January 2014 Vol. 90, Issue 6

2013 All-Kansas Newspaper

January 30, 2014

Salina Central High School Vol. 90, Iss. 6

Hannah Schulte/ The Pylon

J.D. Garber/The Pylon

‘Anything Goes’ pg2

Shots of SIT Champs pg12

Obsessed with

addicted to captivated by controlled by

We have becomE

ADDICTS and might as well be cuffed to our phones pg 6-7

Looking ahead

0

Days until the Musical “Anything Goes”

Jan30-Feb1

7

Days until parent/teacher conferences

February6-7

15

16

February14

February15

Days until Valentine’s Day

Days until Sadie’s

19

Days until the South vs. Central basketball game

February18

21

Days until the Academic Achievement Awards (ELO)

February20

22

Days until State swimming

February21

Sophomore Marshall Hanson

2

January 30, 2014

Fine Arts

Editors-In-Cheif Mackenzie Morris & Emily Wood editor@chspylon.com

News Emily Wood news@chspylon.com

Business Team Afton Miller, Sara Ingrassia & Rachel Bevans business@chspylon.com

Student Life Jera Richardson studentlife@chspylon.com

Opinion Genna Salstrom opinion@chspylon.com

Sports Bailey Driver sports@chspylon.com

Fine Arts Eryn Hassler arts@chspylon.com

Feature Mackenzie Morris feature@chspylon.com

Staff reporters Austin Huynh, Travis Bigler, Trey Cullins, Casey Rayas, & Patty Dominguez

news@chspylon.com

Photography Carniecia Robertson, Eli Berner, Ian Johnson, Lindsey Wood, & Sydney Kossow photography@chspylon.com

Videography Dakota Rowlison, Connor Martens & Casey Campbell video@chspylon.com

Copy Editor Malina Barber-Regier

Cartoons Eryn Hassler, Sam Beck & Alexis Karabinas J.D. Garber, Adviser jd.garber@usd305.com (785) 309-3578

The Pylon wants to hear your opinion The Pylon gladly accepts contributions from guest writers on any subject. Please email your submissions to editor@chspylon.com.

Email your letters, preferably limited to 500 words, to editor@chspylon.com. Submissions must contain a full name for inclusion and we will contact you to confirm that you are the author of the letter. Letters may be edited for clarity.

The Pylon is the official student newspaper of Salina High School Central.

It is produced entirely by students of the newspaper production class, daily on chsPylon.com and monthly in print.

New Faces, Big Roles

Top 5 Drinks From

Starbucks

Juniors Hannah Schroeder and Zane Heigele take the lead in the musical, ‘Anything Goes’

If there was ever an underdog in the world of theatre, the musical “Anything Goes” portrays it perfectly; not because of what the musical has to hold, but who is cast as the big roles. These new faces may not seem so new to many of the students, but they are new to the big spotlight that they deserved when auditioning for the musical.

Junior Zane Heigele, mainly known earlier this year as one of the starting linebackers for the football team, has always been around the theatre and music atmosphere, but has only played minor and/or supporting roles in the past musicals and one acts.

This year, Heigele was cast as Billy, a young stock broker that is trying to make it big on Wall Street and is considered the main character. Such a big role would seem to make the person cast nervous, but Heigele is taking on this special role with huge confidence.

“I am completely honored to be cast as Billy. I’m excited for the opportunity and I’m also excited to be in such a great show with such a great cast,” Heigele said.

Even though Heigele is confident about his role, the stress level is still high. Trying to memorize lines, songs

and choreography are only some of the factors that account for his stress, but to him it’s all worth it.

“The stress can be a drag, but show time and the bonds I create with the cast make everything that I’ve done so much more worth it,” Heigele said.

“When the first scene gets done, all the butterflies and stress fade away.

The outcome is so worth it.”

Hannah Schroeder Junior

Heigele isn’t the only one facing a new challenge. Junior Hannah Schroeder, a transfer from Salina Christian Academy, faces the same challenge of accepting an important role. Schroeder takes on the role of Hope, the beautiful heiress that Billy falls for. Schroeder is also similar with the theatre atmosphere but she was taken by surprise when she got the role of Hope.

“I wasn’t expecting to be able to come in and get such an important role, but I’m really happy about it and I’m excited for the show,” Schroeder said.

The nervousness and stress factor do come into play for the young, new actress. Schroeder hasn’t been in a musical for a long time, so “Anything Goes” is a great opportunity for her to get back into the groove of things.

“The lines, music and choreography are all things we have to memorize. Also, we rehearse every day after school, so doing other things besides the musical, including homework, tends to get pretty stressful,” Schroeder said.

Schroeder keeps a positive outlook on the musical. She and the cast put so much work into the musical that when showtime comes around, their stress and nervousness go away.

“When the first scene gets done, all the butterflies and stress fade away.

The outcome is so worth it. Just being on stage, performing the very best you can and working for it is one of my favorite feelings in the world.

When the whole cast does their best, the show really becomes something special,” Schroeder said.

The new faces and the veterans of the theatre department are ready to present to the crowd “Anything Goes” on January 30 through February 1.

