The Comet - Vol. 10, Issue 1

TAKE THE CHALLENGE

FRIDAY, OCT. 6, 2017

Read our review of Carlie Almond’s book online.

THE

A TRADITION OF EXCELLENCE SINCE 2008

what’s inside?

NEWS 2 OPINION 3 SPORTS 4-5 FEATURES 6 A&E 7 SPOTLIGHT 8

NEWS Page 2

Volume 10, Issue 1

comet ONLINE THECOMETONLINE.COM

Chanute High School 1501 W. 36th Street Chanute, KS 66720 thecometonline.com

SPORT SWAP

CONNECT WITH US ON

A number of seniors, including Tristan Bunke (pictured below), are trying their hands at new sports this fall.

SPORTS PAGE 4

@chscomet @chscomet @chscomet

Haunting hobby

Charles Bishop is replacing a CHS stalwart

OPINION Page 3

Senior Kacie McMillen isn’t scared of having fun PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY ROSEBELLE TOLEDO

The homecoming selection process needs fixed

SPORTS

Pages 4-5

Girls’ golf team doubles in numbers

FEATURES Page 6

BY ROSEBELLE TOLEDO

TOLEDOR2@STU.USD413.ORG

“Who’s there?”

It’s a thought senior Kacie McMillen often finds herself wondering as she hears a rattling from her bedroom doorknob. Two of her friends follow closely behind as she investigates the noise, flashlights in hand and feelings of exhilaration coursing through their veins.

For many students, hang-

ing out with friends occupy most of their day, but for McMillen, Parapsychology fills up her free time. “... [Parapsychology is] the study of the paranormal, psychic phenomenon, telepathy, clairvoyance, any paranormal claims basically with the mind to debunk some things and prove others,” McMillen explains.

Her interest in parapsychology is a result of various acts, but McMillen said she

has always been sensitive to paranormal presences.

“No one truly started my interest per se,” McMillen said. “Watching movies sparked it for [me] when I was little, and then when I started experiencing it myself, it was like I finally found what I am suppose to do with my life; it was my calling.”

The earliest memory of experiencing a paranormal event for McMillen stems

from when she was four or five years old. When her “Stella doll went missing a couple of years later, then reappeared” she was more convinced than ever something was amiss. Later, she heard other family members say “they have experienced things as well”, and she wanted to dig deeper into parapsychology.

The journey has led McMillen to explore a number of places rumored to be

Memory lane

Seniors reserve spot on Senior Lane for deceased classmate

BY AMANDA STALDER

STALDERA@STU.USD413.ORG

The Holmeses in the math hall just muliplied

A&E

Page 7

If you haven’t, it’s time to check “It” out

SPOTLIGHT Page 8

Everything you need to know for homecoming

Senior Lane is a tradition among Chanute High School seniors. The afternoon of the painting of the lane in front of the school typically resonates with a cheerful, excited aura.

This year, however, a deeper feeling filled the hearts of many while painting their sections of the road.

On December 31, 2015 Chanute experienced the loss of Carlie Almond. That day many lost a friend, some lost a teammate, two lost a daughter, and one lost a sister.

Although there may be an unfillable space where Almond once was, many make sure her memory lives on. The most recent remembrance of Almond can be viewed on senior lane, alongside the rest of the 2018 graduating class.

haunted, including her own house. “...I always felt that there was a presence in the house... Candle[s] flew at my bed, doors opened and slammed shut, and my doorknob would rattle in the middle of the night,” McMillen said.

It became so frequent that she would wake up and had to “put a laundry basket in See HAUNTING page 6

Technology issues remain as transition to k12itc continues

BY CALI HUDSON

HUDSONC@STU.USD413.ORG

An aerial view shows the spot seniors dedicated to classmate Carlie Almond who died unexpectedly on Dec. 31, 2015. Photo by Killian Church.

“Everyone does [Senior Lane]... it’s a make your mark thing,” Senior Dominique Becannon said.

“It’s important that we still keep her with us and make her mark too.”

The decorations on Almond’s section consist of a green background, “#theCarlieChallenge” writ-

ten through the middle with a small white heart placed above it, two arrows going opposite directions, and “Day 20” painted in the top proportion of the rectangle.

“We did the green and ‘#theCarlieChallenge’ because that’s… the impression she left on all of us,” Lexy Costin said. Costin is

another senior credited with the idea and decoration of Almond’s remembrance.

“The Carlie Challenge is doing what you’re grateful for,” another senior Kaylea Richards said. “It just reminds me to be grateful.”

See CARLIE page 2

When USD 413 chose to outsource its technology needs to Kansas Citybased company k12itc, the company claimed, “Your district has taken a big leap forward in technology service.”

Students, staff, and administrators are still awaiting that leap as a plethora of technology issues have plagued the district in the opening months of the school year.

“It has certainly been a struggle, but my hope is that it is a temporary inconvenience that will lead to a permanent improvement,” English teacher Dustin Fox, whose classes strive to use Chromebooks daily, said.

The issues have been wide ranging: from WiFi See TECH page 2

NEWS The Comet is published nine times per year by the Chanute High School newspaper staff.

The Comet does not accept subscriptions and has a standard advertising rate of $5 per column inch.

The paper is available free of charge at Chanute High School, at various locations in Chanute, and can be found online at thecometonline.com.

The Comet is printed by Kansas Newspapers LLC in Parsons and is composed by the student staff.

Editorial Policy The Comet will report on and editorialize about controversial and crucial events in the school, community, nation and world. School editors and writers will, however, observe the same legal responsibilities as those imposed on conventional newspapers and news media.

