2
What’s inside
arts
The theatre department is well under way in their production of “Raisin In the Sun.” Check out cast members and top photos.
the pylon
Py
student life
4
Ladies, are you looking for a wardrobe switch up with the cooler weather? We have this fall’s top five must have pieces and steals.
Sports
8
Preview the football team’s journey into the post season with key lineups and players.
Vol. 91, Iss. 2 • Salina Central High School www.chspylon.com • October 31, 2014
Junior running back Dalton Peters
It’s a basic instinct. It’s nearly impossible to avoid.
Is it possible to push past perception,
or will this always be
STEREOTYPE
CENTRAL? Pushing past perceptions to the root of all stereotypes By Bailey Driver
F
The Pylon
reshmen enter from the large, crowded hallways of unfamiliar faces into classrooms they’ve never stepped foot in to find new expectations and new unmerited rules. These are just a few of the elements thrown at freshmen as they enter a new world with the “big dogs.” In the past, freshmen have been warned to sit on “that” side of the lunchroom, survive Freshmen Hell Week and steer clear of any senior that came in sight. Rumors started from upperclassmen scare freshmen into believing their first year as a high schooler will be remembered for its scars and bruises. But is this really the case in 2015? We’re here to inform you freshmen that there are no longer unwritten divisions of the lunchroom, Freshman Hell Week is not celebrated and seniors are surprisingly looking to befriend you, for the most part. We upperclassmen have provided you with Central’s very first Classified School Survival Guide: Freshmen Edition. We’ve been there, and we want to ensure that your first year as a Mustang goes as smoothly as possible.
Senior Bailey Driver File Photo / The Pylon
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October 31, 2014
Fine Arts
Racial play is ticket to conference
Editor-in-Chief Bailey Driver editor@chspylon.com
Status Quote Bailey Driver news@chspylon.com
Business Team Phoebe Edson & Jeniffer De La Cruz business@chspylon.com
Student Life Jera Richardson studentlife@chspylon.com
Opinion Emma Norris opinion@chspylon.com
Sports Connor Martens sports@chspylon.com
Fine Arts Grant DeMars arts@chspylon.com
Feature Hannah Schroeder feature@chspylon.com
Staff Reporters Paige Hieger & Casey Knoth
news@chspylon.com Photography Lindsey Wood, Christian Jacobs & Sarah Brown photography@chspylon.com
Videography Casey Campbell, Jake Bellerive & Sydney Koch video@chspylon.com
Copy Editor Hannah Schroeder
Cartoons 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. 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. 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.
By Grant DeMars The Pylon The theatre department is making history, as they are performing one of the school’s first all black shows. “A Raisin in the Sun” is a play set in the South Side of Chicago during the 1950’s, that expresses the struggles of African-Americans living in ghettos during that time. The cast is beyond excited to be a part of this historical and realistic show. Senior, Tre’Von Cooper, stars in “A Raisin in the Sun” as Walter Lee Younger. “He tries to be the man of the house, but his mother overpowers him in most cases,” says Cooper. “His father
“The show really explains the issue of segregation back in the 1950’s.” Tre’Von Cooper Senior passes away, so the family is getting a lot of insurance money, which will hopefully get his family out of the ghetto.” Getting into a nice neighborhood is the family’s main goal. The show really shows the issue of segregation back in the 1950’s. “A Raisin in the Sun” includes many deep morals, such as the need to fight discrimination, the importance of family and the value and purpose of dreams. Junior Akiyaa Hagen-Depusoir’s character, Beneatha Younger, is studying to become a doctor, which is tough on the family
These
because they are living in poverty. Beneatha, however, knows that pursuing her dream will help pull their family out of their financial crisis in the long run. The thespian troupe hopes that the play’s intense morals will help them make it into the annual Thespian Conference. Thespian Conference is a yearly convention for actors from schools all around the state of Kansas. Thespians will have the opportunity to take workshops in all areas of theatre, and select schools are allowed to bring a show to perform for everybody at the conference. The thespian troupe hopes that “A Raisin in the Sun” will be one of these few shows. “There will be three judges coming in to watch the show, and they will judge us according to their standards and in comparison to other shows they’ve seen throughout the state. If we are good enough, we can go to State Conference to perform, where other judges will be there to watch us. These judges will compare us to other shows throughout the whole nation, and if we are in the top ten, we get to go to Festival,” said Cooper. The thespian troupe is working extra hard for “A Raisin in the Sun” to make it all the way to Thespian Festival. “The show is going to be special since it’s an all black show, and it’s going to be even more special if we make it to Thespian Conference and Festival. It’s something that the judges probably haven’t seen much of, so I think we have a great chance at success, since it is so unique,” said Cooper.
Grant DeMars / The Pylon
Seniors Courtney Roberts, Tre’von Cooper and Jemiah Evans act out the opening scene of the play “A Raisin in the Sun.”
Grant DeMars/ The Pylon
Junior Akiyaa Hagen-Depusoir argues with Senior Tre’von Cooper.
SHOW TIMES:
Thurs., Oct. 30- 7:00 p.m. Sat., Nov. 1- 2:00 & 7:00 p.m.
bands ain’t basic
By Grant DeMars The Pylon With their fusion of indie rock and punk, the Arctic Monkeys have become one of the most successful bands in the U.K.. Their music features a solid, rock based sound with heavily accented vocals. A key feature of the Arctic Monkeys is that they slightly alter their sound with each album. The Arctic Monkeys’ newest release, “AM,” highlights steady beats, with a chill and laid back theme. Since their formation in 2012, English alternative rock group, The 1975, has definitely
been making their way up the charts. They are most commonly known for their hit singles, ‘Chocolate” and “Girls.”
