Pylon October 2019

THE PYLON

PY

Vol. 96, Iss. 1 | Salina Central High School | 650 E. Crawford St. | Salina KS, 67401 | October 4, 2019

23 METH USE ON THE RISE

What teens are willing to give up in order to fit in || pg 28-31

7 BECOMING A D1 ATHLETE

VSCO VSCO VSCOVIBE VIBE VIBE

2 || Contents Page

October 4, 2019 || Pylon

On The Cover On the cover, we featured a graphic of a VSCO girl.

This design shows a common VSCO girl with her popular puka shell necklace, messy bun with a scrunchie and her famous Hydroflask.

The design is surrounded with stars and bright colors which are a common theme on a VSCO girl’s social media.

The VSCO trend has exploded.

While some are proud to be called a “VSCO girl” others dislike using the term.

In this picture, VSCO girl junior Madelynn Nash holds her Hydroflask with her trendy stickers.

Nash wears a comfortable but cute outfit which is the whole point of a VSCO girl. || photo by Makelti Hastings

We Want to Hear Your Opinion The Pylon serves 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 that you want to be published, e-mail your submissions to conchacampa@students.usd305.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 to clarify.

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

Volume 96 of the Pylon was created by 16 staff members using Creative Cloud CC. Our fonts this year include Montserrat, Playfair Display and Northwell.

Content h

Pylon || October 4, 2019

07

Out of your League

Quinn Stewart explains how his passion lead him to a scholarship

14

Instant epidemic Old news

The Salina Journal is undergoing many new changes due to a new company owner

28

Staff Editor-in-Chief Madeline Paradis

Copy Editor Zoe Gilpin

Sports Editor

The overwhelming amount of rain has caused the number of bugs and frogs to increase

20

Contents Page || 3

VSCO vibes

The VSCO trend has taken over high school girls and their personalities

Editor’s Letter Dear Readers, Thank you for picking up a copy of this year’s first issue of The Pylon.

Our staff is excited to be kicking off the year, and we are looking forward to the rest of the school year.

In this publication we cover an array of light and heavy topics affecting students inside and outside of school. Our feature follows the VSCO girl trend in hopes of finding out why it has become so popular and its impact on Central students.

Also covered in this issue is the growing meth epidemic, global warming and our new principal Dr. Brungardt. I hope you enjoy flipping through and are ready for more!

Rashada Smith

Opinion Editor Layna Kinnaird

Student Life Editor Marlie Coleman

Lead Writer

Malcolm Berkley

Managing Editor Concha Campa

Arts Editor Anlyn Arb

News Editor Isabella Rubino

In-Depth Editor Sydney Raman

Design Manager Makelti Hastings

Reporters Jesus Jasso Hannah Watkins Jillian DeVoe Lucas Nutter Harper Heath

Adviser

J.D. Garber

Madeline Paradis

Madeline Paradis Editor-in-Chief

Follow Us on Social Media www.chspylon.com

chspylon mustangmedia

4 || Infographic

October 4, 2019 || Pylon

THE BURN CANCER PREVENTION

FACTS AND TIPS FOR SKIN

Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or above. For extensive outdoor time, use 30 SPF or above.

Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours

Sunsc

reen

Broad

Spectr

SPF 3

um

0

30

y On Spra reen c

Suns

3.0 fl.

oz. (8 8

50

mL)

ction Prote /UVB esistant A V U rR Wate

) 70 g oz. (1 WT 6 T E N

Seek shade, especially between

10 AM and 4 PM.

43% Of students DO

NOT apply sunscreen in the summer

*Information from skincancer.org || 208 students surveyed during random classes on Sept. 11-18

Pylon || October 4, 2019

1/5 Americans will develop

skin cancer by the age of 70.

Five or more sunburns DOUBLES your risk for melanoma.

Infographic || 5

More than 9,500 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with skin cancer EVERY DAY. More than two people die of skin cancer in the U.S. every hour.

Clothing absorbs harmful UV radiation and is one of the most effective forms of protection against sun damage and skin cancer.

Avoid Wearing sunglasses and hats also tanning, protects from these rays. and never use

UV tanning beds.

60% of students

DO NOT worry about getting skin cancer

6 || In-Depth

October 4, 2019 || Pylon

business instagrams Students share the new trendy way to make money

“

|| photo by Concha Campa

I started an Instagram business account because I heard it was an easy way to make money at a fast rate and it was super easy.

I post pictures of all the clothes I’m selling, and then someone just either comments on the picture or they direct message me if they want the item I’m selling.

I like selling things online but it’s not as reliable and realistic as a real job. It definitely is a new trend I followed it because I thought it would be an easy way to get money. I’ve made some good money throughout this whole process I would totally recommend it to other girls.”

- Sara Opat, senior @sara.clothes1

“

|| photo by Sydney Raman

My Instagram business account is simply to start selling my unused or lightly used clothing. Then it turned into me making necklaces, and bracelets upon request again.

It is a great way to make new friends, and get to meet new people. It’s like a second job. It becomes very time consuming when having to plan, and meet up with the girls.

I think a lot of girls started to do it because we all look for bargains because let’s be real, clothes are expensive. I saw a girl’s account and then I started mine.

I’ve made about $500 so far, and I still have a bunch of sales to do but I have just been so busy with school now. I guess you could say I followed it to make money.”

- Lariah Graves, senior

@lariahsclothing

Pylon || October 4, 2019

out of your

Sports || 7

Stewart looks to the sideline during a game. || photo illustration by Alex Morales

STEWART COMMITS TO OKLAHOMA STATE, EARNS D1 SCHOLARSHIP || story by Malcolm Berkley

October 4, 2019 || Pylon

8 || Sports

S

ince 2005, no student-athlete “I never really thought I’d get a Di- conversation and I told him I’d make from Salina had committed vision 1 scholarship,” Stewart said. “It him famous,” Sharp said. “He moves to a Division 1 school on a full was a blast getting to visit a bunch of well, has a good motor, a whole lot of football scholarship. On June schools, see the facilities, and meet muscle, and great measurables.” the coaches that I’ve seen on TV.” Three times a week, Stewart worked 18, 2019, that all changed.

Towards the middle of his junior out at Sharp Performance under the “[I’m] Super grateful to be able to announce that I have committed to year, Stewart began training at Sharp tutelage of David Leonard, his personOklahoma State University,” wrote Se- Performance. Prior to becoming the al trainer. Having mentored a number nior Quinn Stewart on Twitter. “[I’m] only Salina high school football player of Division 1 athletes, Leonard sought Very thankful to be able to further my to receive a full scholarship since 2005, to prepare him for the rigor of college football. athletic and academic career there.”

