November Issue-2021 by LHS Statesman

STATESMAN MAGAZINE

ISSUE NO. 2 : 2021

THE NOVEMBER ISSUE

FEATURES

SPORTS

ENTERTAINMENT

PERSPECTIVES

ELIZABETH CRAWFORD ella grimm

FALL SPORTS REPORTS gage gohl

UNWANTED UNPLUG raina marty

WHY SO POLITICAL? laura heckenlaible

jack simpson: THE STORY BEHIND THE KING chloe houwman

TABLE OF CONTENTS FEATURES

BLAZIN’ CHALLENGE

‘ECHOES IN A HALLWAY’

PERSPECTIVES

Henry Haft & Carter Ericson

THEE MS. MEYER

FALL SPORTS REPORTS

UNWANTED UNPLUG

THANKING THOSE WE DON'T THANK ENOUGH

HARD WORK AND HIGH EXPECTATIONS

THE PERIODIC TABLE OF SIOUX FALLS

Avery Nelson

Kate Tollinger

PUFFS TAKE THE STAGE Olivia Brost

Gage Gohl

THE ‘A’ IN ANXIETY

WHERE ARE ALL THE ALIENS?

WHY SO POLITICAL?

WE CAN NEVER WIN.

SIOUX FALLS’ PROBLEMATIC LAYOUT

Brooks Houwman

Caleb Hiatt

Emma Southwick

SCULPTING OUT THE BEST IN SIOUX FALLS

Raina Marty

Thompson Wakefield

Fisher Meyerink

THE 4 FS OF FRIENDSGIVING Sarah Bomhoff

Claire Brown & Elana Bishop

9 10 12

16 18 20

ENTERTAINMENT

THE ONE THAT GOT AWAY Anna Engels

JACK SIMPSON: THE STORY BEHIND THE KING Chloe Houwman

DIFFERENCES IN TEACHERS Ashleigh Ericson

THIS YEAR’S HOT HOLIDAY WISHLIST

LHS BAD PARKING

FIVE MUST-WATCH FALL FILMS

RUMORS OR REALITY: LINCOLN HIGH’S HORRORS

JUICE CLEANSE

Clare Heupel

THE TALL ONE

Morgan Sandness

ALL HAIL THE QUEEN Leighton Feltman

ELIZABETH CRAWFORD Ella Grimm

Delaney Gramlick

Lydia Sarbacker

Jada Sandvall

TURKEY, CORN & ‘PAT’ATOES

ART: CHICAGO, IL

Baily Plourde

Hannah Cisar

Margaret Ann Mickelberg

Daniel Bethke

Statesman

THE MAN, THE MYTH, THE MURPHY

Laura Heckenlaible

STATESTHOUGHTS

Bella Engebretson

Ariahna Wells

Adyson Sand

SPORTS

PAPER EDITORS-IN-CHIEF- Anna Engels, Chloe Houwman & Adyson Sand ONLINE EDITORS-IN CHIEF- Daniel Bethke & Kate McCartney FEATURE EDITORS- Hannah Cisar & Jada Sandvall ENTERTAINMENT EDITORS- Baily Plourde & Taylor Schmitz PERSPECTIVES EDITORS- Olivia Brost, Margaret Ann Mickelberg & Veronica Iseminger SPORTS EDITORS- Gage Gohl, Caleb Hiatt & Morgan Sandness NEWS EDITORS- Emma Forster & Thompson Wakefield SATIRE EDITOR- Henry Haft STAFF WRITERS- Anna Anderson, Joy Bilal, Elana Bishop, Rachel Blackman, Sarah Bomhoff, Claire Brown, Haleigh Caaway,

Reese Duncan, Bella Engebretson, Carter Ericson, Ashleigh Ericson, Leighton Feltman, Paige Gordon, Delaney Gramlick, Ella Grimm, Laura Heckenlaible, Clare Heupel, Brooks Houwman, Allison Kolling, Raina Marty, Gabie McConnell, Fisher Meyerink, Avery Nelson, Lydia Nelson, Adrienne Revier, Lydia Sarbacker, Emma Southwick, Mara Tiede, Vanessa Timat, Kate Tollinger, Ariahna Wells

ADVISER- Katie Kroeze

THEE

MS.

MEYER by

was rooted. From a young age, Meyer’s maternal grandmother served as the sole entity behind which her love for the kitchen flourished. She was instilled with credence as her grandmother gave her her first paring knife as a young girl with permission to use it. This planted the culinary seed in Meyer, and Meyer’s paternal

Meyer, being a Pat herself, chose to continue her education at the University of St. Thomas to receive a degree in geography, but only to appease her educationwanting parents. As she turned to a new chapter in life, The New England Culinary Institute was written in bright bold letters at the top of her page. Moving across the country to Vermont, a thousand miles away from anyone

can’t really reach with other things; other things don’t compare as much,” said Meyer. “However, I eventually decided at like 24, while having a quarter-life crisis because it wasn’t sustainable for me, I didn’t feel healthy, I was far away from family and friends and I felt like I was missing out on their lives.” Maintaining her well-being was first on Meyer’s priority list as she decided to step away from

this time as a superior to her former self. Finally, being able to put her geography degree to use, she quickly gained a new understanding of the lives of people around her in connection to herself. “Being a teacher has made me a lot more humble; I think it has made me examine my life in terms of what I consider hardships because you can’t help

Avery NelsoN

ou may know her as the compassionate and charismatic social studies teacher with funky glasses and a bit of a blunt demeanor who always seemingly has enough snacks to feed the entire school. Not only lining the southwest side of the school with her classroom but also her contagious personality, Regan Meyer is viewed by many as “the mom” of the school. Without fail, she is always there to offer support and guidance to any student who walks through her door. As many are aware, Meyer has an intense passion for culinary arts in which her childhood dream

grandmother fertilized another grounding principle within her granddaughter. “[My grandmothers] were from two different worlds,” said Meyer. “My mom’s mom was an airplane-flying city girl, whereas my dad's mom was a flour-sack-dress-wearing farmer's daughter. Both my grandmothers cared more about their family than anything else and cared about their connections with people. They were the ones who instilled a hard work ethic as well as my love for food.”

she knew and everyone she loved, Meyer put her undeniable kitchen skills to the test. While she quickly realized through the “domineering, intense chefs” and unsustainable pay that the culinary life was not as glamorous as everyone made it out to be, the perspectives and principles she held quickly proliferated. “Cooking for someone provides a level of fulfillment that you

her childhood dream and take on a new one. Being surrounded by her loved ones was only one perk Meyer was able to experience moving back to her hometown of Sioux Falls. Still applying her abundant knowledge of kitchen experience, Meyer picked up a job as the Humanities teacher at George McGovern Middle School. By switching career paths and embracing her more worldly passion, Meyer reentered LHS,

but compare your situations to those around you,” said Meyer. “You get such a diverse group of students that it gives you a good amount of perspective.” Growing up in central Sioux Falls, Meyer is not ignorant to the idea that as a state, we appear to evolve slower than others. Not in any means could South Dakota be categorized as a culture hub, being the land-locked state that it is. Having the ability to see the flat state of farmland continue to grow and keep in touch with the ever-advancing outside world

is one of the reasons Meyer felt drawn back here. Her desire of creating a favorable impact on our society played another large role in entrancing her back to her hometown. “I wanted to move back here because I wanted to be a positive influence in the place I grew up, opposed to being someone else in a place where I didn’t have a lot of connections,” said Meyer. Meyer, a travel fanatic, has gained a variety of experiential perspectives from her various travels across the pond, the most memorable being her trip to Granada. Located in the

south of Spain in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountain range, this quaint yet complex city combines leftover Moorish culture with Spanish lifestyle to create harmony amongst the citizens and life itself. As this city produced a newfound deeper appreciation for the simplicity in life within Meyer, it holds truths that can resonate within all of us. “They [Granada citizens] seem to live life more deliberately, taking advantage and appreciating the simple things in life that we tend to breeze over,” said Meyer. desigN by

Avery NelsoN regAN Meyer

photos provided by

byby Kate Kate tollinger tollinger

November November is aismonth a month dedicated dedicated to to giving giving Klassen’s Klassen’s jobjob cancan be be a little a little overwhelming overwhelming chillers chillers areare offoffand and that that thethe pumps pumps areare off.” off.” thanks; thanks; at LHS at LHS there there areare plenty plenty of of people people wewe and and repetitive repetitive and and does does notnot involve involve much much Haag Haagnotnotonly onlyoversees overseesthethebuilding building should should thank thank forfor everything everything they they dodo to to keep keep downtime, downtime, butbut hehe loves loves when when hehe gets gets thethe butbut is is also also in in charge charge of of cleaning. cleaning. ourour building building upup and and running. running. Most Most staff staffwewe chance chanceto tointeract interactwith withstudents. students.Along Along Haag’s Haag’sleast leastfavorite favoritepart partof of hishisdayday seesee onon a daily a daily basis, basis, butbut there there areare also also some some that that with withthethepandemic pandemichitting, hitting,it ithashascaused caused is isdealing dealingwith withtoilets toiletsand andbathrooms. bathrooms. areare tucked tucked away away that that areare equally equally deserving deserving him him many many more more attendance attendance updates. updates. “Graffiti “Graffitiononbathroom bathroomstalls stalls[is] [is]just just of of recognition recognitionand andspotlight spotlightforfortheir their “When “When wewe getget COVID-19 COVID-19 calls, calls, so sohard hardto togetgetoff,off,and andI dislike I dislikehaving having contributions contributions to to thethe success success of ofourour school. school. it’sit’sa along longprocess processthat thatyou youhave haveto togogo to topull pullstuff stuffoutoutof oftoilets,” toilets,”said saidHaag. Haag. LHS LHSchild childnutrition nutritionmanager managerBeth Beth through throughto totrytryto tofigure figureoutouthow howmany many Haag Haag hashas to to deal deal with with dirty dirty situations situations allall Claussen Claussenhashasoverseen overseenthetheoperation operationof of days daysthey’re they’regonna gonnamiss,” miss,”said saidKlassen. Klassen. year year long, long, butbut recently recently there there hashas been been a TikTok a TikTok thethe LHS LHS cafeteria cafeteria forfor thethe past past three three years. years. Another Anotherstaff staffmember memberhidden hiddenin inthethe scandal scandal that that hashas caused caused him him more more problems. problems. Before Beforecoming comingto toLHS, LHS,sheshededicated dedicated1717 office officeis isourourschool schoolnurse, nurse,Heidi HeidiLeBon. LeBon. “All “AllthetheTikTok TikTokstuff stuffwas wasa apain,” pain,” years yearsto tobeing beinga cook a cookforforCiti CitiBank. Bank.Her Her Throughout ThroughoutthethedaydayLeBon LeBoncompletes completes said said Haag. Haag. “I “I don’t don’t Tik Tik or or Tok Tok so so I didn’t I didn’t role role as as thethe nutrition nutrition manager manager consists consists of of several several tasks tasks that that include include handing handing outout meds, meds, really reallyknow knowwhat whatwas wasgoing goingon.on.In Inoneone ordering ordering thethe food, food, making making sure sure everybody everybody assessing assessing kids kids forfor different different types types of of illnesses, illnesses, daydaysixsixsoap soapdispensers dispensersgotgotbroken, broken, is isdoing doingtheir theirduties dutiesand andensuring ensuringkids kids dealing dealing with with students’ students’ emotional emotional issues issues and and kids kidswere werethrowing throwingsoap soapallallover overthethe arearegetting gettingserved servedand andthat thateverything everything assessing assessing medical medical social social reports reports onon kids kids that that floor, floor,which whichwas wasdifficult difficultto toclean cleanup.” up.” at at thethe end end of ofthethe dayday gets gets cleaned cleaned upup and and may may need need help help in school. in school. LeBon LeBon is responsible is responsible Haag Haag does does notnot stand stand alone alone in in hishis attempts attempts ready readyforforthethenext. next.Claussen Claussenis isthethehead head forfor making making sure sure that that thethe building’s building’s sixsix AEDS AEDS to to keep keep thethe school school clean, clean, LHS LHS hashas a number a number of ofthethe lunch lunch crew crew and and loves loves spending spending herher areare upup and and running running and and checked checked monthly. monthly. of ofcustodians custodians including including Jeffrey Jeffrey Gard. Gard. Gard Gard time timededicated dedicatedto toserving servingthethestudents. students. LeBon LeBon also also helps helps kids kids in in thethe RISE RISE program. program. hashas worked worked here here forfor thethe past past fivefive years years and and “Just “Just serving serving thethe kids kids and and seeing seeing thethe kids kids “I “Ihelp helpwith withthetheRISE RISEkids, kids,there thereareare hishis main main goal goal every every dayday is to is to keep keep thethe school school makes makes meme smile,” smile,” said said Claussen. Claussen. “I love “I love working working some some kids kids in in there there that that need need some some G-tube G-tube clean. clean. Gard Gard sweeps, sweeps, scrubs, scrubs, mops, mops, vacuums, vacuums, with withthethestaff. staff.I’mI’ma real a realpeople peopleperson.” person.” feedings feedings and and kids kids with with seizures,” seizures,” said said LeBon. LeBon. cleans cleanswindows windowsas aswell wellas asother otherrandom random AsAsClaussen’s Claussen’sdaydayinvolves involvesa alotlotof of LeBon LeBondeals dealswith withdifferent differentillnesses illnesses assigned assignedduties. duties.Besides Besidescleaning, cleaning,Gard Gard interaction, interaction, sheshe sticks sticks to to a consistent a consistent routine routine that thatarearebrought broughtupon uponherherday-to-day. day-to-day. also also finds finds time time to to scope scope outout thethe building. building. to keep to keep thethe cafeteria cafeteria onon anan organized organized schedule. schedule. “I “I feelfeel likelike there there areare more more viral viral illnesses illnesses “The “The best best part part of ofmymy dayday is is getting getting to to “I’m “I’mhere hereat atsixsixto tostart startsetting settingupup going going on,” on,” said said LeBon. LeBon. “People “People kinda kinda forgot forgot seesee allall thethe talent talent wewe have have in in thethe school,” school,” said said breakfast, breakfast, helping helping thethe cook cook getget thethe that thatprior priorto toCOVID-19 COVID-19wewediddidhave havethethe Gard. Gard. “Whether “Whether it’sit’s projects projects in the in the artart area area or or breakfast breakfast ready, ready, putting putting together together thethe fluflubug, bug,wewediddidhave havecolds coldsand andcoughs. coughs. thethe kids kids in in drama, drama, they they areare allall very very talented.” talented.” dish dishmachine machineand andmaking makingsure surethethecash cash I Ithink thinksome somekids kidsareareforgetting forgettingthat.” that.” Gard Gard works works hard hard every every dayday to to registers registers areare upup and and running,” running,” said said Claussen. Claussen. LeBon LeBon loves loves to to interact interact every every dayday with with keep keepthethebathrooms bathroomsclean cleanand andwhen when Working Workingin ina ahigh highschool schoolcafeteria cafeteriato to different differentkids, kids,butbutherherfavorite favoritepart partof of students students take take advantage advantage of of that that it it most mostpeople peoplewould wouldbe bea adifficult difficultplace place herherdaydayis isbeing beingaround aroundthetheRISE RISEkids. kids. cancanbe befrustrating frustratingforforthethecustodians. custodians. to tokeep keepunder undercontrol, control,butbutClaussen Claussen “I “I love love going going to to seesee thethe RISE RISE kids,” kids,” said said “We “We work work hard hard to to keep keep them them clean, clean, and and takes takesononwhatever whateveris isthrown thrownherherway. way. LeBon. LeBon. “I love “I love going going in there in there and and seeing seeing their their when when someone someone throws throws anan apple apple at at thethe wall, wall, “There “There areare lots lots of of challenges, challenges, smiles, smiles, and and I love I love that that they they areare selling selling coffee.” coffee.” it splatters it splatters from from floor floor to to ceiling,” ceiling,” said said Gard. Gard. such such as as kids kids cutting cutting in in line,” line,” said said Mathew Mathew Haag Haag is one is one of of thethe main main building building There There areare countless countless staff staff members members in in this this Claussen. Claussen. “It“It seems seems so so simple.” simple.” managers managers that that overlooks overlooks thethe whole whole school. school. building building that that deserve deserve ourour thanks, thanks, and and these these AA staff staffmember member that that seems seems to to be be tucked tucked OnOn a school a school day, day, Haag Haag focuses focuses onon making making sure sure areare just just a few. a few. From From cooks cooks to to custodians, custodians, each each away awayin inthetheoffice officeis isattendance attendanceclerical clerical thethe building building stays stays clean clean and and that that everything everything identity identity contributes contributes to to thethe great great success success of of Kory KoryKlassen. Klassen.HisHisrole roleat atLHS LHSseems seemsto to behind behindthethescenes scenesis isrunning runningproperly. properly. LHS. LHS. There There areare ways ways to to give give thanks thanks in in more more be beunpretentious, unpretentious,yetyetit itis isa ahuge hugetime time “With “Withthetheweather weatherchanging, changing,mymymain main ways ways than than one; one; pushing pushing in in your your chair, chair, picking picking commitment commitmentand andessential essentialto tothetheschool. school. focus focus is to is to make make sure sure allall thethe leaves leaves areare taken taken upup any any trash, trash, notnot cutting cutting thethe lunch lunch line line and and “Basically “Basically I do I do attendance attendance allall day,” day,” said said care care of of outside, outside, butbut thethe main main focus focus when when thethe respecting respectingthethework workof ofourourstaff staffgoes goesa a Klassen. Klassen. “Kids “Kids check-in check-in and and outout allall thethe time time weather weather changes changes is is thethe HVAC,” HVAC,” said said Haag. Haag. long long way. way. Little Little things things likelike this this addadd upup to to so so I’mI’m constantly constantly marking marking them them in in and and out.” out.” “We “We have have to to turn turn thethe boilers boilers on,on, ensure ensure allall thethe appreciate appreciate those those who who wewe dodo notnot thank thank enough. enough.