1. The Arctic Monkeys 2. The 1975 3. Vampire Weekend Unlike most rock bands, The 1975 has more of an upbeat and electric pop feel, making them more mainstream than other bands of their genre. Their music includes smooth and mellow
vocals that accompany lively beats and synth rock sounds. The diverse sound of the band Vampire Weekend is a blend of preppy indie rock and upbeat Afro-pop styles. This polarizing group brilliantly uses these varying styles to create a unique sound sound that other artists cannot mimic. Vampire Weekend’s lyrics include topics such as love, materialism, and even religion. These relatable topics make listening to Vampire Weekend more enjoyable for their teen listeners.
POLL: Have you heard of any of these bands?
35% Yes
65% No 112 Students were surveyed in random M3 classes on Oct. 20
October 31, 2014
The Status Quotes
The Status Quotes was created to publicize students’ new lingo and interesting hallway conversations. The following quotes were heard around the school during random times of the day from Pylon staff members.
*talking about car stuff*
“Dude, I slid into your gmail and you didn’t even respond.” -loud Hispanic boy to small white girl
“It’s got room for my girl AND your girl!” -the two hicks behind me
“It ain’t bad being black.” -random loud kid in hallway after school “Now I’m gonna’ burp louder just for that.” -loud mouthed sassy girl
“I’ll lick your hand.” -nerdy boy
“Our saliva makes us sisters.” -short girl with Rapunzel like hair
“Now I’m going to have to walk away awkward as frick after that.” -tall female with green skirt
*Singing Milkshake by Kelis* - girl with zebra pajama pants
“There’s probably a halfway decomposed fetus in the freaking trashcan.” -boy with slicked back greasy hair wearing a leather jacket
“I have all A’s... One B... And zero C’s.” -girl with glasses in Ivey League tshirt
“I’m a STAR. Why do i have to be with these peasants?” -cocky male
*reads anime while walking down hall* -blonde haired girl with funky jacket
“I’m so hyped for basketball season.”
“Man, I was wanting to go out this weekend, but I’m on parole.” -suspicious looking male
“I can do 50,000 pushups... If I take a rest.” -tall boy with zero muscles
“The stress you’re giving me is equivalent to Brittany Spears.” - small ginger girl
“I LIKE MYSELF A CHUNK-A-DUNK.” -innocent short freshman
-poser dressed in all Nike clothing
3
“He’s got those magical eyebrows.” -tall boy with bushy eyebrows
“He’s more salty than my fries at McDonald’s.” -the giant sized boy towering over me
4
October 31, 2014
Student Life
Steals & Deals
Fall Fabs:
It’s time to predict Fall’s big fabs before they happen, must have Fall pieces for all outfits
Ladies, here’s some inside info on inexpensive trends
1.
Flannel Button-ups $15-26.94
Store: Old Navy
Checkered
Flannels
2. Boyfriend Denim Jean Store: Target
$29.99
3. Boots & Booties
$40.99-45.99
Store: Charlotte Russe
Flannels are perfect for layering under sweaters with a scarf and pair of riding boots. A flannel is ideal for any fall wardrobe because it can be worn many different ways.
Leggings
Not only are pattern leggings fashionable, they’re comfortable and versatile. They can be styled with just a t-shirt and over-sized hoodie, or even a blouse or sweater.
Long
Riding
Chunky
Patterned
Scarves
Not only are scarves warm and soft, but they are a great accessories. Pair a scarf with flannels, leggings, riding boots and for the perfect mix of fall textures.
Cardigans
Boots
Riding boots compliment any denim jean or legging. Not only are boots great for fall weather, but they can be worn throughout the winter months. Since there are numerous styles of boots to choose from, you can never go wrong.
Stores
Stores
Stores
Stores
American Eagle Urban Outfitters Forever 21
Deb Shops Forever 21 H&M
Target Kohls Charlotte Russe
Famous Footwear Nordstrom Macy’s
Cardigans are ideal for that extra layer of warmth. Layer them over flannels, sweaters, button ups or dresses. To complete your outfit add a scarf and a piece of statement jewelry.
Stores
Jcpenney Forever 21 jcrew
A poll of 72 students was taken during random M3 classes on October 20
iPhone 6’s bending appears to be media trap, not an issue
4.
Statement Necklaces
$7.90-12.80 Store: Forever 21
5. Knit Tube scarf Store: Forever 21
$9.95
By Hannah Schroeder The Pylon When the new iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus were released in September, excitement and anticipation spread like wildfire across social media. Apple fans all over the world tuned in to watch the live release of the new phones, and students tracked the updates through sites like Twitter and Buzzfeed. However, within six days, everything changed. Complaints of the phone’s bending tendencies hit the news, and a YouTube video of a man bending his iPhone 6 Plus confirmed the fears. The new iPhones were bendable. On Sept. 25, Apple responded to their worried buyers and released a statement about the bending issue. Their spokeswoman reported that a bend in the iPhone through everyday use is “extremely rare” and that the phone met or exceeded all the criteria for phone stability.
Of the millions of phones that were sold within the first six days of being released, only nine of them were confirmed as having trouble with bending.
“I have the iPhone 6 Plus, but I’m not too worried about it bending. Any phone can bend if you make it.” Cort Enriquez Junior According to Apple, the “bendgate,” as some have nicknamed the issue, isn’t causing too many sale concerns. Apple users simply don’t view it as enough of a threat. “I have the iPhone 6 Plus, but I’m not too worried about it bending. Any phone can bend if you make it,” said junior Cort
Enriquez. Despite Apple playing down this issue, minor bend problems are still happening. Junior Jaden Enriquez’s brand new iPhone 6 Plus bent two weeks ago. Enriquez said, “I put it into my pocket and pulled it out later and it was bent. It wasn’t bent too badly, so I just bent it back.” He believes that this bend was a result of an unstable case, since Otterbox cases had not been released for the iPhone 6 Plus yet. To avoid future instability problems, Apple has posted a job for a Product Design Structural Analysis engineer to help ensure that future iPhones are more trustworthy. They continue to assure consumers that bending is rare and should not affect their decision to buy the phone. Otterbox cases and other sturdy cases have recently been released for the iPhones 6 and 6 Plus. These cases provide a safe alternative for those who view the bending iPhone as a threat.
