Seniors Evan Hager and Toulas Sweeney, junior Adelaide Bliss and Sophomore Noah Shirk rehearse for “Noises off” last Wednesday. PHOTO BY GAVIN LARIOS
the mentor
VOLUME 103 // ISSUE 15 // FEB. 23, 2016
Students put on winter play “Noises Off” ALEJANDRA FLORES
Staff Writer
Junior Elizabeth Riforgiate and sophomore Emma Landsdowne work on the set of “Noises Off.” PHOTO BY ANNA ALANAZI
“Noises Off” was Manhattan High School’s winter play this year. The play was written by English playwright Michael Frayn and it is a comedy which portrays a play within a play. It tells the story of movie director “Lloyd Dallas” and his actors and staff who are working in a new play titled “Nothing On.” “The show was great. Every night had its own difficulties and perks,” senior Toula Sweeney said. “But I have to say that Friday night’s performance offered a bit of a challenge for me personally because I fell off the stage.”
Students just had a month the prepare for the play. The play requires a two story set, which is difficult to put up in a short amount of time. “To build that two story set was probably the biggest thing and decorating the set,” Thespian sponsor Linda Uthoff said. “I thought that set crew for the most part got things turned around great.” Actors had to memorize their scripts quickly and had to have countless hours of practice. “We’ve been going over lines a lot and been practicing so much,” junior Adelaide Bliss said. “I think the hardest part is doing everything in a short amount of time. We just had
less than a month to prepare, so we had to work pretty fast to get everything together.” They had a big audience during all the shows. People laughed and enjoyed the show. Even though there were some glitches, by the last performance they did a magnificent job. “I think it went really good. There was a couple mishaps, but it went pretty good. The audience seemed to like it a lot,” Bliss said. “I’ve enjoyed being in this show a lot. It was fun ... just the energy throughout the cast and we all had a lot of fun just working together.”
Forensics continues on path to Nationals BSU attends ‘eye-opening’ Leadership Conference ELIZABETH UNDERWOOD
Features Editor
This past weekend the Manhattan High Forensics team competed once again out of town to get more students nationally and state qualified. Out of the students that attended the Congress portion of the tournament on Friday,
sophomore Kylie Alexander, was the only one who placed, which was fifth. On Saturday senior Sterling Edgar placed first in the International Extemporaneous competition, while senior Spencer Parish placed fifth in Informative.
SEE FORENSICS PAGE 5
BPA triumphs at State, moves on to Nationals Tara Magaña
Blue M Assistant Editor for Verbal Content After months of preparation, Business Professionals of America members boarded a bus
Thursday morning and headed toward the State Leadership Conference, held in Wichita, where they competed for their chance to qualify for Nationals
SEE BPA PAGE 5
ANDREA LU
Graphics Editor The third annual Black Student Union Leadership Conference brought together African Americans all over Kansas to honor Black History Month. Many high schools attended, among them was Manhattan High. The conference lasted all day at the Kansas State Student Union last Wednesday and was filled with educational events. “First thing we did was we went to a browsing fair,” MHS BSU president Jamera Ewing said, “which basically they had a bunch of booths set up with, like, the different things you could do at K-State and,
like, the college of education, the college of liberal arts and stuff like that...and then we ate breakfast and then we did a workshop. We had lunch and then after that we went on
“He talked to us about basically following your dreams.”
-- Jamera Ewing
campus tours.” During breakfast, the keynote speaker Shaun Vandiver, head basketball coach at Emporia State University, talked about perseverance and
touched on racial profiling and white privilege. “He talked to us about just basically following your dreams,” Ewing said, “and then he talked about police brutality and an incident he had with the police and [that] some of his players have had and just basically he was saying, if you’re ever in an incident with police, like, be respectful, like, that’s the key and don’t give them a reason to, like, need to harm you or use, like, physical force so I’m really glad that he spoke to us about that.” Four workshops were provided at the event that dis-
SEE BSU PAGE 5
Junior League of the Flint Hills hosts Gown Town event, provides affordable formal wear TRACY LE
“Providing affordable gowns is definitely a need in the community,” Junior League member Kayla Savage said. “We saw a potential for this event with prom season upon us and we thought this would be a great event to provide formal dresses that are donated by members of the community to others at affordable prices.” With the help of sponsor Josh Salmans from State Farm, Feb. 28’s Gown Town event will offer dresses that average $25. “It’s not [a new idea] but
this is the first time that we’ve had something like this in this community,” Savage said. “Not everyone can afford full retail prices for prom or weddings or any other formal event so we are really glad to be meeting this need. It’s also great that these dresses that are worn one time are getting another life.” Since 1998, the Junior League has committed itself to actively better communities and promote volunteerism and literacy. Its fundraising efforts have given thousands of books
to multiple communities. “In the three years I’ve been involved in this organization ... it has taught me a lot about prioritizing events and activities that you feel passionate about,” Savage said. “Many times you join a service organization to meet people and you rarely get the opportunity to step into a leadership position where you can affect a lot of people. But this organization has allowed me to do that and [has] really changed me as a person. We hope [the Junior League] will
continue to be an effective women’s organization and continue to make an impact on our community. We really hope to see more women and businesses join our organization.”
GLOBAL NEWS
Democratic caucus with slightly over 50 percent of the vote, narrowly defeating rival candidate Bernie Sanders.
mare — when you have someone going around just randomly killing people, no rhyme, no reason,” he said. “How do you go and tell the families of these victims that they weren’t targeted for any reason other than they were there to be a target?”
A 30-Day state of emergency has been declared, and Fiji schools will remain closed for one week as they recover from the storm.
News Editor By the time Sunday rolls around, Four Points by Sheraton will be filled to the brim. There will be flowing gowns, arrays of shoes and glistening jewels, vendors just waiting to hand out products and 20 hopeful members of The Junior League of the Flint Hills who are eager to provide affordable formal wear and raise money to supply community bookshelves.
RICK BROWN Copy Editor
Global news is a vital part of news today and can directly affect MHS students. In order to inform our readers, The Mentor has compiled small summaries describing some of the largest happenings in the world today. We encourage the reader to read about these topics, and others, in greater depth.
