March 6, 2020

THE

Lewiston High School, 1114 9th AVE., Lewiston, ID, 83501

Bengal’s Purr

Since 1927

Vol.92 N0. 5

Friday, March 6, 2020

Remembering Kobe Bryant, page 8

Choir, band busy with spring season, pages 10-11

Birds of Prey has killer female cast, page 14

Cover photo by Lexis Lane

2 Opinion

THE BENGAL’S PURR

Super Bowl “family program” comes under fire

By Josie Hafer Editor-in-Chief While the Super Bowl halftime show received criticism for tainting a “family program” there is much evidence to support that this statement is untrue. According to iHeart Radio, the Federal Communications Commision has received over 1300 complaints about the performance.

According to billboard. com, the 2020 halftime show

brought in 102 million views.

While many enjoyed the show, there were also a great many who didn't, heralding the performance as “softcore porn,” according to the Christian Post.

The backlash towards the show often fell under the defense of the Super Bowl being a family event- but is that really an appropriate title?

In 2019, Anheuser-Busch made a record purchase of eight ads covering seven different brands including Budweiser, Bud Light, Bon & Viv, Michelob Ultra and Stella Artois. Three of these ads lasted 30 seconds; according to Business Insider, a 30 second ad spot in 2019 sold for $5.25 million. Super Bowl LIV also marks the 40th year of Anheuser-Busch sponsorship.

Even at home, Super Bowl Sunday is notorious for alcohol consumption in the US. Time. com ranks the Super Bowl in

“Super Bowl LIV also marks the 40th year of Anheuser-Busch sponsorship.“ the top 10 drinking holidays for the US. In the two weeks leading up to Super Bowl Sunday, Americans purchase nearly 50 million cases of beer alone. In 2009, the US military waived their ban on alcohol consumption in combat zones in order to let soldiers drink during the Pittsburgh v.

Arizona game.

Shakira and J. Lo’s costume choices also came under fire, but what they were wearing was no different than that of any NFL cheerleader. Plenty of children go to NFL games and the cheerleaders costumes have never been a source of complaint.

Shakira and J. Lo celebrate their halftime performance. Photo courtesy of nbcnews.com.

President Trump’s impeachment: FAQs Question: What is impeachment?

Answer: Impeachment is a formal process where the President may be accused of wrongdoings or other high crimes such as treason, bribery, or misdemeanors.

By Lexi Lane Staff Reporter

President Trump speaks at a presidential rally. Photo courtesy of media.vanityfair.com

As many people know, the President of the United States of America, Donald Trump, was under the process of impeachment going into 2020. On Sept. 24, 2019, a whistleblower released information to impeach Trump. The Houses’ report started in an investigation on Oct. 31, 2019.

Question: How many articles of impeachment are against Trump? What do the articles against him claim?

Answer: There are two articles of impeachment the House has against Trump, according to ap news. The first article claims the President used his powers of the office to solicit and pressure the Ukraine government to investigate his rival, Joe Biden, and interfere with the future U.S. presidential elections. The second article claims that he also obstructed Congress. Trump has a few instances where he defied

the subpoenas issued by the House of Representatives for his personal benefit, according to the Hill.

Question: What were the results of the impeachment process?

Answer: On Feb. 5, Trump was acquitted, and the Senate freed him from all charges.

Question: What does this mean for the 2020 election?

Answer: Since the Senate acquitted Trump, he has a very likely chance of completing two terms, predicts ap news.

If he were removed from Congress, a second vote would be necessary to disqualify him from any elections in the future. Experts have also predicted the 2020 election to produce the highest amount of voting participation since the 1908 presidential election.

Friday, Mar. 6, 2020

Opinion 3 Treatment by border patrol thought unconstitutional

By Hannah Shoffitt Staff Reporter

In Sonoma County Superior Court in San Francisco, California, ICE agents are making immigration arrests against people waiting for their immigration hearings.

According to usatoday.com, as of Feb. 21, 2020, 2 people have been detained. The agents have no warrants or any legal right to do that, as California law prohibits it.

David Jennings, the ICE field director in San Francisco, had this to say regarding it “Our officers will not have their hands tied by sanctuary rules when enforcing immigration laws to remove criminal aliens from our communities. “ On Mar. 1, 2003, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) was set as a component of the United States Department of Homeland Security. The purpose of ICE, according to ice.gov, is “to protect America from the cross-border crime and illegal immigration that threaten national security and public safety.“ Immigration being a very prominent issue, it's interesting to see if 17 years later, how well is the department accomplishing

this, and how legally? “ I heard a shot and I ran... I didn't know if more shots were coming,“ said an anonymous witness of a recent ICE shooting in Brooklyn. According to msn. com, the man shot in the face was 26-year-old Eric DiazCruz, the girlfriend's son of the man they were trying to detain.

This is just one of the numerous examples of the cruel and inhumane ways ICE treats people.

ICE raids have an extensive history. The events involve agents rounding up people with deportation orders and finding other undocumented immigrants who could also be deported. The first raid, according to Wikipedia, was on Dec. 12, 2006, in Hyrum, Utah. About 1,300 people accused of immigration violations and identity theft were detained. Many were deported.

ICE raids are known to be misleading. According to witnesses, agents have forcefully entered homes and businesses without a proper warrant.

Immigration Attorney Josie Gonzalez described the average home raid:

“ These agents, armed and in uniform, will surround a home -- likely during early morning hours -- and bang on doors ordering occupants to open up, “ Gonzalez said. “ Raids, by their nature, use the elements of surprise, intimidation, and shock to catch people off guard and create chaos. “ Immigration Detention Centers are also a sight for many heinous and degrading acts. An exclusive story published at Shreveport, Louisiana, on Feb. 7 by Tom Dreisbach of Red River Radio told of the experience of eight Central American migrants in 2017. They didn’t have access to clean water, the bonds for their immigration cases were too expensive, and the only information they received was in English.

One night, detention officers ordered them to return to their beds so they could do a population count. The eight men refused to move.

According to the cameras recording the scene, detention officers told the detainees to go to their beds for several minutes. They waived a canister of pepper spray in front of them, then attempted to move the men physically. The video shows

them calmly seated, trying to keep their arms linked together.

But detention officers would later claim they were inciting a “rebellion “ and “assaulting“ staff.

Detention officers then sprayed pepper spray at the men at least three times and forcibly removed them from the tables.

“As they visibly recoiled from the spray, some of the detainees were pushed into walls, pulled to the ground or dragged on the floor by guards,“ said Dreisbach, watching the recordings. A department of homeland security would later note that “Afterward, though not seen on camera, five of the detainees were placed in hot showers. Hot water, however, can worsen the painful burning effect from pepper spray.”

Other incidents have happened, such as females experiencing sexual harassment at the hands of ICE agents, overcrowding, bright lights on 24/7, and outbreaks of deadly sickness, according to time.com.

Does this sound constitutional? Is it OK for the government to use its power to push people around and violate the fourth

An Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raid in Mississippi left many children without their parents. Photo courtesy of CNN .

amendment? The fourth amendment states that “The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported

by Oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized.“ ICE raids are unconstitutional in the sense that they don›t have warrants, and certainly not for specific people; they also arrest and search people often. The government also has a moral obligation to treat those in their country with respect, and take the right of asylum seriously. Requesting asylum isn't a crime, and shouldn't be treated as such.

Many, if not all, of the deportees are going back to countries where they might be ostracized or unsafe. “Sending people back to where they came from“ can mean death.

The rights of the constitution belong to anyone in the US, and one of those is the right to live.

