Winter 2020

Lewiston High School, DTEC 407, 3201 Cecil Andrus Way, Lewiston, Idaho 83501

The Bengal’s Purr Since 1927

Remembering John O’Neil Page 3 LHS gives to Food Bank Page 6 Santa gets Covid Page 12

Cover art by Emily Gibson

Vol.93 No. 2

Friday, Dec. 18, 2020

2 Opinion

By Rylie Reagan Features Editor

THE BENGAL’S PURR

Top trends of 2020

1. Among Us. A game that takes

place in a space-themed setting where players each take on one of two roles, a Crewmate or an Impostor. Where players must complete tasks without being killed by the imposter.

2. Martinelli’s apple juice. Apple

juice served in a plastic apple-shaped bottle, which mimics the crisp sound of biting into an apple.

Among Us

3. Air Force 1s. A 2020 shoe trend, worn by most teenage girls.

4. Tik Tok. A video-sharing social

networking service where people post videos of themselves dancing, doing comedy, etc. Charli D’ Amelio, a 16-year-old, started her career on the app by dancing to “Lottery (Renegade).”

In the past year, she has reached over 100 million followers.

Martinelli’s apple juice

Money Pieces

5. Mullets. Short in the front, long in the back, this 1970s look made its way back into fashion during 2020.

6. Money Pieces. A hairstyle com-

Air Force 1s

monly associated with the term “E-girl” where color is applied to the two front pieces or underneath part of the hair.

Tiger King

7. Tiger King. A Netflix series featur-

ing Joseph Maldonado-Passage, otherwise known as “Joe Exotic,” following his adventures as an animal enthusiast.

8. Chunky shoes. Shoes that are

comfy and distinct from the rest. Often not worn for style, but to increase height.

Tik Tok

Chunky shoes

9. Whipped coffee. A viral recipe

combining instant coffee, sugar and water to form a whipped texture to place on top of a beverage.

Mullets

Whipped coffee

3 News

THE BENGAL’S PURR

Community remembers O’Neill after accident

By Chayton Brewer-Burgin News Assistant

John Joseph O’Neill Jr. was a 68-year-old man living in the Lewiston-Clarkston Valley. Many people saw him shouting and gesturing at passing cars around town, and for many years this was how people knew him.

But on Nov. 26, O’Neill was struck by a Jeep Grand Cherokee on 21st Street in Lewiston. He was crossing the street when the Jeep hit him.

Once police arrived, they found O’Neill lying in the northbound lanes with a black Jeep Grand Cherokee parked at the scene. The Lewiston Fire Department arrived to attend to him, but pronounced him dead at the scene.

Many people around the valley knew O’Neill well, and his death seemed to hit the community’s teens especially hard.

One student, Sarenity Haning, mentioned how much she liked O’Neill. Other students said they had enjoyed listening to his stories. So from Dec. 1-3, members of the community got together for a candlelight ceremony for O’Neil, held each night at Locomotive Park in Lewiston.

“It was basically a celebration of life,” Haning said. “We gathered around, lit our candles, and showed John the respect that he deserved.”

Some motorists in the valley said they even considered O’Neil as a family figure.

Lee Hendren, another LHS student, men-

tioned how much he enjoyed the memorial.

“I just loved how respectful everyone was at the memorial, no one was mean to each other, and everyone kept it respectful for John’s sake,” Hendren said.

A couple of other kids had also mentioned how much they enjoyed others’ company at the event, also stating how respectful everyone was.

Along with the unofficial memorial that the people of the Lewiston-Clarkston Valley held for O’Neill, his family is set to hold a mass for him Saturday, Jan. 16, at All Souls Catholic Church in Overland, Missouri. The family has asked that in lieu of flowers, people make donations to Missouri Mental Health Foundation, 221 Metro Dr. Suite C, Jefferson City, MO, 65109.

O’Neill’s sisters shared what he was like while growing up. Hi sister Margret mentioned several examples of him taking things apart and putting them back together, such as their TV, their mom’s radio, and electric trains.

His sister Margret also remembered that O’Neill’s older pals gave him the nickname “Buckwheat,” and that he was very kind and easy-going, “He would give you the shirt off his back, and could always make you laugh,” she said.

His sister Teresa O’Neill mentioned how easy he was to be around, “It seemed like he knew everyone. [. . .]

John seemed to be a celebrity to me,” she

Locomotive Park is ignited by the festive lights on a winter’s day. Photo courtesy of fineartamerica.com

John Joseph O’Neill Jr.

shared.

She added that he had a love for everyone, and it seemed that if anyone hurt him, no matter how deeply, he still found room in his heart to forgive them.

John O’Neill as a young man. Photo courtesy of O’Neill’s family.

December 18, 2020

News 4

Donaldson reports district Covid cases

By Hannah Shoffitt

Opinion and News Editor As of Dec. 16, four students and zero staff members at LHS have Covid-19 or are quarantined due to the virus. According to the superintendent, Dr. Robert Donaldson, a total of 10 students and one staff member are infected in the Lewiston School District at this time. Since the beginning of the school year, 137 students have returned from quarantine, as well as 90 staff members. The district total for Covid cases since the school year began is 147 students and 91 staff.

