Pylon September 2017 by The Pylon

PYLON September 22, 2017

CONTENT

CONTENT PAGE

News

In Depth

Arts

In Depth

Student Life

Construction Updates Big Suit to Fill

Curriculum Controversy

Feature

Sports

Heartbeat of the Band

Lunch Room Creation in Crisis

Monopolizing the Competition

26 28

Modern Racism

Sports Briefs Tackling Cancer

In Depth Unstoppable Jasmine Bauer

Infographic Going Nuclear

Opinion Water for Elephants: Spectacular yet Salacious

10 12

06 14

20 Photos taken by Pylon staffers. See inside for complete stories.

PYLON September 22, 2017 Homecoming Tickets $7 at the door 9:00-11:00

23 Sept.

Volleyball Triangular Varsity @ 5:00

26 Sept.

Volleyball Triangular Varsity @ 5:00

Soccer vs Campus Varsity @ 6:15 JV @ 5:00

28 Sept.

Blood Drive

Small Gym ELO

Oct.

Vocal Concert Auditorium @7:00

Oct.

Soccer vs Hutch Varsity @6:15 JV @ 5:00

Oct.

CONTENT PAGE

Steel Magnolia (Fall Play) Friday @7:00 Saturday @ 2:00 Sunday @7:00

28-30 Sept. Football vs Derby

Orchestra Concert Auditorium @7:00

Bill Burke @10:00

Oct.

Football vs Maize Theme: Camo @7:00

Varsity @ 6:30 JV @ 5:00

Oct.

Cross Country

Theme: Blackout @7:00

SOCCER VS SOUTH

Oct.

Teacher Inservice

Oct.

South vs Central Football Game Theme: Pink Out Away @ 7:00

Oct.

Varsity @ 6:15 JV @ 5:00

No School 19 & 20 Parent Teacher Conferences 18 & 19

Oct.

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

Chloe Guillot

Opinion Editor Madeline Paradis

Oct.

Social Media

We want to hear your opinion

Twitter: @chspylon Instagram: @mustangsofcentral Snapchat: chspylon Web: chspylon.com

Th e P y l o n g l a d ly a ccept s c o nt r i b ut i o ns f ro m guest wr it er s o n a ny s ub j e c t . P lea se e-m a il yo ur s ub m i s s i o ns t o business@ chspylo n. c o m . S u b m i s s i o ns m ust co nt a in a f ul l na m e f o r i n clusio n, a nd we will c o nt a ct y o u t o c o nf ir m yo u a r e t he a ut h o r o f t h e l et t er . Let t er s m a y be e d i t e d f o r c l a r i t y. T he P ylo n is t he o f f i c i a l s t ud e nt newspa per o f Sa lina H i g h S c h o o l C e nt r a l. I t is pr o duced e nt i r e l y b y s t udent s o f t he newspa per p r o d u ct i o n c l a ss.

Volume 94 of the Pylon was created by 13 staff members using Adobe Creative Suite 5.5. Our fonts this year include GoBold and Gravity. Special thanks to Sedalia Democrat for making the printing of our publication possible.

Pylon staff

Feature Editor

Soccer vs Andover Central

2017-2018

Editors-in-Chief

No School

Oct.

Copy Editor Gracie Schroeder

Web Editor Molly Michaelis

Reporters Saria Taylor Malcom Berkley Maria Gutierrez Molly Michaelis

Adviser J.D. Garber

News Updates

PYLON

September 22, 2017

The main Entrance added “Home of the Mustangs” panels. | Photo by Caroline Donatell

NEW BUILDING NEW BEGINNINGS The new renovations near completion

New addition includes the Central Perk, the balcony of the new student entrance, the new auxiliry gym.

photos by Caroline Donatell

News Updates

PYLON September 22, 2017

A new addition to the school is the new student entrance. | Photo by Caroline Donatell

by Caroline Donatell pylon Editor As senior Emalie Hassler walks into the doors heading into a new school year, there are many building modifications. One significant change she notices is that there is a complete and spacious hallway. “The construction was annoying because of the narrow hallways and loud noise. Besides that it didn’t bother me too much,” Hassler said. Additionally, the new media center is a feature that has improved the functionality of the school. Aron Williams the counselor secretary said, “With having the media center right in the middle of the school and makes kids walk through it and helps them see the resources that we have. It also is two floors so it is more useable and more spread out for everyone.” Matt Hohn, the head of construction, is excited for all the changes happening in the remodels. He feels relieved that the summer is over and looks forward to the students

returning to school. Currently, the construction has shifted focus to the cafeteria. “We are hoping to have the new kitchen done before the end of this semester so it can start to be used. The reason it started as late as it did was simply due to decision from a design standpoint and what was going to be done to keep it within the

low through with it, lies in the hands of the school superiors. With the construction coming to a close, the school seems to have transformed completely, with a few minor projects still in the works. The construction crew is working tirelessly to make sure that the upper classrooms are complete and functional, along with a few classrooms and restroom facilities, by the end of the fall break in I THINK THE NEW SCHOOL October. After Thanksgiving, the mods will cease LOOKS REALLY NICE AND to exist, as they are an inMODERN. convenience to many, and the teachers will move into their remodeled spaces by - SENIOR EMALIE HASSLER October 23. The next phase of bond budget,” Hohn said. construction, in the future, will be Although there are many things the transformation of the old library that have been modified, the Central and computer lab wing into the new Perk has received the most attention. administration and student support In theory, it could become a coffee areas. As the students embrace the shop, run by business students. Adseemingly infinite amount of changes ditionally, there are plans to install a to the school, they must keep an fish tank in the school. The tank has open mindset, willing to make new been purchased, but the deciding traditions and memories within it. factor on whether or not they will fol-

FEATURE STORY

PYLON SEPTEMBER 22, 2017

big suit to fill

interim superintendent, jim hardy, brings 36 years of expericince to usd 305 Dr. James Hardy, interim superintendent for USD 305, visits a classroom. Hardy takes time to stop into the schools around the district. photo by ellie cobb

