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NEWS 4 The debate over increasing cell phone usage heats up as new research is released involving a possible connection between radiation and health problems.
OPINIONS 8 New school year and tough decisions create desire for Global Positioning System to give life directions.
FEATURE 10 Increase in technology use contributes to decline in modern language and emergence of slang.
photo by andrea munevar
CAREFULLY HANDLING INSTRUMENTS, junior Sandra Vu works on a lab for her Advanced Placement Chemistry class taught by Alan Oberley. The goal of the lab was to find the empirical formula of copper oxide.
PALADIN staff CO-EDITORS IN CHIEF
rachel king, max martin
DESIGN EDITORS
kayla mitchell, laura schlapp
MANAGING EDITOR/COPY EDITOR kaitlin brennan
PHOTOGRAPHY EDITOR perry tretbar
ASST. PHOTOGRAPHY EDITOR emily baudouin
STUDENT 12 LIFE KMC Principal David Kehres answers questions about new school policies that will affect students during the 2008-2009 school year.
ADVERTISING/BUSINESS MANAGER sarah williams
NEWS EDITOR
emily adamson
OPINIONS EDITOR ali kryzer
STAFF WRITERS
sean doyle, laura elson, philip pham, danielle valliere
PHOTOGRAPHERS
marcella brooks, kendall crocombe, sean doyle, kylee gross, isabella hutton, lauren medina, andrea munevar, anna ninh, brian norris, chris poglayen, kelsey prather, lindsay smith, emily trollope, kealy tully, kylee watson, lindsey wiexelman
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FEATURES EDITOR megan gaudreau
FOCUS EDITOR gabi cleary
SPORTS EDITOR
SPORTS 16 Differing levels of sportsmanship at KMC events affects spectators, players, coaches and officials, and shapes KMC’s reputation among other schools. photo illustrations by emily baudouin and perry tretbar
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nellie schafer
ASST. NEWS EDITOR bridget jorgensen
ASST. OPINIONS EDITOR alyssa bambick
ASST. FEATURES EDITOR katie moore
ASST. FOCUS EDITOR meredith osborne
ASST. SPORTS EDITOR anna le
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cover by kayla mitchell and laura schlapp
BRINGING STUDENTS TOGETHER, school traditions span all grades and generations. paladin is a monthly newsmagazine published by students at kapaun mt. carmel catholic high school, 8506 e. central, wichita kan. 67206
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HOMETOWN: wichita, kan. EDUCATION: maize high school, wichita state university TEACHES: honors biology, chemistry HOBBIES: raquetball, photography, video editing, weight lifting
HOM auro ETOWN r EDU a, neb. : C auro ATION r univ a high s : ersit choo y nebr l, aska of TEA CHE draft S: i COA ng I-III girls CHES: golf, and boys bask asst. for girls etba ll
ROBERT ARCHIBALD
HOMETOWN: blytheville, ark. EDUCATION: derby high school, wichita state university TEACHES: essential spanish, spanish I, credit recovery HOBBIES: music, art
DAN P H
ILLIPS
LAURA PARKER
HOMETOWN: new york city, raised in syracuse, new york EDUCATION: southwestern college, emporia state university TEACHES: art I FAVORITE FOOD: anything of greek culture
STEPHEN COST
WN: n. UTTON ETO a S Y N HOM sas city, k A IFF arkan ATION: igh T C h U ED sas city gh HOMETOWN: SR. VERONICA ur an ninilchik, alaska MARIE MILLER, IHM ark ool, pittsb ty i h s sc iver EDUCATION: te un RS: a t s ninilchik high SO iad SPONce olymp school, university n scie IES: of alaska B HOB g, board fairbanks in d rea s D: TEACHES: ame ITE FOO g R old testament, , FAVO lue crabs prayer, liturgy and b md. b on the co sacraments, n r o c christian morality infographic by kayla mitchell and laura
schlapp;information gathered by alyssa bambick, laura elson, philip pham, danielle valliere
Faith plays role in principal’s return to former roots by PHILIP PHAM staff writer For new Kapaun Mt. Carmel Principal David Kehres, the third time may prove to be a charm. Even though his presence is new to the student body, it is the third time Kehres has been a Crusader. His first experience at KMC was as a teacher of biology, ecology, botany and physical science from 1979 to 1983. Kehres returned to KMC from 1987 to 1997 and during the last three years, he served as assistant principal. His reasons for coming to KMC have always been spiritual.
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“I grew up in Olpi, Kan. and attended a public school,” Kehres said. “Because of it, I felt as if I was missing out on the faith portion of [education]. I figure if I can help students live by the faith, I can see what I missed in high school.” After Kehres left KMC in 1997, he spent seven years as a K-12 building principal for USD 252 South Lyon County. From 20042007, Kehres was assistant principal and athletic director at Winfield High School. “I am quite honored to be here,” he said. “I feel truly blessed. It isn’t every day you are offered the job of being principal for Catholic high school.”
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Outside of school, Kehres is a selfproclaimed outdoorsman. “I enjoy nature. I grew up on a ranch raising livestock,” Kehres said. “I love outdoor photography, hunting, fishing and canoeing. I guess I just like to witness God’s creation firsthand.” Kehres feels his work will be challenging; but, through the foundation already established by students and faculty, he hopes for continued excellence in academics, athletics and spiritual endeavors. “I want to thank all students and staff,” Kehres said. “I hope to carry on all strong traditions here at Kapaun Mt. Carmel.”
