Volume 101 Edition 22

M

The

ENTOR

Manhattan High School Volume 101 Issue 22 April 15, 2014

page 3

page 4

page 6

Sprott exits, Rupe to enter as MHS admin Glitch in system delays state assessments Madeline Marshall Staff Writer Assistant principal Charlie Sprott will turn in his beloved megaphone as he has resigned from his position at the Freshman center. He and his wife Katherine Sprott will be moving to Texas, where Katherine has received a job at Lamar University.

“Mr. Sprott will be missed at MHS and we wish to thank

him for his 10 years of service and leadership at the East Campus,” Manhattan High principal Greg Hoyt said in an email to staff yesterday. “We wish the Sprotts much happiness and success as they move forward in the next chapter of their lives.”

Hoyt’s email went on to say that starting this fall Dave Holloway, current senior class administrator, will be moving to the East Cam-

pus to become assistant principal there.

The assistant principal at Eisenhower Middle School, Marvin Rupe, will be joining the West campus Administrative team next year. Rupe has worked at Eisenhower for the past 10 years.

“I’m excited to have Mr. Rupe join the MHS family and look forward to working with him in the future,” Hoyt said.

Maddie Ross News Editor State assessments, which kicked off last week, have been an off-and-on-again topic at Manhattan High.

The assessments ran into delays due to problems in the computer system. Changes that were made this year that caused significant problems in the process of testing. To complete the required two

attempts for the state before ruling out State Assessments all together this year, testing will resume for select juniors today.

“I am not sure why it’s not working. It’s a state-level thing,” assistant principal David Holloway said.

Frustrated due to technical difficulties, the district made a decision to stop testing last week. A public announcement was made

about the fact that testing would end for the year.

“We were on. In reading, we had 102 students attempt the reading test and only one student completed it out of that 102,” Holloway said.

Shortly after the decision was announced, the Kansas Department of Education notified USD 383 that schools must try two times to login See Assessments page 7

some K-State student volunteers that had some laser lights and we set those up in the gym, and April showso you could ers while bringkinda see this ing some flowbig laser light ers every year, show all over also brought the gym at the about Spring same time peoFling. Students ple were playAgainst Deing laser tag,” structive DeQuiton-Humes cisions have said. “So I think sponsored the that’s one of the event annually, main things.” and this year In addition was no differto the variety of ent. Last Frientertainment, day the sounds there were of “Gangnam many raffles Style” echoed that students through the could particihalls, shouts pate in. of “Get him” In the end launched the event was across the gym Students dance in the commons during the annual Spring Fling sponsored by SADD. looked at as floor and la- The event included activities such as laser tag, a film festival, DJ, and raffles. sers beamed Tara Magana, Photographer a success. “I think that a lot through it all. of times people talk about a lack The event consisted of many “[Spring Fling] is an eventfe fun, of activities for high school stuFriday evening for Manhattan High activities including laser tag, a film dents,” Quiton-Humes said. “It School students,” Drug and Alco- festival, a DJ, and a carnival parwas very well-attended; I think hol Prevention Coordinator Kari ticipated in by many clubs. “I think everyone had a great time. I was Quiton-Humes said. “The idea is to everybody loves laser tag, and this pleased with the results.” have diverse activities that will in- year was really cool because I had Maddie Ross News Editor

terest students so they’ll come and have a good time.

Thespian Film Festival

Annual Spring Fling considered success Gage Benne Business Manager After the blare of Spring Fling the Thespians at Manhattan High ended the evening with the annual Film Festival. Three entrants entered short motion pictures in hopes to win the first place prize, $100. Each film introduced a unique genre to the mix, making the night transition from tragedy to humor.

In first place, senior Erika Chlupsa submitted her final project for Digital Media and Design in hopes to get a little bit more out of her work. The little bit more turned out to be first place and an extra hundred dollars extra in the bank.

Chlupsa’s fictional work, “Tommy,” was a gloomy walk to the cemetery, with home-videos of her brothers overlapping. The mix of happy flashbacks and grey walking left the audience heart-shaken when it ended with a candle-light memorial of her brother. After winning, she assured the audience the film was a work of fiction, and her brother is alive and well.

Taking second, junior Connor Bliss made a quick turn to laughing and humor. Before the films began, directors had a chance to say a few words about their art. A few summarized and gave background to the films, but Bliss simply issued a request to follow him on Twitter and Youtube. His film, “Routine,” followed a recurring drill, until one day he decided to change things up. Waking up in a tuxedo for pajamas and eating pizza for breakfast, his personna lightened the audiences’ faces. Yes, you can follow Bliss on Twitter, @cblissful, and on YouTube, cbliss1997.

Third place was awarded to juniors Arnold Benedict and John Dabek for their film depicting a beautiful flowery landscape. Benedict’s hope was to provide a dreamy, happy feeling as viewers watched beautiful shots of flowers, with an emphasis on different focus subjects.

Thespians hopes to expand the program next year to have an independent event, as well as larger audience.

Car show honors former MHS hosts meeting to educate teachers on dangers of sexting MHS automotive teacher Retta Lazaris Staff Writer SkillsUSA fired up the engine of the first Steve Barnes Memorial Car Show last Saturday at Manhattan High’s West campus.

Co-presidents Sam Livsey, senior, and juniors Noah Johnson and Payton Gehrt, helped the MHS auto tech teacher and SkillsUSA advisor, Elizabeth Crooks, plan the event.

“The show’s doing great.

We’ve got about 65 cars and we’ve probably had 200250 people walk through,” Crooks said during the event.

“It took us a long time, but it

all came together.”

And after months of planning, the Auto Tech students represented Barnes well with the fundraiser that would race a head start into his memorial scholarship.

“Steve Barnes was a teacher that taught automotive here for about thirty-five years,” Crooks said. “And when he passed away three years ago, his family set up a scholarship in his name.

So we’ve just been helping to raise money for that.”

Although Barnes has a personal connection with Manhattan High, his family took his vision to help other students across Kansas pur-

sue an education in the technical fields.

“Right now, the scholarship will go to kids at Manhattan High that want to pursue something technical, whether that be automotive, welding, woods,” Crooks said. “The goal is for the scholarship to end up being statewide. His family wants the scholarship to not only help the students at Manhattan High School, but to help other kids in the same place.”

SkillsUSA also coordinated with the IPS class to incorporate a bake sale into See Car show page 7

Liz Logback Editor-in-Chief Sexting has become a national topic, especially among teenagers, and last week Resource Officer Jamie Douglass, Activities Director Angie Messer and Riley County Police Officer Matt Drogy continued discussion of the conversation started at Manhattan High last fall with a public meeting. This time they hosted a time for teachers to come, ask questions and prepare themselves for what they might experience in the classroom.

“I thought it went really well. The response and ques-

tions from the teachers were very good, well thought out,” Douglas said. “Making sure our teachers and staff understand the importance of social media that our students are using and understand the consequences of negative things that can occur via social media.”

Students discussed sexting and the use of social media in their Tribe Time hours after the teachers had their meeting.

“The reason this came about is we're having the Olweus class meetings and discussions, and this is an issue that has come up with questions and teachers wanted to

have it as a topic for class discussion. So if questions come up, we wanted people to be able to answer it," Messer said.

The meeting discussed laws and common misconceptions about sexting as well as how to answer the question, “What if I get sent something I didn't want?”

“The answer to that is, if you get something and you're at home, you need to notify your parent immediately about it. Never show it to anyone else, never forward it. And if you're at school you can show it to an administraSee Sexting page 7

Students see community service as valuable GSA participates in annual Allison Olsen Photo Editor At the graduation ceremony every May, there are sounds of excitement in the air. Students are ready to start the next chapter of their lives. They think back to all of the work they put in to get to that point. A visible sign of students’ hard work is in the red cord around their neck to accompany the blue robes. This cord symbolizes students’ dedication in getting at least 125 recorded school and community service hours.

Senior Lakith Ranaweera is one of the people on the list

of recorded service hours.

“I think community service gets you satisfaction that can’t be given by anything else,” Ranaweera said.

“Some of my most memorable experiences were in the summer of 2012. I went to Sri Lanka for three weeks and volunteered at a cancer hospital and orphanage. It completely changed my life.”

The purpose of school and community service is to give students an opportunity to connect with something outside of themselves, while at the same time trying to better the environment they live in.

“The main reason for

the service hours was to introduce students to being involved with the community and to being a part of the school, and to show through the experience how valuable giving back to the community is,” senior Josie Rozell said.

Some volunteer organizations that students can get involved in around the community can include the hospital, zoo, public library or daycare facilities.

“I began my service at some place that was familiar,” senior Madison Long said. “For me, that was Bates Dance Studio. I would assist dance classes for little kids.

It was here that I discovered

my love of helping others and from there it just grew.”

Senior Emily Andrews also went out into the community to gain service hours.

“Most of my hours I got from volunteering at the public library. I did storytime on Saturdays with little kids,” Andrews said. “You’re also simultaneously building a community around yourself.”

Community and school service hours are a big part of applying for colleges, or even future careers.

“I think colleges really do See Community service page 7

day of silence Tracy Le Graphics Editor “I got to school and I was happy to see my friends,” sophomore Austin GrandPre said. “Then they told me about the Day of Silence and I decided to go along with it and participates was pretty much silent for the whole day. I had a sign for when the teachers asked my questions I would write it down.”

