Volume 66, Issue 2 DECEMBER 18, 2020
TechClasses VIDEO PRODUCTION
Fairbury High School 1501 9th Street Fairbury, NE 68352 Non-Profit Organization Permit #64
Pages 6 + 7
DIGITAL MEDIA
TEACHER SUB SHORTAGE PAGE 4
VIRTUAL LEARNING Page 8
MEDIA PRODUCTIONS
GIRLS WRESTLING PAGE 12
2 Opinion/Editorial
12.18.20
Layout by: Makenzie Mills
Standardized testing carries too much weight
I
magine an exam that only covers four very specific subjects, such as English, reading, science and math, determining whether or not you even get the opportunity to pursue the higher education route you want, let alone how much financial help you get along the way to avoid crippling debt whaen it’s all said and done. Never mind what you as a student are personally strong in or even what career path you plan to take. No, you need to excel in these four subjects; there’s no other option. It’s no secret this has been a reality for students across the nation for some time now. Nearly every four-year institution in existence takes an ACT or SAT score (the ACT is more commonly given in our area) into consideration when determining whether or not you’re accepted. These same schools offer scholarships based on standardized testing scores, and the ability or inability to earn these scholarships make or break a student’s future with a particular school more often than one may think. At times, it appears these scores hold all the power.
It’s common knowledge these tests are in no way reflective of the intelligence of an individual, yet we continue to give the results so much meaning. Students with good grades can, believe it or not, be bad test-takers. On the contrary, what’s stopping a random student from being on their game with guessing and getting a score that doesn’t necessarily show their true familiarity with certain subjects? Speaking of these subjects, they put any student who struggles in a particular area at a disadvantage with a cumulative number susceptible to being hurt by a lower score; therefore they are failed to be rewarded for a higher score earned somewhere else. One of the thoughts I always had following the ACT (other than the stress of hoping I did good enough to appease the college gods) was how the material I just got evaluated on is extremely partial to people going into those careers in terms of what will be used in daily life ten years down the road. I can recognize that science has always been my weakest link in school, and it’s not a field in which I plan on studying or landing a career. I’m sure other students
have similar feelings towards at least one of the subjects, so why does the score of a test over an area of knowledge we may never use again matter so much? I’m lucky enough to say my ACT score is a large part of what’s helping me pay for college, but that’s because the standardized testing system exists to narrow down the list of individuals who end up receiving substantial amounts of aid by being geared towards a certain group of people: successful test-takers. If an evaluation of my ability to change the oil in my car determined the financial aid package I received, I guess I’d be out of luck. I understand using the ACT or SAT to determine the recipients of some scholarships, but it should never be the end-all on determining whether or not someone can attend college. We’ve seen some in-state schools take the steps to alleviate the importance of standardized testing due to COVID-19, and this is a trend that should continue long into the future. Education is only beneficial when it’s available, and we need to ensure that a single exam isn’t what keeps members of our society from continuing to learn and grow.
No one has it figured out. I know I don’t
S
enior year seemed so far away when I came to the high school my seventh grade year. It was a whole six years ago, but those six years have gone by faster than I can believe. The seniors at the time seemed so much bigger and more mature than I was. They knew the ins and outs of high school. They knew what they wanted to do with their lives. They had it all figured out. But what I have come to realize through this last year of high school is that they didn’t have it all figured out. No one has it all figured out. Even the smartest, most successful students in my class don’t have it all figured out. Most of us have the same questions, worries and doubts about the decisions we make. Some of us don’t know if we want to go to college or even if a traditional 4-year college just isn’t for us. Some don’t know where they want to go to college. I can admit I was and still am worried that UNL isn’t the right place for me. Maybe I should step outside of my comfort zone and go to an out-of-state college. I think most of us can agree we are worried about paying for college and applying for scholarships. My parents have been constantly breathing down my neck about scholarships and asking me questions I don’t even know how to answer. Don’t even get me started on majors. How am I supposed to
know what I want to do with the rest of my life at 17/18 years old? I haven’t had hardly any experience in the real world, so how am I supposed to know what I am really passionate about? Although I hope what I have chosen as my major will stick, there are no guarantees. What if I end up getting a degree in something that I have no passion or interest in? One of my biggest worries is not fitting in. I’ve had plenty of friends and classmates that I got along with in high school. It was never hard for me to make friends either. But when I leave for college, I’m worried that I won’t find my group of people. And with the amount of students attending UNL from my class, I don’t want it to be high school 2.0. I know I am going to have to get outside my comfort zone if I want to make college a different experience. Along with making friends, I don’t know what my roommate is going to be like. I don’t want to room with someone I know because I feel like they would hold me back from making new friends. Then again, what if I end up hating my roommate and being miserable for my whole first year? This column is full of what if questions most of my classmates and I have. None of us really have it all figured out. I think this applies throughout life. No matter how old you get, there will always be worries and doubts about whether or not the decisions you are making are the right ones. So just remember that no one has it figured out.