TOP10

iTunes

6 7

“Dark Horse” - Kate Perry Feat. Juicy J

1

“Timber” - Pitbull Feat. Kesha

2

“Counting Stars” - One Republic

3

“Wake Me Up” - Avicii “The Monster” - Eminem Feat. Rihanna

4

“Royals” - Lorde

5

“Say Something” - A Great Big World & Christina Aguilera

According to junior Bailey Driver

1

White Chocolate Creme Frappuccino

2

Caramel Brulee Latte

Tall $4.05

Grande $4.92

3

Chai Tea Frappuccino

Tall $4.05

Grande $4.81

4

Passion Tea Lemonade

5

Cookies & Cream Frappuccino

Tall $4.05

Tall $2.45

Grande $4.45

Grande $2.95

Venti $5.35

Venti $5.13

Venti $5.35

Venti $3.45

“Let Her Go” - Passenger

8

9 “Wrecking Ball” - Miley Cyrus 10 “Demons” - Imagine Dragons 1

Tall $4.05

Grande $4.45

Venti $5.35

January 30,2014

News Updates School board approves bond issue

By Bailey Driver

be a new auxiliary gym that will be designed as a tornado shelter, The Pylon expanded and renovated drama With $110,700,000 you and science areas, additional could buy a four lane highway, spaces and classrooms for career a high-tech roller coaster, a and technical education, and 25,000 square foot school security mansion or you updates in the Do you know what could renovate way of controlled the bond issue is?

USD 305 schools. entry points On December 10, and electronic the Salina Board surveillance. of Education A few of these approved the expansions may bond needed seem irrelevant to purchase the to some students, 168 students responded in an M1 survey expansions. but big things on Wednesday Jan. 22.

More than half are going to of the total bond, happen in the $75,700,000, is projected to drama, science, career and tech be used on Salina South and programs. Currently, all of these Central. programs are running out of Unfortunately for space in their small and outdated upperclassmen, construction rooms. on most of the projects will not An entire new area will be occur until after late 2014 and dedicated to the performing early 2015. The approximate and visual arts departments, time needed to renovate Central giving them an updated and is 3-5 years. Freshmen and more efficient space needed to upcoming high schoolers are in excel. The science program will for a whole new advantageous expand so each classroom has high school experience. room for lab stations with new “Students who will have technology needed to preform graduated by the time Central more accurate experiments. The expands get to be part of a legacy Career and Tech program will that will improve upcoming move into the current art area. high schoolers’ education and “Expansions to the Career and experience,” principal Shanna Technical Education programs at Rector said. both high schools are also part Main areas of attention will of the plans to provide more

49% no yes 51%

Total improvement costs:

$110.7 million

Would you vote to pass the bond issue?

55%

The Pylon Frigid temperatures, heavy winds, and precipitation are just some of the things you are forced to bare as you stand outside and wait for someone to let you back into the school.

Ever since last year, the administration has decided to keep all doors locked during school hours except the main entrance. This was a way to supervise those who entered the building. But for senior Patty Dominguez, who has in an intro. to teaching class at South, getting back into the school has been a hassle.

“I usually park in the south side parking lot and when I get back I just have to stand at the door until someone sees me or I

just text someone to let me in,” said Dominguez. With many students leaving to attend classes at a different building and the limited parking by the main

“I usually park in the south side parking lot and when I get back I just have to stand at the door until someone sees me or I just text someone to let me in. .”

Patty Dominquez Senior entrance, the administration is exploring the option of a new

First semester

memories Students reflect and remember the first half of the school year

Upgrades include:

-Safety and security -Technical education -All-day Kindergarten -New and re-modeled classrooms -New auxiliary gyms that double as tornado shelters

What does this mean to me?

-Leaving a legacy in your department (art, athletics, drama, etc.)

-If you move back to Salina to raise a family, facilities should be better and safer for them.

school-to-work opportunities for high school students that we are currently not able to offer due to shortage of space or outdated facilities,” USD 305 superintendent Bill Hall said.

The art rooms will relocate by the drama rooms for convenience and efficiency. As far as storm shelter, the auxiliary gym will be rebuilt so the school will have a large space all students can safely fit in.

33% 12%

yes

don’t no know

168 students responded in an M1 survey on Wednesday Jan. 22.

Voting: -March 7 is the deadline to register to vote in order to receive a ballot by mail.

-March 18 is the deadline to register to obtain a ballot in person at the County Clerk’s office.

-Election Day: April 8, 2014 The bond election is April 8, and will be by mail ballot. If approved by residents of USD 305, bond projects will begin in the fall of 2014 or spring of 2015.

“All in all, the bond projects, if approved by the voters, will provide more educational opportunities for students in all district schools and will also ensure safer and more secure learning environments,” Hall said.

Security to increase near south doors

By Dakota Rowlison

3

security system at the south doors to allow entrance during the day. One possibility is a system where you will push a button and get buzzed in from the office. This system would also include facial confirmation via camera. As this may seem like a good way to keep an eye on who enters the building and a solution to students pounding on the door to let them in, there are still some students not on board with this idea.

“I’d rather wait in the cold; it’s an invasion of my privacy to put me on camera for anything without my permission,” said senior Josh Martinez.

Nothing can be confirmed as of yet, but the administration hopes to put a new system in by the end of the school year.

“The brotherhood between each player on the football team.”

Codey Shute, 12

“The cRave first semester was the funnest dance I had during high school.

Glowsticks and neon everwhere was awesome, plus everyone danced.”

Max Kuhn, 12 “When we had the pep assembly and the teachers played basketball and Mr. Dykas shot like a girl.”

Colton Carney, 11 “When the drumline would perform during pep assemblies to get kids in the spirit and when Taylor yells “rufio!” the whole school yells back.

Heather Alden, 11 “Having our football team go farther than anyone expected, and beating South in basketball.”

Jessie Kadlecek, 11 “Going to the football games and conducting the band. My family and friends watching made it even better.”

Brittany McNett, 12 Hannah Schulte / The Pylon

Last week two students work together to get in through the south doors.

“The scholar’s bowl tournament at South. We got to spoon-feed people, stage a funeral for afrito, and win!

