Andover Central High School Vol. 17. Issue 4 December 17
Holiday Concerts Student Overload
Movie Revival Debate
02 TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
03 07 14 16
NEWS
Southern U.S. border controversy: Caravan immigrants countered with Trump’s unarmed troops
FEATURE
Make statements with ‘Body Mods’: Tattoos, piercings provide permanent means of self-expression
REVIEW
Zan’s coffee roast: Downtown cafe provides best overall brew, seasonal drinks
STAFF EDITORIAL
Facing website access issue: District blocks websites necessary for learning
Alexandra Schumann Kinsley Ochsner
ASSISTANT EDITOR Gracie Pool
COPY EDITORS Ashley Zellers Jillian Primm
New baseball team, stadium coming to Wichita by 2020: Mayor, developer comment on future of Delano
SPORTS FEATURE
Central claims bragging rights: Jags outscore Trojans in both girls, boys games
A LETTER FROM THE EDITORS
T
is the season! As the semester comes to a close, there was so much happening here at Central with concerts, rivalry games, and excitement with the holidays. In all this frenzy, it can be easy to get overwhelmed with keeping up with classes. But do not fret, jags! Christmastime is the best time and we are so close to surviving the semester! We hope that this issue helps entertain as you enter a stressful week. Most of all, we wish you the best of luck on all of your finals and Happy Holidays!
Kinsley Ochsner, EIC
SPOTLIGHT STAFF EDITORS-IN-CHIEF
20 23
SPORTS DOUBLE
ADVISOR
Julie Calabro
SPORTS EDITOR Ryan Austin
PRODUCTION STAFF Ally Harris Blayne O’Connor Tori Carter Jackson Ward Kyle Kohman
Alexandra Schumann, EIC
WEBMASTER
VIDEO
Ashley Zellers Jillian Primm
Rachel Stefanek Cortnie Golden
BUSINESS MANAGER
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Jillian Primm
PHOTO EDITORS Grace Blackman Megan Weisser
Grant Davis Jaden Lyon Malia Flores
Cover photo Grace Blackman Page design Alexandra Schumann
03 NEWS
SOUTHERN U.S. BORDER CONTROVERSY
Caravan immigrants countered with Trump’s unarmed troops Story Blayne O’Connor, Page design Tori Carter
I
mmigration is a controversial issue in America today. President Trump has voiced his opinion on the subject numerous times and has stirred up his supporters and others. The divide in the country leaves room for expression from both viewpoints. While discussions are being made between U.S. citizens, immigrants are still at the border. Migrants from a mixture of countries in Central America have experienced multiple situations when approaching the border. Recently, U.S. agents closed a major crossing and fired tear gas on those who tried to cross anyway. Many of the migrants were seeking asylum in America and were upset over the slow pace in which the U.S. government processed their asylum claims. The crossing was temporarily closed and has since been reopened. The border has not been shut down.
President Trump is capable of closing the border, but it would be very difficult. It would only delay immigration, not eliminate it. About 6,000 U.S. troops have been sent to aid Customs and Border Protection. They are there to protect CBP officials, not perform law enforcement duties. The military police are unarmed, carrying only shields and batons. They are simply added help. The number of migrants is, contrary to general belief, not at an all time high. Immigrants detained at the border are slightly down. The Trump administration has reported that the difference is the type of immigrants. In the past, migrants have been singular adults. They are now majorly family units. This makes the processing longer and more difficult. Mixed emotions have been expressed from students over the subject. “I believe that immigrants should only come into our country when they are legally allowed. There is a reason for Visas and passports. I have a lot of family that
Caravan immigrants’ countries of origin
“I believe that immigrants should only come into our country when they are legally allowed. There is a reason for visas and passports.” Lukas Rivera, sophomore
“It’s really upsetting to see that they are gassing literal children, like kids who are still in diapers. They are taking children away from their parents.” Emily Smith, junior
is here illegally, and although I support them, I don’t think it’s right. If you try to enter America illegally, the officers should be allowed to take any precautions necessary. Adults putting their children in danger to migrate unlawfully are wrong,” sophomore Lukas Rivera said. Contrary to the latter opinion, some feel sympathetic to the migrants. “It’s really upsetting to see that they are gassing literal children, like kids who are still in diapers. They are taking children away from their parents. It’s extremely upsetting to see the country that I grew up in and always felt love and appreciation for is doing that to innocent people. I think the government should admit their mistakes, reconnect families, help them, try to right their wrongs,” junior Emily Smith said. Migrants attempt to enter America daily. The U.S. government has taken many actions to protect the border and aid those wanting to enter. Immigration is widely discussed throughout the nation and the nation is divided.
Caravan facts
7000 1100 700 6000 1980 Migrants started in the caravan
Migrants reached the US Border
Are women and children
Troops are at the border
The Central American countries in red are where most of the asylum-seekers are from according to The Guardian.