Donaldson holds the power to change the school’s to different phases based on Covid numbers. In a recent email, he said the superintendent is allowed to “rapidly exercise judgment and discretion to implement requirements and protocols based on current trends of the virus within the District.”

School district Covid counts These numbers break down district-wide Covid-19 cases by school and staff, showing the new, active and returned cases.

Source: Lewiston School District

Winter sports face a new challenge

By Braitton Beckstead Sports Editor The winter sports season has already begun, but as expected in this novel year, what plays out is a little out of the ordinary.

This year fans will not be allowed to attend games. Instead, a total of 10 spectators at varsity-level home contests are allowed.

This includes varsity boys and girls basketball, as well as wrestling. Each varsity player will be allowed one spectator. A list

of attendees will be provided to the coach and made available to the athletic director no later than noon on game days. There will be no gate fee for home game attendees. Mask-wearing is madatory while entering, exiting and while at these athletic events. Social distancing is encouraged as well as sportsmanship for those in the audience. After the games, spectators will exit the contest location immediately.

For those who aren’t invited, streaming the games will be an option. If a fan would

like to stream the boys’ and girls’ basketball games, they may purchase a subscription at NFHSnetwork.com. Viewers can look up Lewiston High School in Idaho to get started. Prices start at $69.99 for a year’s subscription and $10.99 per month.

A pass grants access to live sporting events for the regular season and post-season. It also grants mmediate access to events when they are available on demand while provides support for participating school programs.

5 News

THE BENGAL’S PURR

School gives to food bank

By Emily Gibson News Assistant

Lewiston High School’s annual food drive started Dec. 7, and ended right before Christmas break on Thursday, Dec. 17.

Last year, the Lewiston School District’s students, teachers and families raised over 1,500 pounds of food for the local branch of the Idaho Food Bank. William Autrey at LHS said they hope to raise even more than last year to support the community.

As times become harder for many community members, it’s important that Lewiston

High School steps up and donates what we can to those struggling this year.

Boxes were available near each LHS classroom and in the front of the school for student donations of non-perishable items such as food, socks, and blankets. As teachers competed against each other in the food drive, they each had assigned boxes for donations. Teacher competitions included Julie Burke and Jessica Shawley against Brendan Burns and Shawn Nilsson for Dec. 7-11. Jeff Karlin and Kevin Driskill competed against John Schaper and Jolynn Hobson Dec. 14-17.

Man on the Street:

What are your New Year’s resolutions?

Gordon Bisso, Junior: “To become a better snowboarder.”

“Aunt Liz” works inside of the choice pantry, an added service of the Food Bank in 2017. Photo courtesy of idahofoodbank.org

NHS hosts blanket drive

Kelly Ayres, Junior: “To take more classes that I’ve wanted to take.”

The LHS National Honors Society hosted a blanket drive Dec. 8. The members began work right after school in Jamie Bakker’s classroom and continued until 5 p.m. The NHS members donated fleece fabric, time and money to make this possible. After the students finished creating their blankets, they donated them to the maternity ward at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center in Lewiston.

Photo by Annika Lifvenborg.

Robert Bayless, Junior: “To work out more and on a fixed schedule.”

Sports 6 Stream video of this winter’s Bengal sports events with nfhsnetwork.com.

December 18, 2020

Wrestlers duel at the Post Falls meet Dec. 10. Photo courtesy of Mindy Pals.

Varsity Boys Basketball Schedule

Varsity Wrestling Schedule

• Away Dec. 10, 6 p.m. vs Post Falls at Post Falls • Away Dec. 17, 4 p.m. vs Moscow • Home Dec.4, 7 p.m. vs Sandpoint and Lake City at Moscow Bear Den • Away Dec. 5, 3 p.m. vs Timberlake • Away Jan. 8, 7 p.m. vs Moscow • Home Dec. 9, 7 p.m. vs Moscow and Lakeland at Moscow Bear Den • Home Dec. 15, 7 p.m. vs Coeur d’Alene • Away Jan. 9, 9 a.m. vs multiple • Home Dec. 19, 3 p.m. vs Lakeland opponents at Idaho Center in Nampa • Away Dec. 29, 7 p.m. vs Columbia • Away Jan. 13, 7 p.m. vs Coeur d’Alene • Away Dec. 30, 11 a.m. vs Nampa at Coeur d’Alene • Away Jan. 5, 7 p.m. vs Lakeland • Away Jan. 15, 3 p.m. vs multiple • Home Jan. 8, 7 p.m. vs Post Falls opponents at Post Falls • Away Jan. 12, 7 p.m. vs Coeur d’Alene • Away Jan. 16, 9 a.m. vs multiple • Away Jan. 16, 7 p.m. vs Moscow opponents at Post Falls • Away Jan. 19, 7 p.m. vs Lake City • Home Jan. 22, 3 p.m. vs multiple • Away Jan. 23, 3:00 PM vs Sandpoint opponents at Lewiston • Home Feb. 6, 3 p.m. vs Lake City • Home Jan. 23, 9 a.m. vs multiple • Away Feb. 12, 7 p.m. vs Post Falls opponents at Lewiston • Home Feb. 16, 7 p.m. vs Moscow • Away Jan. 29, 3 p.m. vs multiple Regionals/State for Boys Basketball opponents at Coeur d’Alene Feb. 19, 23 , 25 , 27 and March 4, 5, 6 • Away Jan. 30, 9 a.m. vs multiple *All regional and state games are opponents at Coeur d’Alene dependent on past performances.

