Christmas brings cheer -- Dec. 17, 2021

Lewiston High School, DTEC 409, 3125 Cecil Andrus Way, Lewiston, Idaho, 83501

The Bengal’s Purr

Since 1927

Mayor-elect talks with Purr, page 10 Cover photo courtesy of Daphne Root.

Vol. 94, No. 3

Christmas brings cheer, pages 8-9

Friday, Dec. 17, 2021

Cookie controversy? page 14

3 Drama students compete, tour this winter Friday, Dec. 17, 2021

News

By Danica Keane News Assistant This week the annual LHS drama club’s live Christmas tour has returned. Due to COVID-19 restrictions last year, the club produced a a virtual live-stream Christmas show that LHS played throughout Access period in 2020. This year, the tour is back, bringing a short original play with a Christmas theme to all of the elementary and middle schools in the district. The live show will come to LHS during the Christmas assembly Dec. 17.

The next production for LHS drama will be Seussical the Musical, with auditions Jan. 6-7 and performances in March.

Earlier this winter, members of the drama club qualified for state, and left Dec. 2 to compete at Centennial High School in Boise.

“We tried our hardest and sadly did not make it past the first round,” said Rune Marcy.

Marcy competed with Zack Steadman, Lane Riggs, and Cale Wilponen in an original play writ- The LHS Drama participants head off to the State competition. Photo by Danica Keane. ten by Wilponen called “The Devil of All Time, but from The Importance from Being Earnest.

George Bailey, Dekin Carney as young George, Lane not in 2020.” Rachel Hughes also competed with a The most recent production that was put on by Riggs as Harry and Max Schaffer as Mr. Gower. The solo musical piece “The Song that No One Likes” and the club It’s A Wonderful Life starring Jacob Bigler as musical was performed from Nov. 10-12.

Olivia Reynolds gave with a solo audition monologue

District, area groups report COVID-19 numbers

LHS holds annual food drive

By Chayton Brewer-Burgin Features Editor

By Hannah Shoffitt News Editor

As of Dec. 14, zero LHS students and zero LHS staff members were reported to have COVID-19 or to be in quarantine. According to reports from the superintendent, Lance Hansen, a total of eight students and one staff member were infected in the Lewiston School District as of Tuesday.

Since the beginning of the school year, 207 students have reported a return from quarantine, as well as 66 staff members. The district total for COVID cases since the school year began is 215 students and 67 staff.

According to covidactnow.org, Nez Perce County has an average of 27 new cases per 100,000 people every day. The vulnerability level is measured as low with a 7.5% positive test rate and a 1.04% infection rate.

Over the last week, the Lewiston-Metro area averaged at about 19 new confirmed cases every day. As of Dec. 10, eight COVID-19 patients here were hospitalized, with three in intensive care.

The deocorated classroom doors and bulletin boards at LHS help carry along the holiday spirit. Photo by Chayton Brewer-Burgin.

The annual LHS food drive started Dec. 6 and is set to end Dec. 17. This year the donations are organized in teams, with seniors and freshmen competing against juniors and sophomores. Members of the winning team will get their picture taken with the 2021 LHS Food Drive trophy.

Donations for the seniors and freshmen were collected in classrooms of Brent Jacobs, Keith Stuffle, Billy Autrey and Jon Schaper.

Juniors and sophomores dropped their donated food in classrooms with Scout Larson, Jordan Lockard, Kristin Delp and Lori Brown.

To motivate students to donate, this year there’s a new arrangement of punishments for the teachers with each donation milestone. At 500 lbs., a guest tarantula will visit the school. With 1,000 lbs. of donations, there will be a gross-food roulette event. Bringing in 1,500 lbs. of food will lead to a wrestling match, and LHS staff will join in an ice bucket challenge if donations reach 2,000 lbs.

In the previous school year, the LHS student body had donated over 3,000 lb. of non-perishable food as of Dec. 13. With that in mind, teacher Billy Autrey had stated that he hoped for the food drive to bring in 4,000 lbs. in 2021.

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Sports 5

Friday, Dec. 17, 2021

Basketball players tip off the season Boys varsity

Braydon Forsman

By Matthew Dugdale Photo Manager Q: What is the biggest challenge of this season so far?

A: Practices leading up to the first game.

Q: Who do you think is the biggest MVP Braydon Forsman so far?

A: Jace McKarcher is definitely the biggest leader for the team.

Q: Why did you choose basketball?

A: I’ve always played basketball.

Q: Do you plan on continuing basketball after high school?

A: Yes, of course. I never really thought about if I didn’t continue playing basketball Q: When do you think you’ll stop doing basketball if at all?

A: Most likely after college.

Paul Eke prepares his shot. Photo courtesy of Mindy Pals.

A basketball falls through the hoop at a recent Bengal game. Photo courtesy of Mindy Pals.

Girls varsity Katy Wessels

Boys JV

Bryce Bensching

By Danica Keane News Assistant

By Cecelia Thomas Website Manager

Q: What is the biggest challenge of this season so far?

A: Trying to learn how each (teammate) plays.