70%
students say they are not concerned about the iPhone 6’s tendency to bend A poll of 112 students was taken during random M3 classes on October 20
Jera Richardson / The Pylon Junior Cort Enriquez holds his iphone 6 plus.
@chspylon
5
October 31, 2014
Student Life
Knowing November
Upcoming Popular Events S.A.D.D. President & Dates To Destini Green Remember
S.A.D.D.
Lindsey Wood / The Pylon
Juniors Capri Willard, Makaela Redmond and Karlee Burbach support red ribbon week.
New people, New Ideas, Different Decisions By Bailey Driver The Pylon Looking back on her freshman year, junior Naudia Carroll recollects intervening in destructive decisions. Now, as vice president of SADD, Carroll recognizes the leadership needed to be a positive role model for SADD. “Being in SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions) isn’t a bad thing. In fact, we’re being a positive influence,” Carroll said. “I know a lot of the SADD members look up to me, so I want to be a good role model. Since I’m vice president, there’s a lot of weight on my shoulders to make good choices inside and outside of SADD.” New officers, senior president Destini Green and secretary and treasurer sophomore Shaela Williams join Carroll in leading SADD this year. SADD currently has thirty members that come to the meetings on a regular basis. Although Green and Carroll believe this is a good problem to have, they’re looking to
downsize so they can find members that truly have a passion for reaching out rather than finding something that will get them out of ELO. In past years, SADD members haven’t connected with the student body like they wished to due to a lack of constructive meetings and leadership. However, under the new direction of SADD sponsor Mrs. Menzie, they’re excited to make a stronger impact on students. “I like the change Mrs. Menzie has brought to our program. She makes it easier for us to get involved in the school and reach out to more students,” Green said. Carroll believes that under Menzie’s leadership, they’ll be able to meet more frequently because she’s more available than past SADD sponsor, Mrs. Benjamin and better equipped to meet their needs. “Mrs. Menzie pushes and supports us. It’s nice to have her there because she holds herself accountable for making all the meetings and doing anything she can to help us reach out to students,” Carroll
“We really wanted the students to know Nov. 5 what Red Ribbon week The 48th Annual CMA Awards actually is... Most students just grab a Nov. 15 Red Ribbon because Powder Puff Football they can get free ice cream or french fries at McDonalds.”
said. Each month SADD focuses on a topic that is considered an unhealthy behavior or destructive decision. This month, SADD reached out to students by promoting Red Ribbon Week. “We really wanted the students to know what Red Ribbon Week actually is,” Green said. “Most students just grab a Red Ribbon because they can get free ice cream or french fries from McDonald’s.” In order to make the largest impact on the students, SADD knew they had to do more than the minimal of passing out red ribbons to random students. SADD wanted to plant a greater meaning in students’ minds of what it means to be drug and alcohol free. They projected a strong message on becoming alcohol and drug free by making daily announcements, setting up a questionnaire table in the lunch room and creating a written message in the parent newsletter. “Once it’s over, I’m anxious to see how the students will react to Red Ribbon Week,” Menzie said.
Letter jackets, class rings losing appeal By Jera Richardson The Pylon Through the hallways, letterman jackets and class rings have seemed to quickly becoming less of a tradition. Not only have they been less of a tradition, people have lost purpose to buy rings or jackets. As coach Andrews reflected back to his high school days, he recalls everyone purchasing a ring, although he chose not to wear his. However, some have kept in the spirit for the jacket and the ring. When talking to senior Cody Sarah Brown / The Pylon Ade, he felt like his letterman Senior Cody Ade feels that his lettermen jacket will always remind him of his jacket had sentimental value to time in high school. Is he among the few who hang on to this traditional piece. his high school career.
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“Even though it does sit in my closet and collect dust, the maroon color is slowly fading like my memories of high school never will,” said Ade. “Letterman jackets and class rings represent and show the hard work you’ve put in.” However, the expense for both have cointued to increase and may cause some students to look elsewhere for a keepsake. Letterman jacket prices average anywhere from $110 to $400. Class rings start at $79 and can go up to $500. The question today, is the sentimental value of these items worth the cost?
Nov. 17
First Winter Sports Practice
Nov. 21 The Hunger Games: Mockingjay, Part 1
Nov. 23 2014 American Music Awards
Nov. 26
First day Thanksgiving Break
Nov. 29 Jayhawks vs Wildcats, Football
VS
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7
October 31, 2014
In depth
Stereotype Central
We’ll never understand each other until we push past our first impressions, judgemental categories.