FEATURE STORY

PYLON SEPTEMBER 22, 2017

March 15, 2017 by will hayes pylon editor Current USD305 Interim Superintendent Dr. Jim Hardy, has 36 years of experience working as a superintendent including passing a bond issue in his first year as a superintendent. Hardy was hired due to a late resignation at a district still amidst construction, and in dire need of systemic direction and a boost in moral. This is just the next opportunity for Dr. Hardy after working for countless districts and schools. “For the past couple years I’ve been working for Kansas State University traveling around training first year superintendents. I get to bring those skills that I have learned all around back here to our district,” Hardy said. Hardy attended Kansas State for his undergraduate, Fort Hays for his masters degree, and then returned to K-State for a doctorate. “That is one advantage to having 36 years of experience. I’ve been in a few different districts and I know what has worked for other school systems that I can bring to Salina,” Hardy said. With experience comes connections. Hardy used his connections to decide whether or not 305 was the right choice. “I wanted to know what I was getting myself into, before I even said yes, I immediately made a few calls to people who are well respected around the state. So I called some people and said: “tell me about Salina.” The first person I called was the Commissioner of Education for the state, Dr. Randy Watson, and he just praised USD 305,” said Hardy. “I’d heard all these wonderful things about the district, and the new buildings, and all the groundbreaking programs- Salina West, the career pathway programs, all we are doing at the elementary level- and this just affirmed what I already knew: I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to work at this district,” Hardy said. If only for a limited time or for years to come Hardy is looking forward to the direction 305 is headed as a district. “This school and this district has accomplished a lot of incredible things, but we always have to think to the future. ‘What’s next?’ We have all these awesome programs, we are just finishing the nice new additions to all the schools, but the real question is what is next. Whatever it is, I know it is going to be awesome. This is a cutting edge school. There are not very many schools across the state that are as equipped as this one,” Hardy said.

Superintendent Bill Hall’s contract isn’t renewed April 25, 2017

Hall resigns as superintendent of usd 305 July 1, 2017

Hall gets hired by the willow springs School district in missouri but remains on the district payroll in salina

in depth

by maria gutierrez pylon reporter

PYLON september 22, 2017

curriculum

controversy

erotic reading causes students, parents, teachers to question what is being taught

When word began spreading about “Water for El- the past: a second option for the summer reading. ephants,” the newly assigned summer reading for sopho“We did a lot within our professional development last mores, there was one thing that continues to be brought year about including student choice within the curriculum up about the book’s content: the explicit sexual scenes. in terms of how can they have a choice in writing prompts, “When I reread it this summer,” English teacher Mrs. how can they have more choice in reading, and giving the Karen Abker said, “I was thinking, ‘Oh shoot, I forgot about student a little bit more ownership,” Showman said. “That some of those!’ Cause is where adding ‘Wathey do! They absoter for Elephants’ along IT’S A LOVE STORY, IT’S A STORY ABOUT lutely get detailed!” with ‘The Princess ANIMALS, IT’S A STORY ABOUT COMING-OF- Bride’ came into play.” The summer reading novel is, quite pos“Water for EleAGE, HOW WE TREAT THE ELDERLY, HOW sibly, the one thing phants” by Sara Gruen WE OSTRACIZE PEOPLE WHO AREN’T AS students dread about follows the life of Jacob WELL OFF AS US OR IN THE SAME SOCIOthe summer. For years, Jankowski, a college the sophomore adveterinary student, ECONOMIC LEVEL, AND THE CIRCUS LIFE. vanced English teachwho abruptly drops out THE SEX PARTS AREN’T EVEN A ONE IN A ers have assigned following a family tragTEN OF WHY THE BOOK IS SO POPULAR William Goldman’s edy and joins a circus. “The Princess Bride” It’s been described as WORLDWIDE. THE SCENES IN THIS BOOK and expected their a well-written comingDON’T MAKE THIS BOOK AT ALL. students to come in, of-age story that fohaving fully read the cuses on several seri- TEACHER KAREN ABKER book, ready to spend ous themes regarding the first few weeks discussing it. Regardless if a student society and class interaction, though the scandalous parts read the whole novel or skimmed through it the night be- have become the main topic of conversation. The various fore, the only choice the student ever had was to either read sexual scenes strung throughout the novel include a drunk the novel or struggle during the first few weeks of class. Jankowski losing his virginity, a woman stripping down to Last school year, however, this all changed when nothing and dancing for a group of men. When compared Principal Nate Showman sat down with the Eng- to “The Princess Bride,” the required reading for well over lish department and talked about giving the sopho- a decade, which is a family-friendly and self-aware satire, mores something students hadn’t experienced in it’s unsurprising that a large group of students flocked to

23/63

Statistics were taken from Sophomore English teachers and counselors.

sophomore students in advanced english read “water for elephants.”

in depth

PYLON september 22, 2017

“Water for Elephants” to see what the uproar was all about. However, other students, like sophomore Madeline Sears, decided to read both novels to see which one they preferred. “I enjoyed reading ‘The Princess Bride’ more simply because I liked the quirky way it was written and it had more comic relief compared to ‘Water for Elephants’,which dealt with much more serious things like abusive relationships,” Sears said. “Those that I know who read ‘Water for Elephants’ seemed to really enjoy it, however I do know people that began to read it or heard about some of its content and decided to read ‘The Princess Bride’ instead.” It may seem puzzling that a novel like “Water for Elephants” would ever be considered as a summer reading option, much less offered to the students. However, Abker plans to make it clear to her students that the novel is not about the sexual scenes, and that they aren’t the focus of the overall narrative of the story. “I don’t teach that and I don’t want you guys to think that’s what the book is about,” Abker says. “It’s a love

an excerpt from sara gruen’s “water for elephants” is included to the right. the text is an example of one of the books most explicit scenes.

story, it’s a story about animals, it’s a story about coming-of-age, how we treat the elderly, how we ostracize people who aren’t as well off as us or in the same socioeconomic level, and the circus life. The sex parts aren’t even a one in a ten of why the book is so popular worldwide. The scenes in this book don’t make this book at all.” It’s unfortunate that the novel has gotten the reputation it did. Despite the teachers’ plans to try to convince their students otherwise, Mr. Bryce Jones fears that the damage has already been done. “I’m not going to tell a student, ‘Don’t ever read this book! Get away!’ But I’m not going to assign it to a whole class,” Jones said. “I can see this becoming a summer read on the regular, but just because of this extra stuff, we might try to find something else. The things that have popped up now just detract from what we should be focusing on.” Nevertheless, “Water for Elephants” is certain to encourage thoughtful responses from the students this year, and it will be interesting to see what the future holds for it.

