Looking ahead 2013 All-Kansas Newspaper pg 3 pg 9 cRave photos and recap Male cheerleaders make squad Eli Berner / The Pylon Sydney Kossow / The Pylon Vol. 90, Iss. 1 Salina Central High School September 27, 2013 Senior Malik Veal. Junior Marysa Bradshaw 19 October16 end of the Days until the first quarter 5 September27 Homecoming Hours until the football game 1 September28 Homecoming Day until the dance 6 October3 next home Days until the volleyball game 17 October14 vocal Days until the concert Painted with pride. Our GAMEDAY face is better than yours pg. 6-7
Transcript
Looking ahead
2013 All-Kansas Newspaper
pg3pg9 cRave photos and recapMale cheerleaders make squad
Eli Berner / The PylonSydney Kossow / The Pylon
Vol. 90, Iss. 1Salina Central High SchoolSeptember 27, 2013
The Pylon is the official student newspaper of Salina High School Central. It is produced
entirely by students of the newspaper production class, daily on chsPylon.com and
monthly in print.
Pylon Staff ‘Fools’
T Actors/Actressesop
Sophomore
Role: Lenya
Senior Malik
Role: Doctor
Junior Hannah
Role: Sophia
Junior Jon
Role: Leon
Senior Dominick
Role: Gregor
Ever feel like you’re surrounded by idiots? Almost like the town
you live in was cursed by stupidity? I know here in the SK, where ignorance spreads like wild fire, this is a common feeling. In the play ‘Fools’ written by Neil Simon, directed by Bill Weaver, that’s exactly what’s happened. The plot centers around a small Russian town that’s been cursed, causing everyone who lives there to be a complete fool. When an intelligent school teacher moves to the town, he falls in love with a village idiot and makes it his mission to educate them. For Senior Malik Grassity and Senior Dominisk Thompson, ‘Fools’ is their last first play. The success of the year’s first play really sets the bar for the rest of the year, so the cast has been working very hard since the first week of school to get it just perfect. Mission accomplished cast.
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By Eryn HasslerThe Pylon
By Eryn HasslerThe Pylon
With many new actors on stage, the play went very well especially considering how quick the turn around for this play was. Meaning there was not much time and the cast did a great job pulling it off. Lots of memories and friends were made in the many hours the cast invested in this play. Between playing games in down time, cracking jokes and just spending so much time together in the theatre. It was a great experience for everyone involved.
Sarah Brown / The PylonSophomore Sam Beck herds sheep.
Sarah Brown / The PylonSenior Dominick Thompson plays “Gregor.”
Sarah Brown / The PylonJunior Jon Claybaugh and Junior Hannah Schroeder kiss during “Fools”
Seniors focus on last, first play
“It was really fun and a good learning experience. I loved getting to know the cast better.”
“I just had a lot of fun hanging with my friends and doing the play”
“It was my first main stage production. It’s fun to
work with people who are passionate about what
they do.”
“It was a new experience to by working with a new director. Nulik and Bill Weaver have opposite techniques. I believe it allowed me to grow as an actor.”
Claybaugh
ThompsonGrassity
Schroeder Grace Claman
3News UpdatesSeptember 27, 2013
New year,
Mrs. Miller
Mrs. Fultz
Mrs. Johnson
Mr. Rose
Mr. Burgart
new faces
cRavin’By Austin Huynh
The Pylon
When students awoke the next morning from the first ever #cRave, all they had to remember was the paint splattered all over their sweaty clothes.
The #cRave was the most recent back-to-school dance that students were able to be a part of and saying it was a success would be
an understatement. When students stepped foot onto the dance floor, they were ready to #cRave.
“When I stepped up into the cafeteria, it looked like rave heaven! I was glad I made the decision to go,” junior Javon Burse said.
The turnout was at least in recent years the best recorded number of attendace for a back-to-school dance with around 380 students attending. StuCo
managed to hype it up, and it lived up to it’s reputation.
“I didn’t think of my first high-school dance being a rave but I’m not disappointed. I thought the #cRave was going
to be crazy and I’m happy I went,” freshman Marion Miller said.
The #cRave was what got everyone excited for what the rest of the year had in store.
Improvements, renovations may occurBy Connor Martens
The Pylon
When you think of old, you may think of your great grandmother, the Backstreet Boys, or maybe you think of Mr. Krank. On the other hand, you are probably overlooking our very own school.
“The school isn’t much different than it was when I was here,” said alumnus and French teacher Mrs. Jan Denning. The very building in which you step foot every day has been up and running since 1952; the same year Eisenhower was elected president. Over the years, a number of changes have been made to the place we call our home. The most recent updates
took place in the the years of 2007 and 2008; which included the new fitness wing, the tennis complex and the softball field. More improvements and renovations may be on the way.
“Anytime we can get better resources for students, it will enhance their learning environment and increase opportunity,” said principal Shanna Rector.
Some of the major additions that are to come include a new gym, a new wing for the science department, a new space for the art and music department, a new wing for the career and technical education department, and a new parking lot on the west side of the school building. “I am looking forward to
having modern equipment and getting more kids interested and involved,” mentioned Mr. Kilgore, the wood shop teacher.