Last Friday, at Manhattan High, many students vowed to remain silent for the Day of Silence. The first Day of Silence took place in 1996 at the University of Virginia.

“The Day of Silence is basically a pledge to be silent for those who are force to be silent because of their being gay, bi, straight, etc. and for people who are bullied because of this,” junior Mary Romig said.

Romig is the president of Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA) and urged many people to participate.

“I think it was really productive,” Romig said. Not only did many members of GSA participate, students who were not a part of the club did as well. Sophomore See GSA page 3

FFA celebrates year of accomplishment during annual banquet Retta Lazaris Staff Writer The Manhattan High FFA chapter celebrated a year of accomplishment Monday, April 7, at the North Central District Banquet.

Doug Muller, the MHS advisor for FFA, took four representatives to Southeast Saline High where the ban-

quet and elections for new district officers were held.

Kyndal Norris, sophomore, and Anna Jackson, senior, were assigned to be voting delegates in the election.

Freshmen Bella Petry and Steven Wilson observed the interviews and speeches of the candidates.

“I think it went well; there’s not all that much to

it,” Norris said. “You get to get your hopes up for next year, and see what all you’re going to get to do and everything like that. Hopefully next year we’ll have some people running for district officers, and that would be exciting.”

Norris claims that she may run for a district office position next year, along with

Wilson -- who plans to run for a national officer position later on in his high school career. However, the MHS FFA chapter did not have anyone running for district, state or national office this year.

“We had dinner at 6:30, while the awards were handed out, and the new officers were put into position,” Norris said. “The award they

gave out were like proficiency awards, that deal with your SAE and like if you kept good records, and how successful it was.”

The group did leave with an award of their own that night.

“We got second place for our veterinary science team, so that was awesome,” Jackson, president of the MHS

chapter, said. “We also noticed that schools like Chapman and Washington County dominated in everything, so we got to see what they did more so our chapter can improve for next year. But as a senior, it doesn’t effect me as much, because I can’t be here to help them improve.”

See FFA page 7

Opinions The Mentor www.mhsmentor.com Page 2

Kansas bill shouldn’t eliminate tenure for public school teachers The editorial is a compilation from a discussion held by the Editorial board.

The Kansas legislature passed a bill last week that would increase funding to lower districts but would also take away tenure for public school teachers in Kansas. The bill was passed by both chambers of the State Congress after a Kansas Supreme Court’s order in March to increase aid to poorer school districts. It is currently waiting on Governor Sam Brownback, who is suggesting he is going to sign it.

The law pertaining to tenure, which aims to keep teachers from being fired for arbitrary reasons, for teach-

ers, is that after three years on the job, a teacher facing dismissal must be told why in writing. Also, the teacher is given a chance to ask a hearing officer to review the case.

In addition to the elimination of the tenure, the bill would also give corporations up to $10 million in tax credits for contributing to scholarship funds to help poor and at-risk children attend private schools.

Furthermore, districts can levy additional local property taxes to get more funds into classrooms.

However, the debate on the tenure has been the biggest issue regarding the bill.

Like many public school teachers in Kansas, our edi-

torial staff thought the bill will be a big blunder not only for what it does to teachers, but what it does to students as well.

If the bill is enacted, teachers won’t consider long-term loyalty to a certain school or even a school in Kansas after the school year is over. This would affect the students at the schools; many classes (especially at the high school), require teacher-student professional relationships that are built over a couple of years to create the best learning environment.

Furthermore, if the tenure was taken away, the students and teachers would constantly be adjusting to each other -- an unnecessary waste of time on education.

Remember that sense of possibility Sarah Shi

We’re so young. We’re so young. We’re 18 years old.

We have so much time. But there’s a sentiment that I sometimes sense, creeping in our conscious as we lay alone after a party, or shove our half-finished essays down our back pack when we give in and go out -- that it is too late. That others are five, 10 steps ahead. More knowledgeable, more accom-

plished. More on the straight and select few paths to creating, inventing, somehow saving the world. Where am I in all this?

When I came to Manhattan there was this sense of possibility, like the potential held in the pull back of an arrow. I don’t know if I hit the bull’s-eye or even the target.

Four years later, I still don’t know. Is this university the right one? Did I pick the right friends? Have I really changed? Have I spent these years the wisest?

Of course, there are things we wished we did: our readings for English, that one dance. And things we wished we didn’t: late nights, late late nights or not even going to school. Procrastinating. I don’t really think that our private insecurities will disappear. They’ll follow us

Question of theWeek:

Next edition’s Question of the Week: What m ovie are yo u lo okin g forward to this s prin g? Submit answers to mhsmentor.com or tweet us at @mhsmentoronline

What sho uld n ex t year ’s pro m the m e b e?

“A Labyrinth.”

- Katie Dixon, junior

“Hanukkah.”

-Sam Morgan, sophomore

“Robots and lasers.”

-Wesley Dusin, senior

forever.

But the thing is, we’re all like that. Nobody finished their reading or calculus homework, or on time at least. To those that did, I say congrats and you’re probably gonna go far, and you suck.

But I feel like that’s okay.

We can do anything. We can change our ideas. We can change our minds. We can change. It’s never too late.

These next four years, we shouldn’t lose that fragile sense of possibility. It’s easy to forget it, so try hard not to. We’re so young that it’s ridiculous to even think that it’s too late, because in the end all we have left are the possibilities. Possibilities of what? I don’t know, and if I did, what’s the fun in that?

That’s where I am in all this.

“Dinosaurs.”

-Jacob Larson, senior

“Under the sea.”

-Rose Gruenbacher, junior “The Walking Dead or a Game of Thrones theme.”

-Noah Juelfs, sophomore

“1950s, like total greasers, and that would be a B.A. prom.”

-Lukas Hugunin, senior

Hunting should be survival only Danielle Cook

Hunting was once a vitally important aspect of life for many, and I realize that it still is -- for tribal and other groups who actually depend on hunting undomesticated animals for survival, to live.

We, who live in a “first world” country, a country where we can run down to the grocery store for a package of meat and have it turned into dinner within about a half hour, have no business or justifiable motive for killing wild animals. We, as a nation, have already

destroyed, and continue to destroy, animals’ habitats and environments by building up our own world of industry. Isn’t that enough?

We eliminate their homes for our benefit. And granted, there is the point that we are humans and we are building our society in a way that requires space and land, and we do actually benefit, most of the time, from using land that we take away from nature.

How does hunting benefit someone personally? I would love to know because it has remained a complete mystery to me, since the day I was able to comprehend the action of hunting.

If you’re a hermit living up in a mountain somewhere all alone, completely isolated from society, and you can’t take a drive down to your local grocery store and grab a package of cold turkey, go

ahead -- go find yourself a turkey to shoot and make dinner out of.

But if you have access to meat that was bred and raised to be killed and sold for food, that’s different.

Hunting is a “sport” that is often justified by the idea of population control among undomesticated animals, but what happened to animal populations before there were this many people around to hunt them? They lived, and died, naturally and all their species likely lived on for hundreds of years. If animals are going to die because of overpopulation issues, let them -- because that’s natural. That’s the way nature is supposed to work. And what right do we have to destroy more of the earth’s natural order and processes?

As I was explaining to a fellow member of “The Mentor” staff what I’d be

writing about this week, he brought to my attention that if I wanted to attack animal cruelty, I should go after slaughter houses and poaching. And of course, I’d love to attack those forms of animal cruelty. But right now, in this country, it seems like I’m surrounded by people who hunt for sport, and who are, in my opinion, a little too proud of slaughtering innocent animals for sport, posting photos of themselves posing, smiling, beside the carcass of their “latest kill.”

And honestly, that’s kind of appalling. To me, that’s no different than shooting your dog, or a pet, and then taking a picture with it.

If you’re going to hunt, it should be for survival only.

It’s an unnecessary activity and it’s not something anyone should be proud of.

Halsey Camera, cartoonist

Don’t forget to teach compassion Connor Bliss

Bullying is a topic that’s been beaten to death in the school district. It’s one of the first things you’ve been taught not to do, and rightfully so. It’s a terrible pastime of the oppressors that is used to hide one’s insecurities and bring out someone else’s.

Yes, everyone knows it’s a problem, and we’ve been told that since the beginning. But the many years of this education has created cynics among my peers who are reverting back to a previous generation’s remarks of “suck it up.”

These remarks of “suck it up” and “don’t take it personal” maybe should be taken seriously with the first insult.

But the definition of bullying involves repeated incidents and no matter how thick your mental shield is, sooner or later your numbness to the slander is going to break and suddenly the comments will mean so much more. These comments are ignorant and have no compassion behind them.

As bullying moves to the web in the form of the worst buzzword ever, “Cyber Bullying,” it’s even easier to mark off its victims as those who aren’t able to shake it off.

Deleting your social media accounts may be the healthy choice. The Internet is still full of outlets that people can reach you at and many of these are considered necessities in this day and age.

The art of being cynical might be perfected by our generation and I don’t think

it’s completely our fault. The constant education of these subjects makes us numb to even the most heartfelt story. The more of these videos we’re shown, the harder our hearts usually gets to these.

While the cynicalness of this generation may not all be derived from the relentless mind controls of “Do Nots,” it certainly plays a role in it.

