Pylon November 2019

THE PYLON

PY

Vol. 96, Iss. 2 | Salina Central High School | 650 E. Crawford St. | Salina KS, 67401 | November 15, 2019

Students in a local foster home find hope in Salina, ‘Mrs. Scott’

18 NEW SEX-ED CURRICULUM 26 CAKE IT TIL’ YOU MAKE IT

2 || Contents Page

November 15, 2019 || Pylon

On The Inside On the inside, we featured a story over juniors Preston Miller and Chase Davis who are some of the best bowlers in Kansas.

Miller has been bowling for about three years now, and during the fall he was ranked fourth best in the country.

Miller plans on going to state this upcoming bowling season and will hopefully get the bowling team a state title.

Davis has also been bowling since his freshman year. He has been a big contribution that has helped the team from being one of the worst teams in the league to now being one of the best.

Both bowlers have a bright future ahead of them. They have two bowling seasons left in their high school career to leave their legacy behind.

|| photo by Alex Morales

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.

Pylon || November 15, 2019

Content h 06

Tik Tok on the clock

Students share the effects of the popular app Tik Tok

16

Pitbull excuses

Editor-in-Chief Madeline Paradis

Copy Editor Zoe Gilpin

Sports Editor Opinion Editor Layna Kinnaird

Student Life Editor Marlie Coleman

Always open

Lead Writer

Foster care mother runs boys home to help the students get back on the right path

28

Staff Rashada Smith

The pitbull ban in Salina has caused students and community members to share their opinions

23

Contents Page || 3

Malcolm Berkley

Managing Editor Concha Campa

A fly future

Arts Editor

Houston Griffitts explains how his passion has lead him to his future career

Editor’s Letter

News Editor Isabella Rubino

In-Depth Editor Sydney Raman

Design Manager

Dear Readers, Thank you for picking up the second issue of the 2019 Pylon.

As we roll through fall and into winter our staff has been working hard to keep our website and social media up to date so expect more frequent posts from us.

This month’s feature focuses in on a local foster home that dozens of students have come in and out of over the past 20 years.

With Thanksgiving fast approaching we want to emphasize being thankful for the home we have here at Central.

Teachers and staff work hard to create a safe learning environment for every student so take some time to thank them this month.

We are looking forward to producing one more issue before winter break and hope you’re excited to read it.

Violet Arb

Makelti Hastings

Reporters Jesus Jasso Hannah Watkins Jillian DeVoe Lucas Nutter Harper Heath

Adviser J.D. Garber

Madeline Paradis Editor-in-Chief

Follow Us on Social Media www.chspylon.com

chspylon chs.pylon

4 || Infographic

November 15, 2019 || Pylon

TO HELP TEENS FOOD FOR TIPS MAKE BETTER

THOUGHT DIETARY CHOICES

“

It’s hard for me to understand how people don’t care what goes into their body. Knowing you have one body and it’s your job to take care of it.

DON’T SKIP LUNCH OR DINNER

“

Junior Emily Jenkins

REDUCE THE SIZE OF YOUR MEALS

don’t eat high-fat foods every time you visit a fast-food restaurant with your friends. many of the popular fast food chains now have healthier food choices on the menu.

CHANGE COOKING METHODS TO CREATE HEALTHIER MEALs

WATER IS THE HEALTHIEST DRINK

Pylon || November 15, 2019

Infographic || 5

Pizza, savory snacks, full-fat milk, grain-based desserts, sugary drinks, breads, and pasta consistently contributed to the trend of a decrease in energy intake food among teens.

2/3

teens are not active every day

56%

rather than meeting up with your friends at the local fastfood restaurant, suggest a place that serves healthier foods.

of teens drink a sugary drink daily

30%

of teens do not eat breakfast.

Facts from American Academy of Pediatrics, U.S. Department of Agriculture, BetterHealth. com, and US Department of Health and Human Services.

EAT BREAKFAST TO AVOID SNACKING

TEENS SPEND 7+ HOURS A DAY INFRONT OF A SCREEN

AVOID ADDING SALT TO YOUR FOOD

80% OF KIDS DO NOT MEET THE PHYICAL ACTIVITY GUIDLINES

6 || Student Life

November 15, 2019 || Pylon

TikTok TikTok on on the the clock clock

Trending Socal Media App makes impact within the halls

“

“I first started making TikToks just to see where it could go, but over time as I started to grow a small following, I had a few people that would tell me that they looked forward to seeing my videos, and that I made their day, and that I inspire them. This is what pushed me to continue making TikToks and try to expand my audience.

TikTok itself has had some positive and negative impacts on my life. The constant stress of posting that ‘hit’ video that blows up is a struggle, but overall it has been amazing.

I get to connect with millions of people, and also meet other content creators that I never would have been able to without this app. It has been very prominent in my life since I first started.”

- Zach Johnson. junior 28% of students make TikToks

“

“I was one of the first kids at our school to get TikTok and I got it because I saw a couple of youtubers making jokes about it, so I thought ‘why not’ and I got it.