Native Americans are the only people who didn't immigrate to the United States.

According to the Lewiston Senior High School Student Diversity from usnews.com, less than 2% of students here are Native American, 5% are Hispanic, and 7% are other races with white as the majority with 86%. More than 98% of students at LHS are here because of immigrants.

To be against immigration seems questionable when put in that context.

The tactics of Immigration and Customs Enforcement are incredibly unconstitutional.

The institution is denying people their rights and treating them as sub-human.

To continue these actions is horrible and merciless, and future generations will hopefully see it for how truly evil and cruel it is.

4 News

THE BENGAL’S PURR Bengals come out victorious at 2020 Golden Throne

By Wendy Guo News Assistant

According to Terrianne Blegen, the LHS administrative secretary.

Golden Throne 2020 was a “I’m so proud of what massive fundraising success Lewiston and Clarkston this year, with Lewiston accomplished,” said Jacob and Clarkston high schools Hale, the junior ASB president. raising a total of $17,975. “It’s always important to give Students from LHS alone back.” raised $12,259.79 for local This year’s theme for charities, while CHS raised Lewiston was construction, $5,715.21. Golden throne is in honor of the current one of the most anticipated building of the new high basketball events in the school in the Lewiston community, where varsity Orchards. Clarkston’s theme teams from Clarkston and was cowboys and cowgirls.

Lewiston come together to Lewiston won the spirit compete at the LCSC College. award, taking back the The ASB members of throne that they lost from the Lewiston and Clarkston chose year prior. five local charities to split the Lewiston boys’ varsity won money equally. This included: 56-33 against Clarkston, but • The Willow Center Clarkston girls’ varsity won ($3,595) 58-31 against Lewiston.

• Homes of Hope ($3,595) “I was obviously very excited • Backpacks for Kids to win the throne back,” said ($3,595) junior, Sam Mader. “I love eat• Rock Steady Boxing ing chicken for dinner!” ($3,595) • The Green Apple Project ($3,595)

LHS, CHS vandalism upsets student body

By Abby Bower News Editor Lewiston and Clarkston High School campus’ were each vandalized on Jan. 23rd, the night before the annual Golden Throne game.

The vandalism found at CHS included the words, “Go Bengal’s, Purple and Gold!” scrawled on the windows in blue paint, and a white sheet, reading “GO LHS FTB,” was hoisted on the flag pole.

The vandalism on the LHS campus included the words “F*** LHS” multiple times on a smashed-up car that had been used as a fundraiser for Golden Throne.

According to Alexis Poxleitner, senior class secretary, there were also spray paint

marks on various other parts of campus and a shattered window on the science building due to an alleged BB gunshot.

These pranks caused a variety of tweets, from both LHS and CHS students regarding the vandalism, to be sent. These tweets regarded sportsmanship and which team deserved to win the spirit award at Golden Throne the following night.

These acts of vandalism aren’t the first time the school’s rivalry has gotten the best of them.

In 2018, the morning of Golden Throne, CHS students changed the ‘L’ on top of the Lewiston into a ‘C.’ Many students believe this prank was the reason CHS lost the spirit award at the coinciding Golden Throne Game.

A birds-eye view of the Golden Throne rivalry game.Photo by Lindsy Sexton.

Friday, March 6, 2020

News 5 CHS adopts new gender policy Graduation rate rises

By Elsa Munster News Assistant The policy for the state of Washington unanimously approved a new genderinclusive school policy Jan. 27. According to the Lewiston Tribune, the Clarkston School Board decided to integrate this policy locally.

This policy requires schools to let students use the restrooms and locker rooms that they identify the most with, either male or female. It also makes students able to participate in the physical education classes and athletics that correspond with the gender they identify with. According to k12.wa.us, any student who wants more privacy for any reason is required to have their wishes granted; they must be given a separate place to change if they ask.

According to nasponline. org, a 2015 court case, G.G v. Gloucester County School Board determined that under Title IX it is sex discrimination to not allow a student to use the locker room or bathroom that matches their gender identity.

Also according to naspoline. org, it is in the public interest that every student, including

transgender students, have the freedom to learn in an environment without sex discrimination.

States such as Oregon, California, New York, etc. have gender inclusive school policies, similar to Washington’s, according to genderinclusiveschools.org.

The map shows the disparity of equality between LGBT youth in America. Photo courtesy www.lgbtmap.org

Libraries eliminate late fines

By Wendy Guo News Assistant

“I think it’s a great change,” said MaryAnn Funk, the head librarian for Lewiston High School. “People have a second chance and won’t be affected by their inability to pay fines.”

If an item is overdue, the patron won’t be charged for lateness; however, their account will be temporarily blocked. This means they cannot check out any materials or use the digital services, according to asotincountylibrary.org.

If materials aren’t returned within two months, the

patron will be charged for the cost to replace them. As asotincountylibrary.org put it, an easy fix is to return the item, despite how long it’s been overdue, and all charges will be cleared and the account will be restored.

“I’m really glad they removed fines since I’m a forgetful person and I always forgot to turn in my books,” said junior, Deborah Crisostomo. “I’ll feel more comfortable turning books in now.”

As of Feb. 1, all local libraries are waiving the late fines and are forgoing charging patrons late fees in the future. The libraries participating are: • Asotin County Library • Asotin School Libraries • Clarkston School District Libraries • Clearwater Memorial Public Library • Lapwai School Libraries • Lewiston City Library • Lewiston School District Libraries • Orofino School District Libraries • Prairie River District Libraries This change stems from a national trend of libraries eliminating fees for late materials. The reason behind it is that the looming fees deter many from visiting their local libraries, according to Libraries across the country forego charging patrons late fees. Photo courtesy www.hcplc.org. columbuslibrary.org.

By Emily Gibson Staff Reporter

The amount of Hispanics graduating from high school in Idaho is declining, according to the data released by the State Department of Education in December of 2019. IdahoEDNews compared the standardized test scores (ISAT scores) for white and Latino students to decide whether or not they’re learning at an equal rate.

The data shows that, in most school districts, many more white students are considered proficient than their Latino peers. From the classes of 2018-2019, graduation rates decreased by two percentage points. This pattern has appeared in Idaho since at least 2011, according to the State Department of Education.

Idaho schools have struggled to help Latino and Hispanic students learn at the same rate for decades. According to IdahoStatesman.com: • 26% of Idaho’s Latino students are proficient in math compared to 49% of white students.

• 13% of all Latino students met college readiness

benchmarks on the SAT compared to 35.7% of white students.

• 15% of Idaho’s Latinos hold a post-secondary degree compared to 41% of non-Latino individuals.

The Idaho State Department of Education has specialized programs to help migrant students. These programs help disadvantaged students succeed and move onto higher education.

Approximately 30% of Idaho’s Latino and Hispanic students qualify for these programs, according to the data released by the State Department of Education.

Their plan is to improve students achievement and connect school districts to the resources they need to serve kids, hoping that by 2022, math and English scores will be raised by 26%.

Between 2017-2019, the State Department of Education tried to improve scores by 9%. They only improved by 2.5%, meaning a bigger change needs to be made to reach their next goal.

The Pew Research Center complies a graph of different ethnicities dropping out of high school. Photo courtesy www.pewresearch.org.

6

News

THE BENGAL’S PURR

Friday, Mar. 6, 2020

News 7

The Coronavirus surpasses SARS virus in damage

By Isaiah Schmidt Sports Editor The coronavirus has gained widespread awareness with numerous infections and many deaths. With warranted attention from the media, the new disease has emerged as one of the most impactful pandemics of the 21st century.