“Everyone “I’m a good kid, but I “You really shouldn’t care “I actually “I don’t want to be gets put into like to have a little fun about what people think of “People are going to like being the judged by the way I stereotypes. It’s too.” you. It’s more of how you “I’ve never really say you’re something how high school typical theater dress.” “Stereotyping “I guess I look at yourself.” noticed the “We’re all being whether you want them works.” “I don’t know everything Madison Lewis kid.” “Just because I believe brought it on Brandon Huynh stereotype. I kind of “I dress like this is stupid. It’s ourselves. We’re to or not.” Senior “I like playing sports, . . . Sometimes it’s a Zack Hurre marijuana should be legalized Vance Johnson myself.” Senior rise above it.” because I want rude to judge not just one certain Sophomore but sometimes I like Xan Mattek burden.” Senior Courtney Warley doesn’t mean I should be looked people.” Junior to.” stereotype.” to socialize with other Sophmore Jack Shetlar Tony Gonzalez down upon in society.” Hannah Janzen Junior Senior groups.” Whittney Hoffman Olivia Opat Shyann Hubbard Sophomore
Cody Ade
Kegan England
Senior
Sophomore
The Frat Boys Percent of School Population:
4%
The Athletes
19%
The Artsy Kids
12%
The Einsteins
21%
Pushing Past Our perceptions According to students stereotypes are simply an outer layer By Hannah Schroeder
School Climate. “It’s good to do more than one thing. You get new friends and Imagine having a friend who is defined only it broadens your horizons,” said by the standards his stereotype sets for him. For Badders. He has gotten to know a lot example, if he was an athlete, he would dress like an of new people through his activities athlete, talk only about sports, focus all his attention people he would not normally know on the season and never even think about doing if he would have only done sports. anything else. Like Badders, many of the people This sounds like a person who lacks depth and whom one might judge as a certain personality. Everyone has something deeper, stereotype when he first saw them in something that defines them the hallway could end personally and individually. up being completely “It’s good to do more different than he would Stereotypes are simply the outer layer. have originally thought. than one thing.” From the long-existing categories For example, of nerds and theater kids to the Sophomore Sarah Ethan Badders more recent labels of “hipster” and Brown is often put Sophomore “basic,” stereotypes have always into the stereotype of existed and still continue to exist a preppy girl, but she File Photo / The Pylon in high schools. People often judge doesn’t let that define Sophomore Ethan Badders enjoys both singing and football even though he by outward appearances and attitudes rather than her behavior. “People assume that is stereotyped as an athlete. getting to know each other. preppy people are spoiled and Those who seem like they are stuck within one mean to people and always get rather than in-depth knowledge of others at the level stereotype sometimes have a whole other side to what they want. But that’s just not who I am.” Brown of the heart, mind and spirit, their ability to assess them that the general public doesn’t even know makes a conscious effort to be different than others and understand people accurately is compromised.” about. in her stereotype by being kind to others and not In order to understand the people around us, we Sophomore Ethan Badders is one of these people. thinking of herself more highly than them. should not make assumptions about what they are He finds himself inside the stereotype of an athlete, James Forbes once said, “When people rely on like based on their appearances. but he also participates in choir, theater, STUCO, and surface appearances and false racial stereotypes, The Pylon
The Rednecks
Junior
Freshman
The Stoners
The Emos
Sophomore
The Basic White Girls
4% 6% 5% 15% stereotyping 101: What really defines us? 17%
109 students were surveyed from random
other: 4% M3 classes on October 20th and 27th
52% of students believe that stereotyping is not okay
44% of students believe that stereotyping is okay
the definition: a simplified and standardized conception or image invested with special meaning and held in common by members of a group.
say
clothes
38% say
activities
31%
3% of students don’t care
say
109 students were surveyed from random M3 classes on October 20th and 27th
attitude
Some dress for comfort, others dress for style, and some just don’t care. Often, what people wear is based on how much money they have. Judging someone for their outward appearance is shallow.
From football to theatre, scholar’s bowl to journalism, almost everyone is involved in something. However, just because a person is committed to one thing doesn’t mean they can’t try something new once in a while.
“Bad boys” and “goody-two-shoes” are two terms commonly used to stereotype people by their attitudes. But this type of stereotyping is pointless, since attitudes can change in a minute. Don’t judge people by a bad day or a complacent moment.
6
7
October 31, 2014
In depth
Stereotype Central
We’ll never understand each other until we push past our first impressions, judgemental categories.
“Everyone “I’m a good kid, but I “You really shouldn’t care “I actually “I don’t want to be gets put into like to have a little fun about what people think of “People are going to like being the judged by the way I stereotypes. It’s too.” you. It’s more of how you “I’ve never really say you’re something how high school typical theater dress.” “Stereotyping “I guess I look at yourself.” noticed the “We’re all being whether you want them works.” “I don’t know everything Madison Lewis kid.” “Just because I believe brought it on Brandon Huynh stereotype. I kind of “I dress like this is stupid. It’s ourselves. We’re to or not.” Senior “I like playing sports, . . . Sometimes it’s a Zack Hurre marijuana should be legalized Vance Johnson myself.” Senior rise above it.” because I want rude to judge not just one certain Sophomore but sometimes I like Xan Mattek burden.” Senior Courtney Warley doesn’t mean I should be looked people.” Junior to.” stereotype.” to socialize with other Sophmore Jack Shetlar Tony Gonzalez down upon in society.” Hannah Janzen Junior Senior groups.” Whittney Hoffman Olivia Opat Shyann Hubbard Sophomore
Cody Ade
Kegan England
Senior
Sophomore
The Frat Boys Percent of School Population:
4%
The Athletes
19%
The Artsy Kids
12%
The Einsteins
21%
Pushing Past Our perceptions According to students stereotypes are simply an outer layer By Hannah Schroeder
School Climate. “It’s good to do more than one thing. You get new friends and Imagine having a friend who is defined only it broadens your horizons,” said by the standards his stereotype sets for him. For Badders. He has gotten to know a lot example, if he was an athlete, he would dress like an of new people through his activities athlete, talk only about sports, focus all his attention people he would not normally know on the season and never even think about doing if he would have only done sports. anything else. Like Badders, many of the people This sounds like a person who lacks depth and whom one might judge as a certain personality. Everyone has something deeper, stereotype when he first saw them in something that defines them the hallway could end personally and individually. up being completely “It’s good to do more different than he would Stereotypes are simply the outer layer. have originally thought. than one thing.” From the long-existing categories For example, of nerds and theater kids to the Sophomore Sarah Ethan Badders more recent labels of “hipster” and Brown is often put Sophomore “basic,” stereotypes have always into the stereotype of existed and still continue to exist a preppy girl, but she File Photo / The Pylon in high schools. People often judge doesn’t let that define Sophomore Ethan Badders enjoys both singing and football even though he by outward appearances and attitudes rather than her behavior. “People assume that is stereotyped as an athlete. getting to know each other. preppy people are spoiled and Those who seem like they are stuck within one mean to people and always get rather than in-depth knowledge of others at the level stereotype sometimes have a whole other side to what they want. But that’s just not who I am.” Brown of the heart, mind and spirit, their ability to assess them that the general public doesn’t even know makes a conscious effort to be different than others and understand people accurately is compromised.” about. in her stereotype by being kind to others and not In order to understand the people around us, we Sophomore Ethan Badders is one of these people. thinking of herself more highly than them. should not make assumptions about what they are He finds himself inside the stereotype of an athlete, James Forbes once said, “When people rely on like based on their appearances. but he also participates in choir, theater, STUCO, and surface appearances and false racial stereotypes, The Pylon
The Rednecks
Junior
Freshman
The Stoners
The Emos
Sophomore
The Basic White Girls
4% 6% 5% 15% stereotyping 101: What really defines us? 17%
109 students were surveyed from random
other: 4% M3 classes on October 20th and 27th
52% of students believe that stereotyping is not okay
44% of students believe that stereotyping is okay
the definition: a simplified and standardized conception or image invested with special meaning and held in common by members of a group.
