December issue 2016

THE

PYLON

Vol. 93, Iss. 2

Salina Central High School

650 E. Crawford St.

Salina KS, 67401

December 19, 2016

photo by sarah brown

CONTENT PAGE

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PYLON December 19, 2016

S tu d e n t l i f e P g 14

Junior Ethan Speer dribbles the ball. Photo by:Ellie Cobb

Sport s Br ie fs Pg 26

IN THIS ISSUE NEWS 4 CONSTRUCTION UPDATES 6 DRUG DOGS VISIT SCHOOL

FEATURE 16 PAINTING A NEW PERSPECTIVE OF THE LIFE OF A MUSLIM STUDENT

ARTS

10 FEATURED ARTIST SOPHIE JUSTUCE

OPINION 20 LUNCHROOM NEEDS NEW MICROWAVE 22 COFFEE SHOP REVIEW

STUDENT LIFE 14 NEW RESTAURANTS ON NINTH STREET

SPORTS 27 SPORTS BRIEFS 28 SPORTS ON THE DAILY

IN DEPTH OFFICER MORELAND ADDRESSES 8 POLICE BRUTALITY

12

STRESS OF FINALS IMPACT MENTAL HEALTH

24

GENDER EQUALITY AND THE PINK TAX

INFOGRAPHIC 29 CHRISTMAS BY THE NUMBERS

The Pylon wants to hear your opinion T h e P y l o n g l a d l y a cce pts contributions f rom gue st w riters on any subject. Please e- mail your submissions to b u si n e s s @ c hs p y l o nco m .

T h e P y l o n is t he o ff icial stude nt ne w spape r of Sal ina High School Central. It is produced entirely by students of the news p a p e r p rod u ct io n c l a s s , w e ekl y on chspyl on.com and five issues annually in print.

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PYLON December 19, 2016

CONTENT PAGE

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const ru ct i on U pdat es Pg 4

arts Pg 10

Stay Updated Check out our website, chspylon.com, and follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat.

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Pylon Staff 2016-2017 EDITORS-IN-CHIEF Chloe Guillot Morgan Dolton

FEATURE EDITOR Chloe Cuillot

STUDENT LIFE EDITOR Morgan Dolton

PHOTO EDITOR Ellie Cobb

ARTS EDITOR Annie Hayes

SPORTS EDITORS Caroline Donatell Holly Sanderson

NEWS EDITORS Umar Sandhu Will Hayes

OPINION EDITOR Karley Benson

VIDEO EDITOR Keaton Beach

COPY EDITOR Bailee Steinle

BUSINESS MANAGER Audrey Burgoon

REPORTERS Caroline Donatell Umar Sandhu Holly Sanderson

Volume 93 of the Pylon was created by 12 staffers

ADVISER

J.D. Garber

using Adobe Creative Suite 5.5. Our fonts this year include GoBold and Gravity.

Special thanks to Sedalia Democrat for making the printing of our publication possible.

construction updates

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PYLON december 19, 2016

photos of science wing courtesy of Josh Oldenettel

as students and staff move into the new science wing, the reality of a brighter future becomes apparent

l

construction updates

PYLON december 19, 2016

looking

to the

light A

wing just by looking at it when I walk to the mods. The new robotics room and the larger classrooms are going to be awesome!” says Mathews.

The science wing is going to be equipped with 8 classrooms, a collaborative space on the second floor and the Robotics room next to it. The rooms will be outfitted with desks and chairs for 28 students, with the capability of holding more if need be.

For lead Superintendent of construction, Matt Hohn, Central is a challenging build.

“With construction, when you are adding a piece onto a preexisting part of a building, you never know what you’re getting yourself into. It is like a treasure chest: some days you might find some footings that aren’t where they are supposed to go, and there are other times random pieces that you didn’t know about, or anyone knew about and were not in the plans.” says Hohn.

One special touch being added to the science wing is a 150 gallon fish tank. The tank will be located on the second floor all the way at the end of the hallway.

Things like the fish tank and a giant open two story entrance with beautiful panes of glass lighting up the hallways helps bare the sound of jackhammers when taking a test or trying to walk to class during passing period in the modified hallways with pipes creaking and blowing air overhead.

by will hayes pylon reporter

s the first semester of the school year is coming to a close, the progress in construction is apparent when roaming the halls. Many times doors are left open allowing for a quick peek into the new additions. When walking out to the mods in the morning, beautiful beams of light are reflected off the hundreds of square feet of glass that covers the science wing. The parking situation, though frustrating at times, provides a constant reminder of the changes taking place.

“Looking at the new science wing from the outside is a shining light of hope and makes me excited for my next couple years at Central in the new science wing,” says Junior Reece Mathews.

The total bond dollars approved in 2014 was $110.7 million for the entire school district. Central’s budget alone is just over $26 million. Fifty-one percent of the construction has been completed since being started at the end of last school year.

“Right now the old science wing just looks bland and lame. I’m really looking forward to the new science

5

Central’s total budget from the bond

51%

$26,252,490

of the construction is completed

8 classrooms

in the new science wing

THE WHOLE SCHOOL IS GETTING RENOVATED. EVERY PORTION OF IS GOING TO GET TOUCHED. THERE IS A LOT OF CHANGE COMING IN THE NEXT YEAR.