Year that Central American Civil wars started, increasing migration
Background photo Ueslei Marcelino pbs.org,
Politico.com, Time.com
04 NEWS
HOLIDAY CONCERTS
Winter festivities begin with song
Above: Choir takes a selfie while preforming the number “A millennial holiday song.” Photo Grace Blackman
Story, page design Blayne O’Connor
H
oliday spirit buzzes through the halls as Winter break approaches. With the spirit comes performances from the choirs and bands. Preparations began early in November. “We have been practicing on the risers and going through our songs,” sophomore Jack Bell said. As concert days approached, music students became more excited. “Concert days are always fun and I think we’re doing really well,” sophomore Chase White said. Christmas carols of all kinds were sung. The band prepared a mixture of songs. “Some of the songs are Christmas carols. It’s a variety of carols and traditional band music,” sophomore Olivia Lara said. Band leader, Bryan Kirk, offered a new way of playing. “We’re excited to be directed by Mr. Kirk and see how his direction affects our playing,” sophomore Daniel Steck said. The Holiday concerts are a favorite for the music students. “The winter concert is my favorite because of the music we play and how excited everyone gets for break. It’s a
great way to end the semester,” sophomore Aniyah Bethea said. Concert band sparked friendly competition between sections. “Personally, I think the trumpet sounds the best and works very well together,” sophomore Taryn Reilly said. This competition encouraged the band to work harder. Their hard work pushes each other to be better. “Percussion works hard to keep the band going. We’re sounding great! Our band is really good,” sophomore Audrey McLemore said. The choirs and bands work to prepare for concerts. They get the opportunity to showcase their effort thorugh performances. Attendees are allowed to appreciate the music. Support is appreciated. “I joined color guard to support the band and meet new people. The band is extremely talented and it was fun to accent their marching. Even though marching season is over, I still support the band,” freshman Analicia Rodriguez. said. Right: Members of the choir, Liam Hayes, sophomore, Jaden Lyon, junior, and Hailey Durfey, junior, join arms as they perform. Photo Grace Blackman
Above: Anastasia Chaney, senior, and Aaron Jones, senior, play the trumpet during the Symphonic band concert. Photo Megan Weisser
05 NEWS
TRUMP CONFISCATES CNN REPORTER’S PRESS PASS DUE TO IMMIGRATION ARGUMENT White House credential suspension may violate First Amendment rights Story Jillian Primm Page design Kinsley Ochsner
T
hings got heated at the White House news conference following gubernatorial elections. Senior CNN White House Correspondent Jim Acosta and President Trump did not see eye to eye on Central American migrants heading towards the US border. Acosta was the first reporter handed a “hard pass,” temporarily denying his access to the White House. After Trump labeled the Central American migrant caravan an “invasion” to the United States in a campaign advertisement, Acosta attempted to challenge his characterization, saying that the caravan “was not an invasion,” but, “a group of migrants moving up from Central America towards the border with the US.” Not appreciating Acosta’s response, Trump said “Honestly, I think you should let me run the country and you can run CNN, and if you did it well, your ratings would be much better.” A White House aid attempted to take away Acosta’s microphone, however, unsuccessful, when Acosta responded, saying, “Pardon me, ma’am.” Trump continued to make Acosta to back down. “CNN should be ashamed of itself for having you work for them. You are a rude terrible person.” Hours later, CNN announced the White House had taken away Jim Acosta’s press credentials, “In retaliation for his challenging questions” at the press conference November 7. However, White House Press Secretary Sarah Sanders said he had lost his hard pass after “placing his hands on a White House Aid,” which Acosta later Tweeted out was a lie. “It seems pretty ridiculous Acosta got his press pass revoked. He was only exercising his First Amendment right to freedom of speech and of the press, which would allow him to accurately report Trump’s opinion on the migrant caravan at the press conference,” junior Cerah Handsaker said. Photo atriclebio.com, edited by Kinsley Ochsner
The First Amendment says that Congress shall make no law abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press. “Trump has made it clear he does not respect a free press, but it is necessary to maintaining a well-flowing democracy,” Handsaker said. On the contrary, some believe the White House made a good decision suspending Jim Acosta’s press pass and
“Trump has made it clear he does not respect a free press, but it is necessary to maintaining a well-flowing democracy” Cerah Handsaker ability to report directly on-site with the president. “The White House response was appropriate because of Jim Acosta’s reactions on Twitter and his comments indirectly targeted to Trump. They weren’t professional or appropriate, and I believe he had it coming for him,” junior Jack Benedict said. Other students, including sophomore Ian Collins, have seen not only Acosta’s encounter with Trump, but how much controversial issues like these, cause major government influence to the media, vice versa. “Recent months have really stretched how far the media influences the government, and how much the government influences the media.
It’s scary to look at how much this can influence the public. The media should be a third-party source, commenting on major issues, where we can look to for our news,” Collins said. Since the suspension of Acosta’s press pass, a federal court judge ruled that he could keep his White House credentials. Judge Timothy J. Kelly said the arguments submitted to court didn’t mention a reason being Acosta placing his hands on the aid, and he did not find the First Amendment violated.
06 NEWS FRAKES, STAFF RECEIVE NATIONAL HONOR Story Kinsley Ochsner
F
Softball coaches Hanna Mason, Rita Frakes, and Patrick Huddleston were awarded the National Coaching Staff of the year by National Fastpitch Coaches Association. Courtesy photo.
Go
Jaguars
!!!!!
ollowing their 2018 State Championship title, head softball coach Rita Frakes and assistant coaches Patrick Huddleston, Hanna Mason, Karly Smith and Fred Martin were awarded the 2018 NFCA National Coaching Staff of the Year. “To get this award, for it to recognize my staff, I would give away all of my Coach of the Year awards,” Frakes said. Without the help from her coaching staff, this award would not have been possible. “I couldn’t have gotten through it without my coaches this year, or any year, but this year especially because I couldn’t help as much; they had their load plus more,” Frakes said. Frakes attributes herself to choosing a strong team of coaches.
“They always say it takes a villiage,” Frakes said. “If there’s one thing I did really well that I’ll brag on is that I picked a great staff. I picked good coaches to work in our program, and not to mention I picked a great school district to teach for and coach for. For that, I will be forever grateful.”