It was amazingly awesome!”

Hannah Janzen, 9 “The first assignment I turned in on time.”

Joe McMahon, 12

“The end of it. That special time when I could sleep as much as I wanted and save $50 a week from not driving to school.”

Cade Rosalez, 12

January 30, 2014

4

Student Life Syd’s Sermon Sydney Kossow Sophomore

Sadie’s

FASHION THESE BOOTS AREN’T JUST MADE FOR WALKIN’

With a queen crowning, change in voting Student Council hopes to add excitement to Valentine’s themed dance.

Female students continue to make boots a part of their winter repertoire: check out some of junior Carniecia Robertson’s collection.

Fun Fashion Brown Cowboy Boots Forever 21 Price: $30

Teens choose Netflix over TV Cartoons by Eryn Hassler

By Sydney Kossow The Pylon At first I thought I was one of few who spent a solid amount of time watching Netflix, but gladly found out that I was one of many at Salina Central. Apparently all the girls are at Justin Bieber’s crib watchin’ it too (only funny if you have listened to JB’s new song “Lolly”) .

Out of 164 students, 61% prefer to watch Netflix over regular TV.

FAVORITE NETFLIX SHOWS

“Pretty Little Liars”

“Gossip Girl”

By Casey Rayas

by surprise when they are on video during the early hours of the day.

This time around, there will “It’s going to be funny be a few changes to the normal to see how people react to Sadie Hawkins traditions. someone standing in their After so bedroom when many years of they wake the glory going up,” Welsh “I never thought to the king, included. it was fair for only there will now If you think be a crowning you can’t vote seniors to vote.

You’re of a queen just because candidate as representing the school your either a well. or a so why doesn’t everyone sophomore “I like the freshman, well idea of having you’re wrong. get to choose who both a king and After being they like?” queen, not only asked about the for Sadie’s, underclassmen but the other being able Aaron Farmer dances too. It to vote now, Sophomore means there sophomore will be more Aaron Farmer candidates and said, “I never it is fair to more people,” said thought it was fair for only senior Kenzie Welsh. seniors and juniors to vote.

Along with adding a queen You’re representing the school candidate to the picture, the so why doesn’t everyone get to chosen nominees will be choose who they like?” woken up by members of With this change student student council. council is hoping along to get Don’t be too embarrassed more students involved. though, because there will be Ballots will be available nine others that will have to during lunch next week. Don’t go through the same situation. forget to pick who you would The selected few will be taken like to see as king and queen.

The Pylon

Everyday Brown Buckle Boots Sears Price: $30

Black Combat Boots, Plaid Interior Forever 21 Price: $38

Classic Short Grey UGG’s UGG Australia Price: $180

Womens Mossimo Fringe Western Boot Target Price: $34

“Glee”

A poll was taken during M1 on Wednesday, Jan. 22 asking what are the popular shows watched on netflix.

$5.55 Classic LARGE Pepperoni, Sausage, Beef or Cheese 645 E. Crawford 785-452-9999

5 New Year

January 30, 2014

Student Life

New Me

Students look forward to 2014 resolutions

By Hannah Schroeder The Pylon

Carniecia Robertson / The Pylon

Junior Bobby Tech acts likes he is sleeping to show how tiring school and work can be while freshmen Sarah Brown and Junior Riley Gates look on.

& WEARY

WORN OUT

It’s the new year, and, just like the beginning of every year, people are convinced that this will be “their year.”

Many people have resolved to lose weight, stop cussing or remember to floss. Some begin to volunteer more, and others try get organized. Happens every time.

Here are some students’ New Year’s resolutions:

Hannah Schulte / The Pylon

I am going to pass school with all A’s and B’s this year.

-Kaitlyne Rowson, 10

46% of students get 7-8 hours of sleep A poll of 167 random students was taken in M1 Wednesday, Jan. 22.

By Hannah Schroeder The Pylon RIIIII-IIIINGGG!!!!!!

Sophomore Tristan Spicer’s 2nd alarm jolts him suddenly out of his deep and restful sleep. He blindly swings his arm over to his night stand and smacks his phone until it turns off. He only has a couple more minutes before he has to start his day. He opens his eyes slowly and rolls over to grab his phone. Clearly his five hours of sleep wasn’t enough. Whether it was doing homework, being on media, or participating in a late-night activity, he went to bed too late. We’ve all done it.

Getting up in the morning is a struggle for all of us. Junior Grant DeMars said, “The true struggle in the morning is when you’re half asleep and trying to untangle your headphones from around your face and arms.” Junior Bobby Tech admits to only getting about three hours of sleep every night, and even an alarm doesn’t work for him. Tech recently got a new job, and he spends so much time doing homework after work that he seems to have no time for sleep. Believe it or not, the recommended

amount of sleep for teenagers is nine and fourth hours a night, which seems to be impossible. Tech has noticed a lot of differences since he started getting less sleep. “It takes a lot more effort to focus, and a lot of times I even fall asleep in class,” Tech said. There’s the other obvious side effect of irritability. Not all of us are morning people.

“It takes a lot more effort to focus in class, and a lot of times I even fall asleep in class.”

Bobby Tech Junior

Lack of sleep is also blamed on media and smart phones. Students spend an average of seven and half hours per day consuming some type of media, whether it’s TV, social media (Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr) or simply playing games on their phones.

DeMars blames his sleep deprivation and lack of spare time on his procrastination habits. There are obviously other things students could be using the time we spend on media for, like homework, but nobody seems to think of that. We definitely put the “pro” in “procrastination.”