“The biggest thing for our training was to Stewart will play collegiate football as a tight make him more explosive and agile,” Leonard said. end for one of the top 30 NCAA Division 1 football “He was already big and strong enough, but at the programs in the coun“After one of the Central try--this, while paying next level everyone is big and strong, so we focused absolutely nothing of the football games last year, Quinn $40,000 a year tuition. on agility and being as exHe’ll attend school in Stillplosive as possible.” and I had a conversation and I water, Oklahoma as a stuAll the hard work paid dent athlete under head dividends for Stewart. told him I’d make him famous.”

The weight of an uncoach Mike Gundy.

With zero Division 1 ofknown future is lifted fers in March of last year, from his shoulders allowthe senior’s recruiting ing him to now focus on Personal Trainer Jake Sharp profile dramatically shot the last year of his high school career and the imup in the space of just pending arrival of collea few months. Colleges giate athletics. took notice of Stewart’s “For my senior 6 foot 4 inch 235 pound season at Central, frame and the impressive I want our footathleticism he displayed at several showcases. One day after he trained at the facilities of former KU ball team to improve our he broke personal records at the April standout Jake Sharp. As fate would record and make a deep14 Sharp Performance combine, he re- have it, the Central alumnus was, in er run into the playoffs,” fact, the athlete in question who re- Stewart said. “As for ceived his first FBS offer from KU. By the time May 15 rolled around, he ceived a full scholarship in 2005. To OSU, I want to make had two FBS offers, had visited three Sharp’s veteran eye, Stewart’s poten- the most out of the schools and was a three-star recruit tial was evident. opportunity and repranked top 6 in the state. For Stewart, “After one of the Central football resent Salina in a those few months were all just a blur. games last year, Quinn and I had a

positive manner.”

STEWART’S stats

2 40k 3 $

FBS D1 OFFERS

A YEAR SCHOLARSHIP

STAR RECRUIT

Pylon || October 4, 2019

Sports || 9

Stewart takes media photos on one of his official visits to Oklahoma State. || photo courtesy of Bruce Waterfield

10 || Sports Briefs

October 4, 2019 || Pylon

SPORTS BRIEFS Here’s your recap on everything that has happened so far this fall season

Junior Karter Fuller putting the golf ball. || photo by Ella Eaton

48

junior Karter Fuller’s 1st place score at the golf meet in Manhattan

GIRLS GOLF This season, the golf team is currently ranked 12th in 5A and has a score of 399. Their are no more home tournaments this year, but Regionals is on Oct. 14.

CROSS COUNTRY The boys cross country team competed in the Manhattan and Hesston invitationals, finishing 8th and 6th respectively.

At the time of writing, the girl’s have also been to two invitationals, with Central placing 6th overall at Manhattan with a score of 147, and placing 7th at Hesston.

Senior Kyson Harmison leading a pack of cross country runners.|| photo by Danton McDiffett

19:04:1

senior Kyson Harmison’s time at the 1st invitational this year at Manhattan

GIRLS TENNIS On the courts, the girl’s tennis team has competed against many schools, and overall they are 4th in class 5A.

16-1

senior Emery Newton’s current record this season

Senior Emery Newton swings for the ball. || photo by Danton McDiffett

Pylon || October 4, 2019

Sports Briefs || 11

The soccer team kneels together. || photo by Mackenzie Maring

BOYS SOCCER After winning their first match, the soccer team, who lost a lot of essential players last year, have had a rough start, but are doing their best to keep up with their legacy.

3-0

the final score of the Central-Hays game

VOLLEYBALL So far this season, the varsity volleyball team has an overall record of 5-13. They have competed in plenty of matches, going to at least three games in many of them.

25-21 25-23

was the final score for the volleyball game against Campus

The volleyball team celebrates. || photo by Madison Suenram

FOOTBALL

The Mustangs have played against Goddard Eisenhower and Derby. Both varsity games, the team came out losing, with the final scores of 14-21 and 0-49.

During the latest South game, the Mustangs came out victorious 17-7. (published Sept. 27 before next game)

17-7

Seniors Houston Griffitts, Israel Torres and Quinn Stewart on-looking a play. || photo by Kadyn Cobb

the score of the 50th annual Mayor’s Cup football game

12 || Sports Briefs

October 4, 2019 || Pylon

BACK to BACK

MAYOR’S CUP

CHAMPIONS

FOURTH QUARTER FINISH CLINCHES WIN OVER CROSSTOWN RIVAL

Sports Briefs || 13

Pylon || October 4, 2019

OVERALL RECORD

CENTRAL 33-23

After beating the Cougars, the senior football players cheer with excitement. Senior Gage Prester’s interception in the second quarter helped lead to the success for the Mustangs. || photo by Molly Michaelis Junior EZ Jackson avoids a tackle before running into the endzone for a touchdown. Jackson’s TD reception was the final score in the game, putting the Mustangs ahead 17-7. || photo by Emme Turpin

catch

THE

“

At first I didn’t

think it was real. I had to look at the crowd

first and then I looked

“

50 regular season games 6 post season games

at all my teammates. I got hype.

Junior EZ Jackson

October 4, 2019 || Pylon

14 || News

Toads and frogs are now a more common occurence. They have not only createdproblems for those driving in the countryside but also for people getting to places they need to be. || photo by Rolf Dietrich Brecher

INSTANT EPIDEMIC LOCALIZED FLOODING CREATES FRUSTRATION CAUSED BY BOTHERSOME BUGS AND TOADS

A rainy day at Lakewood Nature Trails. The flooding and wet conditions have increased the height of the lake water, making the bugs and frogs more prone to appearing. “It is a really cool example of how animals respond to changes in their environment,” Science teacher, Tyler Barnes said. || photo by Marlie Coleman

News || 15

Pylon || October 4, 2019

|| story by Marlie Coleman

D

ue to excessive rain this summer and early fall the current number of mosquitoes, gnats and even frogs (toads) have rapidly increased, causing problems for students and teachers who spend a good portion of their time outdoors.

Problems have come up for senior Ashley Abbott and her family. Their life on the farm has only been made more difficult.

These animals not only tamper with the earth they farm on, but with their livestock as well.

“The frogs dig up our plants and the bugs spread diseases and sickness to our animals. They also eat our plants,” Abbott said.

While it is a hassle to add an extra step to their daily and weekly routine, the Abbott family has methods of keeping these frogs and bugs at bay, and they are not too different from what others try to do.

“We use fly spray for our animals, and pesticides for our plants,” Abbott said. “We also use chickens or just move frogs to a different location.”

Teachers have also noticed the bug epidemic. Biology teacher Tyler Barnes had caught wind of the problem as well, but finds it fascinating, as it affects how the other animals will act in response.

“There’s definitely a cool Biology experiment here. Frogs have all sorts of predators (herons, snakes, fish, birds of prey) and the increase in prey can actually cause their populations to crash,” Barnes said. “The predator numbers rise because of all the available food, but ultimately crash when those prey populations drop back to normal.”

The ecosystem, and how it functions, can be mesmerizing, but there is also another problem of the rising numbers.