MAKE STATEMENTS WITH ‘BODY MODS’
07 PROFILE
Tattoos, piercings provide permanent means of self-expression Story, page design Alexandra Schumann
“I get very nervous and I don’t like to do a lot of things. [My tattoo] is a reminder to be brave and to just be fearless,” Alyssa Kubick, senior
B
ody modifications are not a new concept. Tattoos, in particular, have been around for over 5,000 years. Whether it be for religious, independence, or personal reasons, “body mods” have become a widely accepted means of expression. “I like the look of tattoos and the freedom that comes with getting them. I have always wanted to get one that represents something that I am or something that I have experienced,” senior Keenan Randolph said. Getting inked in high school is most common among seniors due to the age requirement of 18 years old. However, many parlors accept parental consent for tattooing minors. “I got my tattoo when I was 16 and I got it at Elektrik Chair. When my family was traveling, my dad made a joke saying I could get one, and I just held him to it,” senior Amaya Harris said. Piercings are also available at tattoo parlors and are more accessible for younger audiences. “I got my cartilage pierced about two years ago. It hurt a little bit, but it wasn’t as bad as I expected. Everything was kept sterile and clean,” junior Liz Snyder said. One of the aspects that make tattoos appealing is the ability to add on and plan for future pieces of art. “I’ve had plans from my pec all the way down my arm since seventh grade. I started it summer of sophomore year with the chest piece. Originally where I’m from in Hawaii the older you get and more mature you get [getting tattoos] is like a right of passage. After college, I’m probably going to go down to my wrist. Later in life, go from the other side down, work on ribs, and then my back,” senior Patrick Skinner said. Body art can be used to represent values and reminders. The “be brave” phrase on the wrist of Alyssa Kubick, senior, serves as constant motivation. “ I get very nervous and I don’t like to do a lot of things. [My tattoo} is a reminder to be brave and to just be fearless,” Kubick said.
“I think that the Yin Yang is the good and bad. You should always look at the little bit of light even though the dark can be so consuming. Even though there’s lightness in your life, there could be darkness in someone else’s life.” Amaya Harris, senior
Common Ear Piercings
Forward Helix
Flat Rook
Industrial
Snug
Helix (Cartilage)
Daith Tragus Conch Anti-Tragus
Lobe
Transverse lobe
Graphic Alexandra Schumann Photos Megan Weisser
The middle [of the chest] is of the Filipino sun and stars. That’s for my grandma because she’s full Filipino and I’m a quarter. It’s a mixture of Hawaiian and Filipino because I’m Filipino but I grew up in Hawaii, so it’s a mix of cultures.” Patrick Skinner, senior
08 FEATURE
FALL MUSICAL ENSUES
Theatre department performs classic “Annie” Story, page design Ashley Zellers
E
veryone loves Annie,” sophomore Leah Sickman said, as all areas of the student body from the standard audience member, the pit, the crew, and cast, voiced their enjoyment of the classic show. “I thought Annie was beautifully done, in a sense that, I felt like more effort was applied than in the past with the musical numbers and the sets. One of the leads, Ian Collins, shaved his head for a role. That is dedication right there. Overall
I was very pleased with the show,” junior Kate Cailteux said. Dedication is a critical element in the makings of a good show, and Annie’s cast and crew did not fall short. “I think the show went really well, I think everyone put a lot of work into it. They were energetic, and had a fun time with it. I think the school liked it because of how recognizable it is. Leah Sickman said, Stage Manager for the show. Behind the charisma of a performace, a hidden necessity for all musicals is undoubtedly the pit. They persevered through the difficult music.
1. Alexandra Schumann, senior, as Grace, performs “NYC” with sophomore Josie Brooks as “Annie”. This scene introduces Annie to the parts of the New York she has never seen before. Josie expresses her suprise with a huge smile, and amazemement at the new experience. 2. In the opening scene, Josie Brooks, sophomore, as Annie, comforts her fellow orphan, Whitney Wineland, freshman, as Molly. Annie behaves motherly to the girls in the orphanage, as Hannigan is cruel and cold. 3. “You’re never fully dressed without a smile”, and Alexandra Schuman, senior, as Grace, was never without a smile. Singing “I Think I’m Gonna Like it
2
3
“I think Annie went really well this year. The cast came together and made a great show. The audience that saw it really enjoyed it. My favorite part about it was probably just getting to see everyone out there giving it their all,” sophomore pit member Daniel Steck said. Annie ran a total of five performances, including a matinee for the middle school and a seperate show for the high school students. Each evening the crowd was full with alumni, family, and students, all coming together to enjoy the show.
Here,” with Ashley Zellers, junior, as Mrs. Greer, and Ani Rodriguez, freshman, as Cecille. Schumann performs this exciting number, welcoming Annie into the Warbucks household. 4. Allison Uhlenhop, senior, as Ms. Hannigan, head of the orphange, sings “Little Girls”, a song about her distaste for her posistion, surrounded by children all day, wishing for love and a more extravagent life. 5. Erica Bush and Ian Dewitt, seniors, as Lily and Rooster, enter the orphanage to pay Rooster’s sister Hannigan a visit. This scene introduces Rooster and Hannigans similar wishes, leading to the attempt to take Annie for Warbuck’s money.
4
1
09 FEATURE 6
7
8
5 9
6. Allison Uhlenhop, senior, as Hannigan, yells at Josie Brooks, sophomore, as Annie, for her attempt to leave the orphanage. 7. Emily Wagner, Owen Spurlock, Tori Carter, sophomores, and Libby Engle, freshman, as members of the Hooverville ensemble, sing the song “Hooverville”, about their dismay with the economic situation in America. 8. Josie Brooks, Brooke Weiss, Daija Wilson, Rose Cook, sophomores, Whitney Wineland, freshman, and Ruby Maderafont, junior, as orphans. sing “Hard Knock Life” 9. Alexandra Schumann, senior, as Grace, acts as, Ian Collins, sophomore, as Warbucks, secretary. Warbucks was on the hunt for Annies parents, making endless phone calls. Photos by Megan Weiser.
10 FEATURE
Spain Spain has a completely different take on the holiday season. For Christmas, Spaniards celebrate the three kings more prominently than the actual day of Christmas. “We mainly celebrate the Day of Three Kings the 6th of January. We also celebrate Christmas with family, but we don’t have presents on Christmas we receive them on the 6th, but it’s the three kings that bring out presents rather than Santa,” exchange student Blanca Le Monnier said.