Trump wins South Carolina GOP Primary, Clinton Shootings shock Kalamawins Nevada Democratic zoo Caucus Six people were killed on SatOn Saturday, the GOP South Carolina primary and Nevada Democratic caucus concluded with few surprises. Donald Trump, the Republican frontrunner, won all 50 of South Carolina’s delegates. Trump received 32.5 percent of the vote while second-place finisher Marco Rubio received 22.5 percent and third-place finisher Ted Cruz received 22.3 percent. Jeb Bush, once the favored candidate to win the Republican nomination, came in fourth place with 7.8 percent of the vote and suspended his campaign shortly after the primary. Hillary Clinton won the Nevada
urday evening by a shooter in Kalamazoo, MI. The shootings appeared to be random, taking place at a Cracker Barrel restaurant, a Kia car dealership and an apartment complex, though police argue they were done by the same person. Jason Dalton, the man accused of conducting the shootings, was arrested by police on Sunday morning. An Uber driver, Dalton reportedly shuttled customers in his vehicle shortly after the murders took place. Kalamazoo County Prosecutor Jeff Getting, in an interview with the Chicago Times, expressed his anguish. “This is every community’s night-
Cyclone Winston devastates Fiji Cyclone Winston, one of the strongest tropical storms in history, wrecked havoc on the Pacific island of Fiji on Saturday evening. At least 17 people were killed in the storm and many villages were destroyed. With winds up to 184 mph, the cyclone broke the record for the fastest wind speed in the Southern Hemisphere. Fiji resident Nazeem Kasim, in an interview with CNN, stated “Winston was a monster of a cyclone...I have not experienced anything like this before in my life, nor has my 60-year old father.”
TO PURCHASE A $5 TICKET FOR GOWN TOWN (OR FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE JUNIOR LEAGUE OF THE FLINT HILLS), VISIT: jlflinthills.org facebook.com/Junior-League-ofthe-Flint-Hills-384950015277
U.S., Japan agree to changes at Haneda Airport U.S. airlines will now be able to offer daytime international flights from Tokyo’s Haneda Airport, thanks to negotiations between the U.S. and Japanese governments. Formerly, American airlines operating from Haneda Airport were only given night time slots, meaning that international flights from the airport could only arrive and depart between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. American Airlines, United Airlines, and Hawaiian Airlines praised the change, while Delta Airlines, which maintains a hub at nearby Narita airport, condemned it.
//////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// FOR THE MOST UP-TO-DATE NEWS CHECK OUT MHSMENTOR.COM
Opinions
The Mentor // feb. 23, 2016 // MHSMentor.com Page 2
Anti-Encryption, a necessary evil THIS EDITORIAL IS A COMPILATION FROM A DISCUSSION HELD BY THE EDITORIAL BOARD. TO LISTEN TO THE CONVERSATION THAT LED TO THIS PIECE, VISIT WWW.MHSMENTOR. COM.
In our day and age, we are vastly reliant on our personal devices and computers to hold our private information. These devices are protected by all kinds of complex programs but none as complex as encryption. What if anyone could bypass this protection, and what if it was for the greater good? This brings us to our topic of the dis-
pute between Apple and the FBI over the development of anti-encryption software. Over the past month, Apple and the FBI have been feuding over whether or not to develop a software that could bypass the encryption on the phone of one of the San Bernardino shooters. The main issue of this all is that if the FBI does gain access to this software, it means that not only would it be susceptible to hackers but it would also mean that the FBI would have access to the information of anyone with an Apple product. At this point, that would
mean the privacy risk of millions if not billions of people. Despite these risks, we have agreed as a majority that the FBI should have access to this software in order to combat the growing threat of terrorism and other threats that face our nation. In the grand scheme of things, if you are doing something on your device that will get you in trouble with the FBI then you should probably stop doing it. The problem that the editorial board found about our decision is that the whole thing is reminiscent of the Patriot Act passed after the 9/11
terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center. The government would indiscriminately have a backdoor into anyone’s phone or computer in the name of combating terrorism. There would be no easy way to prevent corruption from growing if the power is abused and people are brought to “justice” as if it is a modern inquisition. If Apple does end up making this software, the new presidential elect will have to try their best to not abuse this power and gradually lose the trust of the American people.
forms of media attended to cover the signings. I think that this is a great thing, and that our school and community should continue to celebrate these amazing athletes that are continuing their sports careers. However, I do feel as if the students that are not athletes, but have a large academic accomplishment sometimes go unnoticed by our school and community. Many students in the 2016 class have been accepted into schools such as Yale, Stanford and other very elite schools, but the only recognition of students continuing their education have been because of sports. These students should feel proud of their accomplishments and should receive support and recognition from our school. If we choose to ignore these accomplishments, lots of the students will feel as if everything besides athletic achievements aren’t valid. If we recognize all of the different achievements going on at our school, it en-
courages other students in the future to aspire to do these things. Our school offers so many extra curricular opportunities besides athletics, and many students go onto pursue those post graduation. But the only accomplishments we ever hear about are the athletes continuing their activity. The athletes work very hard to continue to play sports after high school, and it is so great that our school celebrates and encourages that. But the students that take multiple AP classes and get accepted into Ivy League schools also work very hard to achieve their goals. Other accomplishments that go unnoticed are students that get accepted into various college programs such as university choirs, art programs and debate teams. These students are continuing their education as well as their extra curricular activity, and they receive very little recognition. Why does a student who gets signed to play a sport, receive a signing
with all their classmates attending, media coverage and the entire school supporting them? But a student that gets accepted into a university with a 3 percent acceptance rate receives no support or recognition from their school? Lots of students at our school are getting accepted into amazing schools all over the country and are achieving amazing things, why does our school only want to tell the world about the athletic achievements and not brag about all of the students doing amazing things? We shouldn’t start to ignore anyone’s athletic accomplishments. They are a large part of our school and major accomplishments to celebrate, but we shouldn’t overlook the other amazing things that students at our school are doing. Why not focus and be proud of all the amazing things the students are achieving instead of centering all of our attention on one?
Celebrate all student achievements, not just athletics
Maya Minocha
Blue M Organizations Editor Athletics are very prominent at Manhattan High School. We provide students with the opportunity to excel in sports and the students at Manhattan High School love to support our teams. Athletics are not only a great activity to be involved in, but they are also a very large source of income for the school and the athletic department. Lots of the athletes at Manhattan High school continue their education while also taking on a sport post high school. With National Signing Month being this month, lots of students at Manhattan High signed to continue to play sports in college. At the signings, many radio stations, local newspapers and other
Stop menst rual taboo
Anna Alanazi Photo Editor
Sneak your sanitary napkin into your bag, it’s that time of the month. Menstrual taboo in some societies involves periods being perceived as shameful. Periods are a lot of things; they can be irritating, uncomfortable and sometimes inconvenient. However, one thing they are not is embarrassing. We are taught at a young age that we should hide our tampons and pads and to keep this taboo to ourselves, and slowly it has taught us that our periods are wrong. It taught us that menstruation is embarrassing and “she must on her period,” really means, “she’s crazy.” Well I’m calling nonsense. Periods are beautiful things that happen to our bodies every month; our body is healing itself. It means it’s working. I am not on my *period,* I am on my period and I am not ashamed. According to the She Knows website, when tampons and pads began being advertised in the early 1900s, as a marketing strategy, Kotex showed periods as a burden. Period shaming is a widespread, ridiculous issue whether it’s a presidential candidate throwing periods as insults, or when a photographer’s work is being censored on Instagram. Period shaming is creating a stigma that periods should be hidden or even stopped. Now what kind of message is that to the young teens who are
going through periods for the first time? Instead of teaching girls ways they can hide their period, throw them a period party. Welcome your daughter’s first period. Show her that this is a beautiful thing that should be celebrated, not hidden. Periods, like breastfeeding, are natural and beautiful things and just because they happen to half the people doesn’t mean that they’re wrong. I’m not saying we should all love our periods and conduct a “free the blood” campaign, or that stopping it gets rid of our “womanhood.” Seeing periods as embarrassing versus irritating are two different arguments. Periods can be inconvenient for many and getting rid of them may be a healthy option for some. Here are a few reasons as to why periods shouldn’t be a social taboo: First, they are normal, you are not weird for having one. It’s natural. Second, periods are indicators for your health. Don’t worry that your period isn’t regulated; it’s pretty common to have an irregular one. Third, they shouldn’t invalidate you. Because they are rough and girls tend to get a little hormonal during them you may hear the disturbingly infamous cliché, “It must be that time of the month!” When that comment is heard and not defended, it’s a way of validating that kind of thinking. Just because periods don’t happen to everyone doesn’t mean they’re wrong. By slowly accepting that concept, and by eliminating uneducated behavior, periods will be seen the way they are supposed to be seen: normal.
