She has been on varsity all

four years and was a captain her junior and senior years.

“I chose to cheer because I watched my older sister cheer through high school,” said Vogel. “I began at a young age and I love stunting with the team.”

Her most memorable moments were winning TOC All-Tournament as a junior and winning as a team all four years.

“I loved the family feel and all of the athleticism it took to compete in TOC and perform at games,” said Vogel.

She plans to attend the University of Kansas and major in Pre-Dentistry.

“Jaclyn deserves to be the spotlight because of her dedication to cheerleading over the past four years,” said Lueders. “She has devoted a lot of time, work and heart to make this program the best that it can be. She has grown from one of two freshmen on the squad into a two-year captain. Not many people can say that!”

Art • Band • Basketball • Bowling • Broadcasting • Cheerleading • Choir • Cross Country • Drama

Kelly Knedler selected Rebecca Oberley for the senior spotlight for choir.

“Rebecca has been a super worker since her freshman year,” said

Knedler. “As a four -year participant, I have never witnessed disrespect, poor attitude, nor slack in her work,” said Knedler.

Oberley started singing in Class Act Chorale and Madrigals because of her interest in music.

“I’ve always really liked choir and I love music,” said Oberley. “Choir is like my second family, so I get to be myself and have while making awesome music.”

One major accomplishment in Oberley’s singing career includes making state choir her junior year.

“She has performed several roles in all four musicals she’s been in,” said Knedler. “And this year she’ll be playing for [a] Large Group Festival as a student accompanist.”

Oberley plans on going to Benedictine College to double major in Chemical Engineering and Music.

Tanner Slattery has been chosen by Anne Kaiser for the drama/acting senior spotlight.

“He has a positive attitude and he is friendly

towards others,” said Kaiser. “He wants to give a quality performance and show because he cares.”

Slattery was also chosen for his leadership skills.

“Tanner encourages other students to work on their parts. He attends rehearsals and will follow through with all that is asked of him,” said Kaiser.

Slattery decided to try drama because he was in forensics.

“I was in forensics and thought I’d try [drama and acting] out and really liked it,” said Slattery. “It was fun to be around everyone, and it was just an overall fun environment.”

Slattery’s plans are to receive an associates degree in arts at Dodge City Community College and then transfer to Fort Hays State University to pursue a degree in telecommunications.

Issu

e #6

www.dchsdodger.com • THE DODGER10 Senior Issue | Senior Spotlights: Drama-FFA

Rachel Smith• FCA•

Pablo Araujo• FCCLA •

Ethan Reimer• FFA •

Cassidy Hampton• Drill Team •

Ashley Vargas• FBLA •

Jacob Harris has been chosen for the drama/tech spotlight by Anne Kaiser.

Harris has been helping with tech for three years and runs all the

lights for drama productions as well as other shows.

“I choose to run lights because freshman year I watched another senior do lights and got really curious about it,” said Harris.

Harris cooperates with the directors in order to set up all the lights for each specific scene in order to create the best effect and show.

“Jacob deserves this honor because he cares about the drama department and wants to help us give quality shows,” said Kaiser.

Taking care of the lights was no easy job, especially because the lights can get hot and cause accidents, one of which Harris considers as his most memorable moment.

“I was adjusting a light and had held on too long and, next thing I know, my gloves were smoking,” said Harris.

Harris plans to pursue music while attending Kansas State University.

Ashley Vargas has been selected by Justin Coffey as the senior spotlight for Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA).

“Ashley has played a pivotal role in the success of FBLA this year. Her leadership skills shine through her positive personality,” said Coffey. “She has gone to great efforts to attend each event and make FBLA a positive place for students to learn and grow.”

Vargas experienced many accomplishments over her year as an FBLA member.

“[Vargas] was elected Historian Chair, won second place in the business ethics competition at regionals, and helped plan the FBLA Dodgeball Tournaments,” said Coffey. “She has set the tone for incoming members.”

Vargas had several reasons to join and has good memories of her time in FBLA.

“I chose to be involved because I love meeting new people and thought it would be a fun experience,” said Vargas.

Vargas’ plans are to become a physical therapist and open a successful business.

Chosen for the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FC-CLA) senior spotlight is Pablo Araujo.

Araujo was chosen be-cause of his eagerness to recruit members and his dedication to healthy choices for personal wellness.

Araujo has been involved in FCCLA for three years.

“I chose to be in FCCLA because it looked interesting and my friend asked me to join,” said Araujo.

Pablo’s greatest achievement was being ap-pointed president of the club.

“Pablo has been an exceptional leader in FC-CLA,” said FCCLA sponsor Shirley Voran. “He has taken the initiative to be a youth represent-ing TASK (Teens Against Smoking in Kansas) [while] representing DCHS FCCLA. Pablo has competed with Star Events at the district and state level.”

Araujo enjoys FCCLA because he believes it helps change people for the better. After high school, Araujo plans to join the Marines.

Ethan Reimer has been selected for the FFA spotlight by Tabitha Lemley.

Reimer has been involved with FFA for

four years and is currently the chapter president and a member of the district officer team.

“Ethan is an excellent role model,” said Lemley. “He holds himself and those around him to high standards and has an empathy and desire to encourage younger members and aids them in achieving their goals in the Dodge City FFA.”

Reimer got involved with the FFA chapter when he attended the first meeting and was immediately interested in the chance to become involved in agriculture and leadership opportunities.

“FFA is the opportunity for me to inform my peers and my community about the world of agriculture,” said Reimer. “I enjoy encouraging others to be part of something larger than themselves.”

Reimer’s plans include attending Kansas State University to study architecture.

Rachel Smith has been selected as the senior spotlight for Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA). Smith has been in FCA for three years and is

the current president of the group.Smith was chosen for her positive attitude

towards other students.“She always has a smile on her face and is

willing to go out of her way to make people feel welcomed,” said Tyson Schroeder, FCA sponsor.

Smith joined FCA because of her faith and passion for Jesus.

“I wanted to fellowship with other Christians, and I also wanted to tell others about Jesus,” said Smith, who was able to conquer her fear of speaking in front of large groups while in FCA. “I get really nervous when speaking in front of people, so my greatest achievement was getting up in front of everyone and preaching,” said Smith.

Smith’s plans are to stay in Dodge City to attend college, continue to work and be involved in her church.

Jacob Harris• Drama/Tech •

Cassidy Hampton has been selected for the Drill Team senior spotlight by Coach Debbi Conrardy.

Hampton has been on the team for two

years and was a captain for one. She joined the team because she always enjoyed dancing and performing; also, some of her friends that were already on the team helped and encouraged her to try out.