The stadium will also be undergoing various changes. A new press box with an elevator is in the plan along with new concessions and restrooms on both the home and visitors’ side. Other parts of the school such as the cafeteria, concourse, computer lab, and special education classrooms will all be renovated. The estimate cost for the entire project is 30.7 million dollars.
“Students can help the cause by expressing how they feel about the current building and discuss why they want to see improvement, and how access to
technology will be gained,” said Rector. The vote of the building plan will happen in the spring, most likely in April.
Sydney Kossow / The PylonStudents raise their hands and dance at the cRave.
New teachers talk about their favorite part of the school year
“I love the students and English department. I also went to school here, so it just feels like coming home.”
“(My favorite part) has been the sports and pep rallies.”
“I love how friendly everyone is and how great my kids are. They do what they are told and I don’t have to fight with them.”
“I have enjoyed all the support I’ve gotten from the experienced teachers and staff.”
“(My favorite part) has been the Hoodspa.”
Sydney Kossow / The Pylon
Sophomore Jetta Greene
dances at the cRave, the most
recent version of a back to
school dance.
Sydney Kossow / The PylonA student crowd surfs at the cRave.
Sydney Kossow / The PylonSenior Jason Rhoden shadow dances at the cRave
Sydney Kossow / The PylonAn overview of the Bond issue and upcoming community meetings are printed on a poster outside the Auditorium.
Can’t wait a month?Follow us on twitterfor daily updates
@ chspylon
Top 5 Top 5 Women’s Fashion Men’s Fashion Oversized cardigans Plaid Plaid and stripes Topcoats Leggings/yoga pants Layers Flannel shirts Blue print Oversized t-shirts Turtlenecks
4 Student LifeSeptember 27, 2013
“Big Johns Brewery Co. will be a new brewery in Salina only
serving beer,” said Kord Kelley.
By Casey Rayas The Pylon
Student Council plays a big role in making decisions for the school every year. As of this year, Student Council officials for the class of 2017 will be elected. This will be the first time there are only two candidates that will fight for the President and three for Vice President.
Freshman students have been campaigning in order to persuade voters.Freshman Ethan Badders said, “This is a new creative and efficient way to do things. I think it will make it more fun for everyone that is running for a position.” One of his main goals for the school is to keep the spirit going. After winning
the Presidential nomination Badders included, “The pep rally was a great start for the year and I’d like that to continue.”
Sarah Brown had to battle between three other competitors in order to take
over the Secretary position. When asked about being nominated as Secretary,
Brown had said , ”I feel great about being elected, but wish the other candidates were part of the staff too.” Brown will be helping with the Homecoming float and working with the President Badders, most of the time. “Ethan and I are going to try our best to make this year the best and most exciting yet!”
Dylan Wentzel who is Treasurer of the group, prepared for the election by attending meetings. “I wan to be more involved with the school and help out as much as possible.” Wentzel will be managing the budget so that StuCo members don’t spend more than the limited amount. “I feel honored to be nominated, not everyone gets this opportunity and I’m ready to kickoff this year the right way.”
Freshmen STUCO officers usher in new election process
The First brewery in Salina “Blue Skye” will be opening some time in October, said Kyle Baxter head kitchen manager.
Dick’s Sporting Goods is coming to Salina in October.
Marshalls is a new clothing store for all ages. Their grand opening is October 31.
Booming
FallNoah Hadnot
Senior
Top 5 Top 5 Women’s Fashion Men’s Fashion Oversized cardigans Plaid Plaid and stripes Topcoats Leggings/yoga pants Layers Flannel shirts Blue print Oversized t-shirts Turtlenecks
Meg JohnsonJunior
Fashion By: Jera Richardson
“I like to dress to impress.”
Noah Hadnot
Pocket button up $10Old Navy Striped shirt $45
J. Crew
Cardigan $12Forever 21
“I feel honored to be nominated...I’m ready to kickoff
this year the right way.”
Dylan WentzelFreshman
BusinessSalina to aquire several new restaraunts,stores
Jean shorts $18Forever 21
Beaded sandals $35Spotted Mule
Sperry boat shoes $80Dillards
Khaki pants $35GAP
Wrist watch $80Dillards
5Student LifeSeptember 27, 2013
“I always like to express myself.” Junior Dana Risely
“I started off wearing my hair like this beginning of the school year.” Junior Charlee Powell
“I just don’t care, I get a trim every month.” Sophomore Evan Larson
“I want to be different.”Junior Jessica Maredith
Slothower andWorley at Salina Speedway
Daisy Dews
Hangin’ out at the SpeedwayStudents spend weekends at raceway
King’s CornerSenior students become first Homecoming King nominees in years
Students define themselves with unique hair styles
By Trey Cullins The Pylon
A new year at our school means many new traditions being added. Among these include our first homecoming king. We at Central have only ever had a homecoming queen. but this year they won’t be the only one with a crown atop their head.