-MATT HOHN superintendent of central construction

News Update

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A headshot of the drug dog, Bernie. photo by sunshine gadson

K-9 PYLON DECEMBER 19, 2016

INTRUSION

THE WORLD’S BEST SEEKERS

by umar sandhu pylon reporter K-9 works as far as how it sniffs out drugs and bites,” said Officer Londono. “Kids underestimate the smell of a trained dog.

Everyone hates getting caught doing bad things, no matter One day, there was a student who just had two baggies with how small the deed. When we were little, we would hide under the residue, just the residue, under his driver and back passenblankets and slide candy behind our backs when our parents ger seat. My dog hit both of them in a matter of seconds.” walked in. But now, the stakes have risen. For some, the candy Officer Londono said, “One of the reasons we ALWAYS has turned into alcohol and drugs. However, through the years wait for schools to let us know that there is someone they think of experience of hiding, we have come up with better ways to could have some drugs is because we’re more conceal our secrets. A new player has entered concerned about the kids getting an education the game on our parents side to help uncover than busting one kid for possession. If I walked our secrets: the police department. The police in every day and caught a student for posseshave turned the game of casual look overs from sion, it would disrupt school and you won’t be mom into extensive sniff outs with military-like able to learn.” strategies.

“If I could teach kids anything, it would be As players in this game of hide and conceal, that if you do get caught by a dog, a person who students have become interested in how the seekers play their game. As a way to teach admits to it and shows that they are trying to make an improvement won’t be sent to jail. The his students about the different niches in the person who just sits there and refuses however police department, Mr. Stauffer brought in will draw the bad side of the judge.”

Officer Londono and his dog, Bernie, to show Life is like a game. As you go further, it gets his American Justice class just how a K-9 unit Officer Londono harder and more complicated. You have to get used works. K-9 units are one of the most precise drugseeking tools the police harbor. Officer Londono demto the game and may even have to change you’re onstrated how his dog was trained to sniff out drugs and attack. playing strategy. The player who refuses to change his ways With a signal from Officer Londono, Bernie would chase Officer will get more than a stern talk from mommy and daddy this time around. Even though the safest way to not get caught is to stay Moreland, bite down on his carpet wrapped arm and then hold inside the playing field, there will always be the outliers. All on to prevent him from running away.

“It was pretty rad to watch. It’s crazy how the dogs do their they need to know is that they are going to have to face some thing,” said Senior Jose Preciado. furry-faced dead-accurate monsters out there, and we don’t just mean the dogs.

“I think I taught the kids the basics of what I do and how the

News Update

PYLON DECEMBER 19, 2016

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HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT

POLICE OFFICERS? Students stand and watch a demonstration from the drug dogs and police officers. photo by sunshine gadson

78%

students like police officers and feel safer around them

30% 66% OF STUDENTS HAVE DONE DRUGS

OF STUDENTS ARE STRICTLY AGAINST EVER DOING DRUGS

Yes, I like cops, but I dislike the system. I also believe it’s important to judge the person not the badge. Some of these folks mean nothing but good.

Senior Jose Preciado

I don’t like cops because most of them make me feel inferior. #BLM Junior Aaron Darby

I have no problem with cops; I believe some cops have twisted ways but personally have never had trouble with a “bad” cop.

Senior Tristian Pittenger

3 out of 10 people who do drugs have come to school under the influence without staff noticing.

Why did you start doing drugs?

1. FOR FUN 2. RELIEVE STRESS 3. NO REASON 4. PEER PRESSURE

*140 students were surveyed during W6 and W8 on December 1

The reason cops disturb me is because they work for the politians not the people.

Senior Julian Falco

IN DEPTH

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PYLON DECEMBER 19, 2016

THROUGH

HIS EYES

Despite all the good police officers do for communities, much of the press towards the police in the last year has been increasingly negative as videos and images of police brutality spread through social media. Shawn Moreland, a school resource officer and policeman in the community, offers his perspective on the current situation and the positive aspects of the police force. Do police officers feel threatened?

by chloe guillot pylon editor

IN DEPTH

PYLON DECEMBER 19, 2016

WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON THE RECENT HOSTILITY TOWARDS POLICE OFFICERS? Law enforcement has never really been “high” on most anyone’s list, but the resounding feeling the media is portraying or focusing on seems overwhelmingly negatively focused toward law enforcement.

I began my career 17 years ago after spending 11 years in the Army and the Navy. I was so excited to tell everyone I met I was now a police officer! My family was proud yet apprehensive of my choice of jobs and most of my friends were happy of my decision. After a couple of years and the “giddy” excitement had dulled, I began to see the world around me no longer looked the same and people stopped looking at me as “Shawn”.

The world didn’t look the same because I was now immersed in a part of society most of the population doesn’t see. No longer did I simply think there were bad people in the world, I was looking for them now. I began to understand why so many cops are cynical and seem condescending. People don’t call the police because they had a great day or it is their child’s birthday. They call because someone smashed their vehicle window and stole their purse or their baby’s daddy showed up to the birthday party drunk and got into a fight with mom and her new boyfriend.

It seems with the growing use of social media and cell phones, the public is ready to jump to a conclusion without knowing any of the facts. Simply seeing something on Instagram or Twitter is accepted as fact.