“She has a positive, sweet personality and is a daily example for others on the team,” said Conrardy. “I like how she constantly makes an effort to be her best. These characteristics have made Cassidy a very good role model and captain.”

She enjoys being on Drill Team because she enjoys dancing with everyone on the team.

“I think we’ve all made friends with some girls that we never thought we would become friends with just because we have the same interest in dance,” said Hampton.

Her greatest achievement is being selected as a captain her senior year. Hampton’s plans are to attend Wichita State University.

SeniorSpotlightsClassof2011

Senior Issue | Senior Spotlights: Floral Design-Golf Issue #6THE DODGER • www.dchsdodger.com 11

Vanessa Nunez• Forensics •

Brendan Herrera• Boys Golf •

Selia Solis• Floral Design •

Jared Helfrich• Football •

Matthew McClure• FoR •

Vanessa Nunez was chosen by Anne Kaiser for the Forensics spotlight.

Nunez has been involved in Forensics all four years of high school.

Kaiser selected Nunez because she “works hard to give her best performance at tournaments and in the classroom.”

“I selected her for her sense of integrity, excellent character, truthfulness, kindness and coming set for sport,” said Kaiser. “She has brought DCHS medals for working in Prose and Poetry Interpretation. These medals have brought sweepstake wins for our team and school.”

She enjoys participating in Forensics because she has fun performing and she also loves how close the team has become.

“It’s almost like having another family: a weird one, but a family,” said Nunez.

She plans to attend Washburn University and major in Pre-Law. She wants to continue participating in drama and speech because it is something she loves.

Matthew McClure has been selected by Jennifer Mendoza for the Friends of Rachel (FoR) spotlight.

“Since we have been working on making FoR a

more active club, Matt has tried to help make that happen,” said Mendoza.

In addition to his activities, McClure’s personality and philosophy have made him a good leader, according to Mendoza.

“Matt is non-judgmental. He accepts all students and is always friendly,” said Mendoza. “He is not afraid to talk to new people and make them feel welcomed, which is what we want in our Friends of Rachel group.”

McClure has been involved in FoR for three years after he joined his sophomore year.

“I was impacted by the speaker we had my to start making a difference,” said McClure. “I enjoy FoR because I like seeing different groups of people coming together to better our lives by spreading kindness.”

McClure’s plans are to attend and cheer at Barton County Community College for two years and then transfer to either KU or WSU, where he will major in pyschology.

Selia Solis was selected for the floral design spotlight by Bruce Austin.

“Selia is a class leader. She leads by example,

whether it is completing an assignment, volunteering or simply paying attention in class,” said Austin.

Solis said she enjoys floral design because it “allows me to express myself.”

According to Austin, “the other students respect Selia. It is just an unwritten code for the student to follow Selia’s example.”

Solis has had many memorable experiences as a floral design student.

“My most memorable moment was working at Flowers by Irene for a week with two of my friends,” said Solis.

Her greatest accomplishment was learning how to make her own bows for bouquets.

Solis plans to study to become a nurse; she is currently undecided what college she will attend.

Friyana Shah• Girls Golf •

Brendan Herrera has been chosen for the boys golf spotlight by head coach Jim Mapel.

Mapel chose Herrera for this spotlight because

Herrera worked hard on his golf game and his improvement was a part of the team’s success.

“Brendan has been part of the golf program for four years,” said Mapel. “He has worked hard and been a loyal teammate.”

Herrera has been golfing since he was a little kid and has been involved with the golf program all four years.

Herrera said his most memorable moment from his high school golf career was when he placed 14th individually last year at the 6A state golf tournament in Topeka.

“It’s tough to say why I enjoy the sport. Golf is just one of those hobbies,” said Herrera. “I golf because it’s the best place to get away from everyone and clear my head.”

Herrera’s plans are to attend Pittsburgh State University to major in manufacturing engineering technology and hopefully golf as a walk-on.

Jared Helfrich has been selected as the football spotlight by coach Dave Foster.

This past season, Helfrich was the starting

quarterback for the Demons’ varsity squad, a major leadership role.

“You can easily identify a leader by examining the behaviors of those that follow the leader,” said Foster. “The football players on this team that followed Jared’s leadership demonstrated an improved, positive attitude,”

The most memorable moment of Helfrich’s high school career was the huge deficit the Demons had to overcome to beat rival Garden City.

“We were behind 26-7 at halftime, and came back to win 29-26,” said Helfrich.

Helfrich plans to attend Fort Hays State University, where he will play football as well as baseball.

“He was the leader of a football team that shattered many team and individual football records during his career,” said Foster. “Yet he still doesn’t expect any spotlight, he simply brings the right attitude to work everyday.”

Friyana Shah has been selected as the girls golf spotlight by coach Jim Mapel.

Shah is a four-year letter winner and has

medaled individually at the state tournament her sophomore, junior and senior years, which she considers some of her greatest achievements.

“Friyana practiced hard everyday and was an excellent tournament player,” said Mapel. “She was always willing to encourage the other golfers on the team.”

Shah has participated in this sport each year of high school and since she was six.

“I started playing because I saw my dad go out and do it,” said Shah. “I’ve kept up with it because it’s a game of the mind. It gets you hooked.”

Her most memorable moment was “getting a hole-in-one on the last hole in Great Bend” while playing with her dad, said Shah.

Shah’s plans are to attend Cornell University in Ithaca, NY, where she hopes to “join the intramural golf team” and “help Cornell establish their own NCAA women’s team.”

Drama • Drill Team • FBLA • FCA • FCCLA • FFA • Floral Design • Football • FoR • Forensics • Golf

Issu

e #6

www.dchsdodger.com • THE DODGER12 Senior Issue | Year in Review

4. Floorshow. Emilyjane Pyle, 12, and Justin Dewell, 12, emcee “Red Carpet, Black Tie.” ”It seems like ev-ery year the skill of the performers and the creativity of the acts continue to increase,” said Annie Martinez, a Floorshow director. Floorshow was an opportunity for students to show off their talents in front of fel-low students and people from the community. • Photo Alonso Acevedo

5. Winter Homecoming. Seniors A’zlynn Thompson and Bruce Campbell are crowned king and queen of winter homecoming. “Winning homecoming king was an exhilarating feeling,” said Campbell. • Photo Alonso Acevedo

1. Principal of the Year. DCHS principal Jacque Feist is awarded Principal of the Year by the Kansas As-sociation for Secondary School Principals. “My fa-vorite part [of being principal] is really expanding Dodge City High School into a true, comprehensive high school where we have lots of opportunities for our best and brightest students,” said Feist. • Photo Cindy Moore