Brazil In places like Brazil, the holiday season is not as commercialized as the American season. “Americans are way more into Christmas than we are in Brazil. The decorations are amazing, but it’s much more intense and involved than my typical Christmas back home,” exchange student Maria Silva said.
Switzerland
Germany
Australia
Like sophomores Leah Sickman and Matthew Everhart, many students experience two separate holidays in December. “My mom grew up Catholic and my dad grew up Jewish, so we have a combination of traditions in holidays in my house which is pretty cool. Some things that are a part of Hanukkah include latkes, jelly-donuts, and lighting the menorah of course,” Sickman said. Everhart celebrates what he calls a Hebrew Christmas which is a mix of Hanukkah and Christmas traditions. “One of my favorite traditions of Hanukkah is when we hide a cracker and the first one to find it gets money. Since I'm not completely Jewish we had a Hebrew Christmas last year, everything was blue and white on our Christmas tree, but we didn't do the same Hanukkah traditions,” Everhart said.
Israel (Jewish Americans)
Although Germany and Switzerland are both a part of Europe, the holiday season contrasts within the countries. “Everything in Germany is the exact same with Christmas, but we celebrate on the 24th rather than the 25th,” exchange student Nick Eggenspurger said.
Coming from Europe, Lea Humbel experiences the American Christmas traditions 17 days apart rather than in the span of two days. “In Switzerland, on the 6th of December, Santa Claus comes but we still celebrate Christmas on Christmas Eve. Even though the name ‘Santa’ is popular in America, we typically call him ‘Saint Niklaus’,” Humbel said.
Many countries celebrate the classic Christmas the same way Americans do only in a different atmosphere. Weather conditions do not allow the fantasy of a “white Christmas”. “Christmas in Australia is completely the same, we have the same traditions, but it’s blazing hot because the seasons are opposite from America so the feeling of Christmas is extremely different,” sophomore Jack Bell said.
Stories Ally Harris, page design Kinsley Ochsner, photos Grant Davis
11 ADS
Visit our NEW LOCATION at Central and Greenwich
We can fix your Prom blues!
12 CENTER SPREAD
HIGH SCHOOL: EXTREME OVERLOAD
Stress, sleep deprivation, and homework can damage mental health in teens Story, page design Gracie Pool
B
y the end of the semester, high school students are completely exhausted. Between the length of the semester, many individuals feel as if they are spread way too thin. School and homework are enough to cause stress, but throw in jobs, activities and athletics, and a healthy social life; the balancing act suddenly becomes unbearable. “I think a lot of us are pressured by our families to have a job, pressured by the school to be involved in activities and sports, and pressured by our friends to go out a lot. Yet we have work, practice, homework, or group meetings that take up all of our time,” senior Jessica Gulaskey said, “In my experience, planning out days of the week or each activity works well. I work about 3 days a week, stay home for
homework 2-3 days, and spend the rest of my time out with my friends.” Student athletes struggle with balancing practices, games or meets, and homework. Sometimes these meets or games fall during the school day, causing students to miss certain classes or important schoolwork. “During the fall, I’m playing tennis, and with that I miss a lot of school. So I have normal homework and the makeup homework to do, at least twice a week. Although when I’m not in tennis, I put a lot more pressure on myself to get good grades and be the best I can be” senior Samara Haenggi said. The amount of different activities and obligations high school-aged students face have grown in recent years. Society claims that students have to be well-rounded and involved in a variety of different activities to be successful. “I’m either always working or playing
soccer and I rarely have time to do loads of homework for all my different classes,” senior Alyssa Kubick said. Upperclassmen also have to face either online or at Butler Community College, which requires even more focus and time in an already busy schedule. “Between my work schedule, pep band schedule, and homework in classes here and at Butler, it’s very overwhelming,” senior Madison Marcellus said. By the end of the semester, students are sick and tired of the same routine everyday. Final exams and projects can add even more stress, considering these may contain all the information learned throughout the semester. Adding finals in to the mix with already busy schedules makes for a very frantic holiday season.
OVERWHELMED, OVERSTIMULATED, AND STRESSED OUT “I put a lot of pressure on myself to get good grades and be the best I can be.” Samara Haenggi, senior
13 CENTER SPREAD
1
2
3
1: Lindsey Jackson, senior, points at an item on the menu at Longhorn Steakhouse, where she works as a hostess. Jackson began working at Longhorn in November. 2: Kennedy Chodak, senior, waits to seat customers at Longhorn Steakhouse, 4 senior girls from Andover Central work at Longhorn. “I love working with my friends because I’m getting money and I get to have fun while I’m doing it,” Chodak said. 3: Kinzington Kelley, sophomore, works on an assignment in Chemistry class. Photos Grace Blackman.
STUDENTS SURVIVE SCHOOL STRESS THROUGH STUDYING, EXERCISE, ARTISTIC EXPRESSION
S
tress, in life, is simply inevitable. Whether it be as a high school or college student, worried and anxious over exams or assignments, or as a professional, constantly nervous about a performance at work, stress is bound to occur. Stress can either cripple or motivate individuals, depending on how they handle it. Learning how to cope with stress is an important factor to encourage and set up students for success later in life. Whether you thrive in chaos or need some time to relax, learning how to cope with stress in a way that works for you is essential. Taking care of yourself physically and emotionally is genuinely the cure all for most individuals. Eating healthy, taking a break, and exercising are the best ways to cope with stress. “To take a break I sew on my sewing machine or watch Netflix for a little me time,” senior Kodi Stockstill said. Foods with health benefits make you feel better physically as well as improve mental health. Although exercising may seem like the last thing you want to do when you feel stressed or overwhelmed,
endorphins and simply moving around can significantly improve your mood. Taking your dog for a walk, going to the gym, or even getting up off the couch or from a desk are the best ways to cope with stress and feel better. “To cope with stress I try my hardest not to procrastinate and to study a little bit each night to ensure I get good grades,” senior Samara Haenggi said. For those who are more creative and artistic, an excellent way to cope with stress is simply creating something. Many find refuge in artistic aspects, whether it be drawing, painting, or even writing. Some students find refuge through musical expression. “To cope with stress I listen to music and that helps me take my mind off of things,” senior Alyssa Kubick said. Stress truly never really goes away. Each stage of life comes with new varieties of stress., whether it be exams, relationships, or pressure at work, learning how to cope with stress in an individualized regimen is an important and vital part of staying sane as a busy human being.