Bullying is a serious issue that needs to be taken that way. It’s hard to realize this when the education on the subject is taught constantly and is met with groans at the announcement of it. It’s not too late to melt the ice building up around our hearts.

The education won’t stop or slow down anytime soon.

But my peers need to slow down, realize it’s a problem and know that what we are being taught may be ridiculous but compassion should still be directed at the victims. It’s rarely their fault they’re being bullied.

The Mentor EDITORS:

Liz Logback, Editor-in-Chief/Trending Maddie Ross, News Editor Sarah Shi, Opinions/Content Editor Jared Gebhardt, Entertainment Editor Greg Woods, Sports Editor Connor Bliss, Features Editor Kennedy Felice; Danielle Cook, Copy Editors Alan Brown, Multimedia Editor Tracy Le, Graphic Designer Allison Olsen, Photo Editor

CIRCULATION: Kristyn Baker David Clinkinbeard Karl Drown Patrick Falcone Karl Harmon Jordan Hatley Colten Kirk

Josh Kohls Kasey Morris Mallory Morris Megan Ritthisorn Jeremy Romig Zane Smith Austin Tatum

OTHER: Gage Benne, Business Manager Jerry Sextro, Business Manager Kristy Nyp, Adviser

STAFF WRITERS/PHOTOGRAPHERS: Kristen Batson Gage Benne Retta Lazaris Louis Melgarejo Madeline Marshall Madison Newman John Rockey Joseph Sell

The Mentor is published each Tuesday that school is in session at Manhattan High School, 2100 Poyntz Ave. Manhattan, Kan. Telephone (785) 587-2114. More than 1,500 Mentors are printed each week and distributed free of charge to all faculty members and students.

MHS journalists are members of the Scholastic Press Association. The Mentor is an open forum that accepts contributions from the public. E-mail us at mhsmentor@gmail.com.

Entertainment The Mentor

www.mhsmentor.com Page 3

Manhattan, Washburn share spotlight in preperation for competition Madeline Marshall Staff Writer Perfectly balanced harmonies and reverberating silences melded together to form an unforgettable night as the Manhattan High School and Washburn High School choirs shared their music in preparation for upcoming competitions this past Wednesday in Rezac Auditorium.

The choirs shared their large ensemble literature with each other, in order to be better prepared for large group competitions.

“It went really well,” sophomore chamber choir member Sam Morgan said.

“Washburn was really good and it was cool to hear such a talented choir.”

“I felt very good about last night. The whole point of the concert was to let choirs hear each other and to make them step up their focus and get a sense of what it’s like to hear another really good choir from the audience,” MHS choir director Chad Pape said.

And the concert did just that.

“The Washburn choirs

‘Lights Out’ brightens mood Maddie Ross News Editor

Ingrid Michaelson is back.

In her fifth studio album, “Lights Out,” the indie-pop singer/songwriter is at it again bringing her smooth sound and lush piano ballads. Widely known for her graceful balance between indie and pop and emphasis in female empowerment and strong emotions, Michaelson’s newest album holds true to the expectations I had for it.

Released officially today, “Lights Out,” was released on iTunes Radio, in segments, in the week leading up to its debut. Each day featured three new songs -- and of course I was on iTunes every one of those days to absorb the cinematic piano-led songs -- the incredible cameos such as A Great Big World and Mat Kearny that exceptionally

capture the powerful talent of Michaelson as a songwriter.

In contrast to the multitude of electric ballads that personify Michaelson’s music are songs with more of a pop edge such as the the track “Girls Chase Boys.”

This new side includes super catchy hooks guaranteed to be stuck in my head for days, which is not necessarily a bad thing.

It is very rare for an album to cover such a range and tiptoe on the fine line between mainstream and “hipster” with such poise and balance, yet Michaelson did it with this one. Whether it’s her dainty indie track “Home,” her electronica-speckled “Stick,” or the strength and positivity wrapped “Afterlife,” Michaelson delivers, in what I deem to be her best album yet. Her ability to intricately weave her thoughts and emotion with beats that create a timeless collection of tracks for a diverse audience is rare and truly admirable. I will definitely have this album on repeat for quite some time.

were a lot better than the mixed choir so after hearing them we went on stage and were thinking we have to be better than we are one hundred percent of the time, and they really pushed us,” sophomore mixed choir member Dakota Santiago said.

“I was very very pleased with how all of the choirs sang so I think it went very well,” Pape said. “We have very good kids here so we get to do some things that other people don’t get to do.”

With Regional solo and ensemble competition behind them, the choirs are

now working towards the large ensemble competitions, which take place tomorrow, and the State solo and ensemble festival.

“I thought the Regionals went really well and we got mainly 1s, but our younger group got a 2,” Pape said.

“We’re extremely proud of them getting a two because thats a choir we used to not let go to contest at all so they did very well.”

“I’m really excited about the large ensemble contest,” Pape said. “We haven't ever taken our third hour choirs to large group contest. In the

past we’ve only taken chamber choir so I’m excited to see how they do.”

Those who earned one rankings at the Regional Competition will be given the opportunity to go to State on April 26.

“I’m excited to see how we do there as well,” Pape said. “Usually for State, the choirs understand a little more pressure and they rehearse a little more focused.

It’s worth doing just for the accountability of it all.”

“As far as preparation goes we’ve been learning a new song as well as polishing

up songs we’ve sung in previous concerts,” Morgan said.

“I think we’re pretty much ready. We’re just cleaning up our sound and making sure we sound the way we want to.”

“The best thing about [the concert] was to just get to have all of the choirs hear each other and hear a different way of doing things and maybe even figure out some things we could be doing better, all before competition,” Pape said.

Orchestra competes in Heritage Performance Madeline Marshall Staff Writer Orchestra students piled into the big blue bus early Friday morning and made the nine-hour trek for a competition, the World Strides Heritage Performance. It was their first time competing at this competition.

“The trip was really long, but it was worth it it,” freshman Mersadies Heskett said.

With roller coasters, a medieval fair, a bus crash and, most importantly, a multitude of awards, the Manhattan High orchestra trip to Dallas was quite the experience.

Friday night, the orchestra went to a medieval feast

and tournament before heading to bed to prepare for their performance the next day.As for the performance, members were amazed by how well they performed as well as the awards the left with.

“The orchestra was amazing on a lot of levels, especially considered our situation,” director Nate McClendon said.

The group that performed was actually the first and second hour orchestras combined-- they had only had one rehearsal together before their performance.

“For the orchestra program, it [the competition] is the first step in getting us to the level of performance that I believe we should be

at,” McClendon said. “It also works as a motivational tool, having important activities out in the future applies a certain motivation.

I wanted us to have something to work towards, and because I knew they would do well, a chance for them to bond as a group.”

“I really liked how everybody was musically in sync during the performance,” freshman Kevin Kim said.

“We played together perhaps better than we ever had before,” senior Grace Horton-Smith said.

After a day at Six Flags, the orchestra was presented with six awards -- the gold award, the outstanding orchestra group award, the adjudicator award, a division one rating, the offi-

cial festival of golds and the maestro award (presented to concertmaster Arnav Das). They were judged by a group of national-level judges who travel to each of these regional competitions and received the highest score of not only all of the orchestras, but all ensembles that performed.

“It was great seeing how great we played and worked together being reflected in the awards we received,” Horton-Smith said.

“I feel that Manhattan Orchestra represented itself extremely well,” freshman Chloe Dorst said.

“Honestly, we weren’t See orchestra performance page 7

Students prepare for upcoming Variety Show tryouts Alan Brown Multimedia Editor

get them to go out and try.”

Senior Mary Matthews took part in the Variety Shows last year, dancing to a Scissor Sisters song with a group of friends. She, along with two other participants, were also emcees of the show and took turns introducing the acts. This year, her Varsity choir group will sing a version of Bastille’s “Pompeii.”

Matthews also hopes to be an emcee again.

“It was a lot of fun to come up with ways to introduce the acts,” Matthews said.

“Who doesn’t love cheesy jokes and puns?”

There will be stage rehearsals for all participants prior to the Variety Show’s debut on May 2. In the meantime, everyone is encouraged to try out.

“Come out and try. Your act doesn’t have to be perfect. We still have a month before the performances, so we want to see your act,” Gittle said. “This will be a very vast crowd. Your act may just be unique enough to make the show.”

This week, students will have the opportunity to audition for the 56th annual Variety Show at Manhattan High.

Essentially a school wide talent show, audition slots will be open to all members of the student body. According to Joel Gittle, who has directed the show for 22 years, unique acts will be the key to a successful performance.

“We look for variety.

Uniqueness is good,” Gittle said. “Anyone who thinks that they would like to come out and perform onstage is welcome to try out.”

Auditions will continue to take place Tuesday and Wednesday in the band room. Interested students should claim a time slot by filling out the sign-up sheet in the band hall. After the auditions, the band directors will settle on two acts, consisting of seven to eight performances each. Past events have included comedy, music, magic and juggling acts. The directors are also looking for volunteer stage crew willing to do various jobs, including fixing lights, setting up sound equipment and moving the curtains.

“We have a lot of music 3:30-5 p.m. kids who try Monday, April 14 out for the Variety Show because they want to be on 3:10-5 p.m. and 6:30-7:30 stage and be Tuesday, April 15 doing something different,” Gittle said.