3. This Must Be the Place. Jose Castro, 11, and Gentry Cork, 10, perform their parts in the spring play, “This Must be the Place.” • Photo Crystal Medina

2. Blood Drive. Vanessa De La Cruz, 11, poses for a picture as she gets blood drawn during the fall blood drive, which is sponsored by NHS. • Photo Staff

2

54

1

3

6

Senior Issue | Year in Review Issue #6THE DODGER • www.dchsdodger.com 13

Photo Recap2010-2011

6. Prom. Part of the class of 2011 dances on the stage to open up and begin their senior prom. “Prom turned out great,” said Norma Avalos, 11. “We had a great prom committee. They were creative and had great ideas.” • Photo Cindy Moore

7. Pink Out. Nancy Becker discusses breast cancer awareness with her support group at a pep assem-bly. Nancy Becker, DCHS FACS teacher, delivered a special speech challenging students to be healthy to minimize their chance of getting cancer and be alert for signs of cancer. She also gave statistics on the six most common types of cancer. “I decided to become involved because I am a breast cancer survivor and am willing to share my personal experience in order to increase awareness,” said Becker. • Photo Alonso Acevedo

8. Fall Homecoming. Seniors Rosie Botello and Jona-than Sandoval are crowned king and queen for fall homecoming. Other candidates included AlexMarie Davis, Mario Rayo, Leslie Gomez, Mallory Ratts, Matthew McClure, Jaclyn Vogel, Jacob Montoya, Jai-me Enriquez, Kylie Newton, Garrett Salem, Friyana Shah and Josh Ginther. • Photo Alonso Acevedo

7

8

-Deena Shaath

Issu

e #6

www.dchsdodger.com • THE DODGER14 Senior Issue | Senior Spotlights: Heritage Panel-Orchestra

Emilyjane Pyle• NHS •

Luke Bunker• Newspaper •

Allen Steimel• Orchestra •

Chantel Sanchez• International Club •

Vanessa Rodriguez• KAY •

Ismael Maravilla has been chosen for the Heritage Panel Senior Spotlight.

“Ismael is always willing to volunteer,” said

Paola Alarcon, Heritage Panel sponsor. “Since his freshman year, he was always at the top of the list for volunteer sign-up sheets and was always the first one with the hand up for ideas.”

Maravilla has been in Heritage Panel for four years and was president for the past two.

“Ismael knows how to lead his peers and is always professional and courteous in his way of being and his peers respect that,” said Alarcon.

Maravilla joined the Heritage Panel as a way to get involved and because of his love to dance.

“I joined Heritage Panel to get really involved and help with fund-raisers,” said Maravilla. “It has a lot of things I like, like dancing.”

A major achievement includes being elected for president and when he was an emcee for the Cinco de Mayo Reynas.

After graduating, Maravilla plans to attend DCCC for two years and then attend a bigger school to be a doctor.

Alice Tallent selected Vanessa Rodriguez for the KAY senior spotlight.

Rodriguez has been involved with KAY for the past three years. She was

selected for this spotlight because of her hard work and dedication.

Rodriguez chose to participate in KAY to meet new people and get involved.

“I joined KAY because it seemed like fun,” said Rodriguez. “I enjoy the club because I have met many new people who have become friends. Participating in the club has also given me have more self-esteem.”

As a KAY member, Rodriguez was able to attend the KAY Fall Conference.

“Vanessa attended the Fall Conference in Meade and returned to our club with several ideas,” said Tallent.

Being a KAY member has also allowed Rodriguez to make great memories.

“My most memorable time was when we assembled candy canes,” said Rodriguez. “It was lots of fun and there’s snacks to munch on.”

After graduating, Rodriguez plans to attend DCCC but is undecided on her course of study.

Cindy Moore selected Luke Bunker for the newspaper spotlight.

He has been in involved with the newspaper for two years,

serving as co-editor his senior year.“I chose to be a part of newspaper because I

love watching and reading the news, writing stories and designing layouts,” said Bunker.

He said he likes newspaper because it is “fun, challenging and engaging.”

“It always keeps me on my toes! Attempting to manage a staff, battle deadlines and make everything look nice has been an exhilarating experience,” said Bunker.

His most memorable moment was attending a journalism conference with adviser Cindy Moore and other staff members in Washington, D.C.

“We had a great time, and I will miss the camaraderie with Mrs. Moore and fellow staff members,” said Bunker.

Bunker plans to attend DCCC for one or two years and transfer to a four-year university, where he plans to study political science, foreign relations and/or business management.

Wendy Mickey has selected Allen Steimel for the orchestra senior spotlight. He has been involved in orchestra for seven and a half years.

“What can I say, I love music! I eat breathe, sleep and live all that is music everyday,” said Steimel. “Not to mention I love the fact that music changes and unites the world.”

Steimel is concert master of orchestra and participates in the concert pit for the musicals.

His most memorable moment was when the chamber orchestra went to California to play at the National Orchestra Festival.

“I decided to play the violin to further my knowledge,” said Steimel, “and to light my burning passion of music even brighter.”

Mickey regards him as a reliable person.“He also leads by an example of dedication

to a good performance,” said Mickey.Steimel plans to stay in Dodge City to attend

the community college for two years and may transfer to Northwestern or William Jewel College, where he will work to become a music composer, teacher and performer.

Virgil Hutchcraft selected Emilyjane Pyle for the NHS senior spotlight.

Pyle was chosen because of her

contributions to the academic club.“Emilyjane will do whatever task is

necessary to make this club successful,” said Hutchcraft. “During the fall bloodmobile, we were running behind and it ran late. I had to leave for soccer practice, and Emilyjane said she would make sure things got cleaned up, and she did.”

Pyle has been a member of NHS for two years and the president for one. Being a member of NHS is “an honor, and it looks great on college applications” said Pyle.

“I enjoy being in NHS because it provides me with an opportunity to do something beneficial for the school, as well as the community,” said Pyle.

According to Pyle, her greatest achievement was being elected president.

Her plans are to attend the University of Kansas to major in music therapy.

Ismael Maravilla• Heritage Panel •

Chantel Sanchez has been selected by Kristine Sieren for the International Club senior spotlight.

Sanchez has been involved with International Club for two years and served as president her senior year.

Sanchez enjoys participating in this activity because she has fun talking about different cultures and comparing them to her culture. Also, she enjoys tasting different foods and learning about other countries.

Her most memorable moment was when the club sat down, talked with the foreign exchange students and asked them questions.

