Volume 66, Issue 4 APRIL 16, 2021
Pages 6 + 7
Fairbury High School 1501 9th Street Fairbury, NE 68352 Non-Profit Organization Permit #64
WWW.FHSXRAY.COM
Summer PRINCIPAL DEPARTURE PAGE 5
UPWARD BOUND Page 8
HEAD COACH FIRING REACTION
PAGE 12
2 Opinion/Editorial
4.16.21
Layout by: Brynn Novotny
Seasonal depression is a real thing I think I can speak for a lot of people when I say that seasonal depression is a real thing. Over the last few winter months, I felt as if the days dragged on forever and the cold weather would never end. The negative-below temperatures didn’t help my situation either. Cold weather has always made me unproductive and never want to do anything. I usually end up on the couch wrapped in a blanket watching movies or a TV series. This mindset hasn’t really helped with filling out scholarships either, as I had been scrambling to write essays for the last week before they were all due. But with this warm weather recently, my whole look on life has changed. Baseball and track have started, which makes me happy because it gives me something to do with my friends. The sun is shining and is beginning to remind me of
quarantine last March. Those were the more simple times if I do say so myself. Along with the looming day of graduation, only less than a month away, this warmer weather is really setting in the fact that my high school career is almost over, and all of my friends will be moving miles away from me to start their new chapters in life. Still, I try not to dwell too much on the fact that it will all be ending soon. Instead, I’ve spent my time looking at the brighter side of things. Summer is almost here, which means fourth of July, summer baseball games, late nights with my friends, random trips to Sonic and Scooters, tan lines and sun-bleached hair. These are the things that make my seasonal depression go away. There is just something about warm weather that makes everyone’s moods so much happier, probably because it’s summer and no one has any responsibilities to worry about, just time to make good memories. So my point here is my seasonal depression is almost over and I couldn't be happier.
Society’s beauty standards suck A l l t h e time everyone is always worr i e d about their appearance. Trust me, I worry about mine. The beauty standards our society has set for the world today are awful. Everyone is expected to be skinny and have clear skin and not worry about their insecurities, but really everyone is worried about every little detail about themselves. They are counting the calories, wearing makeup to cover their blemishes and ruining their mental health just so they can be “attractive” and maybe catch someone’s attention. I have a hard time loving myself
and the way I look because of these standards. We see all the cinchedwaist models and other “skinny” people and feel the need to look the same way. So we count our calories and develop a borderline eating disorder because we are starving ourselves to be skinny. All the time my friends ask me, “Do I look fat?” and “How many calories do you think are in this?” or “Should I starve myself today?” and it is truly heartbreaking to hear that my friends think this of themselves and feel the need to take away nutrition for their bodies just to meet those beauty standards. Then again, I ask myself those same questions but don’t feel any remorse for thinking that way. Another thing that makes loving myself hard is suffering from dermatillomania. This is a condition where I constantly feel the need to pick at my skin and every little
blemish on my face, which results in a lesion and scars. Therefore I constantly have to cover my face with makeup to cover those lesions and blemishes because it’s “unattractive.” Other people also feel the need to cover up their dark circles or other imperfections on their face just so they can be appealing to the eye. Everyone is always too busy trying to please others that they forget they need to love themselves first. Instead of covering up our insecurities and imperfections we should be embracing them because they make us who we are. You should be able to eat that extra piece of cake, not wear makeup and not have to try to mutilate your body just to attract others. People are going to look different because we weren’t meant to all look the same, we were meant to look like our own true, beautiful selves.
Layout by: Gavin Schramm
4.16.21
Opinion/Editorial 3
Frequent miscommunication plagues school
EDITORIAL
M
ost employers consider communication to be a must-have skill in the workplace. It promotes positive collaboration and an efficient organization. Our own school curriculum requires a speech class in an attempt to improve a student’s ability to transmit information effectively. The Blazer believes communication is something the school board and administration could afford to improve upon. Though there have been various instances of communication lapses between the administration and the public, students or staff, a recent call for resignation is what’s been lingering on many minds. When Mr. Travis Steinhoff was asked to step down as head boys basketball coach, he was offered no explanation at the time of the request or in his address of the school board on March 8. Meanwhile, the superintendent was quoted in the Fairbury Journal News as
stating, “As a general rule, it is the policy that we do not discuss personnel matters in the public forum.” In response, The Blazer would like to ask: if personnel matters are not to be discussed publicly, where should they be discussed? It is apparent they are not being thoroughly discussed with the individuals. Also, why shouldn’t these decisions be
openly discussed? The Blazer believes an open line of communication from the school board and administration should be a right, not a privilege. This creates the opportunity for families, students and staff to make it clear what they expect out of the school. Additionally, the choices made by the school board and administration leave an impact, and the decisionmakers involved should be ready to justify to those who are affected. While the questionable request directed toward Mr. Steinhoff is one instance of insufficient communication demonstrated by the school board and administration, the concerned parents, community members and former staff who spoke at the following school board meeting on April 12 made it clear there have been other issues, a majority of which occurred as the result of a failure to effectively communicate. Going forward, The Blazer believes transparency is a necessity for a productive, collaborative environment.