Q: Who do you think is the biggest MVP so far?

A: Zoe Kessinger. She’s our Defense/Point Guard.

Q: Why did you choose basketball?

A: My parents have been my inspiration.

Q: Do you plan on continuing basketball after high school?

A: Yes, for scholarships.

Q: When do you think you’ll stop doing basketball if at all?

A: No, I don’t plan to -- definitely not any time soon.

Q: How well have you and your teammates gotten to know each other?

A: After school we play a couple of games.

Q: How well have you worked together?

A: Pretty well, especially after this season.

Q: What was the best memory from this year’s season that you have?

A: One of the girls was eating and she got a noodle up the nose. It came back through her mouth!

Q: What is the biggest challenge of this season so far?

A: The biggest challenge is probably getting used to the new teammates and playing new teams that we didn’t last year due to COVID. Q: Who do you think Bryce Bensching is the biggest MVP so far this season?

A: I think the biggest MVP on our team this season is Jordan Bramlet.

Q: Why did you choose your sport?

A: I chose basketball because it gets me into shape for baseball and you always have something to do. You never have down time.

Q: Is this a sport you’re serious about doing in the future?

A: Basketball isn’t a sport that I’m super-passionate about. I can’t see myself doing it in the long run.

Katy Wessels

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THE BENGAL’S PURR

Opinion

Hate towards Jews increases with holiday season

By Hannah Shoffitt Opinion Editor

On the morning of Nov. 28, hours before the beginning of Hanukkah, residents of Beverly Hills, California, woke to anti-semitic fliers on their driveways.

According to CNN, a portion of the flier claimed that “every single aspect of the COVID-19 agenda is Jewish.” This statement was printed alongside other outlandish and harmful propaganda. The Beverly Hills Police Department announced that it will conduct extra patrols to ensure “a safe holiday season” for all of its citizens.

Antisemitism (prejudice against Jewish people) has grown more rampant and unacceptable throughout the year, especially during Hanukkah.

The fliers in California coincided with other uses of hate speech earlier in the year. In May, GOP Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene made a ridiculous comparison between the mask mandates, which are used to combat COVID-19, and the treatment of Jews in Nazi Germany.

“We can look back in a time and history where people were told to wear a gold star,” Greene said in a conservative podcast, “The Water Cooler with David Brody.”

“And they were definitely treated like second-class citizens,” Greene continued, “so much so that they were put in trains and taken to gas chambers in Nazi Germany. This is exactly the type of abuse that Nancy Pelosi is talking about.”

Greene’s words are beyond reprehensible and foolish. Wearing a mask to protect against a pandemic is not comparable to the end of over 6 million Jewish lives in the Holocaust. Greene is the same woman who posted on Facebook in 2018 that “lasers or blue beams of light” controlled by a left-wing conspiracy tied to an influential Jewish family could have been responsible for sparking California wildfires, according to keloland.com. She is absolutely out of line and

A stained glass window shows damage after the Beth Israel fire. Photo courtesy of bethisreal.org.

should be out of office due to these hateful words and many others on different matters.

These kinds of uneducated outbursts can encourage others to commit hate crimes against these marginalized groups. For example, Franklin Barrett Sechriest wrote Oct. 31 in his journal, “I set a synagogue on fire,” according to the Washington Post. The 18-year-old Texas University student lit a fire at the front doors of Congregation Beth Israel in Austin, Texas. After receiving a search warrant, authorities found stickers of Nazi propaganda and swastikas in his car, as well as the components to make Molotov cocktails. After discovering more evidence, he was taken into custody and charged with arson.

Steven Folberg, senior rabbi of the Congregation of Beth Israel said that his community felt relief after Sechriest was taken into custody.

“He’s just a college freshman, and that raises all kinds of questions into how he got into that state of mind,” Folberg said. Burning a synagogue is an extreme example of a hate crime. According to the 2020 FBI

Hate Crime Statistics report, “Of the 1,715 victims of anti-religious hate crimes, 60.2% were victims of crimes motivated by offenders’ anti-Jewish bias.”

As though the verbal and physical actions weren’t enough, Jews also face many harmful stereotypes.

In a survey conducted by the Anti-Defamation League, 11% of American adults (28 million people) have extreme and ingrained anti-semitic attitudes and beliefs. Members of this 11% were labeled as “intense and ingrained” because they agreed with six or more false Jewish stereotypes.

The report found that almost one in five Americans believe that “Jews still talk too much about what happened to them in the Holocaust.” Many persisting stereotypes about Jews in business and financial institutions still exist. Of the respondents, 15% believed that Jews are too powerful in business. Ten percent agreed with the statement: “Jews are more willing than others to use shady practices to get what they want.”

The consistent antisemitic attitudes held by many Americans are disheartening. Though most respondents in the report did not agree with any of these myths, it’s sad to see Americans hanging on to hate (especially when it’s untruthful.) The belief that “Jews talk too much about the holocaust” is especially worrying, as the number of people who lived through the Holocaust is on the decline.