HOW DO YOU COPE WITH STRESS? EXERCISE
27% ARTISTIC EXPRESSION
3% LISTENING TO MUSIC
46%
OTHER: 24% *95 STUDENTS POLLED
14 FEATURE Starbucks
ZAN’S COFFEE ROAST Downtown café provides best overall brew, seasonal drinks
Drip: Sumatra blend The first sip is the most important part of this coffee. With cedar and “woodsy” notes, it posed the possibility of becoming too harsh. Sumatra is one of my favorites and is an intensely dark roast originating in Indonesia, and this blend had a very earthy flavor. I was able to sip smoothly without getting bitten at the end (this is a common problem I find with house coffee) The components came together to provide a pleasant experience. Seasonal: Gingerbread Latte with Almond Milk I don’t have much to say about this drink. There was a strong flavor of ginger root in the latte, but not much else. The only other thing I could taste was the overpowering sweetness of the beverage. I usually stay away from Starbucks unless for black coffee, and I will be continuing to do so.
Reverie
O
ut of all the loves a person can have, my strongest love lies in coffee. It has never let me down. Some would say I’m a bit of an addict, as I will consume anywhere from three to six cups of black coffee a day without even questioning it. I could spend hours in the coffee aisle at Sprouts analyzing the different roasts and aromas of the bean. Over the past month, I got the chance to try out four local coffee shops’ brews. With the Holidays approaching, businesses aim to spread cheer with certain blends and brews of the caffeinated concoction. At each place, I reviewed a house black coffee, and I also tried out a holiday drink.
Churn & Burn Drip: Black Magic This coffee was just a basic breakfast blend with a darker roast. There was a slight bitterness to the coffee, but it had a pleasant strength that made finishing it quite easy. Seasonal: Pumpkin Pie Latte with Soy Milk This seasonal drink had a nice amount of foam, but the pumpkin was very overpowering. I appreciated the use of actual pumpkin puree, but it ended up tasting like what I assume pumpkin juice from Harry Potter would taste like. Maybe I’m not so much of a latte fan, but I really wished there was some coffee in this one.
Stories Alexandra Schumann, page design Kinsley Ochsner
Drip: Pope’s Choice Drip I was quite disappointed in this drip coffee. There were attempts of notes of citrus and a lighter roast bean, but the batch was extremely over-roasted. This left a “bite” on the sides of my tongue, and it was quite unpleasant. Seasonal: Raspberry Peppermint Mocha with Soy Milk Wow. Now this is a holiday coffee. The peppermint flavor was strong, but the mellow raspberry undertones balanced out the flavor in order to compliment the delicious mocha present. There was a nice amount of froth at the top, and it was sweetened perfectly. I had to be careful not to chug this decadent drink.
Rusted Rooster Drip: Dark Mojo I was feeling incredibly sluggish when I walked into the Rusted Rooster, so I was looking forward to some caffeine. Sadly, the roast of the coffee was extremely weak and watered down. I was expecting a darker coffee, and those flavors would have prevailed if less water was used. Seasonal: Christmas Classic with Soy Milk The Christmas Classic is a dark chocolate mocha with peppermint syrup, espresso, and steamed milk. It tasted like a candy cane on the first sip, and the mocha was mild along with the peppermint. It was quite sweet, but it was not overpowering the drink. For a local joint, their holiday flavor was very pleasant.
15 ADS
GO JAGS!
316-265-4634 garagedoorswichita.com
16 STAFF EDITORIAL
Oops,
www.usd385.org is not available because it is categorized as annoying.
FACING WEB-ACCESS ISSUE
District blocks websites necessary for learning Story, page design Jillian Primm
T
he recent boost of Chromebook technology to classrooms added positive features to the average class experience, but also brought along unexpected challenges to a heavily webbased education. Lightspeed systems is a company that sells content-control software, mobile device management, and device monitoring solutions for K-12 schools. For USD 385, it is the company that manages high school personal Chromebooks. Although necessary for managing and maintaining safe browsing on the internet, website blockages cause a significant inconvenience in and out of the classroom. Many times research websites and teacher-given assignments are blocked due to being categorized as mature or unknown due to content found by Lightspeed’s onsite Rocket appliance. Internet features, like the ability to watch any video, are also inconviniently blocked on Chromebooks. The company’s web filter blocks access to “inappropriate” material on the Internet based on its extensive, education-specific URL database with more than one billion
entries, as well as the buyer’s custom allow and block lists. Any new website, picture, or video, not previously examined, is searched instantly by the Rocket appliance hosted in the cloud. However, “inappropriate” material can difficult to define because Lightspeed has content automatically blocked in line with CIPA (Children’s Online Protection Act). For example, Lightspeed cannot be accessed by students “because of the search term used.” Therefore, students have no idea what websites are blocked prior to searching for them. Many college scholarship applications are not available “because they are categorized as advertising.” The internet has billions of websites, photos, and videos, which are classified “unkown” if they cannot be instantly searched by the Rocket appliance, although they most likely are not “innapropriate.” These web-blocking features cause inconveniences in situations that should be simple. Student’s safety is important, but extensive website blockings have made learning and searching the web unnessesarily difficult for students in and out of the classroom.