The infamous school board meeting The school board meeting on April 12 was not a spur-of-the-moment gathering. Likewise, the outrage, sadness and utter disappointment expressed by parents, former teachers, and other community members Monday evening were not the results of a singular decision. Years of the current system’s decisions affecting families, students and staff, time and time again, warranted this meeting, and dismissing this would be unproductive. There were points brought to light I didn’t personally know about. There were others I was all too familiar with. This, of course, is irrelevant because while I wasn’t aware of some of these problems, there are people who were. It shouldn’t take a public callout to recognize and address these concerns. As frustrating as it was to hear so many of these discouraging stories in one night, I can also appreciate the light of the situation. The sense of community was ever-present in each speaker, and it’s obvious what they want above all else is a better learning experience for Fairbury students -- not perfect, but better. No one necessarily wanted it to come to such a publicized affair, but it’s clear the alternative of trying to work with the school board and administration in a more private one-on-one environment was unfortunately going nowhere. Now, I could spend the second half of this column (and then some) listing instances of injustice and negligence; I’d have nothing to lose. Not only would I be justified and backed by several members of the school and community, but I’m also a soon-to-be graduate with one foot out the door and a focus on life after high school. What difference would it make? However, as tempting as it is to block everything else out and look forward, I’d be lying if I said this school meant nothing to me. No matter how much they are put down, the teachers here continue to actively search for ways to engage their students in learning. They’re trying their best, and I’m tired of seeing them get punished for it. Because I would genuinely like to see steps taken in the right direction for their sakes, I’d like to humbly offer some advice if the right people are willing to listen: First of all, the most important thing right now is your reaction. If people weren’t paying attention before, they definitely are now. When you have such a passionate community that’s now experiencing a very tense situation, stirring the pot is the last thing anyone needs.
Next, you need to decide just how much you care about your job. Not your position or status, but the integrity behind what you’re doing. Yes, it probably didn’t feel great to be called out in such a public way, but it also shouldn’t feel great to have let those speakers and many others down in the first place. Are you willing to reevaluate your current role, or will you remain defensive about being scrutinized at all? Which do you think would be better for the school system? Last, please recognize that this meeting as well as any articles written are coming from feelings of desperation. A recent decision may have finally ignited this flame, but the embers were there all along. Pretending there are no problems inevitably leads to more problems, and I don’t think anyone wants that. All that’s transpired can’t be undone and it won’t all disappear overnight, but your efforts now will be appreciated in the long run and pave the way for the better learning experience everyone is looking for. What needs to be taken away from the school board meeting is that while there’s a lot of hurt and confusion that’s been simmering for far too long, this still doesn’t have to be an “us vs. them” situation. Parents and teachers want to feel respected enough to work collaboratively with the school board and administration, and students want to stop going unheard. It’s been an uncomfortable road taken to get to this point, but it’s still ultimately up to the ones in charge where we go from here.
4 News
4.16.21
Layout by: Ericka Kroeker
Legislative Bill 480 suggests minimum wage increase TRENTON RUHNKE REPORTER
A bill introduced into the state legislature could have a chance to raise the minimum wage in Nebraska. The bill, titled Legislative Bill 480, was first introduced back in January 15. If passed, it would start to increase the minimum wage year by year, starting in 2022 until it eventually reaches $20 in 2032. “Minimum wage is a price floor setting,” economics teacher Mr. Aaron Leibel said. “Setting the price floor higher can cause potentially a large supply of workers, but a decrease in demand for workers.” The current minimum wage for Nebraska is currently $9 an hour. This value has remained the same since 2016. “I feel like it will affect our businesses,” junior Jaley Wigget-Anderson said. “It will give us a little more money at a time, but I think it is a bad idea because it will up the costs of people that need to live.” With the chance for the bill to go into effect, different benefits and drawbacks are taken into account when considering the bill. “I don’t like the potential to increase the minimum wage,” sophomore Connor Heidemann said. “First level jobs will be the first to go if it is increased.” One clear positive is the increase to the minimum wage, meaning higher paying paychecks. With these paychecks, more goods and services can be purchased by workers. “It will give me more money to put
towards college,” Wigget-Anderson explained. “But I’m not really into it for the money.” There are also negatives when considering the bill. These disadvantages could affect small businesses the most. A potential scenario is small businesses being forced to close due to being unable to support their businesses with having to pay their workers more. Another negative scenario is having to fire and lay off employees. To save on money, these businesses may have to fire them to try to stay afloat without losing too much money.