Mosquito bites are very irritating, but there is something under the surface we tend to overlook that Barnes has noticed.

“There are actually some serious risks for people, particularly from mosquitoes and ticks which can carry blood-borne illnesses,” Barnes said. “With the larger populations, there have been more people infected with these diseases. The CDC is actually monitoring tick population numbers for the first time this year in response to this.”

Side effects of these bug bites can be conflicting with those more prone to insect bites. This is the case for senior Destiny Hacker, who believes that mosquitoes are more attracted to her than normal.

“My entire family attracts mosquitoes as well,” Hacker said. “I don’t know if it’s the taste of certain people’s blood or what it is that is more appealing to them.”

Much like what Barnes said, these insects carry threatening diseases that can harm anyone.

This certainly goes for someone more prone to their bites, like Hacker.

“I get worried when I get bitten because they carry diseases like Malaria. I am more likely to get a disease because I get bitten by them so frequently,” Hacker said.

With all this talk and worry over the bug epidemic, it is unknown what will come next for a bug population change. It will all be a matter of time and weather patterns for us to tell.

“There is some speculation that an increasingly warm planet might be contributing to these rising populations,” Barnes said.

“This could be the beginning of a trend.”

“The frogs dig up our plants and the bugs spread sickness to our animals.”

Senior Ashley Abbott

60.8% OF STUDENTS HAVE NOTICED MORE TOADS AROUND IN RECENT TIMES.

|| 208 students surveyed during random classes from September 11-18

MAKING A 16 || News

comeback

Alumnus Dr. Matt Brungardt returns to CHS with hopes of improving his school || story by Harper Heath

Salina Central has a new principal; alumnus Dr. Matthew Brungardt.

“It’s a little strange, in that when I went to school here I never thought I’d be a principal of this school, it is cool because you know

I love how he knows who we are.

English Teacher Karen Abker I spent time here and I have some things in common with all the students,’’ Brungardt said.

He attended school here in 1984 through 1988.

“I love that he is a former mustang. I love that he knows us and the students, he knows the high school. I love how he knows who we are and he kinda has a plan for that,” said English teacher Karen Abker.

Brungardt has been the principal at different schools throughout Kansas, “I think just my ED patterns and being all over the state

October 4, 2019 || Pylon

and being at some bigger schools I think it has really helped by giving me a structure to rely on and some things to pull on as issues have come up,” said Brungardt.

Since Brungardt attended Central, we have had many aesthetic changes made to the school, such as expanding the main hallway; but that didn’t help with the traffic last year trying to travel between classes.

“The hallways are a lot less crowded than they were last year,’’ said Senior Madison Pham.

This was a large problem last year with the f reshman class.

Brungardt has brought good leadership to Central this year, “He has structures to things, ” said Mrs. Abker.

At the beginning of the 2019 school year, the start of each class had a small power point that told the students about expectations, which was a change f rom years before.

“There’s been some little changes like that but mostly i just want to use the time to evaluate and figure out what we need to do to make the school better and take it to the next level,” said Brungardt.

His focus is to make Salina Central a better place than it has been in the past. He plans on evaluating the school for his first year and does not plan on making any drastic changes, “I just kinda wanna come in and see what is going on make some tweaks along the way,” said Brungardt.

Pylon || October 4, 2019

News || 17

Salina Central Principal Dr. Matt Brungardt holds a crystal ball to reflect his past years at Central. Brungardt graduated in 1988 and has now returned to lead the school. “...Mostly I just want to use the time to evaluate and figure out what we need to do to make the school better and take it to the next level.� || photo by Makelti Hastings

October 4, 2019 || Pylon

18 || News Briefs

NEWS BRIEFS CENTRAL Last week’s performance of Oscar Wilde’s “The Importance of Being Earnest” brought huge crowds to the auditorium.

The show’s entire cast is underclassmen, the only senior being lead Isaac Morris. Having this younger cast helps breathe new life into Central’s theatre.

|| photo by Jerzee Mullins

LOCAL

131

St. Johns Military School to continue The 131 year history of Salina’s St. John Military School will continue thanks to a merge with a local religious organization. The school will now be known as St. Johns Ministries and School. The school offers students a second chance and a place to prepare for their future.

NATIONAL

Area 51 Raid “To me it’s funny that people actually charged the gates.”

Sophomore Dalton Gimeson

I love

working with my co-stars, they are

ATHLETIC HOF

all my friends and that is why I continue to be in the production.

Senior Isaac Morris

|| photo courtesy of Kim Rayas

On Friday, September 13, the inaugural class of the Athletic Hall of Fame was inducted. Former wrestling standout, Brian Hill was one of the members.

DONALD

TRUMP In late September, what some experts see as damning evidence emerged about President Trump communicating off the books with the Ukrainian president. Trump, in exchange for military support, wanted information about Joe Biden and his son. Whether this evidence is enough to support his impeachment, only time will tell.

News Briefs || 19

Pylon || October 4, 2019

|| photo by Alex Morales

UPCOMING WEDNESDAY

9

HOMECOMING PARADE

THURSDAY

17

PARENT TEACHER CONFERENCES

THURSDAY

24 FALL PLAY

“Wearing the wig was fun, really wanted to stand out and go all out for my senior year.

Plus I think everyone was digging the wig.”

Senior Brianna Torres

ews N

OLD 20 || News

October 4, 2019 || Pylon

The current Salina Journal building that was founded in 1871. || photo by Makelti Hastings

Changes in leadership leads to new beginning for Salina Journal || story by Isabella Rubino

T

he Salina Journal has been a staple in Salina, Kansas for years; with thousands of readers awaiting each morning to receive their newspaper. Over the years, The Journal has kept Salina citizens up to date on local news.

However, as journalism becomes

more digitized, The Journal faces cut backs.

Former Salina Journal employee Mike Strand used to view The Journal as a family before the cut backs began and former Journal publisher Thomas Bell has seen a drastic difference since his time

working there in 2012. “Goals for the Salina Journal changed when it went from a family organization, to a profit-driven investment group. Staff has been slashed, and there is less Salina news. The paper is now printed in Hutchinson, which

Pylon || October 4, 2019

News || 21

NO

NO

65%

Student families that receive the Salina Journal

YES

79%

35%

Students that read the Salina Journal

YES

21% || 208 students surveyed during random classes on on Sept. 11-18

means earlier evening deadlines.

Stories on government meetings, and entertainment and sports events, will not appear in the paper the next day. For example, readers won’t see a Friday night football game story until Sunday.”

The Journal was bought

by Gatehouse Media in 2016.

After this, its staff number decreased significantly.

“When I retired from the Journal in 2012, we were issuing around 150 paychecks and had nearly 30 newsroom employees,” Bell Said. “I can’t be certain, but it looks like total Journal employment may be down to a couple dozen people, with three or four in the newsroom. Printing operations have been moved to Hutchinson, and most of the building is empty.