I HAVEN’T MET AN OFFICER YET WHO WOULD JEOPARDIZE THEIR INTEGRITY FOR AN UNJUST ACTION. - OFFICER MORELAND Some choose to believe an officer is willing to lose everything simply to make a small time drug arrest or write a silly ticket.

Why would anyone give up all they have for a stat? I haven’t met an officer yet who would jeopardize their integrity for any unjust action. There are bad officers out there no doubt. I see plenty who probably should have chosen another path, but those type of people are in every line of work. The problem is there are very few jobs out there with so much authority in the world. Every time I speak to people I have to be very smart about how the words I use now could be repeated to another.

I worry about the new trend to simply kill officers. When the Black Lives Matter movement began, the resounding theme seemed to be against white law enforcement officers. Now it seems killing police in general is the goal. I know in larger cities, officers have decided to stop responding to calls for service. The very people who have complained the loudest about police brutality are now complaining about the lack of law enforcement presence in their neighborhoods. Life swings on a pendulum. We are moving toward the far edge of what is considered normal for most of society. I believe it will come back to the middle before too long, but I also don’t believe it has reached the far edge yet.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE BIGGEST DANGERS YOU FACE AS A POLICE OFFICER?

The biggest danger law enforcement faces as a general rule is domestic violence calls. We never know how things are going to play out when dealing with someone’s emotions. We are in their homes asking questions about their personal problems. Things can get out of hand very quickly if the wrong thing gets said.

HOW IS YOUR JOB AS A RESOURCE OFFICER AT THE SCHOOL DIFFERENT FROM YOUR JOB AS A POLICE OFFICER IN THE COMMUNITY?

My job as a School Resource Officer is basically the same as a Patrolman’s job. I just deal with people under 18 and their problems. This school is like a little city or an island. My job is to keep things calm and safe for you all. The big difference is here, people do come to tell me about the good things happening in their lives! I get to be part of everyone’s life here at school and hopefully portray the Police in a positive sense and not just as punitive. I have to maintain professionalism but I think it is possible to also appear human and approachable.

DO YOU FEEL THREATENED AT WORK?

I don’t personally feel any different about my job than I did when I started. I have ridden a giant roller coaster over the years, and I am currently at the point on the ride where it is amazing! I feel like I am better at my job than ever before. I don’t believe I am bulletproof, but I am not worried about anyone hurting me.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART ABOUT BEING A POLICE OFFICER?

This is my favorite part of doing this job! Telling you what I think about many things. Being around people I like and kids I want a great future for. I feel so lucky to have been given the opportunity to work with kids.

CAN YOU TELL ME ABOUT THE BLACK BAND YOU WEAR ON YOUR BADGE TO HONOR FALLEN OFFICERS?

The black band is a spin from the days when people would wear black bands on their arm as an indication they were in mourning over the loss of someone close to them. Most police uniforms are a very dark navy blue and the band probably wouldn’t jump out to most people. Our badges however, mean a great deal to us and they are very shiny. The band on our badge jumps out and is visible to all when we are on patrol. The loss of an officer is a big deal because we all know it could be us next time. We wear the bands on our badges as a sign of solidarity in our mourning and sadness for the tragic loss of life when the officer was doing a job most of the population doesn’t want to do.

9

Fine Arts

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drawn to senior sophie justus looks to painting as a n e x p re s s i v e o u t l e t

by Annie Hayes pylon editor photo by Ellie Cobb

PYLON DECEMBER 19, 2016

art

Justus’s painting, ‘Unity’(pictured above), will be on display at the Window Gallery downtown until January 27.

Her favorite painting she’s done (left) is a pair of blue Chuck Taylor’s she did during the 2015-16 school year.

PYLON DECEMBER 19, 2016

Justus enjoys making art because it gives her a break from her other classes. It gives her a chance to express herself. She thinks that art is a great outlet for creativity and emotion for people who might not have that opportunity at home.

Oil paint is Justus’s favorite medium to create with.

“If I could choose one person to have my art hanging on their wall, I would choose my grandma.

I think she would love to have something I’ve made to show her friends and our other family members” -Senior Sophie Justus

Fine Arts

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In Depth

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PYLON December 19, 2016

ANXIOUS FOR

A

’S

In Depth

PYLON December 19, 2016

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SCHOOL WORK IS DAMAGING TO MENTAL HEALTH

B

by Morgan Dolton pylon Editor

eing overwhelmed with final exams and homework makes students like junior Alex Botz question if it is beneficial for his mental health. For Botz, school is his biggest priority. Getting an A on his semester report card is the only acceptable outcome. However, a heavy workload and sleepless nights are just a few of the repercussions he has to accept.

“School work has triggered a large amount of stress. This stress has cost me at least one final, where I was so nervous I ended up forgetting the most recent things we covered in math,” said Botz.

Excessive amounts of stress can act as a catalyst causing serious mental health problems for teens.

Current statistics from the National Alliance on Mental Illness suggests that 20 percent of youth ages 13-18 live with a mental health condition. To break this down further, 11 percent have a mood disorder, 10 percent have a behavior or conduct disorder, and 8 percent have an anxiety based disorder. James Lumley, school psychologist, has experienced this problem first hand.

“Mental health service provision is an ever present need in our society today, school is certainly no different. I would go so far to say that school is possibly one of the most important environments where an impact on positive mental health can be made,” said Lumley.