“But 3:30-5 p.m. we’ve also Wednesday, April 16 tried to reach out to the entire school Where: Band room population and

Variety Show Auditions

p.m.

Director Nate McClendon conucts one of the orchestra’s pieces that would lead to them earning six awards. “Our goal was to get a gold ranking at regional so we could move on to the festival of gols competition next year,” McClendon said. “We certainly surpassed our previous expectations.”

Madison Newman, photographer

Dark Souls II gives players real challenge Jared Gebhardt

A new “Souls” game has players ready to die over and over again. Dark Souls puts gamers into a world that had one goal in mind: making the character’s life miserable.

The sequel, Dark Souls II, doesn’t disappoint, throwing the players into the land of Drangleic, a once-prosperous kingdom that is now in shambles.

The game ties the story to its older sibling rather well, linking the older kingdom of Lordran to Drangleic, through a vastly time warped environment. Other elements of the first game are easily identifiable within the sequel. Aesthetics like bonfires and estus flasks make a return while humanity is replaced with a new item called a human effigy which allows players to restore their lost human-state on the go.

Travel has also been streamlined, as players now

can travel to any bonfire, in any zone, as soon as they visit it. This allows players a kind of drop-in/drop-out style of play where they can leave a zone if it proves to difficult or too tiresome.

Those who are more adventurous have the option of an open-world where each and every zone has some connection to the main town, allowing for a seamless, if long, method of travel.

Enemies have been ramped up from the first gaming by being more intelligent towards the player’s actions. This means that when the player is trying to retreat and catch their breath, enemies will rush forward recognizing the weakness. This “smarter” enemy type makes for both a more challenging and more engaging experience that can change the way encounters happen for each individual.

The multiplayer has been adjusted as well. The game now runs on a server-based multiplayer, allowing players to opt in or out of having connections to other regions.

For the most part co-op has remained the same, utilizing a soapstone summoning system that allows the player to drop down a sign on the

ground that glows in the worlds of other players who need help. The same is said for competitive play which uses red-sign soapstones to let players be called in for some player-against-player action.

Visually the game is stunning when compared to the first, though they aren’t quite on the same level as the current level of graphics expected by some games. Small details like the flow of a cape and the shadow cast by torchlight is highly accurate, moving when the character does and mimicking real shadows or wind.

The game is accompanied by a beautiful music score that changes with the game from sorrow-filled tunes in the rain to the dramatic tones of boss battles.

Overall the game holds true to what any player would come to expect from the souls series. The difficulty is hard, if not a little harder than the first, which could scare off some newer gamers. However, a chilling visual scene, a musical score that plays the game almost as much the player and the engaging experience of the story, Dark Souls II is a game ready for any challenger.

GSA Continued From Page 1 Bobby Vega was one participant. ”I heard about it from a couple of friends and I decided that it was the right thing to do so I did it,” Vega said. “I think it is a very good cause...Not a lot of people can stand up for themselves so I believe it’s important that we try to make a difference, make it more known, so they can stand up.”

Grand-Pre agrees. ”Things like this are important because they’re people that can’t speak up and need help and they need another voice,” Grand-Pre said. “I was bullied as a child and so I decided that I would help out...I didn’t really have a voice and I barely told anybody.”

The importance of this day is undeniable to these three students and many others.

“I chose to participate because I’m pansexual so I was bullied a lot when I was younger,” Romig said. “I think this is important to inform people that this is happening, it’s not something that’s just going to go away.

It’s something that’s happening now, even to people in our school. Even now there are people who are afraid to say their sexuality because they’re going to get bullied.

So I think it’s very important.”

Entertainment The Mentor www.mhsmentor.com Page 4

Your guide Tracy Le Graphics Editor Prom is just around the corner and Manhattan High Student Council juniors are almost finished with the preparations.

“We’re always excited,” StuCo sponsor Kristal Kleiner said. This is her fifth year helping with prom.

“I really wanted to have the Great Gatsby theme, that was the theme that I really wanted,” junior Megan Ochoa said. She is in charge of the decorations.

“We have a lot of decorations already and they all fit the theme so it’s working out really well.”

The stage is currently being built and a jazz band has been contacted. Kleiner, parents, and StuCo juniors are in charge of the decorations, parking, chaperones, volunteers, food and accessories.

“It’s kind of nice knowing that we’re the ones to put it together and it’s a good feeling knowing that we’re putting on something that is so memorable to everyone else but at the same time we have to work hours for this to happen,” junior Haley Heaton said.

Still, this is a time of excitement and stress. ”It’s exciting,” Heaton said. “It’s kind of stressful that we have to get all of this

together but it’s going to be really good. The decorations are going to be great, and I’m hoping that everyone else is excited as well.”

Junior Liberty Kalin is not part of StuCo, but is planning on going to prom.

“I’m excited. I don’t know what prom is like and I can’t wait to find out,” Kalin said. ”I’m really excited about the Great Gatsby theme because I like the book and the movie. I think it’s going to be really nice.”

Tickets will be sold April 21-25 during lunch and are free for seniors, $15 for juniors, and $20 for sophomores and guests. Prom is on April 26 and will last from 9:30-12 p.m.

Retta Lazaris Staff Writer With only two weeks to the big event, juniors and volunteers are busy decorating.

After all, what would prom be without beautiful decorations to compliment all the dancing?

According to junior Megan Ochoa, the theme colors to go along with the “Great Gatsby” prom theme are black, white, gold and red.

“Also, because of the time period, we will have a lot of feathers. So that will be fun,” Ochoa said. “We also had an idea to display artwork at prom. The art classes recently did a project on the

Harlem Renaissance. Since that was during the same era, a lot of their artwork fits the theme perfectly.”

The committee will also have a model car out for display and pictures during prom.

“It will add a very neat accent to our decorations,” Ochoa said.

They will not be able to move their decorations into the Manhattan Mall, where Prom will be held, until the day of prom, April 26.

“I can’t wait to see how it all pulls together,” Ochoa said. “I think that we have a lot of good ideas, and thanks to the parents they are all becoming a reality.”

Madison Newman Staff Writer The fun doesn’t end with the dance at Prom on April 26. The Manhattan Area Risk Prevention Coalition and other sponsors will host the after-prom party at the Kansas State Union.

MARPC is a group that focuses on teenage drinking prevention.

“The point of the afterprom party is to give the opportunity to people who want to do something safe after prom,” Kari QuitonHumes, USD 383 drug and

See After Prom on page 7

‘Promposals’ showcase unique invites Madison Newman Staff Writer In today’s world being asked to prom has expanded beyond anything but expected. “Promposals,” whether large or small, have become grand affairs with hours of planning and extensive effort supplied.

Whether it is known that the invitation is coming or not, building the courage to ask someone to a dance can still be nerve racking.

The anticipation of being asked can be almost too much too handle.

“I was completely surprised when I realized it was for me. It became one of the happiest days I’ve had this year,” Jordan said.

Jordan, asked to Prom by fellow junior Austin Gwinner, arrived to Rezac greeted by signs and a single rose.

“When I was younger my dad talked about prom and what a big deal it was in high

school, and he said that you didn't really have to make it a big deal because either way she would say yes," Gwinner said. "But I disagree with that, you have to make it something she will remember. I like to be eccentric with things like that. If you think that she’s worth it, then you have to let her know."

Other students have taken to the wilderness to make their requests.

“When I was turning on the corner I saw the first sign, and I was thinking ‘oh my god please let this be him asking me to prom,’" junior Alyssa Frey said. "My heart was racing and my head was buzzing."

Frey, alongside her prom date junior Zach Salem, took a walk along the linear trail, and was greeted with her own promposal. Salem setup signs and presented Frey with flowers as he waited for her response.

“I was really worried that the wind would knock over

the signs and everything would be ruined,” Salem said.

Other students have taken more eccentric routes to asking their dates to the big dance. Junior Brandon Hershberger set up police tape around sophomore Alixandria Caldwell's bedroom, while he laid on the floor holding a sign stating, "Alix, I am dying to take you to Prom."

“It was so perfect, it was funny and sweet,” Caldwell said.

Prom is a time for students to come together and make one final memory together as the school year come to a close. So whether your date goes all out or can only muster up the courage for a sweet text, know that the experience is one you don't want to miss out on. And even if you only go with a group of friends, memories will still undoubtedly be made. Make the most of prom, but most importantly, just have fun.

Junior Jennie Jordan smiles with junior Austin Gwinner following his “promposal” in Rezac. Gwinner surpirsed Jordan during a dance team rehearsal and signs behind the stage curtain.

Madison Newman, photographer

Throwback Tuesday Linda Uthoff

Bev Fink “In my small hometown, the juniors were responsible for the dinner for Prom because in a small town, you don’t have too many options for places to eat, and for us, as juniors, that was the best job we could do. It was just really fun, you know?

We got to plan out the menu and it was just the best thing we could do.”

-High school in Garnett, Kansas; “Sometime way back in the dark ages”

MHS Staff

share prom experiences

“Oh, I loved my proms.

I went to Wamego High School and we had our prom at the Ramada.

My junior year, I went to Prom with Cliff Rovelto, who’s now the director track and field at K-State.

My mom made my dress -- a cute little flowered number. And the song was ‘Pieces of April’ and I just remember having the best time. My senior year, I went to Prom by myself, but I had a great time then, still, too because I got to go and dance with lots of different people.”