Circulation is down around 60 percent or more and continues to decline.”

The Journal has always been a locally operated newspaper, but

over those 15 years than we did our own spouses. You really bond with those people. You really become a family,” Strand said.

After Gatehouse acquired the Salina Journal, that family dynamic changed and the Journal began its decline.

“The Journal two or three years ago, I would have given five or six more years.

Now maybe one or two maybe before it closes,” Strand said. “I could be wrong, I’m really bad at forecasting things like that. I read interviews with Gatehouse executives and they say they are making all these cuts in order to get cost under control so they can get a firm financial footing and start to grow again. Maybe that’s true, maybe it’s not. As far as betting a whole lot of money, I’d bet against it.”

“Goals for the Salina Journal changed when it went from a family organization, to a profit driven investment group.” former Salina Journal employee Mike Strand

after getting new ownership this all began to change.

“I was there for 16 years, and we did the math one time and the people there that I spent time with, we saw each other more

October 4, 2019 || Pylon

22 || In-Depth

At Your Service

Seniors Harlee Long, Devin Carmona start their next step of education, employment || story by Rashada Smith

Most of the summer, students spend time hanging out with f riends, playing sports, vacationing or even just catching up on sleep they lost f rom the previous nine months. But seniors Harlee Long and Devin Carmona were sitting through lectures and doing hands-on activities during their Emergency Medical Technician classes.

“It’s fun to see all the different things that you get to see. You get to see people at their worst most of the time and it’s nice to help them,” Long said.

Long and Carmona have been training since the end of last school year to become EMTs, three to four days a week f rom 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.

“We just went over the body, what to do, how to treat stuff, and medications,” Carmona said.

People trying to become an EMT generally have two tests they need to pass, the Cognitive and Psycho motor Exams. The former is a computer knowledge test, while the latter is a simulation where students are asked to perform whichever emergency care skills are required.

“There’s a hands-on practical exam, where you get a patient and you have to treat them, with all of the equipment you have, and then you have a written exam, which can be 72 to 120 questions long, multiple choice,” Long said.

Long eventually wants to become a Paramedic, but for right now being an EMT is, “just fine” with her.

In addition, Carmona’s end goal isn’t to become an EMT. “I don’t want to be an EMT or a Paramedic or anything like that,” Carmona said, “I want to be a police officer, and I thought it would help having the EMT certificate.”

You get to

see people at

their worst most

“

of the time and it’s nice to help them.

Senior Harlee Long

Senior Harlee Long shows off some of her equipment. || photo by Isabella Rubino

In Depth || 23

Pylon || October 4, 2019

STUCK

|| story by Sydney Raman

SALINA’S RISING METH PROBLEM IMMERSES TEENS IN DRUG CULTURE

M

eth has been a consistent problem in Salina and throughout the U.S., but now it is getting worse.

Unfortunately, this heavily addictive drug is starting to change the lives of teens in Salina.

Addiction Therapist and Manager of Saint Francis Behavioral Health Amber Holter believes that Salina is facing a very serious drug problem and fears it is not going to get any better anytime soon.

“I would say, there is a problem with meth in Salina. We have noticed an increase in the referrals we have received with meth being one of the drugs that are being used. This also is showing up with younger groups like teenagers in referrals also,” said Holter. || photo illustration by Alex Morales

October 4, 2019 || Pylon

24 || In Depth

|| photo illustration by Makelti Hastings

Mental health, genetics connected to drug use Teenagers, a big number of Holter’s clients tend to show a number of different patterns. The main one’s being mental health and curiosity. Now there are other reasons of why someone would turn to a drug like meth, but those seem to be the recurring ones in especially teens.

“I think that many times there is lack of parental supervision or involvement. A lot of times there is a family history of chemical use and so genetics also play a role.

Some parents do not seem to have

drug2.7%

a lot of education themselves on chemicals and what to look for in their children to suspect use,” said Holter.

Junior Kaylee Graves also believes that mental illness is a huge part of it.

“Say you have depression, anxiety or any mental illness, you just want to numb the pain out,” said Graves.

Sergeant of the Salina Police Department and commander of the i135/i70 drug task force James Miller believes that with what he has seen, younger generations are

Pylon survey reveals the exposure students have students have tried to meth meth in the past

DIGITS

becoming more addicted to meth.

He has even seen more young people starting to overdose more with meth.

“Younger people and meth. Yes, there are more younger people using and selling meth. I hate to say it but it’s something that kids as young as 13 or 14 are using. So it’s probably even in your school,” said Miller.

Student Support Counselor Kristin Menzies believes that part of the influence of a teenager doing meth may partly be due to

27.5% 15%

of students have seen meth affect their of students have been neighborhood exposed to meth

In Depth || 25

Pylon || October 4, 2019 what’s going on in your head as a teenager.

“I feel that when you are a young person you are still maturing and growing. Your trying to figure things out. There are so many influences in today’s society that are both negative and positive that it is very easy for a young person to be confused,” said Menzies.

Intake Coordinator and Kansas Certified Peer Mentor at Ashby house Tara McMullen also deals with a fairly large amount of people coming in due to drug addictions, a rising one being meth.

“Meth addiction definitely has a pattern. Once someone becomes clean and healthy again, it is important to change the people, habits and places that you go. If there is nothing new to replace active drug use, then people get bored or lonely and often start the process thinking they can handle it better,” said McMullen.

Graves has seen how badly it effected her past relationship with someone.

“They tweak. They’re all jittery and shaky. It’s hard to see how big their addiction has grown,” said Graves.

The major chemical that affects a person when doing meth is dopamine. Dopamine is involved with many functions of the human body like motivation, movement, and the supplement of rewarding good behavior. So when a person takes methamphetamine, the dopamine is then increased which is why someone might want to continue to smoke, swallow, snort or inject it.

Meth is now being laced with

other toxic drugs which makes it What makes meth such a even more dangerous. preference is mostly due to price “We are seeing meth being as well. Meth is mostly coming mixed with lots of different things. in from the South or West from The main group used now is places like Mexico, Arizona and heroin and fentanyl. People really California. Since meth is such an have no idea what is in the meth addictive drug already, the price they purchase. Most dealers in is just another added bonus for the area don’t even know. Meth is addicts. becoming more and more deadly, “A drug user is looking to get we have seen a few deaths caused the most of every ‘high.’ Meth is by it recently. The Salina Regional easy to come by and it’s pretty Health Center has also seen an cheap. Most people didn’t start out increase in ER visits because of its using meth but have continued abuse,” said Miller. to move to stronger and stronger Senior Recovery Coach at the drugs to get the big ‘high.’ I can’t Pathfinder Recovery Center at really say why people use drugs Central Kansas Foundation “I hate to say it but it’s something that Vann Mullins has seen many kids as young as 13 or 14 are using. So, it’s different people probably even in your school.” come in for treatment with Salina PD Sergeant James Miller dramatic changes from meth use. to begin with. If they would really “Meth has been a problem in know what is put into these drugs, Salina for years, but over the last I think they would have second 10 years, it has become a serious thoughts,” said Miller. issue. Especially recently due The price however is not just to it being cut with Heroin and the money you are paying when Fentynal making it more fatal,” putting a drug like meth into your said Mullins. body, it’s costing your life.

