September 2013 by The Pylon

2013 All-Kansas Newspaper

September 27, 2013

Salina Central High School Vol. 90, Iss. 1

Sydney Kossow / The Pylon

Eli Berner / The Pylon

Male cheerleaders make squad

pg9

cRave photos and recap

pg3

Painted with pride.

Our GAMEDAY face is better than yours pg. 6-7

Looking ahead

Hours until the Homecoming football game

September27

Day until the Homecoming dance

September28 Senior Malik Veal.

Days until the vocal concert

Days until the next home volleyball game

October3

Junior Marysa Bradshaw

October14

Days until the end of the first quarter

October16

September 27, 2013

Pylon Staff Editorial Board Riley Miller, Riley Gates, Eli Berner, Kamen Kossow, Mackenzie Morris, and Emily Wood editor@chspylon.com

Business Team

Fine Arts

‘Fools’

Rachel Bevans, Afton Miller, and Sara Ingrassia business@chspylon.com

Student Life Jera Richardson studentlife@chspylon.com

Opinion Genna Salstrom opinion@chspylon.com

Sports Austin Huynh, Bailey Driver sports@chspylon.com

Fine Arts Eryn Hassler arts@chspylon.com

Sarah Brown / The Pylon

Sophomore Sam Beck herds sheep.

Feature Emily Wood feature@chspylon.com

Staff reporters Travis Bigler, Trey Cullins, Casey Rayas, and Patty Dominguez

Photography Eli Berner, Carniecia Robertson, Lindsey Wood, and Sydney Kossow photography@chspylon.com

Videography Dakota Rowlison, Connor Martens, Casey Campbell video@chspylon.com

Copy Editor Malina Barber-Regier

Cartoons Eryn Hassler, Sam Beck & Alexis Karabinas J.D. Garber, Adviser jd.garber@usd305.com (785) 309-3578

The Pylon wants to hear your opinion The Pylon gladly accepts contributions from guest writers on any subject. Please email your submissions to editor@chspylon.com. The Pylon is the official student newspaper of Salina High School Central. It is produced entirely by students of the newspaper production class, daily on chsPylon.com and monthly in print. Email your letters, preferably limited to 500 words, to editor@chspylon.com. Submissions must contain a full name for inclusion and we will contact you to confirm that you are the author of the letter. Letters may be edited for clarity.

Sarah Brown / The Pylon

Top Senior Dominick Thompson plays “Gregor.”

Sarah Brown / The Pylon

Seniors focus on last, first play By Eryn Hassler

The Pylon

ver feel like you’re surrounded by idiots? Almost like the town you live in was cursed by stupidity? I know here in the SK, where ignorance spreads like wild fire, this is a common feeling. In the play ‘Fools’ written by Neil Simon, directed by Bill Weaver, that’s exactly what’s happened. The plot centers around a small Russian town that’s been cursed, causing everyone who lives there to be a complete fool. When an intelligent school teacher moves to the town, he falls in love with a village idiot and makes it his mission to educate them. For Senior Malik Grassity and Senior Dominisk Thompson, ‘Fools’ is their last first play. The success of the year’s first play really sets the bar for the rest of the year, so the cast has been working very hard since the first week of school to get it just perfect. Mission accomplished cast.

Junior Jon Claybaugh and Junior Hannah Schroeder kiss during “Fools”

Actors/Actresses Senior Malik Grassity Role: Doctor

By Eryn Hassler

“It was my first main stage production. It’s fun to work with people who are passionate about what they do.”

Senior Dominick Thompson Role: Gregor

The Pylon With many new actors on stage, the play went very well especially considering how quick the turn around for this play was. Meaning there was not much time and the cast did a great job pulling it off. Lots of memories and friends were made in the many hours the cast invested in this play. Between playing games in down time, cracking jokes and just spending so much time together in the theatre. It was a great experience for everyone involved.

Junior Jon Claybaugh Role: Leon

“It was a new experience to by working with a new director. Nulik and Bill Weaver have opposite techniques. I believe it allowed me to grow as an actor.”

Junior Hannah Schroeder Role: Sophia

“I just had a lot of fun hanging with my friends and doing the play”

“It was really fun and a good learning experience. I loved getting to know the cast better.”

Sophomore Grace Claman Role: Lenya

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September 27, 2013

News Updates Sydney Kossow / The Pylon

3 New year,

new faces

Sophomore Jetta Greene dances at the cRave, the most recent version of a back to school dance.

New teachers talk about their favorite part of the school year

Mrs. Miller

Sydney Kossow / The Pylon

Students raise their hands and dance at the cRave.

“I love the students and English department. I also went to school here, so it just feels like coming home.”