I made ironic trendy TikToks.

When one of my TikToks “blew up” it was cool but it didn’t really change anything.

I have no idea how my mom knew but I know one of y’all being 6ix9ine.

Before my mom made me delete TikTok, I had about 700-1000 followers.

I spend a decent amount of time on TikTok, it really just depends on the day.

I do not miss making TikToks because some people on there spend hours a day making ideas and creating TikToks. Now that I don’t have it, I have way more free time.”

- Reed McHenry. junior 68% of students watch TikToks 200 Students were surveyed during random classes from Oct. 23-30

Pylon || November 15, 2019

THIS IS

HOW WE

ROLL

Sports || 7

Junior Preston Miller takes his national ranking into a promising bowling season alongside teammate, and All State bowler, junior Chase Davis.

November 15, 2019 || Pylon

8 || Sports

|| story by Rashada Smith

W

alking through the halls, you might hear names of popular athletes such as senior Israel Torres or junior Callie Sanborn, but have you heard of junior Preston Miller, who at one point this fall was the fourth best bowler in the country?

He has been bowling since the winter of 2016, his freshman year. With dedication and practice, he has quickly become one of the best bowlers in the state of Kansas. Miller practices at The Alley at least three times a week, to keep up with his craft.

A few weeks ago, Miller went to the bowling alley to bowl a game or two.

His goal, to try and get a 300, 12 strikes in a row. As time went by, Miller racked up strike after strike, up until he came to the frame.

“I couldn’t feel my legs, I was shaking really bad, I couldn’t feel the ball. And then when I finally got the last strike I started crying,” Miller said with a chuckle. “It was embarrassing.”

Another talented bowler is Junior Chase Davis, who has been an bowling since he was only three years old. Davis has family members who bowled, and were inspired

by them to give it a whirl.

“When I came in as a freshman, we were one of the worst teams in 5A,” Davis said.

“We were a joke and I have seen this team turn around so quickly it’s unbelievable.”

Just like Miller, Davis also has had huge bowling accomplishments, one being winning a state Pepsi championship a few years back, where he placed first out of 125 other bowlers.

Both Miller and Davis plan on having future careers in bowling, and hopefully ending up going professional.

All and all, bowling is a big part of both of these students lives and has taught them a lot.

“It has taught me so much, but the most important thing is leadership.

“No matter what happens you have got to be a leader. When one person is down it brings the whole team down, so I try to hype everyone up no matter how good or bad I am doing,” Davis said.

“When I came in as a

freshman, we were one of the worst teams in 5A.”

Junior Chase Davis

ACCORDING TO STUDENTS

AVERAGE X X X X CONSECUTIVE X X X X STRIKES MADE X X X X IN A GAME

12 perfect game

STRIKES

200 students were surveyed during random classes from Oct. 23-30.

Juniors Preston Miller and Chase Davis wear their bowling shirts and hold their bowling balls. This fall, Miller was ranked fourth in the country for a week. || photos by Alex Morales

Pylon || November 15, 2019

Sports || 9

10 || Sports Briefs

November 15, 2019 || Pylon

SPORTS BRIEFS

With the winter season coming up soon, here’s your recap on the 2019 fall season.

Junior Molly Michaelis hits the ball at one of her last meets. Michaelis and her doubles partner, senior Sydney Sorell went to state this year. || photo by Alex Morales

The girls tennis team did really well this year, winning the 5A Regionals and the AVCTL League title.

They also went to state and placed 7th.

GIRLS TENNIS

CROSS COUNTRY The cross country team had three state qualifiers; sophomore Cora White, who placed 43rd, and seniors Kadyn Cobb and Brianna Torres, who placed 32nd and 46th respectively.

Sophomore Cora White runs at one of her last cross country meets. White was one of the team’s state qualifiers this year, and is excited for next season to come. || photo by Huey Counts

GIRLS GOLF At the last golf meet, seniors Kathleen Rhodes and Concha Campa, took 4th and 6th place respectively. The season didn’t end exactly how they hoped, but they plan to be more prepared next year.

Junior Bridgit Conway putts the ball into the hole.

Conway played fairly well this season and is excited for her senior season. || photo by Ella Eaton

FO B

Sports Briefs || 11

Pylon || November 15, 2019

BOYS SOCCER The soccer team ended this season strong. After winning the South game, they kept up that energy, and went 4-2-1 for the rest of the regular season. Overall, they finished 3rd in league.

OOTBALL FOOTBALL

Senior Arran Wilson dribbles the ball down the field. Wilson, who played wing for the soccer team, played four games with a fractured rib, a rib out of place and a strained muscle.|| photo by Jason Duong

FOOTBALL The football team’s season has come to an end after the playoff game against Andover, with a final score of 7-28. Their final record this year was 5-4.

Senior Cooper Chard runs the ball to the end zone. Chard was the varsity running back and scored four touchdowns in the game against Newton this year. || photo by Jason Duong

VOLLEYBALL

With their season over, the volleyball team improved throughout the season, but they still didn’t do as well as they wished. With a new coach, they are looking forward for next season and a fresh start.

