November 21, 2017 Thanksgiving

Vol. 90 Lewiston High School, Nov. 21, 2017, Vol. 90, No. 3

College Talk, page 3

1114 Ninth Ave., Lewiston, ID, 83501

Thanksgiving Civic Theater food review, murders, pages 6-7 page 8

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Tuesday, Nov. 21, 2017

Tuesday, Nov. 21, 2017

Opinion 3

Future Talk drives teens to avoid conversation Advice for both sides when it comes to those intimidating talks about seniors’ future plans

By Annabelle Ady Opinion Editor

be, I can’t afford college or that I am exhausted and need a break from school. When I tell adults that perhaps I don't want to go to college immediately after graduation their reactions usually involve horrified expressions as if I just dropped a huge bomb.

They promptly remind me, as Annabelle Ady so many before

about the future with everyone weighing in on how you should live. For those conAfter College versations, whether for the Application senior who wants to dodge Week Nov. them, or for the parent of 6-10, and with a senior who is tempted to Thanksgiving start them, here are some just around dos and don’ts according to the corner, galined.com, to talk about college and over that wonderful Thanksgraduation giving dinner: will probaTips for the parents of a sebly come up nior: as topics of 1. Don’t ask students about conversation their applications and acat imminent ceptance, instead ask about family gathhobbies. erings. There 2. Don’t ask about upcomare a few ing deadchoice words and conversa- them, that I “I may as well live in a l i n e s , tions that high schoolers are may as well rades, cardboard box because gbasically more than likely sick of hear- live in a carding about from their family board box I’ll never make it in the anything members, teachers, and basi- because I’ll ‘real world’ without a as cbh oo ou l t. cally any adult who “believes” never make in them. it in the “real college education.”

Instead This is The Talk -- more spe- world” withask about cifically the College and Fu- out a college s o m e ture Talk, where high school education. of the seniors are subjected to endThis is just an exaggeration, school events such as homeless lectures about the fu- but I am sure I am not the coming or football games ture, money, graduation, and only high-school senior sub- or even upcoming school education, needed to survive jected to The Talk. I am actu- breaks. in the ruthless Real World. I ally pretty sick of the college 3. Don’t talk about other have notalk, I seniors’ plans, instead talk ticed, es- “High school seniors are am sick about the weather. pecially of beFollowing these tips will now as subjected to endless lec- ing told result in appreciation from a senior tures about the future, w h a t ’ s the high-school senior being about to best for questioned. Parents do want g r a d u a t e, money, graduation and me by the best for their children but that adults education, needed to p e o p l e there is a fine line between have forw h o being overbearing and being g o t t e n survive in the ruthless w o n ’ t careless. The best thing an how to talk Real World.” h a v e adult can do for any student to me, they t h e i r is to give them the space think that w a l l e t s they desire and allow them asking me about the future emptied by the expenses of to make their own decisions, is a great conversation topic. college. In fact, it is not their but still be a guide and a supAnd then they give me their place to be telling me what’s port system. unsolicited advice. best for me. Eventually I just For my fellow seniors, I have Sure, I appreciate the ges- started telling everyone one piece of advice: Be honture, they just want what's what they want to hear: “Yes est. It’s OK to politely change best for me. In their eyes I will go to college.” the topic or even say, “You what’s best is usually college The problem with this type know (insert relative’s name), and a high-wage job. They of encouragement is that it I am under enough pressure don’t always take into ac- is not really encouraging, as it is and I’d much rather count that maybe, just may- rather it is stressful to talk talk about (insert topic of

interest).” The worst thing The last piece of advice that that can happen is that the I can impart high-school stuconversation becomes more dents with is to be diplomatuncomfortable. But that can ic, no matter what situation create an out for the senior always treat others with reto leave the conversation or spect, choose words carefully even change the topic. and try not to be inflammatoIt is up to each high-school ry, the conversations will go senior to decide what is ap- smoother if honesty and dipropriate to say and wheth- plomacy are used to change er it is really that important the topic. If changing the to change topic does the subwork “No matter what sit- not ject. Adults then just u s u a l l y uation, always treat answering just want others with respect, q u e s t i o n s w h a t ’ s short and best, and choose words careful- sweet will sometimes ly and try not to be in- do the they can trick, the flammatory.” become adult gets overbearthe inforing. mation that they desire and There is not much a student the high-schooler does not can do about these conver- have to go into great lengths sations, even if they try to to explain their future plans avoid The Talk it is part of the or avoid The Talk. Remember high-school life and it can’t that the student is in control completely be avoided. As of their life, in the end all that long as honesty is used with matters is if they are happy them and they know that it’s with their decisions. Go forth uncomfortable talking about and conquer, the future is the future then hopefully bright. they understand.