SPOTLIGHT STAFF POLL Have chromebook website blockings been extensively used, causing inconvenience in and out of the classroom?
YES: 17 NO: 0 *17 Spotlight Staff Members Polled
The Andover Central Spotlight is the official student newspaper of Andover Central High School and makes an effort to supply readers with unbiased stories and accurate detail. The Spotlight is a forum for student expression and not subject to prior review in accordance with the Kansas Student Publications Act. The staff is comprised of Andover Central High School newspaper students. Views expressed do not necessarily reflect upon the views of the faculty, students or community as a whole. Letters to the editor are appreciated. Please note that letters and messages are subject to editing for clarity or brevity. The editorial board reserves the right to reject a letter that is perceived as inappropriate.
17 PRO/CON
MOVIE REMAKES SPLIT OPINIONATED AUDIENCE Con
I
Story Ashley Zellers
t’s no secret Hollywood has remake fever. Modern day movie makers, eager to please the public, have had a major increase in the production of movie sequels and remakes. People of all ages gravitate towards the new movies. They are nostalgic of older generations and a glimpse of the past for the young. This new breed of film is taking over the theatres and replacing what could be new classic films with recycled ideas. More and more film remakes are being announced every day, which leads many to wonder whether Hollywood has become creatively bankrupt. Rather than green-lighting some genuinely original films, they continue to reach into the past to commission various re-imaginings, reboots and remakes. Call them what one may, but these films are just attempts to make a quick buck while exercising as little effort as possible. It is easier to take the plot of an old film, fill it with whichever stars are hot right now, and release it again. Charlie Jane Anders, from Gizmodo news website, said “It’s tremendously important to nourish the feedback loop between popular imagination and technical innovation—but we can’t keep shuffling the same ideas back and forth over the transom.... Right now, almost everyone is working from the same conceptual playbook.” “The fact that we are all so steeped in the same shorthand of the future (intelligent robots; warp drive; retinal displays) is a hint that we’ve become complacent about our dreams. The stories we tell about the near future have become homogeneous and standardized,” Anders said. Anders introduces a significant flaw within the movie industry and its effect on our society. Individuals are being presented with the same fantasies, ideas, and plots that have always been depicted. This not only damage the draw towards film, but also humanity’s hope and imagination as a whole. Movies are a beautiful way to inspire, distract, and stimulate one’s self, but the lack of fresh concepts will no doubt be consequential.
Pro
W
Story Tori Carter
hen a movie remake is announced there is always general distaste. People always associate remakes with movies such as The Wicker Man (2006) with Nicolas Cage, a complete disaster of a remake. The common thought is that movie remakes, one way or another, always end up getting lower ratings from audiences. This way of thinking is ignoring the other aspects of movies. Remakes can be a great way to redo the original movie with better technology than when the movie was first made. Nosferatu (1929) was an iconic black and white vampire movie. The movie was highly praised by audiences and has an approximate 97% on Rotten Tomatoes. It was remade in 1976 in color with the title Nosferatu the Vampyre. The movie was also a great success and has a 94% on Rotten Tomatoes. Original beloved stories and movies can be tributed by remaking them. How the Grinch Stole Christmas! (1966), the animated short film, was a classic Dr. Seuss story with a rare 100% Rotten Tomatoes score. This cherished movie was remade in 2000 with Jim Carrey as the Grinch and added a humorous twist to the movie. The remake was a great way to remind audiences of the highly respected original and create a good movie. Some may claim that bad remakes do no good to anyone and cause only harm. Movies, such as Total Recall (2012) and Clash of the Titans (2010), are said to just be a spat at the original movie. These two movies were very good for the box office and both made more than their budgets. Clash of the Titans (2010) even almost four times its budget. However, both movies were claimed to be a bust. These movies may have made a large profit, but it’s more than just the money. It gives viewers a strong appreciation for the original movie. It may even cause them to appreciate the art and technological restrictions of the time of the original. Overall, remakes can give us a lot of appreciation for the original movies and can be a nice movie as well. Remakes can emphasize the greatness of the original movie. They also can recreate the movie with better technology. Page design Ally Harris
18 ADS
19 SCOREBOARD
SEASON OPENERS Winter sports results Page design Ally Harris, Ryan Austin
BOYS BASKETBALL 11/30 @ Maize South (W) 72-62 12/4 @ McPherson (W) 62-51 12/7 vs Andover (W) 81-59 12/11 vs Goddard (W) 61-26
3
Left: In the first game of the season, Xavier Bell, junior, jumps over defenders to score. Bell scored 19 points, had 3 assists, and 5 rebounds. The following week he scored 31 points against McPherson. Photo Keenan Randolph Below: In a match against Augusta, Monty Christo III wraps up an opponent for a win. Two days later, Varsity traveled to Valley Center in a tournament against 11 other schools. Photo Malia Flores
BOYS SWIMMING 11/29 @ Newton 12/1 @ Northwest YMCA 12/7 @ El Dorado 12/11 @ Hutchinson
W R E S T L I N G 11/29 @ Augusta 12/1 @ Valley Center 12/8 @ Douglass 12/13 vs Eisenhower
GIRLS BASKETBALL 11/30 @ Maize South (L) 31-57 12/4 @ McPherson (L) 29-47 12/7 vs Andover (W) 57-43 12/11 vs Goddard (L) 32-57
In Newton, Peter Domico, freshman, prepares for back stroke in first leg of medley relay. The relay team placed first in the race and ended up taking first place at the meet. Photo Grant Davis
20 SPORTS FEATURE
1