It becomes hard to achieve a healthy state of mind

while trying to balance extracurricular activities and several hours worth of homework every day. For senior Hannah Cell, it is hard to meet the high expectations which has an effect on her self-esteem.

“It’s hard to juggle other things while trying to keep good grades. It can make you a little crazy,” said Cell.

Both Cell and Botz acknowledge the positive aspects high school has on their mental health. Social interactions that develop into strong relationships with classmates and teachers have had a beneficial influence on students.

“Interacting daily with peers and talking to other people aside from my family definitely has helped me learn more things while providing another opinion on matters like current events or other issues going on,” said Botz.

A high school environment can ultimately create a positive effect, developing a productive learning atmosphere for students, or negatively influence the way students view getting an education. Moreover, final exams and large amounts of work outside the classroom can result in students facing larger problems than their letter grade: their internal wellness and mental stability.

“The fact of the matter is that 1 in 5 children ages 1318 will have a serious mental illness. These numbers are concerning and thought provoking. Even more to the point, they should be action provoking,” said Lumley.

of students feel that high school has a negative effect on their mental health.

Junior Tabetha Deines. Photo by: Morgan Dolton 140 students were surveyed during W6 and W8 classes on December 1.

Student Life

14

PYLON December 19, 2016

The New Kids On the Block Salina gets new restaurants on Ninth Street

by Morgan Dolton pylon Editor

Qdoba

Chick-fil-a

Mexican Eats

Opening Date February 2017

“I think it’s great that we are getting more restaurants but I think Qboda isn’t going to be as good as Santa Cruz.”

-Sophomore Greg Gibson

57%

Coming Soon

Late Winter or Early Spring

Of students plan to attend Chick-fil-a within the first 30 days of opening.

140 Students were surveyed during W6 and W8 classes on December 1.

E Parkway Ave

9th Street

E Magnolia Rd

Central Mall

Dick’s Sporting Goods

Sonic

Kohl’s

Student Life

PYLON December 19, 2016

Five Guys Burgers and Fries Date Opened

Novmeber 14

by Annie Hayes pylon Editor Five Guys Burgers and Fries is an awesome restaurant. I’ve been there many times out of town, but my first time visiting in Salina was on my birthday.

Overall, I thought the experience was great. The burgers are kind of pricey, but if you take advantage of all the topping choices, it is worth the price. You also get enough fries to share with everyone you’re eating with (Don’t catch the flu from sharing though- yikes). The fries are kind of greasy, but I think they’re still good.

4.5 out of 5

You can always take some free peanuts if you hate the fries. The service is also pretty good. When I visited, their was a plethora of workers. The manager walked around and asked us how we liked the food, and the atmosphere seemed to fit the restaurant. I like how it feels really chill in the restaurant. The music they play at the location was great too. The location isn’t the best, but it’s basically across from Target which I went to right after lunch, so that was great. The burgers may be messy, but they are delicious.

Photo courtesy of www.flickr.com/photos 140 Students were surveyed during W6 and W8 classes on December 1.

Belmont Blvd

Target

Applebee’s

Olive Garden Walmart Super Center

E Shilling Rd

9th Street

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FEATURE STORY

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PYLON DECEMBER 19, 2016

A NEW

PAINTING

PERSPECTIVE

FEATURE STORY

PYLON DECEMBER 19, 2016

“I FEEL THAT IT IS MY DUTY TO REPRESENT THE TRUE VALUES OF ISLAM BY ACTING VIRTUOUSLY ALL DAY, EVERY DAY.” - SENIOR UMAR SANDHU The relationship between Muslim-Americans and Americans have been strained lately, but with the threat of ISIS hanging over our heads and the propaganda used during election season from candidates on the national and state levels, the distrust of Muslims in America has seemingly escalated. The number of violent attacks on Muslims in the United States is the highest it has been since the 9/11 attack. The problem lies in some people’s inability to separate religion from terrorism. Senior Umar Sandhu is one of few Muslims that live in Salina, and despite the way his religion is viewed by some in America, he continues to set a positive example. Although his life is different from his classmates, he continues to be a hard working student, a dedicated friend and a reminder that not all stereotypes are true.

by chloe guillot pylon editor

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FEATURE STORY

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PYLON DECEMBER 19, 2016

Sandhu w orks on a newspap Journalis er spread m room. in the photo by ellie co

bb

Sandhu b ow Texas ove s his head in praye r Thanksg r iving brea at a service in k. FI

When Senior Umar Sandhu wakes up in the morning, he begins his day by standing up and performing a morning prayer known as Fajr, the first of five required daily prayers to be said by Muslims. Sandhu then prepares for school by packing his own lunch, since school lunches do not contain meat that is kosher (halal), and spends his spare minutes reading from his Holy Book. After that, Sandhu heads to school with 1000 other students, who despite not sharing his religious beliefs, do share the struggles of an everyday American teenager.

“When I’m in school I don’t think of myself as different from any other American teenager, I just see myself like everyone else does. I know that like everyone else around me, I’m holding my own joys and stresses. My issues are the same as all the other high-school students. I worry about homework, tests, friends, graduation and college,” said Sandhu.

