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PYLON November 3, 2017
CONTENT
CONTENT PAGE
04
News
08
In Depth
10
Arts
12
In Depth
14
Student Life
Game Day Scholarship Environmental Club
Blacc Santa on the Rise
20
Sports
24
The Art of Departures
Homicide Detective to Hall Officer
Pumpkin Spice and Everything Nice
16
Feature
26 28
Generating Change
Split Support/Sports Briefs Finding Fight
In Depth Immigration Limitation
Infographic White Squirrels
Opinion Generation Z So Long Sam
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photo by Aaron Watson
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26
14
12
10
04 Photos taken by Pylon staffers. See inside for complete stories.
PYLON November 3, 2017 KMEA District Auditions Band, orchestra, and choir
4 Nov.
Daylight Saving Time Clocks turn backwards
5 Nov. Dental Screenings
FAFSA Seniors meeting with Mrs. Dechant @ 6:00
Auditorium All Day
6-7 Nov.
6-7 Nov.
CONTENT PAGE
Damn Yankees Musical Auditions
6-7
13
Nov.
Josten’s Pickup
Thanksgiving Break
Senior class ring delivery
No School 22-24
15
Nov.
Swimming vs South Varsity @ 1:30
30
Nov.
Orchestra Concert Auditorium @7:00
02
Dec.
22
Winter Sports Practice Begins
Thanksgiving
One Acts Thursday @7:00 Friday @ 7:00 Saturday @7:00
Auditorium @ 7:00 (Seniors)
15
Nov.
Nov.
Wrestling vs derby
30
Nov.
South vs Central Basketball Game Girls Varsity @ 6:00 Boys Varsity @ 7:30
30
Nov.
Free Spirit
Christmas tour around town
08
Dec.
Pylon staff Chloe Guillot Morgan Dolton Annie Hayes
News Editors Caroline Donatell Will Hayes
Sports Editors Holly Sanderson Ryan Dix
Student Life Editor Morgan Dolton
Arts Editor Annie Hayes
Feature Editor
15
Chloe Guillot
Opinion Editor Madeline Paradis
Dec.
Social Media
We want to hear your opinion
Twitter: @chspylon Instagram: @mustangsofcentral Snapchat: chspylon Web: chspylon.com
The Pylon serves as an open forum for students to express their opinions on topics that affect the school or community. Students are protected under the Kansas State Bill 62 as well as the first amendment. Editorials do not represent the opinion of our entire school, staff, or administration. If you have a letter than you want to published, e-mail your submissions to pyloneditors@gmail.com. Submissions must contain a full name for inclusion, and we will contact you to confirm 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. Volume 94 of the Pylon was created by 13 staff members using Creative Cloud CC. Our fonts this year include GoBold and Gravity. Special thanks to Sedalia Democrat for making the printing of our publication possible.
2017-2018
Editors-in-Chief
Varsity @ 6:00
23
Nov.
Nov.
KS Honor Scholar Program
3
Copy Editor Gracie Schroeder
Web Editor Molly Michaelis
Reporters Saria Taylor Malcom Berkley Maria Gutierrez Molly Michaelis
Adviser J.D. Garber
News Updates
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PYLON November 3, 2017
“THE IDEA OF THE SCHOLARSHIP WAS JUST AN AMAZING THING.” - FOREIGN LANGUAGE TEACHER JAN DENNING
Faculty and staff have worked together to develop a new “Gameday Scholarship” that will build school pride in all
photo by Caroline Donatell
PYLON November 3, 2017
news updates
Dollars For Denim Teachers unite to raise money for scholarship, build school by Caroline Donatell pylon reporter The Game Day Scholarship is a one-time scholarship available for seniors. The money that funds the scholarship is donated monthly by the faculty and staff. Principal Nate Showman was inspired by a school he worked at previously in Arizona. Showman wanted to provide seniors with an opportunity to support their future endeavors, and the Game Day Scholarship was the solution. “The idea of the scholarship was just a amazing thing. Anytime we can help students with postsecondary, it’s great,” French teacher Jan Denning said. The Game Day Scholarship is all about bringing the school together to support one another. For only five dollars a month, the teachers are allowed to wear jeans twice a week and are able to support their students. According to administration, with the money the staff has raised, they are halfway to their goal of $2000. Showman and athletic director Greg Maring hope more teachers will participate so that the scholarship can be offered to two students. “Our plans for the future would be to form a scholarship committee. They would determine what our criteria is for awarding the scholarship, advertising the award and then review candi-
dates as we get closer to senior awards night,” Showman said. Maring believes that every group, club and team in school has their own individual “game day,” when they devote their time and energy into something they love. “That’s why it is called the Game Day Scholarship,” Maring said. “It will reflect how our school is connected.” A survey conducted by the Pylon shows that many senior students have no idea what this scholarship is about. 8.2 percent knew about the scholarship, while 91.8 percent did not. Senior Carla Aguilar, however, has heard of the scholarship from other students and her teachers. The hope is that more students will be more aware of and apply for the scholarship in the future. “I have been applying for scholarships. Even if I get rejected by one or two, that doesn’t mean that I won’t apply for more,” Aguilar said. As many seniors start to explore options for careers, Aguilar already has plans. After she graduates, she intends to enter a pre-engineering program and into a biomedical engineering pathway later. With an opportunity like the Game Day Scholarship, her chance to achieve her dream is within reach.