“I think people want to vote for someone who’s tried to be nice and respectful to everyone throughout high school and someone who really deserves to represent the school; it’s not just a popularity contest,” homecoming king nominee Tanner Robl said.
All of the candidates received votes from students on who will win the crown. It’s a big honor to have this title and with the same goal in mind, they’re all hoping to achieve it.
“When I first found out I [was a nominee,] I was in shock and also so happy. I couldn’t stop smiling,” homecoming queen nominee Maggie Unruh said.
As well as being homecoming king/queen nominees, they also have the dance itself to prepare for. The queen nominees have the task of getting three dresses to wear: the parade, homecoming game, and dance. This leaves a lot of pressure on their shoulders to be prepared for what’s to come.
For many people, the homecoming dance is a thrilling event to go to. Looking forward to it all summer builds their excitement up so that their night is one to remember.
“Dances are as fun as you make them and I know we will make this a fun one,” homecoming king nominee Barret Koch said.
Senior Tanner Robl
By Courtney Worley Guest Writer
Going to the races, putting a dip in their lip whether it’s the right thing to do or not, and hanging out until midnight with friends is just how the regulars like to start off the weekend.
It’s a chance to see friends that live out of town or just to see your partner.
The smell of gasoline permeats through the air and the ground vibrates from the motors.
This is part of the experience you get and many of these students have been experiencing for years.
Salina Speedway is a place where some teens go to hang out on the weekend.
Students and even staff members can be found there whether they are just hanging out or racing out on the dirt track.
Social studies teacher, Mr. Tony Slothower, driver of Hobbystock 06, and sophomore Dawson Bradford driver of Streetstock are racers themselves.
“I like the adrenaline rush and being able to race alongside my friend Elliott May.”
Junior Jennivee Sterling and freshman Caleb McConnell, Seth Gunelson and Dusty Roberts are regulars at the speedway.
“It’s a good place to go if you
have nothing better to do on a Friday night but then again it can also be a lot of drama,” said Sterling.
McConnell can be seen working on Modified number
15 owned by Seth Schroer or Hobbystock number 25 owned by Clayton Schroer.
“I have sports and races that’s pretty much my life,” said
McConnell. Gunelson can be seen side-by-
side with his girlfriend Brittney Stroup a sophomore at Solomon High School. Freshman Chelsey Humpheries has been coming to the races for as long as she can remember. “I’ve been coming here ever since I was little, it’s a second home to me,” said Humpheries.
Alumni Tommy Blair and Greg Davis, class of 2013, can also be found at the track walking around with friends Zach Rorabaugh and Kevin Bartholomew.
Senior Kyle James can be seen helping to work on Late Model 194 owned by Scott Phillips.
For many of these students, these are just regular weekend nights, and a big, big part of their life.
“I’ve been coming here (Salina Speedway) ever since I was little. It’s a second home to me.”
Chelsey HumpheriesFreshman
Courtney Worley / The PylonStudents take a picture with Mr. Tony Slothower, race-car driver and social studies teacher.
Courtney Worley / The PylonSophomore Dalton Reinbold hangs out with a friend at the Salina Speedway on Sept. 13.
5
6 In depth In depthSeptember 27, 2013
7September 27, 2013
Evolution ofSPIRIT
8thAugust
The events that have changed the spirit of the student body up to this point.
Eli Berner / The Pylon Lindsey Wood / The Pylon Eli Berner / The Pylon Eli Berner / The Pylon
Game
over unforgotten memories of Central High
many years that follow
to eternity. For our colors maroon and w
hite may our banners f y,
High Our Alma Mater we will cherish thee. T rough the
the road of life we
wander you will always be Central High, our Alma Mater, Hail all hail to
On Salina, on Salina, plunge right through that
line. Run the ball clear down the f eld, a score is sure this time. Ra! Ra! Ra! On Salina, on Salina, f ght on for your fame. Fight fellows, f ght f ght f ght. We’ll win
Plunge right through that line.
thro
ugh
that
line
. Run
the
ball
clea
r dow
n th
e f e
ld a
scor
e
is sure this time.
By: Bailey Driver
Cen
tral
thee.
this
gam
e. O
n Sa
lina,
on
Salin
a
Lindsey Wood / The Pylon Sydney Kossow / The PylonEli Berner / The Pylon
As maroon paint covers the skin and the all-black outfits are put on, the spirit of the Maroons emerges from within.
“The ultimate goal is to make Central into one big family with the wildest student section in 5A,” said senior Treyton Hines.
Even though it’s a small group of boys, compared to Overall Swag, the Maroons have already helped change the atmosphere of the student body.
“We were created to take the spirit at Central to another level,” explained junior Nick Shaffer alongside senior Max Kuhn.
The Maroons started early when they made their first appearance at the pep rally in August, and have continued to keep their hype alive ever since.
“We bring craziness and love for our school,” the Maroons added.
At football games, the Maroons stand on the first two rows, covered in paint, leading the student section in chants and cheers.
Not only have the Maroons brought excitement to the students, but also to the staff.
“I love the nostalgic feeling from the Maroons,” English teacher Mrs. Paradis said.