So how do we make up for our lack of sleep? We compensate. Caffeine seems to be a helpful tool for high school students, so coffee and soda are often in high demand in the morning. DeMars is a big fan of Starbucks and it seems to help him out with energy. However, caffeine dehydrates us and wears down our bodies so we get more tired and eventually get sick. It isn’t the best option, but neither is being tired. So what’s an actual solution?

Tech said that his sleep deprivation is “all the teachers’ fault” and thinks we deserve less homework in order to function properly. It makes sense, but we usually spend about two hours on homework a night as opposed to the seven and a half hours on media. It seems uneven. Teachers aren’t completely to blame.

Hannah Schulte / The Pylon

I decided I am not going to chew gum anymore, it has a lot of bad stuff in it.

-Alcy Falk, 9

Hannah Schulte / The Pylon

I am not going to argue with my mom as much this year.

-Justin Gaddy, 12

CAN’T WAIT A MONTH? FOLLOW US ON TWITTER FOR DAILY UPDATES.

@chspylon

Hannah Schulte / The Pylon

My New Year’s Resolution is to get a 1-rating on my vocal solos at state contest.

- Nick Bartholomews, 11

6

January 30, 2014

In depth

The

cellular

e r a sc

By MacKenzie Morris The Pylon

Picture a life without one of the most prized possessions for average teenagers: a cellphone.

No twitter, no texting, and using other people’s phones to get a hold of your parents. Yes, life would be a lot harder without a phone, but does our generation depend on these devices too much?

It’s difficult not to be attached to a cell phone with all of the possibilities that this one little device holds, from connecting to your friends and family in seconds, catching up with all of the news and drama going on in the world in the blink of an eye and even using your credit card or checking your bank account with a click of a button.

However, people are becoming too dependent on cellphones.

“Phones are like drugs, they’re addicting,” said junior Cody Ade. You would think the comparison of a cell phone to drugs is a bit extreme, but according to studies in 2012,

“

out of 313,000,000 people, 83% of the population own mobile phones, with 49% being addicted to their device.

“Phones are like drugs, they’re addicting.”

Cody Ade Junior

However, there is a positive effect of having a cell phone with you at all times. Not only is it extremely helpful to have during emergencies, cell phones make life so much easier and simpler. You can search the web in a second with a smart phone and find endless amounts of answers for your everyday questions. Cell phones also help you keep in touch with the world and what’s going on all around you.

What would you do without your phone?

There are over a million apps out there for phone users to download from messaging apps to popping fake pimples. With approximately 130 new apps being produced each day, the things one phone can do are unreal.

“I can keep up with so much in my life, my friend’s lives and the world because of my phone,” said sophomore Jake Bellerive.

As helpful as cell phones are they are just as destructive to people’s lives.

From my personal experiences, I lose hours of sleep at night just from scrolling through Twitter, checking the daily Vines, and having group texts with my friends.

“Phones are so distracting that they make you miss time that you could be using to do something actually important,” said senior Max Kuhn.

Being distracted by cell phones also lead people to ignoring valuable friends and family time because they are too busy being googly-eyed at their screen playing Candy Crush.

Don’t get me wrong, the technological advance cell phones have gone through is incredible and has changed the way we communicate and share information, but don’t let this invention consume your life too much.

Maps

EasilyDo

are SMS enabled

1-49

500-999 1,000-1,999 2,000+

Statistics from www.blog.datajack.com

More than

just an

app

Calendar

To some, an app is just another part of their phone... to others certain apps are an essential to their life

Instagram

Bible

”

Caitlynn Speilman

Jessica Johnson

Malcom Gardner

Junior

Junior

Junior

Junior

“I like finding out what’s going on in people’s lives by their posts, and it’s fun seeing all the goofy pictures people put up.”

Hipmunk Eat24

“I love seeing the daily verse; it allows you to start your day with a great message.”

“Vines are funny and I can use the app whenever I need a good laugh.”

This app sends you all of the recent scores, updates, news and stats from pro and college sports

Book a flight, hotel or car reservation in seconds from this app while you are planning a vacation or get-a-way

Order food delivery and takeout from food places near you, as well as read reviews and get customer ratings from other users

The teacher’s

Point O f View

We all know the school policy for cell phones: No cell phones in sight during school hours unless at lunch. However, some teachers have become much more lenient dealing with the usage of cell phones in class, which also leads to students abusing this privilege. Here are some teacher’s opinions on the excessive use of phone’s by teens and how it effects the classroom environment, positively and negatively.

“

Vine

Candy Dao

“I’m in five extra curricular activities, so it helps keep me organized.”

Learn another language from the palm of your hand. Instead of taking a class or buying a program, download this app to be educated from your phone

ESPN ScoreCenter

14% 12% 11% 50-499

From the help of this app, users can unlock their cars and or houses from the touch of a button on their phone

This app works as your own little personal assistant by reminding you of birthdays and events, as well as organizes your contacts and checks traffic

Duolingo

1.08 billion

3.05 billion

Watch your favorites from your mobile device on the go with over 100,000 shows and movies on demand

Viper SmartStart

150 students responded to a survey during random M1 classes on Wednesday, Jan. 22

16%

Get assistance from this app with finding all of the nearest places to shop in your location while providing phone numbers and directions to the spots

Google TV

Poll: How many photos are stored in your camera roll on your phone?

47%

are smartphones and a whopping

Connect your credit cards and banking accounts to your smart phone to pay for things without having to bring your wallet or purse everywhere you go

The Find

-Lori Leibowich, Huffing Post Executive Lifestyle Editor

4 billion mobile phones in use,

Allows you to navigate your way from one destination to another. With iPhone 5’s you can have Siri speak the directions without having to look at your phone while driving

LevelUp

We have all gotten so used to having these devices that are almost like our other limb, that when they’re not there we start to panic.

