TALON
Staley High School Kansas City, Mo. Volume VIII Issue I October 2015
Inside this Issue: What Homecoming is All About Summer to Fall Outfits A Day in the Life of a Student Athlete
Table of Contents PG. 4 Column Trump Is a Chump
PG. 5 Cartoon Corner Media Is Trump’s Lapdog
The varsity football team plays a game at Raymore-Peculiar High School on Aug. 28. Staley won with a score of 35-10. “I was excited that it was Friday, and I was excited that I got to play,” said senior Robert Blanchard. Photo by Christopher Spry
PG. 6-7 Homecoming All Around the World Homecoming Queens PG. 8-9 United By a Game The Many Uniforms of Homecoming Students jump during a homecoming photoshoot on Sept. 24. The students discussed their excitement for the week of homecoming based on their activities. “Spirit week is really fun,” said junior Taylor Long. “It gets you really pumped up for the game and the dance.” Photo by Maddy Benda
PG. 10-11 Same Talent, New Sport Soccer Player Becomes Football Kicker PG. 12-13 Summer to Fall Transition/Upcoming October Music Events Turn your summer wardrobe into festive fall outfits. (PLUS: Know what music is coming in October) PG. 14-15 A Day in the Life A peek into athletes’ lives on game day PG. 16 “Sylvia” Takes the Stage Student Production Puts Love Into New Perspective
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PG. 8-9 United By a Game The Many Uniforms of Homecoming
Staff Editorial
STUDENT PARTICIPATION CRUCIAL TO HOMECOMING SUCCESS
Homecoming means something different to each person. Because of the various aspects of homecoming, there are ways for each student to participate, whether they want to attend the dance. For some students, homecoming means getting dressed up to spend time with friends. For others it means cheering on the football team or even filming the game for the student news. Regardless of the ways students choose to participate, everyone should in some way show support for the school during homecoming week. We challenge each student to support the school. Everyone can find an interesting way to participate during homecoming. Clubs make floats for the parade, everyone can cheer on their friends who help run the assemblies, and each student can vote for the homecoming candidates. The great thing about homecoming is that it brings people together and provides opportunities to make new friends at the start of the school year. Everyone should take part in some way because the spirit of togetherness that accompanies homecoming week only brings students together if everyone takes part in the festivities. If students would step up, stop skipping assemblies and be active in their school community, homecoming would be a success. There are people in student council who put in countless hours to plan all the events, the dancers and cheerleaders practice a routine in order to perform for the student body, and teachers sacrifice their Saturday night to chaperone all so that students can make memories and show some school pride. It is unfair to the students who have dedicated their time for some students to decide that they are too cool for school and then skip out on all of these experiences that are going to be memories one day. Be an active participant. Don’t let these high school years pass you by because you choose not to care at the time. Take this opportunity to be with friends and make new ones.
TALON STAFF EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Abbi Atwell STAFF
Lane Burch Hannah Crites Bryttany Holovach Alexis Howard Hafsa Hussein Jessica Jordan Emilie Kerr Alayna Lopez Adrianna McLean Rita Sargent Christopher Spry GRAPHIC ARTISTS
Maddy Benda Amber Lewis ADVISER
Cheriè Burgett
Talon is published quarterly during the school year. Talon will accept letters to the editor in CR202 or at cherie.burgett@nkcschools.org. Before the letter is published, we will need to verify the writer’s identity identity with a photo identification. Letters may not exceed a length of 350 words. We will not publish letters that are libelous, obscene or that may cause a verifiable disruption of the education process of Staley High School. Letters must be signed. Anonymous letters will be discarded. Advertisers may contact the adviser at cherie.burgett@nkcschools.org, (816) 321-5330 or at 2800 NE Shoal Creek Pkwy, Kansas City, MO, 64156-1313. Opinions expressed in Talon do not express staff’s endorsement of the products or services. Talon is a member of NSPA, MIPA, MJEA and Quill and Scroll. Talon is affiliated with JEA and JEMKC.
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Opinion
TRUMP IS NOT AN ADEQUATE PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE Written by Lane Burch
Photo by Trudy Swegle
Trump responded with, “Only Rosie O’Donnell.”
