b&w
BLACK AND WHITE January/February 2022 VOLUME 30 ISSUE 4
2022
January/February
EDITORIAL BOARD Editor-in-Chief Sports Editor Online Editor Media & Marketing Editor News-Brief-Editor Print Editor Visual Editor Copy Editor
Noah Gilbert Nathan Anderson Laila Hasanovic Marley Jenkins Theron Luett Sabrina McGuire Alyssa Miner Catherine Reiher
MANAGERS Visual Manager Visual Manager Morality Manager
Aidan Topolinski Audrey Allen Eva Wozniczka
STAFF WRITERS Nolan Akins Tatum Bremner Sofia Bristow Jordyn Butler Macy Carmichael Allison Christensen Lily Fleming Mae Glass
London Heim Maida Jusufovic John Kirkpatrick Ella O’Brien Gabbie Osborne Van Proctor Abigail Wharton
FINE PRINT Black & White is published solely by the Johnston High School newspaper staff. It is an open forum. In accordance with Iowa law, students assign, edit material and make all decisions of content. Editorials represent the opinion of a majority of the editorial board. Editorial and opinion pieces do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the advisor, school officials or the district. Letters to the editor must be signed. Like all material, letters may not be libelous, obscene or an invasion of privacy. To write a letter to the editor, or report an error in the issue, please contact the editors at jhsblackandwhite@gmail.com.
W
hen Jay Rice ‘94 brainstormed the name of our paper in 1991, it was not because of the ink color. For the last 28 years, our mission has been to bring our audience stories from the school, community and nation, told clearly and without exaggeration--in black and white.
For more content scan here!
Educator Evacuation
Teacher resignations are on the rise. Scan the code and find out why.
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...Let’s Get Real F eel-good stories are easy and fun to read. Sometimes they require little to no post-reading reflection. But when you sit down to read stories about important topics that affect the everyday lives of others around you, opinions, solutions, and conclusions began to form. “Ok, But Seriously…Let’s Get Real” focuses on hard-hitting topics facing students and staff of the district. Stories such as “Toilet Talk” focus on the effects of gendered bathrooms and gender expression, and “Reduce, Reuse, Rethink” talks about the high school’s lack of recycling. This issue is full of stories that will make you think, form opinions, and stay informed.
-Noah Gilbert Editor-In-Chief of the Black & White
CONTENT 4/5 TheraPets
DO WE RECYCLE? FIND OUT ON PAGE 12 ILLUSTRATION | AUDREY ALLEN
6/7 Athletic Burnout 8/9 Toilet Talk 10/11 A Guide to Birth Control 12/13 Reduce, Reuse, Rethink 14/15 Connection Lost 16/17 High School Energy Crisis
Students and staff should have Wi-Fi access Read the B&W Editorial on page 14
18/19 Combating Senioritis 20/21 Dress to Express 22 A Tribute to Betty White
No service
According to Johns Hopkins Medicine:
4 | Opinion
Petting a dog lowers cortisol (the stress hormone) and increases oxytocin (the feel-good hormone).
Talented TheraPets
In a survey, 84% of posttraumatic stress disorder patients reported significant benefits after being paired with a service dog.
Words | John Kirkpatrick Layout | Sabrina McGuire
Paws-itively Focused on Mental Health
T
he continuous COVID-19 pandemic
numbers but just anecdotally I think more
them, Jackson Lansink ‘24 said, “I feel it would
TheraPets usually come to JHS one to
has
stressed,
students are reaching out and using our
benefit me because I just really like animals.
two times a month during the second
anxious, and depressed. Feelings
student assist program.” A different way
I feel like that would just be very helpful in
school semester. For the remainder of the
people are reaching out is through animals.
relieving stress, and I just like being around
year TheraPets will be stopping by JHS on
made
many
feel
of isolation and loneliness have impacted all ages, but has been especially noticed in school-aged individuals. In 2021, according to Mental Health America, around 2.5 million kids have severe major depression, and 15.08% of youth reported experiencing a major depressive episode. This is a 1.24% increase from 2020. Many kids are feeling more stressed than ever. Mrs. Baker gave her response on if there is a bigger need for methods to relieve stress during the pandemic. “I would see more students who are stressed. I can’t say with
“TheraPets would be super beneficial for me because I could use the pets to lower my stress levels during long days at school.” -Annika Trost ‘22
Studies conducted by the National Center
animals.” Lansink is not alone in feeling pets
the last Thursday of every month. Ms. Love
for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), have
would benefit their mental health. Annika
discussed how a student might be chosen
shown that dogs can help lower feelings of
Trost ‘22 said, “TheraPets would be super
to interact with TheraPets. “We try to mix
stress, anxiety, and depression. People
beneficial for me because I could use the pets
it up as to how students can interact or
who own dogs have reported lower
to lower my stress levels during long days at
see the Therapets.” Love also talked about
school.”
how February will look for TheraPets. “For
blood pressure which can help lower the risk of getting heart disease. Simply playing
Many students love being around animals
February, it will be geared more towards
with a dog elevates oxytocin and dopamine,
whether it’s at school or at home. Lansink
staff since that day is conferences.” TheraPets
which helps in creating positive feelings.
talked about the dog his family got. “We got a
has been offered during Ms. Kozelka’s
Cats also make great therapy pets. They
dog in 2020 during the lockdown and we love
Dragon Time a couple of times. All things
can help the body produce stress reducing
him, and he’s been a great addition to our
considered there are many ways a student
hormones. Both cats and dogs do a great
family.” Animals have helped many people
can engage in the TheraPets program.
job of supporting your self-esteem. Pets also
get through the trying times of the
take a lot of responsibility and research has
COVID pandemic.
To many students and staff TheraPets offers a unique way to relax and unwind. Pets
shown that you can build self-esteem by
In 2021 there was a 61%
play a proven role in lowering stress levels
taking ownership and applying your skills to
increase in pet adoption rate. That
and improving mental health. It is important
a specific task. These are all very important
percentage is the highest rate from the
to include more students in this program.
reasons why Johnston should get more
past six years. And many people just enjoy
After all, dogs are called man’s best friend
students involved in the TheraPets program.
the pleasant energy animals bring. Trost
for a reason.
TheraPets is an animal therapy program
said, “They would be so fun to play with
run by the ARL of Iowa. The program offers
and be very calming to be around.” Trost
visits to individuals in hospitals, rehabilitation
also believes that other students
centers, schools, and libraries. All the animals
would benefit too. “TheraPets could
are all TheraPet certified. TheraPets is a great
greatly assist with students having a
way for people to relieve stress, build social
hard time. I think physical interaction
connections, and improving your mood.
with animals is a soothing experience and
When asked how TheraPets could benefit
wonderful therapeutic technique.”