Senior Trista Stevenson and junior Emily Kvasnicka blocking during a varsity game this year. || photo by Jason Duong

12 || Sports Briefs

LEAGUE and REGIONAL CHAMPIONS

November 15, 2019 || Pylon

JUNIOR CALLIE SANBORN PLACES FOURTH IN 5A STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS

Sports Briefs || 13

Pylon || November 15, 2019

CENTRAL 24PTS

7TH PLACE

The girls tennis team holds their plaque after winning 5A Regionals. Previously, the team had won the AVCTL League Division 1 title. || photo courtesy of Mike Goll Junior Callie Sanborn gets ready to return the ball at a tennis meet. Sanborn has played tennis since freshman year and has improved exponentially since then. || photo by Camryn Phelps

swinging FOR STATE

“

Placing fourth

at state was a huge accomplishment for me. I made a lot of improvements throughout the season to

“

State Results

get there and I wouldn’t be able to do it without my team.

Junior Callie Sanborn

14 || News Briefs

November 15, 2019 || Pylon

NEWS BRIEFS CENTRAL As the checkered flag is waved on fall activities, seniors will look back on a great start to the year while students like sophomore Bethany Schulte plan ahead.

For some students this means focusing more on school work and staying warm.

For others it’s a time to start working, and earning some much needed cash, or enjoying winter sports.

|| photo by Alex Morales

LOCAL

4

Elected USD305 school board members On Nov. 5 USD305 board of education president Ann Zimmerman won the race for another term while three others including Dana Kossow, Scott Gardner and Mark A. Bandré earned new positions.

Even though voter turnout was still somewhat low election officials were pleased to see a 2% increase in voter turnout.

NATIONAL

Popeye’s Chicken Sandwich

“They sell out fast bro.

People are like vultures for them babies.”

Senior Daelan McKnight

The girls

in guard are very supportive

AXE THROWING

and like family.

Leading the guard onto the field is extremely fun and hard work.

Sophomore Bethany Schulte

|| photo courtesy of Aaron Anders Mollie Hatchets Axe House at 117 N. Sante Fe Ave. opened this fall. Locals over the age of 16 can throw axes for $20 an hour and throw as much as they want.

CALIFORNIA

FIRES

The west coast remains on fire and has been for years, this is not news, but the recent blackouts and evacuations have brought this dangerous situation back into the news.

In locations like Kincade more than 180,000 people were forced out of their homes and over 78,000 acres were damaged, which is almost twice the size of San Francisco.

News Briefs || 15

Pylon || November 15, 2019

|| photo by Ella Eaton

UPCOMING MONDAY

18 WINTER SPORTS

WEDNESDAY

27

THANKSGIVING BREAK

THURSDAY, DEC.

12

JOYOUS NOEL

“Being on stage in that moment was one of the most fun scenes because we were able to watch the audience reactions.”

Junior Cooper Taggart

November 15, 2019 || Pylon

16 || News

PITIFUL EXCUSES STUDENTS, COMMUNITY BATTLE THE INFAMOUS SALINA PIT BULL BAN || story by Zoe Gilpin

E

veryone loves dogs, right? A little dachshund or golden retriever is a source of joy and entertainment for so many people.

However, thanks to current laws and media representation, the mere mention of the pitbull breed is enough to get people scared.

BSL, or Breed Specific Legislation is an anti-pitbull ordinance set in place in 2004.

The official summary of City Code 7-141 / 7-149 (BSL) states No resident shall(...) possess a pit bull dog within the city limits of Salina, Kansas. Violations may result in seizure of the dog(s), a fine of $2,500, and/or by imprisonment up to one year.

The question of the validity of banning a specific breed is still in the air. What makes one breed more aggressive than another? Dog care provider Misty Heller has an answer.

“I hate to say that a breed of dog acts more aggressively than another,” Heller said. “I have seen small dogs attack and give stitches to someone like a large one can.”

Heller has input in what to spot in a possibly aggressive-acting dog.

“It’s all about learning the signals if a dog is about to strike. If their hair is

standing on their back and you can see the white in their eyes and all of their teeth are showing, they are acting aggressive and are, for sure, going to bite. If they are in a play bow, they are being friendly,” Heller said.

Kim Cunningham is a Salina citizen who has been working against the

were not in favor of this ban.”

Throughout her fight to repeal this ban, she has seen what can happen to owners over the ban itself. “This ban has broken up families. The shelter has taken away dogs that have nothing in relation to the pit bull,” Cunningham said. “Someone spent hundreds of dollars to get her dog back, and prove that her dog was a cane corso.”

Despite all of the instances they were taken, there is no real method anyone is taking to distinguish pitbulls from similarlooking breeds.

“We’re judging these dogs only on how they look, and the so-called experts on this are from the animal shelter. They do no real tests to find out if they are really pit bulls, and take them anyways,” Cunningham said. “You better be 110% careful with your dog.”