The Ebola epidemic had a death rate of over 11,000 from 2014 to 2016, according to one.org. But the coronavirus poses the possibility of being just as disruptive.

Major news outlets often compare this ‘novel’ coronavirus with the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) pandemic that occurred nearly two decades ago. The question is, what was SARS. The SARS outbreak, like its modern counterpart, the coronavirus, originated in China. The notability of the new epidemic is that China had previously handled the SARS epidemic with a lack of transparency. Some were concerned about how China would handle this new virus.

This was because of China’s initial reluctance to reveal the extent of the outbreak internationally. China’s leaders imposed strict censorship over the news outlets and media, preventing not only the world but also its citizens from hearing about the disease.

Here are a few quick facts about the size of damage done by the SARS virus from ecohealthalliance.org: • Medical professionals diagnosed over 8,000 people with SARS worldwide • More than 700 people died, making the SARS fatality rate around 8.75% • SARS cost the global economy anywhere from $30 billion to $50 billion A few quick facts about the damage done by the coronavirus (too soon to publish timely events, wait until a few days before sending to print) • The coronavirus has infected over 80,000 people worldwide, with more cases every day • The death toll is approaching 3,000, but calculating a fatality rate is not yet possible • Oxford Economics has

Chinese citizens walk with their protective masks on in light of the coronavirus outbreak on Jan. 25 after the cancellation of multiple holidays. Photo courtesy of MarketWatch. claimed that the coro- more quickly than SARS, that with the World Health navirus could cost the which took a month if not Organization working to proglobal economy a whop- more, to spread across the vide resources and relief and ping one trillion dollars globe. But in a matter of cooperation by the Chinese The coronavirus has begun weeks, the coronavirus hit government, containment to surpass its predecessor the United States, with 15 will be not just possible but in both death toll and total Americans already infected. reality soon. infections, according to staUnfortunately, the coronatistics from worldometers. virus looks like it will do more info. The disease has already damage than the SARS virus. appeared to be spreading Despite this, there is hope

Billie Eilish sweeps the Grammy’s “big four”

By Sophie Hunter Entertainment Assistant At her first ever Grammys, American singer and songwriter Billie Eilish was one to watch throughout the night.

The 62nd Grammys were, like most before it, highly anticipated. All of today's most prominent artists were there, all very successful in their recent albums and singles.

With all of these new releases, many were eager to see who would win the big four.

These top honors are the biggest and highly coveted categories. They are as follows: Album of the Year, Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best New Artist. Back in 1981, singer Christopher Cross was the first person to be awarded all four titles. The big four sweep hadn't been done since then, until the 2020 Grammys.

At only 18 years old, Billie Eilish walked into music’s biggest night with six

nominations. These included the big four, along with Best Pop Solo Performance and Best Pop Vocal Album.

Released March 2019, her debut album When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go?, was made in her bedroom alongside her older brother and producer Finnaes O’Connell.

She has been making music since she was just 14 years old, releasing her single “Ocean Eyes” to SoundCloud in 2015, which sent her on the path to stardom. Today, according to Spotify.com, Eilish has over 59 million monthly listeners.

One after the other, Eilish walked onto the stage to accept five awards, including the big four and Best Pop Vocal Album. In their acceptance speech for album of the year, O’Connell said, “We stand up here confused and grateful.”

Eilish herself made it a point during her speeches to thank the fans saying, “Mainly I think

Billie Elish displays her collection of grammy trophies. Photo courtesy of Billboard.com. the fans deserve everything.

I feel like they have not been talked about enough tonight because they are the only rea-

son any of us are here at all.”

Although the awards alone are incredible, Eilish also broke records becoming the second,

youngest, and the only female to ever receive the big four.

THE BENGAL’S PURR

8 Features

Kobe Bryant, daughter, among nine dead in tragedy

By Eli Thomas Entertainment Co-Editor

Kobe Bryant. The name that echoed through arenas all across the country for decades.

The name one calls out before draining a three on the court, or simply tossing a crumpledup paper into a trash can from a distance. The name is, and always will be, a cornerstone of basketball, and what it means to be a true competitor.

On Sunday, Jan. 26, nine people lost their lives in a helicopter crash in Calabasas,

California, which is located just northwest of Los Angeles.

Amongst the victims were Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna Bryant, along with Payton Chester, Sarah Chester, Christina Mauser, John Altobelli, Keri Altobelli, Alyssa Altobelli and pilot Ara Zobayan.

They were on their way to a basketball game for Gianna’s travel team, which her father coached. The news came as a shock to the basketball world, the sports world and the world as a whole, as Mr. Bryant truly transcended the boundaries of

Kobe his daughter Gianna share wonderful moments together courtside. Photo courtesy of wmagazine.com.

Kobe Bryant preparing to take a free throw. Photo courtesy of thesun. co.uk.

his sport with his perseverance and sportsmanship.

Nobody represented hard work more than him. He put 100% effort into everything he did. This was evident with his 2017 animated short film “Dear Basketball.” This film, which was inspired by Bryant›s retirement, got him the Academy Award for best animated short film. It tells the story of a young Kobe Bryant falling in love with the game of basketball and having to say goodbye to it as an adult.

His infinite thirst to always be better was known as “Mamba Mentality,” referring to his nickname, “Black Mamba.” His peers chose this nickname because of the actual snake’s abilities. The black mamba can strike with 99% accuracy at maximum speed, in rapid succession.

Bryant spent 20 seasons in the NBA, from 1996-2016, all with the Los Angeles Lakers. He led them to NBA Championships in 2000,2001, 2009 and 2010.

And since his death, the NBA named its All-Star Game’s MVP (Most Valuable Player) award after him. But it seems like Bryant was not a guy who would want to be called “bigger’’ than basketball. As the world could see with his determination to come back to the sport even after major injury, he was all about the game of basketball and he had a love for it like few others.

On the day of his death many were discussing whether to postpone the eight NBA games scheduled for that day.

But the Nuggets, Spurs, Hawks, Grizzlies, Pelicans, Knicks, Magic and Trail Blazers all hosted home games as scheduled.

Many, such as Carmelo Anthony, said that this is what Bryant would have wanted: for people to play basketball, and for others to watch it and appreciate the sport for what it is. Each of these games started off with one team taking a 24 shotclock violation followed by the opposing team taking an eight

second violation. Teams that did not play that day followed suit the following day. The two numbers represent the two numbers Kobe wore during his career, 8 and 24.

Watching the games , it looked very difficult for the players to go out and play that day. Bryant was the inspiration behind this generation of basketball. In fact, he is the inspiration behind much of this generation and touched the lives of many, basketball players or not -- from Lebron James to Barack Obama.

So next time you are doing something that may be difficult or challenging, take a moment to try to get into the Mamba Mentality. Whether you are taking a test, working a job, practicing a sport, playing an instrument, or shooting a paper into the trash, think, “What would Mamba do?” and do it to the best of your ability.

RIP to Kobe, Gianna and all of the other victims.

Mamba forever.

Friday, Mar. 6, 2020

Features 9

Two LHS seniors making changes for their future

By Skylar Raymond Features Editor

Two LHS seniors, Makenna Falkenstein-Barker and Joey Thomasson went to Boise, Idaho on Jan. 27 for a meeting with Idaho’s legislature.

During their time, the two talked to Representatives, Mike Kingsley and Daniel Johnson. Topics included oral chemotherapy for lower prices and the nicotine age being 21. They were sent to Boise

by Mary Kemp through the youth commission.