“I probably won’t end up working because I will be the first to go because they can’t pay me,” Heidemann said. “I’m a bit angry that people can be short-sighted, and they are the people making the minimum wage and are not thinking of the consequences that will follow.” The bill is still in its referral phase, and no date as of this publishing has been given out about the decision of the bill. “I see that the increase could automate more jobs to not hire as many workers,” Leibel said. ”It hurts high schoolers who need a first job to put on their resumes.”
Teammates returns to in-person meetings MAKENZIE MILLS REPORTER
Teammates was unable to meet in person due to COVID- 19 but are now able to due to reduced cases. Teammates is a program where any student that joins gets the opportunity to meet up with and befriend an adult mentor. The mentors are there to support the students and help them catch up on homework or help with scholarships. Some may just chat over lunch and talk while others will play board games and do crafts. Overall, it is a way to have an adult to help with school and life. “It was really sad to not get to meet over that long period of time because it’s my senior year and we have tried to meet every week since I was in sixth grade, so not having that time every week to just talk with a trusted adult was pretty difficult,” Kacy Starck ‘21 said. While there were options for connecting virtually, this did not work out for all students. Certain students could not figure
out how it worked or had different issues with meeting this way. “There was an option to communicate virtually, but we couldn’t get it quite figured out and it was hard to get that figured out especially during last semester,” Starck said. While this was sad, they made it through and are now able to meet in-person once again. “I think it’s a positive step. They are following the mask guidelines but still get to spend in-person time together,” close friend of the Teammates coordinator Sandy Reikofski said. The students involved were relieved they could meet again. They could not wait to talk to their Teammate again as some of them have not talked in months. “I was really excited that we got to meet in-person again because I meet with my teammate every week and it’s always fun to get to have that hour to just talk and catch up,” Kacy Stark said.
Layout by: Trenton Ruhnke
4.16.21
News 5
Anderson accepts Friend superintendent position LINDSEY KORTHALS REPORTER
As the end of the school year draws nearer and nearer, some teachers turn in their resignations and move on to new plans they have for themselves. One person in particular that will be leaving is principal Mr. Derek Anderson. After being the athletic director for three years and principal for two, Mr. Anderson has accepted the superintendent position at Friend Public Schools and will not be returning to FHS in the fall. “For principal, I feel like I am still in my first year. Because of COVID-19, there are certain things that I never got to experience that I am experiencing for the first time,” Mr. Anderson said. Going from being a teacher to administration can almost feel like a night and day difference. There was a steep learning curve for Mr.
Anderson and he has since grown into the role of principal, but is sad to be leaving as his time was so short. “I was blessed to be able to be in a good position. I feel like going from athletic director to principal, you slowly and gradually learn and
“I was blessed to be able to be in a good position.” -Derek Anderson grow,” Mr. Anderson said. During his six-hour interview process, Mr. Anderson decided that if he was offered the position he would take it. Friend was the only place he had applied and the only place that had jumped out at him as he was not actively seek-
ing. A big draw to Friend for Mr. Anderson was his brother-in-law’s farm that is a short eight miles from the town. “I’m a farm kid, my wife is a farm kid; I want to set roots in an agricultural farm setting for my kids,” Mr. Anderson said. With the process of transferring to a new position, Mr. Anderson has been in contact with the current superintendent at Friend. The school will need a new HVAC system and some new windows from a financial standpoint. Mr. Anderson explained that his first year as the new superintendent will mainly be about making connections and building relationships with the community. “Right now, I am looking at my first year being a learning experience and also one where my main focus is going to be integrating into the community and then building from there,” Mr. Anderson said.
Students find ways to work without shops GAVIN SCHRAMM REPORTER
Since the new science wing was added to the school, a new project needed to be made to make the school better and safer. The administration decided the shops needed to be updated for a school environment. As expected, it will take a long time to renovate two shops with having to move everything out to a temporary location and adding it back in after it is done. As a result, the students and teachers don’t have the shops to work in, requiring them to find another way to use the shops. To work without a shop, they are using any method they can think of: YouTube videos, online work and going to different locations in and outside of school. “We just cleared out in the back of the fine arts center,” auto shop teacher Mr. Shane Haley said. “There was an entryway there filled with waste, so we went through there and cut that all up and put it in the dumpster and cleaned it out.” Mr. Haley also took the students to other shops such as Paul Schramm’s one morning, as stated by Connor
Heidemann ‘23. When the new shops eventually get finished, some changes in the school will also happen. Right now, Mr. Singleton’s room has a door going into the wood shop from his room, but after the renovation, that will be ag teacher Mr. Thomas Dux’s new room. The new room will give Mr. Dux an easier access to the woodshop since he had to go through the welding shop to get there. Both the students and teachers are excited for a new shop and think it is time for a new area. “The shops absolutely needed to be renovated because of the size of my shop. Let’s say the shop size I have now is about one-third of what I will be getting,” Mr. Dux said. Besides more room, some other things that will be added to the new shops are another car lift, more welders and a paint room for cars. Mr. Haley and Mr. Dux both hope the new shop will bring more students to ag and STC classes and get them involved in technical classes.