6 | Commentary
Athletic Burnout Words | Abigail Wharton Layout | Nolan Akins & Staff
A
didn’t realize how much I should be eating
athletes’ dedication, but sometimes has to step
open gym or additional practice because he
with doing so much, like, running everyday.”
in to prevent his athletes from overworking
knows that rest is imperative and something
Verde thinks that she noticed her injury
themselves. He says, “They just kind of have
they don’t get enough of because they are
towards the end of the season because of how
that invincible, ‘I can play this thing eight
practicing both school and club soccer
long cross country season is. Runners start
hours a day, everyday, and be just fine.’”
simultaneously.
training after track season at the beginning
However well intentioned their attitudes may
Wilmont Manneh ‘22 is the leading scorer
of June and don’t get a break until after the
be, they, just like other athletes, can’t do it all.
on the soccer team. Manneh says that he
Nike Heartland Regionals in the middle
Frizzel is in a unique position because
frequently tries to balance his time between
of November. Verde says that towards the
he has to compete with club soccer for his
school soccer and club soccer. It’s not just
thletics are a huge part of how
many activities for students to participate in.
Jacob Janni ‘24 has struggled to balance
beginning of the season, “We’re focused
athletes’ time and attention. He says, “Club
those two parties that beg for his time though.
students stay healthy and build
Tobey believes that they will take advantage
all of the sports he participates in. He made
on our fueling and, like, drinking enough
soccer will ultimately try and milk the cow
He also plays football and, like other athletes
community
high
of many of the opportunities offered which
the difficult decision to quit baseball and
water.” Whereas, after six months of training,
as long as they can up until the start of high
at our school, is a student with homework to
school years, but as seasons get longer
during
their
will inevitably lead to burnout. No one can
basketball to focus more of his energy on
all of the preventative measures become too
school soccer.” Frizzel sometimes has to make
complete and tests to study for. Manneh says,
and breaks get shorter, many athletes are
do it all.
football, track, and recreational volleyball.
tedious to keep up with.
the difficult decision to deny his players an
“I try to not do so much just so I can have
experiencing burnout. Athletic burnout has a lot of parts that can
Janni says, “Ask yourself, ‘is it a burden or
In a society where diet
time to do my homework.”
is it something I enjoy being at everyday?’”
culture is commonplace, many
Aleah Tenpas ‘22 is a track and cross country
Finding joy in something you commit
athletes struggle to take in as
runner. She says, “I try and focus on, like,
so much of your time and energy to is
much energy as their bodies
being a student first.” Tenpas believes that it
paramount.
expend on a daily basis. While
is important to be well rounded. In addition
Janni attributes the baseball program’s
trying to compete and train
to being a student-athlete, try finding other
success to the year-long work they put in. He
for a handful of sports, Janni
hobbies and ways to build community with
Josh Tobey says, “Having that situational
35% of elite athletes suffer from
respects the commitment but also recognizes
unintentionally
people. Finding your identity solely in your
awareness regarding what’s best for an
disordered eating, burnout,
that it wasn’t practical considering his
pounds and acknowledges that,
individual student is important.”
depression and/or anxiety.
involvement in other sports. He says, “It was
“that just wasn’t healthy.”
-The Sport Journal
very stressful. I wasn’t getting much sleep at
either be contributing or resulting factors. These include but are not limited to off-time, sleep, injury, mental health, diet, academics, and coach support. All of these influence athletes differently, and Athletic Director
Tobey says, “We need to do everything we can to try to prevent burnout.” He encourages
all.”
lost
thirty
Ultimately, athletic burnout is bound to
Alise Grady ‘24 was a competitive
impact every athlete at some point. Taking
for
breaks, properly fueling, and getting enough
twelve years and experienced
sleep are some of the things you can do to
the changes that adolescence brings while she was under the strict
try to minimize the effects of burnout. In
athletics, academics, work, and friends, many
until they are ready to get back into the initial
student-athletes do not get the sleep they
instruction of her coaches. Her body naturally
some rest, and just get ready for your next
activity. However, he is wary of offering too
need to let their muscles recover and be
grew out of old leotards as she experienced
matchup.”
fully prepared for practices and competitions.
these developmental changes, but she was
Jayce Blanchard ‘23 is a multi-sport athlete.
angry with herself nonetheless. During the
She says, “Whenever I get the chance I just
time when her body needed energy the most,
take naps.” She believes that sleep is key to
her coaches put her on a diet. Grady says, “We
staying on top of your game and preventing
weren’t allowed to eat, like, treats or, like,
burnout.
sweets.” Her lack of energy led to multiple
students who feel the need to take a break
Unfortunately, Janni’s struggle to get
from their sport to do so and find a different
enough sleep is very common. Between
activity, hobby, or job to keep them occupied
“We need to do everything we can to try to prevent burnout.” -Athletic Director Josh Tobey
4-12 weeks of rest are needed to
remedy burnout, depending on the severity. -Lurie Children’s Hospital
gymnast
sport is a quick path to burnout and injury.
However, if athletes lose sleep or aren’t
recurring injuries, but she was unable to tell
getting enough fuel, their bodies will be
her coaches. She says, “You get scared to tell
unable to recover. In this case, injuries are
your coaches that you’re hurt because then
bound to follow. Olivia Verde ‘24 was fourth
they would get mad at you or yell at you.”
in the state cross country meet. Despite the
While not exactly common, this lack of coach
results of her gutsy performance, Verde
awareness and support is not rare either.
wasn’t feeling her best. The week leading up
Boys soccer Coach Jimmy Frizzel, however,
to state she began battling with a knee injury
is doing everything he can to prevent his
that took mental toughness to overcome.
players from experiencing burnout. Boys
Reflecting back on the season, Verde says
soccer has an extremely short and rigorous
she wasn’t fueling enough and believes that
season. They pack 22 games into a 5 week
is why she faced the injury that she did. She
window, leaving little time for recovery and
says, “I ate enough for what I thought, but I
lots of room for injury. Frizzel admires his
the words of Manneh, “Take a break, get
8 | Feature
Toilet Talk The importance of gender identity Words | Sofi Bristow Layout | Marley Jenkins
don’t identify with male or female genders,
restrooms on campus. In New York, New
or students who feel uncomfortable in
York University also has all gender neutral
large public restrooms to have a calm and
bathrooms as well as maps locating where
private space to relieve themselves instead of
they are. Target also made an initiative
stressing about using the public restrooms.”
to have more gender inclusive restrooms.