Of the world’s

Endless possibilities

“

Phones can be distracting. I can always tell when something new comes out because the obsession is stronger during that period.

However it’s useful for research and looking stuff up.”

It can be a great tool if kids use it correctly. Some things on your phone can get you far, but things like Flappy Bird... Where is that going to get you?”

-Mrs. Leech, English teacher

It is crazy. Some kids are honestly addicted to the point of when I ask them to put it away they get in a funk.”

-Mrs. Paradis, English teacher

A week my phone: Welcome to:

Struggle City

By Hannah Schroeder The Pylon

I wouldn’t say it’s weird that I’m attached to my phone. I’d say it’s pretty normal actually. It’s a huge part of my life that I depend on, which is not a bad thing, but it was eye opening how lost I was when I didn’t get to use my phone for a week.

Day 1 Monday, January 13 In my boring classes and during lunch I keep reaching for my phone and finding only an empty pocket and broken dreams. I miss Twitter because I have no idea what’s going on in the world. Also, I keep forgetting what I should be doing because I can’t put reminders to myself in my phone.

Day 2 Tuesday, January 14 Driving around after school with no phone honestly scares me. What if I got in a wreck or something? No one would know and I would die phoneless. Then again, not having a phone is kind of liberating. Nobody knows what I am doing and my parents can’t nag me about anything through text or call.

Day 3 Wednesday, January 15 This is really starting to suck. I can’t listen to music and I can’t make my incredibly entertaining snapchat stories. I’m sure everyone on Twitter misses my “#relatable” tweets. People at lunch suck; make conversation with me instead of being on your phone! I don’t miss being randomly “poked” on Facebook by creeps though.

Day 4 Thursday, January 16 I have pretty much no idea what is going on with any of my friends, but I do seem to be getting more done in my life, and I have a lot more time to write. Not being able to listen to my music is like losing a part of myself, though. I miss texting my friends. Not having a phone is making me become anitsocial. Ew.

Day 5 Friday, January 17 It’s Friday, Friday... Gotta do nothing on Friday because I have no clue whether or not my friend’s will be doing anything tonight because I AM PHONELESS. I’m getting tired of this, and I am struggling real hard right now because my hair looks super good today and I can’t take a selfie.

This is heartbreaking.

Day 6 Saturday, January 18 Today I went to Walmart, Target AND Starbucks (no white girl Starbucks selfie for me) and my parents had no way to contact me... Whoops.

Pretty sure my friends hate me since they probably think I am ignoring them. Everywhere I go somebody’s asking me where my phone is or why I didn’t answer their text. Just leave me alone to suffer.

Day 7 Sunday, January 19 Today I got a Sadie’s date! However, I couldn’t Instagram it like all of the other girls. Sigh. I still haven’t associated with my friends besides at school and I have nothing to do. Ever. Taking a teen’s phone away just leads to severe boredom.

-Mrs. Bigler, English teacher

“

without

7

I made it a whole week without my phone. Through the isolation, boredom and breakdowns that came along with being phoneless, it was actually pretty nice at times to be on my own and get more done throughout my day.

My Conclusion: phones are important, but not essential for survival.

8

January 30, 2014

Athletes & Sports Record: 12-0 Record in duals: 5-0 “We’re meeting

Connor’s Conference

the expectations the team has set. We have to improve in order to win games in the second half of the season because teams know what we do.”

Connor Martens The Pylon

Transition into new NCAA foul rules seems akward

By Connor Martens The Pylon Much like your average middle schooler, college basketball is currently going through its awkward transitional stage, despite the tremendous amount of skill amongst the players. With new foul rules, one simply can’t watch a single game without hearing the frequent sound of a whistle.

The new rules were put into place in order to pick up the flow of the game by only allowing minimal contact from the defensive players, as well as making it more difficult to get a charge call to occur. Sounds great right? Well, that hasn’t happened just yet. In fact, the increased amount of foul calls has actually hurt the flow of the game more than it has helped. In a matchup between Seton Hall and Niagara earlier this season, there were 73 fouls called and 102 free throws shot, extending the game to two and a half hours. No one wants to watch that.

However, that’s not to say the rule change wasn’t a good thing. It will actually become extremely beneficial to the sport.

Once the players are able to adapt to the new style of play, the tempo of the games will go up and basketball will be played the way it was intended: as a game in which defensive players play with their feet rather than their hands. As spectators, we can only hope this adolescent stage goes relatively quick.

Do you agree with the new foul rule passed in NCAA basketball?

78% of students

answered NO

22% of students

answered YES

95 students responded to a survey during M1 on Wednesday Jan. 22

Odalis Jimenez/ The Pylon Senior Shaelyn Martin jumps up for the ball during tip off against Andover Central.

“You can’t have a million dollar dream and a minimum wage work ethic.”

Coach Peters Wrestling

Coach Andrews Girls’ Basketball

Highest ranked Senior Emily Wood 43% from 3PT public school in 5A Senior Hailey Mayfield 60% from 2PT girls’ basketball Team averaging 62 points per game

Sarah Brown/ The Pylon Sophomore Easton Ryser looks up for the referee’s call as he prepares to pin a wrestler from Hutchinson at a home meet.

5A state wrestling 4th Sophomore Dalton Peters ranking: 5th Junior Dayton Will

Winter sports display dominance 14 state Record: 8-4 qualifiers

“Our goal as a team is to preform better at meets towards the end of the season to prepare for state.”