• Home Feb. 3, 7 p.m. vs Lake City at Lake City **As of Dec. 14, the LHS boys basketball junior varsity, JV2 and freshman programs Regionals/State for Wrestling Feb. 20, 26, 27 are under quarantine until further notice, according to Corey Williams, athletic direc- *All regional and state matches are dependent on past performances tor.

Up-to-date sports schedules at lewistonathletics.bigteams.com

Varsity Girls Basketball Schedule • Home Nov. 21, 2 p.m. vs Moscow • Home Dec. 1, 7 p.m. vs Lake City • Home Dec. 5, 3 p.m. vs Sandpoint • Away Dec. 8, 7 p.m. vs Post Falls • Home Dec. 11, 7 p.m. vs Moscow • Home Dec. 12, 5:30 p.m. vs Coeur d’Alene • Away Dec. 19, 3 p.m. vs Lakeland • Home Dec. 29, noon vs Lapwai • Home Dec. 29, 2 p.m. vs Grangeville • *Home Dec. 30, noon • *Home Dec. 30, 2 p.m.

• Home Jan. 5, 7 p.m. vs Lakeland • Home Jan. 8, 5:30 p.m. vs Post Falls • Away Jan. 12, 5:30 p.m. vs Coeur d’Alene • Away Jan. 16, 5:30 p.m. vs Moscow • Away Jan. 19, 5:30 p.m. vs Lake City • Away Jan. 23, 3 p.m. vs Sandpoint • Away Jan. 30, 7 p.m. vs Timberlake *Games are dependent on the outcome of the Dec. 29 games.

Regionals/State for Girls Basketball Feb. 5, 9, 11, 13, 18,19, 21 *All regional and state games are dependent on past performances

Compiled by Braitton Beckstead, Sports Editor

7 Entertainment

THE BENGAL’S PURR

Plastic Hearts showcases modern pop-rock

By Sophie Hunter Editor-in-Chief

Miley Cyrus, a country, pop, and more recently, rock singer, released her album titled Plastic Hearts Nov. 27. Following her widely popular cover of "Heart of Glass" (originally sung by Blondie), fans anticipated a more grungy, rock album from Cyrus. Many speculated that the release would solidify her sound and style. Typically a pop artist, Cyrus is known for her numerous hits such as "Wrecking Ball," "We Can't Stop" and "Malibu." This solo album follows her 2019 six-track EP SHE IS COMING, which set her up for a change in stylistic choices.

Before the album dropped, Cyrus released her hit single "Midnight Sky," debuting at No. 14 on the Billboard Hot 100.

The opening track, "WTF Do I Know" starts strong with an energetic, intense sound, which is exciting to listen to. Cyrus alludes to her ex-husband, Liam Hemsworth, throughout the song, stating that she won't apologize for moving on. The pre-chorus does not beat around the bush, with lines such as, "Am I wrong that I moved on, and I don't even miss you?" Her punkish pop style shines in this song with strong bass lines and electric guitar. Album cover art for Miley Cyrus’ most recent album, Plastic Hearts. Photo courtesy of iheart.com The album's title track, "Plastic Hearts," is a punchy song with powloved by you." Cyrus gives off a sense of it is easy for many audiences to listen to and erful vocals that soar over the song's instru- freedom after being held down in relation- enjoy. For these reasons, Plastic Hearts earns ments. The song's title refers to how Cyrus ships and finally being good on her own. a 4/5. feels about toxic people and how they have Track 9, "Hate Me," is an odd pair of dark fake or “plastic” hearts. lyrics with a lifting sound. Throughout the Three tracks in, "Angels Like You" slows song, Cyrus sings about how the negative down for a sappy song about Cyrus’ past talk about her would become positive if she relationships. Lyrics such as "Angels like passed away. She is not shy of the subject, you can't fly down here with me" and "It's singing, "I wonder what would happen if I not your fault I can't be what you need" re- die" and "maybe that day you won't hate fer to her difficult breakups in recent years. me." It is not uncommon for artists to have a Many speculate that this song is specifically better image of them once they pass, knowabout blogger Kaitlynn Carter. Cyrus and ing that no more music will be coming.