“International Club gives you a glimpse of other cultures and languages,” said Sanchez. “It broadens our perspective of the world.”

Sanchez plans to keep studying and make friends around the world. She also hopes to learn a third language.

“Chantel is an intelligent, respectful and responsible student,” said Sieren. “She deserves to be recognized and congratulated for her efforts.”

SeniorSpotlightsClassof2011

Senior Issue | Senior Spotlights: Soccer-Tennis Issue #6THE DODGER • www.dchsdodger.com 15

Danielle Jones• Swimming •

Zak Nichols• Boys Tennis •

Justin Dewell• Stuco •

Victor Millan• Boys Soccer •

Kasandra Rodela• Girls Soccer •

Danielle Jones was chosen by coach Deena Hamilton for the swim-ming senior spotlight.

In the last four years, Jones has had some ac-

complishments, such as improving her speed and taking third in WAC.

“She has proven herself as a distance swim-mer in events such as the 200 Freestyle and the 500 Freestyle,” said Hamilton. “She’s shown a lot of improvement in her speed and endurance because she’s willing to work hard and she en-courages others to do the same.”

Jones has earned the spotlight by helping other swimmers even when she wasn’t asked to.

“I’ve watched her help some of the more in-experienced swimmers to learn new concepts,” said Hamilton. “She took the initiative to do it herself and to me that makes a great leader.”

Jones has also been a part of a swimming team outside of school.

“[I] participated in community swim team during the summer,” said Jones.

Jones plans to attend Kansas State Univer-sity in the fall to major in theatre.

Kasandra Rodela has been selected for the girls soccer spotlight by Virgil Hutchcraft.

Rodela joined the DCHS soccer team her

sophomore year and chose to play because of her love of the game and joy of the sport.

“I enjoy playing soccer because it keeps me out of trouble, and I get to meet new people who later become my family,” said Rodela. “Also, it’s an amazing feeling playing on the field.”

Rodela is also this year’s captain, and as captain, she has demonstrated her leadership on and off the field.

“The biggest thing that I have seen is Kasandra getting a look at the eligibility list and quietly, behind the scenes, encouraging her fellow players to get [their] grades up,” said Hutchcraft.

Rodela’s said that “everything [was] unforgettable and a great experience.”

Rodela’s plans are to attend Dodge City Community College for two years, play for the women’s soccer team and then transfer to a four-year school to study criminal justice.

Michael Pelton has chosen Justin Dewell as the Stuco senior spotlight. Dewell has been involved in Stuco for four years of high school, most recently

serving as Stuco president.“[Dewell] has helped to move the council in

a more school-involved direction,” said Pelton. Being in charge of Stuco allowed Dewell to

gain valuable experience leading others, which he hopes to use in his future.

“I love being able to lead others and make things happen,” said Dewell.

Pelton chose Dewell for the spotlight in part because of his leadership style.

“Justin has a very bright future ahead,” said Pelton. “His quiet, confident leadership style; his ability to observe; his ability to work with a variety of people in a variety of situations; and his vision of making the world a better place one day at a time make him stand out.”

Dewell’s plans are to “attend Ozark Christian College in Joplin, Mo., to get a Bachelor of Arts in preaching ministry.” From there, he hopes to become a senior minister of a church.

Zak Nichols was selected for the boys tennis senior spotlight by coach Andrew Sever.

Nichols has been a member of the team for

four years and has been a varsity player for the past two years.

“Zak has been a leader by coming during summer hitting sessions,” said Sever. “He also tries his best to help others.”

Nichols started playing tennis because he wanted to try something new.

“I had never really played tennis before high school,” said Nichols. “I’ve gotten medals for winning, but my greatest achievement has been all the friends I’ve made along the way.”

Although Nichols had never played tennis before, he has really enjoyed his time on the team.

“Tennis takes my mind off a lot of things,” said Nichols. “It’s a thinking game, and when I get zoned in, nothing else seems to matter.”

Nichols plans to attend Kansas State University to study computer engineering.

Chosen for the boys soccer senior spotlight is Victor Millan.

Millan has been in-volved with soccer for 12 years and all four years at

DCHS.“He did every drill and every run that we

did with 100% effort, and he never let his team down,” said head coach Virgil Hutchcraft.

Millan has been the leading scorer for the past three years and has always shown leader-ship, according to Hutchcraft.

Millan’s most memorable moment was when the team beat Garden City in overtime and he scored the game-winning goal with a busted lip.

“I decided to play soccer because it’s fun, aggressive and because I love the sport,” said Millan.

Millan’s plans are to attend Dodge City Community College for now and wait for op-portunities that life gives him.

Heritage Panel • International Club • KAY • NHSNewspaper • Orchestra • Soccer • Softball • Stuco • Swimming • Tennis

Brittany Waldman• Softball •

Brittany Waldman has been selected as the spotlight for softball by head coach Heather Steiner.

“I chose to play this sport because I have grown up with it and couldn’t imagine not playing it,” said Waldman, who has played softball all four years.

Waldman has been a vital part of the success that the Lady Demon softball squad has seen.

“Brittany is a very diverse player,” said Steiner. “She has provided a solid outfield performance the last three years. She is a left-handed slapper, which allows for us to have diversity with our offense. Brittany is also very quick and puts added pressure on the defense.”

Waldman was a part of the 2009 WAC champion team, the first conference softball championship in school history.

Waldman will take her talents to Friends University, where she also plans to major in health science and go into the medical field.

“Whether I am running down a fly ball, swinging the bat at the plate, sliding into bases or cheering on the fence, I always enjoy playing,” said Waldman.

Issu

e #6

www.dchsdodger.com • THE DODGER16 Senior Issue | Senior Spotlights: Tennis-Yearbook

Blake Rumbaugh & Mikeyla Wilson

• Training •

Mallory Ratts• Volleyball •

Stevie Herrera• Yearbook •

Matt Esquibel• Boys Track •

Kierra Johnson• Girls Track •

Coach Tamie Preston selected Courtney McDaniel and Kylie Newton for the girls tennis

spotlight. The pair won the 2011 No. 1 doubles as well as placed fourth at regionals.

“It’s a fast-paced, intense game and you always have to be on your toes,” said McDaniel.

She has several memorable moments; among them are winning WAC as a team and in individual doubles, beating Great Bend and going to the state championship.

McDaniel plans to “attend KU in the fall, majoring in Human Biology with hopes of eventually becoming a chiropractor.”

As for Newton, she has been involved in tennis all four years and chose to play tennis because she thought it would be fun.