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Research continues on link between extensive cell phone use and health problems EMILY ADAMSON by & BRIDGET JORGENSEN news editor & asst. news editor To some students, cell phones can take on the characteristics of a best friend. They may go everywhere their owners go, traveling in pockets, purses and backpacks. New research, however, indicates that cell phones may not be so friendly after all. According to http://www.newsinferno. com, the United States Food and Drug Administration decided in early 2008 to expand research on cell phones and the potential health hazards associated with their use, marking the beginning of increased interest in cell phone health issues across the country. The Director of the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute Dr. Ronald B. Herberman expressed concern over the possibility of increased cancer risk for frequent cell phone users, especially young children whose brains are not fully developed, according to ABC News, Oncologist Dr. Dennis Moore Jr. said
that young brains are more at risk for injury howstuffworks.com, is what makes up the from a variety of dangers, including cell radio waves that allow one’s voice to travel phones. between cell phones. Some health problems “There are some differences [between associated with this type of radiation the adult and child brain],” Moore said. exposure include cancer, brain tumors, “With children and adolescents, you have Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, growing brain tissue… your neural pathways fatigue and headaches. are becoming better defined. And for some “Is it important to emphasize that reason that we do not understand, they are there are some studies out there that are more susceptible to only preliminary,” Moore damage from things said. “In other words, no like alcohol or drugs definite conclusion has or other environmental “There are studies that show an been reached. There is toxins.” association [between cell phone some suggestion that Moore said the prolonged cell phone use use and health problems] and othmain concern with cell over many years may phones is whether or ers do not. I keep an open mind increase the risk of some not the electromagnetic and we should keep an open mind kind of cancers.” fields they produce Moore said that the are intense enough about information that comes schwannoma tumor, or to cause the health forth.” a tumor of the auditory problems associated canal, is the type of with exposure to oncologist DENNIS MOORE JR. tumor that has been most other sources of conclusively proven to be electromagnetic increased due to cell phone frequencies. use. Research is less conclusive concerning “[Studies in] countries such as Sweden other types of tumors. and Britain, and some limited studies in These studies, however, are not yet the United States, have been done, some concrete scientific fact accepted by the of which show the increased risk of certain general public. types of brain tumors, and other studies The increased necessity of cell phones show no association,” Moore said. may cause some to disregard the possible This particular form of electromagnetic health risks. radiation, according to http://www. “[A cell phone] can be bad because you
“ I don’t think cell phone use would cause health dangers unless you use your cell phone excessively.” LAURA MCGINTY senior arthead by laura schlapp
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photos by perry tretbar
could spend too much time on it, and it could affect the way you live, like if you stayed up too late and your sleeping habits got messed up,” junior Tyler Cahn said. “It could be good because it opens up communication which allows you to communicate more with friends and family, which can help you with a happier and healthier life.” With such drastic lifestyle changes on the line, senior John Bartak said the evidence that cell phones can potentially cause health risks must be much more decisive before he considers changing his typical cell phone habits. “It would take hard evidence and scientific evidence that it does cause cancer — not that it’s a very rare cancer that can be treated easily, but it’s a deadly cancer that could be caused in a high percentage of users,” Bartak said. Until more conclusive studies come out, Moore said he will consider all sides of the existing research before making a final decision about cell phone usage. “There are studies that show an association [between cell phone use and health problems] and others that do not,” Moore said. “I keep an open mind and we should keep an open mind about the information that comes forth. “And in the meantime, it is a necessary fact of day-to-day life, we all use [cell phones] and we just try to limit our time on them and we will see where the research takes us.”
NICK CATANESE junior september
infographic by kayla mitchell and laura schlapp
“Well, I don’t think it is as damaging to your brain or body as it is to social communication because people would rather text or talk on the phone than actually talk to a person face-to-face.”
“Yes, because excessive cell phone use may lead to radiation which can be very harmful to a person’s health.” PORTIA MORTON freshman news
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NEWS briefs
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Emergency food drive scheduled
Due to a shortage at Catholic Charities, there will be an all-city canned food drive at the Kapaun Mt. Carmel vs. Bishop Carroll football game on Friday, Oct. 10.
2008 Homecoming court announced
On Sept. 5, the 2008 Homecoming court was announced. The king candidates are seniors Donnie Aaron, Alexander Crownover, Brandon Esposito, Max Martin, Matt Moore and Andrew Patton. The queen candidates are seniors Emily Adamson, Christina Campagnola, Elizabeth Hastings, Ali Kr yzer, Soli Salgado and Kaitlin Wittler. The Homecoming king and queen will be announced at the football game on Sept. 19.
Seniors recognized for PSAT scores
On Sept. 10, seniors Emily Adamson, Andrew Patton, Alison Sanchez and Becca Simon were named National Merit Semi-finalists. Seniors John Bartak, Christina Burkemper, Tara Eicher, Daniel Glover, Jason Lund, Max Martin and Felicia Pettinger were named National Merit Commended Scholars. Glover was also recognized as a National Achievement Scholar. These students were recognized for their exceptional scores on the PSAT taken in October of 2007. The Semi-finalists received scores 211 and above, while Commended Scholars received scores of 200 to 210.
Jackels celebrates first all-school Mass
Bishop Michael Jackels made a surprise appearance as the main celebrant at the Aug. 28 allschool Mass. Following Mass, the Student Annual Fund Council announced that $3,878.99 had been donated by the student body during the 2007-2008 school year.
Students attend Back to School dance
On Friday, Sept. 5, the Back to School dance was held in the commons after the first football game of the year. The theme of the dance was “KMC Blue Out,� for which students were asked to wear all blue.
Freshmen elect class officers
Results for the 2008 freshmen elections were announced during the Back to School dance Sept. 5. Officers are Paul Lievens, president; Emily Elving, vice president; Melissa Hernandez, treasurer; Priscilla Pringle, secretary. Class representatives are Rachel Baldwin, Taylor Kruse, Caroline Morales, Kristin Palmer, Grace Ruane and Ellie Tolberd.