While it was touched on above, privacy and
Yelp also has it so that customers can look
security are not the only factors in the decision
up gender neutral restrooms near them, in
to use an alternative bathroom. Transgender
order to preserve safety and inclusion.
individuals also express comfort in having
The inclusion of gender neutral bathrooms
this option. Isaac Kronberg ‘22 says, “I use the
is a positive for the community of Johnston
gender neutral bathrooms and I like them
High School. Students and staff alike
because there’s added privacy which is really
have expressed and identified that non
id you know a lot more students use
D
Fast forward to the present day and separate
To add to that, Theo Young ‘23 mentions,
gender neutral restrooms than you
restrooms for males and females is the norm,
“It’s just awkward to have a shared bathroom
the bathrooms that line up with my gender identity. I
think? According to a survey of 47
but gender neutral restrooms are becoming
with
students, 59% of the students reported that
more and more common. Johnston has
uncomfortable. Gender neutral bathrooms
they prefer the gender neutral restrooms as
hopped on the trend of putting gender
are an obvious good in every way, shape, and
opposed to the gendered ones.
neutral bathrooms in their building, and this
form. From privacy, to concerns about gender
has fostered a kinder and safer environment
nonconforming people. The only possible
for many students.
argument against them is that they could
As the name implies, a gender neutral restroom is a bathroom that is available to
other
people,
it
makes
me
too
all, regardless of gender identity. Seperated
Why is it that there are students and staff
facilitate drug use, however those problems
bathrooms actually came after the invention
who prefer these bathrooms? Gender neutral
are solved with a simple smoke detector and
of unisex ones. According to Terry Kogan’s
bathrooms serve more purposes than may
a camera located outside.”
article, “Sex Separation: The Cure-all for
come to mind. Staff and students who use the
Corie Lies ‘24 says, “I use the gender neutral
Victorian Social Anxiety”, gender segregated
family bathrooms were interviewed on why
bathrooms, I use them because it’s super
bathrooms were coined in the Victorian era
they use these restrooms, and how they affect
uncomfortable for me to be in the bathroom
in Europe. Prior to that, it was custom to have mixed toilets. It has been speculated
the Johnston community. Several students and staff have identified
nice. I also use them because they’re
gender segregated bathrooms create feelings of safety, validation,
privacy
“I don’t use the gendered restrooms because shady things seem to happen in them and I don’t feel comfortable using my gender assigned at birth’s restroom.”
- Corie Lies ‘24
with someone else, even if it’s someone I
don’t use the other ones
know. I don’t use the gendered restrooms
because I’m not going to
and is
security. important
recognize
that
It to
that Massachusetts was the first state to
that unisex bathrooms create a feeling of
because shady things seem to happen in
sacrifice my gender identity
the
make gender segregated restrooms legally
privacy and security. English teacher Ed
them and I don’t feel comfortable using my
for a bathroom. I think that
stalls are not the way of life for everyone,
traditional gendered bathroom
mandated in 1887. This law was called “An
Walker says, “I prefer to use the gender
gender assigned at birth’s restroom. I believe
they are helpful to let people of all gender
Act To Secure Proper Sanitary Provisions in
neutral restrooms because it is a single [stall,
they allow for students who are in the middle
identities have a place to do their business.
and that lots of people find comfort in the
of transition between gender, students who
They should be in all buildings.”
single-stalled counterparts. Johnston has
Factories and Workshops”.
I just really value privacy.”
The push for gender neutral restrooms
taken steps to ensure that students feel
in other facilities has been ongoing and
comfortable
using
whichever
bathroom
rampant. In July of 2016, the University of
they prefer by including so many family
Iowa pledged to include 150 gender inclusive
restrooms.
10 | Feature
A Guide to Birth Control
Everything You Need to Know Words & Layout | Theron Luett
cancers such as endometrial, ovarian, and
after, like what to expect besides things like
colorectal.
changes with your period…” said Goode. It’s
Birth Control Can Prevent STIs- Even though
important to know that you aren’t married to
barrier methods such as condoms can reduce
one type of birth control once you start. For
risk of STIs, they do not prevent all STIs.
example, if you start off using the pill but
For example, Herpes can live on parts of the
you realize it isn’t the right fit for you, talk
genital that aren’t covered by a condom.
to your doctor! You know your body best, so
Hormonal Types of Birth Control Can Cuase
don’t be afraid to switch methods if needed.
Abortions- Mainly made up by anti-abortion
Kali Anderson ‘23, isn’t on birth control, but is
groups, birth controls cannot cuase abortions.
disappointed with the lack of information she
Birth Control Damages Fertility- Although
and others have received about birth control.
periods may be irregular after birth control
“I think a big thing is the side effects. I barely
this doesn’t mean that this causes infertility.
even knew about birth control (particularly
The Morning-after Pill Is Like an Abortion-
the pill) even after health class. Even with
ost recently, 65.3% of women in plastic (usually shaped like a T) device inside aren’t only made to prevent pregnancy, but can
Although high dosed birth controls such
what they taught, I barely knew any of the
the United states (ages 15-49) are your uterus. An IUD is a low maintenance also protect against ovarian and endometrial
as Plan-B can be used to prevent pregnancy
side effects like depression, anxiety, just
on birth control. Birth control and long term birth control method, and can cancer, reduce period cramps/bleeding, and
after unprotected sex, it does not cuase an
all the stuff that can come with taking
is used to prevent pregnancy, and comes in last up to 12 years. It is also easily reversible, reduce acne. Karli Goode ‘23, uses the Kyleena
abortion (an abortion is a medical procedure
birth control. If it weren’t for the internet I
many different forms. IUDs, implants, daily and can be taken out by a doctor any time IUD, a brand of birth control. “... For me, I knew
that
wouldn’t even know the side effects existed.”
pills, condoms, and more are all different you want. An IUD costs anywhere from $0- I could never remember a pill and I wanted
pregnancy.)
types of birth controls that can be used 1,300 to be inserted. An implant is similar to something that lasted a long time so it was
Older People Don’t Need Birth Control-
In order to educate yourself and others about
before sex to prevent pregnancy. Although an IUD, but is instead inserted under the skin easier, but then again some birth controls have
According to Zawn Villines, a medical and
birth control, you can visit websites such as
birth control is popular among many people, of the upper arm, and lasts up to 5 years. The very different effects on women and I think
legal writer, it is still possible to get pregnant
Planned Parenthood for questions, concerns,
many misconceptions and stereotypes revolve birth control shot is a simple injection you trial and error is a big thing to find what’s best
despite your age. “Until a person has gone
and more information on each method. PPFA
around its purpose. Birth control is most get once every 3 months. This method is 94% suited for your lifestyle.” said Goode. Many
through menopause and had 12 consecutive
(Planned Parenthood Federation of America)
“I think birth control is very different for everyone and my experiences aren’t going to be the same as everyone else’s necessarily...”Karli Goode ‘23
is a non-profit healthcare orginization that
M
common for preventing pregnancies, but it effective, and costs $0-150. The shot can cause women use a period tracker and birth control has many additional benefits for your mind, your period to become lighter, and can help app to help them track their period and any body, and lifestyle.
protect you from endometrial cancer (cancer birth control method that affects their cycle.