Although Donald Trump, the self-made billionaire, is running for president, is he the best Republican candidate? Trump, who, according to The Fiscal Times has been married three times, has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, is an Emmy award winner, and is a 2013 inductee to the World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) Hall of Fame, announced his candidacy on June 16. Although he has years of business experience, being the CEO of his own company, he cannot seem to control his mouth, temper or actions. At the GOP debate in early August, Trump was confronted by journalist Megyn Kelly, who reminded him, “You have called women you don’t like ‘fat pigs’, ‘dogs’, ‘slobs’ and ‘disgusting animals.’”
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Keeping this in mind, think of Trump dealing with issues with foreign After the fact, when countries with female Trump was interviewed political leaders, such as about his questions Germany, South Korea he was asked and the answers he gave, to which and Denmark. Having no filter, Trump could say he said Kelly’s questions something to a leader of a were “ridiculous” and “off-base,” and also stated, nation, ultimately setting off a chain of events “You could see there that could was blood ruin foreign Will Trump treat coming out America like one of relations. of her eyes, blood coming out of her… wherever.” Not only is this very
his companies, investing it all if our issues are being resolved, or throwing it away if more issues arise?
unprofessional, but wrong and sexist as well. Trump has belittled American women on more than one occasion. He has confessed to cheating on his wives, and said that it doesn’t matter what the media says as long as you have a hot girlfriend. “It’s certainly not groundbreaking news that the early victories by the women on ‘The Apprentice’ were, to a very large extent, dependent on their sex appeal,” Trump wrote in his 2004 book, “How to get Rich.”
Trump’s campaign is set on the financial issues of the United States, which he may be able to help, but instead, he causes more problems by running his mouth and making Americans angry about his inability to act as a professional. His lack of professionalism isn’t the only thing that gets Americans riled up, but the fact that four of Trump’s companies have gone bankrupt as well, according to Vanity Fair.
Will Trump treat America like one of his companies, investing it all if our issues are being resolved, or throwing it away if more issues arise? Some Americans are treating Trump as a serious candidate, when he should be treated as the narcissistic celebrity that he is. There are more Republican candidates out there who have better qualifications than Trump. Dr. Ben Carson, for example, is a neurosurgeon who is famous for his groundbreaking work in separating conjoined twins. Sen. Marco Rubio has been in politics for 11 years and has been a Florida state representative for nine. What qualifies Trump? The fact that he’s a billionaire whose most notable attribute is his hair?
Opinion
Cartoon Corner Cartoons by Amber Lewis
Trump the Chump
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Lifestyles
Homec ming Ar und the W rld STUDENT COUNCIL CREATES NEW HOMECOMING TRADITIONS Written By Emilie Kerr
There is a new twist on old homecoming traditions. The annual parade will be held at a later time in hopes that more community members will attend. Leadership is encouraging different clubs and activities to make floats and posters to show off their individuality with the goal of bigger and better celebrations for years to come. “It takes a little over two months to get prepared,” said senior vice president Allison Paul. Student council co-adviser Scott Anderson said he is especially excited for this new twist. The parade used to be after an assembly, and students learned that they could leave, or go hang out with friends, rather than participating.
“We want students at Staley to be excited about the parade,” said Anderson, “Our goal is to get the whole community involved over time.” After the parade, Leadership is hosting a pep rally at the District Activities Center where all are invited to celebrate. “The parade will now have face painting and little carnival games to involve the little kids,” said junior student council member Madison Keith. “We also hope that since the parade is now open to the public, that more people will get a glimpse of what high school is like.” Following the parade, the football game will be held on Friday, Oct. 9, at 7 p.m., where the queen will be crowned during halftime.
CANDIDATES “What does homecoming mean to you?” Photos By Emilie Kerr
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Lifestyles
Junior Alyssa Day paints “All Around the World” posters. These posters were made for reveal day Oct. 2 during Falcon Time. “We liked the theme because we thought it would be fun to decorate the school like that and represent all the different cultures to represent our homecoming,” said Day. Photo by Trudy Swegle
Kaelyn Kacirek
Abby Klein
Ashley Palmer
Felicia Raybourn
Summer Smith
“Homecoming means representing your school in a great way and a positive attitude and being a part of everything you enjoy.”