NEW BASEBALL TEAM, STADIUM COMING TO WICHITA BY 2020
Mayor, developer comment on future of Delano Story Jackson Ward, Ryan Austin Page design Ryan Austin Renderings courtesy City of Wichita
T
he city of Wichita has not had a main attraction which utilizes the city’s best natural resource, the Arkansas river, for years. With the development of the new Riverfront Village, new stadium in downtown Wichita, and MLB affiliate triple-a baseball team, that could change. Wichita mayor Jeff Longwell confirmed at a press event on September 6 that the Miami Marlins affiliate team the New Orleans Babycakes will move to Wichita by 2020. The team will occupy a new stadium, at a cost of $81 million, along the Arkansas River on which construction is beginning soon. George Laham is the President of Laham Developments, the company responsible for the new Riverfront Village
near the baseball stadium. Laham and Wichita Mayor Jeff Longwell spoke with Spotlight sports staff regarding the new team, stadium, and developments near Delano along the river. “About 5 years ago we were going through process of looking ahead and seeing what would happen at Century II convention center, as well as across the river and there was some talk about bringing triple-a baseball to Wichita,” Laham said. Laham hopes to have concepts within the new development that will bring in many age groups to create a sense of community. “We hope to construct buildings that will attract high quality tenants that mix together well, likely a variety of restaurants, entertainment, and shops,” Laham said. Laham went on to explain that the project is bound to be a big undertaking
for those involved. “This is a very large project, probably one of the most transforming projects we have done,” Laham said. “ Really what we’re doing is going to create a true city center on the river and that’s something that our city hasn’t had for many years in downtown.” Wichitans can look forward to tenants that will offer many options for the city’s residents. “On the first level we really want to create restaurants, as well as entertainment,” Laham said. “We will have some retail down there, and then likely the upper levels would include something like a boutique hotel, and we also like to see some condominiums and additional apartments, and finally some office space on the top level with a view of the street promenade.” Laham expects the new development to attract visitors, as well as potential new
21 SPORTS FEATURE residents. “Well I do [expect the development to attract potential residents.] If you look at some of the other things that we’ve been involved in such as Bradley Fair, Regency Lakes, Cabela’s, and Plazzio at 13th and Greenwich; if you’re a Koch executive looking at moving to Wichita or you are a doctor looking at doing your residency here and you have a choice of going to Dallas, Denver, Houston, or Kansas City and you want to move somewhere where there’s a great lifestyle, the new stadium and Riverfront Village can work towards attracting residents in a similar way,” Laham said. The new stadium may include more than just baseball, as concerts and other events are likely to take place there. “We hope that in the future you will be able to spend the whole day enjoying Delano, which could include concerts or other activities in the new ballpark,” Laham said. “We want to really help enhance Delano so that way again there’s something there for everybody.” The developments may help bolster
1
events at Intrust Bank Arena as well. “If we can create more energy downtown that can bring in bigger attractions and performers,” Laham said. “You could shop and eat in the Riverfront Village and take the new Q-Line to Intrust Arena for a big event or concert.” Longwell provided specifics on the new stadium. “The new team owners plan on holding over 200 community events and the goal is to have over one million people come through the gates for one of those events. That translates into millions of dollars in economic impact to Wichita,” Longwell said. City residents were concerned about the tax impact of the construction as well. Longwell explained what funding would be used to pay for the new developments. “Star Bonds,” (state issued funding for local improvements), “along with a CID tax,” (Community Improvement District, I.E. increased sales tax in the Delano District), “pays for the majority of the stadium,” Longwell said. The New Orleans team negotiated with
the city over many months to plan the move. “The process was deeply involved and took many months of work,” Mayor Longwell said. “The new team, stadium, attractions, and entire development will continue us down a path to being an ‘opportunity capital’ of the country,” Longwell said. In addition to the new baseball team and stadium in Wichita, another group recently announced plans to open a semi-professional basketball franchise in Wichita. Local businessman Mark Creed announced in October that he was planning a basketball franchise under the name “Wichita Wizards”. The team will compete in the MLBA, (Minor League Basketball Association), and will play against teams from across the Midwest including Dallas-Fort Worth, Tulsa, Oklahoma City, Houston, and others. Wichita area sports fans are excited to see how the new additions to the Wichita sports arena will pan out.
3
2
4
LEFT PAGE: 1: The first rendering from the City of Wichita shows Douglas on the right, the new riverfront village, a walkway along the river, a new pedestrian bridge concept, as well as the new stadium. RIGHT PAGE: 2: The second rendering provides a close up view of the north entrance of the planned riverfront village, with Douglas in the foreground, and the planned shops and entertainment in the background. 3: The third CGI rendering shows the center of the new planned development, with outdoor community areas just east of or on what is currently McLean Boulevard; the exact location is to be determined. 4: The final rendering from the city shows the south end of the planned development. This is the planned location of the other entrance to the development, closest to the stadium. Plans for the stadium include outfield left and outfield right seating with easy access to the Riverfront Village.