Layout by: Gavin Schramm
12.18.20
Opinion/Editorial 3
Are snow days becoming a thing of the past?
S
EDITORIAL
now days are something every student looks forward to during the winter months no matter what age they are. Even teachers look forward to snow days. Having an unexpected day to relax and enjoy a cup of hot chocolate, bundled in a blanket watching your favorite movie or spending the day outside making snowmen and sledding down hills is an experience The Blazer believes should not be taken away from students. Some may say that with the new development of virtual learning there is no need for snow days. With the ability to teach classes online, students will never need to miss a day of school. While this may technically be true, we believe students should be given this break to have fun and have a day to relax from the stress and worry of school.
If snow days happen to become virtual learning days, teachers will have to drive in dangerous weather to get to school to teach their classes online. What happens if teachers are unable to get to the school or maybe they don’t feel comfortable driving in the weather? The Blazer believes teachers deserve a day off just like the students. A snow day can be beneficial for teachers to have a day to create lesson plans, grade papers or just relax. As for students, snow days are traditional. They are a day to have fun and spend time with family and friends. They should not be taken away just because virtual learning is now possible. Students have already had enough taken away from them as it is, let them enjoy this one sense of normalcy.
No student section to cheer with cheerleaders
W
ith being a che erle ader, your main goal is to get the crowd involved and to spread school spirit. It’s hard to spread school spirit when you’re only cheering for 20 people or less, and it’s even harder when those people don’t get involved with crowd cheers. My favorite part of cheering at games is seeing the energy from the student section. Those are our biggest supporters. Whether they’re there to watch us or not, they still get involved more than a majority of the parents. I almost wasn’t a cheerleader this last year so I could be a part of the student section, but with COVID restrictions, cheering is the only way I can even get into games. Seeing everyone get involved in our cheers and cheering for the players makes my soul happy. It’s almost ridiculous not having students at games. Cheering towards a crowd that barely would even fill up one row in the bleachers just does not feel right. The feeling is compared to your sock falling off of your foot in your shoes. You cannot ignore it no matter how much you try not to think about it. Not having the student section also interferes with the cheers we can do. The
cheerleaders can’t do ‘Battle Cry’ if there aren’t any students there to do the different grade levels. The cheer is almost pointless only doing it for fans and administrators. Another cheer that is hard for us to do is ‘Central’, where we have fans on either side say “Go” and “Jeffs”. With the fans being scattered throughout our side of the bleachers, it’s hard to distinguish where they split. This year has been hard on all of us: we didn’t get our last home football game,
students aren’t allowed to come to games unless they are immediate family, and you have to wear masks wherever you go. It’s all been especially hard on the cheerleaders from going to every football game and cheering, to not being able to cheer for the beginning of the basketball season, to now only cheering for home games. Not only are we cheering and having to deal with new regulations, we are also getting ready to cheer at State. We hope to perform our routines for our tiny crowds before then.
12.18.20
Layout by: Trenton Ruhnke
the outside of the tower before finally painting it. The water tower was not always a white tower with FAIRBURY written on it. It used to be yellow with FAIRBURY written in red without the Jeff man, but sometime in the ‘90s, the city council decided to paint it all white. “I just know that growing up, the colors
were crimson and gold that represented the school colors,” agriculture teacher Mr. Thomas Dux said. It took a while to finish the project, but it was worth it. Repainting the water tower shows pride and community involvement. Anybody who arrives at Fairbury and looks at the water tower knows they are the Jeffs.