Her hand slips between my legs and slides over my crotch. My head, which had been wobbling, snaps upright. “You think his hair is red down there, too?” she says, cupping me in her palm. Barbara leans forward, unclasps my hands, and lifts one to her mouth. She turns it over, a long nail across the palm and then stares me in the eye while running her tongue along the same path. Then she takes my hand and places it on her left breast, right where her nipple must be. Oh God. Oh God. I’m touching a breast. Through a dress, but stillBarbara stands up for a moment, smoothes her skirt, looks furtively around, and then crouches. I’m pondering this change of position when she takes hold of my hand again. This time she pulls it under her skirt and presses my fingers against hot, moist silk. I catch my breath. The whiskey, the moonshine, the gin, the God-knows-what-- all of it dissipates instantly. She moves my hand up and down, over her strange and wonderful valleys. Oh sh*t I think I may c*m right now.

if you read the book for those scenes, you’re reading the book for the wrong reasons. it has a really good story, but immature readers only pick out those few scenes. -anonymous sophomore advanced english student Four students who read “Water for Elephants” in Mrs. Abker’s class were surveyed on September 12.

fine arts

PYLON september 22, 2017

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photo by ellie cobb

d n a b

t a e b

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dr ho uml pe in sf es or ets pe p s high uc ce ss

Senior Elisa Backes watches her bandmate perform a solo.

fine arts

PYLON september 22, 2017

72% of students prefer only the drumline over band.

I love being able to pep everybody up at football games. When I was young, I couldn’t wait to be in Central’s drumline. Now that I am here, it is like a dream come true. -Sophomore Miles Denning 180 students were surveyed during random classes on September 8 and 11.

Playing as a line is always exilerating. Seeing the way people react to us always makes me smile. -Senior Sarah Hazelton

57% 1st

of the drummers’ favorite song to play is

The drumline will attend

“smoke stack”

3-4 comptitions this year.

This is the best and most focused drumline we have had in many years. -Senior Elisabeth Backes 14 of 15 drumline members were surveyed on August 24 during M3.

In Depth

PYLON September 22, 2017

THE CONSTRUCTION SHOULD HAVE DEFINITELY BEEN COMPLETED BEFORE SCHOOL STARTED. IT IS SUCH A PAIN TO STAND IN THE LONG LINE WAITING FOR LUNCH. - JUNIOR NICHOLAS BRENEMAN

PYLON September 22, 2017

In Depth

L u n c h R o o m C re at i o n i n C r i s i s

Students complain about function of cafeteria by Saria Taylor pylon reporter Senior Alyssea Fields is fed up with the current state of our cafeteria and has officially stopped eating lunch. This lunch boycott began because Fields, like many other students, didn’t have time to make her way through the lunch line and find a spot where she could sit with her friends. “That is the reason why I don’t eat in the lunchroom,” Fields said. Junior Nicholas Breneman has mixed emotions about the situation. “I understand the situation with construction and how we have to work around it. On the other hand, the majority of my lunch periods are taken up by waiting in a line to get a sandwich that doesn’t fill me up. Almost every day after school, I stop by Taco Bell to finish the job,” Breneman said. Sophomore Jacqui Dyson agrees that waiting in the long line takes up most of her lunch time. Dyson describes her frustrations about the lines, given that she always makes it a point to be early.

“I don’t like how everybody cuts. Mainly the upperclassmen,” Dyson explained. Jan Schneider, the Food Service Manager, is concerned with the changes in the lunch line as well. “The set-up has changed our method and capabilities of food production, due to decreased preparation space and limited equipment available. Since we are out in the open, we have very restrictive kitchen capabilities, and employee work schedules were altered to accommodate these changes,” Schneider explains. Schneider plans to create a menu that they can produce in their temporary kitchen, while ensuring that the state nutritional meal patterns requirements are met. Schneider and her workers long for the day when their kitchen is updated, and they can make the students crispitos, mashed potatoes and so on. Her workers come in everyday telling her how much they love to see the students happy. Principal Nate Showman predictes the kitchen remodel will be complete in November.

92%

of students do not enjoy the lunchroom enviromnemnt.

180 students were surveyed during random classes on September 8 and 11.

Junior Nicholas Breneman stands in line with other students waiting to receive their lunch. photo by Saria Taylor

PYLON September 22, 2017

Student Life

English teacher Katrina Paradis and junior Ethan Brown make a cardboard cutout for their float. photo by Molly Michaelis

Senior Sandy Dao draws the outline of a monopoly game board. photo by Morgan Dolton Senior Paige Robinson outlines the board in sharpie. photo by Morgan Dolton

SENIORS: MONOPOLY JUNIORS: CANDY LAND SOPHOMORES: CLUE FRESHMEN: OPERATION Freshman Emme Turpin cuts out cardboard pieces to attach to the life-sized operation man. photo by Morgan Dolton

Junior Annie Taggart paints candy on a wooden box. photo by Morgan Dolton

Sophomore Jerzee Mullins contributes to the class float. photo by Molly Michaelis

FEATURE STORY

PYLON SEPTEMBER 22, 2017

modern

racism PREJUDICE IN AMERICA HAS NEVER GONE AWAY; IT’S JUST CHANGED FORMS by chloe guillot pylon editor When horrific images from Charlottesville, Virginia began to flood social media on August 12, people all around the United States took to Twitter and Facebook to renounce the hundreds of neo-nazis and white supremacists that marched through the streets of Virginia. Rallies were organized, vigils were held from New York to Salina, and the hashtag #thisisnotus began to trend as people proudly proclaimed that America was not defined by racism. When events like Charlottesville happen, it is easy for a country to disassociate itself from the issue. But America has spent so many years disassociating itself from the issue of racism that many people have convinced themselves that it no longer exists. Despite being only 50 years removed from the end of the Civil Rights Movement, people act as if racism has never had a presence in American society. Therefore the problem with America is not only that racism exists, but that people pretend like it doesn’t. There is a large disparity in the way that people of color view racism compared to people who are white. In a poll conducted by Quinnipiac University in March, 66 percent of non-white Americans viewed prejudice as a “very serious’” problem compared to only 39 percent of whites. This difference of opinion could come down to the fact that it is hard to see discrimination when you don’t experience it yourself; or it could be that people of color see discrimination in places where it doesn’t exist. Senior Elijah Cairo admits that racism exists, but he believes that it is often over dramatized by the news. “I don’t think there’s a lot of racism in America. I think the media blows it out of the water. In some cases it can be there, but I don’t think it’s very common. At least not in today’s society,” said Cairo. Other people, like junior Brogan Richardson, argue that the real problem lies with minorities that still make a big deal about something that happened hundreds of years ago. “Racism is not a big deal in America. Black people only make it a big deal because they are still upset about slavery, but that was in 1860 and slavery helped America. People should get over it so we can move on,” said Richardson. With the country split on whether or not racism is still an issue, events like Charlottesville end up revealing the underbelly of America.