PICTURED PICTURED LEFT LEFT TOTO RIGHT: RIGHT: MATTHEW MATTHEW HAAG, HAAG, KORY KORY KLASSEN, KLASSEN, BETH BETH CLAUSSEN CLAUSSEN & HIEDI & HIEDI LEBON LEBON design design by K by ate Kate tollinger tollinger photos photos by K by ate Kate tollinger tollinger

finding herself in her first years and I know we can all relate to that and as time goes on, she finds her cliche and by Ashleigh ericson it all works really well for her,” said LHS is home to numerous teachers, each with their own unique story, who allow the school to achieve the educational LHS sophomore Sadie Brown. “I think environment that it has today. There are some teachers that LHS students may never have the opportunity to have in Sally's character will fit well with a lot class. These are a few teachers at LHS that roam the halls. Do you know them? Now, you can call them by name. of people.” by Olivia bby rOst Olivia b r Ost Even though the play is an obvious retelling of the famous wizard saga, ...only person cut from freshman choir the play itself does not hold the rights to any of the originating series characters or affiliations. Therefore, the cast and crew have to get creative on how to retell one of the most wellknown stories in a new and clever way. The audience will obviously draw he he lights are dimmed, and the lights are di certain conclusions based on what magic officially begins. This story magic officially be gin they see and famous wizard easter entails the Puffs and their entails the Puffs and eggs, but the cast and crew must seven-year experience at a particular sev en-y ear e xperienc refrain from using allusions to the wizarding school, while a particular wizarding school, wh famous wizard universe. well-known wizard goes upon his well-known wizard g “This show is different because it journey fighting all types of evil. But, jour ney fighting all t is very self-aware. There’s a lot of jacobabou Noordermeer Shannon Rook dykstra mom is one of Voldemort’s followers this story is not about that particular this stor y is heidi not subtext and Easter eggs for famous wizard anymore; this time, it is all wizard anymore; this so she is convinced she needs to be wizard fans, but it’s also able to stand Position: World History, English Position: Accelerated Algebra 2 and Position: Assistant Choir Director about the Puffs. about the Puffs . evil too, so she tries everything in her lll, American Literature and World College Prep Math Years of teaching: 2nd Year at LHS on its own” said LHS junior Elsa The play is based on the story of The pla y is based on power to put herself apart from the Geography Years of teaching: 16 years Where they grew up: Sioux Falls, SD Friesen, who plays Hannah. Wayne Hopkins, played by LHS W ayne Hopkins , play Hufflepuffs,” said Baumeister. Years of teaching: 21 years Where they grew up: Hull, IA College: St. Olaf College Regardless of your background senior Lewhat Tesfaldet. Hopkins senior Lewha t T esfal Where they grew up: Southwest College: NCC & USF While going through the years of knowledge ontr the famous wizarda saga Minnesota a portrays a regular boy who discovers por ys regular bo experience at Hogwarts in a itself, it is a fit for all audiences. The College: Northern State & Southwest he is a wizard and is sent to school in he is a wizard and is one-hour and 45-minute play may Minnesota State University for graduate magical production takes the stage England. At school, he meets his two England. At school, h seem impossible, it is only a matter on Nov. 11-13, using extravagant, best friends and experiences all types best friends and e xpe of changes in appearances, sets and eye-catching props such as must-see of adventures in their seven years of of adv entures in thei ...officiates weddings as a side gig voices. The play itselfa is prop heavy, wands, personalized to perfectly fit attendance. Now, this storyline may ttendance. Now , this filled with subtle scene changes which the personality of each character. sound all too familiar for some, but sound all too familiar Finally, it is the “Puffs” time to shine. requires a very mobile and fastunlike the similar, worldwide known unlik e the similar , wo

DIFFERENCES IN TEACHERS

...voted Mrs. South Dakota

...was a blackjack dealer

moving set. stor y , this g roup of f “The play is very fast-paced and you interested in lear ning wizard, not all of the go through it very quickly. The two of Puffs is a cheer y , s main guy characters (Wayne Hopkins action-filled product and Oliver Rivers) change their voices to the people and make it deeper asa time progressesvoice in the shadows of th to represent the years passing and series and imagine w them aging,” said Baumeister. lives were like during The play relies deeply on the “It’s different becaus individuality of each character martha winklepleck annie lanning tara paclik world a lot of people because it is the characters themselves and people reall y lov Position: AP Calc, College Algegra that change so frequently, which keeps Accelerated English II Position: Patriot Post and Years of teaching: 18 fun take Position: on it is n the storyline moving.the Every character Years of teaching: 7 years at LHS and 1 wizard Years of teaching: Year one at LHS, Where they grew up: San Diego, CA; bo famous year at St. Josaphat School year 19 teaching Arkansas & Sioux Falls, SD plays a similar personality seen from senior Moll y Baumei Where they grew up: Inwood, IA Where they grew up: Yankton, SD College: University of Arkansas & SDSU the famous wizard series. Puff, Me an J ones , o Whereg you attended college: College: Mount Marty University & “I would say I am similar to Sally in a char acter s . Augustana University & Green State National University by stAtesmAn stAff UniversityJ few ways. One, we both “Me wear glasses gan ones isdesign a H photos provided by lhs teAchers ...played Mary Poppins

story, this group of friends is simply interested in learning how to be a wizard, not all of the evil. The story of Puffs is a cheery, sorrowful, action-filled production meant to give a voice to the people who seem to hide in the shadows of the famous wizard series and imagine what exactly their lives were like during the seven years. “It’s different because it’s based off a world a lot of people are familiar with and people really love, but it's just a fun take on it and is not as serious as the famous wizard books,” said LHS senior Molly Baumeister who plays Puff, Megan Jones, one of the main characters. “Megan Jones is a Hufflepuff but doesn't want to be a Hufflepuff. Her

...insists on eating pizza with a fork on a plate

and two, Sally sort ofdoesn't struggles

Olivia brOst phOtOs by Olivia brOst

design by

want

AnnA EngEls, Editor-in-ChiEf

My grandpa, August Poppen, was not one to share the details of his childhood or early adulthood with anyone. No matter how curious my youthful mind was, he would never gratify the itching questions in the back of my head. Restrained and disorganized pieces of my grandpa’s life were all that I was permitted to hear, only coming from my mom and what she knew. It took a great deal of begging and keeping promises in order to persuade my grandpa to tell his life story, and it took even more to allow me to share it with the public. My inquiries, at last, are answered, and my grandpa’s biography is finally able to make its mark on the world.

On Aug.12, 1933, August was born to Johanna and Konrad Poppen in Westersander, Ostfriesland, Germany. Born six years before WWII and at the end of the Great Depression, August spent his early childhood suffering through the backlash. This consisted of countless hungry nights and fearful days. Starting WWII, poverty and starvation did not take long to sweep Germany and affect the Poppen family. Dinners consisted of his mom, Johanna, chewing on raw rice in order to make sure her kids got all the food available. Even with her faithful and altruistic attempts, her five youthful children had to face their grumbling stomachs each day, with guilt sewing their mouths shut so a complaint would not dare to slip out. August recalls a time visiting a neighboring farmhouse in search of leftover food from a hosted Canadian troop. While digging through the abandoned and forgotten trash, he came across a piece of white bread and orange marmalade; neither he had seen before. He took it out into the field and sat on a rock in complete disbelief of the unfamiliar food tasting so sweet. The pure happiness that the bread and marmalade provided August with, at that time, was enough to keep this sensational food still considered as his favorite to this day. Even with the detrimental effects of the war swarming in the background, school was, without a doubt, still in session — a oneroom, one-teacher, public school with eight different classes

cycling through. An average day of August’s childhood consisted of going to school and hiding in bomb shelters multiple times throughout it. He lived almost 25 miles away from a major city housing a German military port, which made the bomb threats in his small town notable but not intense. However, the few that did stumble into their town burned houses and businesses to the ground, making their poor conditions even worse. When the military port got bombed during the night, August recalls his room lighting up bright enough to read a newspaper in it. As Hitler reigned over their country at this time, he left families and towns like August’s helpless under his power. Anyone that was not already on the front line, or being held against their will in concentration camps, was forced to be trained under his control. At the age of eight, August was required to join Hitler’s Youth. August, and any other boy his age, younger or older than him, underwent training that consisted of tasks such as marching and climbing trees. This continued for nearly four years before the war ended. August lives with the notion that if the war had continued for another year, he would have been sent to the front line and forced to fight for a leader and his morals that August knew little to nothing about. Thankfully, he was the one that got away. August’s coarse childhood ended rather quickly, whether he wanted it to or not. Graduating at the age of 13 years old, he was sent off by his father to learn a trade and swiftly got an apprenticeship as a bricklayer. His work incorporated the rebuilding and repatching of the rubble left from the devastating WWI and II and ultimately constructed Germany’s new upcoming. At the age of 22, August craved adventure and set his sights on America to bring him promising success and a life of his own. In Dec. of 1955, August spent an taxing week on the M.S. Berlin ship to finally touch ground in Manhattan, New York. This is where he was inspected and

allowed entrance into the U.S. as a farmer searching for work. Knowing three words of the English language and having run out of money after a train fee, August embarked on his travels to his new life knowing and having nothing. With multiple miscommunications between the train conductor and himself, his first week in the new country left him stranded 114 miles away from his desired location of Mason City, Iowa. After many caring citizens lent a helping hand, August reached his destination and quickly began work on a distant relative’s farm. Along with accumulating money through labor, August attended church every Sunday, in hopes of one day fully understanding the sermon. It took an entire year to reach his goal and comprehend the English language as a whole. Throughout his mid-life, August was finally able to obtain a normal stress-free life, or as close to normal as it could get. He traveled around his new home over the next 10 years, finding small jobs to support his experiences and discovering his soul mate, Pat, along the way. In the following years, August and Pat never left each other’s sides, which then led them to a promise of commitment through marriage in 1964. Settling down in Pocahontas, Iowa, the married couple had four children and watched them grow up, helping them throughout the way. Opening up his own housing construction business, titled A&P construction, August was able to work under no one but himself for the first time in his life, and his business flourished. In 2013, August was faced with one of his biggest life challenges. On his way home from the blacksmith shop, he suffered a minor heart attack, leaving him feeling sick in the midst of driving his car. He pursued the uneasy feeling and drove himself to the nearest hospital as the uncertain feeling consumed his body. It did not take long for the doctors and nurses to detect he was having a heart attack, which led him to rapidly be transported by

ambulance to the hospital in Des Moines. When the time came, the surgical team began prepping him for open-heart surgery and noticed his heart monitor had flatlined. They believed that the monitor tracing his heartbeat had fallen off, but by the time they realized he suffered a major heart attack, he had been dead for several minutes. Cracking August’s chest as soon as possible and manually massaging his heart back to life took 19 minutes. Once his heart began to beat again, they performed the surgery with hopes that the journey of recovery would kick in. Multiple wakeless days and empty promises later, doctors came to the conclusion that August would never be the same. It took four painful and intense weeks for August to prove them wrong, and two full years to be able to write his name again. He was the one that got away. Now, at 88 years old, August is remaining stable in Pocahontas, with Pat, and continues to live life for all that it is. He spends his days giving uttermost love and care to his garden and even more to his five grandchildren. While continuing to eat the prominent bread and orange marmalade, August is catching up on a sense of normalcy as the chapters of his life carry on. His abnormal and influential experiences carved him into the man, friend, husband, brother, dad and grandpa that those who know him are in disbelief about. Whether God has kept an open tab on him or he is just pure utopian, August was the one that got away, and his memoir is yet to be finished.

Artwork by

AnnA EngEls August poppEn

photos providEd by

THE STORY BEHIND THE KING by

Chloe houwman, editor-in-Chief

Picture this: you are sitting in the front row at LHS’s Homecoming game. Halftime has just started, and the marching band is approaching the field. Clad in blue and black, they begin their performance. You are taken aback by the ‘The King,’ the leading man in this part of the show, as he pulls out his guitar. This man, LHS junior Jack Simpson, has undoubtedly stolen the show.

nitially, there were no plans to feature a king in the performance, but Simpson wanted to be a part of the show. He approached LHS band director Daniel Carlson and ‘The King’ was created. “Mr. Carlson gave me a few solos during the performance, and I also die at the end of the performance now. I’ve just been insanely happy they picked me to be ‘The King’ and I’ve had a great time doing it,” said Simpson. “We have one of the best marching band programs in the region and it would be a shame if I did not take advantage of that.” Simpson’s musical career started seven years ago when he began playing the piano. He played for about three years before his interests landed somewhere else. “Four years ago, I started playing the guitar, and I immediately felt like I found my passion,” said Simpson. “I also play the French horn and am a part of our symphonic band, but the guitar is still my favorite.” Spending at least two hours a day practicing his chords, it is no surprise that Simpson has already made a career

I struggle to “express myself through words which is why I connect to music so much. When I play the guitar I can put myself out there and make my voice heard.