“We know that when antisemitic attitudes are expressed in public discourse without condemnation, especially from our leaders, it gives the green light to those on the fringe to keep spouting it – and acting on it,” said Johnathan Greenblatt, CEO of the Anti-Defamation League.

Jews faced persecution and stereotypes as early as the 13th century B.C. It is wrong and cruel that Jewish people should continue to endure others’ harmful actions and beliefs. With the winter holidays in full swing, it’s essential to be inclusive and understanding towards Jews and other religious groups.

When is it acceptable to play Christmas music?

By Declan Cattrysse Entertainment Editor Every American retail worker knows the pain of coming into work on Nov. 1, fully aware that they are about to be subjected to two months of torture.

The start of the Christmas season is one of the busiest times of the year for stores and businesses alike.

People are shopping for gifts and loading up on food and treats of the Christmas variety.

All of this must be stressful for the people who keep the stores running, but the one thing that customers seem to never consider is the music in the stores. Most people just go shopping and hear a few Christmas songs over the loudspeaker; that’s as far as it goes. Employees, on the other hand, listen to the same repetitive music for several hours at a time with little relief.

Anybody would go crazy if they had to listen to Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas is You” three times an hour.

This poses the question: When should people start listening to Christmas music? The answer to that question is tricky. What timing would best ignite the Christmas spirit and start the celebration of what is many people’s favorite time of year?

While many would argue that Nov. 1 is that date, Dec. 1 would be a much better option for several reasons. Thanksgiving may be a popular holiday, but it gets very little recognition than its successor. There aren’t Thanksgiving songs and movies, so people fill the month of November with Christmas. That, however, takes away the thrill of kicking off the season.

If people waited until Dec. 1 to break out the Frank Sinatra and Mariah Carey albums, then everyone would have a more exciting December.

Retail worker groans in agony as “Wonderful Christmas Time” by Paul McCartney plays for the seventh time since her shift started. Photo courtesy of chaser.com.

Christmas is almost sacred for many families, so keeping its magic alive ensures that traditions continue, and Christmas will always be one of the top holidays.

Friday, Dec. 17, 2021

Variety

7

Purr gallery: Spotlighting student photographers

Lights cover the downtown trees on a recent night in Seattle, Washington. Image courtesy of Kaitlyn Fowler.

Sven, a mixed-breed cat, lounges lazily on a brick porch. Image courtesy of Eli Lindauer.

An early winter sunset falls over the horizon during a chilly evening on Normal Hill in Lewiston. Image courtesy of Scout Alford.

8 Spotlight Friday, Dec. 17, 2021 Spotlight 9 What are your Christmas traditions? Best local shops for holiday shopping

By Rylie Reagan Editor-in-chief

By Lauren Martin Copyeditor With the holidays fast approaching, many are in need of presents for friends and family. For some, online shopping can be a hassle, seeing that you can’t physically touch the items and feel the quality of the material. The recent loss of some local businesses in Lewiston also leaves many feeling as though they have no other place to turn but the internet. There are, however, many undiscovered boutiques and cute shops in town that are often overlooked.

Korbyn Portzen, senior: “My family has Christmas on Christmas Eve.”

Sydney Arellano, junior: “Driving down Candy Cane Lane on Christmas Eve!”

Patience Rose, junior: “Hiding a Christmas pickle on the tree!”

Hanna Shepard, sophomore: “We always play a song and everyone has to dance and sing before any gifts are open.”

The untold secrets of Santa Claus Spoiler Alert: Not for children

Santa Claus sneaks his way into a house carrying his bag of toys. Photo courtesy of yougov.com.

By Sydney Ball Entertainment Assistant

Santas Nice and Naughty Lists. Photo courtesy of santasonstopshop.com.

Santa Claus, also known as St. Nicholas, is a legendary worldwide phenomenon.

His character is said to bring gifts on Christmas Eve to children who are nice, and coal to those who have misbehaved. He accomplishes this all in one night, with the help of elves and flying reindeer who pull his flying sleigh through the air.

The legend of Santa Claus can be traced back to a man named Nicholas, a Christian bishop who helped the needy. One of the most popular stories about his acts of kindness is the story where he helped three poor sisters. He provided them with the money they needed. He became a saint because of his acts of kindness that he gave, expecting nothing in return, according to History.com.

A feast day is celebrated Dec. 6, in honor of the day of his death. This day is considered St. Nicholas Day, and is celebrated by placing stockings or shoes by a door on the night of the holiday.

He made his first appearance in American culture towards the end of the 18th century in New York City. He soon became known as Sinter Klaas, and his popularity grew. He was often mentioned in stories and newspapers as being a generous and overall lovable man. Stores began to advertise Santa as a Christmas tradition, and he became an icon with his red suit.

The legend of Santa Claus still lives on to this day, as he has become a global symbol of Christmas.