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THE BENGAL’S PURR

4 News

Veterans share appreciation, wisdom Nov. 10 Students and staff of Lewiston High School recognized Veterans Day with their annual assembly, Nov. 10.

The choir started off by

Austin Salazar

singing the National Anthem.

ASB President, Mason Bartholomei, led the assembly and introduced all of the speakers. Three veterans spoke to explain why Veterans Day is important to them and how being in the military changed their lives.

The first speaker, Butch Alford, spoke about how to go about dealing with people or situations one might disagree with. He brought up professional athletes kneeling before the American flag rather than standing. Alford said he strongly disagrees with anyone who does this, but doesn’t hate or discriminate against them. Alford added

“There is too much hate in the world, so why not spread more love?” -- Butch Alford that he feels there is too much hate in the world, so why not spread more love?

The second speaker, Austin Salazar, focused on how the military has created a new sense of appreciation for his “comfy pants.” By this he meant that since returning from his military deployment, he now spends more time with the ones he loves and doing things he loves, and that he has a greater appreciation for

P

By Leah Schmidt Chief Copy Editor

the simple things in life.

The third and final speaker, Dick Riggs, made students aware of a new plaque that hangs in the hallway outside the LHS auditorium. It displays the names of more than 40 veterans who served in World War I shortly after graduating from LHS. Riggs told the stories of many veterans who are named on the plaque and how they served their country and the local community.

Along with the speakers, a selection of veterans were present and recognized by the audience as each of their names were called one by one.

A video produced by LHS student leaders played near the end of the assembly, emphasizing how much men and women do to protect the country and freedoms that define it.

The event showed that Veterans Day means a lot of things to many different people.

“I feel like Veterans Day is a day to respect and recognize vets and to improve ourselves,” said Bartholomei.

ER IZZ IA

& D E LI

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Tuesday, Nov. 21, 2017

Sports 5 Stoddard says goodbye to Bengals, hello to RMC Bears

By Braeden Keane Sports Features Editor

Senior, Madison Stoddard, recently signed to play volleyball with Rocky Mountain College in Montana.

Stoddard has played volleyball for six years, starting in junior high, joining the LHS team sophomore year and finishing her senior season in October.

Stoddard received scholarships including a

half-year scholarship for her freshman year, and fullride scholarships for her last three years. Stoddard plans on studying biology, and later joining the physician’s assistant program.

Stoddard was looking for a school within the Frontier Conference, so when Rocky Mountain came along she knew that’s where she wanted to be.

The team values that what Stoddard witnessed at LHS

built her into who she is today.

“Being with the team, we became really close and that helped us succeed,” said Stoddard.

Support systems are huge in a student’s attitude towards sports and how they are coached.

“My parents were definitely big parts of support for me, but (Coach) Kelly Harwick was a big influence because she gave me a lot of opportunities,” said Stoddard. “She saw

a lot of potential in me and she wasn’t afraid to help me better my game.”

As time went on Stoddard began to notice areas where she needed to improve as an athlete.

“I was always really good at defense but I needed to better my defensive game over these last few years,” said Stoddard.

Starting in seventh grade, Stoddard worked on steadying her game. She improved

multiple areas including her offense, defense, team trust and leadership.

“My favorite memory was that of the team placing fourth in state my junior year, we did really well last year and the team really gave their all,” said Stoddard.

To upcoming players Stoddard offered a few words of advice.

“Go all out… give it all you’ve got for the time being because it goes fast,” said Stoddard.

Varsity girls basketball seniors shoot for a great last season

By Kaitlyn Hinkley Sports News Editor

The lady Bengals have beat their opponent, the Moscow Bears by at least 14 points in

each of the last two seasons.

Now, before opening the 2017-2018 girls basketball season Nov. 16, these odds had wing, Morgan Genzer, hopeful for her senior season.

“We’ve had a good score against them in the past years,” Genzer said.

Beating the Moscow Bears 6633 last year, and 50-36 the year prior made the game a little less stressful, she said.