WHEN I’M IN SCHOOL, I DON’T THINK OF MYSELF AS DIFFERENT FROM ANY OTHER AMERICAN TEENAGER, I JUST SEE MYSELF LIKE EVERYONE ELSE DOES. - SENIOR UMAR SANDHU Sandhu moved from Oklahoma to Salina when he was in seventh grade. He is one of few Muslims in Salina, but despite his differences, he feels that school has become a place where he is accepted for who he is.

“I think people have gotten pretty used to me at school in the six years I’ve been in Salina. At the start, I used to hear at least four racial jokes a day, but by sophomore year, they were a thing of the past. I think as people got to know me better, they realized that Muslims are no different than anyone else,” said Sandhu.

Although Sandhu feels very comfortable amongst his classmates, he does sometimes feel the pressure of being a MuslimAmerican outside of school.

“In public, I do notice the long glances of a few adults towards me when I accompany my mom, who wears traditional Indian attire. I often do errands with her but most of the time she

LE PHOTO

Sandhu p articipate s in the H rally by d omecom rawing a ing pep picture. phot o

by ellie co bb does them by herself and feels completely comfortable in doing so. She is a very confident, strong and patriotic American,” said Sandhu.

The looks that Sandhu and his family receive are typical for Americans with different ethnicities in this country. Most Americans are open-minded, but there is still a segment of this country that feeds on discrimination. Unfortunately, over the past decade, terrorists committing senseless acts of violence towards innocent people have given some a negative view of the Islamic religion. In the last year alone, hate crimes towards Muslims have spiked by 62 percent, the highest rate of crime against Muslims since the year following 9/11. Even in Kansas, a group of three men were arrested for planning an attack on an apartment complex full of Somali immigrants. This increased violence is due to anti-Muslim rhetoric that has been spread by high power politicians and media personalities alike, giving Muslims everywhere a bad name. However, Sandhu, as well as many other American-Muslims, do not share the same views as these radical terrorists.

“Our Holy book states that killing one innocent person is as if one has killed the whole of humanity and saving the life of one person is like saving all of humanity. Just as Crusaders did not represent the principals and values of Christians, terrorists today don’t represent values of Muslims. Terrorists today are using perverted ideology to gain political power. Almost all religious scholars have declared these groups evil apostates who are disparaging Islam,” said Sandhu.

The important distinction to make is that ISIS is a radical terrorist group while Muslims are a religious group. Despite their religious beliefs and practices, Muslim-Americans are not any different than other Americans. They still breath the same air, work the same jobs and share the same love for their friends, families and country. There are Muslims in uniform fighting on the front lines for our country. There is an added pressure on Muslim-Americans to protect their faith and beliefs from being soiled by groups like ISIS, and Sandhu feels the weight of saving that reputation on his shoulders.

“I do feel a little pressure to represent and I try my best to practice the values of generosity, thoughtfulness, empathy, service and compassion that my parents taught me ,” said Sandhu.

FEATURE STORY

PYLON DECEMBER 19, 2016

Sandhu w ea internship ring his scrubs fo r his at the ho sipital. photo el

Sandhu ri de the Home s with Senior Emm coming p a Cain du ring arade. photo

lie cobb

by ellie co

bb

“WAS THERE EVER A TIME WHEN YOU WERE SCARED TO BE A MUSLIM?” - SENIOR KATIE MYLAR

No. I have confidence in the American people and that they won’t discriminate against us. The vast majority of Americans are open-minded, open-hearted, loving and intelligent people.

'WHAT’S THE BIGGEST MISCONCEPTION EVERYONE HAS ABOUT MUSLIMS?” - JUNIOR ADAN NEVAREZ

The biggest misconception about American Muslims is that we are not patriotic. People fail to realize that our love for the US is much stronger because immigrants have been given a new lease on life in this country where they find security and opportunity.

“WHAT KIND OF FOOD IS TRADITIONAL WITHIN YOUR ETHNICITY?” - SENIOR ADRIAN CASTRO

Almost every meal has roti in it. Got some curry? Eat it with roti. Got some dal? Eat it with some roti.

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Sandhu w ith his co usins in th traditiona eir l garb. file photo

“HE’S ONE OF THE MOST EASY-GOING GUYS I KNOW; YOU COULD HAVE A CONVERSATION WITH HIM ABOUT ANYTHING.” SOPHOMORE REBECCA HOUGH

“UMAR’S SMILE ALWAYS MAKES MY DAY WHEN I SEE HIM IN THE HALLS.” SOPHOMORE LAUREN CULLINS

EDITORIALS OPINION

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PYLON DECEMBER 19, 2016

Staff editorial: One microwave is not enough lunch room would cause students less stress if a second microwave was available