PYLON SEPTEMBER 22, 2017

What is Modern Racism?

FEATURE STORY

her. Wilkins continued into the store, browsing the aisles and looking around. Soon, she realized that the workOdds are that at some point in your life you have heard er she had waved to at the front was following her. As someone utter the phrase “I don’t see color” in order to Wilkins continued to walk around, the worker continued justify that they are not racist. Essentially, it has become to trail her. The rest of the people in the store looked at the more politically correct version of saying “I have a the scene in confusion as the worker drew closer and black friend.” closer to Wilkins. After a while, Wilkins exited the store But color blindness is an example of modern racism. It without buying anything. The worker went on with her isn’t necessarily racist to say that you don’t see color, but day. it is scientifically wrong. When a person says that they Wilkins was the only black person in that store. The don’t see color, what they are really saying is that they worker wasn’t following her because she recognized would prefer to steer away from the conversation of racWilkins from the open house; she was following Wilkins ism. Avoiding the topic of injustice and prejudice is one of because she assumed that Wilkins was going to steal the reasons why it hasn’t gone away. People would rather something. The only factor that led her to this conclusion pretend like different races don’t exist than acknowledge was that Wilkins was black. The rest of the people in that that discrimination happens. store could have been robbing the place blind, but they Modern racism comes were white, so they down to subtleness and weren’t an immediate I DON’T THINK THERE’S A LOT OF RACISM ignorance. Racism in the threat. That is implicit IN AMERICA. I THINK THE MEDIA BLOWS 1960s was easy to idenbias. tify because it was segIT OUT OF THE WATER. IN SOME CASES, Implicit bias refers regation and Jim Crow IT CAN BE THERE, BUT I DON’T THINK IT’S to stereotypes and aslaws. And while obviVERY COMMON. AT LEAST NOT IN TODAY’S sumptions that affect ous racism still exists in SOCIETY. the way we think and 2017, most racism has act in an unconscious gone underground. It’s manner. That worker SENIOR ELIJAH CAIRO no longer as simple as most likely didn’t concalling someone the Nsider herself racist, word or wearing a white but she had seen stories on the news so she followed hood; it is institutionalized stereotypes and biases that Wilkins around, convinced that Wilkins must be like all are built into society based on a history of racism and of the criminals she’d seen on TV. prejudice. In an interview with the American PsychologiImplicit bias is often based on things that we see in cal Association in 2016, John Dovidio, PhD, a professor society. When Latinos are regularly portrayed as drug of psychology and public health at Yale University, exdealers and illegal immigrants in popular television plained how the face of racism has changed in recent shows and movies, it affects our perception of Hispanics years. in real life. The line between reality and fiction tends to “We used to think about racism in a very simple way blur, which leads to an unconscious bias against various – that people had negative thoughts, negative feelings, minorities who are often portrayed in a negative light. hatred toward a group. But since the 1960s, when there Black people are killed by police at a disproportionwas civil rights legislation, it changed the way we thought ate rate because television and movies portray them as about race because it was not only immoral to think that thugs and gangsters. Muslims are frequently stopped way, but it was illegal to discriminate. And what we think at airports because the news paints them as terrorists. is that racism has become more subtle since then. People Implicit bias affects everyone, and it happens every day. still have negative feelings, but they may not be aware of Many psychologist state that humans have a tenthose negative feelings. Instead of feelings of hatred, it’s dency to feel more comfortable around people that look more like feelings of avoidance and discomfort,” Dovidio like them. When a Black person walks down the street said. at night, they might see a group of white people cross to the other side of the street. When a Muslim walks into Implicit Bias a plane, they might see people move seats. These situYears ago, World Language teacher Sudanna Wilkins ations of discomfort and avoidance contribute to modwalked into a local grocery store, grocery list in mind and ern racism, and they often happen unconsciously. White bag in her hand. When she walked in, she instantly recpeople might not realize that they are being racist when ognized the worker. The person working was the mother they clench their purse tighter to their body as black of one of her students, and Wilkins recalled having a person walks by, but they are. Eliminating a bias that has lengthy conversation with her during the open house. been formed over hundreds of years is not easy, and as a Wilkins waved, but the worker didn’t seem to recognize result, racism persists in many aspects of society.

FEATURE STORY

PYLON SEPTEMBER 22, 2017

White Privilege

Jane Elliott, a third grade teacher in Iowa, walked into her classroom the day after Martin Luther King Jr. was shot in shock, along with the a lot of Americans. Her young students berated her with questions about King’s death, all of them curious as to why he was shot. In response, Elliot asked her class to participate in an experiment. She separated her students into groups based on their eye color; more specifically, she focused on the blue-eyed children and the brown-eyed children. Elliot simply explained to the children that brown eyed people were superior to people with blue eyes; and from there, the experiment took off. Over the course of the day, the brown-eyed students began to grow more confident while the blue-eyed children became shy and timid. Essentially, the brown-eyed children were given more opportunities and therefore excelled more. This experiment is a perfect illustration of how privilege can affect people’s behavior. The brown eyed children, who represent white people, excelled in class because they were told that they were born superior. The blue-eyed children, who represent minorities, fell behind because they had lower expectations. Even though the kids had all entered the classroom as equals, a clear social hierarchy had emerged by the end of the day. Essentially, that is also how white privilege works. White privilege is not a term coined to detract from the success of white people; it is simply a term that addresses the advantages that come with being part of the white majority in America. White privilege often isn’t intentional; but with so many implicit biases built into society, it is a welldocumented fact that whites and minorities are treated differently in many scenarios. Wilkins recalls situations where her and her friends