Thus, The Comet will refrain from publication of material that is obscene, libellous or creates a clear and present danger of the immediate disruption of the school. In determining the type of material that violates the above restrictions, it must be noted that the discrimination of material that invites or simulates heated discussion or debate among students or in the community does not constitute the type of disruption prohibited.

The Comet will not be subject to prior restraints or censorship by school officials, unless material is considered obscene, libellous or disruptive as previously defined. Commercial advertising will be printed, but items and/or services that are illegal because of age restrictions, etc., will not be advertised.

The Comet is a public forum. Since school publications are designed as instructional instruments for students and as a vehicle for student opinion and discussion, the opinions, issues or articles published shall not be construed as those representing the publication adviser, school administration or the Board of Education.

The contents of The Comet are the responsibility of the student staff.

Get in Touch With Us thecometonline@gmail.com 620-432-2510 Ext. 106 (Morning)/908 (Afternoon) Follow us on Twitter @chscomet On the web: thecometonline.com 1. Letters should be emailed to thecometonline@gmail.com no later than the Monday of the week of publication.

2. All letters must be signed, even though the name(s) may be withheld upon request of the writer. Names will be made available, however, to the publication’s adviser, editor-in-chief and necessary staff members of The Comet.

3. A joint letter should not contain more than ten names. If more than ten names appear on the letter, only ten will be published. However, a complete list of all the other names will be available to the publications adviser, editor-in-chief and necessary staff members.

4. Each letter should be no more than 200 words in length and will be subject to editing and/or cutting. Should editing or cutting be required, the writer will be notified before publication. The Comet reserves the right to refuse publication. The writer, however, will be notified of such decision.

5. Obscene, libellous or other material that might be determined to cause a disruption of the normal school daily routine will not be printed, and the writer will be notified of such decision.

2017-18 The Comet Staff Editor-in-Chief Huntyr Schwegman Managing Editor Dustin Vargo Online Editor-in-Chief Christopher Hatch Advertising Manager Kaitlyn Newton News Editor Dustin Vargo Opinion Editor Kristin Umbarger Spotlight Editor Jillian Wilson Features Editor Amanda Stalder A&E Editor Angelo Andoyo Sports Editor Jayci Vietti Photography Editor Sophie Osborn Graphics Editor Kennah Ludlum Podfather Blake Ayers Reporters/Photographers Alyssa Andoyo Kori Babcock Tibernay Beal Marissa Burciaga Darbee Chard Zoe Du Preez Nathan Farris Cali Hudson Rachel Jackett Rilee Jordan Mikayla Kwek Reno Lemon Vonna O’Brien Alyssa Ramsey Emilee Roberts Caden Schwegman David Semey Regan Smith Ashlynn Smoot Taylor Thompson Rosebelle Toledo Mason Vietti Quincy Vogel Advisor Dustin Fox

2 Looking Ahead: A look at events coming in the near and not-so-near future

Continued from Page 1

CARLIE: IN 18 DAYS

PICTURE RETAKES

IN 22 DAYS

ACT TEST

IN 25 DAYS

HALLOWEEN

IN 94 DAYS

CHRISTMAS

Sticking with tradition Stugo opts to keep homecoming selection process

BY RACHEL JACKETT

JACKETTR@STU.USD413.ORG

Despite several conversations regarding the possibility of making changes to homecoming this year, the homecoming committee decided to stick to tradition.

“No changes will be made this year so we can have more time to plan if we want to change in the future,” stugo sponsor Karen Graham said.

The most common debate about homecoming so far has been why do we not involve the clubs in the

“Then the whole school nominating process? will vote on those. Chang“Some people don’t feel ing homecoming this way like it’s fair to only have will benefit people in it to have sports, so more people how we to have a would do chance to be it is: All some people don’t seniors feel like it’s fair to nominated.”

Since it’s who are only have people in too late this in a fall sports.” year, before activity next year the their stugo sponsor homecoming names karen graham committee would will be meetgo in and ing to do all of the planning the seniors would vote for to make the changes possithe top five,” Graham said. ble.

“The changes we would like to make is to have a homecoming parade and then have the pep rally after the parade is over. This in fact will take a lot of planning before next year,” Graham said.

The committee understands how others feel that are not in a sport, therefore changes will tried to be made in the future.

“We talked mainly about how it was a tradition and that we felt it is not a bad idea, but that we didn’t have enough time to change it,” Senior Ashlynn Smoot said.

Tea���� Fea����

Mr. Bishop: The art of teaching

BY MARISSA BURCIAGA

BURCIAGAM@STU.USD413.ORG

With five new additions to the teaching staff, there’s some ‘Getting to Know You’ questions we asked the newbie teachers. First victim: Charles Bishop.

Charles Bishop has been brought in to replace previous long-time art teacher Rick Bushnell, who was at Chanute High School for 40 years.

Bishop originates from Yates Center, but got his teaching start by teaching art in Augusta, roughly 90 miles west of Chanute.

New CHS art teacher Charles Bishop engrosses himself into Sophomore RaeganHaight’s What was the first brush art project. Photo by Zoe Du Preez. stroke that made him interBishop was also a stufound his niche in this His favorite art media ested in art? is ceramics. dent teacher for Bushnell school quickly,” sophoIt was a chance thing. more Aimee Riggs says.

Bishop enjoys many in the spring 2007.

