The Bengals Purr Senior Edition by The Bengal's Purr

Vol. 90 Lewiston High School, June 2, 2018, Vol. 90, No. 9

1114 Ninth Ave., Lewiston, ID, 83501

Lorang wrestles valedictorian title, page 8 Drama seniors say goodbye, page 11 Dabbs says hello to Kenya, page 7

Senior Shout-Outs

THE BENGAL’S PURR

Families send love to graduating Bengals

Cameron Cady She believed she could, so she did. We love you, Mom and Dad

Caleb Fowler

We began trying to contain your red-headed stubbornness when you entered this world, only to realize that was the fuel to your endurance. Continue to run the race toward worthy prizes. Lead well. Follow well. Change the world. We know, through Christ, you can. Mom, Dad, Jaden and Ethan

Connor Druley

I wish you the strength to face challenges with confidence...along with the wisdom to choose your battles wisely...I wish you adventure on your journey. Listen to your heart and take risks carefully!! I love you biggest hugest mostest!! With my unconditional love FOREVER, Mom

Max Hill

We are so proud of your hard work and never-ending discipline. We love you and know you will be successful this next year. Love, Mom and Dad

Grace Eller

“As soon as I saw you I knew a grand adventure was about to happen.” --Winnie the Pooh Congratulations, Gracie! We are so proud of you!

Billy Hobbs

We are so proud of you and so excited to see what the future brings! Happy Graduation! Love, Dad, Mom and Shelby

Jessica & Kellie Earle

What a great time we have had raising you two!! We are SO PROUD and you will ROCK this world!! Love, Mom and Dad

Logan Foster Congrats Logan, We are so very proud of you. Love, Mom, Dad, Parker, Hayden, and Kenny

Braeden Keane Congrats B! You did it! Now breathe...that’s good...like that! Now run, run, run, jump! We love you more than peesha!!! Love, your many parents and tiny child siblings

Hunter Liedke

Lance Lorang

Abby Myklebust

Ryan O’Grady

Congrats, buddy. We couldn’t be more proud of you and your accomplishments. Here’s to the next chapter at Boise State University. Love you, Mom and Dad

Idaho’s only valedictorian wrestler for 2018. Congratulations on a job well done. Good luck and God bless.

Abby, we are so proud of you and all that you have accomplished! As you begin your new journey please keep in mind that ANYTHING is possible. Congratulations to beautiful you! The best is yet to come! Love you to infinity --Dad, Mom & Dusty

Congratulations Ryan! We’re so proud of you and excited for your next chapter at U of I. We love you, Mom, Dad, Kade & Jase

Ryan Rapier

Emilyn Sheppard

Carl Snyder

Kami Sledge

We love you and are so proud of you, Ryan! Love, Mom, Dad and Roni

Congratulations, Emilyn!!! We love you and we are all so excited for your future! Mom, Dad, Grace, Wilson, Rachel, Mimi, Poppy & Louis

Congratulations, son. I am very proud of you. Your determination and commitment will carry you far. A dad could not ask for a better son. LOVE YOU!!! Love, Dad and family

Madison Stoddard

Joshua Wilson

We are so proud of all you’ve accomplished! Onward and upward, girl! We love you! Love Mom, Dad and Laryn

We are so proud of the kind, smart, funny man you have become! Love you, Bud! Dad, Mom, and Sis

We are so incredibly proud of you! Take the opportunities life has to offer and enjoy every moment! Love and blessings, Mom, Dad and Zack

Victoria & Elizabeth Sabo We were doubly blessed when you two came into our lives!! We love you both so much!

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THE BENGAL’S PURR

6 Opinion

Seniors move on to great things, conquer

By Annabelle Ady Opinion Editor

Annabelle Ady

To the class of 2018: We did it. We made it! We came, we saw and we conquered. It seemed as though this would never end -- the constant homework, lectures, lack of schools bells (which I’ve personally enjoyed), and so much more. This year has been a roller-coaster (and apparently a cliche too). It’s weird knowing that in a short time we will be walking in a line to get our diplomas. We will throw our hats in the air, we will hug and laugh and cry with each other. We will smile for pictures and proudly display our (flattering) purple gowns. All of this is because of our dedication, our friends,

our teachers, our family and as young adults. Some will the decision, it should not made sacrifices. Some of us other supporters, but most join the military and brave- matter to the rest of the achieved great things. All of of all because we pushed ly serve our country. All of world. Whatever the deci- us changed. No matter what ourselves. We made it these choices are good ones. sion, or wherever life leads you choose to do after high through another school year, They are personal decisions us, it is each person’s own school, it is up to you. No one and for some of us this will be and no one’s business. Who decision. Bottom line. else matters, nor should they We made it through what comment on your decisions. our last. For others it will be cares if you get married out one of many more to come. of high school? Or if you might have been both the Do what you want to, not Wherever the students of the don’t go to college? Or if you easiest and hardest year of what others want you to do. LHS class of 2018 go, we will just work? Or if you spend our lives so far. Some of us So here’s to us: the class of conquer! Whether it be at your summer relaxing? As suffered losses, and my heart 2018. May we continue to do college, the military, work, long as you are happy with goes out to you. Some of us great things. home, the world -- it does not matter. Some students will quickly move on from high school into their adult lives. They will begin families and settle down; they will marry and create a home. Others may stay home and work, or get a headstart in the workforce. Some will go to college and live on their own or with friends, others will travel and see the world. Others will enjoy the freedom of our Bengal’s Purr seniors get serious in front of LHS. Left to right: Amanda Egland, Leah Schmidt, Grace Eller, Braeden Keane, Annabelle last summer Ady, Kaitlyn Hinkley and Sandra Kinney. Not pictured: Loretta Tuell, Carl Snyder, Jonathan Wilcoxson, Melina Ramirez, Parker Phelps.