”

Two years ago, Simpson was accepted into the Summer Jazz Academy at Lincoln Center in New York City; the program was held virtually because of the pandemic. The application process required Simpson to submit a series of videos playing specific jazz standards and upload them to the Academy’s website. “It was still an amazing experience [despite the switch to an online platform],” said Simpson. “I plan on applying again because I would ultimately like to end up at New York University or the Manhattan School of Music.” After he graduates from college, Simpson would like to become a studio musician, someone that is hired to play on tracks or during live performances. “I would work for a studio, and if a musician wanted some guitar on their track, they just call me up, I’d record a few tracks for them and then they would do their thing with it,” said Simpson. “I would probably end up in Nashville, New York or Boston.” His ambition, however, does not end there. “My end goal is to become a university professor,” said Simpson. “I would love the opportunity to specialize in teaching others how to play the guitar.” Simpson has taken a break from live performances for the time being. “Once school and marching band got started, it was getting harder for me to commit to performing,” said Simpson. “The great thing about being a jazz guitarist is having the ability to pick my own hours. I plan on starting up again sometime in November.” To stay caught up with Simpson and his musical endeavors follow his Instagram, @simpson.guitar, or check out his YouTube, @JackSimpson. “I feel more like myself when I’m playing the guitar. At this point, it feels like an extension of myself,” said Simpson.

photos provided by Jack Simpson design by Chloe Houwman

jack simpson:

playing the guitar. “I have opened for musicians at The District; I play solo jazz guitar gigs at The Source and I was scheduled to open for Taylor Scott Band at the Levitt at the Falls, but it was rained out,” said Simpson. Simpson’s love of classical, jazz and blues music stems from those genres’ versatility. “When I can’t come up with words to describe how I am feeling, I feel like I can say it through my guitar when I am playing. So, if I am in a sentimental mood or something similar, I can play a really slow ballad and take the time to portray my emotions through it,” said Simpson. Other times when he is feeling more downcast he will take a piece that has already been written and put his own spin on it. “The great thing about music is you can take anything, even just a classical piece that’s kind of boring, and you can make it any emotion that you want. For example, I can take an Olivia Rodrigo song and turn it into a jazz chord,” said Simpson. Not only does he adapt existing music, but he also creates his own. “I write music sometimes,” said Simpson. “Jazz is all about writing music so whenever I do my improv, I write the music or jazz charts.”

some stuf but I never let it get me behind.” OnTtop of Hthe tal orEder scheduleM, the A environment inside of Murphy is quite suf ocating, both literally and figuratively. With no airflow and nonstop movement, Murphy is far from ideal in conditions above 40 degrees. “I am so sweaty, it is disgusting,” said Murphy. “He is a big man and does not fit in a lot of places. “Seeing, breathing, moving, drinking, hearing, feeling and communicating [are all a challenge as Murphy.]” Murphy finds the encouragement to push past these precarious conditions from the links that are created through the mascot and the Lincoln Crazies. Over the years, Murphy has stashed a handful of momentous moments spent with the TTHHE E T H E

by by Adyson Adyson sAnd sAnd , , by Aditor dyson sAnd , Editor E -in-C -in hiEf -ChiEf

M M A A N, N, M A N,

For For over over 55 55 years, LHS’ LHS’ mascot mascot Editor -in -Cyears, hiEf hasFor has been been a walking a walking symbol symbol of of over 55 years, LHS’ mascot the spirit that has has erupted erupted from the the has the beenspirit athat walking symbol of from school school since since the the ribbons ribbons were were cutthe cut and and the the the spirit that has erupted from school school began began its ribbons lengthy its lengthy legacy. legacy. ‘Murphy,’ school since the were cut‘Murphy,’ and the LHS’ LHS’ mascot mascot resembling resembling a cartoonish a cartoonish Patriot, Patriot, school began its lengthy legacy. ‘Murphy,’ has has been been one one of the of the few few constants constants thatPatriot, that has has LHS’ mascot resembling a cartoonish carried carried over from thefew the lastconstants last five five decades. decades. has beenover one of from the that Evolving has Evolving from from a paper a paper mache mache figure, to adecades. to now a now 6ftEvolving 25 6ftlb. 25 lb. carried over from thefigure, last five mobile mobile Patriot, Patriot, Murphy Murphy is a is surefire a surefire source source of from a paper mache figure, to a now 6ft 25 lb. of encouragement encouragement throughout throughout of allLHS’ ofsource LHS’ most most key key mobile Patriot, Murphy is a all surefire of moments. moments. encouragement throughout all of LHS’ most key However, However, the the mystery mystery of Murphy of Murphy stillstill moments. plagues plagues the the student student body body as one as one of the of the However, the mystery of Murphy still most most pondered pondered questions questions throughout plagues the student body throughout as one of thethe the school. “Who “Who isquestions Murphy?” is Murphy?” Although Although mostschool. pondered throughout the Murphy’s Murphy’s realis real identity identity willwill never never be be school. “Who Murphy?” Although up for up disclosure, for disclosure, the the personality personality Murphy’s real identity will never be thatfor that is disclosure, projected is projected through the the plush plush up thethrough personality mascot remains remains note-worthy note-worthy withwith thatmascot is projected through the plush or without or without direct direct identification. identification. mascot remains note-worthy with TheThe figure figure beneath beneath the the largerlargeror without direct identification. than-life than-life mascot mascot has has been been notorious notorious The figure beneath the largerfor its forhigh itsmascot high energy energy and elation elation than-life hasand been notorious towards towards the the school. school. However, However, typetype for its high energy and elationthisthis of constant of constant enthusiasm comes comes at the at the towards the enthusiasm school. However, this type expense expense of a of good a good chunk chunk of time of time and of constant enthusiasm comes at the and energy. energy. expense of a good chunk of time and “[Murphy] “[Murphy] takes takes up aup lota of lottime of time and and energy. space, space, thatthat maymay be because be because we have we have a game a game “[Murphy] takes up a lot of time and thatthat night, night, or [I orcould [I could be needed] be needed] in the in the space, that may be because we have a game middle middle of class of class one one day,”day,” saidsaid Murphy. Murphy. “I miss “I miss that night, or [I could be needed] in the some some stuffstuff but but I never I never let itletget it get me behind.” me behind.” middle of class one day,” said Murphy. “I miss On top On top of the of the tall tall order order schedule, schedule, the the some stuff but I never let it get me behind.” environment environment inside inside of Murphy of Murphy is quite is quite On top of the tall order schedule, the suffocating, suffocating, bothboth literally literally and and figuratively. figuratively. With With environment inside of Murphy is quite no airflow no airflow and and nonstop nonstop movement, movement, Murphy Murphy is is suffocating, both literally and figuratively. With far from far from idealideal in conditions in conditions above above 40 degrees. 40 degrees. no airflow and nonstop movement, Murphy is “I am “I so amsweaty, so sweaty, it isitdisgusting,” is disgusting,” saidsaid far from ideal in conditions above 40 degrees. Murphy. Murphy. “He“He is a is biga big manman and and doesdoes not not “I am so sweaty, it is disgusting,” said fit infita in lota of lotplaces. of places. “Seeing, “Seeing, breathing, breathing, Murphy. “He is a big man and does not moving, moving, drinking, drinking, hearing, hearing, feeling feeling and and fit in a lot of places. “Seeing, breathing, communicating communicating [are[are all aall challenge a challenge as as moving, drinking, hearing, feeling and Murphy.]” Murphy.]” communicating [are all aencouragement challenge asto to Murphy Murphy findsfinds the the encouragement Murphy.]” pushpush pastpast these these precarious precarious conditions conditions Murphy finds the encouragement to from from the the links links that that are created are created through through push past these precarious conditions the the mascot mascot and and the the Lincoln Lincoln Crazies. Crazies. Over Over from theyears, links that has are has created through the the years, Murphy Murphy stashed stashed a handful a handful the mascot and moments the moments Lincoln Crazies. Over of momentous of momentous spent spent withwith the the the years, Murphy has stashed a handful of momentous moments spent with the

TTHHE E T H E

center of the family.” H, No matTter howHglorioEus the moments of victory, celebration and togetherness are, there is one upside to Murphy that is arguably the most superior: the involvement in all of LHS’ latest theatrics. “[Murphy] keeps me involved in the school and gets me in with the higherups,” said Murphy. “I know all of the juicy teacher gossip; you would never believe what I hear Dr. Raedar say.”

M M Y Y T T H,H, M Y T H,

N, T H E M Y T

TTHHE E T H E

students students of LHS of LHS to keep to keep forever. forever. “I [will “I [will always] remember chest-bumping chest-bumping 2020’s 2020’s students ofalways] LHS toremember keep forever. Homecoming Homecoming king, NickNick Jensen. Jensen. [This [This moment] moment] really really “I [willking, always] remember chest-bumping 2020’s hyped hyped up the up the student student section,” section,” said said Murphy. Murphy. Homecoming king, Nick Jensen. [This moment] really Thisup This type of excitement of excitement is not is not only only felt felt through through hyped thetype student section,” said Murphy. theThis the student student but but all of all of the LHS LHS population, typesection of section excitement is the not only feltpopulation, through including the the Athletic Athletic Joey Struwe. Struwe. Being Being in in the including student section butDirector, all Director, of theJoey LHS population, attendance attendance at Athletic every at every sporting sporting event event has has given given Struwe Struwe including the Director, Joey Struwe. Being ina a solid solid understanding understanding of the of the unquestionable unquestionable influence influence that attendance at every sporting event has given Struwe a that Murphy Murphy has has on LHS. on LHS. solid understanding of the unquestionable influence that “Having “Having there creates creates a festive a festive atmosphere atmosphere Murphy has[Murphy] on [Murphy] LHS. there for “Having the for the teams teams and and fans, fans, in particular, in particular, the the younger younger kidskids [Murphy] there creates a festive atmosphere who come come to events,” to events,” said Struwe. Struwe. “He“He for the teams andwho fans, in particular, thesaid younger kids interacts interacts with them them in aStruwe. in positive a positive wayway who come towith events,” said “He thatthat brings brings positive positive energy to the to the interacts with them inenergy a positive way event.” event.”positive energy to the that brings Struwe Struwe associates associates Murphy Murphy withwith event.” theStruwe the ability ability to interconnect to interconnect each each associates Murphy with identity identity at to LHS atinterconnect LHS and and encourage encourage the ability each the the principle principle thatthat at LHS at LHS “we “we are are identity at LHS and encourage partprinciple part of the of the same team.” team.” the thatsame at LHS “we are “Having “Having a mascot a mascot gives gives part of the same team.” people people a common a common identity, identity, “Having a mascot givesit’s it’s whatwhat all werally all rally around,” around,” people awe common identity, it’ssaidsaid Struwe. Struwe. “We “We are all are Patriots; all Patriots; it it what we all rally around,” said bonds bonds us asusare aas school a school giving giving Struwe. “We all Patriots; it us that us us that common identity identity bonds ascommon a school giving and and hopefully hopefully a sense a sense of of us that common identity belonging belonging to the to the same same team. and hopefully a sense of team. Everyone Everyone has has desire a desire to to belonging toa the same team. belong, belong, and and we want we want our our mascot mascot Everyone has a desire to to embrace to embrace [that [that idea]. idea]. We We all all belong, and we want our mascot bring bring unique unique giftsgifts to the to the family family and and to embrace [that idea]. We all Murphy Murphy helps helps us have us have a figure a figure at the at the bring unique gifts to the family and center center of the of the family.” family.” Murphy helps us have a figure at the No matter No matter howhow glorious glorious the the center of the family.” moments moments of victory, of victory, celebration celebration No matter how glorious the and and togetherness togetherness are, are, there there is is moments of victory, celebration one one upside upside to Murphy to Murphy thatthat is is and togetherness are, there is arguably arguably the the most most superior: superior: one upside to Murphy that is the the involvement involvement in all inof all of arguably the most superior: LHS’ LHS’ latest latest theatrics. theatrics. the involvement in all of “[Murphy] “[Murphy] keeps keeps me me LHS’ latest theatrics. involved involved in the in the school school and and “[Murphy] keeps me getsgets me in mewith in with the the higherhigherinvolved in the school and ups,”ups,” saidsaid Murphy. Murphy. “I know “I know getsall meof in of with theteacher higherallthe the juicyjuicy teacher ups,”gossip; said Murphy. “I know gossip; you you would would never never allbelieve of what the what juicy teacher believe I hear I hear Dr. Dr. gossip; Raedar Raedar say.”you say.”would never believe what I hear Dr. dEsign dEsign by Adyson by A dyson sAndsAnd Raedar say.”

dEsign by Adyson sAnd

photo by Adyson sAnd

photo photo by Adyson by Adyson sAndsAnd

Adyson sAnd Adyson sAnd

dEsign by photo by

Morgan SandneSS

0.000038% of the world stands at seven feet or taller. One such person, named Jeffery Thomas Rock (JT), walks the halls at LHS. Rock is notable for his dominating height, yet there is much more to him than stands out. Rock is a sophomore at LHS and wears size 15 shoes. He is often found in the gym, as he has played basketball since he could walk. Throughout his ongoing career, he has developed his skills at LHS, which he plans to take further with him to college. Rock has toured several colleges and already has two offers from Iowa State and SDSU, but with three years left until graduation, offers look to be multiplying fast. The last time a freshman played on the LHS varsity basketball team was Chris Schwartz back in the ‘03-’04 season. Last year, Rock played varsity towards the end of the season after playing sophomore and JV for the first few games. “There was a time in the season when they needed a bigger presence, and I think it gave me some experience going into this year when we are going to have a much younger team because we graduated so many seniors,” said Rock. “I am glad that I had that experience and that will help me not only this year but all the way through [high school].” In middle school, Rock went to Harrisburg due to bussing and school start times. He attended All City Elementary in the Sioux Falls School District but moved during grade school, therefore transferring. “We opened enrolled to Lincoln after middle school, and it is a better fit for me, and everyone is a lot nicer. It is a better fit for not only basketball but for academics as well,” said Rock. Rock has had a love for basketball ever since he could see the top of his classmates’ heads. Being so tall, he often has pressure to be the best one on the team and go far, but sometimes the pressure is a lot more than expected. “There is some part of me that does kind of always think way in the back of my head that I need to do good or else people are going to be disappointed, but I try not to think about it and then I try to go out there in a game and do the best I can,” said Rock. Rock has had many coaches, but with playing on three teams at LHS, sophomore, JV and varsity, his experience with coaches has helped his skill in basketball. “I have learned so much from [my coaches]; just be patient and kind of let the game happen and trust in your teammates and have their back as well,” said Rock. Rock may come off as intimidating with his big presence, but he is often cracking jokes and does not take anything too seriously. “It is a real thing to hit your head on the doorway, and it hurts,” said Rock.

deSign by

Morgan SandneSS Morgan SandneSS

artwork by

Corissa Marlette What grade are you in, and what role do you play within the marching band?

“I’m a senior, and I’m color guard captain.” Which performance stuck out to you the most this year? “One of my biggest hopes for this season was to be able to beat our biggest competitor and take home ‘Best Color Guard.’ We kicked butt during finals in Minneapolis, managed to win best guard and I truly could not have been more proud of my team.”

What’s your favorite memory from your time in the band?

“Sophomore year it started raining during one of our football halftime performances. Dancing in the rain to ‘Pure Imagination’ was probably the most fun I’ve ever had during a show.”

Leighton FeLtman

The 2021 LHS Marching Band Show, “The Queen’s Gambit,” highlights a battle between two kingdoms: Pink and Black. This year’s show features multiple vocal solos between the two queens and guitar solos from the rockstar king, Jack Simpson. But where did the inspiration come from? “The Queen’s Gambit’ concept was the brainchild of Julie Hadley, our show designer and color guard coordinator,” said LHS Band Director, Dan Carlson. “The inspiration came initially from the Netflix series, but it is not about the Netflix series.” Although the COVID-19 pandemic is still prevalent in the lives of many around the world, the marching band has remained at the top of their class. “The marching band has taken it all in stride and it has not been much of a factor this year,” said Carlson. “We have only had one positive case all season long.” Across the region, high school students know of the musical excellence that is the LHS Marching Band. The marching Patriots started design by photo by

their season in Marshall, Minnesota, competing in the “Pursuit of Excellence Competition” winning the Sweepstakes award (first place), best color guard, hornline, visual and music execution and visual and music general effect against 19 bands. The season continued at the Brandon Valley “Big Sioux Review” where the band won the Sweepstakes award, out performing 13 other bands. At the “Youth In Music” (YIM) Field Championships at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis MN, the band received second overall out of 31 bands, as well as best color guard, best visual general effect and best visual execution. “I think it’s important to know that we are not an auditioned band, yet we compete favorably with and beat many auditioned bands,” said Carlson. Placing second in the region against multiple auditioned bands is a great feat and especially considering the smaller student and staff size of the LHS band. “We have two band directors for the size of the band that we have,

while many other band programs our size have three, four or even five band directors,” said Carlson. The pandemic has still played a crucial role in the 2021 season and has affected bands around the country differently. “We had to deal with the double whammy of a pandemic and a new school opening in the district, yet we have remained resilient and competitive,” said Carlson. “We are so proud of the band members for not making excuses but just putting forth an excellent effort every minute of every rehearsal. They have achieved excellent results despite all the challenges they have faced this season.”