Senior Elizabeth Collins works with dogs constantly, and knows some of the ins and outs of different dog breeds.

“This breed of dog, is probably one of the sweetest dogs that I have ever worked with.

They are always so good and well behaved. They love to smile, and they love attention,” Collins said. “The ban to me is totally absurd; it is the owner’s choice how the dog acts. It is not the breed of the dog.”

“This ban has broken up families. You better be 110% careful with your dog.”

Dog care professional Kim Cunningham

ban since its inception.

“There was an accident in which a little girl was hurt. People, of course, were very upset, so they went up and banned these dogs,” Cunningham said. “Even the parents of the little girl

News || 17

Pylon || November 15, 2019

BAD DOG or

bad people?

Do you think pitbulls are aggresive?

YES 14.3%

1 in 600

Pit bulls will get to a good home.

NO 85.7% 200 students surveyed during random classes from Oct. 23-30.

Pitbulls are harshly criticized by their appearance. They have been seen as terrible beasts just by how they are viewed by others. “It’s all about knowing what a pit bull looks like. The important thing is to educate the public about them,” Heller said. || cartoon by Marlie Coleman.

18 || Student Life

November 15, 2019 || Pylon

Birds

THE

Bees

AND THE

New health curriculum moves toward teaching more than just abstincence || story by Sydney Raman

Pylon || November 15, 2019

Student Life || 19

Abstinence is what every highschooler has been taught since day one. The phrase, “safe sex is no sex” has been preached over and over again. Birth control, condoms and other contraceptives have not been implemented into sex education.

But now times are changing, teen sex is becoming more common and up until this past spring, health clases have not been able to teach anything more than abstinence.

Health Teacher Jessica Putman explains the drastic change in sex education.

“We are able to go more of the route of being able to talk about relationships, lifestyle choices, disease prevention and contraceptives. We will be going over responsibilities from adolescence to adulthood, insurance, cost of a baby, things like that. But the main thing we can cover now are contraceptives as we weren’t allowed to before,” Putman said.

Health teacher Traci Peifer and another teacher from South sat down last spring, along with other board members and created the new curriculum.

Putman believes now that with the new curriculum, it´ll be a bigger benefit to students.

“I would say that before the curriculum changed, it was not very beneficial. I think now, students will be more interested to learn those sorts of things. Not everyone follows those specific rules so I’m glad that we have this in our curriculum now,” Putman said.

Junior Bailey Talbott thinks that just teaching abstinence comes with lots of good and bad.

“I think it’s a good thing that we are taught in school that we shouldn’t have sex yet because so many bad things can happen. Also some kids are never told about safe sex. But abstinence is also a choice and some

people don’t believe that and that’s perfectly okay,” Talbott said.

Abstinence has been something that has been taught for a number of years in schools. The solution regarding sex has always been to simply not do it.

School nurse Cassie Chesney believes that a lot of it strives from the fact that abstinence has always been the ̈easier ̈option.

“I think some of it is based on people’s moral beliefs, religious beliefs, or their values. Also it’s the easiest to say,” Chesney said.

were concerned in other districts and states that it would increase the likelihood, but it did not. From a medical and safety standpoint, it is very helpful to teach more than just abstinence.

Especially now compared to back then, there’s so many more options.

With IUDs and implant technology that we have, there are lots of options for women and men,” Chesney said.

Talbott believes that abstinence, however is the safest option.

“It’s definitely the best way to not get pregnant and to not get any sexually transmitted diseases. But of course there are many other options,” Talbott said.

A lot of the curriculum has input by the parents and community on what we should or should not teach pertaining to sex education.

There are now many options around the school bathrooms with posters advertising clinical and safe sex help for young teens.

“I had students coming to my office for questions on things like pregnancy and birth control. A lot of people don’t realize that the Health department operates on what’s called Title IV,” Chesney said.

Title IV can help you with family planning, birth control, and getting any other contraceptives. They also can help you if you think you have an STI. Title IV can do all of this without even telling anyone as well.

“A lot of people are worried about seeking help because they are worried that their parents will find out or there gonna be disappointed. But how that operates under Title IV, they don’t ́t mail things to your house and their bills are based off how much you make, as most high schoolers don’t make much. I thought it would be important to help you realize what is available to help you guys,” Chesney said.

“I would say that before the curriculum changed, it was not very beneficial.”

Health teacher Jessica Putnam

Chesney thinks that it is important to teach more than abstinence in schools as well.

“I think it is super important to not just focus on abstinence because that doesn’t apply to everybody. Abstinence hasn’t been applied to anyone as long as it’s been taught. I do think it should remain as an option but I think it’s not realistic to just focus on that. Especially now there is data that shows if you educate people on their options, it does not encourage people to have sex,” Chesney said.

Nowadays, as things begin to modernize, so does help with prevention.