Drama department chooses fall play
The KMC drama department will be performing The Rise and Rise of Daniel Rocket by Peter Parnell. Rehearsals began on Sept. 5 and the show will run Oct. 16-19. news briefs by emily adamson and bridget jorgensen
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Remedy for decline in langauge found by looking to the past “Ask not what your country can, you know, do for you, but what you can, like, do for your country actually.” Sound familiar? One might recognize this as a portion of President John F. Kennedy’s inaugural address. Pulitzer Prize winning author David McCullough addressed Boston College graduates with these words in 2008. McCullough warned his audience of the “verbal virus” that has infected modern language. Everyday vernacular is now muddled with “like,” “you know” and “uh-huh” and has spread across the nation in music, television and literature. The use of slang has become increasingly prevalent in the younger generation. Teenagers today have no problem addressing adults by their first names, speaking to employers in the same manner they speak to their friends and blowing off parents with a curt, “whatever.” Some might argue that this evolution in language is a new generation’s way of communicating, but it cannot be ignored that slang lessens the impact of language and robs a speaker of his ability to affect an
PALADIN opinion
kate cunningham
audience. What if Kennedy had addressed the nation with such informality? His impassioned message would have been lost in his disjointed wording. The point of communication is to convey a message with clarity. Modern language seems to have forgotten this goal and, if this deterioration in language continues, the American public
might one day hear a President speak and find themselves asking, “What did he just say?” In order to move forward in language, it is best to look back. Classic literature and famous speeches offer examples of language at its best. Readers can find powerful, compelling addresses in the lines of Shakespeare or the words of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
letter from the editors:
one to see where he or she is going and determining the means of getting there. The Paladin’s first challenge for the “Back to school, back to school, to student body this year is simple – set a prove to Dad that I’m not a fool.” The goal. Big or small, make it something words of the infamous Billy Madison you can achieve before this year is over. announce the beginning of the 2008As you read this first issue and 2009 school year. Welcome back to think up a fantastic goal, send us a letter. Kapaun Mt. Carmel. Tell us about your goal for the year and The beginning how you are going of the year is a to achieve it, even time to set goals. if you just want to “Goals map out a path of the They can be simple prove to your dad things such as future, enabling one to see where you are not a fool. striving not to hit he or she is going and determining Tell us about the snooze button any questions, repeatedly, always the means of getting there” comments or eating breakfast criticisms you may in the morning or have. Write it in 150 making sure the gas needle does not dip words or less and please sign your name. below empty. If you are the ambitious Try to avoid any libelous statements due type, your goals might be a bit more to legal obligations. When you are done, extravagant, such as trying to get drop it off in Room 215 or mail it to the accepted into Stanford or finishing high address on the right. Thanks for your school with a perfect record. Either support and have a great year! way, when one sets goals, they give him or her something to strive for. Goals RACHEL KING & MAX MARTIN map out a path of the future, enabling co-editors in chief
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Of course, this is not to say that we must revert back to the speech of the Renaissance and disregard how we speak today; but it does imply a balance of old and new. Slang has its place and time, just as formality does. One must make sure that they remain mutually exclusive because language is pointless if no one can understand what is being said.
EDITORIAL policy The Paladin is a monthly, student-produced newsmagazine, published to inform and entertain the Kapaun Mt. Carmel Catholic High School community and educate journalism students. Each issue is produced with the guidance of a faculty adviser. Student staff members will be offered opportunities to inform, investigate, entertain, interpret and evaluate: all accepted functions of traditional American press. Included materials will be those of responsible journalism, including restraint by the students and adviser in matters such as libel, privacy, obscenity and copyright. The staff chooses to reflect the mission of Kapaun Mt. Carmel, a diocesan Catholic high school, to serve the interests and needs of the community and to provide fair, objective, accurate and truthful materials. Opinions do not necessarily reflect views of anyone other than the Paladin staff. Digital photos have not been altered to manipulate reality. Photo illustrations are labeled to reflect any technical alterations. Anonymity may be given in the following cases: the information is unable to be presented another way, the information warrants anonymity, the source’s privacy and/or reputation requires protection and the source must be protected from damages. A student or faculty member death during the coverage period will be covered with a short obituary. Advertising must meet the same guidelines as editorial content. Acceptance of advertising does not constitute an endorsement by the school. Students pictured in advertising must sign a release and accept no 8506 E. Central monetary compensation. Wichita, Kan. 67206 Advertising rates available Phone: (316) 634-0315, ext. 232 on request. School organization discount rates Fax: (316) 636-2437 are available. kmcjournalism@kapaun.org Corrections of errors will appear in the appropriate section of the next issue.
KAPAUN MT. CARMEL paladin
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reviews by alyssa bambick, laura elson and danielle valliere; infographic by kayla mitchell and laura schlapp; photos by perry tretbar
Muggle laments over delay of Harry Potter movie “Avada Kedavra!” To those who at war, the movie is certain to keep both have not fallen under the spell of Harry fans and wizards on the edge of their Potter, this incantation might make seats—or brooms. Though Harry Potter little sense. Dedicated fans, however, fans are accustomed to long waits, this are well aware of these seemingly supplementary change will not suffice. meaningless words. Known as the With the release of the final book last third Unforgivable Curse, this spell summer, there is nothing left to distract seems appropriate for the current enthusiasts away from this turmoil. situation, because something quite According to Warner Brothers, the unforgivable has happened in the producers of Harry Potter, the reason Harry Potter universe. for the date change is simple—money. The Harry Potter and the HalfBy having the movie released during Blood Prince movie release the summer, the producers date has been pushed back KAITLIN BRENNAN believe sales will be higher. from this November to July 17, I have difficulty accepting copy editor 2009. This movie will be the this information now that sixth installment in the Harry Harry Potter is a billion dollar Potter series. As Harry’s years at Hogwart’s franchise. begin to dwindle and with the wizard world As a devout Harry Potter follower, I
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challenge all fans to join me in the task of finding new ways to occupy our time. My first suggestion: rereading the entire series. J.K. Rowling is a master at adding plot twists and characters to the increasingly thickening novels. With all the Harry Potter facts straight in one’s head in time for the movie, one will be able to feel the satisfaction of being a well educated fan. Staying updated is my second suggestion. With news at our fingertips, it is not difficult to stay connected to any new Harry Potter information. Photos and video clips are sure to leak out before the movie, so a quick browse on the Web will leave fans satisfied. Though this November will pass by without magic, I am now counting down the days till July 17. This muggle is not ready to give up on Harry Potter just yet.