Hannah Lias What grade are you in, and what role do you play within the marching band? “I’m a senior, and a clarinet section leader”

What was your favorite venue that you have performed in?

“My favorite venue was probably the U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis. The crowd was huge (and loud) and the stadium was so cool.”

What is your favorite part of this year’s show?

“I absolutely love the ballad this year. The soloists always kill it, and the crowd response they gather makes it so much fun to play.”

Mila Wollman What grade are you in, and what role do you play within the marching band? “This year I’m one of the Queen’s Gambit Queens! Usually, I play in the front ensemble, though.”

What’s your favorite memory from your time in the band? “My favorite memory would be my freshman year, performing in the afternoon at Bands of America. Everyone was so excited and enthusiastic, and as a freshman, that hype was so special to me.”

Mr. Carlson What is your favorite part of this year’s show?

I think my (and most people’s) favorite part is the end of the ballad when the two queens and the king are belting it out supported by the rest of the hornline. It is such a powerful moment!

What is your favorite venue to perform at?

So far, the best venue has been US Bank Stadium. I think the best accoustical venue will be the Dome at America’s Center at the BOA Super Regional in St. Louis.

Which performance stuck out to you the most this year? So far, our best show has been the finals show in Minneapolis.

Leighton FeLtman & Lhs statesman staFF Leighton FeLtman

Once s h e was able to visualize the closeknit friend group that could form, she was all in. “The first time I did theater was my junior year, last year, and it was the one-act play ‘She Kills Monsters.’ The funny thing is, in theater you have to be ‘out there’ because you are with these people [the cast] basically every day practicing for this production. You have to interact in order to make your interactions on stage believable. I definitely had to put myself out there,” said

expressions. Which definitely translates to theater because I had these already been working on facial abilities, expressions. It ended up being a mini C r a w f o r d training,” said Crawford.“I really s t r o n g l y liked the people that were in the encourages a theater with me and I was just like person to take time okay, so if I want to be better friends to invest in themselves. with them I have to be more open “I have been drawing ever since I was and it just snowballed from there.” a little kid and I would always be doodling Crawford found something in my math book. When I was a freshman she enjoyed, and, even better, I realized that I really wanted to get into she has been able to experience art because it has always interested me,” it with the people around her. said Crawford. “I already had an iPad and “The play ‘She Kills Monsters’ is I got an Apple Pencil for my birthday one how I was introduced to Dungeons year, and I just started doodling. It is just a fun thing and it helps me to lose stress a lot. If I draw it, it is my own creation that I can see.” Crawford knew she could, so she did. Developing these creative abilities has helped Crawford and Dragons (D&D). Most of the connect with those who she may have people in the theater are doing their not connected with without practicing own games and campaigns so I heard the skills she has a passion for. people talking about it a lot. Basically “It is definitely so I can branch out I was drawn to that for a while because more and meet a lot of new people. I am I have wanted to play D&D. I had definitely a very introverted person but other people that were interested so I have discovered this year that I have it just worked out,” said Crawford. been growing in confidence. It is D&D is most casually referred to as definitely a lot of my friends. a thrilling game, traveling throughout Their confidence in what they a world with twists and turns that tend do inspires my confidence to knock characters off their paths. in what I do. They are Each individual designing their own just unashamed to make believe character acts upon the fate be themselves,” of the draw. Crawford has expressed said Crawford. her creative abilities shining through her acting as well as D&D. To maintain

ELIZABETH CRAWFORD “Their confidence in what they do inspires my confidence in what I do.”

by Ella Grimm When walking through the halls of LHS, a student can typically hear the popular girls talking about their crazy weekend, the sounds of sneakers squeaking across the acrylic floors and the voices that connect friendships made freshman year. Students hear what is said but they do not seek out what is unsaid. Oftentimes it is crucial for an individual to listen to the quiet voices in order to grow in their own relationships and interests. Each individual is the main character of their own movie we call life. For senior Elizabeth Crawford, it took branching out, developing unexpected friendships and expressing unique hobbies in order to feel heard. From the moment she walked into the LHS

doors, Crawford noticed how much the school as an open environment truly has to offer to help her be herself. “I definitely want there to be people who see me and know that it is okay to be shy and quiet. You are not just a weird and awkward person. You are doing your own thing and people still like you. Be yourself. People do like you for you,” said Crawford. “Definitely do not be afraid to just

start g o i n g to things. I experienced a lot of social anxiety when I was younger. Everybody wants you there. Everyone is interested in what they have to say and when you show an interest in that they are going to think you are really cool, just do what you like.” It all started when Crawford chose to join choir freshman year and auditioned for the LHS play. After that, the opportunities came to her.

Crawford. As time went on and the high school years passed, Crawford was able to establish her roots at LHS. Not only does Crawford encourage getting involved but also presenting oneself in a classy manner. She knew that not only did she want to express her own interest, but she also had a strong desire to learn from others. “Choir is a very performative art. We also do concerts. On stage you want to be engaged and have good facial

design by Ella Grimm photo by Ella Grimm

FALL SPORTS REPORTS what have your favorite teams been up to?

by GaGe Gohl With the 2021-22 school year underway, school athletics are in full swing. With football and volleyball still in the midst of their fall seasons and nearing the postseason, their end results for the year are unknown. But for sports such as soccer, softball, tennis, cross country and golf, their seasons have already concluded, and with very successful results to follow.

boys cross country

The LHS boys cross country team closed out their season at the State meet at Yankton Trails with a top five finish. With only one returning varsity runner from last season, the boys put up an excellent performance and proved that they belonged. With seven runners competing in the final race, five finished with their best times of the season. “It was super fun to see all of my hard work pay off, but also see everyone that is just starting their journey enjoy the sport that I have poured so much time into,” said Ethan Boyens. “I knew one or two kids but I really made all of my friends as I went, and I would not have it any other way.

girls cross country

boys soccer

girls softball

The LHS boys soccer team ended their regular season with a solid record of 6-3-5. Their 61% win percentage earned them a spot in the playoffs as the #7 seed. In the first round, the boys defeated Pierre 1-0 with a late goal scored in the last five minutes of the game. The team then traveled to the #2 seeded Rapid City Steven’s and dropped their season finale 0-2 to conclude the season.

The girls softball team ended with an astounding 21-2 regular season record going into the state tournament. In the opening two rounds, LHS defeated OGHS and Watertown to get to the semifinals. The softball state tournament came down to virtually a two team matchup between Harrisburg and LHS. The LHS girls won in the semifinals (which forced Harrisburg to have to play one extra game to earn their way back into the State championship), and then ended dropping the rematch against Harrisburg in the State championship. Because both teams each won one game, there would be a deciding “winner takes all” game to conclude the State tournament. After a slow start to the decider, the girls battled back from a three run deficit in the final inning of the game and would go on to win LHS’ first State championship of the year.

“Playing every day with the boys really led all of us to becoming much better friends and knowing each other much better as well,” said Ryan Schock. “Overall, soccer was a great experience for me, and I would definitely do it all over again.”

After running all year long as one of the most dominant teams in the state, the LHS girls cross country team continued to showcase their talent by closing the season with an excellent state tournament of their own, placing second overall behind OGHS. Just like the boys, the girls also competed with seven girls in the State meet, five of which achieved their best times of the season. Additionally, four of the girls runners were able to finish top 20 overall at the State meet. “Running in my last race for Lincoln was a very bittersweet moment,” said Lila Batcheller. “I don’t think there is anything I would do over but reminding myself to find joy in every practice and race is probably something that I wish I would’ve done more.”

“Winning state sophomore year and then winning state again this year,” said Ashton Dorman. “We had a pretty good run the last four years. We either got first or second every year.”

RYAN SCHOCK

girls soccer

The LHS girls soccer team finished the regular season with a dominant record of 10-3-2, earning them a spot as the #3 seed going into the playoffs. LHS opened their postseason with a nail biter against JHS which ended in a victory for the Patriots following 1:20:00 minutes of regulation, two 10:00 overtimes and one penalty kick shootout. In the second round, the girls put up four goals against Rapid City Central to earn themselves a spot in the semifinals. The ladies concluded their season in the semifinals as they fell to RHS 0-1 in a heartbreaker, who would go on to win the State championship.

ETHAN BOYENS

LENI OLSON, LILA BATCHELLER & HANNAH BASEL

girls tennis

“This year was definitely my favorite year with lots of fun memories,” said Brooklyn Townsend. “My favorite memories were beating Brandon 3-2 with a last minute goal by [teammate] Hannah Cisar, and watching [teammate] Grace Ellis faceplant on the field multiple times.”

After a solid regular season performance from the girls tennis team, they set sights for state coming off of a 15-6 regular season record. At the State tournament, LHS had champions in three out of the nine flights. By winning 33% of the flights at the tournament, their results were good enough to earn them third place at the State tournament.

ASHTON DORMAN

boys golf

After an impressive regular season, the LHS boys golf team set sights for the two-day state tournament in Huron. After the first day at state, LHS led by seven strokes going into the final day of the tournament. Despite their effort and spectacular performances, OG played outstanding on day two to force playoff holes for the state title. After the second hole, the Patriots fell by one stroke to OG, and finished second for the season, with an impressive four players in the top 25 at the tournament. “My favorite memory was winning state as a junior at Willow Run. After we had won all of us jumped into the pond on the left side of the green on hole 18,” said Bennett Geraets. If there was one thing he would change about his four years as a golfer, Geraets said it would be to “always listen to Luke.”

“It’s good to have some time off now, but it’s hard to know that you’re never going to play for the Lincoln team again,” said Evy Osterloo. “Now that it’s over I wish I would have spent more time appreciating my time on the court.”

GIRLS VARSITY TENNIS TEAM

MALI VAN MEETEREN & BROOKLYN TOWNSEND statesman staff photos provided by lhs athletes desiGn by

BENNETT GERAETS

a preview of the upcoming lhs basketball season by

Emma Southwick

After experiencing a complicated season last year due to COVID-19, both the boys and girls LHS basketball teams are pumped up and ready to start the 2021 season. The teams and coaches have been preparing during the off-season and have high expectations for this year. Many LHS basketball athletes get involved in tournaments during the off season such as Pentagon’s “Summer Jam” and “Fall Jam.” “Our team has worked hard this summer both as individuals and as a team. Most of us play travel basketball and either lift with Brady [Bonte, LHS’s strength and conditioning coach] here or somewhere [else] to help get ready for the season,” said junior combo guard Elliot Whitney. “As a team we have been playing in the Pentagon ‘Summer Jam’ and ‘Fall Jam’ where we are gaining chemistry and

finding success.” Playing basketball and being a part of the high school team is a privilege, as it requires a lot of hard work and determination. At the beginning of the season, the teams attend what they call “two-a-days,” which are tryout days where the teams practice twice a day. “Tryouts are very tiring with two-a-days, one practice in the morning before school and one after school,” said junior left shooting guard Mariah Siem. With that being said, these types of practices are not the players’ favorite. However, they are essential when it comes to some of the decisions that the coaches have to make regarding who they believe has what it takes to be a part of the team. “Needless to say, having five practices in three days usually is a

great mental and physical strength test for the athletes, which allows [the coaches] to get to know the players’ skill level and prepares them for their first competition,” said LHS girls basketball coach Matt Daly. One of the hardest moments for the coaches and athletes alike is when the teams get announced, as the teams only consist of 15 players which almost always leads to a few players not making a team. “The hardest part is to tell those guys who want to be on the team that we don’t have room for them,” said LHS boys basketball coach Jeff Halseth. “All the guys that try out are great guys who have a passion for the game.” When the tryout process comes to an end and the teams are selected, normal practices begin. During practices, the teams work on their

“process goals,” or little skills that are important to basketball and its many, specific scenarios. By focusing on the “process goals,” the hope is that mastering them will allow the athletes to be successful when it comes time for their games. A few examples of “process goals” include learning how to control the ball low and tight, defensive footwork and learning sound shooting mechanics. “Our goal is always to focus on the ‘process goals’ or the little building blocks that we can learn to make us great basketball players,” said Daly. “I believe that if we focus on the process goals, that many of our ‘outcome goals’ will be achieved... My hope is that our team focuses on our process goals and improves to the point that even if we play a ‘bad game,’ we can still find a way to win.” While working on the “process goals” and physically practicing basketball skills is crucial for the teams’ success on the court, LHS basketball athletes believe that putting in time and effort into the relationships with their teammates is just as important. The LHS basketball athletes make it a priority to partake in activities as a team such as having movie nights, playing ultimate frisbee, going to team meals and just hanging out in general. Siem believes that the

connections the team makes off the court directly correlate with their performance during games. “I truly believe that the stronger the bond, the better the team does. The game flows better and we are all on the same page and [can] create better shots for ourselves and each other, as well as get down and play defense as a unit,” said Siem. Similarly, Whitney feels that having close bonds within a team is key for all of the players’ common goal: to win games. “Having close bonds with teammates is very important to be a successful basketball team. Being close with teammates allows you to truly play a team game while putting aside selfish play to have one goal, to win,” said Whitney. “This year I feel we are more connected as a team and ready to shock some people.” With a little under a month left until tryouts, both the boys and girls LHS basketball teams have been and will continue to keep up their hard work and dedication in hopes to guarantee a strong, solid and unified team for this year’s season.

dESign by Emma Southwick photoS providEd by LhS StudEntS & facuLty

Claire brown & elana bishop

With hot yoga growing in popularity, we decided to hop on the trend and go to three of the most popular studios in Sioux Falls including Ignite, Amy Miller Training and Revolution Yoga and Cycle. As we visited each of the studios we shared our experience at each studio from the moment we stepped into the studio to each instructor’s designated cool down.

Ignite is an infrared yoga studio, located off of 69th St. and Minnesota Ave. right above Tinners and is one of the newer hot yoga studios in Sioux Falls. Ignite had a welcoming environment right when we walked in the door with a warm greeting and up-beat, trendy music. We laid down our mats and grabbed the needed supplies provided by the studio such as a set of light and heavyweights. LHS junior, Ali Bainbridge, led the class with spunk and enthusiasm as her booming voice echoed over the loud music. To ensure the comfort of the customers, Bainbridge made sure to open the doors occasionally to prevent the room from getting too hot and stuffy. When we received cold towels at the end of the class, the essential oils calmed our nerves and rewarded us for all our hard work, strength and sweat we put in to complete the class. Overall, we recommend this class to anyone who is willing to challenge and push themselves out of their comfort zones.

AMT is a hot yoga studio, located off of South Louise Ave. next to Kosama, that offers a variety of different types of hot yoga classes such as high-intensity intervals training, slam fusion, cardio core, recovery and the most common is sculpt. The building was a little bit of a challenge to find since they only have one sign on their window, but the welcoming atmosphere of the staff and environment made up for the lack of studio advertisement. Katie Imhoff led us through a high-intensity sculpt class filled with a variety of age groups from high schoolers to 45+ years. Imhoff was very energetic and interactive with the class. Although, it was hard to hear her due to the lack of a microphone. The music was quieter than the other studios, but the pace of the class did not differ from the others. Overall, AMT was the hottest studio, and we would recommend this class to anyone who is willing to sweat a lot.

Revolution is located off of Western Ave. and 47th St., they offer a diverse range of yoga and cycling classes. The studio was very nicely decorated with a small shop featuring a variety of Revolution’s activewear and had a pleasant smell throughout the studio. LHS Chemistry Teacher, Braden Bradfield, made his way to the sculpt class immediately after he instructed a cycling class. As we placed our mats down and prepared for the class, we realized our fabulous principal, Dr. Laura Raeder, was to our left. Bradfield made sure to energetically interact with each client and provided a great source of motivation when we felt like giving up. He constantly moved around the room with a smile on his face making sure everyone was having fun. He provided a source of upbeat and popular tunes. His class differed from the other two studios. The class was not as hot as the other studios and a little bit slower-paced, but it did not make it any less challenging. We did a lot more holding, pulsing and core-related cardio which ended up leaving us sorer than any of the other classes we tried. Overall, his class was challenging, but the time flew by because of how much fun the class was. All of the studios we attended shined in their own ways. Ignite and AMT are very similar studios; they both provide similar moves and music. Revolution is more about the form of the yoga poses than moving at a fast pace as AMT and Ignite do. Besides all of the differences the studios have, they all know how to make you sweat a lot through working out and having fun.

design by Claire brown & elana bishop photos by Claire brown & elana bishop

bella engebretson

Christmas is right around the corner, the best time of the year. There is no need to stress this gift-giving season. Here are a few ideas that are perfect for everyone.