say
clothes
38% say
activities
31%
3% of students don’t care
say
109 students were surveyed from random M3 classes on October 20th and 27th
attitude
Some dress for comfort, others dress for style, and some just don’t care. Often, what people wear is based on how much money they have. Judging someone for their outward appearance is shallow.
From football to theatre, scholar’s bowl to journalism, almost everyone is involved in something. However, just because a person is committed to one thing doesn’t mean they can’t try something new once in a while.
“Bad boys” and “goody-two-shoes” are two terms commonly used to stereotype people by their attitudes. But this type of stereotyping is pointless, since attitudes can change in a minute. Don’t judge people by a bad day or a complacent moment.
8
October 31, 2014
Athletes & Sports
Connor’s Conference Royals’ huge run leads to postseason succes and happy fans By Connor Martens The Pylon Sitting along the firstbase line in Kauffman Stadium on August 10 to watch the Royals clench a sweep against the San Fransisco Giants, I would have punched you in the face if you would have told me the same matchup would occur in the same place for the World Series just two and a half months later. Thinking back, though, seeing all of the brooms raised high in the crowd should have been a good sign for the months ahead and even for a blue October. This year has meant so much to me and all other Royals fans who have been so patient over the years. It seems to be a similar story as it was for the Chiefs last year when they found their rhythm, only maybe a bit better after the boys in blue clenched a spot in the World Series after sweeping the Orioles 5 games to none. I can’t remember the last year us Royals fans went without telling ourselves, “Next year is our year.” But this time, all of the pieces seemed to fall into place, atleast enough of the pieces to end the longest postseason drought of any professional sports team in the history of the world, which lasted 29 years. Most of the players on the team were yet to exist when the Royals won the World Series in 1985. So to the Royals organization, thank you and congratulations on your success this year.
What are you doing this winter?
29%
of students surveyed plan on participating in a winter sport this year
October Outing 5-3 Mustangs to take on Railers this Halloween evening By Connor Martens The Pylon So far, it has been an overall road of succes for the football team who will be fighting for their lives tonight. The team is rolling in confidence right now as they have won five of their last six games. “I think the confidence is high and I think there is a reason for it to be. We’re playing at a pretty high level right now and we just need to continue to do that,” said Coach Hall. The team is currently 1-1 in district play with only one guarenteed game remaining: tonight’s matchup against Newton, who is now 0-2 in district play after losing to
South last week. For the team, especially seniors, the mindset has to be right. “It puts it in reality, particularly for the seniors, knowing that each time they strap on their uniform could be the very last time they do that as one group,” Hall continued. Although the squad started the year 0-2, they have definitely found their game and are now focused on being 1-0 each week until the season ends. To this point, the team has played the physical brand of football they are coached to play. With the offense moving the ball well, and the defense shutting opponents down, don’t expect the season to end anytime soon for the Mustangs.
Lindsey Wood / The Pylon
The defensive line gets ready for a snap.
Lindsey Wood / The Pylon
Coach Hall looks onto the field after a play.
Lindsey Wood / The Pylon
Senior Malcom Gardner works to get past a defender earlier this year.
Living in the lanes 75%
of students surveyed think the offering of bowling as a winter sport will see positive results
71%
of students surveyed see bowling as a good way to meet needs for a variety of athletes’ talents
New opportunity comes for students to get involved in Bowling By Casey Knoth The Pylon Bowling is making its way to our school and bringing a new excitement with it. This new sport is not only new to the school but to people as well. Lots of students don’t really know about bowling and all the logistics, but all that will be changing very soon. Bowling is sure to open more options for students and hopefully bring kids out to be the guinea pigs. Having bowling is going to open the window for those who have enjoyed bowling in the past. “I really like how we are getting bowling because I would go every Saturday night when I was younger,” said Sophomore Devon Leroy. Students will now be able to come out and compete for their school. According to other high school coaches and athletic directors bowling has brought a lot of excitement. “It will give a chance for student athletes
to participate in a new exciting sport that will include current high school bowlers along with new bowlers wanting to excel in bowling,” said Coach Joe Wilkerson who has applied for the position. This sport causes a lot of good things like getting more students involved and having talented people be able to compete as well. One of the negative aspects of the sport is the fact the athletes have to leave the school to practice or have games because you have to go to a bowling facility. Bowling has been pretty successful at other schools and they have had it plenty of years to see the impact it has on their schools. Normally there are 24-28 kids on a bowling team. The girl-to-guy ration is about even on most squads. Coach Brett Marrs from Campus said “I keep 24 kids on the team and have 12 girls, 12 boys and then I keep 4 extra just in case.” The team is pretty big overall.
