Pioneer Switches It Up

Violet Oliver

If you tend to look around the school walls as you walk to your next class, you would’ve noticed the flyer that stated “Open Mic and Art Show on March 7th, 2024”. For many upperclassmen, this was a shock. Surely there would be a talent show, right? Was this the replacement?

This was ASB’s first time changing it up and it turned out to be quite the success. With 32 submissions and well over 40 pieces of art, it was a high-stakes competition. First place would receive $100, second place would receive $75, and third place would receive $50. 64 votes later, the winners were announced, with Myranda Martinez (9) taking first place, Logan Martin (12) sitting at second, and Kaylin Brown (12) taking third. However, these winners didn’t have to take their prize money. Many students and faculty alike felt as if the monetary incentive in the Art Show of 2023 was a poor decision, as it prevented the competitors from submitting art for fun. ASB listened to the constructive criticism and gave the option of donating the prize money to the Art Club. Unfortunately, we’re unable to elaborate on who made that decision.

It wasn’t just the Art Show that was a success. Starting out strong, Izzy (9) took the stand to make jokes about her real life experiences. After her four minute set was over, the stand was left vacant. Eventually, Xiomara (10), Maddi (10), Rogelio (9), Max (9), and Kylie (9) sang Love by Keyshia Cole. Laughter filled the mic, and it was clear that they were enjoying themselves. At the end of the night, Max Vasquez (12) hushed the room with his acoustic guitar and cover of ‘Everlong’ by Foo Fighters. With over a hundred audience members in attendance throughout the night, it was no secret that everyone had fun.

Whether or not this continues to be the ASB replacement of a talent show, we’ll have to wait for next year. The amount of success that transcribed from this year’s show will most certainly be a factor in that decision, but either way, it’ll be an enjoyable experience for all.