Coach Burgardt Boys’ Swimming

“We had a major turn around winning the SIT. The boys are ready to make a final push for the end of the season.”

Coach Finch Boys’ Basketball

Sarah Brown/ The Pylon Freshman Aaron Nesting comes up for air as he swims the breast stroke.

Sarah Brown/ The Pylon Junior Jordan McNelly lines up to shoot a free throw.

State qualifiers 400 freestyle, 200 freestyle, 200 medley, Key players are Junior RaShun Allen 94% FT Junior Jordan McNelly 9 rebounds per game include 3 relays Sr. Noah Hadnot 100 breast stroke and Sr. stepping up Senior Max Kuhn 39% from 3PT and 2 individuals Kyler Bell diving

Athletes in the mix Tanner Robl Boys’ Basketball Ian Korinek Boys’ Swimming Kennedy Lancaster Girls’ Basketball Michael McMullen Wrestling Tanji Lewis VETS

On the Spot

Worst moment of 2013...

Most overrated professional athlete...

Never will I ever ______________.

“Losing to Kapuan in football”

“Kobe Bryant”

“cheer for KU.”

“Breaking my ankle and missing half of football season”

“Shaquille O’Neal”

“fight Floyd Mayweather.”

“Michelle Wie”

“sing in front of the school.“

“Hyper extending my elbow in football”

“Terrell Owens ”

“swim more than 20 feet out in an ocean. ”

“Miley Cyrus at the VMA’s”

“Malik Veal”

“Miley Cyrus turning into a twerk master”

Your Yourdream dreamisisout outthere. there.

Your dream is out there.

Go Get it.

We'll protect it.it.

GoYour Get it.

We'll protect Your dream dream isWe'll out there. there.

Go Getisit.out protect it.

GoGo GetGet We'll protect it. it.

We'll protect it. it.

Daran Neuschafer Agency, Inc. DaranDaran Neuschafer Agency, Neuschafer Agency, Inc. Inc. 1528 E Iron Ave 1528 E Iron 1528 E Iron Ave Ave Salina, KS 67401 Salina, KS67401 67401Inc. Salina, KS Daran Daran Neuschafer Neuschafer Agency, Agency, Inc. Bus: (785) Bus: (785) 827-5150 Bus: (785) 827-5150 1528 1528 E827-5150 Iron E Ave Iron Ave dneuscha@amfam.com dneuscha@amfam.com dneuscha@amfam.com Salina, Salina, KS 67401 KS 67401 Bus: Bus: (785)(785) 827-5150 827-5150 dneuscha@amfam.com dneuscha@amfam.com

“get over Nick Jonas.”

9

January 30, 2014

Athletes & Sports

Stress has become prominent in coaching Coaching can sometimes be dangerous but their love for the game makes it worth it

By Austin Huynh The Pylon

Eli Berner / The Pylon Coach Hall high fives one of his players on the sideline.

Sleep deprivation, anxiety and stress are just a few of the health problems one can attain from a career of coaching.

During the regular season, coach Gary Kubiak of the Houston Texans, had a mini-stroke on the sideline during a game against the Tennessee Titans. This occurrence opened eyes to the pressures of coaching.

When asked where all the stress from coaching comes from, head football coach, Michael Hall said, “The coaching job is absolutely stressful, but I think more of it is self-imposed. I’m File Photo / The Pylon always continuing to learn how Coach Peters motivates one of his to deal with that stress.” wrestlers during a match.

For some student athletes, the stress level is always at a constant high when they’re put into a position that leaves them juggling school, sports and possibly a job.

If their time is only consumed by that, it’s hard to comprehend how much time a coach has, especially during the season, to themselves.

They constantly keep tabs on their players amongst the many tasks and duties that coaches

“Most of the time, the stress comes from us wanting things to be normal.”

Coach Finch Boys’ Basketball

have: watching endless hours of film, scouting out teams and setting up a daily practice schedule. It’s stressful; there seems to be no leisure time with the ridiculous schedules.

“Pretty much every waking moment I have during the season I spend getting our kids ready for the game as much as possible. That’s making sure the players execute the game plan to their fullest ability, making sure they’re eligible and that they’re doing the right thing outside of the football realm,” Hall said.

The stress factor doesn’t only come into play for football coaches, but for coaches of any sport.

“Most of the time, the stress comes from us wanting things to be normal. Our program is actually pretty good, but sometimes things leak out and it’s stressful to keep our players away from outside distractions,” coach Finch said.

Usually, especially in high school, coaches have another job.

Their strong passion for the sport and the love for the game makes the stress these coaches endure throughout the season worth it.

Parks and Rec basketball back at it

By Trey Cullins The Pylon For many, the Parks and Rec basketball league is a door to serious organized scrimmaging as a team. For others, it’s an escape from the competitive and serious atmosphere of the high school basketball league.

There’s nothing quite like gathering up a group of friends, giving yourselves an NBA team name and dressing up in ridiculous attire to play your heart out on the court.

“To me it’s not any different [than school league]. Sure, the level of talent may not be as good,

but the intensity level is just as high,” junior Raptors player Brandon Huynh said. Although many people

“To me it’s not any different [than school league]. Sure, the level of talent may not be as good, but the intensity level is just as high.”

Brandon Huynh Junior take this experience as a joke or something they can have fun with, it’s still a competitive experience.

Winning is imperative for the players because leaving with a “W” makes the experience much more enjoyable than not.

“Preparing for the season is very important.

My team practices at the YMCA regularly, gaining the skill needed to beat the competition,” sophomore Rockets player Braxton Duran said.