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FEATURE STORY
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new
environmental Club
aims to decide by will hayes | pylon news editor
S
tudents and teachers are organizing efforts to create more clean, green and efficient ways to dispose of paper and plastic. For the past two years, the school has not recycled anything - not even plastic or paper. Now, after two years of adding to the 2.6 trillion pounds of trash that pollutes the earth, a solution has been found. The new environmental club has already begun setting goals. Dustin Burgardt, science teacher and sponsor of the environmental club, expresses the arduous process of reviving a practice that most don’t acknowledge: recycling. “We work with the building managers to do as much recycling as possible. We were forced to start with white paper because it is most valuable to the building. We wanted to start off slow to make sure it was possible and not inconvenient for anyone; once we know those things for sure we will transition to plastic, colored paper and everything else in between. We are planning to start recycling everything January 1,” Burgardt said. Students are recognizing the serious problems trillions of pounds of trash creates. “We have an obvious problem that needs to be addressed. Our school has taken steps to become more and more paperless. Awareness is important. The hard part is making changes. There are millions of different factors that account for all the waste we produce and the changing climate, but the smallest things can make the biggest difference,” freshman Spencer Angell said. Artwork by Annie Hayes/Pylon Editor
where
Environmental club members recognize that education is the most important part in making our school and the planet a better place to live. “Obviously recycling is a good start for fighting climate change, but the biggest thing I think our school can do is to teach students about climate change and to teach it accurately. There have been at least five independent studies on the consensus of publishing climate scientists who take a stance on anthropogenic climate change. The average of each study’s results shows that 97 percent agree that humans are directly responsible for the recent climate change. Even more telling though is that the conservative parties of other countries don’t argue whether humans cause climate change, they argue to what extent their county is responsible for it. Anthropogenic climate change denial is pretty unique to the United States in how prevalent it is. In schools where climate change is actually taught in the U.S., teachers often feel compelled to teach both sides for the sake of balance. This gives the impression to students that the science is not settled on the matter, despite the overwhelming consensus among the experts. So if our school is going to teach climate change, it has to teach the consensus,” senior Reece Mathews said. In a world becoming more and more masked with trash, the environmental club is making a difference. From recycling to gardening, students and teachers are engaging efforts to make the school and the planet a better place for upcoming generations.
PYLON november 3 , 2017
it all goes PYLON november 3 , 2017
FEATURE STORY
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in depth
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PYLON november 3, 2017
blacc santa on the
Blacc Santa takes a selfie in the studio. | courtesy of skyler vignery
80%
of students like listening to rap music
rise by saria taylor pylon reporter
63%
in depth
PYLON november 3, 2017
senior skyler vignery expresses himself through song writing and rapping Senior Skyler Vignery, also known as Blacc Santa, is a young rapper on the rise. This young prodigy started his career in eighth grade. A few of his song writing inspirations are Earl Sweatshirt, MF Doom and Eminem. Vignery is emotionally invested in his work. Whether he is talking about being different, falling in love or the trials in life, everything that he writes about stems from his own experiences. Vignery feels that he is always at his best when he expresses himself through his love for music. “I’ve always been artistic so to me, music is the perfect outlet for that,” Vignery said. Each day at school, Vignery gets his work done, and that’s about it. Because he is so focuses on his grades, he seems like the quiet type. But in reality, he is the complete opposite. “The studio is where my whole personality comes out,” Vignery explained.
Vignery is extremely proud of his mixtapes, including “Nonchalant || Savage”, “SPACE JAM$” and “Astro Luv.” Along with his partners - alumnus Jason Rhoden, senior Miguel Carter, and sophomores Quanel Baham, Moses Brown and Albert Garcia - Vignery plans to take the rap world by storm. Although there is a lot of talent in the rap game, Vignery doesn’t see other rappers as competition, claiming that he is superior. So much so, that he says Drake and Kanye don’t compare. “I am the reason that they resort to ghost writers,” Vignery explained. Vignery is working hard with his crew to make his music great and has big plans for the future. Vignery aspires to make a career in rapping, where he can continue to express himself. “When I am in the studio, I am at home,” Vignery said.
of studen ts know s omeone who reco rds r ap m usic 150 students were surveyed using google forms during random classes on October 17 and 18
Senior Skyler Vignery poses on stage in the auditorium under a spotlight. | photo by will hayes
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fine arts
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PYLON november 3, 2017
the art of
departures by annie hayes | pylon reporter
students focus on death for professional competition (Above) Senior Troy Miller created a sculpture surrounding the idea of suicide. At the end of the red string that is connected to his sculpture the word ‘help’ is written in cursive. | photo by annie hayes
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artists selected for the show are Central students
84% of students believe art is a good way to express grief 150 students were surveyed using google forms during random classes on October 17 and 18
even students who were not accepted into the show had their pieces on display. the works were hung in the new gallery in room 1701 during the month of october
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fine arts
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Art Teachers Larry Cullins and Kirsten Dykes encourage students to think deeper with their art. They strive to teach students that molding clay and putting a brush to canvas doesn’t just create something nice to look at. To achieve this, the art teachers required their Advanced and AP art students to submit a piece to the Art Center’s “Departures: The Art of Leaving this Place” showcase. This show focused on creating art with themes of death and grief. Requiring students to create artwork for the show made them think about their own experiences with grief. “All creative opportunities are healthy for a young creative mind. The death theme could’ve sparked some emotions relative to a loss that a young artist may have experienced. This could be therapeutic for them,” Mr. Cullins said. Senior Ruben Esparza, who entered pieces in both 2D and 3D art, noted the difficulty of the death theme. “The most challenging part was coming up with an idea for this competition. I ended up making a piece about the feeling that you have when someone you love passes away,” Esparza said. Mr. Cullins agreed that the theme challenged the students. “Students generally struggle with the initial concept, that of coming up with an idea, influence or genre. This generation relies heavily on the internet, which allows for plagiarism or copying other artists,” Mr. Cullins said. Overall, Cullins felt that the students were successful. “It’s always a learning process to get involved in this kind of experience. We entered over fifty pieces that were very diverse in size, style and theme. We are certainly proud of our department and our involvement in Salina’s art community,” Cullins said. Seniors Troy Miller, Ruben Esparza, Annie Hayes and Elijah Cairo, along with Junior Lauren Cullins, had pieces selected for the show, despite the tough competition. “This exhibit’s jurying process was open to any artist in this area of the state. So, high school artists were competing literally against professional and adult amateur artists,” Mr. Cullins said. The show also gave students opportunity outside of the art room. “I saw this as a way to get myself out there… This will be beneficial because it’s an opportunity for more people to see my work and not just at school shows,” Esparza said.