6 In-Depth
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4.16.21
Vacation-goers anticipate summer trips TAYLOR GUSTAFSON REPORTER
The one thing many people look forward to in the summer is vacations. Whether it’s just a trip out of state or out of the country, from the mountains to the ocean, summer vacations are where memories with families and friends are made. These are trips that are reminisced on for years to come. There are many students within FHS that will be taking trips this summer with their families or friends. Some seniors have planned a senior trip to take together before they all go their separate ways for college. There are also families planning vacations to enjoy time together. One student who will be taking a trip with her family is Lexi Mau ‘24. The Mau family will be traveling to Yellowstone National Park this summer. Yellowstone is a very well-known national park that gets millions of visitors each year. The national park is located in three different states: Idaho, Montana and Wyoming. The park has a history dating back 11,000 years. When asked why the Mau family decided to take a vacation to Yellowstone National Park her response was that they had all been wanting to go somewhere where they could relax and spend time with one another. “I am most looking forward to all of the scen-
ery there is in Yellowstone National Park and going on hikes through the mountains,” Mau said. “I am just glad that I get to spend time with my family and hang out with them.” A few seniors have also been planning trips to take with their friends before they leave for college. This includes Page Nippert and Jadyn Rasmussen. Nippert and Rasmussen had talked about taking a road trip before heading off to college in August. Rasmussen recommended Colorado Springs, Colorado as she had visited this place before. According to Rasmussen, Colorado Springs has beautiful scenery and it has plentiful areas for tourist activities. “I’m looking forward to the long ride to and back from Colorado Springs as it will be a calming but chaotic time,” Nippert said. Many senior boys have also planned a summer trip to Wisconsin. Among the group is senior Riley Stewart. Stewart explained that the group plans to stay at Kangaroo Lake. Here they well enjoy time relaxing with friends, fishing, swimming, hiking and spending time around the fire. “[I’m looking forward to] spending quality time with the boys after graduating and just getting away for a few days,” Steward said.
Summ
Putting the ‘fair’ in Fairbury
Competitors look forward to annual county fair
TRENTON RUHNKE REPORTER
The summer county fair, held every year down at the Jefferson Fairgrounds, is approaching once again. A multitude of students at FHS contribute to the fair through the participation of entering animals to show, baked goods to have judges try, fashion designs to show off and even taking photographs to present. “I think it’s fun,” Lillian Ausk ‘24 said. “It’s interesting to see everything everyone else made.” After last year’s fair used more of an in-and-out layout for competitions and did not feature attractions, this year looks to bring more of the typical fair environment. “We were really excited that we were able to offer a modified fair for the youth last year,” Lead 4-H Extension Educator Darci Pesek said. “The youth were able to show off their projects and were able to show off their learning and their skills in a safe way.” For animal showing, students can show a variety of animals ranging from large and small livestock to their own pets. “I used to show cattle, heifers, bake cakes and different types of bread,” Brendon Runge ‘23 said. “I did the fair because my parents wanted me to and I was interested
in showing cattle because of my grandpa.” Competitors usually don’t just show up with no practice; they put time and effort into making sure that they are ready to compete at the show. Practices could range from simply interacting with their livestock to tame them down, walking their livestock to help get them used to leading, and designating nights for a group to come and practice down at the fairgrounds. “I walk my animals every day and feed them everyday,” sophomore Joshua Buchli said. “But you also have to practice yourself by learning how to handle animals, where to move in any terrain and how to act in an arena.” Those who don’t have the opportunity to live out in the country to own livestock or have any pets of their own can still compete in various non-livestock related competitions. While these competitors don’t get to show anything living, their works are displayed in the main building and the Merchant’s Building. “I turn in 4-H projects like sewing and art,” Ausk said. “Looking through the barn full of all the art and looking at the baking entries is more interesting than looking at the animals.”