-Wamego High School; 1974

Greg Hoyt “It was my junior Prom.

I remember getting dumped by my girlfriend about two months before Prom for, I think, the third time getting dumped by this girl.

So, my sole point, then, was to find a date to the prom before her, and I did. I went with a senior girl. We went in a group, and we had a really great time, but I was a little bit embarrassed because she wore a pantsuit. All the other girls wore dresses, and she was the only one in a pantsuit, but we did have a really great time.

- Manhattan High School; 1982

Entertainment The Mentor www.mhsmentor.com Page 5

e to prom Students attend multiple proms John Rockey Staff Writer

The essential must Doís and life-saving Donít s to keep your night magical Doí s: Be creative in choosing your ride to prom. Ride up on a

horse, tandem bike or penny boards.

Combine your and your date’s name to make a cute couple name.

Take pictures before the sun goes down.

Come in like a wrecking ball.

Take a selfie with Mr. Hoyt to remember the occasion.

Dance like YOLO. Stay up later than 8 p.m.

Get matching tattoos with your date to remember the night.

Nothing says fun like a permanent reminder of prom on your wrist!

Practice walking in heels before promenade.

Enjoy the night, have a blast!

Doní ts Drive out of town to get a dress.

Fly in a personal stylist just for your pedicure or spray tan.

Get pasta at dinner -- nobody likes a Slurpy Sally.

Forget your ocean-scented cologne (the ladies like fish).

Hum in your partner’s ear while slow dancing.

Be stupid after the dance is over. Go to After Prom or another teenager-friendly safe alternative.

Spend all night at the food buffet.

Spend hundreds of dollars on the night; it can still be fun and cost effective.

Put all of your self-worth and beauty into prom. After all, ain’t nobody got time for that.

According to Liz Logback and Connor Bliss

Trends then and now

In all the stress seen in preparing for prom -- hair appointments, manicures, dress or tuxedo rentals, limos and restaurant planning -- a whole other trip to prom seems to be too much to even insinuate attempting. However, it’s not uncommon for Manhattan High students to travel and enjoy prom with friends, and lovers, in other towns as close as Rock Creek and Junction City, or for senior Maddy Sparks and junior Alyson Holloway, as far as Chapman and Hill City, respectively.

Sparks attended prom in Chapman last Saturday in a group that included five other couples and a good friend of hers that she grew up with.

“We had gone to school together in Chapman and we were best friends, so we wanted to go together,” Sparks said.

Though she wore the same dress to Chapman that she plans on wearing to prom in Manhattan, Sparks still faced a laundry list of different challenges in preparing

for both proms. This proved to be especially challenging since she was not able to communicate with her friends in Chapman regularly.

“Both proms involve making hair appointments and getting flowers. I’m always scared the flowers aren’t going to be ready like they should,” Sparks said. “The toughest challenge was planning for what we are going to do before. It’s in two different towns, so it’s like ‘What are we going to do in Chapman or Manhattan beforehand?’”

However, she enjoys this year especially since it’s her senior year and she didn’t attend Manhattan prom last year.

Holloway’s two junior proms in Hill City and Manhattan stand as polar opposites in terms of how proms are handled from school to school. At the Hill City prom that was also last Saturday, Holloway made the three-and-a-half-hour journey across Kansas to be with friends that she went to school with through most of elementary school. In small schools like Hill City, there typically isn’t a promenade

featuring different couples walking into the prom. The school will serve a dinner for the upperclassmen attending while freshmen and sophomores help to serve the meal before everyone goes and dances.

“It’s cool how at Hill City, everyone is together the whole night,” Holloway said.

“With two proms, I get to buy two dresses and see all my old friends.”

Holloway faces the challenges of a normal prom twice and has to contend with planning both of her proms.

“It’s a long drive [to Hill City] and it had to be made early in the morning,” Holloway said.

With the upcoming Manhattan prom in less than two weeks, Spark’ and Holloway are two of many other individuals who get the unique experience of attending two different proms in the same month.

“I get to experience two senior proms,” Sparks said.

“If I were to mess up the first one, I have the next prom to look forward to.”

Kim Ott - “Kelly Seiler [former MHS English teacher] and Kim Ott [current MHS social science teacher], co-chairs of 1998 MHS Prom” (photo in Mentor gmail account) Megan DeForce - “This is my senior year [2008] at Shawnee Mission West; Our high school always held prom at Union Station in Kansas City.” (photos in Mentor gmail account)

Prom trends get simple Allison Olsen Photo Editor Prom season is upon us and the search for the perfect dress is already on. How far will people go to find their fit? Or is the lavishness of prom turning into something more simple?

“Prom is just a dance,” senior Michelle Ribble said.

“People make too big of a deal about prom. You’re barely there for two hours.”

Prom is always expected to be filled with extravagances that cost a fortune, but according to an online phone survey sent out to 4,000 families by Visa in January, prom spending is expected to drop 14 percent overall.

“I was looking for something really simple and cheap,” Ribble said. “People spend way too much money on dresses, and on everything in general.”

This prom season, the styles and trends seem to be more on the simple side.

Some of the more prominent trends of prom styles consist of trumpet style, backless, high-low and two-piece dresses. “Prom styles tend to

be dictated by what appears on the red carpet at awards such as the Golden Globes and the Oscars,” senior Zoey Botkin said.

Botkin, like many other girls here at Manhattan, recently went shopping for the perfect dress.

“I didn’t have anything in mind, but while I was looking I saw a lot of cut-out and highlow dresses,” Botkin said. “I think that prom should be simple in the fact that people should just have fun. You should just be with people to have fun with. Prom is getting to the point where people are making it more than it has to be.”

A few noted styles and accessories include heavy embellishments like crystals, lace, chiffon, sequins, and pastel colors. Mint green, coral, champagne hues, blues and yellow are colors that are repeatedly showing up in dress stores.

“People have too high of expectations about prom.

They think it’ll be like the

See Prom Trends on page 7

‘Great Gatsby’ trend comes to MHS Kristen Batson Staff Writer Danielle Cook Copy Editor Set in a time of glamour, testing boundaries and excess, “The Great Gatsby” has been a commonly-read novel among high school English classes for years before the 2013 movie release and now the theme of Prom 2014 at Manhattan High School.

Published by F. Scott Fitzgerald in 1925, the story is centered around main character Nick Carraway, a returning soldier of World War I from a small town in the midwest. He moved to the east because he claimed to be bored in the midwest after experiencing all the excitement of the war, and as the book begins he finds himself living in a small bungalow on the property owned

by Jay Gatsby, his eccentric neighbor.

Fitzgerald himself was enlisted to serve in the war but was never deployed. Some critics made the argument that the reason war heros and the glorification of battle are so prominent in his novels are because he was living vicariously what he felt deprived of through his books.

Other components of the book are also somewhat autobiographical, at least in the lifestyle they describe.

Throughout the novel readers are made aware of the way some people were living in this era. Gatsby frequently hosted wild parties at which many guests had never met him.

There’s also a definite love triangle -rather, love square -- present between Daisy, her husband Tom Buchanan, his lover Myrtle Wilson and Jay Gatsby. Tom has been known to have various affairs throughout their marriage, Daisy however remained faithful until she was reunited with her teenage fling, Gatsby.

The ‘20s has been a popular trend among teenagers recently in fashion, design and entertainment, so using “The Great Gatsby” as a Prom theme allows MHS to recreate the exciting feel of “the roaring ‘20s,” bringing back to life the glamorous fashions and edginess of party-goers and flappers and the iconic theme of intricate love affairs and offthe-wall partying.

Sports The Mentor www.mhsmentor.com Page 6

Baseball takes both games from Hayden Greg Woods Sports Editor Dominance.

That seemed to be the theme of the afternoon Friday in Manhattan.

The Manhattan High School baseball team took both games from Hayden, 5-1 and 3-0, as both Indian pitchers threw complete games. Senior Henry de Noble started game one, striking out 13 Hayden Wildcats in the process.

“I got the lead early so I was able to keep throwing strikes, and know that [the defense] would be behind me and I was able to get strikeouts with few walks,” de Noble said.

While holding Hayden scoreless in the top of the first inning, Manhattan struck early. After a leadoff single by senior Kellen Myers, fellow senior Jacob Biller drove in Myers with a single, putting the Indians up

1-0 in the first inning.

“I just tried to do what I needed to for the team, get us on the right note right early,” Biller said. “What Henry [de Noble] did on the mound today was phenomenal, and I was just trying to set the tone real early.”

The Indians didn’t score again until their half of the sixth inning, when senior Bret Fehr hit a home run. Senior Jonah Webber followed closely with an RBI triple, scoring Biller and distancing themselves from Hayden. “[It was] a motivation booster for our pitchers, and for our defense, that lets them have a little more breathing room for their part of the game,” Webber said.

While the Indians didn’t score in the first inning of the second game of the doubleheader, they did come away with the win, 3-0. Junior Jesse Steinbring made the start on the mound and accomplished the second com-

plete game of the afternoon for MHS. “We had some guys on the mound that are really making it difficult for the opposing teams to hit,” head coach Don Hess said.

Manhattan scored the entirety of its runs in the third inning. Junior Garrett Francis reached on an error, Fehr singled to right field, and Biller also reached on an error, scoring Francis. Senior Alex Huerta then doubled to score Fehr and Biller, giving the Indians their only three runs of the game. “[The third inning] changed the momentum,” Biller said. “That put up a little momentum for us, and we kept it going.”