Princeton study proves stripping objectifies women Sex workers deserve respect Aside from slavishly giving in to their urges, entering the strip club has other consequences for men, too. A man could miss out on his future bff because she doesn’t Anna Hupp match up to the image Staff Writer he has seen in the dark room. He often will have difficulty developing the In a Princeton Univercourage and skills needed sity study, male students for healthy connections viewed images of women with real people. Even they didn’t know in bikiif he wants to erase the nis. A brain scan revealed mental images from his that, when looking at the mind later, he might not pictures, the section of be able to, and they could the brain that responds poison his relationship to tools, like hammers with another woman. or wrenches, lit up. For I think our natural insome participants, the stinct is to recoil when part of the brain that conwe think about stripping. siders another person’s Is it something we want motivations or thoughts for our sister or daughwas completely dark. ter? What’s tragic is that, “The lack of activadespite what tion in this social cogwe intuitively nition area is really “If you think that’s just “how men know, stripodd, because it hardly are,” you have bought into the lie ping is supever happens,” Susan that you cannot hope for better than ported not only Fiske, a psychologist by men who at Princeton, said. “It having your value determined by a is as if they are react- pervert without self control who only want to indulge their lust, but ing to these women also, strangeas if they are not fully wants to use you.” ly enough, by human. It’s consistent with the idea that they who were fully clothed, many of my fellow femiare responding to these though they viewed them nists. These individuals photographs as if they for the same amount have been duped by the were responding to ob- of time. Imagine a man idea that stripping frees who has frequented strip the women enslaved by jects, not people.” Male students in a sim- clubs is like in his dat- sexism because it is conilar Princeton study also ing or marriage relation- fidently “owning your associated the women ships. Would you want body and your sexuality.” in bikinis with first-per- to be in an intimate, vul- If we truly value women, son action verbs such as nerable relationship with we should have a much “grab,” “push,” and “han- this man? Would you not higher vision than of supdle” instead of the third- have questions about porting the very mentaliperson verbs they asso- whether he is compar- ties and behaviors loved ciated with fully clothed ing you to other women’s by those who disenfranwomen as in she “grabs,” bodies? Is he attracted chise us the most. to you as a person, or as “pushes,” and “handles.” STAFF MEMBERS: In other words, the someone to potentially participants viewed exploit? What happens Greg Woods -- Editor scantily-clad women they when you gain weight or -In-Chief did not know as objects age? Tracy Le -- News Editor If you think that’s just or tools to be use any way Savannah Cherms -- En“how men are,” you have they pleased instead of tertainment Editor as people with thoughts, bought into the lie that Erick Echegaray -dignity, worth and free- you cannot hope for betSports Editor dom. “Sexy women in ter than having your valElizabeth Underwood -bikinis really do inspire ue determined by a perFeatures Editor some men to see them as vert without self control Angie Moss -- Trending objects,” National Geo- who only wants to use Editor graphic said of the Princ- you. Like, for instance, Cora Astin -- Photo Edihaving value because of eton analysis. tor This data reinforces your inherent worth as a Andrea Lu -- Graphics what we all instinctively person. Designer/Copy Editor/ know. Stripping, or dancing in lingerie for the pleasure of those watching, is demeaning and dehumanizing. If men view women in bikinis as objects, what effects does it have on us when people buy and sell tickets to view naked female bodies? For women, at least, the conclusions are obvious. If women who strip are viewed as objects, they will be treated as such. This means a swing upward in emotional, physical and sexual abuse towards not only towards strippers, but other women too. The students at Princeton remembered the images of women in bikinis better than pictures of women
Savannah Cherms
Entertainment Editor On June 25 of 2015, millions of women and men flocked to theaters, dropping their 11 dollars to see the highly anticipated film, “Magic Mike.” The film starred Hollywood favorite Channing Tatum as Mike Lane, a male stripper. The film grossed 122.5 million dollars in USD, and had many women rushing back to theaters to see it again. The idea of big, buff men grinding, taking off their clothes and teasing audience members is one that is easily accepted and welcomed. Here lies the double standard. A female stripper receives far less respect than her male coworkers. Female strippers and sex workers deserve the same amount of respect and revere that her male counterparts earn. A female stripper is quickly labeled a whore, a slut and cheap. The word stripper even carries the negative connotation of girls dancing in their underwear in a seedy bar while men let their hands wander on her body. This image and this stereotype is unreal-
alternate Opinions Editor Alan Brown -- Copy Editor Rick Brown -- Copy Editor Anna Alanazi -- Photo Editor Staff Writers -- David Fliter, Ale Flores, Anna Hupp, Megan Klug, Gavin Larios, Jordan Lutz, Tara Magaña, Maya Minocha Staff Photographers -Hasan Al-Basri, McKenna Eilert, Lauren Race, Dylan Thomas Kristy Nyp -- Adviser
istic. According to a study held in 2015, 33% of strippers really are just trying to get through college, and it works. According to a Forbes interview with an Atlanta stripper, “In January and February, she worked 96 and 75 hours a month respectively, for which she took home $2,237 and $2,398, and earned $23 and $32 an hour.” Another heavy factor into why women pursue a career in stripping is simply because they like to dance. The job is mostly play after all, and as stated before, a stripper will make more in one week’s worth of shifts than a dance major might in months. The issue some bring up when strippers, and sex workers in general are brought up is that strippers have little dignity and are allowing themselves to be seen as objects. I’m sorry, but only a woman who is fully in charge of herself and her sexuality would be able to go out and perform for men and women every night. The image of the sad stripper smoking cigarettes in the back of the club is outdated and is being replaced with that of powerful, independent women who, yes, are mothers, students and business women. Amber Rose, TV personality and ex-stripper, has taken ownership of her past work and is proud of it,
speaking openly about the job and the fun she had doing it. “That was the best time of my life!” Rose declared in an interview with Cosmopolitan. “Oh my god, I had so much fun. All the girls were really cool. The guys weren’t allowed to touch you. I was never sexually assaulted or [anything]. I was young, beautiful, I was onstage. I wasn’t really ashamed of my body. I made lifelong friends.” Strippers and sex workers are taking back what it means to be in the industry. Many of these women are empowered and are proud of what they do, and with good reason. Women and girls are trained from day one to be ashamed of their bodies and their sexaulity. We are expected to be hush hush about our sex lives, and we are shamed for owning our sexuality. And strippers are challenging these social injustices. These are women who are in charge of themselves and know who they are. These are not women who are weak, these are not women who are disappointments and these are definitely not women who care if you think they are sluts or whores. These are physically and mentally strong and empowered women who know what they want and work hard to get it.