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Decisions. We confront them 2500 mile journey, Karen became too much daily. As I begin my senior year, I feel for me. Her once cordial “recalculations” my decisions are becoming more now seemed to be coming from a demonic overwhelming. Where should I apply voice. I felt as if Karen was judging my to college, should I retake my ACT and every move and would snap at me. Maybe do I really have time to go to Pita Pit in it was just the 20-hour car drive, but I began only 35 minutes? I realize, however, that to have Stephen King-like nightmares everyone at Kapaun Mt. Carmel is faced where Karen, the psychotic Aussie, took with decisions—where to sit at lunch, control of our Honda Pilot. what sports to pursue, buttoned vest When I finally got home, Karen or plain vest. was still on my mind, especially With all these decisions on in school. Karen, the “hidden my mind, I long for someone to statistician,” would whisper to tell me where to turn. In short, I me during tests. I would hear want a Global Positioning System my required questions per minute, built into my brain. Better yet, I anticipated decrease in class rank, want my own Karen. and the dreaded “recalculating” Karen, my family’s GPS, during the True/False section. accompanied us on our college As I watched freshmen turn into visit to Montana this summer. the wrong classroom, Karen’s voice Karen is an unerringly accurate continued to pop into my head: “Take Aussie; we like to say she speaks in commons exit to lobby hall, stay to your tongues. Truthfully, she just has many right where in point one mile, after a short accents and languages in her ascent, take exit G-4.” Lucky database. From 6 a.m. to 11 ALI KRYZER for them they never had to take p.m. her Australian-accented any construction detours. opinions editor voice was always cordial. Any Over time I learned to of our directional questions control my inner GPS, and now were answered in mere seconds. I think maybe we could all use a Karen. A A hidden statistician, Karen could guiding parent, teacher or friend is a great tell us our current speed, estimated time “Karen;” maybe you could even persuade of arrival and number of miles to our them to answer in foreign accents. next exit. When we made a wrong turn, A balance must be maintained Karen would spit out her favorite phrase, though. Despite how tempting it is to have “recalculating,” in her thickly accented someone to tell you what to do, our realvoice. These recalculations allowed us to life “Karen” must be turned off at times. take the path less traveled, guaranteeing Experimenting with different routes or it did not make all the difference (no even carving a new one of your own is offense to Robert Frost). more rewarding. As for my decisions of In the beginning I enjoyed our retaking my ACT and applying to colleges, upbeat device, but toward the end of the I am still “recalculating.”
Do you believe language has deteriorated in recent years?
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We have way too much slang, and we’ve lost the meaning of words that once meant different things.
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REBEKAH BALDRIDGE senior
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People don’t see education as that important, and so we have college students unable to write proper papers or speak proper English.
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DANIEL VAL junior
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Yes, because when we’re talking to people, we’ll be saying things like ‘j.k.’ or using other acronyms.
Right Up Your Ali is a monthly column
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CATHERINE GAUL sophomore
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It’s a new generation, and as people evolve, so will the language.
HENRY HUYNH freshman
information from www.iii.org, www.wikipedia.com,www.wikianswers. com; information obtained by sean doyle; infographic by laura schlapp
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ernet and text messaging contribute to evolution of language, shortened ention spans; informality found in daily speech as well as formal addresses
Megan Gaudreau feature editor
“You don’t have to burn books to destroy a re. Just get people to stop reading them.” –Ray Bradbury. While there are many things that differentiate man from other animals, language is the dominant difference. Other animals and insects can communicate, but no other animal has language. Why is it, then, that modern man is steadily degrading the main thing that separates him from the other animals? In the past, language elevated man. Books and plays
not only communicated an idea to the audience, but uplifted its spirit. Shakespeare is an example of an author whose words inspired passion and brought emotion to life for his audience. In more recent times, the short stories of Rudyard Kipling transported the reader to distant places that they would never see. His
“The writings of authors long ago reflect an entirely different society, with entirely different accepted social values and entirely different writing styles.” senior MEAGAN BRANDT works ignited adventure, courage and loyalty in the minds and imaginations of his readers. Although separated by hundreds of years and differences in culture and society, Shakespeare and Kipling shared a common medium—the written word, which allowed them to communicate with future generations. “I enjoy reading because it allows me to explore different places without actually going anywhere,” senior Meagan Brandt said. “The writings of graphic by kayla mitchell authors long ago reflect an entirely
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different society, with entirely different accepted social values and entirely different writing styles. The writings of modern authors use simpler wording and sentence structure.” Wichita State University English professor Tina Bennett agrees, saying that this current simple-style trend in modern authors is reflected in the habits of today’s students. “I find that most of my college students use the same language in speaking and writing even when it is inappropriate,” Bennett said. “They have no sense of the formal use of language, no appreciation of the beauty of the sounds that language makes and the impressions those sounds can convey.” Simpler writing, while accessible to more people, does not always have the inspirational qualities of earlier writing. According to English teacher Dot Stegman, technology has brought many improvements to today’s society, but it has also contributed to the deevolution of language. “Television and the internet are keeping us from reading,” Stegman said. “That’s what we do in the evening instead of reading. I grew up in a world where when it got too dark to play outside, you read because that was all there was.” Neil Postman, author of Amusing Ourselves to Death: Public Discourse in the Age of Show Business held this same opinion. In his view, television promotes “incoherence and triviality.” He felt that this was reflected in