1 2 4

6 hat 5 gift basket 3 charging station

2 hair dryer 1 mini fridge You can find this on Amazon for $49.99. These mini-fridges come in seven different colors to choose from. They are ideal for storing anything from food and drinks to all types of beauty products.

The famous styling and volumizing hair brush can be found on Amazon for $35.99. Not only is it affordable, but it is also known for being the best seller. This brush has different settings to fit all types of hair and comes in a variety of colors.

This 3-in-1 charging station holds a place for all Apple products: an iPhone, AirPods and an Apple Watch. This is available on Amazon for $24.65. Not only is it convenient but it will save you money as well. Instead of having to pay for three individual chargers, they are all in one, for a discounted price.

4 necklace

Necklaces are an effortless way to add to any outfit. Pendants are available in many styles, including some with inspirational sayings or personalized with others initials. Many stores, online or in-person, have these necklaces within all sorts of price ranges. They also come in different sizes and colors, such as gold, silver or rose gold.

This is a super simple and affordable gift idea for anyone. Instead of buying one large gift, buy a few small items that are specific to the person. For example: their favorite candy, a framed picture, gift cards, perfume or cologne. There is a good variety for this gift and it can easily be personalized. Any store should have simple items like these; Target, for reference, is a great place to check out.

There are many different hats to choose from with a wide range of prices. You can choose from the traditional baseball cap, stocking caps and even bucket hats. They are special because they can cater to one’s interests and likings. Hats are perfect for adding a little more to an outfit or to make up for a bad hair day. A very popular and go-to brand of hats is Carhartt; they offer many colors and styles to choose from. Their prices can fluctuate from $15-$20.

design by bella engebretson photos provided by amazon

AriAhnA Wells

A recent trend going around Instagram is bad parking occurring in high school parking lots. Many LHS students have witnessed horrible parking done by fellow peers or you might be the culprit featured on the @lhs_bad_parkers Instagram page. Whatever side of the post you are on, this page is nothing short of entertaining and a confidence booster, knowing you are not the only bad parker at LHS. While the person behind the @lhs_bad_parkers account remains anonymous, a bit more of the story was able to be uncovered. “I see bad parking at school every day, and I think that the people who park poorly deserve to be

called out,” said @lhs_bad_parkers. With already minimal parking spots available, bad parking only adds to the issue. Cars on this account vary in their parking abilities, ranging from the snugglers who park too close to each other, the creepers who inch over the line and the curb hoppers who prefer second-level parking. Many LHS students have experienced some close calls or unfortunate events as students continue to cross lines, whether that be the yellow markings in the parking lot or getting perturbed with their parking peers. “As most LHS students can probably relate, I have had people park so close to me that I can barely get out of my car. When people park so close to the lines like that, it makes getting in and out of spots very difficult, and I often fear that I am going to hit someone, or someone is going to hit me when that happens. If people would be more conscious of their parking, it would make it a lot easier for everyone to get in and out of parking spots,” said @lhs_bad_ parkers. Fortunately for @lhs_bad_parkers, they receive an abundance of bad parking pictures a day, making it so they have a plethora of photos to choose from. “I feel like people usually send [pictures] after school or during their lunch period for the students who have open lunch,” said @lhs_ bad_parkers.

design by Ariahna Wells photos provided by LHS Students

On the other side of the line, junior Kseniya Halverson found a car she recognized in a post - her own. “It is a little embarrassing being posted online over my parking but at the same time it is kind of funny,” said Halverson. Parking is never an easy task to master, and Halverson is keenly aware of her parking weaknesses. “I feel like the picture is pretty accurate [of my parking abilities]; either the back of my car is hanging out or the front of my car is too far forward. My depth perception is awful,” said Halverson. Luckily, this weakness has only dented confidence, not cars. “My parking so far has not impacted anyone’s driving, fingers crossed it does not happen though,” said Halverson. If the LHS Crazies continue to park crazie, the @lhs_bad_parkers account will never run out of entertaining content.

by by Clare Clare Heupel Heupel

by Clare Heupel With With autumn autumn comes comes colder colder weather; weather; do do not not be be ashamed ashamed to to stay stay inside inside for for aa day, day, light light your your favorite favorite fall fall candles, eat some tasty treats and watch one of these iconic movies. With eat autumn colderand weather; ashamed stay inside for a day, light your favorite fall candles, somecomes tasty treats watchdo onenot of be these iconictomovies. candles, eat some tasty treats and watch one of these iconic movies. Fantastic Fantastic Mr. Mr. Fox Fox Directed by this Fantastic Mr.Anderson, Fox Directed by Wes Wes Anderson, this stop stop motion motion animation animation film film documents documents the the adventures adventures of of the the

mischievous character, Mr. Driven his instincts, Mr. in Directed by Wes Anderson, stop by motion animation film documents thepart adventures of of thethefts, mischievous character, Mr. Fox. Fox.this Driven by his animal animal instincts, Mr. Fox Fox takes takes part in aa series series of thefts, which later results in his family and community being hunted by a trio of angry farmers. Mr. mischievous character, Mr. Fox. Driven by his animal instincts, Mr. Fox takes part in a series of thefts, which later results in his family and community being hunted by a trio of angry farmers. Mr. Fox Fox is by actor Clooney, the many other well-known including which later in his family andand community being hunted a trio of angry actors farmers. Mr. Fox is voiced voiced by results actor George George Clooney, and the cast cast features features many by other well-known actors including Meryl Streep, Bill Murray and plenty of moments praise for is voiced by actor andWilson. the castWith features many other well-known actors including Meryl Streep, BillGeorge MurrayClooney, and Owen Owen Wilson. With plenty of comedic comedic moments and and praise for unique unique direction, this film is entertainment for the Meryl Streep, Owen Wilson. plentyfamily. of comedic moments and praise for unique direction, this Bill film Murray is perfect perfectand entertainment forWith the whole whole family. direction, this film is perfect entertainment for the whole family.

Knives Knives Out Out This Knives Out mystery This extravagant extravagant mystery film film written written and and directed directed by by Rian Rian Johnson Johnson captures captures aa thorough thorough

investigation of death of extremely mystery novelist the This extravagant mystery film written and directed wealthy by Rian Johnson a thorough investigation of the the unexpected unexpected death of an an extremely wealthy mystery captures novelist and and the questioning questioning of dysfunctional family anything to it. professional detective, played investigation thehis unexpected death of anhad extremely mystery and the questioning of whether whether or orofnot not his dysfunctional family had anythingwealthy to do do with with it. A A novelist professional detective, played by actor Daniel Craig, and his team interview each member of the old man’s family along with his of whether or not his dysfunctional family had anything to do with it. A professional detective, played by actor Daniel Craig, and his team interview each member of the old man’s family along with his young caretaker, Marta Cabrera, played by de film received critical acclaim by actor Daniel Craig, his team interview eachAna member of theThe old man’s family along with his young caretaker, Martaand Cabrera, played by actress actress Ana de Armas. Armas. The film has has received critical acclaim for and also of films of by American Film young caretaker, Marta Cabrera, played as byone actress Anatop deten Armas. film has received critical acclaim for its its production production and was was also selected selected as one of the the top ten filmsThe of 2019 2019 by the the American Film Institute and of It has also been to two sequels, for its production and was Board also selected as one tensigned films ofoff by the Filmone Institute and the the National National Board of Review. Review. It of hasthe alsotop been signed off2019 to have have twoAmerican sequels, with with one of started in 2021. Do not miss mystery Institute and thehaving National Boardfilming of Review. It has also offon havethrilling two sequels, withthat onehas of them them already already having started filming in June June 2021. Dobeen not signed miss out out ontothis this thrilling mystery that has audiences on the edge of their seats. of them already having started filming in June 2021. Do not miss out on this thrilling mystery that has audiences on the edge of their seats. audiences on the edge of their seats.

Dead Poets Society Telling the storySociety of a group of boys and their friendship through boarding school, this film, written Dead Poets

by Telling Tom Schulman Weir, is one that is sure to bring on a range ofthis emotions and the storyand of directed a group by of Peter boys and their friendship through boarding school, film, written thoughts. The film and starts with the a new Mr. Keating, who uses unconventional by Tom Schulman directed by introduction Peter Weir, isofone that teacher, is sure to bring on a range of emotions and exercises to teach to histhe students about poetry. The teacher is Keating, played bywho well-known actor, thoughts. The filmlessons starts with introduction of a new teacher, Mr. uses unconventional exercises to teachwho lessons students about The teacher is played well-known actor, Robin Willaims, doesto anhis unreplicable job ofpoetry. portraying a role model andby father-like figure to his Robin Willaims, who does anreceived unreplicable of portraying role model and father-like to his students. The film itself has manyjob awards includingaan Academy Award for Bestfigure Original students. The film poetry itself has many including an Academy Award BesttoOriginal Screenplay. While mayreceived not seem veryawards interesting to some people, this film for is able highlight Screenplay. While not seem very interesting some people,demographic, this film is able to highlight the importance of poetry may through the perspective of the to most unlikely teenage boys. the importance of poetry through the perspective of the most unlikely demographic, teenage boys.

The Ni The Ni What would fall be without Tim Burton movies? A fan favorite to many, “The Nightmare Before

What would fall be without Tim Burton movies? A fanthe favorite to many, Before is a stop motion animation musical following storyline of the“The kingNightmare of Halloweentown, Christmas” Christmas” is a stop motion animation musical following the storyline of the king of Halloweentown, Jack Skellington. Skellington becomes obsessed with celebrating the Christmas holiday after coming Jack Skellington. Skellington becomes obsessed with the Christmas coming across Christmastown and telling everyone about his celebrating discovery back home. Theholiday conceptafter for the film across Christmastown everyone about hismaking discovery back home. The Burton conceptwas for the originated from a poemand thattelling Burton wrote and after a deal with Disney, ablefilm to originated from come a poem Burton after making deal with Disney, make his vision to that life with thewrote help ofand director Henry aSelick. While it wasBurton createdwas for able kids,tomany make visionthat come lifedark withand the scary help offordirector Selick. Whilethis, it was created for kids, peoplehis believe it istotoo a youngHenry audience. Despite it still remains to bemany a people believefor that it is too dark scary for afilm young audience. Despite this,history. it still remains to be a classic movie this season and and an influential in stop motion animation classic movie for this season and an influential film in stop motion animation history.

RUMORS OR REALITY: LINCOLN HIGH’S HORRORS by

delaney gramlick

Opened in 1965, LHS has seen its share of rumors; from an alleged pool in the basement to numerous claims of ghost sightings, the school has many of its very own myths. At least LHS inhabitants hope they are just myths. The pool in the basement has been confirmed as only a rumor by various accounts. From the words of custodians to photo and video evidence of the LHS basement, it is clear that there is not actually a pool residing in the walls of LHS. The ghosts, on the other hand, are harder to dispel… Charnelle Wooledge, an LHS computer science and physical science teacher, had never believed in ghosts until she began having experiences with them at the school. One night while she was completely alone in the building, Wooledge heard sounds of squeaking shoes and witnessed a hand dryer in the women’s bathroom go on by itself. She has also heard ownerless keys rattling, observed multiple computers turning on by themselves at once, witnessed chairs and dark silhouettes moving around and even noticed a bright light moving around in an empty, locked room. “I looked over to room A300F while working and saw a silhouette of a person in a fishing hat peak their head over the top of a monitor,” said Wooledge. However, Wooledge’s haunting encounters are not the only evidence of paranormal activity at LHS. In a documentary made in 2015, “The Paranormal Files Ep. 1,” then LHS senior Colin Browen explored the

hauntings of LHS. Using custodians’ knowledge of the school, teacher accounts of ghost encounters and even film evidence of paranormal activity in the high school, the documentary presents quite persuasive evidence of a haunted LHS. Browen inspected the LHS basement, auditorium and abandoned halls one night after school, and not to no avail. Disembodied voices and noises, unexplainable glimpses of strange sights, doors in the basement closing by themselves, creepy stories from staff members and even grown adults freaking out on camera can all be witnessed in the documentary. Maybe the documentary’s evidence of ‘ghosts’ was simply weird lighting and noises that can be blamed on the building’s old wires and pipes. The doors shutting by themselves? Just the air conditioner. Potentially Wooledge’s stories could be explained somehow. Of course, it is possible that all of it can be dismissed with some sort of far-fetched explanation. But the evidence makes it seem unlikely.

Little Women Little Though Women any depiction of the classic novel written by Louisa May Alcott would be sufficient, the

Though depiction of the classic novel who written Louisawith Mayactors Alcottthey would sufficient, the 2019 versionany is especially enjoyable for those seekbymovies are be sure to recognize. 2019 version is especially enjoyable for those whofilm seekversion moviesofwith actors they are to recognize. Written and directed by Greta Gerwig, the 2019 “Little Women” is sure a family-favorite Written andfollows directed Greta Gerwig, “Little is a in family-favorite drama that thebylife of four sistersthe as2019 they film learnversion what itofmeans to Women” be a woman society during drama that followsMany the life of four sisters learn what itstar means to film, be a woman society during the 19th century. popular actors in as thethey movie industry in the such as in Emma Watson, the 19thRonan century. popular actors inWhile the movie industry star in Emma Watson, Saoirse andMany Timothée Chalamet. period pieces such as the thisfilm, may such seemasundesirable to Saoirse Ronanthis andone Timothée Chalamet. period pieces such this mayatseem undesirable to some people, is particularly easyWhile to watch as the actors areasamazing making their characters some people, one is particularly easy to watch as the actors are amazing at making their characters relatable and this likable. relatable and likable. design by

Clare Heupel

pHotos provided provided design by Wikimedia ikimedia ommons by Clare Heupel pHotos by Commons pHotos provided by

Wikimedia Commons

LHS has been through 56 years of students and staff, visitors and parents; but are those the only residents the school has?

design by photo by

delaney gramlick delaney gramlick

Henry Haft & Carter eriCson

. HENRY

Lydia Sarbacker

Fellow Statesman staff members took on the Buffalo Wild Wings Blazin’ Challenge. If they could eat all six wings, they would win 1,000 Blazin’ Challenge Rewards points and theirs names would be displayed on the TV on the “Blazin’ Challenge Wall of Fame.” Spoiler alert...they did not succeed.

was immediately surprising as I was shocked by how delicious it was. Not being the biggest fan of vegetables, I was worried the mixture would not be my cup of tea, yet the first juice was pleasantly surprising! Later I began sipping on my snack juice periodically throughout the day as the Nature’s Way Juice Bar staff had explained it was a more energy-boosting juice and not recommended before bed. My lunch juice was overall satisfactory and very filling as I did not finish the entire thing after feeling quite full from my breakfast and snack. Over the course of the day, I remained thoroughly full considering I was eating no food with substance; however, the period of time before I had my last dinner juice was a little more difficult as I began to feel a little hungry and tired. Yet as soon as I indulged in my last juice, I was feeling much more refreshed and satisfied. At the end of the day, I felt both nourished and proud of myself for taking on such a new and interesting challenge, while still feeling like I was not completely starving. Considering the factors and components of my juice cleanse ranging from taste, price and convenience, I rate this juice cleansing experience an overall 8/10! The large portions and fresh ingredients allowed for a very successful cleanse that I recommend anyone daring enough to try out. The end result may shock you as well. Make sure to check out Nature’s Way Juice Bar in event of trying out such a cleanse for a unique and healthy experience working towards better nutrition and a healthier diet and lifestyle!