“It’s just a highschool experience.”
“It means going to dances and having fun.”
“Homecoming to me is just a time to where everybody in the school gets together just to have a good time and have fun together.”
“Homecoming to me kind of opens up the year for everyone. It’s a time to go out with your friends and get ready for fall.”
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United by a Game By Maddy Benda
It starts with the players giving it their all on the field, but there is more to it than that. Some hype up the crowd, others perform and support the team, and some report on the game. Each of these people you see every day are united. These are the students who shape the homecoming game.
Swoop Mascot
Taylor Long
“We really come together as a team to show our school spirit and work really hard on our routines to show off what we have been working really hard for.”
“I really enjoy seeing the entire student section cheering at the game, and that gets Swoop hyped too.”
Kaelyn Kacirek
Band- Senior “The most important part of the homecoming game for me is halftime because we get to present what we have been working so hard for.”
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Diamonds- Junior
Brianna Duke
Cheer- Sophomore “I love how the student section gets hyped and cheers along with us.”
e Jacob Crisafulli
Student Section- Senior
“My favorite part of the game is seeing how hype everyone is and seeing everyone dressed up.”
Kyndall Truelove Yearbook-Senior
“It’s really cool that I can participate in the homecoming game, and I get to document it too.”
Isabelle Pekarsky
Student Section- Senior “I love halftime, when the homecoming queen is announced.”
Beau Baker
Football- Senior
“My favorite part of the homecoming game is getting the win.”
Kylee Sally
Emerald-Sophomore
“My favorite part of the whole game is dancing during halftime. We are doing hip-hop, which is my strong suit.”
Ward Mershon
N2 Broadcasting-Senior
“As a broadcaster, I get a different perspective of the game and get more in-depth view of the players and teams.”
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Same Talent, New Sport
Sports
SOCCER PLAYER BECOMES FOOTBALL KICKER Written by Abbi Atwell
Senior Dylan Bedard plays in a game against North Kansas City High School Sept. 10. Bedard started kicking for the football team on Sept. 10 against Liberty North High School as well as being a varsity soccer player. “I like being on both,” said Bedard. “I go from soccer practice to football practice every day.” Photo by Lindsey Norby
When the kicker for the football team, senior Faizol Bouchard tore his ACL and MCL on Sept. 4, students wondered how the team would continue. Bouchard said that he won’t be able to play for the rest of the season. According to Bouchard, senior Connor McCullough suggested that senior Dylan Bedard, a starter for the soccer team, become the new kicker. “They needed a kicker, so my friend showed Coach Bouchard videos of me,” said Bedard. Bedard has been the starting kicker for the football team since he impressed the coaches with his field goal kicks. “Dylan’s done a really good job since he started out,” said Bouch-
ard. Bedard’s first game with the team was against Liberty North on Sept. 10. He has played and scored during every varsity game since then. The team defeated the North Kansas City Hornets 39 to 0 on Sept. 25. Bedard rallied during the second half after not scoring during the first half. “I know it wasn’t a perfect night, but he rebounded and his kickoffs got better,” said Bouchard. “He really came through by the end of the night.” According to coach Bouchard, the coaches are pleased with Bedard’s ability to take coaching. Bedard is expected to play as the kicker for the rest of the season.
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Senior Dylan Bedard plays in a game against North Kansas City High School on Sept. 10. Bedard started kicking for the football team on Sept. 10 against Liberty North High Shool after impressing the coaches. “Connor McCullough told the coaches about him a few weeks ago,” said former kicker senior Faizol Bouchard. “He kicked some field goals and the coaches liked him.” Photo by Lindsey Norby
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Message Sponsored by Staley Community TRY
Fashion & Trends
Summer To Fall Transition
Written by Alayna Lopez Photos by Christopher Spry and Alayna Lopez
As the leaves begin to change color, wardrobes can be adjusted to match. There were many great trends this summer, so why not bring those key pieces into
the colder seasons? For both girls and guys, adding a simple neutral-colored jacket or a plaid flannel can make a simple summer outfit a fun fall one. Even
a change of shoes can impact the whole outfit. For girls, it’s as simple as exchanging favorite sandals for riding or combat boots. Adding tall socks can also be
a fun way to warm up summer outfits. For guys, swap board shorts and boat shoes for a pair of vans or a classic high tops.