Each type of birth control is different, each in the uterus.) The pill is a common option The patch is a thin patch that sticks to the skin with pros and cons that affect your decision that is 91% effective in preventing pregnancy, and releases hormones through the skin, and of which contraceptive would be best for you. is taken daily, and costs anywhere from $0-50 is applied once a week. This method is 91% The most effective birth control to use is an monthly. Since the pill must be taken every effective, and costs $0-150. A birth control IUD/Implant, which is 99% effective against day to work, it may be hard to start a habit ring is a flexible ring inside your vagina, and pregnancy. An IUD is a small flexible piece of of remembering to take it. Birth control pills is 91% effective. The ring must be changed once a month, and costs $0-200. This is a higher maintenance method, as you must be sure you’re using it correctly and replacing it on time. Then, there’s external and internal condoms, which can be used along with other birth control methods or by themselves each
interrupts
the
already
established
time you have sex. Internal condoms are an
months without a period, pregnancy is still
alternative to regular condoms, and cover
possible. While male fertility also declines
the inside of your vagina, creating a barrier
with age, males can remain fertile well into
just like a regular condom would. Condoms
their 60s, 70s, and beyond.” said Villines.
are 85% effective and cost $0-2, while internal condoms are 79% effective and cost $0-3.
Because of these stereotypes, many women are left in the dark when knowing what to
Common misconceptions and stereotypes
expect when starting birth control, and how
revolving around birth control are spread
important it is to customize your choice to
due to lack of education and/or disagreement.
your needs and lifestyle. “...I wish I would’ve
Birth Control Causes Cancer- Hormonal birth
known about how painful the IUD really
controls can actually help lower the risk of
is, and maybe more about what happens
said Anderson.
provides services such as birth control, cancer screening and prevention, hormone therapy, abortion, STD testing and more. There are over 600 PPFA centers across America, and are available to all women, men, and young people. Some local Iowa PPFA centers can be found in Des Moines, Urbandale, Ames, Iowa City, and more. Make sure to reach out to trusted adults (parent/guardian, doctor ext.) in your life if you are wanting to start on birth control, or if you have any questions/ concerns.
du
e
Re
us
Source: Energy Information Administration
RETHINK
Words | Catherine Reiher Layout | Audrey Allen
T
Wind energy powers 57% of Iowa’s net generation.
Re
ce
12 | Feature
he phrase reduce reuse recycle
out we stopped recycling I was shocked,”
Despite these challenges, Student Council
recycling.
recycling bin has posed a question on what
Time will be working to create a plan to
has
throughout
said Olivia Hannam ‘23. “Johnston is a huge
was still collecting recycled items through
The bill was passed in
steps need to be taken to secure the outside
bring recycling back and
our lives. Large corporations and
school that uses a lot of items that should be
December. Hannam, who took part in this
1978. Iowa’s container
recycled.”
collection, said, “We found an embarrassing
been
plastered
governmental organizations have stressed
back
upon
redemption
bin and encourage proper recycling. Students
possibly include ways to
rate
in Ms. Noreen Nsereko’s AP Environmental
reduce cafeteria waste.
the need to recycle and effectively preserve
We need greater control over what we are
amount of trash… I am very surprised that
is 71% which is
Science class proposed solutions and gained
With students taking
the environment. In October, however,
recycling and how it is sorted. The district
so many people 15 years and older don’t know
double the rate
information on the situation when they met
over recycling in the
following
Waste
is still recycling paper and cardboard at all
how to recycle.” The student council collected
of states without a
with Devens in early February. The students
building, other kinds of
Management for trash being present in the
multiple
fines
from
facilities and schools except the high school,
recycling every 2-4 weeks on Wednesday
Bottle Bill, according to Iowa
found that the district was not inclined to
items could start to be recycled as
high school recycling bin, it was decided
which happens to be the district’s largest
afternoons.
Recycles. Bod Devens, the JCSD Head
review security footage to find a possible
well, such as EXPO markers and
that the high school would stop recycling.
building.
recycling
Iowans care about the environment. The
of Buildings and Grounds, stated, “I think
explanation of the source of the trash as that
types of single use plastics that are
Although this change is not permanent, it
of all recyclables at the high school is not
state has several policies and incentives in
we all, whether it’s a school or anybody, has
would divert attention and time away from
not commonly recycled. Other metro schools
has been frustrating for students and staff.
currently attainable. Bottles and aluminum
place to encourage environmental protection.
an obligation to recycle.” The community
other projects and needs on school grounds.
including Southeast Polk have started food
“I think it is stupid that we don’t recycle all
cans have to be emptied and in some cases
According
Information
values recycling and initiatives to protect our
rinsed before they can be recycled. Paper and
Administration wind energy powers 57% of
environment. Drew Johnson ‘24 said, “I think
AP Environmental Science (APES) student
cardboard have to be dry and free of food or
Iowa’s net generation, the highest percentage
[recycling is] good for the environment, it’s
Cadence Sires ‘23. APES is a science class that
other things that can soil them. Prior to this
of any state. Iowa also has a Bottle Bill, which
very important.” Programs like the bottle
teaches students about the impact of humans
incident, all recyclables were being sorted in
reinforces recycling by having consumers
bill, though sometimes time consuming,
on the environment. Other students were
blue bins located in classrooms. Recycling
pay a 5 cent deposit on carbonated and
are successful, and a cost effective way to
“I think we all, whether it’s a school or anybody, has an obligation to recycle.”
waste-related initiatives. In partnership with
of the recyclable waste that we have,” said
surprised by the decision. “When I found
bins were not present elsewhere in the school.
alcoholic beverages that can be received
incentivize recycling.
Effective
large-scale
help t he earth
to
the
Energy
On approximately four occasions, bags
Bob Devens, Head of Buildings and Grounds
the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), students at Southeast Polk conducted an indepth study on food waste in their buildings and implemented ways to reduce it. This includes redistributing nonperishable items that would have been thrown away to their Backpack Buddy Program which provides
of trash were found in the high school
The district and administration have
students with healthy food options over the
recycling canister by Waste Management
emphasized that they would like to see
weekend. Southeast Polk was awarded the
resulting in multiple fines of roughly $125.
students spearhead the initiative to bring
Iowa School Recycling Program of the Year
The contamination was not occurring inside
recycling back as well as provide educational
Award in 2019 for this initiative and others.
classrooms. The district does not know where
materials on proper recycling. They hope
In the future, one can only hope that
the trash came from, whether it was students,
that student engagement can streamline the
recycling is brought back to the high school
staff, or illegal dumping. “Recycling costs
recycling process and collection. “We should
and that the program is effective in reducing
less than trash unless it is contaminated,’’
just start recycling again and take initiative
our overall waste and carbon footprint.
stated
to do it right,” said Sires. Nsereko’s Dragon
Devens.