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a downward s mirrored in s that as televis messaging ro intellectual sp “Politene in human re aspects of et wayside,” Be happens, peo so that they by what mig earlier.” Twenty educators cal on culture a introduced th introduced th 5-second atte over today’s g focus sponsor time to think “We hav life in man chosen to pr denominator, have chosen don’t learn, a people—dum celebrated. T cool. ‘Don’t le other countri call nerds, an are not encou talents intelle This lo language an discussion is
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shift of intellect, which was speech. It is no coincidence sion, the internet and text ose, the written word and peech declined. ess is no longer a priority elationships, and thus all tiquette have gone by the ennett said. “Once that ople’s sensibilities change y are no longer offended ght have offended them
years ago, parents and lled MTV a bad influence and language. Television he sound bite, but MTV he jump cut and fostered the ention span that has taken generation. This inability to red the idea that taking the was not “hip.” ve given up our intellectual ny cases, and we have raise the lowest common ,” Stegman said. “We to praise the people who and in movies, the stupid mb and dumber—are They are funny. They are earn; it’s cool’. And instead, ies celebrate the people we nd we laugh at them. We uraging people to use their ectually.” oss of appreciation for nd scorn for intellectual also shown by the increase
paladin in foul language in movies, television and literature. “This is the case in individuals, who as they get older may become less shocked by the f-word,” Bennett said. “It also happens to the culture as one generation comes of age and the previous one dies out. I do wonder what choices young people have now if they want to say something really shocking. All the good shocking words have lost their effects!” Technology has already presented the next step down for language. People are carrying it in their hands. Text messaging has chopped words into small pieces that fit on a 2-inch screen. “Texting has made communication a lot easier between people,” junior Kelsey Ball said. “I like texting because it is a better way of communicating between friends. You can get straight to the point quickly.” Quick communication is now available to the public, but at the expense of the once prized art of language. “Future generations will probably be instructed in texting before their first English class,” Brandt said. “This will preprogram them to write heavily with abbreviations and symbols, which will simply continue the downward spiral of language.”
Dose of proper grammar each day keeps the English teacher away Proper Grammar, hundreds of years old, died today, after suffering from slang and laziness since the early 1900s. Loyal friends and English teachers will remember the legacy Proper Grammar left behind. This eulogy will not appear in your local newspaper today, tomorrow or anytime in the near future. Proper grammar has not completely died off, thanks to lessons from teachers year after year. Like a patient in need of medicine, however, it is in dire need of practice and saving. Among the KATIE MOORE many parts of asst. feature editor grammar that need to be resurrected, the personal pronoun “I” should be the first. Too many times have “him and me” or “me and my friend” stood uncorrected and accepted. The first time one uses the personal pronoun “I” in everyday conversation, there will be an almost guaranteed miniature grammar celebration. The next correction comes when someone offers a compliment. Unfortunately, the praise one will probably receive is, “you did good.” This phrase is a pet peeve of mine, and an easy mistake to make. Properly saying, “you did well,” will not only make the person complimented happy, but the improvement will help others correct themselves. Lastly, one mistake that might lead some to believe Paris Hilton created the English language is the use of the word “like.” Being guilty of this myself, I know how common it is, and also how hard it is to exterminate from everyday speech as its use becomes habitual. An easy way to stop saying “like” is to replace it with “for example.” Soon after, the word will not be such an important part of everyday vocabulary. Most importantly, understand that no one’s grammar is perfect. It is something that has to be practiced. One of the best ways to minimize the use of incorrect grammar is to have a conversation with someone who is slightly intimidating. For example, if I were to have a conversation with the next president of the United States, I would definitely drop a couple “likes” and tell him he did well on his campaign.
infographic by kayla mitchell
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by GABI CLEARY student life editor
photo courtesy of dylan rogerson
ENDING THE YEAR, former Stage Union members share memories in the Senior Circle after 2008
photo courtesy of photobyliz
SOAKED, freshmen Katie Conlon and Robin Helgate carry freshman Monica Nguyen to the pool at the Big Sis/Lil’ Sis party.
emily trollope
WITH PRECISION, junior Heidi Hurtig paints a face at the theatre booth at Fall Fest on Aug. 29.
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spaghetti dinners and tailgates before games; however, Burrus said there were different football traditions in the past. “1, 2, 3, break a leg! Give ‘em hell!” “Every Sunday the team and parents These words may be unfamiliar to many outside the drama department, but they are would go to Coach Ed Kriewel’s house,” part of just one of many traditions at Kapaun Burrus said. “They would have a potluck dinner and watch game films.” Mt. Carmel that unite the student body. The tradition of a Big Sis/Lil’ Sis pool “Traditions connect all of us who have a common interest,” President Mike Burrus party has occurred at KMC since the early said. “They make us still feel connected to ‘90s, Burrus said. Senior girls have the opportunity to get to know the freshman the school.” The drama tradition, called “break a class and help them adjust to KMC. “Seniors have the chance to set a good leg,” is done by the cast and crew prior to every performance. They stand in a circle example for their little sisters,” senior Rachel holding hands, say a prayer, say the break a Swafford said. “It gives the girls a way to get together and get ready leg chant and then yell for the new school year.” “drama” in unison. Senior traditions “The ‘break a “Traditions connect all of us who include a senior women leg’ is a communal breakfast the first experience in which we have a common interest. They day of school and the prep for the upcoming make us still feel connected to the opportunity to participate