Mrs. Fultz

cRavin’ By Austin Huynh The Pylon When students awoke the next morning from the first ever #cRave, all they had to remember was the paint splattered all over their sweaty clothes. The #cRave was the most recent back-to-school dance that students were able to be a part of and saying it was a success would be

an understatement. When students stepped foot onto the dance floor, they were ready to #cRave. “When I stepped up into the cafeteria, it looked like rave heaven! I was glad I made the decision to go,” junior Javon Burse said. The turnout was at least in recent years the best recorded number of attendace for a backto-school dance with around 380 students attending. StuCo

Sydney Kossow / The Pylon

A student crowd surfs at the cRave.

Senior Jason Rhoden shadow dances at the cRave

managed to hype it up, and it lived up to it’s reputation. “I didn’t think of my first high-school dance being a rave but I’m not disappointed. I thought the #cRave was going

to be crazy and I’m happy I went,” freshman Marion Miller said. The #cRave was what got everyone excited for what the rest of the year had in store.

“(My favorite part) has been the sports and pep rallies.”

Mrs. Johnson

Improvements, renovations may occur By Connor Martens The Pylon When you think of old, you may think of your great grandmother, the Backstreet Boys, or maybe you think of Mr. Krank. On the other hand, you are probably overlooking our very own school. “The school isn’t much different than it was when I was here,” said alumnus and French teacher Mrs. Jan Denning. The very building in which you step foot every day has been up and running since 1952; the same year Eisenhower was elected president. Over the years, a number of changes have been made to the place we call our home. The most recent updates

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took place in the the years of 2007 and 2008; which included the new fitness wing, the tennis complex and the softball field. More improvements and renovations may be on the way. “Anytime we can get better resources for students, it will enhance their learning environment and increase opportunity,” said principal Shanna Rector. Some of the major additions that are to come include a new gym, a new wing for the science department, a new space for the art and music department, a new wing for the career and technical education department, and a new parking lot on the west side of the school building. “I am looking forward to

having modern equipment and getting more kids interested and involved,” mentioned Mr. Kilgore, the wood shop teacher. The stadium will also be undergoing various changes. A new press box with an elevator is in the plan along with new concessions and restrooms on both the home and visitors’ side. Other parts of the school such as the cafeteria, concourse, computer lab, and special education classrooms will all be renovated. The estimate cost for the entire project is 30.7 million dollars. “Students can help the cause by expressing how they feel about the current building and discuss why they want to see improvement, and how access to

technology will be gained,” said Rector. The vote of the building plan will happen in the spring, most likely in April.

“I love how friendly everyone is and how great my kids are. They do what they are told and I don’t have to fight with them.”

Mr. Rose

Sydney Kossow / The Pylon An overview of the Bond issue and upcoming community meetings are printed on a poster outside the Auditorium.

“I have enjoyed all the support I’ve gotten from the experienced teachers and staff.”

Mr. Burgart

@ chspylon

“(My favorite part) has been the Hoodspa.”

Booming Business

Salina to aquire several new restaraunts, stores

The First brewery in Salina “Blue Skye” will be opening some time in October, said Kyle Baxter head kitchen manager.

September 27, 2013

Student Life Freshmen STUCO officers usher in new election process By Casey Rayas The Pylon Student Council plays a big role in making decisions for the school every year. As of this year, Student Council officials for the class of 2017 will be elected. This will be the first time there are only two candidates that will fight for the President and three for Vice President. Freshman students have been campaigning in order to persuade voters. Freshman Ethan Badders said, “This is a new creative and efficient way to do things. I think it will make it more fun for everyone that is running for a position.” One of his main goals for the school is to keep the spirit going. After winning

the Presidential nomination Badders included, “The pep rally was a great start for the year and I’d like that to continue.” Sarah Brown had to battle between three other competitors in order to take

“I feel honored to be nominated...I’m ready to kickoff this year the right way.” Dylan Wentzel Freshman over the Secretary position. When asked about being nominated as Secretary,

Fall Fashion

By: Jera Richardson

Noah Hadnot

Meg Johnson

Senior

Pocket button up $10 Old Navy “Big Johns Brewery Co. will be a new brewery in Salina only serving beer,” said Kord Kelley.

Brown had said , ”I feel great about being elected, but wish the other candidates were part of the staff too.” Brown will be helping with the Homecoming float and working with the President Badders, most of the time. “Ethan and I are going to try our best to make this year the best and most exciting yet!” Dylan Wentzel who is Treasurer of the group, prepared for the election by attending meetings. “I wan to be more involved with the school and help out as much as possible.” Wentzel will be managing the budget so that StuCo members don’t spend more than the limited amount. “I feel honored to be nominated, not everyone gets this opportunity and I’m ready to kickoff this year the right way.”

Junior

“I like to dress to impress.”

Striped shirt $45 J. Crew

Noah Hadnot

Cardigan $12 Forever 21

Wrist watch $80 Dillards

Jean shorts $18 Forever 21 Khaki pants $35 GAP Dick’s Sporting Goods is coming to Salina in October.