Manhattan’s next game will be Friday at Shawnee Heights.

Junior Jesse Steinbring pitches against Hayden on Friday. Steinbring shut out the Wildcats in seven innings.

Jared Gebhardt, photographer

Girls go 1-2 on week, top Salina Central Swimming finishes highly at Olathe Invite John Rockey Staff Writer Nine games remain in the 2014 Lady Indians’ soccer season. The team goes into this week having won both their games against Salina Central but endured losses against Washburn Rural and Blue Valley-Stilwell.

The three game week kicked off last Monday at Salina Central with a J.V. 1-0 win and Varsity taking a 4-1 win before they would return home to prepare against Washburn Rural last Thursday.

The team’s last game against Washburn Rural in the 2013 season had ended with a debilitating 6-0 loss that had returning players

hoping for stiff competition.

“It’s something we look forward to every year,” senior Zoey Botkins said. “We definitely want everyone to get in the process of attacking.”

The J.V. team played a difficult game, but lost 0-3 before Varsity took to the field remembering last year’s game. They lost the game in the end, after a 1-2 finish that still reminded them of where they came from compared to last year.

“It’s amazing to see how much we’ve improved at connecting passes and communicating this year,” sophomore Sydney Zafran said.

The week wrapped up on Saturday at Blue ValleyStilwell with the J.V. losing

0-2 and the Varsity team falling 0-3. As of Saturday, Blue Valley-Stilwell marks the last of the Kansas City teams that the Indians will face for the remainder of the season. The tough first half of the season is still being met positively by the team, as they have faced a more stacked schedule to begin this year.

“We’re going to need scoring from everyone. We’re still facing the same issue with only a few people kicking and then scoring,” coach Mike Sanchez said.

At the halfway point of the season, the team starts off the week traveling to Emporia today and then coming back home to compete against Topeka Seaman this Friday.

Athlete of the Week SENIOR JACOB BILLER

•Biller went 2-3 on Friday, scored two runs and had one RBI and stolen base.

Q: What were you looking to do at the plate on Friday?

A: [To] do what I needed to for the team and to set us up to score runs.

Q: How long have you been playing baseball?

A: I’ve been playing traveling ball since I was seven.

Q: What’s the most challenging part about it?

A: Keeping a cool head.

Track boys, girls place in top spots Kennedy Felice Copy Editor Following a solid start to the season, the boys and girls track teams brought home more top placings from the Topeka High Invite Friday at Hummer Sports Park.

"I was very pleased.

We have a lot of depth on our team and that really helps us out at a meet like that," head coach Jesse Woodard said.

The girls placed third overall, while the boys brought home a first place finish.

"We had some great performances, most everybody's performance got better from the first meet," Woodard said. "The athletes are giving us everything we are looking for. We are definitely headed in the right direction."

“

Distance runners continued their winning streak with multiple top three finishes. Senior Chris Melgares took first in the 3200m with a time of 9:36.6, followed in second by Michael Melgares running a 10:05.2.

boys mile with a 4:33.6, followed by senior Jack Keeley in second finishing at 4:36.1.

"It says a lot about our team that we are consistently having athletes finish in the top five," Woodard said.

Coming in strong for the t h r o wers, senior Brandon Nowlin finished second in discus at 153'3'', w h i l e s e n i o r Stephanie Shanower brought home second in shot put at 36'3''.

"I'm ready to see how we are going to react to the different conditions and the different competition as the season continues," Woodard said. "I just expect us to come out and give our best at every meet."

Manhattan will travel to Great Bend today to compete in its next meet.

The athletes are giving us everything we are looking for.”

-Jesse Woodard "The teams have been performing well. We all want to place at state," senior Taylor Smith said. "We have higher expectations of ourselves than last year."

Senior Alaina Schroeder won the girls 3200m with a time of 11:40, followed in third by junior Megan Ochoa at 12:06. Schroeder also took first in the girls one mile completing the race in 5:11.

Michael Melgares took the

Follow @MHSMentorOnline on Twitter for game coverage!

Joseph Sell Staff Writer The top 13 girls swimmers faced the challenge of the Olathe Swim Invite on Friday following the rest of the team’s participation in the Salina South Invitational on Thursday.

Top finishers at Salina were freshman Leilani Kreck in the 50 freestyle and junior Lauren Carlson in diving.

“A large percentage of the girls showed time improvements and many got a chance to be in point scoring positions,” head coach Jerry Carpenter said. “There was good competition and the ladies really stepped up and raced well. Many of our new girls are showing great

improvement and they are starting to fully understand the technical aspects of the strokes and understand stroke improvements they need to make.”

The Friday Olathe tournament seemed to be at a harder level than the Salina tournament. The team finished sixth out of 17 teams. Top finishers at the meet were senior Amanda Buckwalter, freshman Kelly Wichmann and senior Alana Bucholtz.

“Basically the thing about this meet was that most of the top swimmers at the State meet were here, so to place in the top 12 is an accomplishment,” Carpenter said.

“I got fourth in both the 200 and 500 free, but I gained

[time] from last time,” Buckwalter said.

Bucholtz also improved, setting a new personal bar and felt accomplished.

“I got a personal best for this season in my hundred back,” Bucholtz said. “It (the personal best) felt pretty good but I could have done better.”

Carpenter concurred with Bucholtz, stating her contentedness with her squad.

“I was really pleased with how the girls swam even the girls without top 12 finishes dropped a lot of time,” Carpenter said.

The next meet will be tomorrow at 3:30 at the Kansas State University Natatorium.

Golf finishes in top five Joseph Sell Staff Writer Varsity golf started the season off strong with a first place finish on Monday, April 7, and a fourth place finish Thursday, April 10. On the Monday tournament junior Pierson Mcatee finished first, shooting a 71 at Salina Municipal and on Thursday junior Cole Dillon finished first also, shooting a 71 at Wamego Country Club.

“It was good for us, especially for a team win. It was a good start to the year,” McAtee said.

“Everyone was in good spirits. It’s nice to open up with success. Relatively

speaking there were only eight schools there, but we beat all seven of the other schools,” Varsity coach Brad Ficke said. “It felt good, it was good weather. I feel that that was as big a part of it, as anything, is we finally had some decent weather to play in.”

“I played really well. I didn’t play so well Monday so it was good to get my confidence and play well yesterday [Thursday],” Dillon said.

The team had troubles at the tournament, only managing to tie for fourth place, taking fifth after the tiebreaker.

“It wasn’t what we were going for but it was kind of

a setback. But we can learn from it and hopefully we can do better next week,” Dillon said.

“The level of competition [Thursday] was great, to have Cole shoot a 71 and have to do what he did in his last few holes to get a couple birdies, that’s gotta feel good for him because he’s competing with some of the best players in the state,” Ficke said. “As far as placing fifth, our team score was a 316, which is better than it was last year, and I mean I feel like that’s progress.”

The team will compete again next Monday, April 21, at Lake Shawnee.

Softball loses to Hayden, looks to improve Chris Klug Staff Writer The Manhattan High Indians softball team fell to 1-3 on the season, after a pair of road losses to Hayden on Friday.

Although the Indians lost by seven runs in game one, they were able to find a spark in the second game that took the Wildcats to extra innings before losing by one run in game two.

The Indians started the doubleheader flat, giving up two runs in the bottom of the

first inning. Senior pitcher Aubrey Jung was able to keep the Wildcats at bay until the fifth inning, when they were able to hang a five-spot on the board. The Indians were not able to overcome the deficit from there as they dropped the first game 9-2.

“We came out really flat.

We made some errors and didn’t hit the ball very well,” Head Coach Scott Mall said.

“We didn’t compete the way we wanted to.”

The Indians began the second game with a lot more excitement. Putting a run on

the board in the first inning got them going and set the tone for what would end up being a nail biter in the end.

They were able to put up two runs on seven hits, but the three errors hurt the team as they lost in the eighth inning 3-2.

“The second game I thought we did a better job at staying in the ball game. We had some good at bats and played better defensively,” Mall said.

The Indians look to bounce back at home Friday as they take on Shawnee Heights.

Tennis takes second of four Louis Melgarejo Staff Writer Manhattan boys tennis took second place at their most recent meet on April 8 at Topeka. The meet was hosted by Washburn Rural.

Four teams competed including Topeka West, Topeka High, Washburn Rural and Manhattan.

“I was pretty happy with how we did. We beat Topeka High, Topeka West and came behind Washburn Rural, who is our biggest rival and it was an interesting day,” head coach Joyce Allen said.

The top performers of the meet were senior Jonathan Turnley and freshman Bryce Easton, going 2-1 in doubles

and sophomore Kirkland Lambert, going 2-1 in singles.

“I don’t think we played our best, I can definitely work on my returns but Washburn is a very good team. They are probably expected to win the league in doubles,” Turnley said.

With three away tournaments that have been held, Manhattan will host the next meet for the first time this season on April 15.

“I think it’s too early to tell how this season is going because that was the first tournament that I went to, but as a team I think we look really good and are going to get a lot better,” Lambert said.