were unable to find a rental home or an apartment because of their skin color. Wilkins once participated in an experiment where she and another white woman both called the same lady and asked about renting a home for their grandmother. When Wilkins called, the lady told her that they didn’t have any vacancies. When the white woman called, she was told that they had plenty of spots available. These calls happened within a matter of minutes, of students think but suddenly, when a that people of color white person called, are treated differently spaces opened up. White privilege than whites happens at school, in the work force and in situations involving law enforcement. Black children are more likely to be expelled, college-educated Hispanic men make 80 percent the hourly wage of a collegeeducated white man, and minorities are more likely to be shot by police officers. All of these situations boil down to something as simple as the color of a person’s skin. While some people deny that white privilege exists, senior Reed Mattek acknowledges that her skin color does affect the way that she is treated. “I’m white so I have a lot more privileges than people who are Black or Latino. I know that I profit off of being white,” said Mattek.

78%

Settlers in America wiped out most of the Native American race, establishing a precedent for the superiority of whites. Slavery was protected by law in the South and the Three-Fifths Compromise categorized blacks as three-fifths of a person.

1800s

Some people say that it is impossible to escape racism in America because of America’s long, racist history. Racism has taken many different forms through the years, and various laws have caused racism to evolve. Every minority group in America has experienced some kind of discrimination at some point. Here’s a look at some of the critical events in American history.

Wilkins distinctly remembers standing in the hallway at the end of the school year last year as a group of students passed her in the hallway. A couple of black girls were chatting when suddenly a group of white boys behind them called out “what are we going to do about all these ni****?” The girls could have turned around, but they didn’t know what to do. Instead, they continued down the hallway. The day went on and nobody brought the incident up again.

1700s

evolution of racism

Racism at Central

The Trail of Tears displaced and killed thousands of Native Americans. The Civil War brought the debate of slavery to a climax and increased racial tension. Several tough immigration acts were passed, including the Chinese Exclusion Act which encouraged discrimination against the Chinese.

FEATURE STORY

PYLON SEPTEMBER 22, 2017

diversity in the school. But for now, white faces continue to dominate the hallways.

Looking to the Future

Whether you think that racism is a big deal or not, last year brought on a new surge of racial tension in America. According to Center for the Study of Hate & Extremism at California State University, hate crimes in nine U.S. metropolitan areas rose more than 20 percent in 2016. The Southern Poverty Law Center reports that there was a 197 percent increase in Anti-Muslim hate groups last year alone. With racist movements like white supremacy and neo-nazis on the rise, what can be done to prevent a relapse of the 1960s? Wilkins argues that now is not the time to be silent on racial issues, stating that people who do not stand up for themselves are only making the problem worse. “The people who keep on taking it are the ones who keep on perpetuating it. They don’t say anything... They say they are taking the high road but they aren’t taking any road,” said Wilkins. Senior Eva Tong recalls a time when someone came through the drive-through at Imperial Garden and accused them of serving dog meat. Because of inaccurate assumptions like this, Tong thinks that educating ourselves on other cultures could ease some of the tension. “I hope people stop being racist to each other. There’s really no point. I feel like everyone is equal. I think people need to learn more about other cultures from each other, and hopefully the racists will go away,” said Tong. But for now, racism remains a part of American society. Modern racism may be less noticeable than slavery and segregation, but it is still ingrained into society. If Americans continue to ignore the problem, then racial tensions will continue to escalate. Racism will continue to persist as long as we, as a country, continue to let it.

3000s

The KKK terrorized the South with lynchings and other forms of violence. Texas Rangers killed hundreds of Mexicans in America during the Mexican Revolution. Japanese citizens were put into internment camps during World War 2. The Civil Rights Movement ended with laws that finally protected minorities.

2000s

1900s

Scenes like this could happen every day at Central, and most people would have no idea. Racism exists in almost every crevice of society, including high school. Senior Marla Aguilar believes that administrators at Central often don’t catch racism; and as a result, it is never punished. “I think there is racism at Central, but it is super subtle. I think teachers don’t catch it in time or they just don’t think about it,” said Aguilar. On the other hand, Cairo feels that racism isn’t a big deal among his classmates. Cairo experiences small snippets of bias, but he believes that many of the stereotypes he is accused of, such as liking fried chicken and watermelon, are true, and therefore it doesn’t bother him. When it comes to more serious issues, Cairo thinks that most people don’t really believe the hateful things that they say. “I’ve been stereotyped before but it was just as a joke. It’s funny to me. I think most people who try to act like they’re racist just do it be offensive or edgy,” said Cairo. Whether racism has a huge impact on students or not, one of the problems with Central is its lack of diversity. There are more gyms in the building than teachers of color. If you include all the staff, the total is still less than ten. Wilkins has had years of experience with being one of few black teachers in USD 305. While her experience with the staff of Central has always been positive, she does comment that being one of few teachers of color comes with a few disadvantages. She often has people come up to her and start talking to her, even though she has no idea who they are. But Wilkins is easy to identity because of her skin color. People always know who she is even if she’s never met them before. It is hard for her to blend in, and because of that, she wishes for a little anonymity. “Somebody asked what superpower would I like most, and I said that I would like invisibility. People act like they know me but I don’t know who they are. You can’t hide,” said Wilkins. Racism at Central might be improved if there were more

It is estimated that by 2050, over 50 percent of the American population will be composed of minority groups. How will this affect racism in our country?