One day he just discovered things during his free time Students say Bishop has “He’s great… He’s very that he could draw and it “I enjoy hunting, fishfit right in at CHS. helpful and picks good went from there. Before ing, family time.” Bishop “He’s enjoying how challenges for his stuthat, he didn’t even show said. “And you can probafamiliar this school feels dents.” an interest in art. to him; he seems to have bly add art in there.”

Continued from Page 1

TECH:

failure to printing issues to limited storage to restrictions and loss of rights. As a result, k12itc has been a lightning rod for criticism.

An unreliable WiFi connection has been a big issue for students and teachers. Some students say they don’t trust using Chromebooks for assignments because they might lose connection at any given time or not be able to connect at all, and a number of teachers have shied away from using as much technology in the classroom due to the frequent issues.

For students, one of the most problematic issues has been signing up for Comet Time enrichment. It has became a reoccurring issue for students not be able to

connect in a timely manner.

As a result, students don’t get the chance to select their preferred Comet Time classes.

For example, the Comet Time menu choices are sent to all students at the beginning of seminar. The document might load for 300 students, but the WiFi doesn’t connect for the rest of the student body for another 15 minutes.

This issue leaves students who could not connect with limited choices as their desired location has often already reached its cap by the time they are able to access the document, leaving those students unable to get into the enrichment classes they enjoy or forcing them to use data on their phones.

“When I was signing up for Comet Time I had to do it on my phone because I was unable to connect to

the WiFi,” senior Selena Stich said.

In addition to WiFi outages, teachers have cited issues with trying to meet the needs of each individual student because k12itc is more restrictive than the previous system.

For example, teachers initially had issues assigning projects with videos due to access to YouTube being blocked and students in publications and graphic design classes are no longer able to download fonts.

Classes that depend on storing pictures and projects on hard drives had to make special arrangements with k12itc to avoid the company’s restrictive storage options.

“Switching to k12 has made teaching my classes difficult and has caused me a lot of frustration and anxiety,” technology teacher Jill Stevenson said.

USD 413 Technology Director Tyler Applegate, who has been working closely with k12itc to get the issues resolved, preached patience.

“The district technology staff has been in constant contact with k12 to address all issues,” Applegate said. “As with any change, there are roadblocks and obstacles that need to be addressed.”

According to Applegate, k12itc visited the district last Friday and made changes in the hopes of fixing many of the problems. The company will be monitoring the system Monday morning when students sign up for their Comet Time classes.

Many students aren’t optimistic about the issues being resolved any time soon, however.

“I do not think that within the next two years

Along with “#theCarlieChallenge”, is “Day 20” painted on the pavement.

“Day 20 was when she talked about how she was thankful for God’s grace and just being able to be a Christian,” Kaylea Richards, another senior credited with the memorial, said. “That was what Carlie was all about and what she has been gratefully known for.”

Although The Carlie Challenge is well known and “Day 20” has a specific meaning, the painted arrows on Almond’s rectangle are also symbolic.

Costin explained that “she was really into arrows before she died.”

For her, the arrows are a hint at what Almond enjoyed in life. Before passing away, Almond was designing arrows into her bedroom decoration.

For Richards the arrows also represent forward progression.

Progression for The Carlie Challenge, the memorialization of Almond, and overall life.

Even though there may be different themes taken from Almond’s personalized decorations, the overall idea and purpose remains the same, proving that Almond still remains spiritually with her graduating class of 2018.

“I think it’s a great thing to do because she is still part of our class; she is still roaming these hallways,” Richards explained. “To drive on that road and to see it every day just makes me grateful that our school allowed us to do that and to help remember Carlie.”

Although each individual who put time, effort and love into Almond’s Senior Lane decor had a different relationship with Almond, they all worked together for the same reasons: gratitude and remembrance.

“She’s gone, but she’s never forgotten. We’ll always have a piece of her with us,” Costin said.

Library aide Tony Newman performs a hard restart on a Chromebook that was not connecting to the network. Newman has taken on additional technology duties following the decision to outsource the district’s technology needs to k12itc. Photo by Darbee Chard. it will get much better, but in time they could advance their system and servers to better accommodate for the challenge,” junior Trenton Lowry said.

OPINION

3

COMMENTARY

Falling for autumn We asked the students what was on their mind.

Here are their unfiltered responses.

BY DARBEE CHARD

CHARDD@STU.USD413.ORG

I think dogs should be able to vote.

Turtles shouldn’t cross the road.

The football team should wear wrestling singlets.

Mrs. Jackett should let people take their phones to the bathroom.

With this new grading system, you don’t know what your grade is until semester.

School should pay more attention to bullying.

Why is it so cold in the school?

Since you have to plan two weeks ahead in Comet Time, you can’t go into a class you are struggling in.

What’s up with the horrible school WiFi? ALBERT sucks and so do people who don’t use blinkers.

BY REGAN SMITH

EDITORIAL

Homecoming makeover needed Year after year homecoming has become less and less special. Many students feel disenfranchised from the event, many students just do not care. The event has become tired and routine; instead of being excited to choose candidates many students are indifferent.

This year a new idea was introduced. The idea presented was to create a pool of eligible seniors from all of the competitive teams and clubs. The next step is to nominate five each of girls and boys by having the senior class as a whole choose their top five of each. Once the ten candidates have been nominated the entire class would vote to elect the winners.

We at the Comet believe that this new idea should be adopted. Including other teams and clubs such as Scholars Bowl, TSA, Debate, and Chess in homecom-

ing would expand the pool of candidates to affect and interest more students. Reaching more students, not just varsity athletes, would create a more representative experience and bring interest back.