4 News
Water tower repainted, loses its shower curtain
Holiday break extensions go into effect TRENTON RUHNKE
decided to give them a reward,” Mr. Anderson said. “And more time away from this building wouldn’t The two holiday breaks near the end of the year hurt.’ have seen extensions to their lengths. While the breaks have been extended, students The Thanksgiving break went from November and staff may not be able to see family this year. With 25 to November 29 while the end of semester break COVID-19 numbers still increasing, some families will go from December 19 to January 4. Thanksgiving find it safer to stay at home during the holidays break got a total of 2 days added from last year, instead of traveling to see friends and family. while the end of “My plans are semester break changing a lot,” End of Semester Break Lengths got 1 day added Mr. Davis said. from last year. “I would love to “My hope is see my extended that they rest,” family, but that principal Mr. will have to be Derek Anderson over Zoom.” said. “I believe While people that many have more time students are for the breaks worn down, so they might not I hope they rest be able to visit for the second their families. semester.” With COVID-19 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 T h e # of Days still happening Total amount of days including weekends Graphic by Trenton Ruhnke extended breaks around the world, were given families may have for different to stay home reasons, those reasons revolving around how hard for the holidays instead of spending it with family the students and staff have been working and to have members. time away from the school for cleaning. “People have every right to visit family,” Mr. “The main reason for the extended breaks is Anderson said. “But I worry about the infection rate the amount of work the teachers have put in so we and how it will affect the rest of the semester.” 19-20
20-21
REPORTER
18-19
Year #
The water tower located near the VFW just got repainted, but it didn’t always have the Jeff man on the side. Before the recent makeover, it was a white tower with the word FAIRBURY painted with the Jeff man next to it. Now it is the same, but with bigger letters. To some people, the water represents more than just a building to hold water; it shows pride in the community. When people enter town and see the water tower, they know Fairbury is the home of the Jeffs. “My first year in Fairbury, I was riding home on a bus with the volleyball team,” math teacher Mrs. Julie Petersen said, recounting a story from not long after she moved to town in 1999. “When we got north of town, nearly home, the team started singing a song about the water tower: ‘I see the water tower. I see the water tower. I see the water tower. Do you see it too?’ As a new citizen of Fairbury coming from the Omaha area, I thought this was amazing small town culture.” Part of the reason it took four weeks to repaint the water tower was because the old paint was starting to chip off and it was time to fix it. Another reason was because the paint used to cover the water tower contained lead. The lead in the paint is not safe as it may mix with the water, endangering those who drink it. To solve this problem, they had to sandblast the inside of the water to remove the old paint and make sure it is cleaned up. After sandblasting, they had to prime
17-18
REPORTER
16-17
GAVIN SCHRAMM
Substitute teacher shortage strains staff TAYLOR GUSTAFSON REPORTER
Among everything else COVID-related, another problem has arisen at Fairbury Public Schools. This has been a difficulty for the last several years, but the addition of a pandemic has amplified the issue: the shortage of substitute teachers. “Many staff members have felt the pinch. We have found in-house subs with various teachers, counselors and administrators,” principal Mr. Derek Anderson said. With most substitute teachers being older, they
are more susceptible to the disease, causing them to stay in the safety of their homes rather than at school where they are more likely to catch the virus. Some of the regular substitutes have made the decision to continue subbing at the high school, including Mr. Bud Hackbarth and Mrs. Ruth Horsky. Administration has also utilized in-house subs with various teachers, counselors and administrators. This means that teachers sometimes have to use their plan periods to teach elsewhere
when a sub is needed in another class. There have also been a few teachers that were required to quarantine for either testing positive for COVID-19 or being exposed to someone who had the virus. One of those cases included science teacher Mr. Drew Stone, who was out of school for two weeks and relied on a substitute teacher to get through his curriculum. “I had a handful of different subs,” Mr. Stone said. “I had a few days where other teachers had to fill in and cover my class
during their plan period. Mr. Stephen Grizzle even came in to help cover two of my classes because they were in need of subs,” Mr. Stone noted that one of the most difficult parts of being away from his class room and students was keeping track of students and making sure they were getting everything done in a timely manner. “When you can’t see students and work in-person with them, it can be difficult to judge what they are getting out of the lessons and how they are doing in class,” Mr. Stone said.
Layout by: Trenton Ruhnke
12.18.20
News 5
Speech meets adopt virtual format BRYNN NOVOTNY EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
The speech team has to adapt to a new virtual format for this season’s meets due to COVID-19 guidelines. Instead of having all participating teams physically gather at a singular host school, virtual meets prevent this conjugation and will be run in one of two ways, synchronous or asynchronous, depending on a particular meet’s rules. The organization of synchronous meets will be most similar to that of a regular meet with speeches being performed live over Zoom or a similar videotelephony software while asynchronous meets will require pre-recorded clips that judges will evaluate. Each format has potential drawbacks. “I am nervous about the live tournaments in regards to WiFi connections holding up,� Speech sponsor Mr. Aaron Leibel said. “I am also a little nervous about making sure students are able to record and submit quality videos for the taped meets. The other big disadvantage is by going virtual, they will lose some of the parts that make Speech fun. The awards ceremony part is fun, the commons where all the kids gather is fun, watching other kids is fun -- the things that encourage kids to stay in Speech. It is the atmosphere that makes Speech awesome at the meets.� The new meet layouts affect the practice schedule as well. Weekdays become busier as both practices and recording sessions for asynchronous meets are squeezed in together. On the other hand, Saturdays are a lot more open with the lack of travel and, potentially, lack of live performances depending on what meets were entered.