A note from the editor: Spread kindness By Amanda Egland Co- Editor in Chief

Amanda Egland

As we enter the world as young adults, there are endless opportunities and experiences waiting for us. When many of us look forward we see things like college, the workforce, the military, marriage or maybe even raising kids. But few of us consider life's inevitable obstacles and circumstances. If there is one thing I hope for every graduate of the class of 2018, it is that we understand and accept that life can be a roller-coaster, and tomorrow is not guaranteed.

You will see some of your peers often after graduation, and some of them you will never see again. Some of our classmates may live short lives, while others live to 100. Some will live entirely healthy lives, while other could battle illnesses numerous times. A few of our paths will lead us far away from here, while others may never leave. There is a variety of ways this life could turn out, so never sell anyone short or think they are above failure. We will all have our challenges, and we will all

have our victories. We are all human. We are taught from the time we are children to treat others the way we want to be treated. This rule is one we are reminded of often as we get older. As we enter the world, it is important that this rule applies to our everyday lives. There is no way of guessing how long or how prosperously your peers will live, because tomorrow is unpredictable, and life does not come with a manual. Make sure to cherish the memories made. With

each person you see each day, treat them well enough that they would be happy to think of you. It could be the last time you see each other. My challenge to you is not to live your life like you, or your peers, could die at any moment, but instead to accept that life will surprise you with situations and loss that you might never see coming. Do the things you want to do, and be around people who are important to you. Spread kindess and love, because tomorrow is unknown.

Saturday, June 2, 2018

Features

Dabbs says goodbye to LHS, hello to Kenya

By Sandra Kinney Co-Editor in Chief

Matthew Dabbs, a junior English and creative writing teacher, is leaving the country and the staff of Lewiston High School July 20. After two years of teaching at LHS, Dabbs has decided to spend the next year of his life in Kisumu, the third largest city in Kenya, Africa. Dabbs has previously spent time in Botswana in sub-Saharan Gaborone, Africa, from August 2011 to June 2012. “I always like experiencing new cultures. I love eating new and different kinds of food, so that will be exciting,” Dabbs said. Their first trip to Africa prepared Dabbs and his fiancee for what is in store during the next year of their life. But most importantly, it taught Dabbs that one can never have too much sunscreen when in Africa. Dabbs said he feels excited for this new chapter in his life, but there are many things he will miss after leaving Lewiston and Moscow. “I’ll miss the students here at LHS. They are a good group of kids, and of course I’ll miss the staff too,” Dabbs said. He hardly contained is sadness when talking about leaving his “work spouse”, Billy Autrey, who teaches history at LHS. “I don’t know how I’m going to live without you Billy!” he exclaimed. As for leaving his home in the Moscow area, Dabbs will miss its bike culture. “I can’t imagine a place with better cycling,” he said. “I hope wherever I end up has even close to as good of cycling as Moscow.” During his time in Africa, Dabbs hopes to work at a local bike shop in Kisumu. He hopes to help fix bikes for members of the community who use bikes to get to work, school and to travel from outer villages.

He has also set the personal goal of reading 100 books while he is in Africa. While that goal may be a difficult one to achieve, he said he would be happy to meet even half of it. “It would be pretty cool to at least read 50 novels while I’m there. That’s almost one book a week,” he said. Upon his return to the U.S. the following year, Dabbs plans to move to Blacksburg, Virginia, where his fiancee will work as a professor and researcher in the veterinary diagnostics lab at Virginia Tech. Dabbs plans to get another teaching job in that area, and he hopes to continue teaching juniors. “I’ve made a lot of friends here in the valley, so I will definitely be back to visit,” Dabbs said on returning to the Lewiston-Moscow area.

Autrey, Dabb’s work spouse, said that what he will miss most about Dabbs is getting Costco pizza for lunch together. As a final goodbye to his work spouse of two years, Autrey had this message for Dabbs: “Good luck in Kenya, my friend. The last two years have been great but I understand that holding a baby lion over the Serengeti while singing Elton John has always been a lifelong goal of yours. The list of those who will miss you includes (and is probably limited to): Baby Matthew, Costco employees and, of course, me. You are welcome for [me] making you a more understanding and caring person. Your impact on this community will not be forgotten any time soon. We’ve had some great memories over the past

Matt Dabbs points candidly to Kisumu, Kenya. Photo by Sandra Kinney.

two years and your emotional support has been unbearable (seriously, stop trying to hug me).” Another fellow co-worker who wished to say a few words about Dabbs was Mary Ann Funk, a librarian at LHS and Dabbs’ boss as chair of the English department: “Mr. Dabbs is smart, hilarious, exuberant, and sincere (but not as much as his idol, Mr. Autrey). Honestly it’s been a pleasure to work with Mr. Dabbs. He has a real passion for teaching and is an absolute scholar when it comes to English. I will truly miss his visits in the skybox and his appreciation for sarcasm. I will not miss that loud screaming voice, although I’m sure we will occasionally hear it all the way from Kenya.” New to the LHS family this year, teacher Jordan Lockard

found himself befriended by Dabbs and Autrey. Although his friendship with Dabbs has only recently formed, Lockard is among those who will miss Dabbs’ presence at LHS. “I will miss the fact that Dabbs brought originality and enthusiasm to LHS,” Lockard said. “He was willing to go to extracurricular activities to show his students that he cares about them both academically and personally.” Many of the staff and students at LHS will greatly miss Dabbs. This writer, for one, would like to say: “Thank you, Mr. Dabbs, for everything you have taught me about poetry and literature. I could not have asked for a better poetry club adviser, and I hope that your endeavors in Africa prove to be a spectacular adventure.”