Circulation -- Kim Schnee’s fifth hour class: Kristyn Baker, Caleb Barnes, Dalton Blake, Wesley Cattanach, Charlie Dickey, Karl Drown, Rachel Efken, Logan Jones, Lynne Jones, Colten Kirk, Josh Kohls, Douglas McCaskill, Faith A. Parker, Alesha Pearl, Megan Ritthisorn, Bradley Rollins, Mythias Satterfield, Amissa Self, Tedi Stein, Hannah Sullivan and Austin Tatum.
each Tuesday that school is in session at Manhattan High School, 2100 Poyntz Ave. Manhattan, Kan. Telephone (785) 587-2114. More than 1,000 Mentors are printed each week and distributed free of charge to all faculty members and students. MHS journalists are members of the Kansas Scholastic Press Association. The Mentor is an open forum that accepts contributions from the public. E-mail us at mhsmentor@gmail.com.
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THE MENTOR // FEB. 23, 2016 // MHSMENTOR.COM
ENTERTAINMENT
Alumni enters Hall of Fame, speaks in classes
RIGHT: Former MHS stundent Richard Broadhurst flips through his old year book from his senior year, 1964, with the student publication staff. Broadhurst spoke to the publication about his past in film writing. ABOVE:Richard Broadhurst performs a spoken piece with MHS Thespians at McCain Auditorium’s Kirmser Hall. PHOTOS BY CORA ASTIN
ALE FLORES
Staff Writer
Manhattan High School alumnus and professional actor and writer Richard Broadhurst visited MHS last week. Broadhurst was here because he was selected to be put in the MHS
Alumni Association “Wall of Fame” thanks to his career experience. “They contacted me telling me I was nominated. I was surprised. And they also put my best friend growing up, too,” Broadhurst said. “It is very sweet. I’m not sure I deserved it, but it was
very sweet.” After graduating from MHS in 1964 and spending some time at Kansas State, Broadhurst started his acting career in New York. Eventually he moved from acting to writing, and he went on to teach acting and writing in New York, Los An-
geles and Sacramento. Apart from coming for the ceremony on Feb. 12, Broadhurst also worked with the drama classes, giving them writing and acting tips. “We did some acting and writing exercises. They were very creative,” Broadhurst said.
“I was very impressed. I just want it to encourage them to follow any creative endeavoring they might have.” He also came as a guest speaker to the journalism class. He talked to the newspaper and yearbook students about how being in a journalism class
helped him throughout his career. “I was the sports editor of the yearbook. I really liked it,” Broadhurst said. “The publications work the same as they used to when I was on staff. it is very interesting.”
‘The Life of Pablo’ a beautiful mess in best way possible “Deadpool”
GREG WOODS Staff Writer
I was never completely confident that “The Life of Pablo” would release. Between changing the album’s name just days prior to its scheduled release and a vicious Twitter assault on Wiz Khalifa, part of me wanted to believe Kanye West would pull an unorthodox move and delay the album’s release by a long, long time. But leading up to his record’s drop, Kanye West was, well — Kanye West. He posted on Twitter a picture of the album’s initial tracklist on Jan. 24, which was originally titled “Swish.” He then changed the name to “Waves” just two days later (all while dubbing the album the “best album of all time”) before hinting on Twitter on Feb. 8 that “there may be a new secret album title.” You know, three days before the album was set to release. He followed what had
already turned into a messy rollout with revealing the album title’s initials a day later and offering his Twitter followers the incentive of free tickets to Yeezy Season 3 and free Yeezys if they were able to guess the title. So you’ll understand why I said the album circulation happened in the most Kanye West way possible: a departure from the ordinary, a stamp on the envelope that is unmistakably his. But as much as there is to discuss concerning the days before “The Life of Pablo” hit Tidal the night of Feb. 13, that is not why I am writing this. I’m writing this about the album itself, which for lack of a better term, is a beautiful trainwreck. It’s a trainwreck, but not in the it’s-a-bad-album sense. Because it isn’t. It’s a trainwreck because it’s a mess, a jumbled album
without a central focus or theme. It’s the individual contents that make it one of West’s most important, transparent albums to
2
date. There is no denying West bares his soul on “Pablo.” From tracks like “FML” in which he sings about resisting sexual temptation to songs such as “Real Friends,” a joint on which Ye sounds remarkably sad rapping about his failure as an involved family member, there is little doubt about the vulnerability West
NHS to host prom fashion show ERICK ECHEGARY
Sports Editor
Dresses and other forms of clothing will be shown off in National Honor Society’s’ third annual talent show Saturday. “The purpose of the fundraising is for NHS members to be able to help other members of the Manhattan High School community,” sponsor Robin Smith said. Smith helped orga-
nize the event, which will help students in various forms. As for the show, students will be displaying dresses and other types of spring and graduation clothing. There will also be performances. “Hopefully the choir will have a couple of numbers and we have a student group who is going to perform,” Smith said. Multiple students will MC the show, among them junior Angie Moss.
“I’m excited for it. It’s good to be in it and it’s fun,” Moss said, “[The talent show] is to advertise clothes to wear to prom. Also to advertise the MHS Prom Shop, which collects prom dresses and donations and, when it’s time for prom, if you can’t afford a prom dress you can go pick one up for free.” The show will be held at Rezak Auditorium Saturday at 7 p.m.
ARTIST OF THE WEEK What is the best part of being stage manager? -- “The best part is defnitely connecting with all the actors and the technicians and getting to know people better.” What makes being a techie worth it? -- “It’s nice to work hard and achieve something where the end result is people laughing and having fun watching it. That’s really fun.”
PHOTO BY SAVANNAH CHERMS
Do you prefer acting or stage work? -- ”I’ve acted before, I like the backstage idea more. I like putting other people in the spotlight more than I like being in the spotlight, which is funny because I actually do spotlights.