“I would much rather prefer to be in-person, just because of the atmosphere that is created at a meet,� Shelby Klaumann ‘21 said. “I have made a lot of great friends at meets. Also, the team bonds on the bus rides to and from the meets and at dinner after the meet.� Some benefits are present with the negative aspects. With travel no longer necessary to compete, transportation costs are now eliminated. Speech members can now also submit their work to multiple meets at a time through the asynchronous format as opposed to being limited to one per weekend. Submitting videos ahead of time presents a more flexible option for participants who have other commitments. Some Speech members note that these perks of a virtual format are unable to replace the sensation of performing in front of a physical crowd. “I like hearing people laugh, so when I’m performing into a camera, nobody’s in the background laughing and it makes me feel like I’m not doing as great,� Jasmine Snyder ‘21 said. “If I’m in a room even with, like, three people and they’re all laughing, it’ll probably be my best speech. I just need the energy to keep me going to feel like I’m doing something that’s good because if nobody’s laughing, then I don’t feel like I’m doing good. It’s really hard to not perform in front of an audience.� By implementing some major changes, Speech has found a way to continue its work through a new medium in a time where it seems as if every extracurricular is in jeopardy of being put on hold or canceled.
Theatre department overcomes difficulties for WCKY TRENTON RUHNKE REPORTER
The play production was able to put on the show WCKY on November 19 for the fifth and sixth graders and November 21 for family members. After all the changes and interferences, a show was still able to be given. “I think it went really well,� Shelby Klaumann ‘21 said. “I think it went well considering the situation we were in.� A big change that was made was to only have the maximum capacity be at 25% and limit the viewing to only five family members per each individual in the crew and cast. The show was still available to people not being able to come by being live streamed on Striv. “At first I was a little upset since it was my senior year,� Shelby Klaumann ‘21 said. “But overall it was a smart idea to keep people
safe.� Some scenes were also changed throughout the makings of WCKY. One of these production changes was the removal of the kissing scenes which was replaced with hugs due to COVID-19. “I was nervous at first because every time you have a change it’s scary,� assistant director Mrs. Dawn Jobman said. “But the kids took off with it, so I had no need to worry.� Throughout the production, two characters were also recasted and replaced. Briaunna Knothe ‘21 and Olivia L’Ecuyer ‘25 had to fill in for two respective characters. For the final production, L’Ecuyer only had two days total practice. “I was very nervous,� Knothe said. “I was nervous because I’m not usually the one on stage. I’m usually behind stage making sure it all runs well.� The stage and some props were even changed or swapped out. At
the showings, wooden chairs were used on the stage while at practices plastic chairs were used instead. A prop that was changed was a bottle of a substance called ‘Doctor Smiley’s Happy Joy Tonic.’ The bottle was originally a glass bottle, but it got shattered offstage. The bottle was then replaced with another glass bottle before being finalized as a plastic bottle
filled with water colored green with food coloring. Even with all the changes made, the play production crew was still able to put on a show. “It was amazing,� Mrs. Jobman said. “Everything we went through, the cast changes and COVID -- we still pulled it off and it was spectacular.�
Lane Zabokrtsky “Very unorganized.�
Mykah Folkers “I didn’t like the first semester a whole lot.�
Landon McBride “First semester was pretty good, online resources could have been better.�
Spencer Weers “It was weird with all of the restrictions, but it was good overall.�
Ashly Sanchez “It was pretty good in my opinion.�
Graphic by: Brant Gillham
6 In-Depth
12.18.20
Layout by
TECHNOLOGY CLASSES
Striv broadcasting provides content for a larger audience
BRYNN NOVOTNY EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
To combat crowd limitations at extracurricular events, the Video Production class started broadcasting with the streaming service Striv this fall. Prior to the fall, the broadcasting of Fairbury events had been more inconsistent. With new regulations regarding the number of spectators allowed implemented, principal Mr. Derek Anderson approached business and technology teacher Mrs. Tammi Mans with the idea of having Video Production students take on the role of livestreaming the various activities. They have broadcasted sports, a grade school concert and the high school play. Continuing these services for winter sports depends on the COVID-19 regulations in place. “We’re definitely hoping to continue to be able to put it out there for people one way or another,” Mrs. Mans said. “With COVID, I feel like right now Striv might be our connection to grandparents, maybe even parents here shortly if we continue. We want to get it worked out.” Another new experience for the class is the use of