THE BENGAL’S PURR Features Lorang stands as only valedictorian wrestler in Idaho

By Braeden Keane Sports Features Editor Lance Lorang is an LHS student who accomplished an extraordinary feat. Lorang was acknowledged as the only high school wrestler to earn the title of Valedictorian in 2018. In order to become valedictorian, the student needs extreme focus and attention even when away for a sports event. Lorang started wrestling his freshman year, and he attributes much of his start to Troy Hanes,a friend who also wrestled. “Troy was, and is, a good friend, and I wanted to see where the recommendation would take me,” said Lorang. “He was strong,” Hanes said about Lorang. “He just didn’t really know how to push himself to his breaking point. I always told him he would do well if he could figure it out.” Starting out, Lorang said he wasn’t the best wrestler there was. Yet he continued to wrestle in hopes of eventually getting to a higher level.

“I wasn’t the best when I started, sure, but I realized I could have been a lot worse,” said Lorang. The athleticism attributed to wrestling is outstanding, the amount of stress that the body endures is massive. “The sport is like a legalized version of a public fight,” said Lorang, “just with a margin of rules and regulations.” Any wrestler knows that anybody can be a good wrestler, but that a great one can go through that kind of pain and still conquer. “A great part of wrestling is the very moment when your hand is grabbed by the referee and raised upward,” said Lorang. “[It's] not when one is pinning their opponent, or leading in points but when the hand is raised.” Besides becoming an accomplished wrestler for Lewiston, Lorang also became one of the 27 valedictorians at LHS for 2018. This is a difficult task alone, and to accomplish this challenge as a wrestler or any kind of high school athlete

is rare. Yet Lorang found a way to succeed. “It was stressful, admittedly, but I found success in keeping both the elements of wrestling and school in proper balance,” said Lorang. High school was always a priority for Lorang, yet sometimes he found that wrestling outweighed school. Even though this happened, Lorang continued to complete his schooling with honors. “It didn't matter which had a higher priority [school or wrestling], because I was determined to do both to the best of my ability,” said Lorang. Lorang plans on attending Boise State University to study on an Engineering path. However, he doesn’t have a dead-set plan yet. “My ‘plan’ is to simply go forward and see where my footsteps take me,” said Lorang. “I have confidence that I’ll figure it all out in college.” Stronger than a plan is followthrough. Lorang calls it as grit, and that is the skill he plans to

bad times be too bad or the good times be too good.” During high school, the one thing Jones wished he had done more of was take risks and put himself out there. “That’s how you find out what you like. You only get one shot,” he said. Jones said he feels hopeful for his graduating students. “I hope students going out into the world live up to their full potential,” he said. “It’s cool watching them go out and gain a sense of appreciation for the world around them. “ “Any one of them could impact the world or impact someone around them,” he said. “It is exciting to think of how much potential each student has. ” As a teacher, the responsibility of molding young minds in the classroom is huge. For

Jones, that responsibility is one reason that he loves his job. “Sometimes you don’t realize the impact that you have on other people,” he said. “From a teaching perspective, you could say something on the first day of school and students will remember it on the last day of school. [This is after] you didn’t even think they heard you in the first place.” Nearly three years ago, Jones never thought that a student would remember his words, “I am a 250-lb. man with feelings.” But that statement began a student-teacher friendship that I will remember for the rest of my life. Mike Jones’ impact on my life and the lives of his students is one that we will always be grateful for.

Senior Lance Lorang prepares for college. Photo courtesy of Helen Lorang.

take with him through college. “In wrestling, grit is the key to resolve,” he said. “I plan to find

success in whatever form it may take, and I plan to do so with grit.”

Jones offers life advice to graduating seniors By Sandra Kinney Co-Editor in Chief

In September 2016, I wrote my very first story for The Bengal’s Purr. I wrote about the new teachers during the 20162017 school year. In that story, I quoted Mike Jones, a new psychology teacher that year, saying, “I am a 250-lb. man with feelings.” As I finish my senior year at LHS, I see just how much that quote has represented Jones and his relationships with students. In light of graduation, I sat down with Jones to gather advice for seniors as we move into life after high school. “Live your life,” he said. “Don’t live in an ambiguous gray area. Do things, make messes, and try to clean them up. There will be bad times. Don’t let the

Mike Jones smiles at thoughts of the future. Photo by Sandra Kinney.

June 2, 2018

Entertainment

Northwest Summer 2018 Travel List

By Kaitlyn Hinkley Sports Editor

During my time with The Bengal’s Purr, travel lists have been one of my favorite things to write. Even more of this summer travel list is available at bengalspurr.com. Each destination and its travel time is routed from Lewiston.

Idaho

1 hour, 23 min.: Dayo Reservoir 2 hours, 23 min.: Cave Lake 2 hours, 48 min.: Ride the longest gondola ride in the world, Kellogg 5 hours, 17 min.: Jump Creek 5 hours, 22 min.: Table Rock 5 hours, 23 min.: Lucky Peak Reservoir 6 hours, 8 min.: Bruneau Dunes State Park 7 hours, 6 min.: Shoshone Falls 8 hours, 37 min.: Yellowstone National Park 8 hours, 44 min.: Craters of the Moon 8 hours, 56 min.: Mesa Falls

Washington

46 min.: Washington State University Planetarium, Pullman 1 hour, 10 min.: Tucannon Path located near the Tucannon River 3 hours, 1 minute: Gravity Hill, where cars reportedly roll uphill, Prosser 3 hours, 48 min.: Dry Falls is a beautiful waterfall off of Highway 17, Grant County 4 hours, 16 min.: Columbia River Gorge, across the bridge from Rockford 4 hours, 16 min.: Maryhill Museum and Stonehenge replica, Goldendale 4 hours, 22 min.: See the German culture of Leavenworth 4 hours, 31 min.: South fork of the Snoqualmie River, Twin Falls 4 hours, 36 min.: Little Bandera Mountains off Highway 90 4 hours, 43 min.: Cedar Falls near Issaquah 4 hours, 49 min.: Wallace Falls, Snohomish County 4 hours, 55 min.: Snoqualmie Falls 4 hours, 56 min.: Cougar Mountain Zoo, Issaquah

Photo by Courtney Dudgeon.