Sperry boat shoes $80

Beaded sandals $35 Spotted Mule

Dillards

Top 5 Top 5 omen’s Fashion Men’s Fashion

Top 5 Women’s Fashion

d cardigans Plaid Oversized cardigans stripes Topcoats Plaid and stripes /yoga pants Layers Leggings/yoga pants hirts Blue print Flannel shirts Marshalls is a new clothing store d t-shirts Turtlenecks Oversized t-shirts for all ages. Their grand opening is October 31.

September 27, 2013

Student Life

King’s Corner Senior students become first Homecoming King nominees in years

Daisy Dews

Courtney Worley / The Pylon

Sophomore Dalton Reinbold hangs out with a friend at the Salina Speedway on Sept. 13.

“I always like to express myself.” Junior Dana Risely

Senior Tanner Robl

Students define themselves with unique hair styles

By Trey Cullins The Pylon

A new year at our school means many new traditions being added. Among these include our first homecoming king. We at Central have only ever had a homecoming queen. but this year they won’t be the only one with a crown atop their head.

“I think people want to vote for someone who’s tried to be nice and respectful to everyone throughout high school and someone who really deserves to represent the school; it’s not just a popularity contest,” homecoming king nominee Tanner Robl said.

All of the candidates received votes from students on who will win the crown. It’s a big honor to have this title and with the same goal in mind, they’re all hoping to achieve it. “When I first found out I [was a nominee,] I was in shock and also so happy. I couldn’t stop smiling,” homecoming queen nominee Maggie Unruh said. As well as being homecoming king/queen nominees, they also have the dance itself to prepare for. The queen nominees have the task of getting three dresses to wear: the parade, homecoming game, and dance. This leaves a lot of pressure on their shoulders to be prepared for what’s to come. For many people, the homecoming dance is a thrilling event to go to. Looking forward to it all summer builds their excitement up so that their night is one to remember. “Dances are as fun as you make them and I know we will make this a fun one,” homecoming king nominee Barret Koch said.

Courtney Worley / The Pylon

Students take a picture with Mr. Tony Slothower, race-car driver and social studies teacher.

Hangin’ out at the Speedway

Students spend weekends at raceway By Courtney Worley Guest Writer Going to the races, putting a dip in their lip whether it’s the right thing to do or not, and hanging out until midnight with friends is just how the regulars like to start off the weekend. It’s a chance to see friends that live out of town or just to see your partner. The smell of gasoline permeats through the air and the ground vibrates from the motors. This is part of the experience you get and many of these students have been experiencing for years. Salina Speedway is a place where some teens go to hang out on the weekend. Students and even staff members can be found there whether they are just hanging out or racing out on the dirt track. Social studies teacher, Mr. Tony Slothower, driver of Hobbystock 06, and sophomore Dawson Bradford driver of Streetstock are racers themselves. “I like the adrenaline rush and being able to race alongside my friend Elliott May.” Junior Jennivee Sterling and freshman Caleb McConnell, Seth Gunelson and Dusty Roberts are regulars at the speedway. “It’s a good place to go if you

have nothing better to do on a Friday night but then again it can also be a lot of drama,” said Sterling. McConnell can be seen working on Modified number

“I’ve been coming here (Salina Speedway) ever since I was little. It’s a second home to me.” Chelsey Humpheries Freshman

15 owned by Seth Schroer or Hobbystock number 25 owned by Clayton Schroer. “I have sports and races that’s pretty much my life,” said

McConnell. Gunelson can be seen side-byside with his girlfriend Brittney Stroup a sophomore at Solomon High School. Freshman Chelsey Humpheries has been coming to the races for as long as she can remember. “I’ve been coming here ever since I was little, it’s a second home to me,” said Humpheries. Alumni Tommy Blair and Greg Davis, class of 2013, can also be found at the track walking around with friends Zach Rorabaugh and Kevin Bartholomew. Senior Kyle James can be seen helping to work on Late Model 194 owned by Scott Phillips. For many of these students, these are just regular weekend nights, and a big, big part of their life.

“I started off wearing my hair like this beginning of the school year.” Junior Charlee Powell

“I just don’t care, I get a trim every month.” Sophomore Evan Larson

Slothower and Worley at Salina Speedway

“I want to be different.” Junior Jessica Maredith

In depth Central

Left to right: T. Ralston, T. Hines

Painted with pride

Eli Berner / The Pylon N. Shaffer

By: Connor Martens

Eli Berner / The Pylon

is sure this time.