Contamination
in
the
b&w JHSBlackandWhite.com
14 | Editorial
Connection Lost
The editorial is an opinion held by the editorial board of the newspaper and is a collaboration of the board. It needs a simple majority to pass. The approval vote was 7-1
The Black & White Newspaper’s Editorial Board calls for public access Wi-Fi for students and faculty during the school day.
W
Wi-Fi Password
NEWS
X
Other Metro High Schools have Wi-Fi for students & faculty to acces during the school day, such as...
Wa u ke e H i g h S c h o o l Wa u ke e N o r t h w e s t H i g h S c h o o l Urbandale High School S o u t h ea st Pol k High S ch ool Va l l e y H i g h S c h o o l East High School Lincoln High School Roosevelt High School
“Johnston usually follows Waukee, Ankeny and Urbandale, I feel like if anything we should get Wi-Fi here too.”
Riya Shamra ‘22
hen it comes to innovation and ‘23. Although the use of phones during an technology, our school is highly intruder situation is discouraged in order ranked. Each student is given to help keep lines of communication for
an iPad for daily educational use as well as school officials and emergency services open,
Some students want accessible Wi-Fi, not
are accessible and individual devices don’t
limited access to computer labs that hold the ability to text ‘I’m okay’ can remedy
only to connect their phone but also to use it
noticeably impact our overall bandwidth.
Apple desktop computers. The school district unneeded worry.
“That’s my mom’s worst
as a tool to help better their ability to learn.
Positive effects are fairly self-evident – given
strives to be the metro’s leader in advanced fear, an intruder, and she can’t get ahold of
While the district provides each student with
the choice between a data plan and Wi-Fi,
technological learning, and despite this, me,” Glennon said. Woods also worries about
an iPad, some students benefit from bringing
most people will choose Wi-Fi.” Waukee
students and faculty are still left without the safety of students during emergency
their laptops or bigger tablets to help them
Community School District (WCSD) also
adequate Wi-Fi and cellular connection to the situations. “We [administrators] even talked
study, take notes, write papers, and more. The
allows students and faculty to access Wi-Fi
outside world.
about our drills, or tornado shelters, if we
school’s current policy does not allow that.
during school hours. According to WCSD
“My understanding is that concrete and all go down there, can anyone get service,”
“If that’s another way [students] can get their
Executive Director of Communications Amy
glass create problems for cellular signals,” woods said. The absence of accessible Wi-Fi
school work done, then [the school] should let
Varcoe, and WCSD’s CFO and IT Director,
said High School Principal Ryan Woods. and cellular service can make an already
them have access to [Wi-Fi], especially if they
they are still within compliance with the FCC
This creates a ‘Cellular Dead Zone’ which, uneasy situtation even harder to handle.
have a valid reason!” Glennon said.
despite allowing student and staff to access
according to Merriam-Webster Dictionary, is
Not having Wi-Fi connections during the
district’s
Wi-Fi during the school day. In a statement,
an area where cell phone reception is very poor school day creates more issues than just
Technology Administrator Anthony Sparks,
they said, “We are in compliance with E-Rate
or unavailable. Without cellular connection safety, it is a missed opportunity for students
the need for students and faculty to have
due to filters we have in place on our Wi-Fi.
or accessible Wi-Fi, a safety concern is created. to learn and become more responsible. As
accessible Wi-Fi during the school day is
We also have our 1:1 devices that are on our
In the event of an emergency, very few students graduate and move to go off to
stopped by the Federal Communications
network internet. The usage of our Wi-Fi by
people can communicate with the outside college they will find that college campuses
Commission’s E-rate rules. “It is against
staff and students we believe is minimal but
world, and virtually no one can connect have public access Wi-Fi in every building.
Federal E-Rate laws to allow personal devices
would be in line with E-Rate regulations.”
with the occupants inside. “My concern is for We are taking away the opportunity to learn
to access the Internet during regular school
According to Sparks, they are following an
the simple communication with family and how to lock in and focus when it is needed.
hours,” Spark said in a statement. The
emergency proclamation made for schools
being able to make calls in and out,” said “It’s part of the kid’s commitment to their
federal E-Rate program, headed by the FCC,
when they are closed. “That proclamation
Business Teacher Micheal Barta. “There can learning,” said Barta. “Part of it is like a skill
provides discounts of up to 90% to schools for
is no longer relevant since our District is
be situations that happen with family and to be like ‘I know when I need to use this
affordable telecommunications and internet
not closed,” Sparks said. He also noted that
they can’t get ahold of you or you’re unable device for certain things and when I need
access, and according to Sparks, the FCC has
the school district goes off of FCC E-Rate
to communicate with them, so I think that’s to lock in, and that is a skill we can start to
reimbursed over $800,000 to the district over
documents from 2010. “I cannot speak to
the world we live in, and I know everywhere I teach, the ability to overcome a temptation.”
the past 14 years. That is about 50% of the
how the WCSD interprets and enforces the
go within my life, I’m able to connect to Wi-Fi
school’s internet bill.
E-Rate rules,” said Sparks. “The Johnston
Students also see it as a choice for
pretty much anywhere, or get service and use themselves and peers to make. “If kids don’t
According
to
the
school
But unlike our school, other school districts
Community Schools will work off the official
want to pay attention that’s their own issue,
such as Waukee and Urbandale allow students
2010 E-Rate rules in regards to educational
But teachers and faculty are not the only but if you’re using it responsibly, then that’s
and faculty to access the internet during
purposes.”
ones concerned with not being able to your decision,” said Glennon. But the issue
the school day. The Urbandale Community
If the goal of the school district is to be
communicate with the outside world during of students being on phones and not paying
School District (UCSD) allows students and
the leader in technology, we should start with
the school day. Student also share the same attention would not be exacerbated by having
faculty to access Wi-Fi during school hours.
the basics: accessible Wi-Fi for students and
valid concerns. “If there is an emergency or Wi-Fi accessible to students and faculty. “The
UCSD’s IT Department and Communications
faculty. It will allow for better communication
an intruder, if you don’t have service and lack of Wi-Fi isn’t eliminating kids with
director Dena Claire said in a statement,
in and outside of the building, eliminating
you are trying to text your parents...that phones. I don’t think the problem is going to
“Our UCSD Guest Wi-Fi is content-filtered
safety concerns, as well as give students the
can be very dangerous,” said Ava Glennon be worse with Wi-Fi,” said Barta.
and rate-limited, so no inappropriate sites
ability to learn accountability.
my data.”
16 | Commentary
Combatting Senioritis A Letter to JHS Seniors
Seniors cheer on the football team against Waukee Northwest during the homecoming game on September 17. Photo by Alyssa Miner.