Iconique: Iconique is an Idaho-based boutique newly opened on Main Street. They specialize in trendy women’s clothing and accessories. This highly fashionable small business offers a variety of styles from cute and comfy to formal, so there’s something for everyone to love. Prices range from $20-$80. (618 Main St., Lewiston)

Ampersand Oil and Vinegar Taphouse: Know someone who loves cooking or baking? A gift from this small business is sure to pique their interest. They offer a variety of gifts, including oil and vinegar, spices, dishes, fresh ingredients, tea blends and even in-store cooking classes. Prices range Mad Hatter Tea: This local business is a from $5-$80. (609 Main St., Lewiston) one-stop-shop for all the tea lovers in your life. Not only do they offer a variety of teas, STB Boutique: STB Boutique is a women’s including their iconic Market Spice Cinna- clothing boutique focused on meeting the mon Orange blend, but they also feature needs of real women. Thus, they offer a many locally made self-care products such variety of flowy, super-soft, stretchy piecas perfumes, crystals, face products, calm- es that are versatile enough to be dressed ing sprays, candles, bath salts and more. up or down. You really can’t go wrong with Prices range anywhere from $5-$20. (800 any item you purchase from this small Main St., Lewiston) business. Prices range from $8-$60. (1024 16th Ave., Ste. B,, Lewiston) Catkin: Catkin is a small woman-owned boutique that features a variety of high- The Diamond Shop: The Diamond Shop ly fashionable designs from well-known is a family-owned jewelry company. They and well-made brands. They also feature offer a variety of fine gifts, including jewmany luxurious self-care products, includ- elery, candles, soaps, lotions, home decor, ing body oils and candles. Supporting this business not only means purchasing a gift guaranteed to bring a smile to any loved one’s face, but this company also frequently donates a small percentage of its proceeds to charities and important causes. Prices range anywhere from $30-$400.

(814 Main St., Lewiston)

clothing and children’s toys. You can find a gift for even the hardest to shop for here.

Gifts range from $20-$200. Jewelry prices will vary. (700 Main St., Lewiston)

Art Uncorked: This holiday season, you can come and get creative with your gift ideas at Lewiston’s very own art studio.

Bring a loved one along for an art session to paint or make pottery, can give them a gift card so they can attend the art class of their choice. You can even create your own masterpiece to give them. Prices range from $10-$100. (504 Main St., Ste. 240, Lewiston) Village Centre Cinemas: Don’t forget about the movie theater, of course! Whether it’s a gift card or tickets to that movie people can’t stop talking about, there are plenty of great choices here for the movie buff in your life. If you want to make it extra-special, plan a date with a loved one to spend some quality time at the theatre, and pick up the check for snacks and tickets. Ticket prices are currently $8 for children and seniors, and $11 for adults. Gift card amounts are customizable. (2920 Nez Perce Dr., Lewiston)

Born Again Consignment: This recently remodeled small business carries a variety of brands at prices everyone can afford.

You can purchase anything from clothes to crystals to candles in this shop. They also feature art from many local artists in the valley. You’re sure to find something for even the pickiest of shoppers to love.

Prices range from $5-$50. (628 Main St., Lewiston) Skalicky’s Bakery and Gifts: Treats from Skalicky’s Sweet Sensations are sure to make a perfect gift for anyone in your life with a sweet tooth. They offer a variety of sweets, including cupcakes, pies, cinnamon rolls, chocolates, and cakes and treat baskets, plus vintage vinyl records. Prices range from $3.99-$49.99. (800 Main St., Local gift shops shine under the moonlight in downtown Lewiston. Photo courtesy of Sophia Gill.

Lewiston)

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THE BENGAL’S PURR

Features

Local girl holds Lewiston’s Mayor-elect Dan toy exchanges Johnson strategizes for new term every Saturday until Christmas

By Seyi Arogundade Features Assistant

By Cecelia Thomas Website Manager

Abigail Hope Laming is an 8-year-old attending Grantham Elementary School in Clarkston. For Christmas this year, Abigail wanted to give back to her community and the families who might struggle like hers has.

“I feel so bad for the homeless who don’t have anything for Christmas,” she said. “I want to give my toys to kids who won’t get to open anything on Christmas day.” Abigail lives with her mother, Amanda Laming, who is in need of a major surgery.

Due to her mother being unable to work, they’ve had to alter their living arrangements. Abigail is aware that money is tight, and she would like to make sure that children in the same situation get to enjoy a Christmas as well.

“I like opening presents on Christmas, so I know that other kids do too,” Abigail said.

The mother and daughter are holding a food drive and gift exchange every Saturday from 12-2 p.m. until Christmas day, at Pioneer Park. For the gift exchange, people are welcome to show up with their children and exchange old toys they don’t want with ones they do.

For the food drive, non-perishable goods such as canned foods and bottled water are desired. All of the food collected from the food drive will go to families in need, Laming said.

The Lamings will provide provide for those who attend. Any donations outside of the food drive and gift exchange are accepted for local families. Kidfriendly items such as shoes, clothing, backpacks, and bath products are preferred. Gloves and hand sanitizer will be provided at tables for anyone to use.

Abigail Laming prepares her toys for the toy drive at Pioneer Park in Lewiston. Photo courtesy of Amanda Laming.