4 hours, 56 min.: Treehouse Point, Issaquah 5 hours: Mt. Rainier National Park, entrances include Nile or Lestler 5 hours, 9 min.: Bridge of the Gods, Skamania County 5 hours, 14 min.: Beacon Rock Trail near Stevenson off of Evergreen Highway 5 hours, 15 min.: Beacon Rock, Skamania County 5 hours 15 min.: Seattle Aquarium, coast of Seattle 5 hours, 15 min.: UPS Waterfall Garden Park, Seattle 5 hours, 17 min.: Seattle Center, Seattle. Check their website for events. 5 hours, 19 min.: Pike’s Place Market, Seattle 5 hours, 19 min.: Visit the stickiest site in Seattle, the Gum Wall 5 hours, 21 min.: Space Needle, Seattle. Ride an elevator to the top! 5 hours, 21 min.: Gas Works Park, Seattle 5 hours, 23 min.: Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle 5 hours, 24 min.: Surprise Lake located in Surprise 5 hours, 24 min.: Visit the Fremont Troll under Aurora Bridge, Seattle 5 hours, 25 min.: Alki Beach, Seattle 5 hours, 27 min.: Lake Chelan in Chelan 5 hours, 28 min.: Seahurst Park, Burien

5 hours, 35 min.: The Reptile Zoo, Monroe 5 hours, 36 min.: Falls Creek Falls, Skamania County. 5 hours, 36 min.: Lower Rock Creek Falls, Stevenson 5 hours, 41 min.: Bridal Veil Falls in Gold Bar and Bridal Veil 5 hours, 42 min.: Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium, Tacoma 5 hours, 44 min.: North Cascades Scenic Highway, starts near Silver Star Mountain 5 hours, 45 min.: Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge, Olympia 5 hours, 48 min.: Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, Vancouver 5 hours, 53 min.: Priest Point Park, Olympia 5 hours, 57 min.: Watch salmon jump up the falls at Tumwater Falls Park in Tumwater 5 hours, 58 min.: Northwest Trek, Pierce County 6 hours, 7 min.: Wolf Haven, Tenino 6 hours, 8 min.: Goat Creek and Cathedral Falls, Glenoma 6 hours, 13 min.: Sandstone Quarry Swimming Pool, Tenino. 6 hours, 32 min.: Mt. St. Helens Visitor Center off of Highway 504 near Silver Lake 6 hours, 35 min.: Ape Caves in Gifford Pinchot National Forest just to the south of Mt. St. Helens 6 hours, 51 min.: Olympic National Park, entrances include

Forks or Quilcene 6 hours, 53 min.: Ape Canyon on the southest shoulder of Mt. St. Helens 7 hours, 9 min.: Drive-through Olympic Game Farm Zoo, Sequim 7 hours, 54 min.: Cascade Pass near Chelan 8 hours, 2 min.: Marymere Falls, Olympic National Forest 8 hours, 7 min.: Iceberg Point, Lopez Island 8 hours, 25 min.: Sol Duc Falls, Clallam County 8 hours, 27 min.: Olympic Hot Springs, Olympic National Park near Elwha 9 hours, 14 min.: Cape Flattery Peninsula on the Makah Reservoir

Oregon

4 hours, 2 min.: Oregon Trail Interpretive Center, Baker 5 hours, 13 min.: Oneonta Gorge 5 hours, 31 min.: Multnomah Falls, Columbia River Gorge. 5 hours, 37 min.: Lost Lake, Hood River County 5 hours, 38 min.: Latourell Falls, Corbett 5 hours, 39 min.: The Grotto, Madison South district of Portland 5 hours, 51 min.: Chinatown, Portland 5 hours, 51 min.: Lan Su Chinese Garden, Portland 5 hours, 51 min.: Temple of Oc-

ulus, Damascus 5 hours, 52 min.: The Witches Castle, Lower Macleay Trail, Portland 5 hours, 54 min.: Opal Creek Ancient Forest Center, Portland 5 hours, 55 min.: Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, Portland 5 hours, 57 min.: Cathedral Park, east shore of the Willamette River near Portland 6 hours: Metolius Balancing Rocks near Culver 6 hours, 1 minute: Forest Park, Portland 6 hours, 1 minute: Portland Art Museum, Portland 6 hours, 4 min.: Oregon Zoo, Portland 6 hours, 4 min.: Tree Climbing Planet, Oregon City 6 hours, 5 min.: Portland Japanese Garden, Portland 6 hours, 6 min.: Painted Hills’ Day Fossil Beds National Monument, Wheeler County 6 hours, 13 min.: Mt. Hood 6 hours, 18 min.: Willamette Falls, Oregon City 6 hours, 39 min.: Proxy Falls off of OR-242 by McKenzie Bridge 6 hours, 56 min.: Bagby Hot Springs, Mt. Hood National Forest 7 hours, 1 minute: Lava River Cave near Bend 7 hours, 8 min.: Lava Cast Forest, La Pine 7 hours, 19 min.: Tillamook Rock Lighthouse Columbarium, coast of Seaside. 7 hours, 24 min.: Columbia River Maritime Museum, Astoria 7 hours, 25 min.: Goonie Trails, Astoria 7 hours, 27 min.: Twin Rocks, Rockaway Beach 7 hours, 29 min.: Octopus Tree of Oregon, Tillamook 7 hours, 29 min.: Haystack Rock, Cannon Beach 7 hours, 30 min.: Astoria Column, Astoria 7 hours, 37 min.: Wreckage of the Peter Iredale, Hammond 7 hours, 43 min.: Neahkahnie Mountain, Nehalem 7 hours, 57 min.: Three Sisters Lookout and Wilderness, Blue River 8 hours, 5 min.: Crater Lake