The Blazin’ Challenge. You might have heard of it, but most of you don’t have the guts to try it. One of the most difficult challenges we have ever faced in our lives. Going into the challenge, we were worried sick. Was it going to be as bad as it seemed, or was it gonna be easy? Carter Ericson ranked himself at a 3 out of 10 on his spicy eating skills, and Henry Haft ranked himself at a 5 out of 10. After days and days of procrastinating this challenge in the fear of utter pain and failure, they finally worked up the courage to go and do the challenge. Haft and Ericson arrived at “B-dubs” at approximately 3:30 p.m. on Friday the 8th of October. Their hopes were low, and their heads were hung. They walked slowly and sadly to their table, sat down and waited for their mouths to be absolutely scorched. They both sat down,

CARTER

Interested in trying new things? Possibly wanting to benefit your immune system while giving your digestive track a break? For those adventurous enough, trying out a juice cleanse might be the perfect way to kickstart your road to a healthy, nutritional lifestyle. As difficult as it might sound, the different varieties of juices allow for a large array of cleanses, ranging from a simple one-day juice cleanse all the way to a five-day cleanse. While starting this process comes off to most as rather intimidating, Sioux Falls’ very own Nature’s Way Juice Bar is the perfect place to start your juice journey. They combine ingredients ranging from beets, pineapple and pomegranate seeds to cucumber, carrot and ginger root for a fabulous selection of freshly juiced drinks. Nature’s Way Juice Bar has a large array of options for those looking to explore the world of juicing while providing lots of options for juice cleanse novices. Starting out my juice cleanse journey was nothing short of intimidating, however, the staff at Nature’s Way Juice Bar helped to prepare and educate me on both the juice cleanse itself as well as the benefits intermediate juicing can have on one’s body. In fact, I was able to watch my juices being made while the staff explained to me exactly what was being put into my drinks and described precisely how to ensure my juice cleanse to be a successful experience. Considering the total cost, I chose a one-day juice cleanse complete with three meal juices each 32 ounces and a bonus 16-ounce snack juice. The first sip of my breakfast juice

Breakfast: The breakfast juice was a deep red liquid mixing Carrot, Red Apple, Orange and Cucumber into the perfect morning juice to start your day outright. 7.5/10

Snack: The snack juice was hands down my favorite; a mix of tangy and sweet using Pineapple, Beet, Carrot, Orange, Spinach, Cabbage and Lemon combined to create an energy-packed pick me up. 8.5/10

Dinner and Lunch: The main meal drinks sadly took last place being the most vegetable-like tasting although I chose to leave out celery usually included in the drink for a classic Cucumber, Green Apple, Lemon, Ginger Root, Spinach filled green juice. 7/10

Lydia Sarbacker deSign by Lydia Sarbacker artwork by anna engeLS photoS by

and each ordered a cup of water, a glass of lemonade and six boneless blazing wings. Haft and Ericson had an intense debate on whether to order bone-in or boneless wings, but eventually ended up choosing boneless to hopefully prevent sauce on their faces and in their eyes. They prayed they would live and waited for their “food” to arrive. After what seemed like no time, two plates arrived, and they instantly lost their appetite. Twelve boneless wings completely submerged in Carolina Reaper sauce sizzled on the plate in front of them. An intense staring contest went on for a while between the Reapers and the ‘Statesman’. For a slight second, Haft and Ericson debated a retreat to their cars in order to escape these spicy demons. “We need to toughen up and decimate these wings,” said Ericson. “I think if we just eat them really fast we can get through as many as we can before we feel the pain,” said Haft. They both agreed, and decided to start together and eat as many as they could. Haft and Ericson took a deep breath and began. The first bite was a horrendous smoky flavor. The wings tasted like a mix of hot sauce and a campfire. It wasn’t too long before the heat from the campfire turned on. Utter fear and pain could be seen clearly on both of their faces. Tears rolled down Ericson’s face as he began to scrape his tongue with a napkin. Haft could be seen fanning his mouth and struggling to breathe. A group of bystanders sat at the bar and laughed as they watched the Statesman members try to stay alive while chugging cup after cup of water. Haft finished his second wing and

. .

focused on his breathing while he waited for Ericson to finish his second. Haft went in and reached for a third and took a bite while Ericson wiped the tears out of his eyes and tried to convince himself to have another one. While the ‘Statesmen’ tried to keep a pulse, their server, Rose, took pity on them and brought them each a little milk from a kid’s meal. Carter savagely ripped the milk out of the poor woman’s hands and gave one to Haft and they both enjoyed the solid three gulps of milk that the bottles contained. Haft and Ericson gave up after this, with Haft eating two and a half wings and Ericson only eating two. Not only does it put you through the worst pain your mouth has ever felt, but your stomach will also hurt for up to 14 hours after. This challenge is difficult and if you don’t enjoy eating spicy things, don’t try this challenge. It’s definitely not worth it. design by

pHotos by

LHs statesman staff Henry Haft & Carter eriCson

by R by aina Raina MaRty MaRty by Raina MaRty

ThisThis generation generation is surrounded is surrounded by the by the newest newest not.not. any any students students here,here, I never I never havehave trouble trouble withwith getting getting a a This generation isideas surrounded by the newest not.signal,” anysaid students here, I never trouble with getting inventions inventions andand ideas of the of the rectangular rectangular supercomputers supercomputers signal,” said Dr. Dr. Raeder. Raeder. “You “You canhave can eveneven tell tell at four at four o’clock, o’clock,a inventions andsmall ideas of to thefittorectangular supercomputers signal,” said Dr. Raeder. “You can even tell at four o’clock, thatthat are are small enough enough infityour in your pocket. pocket. TheThe device device when when there there aren’t aren’t veryvery many many people people here,here, we have we have more more that small enough fitlooking in your pocket. The device when there aren’t very manyapps people weinhave more canare can find find whatwhat youyou areto are looking for in for less in less than than a tenth a tenth consistent consistent service. service. Everyone’s Everyone’s apps are here, are always always the in the canoffind what you arefor looking forway inway less than aBut tenth consistent service. are always in the aofsecond, a second, which which some, for some, is is too too long. long. But whatwhat background background trying trying toEveryone’s look to look for signals.” forapps signals.” happens when when everyone’s everyone’s largest priority andand most most Although Although LHS LHS hasto has 5Glook 5G towers, towers, the the school school stillstill has has of happens a second, which for some, islargest waypriority too long. But what background trying for signals.” dependent dependent item item is rendered is rendered useless useless for seven forand seven hours? hours? no control no control over over the has the connection. connection. NotNot being being ableable to have tohas have happens when everyone’s largest priority most Although LHS 5G towers, the school still At LHS, At LHS, students students and and teachers teachers are are watching watching the the four four a connection a connection with with the the outside outside world, world, however, however, has has its its dependent item is rendered useless for seven hours? no control over the connection. Not being able to have bars bars in the in the corner corner of their of their cell cell phones phones appear appear then then positives. positives. There There are are not not any any distractions distractions from from learning, learning, At LHS, students and teachers are watching the four a connection with the outside world, however, has itsandand disappear within within walking walking acell few aphones few steps, steps, making making them them itpositives. isita is lota easier lot easier to are put to not put the the phone phone down down for an for hour an hour without without bars indisappear the corner of their appear then There any distractions from learning, and unable unable to do to almost do almost anything anything on their on their cell cell phones. phones. having having the the urge urge to look to look at it. at it. disappear within walking a few steps, making them it is a lot easier to put the phone down for an hour without Students Students fail to do toanything simple do simple things things like like send a Snapchat, a Snapchat, having “Students “Students today today grew upatwith up cell cell phones phones andand theirtheir unable to dofail almost on their cellsend phones. the urge togrew look it. with make make a phone a phone call, call, check check Infinite Infinite Campus Campus and and text text their their parents parents grew grew up with up with their their kids kids having having a cell a cell phone. phone. I have I have Students fail to do simple things like send a Snapchat, “Students today grew up with cell phones and their parents parents a simple a simple afterafter school school change change of plans. of plans. no doubt no doubt thatthat in ain few a few years years technology technology willwill change,” change,” saidsaid make a phone call, check Infinite Campus and text their parents grew up with their kids having a cell phone. I have “This “This building building is over is over 55 years 55 years old.old. It was It was builtbuilt before beforeDr. Dr. Raeder. Raeder. parents a simple after school change of plans. no doubt that in a few years technology will change,” said cell cell phones phones werewere eveneven thought thought of. The of. The cinder cinder blocks blocks thatthat People People havehave suggested suggested thatthat having having no cell no cell service service maymay “This building is over 55 years old. It was built before Dr. Raeder. the the building building is made is made of makes of makes it difficult it difficult for signals for signals to go to goalsoalso be abe safety a safety concern. concern. cellthrough,” phones were evenprincipal, thought of. The cinder blocks thatother “As People have suggested that having no cell service may through,” saidsaid LHSLHS principal, Dr. Dr. Laura Laura Raeder. Raeder. “In “In other “As a PSA, a PSA, parents parents can can always always reach reach theirtheir students students thebuildings building is made of makes it difficult for signals to go also be a safety concern. buildings the the interior interior rooms rooms havehave trouble trouble getting getting service, service,through through the the office, office, andand if there’s if there’s a message a message we will we will get get it it through,” said LHS principal, Dr. Laura Raeder. “In other “As a PSA, parents can always reach their students but but the the exterior exterior is fine. is fine. However, However, if you if you looklook at how at how other other to their to their child. child. I doIunderstand do understand andand havehave a lota of lotempathy of empathy buildings the interior rooms havethey trouble getting service, through the office, and ifimmediate there’s a contact message we their will get it highhigh schools schools werewere constructed, constructed, they werewere builtbuilt almost almost 30 30for parents for parents who who want want immediate contact withwith their child; child; butyears the exterior is fine. However, if you look at how other to their child. I do understand and have a lot of empathy years afterafter LHS.” LHS.” however, however, eveneven in other in other buildings, buildings, like like WHS WHS andand RHS, RHS, there there highRumors schools were they were almost 30thestill forstill parents who want contact with their child; Rumors go around goconstructed, around fromfrom student student to student to built student saying saying the are are areas areas where where youimmediate you can’tcan’t get get service,” service,” said said Dr. Dr. Raeder. Raeder. years after LHS.”turns administration administration turns off off the the internet internet connection, connection, andand however, even in other buildings, like WHS and RHS, there Rumors go around from student to student saying there there are are blockers blockers throughout throughout the the entire entire building. building. the still are areas where you can’t get service,” said Dr. Raeder. administration the internet connection, and “There “There are turns are no internet no off internet blockers blockers at LHS,” at LHS,” saidsaid Dr. Dr. Raeder. Raeder. there are blockers throughout the entire building. However, However, students students mayblockers may findfind thatat that having having no service noDr. service has has “There are no internet LHS,” said a better a better effect effect on their on their learning. learning. Raeder. “There “There are are some some teachers teachers who would would likeno like students students However, students may findwho that having service has to put to put away away their their phones phones during during class class for the for the hour. hour. It is It is a better effect on their learning. pretty pretty nice nice to just to just be able be able to put to put your your phone phone away away during during “There are some teachers who would like students saidsaid Dr. Dr. Raeder. Raeder. to class,” putclass,” away their phones during class for the hour. It is There There are are different different places places throughout throughout the away the school school where where pretty nice to just be able to put your phone during people people willwill get get no service no service at all atbut all but as soon as soon as they as they are are class,” said Dr. Raeder. nearnear a window, a window, theythey seem seem to receive to receive full full service. service. Between Between There are different places throughout the school where trying trying to send to send a Snapchat a Snapchat andand Instagram Instagram failing failing to load, to load, people will get no service at all but as soon as they are students students havehave found found loopholes loopholes where where iMessages iMessages can can sendsend near aaswindow, they seem towhen receive full service. as green green “Text “Text Messages” Messages” when all else all else fails.fails. Between trying to“We’ve send anoticed Snapchat and Instagram failing to “We’ve noticed thatthat in the in the summer summer when when there there areload, are

students have found loopholes where iMessages can send as green “Text Messages” when all else fails. “We’ve noticed that in the summer when there are

3434

designdesign by Raina by R M aina aRty MaRty

design by

Raina MaRty

[McKennan Park]

[Great Shots] Sanford’s version of Top Golf, fun for golfers and non-golfers alike. Beginners can tee off from the second or third level to give themselves a little distance boost. Users can choose a game to play on the system, such as virtual pinball or a long drive contest among others.

Pg [Prairie Green Golf Course] While many teens may not have been to the zoo in a while, they would be lying if they said they don’t have any good childhood memories there.

[Great Plains Zoo] While many teens may not have been to the zoo in a while, they would be lying if they said they do not have any good childhood memories there.

[Greenwood Trails] The near 40-mile loop system provided many with safe entertainment during the peak of the pandemic. The trails weave in and out of the city’s parks and roads.

by Caleb Hiatt Every city has things that long-time residents recognize as iconic. Sioux Falls is home to many restaurants, places, monuments and places of entertainment that are tokens of our community. All these elements come together to form the dynamic of the city, just as elements of nature come together to create the world. Since the scientific elements have their own periodic organization, why not give this city one of its own? Even though it is slightly less important than finding the fundamental elements of the natural world, Sioux Falls’ admired establishments still deserve tabular arrangement.

[Wild Water West] A little throwback to middle school summers when everyone and their neighbor’s dog was at Wild Water West. Whether you were a risktaking slide rider, a lazy river chiller, a mini golfer or a go-kart racer, you definitely have fond memories at WWW.

[Bagel Boy] A breakfast and open lunch staple for high school students. Hard to go wrong with a pizza bagel or the classic bagel and cream cheese combo.

[Butterfly House & Aquarium] [Josiah’s Coffeehouse] Growing up in the Sioux Falls School District has meant an abundance of field trips to the Outdoor Campus and Butterfly House and Aquarium.

[Flyboy Donuts] Best donuts in town. With good variety, Flyboy offers plenty of classic donuts along with an array of candy combinations.

Every basic girl’s favorite cafe. Good food and an even better aesthetic. Perfect place to grab brunch and post on Instagram.

[Gilliberto’s] The go-to Mexican restaurant for any occasion, whether that may be a mid-day meal or a late-night snack. Gilly’s offers delicious tacos and burritos at three locations around Sioux Falls.

[Tuthill Park]

Located in a historic district of the city, the park itself is home to formal gardens and a historic theatre. Along with being very aesthetically pleasing, there is plenty to do with tennis courts, a half basketball court, horseshoe pits and shuffleboard courts, among other things.

[Big Sioux River]

[Falls Park] The other entity that names our city. The Quartzite rock gives the fixture a unique look that everyone in Sioux Falls should see. At the Falls, visitors can walk across the bridge and grab a snack at the Falls Overlook Café which is located in an old light and power company building.

[CH Patisserie] A local Downtown establishment, known for its heavenly French macarons. Owned by world champion pastry chef, Chris Hanmer.

[Phillip’s Avenue Diner] In the heart of downtown, the Phillips Avenue Diner offers a true American diner experience. Even throughout renovations, the local restaurant has still managed to maintain that classic diner feel.

[Crave]

The basic formal group’s favorite dinner location. At Crave there is something for everyone, from sushi to burgers, and poke bowls to steak. Crave has unmatched variety along with a desirable aesthetic.

Neighboring LHS, this park has something for everyone at all times of the year. Complete with two playgrounds, a disc golf course, an outdoor ice rink and plenty of trees perfect for hammocking.

[Downtown]

[Arc of Dreams]

Every great city has a fun downtown, and through the improvement that our city has undergone over the past few years, the Sioux Falls downtown has improved too.

Newly added to the downtown area, the Arc of Dreams spans beyond the width of the Big Sioux with a 15-foot gap between the tips of each side.

[Mr. Bendo]

[Statue of David]

The iconic mechanic statue holding a tailpipe has lived at multiple mechanics in Sioux Falls but now he can be found asserting his dominance on South Minnesota Avenue.

[Sculpture Walk]

A replica of Michaelangelo’s original nude statue of David stands right on the edge of Downtown in Fawick Park, visible from the street where mothers and fathers tell their children to close their eyes as they drive by.