The September 11th attacks brought an increase of discrimination against Muslims. Police brutality gained attention due to many high profile cases. Racist sentiments towards Hispanics and immigrants have led to an increase in hate crimes. But this century has also seen minority leaders in power and more equality for all races. *180 students were surveyed on September 8 and 11

sports briefs

pylon september 22, 2017

BRINGING THE

MO JO

Soccer looks to improve on stellar season last year with a new coach leading the pack BY MALCOM BERKLEY PYLON REPORTER

Last year’s soccer assistant coach and this season’s new head coach, Kipp Keffel, paces around the Bill Burke field, watching his team practice in the searing sun. Occasionally he shouts at one of his shirtless players, whether in glee or frustration, knowing that every play, every touch of the ball counts. Keffel is perfectly aware of the pressure that comes with being a head coach, especially a new one whose experienced team is expected to do well in league and state competition. ”[Head-coaching] is different getting used to the expectations,” he states. “We win, it’s because of the boys. We lose, it’s because of the coach. That’s just something I’m gonna have to get used to.” That being said, Keffel realizes the chance he’s been given. “It is a huge honor to be named head coach. I feel very fortunate to have been selected for the position, and can not wait to see what the future has in store,” He says with a smile of satisfaction. The team seems to have taken Keffel’s role as tactician and motivator in full stride. Though the players exhibit a serious and slightly nervous mindset during practice, it is almost entirely overshadowed by a growing excitement seen in most of the boys. This excitement is accompanied by great optimism for the season. Senior captain Davieon Thomas states his expectations for this season. “[My expectation] is to become strong as a team and get past the first round.” Thomas’s faith comes from the fact that the team has maintained almost every starter from last season. “We have a lot of experienced players and expect a lot out of each other. All of us are returning from last year so we should have a great season,” Thomas explains. The team has also benefited from the arrival of a large

number of freshmen, with a couple making the varsity squad. These combined factors suggest a more talented group of boys and a deeper bench for the Mustangs. Last year, the boys soccer team suffered a heartwrenching defeat in overtime to Wichita Heights, a team they had previously beaten, which ended their first winning season in some years. They had started on a winning streak, reigning victorious in the Wichita Titan Classic Tournament, and coming out on top in the first two league games, including a thrilling overtime win over Great Bend. The only losses were against Goddard, South, Newton, and, of course, Wichita Heights, all teams that that the guys are seeking revenge against. Ultimately, the squad ended their season in the first knockout round of state, finishing with a record of 114-1. Although the record may be impressive to some, to the seniors it is a motivation for them to perform well in their last year at Salina Central. Senior Brayden Pavey said, “I’m just ready for one last run and a good and special year. Hopefully we can go out there and finish strong.” Pavey’s hope of having a good final year looks to be on track. The varsity boys have, so far, done well against some of the best competition in the state of Kansas while competing in this year’s Titan Classic. Added to that, the team has won its first two league games, beating Great Bend and Ark City while away from home. With the majority of the season left to play, things are looking up. The team has a new coach with a vast soccer experience. With this, there are benefits from a more experienced and talented roster than last year. Added to that, the spirit and optimism for the remaining games is very high in the group. The ultimate goal of winning league and going far in the playoffs is well within reach.

sports briefs

pylon september 22, 2017

SOPHOMORE

CAMRYN

FRESHMAN

PHELPS

MIRANDA

JENKINS

“The upcoming volleyball season is definitely going to be a challenging one for all the levels of teams, everyday we work our butts off getting better and ready for the competition that awaits every Tuesday and Thursday night.”

SOPHOMORE

HARLEY

LONG “Girls golf is a fun sport that is often overlooked. As a team we have gone to state six times and we are looking for it to be an amazing year!”

“I think that our tennis team has girls who work extremely hard and are very dedicated to the game, we should have a great season and I am excited to see how much our team improves.”

JUNIOR TAYLON PETERS

JUNIOR

MARK

GRAMMER “We have ten of out eleven starters returning for soccer so we are an experienced team with good chemistry. I know we can do something special this year.”

“I think we have a chance to be much better in football this season. We have a lot of varsity experience and have some size on the line so I think it will be a good year.”

SENIOR

ZOIE

COUNTS “The cross country team is coming off of a great season, both boys and girls. Having two boys qualify for state and the girls team winning regionals, we are hoping to compete just the same this year.”

ATHLETES SPORTS

PYLON SEPTEMBER 22, 2017

WITH THE HELP OF HIS TEAM, JUNIOR GREG GIBSON OVERCOMES HIS OBSTACLES by holly sanderson pylon editor For junior football player Greg Gibson, on April 26 his life changed forever. On a day that started out like any other, Gibson started to feel immense pain throughout his leg he went to talk to his doctor and they decided to run some tests on him as a precaution. When Gibson received the news that he had developed cancer, a multitude of feelings and thoughts flooded his mind. Gibson was diagnosed with stage 10 steosarcoma. This form of cancer has a 90 percent survival rate, but is a wild card when it comes to the possible side effects. Once the doctors decided that surgery and treatment was the best option for Gibson, they started it right away. Along with his surgical recovery, were the negative side effects from treatment, including no football. “Treatment is terrible. You are really sick most of the time..well like all the time,” Gibson explained August 7 was Gibson’s surgery date. Gibson knew he had to do this to heal, even though it meant that he wasn’t going to be able to walk for

awhile. The surgery, though, was a success. There were no complications during the procedure. Fortunately one of the best orthopedic surgeons in the nation did the procedure for him. During surgery, he was put under anesthesia for around two hours. During that time, they removed a part of his bone that was touched by the tumor. Because they removed the entire top part of his bone, they had to reconnect his ligament to his shin

on life. As far as physically, he will recover fully, but now he won’t take life for granted and will always remember his life altering experience. Gibson is determined to work out again but it will be a long road to recovery. With everything that he has gone through, Gibson has many obstacles and more to overcome. Gaining weight will be one of them, as the surgery he has caused him to lose 25 pounds, which he has to regain in order to play football and be healthy. Through this, Gibson has had a very strong support system with IT WAS CRAZY, I DIDN’T family, friends and his football team on his side. KNOW HOW SERIOUS IT “At school all my friends are WAS, OR WHAT WAS GOING supportive and the football TO HAPPEN TO ME. team, they are here with me still. I’m still a big part of the - JUNIOR GREG GIBSON team. There’s no difference with them, I just can’t play with them bone. right now,” said Gibson. Ever since this complicated Right now, Gibson isn’t as worprocedure, Gibson has had to use ried as he was at the beginning. With crutches and have a brace on his leg. reassurance, Gibson knows that His six week checkup is on October everything is going to be okay. If ev3. Gibson hopes during the appointerything goes as planned, he should ment the doctor will tell him that his be done with everything in February. ligament has healed. This would Through this life changing journey, mean that he would be walking again Gibson has kept a positive mindset and begin the process of recovery in for himself and those around him. If physical therapy. he didn’t, he wouldn’t be the strong Gibson now has a new perspective person he is today.