THE BENGAL’S PURR Donaldson recieves Presidential Medallion from LCSC

10 Features By Amanda Egland Co-Editor in Chief

Lewiston schools' superintendent, Dr. Robert Donaldson, received a Presidential Medallion May 11 at the Lewis Clark State College graduation ceremony. Donaldson received the award for his contributions to the community and the relationship between LCSC the Lewiston School District. That relationship has been especially important in the process of expanding the LHS professional-technical education program. It will open with the new high school, which is under construction. “Dr. [Tony] Fernandez and I have really complimented each other throughout this process,” Donaldson said about LCSC's president. “We have a really enjoyable relationship. It is an honor to receive this award.” As far as the LHS graduation ceremony June 2, Donaldson said in May that he was looking forward to the occasion. “Graduation was always one of my favorite times when I was the principal at LHS. It was always fun for me,” said Donaldson. For the class of 2018 Donaldson has this advice:

“Do something you're passionate about. Ultimately your job should be meaningful to you, and make a difference. If you feel like you’re making a difference and you’re passionate about it, that makes all the difference.” Donaldson has fond memories of the class of 2018, and he associates them with the 2017 passing of the bond to fund construction of the new high school. “Everyone talks about the first set of students who will attend the new high school, but I will also remember the students who were in high school when the bond passed,” he said. “The classes of 2017 and 2018 were an influential part of [the] Yes for LHS [campaign].” Looking forward, Donaldson said he feels excited for the changes coming to the school district in the 2018-2019 school year. It should mean a lot of progress for the new high school construction, he said, and school board members will begin reviewing plans for the organization of the inside of the building. The upcoming school year will also mark the beginning for full-day kindergarten in Lewiston, he said.

Dr. Robert Donaldson smiles during an interview at his school district office. Photo by Amanda Egland.

Cooper says goodbye after 21 years at LHS By Braeden Keane Sports Features Editor

Jim Cooper offers his final goodbyes in May 2018. Photo by Braeden Keane.

James Cooper has taught automotive technology at LHS for 21 years, but the end of the 2017-2018 school year marks the end of his career as a teacher. Cooper became a teacher after training high-school-aged employees to work in full-service gas stations. He saw the help that it provided, and that steered him to this career. When Cooper started teaching 24 years ago, he saw the life skills that the course

provided his students. “My favorite part about teaching is seeing or hearing of students working in the automotive field,” said Cooper. Cooper plans on living the retirement dream of fishing, camping, and spending time with his grandkids. “I will miss the auto shop here at LHS where we worked on countless cars,” said Cooper. While he enjoyed the challenge of his work, Cooper said he looks forward to his retirement and can’t wait to see his former students succeed in the working world.

Wassmuth leaves LHS, moves to Alabama

By Loretta Tuell Features Assistant

At the end of the 2017-2018 school year, Debbie Wassmuth will say farewell to LHS along with the graduating class of 2018, preparing to move to Huntsville, Alabama. After teaching at health occupations LHS for 14 years, Wassmuth said she has felt grateful for the chance to work with students and the LHS staff daily, and that is what she will miss most. She has been happy to contribute to the community here, she said. With the 2,250-mile move to Huntsville comes a wide range of emotions. Wassmuth said she feels a mixture of nervousness and excitement.

“Change is harder when you're older,” Wassmuth said. But she said she is willing to move and be flexible with change in order live closer to her boyfriend. Wassmuth is also excited for the move so she can impact another community with her knowledge of healthcare. As Wassmuth reflected on her time at LHS this spring, she stressed how much she has loved her job. “There has never been a day where I wasn't excited to be here. I look forward to coming to school,” said Wassmuth. Before she leaves LHS, Wassmuth hopes that she has impacted and inspired her students. Of all the young minds she has interacted with, she said, she hopes that some have walked away with the inspiration to work in healthcare. Debbie Wassmuth lounges in her classroom after school. Photo by Skylar Raymond.

June 2, 2018

Features 11

Drama seniors say thank you for support By Leah Schmidt Chief Copyeditor The 2017-2018 Lewiston High School drama department has a season filled with giant peaches, murders and happy weddings, and students who feel proud of all they have accomplished. At the season's end, many LHS senior performers are saying goodbye to their drama family with sadness. But after being devoted to the club for years, many said they feel excited to move on to the next chapter of their lives. Many of the graduating students agreed that this year's spring musical, The Drowsy Chaperone, was their favorite play they have ever performed in. “My favorite production would have to be The Drowsy Chaperone because of the professionalism and positivity from everyone involved,” said co-theater manager, Derek Renzelman. “[It] allowed us to be show-ready much earlier than usual, and overall, it made for an extremely fun show to be involved in.” Aailee Fuson said she also loved the production and her role as Mrs. Tottendale. “It gave me the opportunity to not only spit on my partner, but the opportunity to play a character that I will always cherish in my heart,” Fuson said. Mel Syverson, drama club adviser and director, also agreed that The Drowsy Chaperone was “one of the best shows I have ever directed anywhere.” She added, “The hard work and cohesiveness of the cast

was unlike I’ve experienced before. I really couldn’t have been more proud.” For Syvannah Hart, however, her favorite production was And Then There Were None. “I got to deal with some very heavy material that challenged my ability,” Hart said. “I had never been a part of such a small cast, so I was able to become very close with some people I wouldn’t have gotten the chance to be with otherwise.” The senior drama club members said they feel excited for next year and where their lives are heading. Several of them are going on to the University of Idaho and will study a wide variety of careers. Abby Myklebust, drama club co-president, will study environmental science. Zach Haas, the other co-president, plans on double-majoring in theater arts and film studies. Renzelman will double-major in instrumental music education and vocal music education. Carl Snyder also plans to double-major, but in vocal per for mance and music education. Hart hopes to study abroad and will major in foods and dietetics with a focus on genetic engineering of plant crops. Aubrie Hunt, however, will continue her life adventure at Boise State University, studying occupational therapy. Sirius Adamson plans on getting a job and going through life wherever it may take her from there. And Jessica Leckie, the drama club’s public relations officer, will attending Lewis-Clark State College for an associate’s degree in general stud-