commentary during a game. Throughout the months, the students have learned how to utilize the rosters, statistics and any additional information from the teams playing to develop their broadcasting skills, even if the task seemed intimidating at first. “When [Mrs. Mans] said we had to commentate, I was kind of scared because I don’t know a lot about football and sports other than volleyball,” Mikwena Lierman ‘21 said. “I was a little worried that it was going to be really hard to do. I actually started to like commentating a lot because it was kind of fun, like at district softball games it was usually exciting and we got our own little microphones so you could talk straight into the computer. Commentating was probably my favorite thing.” A majority of the broadcasting has been dedicated to streaming sporting events. The students sign up for the days
they are available, and there are typically two per stream. They arrive early to undergo a lengthy pregame process, which includes finding outlets for all of the cords, setting up the camera, adding the audio, customizing a scoreboard graphic on Striv for that particular game and finally starting the livestream early to check the network connection. The technological side of the broadcast is where issues would tend to arise if there were any. Audio that randomly cut out and connectivity problems were two of the most common difficulties faced. “It’s been a struggle and continues to be a struggle just getting to understand the software, getting to understand the equipment,” Mrs. Mans said. “I’m learning as we go, but I’m hoping that we can figure those kinds of things out.” A tech issue usually prompted a time-consuming redo of the setup process. The connectivity issues, especially at the softball fields, were kept at bay with a hotspot from Central Elementary. Striv provides a list of recommended equipment, and efforts have been made to acquire more of these pieces. A soundboard as well as a headset and mics have recently been added to the collection so that a student can hear what is being streamed. These adjustments have made the experience easier for the students to enjoy. “I’m really interested in broadcasting because I think it’s really fun,” Mallonee Biehl ‘21 said. “I got a lot of compliments after I would be done with broadcasting; I really get into the game. This was the perfect opportunity for me to learn and grow.” The Video Production class has been able to bring the action of extracurriculars to those who could not otherwise attend, and it is aiming to continue doing so. Because this particular course only lasts until the end of the semester, any student with an interest in broadcasting local events is welcome to join those who have already been doing so and plan to volunteer when the class ends. Inquiries can be directed towards Mrs. Mans.
y: Brynn Novotny
12.18.20
In-Depth 7
Smith creates music video through production class LINDSEY KORTHALS REPORTER
There are a few music artists at FHS, but what some people do not seem to know is that they shot a music video on-location in the hallways of the school. Students who are in Mrs. Tammi Mans’s Video Production class put together a music video for junior Ethan Smith’s song “Blizzard” for one of their projects. Smith has three different songs out and is a verified artist on Spotify with an average of 83 listeners per month. Artist Drew Bring (Konnor Hasselbring ‘21) is often featured in his music as well. Smith’s video was used to complete the assignment of making a short film in which different shot styles, effects, audio and lighting had to be utilized. Since it was a school project, time was taken in class to decide how to execute the idea for
the video. The initial inspiration came from the idea of shooting the video within the school. “We thought it would be cool to shoot it throughout the whole school and then to finish in the auditorium,” Smith said. “We used a camera and a push cart to make all the moving shots in the hallway smooth. There was a lot of equipment and time used to make the video.” The video was originally going to be used for Smith’s Media Productions project last spring, but he was unable to film it due to COVID-19. The curriculum was later adjusted from that class so that the project would work for both Media Productions and Video Production. The production of the music video was a learning experience for everyone. Smith had brought in original clips but later found out it had no au-
dio. When the class watched the video together, they all critiqued it and Smith even pointed out flaws to correct for next time. “I overdid the special effect that made it look like it was jumping and it lost its effect,” Smith said. The editing process took a lot of time and work. There were a lot of moving parts and audio that had to be matched up. In addition, the computers were also slow to work with, adding on to the time it took to make. Despite the several setbacks, Smith was able to conclude the editing process. “It was a lot of fun to see the whole project come together,” Smith said. After several hours of filming and editing, the video finally came together and was presented to the class. Now, Smith is open to the idea of making videos for his other songs and using them as class projects.