Another goal is to fix some of the infrastructure downtown, make more investments in businesses in that area, and improve the streets and roads. Johnson Idaho senator and newly elected mayor Dan John- and the council will also look at the top issue, the city son came to talk with The Bengal’s Purr on Tuesday, budget. He wants to keep the property taxes down, Dec. 14. Along with sharing his insights as a Senator, potentially lowering them. He said this could be done he discussed what Lewiston voted for when they vied by bringing businesses back into Lewiston to help for a “strong mayor,” and how he plans to improve the boost the local economy. city.

Johnson also touched on issues surrounding Johnson has lived in Idaho for roughly 30 years, pre- COVID-19. He expressed how the pandemic has been viously livdifficult for ing in WyLewiston and oming. He the entire went to the nation. He University noted unof Idaho for certainty but his college mentioned career and the need to has lived in be conscious Lewiston about social since 2001. and hygienic He was practices in inspired to order to conbecome a trol potential politician health risks. by watchHe also mening political tioned that Mayor-elect Dan Johnson interviews with The Bengal’s Purr Dec. 14 in the LHS video sturaces when dio. Image courtesy of Rylee Wimer. there is still “a he was lot to learn” y o u n g e r, about this and was also inspired by former President Ronald W. pandemic.

Reagan and his actions during the Iran contract. After According to Lewiston Tribune, Robert Blair may Reagan was sworn in and negotiated for the release take over for Johnson for the rest of his term as senaof 444 American prisoners in Iran, Johnson was struck tor. Initially, Johnson thought he would do both jobs by the political power and influence these elected part-time through the Spring. However, the ceremopositions could carry. ny for the mayor-elect will be on Jan. 10, conflicting Even during his time in college, he was told to ques- with the Idaho State of the State and Budget address. tion authority and learn from those questions.

With this, he decided to have a full-time substitute for “There was just a hunger (in me)...that developed the session. over time,” he said.

Johnson also elaborated on some of the things he Johnson described how Lewiston’s new “strong may- likes to do outside of politics. He enjoys traveling and or” differs from the previous city structure. A “strong visiting his children and grandchildren around the mayor” is one whom the people vote for instead of country. He also visits other countries to observe and the sitting city councilors, he said. The mayor now has learn from them, including Central America. more authority. Preparing for his term to start in 2022, Johnson’s advice for people looking to run for electJohnson hopes to elicit some change within the city. ed positions is to consider some participating in form These changes include listening more to the people, of service. Whether in the state legislature, the school providing more accountability and allowing more ac- board or a church, he encouraged people to develop tion. a “servant’s heart,” noting that everyone has some“A city government is really a service organization,” thing to contribute and learn. he said.

The decision to serve is an independent and personBefore running for mayor, Johnson had some con- al one, he added. If someone wants to run for pubcerns for the city. Then local business people ap- lic office, it should be based on their passion for the proached him to run for mayor, and through a six- work. He also mentioned not to back down, regardmonth process, he took on the challenge. less of who is running.

One of his goals for his term in office is restructuring He encouraged young people to find something the city council to run more efficiently and effectively. that they are passionate about and enjoy doing.

His main concern is listening to the people of Lewis“There’s a lot of growth that comes from that...evton to learn how he can best help. eryone has something to contribute,” Johnson said.

Friday, Dec. 17, 2021

Satire 11

Scandal: Mr. and Mrs. Claus to legally separate

By Seyi Arogundade Historian

FAKE NEWS

In a much-anticipated exposé, Mrs. Claus sat down with The Bengal’s Purr to announce some unprecedented and unexpected news.

“We’re splitting up,” the famous (ex) wife told us.

After centuries of trying to hold things together and keeping up appearances, Mr. and Mrs. Claus have decided to go their separate ways.

“Most people thought that Nick and I were married because of love,” she said as she stuck a finger down her throat and gagged, “but we were JUST business partners. Plus, I’m not into the whole ‘dad bod’ look.”

She informed the Purr that her actual name was Mary Kris Maas, and told the Purr how the partnership came to be.

Maas described her first encounter with “St. Nick” as amicable. The pair met at a “Start Your Own Company In Two Easy Steps” seminar, and they decided to dive into the lucrative gift-making and delivery business.

“One thing me and Nick always bonded over was our love for the planet,” she said. “We knew we didn’t want to go the traditional route and use trucks or planes for our delivery system. So we invested in magical reindeer and a sled.”

But after reminiscing about the good times, Maas

talked about the tensions that started to emerge be- wanted to shimmy his way down a chimney and into tween the pair after the business got up and running. people’s houses. The real Christmas miracle is that we The end began when the song “Santa Claus is Com- never got sued,” she said. ing to Town” She talked about came out. her relationship She said that with “Santa” and the music the employees. inflated his “I would like to ego more preface that all than it almy workers are of ready was. average height.

“I should They aren’t NBA have also basketball playregistered ers by any means, that him but most of them wanting us can reach the top to be paid shelves,” she said. via milk “But, anyway, since and cookies we weren’t paying was a red them with actual flag,” she cash, lots of them Mrs. Claus starts a new life after her recent divorce. Image courtesy of b3texas.com said.