the departures show is on display at the salina art center from
october 4 to
november 5 A painting of a final resting place by Junior Lauren Cullins sits on the wall among pieces made by adult professionals. | photo by annie hayes
In Depth
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PYLON November 3, 2017
The school’s new resource officer, Amanda Londono, stands in front of the new school entrance. Londono will be monitoring halls as well as the new additions to insure safety in and outside the classroom. photo by Saria Taylor
Homicide Detective to Hall by Saria Taylor pylon reporter
T
he new resource officer, Amanda Londono, age 32, began her career after high school. Her first job in this field was at the dispatch center located in Abilene. For three years, she responded to emergency situations when a person dialed 911. Londono managed to maintain some normality in her seemingly hectic lifestyle. Even so, her occupation draws attention from others.
“I had a lot of people tell me that I shouldn’t do it, but I did it to prove them wrong,” Londono said. As she came up with new strategies to better her work environment, she realized that maybe she would be better suited for another department. That was when Londono decided to apply for the police department. Londono expressed a few of the challenges she faced in her line of work. As a detective, emotional attachment to the families in the case
was inevitable. Also, investigations were very time consuming; they could take months to solve. The worst part of it, by far, was breaking the news to the families, if the perpetrator was caught. Even so, the trials in court were enjoyable for Londono. Although she is no longer in that field of work, she feels that she should be the one to tell families the bad news. After those four years, she became a school resource officer again. It was a great change for her, as she could
Student Life
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PYLON November 3, 2017
PUMPKIN SPICE
AND EVERYTHING NICE by Morgan Dolton Pylon Editor Senior Lauren Wood is filled with enthusiasm as she walks out of school, and the brisk fall air hits her face. For students like Wood, cool weather means exciting events are quickly approaching. “I look forward to the weather getting colder and the leaves falling, meaning thanksgiving break is soon and then it’s Christmas,” Wood said.
Fall is officially here which means one thing: Pumpkin spice has returned. The popular fall flavor has evolved into something beyond the iconic drink at Starbucks. Pumpkin spice is now incorporated into products like donuts, yogurt, cereal, ice cream, candy and granola bars. In order to determine how delicious the flavor really is, 10 students were chosen to taste test five different pumpkin spice flavored treats.
SWISS ROLLS:
TWINKIES:
“THE SWISS ROLL WAS MY FAVORITE BECAUSE THE PUMPKIN WASN’T TOO STRONG.”
“I’VE NEVER TASTED IT BEFORE AND IT WAS A GOOD SURPRISE.” JUNIOR MICHELE RESOLA
SOPHOMORE JULIAN WERBER
An 8-ounce pumpkin spice latte contains 210 calories, 9 grams of fat and 25 grams of sugar.
52%
OF STUDENTS LIKE PUMPKIN SPICE FLAVORED TREATS.
10 STUDENTS TASTE TESTED SNACKS ON OCT 12 AND 16.
PYLON November 3, 2017
Student Life
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PUMPKIN CHIPS: “THE CHOCOLATE CHIPS WERE MY LEAST FAVORITE BECAUSE THE TASTE WAS VERY NASTY AND DID NOT TASTE LIKE PUMPKIN SPICE.” FRESHMAN EMMA BETTES
MARSHMALLOWS: “THE BITTER TASTE OF THE PUMPKIN SPICE COUNTERACTS THE MARSHMALLOW’S SWEETNESS AND IT DOESN’T MIX WELL TO ME.” JUNIOR DANIEL HALLER
BAGELS: “THEY WERE ACTUALLY REALLY GOOD. THEY WEREN’T AS OVERPOWERING AS I EXPECTED THEM TO BE.” SENIOR OLIVIA JOHNSON
Statistics from www.today.com/health. 150 Students were surveyed using Google forms during random classes on oct 17 and 18.