8 Feature
12.18.20
Layout by: Taylor Gustafson
Dietl transitions from homeschool to public school MAKENZIE MILLS REPORTER
Tiffanie Dietl is a sophomore who made the transition from homeschool to public school this year. When undergoing this change, Dietl did not have very many issues. She did, however, have one dilemma to face. “There really wasn’t any issues transitioning except for worrying about my anxiety raising from what people would think,” Dietl ’23 said. Some people have their own opinions on what problems could be faced when transferring from homeschool to public school. “Some of the challenges of transitioning to public school may include a change in daily structure, nervousness about meeting and interacting with many new people, and learning the variety of expectations of both the school and each teacher,” business teacher Mrs. Melissa Dux said. There were, however, many pros and cons to homeschooling. These were minimal, though not unimportant when it comes to
Ups and downs of remote learning
BRANT GILLHAM REPORTER
This year has taken a toll on all students in one way or another, especially for remote learners. The school gave students the option at the beginning of the year to either stay in school or go on remote learning. More of the people who were at risk wanted to do remote learning so they could stay safe and social distance from home. As cases went up in Jefferson County, more students made the switch to keep themselves safe from COVID. Some students had to go to remote learning because they were required to quarantine from either testing positive or being in contact with someone who tested positive. Students like Ethan Johnson ‘22 and Kazz Hyson ‘22, who were quarantined throughout the year, said that it was alright for what it is, but it got repetitive having to join calls everyday for a class. Some people made the switch at the very beginning of the school year to stay safe from the virus. Salvador Chavez ‘23 was one of those students who stayed in quarantine until recently, when he decided to come back to school. “Online school was alright for the most part, sometimes it was easy, sometimes it was hard, but it is what it is and I made sure that I did my assignments on time,” Chavez said.
choosing such a route. “Some pros of being homeschooled were that I didn’t have to see people that were always rude to me or even some of the teachers that I don’t like,” Dietl said. “Some cons of homeschooling were that I wasn’t taught face to face with a teacher and that I was just staring at a screen until I was done.” Other people have their opinions about the cons of homeschooling even if they have not experienced it for themselves. “I feel like one of the biggest issues with home school is the lack of socialization and having a variety of teaching strategies,” art teacher Mrs. Connie Schouboe said. Dietl’s teachers have seen her grow and learn as all students do. Despite being homeschooled, she is thriving just as well as any other student does in a public school environment. “I have seen Tiffanie adjusted to public school very well in my past classes, and she continues to thrive in my Accounting class,” Mrs. Dux said.
Layout by: Lindsey Korthals
12.18.20
Feature 9
Haley’s classes Commmunity provides help work on a variety with seasonal holiday projects Spanish Club gathers donations until the countdown is of class projects donations for Fairbury for complete. Spanish Club will hope to do MAKENZIE MILLS REPORTER
New industrial technology teacher Mr. Shane Haley and his students have worked on many projects in class this year and are continuing to do so. One thing that separates Mr. Haley’s classroom from other classes is that it is more hands-on. Many students enjoy learning through active participation instead of sitting in a classroom. “They can make one big project or several small projects, but it is left to them to come up with something,” Mr. Haley said. These projects include a long range of activities. These could be anything having to do with the shop such as fixing a car or woodburning. “We’re currently fixing a lawn mower -taking everything apart and replacing what needs to be replaced then putting it back together and getting it to work along with sharpening the blades and cleaning it and giving it new oil,” Montana Pingel ‘23 said. There are a wide range of projects done in Mr. Haley’s class, though they are not chosen at random. A majority of these projects have a purpose. They teach kids how to use tools in the shop as well as help people in the community with projects they do not have the tools for or have no idea how to do. “If the school, community, student or family needs something, such as a shelf, storage, a car repair, I ask the students what they need and then what they want. Students are shown what tools can do and then asked to come up with a project that will take a given time period,” Mr. Haley said. Mr. Haley’s students had some projects they really enjoyed doing. These projects are usually good learning experiences that help the students get better at something they would like to succeed in. “One project I really liked working on is welding the exhaust of my truck back together. It took a couple days, but it was a very good learning experience,” Ethan McCown ‘23 said.
family in need GAVIN SCHRAMM REPORTER
COVID-19 has affected everyone, and some families are in need of help more than others. To help those families, Spanish Club and Light the Way are undertaking holiday projects. Spanish Club is doing two projects, a fundraiser and a donation, while Light the Way is raising funds for the Monterroso-Perez family. Spanish Club’s first project is a small fundraiser for a family who lack the funds to support themselves. Spanish Club will do this by donating toys and gift cards to these families. Abby Judd ‘21 and Keely Schramm ‘21 are in charge of this project. The other project the club will be doing is a drive led by juniors Karly McCord and Alex Buxton. The club will ask for donations of different necessities, such as paper towels and soap, in a countdown format. Each day will request a different set of items
this during the school day and at sports events. “It gives a good feeling of satisfaction from making an impact on those who could use the extra help. I feel like it doesn’t only help the family but brings the club together.” Schramm ‘21 said. This year, Light the Way is having its 30th anniversary, and a pandemic is not changing how it does things. They are still raising money for the family. The funds raised will be used to help pay utility, rent, grocery and medical expenses. Anyone can donate to Light the Way to help the family, and it took donations at the home basketball games against Centennial. Additionally, to raise awareness, Light the Way set up candles in front of the school. Donations as small as $5 or two bottles of dish soap helped tremendously, and these projects were able to give back to the community during the holidays.