Not only would this new method include a more diverse collection of students to choose from, we believe it would also give the entire senior class a say in who the candidates are instead of just the sports teams. This means even the kids who do not participate in any competitive events can still weigh in on the decision.

We believe that by including more students in the nomination and election process we could bring the life back to homecoming.

BY KRISTIN UMBARGER for the Editorial Board

PRO It would be good for Chanute High school to have a formal homecoming because it would give our students a chance to socialize with new people, make new friends, have fun and dress up while they’re at it.

Even though school just started, we can have plenty of good times together.

Homecoming is a time to socialize and to have fun.

Considering we are one of the few schools that don’t have a formal homecoming, we could have so much more fun together if it were formal.

I know our students here at Chanute High school are very talented and can be creative with their ideas.

Why have a boring homecoming that people would not want to show up for instead of recreating the tradition as a formal homecoming?

CON

If we all get the chance to dress formally, people could really surprise a special someone with your looks, or even have people raging with jealousy.

The casual look of a T-shirt and shorts isn’t astonishing anyone. The look doesn’t make anyone curious or even awed at your appearance. In this casual look you look like everybody else. What’s different about you makes you special, makes you unique.

Don’t you want to see the sparkle of jealousy, curiosity and astonishment in people’s eyes when they see the outfit you’re wearing?

Don’t you want people to give you compliments on what you were wearing or even how you did it?

If CHS had a formal HoCo it would be a great chance for a great time.

ClashingComets Clashing

Should homecoming be formal?

BY REGAN SMITH

BY VONNA O’BRIAN

Quoted

& NOTED

If homecoming were formal would you be more likely to go?

Homecoming: when most hear this word, they think of making memories, having fun with friends, and just having a great time.

I think the most common misconception about homecoming is that the dance is NOT equivalent to prom. In fact, prom and homecoming are two totally separate entities.

Prom is a magical night in which students dress up in formal clothes and makeup, whereas homecoming is informal, most of the time having a theme, such as Hawaiian or Western. When people whine about the fact that homecoming isn’t a “dress-up” event, I feel as if they’re forgetting that we already have an event where we can all dress up and be fancy as a school.

If we did make homecoming a formal event, the amount of money spent

No

17.6%

Yes

Yes

46.2%

Bryan Ayala Freshman

40.2% 59.8%

No

No

Yes

59.8%

36.3%

“No, people would feel obligated to do things and dress up and not as many peopleIndifferent would I do not plan to attend homecoming want to come.”No No

22.8% 17.6%

Yes

43.5% 46.2%

40.2% 36.3%

33.7%

would increase exponentially! The average family plans to spend about $919 on a prom-going teen. When we make homecoming a formal event, the economic burden will skyrocket. If you’ve ever been to prom you know how costly a dress or tuxedo is, how much time is spent on makeup and hair, and how much stress the event causes. If homecoming switches from Hawaiian print shirts and cowboy hats to tuxedos and high heels, all these burdens will come along with the transition.

Making homecoming a formal event is a bad idea.

Choosing a handkerchief and cowboy boots over a ball gown and sparkling jewelry may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but when we look to the advantages and disadvantages, the choice is clear.

I do not plan to attend homecoming

No

Yes

Fall is approaching and I am quite excited. So many good things come with the season.

With the new season coming, there are many new horror films. Stephen King’s “It” is a fan favorite, but also out now are the movies: “Annabelle: Creation”, “Rings”, and other thriller movies like “Alien: Covenant”.

There are many old movies to rewatch; “Halloween”, and “Friday the 13th” are always good no matter the amount of times previously watched.

Fall also lets us start dressing in a cuter fall fashion with the cold weather. People start wearing oranges, browns, yellows, and dark greens. Overall, between the colors and the more concealing clothes, it brings a feeling of comfort.

This time gives the best weather that earth can offer.

No stifling heat from summer, no freezing winds of winter yet.

At the beginning of fall you can wear a jacket or just a t-shirt and still be comfortable.

Now the most important part, Halloween. What would autumn be without the traditions? If you’re like me you get excited anytime you see something relating to Halloween. It is the best holiday because you can dress up, and enjoy scaring people.

Yes

Cassidy Audiss Senior

Kayla Akers Junior

“Yes! Every other school has that tradition. It’s not that fun for everyone to dress up cute to walk on the field and then have to change into sweats for the dance.”

“Yeah, because some people don’t have a chance to go to prom.

It is another oppurtunity to have the same experiences.”

No Yes

Zane Neely Senior “No, I think it should be casual but people shouldn’t show up in sweats. Prom is the dance that is a big deal; HoCo shouldn’t be.”

SPORTS COMMENTARY

Fan Farris

4

up SENIORSWITCH

BY NATHAN FARRIS

FARRISN@STU.USD413.ORG

October : The best month for a sports fan As a fan of sports, October is easily one of the most exciting months of the year.

No matter what you like, there seems to be something enjoyable in the sports world.

At this point in the NFL, we began to separate the truly elite football teams from the rest of the pack. Even with 32 teams in the league, you can began to separate the bottom feeders from the those who are “All For The Lombardi” (If you do not know, Dustin Vargo and I have a NFL podcast by that name that you should totally listen to). While the games might not be the best, this is the point where it heats up.

As if that is not fun enough, arguably the main focus of the month is the MLB postseason.

To me, this is the cream of the crop when it comes to competition. It is truly rare to see a game or series without a nail biting conclusion. It doesn’t matter if it is one of the Wild Card games, or Game 7 of the World Series.