Carter dated after they both split with their Cyrus' raspy voice and punchy lyrics are ex-husbands. perfectly suited for the new rocker style she The leading single, "Midnight Sky," was ini- has taken on. This 12-track album debuted tially released as a single Aug. 14. This dis- at No. 2 on the Billboard 200 and at No. 1 on co-pop track is fast-paced and fiery about the Billboard Top Rock Album Charts. Cyrus being a free spirit and belonging to your- created an outstanding work of art from self. This is showcased throughout the song many good and bad experiences, making with lyrics such as, "I was born to run, I don't it a very relatable album for her listeners. belong to anyone," and "I don't need to be Touching on topics everyone goes through,

Friday, Dec. 18, 2020

Entertainment 8

The Mandalorian continues to satisfy viewers

By Maggie Bulkley Digital Media Manager WARNING! Spoilers for season one, and mild spoilers for season two of The Mandalorian ahead!

It’s been over a year since the release of season one of Star Wars’ first live-action TV series, The Mandalorian. Though nobody knew what to expect, the general consensus seemed to be pleasant surprise with the Disney+ show, as proved by a 93% on Rotten Tomatoes, and a 7.7 out of 10 on Metacritic.

The Mandalorian is not a traditional Star Wars story, but it embodies the spirit of the original trilogy and takes the viewer on a Western-feeling journey following a lone mandalorian gunfighter across the galaxy.

Disney+ released season two this year, the first episode premiered Oct. 30. It picks up almost immediately after the season one finale. Din Djarin (Pedro Pascal), the mandalorian bounty hunter and main character, has been tasked with finding the home of The Child. Once again, the internet playfully refers to The Child as ¨Baby Yoda¨ due to the character’s striking resemblance to Yoda, a character from both the original Star Wars trilogy and the prequels. Though it appears to be a simple undertaking, those who have seen season one know that in this show, nothing Din Djarin does is ever that simple, with his epic battle scenes and cutting remarks. In this season, The Child grasps the hearts of the audience more than ever.

Even some of the fan-favorite characters from the first film return, including Cara Dune (Gina Carano), an ex-shock trooper who is rebuilding the crime-infested planet of Nevar-

The Child happily rides along in Mando’s speederbike. Photo courtesy of imbd.com.

ro into a respectable trading hub for the galaxy. Greef Karga (Carl Weathers) returns as a former agent of the bounty hunters’ guild who is working on restoring Nevarro as well.

Returning as the main, Darksaber-wielding antagonist is Giancarlo Esposito’s Moff Gideon, who the audience finds plotting harder than ever to lay his hands on The Child. In addition, this season introduces the viewer to a handful of characters new to the show, though some aren’t necessarily new to the Star Wars universe. Each actor does an excellent job, bringing their completely fictional characters to life in a believable sort of way.

Jon Favreau returned as showrunner. Much like the first season, each episode here has a different director, including Favreau, Weathers, Peyton Reed, Bryce Dallas Howard, Dave Filoni and Robert Rodriguez, who all directed an episode of season one as well. They all performed spectacularly in their unique

Mando (Pascal), Cara (Carano), and Greef (Weathers) prepare for attack. Photo courtesy of imdb.com

directing styles, and the variety among the episodes is a key feature of the show. In addition, Favreau and the directors used a new method of filming to create a believable setting. Instead of using green screens, they made a giant circular screen on which they displayed their digitally-created backgrounds. They shot most of the show in that style.

The instrumental score of the show is nothing less than phenomenal. Ludwig Göransson (who also scored Disneys’ Black Panther and Christopher Nolan’s Tenet) exceeds already-high expectations by bringing back the iconic themes and instrumentation of the first season. He also introduces the audience to new and intriguing music which emphasizes both the emotional and action-packed scenes of the show. Between that, the amazing acting, the originality of the stories and fight sequences, and Baby Yoda, season two of The Mandalorian is just as good as the first.

It continues to be the best show Disney+ has to offer, and is definitely a 5/5.

THE BENGAL’S PURR 9 Feature New school, new staff, new LHS Brown spotlights science for older students

By Rylie Reagan Features Editor Lori Brown is a new science addition to Lewiston High School. Among others, Brown has recently transferred to LHS after teaching at what is now Jenifer Middle School. At the beginning of the 2020-2021 school year, she began instructing students here in Earth science.

Previous to becoming a science teacher, Brown spent two years in Lewis-Clark State College’s nursing program. She switched from nursing to a science-education career after getting married, moving to California, and finding time to complete the program, she said. Brown attended Yuba College in California, where she received an associate’s degree in biology. She later returned to LCSC, receiving her bachelor’s degree in natural science and education.

She engages in a lifestyle full of love, camping, and family. She enjoys one thing most of all -- being a grandma to Beau (5) and Dash (3).

Brown’s interest in science sparked during high school. She came from a small school with only one science teacher, Mr.

“I’m a little overwhelmed, but it’s also fun to experience new things. And what a beautiful building I get to teach in!”

-- Lori Brown Little. She respected and admired Little, as he could teach any student, and she aspired to follow in his footsteps, making the same impact.