SAMANTHA HALL
displays on the album. But the 18-track album shows off West’s braggadocious and foolish side, and it wouldn’t be a Kanye a l b u m without it. The infamous Taylor Swift line on “Fam o u s ” does its part to cement West’s legacy as a tool, while his opening bars on “Father Stretch My Hands Pt. 1” (the beat drop on this track gave me what felt like a brain aneurism, for what it’s worth) are completely nonsensical and straight up weird. I would write them here, but they are, you know, explicit. As somewhat predictable as those two elements to the album are, however, there was one sound that I did not expect, but one that I was riveted by: gospel.
The gospel sound is most conspicuous on the album’s opening song, “Ultralight Beam.” West called upon illustrious gospel music producer and artist Kirk Franklin for a prayer on the song, while a church choir sings the “This is a God dream” refrain. (Chance the Rapper’s verse on this track was probably the best of the entire album, by the way.) I don’t have the word count to detail each and every sentiment West expresses on “The Life of Pablo,” and that’s probably a good thing, because you would probably stop reading out of boredom halfway through. But it’s vitally important to note that there are several others, which add to the rushed, thrown-together feel this album gives. But that’s the thing — it’s Kanye West’s personality, an unpredictable cycle of pride, transparency and boldness, and with “Pablo,” West tacks on the characteristic of self-awareness. And that, folks, is a Kanye West album done in the most Kanye West way possible.
Puth realeases ‘Nine Track Mind’ after solo work
MEGAN KLUG
Blue M Sports Editor
Charlie Puth, the wellknown artist for featuring in “See You Again” with Wiz Khalifa, recently released his debut album “Nine Track Mind.” It features songs that were on his EP “I Won’t Tell A Soul” including the radio hit “Marvin Gaye.” Most people are unaware that Puth is classified as a musical prodigy. Since he was a young boy, he has had the capability of perfect pitch. This means that he can match and identify the note of any object that makes a tone. This explains why his vocal ability is more advanced and his notes are always on key. Within the album, Puth repeats the feel of the song within the introduction by having a sole piano to begin the song.
The popular song “One Call Away” has a sweet chorus and goes into the first verse with a slight beat in the background. Along with his highly popular songs, one song that hasn’t been given the credit it deserves is the powerful “Dangerously.” With power and a vast vocal range, Puth catches you off guard as this song strays from the peaceful and upbeat melodies he commonly is associated with. “We Don’t Talk Anymore” features the extremely famous and talented Selena Gomez. The gentle song is both catchy and genius when it comes to composition. It only secures his superstar status, adding to the long list of celebrity artists he has collaborated with. Lots of Puth’s music is underrated and deserves spots on the billboard charts. Overall, the “Nine Track Mind” album is worth the purchase to be enchanted by Charlie Puth’s smooth vocals and capability to produce music as well.
explodes in theaters
ELIZABETH UNDERWOOD Features Editor
Walking into Carmike Cinemas on Valentine’s Day was a terror as I almost had to fight tooth and nail for popcorn, but the quality of “Deadpool” and the cute rose that viewers received as we walked in made the battle worth it. After pre-ordering tickets three days before seeing the movie as the only guarantee of seats, it’s clear that famed director Stan Lee’s newest film was the rage among comic book nerds everywhere. As the only “superhero” movie with an R-rating, “Deadpool” shocked unknowing parents with sexual content, graphic violence and pervasive language as they accompanied their young children into, and quickly out of, the film during intense sexual scenes between protagonist Wade Wilson (Ryan Reynolds) and his love interest Vanessa (Morena Baccarin). Although part of the fault for children being revealed to content such as this could be directed onto Lee’s bold and different direction of the film, parents were also to blame for not reading up on the content before wasting their money on the tickets. As a word to the wise, if you or your child are sensitive to any of the aforementioned filmography, then save your money. Though if you lack that modest sensitivity to sex, language and gore, “Deadpool” is a highly enjoyable and unique 108 minutes. Hosting multiple “third wall” breaks, where Deadpool is talking directly to the viewer, Lee is able to give a unique twist to the average screenplay of his typical Marvel/DC movie. Main character Wade Wilson also lacks most character traits that are seen in the average “superhero” such as justice and a sense of morality. Instead, Wilson hosts an uncensored and cynical attitude toward what he goes through and does. Unique in its design, “Deadpool” is a hit among comic fans without censorship and a love for the action of comic films.
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Sports The Mentor // FEB. 23, 2016 // MHSMENTOR.COM Page 4
Wrestling victorious in regionals, moves on to state ERICK ECHEGARAY
Sports Editor
Following long-time coach Robert Gonzalez’s historic 300 dual win as coach last weekend, The Indians were back in action Saturday, this time for a competition they had been preparing for since they won Centennial League late last month. It was time for Regionals, and naturally, excitement was in the air. For those 14 wrestlers, many of whom are league champions, all of the laps ran in practice, and all the sweat that was left on the mats led to this for them: the chance to become Regional champion and make their way to the State competition. Fourteen walked in and 13 walked away qualifying for the 6A state competition. With that, Manhattan left with the Regional win, out-wrestling seven other teams. Eight Manhattan wrestlers fought their way to the championship round in their weight classes, and five of them defeated their rivals to earn the name of Regional champions. Juniors Mason Wallace, Eldon Picou, Joe Braun and Zephry Kill-
Senior Carlos Martinez prepares for state after competing in Saturday’s regional competition. Martinez placed second in regionals. PHOTO BY CORA ASTIN ham all placed first, blazing through their brackets and ultimately winning their final match. “It went well. we had five champions and eight finalists,” Junior Mason Wallace said. Among those other qualified for state were senior Carlos Martinez, who recently signed on to Bethany College accept-
ing a scholarship to wrestle for them after this year, and sophomores Abraham Sanchez, Robert Houston and Hunter Christensen. As if these weren’t enough, MHS also took home the coach of the year and wrestler of the year awards given to Gonzalez and Killham respectively. “I was realy proud of
myself and I thank [Gonzalez] for all of that,” Killham said. After a successful Regional campaign, the Indians will now travel to Wichita to compete in State on Friday. “We have a real chance to beat Garden City,” Wallace said, “and take home the state title as a team.”