If neither of arguably the two most popular American sports suit you, there are other options. College football is at a very similar point as the NFL, though upsets can always spice that up.

October also sees the two other large sports join the fray.

On one side, there is the NHL. The grit and willingness of the players make this fun to watch, either hardcore or casual.

Also starting back up is the NBA. Depending on where your team is, you can see whether that big money free agent will work out, or if that top draft pick will be a star.

No matter where your team is though, you can always look forward to see how the ¨super-teams¨ will mesh & perform together.

This is the only month of the year in which all four major sports have games, and a month in which I personally seem to always have my eyes glued to coverage.

This month finds a way to truly show everything that makes being a fan so great.

From the breathtaking moments of the MLB postseason, the analysis of NFL teams, or the excitement of the incoming NHL & NBA seasons, October is a month I could always lean on.

Seniors Madisyn Thompson, Jacody Hockett, Kolby Ussry, Tristan Bunke, Kaitlyn Newton, and Ashlynn Smoot are all trying a new sport for their senior year.

BY MICHAEL AYLWARD

AYLWARDM@STU.USD413.ORG

This season of fall sports has brought along new opportunities for many athletes. Many seniors have decided to try out new sports during their last year at CHS. What were their motives?

We asked them some questions to figure it out.

Change can be hard, but it often can pay off.

For Madi Thompson, she switched from playing volleyball to playing tennis. There were a few different things that lead her to change.

“It seemed fun and I liked the challenge of starting something new.” Thompson said.

Another purpose for her change was the amount of her friends in the sport. She says it has been a nice change of pace and is a fun, relaxing sport.

Ashlynn Smoot also switched from playing volleyball to joining tennis. She has played volleyball her whole life until this year.

“The last couple years I have mainly only been playing volleyball because it’s what I’ve done since I was little. I’ve always thought tennis would be a fun change and this is the year I decided to follow through with that,” Smoot said.

She thinks tennis has an uplifting environment with many of her friends.

There were a duo of

runners join the men’s cross country team. One of these newcomers to the sport was Jacody Hockett. He said he’s thought about running before and decided to go all out during his last year at CHS. “Because this is my first year doing it, I’m sure there will be some challenges. For one, it will be hard to learn how to pace myself throughout an entire race,” said Hockett.

He wishes he would have tried this new sport out earlier because it is a lot of fun and he could be in much better shape.

The other newcomer to cross country was Kolby Ussery. He used to play football but wanted to try something different his senior year. He said he wanted to try out cross country because his dad always ran it. Ussery thought that if he tried the sport out sooner he could be a lot faster and in better shape.

Another reason why he decided to run, is his one on one competitive nature. He likes that he has no one to blame other than himself for his success or failure.

Tristan Bunke also switched sports. He played football freshman year but suffered an injury that pushed him away from the sport.

“It’s hard getting hurt and taking a break because when you come back you have to re See SENIORS page 5

TRYING SOMETHING NEW Who says you can’t teach an old dog new tricks? These six seniors have taken on the challenge of trying a new sport during the fall season.

Tristan Bunke NEW SPORT: Football OLD SPORT: None THEY SAID IT:

“It’s hard getting hurt and taking a break because when you come back you have to relearn all the plays.”

Kaitlyn Newton NEW SPORT: Tennis OLD SPORT: Volleyball THEY SAID IT:

“I have a lot of friends that play tennis and help me out since I am a little behind.”

Jacody Hockett NEW SPORT: Cross Country OLD SPORT: Football THEY SAID IT:

Kolby Ussery NEW SPORT: Cross Country OLD SPORT: Football THEY SAID IT:

Ashlynn Smoot NEW SPORT: Tennis OLD SPORT: Volleyball THEY SAID IT: “I’ve always

Madisyn Thompson NEW SPORT: Tennis OLD SPORT: Volleyball THEY SAID IT:

“I wish I would’ve “My dad did cross started Cross country in high Country my school, and I freshman year. I decided I would love the sport and follow in his footthe environment.” steps.”

thought tennis would be a fun change.”

“It seemed fun and I liked the challenge of starting something new.”

Chipping in: Newcomers give golf team big numbers boost

BY TAYLOR THOMPSON

THOMPSONT@STU.USD413.ORG

Freshman Jerlyn Kustenborter has been one of the Comets top golfers this season. Photo by Baylee Dillman.

In years past, the girls’ golf team has not had enough interest to fill a whole team. Things have changed this season.

The girls’ golf team has doubled in size since last year, with 10 girls out for the team. Part of the reason there is such a large team is because there are five freshmen out for the sport.

The team sees a lot of positives in being so young.

“We are a young team, and it just means we have room to improve,” junior Molly Rollins.

However, a bigger team can have its downfalls.

For one, it causes practices to be set up a little differently. The girls have to hit at different places to keep the practice moving.

It also means less one-onone coaching for the team’s lone coach, Bill Woodard. Woodard does the best he can despite his players being spread out all over the golf course.

“Coach Woodard does a good job of making sure to help whenever someone asks,” junior McKenna Tait said.

Being a part of a bigger team also has its upside. Being on a big team motivates some of the girls to work harder because of the increase in competition.

Freshman Jerlyn Kustenborter has

made a big impact on the team this season. Kustenborter has been constantly getting the lowest score on the team. She also placed third at SEK. Additionally, the girls get to know each other better and build relationships.

“Having a big team is better because we get to bond and have fun together,” freshman Jerlyn Kustanborter said.

Looking into the future, Tait hopes for the continuous enjoyment and interest for the next players to come up in the sport.