FOR HIGHLIGHTS CHECK CHSPYLON.COM
9
October 31, 2014
Athletes & Sports
Up to date Fall sports come to a close
XC
Boys’ Soccer
The cross country team had a lot more members on the team this year which brought some more excitement. “I thought the newcomers and freshmen really improved throughout the season and really understood what it takes to compete in the sport” said coach Josh Gooch. It also showed that the team has potential to do really well in the next couple years. Three runners placed at regionals, which was held at Great Bend last Saturday. Freshman Tabetha Deines, junior Jetta Greene and senior Daniel Villarreal will be competing at state on Friday the 31st at Rim Rock in Lawrence.
The boys’ soccer team started off strong but have had a few bumps the past couple games. That is alright because they are ready to bounce back and fix the problems that have occurred throughout the last couple of games. Senior Josh Claybaugh said “It’s going to be hard saying good-bye to the under classmen when the season comes to an end but I am excited to see what the future holds.” Claybaugh along with several other seniors hope to leave the team better than they found it.
Hannah Shulte / The Pylon
Senior Megan Johnson stretches out to return a ball.
Girls’ Tennis Finishes Strong
The volleyball team faced many challenges throughout the season. Even though the year might not have went they way some people wanted it to, the season got better as it progressed. “You could tell our team chemistry changed because everyone had more fun out on the court,” said sophomore Bayleigh Petty. Finishing 9-27, the team looks to rebuild and prepare for next season.
Athletes in the mix Ryan Dix Cross Country Kaylee Matthews Volleyball Chase Livengood Football Megan Johnson Girls’ Tennis Easton Ryser Boys’ Soccer
numbers The following numbers represent athletes and stats from the fall sport season.
126
the number of kills junior Keisha Hamilton has so far this season
17:11
Senior Daniel Villarreal’s personal record time in XC
Girls’ tennis had a successful season. They didn’t have just one great player, they all played a part in the successes they had as a team. Like every sport, there are better days than others but the tennis team stayed pretty consistent throughout the year. Senior Morgan Hauserman said “I set goals this year to try to reach, and I found that I could reach them and go beyond to accede them.” With tennis being an individual sport you have yourself and maybe a partner to depend upon. Nothing to blame it on but your time and effort you have put into the sport. Tennis is a sport that you have to practice all year round, so these girls have put a ton of time and effort into their success this season and future seasons.
9
Lindsey Wood / The Pylon
Volleyball
By the
Freshman Ellie Cobb follows her ball after a swing.
the number of years since the football team last beat Hutch before this year
Girls’ Golf has another great season
Lindsey Wood / The Pylon
Sophomore Bayleigh Petty attacks the ball at the net.
The golf team yet again leaves a memorable season and is for the books. For being somewhat of a young team, they did exceedingly well. “Our last couple tournaments were some of our best, with our regional win and our wins at Clay Center and Bennington. I left the season with really good feelings about next season,” said freshman Ellie Cobb. The girls kicked it in gear at the right times. This year’s golf team was the first ever to go to state four years in a row. During the season they had many successful things but one of the best was that they were sub-state champions at Topeka. Cobb also finished eleventh at state. Girls Golf is starting a new and high expectation that is continuing to be carried out.
On the Spot How long is your average shower? “15 minutes”
When is the last time you made your bed?
Do you pour the milk first or the cereal?
“about a week ago”
“cereal”
“45 minutes”
“this morning”
“cereal”
“12 minutes”
“about a week ago”
“cereal”
“anywhere from 5 to 20 minutes”
“I don’t even remember”
“cereal”
“about 20 minutes”
“probably last week”
“cereal”
Flat-rate tuition.
Pittsburg State University www.pittstate.edu
•
Pittsburg, Kansas
More than 150 programs.
26 the number of tennis matches senior Meg Johnson won this year
57
the number of saves goalie junior Erik Aranda has on the season
6
the number of Girls’ golfers that went to State
1456 the number of yards the Mustang defense has held opponents to over eight games
10
October 31, 2014
Editorials & Opinion
Emma’s Edge
of students said they still go trick-or-treating
Emma Norris The Pylon
30%
Picture-not so-perfect
of those who don’t, stopped trick-or- treating between the ages of 7 and 13
Time for change with team photos Every sport in the school takes team photos. It’s like a tradition. The athletes use these photos as a way to remember their great season and look back on all the fun times. But it’s hard to remember a great season when the team pictures are ruined. All sports pictures are taken by LifeTouch. Last year LifeTouch began taking individual pictures and piecing them together to make the team photos. Clearly, this method is not working. As the tennis team got back their group pictures, they noticed a little boy in the top right of their photo. The freshmen volleyball team also had a little boy in the top left of their team photo.
All sports pictures are taken by LifeTouch... Clearly this method is not working. They soon realized that a football ball boy and one of the coaches sons had been placed in each of their photos. How does that even happen? He is a little boy, he is wearing a shirt with a football on it, and he’s shorter than every other person in the photo. Sure, it’s pretty funny to us students, but what do our parents think? The parents bought that picture and what are they going to do, put a big red X over the little boy? They can’t. The picture is permanent. One thing that is wrong with every single team picture that is taken is the sizing of the people in the photo. The photos are set up to make everyone look the same height, but it just ends up looking weird. Someone who is six-feet tall in real life is standing next to someone who is five feet and six inches in real life, and they are the same size in the picture. It makes the pictures look very unrealistic and unprofessional. What should our administrators do to fix this? There is a simple solution. Have the photographers from the journalism staff take the pictures. This school has excellent photographers who are perfectly capable of taking these team photos, free of charge. It would not only save the school money, but the pictures would turn out better and look more realistic.