“But went on strike. But, to be fair, I according to Nick, thought it was a joke.” who needs a retirement plan when they have chocMaas told the Purr that she was the brains behind olate chip cookies?” the operation, while Claus, aka Santa, was the comWith the entire business on the verge of collapse, pany’s face.

Maas knew that she had to get rid of her partner.

She went on to discuss a few more of his bad ideas.

“Long story short, I bought Nick out of his half of the “I wanted to drop the packages at the front door or company,” she said. “And by bought, I mean I gave in the mailbox as a normal person would, but no. Nick him a pack of Oreos and let him keep Rudolph.”

Hallmark releases new movie with unique plot FAKE NEWS

By Josh Tatko Sports Editor

Hallmark Christmas movies are world-renowned for their consistency in quality and original stories. On Dec. 12, the plot of the newest Hallmark movie, called Home on the Range for the Holidays, was leaked.

According to the leak, the main character of the film is a young, white woman who lives in an unnamed metropolitan city. She works for an unnamed megacorporation at which she is a mid-level manager.

For business purposes, she has to travel to an unnamed small town in the country.

She is out of her element at first, but then she meets a young, white, single father who lives has a golden retriever and lives on a ranch in said unnamed small town.

Aside from a soon awkward first date where they talk about Stephen King novels for some reason, they behave like they have been in a relationship for years, and on their second date, they ride on horseback through the snow in slow motion, set to a royalty-free orchestral piece.

After spending the entire movie falling in love, with an emotional moment where they temporarily split up at the end of the second act as a result of a misunderstanding regarding the youg, white woman’s business endeavors, the couple decides to get married and stay in the small town forever.

Shortly before the credits roll, they kiss, causing everyone in town to erupt into applause. And also the random old guy in the town is Santa Claus.

Fans are astounded at the ingenious storytelling of each Hallmark Christmas movie, and many are distraught after reading the leak that they will not get to blindly experience the brilliance of Hallmark’s writers on the TV screen.

For the new Hallmark movie Home on the Range for the Holidays, the lead characters, “Young White Businesswoman” and “Young White Single Father,” pose in front of a Christmas tree. Image by Josh Tatko.

12

Friday, Dec. 17, 2021

Entertainment

Coeur d’Alene movie brings holiday spirit > KEY CHARACTERS

Entertainment

13

What to watch over winter break

By Declan Cattrysse Entertainment Editor

Real talk: Long school breaks can be boring. Fortunately, here is a list of shows and movies to enjoy during this Christmas break.

Holly Everton Protagonist

Cover of the Coeur d’ Alene Christmas movie, A Match Made At Christmas. Photo courtesy of Lakewood Movie Night.

By Madeline Gibson Entertainment Assistant

Released Nov. 1, A Match Made at Christmas encapsulates the classic cheesy Holiday movie. But one key difference is that this movie was filmed in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.

This movie follows the main character, Holly (Micah Lynn Hanson), a desperate romantic who begs her “magical” aunt for a match with the man of Holly’s dreams.

Meanwhile, Chris (Tim Llewellyn) is a realist and career-driven man who hates Christmas.

For decades, the all-knowing Aunt Lillian (Juli Erickson) has brought together some of the small town’s greatest couples. And she’s never been wrong about who belongs together.

Holly is planning the wedding of her best friend Angela (Aubrey Shimek Davis) and her brother Spencer (Jared Hernandez) wedding, who were paired together by Aunt Lillian. Then Holly has her own “love at first sight” interaction with Chris at the engagement party for Angela and Spencer.

Aunt Lillian sees this and knows that Holly and Chris belong together. She pairs them in front of the whole party, which would have been the moment that Holly had been waiting for. But previously at the party, Chris called Holly delusional for believing in love.

Holly and Chris are immediately embarrassed, so for the two weeks before Angela and Spencer’s wedding, they don’t talk to each other much. But then Holly’s mom brings them together, and she insists that Holly ask Chris for help with her travel

plans. While they’re planning her trip and making a website for Holly’s tree farm, they immediately grow closer.

After a chaotic evening with Holly trying to support Chris and Angela, things blow up between them. Holly is called out for being too controlling and trying to manipulate situations.

Holly struggles because she has put her life on hold for so many people. She didn’t go to college because she had to take care of her mother, and she’s been stuck in her small town. She’s planning an entire wedding for her friend and brother. She’s fixing Angela’s mother’s dress to make sure they stay within budget.

Then there’s Chris, a bitter, over-dramatic man who only cares about himself. He constantly embarrasses Holly in public and claims he’s standing up for her. It seems like they don’t belong together.

But all is well once Chris goes back to his hometown. Holly is working on becoming a wedding planner, and she’s working on getting out of town. The on Christmas Eve, Holly’s mom sends her on a scavenger hunt, and she meets with Chris again. He claims that he and Holly will be together forever, that they will always find their way back to each other. But where was this mindset when he rejected her on Angela and Spencer’s wedding day?

The ending of this movie is very unsatisfying, but overall, the film is suitable for a romance story. For these reasons, A Match Made at Christmas gets a 3/5.