FAN FAVORITE:
SWISS ROLLS
FEATURE STORY
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PYLON NOVEMBER 3, 2017
GENERATING
CHANGE GENERATION Z TAKES ON A NEW WORLD AND AN UNCERTAIN FUTURE by malcom berkley | pylon reporter
FEATURE STORY
PYLON NOVEMBER 3, 2017
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GENERATION Z NOUN
ANYONE WHO WAS BORN AFTER THE YEAR 1994; ALSO KNOWN AS THE IGENERATION; TECH SAVY, ENTREPRENUIEL AND VERY IMPATIENT As Spanish teacher Elizabeth Janzen stands in the hall- meeting, felt similarly. “I thought there were a lot of good way, she watches students walk by, either in groups or al- ideas that were brought up by people from very different one. Many wear headphones and don’t acknowledge her, backgrounds and friend groups,” she stated. “I learned even when they enter her classroom. A rare few smile and that we all wanted similar changes in our school and we greet her, yet a small “hello” is usually the most she’ll get. worked towards some great solutions.” “Sometimes I feel that the new generation, not eveIn our ever-changing world, ideas, innovations and rybody, has a lack of respect for adults,” she said. “This conflicts alter the environments we inhabit. Time continues might be because they haven’t been taught how to respect to be the greatest factor in facilitating these changes. For their elders.” example, one would see major differences between the This sentiment is echoed by Sophomore Moses Brown, more rural, economically-torn world of the 1930s and the who knows how important adults from older generations more urban, technological society of the twenty-first cenare to kids nowadays. tury. These environmental changes, in turn, greatly affect “[Elders] made us what we are today,” Brown explained. the inhabitants, as certain groups of people born in specific “We should show more appreciation for that.” time periods develop characteristics and traits, relating to Another struggle commonly seen within the walls of their various surroundings. These people become part of Salina Central High School is the sewhat we call “generations.” paration between different students. Every generation has left its mark on Kids with different backgrounds or history. Each one has endured remarkaviews keep a fair distance from each ble and world-changing events, atroother. In fact, in a survey conducted cious happenings that have torn apart by the the Pylon staff, 82 percent of peoples and families (such as disease students at the school felt that Cenand war) and some that have been the OF STUDENTS ARE OPTIMISTIC ABOUT cause for celebration and optimism tral was divided. Mrs. Janzen believes that she sees (such as cures and resolutions). The THE FUTURE OF AMERICA this behavior throughout the school. “Millennials,” a generation born from “It is sometimes hard for kids at the school to work as around 1977 to 1993, are commonly thought of as the first a team, as everybody is kind of in their own world,” she people to experience digital technology. Another example stated. “It takes more effort for students to try to come to- is the “Silent Generation” a group that lived to see Worgether with ideas.” ld War II, having been born in the late 1930s till the mid Though conflicts may seem frequent at Central High, so 1940s. As these and other generations age, their influence are the solutions. The staff and administrators are aware is overshadowed by a new, younger generation. As “Milthat there are ways to get students together in a familiar lennials” have grown into adulthood, it’s time for the neand united setting. For this reason, Principal Nate Show- west generation of children and young adults to take the man decided to organized student-led meetings on Wed- spotlight: “Generation Z.” nesdays during ELO 2. “Generation Z,” also known as “iGen,” is made up of The first of these meetings took place on October 18, everyone born from 1994 to present-day. It is the people with the results seemingly positive. Freshmen through Se- who are thought of as the first to have digital technology niors discussed issues, ideas and successes surrounding readily available. It includes every student at Salina Centheir school. Kids that would never have talked to each tral High School, whether tall, short, athletic, awkward or other, if not for the gathering, held intelligent and thought- smart. This generation, within our school and throughout ful conversations. the U.S., lives in a society of advantages and disadvanta“I think the meetings were beneficial because it gave a ges, conflicts and harmony. While many may not want to voice to everybody to express how they feel,” said Janzen. admit it, we represent the present and future of not just our Sophomore Kristen Aiyanyor, who also attended the school, but the world.
53.3%
FEATURE STORY
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PYLON NOVEMBER 3, 2017
gen zers
are estimated to have an
8 SECOND attention span *according to Forbes.com
TECHNOLOGY
Central, but some adults as well. Robert Cunningham, an Technology is an ever-present factor in shaping “Gene- Xcel volunteer, frequently experiences this type of behavior ration Z” and is what most people associate with this ge- at his job and outside of it. “One example of how technology hurts is the addictive neration. It takes the shape of phones, tablets, computers, behavior I’ve witnessed with both youth and adults and their iPads and other innovations that have emerged in the last decade. Applications such as Snapchat, Instagram, Fa- inability to remove themselves from ‘tech-touch’ for more cebook and Twitter, now seen everywhere, have become than a few minutes,” he says. “Many young people also the most widely used means of communication. Most of feel that having the internet is their guide to life rather than us cannot imagine a world without technology. In fact, ac- seeking information from elders.” Yet, as technology is often overused or misused in many cording to the website Entrepreneur, “35.5 percent of Gen different ways, it can geneZers admit to spending rally be a help to people. It an average of six to ten THIS IS A MICROWAVE SOCIETY. NOhas given plenty of children hours per day on their BODY WANTS TO PUT SOMETHING IN THE and adults useful informatimobile devices.” on and diverse methods of This increased use OVEN AND LET IT COOK. WE ALL WANT positive interactions. This of technology can be THINGS LIKE THAT. sentiment is something that very harmful. SophoCunningham also acknowmore Moses Brown ledges. - SOPHOMORE MOSES BROWN believes that electro“Technology can be nics are a detriment to used to help with societal problems by the ability it provides our communities. to receive and share ideas…” he states. “Information can “This is a microwave society,” Brown states. “Nobody wants to put something in the oven and let it cook. We all be shared across a widespread audience to make changes want things like that,” he says as he snaps his fingers. “We if necessary and bring awareness about areas of concern.” Though it may be perceived in different ways, technology have our phones, and if we want a message back we’ll boremains firmly ingrained in our society. It is part of “Generather you until we get it back.” This thought is reflected by not just students at Salina tion Z’s” identity and will not be going away anytime soon.
FEATURE STORY
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WORLD VIEW September 11, 2001. On this day, many innocent Americans were killed in an act of terrorism. It was a day that changed the world. It also changed the environment “Generation Z” was to grow up in. Though most kids in our generation can barely remember this atrocious act, it has directly impacted us. Hate crimes and discrimination against Muslims have dramatically risen. According to the New York Times, there were a “record 481 documented hate crimes against Muslims in 2001.” The website goes on to say that the U.S. experienced “about 260 hate crimes against Muslims nationwide in 2015,” the second highest total since 2001. The society we have been born into does not only include suspicion against Muslims, but displays discrimination in general, directed towards “minorities.” A large percentage of gays, blacks, transgenders and so on suffer disparagement within our society. Yet, people everywhere disagree on discrimination. These different opinions and viewpoints have spread to politics, where some politicians, vying for votes, attempt to gain support through tough immigration reform. Such issues have divided the nation, and it is in this atmosphere that Gen Z is coming of age. Like it or not, we are acutely aware of each other’s opinions, ideas and judgements. It is one of the byproducts of constantly being connected. This generation, according to the Center for Generational Kinetics, is a group of people “that are increasingly self-aware and self-reliant.” Compared to previous generations, we may be seen as more individualistic and separated. Janzen thinks that “Gen Zers” need to display a different attitude in general. “I think people need to have an open mind and be empathetic,” Janzen explained. “It’s important to understand other people’s points of view with respect, even if they do not agree with something.”