“Studies have shown that by teaching other ways of safe sex. Parents

90% of students believe

we should be taught more than abstinence in school

Student Life || 23

Pylon || November 15, 2019

WHICH Mustang HERO ARE YOU? Do you enjoy cleaning? Are you always roaming the hallways? Take this quiz to f ind out what Salina Central staff member you are.

START How tall are you?

Under 6ft

OF COURSE

Over 6ft

Are you related to someone from SC?

NAH

Do you like roaming the halls or staying in one spot?

Attendance Secretary You have someone at the school that is always watching you.

This could be a bad thing, but it can also work to your advantage because you have someone that always has your back.

HALLS

NOPE ONE SPOT

YES!

Leslie Bishop

Do you like tidying up?

Nate Thies

CIS Coordinator Whenever you have to be somewhere you are always on time.

Although you may seem like you are tough from the outside, you are actually very sweet, and you enjoy helping those around you.

Yong Bumgartner Food Service You’re short but mighty. Everyone seems to know who you are and they all adore you. You also don’t get bored when you do something continuously.

Donella Geist

Custodian You enjoy cleaning and making sure everything is spotless. Just like Donella you are very approachable and outgoing. Everyone loves you and loves your lively spirit.

24 || Student Life

November 15, 2019 || Pylon

A Fly Future Senior Houston Griffitts plans to pilot drones as a major || story by Jesus Jasso

Stepping out of his car into a clear, sunny day, senior Houston Griffitts picks up his equipment and starts his search for a good place to set up. Griffitts decides to set up in an open field and sits down in a green patch and brings out his drone.

Griffitts grabs his control and starts to pilot his drone. He feels the wind softly blow against his face and he can feel any stress he has fade away. He feels right at home and excited to have the opportunity to have drones become his future.

Griffitts had his first encounter with drones during the seventh grade. He traveled to K-State Polytechnic and witnessed the drone enclosure they recently built at the time. Despite it seemingly being so long ago, it left a lasting impression on Griffitts and now he wants to do it for a living.

“I think it’s just an upcoming technology so I want to be a part of that,” Griffitts said.

After Griffitts’ first encounter with the drone enclosure, he decided to take another trip to K-State. He had a look around the campus and decided that K-State was a great place and thought it was cool. Griffitts decided to take it from there, planning to go to K-State and pursue his dream.

When he attends K-State Polytechnic, Griffitts plans to major in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) degree and minor in UAS operation. To make it easier to understand, his major will

teach him more about what goes on inside of a drone. He will learn more about how to build and design a drone. His minor will teach him more about how to pilot the drone.

But before he can do that, he has to tackle high school.

Throughout his four years of high school he has taken several college classes.

It is to be expected that with the college classes on top of his regular classes, some challenges are sure to emerge.

“The class I’m taking right now is definitely the hardest college class I’ve taken. I’m pretty much booked on the weekends with doing homework but I try not to let that get the best of me because the way I look at it is if I do it now, I don’t have to do it later,” Griffitts said.

Griffitts’ gifted consultant, Christy Fritz, also believes that this year is pushing him more than before.

“I think this year is the first year he has been truly pushed in the classroom. His Calculus class at K-State has been making him work, but it is good for him. Houston can accomplish anything he sets his mind to,” Fritz said.

Fritz has known Griffitts for seven years, first meeting him during middle school. She continued to work with him from his freshman through junior year. Fritz believes that he has great potential in his future and wishes the best for him.

Pylon || November 15, 2019

Student Life || 25

“I think it’s just an upcoming technology so I want to be a part of that.”

Senior Houston Griffitts

Senior Houston Griffitts poses with his drone.

Griffitts has been taking lots of classes this past semester which have kept him busy. || photo by Alex Morales

Senior Houston Griffitts prepares to fly his drone.

Griffitts will be attending Kansas State University Polytechnic to major in unmanned aircraft systems. || photo by Alex Morales

“Drones are the future in so many ways, and he has tapped into that love for them,” Fritz said.

After getting through all the classes, Griffitts hopes that the military will contract him or work for a private company where he’ll design, build, test, and pilot drones.

Another person who has seen Griffitts’ efforts is engineering teacher Michael Hair.

Hair has known Griffitts for two years and has never had a student who has had an interest in majoring in an engineering field related to drones.

“Currently, Houston is working on engineering a drone consisting of some parts he has bought online along with parts he has been 3-D printing in the classroom,” Hair said.

The engineering field for drones is relatively new, but it continues to grow at a rapid rate. Hair believes Griffitts will be able to work with drones just about anywhere that Griffitts wants to.

“He obviously has a very strong interest in drones and I believe he will be very successful

According to the Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI), there will be 70,000 new jobs will be created in the next three years.

in this field,” Hair said.

Griffitts is a dedicated student who’s dedication and hopes has led him a step closer to having his dream come true. Griffitts has been

described as an intelligent and kind-hearted individual who is a great role model to all.

“His character is top-notch, and Houston genuinely cares about people. He is the first to step up and help when asked and younger students look up to him,” Fritz said.

Many teachers wish to see Griffitts succeed and wish the best for him.