Out of her accomplishments in tennis, her most memorable moment was “my junior year when Tara Schubert and I were playing Great Bend for the WAC championship,” she said. “We came from being behind to winning.”

Newton plans to attend DCCC to obtain her Associates Degree in Accounting.

Chosen for girls varsity track was Kierra Johnson. Johnson has been involved in track for three years.

“I decided to do track when a coach asked me if I was going to do it, said Johnson. “Finally, I decided to try it and I loved it.”

Kierra was chosen for her leadership abilities through her work ethic and positive attitude.

“Kierra is one of the top female sprinters that I have ever been around,” said head coach Dave Foster. “She is athletically talented, but also brings a solid work ethic to practice everyday. She is currently undefeated in the 100m and 200m sprints.”

After high school, Johnson plans to go to Butler or DCCC to run track and plans to be a teacher and a track coach after completing college.

For this year’s volleyball senior spotlight, Coach Kate Szymczak has selected Mallory Ratts.

Mallory Ratts has been involved with volleyball

since the third grade and has played every year since then.

“Mallory leads the team by her actions and is a positive role model and leader to the volleyball players in the program and all the students at DCHS,” said Szymczak.

As captain her senior year, Ratts led the team in passing and serve receive.

Ratts’ most memorable moment was when she won sub-state her senior year when people were saying they didn’t have a chance.

“My greatest achievement would be making the All-WAC team my junior and senior year, and also being a state honorable mention both years,” said Ratts.

Ratts’ plans include attending Dodge City Community College for two years and playing volleyball there.

Cindy Moore selected Stevie Herrera for the yearbook senior spotlight.

“In the absence of a true ‘editor’ this year, Stevie has really stepped

up to help with leadership decisions this semester,” said Moore.

Herrera has been on the yearbook staff for three years. She decided to join because “it looked fun to be ‘behind the scenes.’”

She likes yearbook because she had fun designing things and putting her creativity into something.

“[I had] fun with my friends in this class,” said Herrera.

She considers becoming section editor to be her greatest accomplishment.

After graduating, she plans to attend Dodge City Community College for two years and then transfer to the University of Kansas.

“I hope to pursue a career in medicine,” she said.

Chosen for the training spotlight are seniors Mikeyla Wilson and Blake Rumbaugh. They

have both been trainers for four years.“Blake has over nine seasons of experience

as a DCHS Student Athletic Trainer,” said Michael Pelton. “He has been an active member of the team since his freshman year working with football, basketball and softball teams during his time as well as helping fill in whenever needed with many other events.”

Rumbaugh plans to study biomedical engineering at Kansas State University.

Mikeyla is also known for being a hard worker.

“What I truly appreciate most about Mikeyla is her genuineness; she is not afraid to say what needs to be said [and] when it needs to be said in a mature and honest way,” said Pelton. “Her sense of humor, attitude and spirit have had an impact on our program that will be missed.”

After high school, Wilson plans to earn a degree in X-ray technology.

Courtney McDaniel & Kylie Newton• Girls Tennis • Matt Esquibel has

been chosen for the boys track senior spotlight.

“The characteristics that separate leaders from the rest lie in their ability

to work hard daily, which is something that all athletes are capable of doing,” said head coach Dave Foster. “Excuses that explain failure are obvious to a coach, but some athletes feel that they need make sure everyone knows why they failed and it usually was not their fault. That is the opposite of Matt.”

Matt has been doing track for two years. He chose track because he wanted to better himself as an athlete and stay active.

“Its a great sport to improve your speed, self-worth and motivation,” said Esquibel.

Esquibel’s greatest achievement in track was his first year doing track, when his time for the 800m was 2:15 and he got it down to 2:05.

After high school, Matt plans to go to GCCC to play football and participate in the track program. After attending GCCC, he plans to attend a four-year school and continue doing both sports.

SeniorSpotlightsClassof2011

Senior Issue| Senior Spotlights: Wrestling, GSA Issue #6THE DODGER • www.dchsdodger.com 17

Jesse Trent• Wrestling •

Jesse Trent has been selected for wrestling’s senior spotlight this year by head coach Lars Lueders.

Coach Lueders selected Trent because “Jesse worked hard each and every day and strived to be the best that he could be.”

Trent has been wrestling for eight years. Trent has accomplished many things this year, including a Shrine Bowl selection for football and a wrestling state championship in the 285-pound class in 6A. He also became DCHS’ first All-American wrestler in April.

Trent became involved with wrestling after some encouraging from his parents.

“It’s something my parents wanted me to do, plus it helped me with football,” said Trent.

Trent’s most memorable moment was when he won state in wrestling his senior year. According to Trent, his greatest achievement was when he placed fourth at nationals.

Trent plans to study biology, chemistry and math at Butler County Community College before pursuing education in engineering.

TJ Ramey• GSA •

TJ Ramey has been selected for the senior spotlight for the Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA). Ramey has been part of GSA all four years

in high school. “[He was chosen] for his effort and

determination to keep the GSA going and becoming a stronger club with more impact on the school culture,” said sponsor Renelda Hornung. “He has also spent a lot of his time this year putting together a binder of what GSA has been doing, protocols, resources, etc. for next year’s club president.”

Ramey’s greatest achievement was when he organized his first Day of Silence as well as the club’s meetings.

“I enjoy being part of GSA simply because I know I’m making a difference for current and future students of DCHS,” said Ramey.

Ramey’s plans are to get his general studies completed at DCCC. He then plans to transfer to the University of Kansas to get a degree in psychology with a minor in cosmetology.

Seniors ’11• www.dchsdodger.com •

Hairport Salon

214 E. Frontview • Dodge City, KS

620-225-0148

Erin Bergkamp, OwnerStylists - Karen Harper-Halling,

Erica Jewell, Lisa Hall, Jodi Guthrie, Melinda Andazola

Issu

e #6

www.dchsdodger.com • THE DODGER18 Senior Issue | Broadening Horizons

Lloyd DavisFinancial Advisor

210 E. Frontview, Suite BDodge City, KS 67801

620-225-0651

WE SUPPORT THEDODGE CITY RED DEMONS.

www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC

DEMON DESTINATIONS - CLASS OF ‘11

Dodge City CCEvan Alvarez, Vianca Anguiano, Aaron Arredondo, Ali Bone, Rosie

Botello, Nick Brady, Adrianne Brown, Luke Bunker, Brittney

Butts, Araceli Castaneda, Bernardo Del Real, Tyler Ediger, Jonae Enriquez, Miriam Garcia, Monica Garcia, Tania Jimenez Garrido, Joshua Ginther, Erika Gonzales, Holly Graber, Angelica