The
changers
Creating spirit groups Freshmen Orientation First day of school pep rally The cRave First away football game First home football game Second pep rally
By: Connor Martens
Paintedwithpride
“Having kids come up to me asking for high fives and pictures is
one of the best feelings while being behind the
costume.”
MaxiumsMascot
Student Council (StuCo) has made essential changes in the way school spirit is portrayed within the student body. The first pep rally of the year was held on the first day of school for all students. StuCo advisors, Mrs. Jett and Mr. Garber, and StuCo spent many hours organizing and meeting during the last few weeks of school to make sure the pep rally got students pumped and excited for this school year.
“I want to give back to students and make sure they have the time of their life during high school,” Garber said.
The size of StuCo has almost doubled from last year with energetic students who want to make a change in school. Within the first couple weeks of school, StuCo has improved pep rallies, dances and sports games with more improvements to come.
Down
A measley number of 10 Overall Swag girls stood front and center last year to pump up the student section. This year, the number of girl’s has soared. 38 girls and counting are now a part of Overall Swag. Senior MacKenzie Morris took over this idea weeks before school started and made the decision to make it a sophomore through senior group where anybody could join, as long as they were willing to turn their school spirit level up. This marks the third year of Overall Swag’s existence, but this time it’s different.
“I was so impressed with the growth of Overall Swag,” English teacher Mrs. Bigler said.
The squad is more alive than ever as numbers have tripled since last year. No one has seen so much denim since the 90’s.
From here, the intensity will only continue to grow.
OverloadOverall By: Connor Martens
16seniors
14juniors
8sophomoresEli Berner / The Pylon
Eli Berner / The Pylon
Eli Berner / The Pylon
Emily Wood / The Pylon
Eli Berner / The Pylon
Left to right: M. Carlgren, B. Peters, P. Johnson
N. Shaffer
Left to right: T. Ralston, T. Hines
stang bangRecipe for a
Step 1: Step 2:
Step 3: Step 4:
Students, including The Maroons and Overall Swag, paint up their bodies before the tailgate.
Tailgaters fire up the grills, cook hot dogs, and make signs for the game.
Students pass out newspapers to the student section to rip up and throw when there is a touchdown.
The girls’ basketball team creates words and sayings in the fence for the team with cups.
Maximus
MortimerMagnum
MannyMax
One moment the crowd is hushed; the next the student section bursts into a roar of excitement. The mascot has arrived. From pep rally’s to sporting events, Maximus is everywhere that needs a boost of spirit.
In 2010, the school purchased a new and improved Mustang mascot costume that replaced an old-worn down Mustang that was passed down to Lakewood Middle School. The revealing of the mascot was at a school pep rally in the Fall where the student body chose from five names to give the official winning name to the mascot; that name was Maximus.
Throughout the years, Maximus’ role has expanded from not just being a mascot, but a leader of the school. He has played huge roles in the past two pep rally skits and has created an energized atmosphere for the school. His identity may be a secret, but his spirit for the school is widely known.
By: MacKenzie Morris
Topmascot names
Every MustangEvery Year
It’s more than a saying. “Every Mustang every year” is a phrase for this school year focusing on the success of every student and getting them to the overall goal of graduation. The phrase unites us as a school, freshmen through senior classes, and let’s us know we all are important.
Sydney Kossow / The Pylon
5
6 In depth In depthSeptember 27, 2013
7September 27, 2013
Evolution ofSPIRIT
8thAugust
The events that have changed the spirit of the student body up to this point.
Eli Berner / The Pylon Lindsey Wood / The Pylon Eli Berner / The Pylon Eli Berner / The Pylon
Game
over unforgotten memories of Central High
many years that follow
to eternity. For our colors maroon and w
hite may our banners f y,
High Our Alma Mater we will cherish thee. T rough the
the road of life we
wander you will always be Central High, our Alma Mater, Hail all hail to
On Salina, on Salina, plunge right through that
line. Run the ball clear down the f eld, a score is sure this time. Ra! Ra! Ra! On Salina, on Salina, f ght on for your fame. Fight fellows, f ght f ght f ght. We’ll win
Plunge right through that line. th
roug
h th
at li
ne. R
un th
e ba
ll cl
ear d
own
the
f eld
a sc
ore
is sure this time.
By: Bailey Driver
Cen
tral
thee.
this
gam
e. O
n Sa
lina,
on
Salin
a
Lindsey Wood / The Pylon Sydney Kossow / The PylonEli Berner / The Pylon
As maroon paint covers the skin and the all-black outfits are put on, the spirit of the Maroons emerges from within.
“The ultimate goal is to make Central into one big family with the wildest student section in 5A,” said senior Treyton Hines.
Even though it’s a small group of boys, compared to Overall Swag, the Maroons have already helped change the atmosphere of the student body.
“We were created to take the spirit at Central to another level,” explained junior Nick Shaffer alongside senior Max Kuhn.
The Maroons started early when they made their first appearance at the pep rally in August, and have continued to keep their hype alive ever since.
“We bring craziness and love for our school,” the Maroons added.