Game changers The

Maxiums Mascot Eli Berner / The Pylon

By: MacKenzie Morris

Top mascot names Mortimer Magnum Maximus Manny Max

over unforgotten memories of Central High

One moment the crowd is hushed; the next the student section bursts into a roar of excitement. The mascot has arrived. From pep rally’s to sporting events, Maximus is everywhere that needs a boost of spirit. In 2010, the school purchased a new and improved Mustang mascot costume that replaced an old-worn down Mustang that was passed down to Lakewood Middle School. The revealing of the mascot was at a school pep rally in the Fall where the student body chose from five names to give the official winning name to the mascot; that name was Maximus. Throughout the years, Maximus’ role has expanded from not just being a mascot, but a leader of the school. He has played huge roles in the past two pep rally skits and has created an energized atmosphere for the school. His identity may be a secret, but his spirit for the school is widely known.

Every Mustang Every Year

Students, including The Maroons and Overall Swag, paint up their bodies before the tailgate.

Step 3:

Step 4:

Students pass out newspapers to the student section to rip up and throw when there is a touchdown.

Tailgaters fire up the grills, cook hot dogs, and make signs for the game.

It’s more than a saying. “Every Mustang every year” is a phrase for this school year focusing on the success of every student and getting them to the overall goal of graduation. The phrase unites us as a school, freshmen through senior classes, and let’s us know we all are important.

Down

The girls’ basketball team creates words and sayings in the fence for the team with cups.

“Having kids come up to me asking for high fives and pictures is one of the best feelings while being behind the costume.”

Plunge right through that line.

stang bang Step 1: Step 2:

Recipe for a

The man

the road of life we

As maroon paint covers the skin and the all-black outfits are put on, the spirit of the Maroons emerges from within. “The ultimate goal is to make Central into one big family with the wildest student section in 5A,” said senior Treyton Hines. Even though it’s a small group of boys, compared to Overall Swag, the Maroons have already helped change the atmosphere of the student body. “We were created to take the spirit at Central to another level,” explained junior Nick Shaffer alongside senior Max Kuhn. The Maroons started early when they made their first appearance at the pep rally in August, and have continued to keep their hype alive ever since. “We bring craziness and love for our school,” the Maroons added. At football games, the Maroons stand on the first two rows, covered in paint, leading the student section in chants and cheers. Not only have the Maroons brought excitement to the students, but also to the staff. “I love the nostalgic feeling from the Maroons,” English teacher Mrs. Paradis said.

many years that follow to eternity. For our colors maroon and white may our banners fly,

High Our Alma Mater we will cherish thee. T h rough the

In depth through that line. Run the ball clear down the field a score

September 27, 2013

wander you will always be Central High, our Alma Mater, Hail all hail to

thee.

Left to right: M. Carlgren, B. Peters, P. Johnson Sydney Kossow / The Pylon

16seniors 14juniors 8sophomores Evolution of

SPIRIT

Eli Berner / The Pylon

August 8th

Creating spirit groups

A measley number of 10 Overall Swag girls stood front and center last year to pump up the student section. This year, the number of girl’s has soared. 38 girls and counting are now a part of Overall Swag. Senior MacKenzie Morris took over this idea weeks before school started and made the decision to make it a sophomore through senior group where anybody could join, as long as they were willing to turn their school spirit level up. This marks the third year of Overall Swag’s existence, but this time it’s different. “I was so impressed with the growth of Overall Swag,” English teacher Mrs. Bigler said. The squad is more alive than ever as numbers have tripled since last year. No one has seen so much denim since the 90’s. From here, the intensity will only continue to grow.

August 14th

Freshmen Orientation

August 15th

First day of school pep rally

Mr. and Mrs. By: Bailey Driver

Emily Wood / The Pylon

Student Council (StuCo) has made essential changes in the way school spirit is portrayed within the student body. The first pep rally of the year was held on the first day of school for all students. StuCo advisors, Mrs. Jett and Mr. Garber, and StuCo spent many hours organizing and meeting during the last few weeks of school to make sure the pep rally got students pumped and excited for this school year. “I want to give back to students and make sure they have the time of their life during high school,” Garber said. The size of StuCo has almost doubled from last year with energetic students who want to make a change in school. Within the first couple weeks of school, StuCo has improved pep rallies, dances and sports games with more improvements to come.

line. Run the ball clear down the field, a score is sure this time. Ra! Ra! Ra! On Salina, on Salina, fight on for your fame. Fight fellows, fight fight fight. We’ll win

August23rd

The cRave

September 6th

First away football game

September 13th

First home football game

this game. On Salina, on Salina

Overload

By: Connor Martens

On Salina, on Salina, plunge right through that

Overall

September 17th

Second pep rally

The events that have changed the spirit of the student body up to this point. Eli Berner / The Pylon

Lindsey Wood / The Pylon

Eli Berner / The Pylon

Lindsey Wood / The Pylon

Sydney Kossow / The Pylon

Eli Berner / The Pylon

In depth Central

Left to right: T. Ralston, T. Hines

Painted with pride

Eli Berner / The Pylon N. Shaffer

By: Connor Martens

Eli Berner / The Pylon

is sure this time.