The team coming together as one before the game. photo by ellie cobb

PYLON SEPTEMBER 22, 2017

ATHLETES SPORTS

Gibson watches and supports his team on the sidelines furing their first home game (top and bottom). photos by ellie cobb

LIFE IS GOING TO THROW OBSTACLES AT YOU BUT THE KEY IS HOW YOU ARE GOING TO REACT TO THOSE CHALLENGES AND HOW THEY BETTER YOU GOING FORWARD. - JUNIOR GREG GIBSON

IN DEPTH

PYLON SEPTEMBER 22, 2017

unstoppable

jasmine

bauer by ryan dix pylon editor

photo by ryan dix

Bauer finds success while balancing parenthood, work and school

IN DEPTH

PYLON SEPTEMBER 22, 2017

It only took seconds for PBD counselor Lacey Brooks to realize that senior Jasmine Bauer was unique. Brooks has been counseling for six years, she’s seen everything from students addicted to drugs to students who just have bad home lives. But Bauer is a unique situation. “Jasmine is one of those students who you know is never ever going to give up,” Brooks said. But what makes Bauer so special? As a freshman, Bauer moved from Missouri to Salina because of issues at home. As a sophomore, Bauer was in a committed relationship and became pregnant. When she told the father the news of her pregnancy he asked for her to get an abortion. When Bauer said she would not get an abortion the father left her and moved to Oklahoma. She gave birth to her baby girl, Zendaya, as a junior. Now Bauer works thirty hours a week at Imperial Garden, while balancing being a full-time student and a mother. “She’s my motivation, she’s why I work, she’s the reason I’m graduating a semester early,” Bauer said about her daughter.

The father did not make any effort to communicate with Bauer or the child until recently. Bauer allows him to see the child because it is his child too and he deserve to see her. PBD teacher Brad Dix is in his fourth year of teaching PBD. He has had Bauer in his class for two years now and says that Bauer is one of the hardest working students that he has ever had. “There are days when she is so tired from working and taking care of a sick child, but she finds a way to continue to make progress,” Dix said. According to Dix, Bauer has always been a model student in his class and is a very hard worker at everything she does. Bauer will graduate in December and enter cosmetology school after high school. Through everything that Bauer has faced, she has always faced it with a smile and a determination, unlike any other. That’s what makes her unique. “It hasn’t been easy but having Zendaya in my life makes everything I do worth it,” Bauer said.

She’s my motivation, she’s why I work, she’s the reason I’m graduating a semester early. - SENIOR JASMINE BAUER

STATUS QUOTES

PYLON SEPTEMBER 22, 2017

GOING NUCLEAR Tensions between the United States and North Korea have escalted in the last few months. North Korea has made improvements to their long-range missiles and many people fear that the United States is now in reach. President Donald Trump has entered a verbal sparring match with Kim Jong-Un through Twitter and public statements, which has led to threats from North Korea on U.S. terrorities like Guam. The UN recently agreed to implement harsh sanctions on North Korea, but there is a concern that a diplomatic solution may not work. Offutt Air Force Base Bellevue, NE

AFTER A SERIES OF TESTS OVER THE SUMMER, EXPERTS SAY THAT NORTH KOREAN MISSILES COULD POTENTIALLY HAVE A RANGE OF 10,000 KM. THAT COULD PUT CITIES AS FAR AS CHICAGO IN RANGE.

THE RED SQUARES REPRESENT POTENTIONAL MISSILE TARGETS BASED ON NORTH KOREAN PROPOGANDA. TWO OF THE LOCATIONS FALL CLOSE TO KANSAS.

U.S. Capital Washington DC

Pacific Fleet Headquarters San Diego, CA

Whiteman Air Force Base Johnson County, MO

64%

of students think that North Korea would fire a missile at or bomb the United States

73%

Barksdale Air Force Base Bossier Parish, LA

80%

of students think that the United States would fire a missile at or bomb North Korea

of students think that an attack from North Korea or the United States would start a nuclear war *information from New York Times | 180 students were surveyed on September 8 and 11

fun & games

silly

PYLON september 22, 2017

secrets kudos I THINK CONSPIRACY THEORIES ARE INTERESTING BECAUSE THEY’RE ALWAYS PROPOSING DIFFERENT OUTLOOKS THAT NOT ALL PEOPLE SEE. - SENIOR ADDASON GRAVES

180 students were surveyed during random classes on September 8 and 11

43%

of students believe in the Mandela Effect

The Mandela Effect is a theory about parallel universes overlapping. The theory is that we remember things that didn’t actually happen because of these multiple universes.

49% 52%

of students describe conspiracy theories as ‘cool.’ of students believe in at least one JFK assassination conspiracy

instagram This page is inspired by the “Humans of New York” instagram page. It will include photos and quotes from random students throughout our school.

@mustangsofcentral

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.

callouts

Students share their opinion on common conspiracies.

KUDOS -The lunch ladies for doing their best even though they don’t have a finished lunchroom. -People going to Houston and Florida to help out. -Teachers who bring us food. Thank you for taking time and money just for us. -The new student entrance - “Open for a surprise” tweets -People that hold the door open when you’re about to be late for class. Thank you for saving me those extra four seconds. -Salina possibly getting Panera!! CALLOUTS -The kids in the parking lot who honk non-stop after school. Seriously, shut up. -How am I supposed to know which rooms are air conditioned and which are death traps? -All the road construction. We thought our school construction was bad.... -Only. ONE. Lunch line. -Messed up Homecoming voting for the second year in a row. -The smell in the hallway... Can we call it a gas leak and go home? -Where’s the Central Perk coffee at?

Editorials Opinion

PYLON SEPTEMBER 22, 2017

Sophomore Saria Taylor reading “Water for Elephants.” Photo by Madeline Paradis

Water for Elephants:

Spectacular Yet Salacious by Madeline Paraids pylon editor When I’m reading books, I often find myself drifting off. As soon as I snap back into reality, I’m halfway down the page and have no clue what I’ve just read. This mostly happens when I am reading something that has been assigned for a class. Luckily, with “Water for Elephants” as an added option for the sophomore summer read, I didn’t have to worry about this because the book pulls the reader in from the beginning. “Water for Elephants” by Sara Gruen tells the story of what really goes on within the circus, instead of the perfectly timed and executed show that is performed in front of an audience. The book does have some objectionable material. However, its well-developed characters and detailed descriptions keep the reader mainly focused on what’s going to happen next.