At football games, the Maroons stand on the first two rows, covered in paint, leading the student section in chants and cheers.
Not only have the Maroons brought excitement to the students, but also to the staff.
“I love the nostalgic feeling from the Maroons,” English teacher Mrs. Paradis said.
The
changers
Creating spirit groups Freshmen Orientation First day of school pep rally The cRave First away football game First home football game Second pep rally
By: Connor Martens
Paintedwithpride
“Having kids come up to me asking for high fives and pictures is
one of the best feelings while being behind the
costume.”
MaxiumsMascot
Student Council (StuCo) has made essential changes in the way school spirit is portrayed within the student body. The first pep rally of the year was held on the first day of school for all students. StuCo advisors, Mrs. Jett and Mr. Garber, and StuCo spent many hours organizing and meeting during the last few weeks of school to make sure the pep rally got students pumped and excited for this school year.
“I want to give back to students and make sure they have the time of their life during high school,” Garber said.
The size of StuCo has almost doubled from last year with energetic students who want to make a change in school. Within the first couple weeks of school, StuCo has improved pep rallies, dances and sports games with more improvements to come.
Down
A measley number of 10 Overall Swag girls stood front and center last year to pump up the student section. This year, the number of girl’s has soared. 38 girls and counting are now a part of Overall Swag. Senior MacKenzie Morris took over this idea weeks before school started and made the decision to make it a sophomore through senior group where anybody could join, as long as they were willing to turn their school spirit level up. This marks the third year of Overall Swag’s existence, but this time it’s different.
“I was so impressed with the growth of Overall Swag,” English teacher Mrs. Bigler said.
The squad is more alive than ever as numbers have tripled since last year. No one has seen so much denim since the 90’s.
From here, the intensity will only continue to grow.
OverloadOverall By: Connor Martens
16seniors
14juniors
8sophomoresEli Berner / The Pylon
Eli Berner / The Pylon
Eli Berner / The Pylon
Emily Wood / The Pylon
Eli Berner / The Pylon
Left to right: M. Carlgren, B. Peters, P. Johnson
N. Shaffer
Left to right: T. Ralston, T. Hines
stang bangRecipe for a
Step 1: Step 2:
Step 3: Step 4:
Students, including The Maroons and Overall Swag, paint up their bodies before the tailgate.
Tailgaters fire up the grills, cook hot dogs, and make signs for the game.
Students pass out newspapers to the student section to rip up and throw when there is a touchdown.
The girls’ basketball team creates words and sayings in the fence for the team with cups.
Maximus
MortimerMagnum
MannyMax
One moment the crowd is hushed; the next the student section bursts into a roar of excitement. The mascot has arrived. From pep rally’s to sporting events, Maximus is everywhere that needs a boost of spirit.
In 2010, the school purchased a new and improved Mustang mascot costume that replaced an old-worn down Mustang that was passed down to Lakewood Middle School. The revealing of the mascot was at a school pep rally in the Fall where the student body chose from five names to give the official winning name to the mascot; that name was Maximus.
Throughout the years, Maximus’ role has expanded from not just being a mascot, but a leader of the school. He has played huge roles in the past two pep rally skits and has created an energized atmosphere for the school. His identity may be a secret, but his spirit for the school is widely known.
By: MacKenzie Morris
Topmascot names
Every MustangEvery Year
It’s more than a saying. “Every Mustang every year” is a phrase for this school year focusing on the success of every student and getting them to the overall goal of graduation. The phrase unites us as a school, freshmen through senior classes, and let’s us know we all are important.
Sydney Kossow / The Pylon
8 September 27, 2013
Athletes & Sports
Pigskin PalsFootball players, elementary students find inspiration in pre-game letters
New coaching staff lends a hand
By Travis BiglerThe Pylon
A big tradition for the football team is to have an elementary school be pen pals for the seniors on the football team. A pen pal is a kid that players write letters to back and forth throughout the football season. Players usually get a letter right before games. It is amazing how much everybody enjoys hearing from these kids.
“It is a good way for us to reach out to the community, and meet future mustangs,” senior Matt Rowe said. The “pals” finally got to meet before the Newton game. This year the elementary class that was chosen was Mrs. Maring’s second grade class, from Meadowlark Ridge.
“It was amazing to see how excited
the kids were to meet us, we never think about how much kids look up to us,” senior Vince Johnson said. He had a little girl named Kendyl as his pal. “I loved talking to her before the
game. It really helped me get a good mind set knowing I had a huge fan cheering for me up in the stands,” Johnson said.
Last year was the first year that the team didn’t do pen pals. Things just didn’t work out for the teachers. It was so missed last year that they knew they had to bring it back
strong this year. Our senior class has been going all out for these kids. They take time out of their own week to write a letter that they know will make a little guy or girls whole week. This is a great tradition, and it for sure will continue into the future.