22 PLAYER PROFILE
BIG MAN
Wrestler strikes fear into opponents
Story Jackson Ward Page design Kyle Kohman Photo Malia Flores
F
or the last four years, the football and wrestling teams have held the intimidating presence of Patrick Skinner, senior. Skinner is a huge force on the offensive and defensive line and a monster on the mat. Skinner describes his mentality on the mat as tough and reckless. “I like to work, I like to be the best in the room pretty much at all times, it’s just that I like the feeling of exhaustion,” Skinner said. In football things can tend to be easier for him because
“I like to work, I like to be the best in the room pretty much at all times, it’s just that I like the feeling of exhaustion”
“They [opponents] are terrifed when they see me. I know that. I have had a couple people tell me how scary I looked”
Patrick Skinner of his size. In wrestling, opponents can be just as big as him. “Football is a lot more relaxed for me because I’m just a lot stronger than everybody else. In wrestling, I know I have to work techniques so it’s attention to detail because people are just as big as me,” Skinner said. While both sports can be a big challenge, wrestling is known to be tougher on a players body and lifestyle. Having to lose extreme amounts of weight in a short period of time can be very challenging. “The worst part about wrestling is definitely the conditioning, bear crawls, and crab walks. Just ridiculous stuff. The most weight I’ve ever lost in one practice was 17 pounds,” Skinner said. Practice always reflects on performance in competiion. Skinner always makes sure to push his limits. “I like to use as much force and strength as
possible, so my arms and my legs are all conditioned to keep me ready to wrestle,” Skinner said. Getting focused before matches helps Skinner perform his best. Pregame is vital to his performance. “I don’t really listen to music like most people do. I just sit down and get in the zone, relax. As soon as I start wrestling I’m in it,” Skinner said. With a very bold presence and a large tattoo on his shoulder to his chest, Skinner can be very compelling. “They [opponents] are terrified when they see me,” Skinner said, “I know that.” Skinner also has lost one of his front teeth, which he says helps with presence, “Definitely helps with intimidation. I have had a couple people come up to me
Patrick Skinner
SKINNER STATS 1. Wrestles at 285 lbs 2. Wrestled for 6 years 3. 6 feet tall
and tell me how scary I looked. They just think I’m intimidating,” Skinner said. While Skinner is frightening to almost everyone, there is only one who matches up to him. “A guy from Valley Center, his name is Tony Caldwell. He is the only kid that beat me in 8th grade. He would just throw me around,” Skinner said. Skinner has big plans for his senior year, but is still recovering from a knee injury. “If I can get my knee better, then State is the plan,” Skinner said. Unfortunately, right before publication Skinner found out he had a torn meniscus and is likely out for the remainder of the wrestling season. He still plans to play football in college.
23 SPORTS FEATURE
CENTRAL CLAIMS BRAGGING RIGHTS
Jags outscore Trojans in both varsity girls, boys games Story Jackson Ward, Kyle Kohman Page design Kyle Kohman
R
ivalry games are always high points in a sports season. Both players and students expected a game of last year's caliber as both teams hit the court. With both the Trojans and the Jags taking a win in last year's games, the rivalry has never been stronger. Junior point guard Xavier Bell hoped to keep himself under check during the game. “I try to do everything normal, not let my emotions get the best of me and start doing things I wouldn’t usually do,” Bell said. With the game being a rivalry, the team hoped to come out strong and shut the Trojans down early, playing off the hype and energy in the gym at tipoff. “I think we need to come out and play aggressive and not be nervous,” senior guard Braden Belt, said, “you definitely have a little more adrenaline going because it's a rivalry.” The team prepared for Andover the same as any other
game. “To the coaches it's the exact same thing. I know to the players and the students they kind of make this game out to be a bigger thing, but as far as what we're doing it's no bigger than if were playing Eisenhower,” head boys basketball coach Jesse Herrmann said, “We do know usually that emotions run a little high in this game so we prepare for that, but for basketball the way we prepare there's no difference.” The boys team defeated the Trojans 81-59. The first quarter was close with it ending in a score of 20-17, the Jags leading. Things then began to spread out with quick possessions and the half ending 43-31. Coming into the third quarter with a comfortable lead has been something the Jags had not yet experienced this season. The team was on good pace for a blowout. Scoring held a large impact on the game with four players scoring in double-digits. The girls bested the Trojans 57-43 and got the first win of
In the game against rival team Andover, Brittany Harshaw, freshman, drives toward the basket past a Trojan defender. Photo Keenan Randolph
the season. The girls team held the edge early in the game with the end of the first quarter ending 19-10. At the end of the half score was 35-25. The girls had to maintain pace in order to finish with a
Game Results vs Andover
00:00 HOME
81
QTR
4
Boys
win. Bailey Wilborn, sophomore point guard's 26 points and five 3 pointers helped push the girls to a win. The games were close in the past with wins going back and forth, this year that was not the case .
00:00 GUEST
59
HOME
57
QTR
4
Girls
GUEST
43
24 CALENDAR
DECEMBER/JANUARY EVENTS 18
5
8 11 5
December 17-30
December 31-January 6 January 7-13
17: Spotlight December Release
1: New Year’s Day
7: BOE Meeting
18: Girls, Boys’ Basketball vs Arkansas City 2nd, 6th Hour Finals
2: Professional Learning Day
8: Boys’ Varsity Swimming @ Hutchinson
3: Kansas Thespian Conference Boys’ Varsity Swimming @ Newton HS
10: Boys’ Varsity Swimming @ Salina South JV/Varsity Wrestling @ Goddard HS
4: Kansas Thespian Conference
11: State Debate Tournament Varsity Wrestling @ Newton HS Winter Homecoming Pep Assembly
19: 1st, 4th, 5th Hour Finals 20: 3rd, 7th Hour Finals Varsity/JV Wrestling vs Valley Center 1:00PM Student Release 21: Winter Break (thru January 2) First Day of Winter Morning Flex Work Day
5: Kansas Thespian Conference Band All-State Auditions @ Salina Lakewood MS Boys’ Varsity Wresting @ Augusta HS
12: State Debate Tournament Girls, Boys’ Basketball vs Valley Center Winter Homecoming Dance
18: Xavier Bell, junior, jumps to shoot at the basketball game at Salina. Photo Keenan Randolph 5 (top): Emmett Rech, junior, plays percussion at the band holiday concert. Photo Megan Weisser 5 (bottom): Gaven Carnahan, freshman wrestles his opponent at Augusta. Photo Malia Flores 8: Shane Chandler, freshman, swims at the Northwest YMCA Invitational Meet. Photo Travis Moxley 11: Nick Krueger, senior, plays tug of war at the black light pep assembly. Photo Kaylen Johnson Page design Jillian Primm