TOWARDS THE FUTURE “Gen Z” faces many challenges, but with awareness and creativity we can turn these challenges into opportunities. Yes, technology is a risk when we abuse it. Yes, we may be individualistic and at times lack empathy. Yes, we were born into a time of divisiveness and anxiety. Even so, if we are technologically savvy rather than dependent, if we use our connections to develop leadership, if we use our knowledge to learn from the past, if we use our advantages to promote positive change, then “Gen Z” will be a beacon to future generations. After all, we are the present and future of our world.
SOLUTION
SESSION Changing the world can start with changing the enviorment you are in. Principal Nate Showman gave his thoughts on the solution sessions that have been held in ELO.
How did the Solution Session go? I thought it was a very positive experience. It was awesome to see each student willingly sharing thoughts and ideas with their table groups and I’m excited to see where the ideas lead us. Students should have a voice in the planning and creating solutions. I’m excited for our future sessions.
How did the students respond? I thought that the students who participated did an excellent job of being open to sharing their thoughts and ideas and I thought everyone did a great job listening to what their tables were saying.
What are the next steps? We have compiled a list of over 100 potential solutions/ideas from the 8 table groups. Our next step is to send out the list of ideas to participants for review and then meet again to look at these ideas, discuss how we can put them into action, and then develop timelines for implementation.
Anything else you want to say about the session? Our students are passionate, creative and talented. Great, student-generated and student-led ideas will come out of these sessions.
77.7%
of students wish that they could make Central a better place
* 150 students were surveyed using Google Forms during random classes on Oct 17-18
sports briefs
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by holly sanderson | pylon editor If there is one thing that Cooper and Emme Turpin don’t have, it’s a normal brother-sister relationship. Unlike most families, these two attend different high schools: Sacred Heart and Central. This has both positively and negatively impacted their family; it has drastically changed both of their lives. Freshman Emme Turpin attends Central because it provides a better opportunity for sports. Most of her childhood teammates attend this school, so it made sense for her to transfer. Senior Cooper Turpin attends Sacred Heart for similar reasons. Both siblings are very involved in athletics. Emme participates on the tennis team. This year, Varsity placed first at league, and went to state and
PYLON november 3, 2017
took sixth overall as a team. She has also played softball all of her life and is planning to play for the school this spring season. Cooper has played basketball and baseball for Sacred Heart all four years of high school. Some of his accomplishments include playing on an allselect baseball team and winning the 2017 2A State Championship for basketball. Sacrifice is inevitable for the Turpins because they attend different schools and are constantly involved in sports. “You definitely miss out on not being able to go to all of the Central games, but Sacred Heart games are pretty fun and getting to support my brother is too,” Emme said. Having a sibling at a different school has its obstacles. It’s difficult for them
to relate to one another because each has something different happening in their school. Their parents always have to split up to go support them. Going to different schools affects Emme’s relationship with Cooper. “I don’t get to see Emme as much as I’d like, but we will always still be there for each other,” said Cooper. Their situation, while peculiar, is beneficial in that, it helps them understand each other better. For Emme, it has helped her mature and realize how different their lives really are. There is a large difference between attending a large public and small private school. “I wouldn’t change how our lives are. We still are going to support each other no matter what,” said Emme.
sports briefs
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fall sports briefs Senior Ellie Cobb wins 5A State Golf Senior Ellie Cobb finished off a stellar golf career by winning the 5A state golf tournament by eight strokes. “Winning state was
Junior Doubles partners Holgerson and Stack take fourth at 5A State Tennis Juniors Grace Holgerson and Maddie Stack won their first two matches
Cross Country Results: Cross country quali-
definitely the perfect cap to my high school golf career. I have had an amazing support system between family and friends and I am excited to continue my golf career in college and to see where that takes
me,” Cobb said. The girl’s golf team overcame some high scores and poor performances throughout the season but with Cobb’s leadership qualified for their seventh straight state championship.
at state, and ended their state run 2-2. “It was cool to see all of Maddie and I’s hard work pay off. We were really proud of how well we worked together in doubles, and to experience state with someone so close to me
was a rewarding and a memorable experience,” Holgerson said. The team won league, regionals and qualified both doubles teams and both singles players for the state competition. The team took sixth at state.
fied four runners for the state competition at Rim Rock in Lawrence on Saturday, Oct. 28, placing was as follows: senior Zoie Counts takes 44th , senior Tabetha Deines takes 100th, sophomore Brianna Torres takes 64th, sophomore Brandon Falcon takes 72nd.
“Volleyball my senior year has been one full of many emotions. Our record may have been low but that just means they underestimated us at substate. When we played at our full potential we are unstoppable and i was excited to see that in the last couple of weeks.” - SENIOR MYAH WARD
Soccer Results: The boys soccer team went
13-4 this season, including beating South for the first time in five years and placing second in league . The team came up short with a heartbreaking loss against Liberal in the first round of regionals in overtime losing 4-3.