“We were so lucky to get this opportunity to go with the American Cancer Society and speak with representatives in Boise, it was so nice to be heard,’ said Falkenstein-Barker.

In between talking to representatives, the two toured the Capitol in Boise.

“I loved getting to see the history of our government in Idaho, and getting to speak with representatives made me feel so grown up,” Thomasson, said.

After talking to representatives, the two have a plan to hold a meeting for teachers at Lewiston High School to talk about their views of vaping as students.

“It’s really important to me to be able to take the information we were given and do something with it, I was given this great opportunity and I’m going to do something about it,” Falkenstein-Barker said.

After high school, Falkenstein-Barker plans to study musical education, where she will attend is still undecided.

Thomasson is going to attend Lewis-Clark State College and begin his general education courses.

Makenna Falkenstein-Barker and Joey Thomasson in front of the American Cancer Society conference in Boise, Idaho. Photo courtesy of Makenna Falkenstein-Barker.

Former Lewiston High School principal passes away

By Hannah Shoffitt Staff Reporter

James “Jim” Dan Wilund passed away on December 30, 2019 due to cancer. He was a principal at Lewiston High School for 17 years and left a lasting impact.

He was born October 4, 1949 and had a happy childhood in Coeur d’Alene.

He graduated from Coeur d’Alene High School in 1967, accepting a full-ride from University of Idaho for football and basketball. He went on to get a bachelor’s in science and a master’s in education.

He coached and taught at Pierce, Post Falls, and St. Maries. His first principal position was also at St. Maries.

In 1988, he took his final position as principal of Lewiston High School.

He met the love of his life, Raye Lynn Henderson, while teaching and coaching at Timberline. In 1976, they had their first son Travis James Wilund. Their second son, Josh Daniel Wilund, joined the family in 1980. Principal Wilund was also the grandpa to three grandchildren.

Wilund also dedicated a lot of time to officiating. He umpired diamond sports and

WORLD OF TROPHIES FOR ALL OF YOUR AWARDS

RICK & SERA YOUNG Phone,. fax: 208-746-1481 Cell: 208-791-7753 Email: youngr@cableone.net 1114 Alder Ave., Lewiston, ID 83501

enjoyed a career as a high school and college basketball official. Wilund received multiple awards for his teaching and sports alike.

His impression on LHS is strong and unforgettable.

“He hired me back in 1988 and my career has been all the better for having had him as my boss and most importantly, my friend,” says Mrs. Mary Ann Funk, the LHS librarian, “Wilund was perfectly suited to be a high school principal. He loved kids, could lead a staff through any storm, and always enjoyed a good hearty laugh. His passing leaves a giant hole in many people’s lives. I’m just sorry more peo-

ple didn’t have the chance to know him. Legend is an overused word, but Jim Wilund 100% deserves that designation.”

Mr. Jeff Karlin, a science teacher at LHS, also had some kind words. “Jim Wilund convinced me to come and teach at LHS in the late 1990’s. I didn’t want to leave my job on the Oregon Coast, but Jim made me see otherwise. It became the best decision of my working life.

I appreciated that Jim was a leader in every sense of the word. He was decisive and direct and commanded respect that his staff was more than willing to give. He was ever the commanding pres-

ence that I personally loved working for.”

Wilund was a strong supporter of the bond levy, and a big part of the community.

His legacy will live on and he will be missed.

Jim Wilund

Want even more stories? Visit www.bengalspurr.com for all publications!

10

Sing into Spring!

Friday, Mar. 6, 2020

11

Sing into Spring!

All-State choir offers unique experiences for students

LHS director awarded by music association

By Josie Hafer Editor-in-Chief

By Braitton Beckstead Staff Reporter

On Feb. 1, approximately 15 LHS musicians travelled to Northwest Nazarene University in Nampa, Idaho to sing with the All State High School choir. These select musicians are chosen by an audition process and perform with hundreds of other individuals in specific choirs.

Musicians are given their music to learn in advance in order to come together and perform the same material with those who share their passion for music.

Kari Wilsey, senior, has performed at All-State for two years now. She was chosen to perform with Mixed Choir, a group comprised of both male and female chorists. QUOTE, said Wilsey. Eve Schmidt, also a senior, performed with Treble Choir, an all-girls choir.

“It was definitely one of the most fun weekends of my life,” she said of the experience.

Ani Galeano, senior, sang with the Jazz Choir. She performed with the Jazz Choir as a junior as well. She was particularly thankful for the guidance from her instructors.

“Our director, Rosanna; you could tell she was a true jazz musician. When she would give an example, like when she would scat for us, it would be on the spot and it would be perfect,” Galeano said. “It was helpful for us to learn from someone so talented.”

Brendan Burns, the Lewiston High School band teacher, received the Outstanding Young Music Educator of the Year award from the Idaho Music Educator Association at a conference.

One reason the award exists, according to Burns, is because turnover is very common in music education.

“Idaho wants to reward their teachers that have made it through the most challenging years of their teaching career,” Burns said.

Though Burns has just served a few years at LHS, a lot of

what he has done in that time has made the Lewiston Band Program what it is today. His hard work through the first years of teaching can be seen through the growth of the Lewiston band program. In 2014, 55 students were in the band. This year there are 95 students; in 2020, with the new high school and a 9-12th grade band, a projected 160 students will attend, Burns said. If the projected amount of students participate, the band from 2014 to the 20202021 school year would have increased by 290%.

With Burns the jazz band has also seen tremendous growth.

In 2014 there were only 12

Noah Schmidt, sophomore, Caroline Gibbs, senior, and Aubrey Marran, sophomore, are all smiles after their jazz concert performances. Photo courtesy of Caroline Gibbs.

Choir, bands, color guard busy with spring practices, performances

By Taren Glenn Staff Reporter

Six LHS choir students find time to meet up during All-State Choir in Nampa, idaho. Photo courtesy of Kari Wilsey.

The LHS bands and choirs have had an exciting season and hope to continue improving for next year.

Band continues to improve, every day, said Brendan Burns, music teacher.

Recently, the Jazz bands were in preparation for the Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival, which was held at the University of Idaho Feb. 29 . Senior Zachary Segdwick At LHS, the band spring concerts will take place March 3 and 17. They will be performing pieces such as “Red Clay,” and “Cellar Dweller,” along with “Spain” and much more.

Some spotlight performers to look out for include Brian Renzelman, Noah Kowatsch, Noah Williams and Zachary Sedgwick. According to jazz band teacher Brendan Burns, all of them perform solos.

The LHS Jazz Combo will also perform at the event. Lewiston choirs will also perform at the spring concert along with the Jazz band.

In the weeks leading up to Valentine’s Day, the Gold Voices, Grace Notes and Treble choirs all participated in Singing Valentines.

They performed colorful and smooth renditions of songs such as ”You are my Sunshine,” by Jimmie Davis and”Can’t take my eyes off you” by The Four Seasons. There was a plethora of options which could meet anyone’s needs whether to embarrass a friend, or send a lovely song to one they admire.

Also with the music department, Color Guard is currently looking for members. It is helpful to have music and dance experience, but it is not a requirement, Burns said.

One of Burns’ band classes hard at work. Photo by Annika Livfenborg.

members. This year there are 45, and next year an estimated 75 students will attend.

Burns› work with the IMEA also reveals part of why he received this honor. He helped with the IMEA All-State Conference and Festival, was the assistant chair of the AllState Orchestra in 2018, and the All-State String Orchestra in 2019. He also was the AllState Symphony chair in 2020.