These displays consist of many different types of projects that range from photography and baking to art and sewing. “I hope people can actually go to it since it was closed last year,” Runge said. “I really hope that it is opened for people to compete at it.” Those who choose not to show animals or enter in any projects still have a lot to do at the fair. Apart from walking around and seeing everyone’s projects, there are various attractions to enjoy. “My favorite things about the fair is the actual show, showing off your cow, hanging out with your friends.” Runge said. “And after that, riding rides.” The fair arriving sooner and sooner will eventually be happening for various students to compete with their animals, enter their fair projects, or just spend time with friends and family down at the fairground. “We are hoping for the fair to look more traditional,” Pesek said. “The Fairboards got a carnaval scheduled, concerts, and a rodeo planned, and 4-H is a go. We are waiting for confirmation from the health department about food and the amount of numbers we are allowed to have.”
y: Brynn Novotny
4.16.21
mer
In-Depth 7
Athletes strive for summer progression BRYNN NOVOTNY EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
To better themselves for the seasons held during the school year, student athletes often continue their activities throughout the summer. A variety of local camps, clinics, open gyms and practices are available even when school is not in session. More often than not, the coaches are the ones to arrange these opportunities for their athletes. This involvement allows team members to continuously remain physically active while fine-tuning their skills. “In the summer, I usually have summer volleyball league and camps in June, and in July I have summer basketball league along with different camps,” Hannah Robertson ‘23 said. “I decided to partake in these because I believe they help me to get better and further my skills; I learn new things that I can do to help my team during the season.” Goal-setting plays a major role when it comes to defining what this summer involvement should look like. The amount of progress measured from season to season assists an athlete in evaluating what they need to focus on during the offseason. Goals may also involve post-secondary school plans. “[My goals are] improvement, better conditioning and being able to run faster and lose weight,” Drake Richtarik ‘23 said. “I think [summer camps] affected me a lot because last year I only went to
one tournament and I almost qualified for State in wrestling this year. I’d like to get better for sports coming into the school year so maybe I can get a scholarship through college for sports.” Some sports have active seasons during the summer that athletes take advantage of. Softball, swimming and baseball are three that form local teams to compete when school lets out. While there are a variety of local opportunities, some athletes consult external sources. For instance, Aspen DeFrain ‘22 plays softball for Nebraska Quakes Prime: a team based out of _____ that often travels to other states, participating in highly competitive tournaments. “This first came about when I was about fourteen years old. My dad kind of wanted to move me onto a team that travels a lot, where I could get more exposure to colleges,” DeFrain said. “I tried out for a fourteen-and-under Nebraska Elite team, and that’s where it all started. It keeps me active and it gives me more things to do during the summer than just work. A lot of times during the week, I’m not too busy and then the weekends are more for traveling and getting from place to place.” Whatever the source may be, student athletes are finding ways to work diligently and hone in on their crafts during a time of year where it would be easier for most to become unproductive.
Summer School
NATIONWIDE FAST FACTS
In 2017, 41% of 16-19-year olds were enrolled in summer school The average daily attendance for summer school varies from 60% to 80% One year after summer school, there is an average 13% benefit for students in the subject
8 Feature
4.16.21
Layout by: Taylor Gustafson
careers in general.” Participants also gain experience outside of the classroom. Upward Bound creates several community service opportunities. Visits to various colleges, workplaces and cultural events help students discover an idea of what they want their future to look like. “There’s just a lot of opportunities with Upward Bound,” Marlaney Deras ‘22 said. “Fun things to do, a lot of trips, making new friends -- I’ve made a lot of friends.” These friendships play a large role in the memories formed as a result of this program. A 2019 summer trip to New Orleans served as a memorable experience, though Upward Bound was unable to arrange any large-scale excursions last summer. Away from the bigger events, even the most mundane activities become fun with friends to share them with. “A lot of it’s the ride to Saturday session,” Blas said. “Some interesting conversations
take place there.” While it provides many enjoyable moments, hard work also comes with participation in the program. A representative individually meets with Fairbury’s Upward Bound members once a week to evaluate academic performance and check in on how well life and school are being balanced. Just like with school, outside commitments can interfere with Upward Bound involvement. “Probably the most difficult thing is attendance because sometimes it collides with my schedule,” Deras said. “It depends on what type of student you are, I think. If you already have a good GPA and you’re already doing good in your classes, it’s not really difficult, but they’re there to help you if you need tutoring.” Through engaging experiences for both studious activities and more life-based learning, Upward Bound allows students to get ahead on their postsecondary plans.
Upward Bound provides a head start on the road to college BRYNN NOVOTNY EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Members of the Upward Bound program receive materials and tools for academic success, both for high school and for college. Upward Bound was created by the U.S. Department of Education to provide opportunities for its participants to perform well in both secondary and postsecondary environments. The program’s closest location is the Southeast Community College-Beatrice site, where students attend Saturday sessions once a month during the school year as well as a six-week summer program. Lessons regarding scholarships, college applications and studying tactics are provided along with subject-specific material. “I plan to go to college, so I figured this program would help me get money for scholarships,” Trayce Blas ‘23 said. “It’s a lot of help for college and with future
SENIOR SKIP DAY
dream...