Words | Alyssa Miner Layout | Jordyn Butler & Alyssa Miner
W
hen asked the question “how
almost graduated. I want to be done very
driven by extrinsic motivation. Meaning, their
are you?” I can’t help but
badly, but I have to be motivated to finish up
goal in courses is based on receiving higher
answer, “I’m tired.” This phrase
my classes. I’m taking AP Computer Science,
test scores, rather than taking a real interest
echoes down the school halls continuously.
AP Environmental, and AP Psychology. I do
in the class. Many students earn higher scores
When we receive our acceptance letters,
a decent bit of schoolwork since I’m there
because of the fear of failure. The unpleasant
it’s a sigh of relief. After so much time
for half of AP Computer Science.” Kehoe
part is that 80% of college freshmen based
preparing for it, we finally get to sink back
continues by saying, “I’m staying on top of it,
their self-worth on academic scores—more
in our chairs. Relax, and recharge. Why
I got it locked down. I’d say most seniors here
than family support, appearance, or any other
is it that when we receive our acceptance
are not at all motivated, I’d say I’m pretty
single factor according to The American
letters, we sink back in our chairs and
abnormal.”
Psychological Association.
check out of high school?
How can we be as motivated as Kehoe to
Mia Anderson ‘22 communicates, “I feel
Zach Kehoe ‘22, explains his incentives for
continue the grind in our last semester of
like I have a lot of homework and I’m always
earning good grades. “I’m less motivated
senior year? According to Berkley Graduate,
behind, but instead of deciding on a show
than in the first semester cause we’re
student motivation for earning good grades is
to watch instead of doing my homework, it’s like which of the homework do I wanna do?” I believe many of us feel like we have nothing to do, but at the same time, we don’t know where to start with all of our deadlines as seniors. This feeling in itself is the key to procrastination. Anderson continues to explain, “So that’s frustrating sometimes and makes you feel like you’re in this endless hole of schoolwork and it’s like why even try sometimes cause you can’t get out of it.” I asked Dowell about his thoughts on the matter, “We talk about therapy, all or nothing thinking. It doesn’t mean these people have depression but it’s a type of thinking that people with anxiety exhibit. It’s like Ricky Bobby thinking. ‘If you ain’t first you’re last.’” Dowell concludes with, “You don’t have to be perfect or amazing at something to be good at it and to also enjoy it. It’s nice to be the best but you can’t be the best at everything.” I believe accepting this will allow us to push ourselves in the right direction. Realizing it’s
not all or nothing, just simply doing our best.
ones. There’s so many local companies that
It’s inevitable that after receiving our
are offering funds for after high-school
acceptance letters, many of us will experience
education. We just have to be a little more
something I like to call cruise mode. Our goal is to float by until graduation. After so many years of hard work it makes sense to reward ourselves with some extra down time. However, there’s always more scholarships to fill out and submit. Anderson addresses student motivation and scholarships, “If you think about the amount of hours you worked from a job compared to the money offered in scholarships, it will eventually save time. Then you can spend more time with your community in college and enjoy your experience.” A lot of us have stopped filling out scholarships after completing our college
“You feel like you’re in this endless hole of schoolwork and it’s like why even try sometimes cause you can’t get out of it.” -Mia Anderson ‘22
open to finding them. Seniors, make a goal for yourself! Maybe that goal is to fill out 2 scholarships or 10 scholarships. According to Think Impact, a scholarship statistics portal, on average 1 in 8 students are likely to receive a scholarship. The more work you put in now, the more you’ll benefit in the future. Let’s set ourselves up for financial freedom and security as we work towards a debt free life. It starts with the effort we choose to put in now. lease, your future selves will thank you for pushing through this slump as we work towards graduation day.
18 | Commentary
The High School Energy Crisis Words | Alyssa Miner Layout | Jordyn Butler & Alyssa Miner
school and said I wasn’t gonna be there that day,” said Lucas Gorsh ‘22 “A lot of students weren’t. I went and took advantage of what the law enforcement was telling me.” I was here. The hallways were empty and for good
focus and work to our full capacity if we’re
wouldn’t be able to focus… I’d be focused
reason. A week ago, yet another strand of
L
all drained. It seems as though most of us
on how tired I am and how much my head
Covid went public. We are quite literally
et’s talk about energy. How many of
are. The Des Moines Register announced that
hurts.” Honestly, I can say the same for
living in a global pandemic. No other
us walk around on an empty stomach
The Des Moines schools have shifted their
myself. So how do we improve our energy
generation can say they’ve received their
in the morning? How many of us
start times to 8:25 as well as Iowa City at 8:45.
without caffeine… or those Hyper drinks?
education in these conditions. When some of
replay the list of tasks we have to complete
Other schools were able to recognize this and
Let’s go back to the basics. Water. Coffee
us say, “I don’t want to go to school today,”
in our heads throughout the day? How many
change their start times. The bleak reality is
and sugary drinks will inevitably dehydrate
People truly wonder why. We can’t be safe. We
of us run off caffeine instead of sleep? I know
teenagers, function better later. We’re stuck
us. Being well hydrated will automatically
can’t feel that sense of security. Half of our
I do. Our sleep schedule, nutrition, and stress
in an endless cycle of sleep deprivation.
improve our mental focus and memory.
student body chose to stay home on ‘national
levels all factor into our energy levels. I’ve
According to The University of California,
The 2nd easiest thing you can do is to eat
school shooter day’ and no one can blame
completed a highly secure and advanced
Los Angeles Health Department, when
breakfast in the morning. Most of you have
them. According to Education Week, in the
survey… on Instagram to answer these
puberty begins, the body’s rhythm shifts a
heard adults coming in and out of our health
year 2022, we’ve had seven school shootings
questions. According to my social media
couple of hours later. Now, your body tells
classrooms since elementary saying this.
already. How are we expected to feel safe?
audience, 44% of people said they didn’t eat
you to go to sleep around 10:00 or 11:00 pm
However, it’s the most significant change you
We’re not. We just persevere. We just stay in
breakfast in the morning. On a scale of 1-10,
instead of 9:00 or 10:00 pm. This is called the
could be making to improve your nutrition
our little bubble and forget about it. We’re
the average stress level was 6.75. On top of
sleep phase delay. So why are we continuing
levels.
supposed to trust that it won’t happen to
this, people only get approximately 6 hours
to implement early start times in American
of sleep per night.
society? The average teenager has to be
SLEEP DEPRIVATION
sleep-deprived to succeed today, and we need desperately to change this for the future.
NUTRITION
us. Safety, Security, Nutrition, Hydration,
SAFETY
and sleep are utterly lacking in high-school
We can’t afford to look past the necessities.
students. So my question is, simply how. How
When we talk about energy, it’s not about
does society continue to expect the best of
one topic or the other. It’s a multitude of the
us when we can’t get the most basic levels of
bare minimum our students are missing.
human necessities?