P

by karley Benson Pylon Opinion Editor

icture this: you’ve been starving since W2 and waiting in line to heat up their food. the much anticipated lunch bell rings you to the Freshman Madeline Paradis brings her own lunch every cafeteria. Students flood the lunch room and as day and so do most of her friends. Paradis said, “I don’t use usual, you are one of the last ones to find a seat at the microwave that often but many of my friends do, and it the table you sit at. takes them a long time to use it. They sometimes don’t have You whip out some Ramen Noodles and make the trek to enough time to eat lunch afterward.” the microwave only to find out that three other people with Students who don’t even bring their lunch from home still easy-mac and chicken-pot-pie have beat you to it. Shoul- support the idea of a second microwave. Even if they don’t ders hunched in visible disappointment, you now have to have leftovers to heat up or a can of soup to nuke, they could stand next to the microwave for five to ten minutes waiting still use the microwave to melt the cheese on a sandwich, your turn to heat up your meal. warm a brownie from the snack line, or to make the chicken By the time you actually get back to your table to eat, in their wrap above room temperature. you have no time to socialize, finish your lunch, text back Sophomore Megan Sankey never brings her lunch. However, your mom, or let your food cool down to eating temperature, Sankey advocates for a second microwave. so of course you burn your tongue in the process and ruin “The school needs a second microwave. They should put it your day. This unfortunate routine is commonplace for many on the upperclassmen side of the lunchroom so everyone students such as Senior Lex doesn’t have to walk all the Nebbling. way to the freshman side if THE SCHOOL NEEDS A “I bring my lunch pretty they want to use it. That way much everyday. We should the wait wouldn’t be as long,” SECOND MICROWAVE. THEY get a second microwave and said Sankey.

SHOULD PUT IT ON THE put it on the upperclassmen Whether you bring your side of the lunchroom, so it lunch because school food UPPERCLASSMEN SIDE OF takes less time to heat up makes you cringe or you are THE LUNCHROOM. food,” explained Nebbling. just trying to save some money Another victim of long and eat somewhat healthier, lunchroom microwave lines a second microwave would - SOPHOMORE MEGAN SANKEY benefit you. For only $40, the is Junior Ethan Speer. He said,”It takes a really long school administration could time to heat up food, and I usually don’t finish my lunch if I cut microwave waiting time in half and give hungry students have to use the microwave.” enough time to comfortably finish their lunch. Some students Getting a second microwave would significantly reduce would be willing to donate one. the waiting time students have to nuke their food. This would Even students who scarf down school food five days allow them to finish their lunch in the 26 minute time frame a week support a second microwave. Less in-line time students are allowed to scarf down their lunch and socialize for their sack lunch friends who prefer hot foods means with their friends so they don’t have to socialize during class. more time for students to socialize. Because students are An average microwave costs around $40, and all these usually not allowed to chat in class, this lunchtime gossip is problems would be solved. Social Studies teacher Mr. valuable. Also, some students bring their homework to lunch Stauffer thinks a second microwave would benefit teachers and cannot afford to wait in a long line when they could be and students alike. improving their grades and completing homework they don’t “I bring my lunch everyday and use the microwave probably have time to do at home. twice a week. If there are people in line in front of me, it takes A second microwave on the upperclassmen-side is the me quite a while to use the microwave. I think the purchase answer to all these problems. Sack-lunch bringing students of a second one would be good,” says Stauffer. and school lunch eating students alike would all appreciate Some students don’t use the microwave themselves but more time to eat, talk, and do some homework over the are concerned with the amount of time their friends spend almighty lunch break.

PYLON DECEMBER 19, 2016

EDITORIALS OPINION

S T u d e n t s WA n t a s e c o n d

l u n c h ro o m M i c ro w a v e

3/11

students use the school microwave regularly during lunchtime.

21

71%

of students still believe in freshmen and upper classmen sides of the lunchroom. The only available lunchroom microwave is on freshmen side.

90% of Pylon Staffers believe the school needs a second microwave 140 students were surveyed during W6 and W8 classes on December 1.

cartoon by caroline donatell

Editorials opinion

22

PYLON December 19, 2016

Kudos & Letter to the Editor: PYLON IS TOO EXCLUSIVE Callouts Kudos:

-The election for being over. I can breathe again.

-Renaissance cards for helping me avoid the doom that is finals.

-Beanies. Perfect for cold weather and bad hair days.

-Basketball season for allowing me to be a spectator in a heated building.

- Everyone who didn’t participate in no-shave November.

Thx for ur hygiene -Snow for looking pretty and producing snow days.

- Mr. Showman for letting us duct tape him to the wall.

Callouts:

Dear editor, As a concerned student and a rather neglected one, I urge the CHS pylon to include more of the students that are not photographed constantly or questioned about things.

As being a student here in Central High I have seen most of your photographers and others taking photos of their friends and family and photographing the athletes and popular kids. I see mostly the scholarship winners, the preppy kids, the basic girls getting all the attention. I don’t know how many times I have seen certain people in the newspaper, at

least two or more times.

I like to read about different people, not hear a different opinion from the same people.

It would be huge for the other

IT WOULD BE BETTER TO READ ABOUT SOMEONE THAT I HAVE NEVER MET TO SEE IF I CAN MAKE A NEW FRIEND OR DISCUSS A SIMILARITY - SENIOR JASMINE PETERSON

kids to come out of the dark and be interviewed by the Pylon.

These people want to be in the newspaper, and it’d be a huge

self-confidence booster for some of these kids who feel they are not important to the school.

I personally think it would be better if the school newspaper had stories to read about someone that I have never met to see if I can make a new friend and discuss a similarity with them on interests.

I think I would benefit the Pylon itself to bring in new people and to interview different people. It would make the pylon that much more interesting to read.

Concerned Student, Senior Jasmine Peterson

COFFEE SHOP SHOWDOWN students pick best spot for winter drinks

With winter in full swing, students may look for a spot to get a warm cup of coffee or a hot chocolate on a cold day.