Something that surprised me while reading was the amount of sexual and abusive behavior because I had never encountered a book that touched on these topics. One night, whilst Jacob was drunk, he was coaxed into having sex with two cooch girls but didn’t have enough control to stop it, even though he would’ve liked to. The next time he had sex, it was with Marlena and was a much more enjoyable experience. However, when Marlena’s husband finds out about the affair, they both had to deal with the physical abuse from him. Although these scenes are descriptive and disturbing, the author shows that having sex with someone you love is always better than meaningless sex, which is an important lesson for teenagers. Even though such controversial subjects might seem difficult to read, I got so into the book that it didn’t really bother me. Gruen does a marvel-

ous job of keeping us, the readers, feeling as though we are walking a tightrope with the book’s unsuspecting twists and turns. The scenes and characters are described with lots of detail which helps you envision how spectacular and repugnant circus life truly was. With the subplot of young and old Jacob, Gruen is able to evoke the theme of home that runs throughout the entire book. So I ask the question: was the book, like the circus, perfectly timed and executed for a sophomore summer read given its objectionable material? I believe it was. From the brilliantly developed characters, to the animals that face abuse, it engages the reader and fills their heart with many emotions. This makes “Water for Elephants” a great read for anyone looking for a story filled with danger, love and a bittersweet ending.

Editorials Option

PYLON SEPTEMBER 22, 2017

STAFF EDITORIAL: subtle racism is wrong by Annie Hayes pylon editor Looking at racism, from the perspective of a white student, is radically different than from another. As a white female, I often tell myself that I have fairly progressive views on global issues, women’s rights and racism, but the truth is that I’m still severely uneducated. I see the lack of education and support from political leaders as the root of race problems in the U.S. Part of this lack of education comes from never being able to truly step into the shoes of a minority. I cannot fully understand how black, Latino, Asian or other minority students feel about history and current issues. To fix the problem of race inequality and disrespect we see in our school, city and country we

75% of students feel that racism is still an issue in the United States

must help people understand why obvious and subtle instances of racism are wrong. While I don’t see a way that schools can incorporate this into their curriculum, I believe that communities, families and politicians need to become aware of their implicit bias and help children to grow up without the slight (or severe) prejudice that most of us grew up with. It may take time, but I believe working to have future generations that can celebrate all races equally will be beneficial to society in the long run. Political figures at both the state and national level can also doing a better job of setting an example for people in the United States. While studies show that the United

states is quickly becoming a melting pot (minority groups will make up about 53 per cent of Americans by 2050) our government officials seem to be causing groups to separate radically. This was demonstrated by recent events with neo nazis and confederate statues. Even if President Donald Trump took just a few minutes to think about his words and put racial incidents into perspective, I believe that race problems could improve. The intense controversy among both political and social groups, caused by our president’s comments on racial issues, just increases the division. Education of both our political and social system is my attempt to heal the wound.

ethnicity that experiences the most racism according to students: hispanic

white

black middle-eastern

7% 20% 66% 7% *180 students surveyed during random classes on September 8 and 11.

Editorals opinion

PYLON SEPTEMBER 22, 2017

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Problems in school need to be addressed by Troy Miller senior

In Salina Central High School there are many problems in the school. For starters the lunch staff need to know about health and safety. A few days ago, I was eating lunch and they dropped food on the ground and the staff picked it up and served it. Also in this school there is a lot of bullying, depression and that sort of

stuff causing some of the students to feel unsafe at this school, including me. I also think that during our school assemblies we should have people come in and do tricks on a dirt bike and talk about what goes on in this school and have team building situations. There is a lot more to say about this school so if you get the chance and would like to talk in person, a few other people and I would like

to start a club for students who are feeling depressed, thinking of suicide, feeling alone and are getting bullied, etc. If we did create a club, everyone would be treated the same and wouldn’t feel alone. If someone is going through something, the group would be able to help them through it. Most of all, I’d really like help everyone to feel comfortable about talking about these situations.

RESPONSE TO LETTER TO THE EDITOR FROM PYLON STAFF: The lunchroom is expected to be finished by November so hopefully the situation will change. The safety codes are harder to enforce when the lunch room is in chaos. If you see something like this happen again, maybe mention it to the lunch lady so that we can make sure that lunch room stays sanitary. If you are feeling depressed or need someone to talk to there are lots of people you can

go to. Teachers and counselors are always willing to talk and get you the help you need. There is also S.A.D.D. (Students Against Destructive Decisions) which is a group of students who get together to discuss personal issues and find solutions. Using assemblies to encourage team building would be hard because of the large amount of students present, but the circle time in ELO this year is a good

way to learn more about classmates and create better relationships. If you want to start a club, find a teacher sponsor and talk to the office. I’m sure that there are plenty of students that would benefit from a group of friends to talk to. If you are concerned about a friend hurting themselves or others make sure you contact an adult for help to prevent anything from happening.

by Madeline Paradis pylon editor

INFO GRAPHIC

PYLON SEPTEMBER 22, 2017

STATUS QUOTES The following quotes were heard around the school by members of the Pylon staff

GOOGLE IS THE BEST NATURAL RESOURCE.

MY GRADE IS GOING DOWN FASTER THAN THE TITANIC.

I JUST REALIZED THAT MY FLIP FLOP LOOKS LIKE A BANANA.

KILL THEM WITH KINDNESS? I HAVE A KNIFE NAMED KINDNESS.

IT SMELLS LIKE POT ROAST AND HOPELESSNESS.

I WISH I WAS DEAD BUT WE CANâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T ALWAYS GET WHAT WE WANT.

GO TO PRISON WHERE YOU BELONG.

CLOSE ENCOUNTERS A MEMBER OF REAL ENCOUNTERS JUMPS OVER TEACHERS AND ADMINISTRATORS | PHOTO BY CHLOE GUILLOT