The lady Bengals played the Bears Thursday, Nov. 16, Flashback to 2010, when several of today’s senior varsity basketball players played together for the Snake River Rivals. Top, left to right: Demi Randall, Savannah Taylor, beating them 63Cameron Cady, Lexi Lupinauchi, Morgan Genzer. Bottom, left to right: Jessie Lohman, 49.

Alyssa Ralstin, Bryn Cornelia, Tori Frei. Photo Courtesy of Tori Frei.

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Genzer believes the team works well together because they have a “good connection” and a long history.

“I’ve played with these girls since Boys and Girls Club,” Genzer said.

At press time, the scores for the following games against Kuna (Nov. 17) and Boise (Nov. 18) were not available.

The lady Bengals kick off their first home game tonight, Nov. 21, at 7 p.m. against Timberlake.

The team is also selling poinsettias for their annual fundraiser. The flowers cost $13 per plant and will be delivered Nov. 25. Orders are available through the girls varsity basketball players.

XC races to state Bengal boys cross country places fourth overall, Perez also fourth

By Aaliyah Vaughns Sports Assistant Eight male Bengal cross-country runners set out to race at state Oct. 28, at Eagle Island State Park in Eagle, Idaho.

The boys overall placed fourth out of multiple teams, with the Bengals running in the last race of the event around noon.

Although the girls traveled to state with the boys, they did not end up placing.

While none of the girls placed at state, Perez placed fourth.

“Joey has more than enough potential to be the titleholder as a state champion,” Coach John Potter remarked early in the school year.

Going into the race, many

runners have thoughts about how it will go, but Perez “just chilled in my tent listening to my music and I knew whatever comes out of this, I know that I did my best and that›s all I could do.”

Many of the boys had previously qualified at state, said Noah Norwood, a junior who has qualified for state twice, both as an individual and in a team event.

“This group of boys has certainly become a family after running for five to six years, since seventh grade,” said Perez. “And we hang out on the weekends.”

“It is nice being around people that have the same interest as me,” Norwood commented.

6 Happy Thanksgiving

Top 10 mouthwatering Thanksgiving foods

By Carl Snyder Entertainment Editor The Thanksgiving season is creeping up, and aside from watching football and being “thankful,” food is of highest importance during this glorious holiday. It is important to pick which foods to gorge oneself with. With this being said, here is a list of the 10 best foods to fill the tummy with this Thanksgiving.

10. Sweet potato casserole. This dish is all about the sweet potato. The best part, however, is the marshmallow. The marshmallow-ey goodness on top of the sweet potatoes, which have been mashed and baked with brown sugar, creates a pleasant flavor profile.

9. Dinner rolls. These pieces of bread are a staple of seemingly all holidays, which includes Thanksgiving. The rolls, for some, are the highlight of Thanksgiving dinner. The simplicity of the bread and butter combo that is associated with these rolls is why the rolls make it onto this list. Homemade are better, but the storebought one are sufficient too.

Simple yet satisfying.

8. Gravy. Gravy is typically put on top of items such as mashed potatoes and turkey during this holiday. It only exists to enhance other foods and does not stand alone well, making it a lesser food. It is

way too salty, and often done poorly. The only reason gravy is on this list is because it is beloved by so many. It is also an iconic Thanksgiving food that could not be excluded, but it is not as good as the following items.

7. Pumpkin pie. The most commonly served dessert during Thanksgiving is, without a doubt, pumpkin pie. It would be higher on this list if it did not require whipped cream to be truly enjoyable. In many cases, the whipped cream overpowers the pie. The inability for the pumpkin pie to stand without the whipped cream and still be loved is why it is only No. 7.

6. Honey ham. This producedby-pig, protein-packed meat often takes a backseat to turkey during Thanksgiving. And rightfully so. There is a lot to be said about tradition. While this ham is sweet, savory, and hearty, it simply does not live up to the standard of turkey.

That being said, the ham is still delicious, and its presence is always welcome (Unless you are Opinion Writer John Wilcoxson).

5. Pecan pie. This pie is two turntables and microphone; in other words, it’s where it’s at.

It is sweet, salty and nutty. The pie is sure to make the mouth dance. The biggest downside is that after a slice or two, the pie becomes altogether too sweet. That is acceptable,

Tuesday, Nov. 21, 2017

Man on the street: What are you most thankful for?