Team Scores 1. Manhattan 227.5 2. Washburn Rural 166.0 3. Lawrence-Free State 123.0 4. Junction City 103.0 5. Topeka 71.5 6. Wichita Southeast 70.5 7. Wichita East 62.5 8. Wichita North 48.5
Swim, dive compete at state, reflect on season Jordan Lutz
Staff Writer
Swim and dive competed in Topeka over the weekend for their State Meet. Using the times that were recorded at their League event the
previous week, the teams determined what events they competed in and who went to the State meet. “We had a solid meet,” senior swimmer Matthew Bandy said. “In prelims, we had two divers and we had all three relays go. I
swam individually.” No relay team passed the preliminary round but Bandy and one diver made it to the finals. “Those [the relays] barely got knocked out in the prelims,” senior Sam Nelson said. “It was top 16
said. “We have to treat it like it’s a playoff game. If we really want to win league, our playoffs start a week earlier than everybody else’s does.” The good news for the Indians, though, is that they have seen and defeated Junction City once before this season, a 7864 road win in December. The Blue Jays’ T.J. Poole gashed MHS for 30 points, while Ricardo Erans added 18 on four triples — two guards George is most concerned with ahead of Tuesday’s matchup. “I think we still have to probably shorten our closeouts on Poole; take away his left hand because he loves to go left,” George said. “And be tough enough to take a charge.” The Indians, in line with their tendencies this year, finished both the first and fourth quarters with a bang. They outscored Junction City 2412 and 28-18, respectively — it was the middle two stanzas that gave the visiting team trouble. The third quarter saw the Blue Jays trim the def-
icit to four. Poole canned a three in the waning seconds, and the uproar the gym ascended into predicted a narrow fourth frame. But Manhattan, as it has for much of its 201516 campaign, made quick work of the final stanza and put the game away at the free throw line. Now it is faced with a rematch with its archrival, a contest made more meaningful with the fact that it will serve as senior night. Make no mistake: the night will be an emotional one. Manhattan’s seniors have racked up a 33-6 record over the past two seasons, a record that includes just two home losses. The first ended the Indians’ sub-state run a year ago. Senior forward Grant Munsen said the stage will live up to its hype. “It’s going to be a huge night, especially for the seniors,” he said. “Junction, at home; it doesn’t get better than that for senior night. So I think we’ll be ready to go.”
on senior night Tuesday, a club MHS trounced 63-27 in the teams’ first meeting of the season in December. Junction City stands at 1-10 in league play and 2-16 overall on the season, and with its bottom dwelling in the league standings, senior Madison Mittie hopes the game will provide a sigh of relief for her team. “It’s nice. I think it’ll make us happier; coach [Scott] Mall a little happier,” Mittie said. “We’ll get more excited to go into sub-state week.” The game is also senior night for the Lady Indians’ trio of seniors: Mittie, Tarrah Bammes and Mackenzie Gwinner. “I think it’ll be a little emotional for us,” Mittie said. But for the non-seniors, the approach will be different. For McAtee, it will be a matter of soaking up the time before she enters
her own senior campaign. “Every year, it’s like, freshman, sophomore, junior. It’s like, ‘all right, I’ve got another year; I’ve got more years.’ And as I get closer to senior year, I realize they don’t have that,” McAtee said. “And so I can’t keep making excuses, because I want it to be their best season they can have.”
teams that got to finals so those got knocked down at a couple 18 place finishes. Matt Bandy advanced in both his individuals in the 500 free and 100 breast. Carter Nelson, our diver, made it to the last day at ninth place.”
Both teams failed to create enough ground and placed 18 overall by the end of State. While they did not place high, some members reflect that the season went well. “We had a very solid season,” Bandy said. “We
had a little bit of a rough start. We took a lot of seconds this year. As the season went on, we had a lot of the new swimmers find their groove.”
At top of league, boys ready for emotional senior night GREG WOODS
Editor-in-Chief
As February nears its end, the postseason picture continues to become clearer for the Manhattan High boys basketball team. At the top of the league, the Indians are on the verge of a title. And though the postseason has not arrived yet — sub-state doesn’t begin until March 3 — head coach Benji George is imploring his team to treat its final two regular season games as if they are playoff scenarios. His reasoning his sound: after a home loss to Hayden last Friday, the Indians hold a onegame lead in the Centennial League and must win said two games to ensure an outright league title. Otherwise, they risk sharing the championship, or with two losses, losing grasp of a title at all. First up on the crucial two-game docket is Junction City Tuesday night. “My message to the team is going to be that when the ball goes up in the air, the playoffs start tomorrow night,” George
Senior Christian Carmichael shoots a jumper Friday night against Hayden. PHOTO BY DYLAN THOMAS
Girls prep for special senior night Bowling will face tough regionals GREG WOODS
Editor-in-Chief
The beginning of the Manhattan High girls basketball team’s loss to Hayden last Friday bore a stark difference from the ending. That is, at least to junior Gigi McAtee, who totaled 12 points in the contest. “We had a lot of fire. We were really excited for the Hayden game,” she said. “We really wanted to win, and there was a lot of motivation and a lot of hype for the game.” It likely didn’t end with the same inspiration, though: the 63-57 loss was the Lady Indians’ third straight, securing MHS’ fall from the league title discussion. And though Manhattan will not get a shot at the league championship after claiming it a year ago, it does get a chance at a win Tuesday. The Lady Indians host the Lady Jays
GAVIN LARIOS
Staff Writer
After a disappointing loss in bowling a couple weeks ago at home, coaches told the athletes to not even come to practice the next day because of the results of the meet. Since then, the Manhattan High bowling team has tried to put on their A-game at every meet, but unfortunately
their scores have been fluctuating. “We have improved a lot since [the Topeka quad on Feb. 8],” senior Andrea Miller said. The last meet that the bowling team competed at was in Topeka at Centennial League. The boys finished in ninth place with a score of 2128. The only boy to place individually was junior Dustin Wich-
man with a score of 641. The girls finished in 11th place with a score of 2071. Miller finished in sixth place with a score of 613 and freshman Alex Newell finished in 17th place with a score of 540. The next time the MHS bowlers compete will be today in Junction City and on Friday at Regionals.
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Senior Swimmer Matthew Bandy splashed his way into this editions volume of athelete of the week with finesse. He led Manhattan High into state and was the only swimmer to advance by his individual efforts. “The meet went good for me. I couldn’t have thought of a better way to end the season and my swimming career,” Bandy said. Bandy, who is also a part of the Manhattan Marlins, has competed for MHS in the past four seasons and plans to swim in the future. “I started swimming as a freshman and that was all good, I also started swimming with the Marlins and that was great as well,” Bandy said.“It all comes down to scholarship money. I’ve applied to a few schools but it really all comes down to money.”