39%
33%
of students say high schoolers are too old to trick-or-treat
Cartoon by Alexis Karabinas
A survey was taken of 112 Students during random M3 classes on Oct. 20.
Trick-or-Treat? Are we too old to
High schoolers shouldn’t be able to Trick-or-Treat By Casey Knoth The Pylon Halloween night is a time when you think of little kids getting all dressed up in their cute and creative costumes. As a high schooler you shouldn’t be planning your own door-to-door extravaganza. There may be another place to enjoy Halloween festivities, but trick-or-treating should not be one of them. Personally, I would suggest a costume party, a
“Bottom line, high schoolers should stay off the streets and door steps, and leave those duties to children. ” scary movie night or going to a haunted house. Since trick-or-treating is centered around children, I believe there should be an age range that prevents high schoolers from trick-ortreating. We all know we’re too old. There comes a time when you reach that certain age and realize trick-or-treating shouldn’t be apart of your Halloween experience. Instead, you should hand out candy at your own house or find something else to do. On top of the age issue, it can be intimidating for young children to have older
VS
people involved in their fun. This could ruin a child’s Halloween experience- they only get so many years to trick-or-treat. Also, some families have budgets for purchasing Halloween candy. High school and adult trick- ortreaters result in the need for more candy. If little kids aren’t the only ones trickor-treating, there’s a good chance little kids will hear the disappointing, “Sorry we ran out of candy,” plead. Candy is equally important as costumes when it comes to Halloween. Being told multiple times that there’s no candy left can be a downer on Halloween night. Unlike children, high schoolers have the ability to drive. Driving in costumes while kids are walking around on streets can be dangerous. This is an enormous caution for little kids. High schoolers don’t think of the many children that will be mindlessly walking along the streets. Kids shouldn’t have to worry about reckless drivers while they trick-or-treat. In the end, this could result into a terrible accident on what’s supposed to be a fun night. Bottom line, high schoolers should stay off the streets and door steps on Halloween, and leave those duties to children.
High schoolers should be able to join the fun By Emma Norris The Pylon As kids, most of us loved going house to house, ringing the doorbell, and being asked, “What are you dressed as?” As we reached to grab a hand full of delicious candy. Kids and teenagers everywhere love trick or treating. Who says the fun has to stop when you hit high school? Even if you are a senior in high school, you should still be able to go house to house and fill up your candy bag. After high school you should stop, but for now it’s your time to be a part of this special night. Trick-ortreating in general is just fun. What other day of the year is it socially acceptable to walk around in whatever costume you want? You get to walk around with all your friends, just having fun and getting free candy. What more could you want? When asked if there was an age restriction for trick or treating in Salina, a representative from the City of Salina said there was no age restriction. It’s up to parents to decide whether their high school student goes trick-or-treating. High schoolers have just as much right to walk around in costumes getting free candy as elementary school kids do. Some high schoolers walk with their little brothers or sisters to keep them safe
anyways. If teenagers who are old enough to drive are trick or treating, that means less teenagers are recklessly driving around the streets on Halloween. Sure, there might be parties you can attend but the safest activity you can be involved in is trick-ortreating. Parents worry about their kids being safe on Halloween. If more teenagers are around, there is more supervision. Kids, as well as the older residents in neighborhoods love seeing their favorite high
“High schoolers have just as much right to walk around in costumes getting free candy as elementary kids do.” school football or soccer stars, or kids they’ve watched grow up walking down the street dressed up. For kids, it’s amazing being around the “big kids.” For the older people, it’s like a blast from the past. Teenagers in high school should go trick-or-treating because they only have so much time until Halloween won’t be fun anymore. We should take advantage of the Halloweens we have left. Spend them walking down the street while getting free candy with friends!
11
Otcober 31, 2014
Editorials & Opinion Letter to the Editor: Ebola is a threat By Darcy Leech Gifted Teacher Ebola might seem like a disease strain in other states and distant countries, but make no mistake about the issue – Ebola is a threat to human lives. Many times as a high school student it is pretty easy to think, “Who cares?” when hearing about global problems that aren’t yet knocking next door; however, it is exactly that potential, the brains and determination of our current high school students, which should care.
Your brain is our future. Your potential could matter to the greater good. I firmly believe that human intelligence is the greatest natural resource we have, and apathy is the greatest threat to our greatest natural resource. You could be just another person who gets along in the world and tries not to make much of an impact – negative or positive. Or, you could be the type of individual who recognizes a situation that needs changed and works diligently to maximize his or her own potential to serve the greater good and benefit humanity.
Humanity has survived worse threats than Ebola, and will survive this, but it will be because human ingenuity has nearly unlimited potential when an individual chooses to strive to reach his or her potential knowing that learning serves not only the person who learns, but the collective good in building human knowledge to improve the human condition. Take your potential seriously – Ebola isn’t the last threat to fight or the greatest verse your generation can contribute. -Ipsa Scientia Potestas Est.
iPhone VS Galaxy
Phone debate looms after iPhone 6 release The Pylon Regardless to the iPhones new update, the iPhone still trumps the Galaxy. The iPhone is better because once you discover the ins and outs, it is more user friendly. Picture yourself not being able to access FaceTime or group messaging- every iPhone user’s favorite features. When you want to inform a group of people, it is easier to use a group message rather than text everyone individually. The only way you can “group message” on a Galaxy is if you buy an app. Why buy an app when it is already a feature of an iPhone? Another benefit of the iPhone is that you can easily ignore someone by turning on your read receipts. With the Galaxy you would have to manually let the person know you have read their text and are choosing to ignoring them. The large size of the Galaxy is inconvenient, whereas the
iPhone fits in your hand and pocket almost perfectly. The Galaxy is just too big. When you put a case on, it barely fits in your pocket. The iPhone on the other hand, is lightweight and thin, and way easier to transport. The iPhone camera has some of the best features: recording a video in slow-mo or in a time-lapse (newest feature) and taking a panoramic picture of an area that would be too big for a normal picture. The galaxy doesn’t have any of these features. For Galaxy users, you’re stuck with just a boring, normal, original picture. The iPhone is clearly better because it has more features that are user friendly. If you’re every debating which one to get, pick the iPhone. I promise you won’t regret it.