Game changers The

Maxiums Mascot Eli Berner / The Pylon

By: MacKenzie Morris

Top mascot names Mortimer Magnum Maximus Manny Max

over unforgotten memories of Central High

Every Mustang Every Year

Students, including The Maroons and Overall Swag, paint up their bodies before the tailgate.

Step 3:

Step 4:

Students pass out newspapers to the student section to rip up and throw when there is a touchdown.

Tailgaters fire up the grills, cook hot dogs, and make signs for the game.

Down

The girls’ basketball team creates words and sayings in the fence for the team with cups.

“Having kids come up to me asking for high fives and pictures is one of the best feelings while being behind the costume.”

Plunge right through that line.

stang bang Step 1: Step 2:

Recipe for a

The man

the road of life we

many years that follow to eternity. For our colors maroon and white may our banners fly,

High Our Alma Mater we will cherish thee. T h rough the

In depth through that line. Run the ball clear down the field a score

September 27, 2013

wander you will always be Central High, our Alma Mater, Hail all hail to

thee.

Left to right: M. Carlgren, B. Peters, P. Johnson Sydney Kossow / The Pylon

16seniors 14juniors 8sophomores Evolution of

SPIRIT

Eli Berner / The Pylon

August 8th

Creating spirit groups

August 14th

Freshmen Orientation

August 15th

First day of school pep rally

Mr. and Mrs. By: Bailey Driver

Emily Wood / The Pylon

line. Run the ball clear down the field, a score is sure this time. Ra! Ra! Ra! On Salina, on Salina, fight on for your fame. Fight fellows, fight fight fight. We’ll win

August23rd

The cRave

September 6th

First away football game

September 13th

First home football game

this game. On Salina, on Salina

Overload

By: Connor Martens

On Salina, on Salina, plunge right through that

Overall

September 17th

Second pep rally

The events that have changed the spirit of the student body up to this point. Eli Berner / The Pylon

Lindsey Wood / The Pylon

Eli Berner / The Pylon

Lindsey Wood / The Pylon

Sydney Kossow / The Pylon

Eli Berner / The Pylon

September 27, 2013

Athletes & Sports In the Driver’s Seat

Bailey Driver

“I remember when I had a pen pal, and now to be on the other end of it is rewarding.”

Sports Columnist

Powderpuff football is crucial to high school experience

Kamen Kossow Senior

By Bailey Driver The Pylon Every year the same question is asked amongst eager girls, “Can we have powederpuff football? Every other school has it.” The obvious reasons seemed to be drama caused from picking teams, or potential fights struck while playing, along with no one willing to organize the league. In past years, the main reason powderpuff football hasn’t been started is no one would organize it. To successfully coordinate this, we would need a teacher to sponsor it, and strict rules that would be enforced during games to minimize drama. Not to mention, funding for referees, equipment and uniforms. Typically, powderpuff football is held in the spring. Potentially, coaches could say they don’t want their athletes already involved in a spring sport to participate, to assure they don’t get injured. Spring sports create a hectic stadium between track and girls’ soccer, so the games would have to be held after practices are over. If we can organize teams by classes, recruit a sponsor, establish rules and diminish drama, funding can be provided by StuCo to bring powderpuff football back.

Top 3 reasons we SHOULD have Powderpuff football... 1. New experiences 2. Unity 3. Increased school spirit

Top 3 reasons we don’t have Powderpuff football... 1. No sponsor 2. No established rules 3. Unnecessary drama

Eli Berner / The Pylon

Senior Kamen Kossow meets his pen pal, Caroline Brady, at the Newton game. Sarah Brown / The Pylon Senior Casey Rayas gets a chance to talk to his pen pal and found new inspiration on Sept. 13 against Newton.

Pigskin Pals Football players, elementary students find inspiration in pre-game letters By Travis Bigler

the kids were to meet us, we never think about how much kids look up to us,” senior Vince Johnson said. He A big tradition for the football had a little girl named Kendyl as his team is to have an elementary school pal. “I loved talking to her before the be pen pals for game. It really helped the seniors on the me get a good mind football team. A knowing I had a “...It really helped me set pen pal is a kid huge fan cheering for that players write me up in the stands,” get a good mindset letters to back and Johnson said. knowing I had a huge forth throughout Last year was the football season. the first year that fan cheering me up in Players usually the team didn’t do the stands.” get a letter right pen pals. Things just before games. It is didn’t work out for amazing how much the teachers. It was Vince Johnson everybody enjoys so missed last year Senior hearing from these that they knew they kids. had to bring it back “It is a good way strong this year. Our for us to reach out to the community, senior class has been going all out for and meet future mustangs,” senior these kids. They take time out of their Matt Rowe said. The “pals” finally own week to write a letter that they got to meet before the Newton game. know will make a little guy or girls This year the elementary class that whole week. This is a great tradition, was chosen was Mrs. Maring’s second and it for sure will continue into the grade class, from Meadowlark Ridge. future. “It was amazing to see how excited The Pylon

Eli Berner / The Pylon

Senior Barret Koch kneels with his pen pal before the game to take a picture.