By Trey CullinsThe Pylon
Many new coaching additions will help out with sports including soccer, football, and volleyball that could benefit the teams greatly. New assistant football coach Mike Kilgore said, “I love the game of football and teaching it to young players. “As a graduate of central, he has a passion for this school as well as the game. Coaching and teaching are both things that he loves, making this a special part of his life. The volleyball team added Jessica
Putman to their staff to coach the JV level of play. She gets to work with the girls and advance their playing skills so that they’re ready for Varsity in the up coming years. Since Kipp Keffel started teaching here, he noticed the soccer program and realized he wanted to be a part of it. “It was a good opportunity, and I get to work with a great group of kids,” the assistant coach said. Teaching fundamentals and techniques of the game is one of the most important things in sports, and that’s exactly what these new coaches do.
Mike KilgoreFootball
Jessica PutmanVolleyball
Kipp KeffelBoys’ soccer
Eli Berner / The PylonSenior Barret Koch kneels with his pen pal before the game to take a picture.
Sarah Brown / The PylonSenior Casey Rayas gets a chance to talk to his pen pal and found new inspiration on Sept. 13 against Newton.
Eli Berner / The PylonSenior Kamen Kossow meets his pen pal, Caroline Brady, at the Newton game.
Powderpufffootball is crucial to high school experience
Top 3 reasons we don’t have
Powderpuff football...
Top 3 reasons we SHOULD have
Powderpuff football...
1. No sponsor2. No established rules3. Unnecessary drama
1. New experiences2. Unity 3. Increased school spirit
By Bailey DriverThe Pylon
Every year the same question is asked amongst eager girls, “Can we have powederpuff football? Every other school has it.”
The obvious reasons seemed to be drama caused from picking teams, or potential fights struck while playing, along with no one willing to organize the league.
In past years, the main reason powderpuff football hasn’t been started is no one would organize it. To successfully coordinate this, we would need a teacher to sponsor it, and strict rules that would be enforced during games to minimize drama. Not to mention, funding for referees, equipment and uniforms.
Typically, powderpuff football is held in the spring. Potentially, coaches could say they don’t want their athletes already involved in a spring sport to participate, to assure they don’t get injured. Spring sports create a hectic stadium between track and girls’ soccer, so the games would have to be held after practices are over.
If we can organize teams by classes, recruit a sponsor, establish rules and diminish drama, funding can be provided by StuCo to bring powderpuff football back.
“I remember when I had a pen pal,
and now to be on the other end of it
is rewarding.”
Kamen Kossow Senior
“...It really helped me get a good mindset
knowing I had a huge fan cheering me up in
the stands.”
Vince Johnson Senior
In the Driver’s SeatBailey DriverSports Columnist
Eli Berner / The PylonDuring the Gator Bowl, the yell leaders clap to a cheer led on the sideline.
Lindsey Wood / The PylonThe yell leaders stand watching at the Hutch game.
9September 27, 2013
Athletes & Sports
52number of combined miles ran by the cross
country team on an average day of practice
15
number of matches the volleyball team won last
season
19number of seniors on
the football team
4number of returning
players that went to state for girls’ golf last season
number in centimet of the diameter of a
tennis ball
By the numbers
a quick look at numbers and stats about the fall sports season
63
3number of hours the football team spends on the field per week
number of new stunts the cheer team learned over the
summer
number of hours the boys’ soccer team spent conditioning
Mouthing off
Athletes inthe mix
On the Spot
Caroline HolgersonGirls’ tennis
Zach MartinBoys’ soccerTiana Leepers VETS
Cort Enriquez Football Josie Simpson Volleyball
#1 pet peeve I wish I knew how to...
Favorite head accessory
“When people smack their gum”
“Speak a foreign language”
“Football helmet”“Savages”
“Fly”
“Under water basket weave”“Nike Elite sombrero”
“Talking to someone on the phone who is having another conversatoin
with someone else ”
“Ratchets”
“Sparkly headband”
“An E-Z Drinker”
“Twerk”“Sunglasses”“We can’t leave for school lunch”
“Do a backflip”
New yell leaders add to cheer squad
After years of competiting in sports and other activities the following students have joined the varsity cheer squad.
ByTravis BiglerThe Pylon
New additions to the cheerleading team have been made. Not only are there new girls on the squad, there are also four yell-leaders.
“I was curious to what was involved in cheerleading and wanted to try something new,” one of the four yell-leaders, junior Brenden Carr said.
The guys are not just there for show; they are there to use their strength and push the squad to their fullest ability. They have the capability to preform in ways that the others don’t. Lifting, voice projection, and flips are just a few ways that they can use their skills to benefit the entire squad.
“Our main job as yell-leaders is to yell as loud as possible and stunt with the girls,”
said junior Cody Ade.This summer was a crucial step in their
training process as they hadn’t had much experience before. It was a way to teach
them the basics of yell-leading as well as get them more involved with all the others
of the squad. The guys realized they had a passion for yell-leading this summer at cheer camp.
“Cheer camp has definitely been the most memorable part so far. I really enjoyed bonding with all the other squad members,” junior Jay Brown said.
They don’t feel like outsiders to the others anymore, but more like leaders. Their debut at the pep rally got the whole school pumped up and ready for the school year.
“I’m excited to see where yell-leading takes me. So far I’m enjoying it and I don’t see that changing any time soon,” senior Atzin Hernandez said.