By Emma Norris The Pylon When you compare the newest iPhone to the newest Galaxy, you can clearly see that the Galaxy is the better choice. Not only does the Galaxy have many features and a bigger screen, but you also have more options to customize than the iPhone. One of the biggest features that sets the Galaxy above the iPhone is its removable and long lasting battery. It is easily changeable and you don’t have to charge your phone as long or more frequently. The Galaxy is also weather resistant and virtually unbreakable. It has extra seals around it’s screen and can work even after being
57% 1. iMessage
A survey was taken of 112 Students during random M3 classes on Oct. 20.
Callouts:
43%
1. bigger screen of students 2. better camera 3. Android software prefer the Galaxy
Wearing sleazy costumes is unacceptable By Emma Norris The Pylon As Halloween gets closer, everyone dreads picking that perfect costume. For younger kids, it’s pretty easy to pick your favorite superhero or Disney princess, your favorite animal or athlete. But what options are left for high schoolers? Going through catalogs and websites, you see the sexy, feminine version of Batman or Superman, or even that “bad cop” look. But those costumes are not meant to be cute, they’re meant to be extremely sleazy. These costumes have too much skin showing that it is just unpleasant to look at. Are sleazy costumes acceptable? Definitely not. Costumes that have the amount of skin showing that leaves you with goose bumps all over your body when you walk outside on October 31 are unacceptable. If you can’t put warm clothes
underneath your costume because that will ruin the “sexy” image of the costume, it is unacceptable. Especially for high school ladies, if your chest is sticking out of your shirt because it is too tight, it is again unacceptable. C’mon, show some modesty and class. Halloween is supposed to be a fun holiday for kids to go house to house to trick-or-treat. No little kid wants to see a high schooler’s body hanging out of their costume. No parent wants their child to be exposed to that. For those fun high school costume parties, wear something you are comfortable in, and are comfortable having adults see you in. People enjoy seeing humorus and creative costumes, especially homemade ones. Take the safe route. Be something fun that you wouldn’t be ashamed to tell your grandmother about, like a 50’s girl, a witch or even the timeless Disney princess.
Kudos:
submerged in water. Unlike the iPhone, the Galaxy has a swipe keyboard option where you can drag you fingers through the letters you want to type, and it creates a quicker, more efficient way to type. The camera on the Galaxy is better than any iPhone’s. It has a larger zoom and stronger mega pixels which make the picture clearer, leaving that clean professional touch. The Galaxy is better than the iPhone because everyone and their dog has an iPhone. Be a little different, and expand on your technology brands.
Top 3 iPhone features: Top 3 Galaxy features:
of students 2. panoramic prefer the 3. FaceTime iPhone
The following Kudos and Callouts are instances where our faculty, students or others get either praised for doing a good job, or called out for dropping the ball. These are made by the opinion editor with help from other Pylon staff members.
-The #beatsouth shirts were awesome. They will definitely come in handy during basketball season. -The first basketball game is in 38 days. Get excited. #beatJC -Santa Cruz, you are delicious. -Tailgates are the best thing to happen on Fridays. -Anyone who went out and tailgated at 5:30 AM the day of the South game - you have some real school spirit. -The life saving power of the Dairy Queen chicken strip basket. -The Royals, you’re amazing thanks for such a great run. -Sun butter and jelly sandwiches, you make my day every day. -This new season of Grey’s Anatomy is incredible. -These fall colors for brightening up my life one tree at a time.
iPhone still the best, more user friendly Galaxy clearly better than inferior iPhone By Paige Hieger
Kudos & Callouts
For the guys out there, there’s always the safe option of a football player, a superhero, a scary ghost or even something really funny. Remember, your costume choice could make or break your fun Halloween night. Pick the costume you want! Halloween should be about having fun, not about seducing the other sex with your sleazy costume.
12
out of
12
Pylon staffers said sleazy costumes are unacceptable
- Anyone voting to get rid of flouride. Trust me, your teeth need it. -South needs to go make their own shirt instead of tweeting about burning ours. -Our sportsmanship has gone down hill. Lets fix that. -Who crucified the scarecrow? Go have religious ceremonies on your own time and not at school events. -This school smells like a sweaty sock. -Mrs. Davis’ fourth hour drafting class... No thanks. -Cuties’ clementines for not being in season. No other clementines compare. -People. Learn how to drive. -I swear the climate inside this school is bipolar. -The Spanish room always smells like feet after lunch. Why. -Why are there so many campaign commercials? I just wanna watch my TV. -If you said one of those status Quotes, check yourself. -Slothower for the bulge on his head. -Fall weather. Do we dress for cold in the morning or hot in the afternoon? -McDonald’s. Why would you change your large drink prices from $1.08 to $1.29? That 21 cents does make a difference. -Movies coming out in parts just stop. We want it all at once. -Leighton Meester, aka Blair Waldorf, for trying to have a singing career. Just leave your legacy in Gossip Girl.
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October 31, 2014
the Pylon
Newton’s worst NIGHTMARE