FEATURE PHOTO
Mrs. MaryAnn Johnson always has her Spanish students make projects.These projects were for Dia de Los Muertos. They made skulls out of paper mache and dioramas of what they thought their life would look like in the future. Photo by Brynn Novotny
12.18.20
10 Entertainment
Layout by: Makenzie Mills
The
MANDALORIAN Season 2 exceeds expectations BRANT GILLHAM REPORTER
The Mandalorian is hands down one of the most well-respected shows in television today. The show started as an unknown, but promising show. It takes place in the Star Wars universe, after the sixth episode in the saga, Return of the Jedi, and follows a lone bounty hunter, The Mandalorian (Pedro Pascal), as he must retrieve the bounty from one of his missions. The bounty itself is a child, who is the same species as Yoda in the saga, and is strong with the force and wanted by the last remaining branches of the Empire. Throughout the show’s first season, Mando starts to grow a bond with the child, and his intentions change from handing the child over to the Empire to keeping the child safe from harm, and to finding another Jedi that could train the youngling. On this journey, he will meet many foes and some allies along the way, including Cara Dune (Gina Carano) and Greef Karga (Carl Weathers). The first season has one major antagonist: Moff Gideon (Giancarlo Esposito), an officer for the Imperial Empire. The first season was always going to be a success in the eyes of Disney, the fans and critics alike. It got stellar reviews from critics, it brought more people to the Star Wars community, and it started one of the most “infamous” internet sensations of its time: Baby Yoda. People were excited for even more of the show, and the directors started to whip up another batch of
episodes, and they did not disappoint! The second season was now more focused on Mando keeping the child safe from harm’s way and how the child starts to become more force-sensitive the more he uses the force. So far, the season is halfway over with “The Tragedy” being the most recent episode as of writing this. In the episode, one of the most recognizable characters in all of Star Wars makes an unexpected, yet amazing return to the franchise. There are other characters that show up from different shows, but people might need to watch those shows/ movies to understand who they are and why they are in the show to begin with. Now, what do I think of the show? It is one of my favorite shows right now to watch. As a kid, I was hooked on Star Wars, and I watched all the movies. The TV show at the time, Star Wars - The Clone Wars, was my favorite show to watch as a kid. As I grew up though, my opinion changed as I rewatched the prequels, seeing them with a great approach, but poor execution. Then the sequel trilogy happened, and I thought to myself, “Disney screwed up again.” It made me want to see something that could revive the franchise, and low and behold, The Mandalorian saved the franchise. The show has intense action at times, likeable characters, amazing writing and it brings back the true Star Wars that people wanted for years. I give this show my first 10/10!
CAST Pedro Pascal ...............The Mandalorian Gina Carano ...........................Cara Dune Carl Weathers ........................Greef Karga Giancarlo Esposito ..............Moff Gideon Misty Rosas .......................................Kuiil Rio Hackford ....IG-11Performance Artist Chris Bartlett............................ Ferryman Amy Sedaris.............................. Peli Motto Werner Herzog .........................The Client Nick Nolte .........................................Kuiil Omid Abtahi .........................Dr. Pershing Taika Waititi ....................................IG-11 Emily Swallow ...........................Armorer Temuera Morrison ...................Boba Fett Aidan Bertola ..........Young Mandalorian Alexandra Manea ........................Mother Bernard Bullen ..............................Father CREATOR Jon Favreau SERIES WRITER George Lucas
IMDb Rating
8.7/10 Information from IMDb.com
Layout by: Ericka Kroeker
12.18.20
Sports 11
FEATURING
Winter Sports Athletes 1. What is one thing you are looking forward to this year?
Austin Novotny
2. What is one goal you have set for yourself?
1. Playing with my class for the last year. 2. To have fun since it’s my last year playing with the boys. 3. A Christmas present for Andrew.