Dress: Charlotte Russe Jewelry: Charming Charlie
boots: Target Jacket: Nordstrom
Shirt: American Eagle Jeans: Levi’s
Flannel: American Eagle Shoes: Zumiez
FALL NAIL COLORS Essie Big Spender $7
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Sally hansen lacey lilac $1.99
Forever 21 mint $2.80
Sally Hansen black diamond $2.99
Fashion & Trends
1 ST
OCTOBER
Concerts Glass Animals
2 ND
Concerts Of Monsters and Men SoMo and Kirko Bangs
9 TH
Concerts Catfish and The Bottlemen Kodaline Melanie Martinez Albums Selena Gomez: Revival City and Colour: If I Should Go Before You
8 TH
Concerts Tori Kelly
14 TH
Concerts Chance the Rapper
16
TH
Albums Demi Lavato: Confident
30 TH
20 TH
Albums The Neighbourhood: Wiped Out!
Concerts Passion Pit and Atlas Genius
25 TH
Concerts Misterwives
Rd 23 Albums
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Sports
A Day in the Life
Written by Lane Burch Photos by Lane Burch
Name: Ariel Konyalioglu Grade: Senior Sport: Cheerleading Height: 5’3” Position: Base & Captain
A PEEK INTO A CHEERLEADER'S LIFE ON GAME DAY
7:23AM Time for School 4:00PM Hair and Makeup 5:45PM Warm-Ups
6:00AM Wake Up 2:30PM Drives Home and Meets Friends
5:00PM QuikTrip 7:00PM Game Time
Ariel Konyaliglu has been cheerleading since eighth grade and has been a varsity cheerleader for three years. On game day, Ariel has to dress up for school. She comes to school and gets her work done, then drives to her house to meet her friends. They do each others’ hair and makup, then head to Quiktrip. At 5:45 p.m., they all head to school for warmups, then at 7 p.m.-
GAME TIME!
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A PEEK INTO A FOOTBALL PLAYER'S LIFE ON GAME DAY
7:23AM Time for School 2:55PM Coach Pep-Talk
7:00AM Wake Up and Eat a Big Breakfast
Name: Joe McNally Grade: Senior Sport: Football Height: 6’0” Position: Defensive Tackle & Captain
2:35PM Pre-Game Meal 3:00PM
3:45PM Jam to Music in his
Taped Up by Trainer
7:00PM Game Time
Locker Room
Truck
Sports
5:00PM Quiet Time in 9:00PM Watch Film with Team
Joe McNally has been playing football for 12 years and has been on varsity for four years. On game day, he wakes up at 7 a.m. and eats a huge breakfast. After school, the players have a pregame meal and a coach pep talk. Afterward, Joe gets taped up by the trainer and then jams to music in his truck. At 5 p.m., the team has quiet time in the locker room. Game time is at 7 p.m., and the day is finished after the team watches film.
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“Sylvia” Takes the Stage STUDENT PRODUCTION PUTS LOVE INTO A NEW PERSPECTIVE By Emilie Kerr
Sophomore Marrisa McGraw, senior Bailey Dolata and junior Kaitlyn Adams played the characters Sylvia, Greg and Kate. The dog Sylvia gives the wife, Kate, a hard time by taking her shoes and climbing on furniture. “My character Greg portrays love through what he wants in a girl,” said Dolata. “By getting a dog, he basically trained her the way he wanted a girl to act in a relationship.”
Sophomore Marissa McGraw and senior Bailey Dolata performed in Sylvia on Sept. 27. The theater department has put in more than 40 hours of rehearsal time for this performance. “It was fun, but stressful, and took a lot of my free time,” said McGraw. “I love acting though, so it was worth it.”
Seniors Kayla Sandusky and Bailey Dolata perform in the Performing Arts Center during “Sylvia.” This play is about a middle-aged man who brings home a dog named Sylvia, and it doesn’t sit well with his wife, which creates turmoil in a 22-year marriage and leads to the need for counseling. “My character had her own problems and eventually suggested that Kate should shoot Sylvia to get her out of Kate’s life,” said Sandusky, who played the therapist.