“I would also describe Houston as a kind-hearted individual with a good moral compass and ethical values. He is someone I would trust to do the right thing,” Hair said.

Hair gives advice to Griffitts to help him continue what he’s doing.

“If I could give Houston any advice it would be to just keep up your strong work ethic and commitment towards your goals,” Hair said.

Fritz thinks about Griffitts’ future. Thinking of all the great things he could accomplish.

“I wish Houston all the best in the future. He is going to be such an asset to his community. I hope he stays in touch!” Fritz said.

26 || Arts

November 15, 2019 || Pylon

With a bright smile on her face, Junior Anne Shadwick shows off a Halloween themed cake she made. Anne started baking for profit when she was 13. “My main goal is always to better myself and my skills and work towards a bakery of my own in the future,� Shadwick said. || photo by Alex Morales

Pylon || November 15, 2019

Arts || 27

TIL YOU

CAKE IT MAKE IT

Aspiring baker Anne Shadwick uses her talents in the kitchen to bring a smile to others || story by Jillian DeVoe

B

aking is being revolutionzed and fantasized on tv and junior Anne Shadwick is baking her way to the same level of quality. The cakes she makes look so good, you almost don’t want to eat them.

Shadwick has been baking ever since she was a kid, but began turning her hobby into a job when she was only 13.

She knew she wanted to be a baker ever since her grandma taught her the basics.

“I knew this was my passion when I realized how much joy it brought others,’’ Shadwick said.

Shadwick’s favorite thing to bake is any kind of decorative cake. Sophomore Carson Oxandale has had one of these cakes before.

“The first baked good I received from Anne was a peanut butter chocolate cake. The cake tasted of a professional level,” Oxandale said.

And professional is what Shadwick wants to be, saying she can 100% see a career in baking for herself one day.

“My main goal is always to better myself and my skills, and work towards a bakery of my own in the future,” Shadwick said.

But in order for this to happen, Shadwick will need to further her skills and education. She plans to attend business school or work under a baker outside of Salina.

For now Shadwick’s baking is contained to her kitchen, and although Shadwick may not be a professional yet, you can still buy her desserts.

“It just depends honestly on what you want, I have a certain price for everything,” Shadwick said.

Not really sure what you want either?

She is always open to trying new recipes, “...the customer usually has a main idea and we work around that,” she said.

“I think others should buy from her because her desserts are very thought out and unique,’’ said Oxandale.

You can order from Shadwick by contacting her through her instagram, annebakes16.

28 || Student Life

November 15, 2019 || Pylon

they’re not in anymore

kansas

2012 graduate makes his name in the big leagues like Versace and Vogue || story by Sydney Raman Taking pictures for big names like Versace and Louis Vuitton was once a career direction photographer David Weiner would have never thought of. Growing up in a place like Salina, Kansas, and successfully making a well known career in such a harsh industry is almost unheard of.

As a 2012 alumnus, David Weiner is a freelance photographer and creative producer. Weiner has worked on campaigns for companies like Versace, Louis Vuitton, Ralph Lauren and even owns his own production studio with his girlfriend.

Weiner hasn’t always been interested in photography and realized in college that he would have to do more to get himself out there.

“I didn’t get into photography until freshman year of college when I quickly learned that if you want to be a journalist in the ‘real world’ you’ve got to be able to do everything,” said Weiner.

Weiner attended Emerson College and studied journalism, but the transition was definitely hard. From a small town to the busy city, a lot can change. In this, Weiner gained a sense of independence.

“I was so stoked to meet new people and venture off on my own in a new city. I didn’t have any family or friends on the East Coast so I definitely felt like I was on my own which was hard, but gave me the opportunity to come more into my own and become who I am today. The move from Boston to New York was an even bigger transition because I didn’t have the title of ‘student’ to fall back on,” said Weiner.

The move for Weiner became something that only strengthened his career. The stigma around small towns is that not much can ever come from it, especially fame.

Teacher Ben Rohrer believes that it all comes from within and hard work. Rohrer saw this immediately when Wiener was his student.

“A lot of students have problems with being secure with themselves and being confident in there own skin,” said Rohrer. With Weiner it was a different story.

Weiner explains that when people heard about how he was from a small town, it catches their

attention.

“What I’ve noticed consistently throughout my journey after high school is that people love to root for the underdog and me just mentioning in passing that I’m from a small town in Kansas immediately catches peoples attention and often places me in the category of ‘underdog’ in their minds. I think it’s been advantageous coming from a small town largely because it’s instilled a humbleness and genuine curiosity in me that’s pushed me to take hold of all of the opportunities that come my way. If you grow up having access to everything that a big city has to offer, it becomes easy to lose sight of all the amazing things in front of you. I’ve met a lot of jaded New York teenagers,” said Weiner.

Despite being a small town Salina now has lots of exposure and new opportunities. However like Weiner and Claybaugh, breaking that small town mold might just land you somewhere that you would never expect.