I know none of us are perfect with our
In AP Psychology we’ve briefly gone over
nutrition. But what we can’t have, is our
Maslow’s Hierarchy of needs. It is a pyramid
student body walking around hungry and
model making up 5 components to human
Many high school students struggle to
balanced is the only method to keeping our
drained. Nutrition is the key to feeling strong
needs. The very bottom level consists of our
find balance in their lives. We have so much
energy levels sustainable. History teacher
The averages from my responses are
and healthy. Not to say you’ll have a 6 pack,
physiological needs (air, water, food, shelter,
going on with school, after-class activities,
Thomas Griffin shares, “I think kids are
incredibly low compared to the number
but hey, it is a good start. Too many of us
sleep, clothing, reproduction). The second
work, and family. Kate Antofer ‘22 shares
aware of their stress but I don’t think we have
of sleep hours teenagers are in dire need
end up in an endless cycle of being tired,
level would be safety (personal security,
her experience of dealing with stress, “I just
a great system for talking about it. I try to
of. Audrey Till ‘22 explains, “I do believe
drinking caffeine, being tired, and drinking
employment, resources, health, property). The
go with it. I try to ignore the fact that I’m
encourage my kids, I try to acknowledge that
I’m lacking in sleep. I go to bed late fairly
more caffeine, and you get the idea. Physical
top piece of the pyramid is self-actualization
stressed and get through the week, and then
they are busy. … I think an important step
consistently due to homework and sports
Education teacher Brian Lutter explains the
(the desire to become the most that we can
every week it just resets,” said Antofer. “So on
would be to have a schedule that reflects that
and I also get up early to go lifting on some
increase in caffeine intake in and out of the
be). Teenagers from today’s society can attest
Monday I just have to get through this week.
as a priority. I think one change that could
weekdays. I do think our school schedule is
weight room, “I have noticed over the years
to the lack of sleep, nutrition, and hydration.
And then the next Monday I’m just like ‘oh I
be beneficial would be to go from 5 minute
too early. Teenagers naturally have a more
that pre-workout is much more prevalent,”
If we can’t meet these needs, we will never
just have to get through this week’, so I take
passing periods to 10 minute passing periods
‘nocturnal’ sleep schedule,” Till said. “The
Lutter said. “I’ve been doing this for 17 years
be able to function to our full potential. We
it one week at a time.” I do believe that it is
at least on the block days.” Stress is real. We
early start time just hinders productivity
now. I’ve seen the trend where students don’t
will never be able to get rid of the bags under
invaluable to take things one step at a time.
can not shake it off. We can not completely
during the first few periods of the day.”
use it at all and now it’s much more common
our eyes. We will never be able to focus in
Being overwhelmed gives this feeling of your
ignore it.
Teenagers are wired to sleep later in the
to see it. The same thing for school, I see
class. We will never grow up knowing how
work or the world coming down to crash on
Safety, Security, Nutrition, Hydration, and
day. It’s not up to us to completely change
more kids carrying around coffee cups or
to function at our highest levels. I don’t
you. Focusing on one activity or task at a time
sleep are all utterly lacking in high-school
the makeup of our circadian rhythm. Till
energy drinks… It’s much more common to
want our lives and energy levels to be at the
will lighten the load on your back.
students. We have the power to fix our
continued, “There is relatively no detriment
see teenagers consuming caffeine.”
disposal of today’s standards.
STRESS
“I just feel overwhelmed with school,” said
nutrition. We have the power to balance our
to pushing start times back for high schoolers.
According to Medical News Today, 83.2%
December 17th, 2021 was ‘National School
Vi Le ‘22. “I just don’t wanna hang out with
lives. We have the power to use our voices.
It would help kids get more sleep and help
of teenagers consume caffeine regularly. We
Shooting day.’ A day created by the media to
friends cause school is always on my mind
Although we are just students, we can speak
them be better focused throughout the day.
depend on it so much that a day without it
intimidate and scare educators and students.
and I haven’t found a good balance yet.”
up to the school board about schedules.
If I were talking to the superintendent I
becomes incredibly hard to focus. “I started
, “I called up a couple of my cousins who are
School is always on our minds. Balancing
Society’s standards of success should not shut
would just request she think about making
drinking caffeine when I was 12,” said Karsen
deputies in Johnston county… they said ‘If
our schedules is the key to creating healthy
us down. We must keep ourselves energized
start times later for high schoolers.” We can’t
Mum ‘22. “If I didn’t have it during school I
you want to play it safe go ahead.’ I called the
lifestyles. Keeping our home and work lives
to perform and feel our absolute best.
The Dress Code
20 | Commentary
Dress to Express
JHS’s relaxed dress code benefits students
Words | Lily Fleming Layout | Aidan Topolinski & Noah Gilbert
few months ago this year, rumors
A
Across the world, dress codes vary broadly
widely disfavored because they are associated
circulated that Johnston had lifted
based on a country’s local culture, history,
with Hitler Youth uniforms according to a
its dress code. While revisions
social conservatism status, and many other
BBC article.
to the attire policies have not happened
factors. For instance, Gulf News informs how,
Naturally dress codes and school uniforms,
since August 2020, for many JHS students,
as a country with Islam as the official state
when present, mirror standards placed
minimal discipline surrounding dress code
religion, women in Saudi Arabia are expected
on adults to convey familiar values and
was not anything new. For quite some time
to wear an abaya, or long black cloak, and
cultural or social norms. But normality does
at the high school, students have enjoyed
nijabs. As recently as 2019, foreign women
not exempt the need for these standards to
relatively
policies,
were instructed to dress modestly, and cross-
be reviewed and acted upon when they are
particularly compared to those of other
dressing and “behaving like a woman” was
found suppressive or degrading.
schools internationally and locally.
illegal for men.
relaxed
dress
code
While clothes are primarily protection and
In a political climate with an endless list
On the opposite end of the cultural spectrum,
hygienic barriers, they are also who we are.
of unresolved social justice issues, this
in July 2021 the Norwegian women’s handball
They are presentations of where we come
seemingly minuscule attribute of Johnston
team was fined $175 per player for wearing
from, our heritage, culture, and religious
High School and its discipline system is a
shorts instead of bikini bottoms, as reported by
background. Clothing enables a sense of
mentionable step forward. It’s important to
NPR. School uniforms are another discussion
identity, self empowerment, love, confidence.
understand why.
in itself, but in Germany specifically they are
On the topic of self expression in relation to apparel and dress code, Finn Coons ‘23 reflects, “It’s just a way to show who you are on the inside. You can wear whatever makes you feel most comfortable in your body.”