You’ll see the yell-leaders along with the rest of the cheer squad this year during football and basketball season. They hope to change the whole atmosphere of the events.
156
6.67The male addition:
Jay Brown Junior
Atzin HernandezSeniorCody Ade
JuniorBrendan Carr
Junior
“I’m excited to see where yell-leading takes me. So far I’m
enjoying it, and I don’t see that changing anytime soon.”
It seems like every year becomes progressively stricter. A few years ago, things were a lot more laid-back. We could leave for lunch and not worry about having to serve three hours of detention. Now, two friends can’t even hug without being yelled at. Walking down the halls, teachers bombard students in search of passes and explanations. Even having phones out in the hallway isn’t allowed anymore; students have to wait until they enter the lunchroom. What is the reason for all of these rules? It isn’t going to stop students from leaving the building or cutting class; if someone doesn’t want to be at school bad enough, they’ll leave no matter what anyone says. Nothing is going to be accomplished by nagging at us like you’re our mothers, especially because we aren’t scared of you or any punishment you throw at us. All administration is doing is upsetting already angry teenagers. The community views the school as ghetto compared to south, but students there are just as bad. Just as much drugs and violence goes around there, but administration handles it without treating their students like prisoners. Ironic, since South actually looks like a jail. All our school needs is an attitude adjustment. Everyone just needs to kick back and relax a bit.
“Ask” craze annoys tweetersBy Eryn Hassler
The Pylon
Twitter is always being plagued by some new trend, each worse than the last one.
It reminds me of good ol’ Facebook and all the wonderful reasons why we kicked it to the curb.
One particular trend that’s really been grindin’ my gears is our not so dear friend ask.fm. For those of you that don’t know, ask.fm is a site where you can ask people whatever you want anonymously from your phone, and see their response.
Plain and simply, this trend needs to stop. Would somebody,
first of all, please explain what the point of asking people anonymous questions is? And more importantly, what’s the point of answering them?
If this seems like your cup of tea, by all means, make an account. Knock yourself out. But how ‘bout you not post every single question. Ain’t nobody got time for that.
And sorry to break it to you guys, but nobody cares. I’ve had to see plenty of anonymous questions and I’ve broken them all down into three categories. Insults. Compliments. And just straight up thirst at it’s finest.
What it is that people think they’re gaining by anonymously
insulting others online, I will never know. It only lets the recipient know that you’re obviously too scared to confront them personally.
There’s no reason to spread hate and negativity; it will only bring bad karma.
Now, there’s nothing wrong with sending people anonymous compliments. It’s pretty nice, actually. But for the people receiving them, you probably don’t need to post every one. We get it. Finally, the most common type of question asked would probably fall into the category of thirst. Meaning desperately trying to seek attention from the opposite sex.
If you’re one of those people, get yourself a glass of water, and calm down. For me personally, I would never make an ask.fm account simply because I could care less what people have to anonymously say about me or ask me.
If it’s that important they can ask me themselves like a grown up. I don’t mean to bash everyone who’s following this trend. I understand summer boredom can drive us to do about anything to entertain ourselves.
But next time you have the urge to post another tracking question on my timeline, just remember these three words..How. About. No.
Book bags increase student back painBy Bailey Driver
The Pylon
Mondays are a drag for everyone; it’s the first day back to school after two days of freedom and fun. On Mondays, I find myself slouched over like the “Hunchback of Notre Dame” as I walk through the hallways trying not to fall over. It’s like my teachers aren’t aware that I have to haul around three text books and three binders, since Mondays are all-days.
This is also a problem on Wednesdays and Fridays when I have three text books and one binder. That’s three out of five days that my back and balance are truly put to the test.
Last Monday, as I walked up the stairs with my book bag fastened over my shoulders, I was curious as to just how much my book bag weighed.
As it turns out, it weighs a whopping 32.8 pounds. Although this only occurs on Mondays, I’ve noticed that my book bag has steadily gotten heavier each year, making me have sore shoulders.
Through my high school career, I’ve taken more challenging classes each year with thicker text books that are inconvenient for any student to carry. At first, I thought that my book bag didn’t have wide enough straps or that they weren’t tight enough on my shoulders; then I realized I wasn’t the only one dealing with
this pain. “Every day, I carry more
than my book bag and back can handle; it’s ridiculous!” junior Zach Ketcher said.
I know my complaint may be looked at as trivial, but the statistics over this issue have become more serious in recent years. According to Dr. David Marshall, Medical Director for Children’s Health Care of Atlanta Sports Medicine Program, “Between 2010 and 2011, backpack injuries in kids aged five to eighteen increased six and a half percent, from 12,924 to
13,766. Those heavy bags draped over your child’s shoulders could be the source of acute or even chronic back pain.”
The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons suggests that the healthy weight of a backpack should be less than 10-15 percent of the student’s total body weight.