Briaunna Knothe “My dream senior skip day was always to go to the Omaha Zoo.”
vs
reality... “I ended up going to the zoo but it rained on me. I also drank so much coffee my bank froze my card”
Lane Zabokrtsky “My day would look like waking up in the morning, going out to fish with some of the boys. Then going and shooting some trap with them and having a bonfire that night.”
“I woke up, went to work and washed semis, then went to baseball practice and then I went home after that.”
Layout by: Lindsey Korthals
4.16.21
Feature 9
Students show off talents through music ERICKA KROEKER REPORTER
For many years, FHS has hosted District Music. Students get involved through band, choir and solos. They practice in their freetime for months and work hard to perfect their songs. Many students take lessons from music teacher Shirley Forney. Senior Keely Schramm has been taking lessons with her for approximately 9 years. “I remember my mom telling me it came out of nowhere and that I wouldn’t shut up about wanting to play,” Schramm said. Schramm picked her song, “Calm as the Night” by Carl Bohm, back in November and has been practicing it since. “I thought it was catchy and I loved the change in dynamics through it,” Schramm said. She has been practicing on perfecting her song. This includes lifting on the slurs and pedaling. Junior Adaline Lincott chose to play “Sonata” by Clementi. She has been practicing this song for three months. “My music teacher suggested it to me and I thought the judges would like it for the contest,” Linscott said. “I started playing when I was five and I really enjoyed it. I have been playing ever since.” One of the hardest obstacles Linscott had was working hard on getting the muscle memory down in her fingers so she could memorize it and work hard on perfecting it. As the contest slowly approaches, remembering when to get loud and soft is her main priority. Whether one does good or bad, they can take away so many lessons from performing for a judge. While playing the piece, the judge has a grading sheet and will write down any tips, criticisms and complements as they see fit.
“The biggest takeaway was learning to perform for people and overcome the fear of playing publicly,” Schramm said. “I’m good at playing for people and reading sheet music, but it’s a different story going on stage and playing.” While performing for others can be intimidating, it can leave the performer with a good feeling of accomplishment. After working months to perfect something, it is only right to show it off.
FEATURE PHOTO
Ms. Darby Davidson hangs up a fake window for Prom decorations. Juniors have been setting up every night this week in order to be fully ready for prom. Photo by Gavin Schramm
SENIOR SPOTLIGHT WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MEMORY AT FHS? - The final night of Southern Fried Funeral last year, there were lots of tears and good Subway sandwiches When Carter Hulsey performed anda bunch of boys went on stage and started dancing
WHO IS YOUR FAVORITE SINGER? - I don t really have one, I like a lot of them Drew Bring -
TV SERIES OR MOVIES? - TV series, you can see the slow progession and development of the characters Movies -
Class of 2021
10 Entertainment
4.16.21
WandaVision starts a new phase for the MCU BRANT GILLHAM REPORTER
WandaVision, the newest addition to the long running MCU, is a pretty good start to the next phase of movies and new TV shows. Starring Elizabeth Olsen, Paul Bettany and Kathryn Hahn, the show takes place a little after the events of Avengers: Endgame. This show does have its fair share of flaws, but it does make up for it with quality acting, great sitcom references and great cinematography. The first three episodes of the show were extremely well made and make you wonder about what is really going on in the town of Westview. The chemistry between Wanda Maximoff and Vision is excellent in these first few episodes. They also introduce Agnes, Wanda’s neighbor (Hahn), and Wanda’s children: Billy and Tommy Maximoff. Later on in the show though, things start to go downhill, as we get put back in the real world, when a woman named Monica Rambeau (Teyonah Parris) gets thrown out of the hex that Wanda has made around the town. This is where I start to have problems with the show. The characters that are not related to the main plot besides Monica are mostly forgettable. Randall Park’s character Jimmy Woo is pretty funny and is probably one of the best parts of the B plot. Evan Peters is also a great addition to the cast as Wanda’s
brother Pietro. The main antagonist of the B plot is a man named Director Tyler Hayward. His character is one of the worst MCU villains in a long time, showing no emotion throughout the show. The one to suffer the most is Vision though, he gets less screen time in favor of Wanda’s main plot, which is sad, because his character is interesting and should be explained more. After that though, the show lightens up and becomes enjoyable for the most part. The later half of the show sees Agnes become more and more prominent within the show. Then, in the episode “Breaking the Fourth Wall” she reveals to Wanda and the audience that she was behind the scenes changing the way Wanda wanted things to play out, like Pietro Maximoff showing up out of nowhere. She also reveals herself to be a character from the Marvel Comics named Agatha Hartness, a witch like Wanda but without many of the superpowers. She is a great villain, and a perfect foil to Wanda. The end battle between the two witches was alright, but the CGI suffers due to rushed effects put in to make the finale longer. Wanda-Vision definitely has the potential to be great, but gets weighed down by its flaws. If you look past these flaws, the show had excellent moments throughout its runtime, great acting from the leads, and a good start to the next phase of the MCU. I will be giving Wanda-Vision a solid 7/10.