MATT BANDY
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The Mentor // Feb. 23, 2016 // MHSMentor.com
Features
Shaping better violinists Das’ lessons better beginning musicians
Senior Arnav Das performs a solo along side the Chamber Orchestra at the December concert. Solos are seen as an honor in orchestra, and Das had to play his solo from memory. Even with the added pressure, Das performed that night without a hiccup. In addition to his confidence in playing, Das spends his free time giving Violin lessons to aspiring young violinists. PHOTO BY SAVANNAH CHERMS
ANNA ALANAZI
have our most advanced players start training our youngest players so that’s something that we started this year.” Das began teaching for a few friends his sophomore year before orchestra teacher Nate McClendon began a student tutoring program. Das started with three students and five lessons a week for 30 minutes to an hour. “When I was a freshmen, I saw a lot of the seniors in our orchestra teaching as well, so I said yeah that sounds awesome,” Das said. “[The
best part is] helping them improve. It’s interesting to just watch how much they can grow when you give them the proper guidance.” One of his students is seventh grader Alice Le. Le is a first chair, second violin in Silver Orchestra. “He always comes with great enthusiasm to teach me,” Le said. “Without him I would not have noticed such a drastic change in my playing.” Le noticed a massive difference in her playing after the lessons. “I have improved exponentially. I have tackled
many more difficult pieces than I ever attempted before,” Le said. McClendon said Das is an aloof guy, yet a mature violinist, who he had the pleasure of teaching and watching as he became a great teacher. “The kid says a lot through his instrument, and you can’t do that if you’re not really internally mature,” McClendon said. “Now you see him in the position where he has to be the mentor, he has to be the grown up, and that’s kind of fun to see happen.”
Book after book, the Interpersonal Skills class packed boxes full of books -- 114 boxes full of books to be exact. The books were collected by members of the community, ranging from elementary schools, to middle schools, to Manhattan High, to the congregation of the First United Methodist Church. These books were collected to benefit libraries of South Carolina that lost books due to the flooding earlier this year. “Somebody in the class saw something on Facebook that somebody had posted because of all the flooding that happened in South Carolina that the libraries had lost collections of books,” Kim Schnee, special needs teacher, said. “Not only the public libraries, but
also the school libraries; a lot of them were underwater.” With certain books in mind, the libraries sent out word for help collecting them. “The libraries especially were wanting children’s books or young adult books more so than anything, but they would take anything at all,” Schnee said. Once the IPS class set this as their service project for the year, they started the book drive as soon as possible. “Originally we had, [senior] Suzanna Gevok and I, had some other students helping us saying, ‘we’ll do this, and this, and this’ and then it just kind of never really panned out,” senior Claire Kringen said. “The student who made the flyers, actually make those. Then, we ran off copies and put them up
here and at east campus. [Gevock] and I took the donation bins to the elementary schools, and the middle schools. When we were finally ready to pick up books, again, [Barb] Crooks and [Kim] Schnee sent groups of kids to go get them. So it wouldn’t just be [Gevock] and I.” Many students in the IPS class took leadership within the project itself. Kringen and Gevock took on the project, coordinating it within the school, and those within the surrounding schools. “We sent out an email to all the principals at the elementary schools and middle schools, and they replied or didn’t reply,” Kringen said. “Some of the principals replied with a ‘no,’ because they had a food drive at the same time, so it would be conflicting. Northview, actually, their principal sent the email to the li-
brarian. She got their leadership kids involved; they made more posters they took it on as their own project.” Once the project started everyone began donating books, including the members of the FUMC. “I spoke to my congregation to what we are trying to fix and how we could help, they responded really well,” senior Mackenzie Gwinner said. “Overall, I think the church donated 2,000.” FUMC collected about 2,000 books, in total. The IPS class ended up with 114 boxes of books, totaling 3,713 pounds, all stacking up on three palettes. With help from Carpet 1, the class was able to shrink wrap and ship the palettes to Wichita. From there they will be sent to the South Carolina State Library.
opportunities they had and see the value in themselves and take initiative. MHS BSU member and sophomore Aza DavisPicou enjoyed the workshop and thought it was rewarding. “It was pretty cool,” Davis-Picou said. “We talked about identity, and I learned that it’s important to be who you are no matter what happens in your life. And no matter who tells you you can’t be who you are, you have to stay true to yourself.” One of Ewing’s favorite parts of the whole event was the entertainment that was provided during lunch. “The entertainment was great,” Ewing said. “They had step teams come out so Shawnee
Heights [had] a step team and they also had the sororities and the fraternities step. People basically make music with their bodies like stomping and clapping.” During the campus tour, groups were able to see the various buildings on the K-State campus. Overall, Manhattan High’s BSU members enjoyed the whole experience and the the lessons they were able to take away from the conference. “The one thing that stuck out to me was what Nick [Wiggins] said, ‘Don’t let your circumstances or what you’ve been through determine your value,’” Ewing said, “and he did that whole experiment with the 20
dollar bill and, you know, they crumple it up and ask, ‘You still want it?’ and then you step on it, [and ask] ‘You still want it?’ And people were like, ‘Yeah, it’s $20.’ And he talked about how even though it’s been crumpled on and it’s been stepped on and smushed, it still has value. He said, ‘Don’t let the things that you go through determine how much you’re worth because you’re priceless. You are the most important person in this room.’ And that was, like, really [uplifting].” Ewing appreciated the fact that she was able to talk with other African Americans on a personal level and have that common ground. “We could talk about
things that other people are, like, uncomfortable talking about so it was really great to see that I’m not the only one who deals with the same things,” Ewing said. “Like we all have the same struggles ... it was just great and it was so nice just to see the fellowship and all these people from different high schools. Everybody just understood each other and it was just relatable and we all [had a] connection, a foundation that we all understood. It wasn’t all black people but obviously the majority of the people were black...It was really eye-opening...I would definitely do it again.” Although Ewing will be graduating this year, she hopes BSU can go again
Staff Writer
Instead of flipping burgers like many teens do as an after-school job, senior Arnav Das has the opportunity to teach violin for beginning violinists. “I had all of these students that needed to study and I thought it would be a good idea to build our program from within, so the kids that are in chamber orchestra,” music teacher Nate McClendon said. “I thought it would be a good thing for us to
Manhattan collects books for South Carolina CORA ASTIN
Photo Editor
2000+ books collected by First Methodist church (1 book=200 books)
FROM BSU PAGE 1
cussed topics regarding college, success and the black experience. K-State BSU member and sponsor of Manhattan High’s BSU Nick Wiggins taught one of the workshops, “The Key to Success,” that dealt with key concepts of identity and success. “My workshop was about success through self-identification,” Wiggins said. “We can become more successful by knowing more of who we are. I had people write down how they identified and how they expressed their identity.” Wiggins’ main hope was that those who attended his workshop were able to learn more about themselves, recognize the privileges and
FROM FORENSICS PAGE 1
The last placement received was in the newest national qualifier division of Forensics, Program Oral Interpretation. Junior Kriya Newfield placed third in this compilation event of Prose, Poetry, Dramatic and Humorous Interpretation.
FROM BPA PAGE 1
this spring in Boston. For those who took tests, the top five scores moved on. For team events, the top two groups qualified. For
individual judgings, the top three placings moved on. In the end, 21 of the 25 Manhattan High entries qualified for Nationals.
FOR A COMPLETE LIST OF NATIONAL QUALIFIERS, VISIT MHSMENTOR.COM.