UPCOMING MATCHES •April 15 - Varsity | JC/ Highland Park/Marysville • April 18 - J.V. | Emporia Quad • April 21 - J.V. | Salina Central Invitational •April 22 - Varsity | Shawnee Heights •April 23 - J.V. | Seaman •Home matches in bold

Entertainment The Mentor

www.mhsmentor.com Page 7

Orchestra enjoys all Dallas has to offer orchestra performance from page 3 expecting to win anything at all because of Dallas’ orchestra and also all of the obstacles we’ve had to overcome both as individuals and as a group,” sophomore Kyle Thompson said. “But I guess in the end, hard work pays off.”

“I was so proud to be an MHS student as were were presented our awards,” junior Marlin Watson said. “I feel that we represented our school and state very well.”

“I was very pleased with how well the group, it sounds kind of childish, but just how they behaved overall,” McClendon said. “They represented us well and made the trip relatively stress-free.

They were very professional and focused on the day of the competition.”

“We chose this particular festival because it wasn’t too far away and because there are two levels,” McClendon said.

“This was what you would consider the regional level and if you receive a gold rating you get to go on to the nationals of sorts, the festival of golds, and that was the goal. So we’ll have the opportunity to play in either Los Angeles, Chicago, Washington D. C., San Francisco or Orlando” Aside from the general thrill of doing fantastically, the trip was a great bonding experience for

the group.

“They’ve all known each other for a long time and played with each other for a long time, but when go to compete you really become a team,” McClendon said.

“We’ve bonded so much over the course of the school year and even more over the course of this trip,” Horton-Smith said. “There’s something about spending eight hours on a bus that really gives a group a stronger sense of togetherness.”

“I thought our orchestra really felt like a team throughout the whole trip, especially during our performance,” freshman Younjin Song said.

“We created new bonds that we wouldn’t have had if we hadn’t gone on this trip,” senior Alex Brase said. “I was extremely happy that we won all of the awards and trophies that we did and also really appreciate the work and help Mr. [Nate] McCLendon, Dr. [David] Littrell, Mr. [Cody] Toll and Mrs. [Kristin] Mortenson did on the trip and with all of the side trips too. I was really glad to I got to be involved with all of this my last year here.”

Sunday, they all boarded the big blue bus yet again, but the trip came to a sudden halt when a car crashed into the side of the bus. None were injured in either vehicle, but the group was left waiting on the stagnant bus as paperwork was filled out before they could head home later in the day.

“It gave us a three hour delay, but no one was hurt, thank god,” McClendon said.

Above: Sophomores Kyle Thomspn, Carter Nelson and Ashley Stuckwisch prepare for the thrill of a life time on a rollercoaster at SixFlags in Dallas.

Right: Director Nate McClendon dawns a kingly crown at a Medieval tournament and feast.

They returned home slightly before Monday technically began.

“Overall, it was just a fantastic experience for us all and it seems that it will lead to bigger and greater things in the future,” McClendon said.

Madeline Marshall Staff Writer Madison Newman, Photographer

FCCLA conference inspires students Kristen Batson Staff Writer Sophomore Agneris Andino left life coach Jeff Yalden’s keynote lecture at the Family Career and Community Leaders of America State Conference with a sense of motivation like no other. All of sudden, there was something more for her to be doing. She wanted to help.

“Going there was really inspiring because you saw all the hard work that other people did and what they did to accomplish their STAR events," Andino said. "I thought it was really inspiring to actually do something for myself and for my community with

After Prom Continued from page 5 alcohol prevention coordinator, said. “One of the major complaints I always hear is that there aren’t enough things to do, and the things that there are to do it’s too much money. This is an alternative that is both cheaper and safer, and you are going to be only around other Manhattan High kids.”

The event has been hosted for many years in various forms.

“I think that it is really valuable and it’s really a fun time,” Quiton-Humes said.

“Years ago it used to be at the Houston Street Ballroom and it was a dance. But I mean, not very many people wanted to go to it because you just go from a dance to

FCCLA.” After feeling inspired to open her heart by Yalden, she has decided she wants to be more involved and run for Peer Ed next year.

FCCLA members from all over Kansas attending the State conference April 6-8 heard a keynote from life Yalden, known for being on MTV's "Made."

In addition to hearing the speakers, students also competed in Students Taking Action for Recognition, or STAR, events that would determine whether or not they go on to compete in Nationals.

The competitions included a variety of events that either individuals or teams competed in. Apart from allowing them the opportunity to be chosen as State and National officers, students are also

a dance, and this is going to have bowling, pool tables and just more to do.”

MARPC works to prevent negative results from decisions students might make following a night of celebrating at events like prom.

“A lot of kids go out during this time of year, and then graduation time. These times are the worst and where we try to give a safer alternative,” Quiton-Humes said.

The after prom party will be held from midnight until 3 a.m. There will be free food, drinks and a photo booth, cosmic bowling, pool and just a place to hang out in a safe but fun environment.

Tickets will be sold both at the door and during the time that prom tickets will be sold (next week at lunch).

Prom tickets

will be sold April 21-25 during lunch and are free for seniors, $15 for juniors, and $20 for sophomores and guests. Prom is on April 26 from 9:30 -12 p.m.

being awarded scholarships for achieving first, second or third place in their categories, which range from culinary, peer education or fashion design.

From Manhattan High School junior Siera Haug was chosen to serve as Peer Ed advisor for the upcoming 2014-2015 school year but was not one of the two of four chosen to move on to compete for a national office. Though many juniors and seniors from MHS competed, sophomores such as Agneris Andino tagged along for the experience as well.

Students will attend the National conference in San Antonio this July for a week where they can participate in leadership workshops, competition and this year’s fun event -- Six Flags.

FFA Continued from page 1 By the end of a night filled with food, awards and elections, the MHS members were able to leave with new ideas on how to make next year even better.

“We got to see what other clubs and chapters had been doing and it was informative,” Jackson said. “And most of the chapters that are in our district are small schools where they have 40, 50 in their graduating class, so we got to see kind of Assessment Continued From Page 1 and complete the test before shutting the process down.

This year the KSDE switched the format of the test, therefore changing the system. Manhattan is one of the first school districts in the state to attempt testing on this system.

“We are basically being guinea pigs for next year.

The math and reading are new tests, and the science is

Staff writers, photographers & ad sales reps for the Mentor 2014-2015 school year wanted!

See C107 for details!

how other schools run their FFA.” The agriculture students at MHS also can expect a new teacher to assist Muller with the ag science classes and to co-advise FFA. “We are hoping to get better each year,” Norris said.

“We are getting a new ag teacher next year, part-time,” Norris said. “So we will have two advisors. And this way there will be more ag classes available next year. We don’t know who the new teacher will be yet; they’re still doing interviews.” old -- just placed in the new system,” Holloway said.

The new system is the Kansas Interactive Testing Engine, otherwise known as K.I.T.E. In the end, two science classes were able to complete the testing process, but by the time third hour came along the system had shut down.

“We started science with one teacher, at first it worked fine, but then it shut down again,” Holloway said.

Prom Trends Continued from Page 5 movies,” Ribble said.

The Manhattan prom is said to be more relaxed than other schools’ proms, which is starting to bring out a simpler aspect of the event.

“I feel like just in Manhattan, prom isn’t as important and fancy. I like how it’s just fun and chill and most of the fun is before and after.

It’s fun to just hang out with friends and make a night out of it,” senior Emily Andrews said.

Car Show Continued From Page One the car show.

Adelle Sloan, senior, helped out with the IPS class, sporting one of the “Steve Barnes Memorial Car Show” blue T-shirts that all of the helpers wore and sold.

“It has been a very awesome experience,” Sloan said. “We walked around and voted for the best cars.

We’ve had a bake sale, and some of us [the IPS members] have helped Noah [Johnson] and Sam [Livsey] cook.”

K-State donated hamburgers, hot dogs, and a grill for to cook and sell dinner at the show.

Shawn Morris, father of seniors Mallory and Casey Morris, displayed his ‘66 Pontiac Lemans at the show.

“I think it’s pretty neat,” Shawn Morris said. “I think they’ve done a pretty good job and have had a pretty Sexting Continued from Page 1 tor or the school resource officer only,” Messer said.

Social media is a new field for teachers and administration, and Messer hoped the meeting helped the teachers get in touch with what’s going on in students’ lives.

“We know that technology is in our student's hands all the time and we want them to make wise decisions with it,” she said. “You know, most of the teachers grew up in a time when this technology was not around and we don't use it the way a student would probably use it.”

Douglas feels similarly.

“I want to make sure that the students understand the importance of using social media responsibly, not just because of the criminal consequences that could come from it, but because of the consequences that could follow them through their life, Community Service Continued from Page 1 look at service hours,” Andrews said. “They look for well-rounded people.”

The community benefits from volunteers also.

“I think it’s important to give back to the community.

Without volunteers who devote much of their time to various things, many beneficial organizations would not be able to function. It is these people who give back and keep the town running in a positive and helpful manner,” Long said.

good turn out.”

Beyond being a venue to show off his car, he participated as an act of service.

“My kids go to school here, so we came out here to support them and the school,” Morris said. “I’ve had my car since I was in high school. So we’ve owned it for almost 30 years. We usually only show it around the 4th of July.”

Even though Morris doesn’t take his car out of the garage often, he claims that it holds a sentimental value.

“I’ve probably put too much money into it, but I don’t really do anything to it. It’s special to me because it’s the one me and my dad fixed up when I was in high school.”