Layout by: Makenzie Mills
CAST Elisibeth Olsen---------------------------------Wanda Maximoff Paul Bettany----------------------------------------------------Vision Kathryn Hahn---------------------------------------------------Agnes Teyonah Parris--------------------------------Monica Rambeau Josh Stamberg-----------------------Director Tyler Hayward David Payton-----------------------------------------------------Herb David Lengel----------------------------------------------Phil Jones Amos Glick---------------------------------Dennis the Mailman Selena Anduze---------------------------------Agent Rodriguez Randall Park--------------------------------------------Jimmy Woo Kat Dennings------------------------------------------Darcy Lewis Julian Hillard---------------------------------------Billy Maximoff Debra Jo Rupp---------------------------------------------Mrs. Hart Jett Klyne---------------------------------------Tommy Maximoff Asif Ali-------------------------------------------------------------Norm Ithamar Enriquez----------------------------Commercial Man Victoria Blade----------------------------Commercial Woman Evan Peters---------------------------------------Pietro Miximoff Emma Caulfield Ford------------------------------Dottie Jones Alan Heckner------------------------------------------Agent Monti Jackson Robert Scott-------------------------Billy Reference Jolene Purdy-------------------------------------------------Beverly Westley Kimmel------------------------------Commercial Boy Sydney Thomas-------------------------------Commerical Girl Christine Renaud---------------------------------Darcy Double Zac Henry-------------------------------------------------Beekeeper Kate Forbes------------------------------------Evanora Harkness Fred Melamed-----------------------------------------Arthur Hart Randy Glesby------------------------------Doctor Stan Nielsen Rose bianco--------------------------------------------Mrs. Neilsen Bayden D. Bielitz-----------------------------Billy (5 years old) Lana Young---------------------------------------------Dr. Highland Gavin Borders----------------------------Tommy (5 years old) Samir Younis--------------------------------------------------Doctor Viviana Chavez------------------------------------------------Nurse Bobby Hernandez------------------------------Security Gaurd Ilana Kohanchi-----------------------------------Iryna Maximoff Daniyar----------------------------------------------Olek Maximoff Sofia Gaidarova------------------------------------Young Wanda Sephanie Asalos-Jones--------------Toothless Old Woman Eric Delgado--------------------------------------------Tap Dancer Gabriel Gurevich-----------------------------------Young Pietro Vince Canalas-------------------------------------------Man in Van Jenna Kanell-----------------------------------------------Med Tech Hans Obma----------------------------------------Hydra Scientist Amor Owens---------------------------------------------------Parent Stephan Goldbach--------------------------------------Hyra Tech Tamara Hetzel--------------------------------Suburban Woman Archith Seshadri---------------------------------------Man in Van Rachael Thompson-----------------------------Major Goodner Michaela cronan-----------------------------------Woman in Van Aaron Gillespie----------------------------------Security Gaurd John Zimmermann------------------------------Suburban Man Adam Michael Gold----------------------------Yo-Magic Shark Lori Livingston---------------------------------------Skrull Agent Janet Song---------------------------------------Blip Back Person Chistopher James----------------------------Blip Back Person Chase Yi-------------------------------------------------------------EMT Elijah Everett------------------------------SWORD Drone Pilot Lloyd Pitts----------------------------------------------------------Man Tristen Chen------------------------------------Commercial Kid
Written and produced by: Jac Schaeffer IMBD Rating: 8.1/10 Stars
Layout by: Trenton Ruhnke
4.16.21
Sports 11
Seniors go on to play at higher level LINDSEY KORTHALS
going to compete. He will be competing it comes to playing sports. With being With their high school careers end- in high jump for coach Ed Fye at Doane a part of bigger conferences, these stuing and new chapters beginning, some University. There is one athlete left with dents will be able to travel to different of the senior athletes have decided to a new opportunity: Taryn Arnold will states they may not have been to before play their sports at the collegiate level. become a rower at Kansas State Univer- to compete against new athletes and get The decision to continue playing sports sity and will be coached by Hanna Wilt- the full collegiate athletic experience. “I’m most excited for the traveling after high school is not always an option fong. Some of the things the seniors are part of it; we get to go to California and for all athletes, while other are fortunate enough to get the opportunity to most excited about are getting that op- Florida and other BIG 12 schools,” senior Taryn Arnold said. compete for their college of Playing at a higher choice. This year, Fairbury level wasn’t always the Public Schools has seven athathlete’s plan. Sometimes letes continuing their athletic