New coaching staff lends a hand By Trey Cullins The Pylon Many new coaching additions will help out with sports including soccer, football, and volleyball that could benefit the teams greatly. New assistant football coach Mike Kilgore said, “I love the game of football and teaching it to young players. “As a graduate of central, he has a passion for this school as well as the game. Coaching and teaching are both things that he loves, making this a special part of his life. The volleyball team added Jessica

Putman to their staff to coach the JV level of play. She gets to work with the girls and advance their playing skills so that they’re ready for Varsity in the up coming years. Since Kipp Keffel started teaching here, he noticed the soccer program and realized he wanted to be a part of it. “It was a good opportunity, and I get to work with a great group of kids,” the assistant coach said. Teaching fundamentals and techniques of the game is one of the most important things in sports, and that’s exactly what these new coaches do.

Kipp Keffel Boys’ soccer Jessica Putman Volleyball Mike Kilgore Football

September 27, 2013

Athletes & Sports

By the

numbers a quick look at numbers and stats about the fall sports season

number of combined miles ran by the cross country team on an average day of practice

Eli Berner / The Pylon

Lindsey Wood / The Pylon The yell leaders stand watching at the Hutch game.

During the Gator Bowl, the yell leaders clap to a cheer led on the sideline.

Mouthing off

The male addition:

After years of competiting in sports and other activities the following students have joined the varsity cheer squad. Jay Brown

New yell leaders add to cheer squad ByTravis Bigler The Pylon New additions to the cheerleading team have been made. Not only are there new girls on the squad, there are also four yellleaders. “I was curious to what was involved in cheerleading and wanted to try something new,” one of the four yell-leaders, junior Brenden Carr said. The guys are not just there for show; they are there to use their strength and push the squad to their fullest ability. They have the capability to preform in ways that the others don’t. Lifting, voice projection, and flips are just a few ways that they can use their skills to benefit the entire squad. “Our main job as yell-leaders is to yell as loud as possible and stunt with the girls,”

said junior Cody Ade. This summer was a crucial step in their training process as they hadn’t had much experience before. It was a way to teach

“I’m excited to see where yellleading takes me. So far I’m enjoying it, and I don’t see that changing anytime soon.” Atzin Hernandez Senior

them the basics of yell-leading as well as get them more involved with all the others

Junior

Atzin Hernandez Cody Ade Senior Brendan Carr Junior

Junior

of the squad. The guys realized they had a passion for yell-leading this summer at cheer camp. “Cheer camp has definitely been the most memorable part so far. I really enjoyed bonding with all the other squad members,” junior Jay Brown said. They don’t feel like outsiders to the others anymore, but more like leaders. Their debut at the pep rally got the whole school pumped up and ready for the school year. “I’m excited to see where yell-leading takes me. So far I’m enjoying it and I don’t see that changing any time soon,” senior Atzin Hernandez said. You’ll see the yell-leaders along with the rest of the cheer squad this year during football and basketball season. They hope to change the whole atmosphere of the events.

Caroline Holgerson Girls’ tennis Zach Martin Boys’ soccer Tiana Leepers VETS Cort Enriquez Football Josie Simpson Volleyball

#1 pet peeve

Favorite head accessory

I wish I knew how to...

“When people smack their gum”

“Sparkly headband”

“Do a backflip”

“Ratchets”

“Nike Elite sombrero”

6.67

number in centimet of the diameter of a tennis ball

number of returning players that went to state for girls’ golf last season

number of matches the volleyball team won last season

On the Spot Athletes in the mix

number of seniors on the football team

“Under water basket weave”

“Talking to someone on the phone who is having another conversatoin with someone else ”

“An E-Z Drinker”

“Savages”

“Football helmet”

“Speak a foreign language”

“We can’t leave for school lunch”

“Sunglasses”

“Twerk”

“Fly”

156

number of hours the boys’ soccer team spent conditioning

3 15

number of new stunts the cheer team learned over the summer

number of hours the football team spends on the field per week

September 27, 2013

Editorials & Opinion

Genna’s Grudge By Genna Salstrom The Pylon It seems like every year becomes progressively stricter. A few years ago, things were a lot more laid-back. We could leave for lunch and not worry about having to serve three hours of detention. Now, two friends can’t even hug without being yelled at. Walking down the halls, teachers bombard students in search of passes and explanations. Even having phones out in the hallway isn’t allowed anymore; students have to wait until they enter the lunchroom. What is the reason for all of these rules? It isn’t going to stop students from leaving the building or cutting class; if someone doesn’t want to be at school bad enough, they’ll leave no matter what anyone says. Nothing is going to be accomplished by nagging at us like you’re our mothers, especially because we aren’t scared of you or any punishment you throw at us. All administration is doing is upsetting already angry teenagers. The community views the school as ghetto compared to south, but students there are just as bad. Just as much drugs and violence goes around there, but administration handles it without treating their students like prisoners. Ironic, since South actually looks like a jail. All our school needs is an attitude adjustment. Everyone just needs to kick back and relax a bit.