The expression of a student’s uniqueness and individuality by means of dress will be sanctioned by the school. Hats, bandannas, or caps are not to be worn in school by students during the normal school day. Neither are T-shirts or other apparel that carry images, slogans, pictures, diagrams or espouse in any fashion negative or degrading sexual, gender, ethnic or racial messages or that can be construed in a reasonable fashion to do so. Promotion of illegal substances on student clothing is also prohibited. Restrictions on freedom of student dress will be imposed whenever the mode of dress in question is: -Unsafe, either for themselves or for those around them. -Considered by a staff member
to be disruptive of the operations and the education process in the classroom. -Contrary to law. -Not clean or in accordance with proper health standards, such as shoes must be worn -Deemed by the Principal as inappropriate at school. -Deemed to be gang related. -Deemed to be a form of expression that promotes violence, bigotry, hate and abuse. What is legally permitted may not always be educationally acceptable. Some clothing may be legally permitted and still not belong in school. Good judgment is needed by the student, and the school reserves the right to counsel students on appropriate grooming.
Closer to home, at private schools like Dowling Catholic High School, uniforms are used. In contrast to the use of uniforms,
Mentionably however, present day public
Johnston’s board policy 502.1 states that the
school apparel policies in Iowa also represent
main reason to address a student’s apparel
laws. For instance, state board policy 279.85
is if “… a student’s appearance or mode of
which essentially describes Johnston’s 502.1
dress disrupts the educational process or
policy, with the side note that discrimination
constitutes a threat to health or safety… ”.
in how regulations are applied can prompt a
Though the interpretative nature of learning
visit from the Office of Civil Rights.
environment
leeway
While it is important for students to
for the familiar cases of sexism or double
disruptions
leaves
understand real world expectations of formal
standards, this is unusual at JHS according to
attire at the workplace and in other situations,
students.
that is not to say gradual systemic efforts
Chayse Chapman ‘23 states, “I’ve never
to cut down on present dress codes aren’t
been dress-coded, I know some people have,
necessary. Within the patriarchal lens of how
but that was like in middle school… The last
commonly women’s bodies are sexualized,
time I heard something about the dress code
LGBT+ people and religions are discriminated
was when I heard we’re allowed to wear hats.”
against in individual ways, men are repressed
Needless to say, vastly different
to maintain a masculine image, and the list
international
circumstances
goes on, neglecting to reassess the traditional
relative to JHS’s attire policies illustrate the
and
local
cultural values in place will merely prevail
more progressive posture Johnston sits at.
harmful consequences.
“Generally I think the dress code should be what is inappropriate, and then everything else should be pretty much free rein, which I think Johnston does a fairly good job at.” -Chayse Chapman ‘23
This statement applies everywhere, and while the prospect of shifting social norms throughout the world is dubious, change starts small, with laws like Iowa Code section 279.85 and in schools similar to Johnston. So, notwithstanding the fact that the essence of journalism is generally wrapped around investigating, informing and cutting down on big and small issues we face today, praise goes regarding this issue: To the representatives and lobbyists who enabled the success of the bill. To activists and dress code violators everywhere who push and resist oppression in its many furtive forms. And to Johnston, for its accordance to the law, but more significantly for providing a learning environment in which students can be comfortable, have cultural and religious freedom, and express themselves in ways that help to discover who they are and grow.
COVID Kills Social Skills
Featured Online
Scan and Go
Conference Bowling
Words & Layout | Staff
https://jhsblackandwhite.com
Words | Macy Carmichael
O
Word|Allie Christensen
n Monday, February 7, 2022, the boys bowling
Just Don’t Lose
team
competed
in
the conference meet at Game Day Lanes. With a record of 7-3,
Words | Nathan Anderson
F
they finished 4th overall at the
antasy football has taken the sports
conference...
world by storm since the internet revolutionized the format, making it more
convenient and accessible for everyone. In a standard league, members, or “managers”,
Illustration|Allie Christensen
M
arch 13, 2020, marked the beginning of the end of humankind’s ability to
communicate
with
others.
Any chance we had of developing key social
draft NFL football players who then score for
Photo | Erick Mitchell
skills were abolished the second we started
O
conference meet at Game Day
have heightened our need to be around
claim rising stars off the waiver wires, and
Lanes. They finished 3rd at the conference,
our loved ones, interacting with people at a
make substitutions to maximize their team’s
making their record 5-5...
professional level seems more daunting than
their manager’s roster every week based on their statistics. It is fast paced as well, good managers need to take advantage of trades,
potential. Many leagues have prizes for the
n Wednesday, February 9, 2022,
incorporating trending TikTok sounds into
the girls bowling team had their
our vocabulary. While the pandemic may
ever before.
Illustration | Van Proctor winner, and just as many leagues have pun-
Butlers Staff Profile
ishments for the last-place finisher. These punishments are almost always humiliating, creative, and wildly entertaining for all except one. As the dust settles on the fantasy season, it is now time to laugh at all the negligent, naive, or first time* managers who are now subject to public humiliation for our entertainment.
In Memory of Robert Munson Benesh Words | London Heim
O
n Monday of January 17, 2022 one
J
of the Johnson Community School District
(JCSD)
staff
ordyn Butler is a senior in her first year
members
of newspaper. When she’s not living out
suddenly passed away at the age of 33 in their
her journalism dreams in newspaper class,
home due to a cardiac arrest. Robert Munson
you can find her cuddling with her cat, do-
Benesh was an English as a secondary language
teacher
and
building
ing photography, or stressing about life after
equity
high school. She loves 2000s alternative mu-
advocate at Lawson and Wallace elementary
sic as well as the color pink, and she has an
schools. Benesh was loved by the JCSD, his
unhealthy addiction to Pipeline Punch mon-
family, and his friends. A visitation will be
and students that were affected. Assistance
held on Monday, January 24 and there will be
Programs will be available to support our
a memorial service on Tuesday, January 25 at
students and staff in coping with this loss at
her time is spent playing Sims 4 on her xbox
Westminster Presbyterian Church. The JCSD
JCSD. Both his visitation and memorial will
or watching South Park instead of doing her
sends their condolences to the family, friends,
be live streamed.
homework.
sters due to being sleep deprived 24/7. Most of
Betty White
Spread | Tatum Bremner & Laila Hasanovic
In 1963, White married Allen Ludden who passed in 1981.
Betty White served on the Los Angeles Zoo board for over 50 years! Betty was nominated for 21 Emmys throughout her career.
White hired Aurthur Duncan on “The Betty White Show” as the first black American to be a TV series regular. When told to fire him, she said “I’m sorry, but, you know, he stays. Live with it.”
Betty was born in Illinois, however, she grew up in Los Angeles.
Career Accomplishments Jan 17 1922
Betty White born in Ilinois
1952-1954
Host and Producer of “The Betty White Show”
1955
Lead role and producer of “Life of Elizabeth”
1985
Hit show “The Golden Girls” debut
2010
Dec 31 2021
Oldest “Saturday Passed away in Night Live” host sleep at her Los in history Angeles home