Student Life || 29

Pylon || November 15, 2019

Finding Success Alumnus Cassie Claybaugh finds her passion in modeling

Claybaugh is a model in New York. She graduated from Central in 2012. Below is Claybaugh modeling for various clothing brands. She recently worked for famous NYC fashion designer Marc Jacobs. Photos courtesy to Cassie Claybaugh.

Alumnus David Weiner makes a name for himself after working for companies like Versace and Vogue.

Weiner appears left, and a collection of some of his photographs are found here.

30 || In-Depth

November 15, 2019 || P ylon

The quick fox jumps over the lazy dog. || photo by Alex Morales

Junior Annette Rodriguez poses in her traditional attire to dance for the Lady of Guadalupe. Rodriguez has been practicing for multiple weeks in preparation for the big day. || photo by Alex Morales

Pylon || November, 15 2019

dancing

In-Depth || 31

with faith

Catholic students dance in honor of the Lady of Guadalupe || story by Concha Campa Everyone wakes up before the sun crawls up on the horizon. By the time 5 a.m. rolls around, the church is filled with people.

When the doors to the church open and your ears go from silence to being enchanted by smooth singing and drums.

Sophomore Araceli Davila has attended this event, at her church, Sacred Heart Cathedral for as long as she can remember.

“On this special day, we remember the day when the Lady of Guadalupe appeared to Juan Diego, an indigeous man, on December 9 and 12 of 1531,” Davila said.

“She told Juan to ask the bishop to build a church on the spot where she appeared, which was a hill in present day Mexico City.”

The story then continues, with the bishop needing proof that Juan Diego was telling the truth.

“Juan Diego went back to the hill and told the Lady of Guadalupe what had happened and she told him to pick up roses and gather them in his cloak,” Davila said.

“When he showed the cloak to the bishop the roses had painted a picture of the Lady of Guadalupe.”

On December 12, the Catholic Hispanic community gathers together to remember this day. Junior Annette Rodriguez, along with other high school students, participates in an ancient Aztec dance which is a way they honor the Lady of Guadalupe.

“When we dance it’s mainly movements with our feet not our upper body; we have a maraca in our right hand and we wear these aztec inspired feathery hats along with a bandana on our heads,” Rodriguez said.

The dancers are required to wear a skirt which is usually decorated with sequins, different patches and bells so when they

dance their skirts make a noise.

“We began practicing at the beginning of October, twice a week. We practice so we can prepare ourselves for that day,” Rodriguez said. “I feel like I’m giving thanks because we’re dancing for her and in a way honoring her for bringing the Catholic church to Mexico,” Rodriguez said.

The celebration begins at 5 a.m. with the “Mananitas” which is the birthday celebration. People arrive ready to sing their hearts

“It is very emotional to see everyone in church singing and loving our lady.”

Sophomore Araceli Davila out and watch the dancers.

“It’s very emotional just to see everyone in the church singing and loving our lady, it’s a beautiful sensation,” Davila said.

In the morning, younger children go dressed up as Saint Juan Diego or they dress in traditional Mexican attire. At noon, another service is held and after mass the real celebration begins.

“After mass we all gather in our parish hall and watch the dancers and enjoy the Mexican food,” Davila said.

The dancers begin dancing immediately after mass and don’t stop until 8 o’clock.

“Our Lady of Guadalupe is a major part of our culture. Every year I look forward to this special day where I can honor her through a dance my ancestors created,” Rodriguez said.

32 || In-Depth

November 15, 2019 || Pylon

chocolate turtle slices

W

apple wwi

ith the new fall season, it is time to replace your icy popsicles with caramel apples. Caramel apples can sometimes be too big and messy, but these small slices are just perfect! Even if you aren’t fond of pecans, you can still enjoy these tasty treats, by adding your choice of toppings. Don’t be afraid to be creative.

INGREDIENTS

2 apples, sliced into 1/2” slices 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips 1 tbsp. coconut oil 2/3 cups caramel 1/2 cups toasted pecans 4 popsicle sticks

DIRECTIONS 1| Line a medium baking sheet with parchment paper.

2| Make a small incision in the bottom of the apple slices and stick in popsicle sticks.

3| Dip apple slices in chocolate and place on prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle with pecans and place in refrigerator to harden for 10 minutes.

4| Drizzle with caramel. Return to the fridge to harden again, this time for five minutes.