We had three students rank the three most popular coffee shops in town.

CAFES RANKED ON A SCALE OF 1-10 AFTER BEING JUDGED BY THE FOLLOWING FACTORS:

-Drinks and flavor

-Christmas for -Price-point emptying my wallet.

- A t m o s p h e re Being full of holiday cheer is expensive.

-Finals week for draining my soul and making me question Senior Shaela Williams Senior Mallory Diggs all my reasons to live. Senior Jasmine Leuthiphonh -Banks for closing soups early. I need money 24 hours a day.

-Subtweeters. Say it to my face.

-The heater in my car for being extremely ineffective. Thanks for nothing.

Overall Rating: 8.3/10 Overall Rating: 8/10 Overall Rating: 8.6/10 -Santa for not being Drinks: 9 (try hot chocolate) Drinks: 7 (try strawberry-banana smoothie) Drinks: 10 (try caramel macchiato) real. I wanted free Price: 8 (around $3) Price: 7 (around $4) Price: 7 (around $4) presents.

Atmosphere: 10 (outstanding) Atmosphere: 8 (fair) Atmosphere: 9 (good) -All this holiday food and stress for making me fat. My 600 pound FIRST PLACE: STARBUCKS SECOND PLACE: AD ASTRA third place: mokas life bound.

MOKAS

AD ASTRA

STARBUCKS

STATUS QUOTES

PYLON DECEMBER 19, 2016

“HONESTLY, I WOULD MAKE THE PERFECT SERIAL KILLER VICTIM.”

“I FEEL DEAD, JUST LIKE MY SOUL AND MY WILL TO LIVE.”

“MY CHROMEBOOK IS SLOWER THAN MOLASSES GOING UPHILL IN THE WINTER.”

STATUS QUOTES

“I CAN’T BELIEVE SHE GAVE ME AN OFFICE REFERRAL. I ONLY CUT ON TUESDAYS.”

The following quotes were heard around the school during random times of the month by Pylon staff members.

“MY FAVORITE WRESTLING MOVE WOULD HAVE TO BE THE PATRIARCHY SMASH.”

“I WOULD EGG HIS HOUSE BUT I LIKE HIS MOM.”

“I’M ABOUT FIVE SECONDS AWAY FROM STABBING MYSELF IN THE EYE SO I CAN GO HOME.”

23

In Depth

24

PYLON DECEMBER 19, 2016

That’s what

she said

students explain their views on gender equality and the pink tax in our school

by Annie Hayes

pylon editor

Senior Chally Miller strives for gender equality.

All around her, she witnesses patriarchy. To push for a change, Miller often buys mens products over items that are advertised towards females.

“Men and women can buy the exact same product, yet the pink one that says ‘for women’ is more expensive,” said Miller. This is called the Pink Tax, which affects most students, even if they are unaware of it. Miller, who buys men’s razors because they are significantly cheaper, encourages others to do the same.

According to washingtonpost.com, women spend an extra $1,351 dollars a year because of the Pink Tax. Items like hair gel, shampoo and conditioner can cost as much as 48 per cent more when marketed towards women. Services that require the same labor amount for both women and men, such as car repairs, dry cleaning and haircuts, also cost more for women on average.

“Inequality could probably be fixed if people equalized the price of products that are exactly the same,” said sophomore Douglass Chance. Chance does not believe the Pink Tax is a big issue because he has never heard of it before. He presumes that changes in gender equality will be slow to develop until things like the Pink Tax are more publicised.

Miller believes that the issue of gender equality surpasses receipts. She takes notice of the

inequality between students on and off school grounds.

“There’s been several instances that I have seen males favored over females for physical tasks that females are absolutely capable of. I think the main instance of gender inequality in our school is the inherent sexism in our society, and the underlying patriarchal views that many aren’t even aware are present,” said Miller.

She expressed that in many sports, like basketball, the women’s team is underappreciated.

Miller thinks that our girls teams are very good and should get more respect and attention.

Despite the negative connotation that some associate with the word, Miller proudly calls herself a feminist. She’s not afraid to express her opinions about the matter.

“This is an issue that I feel strongly passionate about… I believe that anyone that believes in equality should call themselves a feminist” said Miller.

She does everything she can to push for a change in our school and world.

“For the first time in history, a woman was a major party presidential candidate” said Miller. She sees this as major progress. Although things like the Pink Tax exist, Miller knows that changes are coming and is very excited to see equality prevail.