show,” senior Gil school.” in the Homecoming Perez-Abraham said. court in the fall. During P e r e z - A b r a h a m president MIKE BURRUS the weeks preceding said it is interesting Homecoming, 12 seniors to see the different are nominated for the ways people react to anxiety; by prepping for the show together, court and perform a dance at the pep rally. Even though KMC traditions evolve and it eliminates individual anxieties. “It’s motivational,” drama teacher change throughout the years, their purpose Michael Parker said. “[We do it] to get the remains the same: preserving the past and uniting present students. energy up and to focus people.” “Multiple generations come together, The origins of the “break a leg” at KMC are unknown, but Parker introduced the tied by traditions,” Burrus said. “Alumni still tradition of closing ceremonies. After the have great memories of the traditions they final performance of a show, Parker thanks had at KMC and when they see a part of everyone, cast and crew say a prayer of them is still living at the school, it connects thanksgiving and new members of Stage them back to KMC.” Union are inducted. “It’s a good, subtle way to thank people after the stress of a show,” Perez-Abraham says. Junior Pat Pirtle says traditions in sports are important because they “promote team bonding and help trigger a chain reaction of success.” One tradition Pirtle participates in as a cross country runner is the end of the season carb dinner. The team fills up on carbohydrates at Olive Garden in preparation for the Greater Wichita Athletic League race. If they succeed at the GWAL, they proceed to regionals and then hopefully state. “The dinner gets everyone pumped for the race,” Pirtle says. “We load up on carbs for energy.” Scrimmaging and practicing at Fall Fest are other ways fall sports teams prepare kelsey prather for the year. In addition, varsity football has
student life
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Student community welcomes six new clubs at Activities Fair on Aug. 27 ATHLETICS CLUB
LETTERS FROM HOME
OUTDOORS CLUB
FILM CLUB
PEP CLUB
WRITING CLUB
President: Andrew Patton About the club: “Athletics Club is like an intramural club for Kapaun [Mt. Carmel], although more laid back. We’ll be playing different sports each meeting.”-Patton
President: Noah Duethman About the club: “The purpose [of outdoors club] is to create awareness about the outdoors. We’ll do environmental awareness things, like pick up trash.” -Blake Cicenas, sponsor
President: Meredith Osborne About the club: “Pep Club is KMC’s spirit in a bottle. We get the school excited by dressing crazy for games and encouraging other students to join us.”-Sarah Brennan, member
Co-Presidents: Laura McGinty, Rachel Weber About the club: “We are going to write letters and send care packages to soldiers. We’re also having a drive at school to gather items for care packages.” -McGinty
President: Christina Campagnola About the club: “We are going to look at films from different times and genres and team up with the Drama Club to produce a film.”-Morgan Eggleston, sponsor President: Stephanie Deaver About the club: “If people need help with writing, we’ll give them inspiration. Most of us are writing separate stories and we’ll critique them for each other.”-Katie Basto, vice president information obtained by meredith osborne
information obtained by meredith osborne; infographic by kayla mitchell and laura schlapp
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INSIDE THE LINES
KYLE GLASGOW
ACTIVITY: Senior Kyle Glasgow runs through muddy terrain at the Lake Afton Invitational on Sept. 6. Glasgow took second in the race with a time of 17:38.
perry tretbar
Even after running for three years at Kapaun Mt. Carmel, senior Kyle Glasgow is still striving to accomplish new goals. Before the end of the season, Glasgow hopes to break the KMC cross country records and take first place at state. Since freshman year, Glasgow said he has enjoyed running. His classmate, senior Matt Stout, urged him to come to a practice. “I just like the satisfaction of running and doing something that a lot of people hate or don’t like to do,” Glasgow said. “It really gives me some alone time to just think about my life.” At KMC, Glasgow helped the boys cross country team place second in both City League and regional competitions last year, and place third at state. Individually, Glasgow placed fifth at regionals and CL, while placing 11th overall at state. Recently competing at the Lake Afton meet on Sept. 6, Glasgow placed second overall with the team placing fifth. According to Coach Damian Smithhisler and fellow runner senior Austin Cooksey, Glasgow has a lot of potential this year and is expected to be a top runner in City League and at state. As a leading runner on the team, Glasgow is seen as a leader and a role model with his determined and friendly attitude around his teammates either at practice or at meets. “He’s very focused on what he wants to do, and he works very hard at it,” Smithhisler said. “He gets along with everyone, and sets a good example for all of the younger guys on our team.” story by sean doyle
SPORTS briefs Girls tennis clenches first victory
On Sept. 4, girls varsity tennis swept Heights at Kapaun Mt. Carmel with a score of 9-0. Senior Megan Schulte and sophomore Maddie Schulte, finishing second at state last season as a doubles team, returned to play together this year. Senior Laura Schlapp and freshman Abby Stevens are newly paired, as are sophomore Madeline Engel and junior Anna Le. “We did really great as a team,” Megan Schulte said. “We are working well together so far and we support each other.” Players have grown closer by providing feedback and help for one another. “We watch our teammates’ matches when we are not on the court,” sophomore Engel said. “We also encourage each other constantly.” The team has goals in place to improve for future competitions. “We will be working more on doubles, and how the girls play with their partners.” coach Kathy Schulte said. The next match will be Sept. 23 against North at Riverside Tennis Center at 4 p.m.
Football loses opener
The football team started off slow with its 21-41 loss to Northwest on Sept. 5. “Adjusting to game speed is always challenging especially when you have 19 new starters,” head coach Dan Adelhardt said. Junior Dyllon Knox had 14 carries and rushed for 138 yards, while senior Ben Vinzant completed eight of 12 passes for 62 yards. According to junior Jonathan Truman, the team did not have high expectations for the game. “I didn’t feel terrible about the loss because I heard after that others thought we weren’t suppose to do that well,” Truman said. On Sept. 18 the team will face East high at Wichita State at 7 p.m. It is also the homecoming game. “Our offense will get the job done and our defense needs to shut down [East running back] Bryce Brown,” Truman said. “We need to be on point and work together.”