Mullins has seen the long lasting “The only thing I really need effects that meth can do to a to say is that meth is a very person. dangerous drug. It kills people. It “I have seen a dramatic change distorts their physical appearance in people’s behavior. They are very and they don’t even see it. It leaves scared and paranoid, and feel like them homeless and jobless,” said everyone is out to get them. The Miller. detox has become more severe Meth can impact a person’s life, due to the drug being cut with anything they do can change in a other drugs,” said Mullins. second.

2.5% ^ 15.1% i of students have been exposed to meth

25

students have tried meth at some time

|| 208 students were surveyed in random classes from Sept. 11-18

26 || Arts

Drumming

UP BUSINESS

October 4, 2019 || Pylon

Drumming up business

Senior Jose Arrieta-Renteria, junior Nelson Gutsch and senior Miles Denning play their instruments. together. || photo by Makelti Hastings

Find out about upcoming gigs

r

www.triadjazztrio.com

tc @triadjazztrio

p s

Arts || 27

Pylon || October 4, 2019

Talented teen musicians work together to create jazz group, earn gigs town.

As a group they get a The idea for a jazz group lot of support f rom their started one day in class f riends, family and teachers, about two years ago, Junior but their biggest supportNelson Gutsch mentioned ers are Gutsch’s parents the idea to Senior and Mr. Rohrer.

Jose Arrieta-Rentar“He advocates ia while listening to for us when things “Girl From Ipanema” go wrong and he

by Frank Sinatra. helps get us gigs “We can groove really well As they discussed by recommending and everyone knows what it further they deus around,” Gutsch each other is thinking, cided to add Senior said.

Miles Denning. With As musicians keeping time really well and Arrieta-Renteria and friends the trio we all kind of become one” playing the piano, have become very Gutsch playing the close and share a bass- both upright connection when Senior Jose Arrieta-Renteria and electric- and playing songs toDenning on the gether. drums, the three of “One thing that’s them could create kind of cool about a tightly knit group our group is, I feel with a well-rounded sound. to see the group progress like once we are all playing Their first official gig tothrough our year and a half and we get into what mugether was at an open mic of playing,” Denning said. sicians call the pocket we night at Ad Astra Books and Now, they are a part of can groove really well and Coffeehouse. They played one of three jazz groups in everyone knows what each a couple songs, including the state that made it into other is thinking, keeping Times Square and Red Bosthe Kansas Music Educators time really well and we all sa, then they were asked Association (KMEA) and kind of become one,” Arriewhat their group name was, have played gigs all over ta-Renteria said. || story by Anlyn Arb

but they didn’t have one.

It was not until their third gig together that they announced the name “Triad Jazz Trio” “It’s been very interesting

MEET THE TRIO

NELSON GUTSCH “My personal favorite from our set is ‘All Blues’ by Miles Davis, arranged by myself.”

MILES DENNING “I like playing ‘Giant Steps’ by John Coltrane. A normal song rarely changes keys, whereas giant steps changes nearly every two beats.”

JOSE ARRIETA-RENTERIA “My favorite song from our set is ‘When it’s sleepy time down south’ by Louie Armstrong, arranged by me.”

28 || Feature

October 4, 2019 || Pylon

VSCO VSCO VSCOVIBE VIBE VIBE

What teens are willing to give up in order to fit in || story by Madeline Paradis

An oversized t-shirt covers her Nike shorts and a scrunchie holds together her messy bun. She has Hydro Flask in hand, friendship bracelets on her wrist and Vans on her feet.

You’ve seen this girl before and you know exactly what she is: a VSCO girl.

with bikini pictures and ‘look I’m on a boat’ and ‘look at my Mercedes Benz,’” junior Madelynn Nash, a frequent user of the app, said. Although its name was based on the app VSCO, the trend gained the majority of its attention from the app Tik Tok. “It’s similar to Vine but you can make longer videos and you can edit them. It’s like memes on video,” Nash said.

VSCO girls can be spotted based on their attire and can be heard saying “sksksk” “save the turtles” and “and i oop.” However trendy, most teens dislike these catchphrases.

“In the first couple weeks of school I made fun of it, saying the ‘sksk’ kind of stuff. But then people just thought I was really annoying even though I

“VSCO girls are associated with pretty, skinny teen girls. Every girl wants to be that right?”

Junior Madelynn Nash DEFINING A VSCO GIRL This trend was named after the app VSCO which allows its users to filter their photos and upload them.

“VSCO is just an over-edited, flexing how rich you are and how skinny you are and how good my life is app. It’s filled

was making fun of the people who actually do that. If you do it, people will think you’re really annoying and I don’t want that,” junior Kamee Robinson said.

WHY IT IS TRENDY Although some may dislike the direction the trend has taken, for young teens it has turned into a path to popularity.

“VSCO girls are associated with pretty, skinny teen girls.

Every girl wants to be that right? So they try to fit in with that. Especially freshmen coming into high school. They think that’s the cool thing.

They think that’s what’s going to make them popular, cool, pretty. They’ll do whatever it takes to look like that or be like that,” Nash said.

Trying to fit under this label has taken away a sense of identity for its young followers.

These girls feel that if they fit in, they’ll get what they want but by doing so, they make decisions based on what is popular, not what is in their best interest.

“I’m a link leader and there

Pylon || October 4, 2019

Feature || 29

Junior Madelynn Nash, and sophomores Hannah Allen, Brielle Eland, and Peyton Wood show off their VSCO girl attributes. || photos by Makelti Hastings

30 || Feature

were a lot of girls in the freshmen class trying so hard to be something that they’re not. I feel bad for them in a sense because they don’t get to be themselves because they want to keep up with the popular trends and be a VSCO girl. They don’t really express themselves for who they are,” Robinson said.

POSITIVE CHANGE Using reusable straws and water bottles has been a big

October 4, 2019 || Pylon

cause alongside this trend with the claim that by doing so, VSCO girls are “saving the sea turtles.”

This is the first time in recent decades that we’ve seen a teen trend paired with positive activism. Social media is being used by this trend to educate about human impact on the environment but believing and doing are two different things, “I don’t think VSCO girls actually care because personally I think using reusable stuff is great, but I don’t go far enough to not use plastic or go out of my way to use multipurpose items, and a lot of teens don’t

either. Even though they pop out their reusable straw, they are still using plastic cups, lids, etc,” said Nash.