Gutierrez, Hugo Hernandez, Yesenia Hernandez, Stevie Herrera, Kody Humble, Jessica Kephart, Katie Larman, Jacqueline Luis, Sindy Lupercio, Julio Marino, Ashley Marquez, Jacquelin McKenzie, Stephanie Mejia, Victor Millan

Marino, Joe Miller, Kylie Newton, Saira Palacios, Ivonne Pena, Teghan Pencis, Cassandra Peres, Gabriela Quezada, Mallory Ratts, Elvira Reyes, Kasandra Rodela Lira,

Vanessa Rodriguez, Brad Roetzer, Jessica Shipps, Rachel Smith,

Benito Sotelo, Hali Sprenkle, Jesus Sumaya, Stephanie Torres, Ashley

Vargas, Jonathan Velazquez-Beltran, Cody Williams

KU: University of KansasMolly Bonner, Arianda Cervantes, Jessica Eaton, Courtney McDaniel,

Emilyjane Pyle, Jaclyn Vogel

KSU: Kansas State UniversityCristabell Bernadac, AlexMarie

Davis, Hannah Hoskinson, Maria Jasso, Danielle Jones, Tanner Miller,

Blake Rumbaugh

MarinesPablo Araujo, Eddie Castelli, Amber Konda, Alfredo Sanchez, Maximino

Solorzano

Wichita StateStephanie Brown, Aaron Delzeit, Ismael Maravilla, Maria Ocon,

Garrett Salem, Taelyn Schuckman, Megan Seyler, John Son, Jared

Stremel, Celena Vilaysing, JD Young

Pittsburg StateKaitlyn Genereux, Brendan Herrera

Ozark ChristianRachel Crockett, Justin Dewell

-Josie ZordelWhen you think of seniors

leaving for college, you most often don’t picture them going too far from home. Leaving home for the first time can be scary, especially when your destination is in another state. However, that didn’t stop a few Demons from following their dreams or going far.

L e a n n Manriquez and Bryan Armenta are not afraid to leave the nest. Manriquez plans on traveling 1,450 miles away from home to attend school at Arcadia University near P h i l a d e l p h i a , Penn.

“I want to go to Arcadia because it’s the number one school for studying abroad,” said Manriquez.

Manriquez plans on majoring in international peace and conflict because she found it an interesting subject and she wants to help make a difference in the world.

On the other hand, Armenta plans on traveling 1,760 miles to attend Dartmouth University in Hanover, N.H., to major in biomedical engineering.

“It would be a lie to say I’m not scared to leave home. I’m very close with my family,” said

Armenta.Armenta decided to go to

Dartmouth because of better education, more money, and more connections.

Manriquez and Armenta are not the only two Red Demons that plan on leaving the nest. Friyana Shah and Miguel Lopez also plan on leaving as well.

Shah plans on attending C o r n e l l University in Ithaca, N.Y., following in her brother, Anosh Shah’s, footsteps.

L o p e z plans on doing s o m e t h i n g c o m p l e t e l y different than

anyone else. In 2013, Lopez is planning to go to Australia.

“There is a whole new world outside the boundaries of Dodge City,” said Lopez. “It’s always been a dream of mine to travel the world. Studying to be a professional pilot in Australia is just the beginning of my life’s ambitions. I’ll be studying somewhere here in the U.S. first, then I’ll see where life takes me.”

Not every senior decided to stay in Kansas or close to home to work or go to school; some just wanted to experience the world.

Broadening horizonsStudents to attend collegein other states, countries

“There is a whole new world outside the

boundaries of Dodge City. It’s always been a dream of mine to travel

the world.”- Miguel Lopez

Air ForceSaharaydee Meza Lopez

Butler CCCBruce Campbell

WashburnVanessa Nunez

UMKCZoe Mariche

Colby CCIrma Treto

EmporiaBlaise Jensen

Art Institute of KCJenny Neri

Barton CCCMatt McClure

CornellFriyana Shah

DartmouthBryan Armenta

OPSUAdrian Llamas

San Jose StateJonathan Sandoval

Goodland TechGuillermo Romero

ArmyMaria Marquez

Fort HaysTaylor Wade

C.R.L of DallasKaley Ernst

ENMUGennifur Pearce

FriendsBrittany Waldman

GCCCMatt Esquibel

University of St. Mary

Micah Shaull

U.C. FloridaVeronica DePinho

Pratt CCTaylor Oldham

Texas TechKyelee Buehne

Frank Phillips CCHayley Lowery

BenedictineRebecca Oberley

This list was current as of Wednesday, May 11, 2011. The Demon Destinations Board was sponsored this

year by Stuco, which is sponsored by Michael Pelton.

Senior Issue| Summer Road Trips Issue #6THE DODGER • www.dchsdodger.com 19

620-227-7771866-205-7771

DODGE CITY DIAGNOSTICSOPEN MRI AND BONE DENSITOMETRY

www.dodgecitydiagnostics.com

2601 Central AveVillage Plaza Suite ADodge City KS, 67801

“If you’re taking hard classes, you have to study.”Tanner Slattery

Senior Dodger AsksWhat are some tips you would give

to incoming seniors?

“Beware of senioritis.”Taylor Wade

“Look for scholarships and colleges early.”Yovanni Rangel

“Have fun. Enjoy it because it’s your last year.”Ashley Coria

“Look for scholarships at the start of the year and make sure to send your best test scores to colleges.”Mary Castillo

-Leann Manriquez

-Leann ManriquezBlue convertible, sun pounding

down, feet on the dashboard, wind blowing through your hair, music blaring through the radio... those are elements for a good road trip. This summer, take a trip across the U.S. and discover its hidden marvels.

For inspiration, maybe watch one of these classic road trip movies:National Lampoon’s Vacation, It Happened One Night, The Sure Thing, orDriving Miss Daisy.

Once you’ve been inspired, all that’s left is to pick a route.US-50

Also nicknamed the “loneliest road,” US-50 cuts across some of the small towns, but also four states capitals, as well as the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C. The 3,200-mile “loneliest road” provides you with small towns, deserts, mountains and a bright blue sky.ROUTE 66

For a piece of history or

nostalgia, travel on U.S. Route 66 for the classic American road trip. Enjoy roadside diners where shakes and malts are served cold under neon signs and straddle the old and the new as you journey across “The Mother Road.”BORDER TO BORDER

If you’re feeling like crossing the border of two countries, take Highway 93, which will take you from Canada to Mexico. This highway provides a sea of contrasts that also offers you the mountains and deserts of the U.S.TIPS

Always alert someone of where you’re planning to stay; have an emergency kit ready that includes a spare tire, jack, lights; and make sure to have some type of budget (it’s a rarity that someone will appreciate your singing skills enough to pay you for it).