PYLON DECEMBER 19, 2016

In Depth

14% 48% of students do not know what the Pink Tax is

of students are affected by the Pink Tax

140 students were surveyed during W6 and W8 on December 1 Senior Chally Miller looks to a future where all genders are equal. photo by Annie Hayes

25

ATHLETES SPORTS

26

Salina Central Girl’s Basketball

Senior B

ackes r Elisa B

Photo b

Selah Merkle Sophomore -Guard/Post

Tipping Season off the

by Holly Sanderson and Caroline Donatell

Casey Knoth Senior -Guard

Emma Cain Senior- Guard

ayleigh P e

y: Holly

Junio

Players To Watch:

PYLON December 19, 2016

pylon reporters

Central Girl’s Basketball tipped off the season at home against Goddard. The team has had a lot of changes this year. Including new coaching staff, a big freshman class to help out the team, new uniforms and of course the gym being redone. With a winning record last year the team is in hopes to keep it going this year and take state.

tty

Sanders

on

Varsity Girls’ Schedule: Dec. 2 Goddard- H Dec. 6 Junction City- A Dec. 9 Hutch- H Dec. 13 Derby- H Dec. 16 Salina South- A Jan. 3 Campus- A Jan. 6 Eisenhower- H Jan. 10 Maize South- A Jan. 13 Maize HS- H Jan. 19 - 21 SIT Jan. 31 Newton- A Feb. 3 Hutch- A Feb. 7 Derby- A Feb. 9 Hays HS- H Feb. 14 Campus- H Feb. 17 Mazie HS- A Feb. 21 Salina South- H Feb. 24 Newton- H

Sports Briefs

PYLON December 19, 2016

27

Winter Sports Briefs “I am looking forward to my last year of bowling with my friends. I have enjoyed these past three years with my team and I am excited to create more fun memories with them.”

“This year we have a good number of wrestlers and many of them have wrestled before. It will be important for those of us returning to step up and lead the team.

Also we will need to show them what it takes to make a successful team.”

- Senior Camisha Stevenson

- Sophomore Drew Burgoon

January 5

First home bowling event

200 Medley

Wrestling is

2-0 in duals

3

State Qualifying relay

Girl’s basketball KBCA rank as of December 5 “We have a lot of new freshman this year compared to years past. I think the team we have and the individuals our team can make it to state this year.”

- Sophomore Adrian Ruvalcaba

“I’m just gonna try to have fun with it because I know it will go by fast. This year’s team has a good chance of making it to state. We should be a really good team and hopefully come out with numerous trophies.”

- Senior Brayden Neuschafer

“I am super excited about this year’s upcoming basketball team. We have most of our starting players returning this season and the energy and excitement to finish what we started last year.”

- Junior Elisa Backes

Athletes Sports

28

PYLON OCTOBER 19, 2016

Size and a lack of vision interfered with me being able to compete with my peers, but I enjoy being part of a team, so I decided to become a manager.

-SOPHOMORE JOSH DAILY

Sophomore basketball manager File Photo

Sports on the Daily insight on being on the other side of the game

F

by Holly Sanderson pylon reporter

or sophomore Josh Daily, being apart of the game doesn’t always mean being in the game. When Daily was only four years old, he was diagnosed with Craniopharyngioma, a type of brain tumor. Once he had surgery, the doctors figured out the tumor damaged his peripheral vision and his pituitary gland. These damages caused by the tumor have made Daily physically who he is today, but has made him a stronger person.

“As I got older, reading and playing sports were a challenge without my peripheral vision, but I have learned to adapt to different situations,” said Daily.

Growing up, Daily was involved in basketball, baseball and football. As he got older though, it became more challenging to play. His peers were growing and athletically developing quickly. This was a challenge because Daily’s tumor caused him to be growth hormone deficient which means he grows slower than others.

“Size and a lack of vision interfered with me being able to

compete with my peers, but I enjoy being part of a team, so I decided to become a manager,” said Daily.

Daily has been a manager for basketball and football since he was in eighth grade. Each practice, he has very important jobs he has to do. His favorite part about managing though isn’t just the practices. It’s going to all the games with the team.

“At football practice, I set up the hypod, the camera used to record practices and games. It is a large piece of equipment, and it requires a lot of set-up and tear down, so I don’t get to help on the sidelines as much this year. My freshman year I helped on the sideline with water, assisting coaches, and any other jobs that needed to be done on the field during practice or a game,” said Daily.

In the future, Daily would like to either go into sports medicine or be a team trainer. However, Daily’s dream since he was a little kid would be to play football for Coach Bill Snyder at Kansas State. Even though Daily is unable to participate in sports, he still makes a difference on and off the court.

INFO GRAPHIC

PYLON DECEMBER 19, 2016

CHRISTMAS BY THE

NUMBERS 64%

29

amount of money students spend on christmas gifts

$1-20

14%

$20-50

36%

of students were in elementary school when they found out santa wasn’t real

$50-100

21% $100+

SANTA’S SLEIGH WOULD HAVE TO TRAVEL AT 5,083,000 MPH TO DELIVER PRESENTS ALL AROUND THE WORLD

21%

favorite christmas

favorite christmas

carol 93% movie 29% 29%

SILENT

NIGHT

“JOY TO THE WORLD” - 7% “DECK THE HALLS” - 14% “JINGLE BELLS” - 21% OTHER - 29%

OF STUDENTS CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS

THE GRINCH

“A CHRISTMAS STORY” - 3% “SANTA CLAUSE” - 14% “HOME ALONE” - 21% “ELF” - 21% OTHER - 12%

IF YOU ACTUALLY BOUGHT EVERY GIFT IN THE SONG

“THE TWELVE DAYS SPANGLER CANDY COMPANY MANUFACTURES

2.7 MILLION CANDY CANES EACH DAY

OF CHRISTMAS” IT WOULD COST

$34,363.49

26.3 MILLION

REAL CHRISTMAS TREES WERE PURCHASES IN 2014

*140 students were surveyed during W6 and W8 on December 1 *statistics from CNN.com

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