The annual award is to recognize and honor music teachers in Idaho who have taught for six years or less, according to the IMEA.

12 Sports

Boys varsity basketball one point short of advancing

By Isaiah Schmidt Sports Editor

Here is the current list of wins and losses for the team:

The varsity basketball team for the Lewiston Bengals has shown a formidable winning ability, with an overall record of 13-8. Since the last issue, the Bengal boys’ team has defeated Clarkston at the golden throne, and had worked their way to a championship game against Post Falls. The team was hoping to continue to State competition but were ultimately one point short of winning. The game ended dramatically - a three-point shot from LHS to give the team a one-point lead with minimal time left, a two-point response from Post Falls, and LHS missed last-second three-point shot.

Though disappointing, the loss still leaves the Bengals with an impressive record.

Lewiston vs.

Timberlake, Bengals won 71-36 • Lewiston vs. Shadle Park, Bengals won 66-55 • Lewiston vs. Pendleton, Bengals lost 53-56 • Lewiston vs. Moscow, Bengals won 62-46 • Lewiston vs. Hermiston, Bengals won 55-43 • Lewiston vs. Wenatchee, Bengals won 55-42 • Lewiston vs. Lapwai, Bengals won 66-48 • Lewiston vs. Walla Walla, Bengals lost 55-63 • Lewiston vs. Moses Lake, Bengals won 64-47 • Lewiston vs. Moscow, Bengals won 58-55 • Lewiston vs. Post Falls, Bengals won 52-49 • Lewiston vs. Coeur D’ Alene,

By Hannah Shoffitt Staff Reporter

gals lost 33-67 • Lewiston vs. Post Falls, Bengals lost 39-57 • Lewiston vs. Lake City, Bengals lost 38-56 • Lewiston vs. Coeur d’Alene, Bengals lost 50-70 • Lewiston vs. Post Falls, Bengals lost 46-71 • Lewiston vs. Lakeland, Bengals lost 44-56 • Lewiston vs. Moscow, Bengals won 45-37 • Lewiston vs. Lake City, Bengals lost 33-57 • Lewiston vs. Post Falls, Bengals lost 32-59

Bengals won 64-52 • Lewiston vs. Sandpoint, Bengals lost 48-61 • Lewiston vs. Clarkston, Bengals won 56-33 • Lewiston vs. Post Falls, Bengals lost 48-77 • Lewiston vs. Lake City, Bengals lost 59-65 • Lewiston vs. Lake City, Bengals won 45-43 • Lewiston vs. Coeur D’ Alene, Bengals lost 33-34 • Lewiston vs. Lakeland, Bengals lost 59-76 • Lewiston vs. Post Falls, Bengals lost 59-60 For information about the season, visit high-schools/ lewiston-bengals-(lewiston,id)/basketball/schedule. htm

THE BENGAL’S PURR

A member of the LHS wrestling team is watched intently by his teamates and coaches. Photo courtesy of the LHS Wrestling Facebook Page.

LHS wrestling finishes

By Taren Glenn Staff Reporter Seven Bengals from the wrestling team made it to state, while eight qualified, including sophomore Tristan Bremer.

Talking to one of the wrestlers, Kylie Johnson, when asked how they prepare for a match, it was a short reply. They said, ”I just get angry,” pure and to the point. When also interviewing a Junior on the wrestling team, Gage Fiamengo said he valued the ”team bond.” It seems the wrestling team values comradery among all matches. While a sophomore, Logan Meisner said the only thing he fears is, ”...letting my team down.”

Girls varsity at LHS finishes 2019-2020 season Girls varsity basketball has played a total of 25 games since their season began in December. As of Feb. 20, they had a record of 3-22. Here’s a quick season recap: • Lewiston vs. Mountain View, Bengals lost 23-66 • Lewiston vs. Boise, Bengals lost 41-50 • Lewiston vs. Timberlake, Bengals lost 42-51 • Lewiston vs. Moscow, Bengals won 28-23 • Lewiston vs. Timberlake, Bengals lost 38-63 • Lewiston vs. Shadle Park, Bengals lost 44-47 • Lewiston vs. Pendleton, Bengals lost 44-58 • Lewiston vs. Lake City, Bengals lost 46-60 • Lewiston vs. Hermiston, Bengals lost 51-77 • Lewiston vs. Wenatchee, Bengals won 67-65 • Lewiston vs. Post Falls, Bengals lost 41-57 • Lewiston vs. Clarkston, Ben-

Emily Collins, a sophomore guard for the team, said, “My favorite moment of the season was Golden Throne and getting to play with my teammates.

I’m going to miss the seniors the most; we got really close.”

Girls Varsity Team (in alphabetical order): Taryn Barney, Tai Bausch, Emily Collins, Amelia Foss, Sammi Grant, Anika Grogan, Gabby Johnson, Jenika Ortiz, Cait Richardson, Karli Taylor, Katy Wessels, Jordyn Wilkins, and Coach Lear.

Girls varsity practice in a passtionate student environment before Golden Throne. Photo by Lindsey Sexton

Friday, March 6, 2020

Sports/News

LHS cheer earns district champion title

By Rylie Reagan Staff Reporter The varsity Bengal cheer team started competition season in January, and won the title of grand champion at the “Maniac Off” cheer competition in Orofino on Saturday Feb. 8.

At the competition, the LHS varsity team won with the highest points in each category, including show, stunt, sideline and pom dance.

The win meant defeating Post Falls High School, and head coach, Heidi Hagen, said that she is extremely proud because they were not able to achieve at last season’s competition.

The team competed in a district tournament taking place at Lakeland High School on Feb. 29. At districts, the team

had also won the title of grand champion in the category 5A. To win, the LHS cheer team had to compete in three categories. They had obtained first in their sideline routine, and second in both their pom dance and main routine. Their performance at districts made them eligible to compete at the state competition this year in Nampa on March 20. Sydnee Swift, a sophmore at LHS, said “I’m beyond excited to be taking all three routines to state.

We’ve been working so hard to achieve the goal of becoming district champions this year, which we did! We actually have a chance at winning state this year!” The LHS varsity cheer hopes to win the state title in Nampa on March 20.

13

LHS softball begins

By Braitton Beckstead Staff Reporter The 2020 Bengal softball season began with tryouts Feb. 21, and the first game will be March 14.

24 athletes attended tryouts this year. Sam Mader, a junior at LHS, said she is most excited this season for the “team coming together and (them) having a successful season.”

Rylie Reagan, a sophomore, joked that she’s looking forward to running this season, but later said, “I’m looking forward to playing with the incoming freshmen.”

Kristin Delp is the varsity coach and Randy Foster is the JV coach. Last season’s varsity record was 10-4-4. .

Right: Lewiston cheerleaders gather before competing at “Maniac Off” in Orfino. Photo courtesy of Melinda Pals.

Find more sports news on www.bengalspurr.com!

VFW awards Dougherty district teacher title

By Kimberly Neri Features Assistant Emmett Dougherty was named District Teacher of the Year this winter by the Region II Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Dougherty teaches US History at Lewiston High School and was recognized for his commitment to teaching Americanism and patriotism to his students. Neil Williams, an LHS counselor, nominated Dougherty.

“It’s nice to win an award but to get it from the VFW was pretty special,” Dougherty said . “I teach about the men and women that lived the history that I teach about so it makes this honor pretty special for me.”

Dougherty has taught at LHS for 21 years, and also serves as an ASB adviser and a football coach.

“I have wanted to be a teacher and coach ever since I was in high school,” he said.