“I hope that I am following in Mr. Little’s footsteps and teaching all my kids,” Brown said. “My goal is to make connections with kids and try to make science enjoyable and ‘”doable’. .” “I want kids to come out of my class, being critical readers, lifelong learners, and informed consumers.”

As Brown transitioned into the LHS staff, she found it a lot to process. She shared her experience after enduring such a significant change.

Lori Brown

“It’s a lot to process -- new classes, new building, new co-workers, new administrators, Covid,” she said, “I’m a little overwhelmed, but it’s also fun to experience new things. And what a beautiful building I get to teach in!”

Lumley adds herself to the LHS staff and mathmatics program

By Rylie Reagan Features Editor

Tara Lumley

“I love the fact that I can see students that are sophomores, juniors and seniors in addition to my freshmen students.”

-- Tara Lumley

Tara Lumley joined the staff at Lewiston High School at the beginning of the 2020-2021 school year, teaching Algebra I. Among several other teachers, Lumley transferred here from what is now Jenifer Middle School in Lewiston.

Lumley aspired to be a teacher at a young age, as early as the second grade.

“I was super talkative when I was little, so my teachers would allow me to help other students when I finished my work, as long as I would help not tell,” she said. “Students that have had me have heard those words come out of my mouth now that I am a teacher too.”

She attended Lewis-Clark State College, majoring in education, and this is where her professors inspired her love for math.

After graduating from LCSC in 2015, Lumley received a job at Jenifer.

“My main goals are to make students feel valued and to help students understand math at a deep level,” she said.

Teaching at LHS has been very different for Lumley. Despite this, she said she enjoys being employed here, and she feels ecstatic about the overpowering welcome and support she has received from the LHS staff. She is most thankful for the ability to work with students of multiple grade levels.

“I love the fact that I can see students that are sophomores, juniors, and seniors in addition to my freshmen students,” she said.

“In the past, I only got to see them when they would come back and visit their old stomping grounds.”

Outside of school, Lumley enjoys crafting and time with her family, including her husband, Eric, and their three children, Meigen (18), Easten (14) and Dominic (13), and their three dogs.

Friday, Dec. 18, 2020

Feature 10

New school, new staff, new LHS

Hilary Gruehl-laughrey continues at LHS after 19 years at junior high

By Rylie Reagan Features Editor Hilary Gruehl-Laughrey is a new English addition to the LHS staff. Gruehl-Laughrey transferred to LHS after teaching for 19 years at what is now Jenifer Middle School in Lewiston. At the beginning of the 20202021 school year she began instructing freshman and junior students in English courses.

Gruehl-Laughrey attended college in New Jersey. She later went on to the University of Idaho. Gruehl-Laughrey said previous to becoming an English teacher, she pursued a biology major, but only for a year.

“My world literature professor pulled me aside and suggested I consider a different road,” she said, “I’ve always loved literature and reading, writing, and helping others find success in English classes, So her suggestion helped me realize what I truly wanted to do. That was it for me; I changed my major, and the rest is history.”

She aims to provide a solid foundation for years of lifelong learning, she said. She does so by fostering trust, offering support, and giving encouragement. She emphasized the importance of her students and how they help to form who she is as a teacher.

“My students are my ‘why’ -- I’m lucky to work with amazing kiddos who inspire me, give me new perspectives, and teach me something new every single day,” she said.

Gruehl-Laughrey began her English interests during adolescence through her love of reading. She devoured books in youth and continues to do so. Books allowed her to imagine and see new worlds, she said.

Gruel-Laughry’s mother encouraged her imagination by helping make stories come alive. Her imagination and knowledge only increased as she grew up. She remembers her friends turning to her to help them understand a text in class, and she loved to assist them as it contributed to a deeper understanding.

Her childhood consisted of moving consistently, and she described herself as growing up as a Marine Corps “brat,” moving every few years or so. She lived in Hawaii, Okinawa and Virginia, among several other places. Her experiences traveling and moving helped shape who she is, she said. She cherished the years of traveling but desired a place to settle down and call her home.

She planned to return to New Jersey after attending UI, but that changed quickly after realizing that this area felt like home.

Her mother and late father later moved to the area and she began creating a lifestyle of her own here.

Most years, Gruehl-Laughrey and her two daughters spend their summers traveling to New Jersey, and enjoying the river with friends and family. In the off-season, when she isn’t teaching, she is in the kitchen cooking. She expressed that baking is

Hilary Gruehl-Laughrey

her second passion along with her tendency to thrift, mainly searching for vintage Christmas glass ornaments.

After Gruehl-Laughrey left the middle school teaching environment, she shared her experience of this significant change.

“It’s been quite an adjustment after spending the last 19 years at Jenifer, but it’s comforting that we’re all new to the building and navigating changes together,” she said, “Truly, there are numerous experiences I’m grateful for. The highlights include the opportunity to get to know and collaborate with my LHS colleagues and the excitement of having students in my junior classes that I taught as freshmen.”

Freelend subtracts herself from Jenifer after 20 years

By Rylie Reagan Features Editor

Lenora Freelend

Lenora Freelend, after 20 years teaching at what is now known as Jenifer Middle School, joined the staff at LHS at the beginning of the school year, teaching Algebra 1 and Freshman success.