“Football didn’t go as planned this year. We all worked really hard to do what we could to get back the mustang tradition and we are trying ot get the job done. We will never give up. #TDWIN.” - JUNIOR COLE BUTTS
athletes sports
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Senior Malik Kistler shows skills he has learned in MMA that has become an alternative to him fighting elsewhere. Kistler turned his troublesome past into something productive.| photo by ryan dix
PYLON NOVEMBER 3, 2017
PYLON NOVEMBER 3, 2017
FINDING FIGHT mma is more than just a hobby for senior malik kistler by ryan dix | pylon editor
athletes sports
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For some people, finding their calling can take a lifetime. Senior Malik Kistler was lucky enough to find it during his high school years. Mixed Martial Arts is something that he can channel his energy into, instead of using it to fuel his temper. Not only is MMA his hobby and escape from reality, but it changed his life. From a young age, Kistler felt the need to fight. That’s why, for many years, he was constantly in trouble, almost every day. Because of this, he was in and out of boys homes and even jail, for a period of time. “I would fight anybody, students, teachers, anybody. It didn’t matter to me,” Kistler said. Now, you’ll typically find Kistler training in the octagon, as he has been doing for the past two years. Whether it’s just conditioning or working on his technique with the bags, he always finds the time. Since Kistler is not 18 yet, he cannot participate in organized MMA matches, so he spends his time preparing. He typically trains for about three to four hours a day, beginning after school with cardio. Then, he goes in to his technique sessions, working on hand speed and footwork. He ends the day with more cardio. Kistler’s goal is to one day fight professionally. He plans to join technical school after high school and earn his degree as a fallback, if he doesn’t make it. Kistler is determined to give it everything he has to make it to the bigtime.
IT HAS CHANGED MY LIFE. I LIKE TO THINK IT HAS MADE ME A BETTER PERSON. - SENIOR MALIK KISTLER Special education teacher, Mary Franco, has witnessed changes in Kistler’s attitude and temper over the course of four years. She has seen him grow both physically and in discipline. Even so, Franco has always known a side of Kistler that he doesn’t show to everybody. “He’s always been a very caring but personal individual. If he builds a relationship with you, he builds it for life. If you’re in trouble, he will always stick up for you,” Franco said. Not only have other people noticed these differences, but Kistler has as well. “MMA has definitely changed how I act. I feel like I’ve become a nicer person,” Kistler explained. MMA has reshaped Kistler’s life. It has taught him how to be disciplined both in and out of the ring. He believes that it can touch other people’s lives in the same way that it touched his. “I enjoy doing it. It’s something fun for everyone to do, and I would enjoy sparring in the octagon with anyone,” Kistler said.
IN DEPTH
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PYLON NOVEMBER 3, 2017
immigration
limitation trump’s removal of daca shows how nativism has threatened the lives of immigrant children by maria gutierrez | pylon reporter
IN DEPTH
PYLON NOVEMBER 3, 2017
25
For decades, the United States has been known as the As of early September of this year, DACA has been removed “melting pot of the world.” Immigrants have come to Ameri- by the Trump Administration. Although there’s ongoing disca in order to seek fortune and better their lives, often with cussions about recalling DACA and trying to find a comprogreat cost and struggles along the way. However, there has mise, there can’t be any new applicants following the fifth always been one huge obstacle standing in the way of im- of October. However, there’s still an effort being made to migrants and the American Dream: nativism, the hatred of further restrict borders. foreigners. “I can see why’d he’d do it,” Jane admits. “I mean, he’s “Nativism is an issue that has been prevalent in the Uni- a businessman who’s trying to rebuild the economy, you’ve ted States throughout history,” history teacher Deirdre Hoff got to understand that. But he’s been around high-class sosays. “In 1924, for example, there was a giant ban on im- ciety and may not realize how hard it was for the Mexicans to migration to the United States right after WWI for anybody come to America and find work.” that wasn’t Western European. The different methods that It’s speculated that the push to remove DACA was encouhave been used to try to limit immigration or deport people raged by people who had supported President Trump duor punish them has changed.” ring his presidential campaign. The campaign had a strong The most recent example of nativism that has culmina- focus on restricting illegal immigration and the president ted in the United States previously made the claim has taken form as the that undocumented worWHERE’S THE POSITIVE BENEFIT IN White House’s removal kers were taking jobs TAKING AWAY THE OPPORTUNITY FOR of the “Deferred Action that rightfully belonged YOUNG PEOPLE TO HAVE AN EDUCATION for Childhood Arrivals” to American citizens. By AND BE PRODUCTIVE MEMBERS OF OUR program, also known as removing DACA, it would “DACA.” leave nearly 800,000 SOCIETY? DACA was put in place by people unprotected from the Obama Administration deportation. - DEIRDRE HOFF, HISTORY TEACHER in 2012, but has existed as “It’s really sad to see how a concept since 2001. It one person can be so igallows illegal immigrants to obtain green cards, which is a norant to support this,” Jane admits. “Like, my aunt is Mexidocument that confirms that immigrants are permanent re- can, but my uncle and cousin are white. My cousin is in the sidents of the United States. Illegal immigrants can apply military, and he said he deported three Mexicans trying to for DACA as long as they’ve come to the U.S. below the age cross the New Mexico border, and he was proud of it beof 16, are working to receive their high school diploma in the cause it would look good for him. It was infuriating to hear.” United States, and have no criminal record. There’s been ongoing debate for weeks trying to modify A student, who has asked to be referred to as “Jane,” was DACA’s policies, but it’s been a challenge to find a middle born in the United States, but her father’s family came to the ground that doesn’t require too much sacrifice for either United States when he was a teenager. party. There has been discussion over extending the durati“My dad came here because his father wanted to try so- on that DACA can be offered, but the threat is still imminent. mething new,” Jane says. “He worked here on false papers “DACA just screws people over,” Hoff agreed. “Where’s the and couldn’t receive tax deductions because of it. He knew positive benefit in taking away the opportunity for young that there were a lot of people who were doing the same people to have an education and be productive members of thing as him.” our society?”
63.9%
OF STUDENTS DO NOT KNOW WHAT DACA IS
690,000 79.4% $60 BILLION immigrants were enrolled in daca as of september 4
of daca recipients were born in mexico
the estimated cost of immediately deporting all daca recipients
*statistics from Pew Research and the CATO Institute | 150 students were surveyed using Google Forms during random classes on Oct 17-18
info graphic
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WHITE
PYLON NOVEMBER 3, 2017
SQUIRRELS
A rare white squirrel has been spotted scurrying around the science wing this year. Not much is known about white squirrels, but the top towns for spotting white squirrels have all come up with their own white squirrel traditions.