For further reading, visit:www.roadtripusa.com/rwarn17588.wordpress.comgosw.about.com/

Preparation tips for summer road trips

Issu

e #6

www.dchsdodger.com • THE DODGER20 Senior Issue | Foreign Exchange Students

Bailey’s Body Shop

Robert Bailey, Owner • robailey@swbell.net

319 Maple St. • Dodge City, KS 67801P: 620.225.4869 • F: 620.225.2070

620-225-1701Toll Free (800) 279-3646

Bonded & Insured

Keys-Locks-High SecurityComplete Sales & ServiceForeign & Domestic Auto

Brent WhitakerThe Lockguy

Owner - ALOA #47058

901 1/2 N. Second St.

Dodge City, KS 67801

Locked Out?Give Us a Call

Complete Mobile Service

Mobile Phone Dispatched

-Austin Ridenour “My first thought was ‘wow,’”

said Eva Willer, 12, reflecting on when she first came to the United States. Willer is a foreign exchange

student here at DCHS and came from Germring, Germany, which is about 30 minutes from Munich.

“I wanted to come to school here because I wanted to experience something new,” said Willer. “A friend of mine was an exchange student two years ago and she told me all about it. I just wanted to experience it myself.”

Willer came to the United States this past August and has been attending DCHS all year. Willer has been staying with the Finley family who has a daughter, Erin Finley, 11, who attends DCHS.

Willer says that American life is a lot different, especially when it

comes to school and school events.“I was really nervous the first

day of school, but it helped that I had met all the band students before,” said Willer. “My favorite thing from this year was the band trip to Florida. It was awesome to see another state and spend a whole week with all the bandies.”

With the year almost over, Willer said she will be sad when she has to leave her friends she has made and that she will miss America. When asked how she felt about America now that she has been here for a year, Willer said that “at first, everything was unfamiliar.”

“At first, everything was unfamiliar, new and overwhelming,” said Willer. “But now it is not unfamiliar anymore, but still overwhelming. I wish I could take a part of the U.S. back to Germany.”

When Willer returns to Germany, she will be like many other foreign exchange students who will still have two years left of high school.

“When I go back to Germany, I still have two years of high school left,” said Willer. “I don’t really know what I want to do after that, but I want to work with people later on in life.”

-Austin Ridenour When people think of Germany,

many people remember World War II, automobiles, alcohol, food and many other things. However, some people may have changed their

views about Germany after hearing from a foreign exchange student named Hendrik Kronsbein, 12, who is from Dusseldorf, Germany.

Kronsbein came to Dodge City last year in August and has been attending school at DCHS all this year. Kronsbein said he wanted to come to the United States because he wanted to learn about American culture and also to improve his English.

“At first, the language was different from what I had learned, British English, but that changed fast,” said Kronsbein.

Kronsbein said his first day of high school was very confusing because he had to go to a different

classroom after every block. Even though most students think high school is tough, Kronsbein thinks it’s easy.

“I think it’s very easy because you don’t get a lot of homework,” said Kronsbein.

Kronsbein has been here for almost a year and will graduate this May but still will not technically be done with school in Germany. Kronsbein will still have to go to school for two more years when he returns home. Kronsbein has many different choices for college but first needs to get his schooling completed in order to attend college.

“I’m not sure [what to major in]

yet, but I am thinking about biology, chemistry, architecture, finance or business,” said Kronsbein.

Now that Kronsbein has been here at DCHS for a whole school year, he has really enjoyed all the things America offers. Krosbein’s favorite memory from this year was Prom, which had a theme of “A Glimpse of Paris” this year.

Although he has experienced life in America first-hand, his opinion of the country remains the same.

“I think Americans are very proud of their country but they don’t care about things that happen in the world,” said Kronsbein.

Two foreign exchange students reflect on past year“At first, everything was unfamiliar, new and overwhelming”

For additional coverage of foreign exchange students and their traditions, see Issue 3 at www.dchsdodger.com

Senior Issue| Dodger Asks Issue #6THE DODGER • www.dchsdodger.com 21

1808 W.1808 W. Wyatt EarpDodge City, KS 67801

620-225-0204

Service Any Place Any Time

5-Star Mufflers • Alignments • Oil ChangeA/C Services • Brakes • Front Suspension

Shocks & Struts • Belts & HosesCustom Wheels

Jeff Koehn, Owner

“My biggest fear was messing up during cheerleading and drill team my freshman year and making the seniors mad at me.”AlexMarie Davis

Senior Dodger AsksWhat was

your biggest freshman fear?

“My biggest fear was how big the school was and not knowing where to go.”Benjamin Morales

“My biggest freshman fear was not knowing anybody because I came from Sacred Heart and this was just a bigger school.”Ali Bone

-Austin Ridenour

KC Window Tinting

2002 N. 1st620-682-0862

kcwindowtinting@yahooo.com

“I’m going to miss seeing all the random people around here that I’ve seen for the last four years.”Matthew McClure

Senior Dodger AsksWhat are you sad to say

“goodbye” to when leaving DCHS?

“I’m really going to miss see-ing all my friends everyday and going to all the football games. I hate that it might be the last time I’m going to see some of these people.”Ashley Licon

“I’m going to miss training and seeing my friends every-day because we’re all going to different places.”Blake Rumbaugh

“The thing I’m going to miss most is seeing my friends ev-eryday and having the smaller classes and more one-on-one time.”Kathleen Larman

-Deena Shaath

Memories /Saying Goodbye

Issu

e #6

www.dchsdodger.com • THE DODGER22 Senior Issue | Senioritis

“New Entertainment for the Old West”Dinner Theater in a Historic Setting

The DepotTheater Company

201 E. Wyatt Earp Blvd. • P.O. Box 661Dodge City, KS 67801 620.225.1001

-Alysia GarvalenaMost seniors have been in

school for at least 13 years. After being in school for so long, some students lose their ‘oomph’ for school: they stop doing homework, attending class daily and doing their school work! When this happens, it is called senioritis.

“Senioritis is when you don’t want to do anything because you are a senior and you have no worries,” said Jesus Sumaya, 12.

S o m e seniors get in a lazy mood and consider it a year of smooth sailing. The senioritis mindset is marked by when seniors feel that they already have their main credits and it’s just the last year of required school, so skipping and blowing off class is okay, because after you’ve been in school for so long it’s just ‘whatever.’