“I hope that in the coming years girls continue to join the golf team to keep it going strong,” Tait says.

5

SPORTS

Looking ahead

Boys’ Cross Country: After placing first at the Fort Scott meet the boys have placed at almost every meet since.

The team is hoping to place at regionals on October 2 and is gunning for state on October 28.

F

Girls’ Cross Country: At a recent meet in Fort Scott, the girl’s team won third overall. An upcoming event for the runners is the SEK meet, taking place right here in Chanute on October 12.

Girls’ Golf: The girls’ golf team finished second in the SEK. Jerlyn Kustenborter lead the comets finishing third as an individual. They will host regionals in Chanute on October 9th.

Girls’ Tennis: The girls’ tennis season is coming to an end.

Regionals will be held at Parsons today and tomorrow.

Depending on how the individuals do some might be participating in state which is October 13 and 14 in Pratt.

Football: Coming off a 20-14 loss to Augusta, the Blue Comets face Parsons in a homecoming tilt tonight.

The Comets (2-3, 0-1 SEK) will look to find the end zone often against a Vikings defense that has allowed 51.8 points per game.

Bringing the noise

riday night lights are an all-time fan favorite for the Blue Comets. This season’s student section is one of the loudest and enthusiastic in years . In addition to being loud, weekly themes make the crowd look united while cheering the Blue Comets on. The ecstatic, spirited crowd does not just stop at home games either. Many students are traveling to every one of the away games to keep the spirit going wherever the team competes.

SPORT SPOTLIGHT Jacob Adams

Sophomore

Senior Keeley Tallent cheers on the Blue Comets for our victory against the Iola Mustangs. Photo by Sophie Osborn.

FACES IN THE CROWD Clete Carlson, Senior “I’m just happy to show support for the football team, if I can do it from the sidelines thats perfect”

Jacob Adams, who grew up playing soccer, has proved himself to be one of the top kickers in the SEK this season, connecting on all of his PAT attempts and adding a 35-yard FG in the season opener.

“Soccer has played a major part in my kicking skills, even thought it is entirely different,” Adams said.

Continued from Page 4

SENIORS:

Precious Barber, Senior “I love the single colored themes, because the crowd looks more united!”

Jonathan Neiderbach, Senior “I feel like the crowd has improved a lot this year, but we could still use a little work” Vittorio Kwek, Sophomore “I love getting crazy and hyping up the crowd on Friday nights!”

Senior Kobe Chance cheers the Comets on for the win against the Iola Mustangs in the Blue Comet season opener September 1.The Comet fans dressed as cowboys and cowgirls to help inspire the team to wrangle the Mustangs. Photo by Sophie Osborn.

Please Recycle

Volleyball: Winners of 16 of their last 17 matches, the volleyball team heads to El Dorado tomorrow for a tournament.

The Comets enter with a 19-8 season record.

learn all the plays,” Bunke said.

Even with those challenges Bunke still thought football was fun, especially the games and getting to be with his friends.

One final senior that tried a different sport during their senior year is Kaitlyn Newton.

She played volleyball her whole life until an injury got in the way. She was out of it for two years and decided to play tennis instead once she got healthy. She thought tennis would be a little bit more easy going and liked that it is a lifetime sport.

“I have a lot of friends that play tennis and help me out since I am a little behind,” Newton said.

These seniors have shown that it is never too late to change. You never know what you could get out of it.

FEATURES

6

Holmes

2

CHS grad returns to roots, joins dad in math department A new year, a new confusing set of names. After finally escaping the chaos that was M. Duling and N. Duling, we are stuck with yet another conundrum-Eric Holmes and Jefferson Holmes.

However, unlike the Dulings, they are father and son, with rooms right next to each other, and both teach variations of math.

Growing up, most people don’t really know what they want to be, and the few that do are the lucky ones.

For years, J. Holmes didn’t think that everything would come full circle, never believing he would follow in his father’s footsteps. It was always in the back of his mind, but only after graduation did he realize what he wanted.

Many grow up wanting to be just like their parents,

Continued from Page 1

Haunting:

front of [her] door,” to stop the rattling.

Due to these recurrences, McMillen got the help of her old teacher, Justin Spurrier. McMillen and Spurrier held Ghost Box and Electronic Voice Phenomenon (EVP) sessions to figure out who or what was making such a disturbance.

McMillen describes a Ghost Box as a “little box that [uses] radio magnetic

and J. Holmes is no differ- can discuss or that I can be of help to him with,” E. ent.

“I grew up wanting Holmes said. “As a parent, to be a teacher because I you are always a little worwanted to be like him, ” J. ried about how your kids will do in their profession, Holmes said.

Working with someone but even more so when who has been with you they are working with kids since birth, who watched in your community.”

There may be some you grow and mature, can roadblocks be quite along the daunting, way, but but to J. “...he knows that i for the most Holmes, won’t baby him and part, they “It’s surthat when i do give believe that real.” criticism, it is coming it’s actually H e from a good place,” much easiwatched er working his father teacher eric holmes with each do exactother as oply what posed to a he is doing now, not just teaching stranger.

For E. Holmes, workmath but setting a good example and being a role ing with his son makes it model for children of the easier because, with a first hour plan, J. Holmes can next generation.

As his father, E. Holmes easily run and grab someis both excited and scared thing E. Holmes forgets.

For J. Holmes, it’s easito work with his son.

“It is fun to have some- er because, as a first year thing in common that we teacher, he has many ques-

tions which his father, only a room away, can easily answer.