This does not take away from the importance of trends exploiting good causes. The idea of using social media platforms geared toward younger audiences to spread awareness for good causes is of huge significance and VSCO girls represent the catalysts of it.

REMOVING THE LABEL Even though girls may dress to fit the VSCO girl style, they believe they aren’t one, “I’m not a VSCO girl at all. I think It’s annoying. It’s overrated and the “sksksk” phrase is used too much,” sophomore Hannah Allen said.

Pylon || October 4, 2019

Assumptions follow this trend as well.

“People assume I’m snotty or rich,” sophomore Peyton Wood said. “They’ll say to me ‘you’re such a VSCO girl’ but I do it because I’ve always dressed like this. I don’t really have another style that fits me.”

Wearing an oversized t-shirt and a puka shell necklace feels safe. For freshmen this image is easy and comfortable to emulate. Desperate to fit into a new surrounding, they are willing to do whatever it takes, no matter what the cost.

The basic labels of jock, prep and nerd have died out but the VSCO girl trend perpetuates the idea of stereotypes.

“I don’t think we should categorize people like this because I think everyone is unique in their own way,” sophomore Brielle Eland said.

IMPACT Other social media platforms such as Instagram allow their users to upload photos and receive likes yet people continue to gravitate toward posting more photos on VSCO. This is because unlike Instagram, other users cannot see how many likes or followers someone has, making it much less competitive. Teens feel less of a need to please a large audience, “Not as many people see it. I don’t have as many followers as I do on Instagram so I feel less pressure,” Allen said.

In a world run by social media, VSCO provides relief from the pressure of pleasing others or receiving “enough” likes.

Feature || 31

THE THE THE COST COST COST What it takes to be a vsco girl

$45 Hydro Flask $90 Nike Airforce 1 $45 Crocs $50 Vans $100 Birkenstock’s $115 Kanken Bag $2 Carmex $3 Scrunchie $5 Puka Necklace $10 Stickers $5 Bracelets $25 Nike shorts $5 Reusable straws TOTAL:

$500

October 4, 2019 || Pylon

32|| In-Depth

Phone Pocket Dilemma Students react to the new phone pocket policy in classrooms || story by Jesus Jasso

Summer has finally come to a close and students are readjusting to the new school year. Over summer break students were taking trips and hanging out with their friends, all the while posting photos to their Snapchat or Instagram.

But students are entering their classes and are met with a surprise.

Some teachers have decided to now have students put their phones in a designated area.

The phones that have been with them for most of their summer are now torn from their palms and placed away from them.

Some teachers feel that phones have taken over students lives like a parasite that’s slowly eating away at its host.

English teacher Melinda Jett is one of those teachers who have seen the pull phones have on people.

“Between the constantly feeling the need to check the phone, blatantly leaving it out on their desks, using for earbuds and wanting to ‘multitask’ with listening to music all hour, to taking pictures of assignments and sending them to other students and finally hearing of students taking pictures of tests...I had to respond,” Jett said.

I’m sure many would agree that phones impacts students more than they like to believe. Problems occur many times and throwing phones into the situation could make it worse. There are many solutions to a problem and Jett decided her solution would be

using something similar to phone pockets.

You would think that taking away student’s phones would result in some sort of backlash but Jett hasn’t received any, in fact she’s received quite the opposite.

“I have not had one single student refuse. In fact, I have had many students say that they kind of like it. It frees them a little. Well, I am so glad to be that bit of freedom,” Jett said.

Senior Mary Ferguson agrees that phone pockets aren’t as bad as people make them out to be.

Ferguson believes that this isn’t a huge thing and hasn’t affected her much.

“Personally I don’t think it’s a big deal to be separated from my phone for an hour and a half,” Ferguson said.

Some students may feel this is a big deal, while others don’t see a problem. And then there are some who haven’t felt the same pull phones have on them. Senior Gabriella Fischer isn’t as focused on her phone and hasn’t felt the impact the phone pockets have on others. It’s just the same for her as before.

I don’t really use my phone unless the teacher says we can, so it hasn’t affected me much,” Fischer said.

While some teachers have gotten rid of phones, others have tried to teach students to use them in a professional manner. History teacher, John Cornman who’s solution to the phone issue is to teach the students directly when it is appropriate to use phones.

I have not had one student refuse. In fact, I have had many students say that they kind of like it.

It frees them a little.

“

English Teacher Melina Jett

Pylon || October 4, 2019 “I don’t blame anyone that wants to use the phone pockets because I’m sure they are a convenient way to keep distractions away from students. I personally don’t sue them in my classroom because I think this can be a great place to teach students to use technology in a professional setting,” Corman said.

Some students view phones as an escape, and can’t keep away from it. However, some students become blind to this parasite that has them under their control.

“In summary, phones can be a terrible distraction as well as a wonderful tool for students. I hope students can learn and apply the proper etiquette with all of their technology so they are more prepared to do so when they leave these halls,” Corman said.

Phone pockets have made their presence known to many students, and have been greeted with some negative and positive opinions. Some students find them a nuisance while others feel that phones don’t control their lives and don’t use them in the first place. It is definitely going to take some time to get used to but overall may have a positive effect in the long run.

If I were a teacher my cell phone policy would be...

In-Depth || 33

The reason students use cheating apps A survey of 208 students during random classes on Sept 11-18 reveals the reasons student’s use apps to cheat on homework

because I want to get my homework done faster

Teachers pile on so much homework it’s just easier to cheat

Pylon survey reveals students views on phone pockets I use them when I’m stuck on a math problem

81%

of students would not use phone pockets

|| 208 students were surveyed during random classes on Sept. 11-18

I use it so I can pass my class

I use it when I forget we had homework

because I’m lazy or I didn’t pay attention when the teacher was teaching

34 || Student Life

October 4, 2019 || Pylon

BRINGING BACK ‘THE PARTY IN THE BACK’

Trendiness of ‘70s mullet continues to be debated, inspires students

Running his fingers through his hair Senior Cayman Munson shows off his mullet. Munson has been rocking a mullet for five months. “It’s more of ‘keep the haircut’ than it is ‘get rid of it,’” said Munson. || photo by Alex Morales

Pylon || October 4, 2019 || story by Hannah Watkins

Senior Israel Torres was inspired after watching a Tik Tok, starting a trend that is flowing through our hallways. The mullet.

This 70’s trend has slowly started to become more popular with this generation, especially with football players.

If you feel

confident and comfortable having that then you should keep it.

Sophomore Sarah Bowser “I was inspired by Brian Cushing, a former NFL linebacker, and I just introduced the mullet to some more buddies of mine and then it blew up from there,” Torres said.

Most sports require you to wear a helmet. Many athletes say they like to have longer hair during sports, saying it draws more attention to them.

“Me and my friend Quinn; we were trying to get a flow for foot-

Student Life || 35 ball under our helmets,” sophomore Kayson Graham said.