Girls golf wins first invitational
Kapaun Mt. Carmel varsity girls golf started strong at the Andover Invitational on Sept. 2. KMC placed first overall out of 12 teams, and five athletes placed in the top
twenty: seniors Emily Adamson, Brittany Meeds, Laura Oxler and Nellie Schafer, and sophomore Stacy Mullen. Adamson was the top individual finisher with a second place finish. “The first meet was a good gauge to see where everyone’s at,” head coach Dan Phillips said. “There were a couple people who hadn’t played in a tournament before, so they got some experience.” Mullen attributes some of the team’s success to the girls’ closeness. “When we see each other on opposite holes, we’ll wave,” Mullen said. “You can tell by their facial expression how it’s going.” Traditions contribute to team unity, including one commemorating Ed Kriwiel, who was the golf coach for 37 years. “We all wore yellow socks because coach Kriwiel wore yellow socks,” Mullen said. “We had a lot of team unity last Tuesday.” Phillips said that the team is playing well, but there is always room for improvement. “Just [working on] consistency, making sure we’re as consistent as possible,” Phillips said. “Working on basic skills [is also important].” The next match is on Sept. 23 at 3 p.m. at Sim Park golf course. briefs written by laura elson, anna le and katie moore
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School spirit, enthusiasm from stands integral part of success on the field by NELLIE SCHAFER sports editor Anxious athletes, admiration from former and future players, a tireless student section making up a sea of blue and white and screaming, enthusiastic fans. This is a Kapaun Mt. Carmel athletic contest at its best, but not every game fits this picture. Poor sportsmanship from parents, students and athletes can bring down an otherwise positive athletic event. “Sportsmanship is a necessity in any athletic contest because it makes it more enjoyable,” coach Damian Smithhisler said. “There is a respect and understanding between teams whether on the winning or losing end. It is a very important part of all high school sports.” According to Rule 52 in the KMC
student handbook, “While attending athletic but fans were not satisfied with the calls. or other school sponsored activities, all Comments ceased once the KMC coach told students’ actions are to the fans to stop. be supportive of the KMC “We have to team rather than negative “Sportsmanship is a necessity in continue to remind towards its opponents.” parents of our KMC any athletic contest because it U n f o r t u n a t e l y, mission for the school,” this rule is not always makes it more enjoyable. There Bloomer said. “We followed. The KMC is a respect and understanding encourage parents to community has displayed do the right thing and poor sportsmanship. between teams whether on the we want the best for According to Chris winning or losing end. It is a very their kids. We want Bloomer, assistant to establish positive principal and activities important part of all high school models and examples. director, at a Kapaun Mt. sports.” We expect them to set Carmel sophomore boys as well.” coach DAMIAN SMITHHISLER that standard basketball game last The way fans year, spectators made behave has an impact some negative comments on KMC’s reputation. toward the officials. KMC was winning, Spectators, especially in the student section,
infographic by laura schlapp
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paladin can determine the atmosphere of games. Last year’s seniors started the tradition of using different themes such as white out, ‘80s work out, gangster and all school mass to unite the student section and support the varsity teams. “We liked how the themes got the fans into the game,” Chad McKernan, class of 2008, said. “That way it made it fun to be a spectator.” KMC athletes have also encountered bad sportsmanship on the court. Seniors Adam Hope and Andrea Lantz have both witnessed their opponents displaying bad sportsmanship. “We’ve gotten into a few chattering tiffs with the South High Titans,” Hope said. “We do chatter on the court, but it’s always PG.” According to Lantz, after a victory at home her freshman year, a teammate of hers was threatened and told to meet in the parking lot. Her teammate and family had to be escorted out to their car. “I was surprised at first and then it was scary because you didn’t know what they were going to do.” Lantz said. Some city-league coaches have taken notice of good KMC sportsmanship. Heights basketball coach Joseph Auer, father of sophomore David, said he anticipates the nights when KMC plays Heights. “Thinking back to last year’s game there was not a large crowd, but the KMC student section made it seem like a sell out,” Auer said. “They are just kids trying to have fun. They need to be able to cut loose with their classmates.” For the upcoming season, Bloomer said he looks forward to KMC holding a high standard for sportsmanship. “We are held to excellence, not only by ourselves, but by other schools too,” Bloomer said. “We want to be the best in sportsmanship.”
arthead by laura schlapp
“I get a kick out of the Kapaun [Mt. Carmel] student section. It is very organized and loud. I wish all city-league schools would be as involved as [KMC] and [Bishop] Carroll do.” perry tretbar
TALENT ON DISPLAY, sophomore Abbey Hope, junior Gabe Czepiel and senior Rebekah Baldridge play for the first time at a football game in the
LONNIE LOLLAR Bishop Carroll coach “I used to coach [at Kapaun Mt. Carmel] and I always thought our kids showed great sportsmanship. They have fun at the games and always are in line.”
GARY GUZMAN Southeast coach
perry tretbar
IN UNISON, junior Lauren Tanner and sophomores Kirsten Steckline and Tailor Simko dance at halftime.
“I see Kapaun [Mt. Carmel] section like any other, but a little more clever. As long as it doesn’t become personal it is fine.”
ALAN SHUCKMAN Bishop Carroll coach
True school spirit demands respect of all students Let us stand, let us cheer, raise our voices to poor decisions. These include booing and loud and clear, for the Kapaun Crusaders shouting offensive remarks at the other are here. team, throwing empty water bottles and On Friday nights during football trash at other students or even yelling at the season, I spend a lot of time preparing referee and disrespecting his calls. to attend the game. I proudly dress Rule 52 in the KMC handbook myself in blue and white and race to outlines appropriate student behavior, the location of the game in an attempt which must be supportive rather than to find an ideal spot in the crowded negative. In other words, cheering is student section. During the game, I allowed; bashing the other team is not. am overwhelmed by the exciting and Unsportsmanlike conduct not only positive atmosphere. disrespects other teams but also our School spirit is the foundation fellow classmates. Sometimes, the stands of a united student body. As Kapaun get so rowdy that we push other students, Mt. Carmel fans root for our causing a domino effect. We team, however, there is always a fail to pay attention to the ANNA LE chance that an unsportsmanlike sweaters and jackets lying on asst. sports editor the floor and stomp on them. incident could occur. At times, students get Trash is thrown in all different carried away in the excitement and forget directions. the meaning of sportsmanship, which leads However, being loud and proud is not a
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negative thing. School spirit not only has a powerful effect on the crowd, but it can also pump-up the players and build up a team. Another thing that must be mentioned when talking about school spirit is the KMC tradition of underclassmen standing in the back. Although this can limit the view of the game, freshmen should be willing to move back out of respect for tradition. React when seniors yell at you because one day you will be the ones doing the yelling. In the meantime, don’t let your position in the stands affect your cheering. The excitement should not stop at the juniors and seniors. We must resolve to support our athletic teams in a positive way. Students can show how much school pride we have without being impolite. We can be a united student body cheering our Crusaders on to victory.