She had aspirations to be a mathematics teacher as a young girl. Even then she enjoyed math and helping others. She majored in education at the University of Idaho, and after graduating there, she started at Jenifer instructing first-year high school students in Algebra 1.

“I want to help my students understand what we cover in my class and gain confidence in their math abilities,” she said, “I

want them to see that math doesn’t have to be difficult, that they can do it!”

The transition from teaching junior high school has been positive, she said.

Freelend said she enjoys having the ability to see the students who she once instructed as freshmen.

“I’m really enjoying seeing all of my former students from Jenifer,” she said, “They were only allowed to come visit once a month. Now they can come visit any time!”

Freelend has two daughters and her eldest is expecting a baby girl in March. Altogether she has four grandchildren at this time. Freelend, in addition to family life, spends her time in nature, enjoying camping and fishing.

11

THE BENGAL’S PURR

Variety

Reindeer practice social distancing in light of terrible regulation by North Pole

want to fail him, but I also want my coworkers, my family and me to be safe.”

Claus has been on thin ice as of late, and the reindeer have repeatedly filed complaints. They have taken their own precautions, in making sure stables are spaced apart by the regulated 6 ft.

Most of the reindeer noted that Claus has always been a dedicated man, but he can easily be blinded by his ambitions, Many are bringing into question whether he should still be running the Christmas business after 197 years. Coming up on the 200th anniversary, his secret workshop has continued operations, and using long-outdated coal to do so. He now contributes much to the global footprint, even though he now also deals in technological toys such as consoles.

Some are scared that Claus will bring back his brother, who is supposedly a ruthless enforcer. He retired after being suspected in six disappearances of the FBI investigating Claus’ workshop, and the assault and battery of three different elves who made their toys incorrectly.

Workers and reindeer alike continue their strikes and calls for action.

A reindeer participates protests due to Covid regulations. Digital illustration by Kristin Starr.

By Taren Glenn Entertainment Assistant

FAKE NEWS

Reindeer will be social distancing, as of Dec. 20 in the North Pole because of apparent lack of regulation up to this point. It has been a stressful year for both humans and animals. Many reindeer have been speaking up about the problems they’re having with their corporation and boss, Nick Claus. Allegations have come forward stating that Claus has apparently ignored the threat of Covid, as he supposedly said, ”We’re up in the North Pole. How could it even be a problem up here?”

Many reindeer cited the fact that they have to go on many trips into major cities to talk with airlines about the dangers of grandmas and landing strips while trying to work.

Evan M. Dancer, a working reindeer at Santa’s facility, stated: “I like to go out, I like to party. But even I was questioning Mr. Claus’ dismissiveness to the whole pandemic.”

In the middle of this interview, he immediately began breakdancing, then later explained, he was merely ”getting jiggy with it.”

Apparently in an act of kindness, Dasher knitted custom reindeer masks for the team, all in less than an hour.

Reindeer have started going on strike, as a sickly coworker apparently contracted Covid-19 recently.

Rudolph, an important worker, who gives Claus the permit to fly without lights, has had a medical record of being sickly ever since he was a fawn.

“Ever since I was a kid, they never let me play in any reindeer games because of my autoimmune disease,” Rudolph said. “Then one foggy Christmas Eve, Mr. Claus came to me with a good job opportunity. I don’t

Nick Claus’ brother relaxes after a hard day of work. Image courtesy of flashbak.com.

December 18, 2020

Variety 12

Santa has officially contracted Covid-19

By Taren Glenn Entertainment Assistant

FAKE NEWS

Nick Claus tested positive for Covid as of Dec. 9 in the North Pole. Claus has been in hot water as of late. Reindeer and elves alike have been going on strike, as Claus isn’t taking the precautions to ensure worker safety. But he has been working for almost 200 years and doesn’t seem to be slowing down.

A report by an elf-doctor in training told a journalist about the positive test. Claus has come out with the following statement: ”I am Kris Kringle. I am an icon, and the bureaucrats won’t stop me from consuming cookies or bringing presents to the kids around the world, with their ‘regulations’ for ‘safety’ or ‘well being.’”

This speech caused much backlash as many parents don’t want Claus to appear if the only gift he’s giving is a threeweek quarantine and deep-seated regret.

This is not the first time “Old St. Nick” has been on the naughty list. In 2008 during the stock market crash, Claus was found committing tax fraud. When at a media press conference, he explained that he swore he had, ”Checked my tax return twice.” But he deliberately marked off the number of materials he had been ordering for the presents he planned to make. Though a percentage is covered by different government agencies. It does not cover more than 50%.

It seemed impossible to get an interview with Claus after his Covid announcement.

The media wanted a press conference, Claus initially refused. But after much discussion, he finally agreed, as long as his attorney was present. The original plan was to have him wear a mask and be positioned 10 feet from others, an added precaution, to ensure no spread. Everyone was shocked when he showed up without a mask and sat right next to his attorney.