Pumpkin basks on a plate waiting to top the Thanksgiving feast. Photo courtesy of pillsbury.com.

though, because the slice(s) before the sweet takes over are incredible.

4. Mashed potatoes. Creamy.

Buttery. Starchy. These are the main adjectives that come to mind when mashed potatoes are mentioned. Those adjectives aren’t necessarily great for an entree, but as a side to the entree they are exactly what is desired. Not much can beat that first bite of mashed potatoes during Thanksgiving.

3. Green bean casserole. Perhaps the most underrated food of all time, this casserole is delicious. The green bean mix with the creamy inside is a treat. Take that, and add a deep-fried onion topping, and one of the stars of Thanksgiving is created.

2. Turkey. The all-time classic Thanksgiving food is turkey.

When people think Thanksgiving, the odds are that one

Turkey, a Thanksgiving classic, glistens in light as it awaits Nov. 23. Photo courtesy of goodhousekeeping.com.

of the first things that they are thinking is turkey. This poultry has the potential to be juicy, savory, sweet or salty. The range of the flavors that a turkey can conduct is incredible.

However, it is easy to make a bad turkey. A common mishap is that the turkey is cooked for too long, and then becomes dry. Nobody likes a dry bird.

Turkey is a classic dish, but the ease of which it is to ruin it makes the turkey come short of first place.

1. Stovetop boxed stuffing. This Thanksgiving classic takes the cake… well, not literally, because the cake is metaphorical.

But still. Stovetop stuffing is one of the best creations that has ever been. It was forged from the culinary gods and sent from the heavens above. It is salty, savory, and jam packed with chicken-salt flavor (like the stuff from Top Ramen). The reason why this dish takes first place is simple -- it is nearly impossible to mess it up. And an item that no one can screw up is an item that deserves to be the winner.

DISHONORABLE MENTION! Cranberry sauce is one of the worst toppings ever invented.

If Stovetop stuffing was sent from food heaven, then cranberry sauce was sent from the depths of food hell. It is tart and takes away from anything it is put on. There is no positive to cranberry sauce.

“I am very thankful I have a job here, because I love teaching here. I’m thankful for my kids and my house as well.” -- Jim Silvestri, teacher

Happy Thanksgiving

7

Rights Americans should feel thankful for

By Jonathon Wilcoxson Opinion Assistant Thanksgiving. The classic allAmerican holiday celebrated since before the Revolutionary War. Many people celebrate by eating turkey, ham, and cranberry sauce. However, many people take for granted many of the rights that allow Americans to celebrate this holiday -access to a bountiful agricultural sector, a peaceful political state and a socially harmonious society.

Famine is a major issue that has affected the world for generations. Scholars have recorded major famines since the dawn of time. According to ABC News, several major famines occurred as recently as the 20th century, including in the Soviet Union and Communist China. Both of these famines were caused by

government mismanagement, poor crop performance and brutal wars. America, however,

Jonathan Wilcoxson

has been blessed with relative food security throughout the 20th century. America did suffer from a major drought in its heartland in the 1930s, but was able to eventually recover. Many individuals in America have access to great amounts of food, thanks to advancements such as modern pesticides, combines

and improved packaging that helps food last for significant lengths of time.

Another right many Americans take for granted is a peaceful political state. Turning on the TV to any of the major stations could lead a person to believe that the United States is on the cusp of a new civil war. Tensions are high between the left and the right, but look at the facts: the positions of power have transferred peacefully, no major violent conflict has taken place as a result of President Trump taking office and no mass migrations out of the United States have occurred. Other countries are not as fortunate as the United States. Look at the Soviet Union, which saw mass political purges and the “disappearances” of leaders from the opposition elements.

Some might argue that America is constantly gripped

by paranoia and marred by violence, but many in America still believe in the same values that the United States was founded on: life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. More Americans might see a world of harmony and equality if they worked to ensure that these values were open to all in their own lives, and if they ceased to listen to the ravings of a media system that breeds contempt, anger and distrust. In realizing this world of harmony and equality, more Americans might see that these differences make the country great. And despite these differences, pretty much all Americans eat turkey, cranberry sauce and apple pie this week. Except for those who eat ham, but that is a whole different argument for another day.