“It gave me the opportunity to play a character that I will always cherish.” -- Aailee Fuson

LHS and CHS drama students perform James and the Giant Peach as a combined musical. Photo by Leah Schmidt.

ies. The graduating students had lots to reflect on at the end of their senior year, thinking of people who have supported them in their journey through high school, and those who have helped make them who they are today. Hunt thought of Julie Burke, LHS choir director, for helping her love of music grow, and drama directors Syverson and Beth Atkinson for helping her discover her love for performing. Hart thought of her mother, who works in the LHS counseling center, who would pick her up at midnight from rehearsals. Fuson wanted to thank her supporters in life who never let her give up on her dreams. “Without [them], I wouldn’t be anywhere near where I am,” Fuson said. Adamson also wanted to thank her supporters, adding, “It’s been a wild ride but it's been fun.” For Hass, he wanted to thank several people who

“To everyone who has taught me, directed me, or even come to see a show ... none of it would have been possible without you.” -- Derek Renzelman supported him in his entire experience with drama, including Atkinson, Becci Tank, Ethan Smith, Larry Goodwin and Syverson. Myklebust said she felt grateful for those who always believed in her and pushed her to become a better person.

Leckie felt lucky for all her support through high school. “I don’t know where I would be without [it],” she said. Snyder reflected on support that came from many people. “I would not be anywhere near where I am if it wasn't for all that [they] have done for me -- whether it be my journalism and music teachers, my directors, family, or close friends,» Snyder said. Renzelman said he felt grateful for the drama club as well as its audience. “To everyone who has taught me, directed me, or even come to see a show, thank you from the bottom of my heart because none of it would have been possible without you,” said Renzelman. As their adviser and director, Syverson had these words for the seniors before graduation: “I love you. I am so thankful for you,” Syverson wrote. “Don’t EVER stop using your gifts to add love and light to this world!”

Saturday, June 2, 2018

What is unique about the class of 2018?

“We are all interested in different things. We are a diverse class.” Jessica Earle

Sakti Woodbury

“The respect we share for one another, no matter the circumstances.”

“Everyone has really good style.”

Hunter Keil

See you on the flipside, Class of 2018! Vals and Sals

• Hailey Ames – Valedictorian

• Leah Schmidt – Valedictorian

• Daniel Barclay – Valedictorian

• Sean Schumacher – Valedictorian

• Madison Bricker – Valedictorian

• Kristina Steele – Valedictorian

• Mikiah Carpenter – Valedictorian

• Connor Turpin – Valedictorian

• Olivia Crickmon – Valedictorian

• Cassie Williamson – Valedictorian

• Peter Everett – Valedictorian

• Meeka Woods – Valedictorian

• Marcus Goeckner – Valedictorian

• Benjamin Wren - Valedictorian

• Aspen Kasper – Valedictorian • Bailey Key – Valedictorian

• Isaiah Evans – Salutatorian

• RaeAnn Kirk – Valedictorian

• Ethan Jones – Salutatorian

• Lance Lorang – Valedictorian

• Abby Myklebust – Salutatorian

• Joseph Perez – Valedictorian

• Alyssa Ralstin – Salutatorian

• Ryan Rapier – Valedictorian

• Derek Renzelman – Salutatorian

Bengals pursue life after graduation

What is unique about the class of 2018?

“We are all hardworking individuals.” Max Hill

Anna Martin

“We all like to have a good time.”

“Everyone is getting married.”

The LHS class of 2018 gathers in the senior lot. Photo courtesy of Ridinger’s Art of Photography.

Jaron Carter-Jackson

14 Sports THE BENGAL’S PURR Lewiston athletes sign for college Miriam Ames

Nicholas Blume

Cameron Cady

Sport: Cross-country, track and field School: Lewis-Clark State College Mascot: Warriors What are you most excited about? “Becoming a part of a new XC family”

Sport: Football School: Montana Tech Mascot: Ore Diggers What are you most excited about? “Being part of a great program and living in Montana”

Sport: Basketball School: University of Providence Mascot: Argonaut What are you most excited about? “Meeting new people while getting to play the sport I love”

Treyton Forsman

Tori Frei

Morgan Genzer

Sport: Soccer School: North Idaho College Mascot: Cardinals What are you most excited about? “Moving to a new town and meeting new people”

Sport: Basketball School: Walla Walla Community College Mascot: Warriors What are you most excited about? “Playing for Bobbi Hazeltine and the opportunity to play at the next level”

Sport: Golf School: University of Jamestown Mascot: Jimmie Knights What are you most excited about? “Going to a new place”

Kellie Earle

Sport: Cheerleading School: Idaho State University Mascot: Bengals What are you most excited about? “Competing at the national cheerleading competition in Daytona Beach”

Madison Haas

Sport: Soccer School: University of Idaho Mascot: Vandals What are you most excited about? “The next level of play and 2018 recruits”

June 2, 2018

Sports 15

Lewiston Seniors Sign for College Tanner Hutchens

Sport: Wrestling School: Eastern Oregon University Mascot: Mountaineer What are you most excited about? “Meeting new people”

Chris Powell

Demi Randall

Cheyenne Rose

Sport: Baseball School: Columbia Basin College Mascot: Hawks What are you most excited about? “Playing the sport I love at the next level”

Sport: Basketball School: Saint Martins University Mascot: Saint What are you most excited about? “Meeting new people”

Sport: Softball School: Spokane Falls Community College Mascot: Bigfoot Mascot: What are you most excited about? “I’m most excited about playing at the next level. It’s always been my dream”

Madison Stoddard

Sport: Volleyball School: Rocky Mountain College Mascot: Bears What are you most excited about? “Playing at a higher level and traveling to new places”

Kelsey Wilkins

Sport: Soccer School: North Idaho College Mascot: Cardinal What are you most excited about? “New people and new coach and a new place”

Braeden Wilson

Sport: Basketball School: Lewis-Clark State College Mascot: Warriors What are you most excited about? “Playing at the next level where my family played”

16 Sports

2018 Season Wrap-up

THE BENGAL’S PURR By Kaitlyn Hinkley, Sports News Editor

BELOW: The BOYS GOLF team ended its season fighting hard. Although the team did not make it to state, many agreed that it was a fun and memorable season. The 2018 varsity golf seniors are Joshua Flowers, Treyton Forsmann, Hunter Keil and Seth Samuels. Photo courtesy of LHS Yearbook.