People will always have an opinion about everything. Some people will say that mullets are ugly, and they don’t look good.

Others say that they’re good looking. It just depends on the person’s interests.

Senior Cayman Munson explained what people say about it and how they feel about him having a mullet.

“It’s more of ‘keep the haircut’ than it is ‘get rid of it,’” Munson said.

Students say that mullets are a trend that they either hate or love.

When asked if sophomore Sabian Mills could pull off a mullet, his girlfriend, Sarah Bowser said “Heck no because I know he couldn’t pull it off, sorry, but I still love him.”

Bowser proceeded to talk about other people having mullets.

“Some people could pull it off, I guess it’s just if you feel confident and comfortable having that then you should keep it,” Bowser said.

Not everything has a bad side to it. Having a mullet and being confident in it is awesome.

“It brings out the inner me,” Junior Josue Jimenez said.

Even without having a mullet, Jimenez feels that if he had one, it would bring out his inner self.

Some people who think mullets are fashionable and trendy.

“I think they are pretty cool,” Jimenez said.

MORE

MULLET

TYPES

CALEB WIEDEMAN This is known as the “Short Mullet” in the beginning stages of growth.

GRIFFIN DODGE This is known as the “Flipped Mullet” due to its curly tips.

GAGE PRESTER This is known as the “Long Mullet” perfect for keeping your neck warm as the colder months approach.

85% OF STUDENTS SAID THEY WOULD NOT GET THEIR HAIR || 208 students surveyed during random classes on Sept. 11-18 CUT INTO A MULLET

36 || Opinion

BACK TO SCHOOL RECIPE

POWER

BALLS

October 4, 2019 || Pylon

These simple to make and fun to eat snacks made by English teacher Melinda Jett are the perfect treat to get you on your feet.

INGREDIENTS: 1 cup (dry) oatmeal (old fashioned oats) ⅔ toasted coconut flakes ½ cup peanut butter ½ ground flaxseed ½ cup chocolate chips ⅓ cup honey 1 Tbsp chia seeds (optional) 1 tsp vanilla

5 EASY STEPS 1. Stir all ingredients together.

2. Chill 1 hour.

3. Roll into bite-size balls.

4. Keep refrigerated.

5. Enjoy!

“If you are looking for something sweet and healthy, try them out! You can’t go wrong with chocolate and peanut butter, right?”

English teacher Melinda Jett said. || photo by Marlie Coleman

Opinion || 37

Pylon || October 4, 2019

72 PERCENT

TOXIC FEMINISM IS REAL, IT’S TIME YOU START CARING

OF STUDENTS BELIEVE TOXIC FEMINISM IS REAL

|| editorial by Layna Kinnaird

I am not a feminist.

That may come as a shock to some people, because most just assume I am because I’m a girl.

One can be feminine without necessarily being a feminist.

That’s what I am.

“So you don’t believe women should have equal rights?”

This is something I hear far too often when expressing my opinions on the topic of feminism. Not only is this completely untrue, it’s stereotyping those who don’t identify as feminists, and it makes them seem like misogynists.

We are all quite familiar with the term “toxic masculinity” in this day and age, but something less spoken of and equally as significant is toxic femininity; when a woman uses her gender as an excuse or to obtain certain privileges.

Feminism is a set of ideologies that demands equality between men and women politically, socially, and economically. Feminists strive to draw an end to patterns that have dis-serviced women. Yet one can still be feminine without being toxic, and not all feminists are toxic either.

In actuality, not identifying oneself as a feminist does not always mean they don’t believe in equal rights for women. One can still believe in equal rights and not necessarily want to adopt that term. Someone also doesn’t have to be part of this ideology (feminism) to have similar opinions and views on gender equality as some that are a part of that ideology. For example, a feminist believes that a woman should receive equal pay as men, and someone who doesn’t identify as a feminist still believes this just as well.

Feminism becomes toxic when it puts women on a pedestal above men, and when it degrades them just for being male. Some feminists assume and blame all men for being sexist and creating a divide between the genders. One of the most used (and definitely the most annoying) toxic act some feminists use is pushing or forcing their beliefs on non-feminists, and making them feel guilty for not identifying as one. Toxic femininity can be shown by body shaming another woman or abusing or assaulting a man, then pulling the “woman card” so that she couldn’t get hit back. Girls in my classes being verbally abusive and then blaming their PMS. Using their “weak points” to their advantage (this too is what creates the false perception that women are lesser than men, and is counterproductive to the idea of feminism.)

Since toxic masculinity is seen as such a big cultural issue in our generation, toxic femininity needs to be seen in the same light. Stop ignoring the obvious problems. This is why there is still a division between male and female.

82%

DO NOT CONSIDER THEMSELVES FEMINISTS

“Feminism becomes toxic when it puts women on a pedestal above men.”

208 students surveyed during random classes from Sept. 11-18.

38 || Opinion

DO YOU BELIEVE IN

October 4, 2019 || Pylon

Global Warming ?

Students defend their beliefs over global warming

3

|| story by Zoe Gilpin

G

lobal warming. Climate Change. The Climate Crisis. No matter the title, the danger remains the same. Without immediate action, the earth could undergo irreparable damage.

Senior Kerrigan Hutton “Climate change is affecting our atmosphere and if we don’t act fast, our generation will be too late to reverse the outcomes.

It’s not just a funny song sang by Lil Dicky (Earth), it’s a serious issue that so many take for granted. We need to stop fighting against each other and start joining together to save our planet.

From normal folk to even Bill Nye the Science Guy, it’s clear that a large part of the community sees Climate Change as something to worry about. “ Alumna Indigo Guise “At this point, either not believing that climate change exists or thinking that it’s nothing to be bothered about is naive at BEST and downright destructive at worst.

There is research readily available on the Internet for anyone to look up if they have doubts about this. Moreover, it doesn’t harm anything to be more considerate to the planet, even if you’re a die-hard climate change denier. People argue that panic over climate change is hurting jobs in coal and oil, but my response is this: what’s wrong with gaining energy from other, less finite and polluting sources? Everyone should be more aware of climate change and the damage we’re doing to our planet, whether they want to or not, and after that it doesn’t take a lot of effort to reduce personal consumption and pollution.”

3 NO

YES

|| story by Harper Heath

G

lobal warming is not a big issue.

Some people just decide to not get into the whole idea and they either do not care or do not know about it. I don’t care.

Economics teacher Tony Slothower “I think it is probably happening, but I’m not concerned with it.

Too many people get hyped up over something to get hyped up over it… It’s just kind of something for them to get on a bandwagon about,” said Mr. Slothower.

A lot of people get so involved in their ideas on politics that it loses the meaning, I think this is what has happened with global warming. ” Junior Matthew Glen “A lot of research that is coming out is disproving other research that global warming is an issue.

The earth has state where it does go through different types of weather, some last as long as an era for example the ice age era.”