Holly is a smalltown girl who loves to take part in small-town traditions. She loves Christmas and she’s a very romantic person who believes in helping others.

Spencer Everton Brother Spencer is Holly’s brother and is engaged to Angela. He finds humor in his best friend and sister being placed together by their magical greataunt.

Chris Main Love Interest

Angela Quirky BestFriend

Chris is Spencer’s best friend, they were roomates in college. He is very career-driven and a realist. He does not beleive in love and he hates Christmas.

Angela is the bride-to-be, and is Holly’s best friend. They grew up in their small town together.

She loves small get-togethers, and is not one for parties.

Lori Everton Mom

Aunt Lillian Magical Relative

Lori is Holly and Spencer’s mother, who Holly took care of after a car accident.

She tries to get Chris and Holly to spend more time together and feels that they would be a cute couple.

Aunt Lillian places Chris and Holly together. He sees the good in others, and knows that if someone is being resistant to a love match, then they need to take charge of their happiness.

1. League of Legends Arcane Among the wide variety of Netflix’s newly released films and shows, Arcane is one of the higher quality shows. From the moment it was released, it was wildly popular with fans. While it is new and only has a small selection of episodes, Arcane is definitely worth watching.

Max Merver wields water blaster. Photo courtesy of collider.knittingroseyarns.com`

Home Sweet Home Alone attempts to reignite classic magic

By Aydann Long Digital Media Manager Home Sweet Home Alone is yet another installment of the Home Alone series, coming in at movie number 4, when they should’ve cut it off after Home Alone 2. Directed by Dan Mazer, Home Sweet Home Alone hit Disney Plus in mid-November of 2021.

The movie opens in the original home where the first movie takes place. The current owners, Pam and Jeff McKenzie (Ellie Kemper and Rob Delany), are holding an open house event, and are selling the house because they can’t pay off their home loans.

The main character, Max Mercer (Archie Yates) is believed to have stolen a very valuable doll that goes for $200,000, which would definitely help pay off those loans. Just like in every other Home Alone movie, his mother threatens Max that they are going to leave him home while the rest of the family goes on vacation.

Of course, after that threat, Max hides and the family forgets about him when they leave. And then there is a montage of the kid having fun and making a mess, of course.

This new installment tries a more modern take for 2021, saying things like “lit” and “get got.” This is honestly that something movies should stop doing because it instantly dates the movie. The Home Alone series is classic. The original story was great -- a story that all generations can enjoy.

This newest Home Alone movie deserves a solid 3 out of 5, only because it wasn’t as bad as Home Alone 3. It actually had a more compelling storyline, with the villains as a couple who wants their stuff back, compared to actual thieves coming into the house.

2. Money Heist Money Heist is a crime drama TV series on Netflix. It’s about an unconventional group of criminals who pull off a massive robbery.

This show is among Netflix’s extensive selection of dramas, but is undoubtedly one of their finest by far. If you’re looking for a show you can get invested in, you’ve found it.

3. Family Guy Every list of top movies and TV shows needs a true original. In this case, I recommend Family Guy, a hilarious series boasting a 22-year run. If you’re looking for a binge or even for a quick laugh, Family Guy should be a go-to.

4. South Park Post COVID The new South Park installment, just released Dec. 16, is a movie that features everybody’s favorite South Park characters after the COVID-19 pandemic. This comedy is bound to stir up laughter around the globe.

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Entertainment

THE BENGAL’S PURR

Point-Counterpoint: To Crumbl or not to Crumbl?

Point: Crumbl Cookie satisfies

Counter-Point: Crumbl cookie is unsatisfactory

By Josie Sager Sports Assistant The Crumbl Cookie franchise is a popular company that has been receiving a lot of attention in the Lewiston-Clarkston Valley in recent weeks. Crumbl recently opened its doors in Clarkston. As the first of its kind for the valley, the shop offers four to five specialty flavors each week.

The company always has the traditional chocolate chip cookie available in addition to the rotating specialty flavors. Cookies are made to order while you wait in the shop. They are served chilled as well as warm, depending on the type of cookie purchased.

Most recently, I purchased a 4-pack of cookies and received Gingerbread Cake, Sugar Cookie featuring Reindeer Games, Chocolate featuring York Peppermint Patty and Eggnog.

Generally, these cookies are fresh and moist. They are also a generous size -- enough to share with friends.

The cookies are not too rich and not too sweet. They taste very much like a cookie baked at home, but even better.

Buying these cookies is a splurge, priced at $16 for four. This is the perfect time of year to stop by and grab one cookie, a box of four, or a box of 12 to share with coworkers or family, or to keep for yourself. Treat The Crumbl Cookie line up for Dec. 6-11. Photo by Josie Sager. yourself with Crumbl -- you won’t be disappointed.

By Ariana Flaig Features Assistant Crumbl Cookie has been rumored to change the dynamic of the Lewiston-Clarkston Valley. Crumbl offers four to five flavors of gourmet cookies every week, with chocolate chip remaining all year. This new business is entering a valley where nearly all the businesses have declined or are almost only suitable for adults.

Crumbl, however, has not lived up to the expectations that were placed upon it. The promoted cookie flavors have been mediocre and not worth the price.