Whether A, B or C league, fierce aggression is needed to come out on top. With six games per team in league play and an upcoming tournament afterwards, the season is far from over.

By the

numbers a quick look at numbers and stats from the winter sports season

142

the number of offensive rebounds the girls’ basketball team has

8 17 148

the number of outfits the VETS own

the number of juniors playing a winter sport

the number of pins the varsity wrestling team has

1:09:8 the time of senior Noah Hadnot’s best 100 yard breaststroke

98

Ian Johnson / The Pylon Sophomore James Michel drives through the lane.

Michel plays on The Heat.

the number of steals the boys varsity basketball team has

“This season there has been a lot of young guys stepping up on the team.”

Dalton Peters Wrestling

Ian Johnson / The Pylon The Rockets strategize during halftime of their game. Team players include sophomores Elliot Martin, Austin Bradshaw, Aaron Farmer, Braxton Duran, Dane Hoffman, Addison Kindle and senior Dajon Samuels.

Ian Johnson / The Pylon Senior Noah Smucker shoots a three over his defender. The Pelicans defeated The Nuggets 115-25.

24

the number of matches sophomore Dalton Peters has won

14

the number of state qualifiers the boys’ swim team has

10

January 30, 2014

Editorials & Opinion

Genna’s Grudge

By Genna Salstrom The Pylon

5

Ways

school is like jail

1 less than tasty food 2

locked inside

3

freezing cold

4

power hungry administrators

5

forced to be here

School or Jail?

Administrators are exploring the option of installing a buzzer device or camera system at the south doors.

If the plans come through, students will have to be buzzed in by the office in order to enter the school.

Now, as I sit back and think, “Is this really necessary?” I honestly don’t think it is. Sure, a security system may protect us from weirdos trying to enter the building, but how big of a problem is that really?

I know school shootings and other tragedies can happen anywhere, but I don’t think we need to have such extreme security measures.

Other than that, though, I have a huge problem with authority. It’s like an annoying bug that won’t leave you alone. Most of the authority figures at this school, and everywhere else, abuse their power. They’re controlling and love to tell us what to do. All that does, though, for me at least, is make me angry. When someone bosses me around telling me what to do, I’m most likely not going to do it.

There are always going to be the people who cut class; there’s no way administration can stop that. If someone doesn’t want to be in class, they won’t go, no matter what administration does.

So, this little plan to take away what little freedom we have left needs to be shot down and buried. Again, administration needs to take a chill pill and relax a bit.

cartoon by Alexis Karabinas

KANSAS COULD BE THE NEXT STATE IN LINE TO LEAGLIZE MARIJUANA “Taxpayers spend more than one billion dollars annually just to imprison pot offenders.”

Genna Salstrom Junior

By Genna Salstrom The Pylon So far, twenty states have legalized marijuana for medical use, and two states have legalized it for recreational use.

Kansas is, of course, not one of these progressive states. As always, Kansas politicians are stubborn in not wanting to change their laws. They may be forced to, though, as the number of advocates for the legalization of marijuana has been growing stronger each year.

For example, Rep. Gail Finney, a Wichita Democrat, has been campaigning for the legalization of the plant since 2009. Finney is among the growing number of government officials that are advocating for the legalization of marijuana.

There are also many social groups geared towards legalizing marijuana.

Kansas For Change is one of these groups. The group is dedicated to changing marijuana laws in Kansas for medical use, responsible adult use, and hemp farming. Fire it Up Kansas is

another group that makes billboards in support of legalization in order to get the word out to the public.

There are also nationwide groups, like Marijuana Policy Project, which works to change state laws in order to reduce or eliminate the penalties for medical and non-medical use of marijuana. All of this support for legalization is hopefully opening up legislators’ eyes to the potential market out there.

Kansas For Change has proposed a bill that would create a way for marijuana to be regulated and takes the whole element of a black market away.

This bill has some supporters, but many representatives are too afraid of risking their careers to put their name on it.

Because of the unneeded “War on Drugs,” over one-third of the inmates in Kansas and one in eight of the inmates in the whole country are incarcerated for marijuana offenses. This is causing taxpayers to spend more than one billion dollars annually just to imprison these pot offenders.

Colorado was one of the first states to legalize marijuana for recreational

use, and in the first week of the law being in effect, the state raked in five million dollars in income. If every state legalized it, the amount of money this country would earn would be outrageous and could help drag us out of this awful economic state.

FOR OR AGAINST Initially marijuana legalization may appear like an awful idea, but Kansas may actually be behind the curve on this one. Here are some reasons why this piece of legislation may change.

Twent state have already legalized it Black Market sales may be eliminated if bill is passed State income will increase immediately An increase in funds could pull our country out of debt State Rep. Gail Finney has been campaining for it since 2009

January 30, 2014

Editorials & Opinion

Letter to the editor:

Students with exceptionalities, not disabled My Careers students had the opportunity to visit the Longhorn Steakhouse to see its operation and to be served a meal by the restaurant.

The Pylon staff reported on our visit to the restaurant, and we were very appreciative that they took the time to recognize us in the Pylon.

However, after one of the Careers students read the article, she took offense to the wording that was used to describe herself and her fellow classmates. Special education students are identified as students with exceptionalities, and the type of exceptionality varies depending on each student’s

particular needs. These needs may be in the areas of health, vision, hearing, motor, learning, communication, behavior, social skills, or giftedness. The exceptionality is not always visible to the general public, and students with exceptionalities do not want to be singled out, or be defined by one small piece of who they are.

When writing about a person with the exceptionality, the person should always be addressed before the exceptionality for example, “students with exceptionalities”. The article in the Pylon was written in a way that focused the

reader on the students being “disabled”, not as students who attend this high school.