Local organization works to get people back on their feet

By Loretta Tuell Features Assistant

“I am thankful for my friends, family, house, and food.” -- Senior, Madison Stoddard

“I am thankful for the internet.” -- Sophomore, Adessa McDoughill

Family Promise in Lewiston is a non-profit organization that helps homeless families get back onto their feet. With Family Promise’s graduate rate at 95 percent. Out of all the people that come for help, 95 percent find a place to live, work, and support themselves along with their family. In 2015, 8,000 students were homeless in the state of Idaho from that, 154 students were in the Lewiston School District according to Cynthia Núñez, school community social worker. The organization’s method of support of helping is one the best, according to Steve Thomas, the executive director of Family Promise.

The average family in need of help is a single mom with one or more children under the age of 10.

“That’s the family you’re

supporting, not the guys on a street corner,” said Steve Thomas.

Family Promise was established in the valley 10 years ago with Thomas on the board of directors to help get the organization going. There are about 200 nonprofit affiliates throughout the country, all locally funded. In the LCV, Family Promise raises support for the organization through a variety of churches, citizens of the valley and its major fundraiser, a benefit dinner and dessert auction that occurred earlier this year.

The Family Promise shelter building blends in with the rest its neighborhood on Normal Hill. There are no big flashy signs, and Thomas said they strive to give a sense of “normalcy” to the way they run the business. The day-house has a nicely groomed green front lawn, a playset in the backyard, and a fence around the backyard that was built with the help of The Habitat for Humanity.

When members of the

Steve Thomas, the executive director of Family Promise posing next to a map that marks all of the other Family Promise branches. Photo by Loretta Tuell.

community come to Family Promise for help, they can stay at the day-house where they can clean their clothes for free, have a place to rest and refresh themselves with a shower.

At 5:30 p.m. each day, those in need go to a partnering church with a host family for a homecooked meal before going to

sleep in the church.

In the mornings the van for Family Promise takes kids to school and parents to work, to help them get back on their feet.

Students can give to the organization by donating money, or personal care items such as toilet paper, deodorant, and razors.

THE BENGAL’S PURR

8 Features

Civic Theater Cold Case: Theories of tragic disappearances

By Alexx Wren Features Assistant

bodies, w e r e found Five victims disapon a conpeared in the 1970s strucin the neighborhood tion site. of the Lewiston CivIdentiic Theatre building. fied by Now three victims a conhave been found and struction two cases still remain workunsolved, according er, the to local news reports bodies and a new documenwere detary. scribed As reported by the Christina White vanished be- as deLewiston Tribune and tween her friend’s house and c a y e d three victims’ bod- her mothers. Her body remains a n d ies have been found: missing. Photo courtesy of the n o t h Kristin David, Brandi Lewiston Tribune. ing but Miller and Kristina Nelbones, son. Still missing are Christina but still had clothes on them.

White and Steven Pearsall.

If that is the case, Pearsall is off the list for suspects, and

Theory 3: Citizens believe the Civic Theater case is also connected to the 1979 disappearance of 12-year-old Christina White. On April 28 during the Asotin County Fair, White called her mother from a friend’s house to say she was feeling sick from the heat. Her mother was without a car and told her to put a wet towel on her neck and lie down and rest, then to come home when she felt better. Her mother did not call again and assumed she felt better and went back to the fair. According to the Lewiston Tribune, between 7 and 10 p.m., when her mother went to pick her up, she couldn’t find White. Her friends said she had been on her way home when they saw her last. The Tribune reports that White was riding

all however, appears to be a more complicated case. He disappeared the same night as Brandi Miller and Kristina Nelson, and many think Pearsall may have been responsible for it. Others, however, believe that Pearsall was murdered.

His case hasn’t been spoken about as much as Miller’s and Nelson’s, but some claims have been addressed by Lewiston-Clarkston Valley residents.

According to Pearsall’s friend, Pearsall worked at the Civic Theater and often practiced clarinet and washed his laundry there. One night Pearsall’s car broke down and he parked it at his friend’s house in Lewiston so they could work on it the next morning. He visited the theater that night, his friend remembers. Late that

Brandi Miller disappeared when walking past the theater. Photo courtesy of the Lewiston Tribune.

Residents of the Lewiston-Clarkston Valley still discuss theories of the disappearances and where the victims’ bodies could be today. The theater building remains unoccupied right now due to structural problems, but many who live here can’t forget the tragic events that occurred at their local civic Theater at 102 New Sixth St. Two people who claim that they were close to the disappearances talked with The Bengal’s Purr about their memories of the events and their theories on the case.