the opportunity falls into career at their desired coltheir lap and is too hard leges. Taryn Mikwena Ellie Dylan to pass up as they are There are three softball Arnold Lierman Ohlde Starr afraid they might not get players going on to play for the chance again. Arnold two different colleges. Ellie Taryn Mikwena thought it was too big of Ohlde has the opportunity to an opportunity to pass play for JL Thomason at Peru Dylan Ellie up and after talking with State College. Brittyn Wentz her parents they decided and Jordan Tracy will be play- Jordan Camryn Brittyn Jordan & Brittyn Tracy Wisnieski ing for Southeast CommuniWentz Camryn it would be good for her to be a part of the college ty College, coached by Jodi By: Lindsey Korthals DeBoer. Two swimmers have also decid- portunity to play more of their beloved in a bigger way than expected. Senior Eled to compete for two different colleges. sport, traveling, and making new friends lie Ohlde really made the decision this Camryn Wisnieski has committed to and memories. As these athletes go on year after only thinking about it for a diving for Midland University under the with their lives new friends and team- short while. “After my senior year it really motidirection of Peter Charles, and Mikwena mates will come along the way. Getting Lierman will be swimming for Barton to know their teammates prior to the vated me to go on and play at an upper College while being coached by Mathew season will allow them to have better level,” Ohlde said. Gilbert. Dylan Starr is another athlete bonds. Travelling is always a plus when REPORTER
Certain spring sports face unusual numbers BRANT GILLHAM REPORTER
Each year, spring sports teams seem to either grow with upcoming athletes or shrink due to athletes wanting to work or to try other sports. This year however, many teams are shrinking due to many factors, such as COVID-19, jobs and a lack of interest from the student body. These teams either suffer from a loss of players or they seem to be alright, even with a smaller team. “We are definitely missing our seniors on the trap team,” trapshooter Ethan Hintz ‘21 said. “We still have a pretty good-sized team either way with even more upcoming shooters within the next few years,” Hintz added on. Golf is within the same ring as trap, with a fair number
of players after a decline. “We still got the same numbers from last year before the quarantine happened,” Rorik Blatny ‘22 said. “It would be great to get even more people to try golf so we could have a larger team and so we could add on a JV golf team.” Other spring sports this year like track also have dropping numbers. The girls track team has plenty, but the boys team is suffering due to the baseball team that started in 2020. “We have very low numbers at the moment, with only one male thrower,” Aiden Haidul ‘24 said. “I am happy though that players are trying out baseball this year because it gives students a chance to try something new.”
Volume 66, Issue 4 APRIL 16, 2021 Layout BY: Brant Gillham
Firing of head coach leaves FHS shocked ERICKA KROEKER REPORTER
After the firing of head boys basketball coach Travis Steinhoff, many students and athletes were shocked and hurt by the decision. They were confused and wanted answers. A student who would like to remain anonymous said, “I was just more surprised than anything because I thought that we had a pretty good season, considering we lost 4 seniors.” According to players Steinhoff ’s showed dedication in getting athletes into the gym, and he increased the motivation of the team to give their all during the games. Many athletes stated they enjoyed his willingness to open the gym up in the morning so they could shoot. “My initial reaction to Steinhoff getting fired was frustration and confusion,”
senior Andrew Novotny said. “Steinhoff was an absolute great coach and did everything for us.” Coach Steinhoff said in a statement read at the March 8 board meeing addressing the reasons for his requested resignation, “I have never been given guidance on what program development looks like to the administration or what they would like to see done differently.” Knowing the administration wasn’t giving students, let alone the coach, information frustrated students. Along with the frustration of firing a head coach, students wished the administration would have answered more questions and told the students what was happening, rather than hearing this from through other channels. “They never helped Steinhoff when they had problems with his coaching,”
Novotny said, “I don’t think they handled this properly at all knowing that they never gave a detailed explanation on why they wanted him gone.” While students were frustrated by this decision they were also disappointed losing their coach and mentor. Novotny said, “He’s taught me to work the hardest you can and great things will come,” Novotny said, “but most importantly, he taught me life lessons that I will remember as long as I shall live.” Fairbury will be looking for a new coach next year and will feel the loss. “He would open the gym for us during the off-season for us to put in work and was constantly finding new ways to be a great coach,” Novotny said. “More than any of that though, the thing I appreciate and admire most was his kindheartedness and care for others.”