114 boxes of books Packed by IPS (1 box=19 boxes) Total: 3713 lbs. Graphics by Andrea lu
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next year if the opportunity arises and hopes that more people can go. “I really hope that we can get more publicity about it because I feel like a lot of people didn’t know about it and I feel like they talked about things that black people need to hear,” Ewing said. “It’s stuff that we need to know about ourselves and what we need to do in certain situations, like, the whole thing with the police. Somebody is going to deal with that, whether they’re wrong or right and they need to, like, know what to do, what not to say, what not to do. I think you gain more life skills and we got to look at it from a police’s perspective.”
let’s talk Page 6
The Mentor // Feb. 23, 2016 // MHSMentor.com
Trending
politics
the last candidates standing ALAN BROWN
Copy Editor
And then there were seven. A primary season that began with 22 serious contenders hoping to become presidential nominees is now nearing its end. After months of listening each candidate make their cases, the voters of Kansas will receive the opportunity for their voices to be heard on March 5. With Governor Jeb Bush’s abrupt withdrawal from the race, Kansans now likely have four Republicans and two Democrats to choose from. For most high school seniors, this is the first election in which they will be eligible to vote. To help them make up their minds, we’ve highlighted a few of the things that each candidate brings to the table. Bernie Sanders (D-Vermont) wants to ignite a progressive political revolution in order to significantly reduce income inequality and control big business. Widely regarded as one of the most genuine candidates in the race, Senator Sanders calls for the government to increase regulations on Wall Street, provide free college for all, reform the criminal justice system, raise the minimum wage and create
Medicare for all. He looks to nations like Sweden and Denmark for inspiration.
Hillary Clinton (D-New York) proposes continuing progressive changes to government by building on many of President Obama’s projects. As a former First Lady, Senator and Secretary of State, Clinton presents herself as the most experienced candidate in the race. She advocates closing corporate loopholes, creating “no-fly zones” in Syria, fighting climate change, defending the Affordable Care Act and cutting taxes for the middle class. She is currently the favorite to win the Democratic nomination.
soft-spoken candidates. He claims to embrace a 15% flat tax for all, a reduction in government departments and spending, an end
T O L L A B
Ben Carson (R-Michigan) hopes that his status as a Washington outsider will help him unite a broken political system. One of the country’s most-respected neurosurgeons, Carson is considered one of the GOP’s most thoughtful and
t o “political correctness” and the revitalization of honesty in politics. Donald
Trump
(R-New
York) plans to “Make America Great Again” by using unconventional methods and refusing to hold back anything that is on his mind. One of the world’s most successful businessmen, Trump believes that his background provides him with the knowledge and experience necessary to provide a shot of adrenaline to the US job market, win at trade overseas, increase benefits to Veterans and d ra maticall y
clamp down on illegal immigration. He is currently the GOP frontrunner. John Kasich (R-Ohio) hopes to combat the anti-establishment movement by bringing back traditional, moderate Republican values to the
White House. Kasich is the last GOP governor standing in the race and boasts a 60% approval rating in Ohio. Having balanced both the US national budget and Ohio state budget, he promises to enact an amendment that requires a balanced budget at the federal level every year. Marco Rubio (R-Florida) looks to unite the Republican establishment by embracing a combination of moderate and “Tea Party” stances. Endorsed by the likes of Pat Roberts, Sam Brownback, Bob Dole and Mike Pompeo, Rubio is a favorite of highprofile Kansas Republican leaders. He hopes to reduce the number of tax brackets, lower taxes, halt relations with Cuba, restore a marketbased health care system and establish income-based repayment on student loans. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) is preparing to wage a conservative war on establishment politicians in Washington. Given a 97% Liberty Score by Conservativereport.com, Senator Cruz touts himself as the most consistent conservative in the race. He has made it his mission to erase the traces of the Obama administration by repealing Obamacare, revoking the Iran deal, challenging the legality of gay marriage and fighting against amnesty.
Kansas legislature threatens Common Core removal will you be 18 for this election? ANGIE MOSS
mately eight years ago and it took several years for these standards in Mathematics and English/Language arts to be developed,” Superintendent Robert Shannon said. “Then, if we were to have some new standards in the different states in their schools, there would need to be some assessments.” If Kansas decides to do
and if the developing of new and different assessments is expected,” Shannon said. “That also takes money Common Core has been a which at the state level has controversial topic among been in short supply lately. Kansas citizens within the There would be effects on last three or four years. our school district.” Now, a new bill that could Despite controversy surdo away with Common Core rounding the standards, standards in Kansas has Shannon believes Common been introduced and rapidly Core standards are not too pushed through the House complex of RepresenKansas tatives. “Because they speak to some very basic things for students. Substi“I want tute House whether it’s elementary or high school levels that to take an Bill 2292 requires Kan- you expect students to learn, to talk about, to think e x t r e m e , because sas schools to develop new about and I’m not sure what’s left over to teach if we if saying ins t a n d a r d s don’t ask teachers to teach topics related to them. that struction for reading, math, Politics have gotten in the way of common sense that has a ny t h i n g science and to do with other sub- teaching and learning.” ommon jects. The -Robert Shannon CCore stanbill would d a r d s replace Commay not mon Core standards that away with Common Core be done in our schools, I ask were created in 2010. Common Core was adopt- standards, it could take a them ‘have you read them,’” ed by Kansas several years couple of years to be set in Shannon said. “Because ago and developed by the place and impact the state they speak to some very basic things whether it’s elgovernment to encompass financially. “If it’s implemented imme- ementary or high school basic needs for every Kansas student to know when they diately and we, the state of levels that you expect stuKansas, have to develop new dents to learn, to talk about, graduate high school. “The Common Core stan- standards, that could take a to think about and I’m not dards were developed at the couple of years for teacher sure what’s left over to teach urging of the 50 governors of representatives around the if we don’t ask teachers to the different states, as well as state to meet and discuss teach topics related to them. the chief executive officers and to send new or differ- Politics have gotten in the of the state boards of educa- ent standards up through way of common sense teachtion in all the states approxi- to state board of education ing and learning.” Trending Editor
Have you registered to vote? megan klug
Blue M Sports Editor The Kansas Caucus is coming up and that means registered voters get to vote on who the official candidiates for each party is. If you’ll qualify to vote in this next election, k e e p reading. Verify that y o u a r e able t o vote. In order to do this you have to send in, fax or hand deliver a driver’s license or a non-driver’s license identification card that verifies citizenship. Fill out personal information. There are plenty of websites online where you can fill out applications of your information.
Review and Submit. Send in everything that is required and then you can vote. After you submit, you will receive a certificate of verification. Along with this certificate is the location of where to vote. Find where you want to vote. There are listings in newsp a pers of addresses that h o l d polls on or near Election Day. Know when Election Day is. You have to be registered by Oct. 18 if you want to vote in the general election in November. If you want to vote in the Kansas primary, you must be registered by Aug. 2. graphics by andrea lu