Theory 1: There’s a theory that a few years back, Steven Pearsall’s and Christina White’s

Steven Pearsall who spent time at the Civic Theater before going missing. His remains have not been found. Photo courtesy of the Lewiston Tribune.

theories are just theories, nothing is proven for sure regarding where Pearsall or White’s bodies remain today.

Kristina Nelson disappeared with Brandi Miller. Photo courtesy of the Lewiston Tribune.

The old Lewiston Civic Theater building quietly sits with its secrets. Photo courtesy of lctheatre.org.

the infamous Phantom of the Civic Theater could still be out there.

Theory 2: Also as a theory, it has been said by several Lewiston-Clarkston Valley residents that they know who was responsible for the disappearances and murders of the three girls. However, this unnamed suspect has allegedly moved away from the valley and committed more murders in the area of the suspect’s location in the Northwest.

her white 10-speed bicycle at the time of her disappearance.

Neither the bike, nor White, have been found since.

Authorities also believe that White’s case is associated with Steven Pearsall, Brandi Miller and Kristina Nelson. Another case is also thought to be associated, the disappearance of Kristen David, the 22-year-old woman who was riding her bike home from Moscow and disappeared.

Theory 4: Steven Pears-

same night, Miller and Nelson walked to a store, right past the theater building, eventually ending up near or at the theater. Pearsall, Nelson and Miller all disappeared around the Civic Theater that night.

Conclusions: As for all the victims, three are proven dead, two bodies could be still out there -- unlikely, but hopefully. The Lewiston Civic Theater murder mystery has been an unsolved case for nearly 35 years. Unfortunately, these

They could still be alive somewhere, or buried in a place where no one has thought to look.

Reporter’s note: I wish no disrespect to the families and friends of these victims. These are just theories and therefore have little to no proof of being true. Respect goes to all the families and loved ones who have lost someone at any time. I simply wanted to address these theories so we in this community are more aware of our surroundings. I hope this opens our minds to possibilities involving the tragic disappearances of these victims.

Tuesday, Nov. 21, 2017

Entertainment 9

Marvel’s latest installment in Thor series satisfies

By Mikey Vidovich Entertainment Assistant Released Nov. 3, Thor: Ragnarok follows the Greek god of thunder, Thor (Chris Hemsworth) as he tries to stop the events of Ragnarok and save his home world of Asgard.

As part of the Thor series, this film changes tone from the previous ones by relying more on comedy than seriousness. The film still takes itself seriously, but the writers had more fun with the script. With a couple of surprise Marvel guests, and of course the creator of Thor, Stan Lee, the movie introduces new characters that will hopefully make appearances in future films. The storyline was strong and interesting. A movie is only as good as its actors and all the actors in this film did a great job.

During the movie, Thor faces many problems and is slowly p u s h e d further and f u r t h e r down until he has lost ever ything.

When the m o v i e reaches its climax, Thor re a l i ze s what’s really important and what he’s been missing the whole time.

His main goal in this film is to save the Asgardians of his h o m e l a n d . The cast of Thor looks intimidating for their epic and huHeading into merous film. Photo courtesy of imbd.com.

The Avengers: Infinity War next year, Thor will still be affected by what happens in this film. It’s an important film that any Marvel universe fan needs to watch.

The visual effects are outstanding. The fantasylike aspects used looked realistic and appeared more than the previous films, which mainly took place on Earth, rather than on Asgard or Sakaar. The comedy, which is one of the things that makes this movie stand out, is great but sometimes seems to be a little much. Marvel has been slowly adding more comedic vibes to its films and it works, but this could have been toned down.

Sadly, this film lacked Thor’s love interest in the previous films, Jane (Natalie Portman), and her

very comedic friend Darcy Lewis (Kat Dennings). But all in all, this is a great action-packed comedy superhero movie. It is meant to entertain and it succeeds at what it is trying to do. For those reasons Thor: Ragnarok deserves a 9/10.

9

10

Sam Smith’s Thrill of it All thrills worldwide listeners

By Carl Snyder Entertainment Editor

9.3

10

British pop-star Sam Smith released his second studio album Nov. 3, The Thrill of It All. This album as a whole takes a lot of influence from soul and gospel and adds pop-style instrumentation. Most pop albums nowadays do not have such influences, which makes this one is innovative. So, the question is, does this unorthodox pop album succeed in producing quality music?