SkillsUSA plans to have another car show fundraiser next spring. Along with the Steve Barnes memorial scholarship, the club will keep some of the proceeds to go toward their state competition this spring in Wichita. in regards to their college career, and their professional career,” he said.

“I think where it gets messy for students is that they don't think long term about consequences of choices they might make, and then not understand that when you begin looking into a situation with technology, you can follow a technological trail and figure out who’s involved in it,” Messer said.

“And another misconception for students is a lot of times people think that when you delete things they go away, and they don't go away.

You've always heard that.

Once you post something to the Web, it’s out there forever. Sometimes I think there is a misconception that if someone goes out and deletes a post or deletes a text that it's ok because they've deleted it, but it still leaves a technological trail that can be traced back to them.”

Aside from the satisfaction of getting service hours documented and giving back to the community, an added bonus is the fact that seniors get a cord at graduation if they complete all of their hours.

“Unfortunately, with the extrinsic motivator of the ‘super cool cord’ at graduation, for many now it has become not about being awarded.

Even through the extrinsic motivator, the service system is still introducing students to thinking outside themselves, so I think it’s important,” Rozell said.

Fine dining in Manhattan Trending The Mentor www.mhsmentor.com Page 8

Before you hit the dance floor, make your Prom dinner one to remember

Della Voce impresses with food, atmosphere

Jared Gebhardt Entertainment Editor Prom is in season and so are it’s many worries. While it might not be the biggest issues, where to dine beforehand is definitely a topic of debate. With all the drama of dresses, dates and whose group to be in, it would be nice to not have to worry as much about where or what to eat.

To aid any prom-going student on their night, the staff at The Mentor took time to go to and review the restaurants listed here. Each restaurant was rated for multiple criteria ranging from the food to the atmosphere and even the service. Our hope is that the list will help in picking the perfect place to dine for any group, any type of personal preference and any taste palette.

Retta Lazaris Staff Writer First class food that is truly paired with a “big city feel,” Della Voce is an excellent and modern dining experience.

Della Voce serves gourmet dishes like chicken marsala as well as the cautious and consumer friendly mac ’n’ cheese (with bacon), and the

food is very well priced.

I ordered the fig and prosciutto fettuccine, which was amazing. It was a creamy, sweet pasta with dried figs, fresh heirloom tomatoes and goat cheese. A unique dish, and I was a bit nervous to try something new, but the restaurant lives up to its expectations.

The staff was very friendly and considerate, and we

could easily strike up a conversation with our waiter.

The tables were pre-adorned with glasses and other tableware. You can request to have candlelight brought to your table and a delicious bread and butter spread, made by Della Voce cooks, is brought out to you before your meal.

The restaurant had a comfy atmosphere,

completed with soft lighting and an attentive staff. It’s a very elegant place, as I saw many people there dressed formally, but it’s comfortable enough to wear jeans and Kicks and just have a fun night out with your friends.

Harry’s earns five stars in our books Madeline Marshall Staff Writer

When you walk through the front door of Harry’s, you will be struck with the classic ambiance you would expect at a high-end restaurant, but as you are seated you are met with something more. With candles on each table, chairs you wish you could take a nap in and jazz music flowing throughout, you are warmly embraced by an ambiance like no other – cozy, yet elegant.

The service on our recent visit was divine, as we were promptly seated and catered to at our convenience. But what truly set this restaurant apart was exactly what it should be -- the food. Ample portion sizes, high-end ingredients and perfectly balanced flavors led to stuffed stomachs, delectable leftovers and three very happy high schoolers.

To have a great meal with great value, you need look no further than the appetizers. The bruschetta, stacks of freshly grilled French bread served with goat cheese, olives and Roma tomato spreads, had enough to serve four (or more) easily.

The crab cakes were tender,

certainly not skimping on the meat, and were paired with three sauces that together had a spicy tang that left our taste buds burning with satisfaction. The mozzarella brioche was also divine, simply being fried cheese in a complementing sauce. And the star (entrée wise) of the night was the pizza. Harry’s pizzas are a mix of fresh ingredients, perfect cooking and perfect portions that make it the perfect dish to split between a happy prom night couple.

At the end of the night, when it seemed nothing could possibly get any better, the cheesecake arrived, and we entered a fluffy sugar-induced dream.

We entered with high expectations and critical taste buds, and were not disap- The mozzarella brioche was a mouthwatering addition to the meal, pointed. After trying to come comprised of pan-fried mozzarella in a saory tomato based sauce up with negative comments, topped with a fig relish. It was a simple dish excecuted perfectly.

Tracy Le, Photographer our only thoughts were the food was really fancy and the tables were kind of big. If you choose Harry’s as your promnight delight, we suggest ordering a variety of appetizers to keep costs down and to keep your mouth satisfied. In the end, you won’t be disappointed – just don’t forget to ask about the cheesecake.

Our number one pick!

Little Apple Brewing Co. offers big taste Colbert Hills pleases Alan Brown Multimedia Editor Longhorn heads on the walls, service on a first-namebasis, and good ol’ fashioned steak. Folks, this is ‘home on the range’ at its finest.

As I first walked into Little Apple Brewing Company with my fellow staff writers, Louis Melgarejo and Greg Woods, I was amused by the “homey” and down to earth atmosphere of this restaurant. It was as though we had stepped back to the days of the wild west. Even the menu got into the spirit; tumbleweed burger anyone?

We started off our meal with the pita bread and hummus appetizer that lived up to the name -- it was absolutely appetizing. Best of all, the serving size was more than enough to satisfy the three of us. The main courses were delicious, too. While the steaks were a little too high for our price range, Woods and I settled on the Grilled

Chicken Chipotle Clubs. We were ecstatic to discover that the sandwiches were generous with the meat, built on thick chicken and bacon.

While not as hungry as we were, Melgarejo found room for the Split Pea Beef Soup, which he ate in approval. We capped the meal off with a Reese's Peanut Butter Thunder Cake. After all was said, and eaten, the food was a hit.

The cook time for the food was below our satisfaction, but the waitresses went the extra mile to cater to us, refilling our glasses at every spare moment. The wait is not necessarily a bad thing though, considering it gives guests the opportunity to converse with one another.

If you and your prom date are looking to avoid the unnecessary fanciness in favor of a more laid back environment, or are simply on a budget, Little Apple Brewing Company is certainly a restaurant you should consider.

Joseph Sell Staff Writer

The pita bread and hummus appetizer is a four out of five star dish at Little Apple Brewing Co. the restraunt was an overall hit, and the comfortable atmosphere added to the experience. While it may have taken more time than other restaurants for the food to come out, it does not have to be a bad thing, as it offered time for conversation. Little Apple earned a four out of five stars in our books.

Greg Woods, photographer

Habachi Hut doesnt tip the scales Gage Benne Business Manager Habachi Hut has a new location downtown, just a block or two from Manhattan Town Center -- right down the street from our 2014 Prom, so we thought we’d try it out.

As soon as we walked in, we were welcomed by the young staff. The staff was a perfect mix of “in your face” and “let them eat.” Our waiter, undoubtedly a K-State student, was very invested in the short time we had with him. After discovering our group just got back from ACT testing, he told us a tale from his testing experience.

However, after his hilarious story, he left us to enjoy our meal, checking up every once in a reasonable while.

I ordered the Belly Bomb -- essentially a hamburger -with no holds barred, bacon, lettuce, tomato, cheese, onion. One catch: the price spikes up 50 cents for every topping, and all the sudden you’re paying $12 to $13 for a hamburger. If it’s any surprise, your first topping is free, and it comes with a plate of fries. The fries also come with a few tater tots here and there with some hushpuppies on top.

The restaurant was…a restaurant. The booths were comfy enough, while the

plates and silverware were nice enough. Other than the strange wall of tabasco sauces, the Hut was just your typical restaurant.

Overall, Habachi Hut is a solid restaurant. The food can be pricey, but it’s great tasting. The environment was nice and the staff was welcoming. However, paying $12 to $13, I was left looking for something more. Of course, the restaurant necessities are covered, but that is about it. If a solid restaurant with great food is what you’re looking for, head down to the Hut, right across the street from Harry’s, in downtown Manhattan. But don’t expect any surprises.

The Colbert Hills restaurant may just be the right choice for your prom night dinner. The atmosphere is that of any golf club restaurant; quiet and empty, but also quite comfortable. And if the weather is nice, it has outdoor seating with a view of the first hole and most of the town. On the set scale, I would give it a 4 out of 5 simply because it is tailored to the person who loves golf.

The service was good. I would recommend you make a reservation ahead of time, because it can get full if the special is something that’s popular. The servers were polite and are always able to have a conversation. Also, if you are one who frequents the restaurant or golf course, they will remember your

name quickly and get a more personalized service. The service gets a strong 5 out of 5 for the outstanding staff.

For the food, they have good appetizers such as the massive nacho tray or the crab cakes, which are always good. The special for the night, everytime I’ve gone there, has been great. On the menu the steaks are really good, and sandwiches also make a good choice. If you are worried about portion size for the cost, don’t; it’s always a good size. I would give the food a 4 out of 5, simply because of the occasional mistake.

For an overall experience, the Colbert Hills restaurant earns itself a 4 out of 5 because of the few problems that the average person will have.