MyTop Pet Peeves

Average weight of student backpacks

23.7 lbs

Rachel Bevans by Alexis Karabinas

Book bags increase student back pain By Bailey Driver The Pylon

28.1 lbs

Eryn Hassler

32.8 lbs

Bailey Driver

(about this year)

1No hugging

(I wouldn’t be hugging anybody anyways, but I would like the option.)

2Too many people 3Locked doors 4Manditory passes 5 Fewer hot guys (class of 2013, we miss you)

19.5 lbs

Afton Miller

Mondays are a drag for everyone; it’s the first day back to school after two days of freedom and fun. On Mondays, I find myself slouched over like the “Hunchback of Notre Dame” as I walk through the hallways trying not to fall over. It’s like my teachers aren’t aware that I have to haul around three text books and three binders, since Mondays are all-days. This is also a problem on Wednesdays and Fridays when I have three text books and one binder. That’s three out of five days that my back and balance are truly put to the test. Last Monday, as I walked up the stairs with my book bag fastened over my shoulders, I was curious as to just how much my book bag weighed. As it turns out, it weighs a whopping 32.8 pounds. Although this only occurs on Mondays, I’ve noticed that my book bag has steadily gotten heavier each year, making me have sore shoulders. Through my high school career, I’ve taken more challenging classes each year with thicker text books that are inconvenient for any student to carry. At first, I thought that my book bag didn’t have wide enough straps or that they weren’t tight enough on my shoulders; then I realized I wasn’t the only one dealing with

this pain. “Every day, I carry more than my book bag and back can handle; it’s ridiculous!” junior Zach Ketcher said. I know my complaint may be looked at as trivial, but the statistics over this issue have become more serious in recent years. According to Dr. David Marshall, Medical Director for Children’s Health Care of Atlanta Sports Medicine Program, “Between 2010 and 2011, backpack injuries in kids aged five to eighteen increased six and a half percent, from 12,924 to

13,766. Those heavy bags draped over your child’s shoulders could be the source of acute or even chronic back pain.” The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons suggests that the healthy weight of a backpack should be less than 1015 percent of the student’s total body weight. My book bag should be no heavier than 22.5 pounds since I weigh about 150 pounds, which means mine weighs about 10

pounds more than it should. A study conducted at Auburn University concluded that book bags that are too heavy for their wearers may threaten developing spines. Of the students who participated in the study, over half suffered from muscle soreness and back pain, while others suffered from numbness and shoulder pain. Some teachers do their best to obtain class sets of text books for students to use which is ideal, but the majority don’t have access to those resources. All textbooks can be viewed online, but that’s only beneficial on the rare occasion when I leave my text book at school. Frustratingly, sometimes the text books I drag around all day aren’t even used during class. On these days, I try to drop off the ones I’ve already used for the day in Mr. Garber’s room, hoping it will ease some of the tension and strain forced upon my back. Not only is this inconvenient, but it’s a complete waste of time. Recently, a few of my teachers have been offered the chance to test out Google Chromebooks. These Chromebooks are laptops that weigh about two and a half pounds that students will be able to access as their own throughout the day. Compared to carrying around three text books weighing roughly four pounds each, this new technology could benefit students in more ways than one.

insulting others online, I will never know. It only lets the recipient know that you’re obviously too scared to confront them personally. There’s no reason to spread hate and negativity; it will only bring bad karma. Now, there’s nothing wrong with sending people anonymous compliments. It’s pretty nice, actually. But for the people receiving them, you probably don’t need to post every one. We get it. Finally, the most common type of question asked would probably fall into the category of thirst. Meaning desperately trying to seek attention from the opposite sex.

If you’re one of those people, get yourself a glass of water, and calm down. For me personally, I would never make an ask.fm account simply because I could care less what people have to anonymously say about me or ask me. If it’s that important they can ask me themselves like a grown up. I don’t mean to bash everyone who’s following this trend. I understand summer boredom can drive us to do about anything to entertain ourselves. But next time you have the urge to post another tracking question on my timeline, just remember these three words.. How. About. No.