Starting off, Smith’s vocals are stunning. His vocal range

is extremely wide. His ability to go from his vocal basement to his upper register is simply awesome. His voice also has a certain desperation to it that enhances the music. His singing vibrato is not too much, but there is enough in there to show that he is a seriously talented musician.

The musicality in this album is unique for pop music. As said before, there is a lot of gospel and soul influences.

This means lots of minor keys and high belting. In the song “Pray,” there is an actual gospel choir that sings backup vocals for Smith, and this makes for a very moving sound. The overall sound of this album is pretty dark, which leads up to the next element to consider -- the songwriting.

The songwriting of this album is beautiful. It is devastating and depressing, but it perfectly illustrates how the pain of a breakup can affect future

relationships. This songwriting than that Smith riffs a little bit from the brilliance of the rest makes this album relatable, excessively. But this isn’t a large of the album. For these reasons which is hard to come by enough problem to detract the album receives a 9.3/10. these days, when many albums are about being rich and extravagant lifestyles.

Relationships and breakups are not the only heavy topics covered by the songwriting, though. The song “HIM” provides commentary on how difficult it is for Smith to be a homosexual Christian. Overall, the songwriting is incredible, and is the best part of the album.

Hitting No. 1 on the Billboard charts this month, this album is certainly a success. The album had a few singles leading up to the album’s release. One single was “Too Good at Goodbyes,” which topped charts in the U.K. and made it into the top five in the U.S. Another was “Pray”. The vocals, music and songwriting are all impeccable. There aren’t really any Sam Smith’s face on his album cover matches the music’s somber tone. negatives to this album, other Photo courtesy of Apple.com.

THE BENGAL’S PURR 10 Entertainment First-time Modest Music Festival successful

By Carl Snyder Entertainment Editor

had 35 musical artists perform throughout a two-day duration. The performances took Humble Burger in Moscow place in four different Mosput on the Modest Music fes- cow locations: Humble Burger, tival for the first time ever Oct Mikey’s Gyros, One World Cafe 10-11. This all-ages festival and Last Frontier Pizza Co..

Local music fans should be on the lookout for a couple of standout artists in particular -- Chris Staples and Holiday Friends.

Staples is a singer and songwriter from Florida who has produced several albums.

He has a knack for writing deep and emotional lyrics and chord Chris Staples performed at the Modest Music progressions for Festival. Photo courtesy of songkick.com.

Flyer from the Modest Music Festival. Photo courtesty of Humble Burger FaceBook.

the guitar. use of synth, elecHis meltric guitar and bass low voice (typical rock and roll adds to the instruments) creates soothing a sound that many musical other bands leave as aesthetic computer-generatthat he is ed, and that is truly going for. special. The music His work is they make is beauon iTunes tiful, and highly reccurrently, ommended. and a sinOverall, this festigle to listen val was a fulfilling to is called and enjoyable ex“Dark Side Holiday Friends performed at the Modest Music Festival. Photo courte- perience, and local of the sy of thedelimagezine.com. music lovers should Moon.” This watch for it when it song is beautiful and sums up Holiday Friends is an alterna- comes around next year. It prohis musicality to a tee. Staples’ tive band based in Idaho. Their vided a way to discover new songs sound like songs one sound captivating. It manages bands and artists to love, and would hear going into a hip- to sound relaxed yet upbeat it was also a very important ster coffee shop, in the best at the same time. Listening to community event for Moscow. kind of way. The next band their song “Yellow Light” live If the opportunity arises to go however, is far from that. gives listeners the chills. Their in 2018, take it.

THE BENGAL’S PURR Entertainment Carrie rendition draws attention to LCSC theater program

11

By Gracyn Richardson Copy Editor

*Spoiler Alert!*

LCSC’s theatre department put on a magnificent rendition of Carrie the Musical on the weekend of Oct. 20. Based upon Stephen King’s infamous novel Carrie, the play was written by Lawrence D. Cohen, and directed

by LCSC professor Shea King, with music directed by Sarah Graham.

The musical features nine dramatic songs sung by a variety of people within the cast. Carrie White, played

by Kameron Nichols, is a telepathic and sheltered girl who endures high school bullies as she’s discovering her powers.