“You know that you are almost done with high school so you don’t want to be there,” said Katie Larman, 12. “So, you skip a lot more and you do more daring things because you know that you are graduating that year.”

In a way, senioritis is more like a lifestyle choice as a senior.

“It’s living free, going hard, getting down,” said Ben Morales, 12. “You are a senior and you just are annoyed with school.”

School just doesn’t seem to be on the mind for some as future plans and the thought of starting

life after high school start swirling around the head.

“Enjoying your last year of school just gets in the way of school work, especially when your teachers slam you with tests and work at the end of the year,” said Kody Humble, 12. “It’s just not on my mind, but what is is the thought of graduating, realizing that the summer fun begins and the thought of going to college.”

Even though senioritis is an easy lifestyle, if a student isn’t very c a r e f u l , they can fall behind on

school work and, in some classes, lose participation points because they were somewhere else instead of attending class. In some classes, failing is even possible with extreme cases of senioritis.

“It makes you fall behind a lot, but it’s really fun,” said Elizabeth Steele, 12.

Some juniors and underclassmen think that senioritis is a simple case of not doing a simple homework assignment or pretending to be sick so they can stay home a day, but senioritis is way more than that.

“You don’t know senioritis until you’re a senior. I thought I had it every year since my sophomore year and now I only come to school because of bribery, mostly on my parents’ part,” said Taelyn Schuckman, 12

“I’m going to miss the friends I’ve had since elementary school and the people I’ve grown up with.”Brittany Waldman

Senior Dodger AsksWhat are you going

to most miss from high school?

“I’m going to miss the easy classes and being an office aid, because it won’t be as easy in college.”Cody Chance

“I’m going to miss my high school softball times.”Danielle Kenton

“I’m going to miss friends because I’ve known most of them since kindergarten and soccer.”Jonathan Sandoval

“I’m going to miss my close friends and my favorite teacher ,Mrs. Salem.”Megan Seyler

-Alysia Garvalena

“You don’t know senioritis until you’re a senior.”

-Taelyn Shuckman

Senioritis: DCHS graduates-to-bebattle the age-old affliction

Senior Issue| Dodger Asks Issue #6THE DODGER • www.dchsdodger.com 23

Express Yourself Hair Studio

106 W. Frontview, Suite 1 • P: 620-338-8009

• Lora Miller •

Bring this coupon in for $5.00 off of your next hair color service

with Lora Miller.

PICKCHIROPRACTIC

Family & Sports Chiropractic Care and AcupunctureCertified Chiropractic Sports Physicians by ACA

2300 N. 14th Ave. Suite 200 • Dodge City, KS

Dr. M.D. Pick & Dr. J.A. Joy

Soft Tissue Graston Technique • Low Level Laser TherapyPhysical Therapy

Health, Auto, Workers’ Compensation Insurance Welcome

Wes A. OwensFinancial Advisor

100 Military Plaza, Suite 108Dodge City, KS 67801

620-227-7178

GRADUATION IS NO TIME TO LEARNYOU HAVEN’T SAVED ENOUGH FOR COLLEGE

www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC

“My favorite memory would be all of the football and basketball games with the pep band. These activities have given me good experiences and allowed me to spend time with friends.”Trevor Killion

Senior Dodger AsksWhat was

your biggest freshman fear?

“Being Floorshow emcee. It was an incred-ible experience. Emilyjane and I worked really well together and I honestly didn’t think I could be emcee. But I pulled it off and enjoyed every minute of it.”Justin Dewell

“The Florida band trip. I saw a new place with people that I like. I also got to see a dif-ferent side of the United State and I got to go to Disney World!”Eva Willer

-Brayden Whitaker

Quoted: School Spirit“My favorite memories from high school were the pep rallies during football season - I would just love to see all the classes with school spirit!”Ivonne Pena

Issu

e #6

www.dchsdodger.com • THE DODGER24 Senior Issue| Honors Banquet

Four Convenient Locations:Dodge City - 802 W. Trail • 1200 W. Frontview St. • 2305 Central Ave. (Lending Center)

Cimarron - 108 N. Main

e*Servicese*Payer: PAY BILLS ONLINE directly from your checking account.

e*Teller: MANAGE ACCOUNTS online, 24/7.

e*Statements: RECEIVE EMAIL REMINDERS that your e*Statement is ready each month.

CU Succeed• Checkingaccounttailoredforteensage13-18• NoMonthlyServiceFee• UnlimitedCheckWriting• $25minimumbalancetoearndividends• FreeATMWithdrawals• VISACheckCardpurchases

-Austin RidenourWith the 2010-2011 school year

coming to an end, many of the stu-dents are just wanting to get out for summer and get away from school. But yet, most of these students will not be leaving DCHS empty -handed.

Dodge City High School re-cently held their Academic Honors Banquet at the Knights of Colum-bus hall in Dodge City.

The annual banquet (this year being its twentieth) recognizes students who are graduating with a Regents diploma (state scholars curriculum), those students who have Academic Honors or Aca-demic Distinction, or who are part of National Honors Society, Schol-ar Bowl or Science Olympiad. The banquet also honors any students who received academic scholar-ships to colleges or universities.

“There were 397 awards given

to 151 students, which is a great number,” said Deborah Lloyd, counselor at DCHS and organizer of the event.

Only 21 seniors were recog-nized five different times for their academic accomplishments this

year out of the whole senior class. But many other seniors were recog-nized for their hard work through-out their high school careers.

“From my background, nobody thought I would be able to accom-plish this, but I busted my tail to

get where I am today,” said Se-bastain Thomas, 12, who will also be speaking at graduation as one of the class historians. “I set my stan-dards high, because life is pointless unless you challenge yourself.”

Josh Ginther, 12, was anoth-er senior who took home many awards for all his accomplish-ments that he achieved during high school. But he felt that it was a lit-tle embarrassing to get the awards in front of people.

“It was a little embarrassing but it really meant a lot to me and it made my family proud,” said Gin-ther, 12.

Juniors and even a few sopho-mores were also honored at the event.

A complete list of honors and students recognized at the event can be found in the 2010-2011 Sou’Wester yearbook, which will be published this summer.

Awarded. Celena Vilaysing, 12, is awarded a certificate from the Kansas Board of Regents by Melanie Miller, counselor. Jesse Trent, Jaclyn Vogel, and Brittany Waldman, 12, look on. • Photo Bunker

Students honored at 21st annual Honors BanquetSophomores, juniors and seniors awarded with honors, certificates and scholarships