A picture of the chocolate turtle apple slices in front of a barn. || photo by Concha Campa

Pylon || November 15, 2019

LETTER TO THE EDITOR GIVING HOPE TO THE UNHOPEFUL

Opinion || 33

|| by freshman Brooklynne Longino

When I first came to Central I had this wants to be like and we will be looked towards others around you, don’t be hope that it would be different then down by others older than us because afraid to speak up. They need to get middle school, I hoped that there the words through their head would be no such things as bullies that bullying is not okay, that and that everyone was respected bullying belittles people and equally. makes them feel like they aren’t Well that perspective changed meant to be themselves in this completely two weeks into going world and that there meant to to this school. hide their true identities behind One thing that broke my heart a mask and act as other people that I noticed is that there are kids want them to act just so they here who barely have any convercan have friends. sation with their peers at school Well my goal is to change because they feel like outcasts that, If you see someone that and that no one really cares about seems like there having a bad them. day and you don’t usually talk Well I want to change that. So to them, TALK TO THEM! I’m Freshman Brooklynne Longino I’ve decided to be the voice of the sure it would make there day people who are afraid to speak up. if you would just have one We need to stop bullying and conversation with them to let we need to be the future that them know that they mean younger generations can rely on. If more than they think. And just we don’t change the way we think and we are making a negative impact on let them know that were all equal no act around others we dislike, we are the younger generation. matter how different we may be. going to be the generation that no one So if you see any type of disrespect

“We need to be the future that younger generations can rely on.”

STAFF EDITORIAL GOING DOWN WITH THE GUNS

Whenever students hear there is someone in the building with a gun, fear is palpable in the air, but in this case students were annoyed with the administration.

On October 11, a student entered the school with a handgun in his backpack.

The student escaped when he realized the administration and police knew he had a gun. He was captured a few blocks from the building without harming anyone. The student is now in custody and waiting for his court date.

According to principal Dr. Matthew Brungardt his training has taught him that if there is a student with a weapon it is better to isolate the student rather than alarming everyone and conducting an intruder alert. Whenever someone enters the building displaying a gun, you usually know their intent or can at least assume it, but in this case the student had not displayed the weapon.

On this occasion, Dr. Brungardt decided to isolate the student and

go from there. He did not conduct an intruder alert, because the announcement would have alerted the student, causing the student to run away, or pull out the gun in a worst case scenario.

On an occasion where there is an intruder displaying the gun Dr. Brungardt would follow the Alert Lockdown Inform Counter and Evacuate (ALICE) training. The ALICE training calls that you need to prepare to evacuate the building, if you believe you are able to make it out, in the event there is an active shooter.

The ALICE training also suggests to find a way to distract the intruder by creating a noise or by constantly moving in order to reduce the shooter’s accuracy. If evacuating isn’t an option then you need to barricade the door and prepare to counter.

An important role the administration has is to communicate with the school where the intruder’s location is in real time.

During October’s incident, many students didn’t know that there was a student with a weapon in the building until they got home. Students were upset that the administration didn’t notify them or had conducted a lock down while they were arresting the student.

The students wanted to know if their life was endangered so they could be prepared in an occasion like this. While some students were upset that they weren’t notified many students were glad they didn’t know. They were afraid they would have had a panic attack or would be too paranoid to focus on school.

Days after this incident, students were still on alert.

Bullets were found around the school and many students were afraid and asked their parents if they could be taken out of school.

The rising fear of school shootings has caused students to become paranoid and lose focus on the reason they are at

12 out of 14 Pylon Staffers would like to know if a student brings a gun to school

November 15, 2019 || Pylon

34 || Infographic

School lunch is probably more like prison food

Students are left hungry when not served enough food for lunch || story by Layna Kinnaird Eating school lunches feels like I’ve been incarcerated and forced to eat prison food.

I’ve been eating school lunches ever since first grade, and all I can remember is feeling sick and hungry for the rest of the day.

Public school lunches are neither large enough in portion size, nor are wholly nutritious for growing adolescents, and we’re left starving for the rest of the day.

We, as high schoolers, need more food and bigger meals than say, elementary kids. Yet we still get the same amount as they do, despite being twice their size. And, teachers wonder why we’re so drained during class.

From personal experience, I can barely ever focus on my school work when I’m still hungry.

For example, in the salad line, you can either choose a premade salad, a sandwich, or a box with yogurt, a cheese stick and a small bag of goldfish. You can only

have one of those three “entrees.”

Do you really consider a yogurt, cheese stick and goldfish a meal? This sounds like a total joke to me.

Do you really consider a yogurt, cheese stick and goldfish a meal?

This sounds like a total joke to me.

I want to feel full and satisfied after lunch, but instead my stomach still growls.

Stale

Statistics

660

don’t believe they get served enough food

700 approximately

students think the food served is bad

Most of the lunches taste bad, too. There are a couple of good ones, like the crispito, don’t get me wrong. But can we talk about the orange chicken and rice meal?

It tastes like I’m eating orange peels and seeds.

Almost every day, the friends I sit with at lunch complain about feeling like they are starving and only having a scoop of lettuce and mushy potatoes because the kitchen ran out of chicken sandwiches.

I can’t imagine how many times students with fourth lunch get nothing to eat. Not to mention the athletes in our school who need even more nutrients and protein, but rarely ever get enough with the food that is provided.

What we need is a full meal without paying $2.25 for an extra entree, premade salad and sandwich. More than one small scoop of orange chicken or baked beans would be nice as well.

We already pay enough for our lunches to not even be able to consider it a meal.

Opinion || 35

Pylon || November 15, 2019

UNWANTED “Live and active cultures”

|| cartoon by Freshman Lilliana Brown