When the conference finally started, Claus moved up to the podium. He said that because of “recent personal information” being leaked. He was there to clear the air that he had truly caught the virus. Immediately questions rattled off, and Claus’ first answer was also his last.

“Do you still implore free labor from the elves?” Claus asked. “Of course, they work for lodging and smiles.”

This was a very controversial take, and many have cited it as going

Phtoto of Santa’s press conference provided by “WCIU.com”

“too far.” Even Santa’s good friend Frosty was shaken by the comment. ”That’s sad. What happened to a good old-fashioned ‘Happy Birthday’?” Frosty said.

Frosty was later found as a puddle, his hat missing.

As more allegations arose, and the strikes turned to threats of permanent quitting. Claus announced a new enforcer named Krampus M. Claus. A brother and good friend to Nick Claus, he is apparently a good enforcer too.

Once the strikes suddenly stopped, no further allegations were called. A journalist, who was good friends with one of the elves, went to check on him in Elf Town. ”No one would let me in,” the friend said.

“They all shut their doors out of fear. Even my friend told me to leave. I offered him dentist supplies, as he wanted to be one for so long. It was his dream. He was never at elf practice because he followed through with his goal. But he just muttered that maybe tomorrow he’d go to practice.”

Finally, a reporter got an interview with Krampus, a tall intimidating figure.

The interviewer asked him what he liked about his job the most. Krampus Claus stared silently for 10 minutes, then proceeded to vomit up the shoe of an elf. ”Sorry, something was stuck in my throat,” he said.

The interviewer left and reportedly checked into a psychiatric hospital.

Claus announced to his workers that he didn’t believe he was under regulation. He was glad everyone was back in line and that Christmas would continue as usual. Some said it was strange because he was wearing a black top hat, very out of place with his typically red attire. Claus said production is running smoothly, and he’s glad that people are so caring about his health.

By Lindsey Sexton Managing Editor Dear Santa, I was wondering if you could help me with this two wishes. It is for me to pass all of my classes and to have a wonderful last month of 2020. It has been a very hard year. I wish it could be over already, but as we all know we can't control anything. -- ROSE Dear Rose, I wish I could help you with your grades but it’s something that is within you. You have to believe in yourself to pass your classes. You have to believe that you can understand what they are teaching you. As for the last month of 2020, I am also unable to help you with that. That is something out of my control ,but maybe Godfather Time can help with that. -- Mr. Claus Dear Santa, I am in my last year of high school, and I’m so glad. I feel like it's been forever since I was in Kindergarten. What helped you through your last year in school? -MIKE Dear Mike, To get through it is just do the work that the teachers give you. Maybe get some reindeer and fly them to school so you don’t have to worry about parking.I hope this helps, thank you for mailing me. --Mr. Claus

Feature 13

THE BENGALS PURR

COVID Christmas gift guide for every occasion

By Annika Lifvenborg Photo Manager

Have you forgotten to buy presents for your family or friends? Do you need a quick and easy shopping list to match their wants and needs? If so, here’s a very basic categorized list of your dreams! Christmas shopping can be very hard, especially with the events of this year. With this list, you can focus on the joy, rather than the stress of giving gifts to your loved-ones this holiday season.

Chunky-knit blanket Essential oil diffuser

Bookworm Gift Ideas Books

Peppermint Bark

Noise cancelling headphones

Book marks Blankets

Drink Sweaters

Fragrance diffuser / Candles Jewelry Crafty Gift Ideas Paint by number

Cross Stitch

Polaroid camera Candles Jewelry

Homemade games Blankets

Record player Movie Junky Gift Ideas Disney+, Hulu and ESPN bundle subscription Blankets

Hot Cocoa Popcorn Fudge

Roku streaming player

Drink sweaters Candles

Paint-by-number

Crosley record player

Popcorn

Sporty Gift Ideas Smart Water Bottle

Apple watch

Noise cancelling headphones

Disney+, Hulu and ESPN bundle subscription Candles

Hot Cocoa

Workout equipment Apple Watch

Roku accessories

Workout equipment

December 18, 2020

Variety 14

Students recall Christmas traditions

By Hannah Shoffitt News and Opinion Editor

Christmas traditions are numerous in almost every culture. There are many ways people commemorate this holiday, such as eating prawns in Australia, El Gordo (fat one) Lottery in Spain, and in Ireland leaving Guinness and mince pies for Santy.

Christmas is observed throughout the world and is described as a religious holiday and cultural sensation. Christians use this as an opportunity to celebrate the creation of Jesus Christ, the savior born in Bethlehem.

Despite any religious faith, many families use it to practice their traditions in their particular way. Different traditions are countless, but according to insider.com, a few are well-liked across the board. These include waiting for Santa Claus, exchanging and opening gifts, going to church, having festive meals plus decorations, and spending extra time with family and friends.

This 2020-21 school year, Lewiston High School has three foreign exchange students. Their telling of Christmas traditions is fascinating.

Buon Natale!