Emmet Dougherty

14

THE BENGAL’S PURR

Entertainment

Birds of Prey displays realistic female friendships

By Ellie Hafer Entertainment Editor

DC Entertainment has finally made a good movie.

The company is notorious for making second-rate movies, all of them scoring around a 50%, according to Metacritic and Rotten Tomatoes. The only two that have a general success rate are Shazam! (2019) and Wonder Woman (2017). However, the recent release of Birds of Prey: And the Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn, which has a 80% audience score according to Rotten Tomatoes, may turn the luck of the DCEU’s luck around.

The movie follows Harley Quinn (Margot Robbie), in her first appearance after the events of Suicide Squad (2016). In Birds of Prey, she is taking on Gotham by herself without her relationship with the Joker. She struggles to make it on her own, turning to other villains and vigilantes of Gotham. Harley Quinn, Black Canary, Huntress, and Renee Montoya all band together to protect Cassandra Cain from the clutches of Gotham’s new big bad, Roman Sionis (Ewan McGregor).

Female viewers are especially appreciative of the realistic presentation of female friend-

Harley Quinn shares a piece of liquorice with her pet hyena, Bruce. She named the hyena after Bruce Wayne, aka Batman. Photo courtesy of IMDb.

ships. The smallest gesture in the film is turning out to be a fan favorite. In the middle of the main action sequence, Harley notices that Black Canary is struggling because her hair keeps falling in her face.

Harley quickly offers her a hair tie before effortlessly resuming to fight. In an interview,

director Cathy Yan stated that she “thought it was crazy that all these women have perfect blown-out hair in all these other action films”.

Yan also makes the attempt to break down the character type of the “strong female lead”. She felt that the term made it seem like to be worthy of a lead role,

Gotham’s newest villain, Roman Sionis, and his right-hand-man, Victor Zsasz, plot on how to stop Harley Quinn and capture Cassandra Cain. Photo courtesy of IMDb.

a character wasn’t able to show weakness or pain. In this movie, Harley grieves the loss of her pet, feels guilt about her decisions, and is emotionally vulnerable with the people in her life. Birds of Prey is clearly a movie made for women, by women.

Another thing that truly elevates this movie is the casting.

Every role is a perfect fit. Margot Robbie has been praised for her portrayal of Harley Quinn since Suicide Squad. Ewan McGregor plays the newest villain, Roman Sionis. Sionis’ character is a complete hate-to-love type of person. He is an absolute scumbag of a person, but has a charming and funny personality. Fans of Scott Pilgrim vs. the World will recognize Mary Elilzabeth Winstead as Huntress.

Every actress understood her character perfectly, and every bit of their personalities were spot-on.

If a strong female cast wasn’t enough, the soundtrack is also completely female made. From remixes of older classics to

new creations, every song is a powerful piece of music. Female rappers such as Doja Cat, WHIPPED CREAM, Baby Goth, Megan Thee Stallion, Normani, Jucee Froot, and GALXARA dominate the soundtrack. Indie artists, such as Charlotte Lawrence, Maisie Peters, Cyn, K.Flay, and Sofi Tukker have some more low-key tracks.

Black Canary actress, Jurnee Smollett-Bell, also sings an incredible version of “It’s A Man’s Man’s Man’s World”.

Overall, this film felt like a complete female bombshell.

There was phenomenal directing, brilliant casting, and supercharged soundtrack. For these reasons, Birds of Prey receives a 9/10.

Friday, March 6, 2020

Entertainment 15

Tame Impala returns strongly with The Slow Rush

By Sophie Hunter Entertainment Assistant

Released Valentines Day, The Slow Rush is the fourth studio album by Australian artist Tame Impala. This release follows the highly successful album, Currents, from 2015. Inspired by ‘70s rock and disco, Tame Impala creates the sequel five years later.

Falling into the alternative or indie genre, this album highly utilizes synths and distorted instruments to create a warped, psychedelic feel. As the sole producer, writer and singer on this album, Tame Impala makes for an impressive one-manband.

The opening track, "One More Year," essentially sets the tone and theme for the rest of the album. With the signature reverb and dreamy vocals, Tame Impala preaches on making the most of our time and to not procrastinate.

Fan-favorite "Borderline" is the third track and is the most "pop" song on the album.

Although it's new and updated, it still provides a nostalgic feel.

It's not trying to mimic older music and styles. It holds a unique sound that stands on its own. "Posthumous Forgiveness" is sorrowful and mournful in meaning as well as in sound. In the track, he addresses his late

father and forgives him for his premature death. In a confused rage, Impala desperately asks his father questions, searching for answers on why he left him so soon. In the second part of the song, he mellows out to tell his father all the things he wished he could have shared with him.

Track six, "Tomorrow's Dust," elaborates on the major theme of the album: time. Tame Impala speaks on the pointlessness of looking to the past and regretting today's decisions, as they will only become "tomorrow's dust."

"On Track" is one of the more optimistic songs, talking about overcoming setbacks and persevering to achieve goals. In the chorus, Tame Impala sings, "I lost a wheel a while back.

But strictly speaking, I'm still on track." As the song continues, it builds upon itself with various drums and synths.

"Lost in Yesterday" details nostalgia and how all bad memories one day turn into fond ones. Tame Impala sings about not dwelling on the past or how to change it. But on the other hand, he warns of overromanticizing the past as well.

"Is It True" differs from the rest of the album with its jolty beat and a more robotic tone.

Towards the end of the song,

Tame Impala incorporates bongos and adds fragmented instrumentals, creating a tropical feel.

A poster child for the album, "It Might Be Time," best showcases the sound and direction Tame Impala is moving in musically.

This song is chaotic and unpredictable in all the best ways. Its odd structure is very telling stylistically, and uses arguably the most unusual arrangement of sirens, pitched pianos, synths, drums and basses.

The second to last track "Glimmer" opens with a recording from a podcast which quickly breaks into the main instrumental track. Between synths and indistinguishable whispers, the line "I just want a glimmer of hope" is repeated six times. While easily being the most straightforward song, it's also the shortest, being only 2 minutes and 9 seconds.

Closing out the album is "One More Year." Starting out with a jazz piano, the song builds into a set of heavy-hitting guitars and drums. Although for some of the song they cut out, the piano line remains and only changes pitch and tone throughout the song. The lyrics, best put by Impala himself, he tells Apple Music, “The time has come. Nothing left to prepare. Nothing left

Tame Impala releases his fourth studio album on Feb. 14. Photo courtesy of Genius

to worry about. [...] My future comes to me in flashes, but it no longer scares me. As long as I remember what I value the most.”

Equally euphoric and nostalgic, Tame Impala provokes a feeling unique to his music. It's an entire experience on its own.

Something to appreciate about this album is that it's not merely a collection of songs but rather a body of work that's connected and interlocked, creating a storyline and message. There are many layers to peel back,

each one as intriguing as the next.

Tame Impala creates a body of work that is unique and progressive. For these reasons, The Slow Rush gets a 9/10.

Gretel and Hansel reimagines childrens fairytale

By Sophie Hunter Entertainment Assistant

Released Jan. 31, the new horror film Gretel & Hansel puts a demonic spin on the classic children’s fairy tale of Hansel and Gretel.

In this new adaptation, as with the original story, a young girl and her brother are searching for food in a forest when they come upon a witch's house.

Seeming too good to be true, the witch has an endless abundance of delicious food and provides them a place to sleep. She even goes as far as

to teach Hansel how to wield an ax and teaches Gretel light witchcraft.