3. What has been the worst thing you’ve ever bought?
Baylee Tracy
Maggie Layton
1. To be with my family on the mat and have lots of fun! 2. Just to try my best and see where it takes me. 3. Probably an Iowa sweatshirt.
1. Playing one last time with my teammates. 2. Playing 100% every game because we never know when it could be our last. 3. A sweater my mom made me buy and I still have never worn it.
Cole Rogge
Karly McCord
Mikya Lierman 1. To hopefully finish the whole season and not getting it cut short because of COVID. 2. To make it to State. 3. A pair of colorful Crocs
1. I am looking forward to playing Beatrice and hopefully beating them again this year. 2. To work hard every practice and better myself. Also to beat my aunt Sara’s rebound per game record 3. This one shirt my mom made me get. I have never worn it to this day.
1. Working hard for Districts. 2. To cut my time down and make it to Districts. 3. Probably a really expensive action figure when I was younger that I broke.
Kazz Hyson Dylan Starr 1. Just having fun and winning. 2. Average 15 points a game. Domenic Hyson 3. Don’t have anything. 1. Competing and winning big matches. 2. To qualify and medal at State this year. 3. I bought myself a brand new set of headphones and when I put them on, they fell apart.
1. State for sure 2. To be a State medalist. 3. Orange Crush Soda and Starbursts because Mr. Edson caught me in Walmart while I was getting it during football season.
Volume 66, Issue 2 DECEMBER 18, 2020 Layout BY: Brant Gillham
Girls wrestling takes to the mats LINDSEY KORTHALS REPORTER
This year, the wrestling program has added its own girls division. Alum Jillian Caroon ‘20 decided to come back and assist head wrestling coach Derek Garfield with the girls. She wanted to be a role model for the girls since she has recently gone through the program and wanted it to be an easier experience for them. “It is a lot easier for the girls to connect with a girl coach than a guy coach,” Caroon said. On the team this year, there are a few girls that have wrestled before. Caroon says that there is a lot of potential for them and the new girls are learning quickly. She wishes for the girls to do their best and to hopefully get something out of their season. “Something I want them to get out of the season is to learn how to work hard
and get tougher mentally,” Caroon said. There are several goals the girls are shooting for, including staying positive, beating records and winning several matches. Junior Abby Weidenhaft has making it to State as one of her goals. “I grew up around boys my whole life, and I use it as a way to get my anger out,” Weidenhaft said on the reason why she joined wrestling. Caroon says that the girls are looking to have a successful season. If they achieve their goals, the odds of having a successful season are in their favor. Sophomore Lyza Call says she is enjoying her season and enjoys all the positivity and support from her teammates. “I struggle with staying positive and since I have gotten hurt, everyone has been helping out and always asking if I need help,” Call said.
Junior Abby Weidenhaft goes into a match ready to face off against her opponent. Weidenhaft is wrestling for the first time in FHS’s girls wrestling program. Photo by Brant Gillham
New protocols cause an interesting season ERICKA KROEKER REPORTER
With COVID cases increasing in Jefferson County, the NSAA guidelines have become even stricter than they were in the fall. Many new protocols have been implemented. These range anywhere from wearing masks during practice, staying 6 feet apart or not using the locker rooms. These new protocols affect the athletes, but the observers as well. A few new protocols for basketball are having to wear masks during practices and only having household members at the games. Senior Ellie Ohlde is most upset about
not being The swim “The protocols are able to have a team has had a pain... but [I AM] student section to show up just grateful for the her senior dressed in their opportunity to play” year, but she swimsuit to is thankful avoid using the to have locker rooms. everyone’s parents, who have At the beginning of the season really been stepping up. they weren’t allowed to change Wrestlers are having to after practice, but that rule has get their temperatures taken been changed, allowing every before and after practice. They swimmer 5 minutes to quickly are also wearing masks when change. They also have to wear they aren’t doing any workouts. masks before and after getting “This makes it harder to in the water and social distance catch your breath after a long in the pool. drill session or sprints, but it “The hardest part of the helps us prevent COVID and season is not being able to it’s something we can adapt to,” get close to other swimmers,” Ethan McCown ‘23 said. Briaunna Knothe ‘21 said. “A
-Ellie Ohlde ‘21
lot of those swimmers are good friends of mine, and not being able to hug or get close enough to talk to them is frustrating.” While the protocols can be hard to follow, they are necessary to keep the sports seasons up and running. Whether it’s no student section, wearing a mask or social distancing, the protocols have been implemented to ensure a safe season for everyone, not just the athletes. “These protocols are a pain but as the season goes on all of us have learned not to focus on them and just be grateful for the opportunity to play,” Ohlde said.