Along with it being easier to work together, it’s also easier for E. Holmes to be more critical of J. Holmes, only because he knows it won’t offend him.

It’s easier for him to point out mistakes and correct errors with his son than it would be for another teacher. “[Jefferson] has played for me, been in my class, and lived under my roof, so he knows that I won’t baby him and that when I do give criticism, it is coming from a good place,” E. Holmes said.

J. Holmes’ parents may not have pushed him towards a career in teaching, but they did want him to choose a field with a positive job outlook. Being a teacher, J. Holmes hopes to help the kids of the future and inspire them.

“I just want to… keep

frequencies to allow the spirits to manipulate it to speak.” EVP’s are used in the same way, to “pick up what we can’t hear,” like spiritual voices.

Using an old radio that Spurrier fixed, he then asked who was rattling her doorknob at night.

McMillen said that, “they came back with Thomas.”

“Thomas” is a name that has been mentioned several times, according to McMillen.

“I’ve had Thomas come up in a couple of other ses-

things were true, but now...

I am a true believer.”

McMillen is set to further advance her Parapsychological studies in late fall.

“I will be going to Missouri State Penitentiary in November to investigate for three days.”

The avocation started when she felt a strange suspicion, and it continues with an open mind.

“There is always a lot more of history to be uncovered than what we think.”

sions and then I had some woman’s name come up...I believe it was Bridget, and Bridget is apparently married to Thomas,” McMillen said. “...They could be lying, they could be telling the truth, you never know.”

These sessions became a normal hobby for McMillen, even inviting her friend, senior Jeff Lewis. “[Kacie] just started talking about it, and the more I heard about it, the more interested I got,” Lewis said. “I wasn’t always a believer that these

TALE OF THE

VS.

TAPE It’s time to break down what seperates father and son.

Height

6’0”

6’1”

Age

23

44

0.25

19

4

6+

ACT Score

32

31

Favorite Basketball Player

Kevin Durant

Kevin Durant

Favorite “Star Wars” Character

Yoda

Han Solo

College degree

Bachelors of Art and Mathematics

Bachelors of Science and Education

Years teaching Years of College

on teaching students for as long as I’m able to,” J. Holmes comments.

His parents are extremely proud of him, saying,

1

Not just a princess by heart, sophomore Jillian Vogel’s greatgreat-great-great-great-greatgreat grandfather is Hawaiian king: King Kamehameha.

2

3 Taryn Seely

Colten Seely

Nakia Palmer

What is Taryn’s favorite movie?

The Best of Me

Lilo and Stitch

The Notebook

What is Taryn’s favorite ice cream flavor?

Cotton Candy

Cookie Dough

Cookie Dough

What is Taryn’s dream job?

Zoo Vet

Vet

Zoo Vet

Where is Taryn’s ideal vacation location?

Costa Rica

North Carolina

Carribean

Final score

0.5

1.5

“It was very exciting to talk about the positive influences he hopes to have on young people and their lives.”

Four of the following family heritages are true, one is false. Can you guess which claim is a fraud?

Let’sGetQuizzical We asked senior Taryn Seely a series of questions and then asked her brother, Colten Seely, and her friend Nakia Palmer how they thought Taryn responded. Nakia eeked out the narrow one-point victory.

eric holmes

jefferson holmes

Sophomore Christopher Dinkel is a descendent of America’s first known serial killers, the Bloody Benders, through his great-greatgreat grandma, Kate Bender.

4

5

Senior Isela Ayala’s cousin dated Enrique Iglesias, but broke up because “love isn’t real.”

Call it “Assassins McCread”, junior Gavin McCready claims the first McCready to come to America was an assasin for the queen of England.

Junior Trenton Lowry’s and freshman Dylan Lowry’s great aunt is Mamie Eisenhower, President Dwight Eisenhower’s wife.

Number 2 is not true.

BY MIKAYLA KWEK

KWEKM@STU.USD413.ORG

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

7

Spend a Penny for Pennywise?

Is “It” worth it? Pennywise the Clown is coming to a sewer near you

A look into the

The first season of the hit sci-fi Netflix original, “Stranger Things” took the world by storm with over 8 million viewers in only 16 days.

But, is season two going to have the same reaction?

BY TIBERNAY BEAL

BEALT@STU.USD413.ORG

As kids from the town disappear one by one, the audience is given an unsettling vibe. And a huge creepy clown being thrown into the mix doesn’t help... at all.

Although the horALYSSA ANDOYO Scaredy Cat ror is mostly based off of fears of clowns and monsters, what makes the movie frightening is the fact that they show worldly horrors as well. From abusive relationships to violent bullies, the movie shines light on many real and very scary issues in today’s world.

While “It” is a gruesome horror, the film also has comedic aspects as well.

With handfuls of comical teens, I strongly feel that witty characters are a great contrast from the usual “stupid adults” in chillers. In all, “It” is a film that combines the genius use of rambunctious teens, gore, and true horror to form a film definitely worth your time.

The remake of the classic movie “It” is a good flick but changes the story in many ways from the original and the book.

The 2017 version pulls the story further KRISTIN UMBARGER towards the future and this modernization “It” Consultant causes a big shift in the story itself, the characters and their personalities are made to fit the modern setting.

Another big change from the older versions is the characters themselves.

Bev is portrayed as older looking and very attractive instead of a tomboyish young girl. Richie is a more of a jerk than a comedian, none of his original smarts show. The story loses some of its original charm and horror when the group dynamic is changed.