Marionville, MO Locals cannot agree whether the squirrels appeared via a traveling circus or if they were created in a lab, but regardless of origin, anyone who tries to sell or trap a white squirrel will be fined $500.
80% 20%
of white squirrels are white morphs of white squirrels are albinos
Brevard, NC The accepted theory is that white squirrels arrived in Brevard from a traveling circus. In addition to being a sanctuary city for white squirrels, Brevard holds an annual White Squirrel Festival
Olney, IL
Kenton, TN Kenton claims to be the “Home of the White Squirrels,� a saying that is proudly plastered on their town sign. The town holds a White Squirrel Festival during July 4 weekend every year with music, games and photo contest.
In this town, white squirrels are given the right away on all streets and a the official song of the town is dedicated to white squirrels. The town also holds a white squirrel count during the last three Saturdays of October.
*information from roadsideamerica. com and brevardnc.org
PYLON november 3, 2017
who TEACHER
said & it?
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kudos 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 created by the Editors-in-Chief with the help of the staff.
So you think know your teachers? Match common catch phrases with the teacher who is known to say the phrase almost every day. Answers are included at the bottom of the page.
1 “c’mon ya beast” “let’s snap “your 3 that up” 2 face” 4 “drugs” “that’s 5
above my paygrade”
“stand up 6 and do a “you happy cat”
7
turkeys”
“are you ready 8 for some mustang football” ANSWERS
callouts
EDITION
fun & games
KUDOS -Central Perk finally opening -Memes after the PSAT and ACT. Truly the only fun thing about standardized testing - Its almost basketball season -Trump for releasing the JFK files... he did something right for once -Taylor Swift for FINALLY releasing a new album. (One week!!!) -Thanksgiving break is in 18 days -Umami Bowl for opening -New and better iPhone cameras -Discounted Halloween Candy CALLOUTS -Already missing the mods -Where did the Uncrustables go? -Halloween being on a Tuesday -Stop standing in the middle of the hallway. Some people are actually trying to get to class! -We miss late start days... those extra 30 minutes on Tuesday/ Thursday were a blessing -Yelling in the hallway... We’re all too tired in the morning to process your screams. -Administration for thinking we can’t handle access to the printers. Do you want me to pull my essay out of my butt?
1) Mr. Peters; 2) Mrs. Paradis; 3) Mr. Nulik; 4) Mr. Newell; 5) Mr. Dix; 6) Mrs. Hoff; 7) Mrs. Shaffer; 8) Mr. Hall
Editorials Opinion
28
PYLON november 3, 2017
generation We are a ‘Make a difference’ type of generation by madeline Paradis | Pylon editor Lazy, phone-absorbed, and unambitious. These are words that people from previous generations might use to describe Generation Z. Although they might appear to be true, Generation Z has many positive attributes that are generally overlooked or unnoticed. To truly understand this generation, we must dive into what makes it unique, what makes it good. When I look at our generation, I see change. Good change Not just the stereotypical, “We’re the generation that’s going to make a difference” type of change; change that is actually happening all because of a few simple things. Social media is a significant aspect of this generation. Since most people use their phones every day, they are constantly scrolling through online news, exchanging opinions, and seeing the impact that their words and actions have. Having the ability to reach someone anywhere in the world has made tragic events much more personal; we are hearing about them firsthand and have the ability to do something about it. Raising money, spreading awareness and educating other people are just a few of the many things that can be accomplished by Generation Z with just a simple retweet. This huge influence is what makes change happen. With Generation Z being the first generation to be raised with social media, we are the ones to who are able to use this kind of change, making us different from any other generation. Selena Gomez is one person who is using their social media platforms to make a difference. She has encouraged her 128 million Instagram followers to call The White House in defense of DACA, donate to help victims of the recent hurricanes and to not shy away from talking about topics such as women empowerment and teen suicide. She has
even shared the story of her personal struggle with lupus, a chronic inflammatory disease that occurs when your body’s immune system attacks your own tissues and organs, and pictures of the surgery scars. With an increasing number of people with different body types, races, religions and sexualities sharing their stories and pictures on social media, the teens of Generation Z finally see other people that they can relate to on a personal level, rather than the perfect images that magazines, ads and television feed to us. This new found comfort within our differences has given people a major boost in confidence. With more confidence, people are much more likely to become leaders, join a group or activity, and stand up for what they believe in, which is what bonds people together. Since there are so many different opinions and original sources online now, Generation Z is much better at forming their own opinions, instead of siding with what our parents believe to be right. Our parents and the adults we look up to largely influence every single aspect of our lives, from the way that we dress to the way that we treat other people. While this can be a positive or negative thing, having an opinion formed completely based on our own knowledge and perspective is vital to growing up with the ability to make decisions and make a change. Generation Z does not shy away from talking about social injustices, sex/sex education, racial stereotypes, and sexuality unlike the generations before us did. Whether or not people realize it, Generation Z is here to make a difference. As we learn to embrace our differences and use them to our advantage, we are also learning to embrace the individuality of others as well. This is what is going to reunite people so we can create a better world for ourselves and the generations to come.
12/13
Pylon staffers feel that Generation Z has the power to change the world in a positive way
68%
of students believe Generation Z is more aware of social issues than previous generations *150 students were surveyed using Google Forms in random classes on October 17 and 18.