ABOVE: The BASEBALL team fought hard at state but did not end up where they wanted to. They went down to Boise and placed fifth. The seniors from this year’s team include Christopher Powell, Mitchell Miller, Garrett Beckman, Bill Alspach, Ryder Shoults and Braden Ruddell. Photo courtesy of Alspach. BELOW: The GIRLS GOLF season ended at state, where the Bengals fought hard. Senior golfer is Ana Martin (top center). Photo courtesy of LHS Yearbook.

ABOVE, LEFT: LHS welcomed a new coach to the SOFTBALL team this year and made vast improvements from last season. The girls fought hard but did not go to state. Seniors from the team include Abby Vanhorn, Alexis Vaughns, Maddisyn Schaff and Cheyenne Rose. BELOW: The BOYS TRACK team placed 10th at state. In the top three were seniors Sakti Woodbury (third, 300-meter), Joey Perez (third in the 3,200- meter), and Ozzy Wexler (first, 300-meter hurdles). The GIRLS TRACK team did not place. Photo courtesy of LHS Yearbook.

June 2, 2018

Sports17

2017-2018 Bengal athletics review, goodbyes ‘‘

By Kaitlyn Hinkley, Sports News Editor

Above: Seniors from the VARSITY TENNIS team gather at their se- Above: This season, LHS added a SWIM team to the array of sports offered. Swimmers Gerard Jaquez and nior night: Kayla Kauffman, Isaac Grogan, Trevor Reitz, Josh Wilson, Tyler Halle Kincaid went to state, but did not place. This year’s senior swimmer was was Mason Bartschi. Photo Grimm, Nicholas Cornell, and RaeAnn Kirk. The team competed at state, courtesy of LHS Yearbook. but did not place. Photo courtesy of Wilson.

Above, left: The BOYS BASKETBALL team gathers in Booth Hall. The team did not advance to districts. Seniors were Braeden Wilson, Cody McKenzie, Treyton Forsman, Joshua Chapman, Braden Ruddell and Connor Grainger. Above, right: The varsity GIRLS BASKETBALL team gathers pre-season. They did not make it to state, but gave competitors a run for their money. Seniors include Morgan Genzer, Demi Randall, Kaitlyn Isley, Madison Stoddard, Cameron Cady, Bryn Cornelia and Alyssa Ralstin. Photos courtesy of Ridinger’s Photography.

Above: Varsity BOYS SOCCER players take a pre-season photo. The team did not advance to state. Seniors include Dalin Flowers, Sean Schumacher, Matthew Hersh, Patrick Kearney and Billy Hobbs. Photo courtesy of The varsity CHEERLEADERS gather in front of Lewiston High School. LHS Yearbook. The cheer team placed third in show at state. Left to right, top to bottom: Amanda Fowler, Shaylee Bachman, Mary Ingram, Kellie Earle, Paige Dickenson, Kylee Logston and Amanda Egland. Photo courtesy of Earle.

18 Sports

2018 Season Wrap-up

THE BENGALâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S PURR

ABOVE, LEFT: Senior FOOTBALL players gather post-game. Unfortunately, these Bengals did not make it to state. Seniors from the varsity team are (left to right) Trek McCammon, Tyler Grimm, Kassidy Ray, Zane Rudolph, Taran Smith, Garrett Beckman, Josh Wilson, Troy Hanes, Mitch Miller, Nick Blume and Tanner Hutchens. Photo courtesy of Wilson. ABOVE, RIGHT: Wrestlers competing at state gather on the mats. Max Hll (bottom left) and Tanner Hutchens (bottom center) were the only two to place at state. Photo courtesy of Hutchens.

ABOVE, LEFT: The boys and girls BOWLING team gathers at the lanes. At state, the boys placed third and the girls placed first. The seniors from the 2017 bowling season are Braeden Keane and Cheyenne Rose. Photo courtesy of Keane. ABOVE, RIGHT: The varsity VOLLEYBALL team poses after a day of playing. This year, the team fell short at state. Seniors from the 2017 team include Madison Stoddard, Mikiah Carpenter and Kaitlyn Isley. Photo courtesy of Stoddard. BELOW, LEFT: Senior girls share one of their last pictures as a team. The 2017 team did not make it to state. Photo courtesy of Tori Frei. BELOW, RIGHT: The 2018 varsity CROSS-COUNTRY team gathers in the sun. At state, the boys placed third, but the girls did not place. Seniors from this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s team include Mim Ames, Justin Anderson, Ian Nail, Joey Perez, Dale Simmons, Zane Simpson, Connor Turpin, and Sakti Woodbury. Photo courtesy of John Potter.