[The Monument]

The Sculpture Walk is a year-round outdoor sculpture display scattered around Downtown, full of the creations of local artists.

design by

The river, which is named after the tribe that used to occupy the area, is hard to miss, making its way through our parks and eventually leading to our namesake’s other half.

Caleb Hiatt

The highest point in our prairie provides a great view over the city during night or day.

pHotos by

Caleb Hiatt

artwork by

adyson sand

by Jada by

sarah bomhoff

Hence the name “Friendsgiving,” although a struggle for some, friends are a requirement for a successful Friendsgiving this fall.

As Friendsgiving is celebrated in the midst of the fall season, the whole night absolutely must be decked out completely with fall elements. From the guests’ outfits to the decorations, incorporating autumn colors into the occasion is an essential part of Friendsgiving.

s the temperature begins to drop and the leaves start to fall, the greatest holiday is not far around the corner: Friendsgiving. Friendsgiving consists of a group of friends gathering to celebrate. The word Friendsgiving is a combination of Thanksgiving and friends, and the general concept of the occasion is the same. Considering I have attended multiple Friendsgiving events, I would consider myself an expert on throwing a successful feast. Whether you decide to go the more traditional Thanksgiving route including turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes and other festive foods or choose to abandon the classic meal most are accustomed to a more “Charlie Brown Thanksgiving” vibe, feasting on a mixture of different dishes, food is arguably the most important feature of the event.

The last “F” of Friendsgiving is crucial to having a successful Friendsgiving experience. The ‘Fun’ aspect of the event can be accomplished by card games, board games, movies or any other way you may choose to have fun! sarah bomhoff artwork by sarah bomhoff

design by

sandvall

When in the J-Lab, it is not abnormal to hear random thoughts being spat out amongst the everyday chatter. Whether it be the newest gossip or a random argument about the candy drawer, there is never a dull moment. It makes you wonder: what else is going on inside the Statesfam’s minds? Among unwritten story ideas and the half-remembered AP Style guidelines are our numerous shower thoughts including, but certainly not limited to:

How did sharks exist before trees?

Why is it that when I am singing a song in my head, it sounds exactly like the performer’s?

Could my life have been different if I was given a different name?

What was croaking’s initial definition, a person dying or the sound a frog makes?

What if ears blinked instead of eyes?

Why are numbers grouped into 10s?

Was chili named chili because you eat it when you’re chilly?

design by Jada

sandvall

One common memory most kids share when helping cook at the holidays is cutting and peeling potatoes. These potatoes are used in stews, as a side to your turkey, mashed potatoes and even as the main course of the meal. However, there is more than one kind of potato that is eaten on Thanksgiving each year. Aside from regular potatoes, sweet potatoes are another kind of potatoes that many people favor. Although a sweet potato

Apple pie vs. pumpkin pie. To some, both are delicious, but which one is better? This is a very popular debate all across the country. Every year over the holidays of Thanksgiving and Christmas families gather in the kitchen as they whip up their favorite pies, the two most popular pies being apple pie and pumpkin pie. With apples and

pumpkins growing in the fall, these two pies seem to be what most Americans decide between. According to a study from, INSIDER, the most popular pie in South Dakota is apple pie. Many LHS students would agree with this fact given that 59.6% of the student body prefers apple pie over pumpkin pie, while 40.4% prefer pumpkin.

HannaH Cisar

Students around LHS have many different traditions each year when it comes to Thanksgiving. One of the most popular debates comes down to people’s opinions on whether ham or turkey is better. Oftentimes, families make both ham and turkey for holidays such as Thanksgiving or Christmas. However, it is not unusual for one to like one and not like the other. 56.6% of

is not as popular, it is still one of America’s favorites. The National Grocers Association claims that 214 million pounds of potatoes and 50 million pounds of sweet potatoes are sold each year on Thanksgiving. Not only do different people around the country greatly prefer potatoes over sweet potatoes, but so do our very own LHS students given that 82.6% chose to eat potatoes and 17.4% chose to eat sweet potatoes.

LHS students prefer turkey for Thanksgiving, while 42.1% of students prefer ham. According to peta.org, 121 million pigs are killed each year. This data shows similarity when it comes to comparing LHS students' Thanksgiving preferences because, although 121 million pigs are slaughtered each year, 245 million turkeys are killed which shows that more turkeys are eaten each year than hams.

At almost every Thanksgiving dinner you can find the traditional mashed potatoes, gravy and corn. Due to all of the delicious food that is served on Thanksgiving, one’s plate is usually pretty full, resulting in most of the food touching on the plate. For some, it is not a problem when their corn touches their gravy. However, for others, they may not want any of their food on their

When it comes to Thanksgiving, there are many exceptional foods to choose from, some are more of a debatable decision than others. When it comes to homemade stuffing or stovetop, one would assume stovetop would be more popular because of how easy it is to make in a box. However, the LHS student body prefers homemade

plate to touch at all. 58.5% of the LHS student body prefers that their food be all mixed together rather than be separated on their plate. For some, it is easier and greater tasting to just mix all of it together. However, for others, their food cannot touch whatsoever. If this is you, science shows that you may have brumotactillophobia, the fear of your food touching.

stuffing over boxed stovetop by a vast 65%. For the parents and grandparents that are preparing the Thanksgiving meal, this may make their wallets feel a little lighter. According to easybudgetrecipies.com, it is said that the average cost to make homemade stuffing is $7.72. However, at HyVee, you can buy a box of stovetop for only $2.19. design by

HannaH Cisar

ART

“The Man who Talked until he Disappeared” (for efficiency reasons, “TMWT”) is a deeply moving exhibit about politics in the Middle East and Asia. Abidi lives and works in Karachi and Berlin and has used his work to comment on the way those who hold power wield it. He combines wit, nostalgia, fact and expert storytelling to show his and many others’ perspectives on the political drama around him. His exhibit captures two full decades worth of ideas and moments on video, photograph, radio installments and multimedia art. The pieces that coaxed the most emotion out of me were ones

you already captures attention, but Abidi added something to think about. He points to the difference in leadership through hand gestures, some that people can recognize as signs of hate, or blind nationalism and some that people can recognize as signs of love and unity. Those differences

alone show that power is not single faceted and certainly not carried by a consistent “breed”. Then one can notice that after all that is said and done, each one of the leaders shown is a human man. They all are so different but united by genetic makeup, so why not support each and every other human? “Intercommunication Devices” and “Security Barriers” illustrated two different messages but were both ink prints, and both the same cartoonish style, so I couldn’t help but catch Abidi’s subtle hint to notice the contrast between the two pieces on opposite sides of the gallery. The name of intercoms itself is an example of how close our world can be to one another.

However, Abidi sheds light on a different aspect of intercoms in his hometown: they are for the rich to keep people below them. The same is true for safety barriers. They are supposed to be there to keep us safe, but after tragedy and fear strike they are no longer a sign of security for many people. “TMWT” was an exhibit of contrast. Each piece was singular and multiple in purpose and they all made viewers get out of their comfort zone and ponder the power balance in our world.

Christina Quarles Christina Quarles I think I spent a whole hour in Quarles’ exhibit, and if I were to go into detail about my ideas on multiple of her pieces individually, I could write a book (someone actually did write a

book on her exhibit). Because of her unique and specific nonspecific style, people can stare for hours and think along a million different lines. Quarles’ paintings were absolutely breathtaking in a technical way. Up close, you can see every stroke and every movement she made to make the textures and colors all unique to themselves. She put everything in her head onto her canvas and the message behind each piece was a beautiful snapshot explanation of Quarles’ emotions. Qurles’ entire exhibit was colorful, chaotic and a perfect example of self-expression.

design by Margaret ann Mickelberg photos by Margaret ann Mickelberg

that compared and contrasted elements of the world we live in and how power is held and shown in it. There stood a massive photographic display in the far right corner of the gallery. Ink-jet CHICAGO, IL prints of all sorts of hands; big, small, brown, white, young and by Margaret ann Mickelberg Modern art has often been old. Abidi used news as his source, labeled in the past as outlandish, or capturing gestures of power, some have even argued that it has leadership and character from no purpose that is clear. However, the leaders of the world. Some as more ideas are brought to light portraits are of peace signs, while in creative ways, people have others are fists or salutes. The few begun to recognize modern art as similarities of the hands being that some of the most communicative they all were at the end of a male’s styles around. The Museum of arm, so what better title than “The Contemporary Art in Chicago, IL Reassuring Hand of Big Men, showcases the purpose and the Small Men, All men”? nuanced beauty of modern art in This piece (of course, these are its two large main floor exhibits, only my ideas, no one will ever “The Man who Talked until he know the true intention of Abidi Disappeared” and “Christina unless they ask him themselves) Quarles.” was so perfectly composed, lit and set to be exactly what Abidi The Man who Talked wanted: moving and thoughtuntil he Disappeared provoking. To have such a large spread of expression in front of Bani Abidi

Few lessons find more distaste among students than analyzing poetry. A key concept in every English class, students are often required to decode the confusing and cryptic poems chosen for them by the teacher. This phenomenon makes it surprising that there is a very active club at LHS dedicated to the writing, reading and listening of poetry. The Poetry Club was taken over in 2017 by Xavier Pastrano, author of four poetry books, bassists and backup vocalist in the band Skin of our Teeth and regular and accelerated English I teacher at LHS. At the beginning of this school year, the Poetry Club published a collection of students’ and Pastrano’s poems in a book titled “Echoes in a Hallway.” “I want to provide students with more opportunities to work on their writing,” said Pastrano. “To maybe get stuff published, to get a little more creative, and just to expose them to new contemporary poetry.” The poetry shared in the club differs dramatically from most of the poetry students are used to reading in their English class. From experimental poems to poetry about social issues, the contemporary form of the medium allows a greater interest from students. “It’s a lack of exposure to more contemporary poetry. When I was growing up… I had to read poetry in high school… a lot of the classics,” said Pastrano. [They’re] great, lots of talent there, but as a 15-year-old, I don’t really care. The audience that they were writing for were not 15-year-old kids.” Pastrano, like many others, would like to see a change in how poetry is taught to students. In the meantime, the Poetry Club acts as an oasis for those who have a desire for poetry but are not satisfied with the curriculum. “I think that if you’re a teacher who’s teaching poetry to your English students, it’s important to do a mixture of both [contemporary and classic poetry],” said Pastrano. “There are so many contemporary poems that students, I feel like now, can relate to and that’s the stuff that needs to be taught.” Reading poetry is only one part of the activity. Students are encouraged to write and share their own poetry out loud, often with challenging prompts. “Echoes in a Hallway” takes it a step further by

LHS POETRY CLUB

THE 'A' IN ANXIETY How do your grades affect you? by by

Thompson Wakefield

LHS students publish a collection of poetry for the student body to enjoy.

allowing anyone in the school to read the poems they want to share. “That particular book matters because it is a platform for the students,” said Pastrano. “It’s an opportunity for them to get their voices heard.” Self-expression is a large part of being a teenager and high schooler. Whether it be clothing, photography, painting or poetry, students feel a need to convey their ideas to the world. Despite this creativity, teenagers are often brushed off as being ignorant or immature. “There’s sometimes the misperception that… since your teenagers, ‘you don’t know, you’ll never quite understand because you’re too young, you don’t know what love is, you don’t know what being overwhelmed is like,” said Pastrano. “You do, just on a different level. And sometimes teenagers know about those experiences even more than adults do.” That misperception is one of the main reasons Pastrano decided to publish “Echoes in a Hallway.” “What this book was about [was] giving my students a platform,” said Pastrano. “It’s about giving my students an opportunity to hop on their platform and say ‘hey, this is what I’m going through’ or ‘hey, people should listen to me because I have this to say and it’s important and it has value.’” The sharing of these students’ thoughts does not just help the writer. Students who are not members of the club may find an awakening within themselves to explore the artform they thought they hated. “Writing, for some students, is a need. It’s a cathartic way to process and understand this crazy world that we’re living in,” said Pastrano. “By putting it into a book and putting it on the shelves in the library, it creates a bridge to another student who maybe hasn’t read poetry but will read a student’s poem and be like ‘wow, this kid knows what I’m going through, I feel that exact same way. Now maybe I can do something too. Now maybe I can write, maybe I can do this.” Poetry Club meets after school every Friday in Pastrano’s room, A124. design by

lhs sTaTesman sTaff Xavier pasTrano

phoTo provided by

help PLEASE

icture this: you wake up, get dressed, brush your teeth, grab your breakfast and head out the door for school. What is missing from this picture of a carefree and spectacular school day morning? No quizzes, tests, labs, essays, projects and, most importantly, forgotten homework assignments. We can all be honest with ourselves and say that school would be better if we did not have to worry about grades. Grades can possibly depict a student’s future, so for many students it is something they obsess over. My biggest question about the correlation between grades and anxiety is simple: Are high school teachers aware of the anxiety and obsession students have over grades? Students can get anxiety from the easiest classes in school, and as difficulty increases, so can anxiety. AP classes tend to be the hardest classes students can take in high school; not only do they challenge students more, but there is more classwork that is quickly followed

brooks Houwman

by homework. Students may wonder if teachers even understand the amount of stress they are putting on their students’ shoulders. Do teachers show empathy, or do they just expect students to understand and pass a class while dealing with a teenager’s outside world? “A good grade totally depends on who the student is,” said LHS AP Physics teacher, Bradley Newitt. “I think that for each student it is performing up to the best of their abilities. There are some students who for them a B is a very, very good grade, especially in a difficult class.” Both Newitt and James Jarovski, LHS AP and Accelerated Chemistry teacher, agreed that a good grade is not always an A. If a student puts effort into whatever grade they received, they should consider it a good grade. Both also agreed that anxiety plays a large role in their classrooms. “I see anxiety on almost an everyday basis. Learning how to deal with that is an important skill for college and the rest of their lives,” said Jarovski. He was right. A student that has anxiety now will most likely deal with it for the rest of their life. Therefore, high school is a great time to learn to handle it and get it under control. After all, teachers are not trying to make students’ lives miserable. “The level of what we are expecting high school students to learn and know and the opportunities that are available to them is much greater than when I was in high school,” said Newitt. “The fact that we are teaching college-level physics to high school students now is pretty impressive. I do not know if the workload is much different, but the skill level is higher than it used to be.” Although the workload may not be different from when Newitt was in

high school, the level of learning some students are at in high school is the level most are at in college. Workloads are easy when the subject is one a student understands. When a student does not understand a subject, the anxiety of getting the grade they want to achieve begins to show. Not only do grades tell students whether they are failing or succeeding, but they are a constant reminder they have failed in that subject, if that is the case. “Students should check grades every week, maybe every two weeks. It can get to a point where students become obsessed with grades [and] they check them two to three times a day. Try to find a balance,” said Newitt. Students should make school a priority in their life, but it shouldn’t take over their lives. This is not the case for every person because we all have different strengths and weaknesses within the classroom. While one student may need to study a subject harder, another may find it extremely easy. “The experiences are the most important part of high school for sure,” said Jarovski. “Enjoy the time that you have with your friends. I don’t necessarily think that is what most students do; they worry about their grades too much.” Students should know that teachers are not out to get them and don’t want to see them fail. Both Newitt and Jarovski made it very clear they want to see every student they have to succeed. They recommend coming in for help if you are dealing with anxiety or having a difficult time grasping a topic. Finding a balance between grades, activities and a social life is important to have a good high school experience. artwork by

design by CHloe Houwman margaret ann miCkelberg

HEREARETHEYWHEREARETHEYWHEREARETHEYWHEREARETHEYWHEREA W DISSECTION OF THE W WHERE ARE ARECIBO MESSAGE H ALL THE H E F M E Numbers 1-10 in white, atomic R numbers for carbon, nitrogen, R oxygen and phosphorus in black. E E A A R R Formulas for DNA’s chemical components. E E T T H H E E A double helix structure in blue, the number of nucleotides in the Y Y human genome in white. W W H H E E The average height for a human at the time (5’9’’) to the white, a R R human stick figure in the double helix in the middle, the populaE tion of earth at the time (4 bilE lion) to the left, our solar system with earth raised towards the A A figure. R R E E T Image of the Arecibo radio T station with the diameter of the dish below. H H E HEREARETHEYWHEREARETHEYWHEREARETHEYWHEREARETHEYWHEREA by