Federica Tanca, a junior foreign exchange student at LHS, is from Italy. She told the Purr of the wonderful meals she eats on Dec. 24, 25, and 26 to observe the holiday.

They include a whole pig (the belly is a personal favorite of hers) along with tiramisu and lasagna.

Her large family gathers and wait for midnight on Christmas Eve to open the presents delivered by the one and only Babbo Natale (Santa Claus.)

“I play card games with my grandma (on the 26th,)” Tanca said, “and with my cousins.

My family’s very close.”

Tanca also explained what happens on the night of Jan. 5. The story is that Befana, an old woman, delivers either candy or coal to the stockings of children. Her name is believed to originate from The Feast of Epiphany, a tradition to celebrate Jesus Christ’s baptism.

Fröhliche Weihnachten!

Jonathan Mochel, a foreign exchange student in his junior year, is from Germany. He said that he loves shopping for presents and gifting in general. Mochel also described a traditional Advent wreath. It consists of four candles surrounded by greenery. Every Sunday in Dec, a new candle is lit. Many families also sing carols and eat Christmas

An Italian christmas market runs in full-swing pre-Covid. Photo courtesy of wanderlust.co.uk.

treats during the lighting process.

He also told of two cuisines that go together like “fries and burgers,” as Mochel put it. The main one is called Roulade, a meat dish. It includes pickles and onions wrapped in thin beef. The side is knödel, a german bread dumpling. It’s created by making a dough out of milk-soaked bread and spices such as parsley, nutmeg and onion. It is then boiled into a dumpling.

“I like the good atmosphere and family coming over,” Mochel said of the holiday.

Joshua Lewis, a senior at Lewiston High School, went to Germany the 2019-20 school year for a foreign exchange program. He told of the Christmas he experienced there and the enormous fire-roasted salmon.

Christmas markets played a significant role in the festive spirit, as vendors sold food and Christmas gifts from their little pop-up shops, Lewis said.

“Christmas Eve is all fun, and we stayed up late. Christmas day is more reverent and quiet, as we went to church.” Lewis said.

Joyeux Noël!

Lea-Eden Victorine, an LHS junior foreign exchange student, is from France. She told of how her family loves to ski if they travel for the holidays, though a big dinner at home never hurt anyone. Victorine told of a favorite dish of hers, chicken fricassée with chestnuts.

She also hinted at the lengthy breaks she received throughout the average French school year. Every holiday, even ones like Halloween and Easter, merits a two-week

vacation. She used this time to work on school work and have some of her grandmother’s special apple cake.

“You guys don’t have a real break until November, and I was losing my mind!” Victorine said, “I’ve been wondering all year when we’d finally have one.”

In French culture, Christmas is exceptionally family-oriented, and she said she loves the extra time with them. A treasured tradition is searching for the presents from Père Noël (Santa) with her cousins before Christmas.

On Christmas Eve, Victorine and her family sit in the living room together, and the little ones are mesmerized by the hand-delivered gifts from Père Noël on the front porch, precisely at midnight.

Merry Christmas!

Jacob Bigler is a sophomore at LHS and a long-time resident of Lewiston. He spends Christmas with his loved ones, and enjoys the simple traditions they have.

Every year he and his immediate family each buy a new ornament to put on the Christmas tree. Bigler also appreciates decorating the tree, and loves how beautiful it is.

He also enjoys gathering with family and eating tasty foods.

“I like the typical Christmas feast like mashed potatoes, ham, and deviled eggs,” Bigler said.

He is also fond of the lights at Locomotive Park in Lewiston, and goes there with friends to get into the Christmas spirit.

December 18, 2020

LHS seniors will travel to 12 countries for Christmas

Variety

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Seniors with family get ready to travel. Courtesy of bing.com.

By Lindsey Sexton Managing Editor

FAKE NEWS

Lewiston High School seniors will travel in December to 12 different countries.

They had a meeting with the teachers and parents of LHS seniors, and they voted for Jamie Bakker, an English teacher, to take all the students to Austria, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Norway, Spain, Sweden, Ukraine, Venezuela and England.

Lewiston High School seniors will travel to these different areas of the world to see Christmas in different ways. Bakker expects that they will show respect like the Governor was with them at all times.

After a month of a wonderful Christmas break, seniors will soon come back to school and start work again. On the break there will be no homework for seniors. The traveling will start Dec.19 and end Jan. 20. Students should bring proper clothes for the trip, such as heavy sweatshirts and boots. There will be a travel checklist coming out in the mail.

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Editor-in-Chief -------------------------------------------- Sophia Hunter Managing Editor ----------------------------------------- Lindsey Sexton News Editor ----------------------------------------------- Hannah Shoffitt Features Editor ------------------------------------------- Rylie Regan Opinion Editor -------------------------------------------- Hannah Shoffitt Entertainment Editor ---------------------------------- Sophia Hunter Sports Editor ---------------------------------------------- Braitton Beckstead Business and Distribution Manager ---------------- Lindsey Sexton News Assistants ------------------------------------------ Chayton Brewer-Burgin

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