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22 Entertainment

THE BENGAL’S PURR

Summer 2018 Northwest concert checklist By Kaitlyn Hinkley Sports News Editor June 2, Bhad Bhabie Spokane, Washington. Concert starts at 8 p.m. Tickets: $25-$125 June 14, Tory Lanez Spokane, Washington. Concert starts at 8 p.m. Tickets: $27-$102 June 14- June 17, Paradiso Festival George, Washington. Festival starts at 1 p.m. Tickets: $179-$479 June 19, Chris Brown Auburn, Washington. Concert starts at 7 p.m. Tickets: $27.50-$495 July 7, Kenny Chesney Seattle, Washington. Concert starts at 5 p.m. Tickets: $42-$447 July 7, Harry Styles Seattle, Washington. Concert starts at 8 p.m. Tickets: $25-$95.50 July 13, Logic Auburn, Washington.

Concerts starts at 7 p.m. Tickets: $25-$226 July 13, Tim McGraw Seattle, Washington. Concert starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $65-$449 July 14, X Ambassadors Spokane, Washington. Concert starts at 8 p.m. Tickets: $27 July 16, Five Finger Death Punch and Breaking Benjamin Auburn, Washington. Concert starts at 7 p.m. Tickets: $30-$525 July 18, Five Finger Death Punch Spokane, Washington. Concert starts at 7 p.m. Tickets: $62-$530 July 20, G-Eazy Auburn, Washington. Concert starts at 6:30 p.m. Tickets: $29-$164 July 21, Chris Stapleton Auburn, Washington. Concert starts at 7 p.m.

Tickets: $69-$249 Aug. 1, Seether Spokane, Washington. Concert starts at 8 p.m. Tickets: $36-$199 Aug. 2, Niall Horan Auburn, Washington. Concert starts at 7 p.m. Tickets: $29.50- $600 Aug. 3-5, Watershed Festival George, Washington. Start times range. Tickets: $215-$550 Aug. 10, Panic! At The Disco Seattle, Washington. Concert starts at 7 p.m. Tickets: $46-$592 Aug. 17, Halestorm and In This Moment Seattle, Washington. Concert starts at 7 p.m. Tickets: $37 Aug. 18, Kid Rock Auburn, Washington. Concert starts at 7 p.m. Tickets: $29-$395 Aug. 19, Lady Antebellum and Darius Rucker

Watershed is scheduled for the Gorge in George, Washington August 3-5. Year’s lineup includes Big and Rich, Blake Shelton, Brad Paisley, Brett Young, Brantley Gilbert, Cassadee Pope, Chris Lane, Dustin Lynch, Clint Black, Cole Swindell, Morgan Evans and Granger Smith. Photo courtesy of watershedfest.com.

Auburn, Washington. Concert starts at 7 p.m. Tickets: $35-$408 Aug. 25, Ed Sheeran Seattle, Washington. Concert starts at 7 p.m. Ticket prices unavail-

able at press time. Aug. 24-26, Bass Canyon Festival George, Washington. Start times range. Tickets: $125

Aug. 31, Zac Brown Band Seattle, Washington. Concert starts at 7 p.m. Ticket prices unavail able at press time.

DAILY SPECIALS Monday: More-oz-Monday

Congratulations

Class of 2018!

Proudly supporting area youth since 1938.

Tuesday: Twosday Wednesday: BOGO 50% Thursday: Treat Yo’self Friday: Ice, Ice Baby River City Espresso WE DELIVER 1441 G Street in Lewiston, 208-798-4488

June 2, 2018

Variety

To our readers,

On behalf of The Bengal’s Purr staff of 2018, we would like to thank you for your continued support of the Lewiston High School journalism program. We have had outstanding opportunities in our time at LHS, and we would like to share our gratitude with everyone who helped us along the way. Whether it was interviews, information, or pictures, the time given to our program will contribute to an archive of information and memories that will keep our class and the history of LHS alive for years to come. Thank you once again for your readership and support over the last three years.

To our fearless leader,

Thank you, Mrs. Egland, for the time and devotion you have commited to not only the journalism program, but to us as journalists and students. Your passion for this program shines through and we feel very lucky to have been taught by the very best. This year marks your 20th year since graduating from this program, and your love for it has never weathered. We will move forward in life not only as better journalists, but also as better individuals, Sincerely, thanks to you and your amazing program. The Bengal’s (Bagel’s) Purr senior staff of 2018 With love, Name: Amanda, Sandra, Kaitlyn, Annabelle, Created with TheTeachersCorner.net Word Search Maker Grace, Leah and Braeden

Graduation 2018

CAP DIPLOMA GRADUATION TWENTYEIGHTEEN

CEREMONY EDUCATED SALUTATORIAN VALEDICTORIAN

CONGRATULATIONS GOWN TASSEL WE MADE IT

Dear seniors, Thank you for your note -- it was a wonderful suprise! (I have edited it for spelling, formatting and punctuation.) I am grateful for and believe in each one of you, truly. Thank you for choosing to contribute to the Purr legacy and family. Now, go change the world! Love, Mrs. Egland Dear seniors, It isn’t fair to collectively call you “the seniors” because each one of you is a different type of gift to us. From helping us make pages when we were clueless, to ranting to us about senior projects, each one of you means much more to us than you could know. You each are an inspiration and your legacy will live through the next few years before our group is gone, faded into life. We are the Purr and you will always be part of our Purr family. Sincerely, The Cubs

The Bengalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Purr Lewiston High School 1114 Ninth Ave. Lewiston, ID 83501

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Meet the Senior Staff

Co-Editors in Chief......................................................Amanda Egland, Sandra Kinney Managing Editor....................................................................................... Leah Schmidt Features Editor.........................................................................................Sandra Kinney News Editor............................................................................................Amanda Egland Opinion Editor..........................................................................................Annabelle Ady Sports News Editor.................................................................................Kaitlyn Hinkley Sports Features Editor .......................................................................... Braeden Keane Photography Editor ...................................................................................... Grace Eller Copyeditors.....................................................................Sandra Kinney, Leah Schmidt Features Assistant ..................................................................................... Loretta Tuell Sports News Assistant .................................................................................. Grace Eller Adviser...................................................................................Charity Thompson Egland