“Not only is this inconvenient, but it’s a complete waste of time.” Bailey Driver Pylon

“Ask” craze annoys tweeters By Eryn Hassler The Pylon Twitter is always being plagued by some new trend, each worse than the last one. It reminds me of good ol’ Facebook and all the wonderful reasons why we kicked it to the curb. One particular trend that’s really been grindin’ my gears is our not so dear friend ask.fm. For those of you that don’t know, ask.fm is a site where you can ask people whatever you want anonymously from your phone, and see their response. Plain and simply, this trend needs to stop. Would somebody,

first of all, please explain what the point of asking people anonymous questions is? And more importantly, what’s the point of answering them? If this seems like your cup of tea, by all means, make an account. Knock yourself out. But how ‘bout you not post every single question. Ain’t nobody got time for that. And sorry to break it to you guys, but nobody cares. I’ve had to see plenty of anonymous questions and I’ve broken them all down into three categories. Insults. Compliments. And just straight up thirst at it’s finest. What it is that people think they’re gaining by anonymously

September 27, 2013

Editorials & Opinion FAVORITE LUNCH Ladies

GRANDMA 1 CHARLOTTE

Kudos Callouts

The following are situations in which our faculty deserve praise for a job well done or to be called out for dropping the ball.

2 CYNTHIA Genna Salstrom / The Pylon

Impatient students wait in lines as large as their appetites.

New year, longer lines Student frustration increases as lunch renovations cause longer wait times By Patty Dominguez The Pylon As if adjusting to the new rules and ELO schedule change isn’t enough, students are now having to spend half their allotted lunch time standing in line just waiting to receive their food. Many students are quick to blame the wait on the incompetence of the lunch workers, but the truth is they aren’t the only ones having to adjust to changes in routine. The lunch system has been renovated, causing lunch lines to move slower than usual. “The snack line is ridiculous. There’s never a set line, instead people just huddle around the entrance,” senior Taylor Hanson said.

Although it has been difficult to adjust to, some of the lunch ladies are beginning to like the new system. “Parents and students are now able to view their lunch accounts online and check if they have a la carte permission, which saves everyone a lot of time. The transition period is a negative part of the change, but the lines are already moving much faster than they were at the start of the year,” kitchen manager Jan Ganzenmuller said. While they understand how tedious it is to have to wait in line for so long, the lunch ladies appreciate the patience and good attitudes that students have with them.

NOT SO POLITICAL Waldo’s past catches up with him By Sam Beck Guest Cartoonist

Here is where you would usually find a political cartoon. Sometimes, though, you have to step back from all the seriousness in life and have some fun. So, sophomore Sam Beck illustrated this not so political cartoon for your enjoyment.

3 YONG

Problems with new lunch system

• Getting used to new numbers • New transititon times • Snack line confuses students

4 CAROL

Kudos:

-Junior Rube Ball for showing me the feminist version of Robin Thicke’s “Blurred Lines.” -STUCO for making the first school dance actually fun. -This weather we’re having makes me want to read a book with a cozy sweater and be fancy. -”Grandma Charlotte” and the other lunch ladies that serve us food and ring us up for being so kind and patient. You guys brighten our days, for sure. -Junior Charlie Powell for having the self-confidence to rock a sky high mohawk. You go, girl. -The wonderful group of teachers we have here for genuinely caring about their students. -Senior Dakota Rowlison for making the video “I am so sexy.” Look it up on youtube at the username djrowlison. It will blow your mind. -The majority of our teachers for genuinely caring about the lives and wellbeing of their students. -Administration for caring so much about the whereabouts of students that they hunt them down if they’re not in attendance.

Callouts:

-Junior Gabby Resley being cut from the volleyball team for having a baby. No one should be discriminated against based on their situation. -The new rules. It’s like we’re in jail. No hugging, no going anywhere, WHERE’S YOUR PASS? Go away. -Speaking of the ban on hugs; this rule only applies to girls hugging other girls. What are we now, homophobic? Come on. -The pointless road work that is ALWAYS going on. Nothing ever changes, and the streets get backed up like crazy. Just stop. -There are way too many people crowding the hallways. Let’s just kick the new kids out, please. -The freshmen seem to be getting smaller every year. -The bloggers that are trying to defend Miley Cyrus’ latest desperate attempt at becoming relevant again. There’s no way you can make swinging on a ball, crying, and licking a sledge hammer, all in the nude, seem like art. It’s not going to happen. -STUCO for messing up the sound at the second pep rally and the voting for homecoming candidates. We love what you’ve done for the school, but clean up your act.

September 27, 2013

the Pylon

ONSALINA

On Salina,

Plunge right through that line

RUN THE BALL RIGHT

DOWN THAT FIELD A score is sure this time

Ra! Ra! Ra! ON SALINA, ON SALINA

FIGHT ON

FOR YOUR FAME

Fight Fellows WE’LL win this

Fight, Fight, Fight!

game... HEY!

M-U-S-T-A-N-G-S! M-U-S-T-A-N-G-S! MUSTANGS, MUSTANGS

YAY! GO!