The price is around $7 for a single cookie. The flavors that Crumbl offers appear to be grandiose and delicious, but ultimately, they do not deliver.

The flavors offered could be bought at a grocery store for less money, and still with higher cookie quality. A package of raw Nestlé® cookie dough that makes 24 cookies is around $3. That is 13 cents per cookie. The price of a single Nestlé® cookie is 1.86% of a Crumbl cookie. If $7 of raw Nestlé® cookie dough was bought, it would make around 53 cookies.

In an era with COVID-19 and uncertainty around finances and life in general, the only practical choice when it comes to investing in cookies is to buy at a grocery store, not at Crumbl.

Try going homemade for the holidays

By Jasmine Schmidt Features Assistant

Finding the perfect gift can be a tough task, and whether you are trying to save money or are in the mood to get a little crafty, these homemade gifts will be fun to create as well as meaningful to the person who receives it.

Frame with photo This classic gift can be personalized perfectly for the recipient. Frames are inexpensive and can be customized using paint, markers or anything else you have around the house. Then just add a picture, and you’re all set!

Personalized mug To create a unique mug, all you need is a mug, permanent Sharpie markers and an oven. Simply color a design perfect for the recipient, then bake the mug for 30 minutes at 350 degrees F. Then wrap it up and gift away!

Bracelets From braided to beaded to tied, bracelets can be made many different ways, depending on what supplies you have. A quick YouTube search can generate tutorials for any design, or just find some string and beads and go for it.

Christmas cards If you can’t find a present, a heartfelt handmade Christmas card is the way to go. Embroidery, watercolor, markers or pens can show your appreciation for your friends and family members.

Cookies Everybody loves holiday cookies, and homemade cookies are fun and simple to make -- guarantee to be a stand-out present. Here are some recipe options.

Monster Cookies (gluten free!)

Makes 6 - 7 dozen ∙ Source Allrecipes.com Ingredients 3 eggs 1 cups packed brown sugar 1 cup white sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon corn syrup 2 teaspoons baking soda 1/2 cup butter 1 1/2 cups peanut butter 4 1/2 cups rolled oats 2 Tbsp water 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips 1 cup candy-coated milk chocolate pieces (Choose Christmas colors for a more festive look!)

Directions Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

In a very large bowl, beat the eggs.

Add the remaining ingredients in order, mixing well.

Use an ice cream scoop to put on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes.

Cracked Sugar Cookies Makes 24 ∙ Source allrecipes.com Ingredients 1 1/4 cups white sugar 1 cup butter 3 egg yolks 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar Directions 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (180 degrees C).

Lightly grease two cookie sheets.

2. Cream together sugar and butter. Beat in egg yolks and vanilla.

3. Add flour, baking soda and cream of tartar. Stir.

4. Form dough into walnut size balls and place 2 inches apart on cookie sheet. Roll in festive sprinkles if a holiday look is desired. Don’t flatten. Bake 10-11 minutes, until tops are cracked and just turning color.

Friday, Dec. 17, 2021

Variety

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Hallmark Movie Bingo

By Jasmine Schmidt, Features Assisstant Fill out this bingo sheet while watching a cheesy Christmas movie! Bonus points if it’s Home on the Range for the Holidays (see page 11). Post your bingo and tag us on Instagram: @lhsbengalspurr

Big city girl in hometown for Christmas

Local business in trouble

Old romantic interest in town

Christmas tree decorating

Best friend encourages romance

Character turns out to be royalty

First snow of the season

Wise, magical older person

Making Christmas cookies

Impending real estate deal

Stuck under mistletoe

Business person learns real meaning of Christmas

Free Space

A stumble/fall leads to a romantic embrace

Town’s tradition in jeopardy

Characters who dislike each other forced to work together

A kiss in the snow

Best friends fall in love

Characters share past heartbreak

Ex shows up unannounced

Unexpected weather event

Character Character First almost-kiss decides to prioritizes gets follow a dream work over love interrupted

Wedding one year later

The Bengal’s Purr Lewiston High School 3125 Cecil Andrus Way Lewiston, ID 83501

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Friday, Dec. 17, 2021

THE BENGAL’S PURR

Meet the Staff

Editor-in-chief-- Rylie Reagan Managing Editor-- Chayton Brewer-Burgin Website Manager-- Cece Thomas News Editor, Opinion Editor-- Hannah Shoffitt Features Editor-- Chayton Brewer-Burgin Entertainment Editor-- Declan Cattrysse Sports Editor-- Josh Tatko Photography Manager-- Matthew Dugdale Business & Distribution Manager-- Ariana Flaig Copyeditors-- Lauren Martin, Rylie Reagan, Jasmine Schmidt, Hannah Shoffitt, Josh Tatko Digital Media Manager-- Aydann Long Historian--Seyi Arogundade News Assistants--Sydney Ball, Danica Keane Features Assistants-- Seyi Arogundade, Madeline Gibson, Jasmine Schmidt Sports Assistant-- Josie Sager Adviser-- Charity Thompson Egland