Junior Hal Heath “I haven’t seen real evidence in my life.

While picking one side or the other to join in with friends or because everyone is thinking that way, it is easier to have ideas to back yourself up. I do not car myself for global warming because like said earlier, I haven’t seen a huge impact on the earth from the theory and it hasn’t affected me personally. When the theory got thrown into politics, the idea blew up way bigger.”

Advertising || 39

Pylon || October 4, 2019

100

TH

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$70

Our team is proud to sponsor area youth sports & activities!

785-825-7073 110 E Iron Ave • Salina, KS 67401 www.heritagesalina.com

October 4, 2019 || Pylon

40 || Opinion

QUESTION

Junior Chase Courbot

of the Month

Do you consider global warming a pressing issue?

Freshman Chloe Highsmith

“I believe global warming is a rising issue, yes.

Without further funding to global environment relief programs, we’re going to be in serious trouble if we allow acidity to keep rising and trees to be cut down at the rate they currently are.”

“I think it’s dumb when people are like, ‘ha ha Sophomore ha, global warming Isabel de la Cruz isn’t real,” because there’s literally scientific evidence behind it. And people say, ‘Oh, but it’s just a theory,” but in science, theories don’t mean ‘conspiracy theories.’ Like, it’s an actual thing that’s “Yes, I believe global happening, and we warming is an issue can’t just ignore it.” because people are not caring about the Earth. Without the Senior Earth there is no huAaron Watson manity.”

76

Sophomore Gavin Dodge

%

Of students

Believe global warming is an issue || 208 students surveyed during random classes between Sept. 11-18

“Global warming is not good because if the Earth gets any hotter, summer will be like 200 degrees. And summer is already bad enough, being 100-and-something degrees. And in the wintertime, there will be no snow. What’s winter without snow?”

“Yes, because heat is getting trapped and not getting released, which is melting our ice caps. There needs to be something done about this.”

Opinion || 41

Pylon || October 4, 2019

LETTER TO THE EDITOR GOING GREEN || by freshman Alejandro Olivares The climate change problem occurring in the world is a terrifying catastrophe. The ice caps and glaciers are melting, severe droughts in India are happening, and extreme weather has gone out of control.

The school needs to preserve more energy by turning off the lights.

Most of the classrooms have windows and on bright sunny days, they keep the lights on and the blinds shut.

Teachers educate students on how to preserve energy when they themselves aren't being very good role models. It's so easy for when teachers leave the classroom, they turn the lights off or put their computers on sleep.

Recycling should become a school policy. Recycling bins should be put in every classroom because too much paper and too many plastic bot-

tles are thrown away in gray bins when they could be thrown in the blue ones.

“Recycling should become a school policy.”

Freshman Alejandro Olivares

In the hallways, every light on the ceiling is on, why? Why can't every other light be on? It's so simple, the energy

being used to light up the hallways can be decreased by a whole 50% if half of them are turned off.

Requests need to be sent to the School Board to enact a policy for teachers in all the schools in Saline County to save more energy. This not only saves the planet, but can save the school district millions of dollars. According to "Excel Energies", school districts pay about 6 billion dollars a year on the electric bills for their schools.

The earth is dying. We need to help in anyway we can to contribute to the fight that millions are doing now by protesting on the streets to make a difference.

Changes need to be made in the decisions that so many of us decide to make. It's very plain, we need to go green and stop being mean to the planet we live on.

STAFF EDITORIAL CONTINUING CRISIS

|| story by Concha Campa

The new generation is trying to make amends for the wrongdoings of our predecessors. Our planet is changing for the worse. Glaciers that are thousands of years old are now disappearing. Global warming has recently received more attention, due to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change conducting research and finding out that instead of having 12 years to save the planet; we only have 18 months to change our damage before it becomes irreversible.

Global warming has now been brought into the light, making people worldwide take action. Many clothing and artisanal brands are creating products with recycled materials, and are donating a portion of their proceeds to organizations that are

helping the environment. These Ecofriendly companies have gained lots of popularity with younger generations.

Specifically “Pura Vida” who has become very trendy in the past couple of years. This company makes jewelry from local artists in Costa Rica.

They have donated $1.9 million to environmental organizations since they started back in 2010.

Cities around the world have formulated plans to go green. Cities like Berlin and Vancouver have made a focus to live a more sustainable life.

They have implemented procedures to produce fewer gas emissions and to grow more food locally.

For example, Mexico City has implemented a law where car owners have certain days where they are or are

not allowed to drive. This new law was set in place due to the overwhelming amount of smog in the city. Although these actions seem small, this is the commencement of the green movement.

In the past couple of years, Americans have seen an increase of extreme weather. In America, we have already had five hurricanes this year. This happens because of the increase of moisture in the atmosphere. According to the Environmental Defense Fund, Hurricane Harvey had a 15 percent increase in moisture compared to other hurricanes. As heat rises, we will see more category five and six hurricanes.

A moist atmosphere also means that we will have more storms along with more frigid weather in the winter.

12 out of 14 Pylon Staffers believe in global warming

ou?

October 4, 2019 || Pylon

42 || Student Life

How much of a VSCO girl are you?

Tally up the points from the items below that you use and/or own. Use your total score to see how you rank amongst the VSCO elite.

Do you own Birkenstock’s? (1 pt)

Do you wear friendship bracelets? (2 pt)

Do you own Crocs?

(2 pts)

Do you own Vans?

(1 pt)

Do you use Carmex? (1 pt)

Do you wear a hair scrunchie? (1 pt)

instax mini

Do you put stickers on your photos? (2 pts)

Do you use VSCO? (3 pts) Do you wear spiral hair ties? (1 pt)

Do you take polaroid photos? (2 pts)

Do you wear puka shell jewelry? (3 pt)

Do you own a Hydro Flask? (3 pts)

Do you own a Kanken bag? (4 pts)

Do you use TikTok? (2 pts)

1-7

8 - 14

15 - 21

22 - 28

Are you kidding?

You wish you were a VSCO girl, do you even own a metal straw?

Ew. Put your fake Hydro Flask down now and go make a friendship bracelet!

You’ve bought into a lot of the hype, but not all of it. You need to have a passion for saving the turtles.

sksksks and I oop- you’re a certified VSCO girl!

SPILLING THE TEA || 43

Pylon || October 4, 2019

SPILLING THE TEA WITH THE THE FOLLOWING QUOTES WERE HEARD AROUND THE SCHOOL BY MEMBERS OF THE PYLON STAFF

“I’m in the zone and I don’t want you getting pregnant.”

“School lunch kinda sucks.”

“I’m Turning myself into a board game since y’all want to play me.”

“If you see me in the garage practicing with my nunchunks keep driving.”

“Who’s gonna buy a $400 dollar class ring?”

“Do you know who Joe is?

Joe Mama.”

“Bro Jake’s mom is so hot.”

THE PYLON

PY