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Broadcast gives listeners new football experience by MAX MARTIN co-editor in chief Out of town and cannot make it to the game this Friday? That will not be a problem this year as Kapaun Mt. Carmel football fans are now able to enjoy the games from many locations. For the first time, all varsity KMC football games are being broadcast over the radio and on the Internet. Crusader Country, KWLS 107.9 FM, a radio station out of Winfield, broadcasts all Friday night KMC games, both home and away. The radio feed is also streamed live over the internet through a link found on the school website, or can be downloaded as a podcast after the game is over. “I think [the broadcast] is a good idea because more people will pay attention and if you cannot go to the game you could still listen to your classmates play,” junior football player Aaron Luman said. The administration was approached by KWLS in August, and soon after, an agreement was made with the station. “They are a country music station that wanted to delve into some sports
activity,” Director of Development Kevin Arkin said. Hosted by Phil Gillen and former KMC quarterback Tony Blake, class of 1991, the broadcast also includes a coaches show before the game and a quick wrap-up afterwards. The hourlong coaches show airs interviews with KMC coaches and administration, as well as spotlighting non-athletic extracurricular activities taking place in the school, such as vocal concerts and alumni events. For other sports fans, the new coverage will not stop once the fall season is over. KWLS has also agreed to broadcast all Friday night boys and girls varsity basketball games. According to Arkin, his favorite part about the new broadcasts is the wide audience it can reach. For the first football game against Northwest on Sept. 5, reports showed that listeners tuned into the game from all over the country, include former students in California and Arizona. “Nine thousand alumni can get involved with [KMC] athletics and the school from wherever they are,” Arkin said.
CRUSADER scores
FOOT-
Opponent
VARSITY Northwest 9/5 41 21 JV Northwest 9/8 8
VOLLEYBALL VARSITY 1 North 9/9
2
Opponent 0 2
TENNIS
asst. sports editor Despite a loss of 10 senior starting players, the Kapaun Mt. Carmel boys soccer team placed second at the Titan Classic on Sept. 6. “We did pretty well at the Titan Classic,” senior Joe Doan said. “We’ve been improving as a team as the season progresses. Second place isn’t too bad. It’s actually our first time reaching the finals in the blue bracket, which is the harder bracket, during coach Geist’s tenure.” According to junior Logan Benning, there is a lot of unproven talent on the team this year. The team lost 12 seniors from last season and the majority of the team has never played at varsity level. “It’s going to be tough to replace that talent and creativity that came with that senior class, but we have the work ethic and our own individual styles that will help us be successful,” Doan said.
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With new players on the team, dedication and commitment will be even more important. The team practices for two hours on every weekday. “You have to be pretty dedicated to participate in soccer because you want to do well and help the team,” Doan said. “I think the best way to help the team is to become the best that you can be, which takes hours of practice, dedication, and work.” Due to lack of experienced players, leadership from the veterans is expected for underclassmen players. “I try to keep the underclassman from being nervous while playing,” Benning said. Last season, the team was City League champions and finished second at state. The players hope to continue doing as well this season. “My expectations for the season are to win city, and make a run at state,” Doan said. On Sept. 18, the team will face South at Stryker Field at 2 p.m.
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KMC 1
0
1
3
Opponent
VARSITY 8
East 9/3
VARSITY First
Andover Inv. 9/2
KMC 1
Opponent
KMC
Boys
Girls
CROSS COUNLake Afton Inv.
Fifth
Lake Afton Inv.
Fourth
Loss of soccer seniors provides showcase for unproven talent by ANNA LE
0
Opponent
VARSITY Andover 8/29 0 3 Garden City (Titan Classic) 9/1 3 Derby (Titan Classic) 9/4 Southeast (Titan Classic) 9/5 1
VARSITY Third JV First
KMC 2
SOCCER
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Bishop Carroll 9/9
JV Bishop Carroll 9/9 0 North 9/9
KMC
IN THE MIDDLE, junior Polo Guzman fights for possession in Titan Classic championship game on Sept. 5. Guzman scored the team’s only goal of the game.
perry tretbar
lauren medina
DESPITE WET AND MUDDY CONDITIONS, senior Blake Hollingshead dribbles in the open field past a Southeast
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paladin JUMPING FOR THE BLOCK, juniors Caley Shuckman and Kayla Clark compete in the volleyball match against Carroll on Sept. 9. KMC lost 1-2.
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Volleyball falls short at Carroll by PHILIP PHAM staff writer On Sept. 9, the Kapaun Mt. Carmel varsity volleyball team began the fall season with two matches, losing the first, but winning the second. The team played Bishop Carroll in the first match, losing the first game, 25-11, winning the second, 25-21 and losing the third, 20-25. Coach Alana Whitney had mixed feelings about the matches. “Freshman, junior varsity and varsity teams all lost to [Bishop] Carroll, but, then again, they all beat North as well,” Whitney said. “When the teams begin to communicate better and their passing improves, we will definitely win the upcoming matches.” The second match was against North. They won back to back with game scores of 25-23 and 25-21, resulting in a 2-0 match. “We had our ups and downs, but we pulled through in the end,” junior Leah Grant said. “I think we just need more practices. As we get to know each other better, the team will get better.” The team plans to work on serve receiving, defense and communication, according to junior Katie Zwick. The next match is on Sept. 23 at Northwest, where they will compete against Southeast at 5 p.m.
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