While I would have preferred to see the dynamic I expected, the movie itself was entertaining to say the least and could very well cause a few nightmares.

Down Upside

“It” is the story of a group of friends just trying to enjoy their summer: riding around town on their bikes, swimming at the quarry, and battling a century old, ANGELO ANDOYO fear-feasting, demon Scary Movie clown. And they do it in Connoisseur the best possible way.

Scary isn’t the right word to describe their adventure. Yeah, a creepy clown pops out at times, but the thing that makes the movie so great is the way it creeps you out.

Unlike a lot of scary movies these days, “It” doesn’t try too hard at being scary because that’s not what they were going for. It uses universally-shared childhood fears throughout the whole movie to give you heebie-jeebies for 2 hours and 15 minutes, but in a fun… almost nostalgic kind of way?

I’ll admit there were a couple of cringey parts in the movie but overall the movie was a h-IT.

Ending with a huge cliffhanger that left everyone wanting more, season two couldn’t have come any sooner. To conclude the first season, the gang had rescued their friend from the Upside Down, but it’s going to take a lot of hard work for the small town of Hawkins, Indiana to find a right-side up.

As seen on the trailer for season two that came out during the San Diego Comic-Con, we can clearly see that not everything is back to normal after the town was traumatized by the insane events that occurred last season. For starters, Will (Noah Schnapp) is

, again

having a difficult time transitioning back into reality because of what seems to be his sudden flashbacks into the Upside Down.

Also, Mike (Finn Wolfhard) and Nancy Wheeler (Natalia Dyer) are mourning the deaths of their close friends Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown) and Barb (Sharon Purser) that died in such heartbreaking ways.

Nearing the end of the trailer, Eleven is shown trying to escape what seems to be the Upside Down. So has Eleven really passed on to the afterlife? How is her return going to play into the new season? Are we in store for an even bigger surprise than the one we endured last season? Nothing is known for certain, except that this new season is our only gate-way into the Upside Down.

Source: Netflix

New iPhone: X/10?

Another year. Another iPhone. Apple continues its tradition of releasing a new and improved iPhone every year.

The 10-year anniversary brings about the iconic iPhone X. With a 5.8 inch screen and brand new face recognition, it is definitely an upgrade for Apple. The new OLED screen brings intense colors, impressive images, and higher

Earl’s Lock and Key 24-Hour Emergency Service

902 S. Western Chanute, KS 55720

620-431-EARL(3275) I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven. Whatever you bind on the earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.” Matthew 16:19

still is a little glitchy, Apple has said that all the kinks should be worked out by release.

So the question we’ve all been waiting for: Should you buy the new iPhone X? Although it has a lot of great features, it costs $999.

Maybe the X is too “X”pensive. Maybe next year?

Artist: The Doors Album: The Doors Released: January 4, 1967 Composed by: Jim Morrison, Ray Manzarek, John Densmore, Robby Krieger Produced by: Paul Rothchild Label: Elektra Records

“If the doors of perception were cleansed everything would appear to man as it is, infinite.” ~ Aldous Huxley

BY HUNTYR SCHWEGMAN

SCHWEGMANH@STU.USD413.ORG

frame counts.

The new portrait modes on the front camera and the AR support on the back is stunning.

It also opened the door for the brand new Face ID. Enabled by the True Depth technology, the new Face ID unlock feature is much faster and more secure than Touch ID. While it

REVIEW

Through all the bands of the Sixties, The Doors were truly a spectacle to see and hear. Under the Elektra Record label, produced by Paul Rothchild, their self titled debut album “The Doors” is a master craft from four talented and well-educated men: John Densmore on drums, Robby Krieger on guitar, Ray Manzarek on piano, and Jim Morrison on vocals. From their first track “Break on Through [to the other side]” all the way to final track “The End”, the album shifts and warps to multiple highs and lows. Fast songs, slow songs, love songs, and sad songs.

The Doors weren’t just another Rock & Roll band - and they never set out to be just a rock band. The Doors were willing to experiment, and so should you. So give The Doors a listen; what have you got to lose?

- David Semey

SPOTLIGHT

8 BAND

And the

nominees are...

CROWNING

GOLF

CROSS COUNTRY

ACHIEVEMENT T

onight is the night that we have all been waiting for.

With another successful spirit week drawing to a close, we reflect on what each class has been able to accomplish this past week and so far this school year.

Tonight, we will crown our 2017 Fall Homecoming Queen and King.

With many diverse and accomplished candidates, the decision of who will wear the crown was not an easy one for any of us.

Don’t forget that the theme for tonight’s game is Blackout, so wear all of your darkest clothes to show support for your school in the game of the season against Parsons.

JACODY HOCKETT

MACKENZIE TABAREZ

ISELA AYALA

HUNTER LYDEN

TARYN SEELEY

JONATHAN NEIDERBACH

BRAYDEN ROBINSON

VOLLEYBALL

SPIRIT SQUAD

ABRIELLE INBODY

AUSTIN LIUDAHL

TENNIS

FOOTBALL

JENNA GREER

BENJAMIN RAMSEY

DOMINIQUE BECANNON

MCKENNA FLOWERS

CLETE CARLSON

WHAT TO KNOW

ABOUT HOCO Students vote for a king and queen via a ballot sent out on Google Forms.

Corronation begins at 6:30 before the football game. Be sure to arrive early to secure a good seat.

Following the crowning of the king and queen, the Comets face off against Parsons. The theme for the game is black out.

The dance begins in the courtyard after the game. Get ready to bust out your best moves.

Graphics by Kennah Ludlum

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