Although the witch tries to befriend and trick the children, she is outsmarted by Gretel, who uses the witch's magic against her. In doing this, Gretel frees not only her brother, but all the trapped souls of other children who fell for the witch's tricks. This enables the children’s souls to carry on into the afterlife.

As the children leave, Gretel fully embodies the powers and form of a witch. During the last moments of the film, Gretel is

faced with the moral dilemma to leave and never look back, or to right the wrongs of the witch who ruled the grounds before her.

Using demonic and satanic depictions along with some very dark scenes, the film is on the scarier side of PG-13 movies.

Critic Oktay Ege Kozak of Paste Magazine best described the movie by saying, “The film thrives within a dream-logic vibe, especially in Olivares’ cinematography, with its heavy emphasis on symmetrical framing, stark contrast and lush use of yellows and blues, evoking sub-

liminal terror.”

With only a $5 million budget, the camera work, costuming and overall production are impressive and underrated. The style of filming sets up a bleak ambiance, which adds to the overall sinister tone of the movie.

The acting itself is phenomenal.

Despite Sophia Lillis’ (who plays Gretel) hints of an American accent peeking through, it feels as though the actors truly encapsulate their roles.

Although derived from a tale told thousands of times over, the story here feels original and

unexpected. The presentation of the storyline feels both new and familiar.

Gretel and Hansel overall is an enjoyable film despite some of its decisions when straying from the storyline. For these reasons, Gretel & Hansel deserves a 7/10.

THE BENGAL’S PURR 16 Entertainment Lil Wayne kills his own career in Funeral

By Eli Thomas Co-Entertainment Editor

New Orleans rapper Lil Wayne released his 13th studio album on Jan. 31, titled Funeral.

Lil Wayne has been a household name in the hiphop industry for about two decades at this point. He came up as one of the most decade defining rappers of the 2000s and he definitely solidified his place in rap history throughout the 2010s.

His style and unorthodox delivery have inspired a generation of rappers such as Young Thug and Drake.

This follows his highly anticipated 2018 album, Tha Carter V which was the continuation of his “Tha Carter” series. Many fans consider this particular group of albums to be some of Wayne’s best and were not disappointed by the latest installment. Some were curious to see if Lil Wayne could release another solid album just 15 months after his last one.

The first thing to note about this album is that it lasts 76 minutes with 24 songs. Yes, 24. But that does not make it automatically bad. After all Stankonia by Outkast has the exact same number of songs and is one of the best rap albums ever.

The deciding factor is wheth-

er or not Wayne can make the album engaging enough to keep one listening through two dozen songs for over an hour.

“Mahogany” represents what these songs should sound like. Wayne has a tame, solid flow over a wellproduced instrumental with hypnotic vocal samples. The beat slowdown on the last leg of the track provides some nice variation. If only Wayne could have provided the same effort or variation on the other 23 songs on Funereal.

After “Mahogany,” there is not much more good to say about this album. The album cover is neat in the way that it spells “Lil Wayne” upside down. Cool?

It is also puzzling in the way that it’s not clear who this “funeral” is for. But by the end of the record, the only two things the funeral could be for are either the listener’s brain cells or Lil Wayne’s effort to make decent music. It would make sense for Wayne to explore the theme of death and the afterlife here. But he almost completely fails to follow this theme after the opening track.

The introduction is extremely dragged-out and the only way it relates to any other songs is that it, too, seems a lot longer than

Lil Wayne released his new album Funeral on January 31, 2020. Photo courtesy of genius.com.

it actually is. A big reason many songs feel like this is because of the horrendous artist features across the album. The late rapper XXXTENTACION even makes a posthumous appearance on “Get Outta My Head.”This adds Lil Wayne to the list of sell-out, money-greedy rappers who “collaborated” with X after his death. It is sad to see that even Lil Wayne is milking X and his death for his own benefit. The mind-numbing instrumental here does not bring much to the table either.

In fact, in terms of the production, nothing about this album brings much to the table. The table is empty.

Lil Wayne fans are starving.

When Wayne manages to rap over a decent-sounding

beat, he ruins it with his awful lyricism. Case in point, “Clap For Em,” is a refreshing change of pace, with the beat switch about a minute in. But it is ruined by Wayne talking about salt shakers and bobbleheads. The lyrics do nothing but make the overall problem worse.

In fact, it’s only two months into 2020 and Funeral already contains some of the worst lyrics of the year. These awful lyrical moments include the song “Bing James” when Jay Rock raps, “Focused on this bag now, yeah we from the projects, we got that PTSD like some Vietnam vets.” Why? Just why?

Another contender for worst lyric goes to Lil Wayne who says “Soft top on my car like it’s Jewish, catch a body

like Ray Lewis.” This line is representative of the album as a whole, it just makes you facepalm. If there is a funeral for anybody here, it should be for the listener. It is hard to see how people can not die of boredom sitting through this 24-song album. It is actually cruel that he made it this long, because it did not need to be at all. For these reasons, Funeral gets a 2/10.

Friday, March 6, 2020

Entertainment 17

El Socio satisfies with scrumptious Mexican food

By Eli Thomas Co-Entertainment Editor

El Socio is a Mexican restaurant located at 602 20th St. in North Lewiston that opened at the beginning of February. It offers a wide array of Mexican dishes such as burritos, quesadillas, street tacos, enchiladas,

tamales and fajitas. The new restaurant took over the location for Lunch Box Deli and BBQ, which closed down a few months ago.

This made some wonder if a different restaurant could compete with other Mexican restaurants in town such as El Sombrero, Sinaloa and Tacos Cecy.

The nacho appetitzer prepares to be eaten. Photo By Eli Thomas.

When first stepping in El Socio, a friendly server welcomes customers before seating them with a smile on their face.The environment is nice and subtle. Unlike some Mexican restaurants, El Socio is not overdone with artificial “Mexican” decor or props.

The Mexican aesthetic is very subtle, with a few cool props and cheerful Latin music. The seating itself is very limited but it gives the restaurant a quaint, traditional Mexican aesthetic. They offer typical drinks such as Mexican Coca-Cola and Jarritos in glass bottles.

This meal started off with the nacho appetizers, which consisted of chips, beans, cheese, guacamole, sour cream and chicken. All these ingredients come together to make a fiesta for the taste buds. The guacamole is exceptionally tasty out of all the components of these nachos. It is a pretty standard approach to the dish but that does not stop it from setting an exceptional tone for the wide variety of entrees that El Socio has to offer.

The main course for this meal featured the Super Burrito, which is rice, beans, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, guacamole, sour cream and steak wrapped in a soft flour tortilla. It too came out in a very timely fashion, but it still seemed to be prepared delicately and with thought.

The food itself definitely lives up to the name, as the Burrito does a super-good job at offering an authentic, distinguishable flavor while filing the stomach. The burrito is also very carefully rolled and stays together well, unlike some that fall apart easily. The burrito is similar to the nachos in the way that both dishes do a superb job at combining different components.

The conclusion of this meal came in the form of chocolate-covered fried vanilla ice cream with sprinkles. This is a pretty traditional Mexican desert, and like everything else, El Socio does a fine job at keeping it simple. However, this part of the meal does not quite live up to the

standard set by the previous two items. The Vanilla ice cream is a little bit lacking in terms of flavor. And the texture of the fried ice cream is not ideal either. But it is still an adequate ending to an overall satisfactory meal.

-With a simple, clean environment and masterfully simple food with strong flavors, El Socio has a recipe for a great and successful restaurant -- even one of the best Mexican restaurants in the valley. For these reasons it gets a 9/10.