My book bag should be no heavier than 22.5 pounds since I weigh about 150 pounds, which means mine weighs about 10
pounds more than it should. A study conducted at
Auburn University concluded that book bags that are too heavy for their wearers may threaten developing spines. Of the students who participated in the study, over half suffered from muscle soreness and back pain, while others suffered from numbness and shoulder pain.
Some teachers do their best to obtain class sets of text books for students to use which is ideal, but the majority don’t have access to those resources. All textbooks can be viewed online, but that’s only beneficial on the rare occasion when I leave my text book at school.
Frustratingly, sometimes the text books I drag around all day aren’t even used during class. On these days, I try to drop off the ones I’ve already used for the day in Mr. Garber’s room, hoping it will ease some of the tension and strain forced upon my back. Not only is this inconvenient, but it’s a complete waste of time.
Recently, a few of my teachers have been offered the chance to test out Google Chromebooks. These Chromebooks are laptops that weigh about two and a half pounds that students will be able to access as their own throughout the day.
Compared to carrying around three text books weighing roughly four pounds each, this new technology could benefit students in more ways than one.
“Not only is this inconvenient, but it’s a complete waste of
time.”
Bailey DriverPylon
28.1 lbs
32.8 lbs
19.5 lbs
MyTop5Pet Peeves
(about this year)
1
5
4
3
2
No hugging
Too many people
Locked doors
Manditory passes
Fewer hot guys(class of 2013, we miss you)
(I wouldn’t be hugging anybody anyways, but I would like the option.)
23.7 lbs
Averageweightofstudent
backpacks
Rachel Bevans
Eryn Hassler
Bailey Driver
Afton Miller
by Alexis Karabinas
11September 27, 2013
Editorials & Opinion
“Ask” craze annoys tweeters
&Call-outs
Kudos
-Junior Rube Ball for showing me the feminist version of Robin Thicke’s “Blurred Lines.” -STUCO for making the first school dance actually fun. -This weather we’re having makes me want to read a book with a cozy sweater and be fancy. -”Grandma Charlotte” and the other lunch ladies that serve us food and ring us up for being so kind and patient. You guys brighten our days, for sure. -Junior Charlie Powell for having the self-confidence to rock a sky high mohawk. You go, girl. -The wonderful group of teachers we have here for genuinely caring about their students. -Senior Dakota Rowlison for making the video “I am so sexy.” Look it up on youtube at the username djrowlison. It will blow your mind. -The majority of our teachers for genuinely caring about the lives and wellbeing of their students. -Administration for caring so much about the whereabouts of students that they hunt them down if they’re not in attendance.
Kudos:
Callouts: -Junior Gabby Resley being cut from the volleyball team for having a baby. No one should be discriminated against based on their situation. -The new rules. It’s like we’re in jail. No hugging, no going anywhere, WHERE’S YOUR PASS? Go away. -Speaking of the ban on hugs; this rule only applies to girls hugging other girls. What are we now, homophobic? Come on. -The pointless road work that is ALWAYS going on. Nothing ever changes, and the streets get backed up like crazy. Just stop. -There are way too many people crowding the hallways. Let’s just kick the new kids out, please. -The freshmen seem to be getting smaller every year. -The bloggers that are trying to defend Miley Cyrus’ latest desperate attempt at becoming relevant again. There’s no way you can make swinging on a ball, crying, and licking a sledge hammer, all in the nude, seem like art. It’s not going to happen. -STUCO for messing up the sound at the second pep rally and the voting for homecoming candidates. We love what you’ve done for the school, but clean up your act.
Book bags increase student back pain
By Patty DominguezThe Pylon
As if adjusting to the new rules and ELO schedule change isn’t enough, students are now having to spend half their allotted lunch time standing in line just waiting to receive their food.
Many students are quick to blame the wait on the incompetence of the lunch workers, but the truth is they aren’t the only ones having to adjust to changes in routine. The lunch system has been renovated, causing lunch lines to move slower than usual.
“The snack line is ridiculous. There’s never a set line, instead people just huddle around the entrance,” senior Taylor Hanson said.
Although it has been difficult to adjust to, some of the lunch ladies are beginning to like the new system.
“Parents and students are now able to view their lunch accounts online and check if they have a la carte permission, which saves everyone a lot of time. The transition period is a negative part of the change, but the lines are already moving much faster than they were at the start of the year,” kitchen manager Jan Ganzenmuller said.
While they understand how tedious it is to have to wait in line for so long, the lunch ladies appreciate the patience and good attitudes that students have with them.
New year, longer lines
NOT SO
Student frustration increases as lunch renovations cause longer wait times
Genna Salstrom / The PylonImpatient students wait in lines as large as their appetites.
1
2
GRANDMA
CYNTHIA
LUNCHLadies
FAVORITE
CHARLOTTE
3 YONG
The following are situations in which our faculty deserve praise for a job well done or to be called out for dropping the ball.
4 CAROL
• Getting used to new numbers
• New transititon times
• Snack line confuses students
POLITICALWaldo’s past catches up with him
Here is where you would usually find a political cartoon. Sometimes, though, you have to step back from all the seriousness in life and have some fun. So, sophomore Sam Beck illustrated this not so political cartoon for your enjoyment.