The play is narrated by the character Sue Snell, played

by Alexa Lamers, who was one of Carrie’s bullies but still feels remorse for her.

Snell’s boyfriend Tommy Ross, played by Walker Berry, is Carrie’s crush within the play, and she eventually goes to her very first prom with him.

But it isn’t a hop-skip and a boat ride away to prom.

Carrie’s mother Margaret White, played by Kelsey Chapman, is a cynical Catholic who believes that basically every ounce of air Carrie breathes is coming straight out of Satan’s lungs.

Carrie eventually uses her new powers to punish her mother and let her go to prom.

Though she is the craziest, Margaret isn’t the main antagonist. Chris Hargensen, played by Hayley Calvert, and her not-so-smart boyfriend, Billy Nolan, played

by Damon Preuninger, taunt Carrie the most, to the point of spilling pig’s blood all over her at prom. With Carrie’s emotional state, she be-

lieves that everyone distress. In a that was at the prom panic, as she turned against her holds Caras her mother said rie, Margaret they would. This instabs her in the cludes some teachers back… literally. and other students The only perwho are played by: son who had Andrew Yoder, Harever supported money Jordan, John Carrie in some Michael and Nathan sort of manLoomer. ner -- crazy or In a telepathic rage, not -- kills her Carrie kills everyone daughter. and everything at Unfortunately prom. Then she runs before she all the way to her passes, Carrie home, destroying strangles her every little thing in mother with her way. When she Iconic Carrie the Musical poster courtesy of talkstephenking. her mind arrives at her home, blogspot.it and Nichols’ she cries for her acting here recurs throughout the whole mother, singing a song that play that whenever she is in was magnificent. Sue, the

only girl not at prom, finds Carrie and holds her as she passes.

The entire play was utterly brilliant. The set was odd, with low lighting and an odd stage design, but this played into the scary aura of the play. The only thing that was on target was that whenever Carrie moved something with her mind, it was obvious that another actor was moving it from lifting a crucifix to throwing a chair. But, student plays are always on a budget, and the audience was more focused on the amazing story unfolding in front of them rather than the little things.

With this, the production deserves a strong 9/10.

Margaret White, played by Kelsey Chapman, cradles her troubled daughter Carrie White, played by Kameron Nichols. Photo courtesy of LCSC Theater.

The Bengal’s Purr Lewiston High School 1114 Ninth Ave. Lewiston, ID 83501 Mail to:

Tuesday, Nov. 21, 2017 Meet the Staff

Co-Editors in Chief............................Amanda Egland, Sandra Kinney Co-Managing Editors.................................Leah Schmidt, Carl Snyder Entertainment Editor..........................................................Carl Snyder Features Editor...............................................................Sandra Kinney News Editor..................................................................Amanda Egland Opinion Editor...............................................................Annabelle Ady Sports Features Editor……….....………………….....Braeden Keane Sports News Editor.......................................................Kaitlyn Hinkley Copyeditors.........Sandra Kinney, Gracyn Richardson, Leah Schmidt Photography Editor……………………………….....……..Grace Eller Co-Digital Media Managers………Josh Asmus, Gracyn Richardson Entertainment Assistants…………Gracyn Richardson, Eli Thomas, Mikey Vidovich, Alexx Wren Features Assistants......................................Loretta Tuell, Alexx Wren News Assistants..........................................Parker Phelps, Eli Thomas Opinion Assistant………………………………Jonathan Wilcoxson Sports Assistants………...….................Grace Eller, Aaliyah Vaughns Business Assistant ...................................................... Melina Ramirez Adviser........................................................Charity Thompson Egland

Flashback: 1978 Arsenic and Old Lace

“Cast members from the ‘78 production of Arsenic and Old Lace decide which drink to indulge in.

Members of the cast include, clockwise from the top, Rosemary Loughney, Laurie Hilbert, Chuck Barrows, Mark Bayman, Dodd Snodgrass, Lisa Huddleston and Kevin Hyatt.” (Image and caption courtesy of the 1978 Bengal’s Purr.)

The 1978 play and its set pictured above are similar to the ones that LHS Drama uses today. Lewiston drama students chose to participate in district competition Nov. 18, at Post Falls High School for the first time in over 30 years and qualified to compete at the state level. For more drama competition results, visit bengalspurr.com. -- Gracyn Richardson, Entertainment Assistant

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