To complain about this review, email bengalspurr@ lewistonschools.net

Super Bowl Ads come out as a mixed bag

By Isaiah Schmidt Sports Editor

The Superbowl often results in some of the most creative (and expensive) ads. Though in many cases, people avoid unnecessary ad-watching, the Superbowl proves an exception.

Ever since the famous 1984 ad by Apple, which bucked the trend by airing a more cinematic and plot-based production, humor and quality is now the status quo. This year’s ads were a mixed bag, with both horrible flops and notable successes. These are the cream of the crop: The Rocket Mortgage ad featuring Jason Momoa ripping off a muscle suit and wig

was somewhat disturbing, but also hilarious. The final scene of him failing to bench press the bar topped it off perfectly. Of course, anyone who remembered what the ad was for needed to have an above-average memory. But still.

A star-studded production for Hyundai’s new 2020 Sonata, “Smaht Pahk” featured John Krasinski, Chris Evans, and Rachel Dratch (according to Adweek). This ad played off Boston accents and supported an amusing plot, all within 60 seconds.

Porsche released an ad titled “The Heist,” with an exciting mini-plot. Security guards at the car company took turns stealing the car while the

others tried to catch them.

Though the plot lacked a humor element, it would have only served to dilute the theme of the production.

The “Can’t Touch This” ad by Cheetos was clever and funny.

It featured a ‘90s hit song incorporated with an amusing but appropriately quirky plot.

The cameo appearance of MC Hammer balanced the thin line of being entertaining and weird.

Overall, this Super Bowl featured both underwhelming and outstanding commercials. The highlights were definitley worth watching for and were a big improvement from last year.

There were still some dissapoinments, however. The

Bryan Cranston mimics Jack Nicholson in the famous “Here’s Johnny!” scene from the 1980 film The Shining for a Photo Courtsey of Syracuse. com

Snickers ad was confusing, and the angle for humor seemed expensive to make and unapealing to watch.

Though many people loved the Tide Pods ad, it seemed to merely impress because of sheer quantity.

18 Variety

THE BENGAL’S PURR

Dear Abby provides Mrs. Funk brings (somewhat) helpful an- LHS history to light swers to life problems Courtesy of Mary Ann Funk LHS Librarian

By Abby Bower & Skylar Raymond Co-Managing Editors

When things go wrong, go to settings DEAR ABBY, I broke up with my boyfriend of eight years recently. He was seeing his therapist for more than mental help if you know what I mean. Anyways, I’ve always used his Netflix, Amazon, and Hulu accounts and I even have my own profiles on them, but since we’ve broken up, everytime I get on to watch something they have a new offensive name for me under the profile.

They make me so sad, but also like, free streaming you know? Should I just cut the cord and get my own? Help please!

--SINCERELY, NETFLIX AND BULLYING DEAR NETFLIX AND BULLYING, We’ve all been there. You need to retaliate, so here’s the plan. It’s actually quite simple. Tomorrow morning, go into your accounts and change whatever name they decide to call you that day to ‘Settings.’ Trust me when I say this is a foolproof plan.

SINCERELY, ABBY

Don’t talk to strangers DEAR ABBY, Recently I got a call from an unknown number and I answered, the man on the phone didn’t speak very great english and it was hard to understand him, anyways one thing led to another and I ended up giving away all of my information and I mean all of it. Social Security, bank information, pin numbers, credit card information, insurance, the whole shabang.

My bank accounts are being charged over $20,000 at McDonald’s all over the world, and I can assure you I am not spending that much for some McChickens. How do I end this disaster without my family finding out?

--SINCERELY, McBROKE DEAR McBROKE, Have you tried nicely asking for him to stop and give your money back? Usually people are pretty understanding and

I firmly believe that if you let him know you did not want him to steal all your information this can be resolved. I will add that maybe if you’re willing to give out all that information over the phone maybe you are too dumb to have a credit card.

SINCERELY, ABBY

Hair grows back, right?

DEAR ABBY, I’m not one to have psychotic breaks often, but when I do it’s bad. I used to get my eyelashes done once every month, but the cost was just beginning to be way too much for me to keep up with making minimum wage. Anyways, I wasn’t having the best week and my eyelashes looked so bad I decided to take them all out, no I don’t have the patience to soak them off or go in and get them taken off, so I ripped. I ripped until they all were out, until I realized, the false extensions were connected to my real eyelashes. I had been ripping out my real eyelashes when I thought it was only the false, now not only do I not have long, luscious, beautiful lashes, I don’t have any real ones! What do I do to not look like a mole rat everyday?

--SINCERELY, EYE’BALLED’ DEAR EYE’BALLED’, You really have gotten yourself in quite the predicament. I have two possible solutions for you. First, and I feel like this is obvious, just go buy some glue on lashes. While this might get a little expensive, it is the perfect way to have eyelashes to wear during the day, and have eyelashes to rip off during your breakdowns. The second isn’t as realistic but, it is more cost effective. Simply get a fine tip sharpie and draw them on every morning. Truthfully no one will really be able to notice unless they were looking really close.

SINCERELY, ABBY

· The school board purchased the lot for where the main building sits in 1919 for $7,000. In 2020 this translates to $109,000. · In 1990 the average monthly gas and electric bill for LHS was $8,000. Today it is $13,003. · The present day ala carte cafeteria used to host basketball games which could be viewed from the auditorium. · The Bengal’s Purr has been in existence for 92 years and was founded when LHS was built. · In case of a fire, you can pull on one of 27 alarms on campus.

· There are about 2200 lockers at LHS and most of them have been here since 1927. Most of them are empty, bet they could all tell a story or two. Well, if lockers could talk. · There are 474 steps on the LHS Campus · The average age of the LHS teaching staff is 47.2. Thirty years ago the average was 41.2 · The combined ages of the LHS teaching staff is 2,502 years. Thirty years ago the combined ages totaled 2,555 years. · The average age of a curriculum adopted textbook at LHS is 11.8 years.

Caveat: The science curriculum is all online.

Friday, March 6, 2020

Meet the Staff

Editor-in-Chief..............................................................................................Josie Hafer Managing Editors..........................................................Abby Bower, Skylar Raymond News Editor.................................................................................................Abby Bower Features Editor....................................................................................Skylar Raymond Opinion Editor..............................................................................................Josie Hafer Entertainment Editors...............................................................Ellie Hafer, Eli Thomas Sports Editor...........................................................................................Isaiah Schmidt Copyeditors...................................................... Abby Bower, Wendy Guo, Josie Hafer, Elsa Munster, Skylar Raymond Business and Distribution Manager................................................Jazmyne Hartogh News Assistants................................................. Jazmyne Hartogh, Taysia Mendenhall Features Assistants.................................Elsa Munster, Kim Neri, Taysia Mendenhall Entertainment Assistant.......................................................................Sophie Hunter Buissness Assistant...............................................................................Lindsey Sexton Staff Reporters................................ Braitton Beckstead, Emily Gibson, Taren Glenn, Lexi Lane, Annika Lifvenborg, Rylie Reagan, Hannah Shoffit Adviser.....................................................................Charity Thompson Egland

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Find all of our issues at: issuu.com/bengalspurr and news updates at facebook.com/bengalspurr @thebengalspurr on Twitter E-mail: bengalspurr@lewistonschools.net Phone: (208) 748-3125 Text: (208) 503-6264 Website: bengalspurr.com Mail: Room 103, 1114 9th Ave., Lewiston, Idaho, 83501

Variety

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#FlashbackFriday: The Bengal’s Purr, March 1945

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

Friday, March 6, 2020

THE BENGAL’S PURR