isher

eyerink

On the night of June 25, 2021, something unimaginable occurred. The FBI released an unclassified report confirming the validity of 143 sightings of what they call unidentified aerial phenomenon, or UAP. These UAP were observed performing a variety of behaviors with various levels of clarity. “Some UAP appeared to remain stationary in winds aloft, move against the wind, maneuver abruptly, or move at considerable speed, without discernible means of propulsion. In a small number of cases, military aircraft systems processed radio frequency (RF) energy associated with UAP sightings,” the report elaborated. What’s more, investigators firmly believe that the majority of these cases are physical objects, not just simply sensor malfunctions with 80 incidents receiving data from multiple sensors and 11 being classified as near misses with U.S personale. “We absolutely do believe what we’re seeing are not simply sensor artifacts. These are things that physically exist,” said one investigator. Even more convincing is the fact that the leaked images and videos of said sightings were also confirmed to be legitimate, featuring images of UAP’s in the shape of triangles to Tic-Tacs. With all of this newfound information, the headline seems obvious: aliens have made contact with our planet. However, things may not be that simple. Fermi’s paradox essentially states that if the universe is infinite, with infinite chances for life and infinite chances for said life to be highly intelligent, the chances of earth not coming in contact with said life is infinitesimally small. Or in simpler terms, where are all the aliens? After all, our planet is part of a relatively young planetary system and there are several stars similar to earth that have planets with a habitability as or at times greater than that of ours. This question was posed by the Italian physicist Enrico Fermi in 1950. Though this question was posed casually over a lunch break, its ramifications have impacted interstellar research even to this day. This paradox essentially splits theories towards its resolution into two equally terrifying conclusions: That we are alone, and that we are not. Let’s start with the simpler, easier to digest solution. We are alone. There is no other intelligent life that could contact us, and we are placed at the top of the interstellar food chain. This would naturally suggest that the universe isn’t infinite or at least not as expansive as we would have initially guessed. However, this theory doesn’t necessarily mean that there haven’t been other life forms in the past which is where the terrifying implications woven into

this theory come into the limelight, such as the theory of vacuum decay which suggests that instead of living in a stable, true vacuum, we live on a false vacuum where any small disturbance could send us tumbling into nothingness. If all former life in our universe has disappeared without a trace, who’s to say the same fate doesn’t await us? The theory that we’re alone does have some evidence to support it, however none of it is conclusive by any means. For example, we have made attempts to contact extraterrestrial life in the past. One such attempt is the Arecibo message sent to a cluster of stars lightyears away by the name of Messier 13. This message contains primal illustrations of a double helix, a telescope, a human being and a carbon atom. These symbols were chosen to give any extraterrestrial life an idea of our species. The double helix represents the structure of our DNA, the telescope shows how we are able to observe space, the human being represents the body we inhabit and the carbon atom explains that we are a carbon lifeform. This message was most likely just a way to show off the progression of technological advancements by the human race, but still, the idea of a radio signal being transmitted across the universe by our relatively new species is still impressive and begs the question of why similar radio messages haven’t been detected by us. After all our universe is projected to have existed for 13.8 billion years while the modern human race has only been around for 200,000 years, so our ability to send these messages will only improve with time. Surely if any other form of intelligent life did exist prior to us, they would have progressed to the point where it would be relatively simple to contact us. Now for the more interesting solution: we’re not alone. This theory essentially splits into two separate realities: One being that there is intelligent life that we have simply not encountered and the other being that we have encountered said life and do not know it. The first reality is pretty simple. We do not have the technology to reach planets outside our own and neither do these other supposed civilizations. These other life forms could be millions of years more advanced than we are and still be unable to contact us as it is very possible that there is a sort of technological ceiling that civilizations hit after a certain point where there is simply no way to traverse the universe. Additionally, there is nothing that suggests that these species would have to be even remotely similar to ours. This speculation is generally reserved to various science fiction writers, however a report in 2007 by the United States

National Research Council, or NRC, brought the topic into reality. “The search so far has focused on Earth-like life because that’s all we know, but life that may have originated elsewhere could be unrecognizable compared with life here. Advances throughout the last decade in biology and biochemistry show that the basic requirements for life might not be as concrete as we thought,” said John Baross, a committee chair on the NRC There are a plethora of viable hypothetical forms of non-carbon life. Arsenic, ammonia and borane are just a few hypothetical types of biochemistry that could feasibly exist. This naturally begs the question: Who’s to say we haven’t found outside life and simply did not classify it as such? So, what about that FBI report? Why even discuss all of these different hypothetical realities when we seem to have solid evidence that places us in the aliens-exist-and have-interacted-with-us camp? Well, as is the case with practically everything else surrounding this discussion, it’s not that simple. It’s no coincidence that this information wasn’t treated as the reality shattering news that it appears to be at first glance. You would think that outright confirmation of unexplainable encounters with seemingly reality bending aerial objects would be more of a big deal, but it seems that most outside experts have come to the same conclusion: this report is nothing special. Most people have come to the admittedly probable conclusion that this is simply a way for the FBI to classify the experiments of various militaries of the world while heavily implying that they are extraterrestrial in nature in order to stifle unwanted questioning. It’s much easier to dismiss all accidental sightings of your experiments as “aliens” instead of letting people speculate what possible atrocities these crafts could cause. Still the idea of alien contact continues to intrigue us and likely will for the rest of time. It seems that until real, 100% concrete information emerges, we’ll just have to continue to look into the seemingly infinite night sky and imagine what could possibly await us just past our eyes.

design by

Fisher Meyerink WikiMedia CoMMons

photos provided by

WHY SO

POLITICAL? by

Laura HeckenLaibLe

The world has been consumed by politics. It has seeped into not only our culture but is also constantly running through the human mind every single day. It has come to the point where everything can be political. Decisions such as who to buy from, what to watch, products to purchase and people to associate with are all being influenced by partisan opinions. Understandably, no one wants to support someone or something that is causing harm to others, is immoral or just downright wrong. But where is the line drawn? When does politics stop? When people get together, their political opinions can either collide or be boosted. People with similar views seem to group up in ways that reinforce their beliefs. This creates what is called a “group specific shared reality” which makes it more difficult for people in those groups to listen and relate to others with different viewpoints. According to a recent paper, Journal of Public Policy & Marketing created by researchers from Arizona State University and five other universities in the U.S., “As society has become increasingly polarized, politicians’ objectives diverge and their animosity toward the opposition grows, thereby reducing the opportunity for compromise. Partisan incivility is a major reason for failed dialogue: Uncivil exchanges result in disagreement and greater polarization regardless of the evidence presented.” Arguments are arising where they shouldn’t be. Where a conversation could have taken place and the problem could’ve been solved, unproductive arguments sit stagnantly.

design by

cHLoe Houwman

When looking back upon America’s latest election and current issues to certain groups, politics is everything. A prime example is when the U.S. capital was raided by a large group with the common support of President Trump. The raid happened all because congress was meeting to certify that the election had been won by President Biden and Vice President Harris. When in a group of people who have the same views, it closes off the human brain causing more controversy and less understanding of others and their viewpoints. Researchers from the six U.S. universities also wrote, “As society has become increasingly polarized, politicians’ objectives diverge and their animosity toward the opposition grows, thereby reducing opportunity for compromise.” They then went on to talk about the main problems emerging from societies politicized views, “Partisan incivility is a major reason for failed dialogue: Uncivil exchanges result in disagreement and greater polarization regardless of the evidence presented.” These group specific shared ideas are not only making society a mess but also politics. Without the ability to have civil conversations with one another, people bring the world one step closer to an even more divided society. In the light of recent events such as COVID-19, public health is very important to the majority. Shouldn’t it be a good thing that masks can be worn and a vaccine can be taken to protect people from these arising sicknesses? To some, the answer is no. Masks and vaccines have become very political, and the differing opinions are still swarming around

ideas like wearing a mask and getting a vaccine. This is happening all because people are choosing to follow a group they associate with rather than making a rational assessment. People are becoming unwilling to open themselves up to opposing sides. They are shutting out the world around them by choosing to base crucial decisions only on a partisan opinion. Politics are never going to stop or disappear, because they are important. Politics not only help one understand the world around them but cause people to realize how important it is to be involved and have an understanding of what’s going on in the world, as it affects so many lives. Being passionate about politics isn’t bad. It’s good to have an opinion and to know where you stand. Politics become a problem when one starts to politicize their life. That’s where the line begins and when politics become harmful. When people try to politicize their life they are missing out on the pure good that could have been. The relationships that could have been fostered and positive experiences that could have been encountered all gone because what? Because a neighbor or certain company doesn’t share the same political opinion as you? So what? The diversity of opinion is what makes the world so amazing. The price of letting go of politics is worth it to get to know that neighbor and encounter those experiences. Just because something can be political doesn’t mean it should be. So stop politicizing life, for living is not at all about who you support and who you don’t.

WE CAN NEVER IN WE CAN NEVER WIN WE CAN N VER WIN WE CAN IN WE CAN NEVER WIN CAN NE

WE CAN NEVER WIN.WE C WE CAN NEVER EVER WIN WE CAN NEVER WIN

baiLy PLourde

Being “basic” is described as lacking defining characteristics that make someone interesting and worth devoting time or attention to by Urban Dictionary. Yeah… harsh. I know. This word is typically used to describe a woman, often a teenage girl, for being similar to her peers. It is yet another demeaning term used to ridicule girls simply because of their likes and dislikes. The clothes they wear, the food they eat, the car they drive, the sport they play, the list goes on and on. As many people see these factors as a representation of someone’s personality, it becomes easy to think of someone as less interesting or unique because their likes are similar to other’s. As a society, we have proven to find quite literally everything “wrong” with what is described as girly and mock the community that enjoys it. It seems as if we are actively searching for ridiculous reasons to hate on females for being feminine. The harsh pill to swallow, however, is realizing that it is not simply femininity that has become the joke, but women. “Every aspect of myself is a topic of discussion,” said Claudia Keyser, senior girl at LHS. “Being a woman in today’s society has taught me that my likes and dislikes stem from learning from those around me. If I’m basic because I like the same things as my friends, then we are all basic.” Not only does the need to completely separate oneself from femininity because of the “less than” label associated with it prove the deeply rooted prejudice inside us all, but it helps us understand that being feminine is not the problem. The problem shows itself when we see girls embracing all aspects of themselves and still receiving backlash. How can we

AN NEVER WIN

blame women for following trends and perpetuating “basic” stereotypes when the alternative is equally as mocked? “Girls are willing to like the things that they like and embrace themselves even though there may be repercussions,” said Keyser. “Being viewed as basic is just another obstacle in being a high school girl.” Having grown up in an empowering household, I am continuously baffled at the normalcy that making fun of women has turned into in modern day society. As a woman and a senior high school student, I have heard my fair share of “funny” sexist jokes made by just about every demographic LHS holds. It has become abundantly clear that the overall theme for high school humor is, “How can we turn the things girls love into a joke and make them feel bad for it?” Now, for the people that are questioning my judgment, let me ask you this: Have you ever thought of a woman’s sport as being “less than” men’s football, basketball or baseball? Have you ever personally been subjected to scrutiny because of the clothes you wear? Has anyone ever made fun of you for walking into school with an iced caramel macchiato? These are simple yes or no questions, yet the answers are quite telling about society and how we choose to view women and the things women enjoy. While we have long considered “basic” to be a derogatory phrase, I believe it is time to take a twist on the term and embrace the principle. As basic things tend to be universally enjoyed, it is time to take a stand for the iced caramel macchiato and show that being “not like other girls” is truly an insult to the population of strong, amazing women in our everyday lives. So please, drink your Starbucks, love your Lulu’s and cherish being a woman. design by

anna engeLs

Daniel bethke, Online eDitOr-in-Chief

SIOUX FALLS’ PROBLEMATIC LAYOUT

ioux Falls has doubled in size since 1980. As one of the fastest growing cities in the country, it is undergoing a massive expansion and transformation. Unfortunately, as the city continues to expand, the layout of Sioux Falls increasingly perpetuates and exacerbates socioeconomic inequalities. A key component of whether a city’s layout is problematic is cohesion. Central Sioux Falls, built up before the proliferation of cars, is relatively cohesive. Its neighborhoods are dense and walkable, generally adhering to a grid pattern. Each block has character, and each building is unique as opposed to the architectural homogeneity all too common in far outskirts of the city. In car-scaled suburbia, with streets that unnecessarily twist and curve, one cannot walk to the grocery store, nor much else. The only thoroughfares that don't loop into each other out there are highways. While such highways sometimes offer a meager, treeless sidewalk parallel to the six lanes of screeching engines we call a street, these sidewalks are always superficial and underutilized; walking along them is nearly impossible. Suburbia, rapidly and disproportionately expanding in our city, is no friend to the pedestrian. Indeed, it ostracizes would-be pedestrians, forcing people to have cars. Those who can’t afford one are left with few options. Take the Dawley Farm Village in eastern Sioux Falls. There are three ways to walk there: cross Highline Place (5 lanes), cross Arrowhead Parkway (6 packed lanes) or walk through a parking lot bigger than the Titanic.

In any case, the pedestrian bends to the will of the car, around which Sioux Falls is built. Car culture extends beyond streets, though. Since cars are the priority, parking lots become larger and larger until eventually they obscure their store(s) so much it appears that the parking lots themselves are the main attraction, and the stores are but islands in them. Sometimes the lack of a major street is also a problem. Notably, 26th Street does not cross over the Big Sioux River into western Sioux Falls. For most, this means the only way to the west side is via the interstate (increasing reliance on cars), 12th Street or 41st. If the Country Club was not in the way, a bridge could be constructed, alleviating some traffic and making the west side more accessible. Unfortunately, instead of aiding (pedestrian) accessibility for the many, Sioux Falls prefers aiding golf games for the few. Flawed urban design isn’t merely an optics or accessibility problem; it’s life or death. Urban sprawl, one of the greatest threats to our city, is increasing pollution and decreasing walkability. This exacerbates climate change and personal health problems. In fact, according to the National Library of Medicine, 20% of all deaths could be prevented by building cities more efficiently. It may seem dire but flawed urban design can be mitigated. One might initially think that more lanes would alleviate traffic and aid pedestrians, but this only worsens urban sprawl. Furthermore, as the American Economic Review noted, more lanes empirically leads to more traffic, as the extra space pulls more cars to the road in a phenomenon known as induced travel demand. This leads to more traffic fatalities (which is why denser cities like Stockholm and Tokyo report the lowest traffic fatality rates in the world) and a weaker sense of neighborhood unity. We must not let sprawling concrete oceans and highway entanglements impede walkability, neighborhood cohesion or access to resources. Thus, no one in a city should live more than a 15 minute walk from the essentials (e.g., grocery stores). As The Congress for New Urbanism stated, such a “15-minute city” would be more socioeconomically equitable and bolster health. The model would also be a boon to struggling communities and small businesses. To achieve this goal, cities must prioritize mixed-use and dense zoning. On this front Sioux Falls has much work to do, much of which may seem impractical. But it is feasible. Other cities across the nation are retrofitting suburbia and low density areas. They are setting buildings closer to the sidewalk to increase cohesion and the sense of “place.” They are expanding public transit, planting trees along wide sidewalks and prioritizing development in the urban core. They are becoming stronger, more vibrant cities. Sioux Falls can too. Under clear and firm guidance, with a decent respect to the needs of pedestrians, we can and will become a city that maximizes wellbeing and resource access for all. design by Chloe Houwman

November Issue-2021

Articles inside

PUFFS TAKE THE STAGE

THANKING THOSE WE DON'T THANK ENOUGH

ALL HAIL THE QUEEN

DIFFERENCES IN TEACHERS

JACK SIMPSON: THE STORY BEHIND THE KING

THE MAN, THE MYTH, THE MURPHY

THE TALL ONE

THE ONE THAT GOT AWAY