PYLON November 3, 2017
so long sam
Governor leaves behind lackluster legacy
Editorials Opinion
29
Governor Sam Brownback at the 2017 Conservative Political Action Conference | Photo courtesy of Gage Skidmore/ Flickr.com
by chloe guillot | Pylon editor As current governor Sam Brownback trades his spot in failing to provide students with adequate reading and math Topeka for a position in Trump’s cabinet, he leaves behind skills. In some school districts, the school week has been a legacy of dismal approval ratings and a broken education reduced to four days to help with funding. Some schools run system. out of money by the end of the year and have to stop school In 2012, as part of an economic experiment, which hap- earlier than planned. Even though having days off from pens to be eerily similar to Trump’s current tax plan, Brown- school sounds fun, it is detrimental to our education. back enforced large tax cuts, which he predicted would Not only does this financial disaster affect children, bring economic growth on a massive scale. Instead, the tax it also affects teachers. If school districts cannot afford cuts sank the Kansas budget and put the state in a financial to hire more teachers, then the current teachers end up crisis. Brownback, with all the wisdom of a 10-year-old, de- teaching more classes and taking on more students in their cided to mend the budget by draining the education budget. classrooms. Teachers are critical to the development of the The end result has been a struggling Kansas economy future generation, but they don’t want to stay in Kansas beand a series of lawsuits from Kansas schools. The solution cause too much is being asked of them for a below-average to this budgeting issue is not necessarily black and white, salary. If Kansas wants to build up leaders, then they need but if the Kansas government continues to ignore public to build up education. schools, then Kansans need to make But thankfully, the future of Kana statement. sas education does not fall in BrownWith an election year coming up, back’s hands. Lieutenant governor KANSANS NEED TO ELECT the issue of school funding and the Jeff Coyer is set to take Brownback’s SOMEONE WHO WILL economy will be a hot topic for candiplace for the remainder of his term, ACTUALLY TAKE STEPS TO dates. Kansans need to elect someand next year’s election could bring one who will actually take steps to a brand new governor to Topeka. IMPROVE THE LIVES OF improve the lives of students. With Brownback leaving office, the STUDENTS. On October 2, the Kansas Sumess that he created will fall on the preme Court made yet another rulshoulders of the new leaders. ing that declared funding for Kansas For Coyer, the best thing that he schools to be unconstitutional. Article 6 of the Kansas con- can do is to take proactive steps towards solving this crisis. stitution states that “legislature shall make suitable provi- Although a tax increase is rarely something that politicians sion for finance of the educational interests of the state.” want to institute, it may be the only solution to this budget This poor funding nearly led to a state-wide school shut- shortfall. If schools do not receive funding soon, then a down last year, and yet lawmakers have still failed to come school shutdown may be imminent. Causing thousands of up with an adequate solution. children to lose out on their education would be far more diWithout sufficient funding, schools could face a shut- sastrous in the long run than a tax increase. If Coyer fails to down like the one that almost happened in 2016. No other take action, then Kansans should look to elect a new goverstate has come close to having a school shutdown, but it has nor in the 2018 election. happened to Kansas twice, in 2004 and 2016. A school shutA handful of current students will be able to vote, and down would affect student’s abilities to access free meals, if we all care about our education, then we should vote for after school programs and could even prevent seniors from someone that will protect it. being able to send transcripts to colleges because the disRight now, the future of Kansas education is unsure, but trict computer system could become inactive. it is clear that something needs to change. If government Aside from a school shutdown, politicians are worried officials continue to prioritize their own careers over the fuabout school performance. In March 2016, the Supreme ture of children, then students need to speak up. The value Court ruled that nearly one quarter of Kansas schools are of a good education cannot be decreased by $50 million.
PYLON November 3, 2017
editorials opinion
30
by madeline Paradis | Pylon editor
letter to the editor
Students shouldn’t feel obligated to stand for pledge by Isabella Rubino | Freshman Before saying the Pledge of Allegiance, students need to be educated by the administration on what rules are in place for participating in it. In 1943, in the case West Virginia state board of education v. Barnette, the Supreme Court ruled that it is a violation of student’s rights, under the first and the fourteenth amendment, to force them to participate in the pledge. In 1954, congress added the phrase “Under God” to the Pledge of Allegiance. Public schools are not allowed to force religion upon students, yet everyday students are pledging themselves under god, whether they agree or disagree. Students should know what the Pledge of Allegiance represents. A majority of students are just saying the pledge, without really understanding its significance. Salina Central’s student handbook is very vague about the expectation regarding the Pledge of Allegiance.
“It is our philosophy that any variation in personal conduct that disrupts or interferes with normal class procedure has no place in school. The school’s time-honored purpose to promote educational, social, and emotional growth of the individual must be respected by all and preserved by the school and its officials.” The administration and handbook need to clarify that students have every right to stay seated during the Pledge of Allegiance, as long as it is not disruptive to class. Participating in the pledge shows respect to our country. Some people think that not participating in the Pledge of Allegiance is disrespectful to our country and those who serve in the military. However, students have the right to decide if saying the pledge is the right thing for them to do. They should feel safe in schools and should not be looked down on for exercising their rights and not partaking in the Pledge of Allegiance.
status quotes
PYLON NOVEMBER 3, 2017
STATUS QUOTES The following quotes were heard around the school by members of the Pylon staff
WHERE IS NORTH KOREA WHEN YOU NEED THEM?
WHY TRY WHEN YOU COULD CRY AND WHY CRY WHEN YOU COULD DIE.
IMAGINE THE WIZARD OF OZ EXCEPT INSTEAD OF RUBY SLIPPERS, DOROTHY WEARS CAMO CROCS. I DABBED ON A CLOWN THIS WEEKEND.
I IDENTIFY AS A STRAWBERRY POPTART.
ACCORDING TO BUZZFEED AND MY CUSSING HABITS, I AM A 41 YEAR OLD MAN.
GET OFF THAT SIN BOX AND HELP ME.
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OPEN EVERY DAY FROM 7:15 AM TO 7:40 AM
EVERYTHING $1 GATORADE | COFFEE | JUICE A group of students work on homework in the Central Perk before school. | photo by saria taylor