The article did not need to include the word disabled as it was not a reason for the visit to the restaurant. Longhorn Steakhouse invites students from general education and special education classes to visit each year.

The student mentioned in the previous paragraph expressed the following, “The students that went to Longhorn Steakhouse were very excited not only to see what’s behind the counter, but to also try the amazing food. We were very pleased that the Pylon staff included

an article about our visit in the newspaper. What was upsetting was that the article referred to us as “disabled students”. While people might see it that way, we are like any other students. There are students in special education all around the building, and you wouldn’t even know it by looking at them. Being in special education does not mean that we’re not as a smart as everyone else, or that we don’t know anything.”

-Larry Dennison, Careers class teacher and Anna Dechant, Central school psychologist

Facebook becoming irrelevant Social media site now for older generation

By Riley Gates and Kamen Kossow

Insta

The Pylon

Truth is, Facebook had dropped in the ranks of social media even before adults took over. While parents are liking and commenting on all of their “friends” photos, the younger generations are switching to less parental controlled media such as Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat.

Using Facebook is like wearing a pair of Crocs; even though they are comfortable, they are out of style.

Many people think it’s necessary to post personal

statuses on Facebook, like talking to their therapists. This is an everyday occurence and is one reason why teenagers are turned off from it.

We are also getting tired of the ‘Game of Thrones’ and ‘Candy Crush’ notifications.

We would rather not spend our time playing games with you, so stop sending the hundreds of requests. It’s not going to happen.

As our generation takes steps towards newer social media, parents feel the need to follow.

Stop.

Although to us teenagers Facebook is out of date, we ask that you stay there.

It is not necessary for you to be taking selfies, being on ‘insta’ or retweeting your kids.

You can have Facebook and Myspace, but please stay away from all other social media.

“Using Facebook is like wearing a pair of Crocs; even though they are comfortable they are out of style.”

Facebook is poppin’

VS.

Social media site still in the game

By Alta Smutz

Guest Reporter

I enjoy Facebook; it keeps me current on what’s happening with my friends and family. I enjoy reading all the posts, as well as seeing all the photos of all my friends and family members. It gives me a laugh, or a smile, when I see some of the funny stories and quotes. It makes me cry when I read some of the articles that touch my heart.

I would say my favorite aspect is seeing all the photos of family members and seeing the age progressions over

the years. My daughter and my sons, from very young to teenagers, and now my oldest son, an adult. The saddest aspect is also seeing the aging of myself and my mother, and older family members. It’s hard to see, but it’s wonderful to share those photos with others.

I love Facebook and enjoy keeping up with friends, and I’m glad I have a Facebook account. I have also found so many old high school friends and college friends on FB. I’ve also made new friends on FB with my co-workers.

I’m a fan!

11

Kudos Callouts

&

The following are situations in which our faculty, students and others deserve praise for a job well done or to be called out for dropping the ball. They are made by the opinion editor with the help of the rest of the staff.

Kudos: -The iPhone 6 is being released soon. Can’t wait!

-Custard for being so yummy.

-VH1 for bringing back Single Ladies.

-Boys’ and girls’ basketball for both winning the SIT tournament. Do work!

-Those random days where the sun is shining and the birds are singing and you aren’t about to die from hypothermia are what makes me appreciate Mother Nature.

-There’s a Mystery Machine in Salina.

-Katy Perry and John Mayer for being adorable.

-Bobble head Jesus. Go Jesus, go Jesus!

-The brave souls who stood up by themselves and danced in front of everybody at the Snowball 2.5 dance.

-Forever 21 for having such reasonable prices and just generally being awesome.

-The new episodes of American Horror Story are amazing. #relevent -Congrats to the wrestling team for being better than ever.

Callouts: -When cars won’t even start because it’s so cold that their gas lines freeze, we should not be going to school.

-And when we’re twenty minutes late because our cars won’t start, we should not be counted tardy. What do you expect us to be able to do about that situation?

-The cold weather, again, for making those who work in fast food have so few hours that their checks are less than $100.

-People who spend time making up rumors about their friends. Get a life.

-Justin Beiber for smiling in his mugshot and just generally being a tool.

-Life is moving too fast.

There’s not enough time to get everything done!

-All of this unwanted and unneeded authority. Back off!

-The toolbags who take up two parking spots. Like, really?

-The other toolbags who turn left on Roach St. Get out of my way!

-The bells for ringing two minutes early and making everyone late to class.

12

January 30, 2014

the Pylon

Lindsey Wood/ The Pylon Above: Junior cheerleader Alexis Allen celebrates a mustang victory.

Carniecia Robertson / The Pylon Left: Junior forward Jordan McNelly drives through an Andover defender.

Lindsey Wood / The Pylon Far Left: Both basketball teams win SIT and earn plaques, copies of their brackets and medals.

STANG

GIRLS’, BOYS’ BASKETBALL CLEAN UP AT SIT HIT MID-SEASON STRIDE WITH TWO CHAMPIONSHIPS

SWEEP

Lindsey Wood / The Pylon Members of the VET squad and the student section get excited during one of the big moments of the South game.

Carniecia Robertson / The Pylon Junior Maclom Gardner defends an Andover defender as he brings the ball up the court.

Lindsey Wood / The Pylon Seniors Brooke Peters, Shaelyn Martin and Emily Wood get their medals.

Lindsey Wood / The Pylon Senior post Tanner Robl goes up for a shot during the South game.

Lindsey Wood / The Pylon Senior cheerleader K-Lee Jones gets the crowd going during one of the SIT games.