Author: jhshyphen

We are the student newspaper of Jeffersonville High School.

Stranger Things Season 4 – Review

Project | Stranger Things, Season 4 - Rodeo FX

Written By: Samuel Broady

The popular Netflix original series known as “Stranger Things” fully released its fourth and latest season last July and fans all over the world are still talking about it. Everybody loves a great sci-fi horror story about a group of kids stopping supernatural forces; and, personally, I believe that the show deserves all the views and love it has received. Of course, the newest season isn’t without its flaws, but it did revive the show and there’s a lot of reasons for that.

The main improvement with the fourth season is that the original elements of mystery and horror have returned. It’s safe to say that a mysterious story is all about revealing one piece of information after another, until each piece fits together perfectly to reveal the whole story. On a horror basis, this season really cranks it up. It embraces the Stephen King vibes and it increases the brutality. With the introduction of the villain Vecna, it’s a refreshing take on the genres that made the show magic in the first place.

Another thing that has always driven this show is the characters. Eleven is always interesting; Hopper remains a strong fighter; Steve’s development is amazing; and Eddie is amusing. However, in Season 4, Max has the best arc. She blocks out her friends because of her depression and trauma. But when she’s faced with the risk of death, she uses her happy memories to escape the darkness. What seemed like an apathetic lifestyle turned into an instinctive embracing of friendship and life. As a social commentary, I believe that her struggle is the best aspect in the new season.

There are a lot of other positive aspects in this season. The emotions are all over the place. Building off of our attachment to the characters, there are several heartbreaking scenes.

Additionally, the scope of the story is huge, the production design is off the charts, the filming locations are stunning, the special effects look convincing, the cinematography is showcased in spectacular use of dramatically colored lighting, the action doesn’t fail to entertain, and the performances rock. Sadie Sink (Max) and Millie Bobby Brown (Eleven) especially shine in this season. Finally, the music is awesome. The biggest example is “Running Up That Hill”, a song from the 1980s by Kate Bush, which topped the charts on Spotify this year after its revival on the show.

There are negative aspects, unfortunately. The biggest issue is how overstuffed the episodes are. Too much happening can make one get lost and some subplots are more engaging than others. They should remove characters because some have no need in the show anymore. Also, the amount of plot armor and untied loose ends is somewhat underwhelming.

Needless to say, “Stranger Things” Season 4 improves on a lot of things. It’s not perfect, but it certainly proves the possibility for blockbuster television. All we can do now is wait for Season 5 and hope it’s even better because the future looks bright. According to the Duffer Brothers, we’re headed into a time jump that will only take place in Hawkins with no new characters. And that sure sounds promising.

All in all, Stranger Things Season Four deserves a 9/10.

by jhshyphen

Puss in Boots: The Last Wish – Review

By: Sam Broady

2022 was a good year for movies. With “Top Gun: Maverick,” “The Batman,”  “Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery,” “Bullet Train,” “Everything Everywhere All at Once,” cinema was back. Oddly enough, there was one other film in theaters that nobody asked for, nobody expected it to be good, and nobody hated it. That film is “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish.” Out of all the possibilities for a sequel, “Puss in Boots” turned out to have one and it happened to be amazing. I was blown away in theaters. I have a good memory of it and I look forward to re-watching it because it may be my favorite Dreamworks film. “How to Train Your Dragon” held that title for a long time.

The best thing about this film is by far the animation. In all honesty, it is the best animation I have ever seen. “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” is well known for its top notch animation, but while its visuals have the highest highlights, I think this film has better visuals overall. The action looks especially good. I love how the frame rate slows down in all the fight scenes. My favorite scene is the fight between Puss in Boots and Death because the color scheme looks amazing. I adore the use of colors and lighting in this film.

Another thing I love about this movie is the characters. I think it’s really important for a film to prioritize its characters if it wants to be memorable; luckily, that’s what happened. I highly enjoy Puss in Boots in this film. I don’t remember anything about the prequel but it doesn’t matter. Antonio Banderas gives the character such energy and he keeps his vibrant personality among the challenges he faces. I like his reunion with Kitty: she gets the job done. Perrito the dog is a funny addition. He brings love and comfort to the story. Goldilocks and the three bears are a delight to see and I didn’t expect them to be so fun. However, my favorite character is the wolf. His name is Death and he is the coolest character in fiction. Every time he’s on screen, he gives me the creeps. 

Surprisingly, the themes are conveyed with more depth than I expected. This film explores the fear of dying, which many can relate to. With Puss in Boots being on one out of nine lives, he is running for his life for the first time. His objective in the story is to make a wish for more lives so he can be the legend everyone knows him as. But, in the end, he realizes one life is enough when he gets to spend it with the people he loves. Or should I say animals. Everyone else cancels their wish as well when they learn to appreciate what they have. Having someone to trust, having a family, having friends; there’s a heartfelt message about sticking with what you have in life and it’s done in a rather subtle manner that complements the characterization of our protagonist.

Extra aspects that I enjoyed are the voice acting, the humor, and the music. I don’t know why Dreamworks went so hard on this film, but I am so glad they did. We need more animated masterpieces like these; films that specialize in the telling of a story and the style of animation rather than serving as a formulaic cash grab that intends to sell merchandise and teach kids nothing. You can feel the passion that went into every frame of this film. I cannot feel anything when watching films produced by Illumination like “Minions”. The difference in quality between Illumination and Dreamworks is unreal. By all means, I think it’s safe to say that “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish” is the best animated film of 2022 and I am very thankful for its release.

Dolly Parton’s legacy inspires her fans

by Natalie Creagh

Country music singer and songwriter Dolly Parton sadly passed away on August 25, 2026. She was 80 years old. Parton was so much more than a music icon; she was a philanthropist, an inspiration, and a true treasure to the world. 

Dolly Parton’s Life

Born Dec. 19, 1946 as one of 12 children, Dolly Rebecca Parton lived in the Smoky Mountains in a one-room cabin in Locust Ridge, Tennessee. The family lived in poverty. Throughout the 1950s Parton starred on different radio stations and television programs as well as publishing her first single “Puppy Love” and making her debut at the Grand Ole Opry at just 13 years old. 

Into the 60s Parton signed her first record deal with Monument Records. In 1966 she married her husband Carl Thomas Dean, and the two were together for six decades. A year later Parton released her first album, “Hello, I’m Dolly,” with her country single, “Dumb Blonde.” 

In 1970 Parton was nominated for Best Country Performance in Duo or Group with Porter Wagoner for “Just Someone I Used to Know.” In November of that same year “The Best of Dolly,” Parton’s first Greatest Hits album, was released. Throughout the rest of the decade Parton earned her first Solo Grammy Nomination, as well as releasing some of her most iconic songs, including “Coat of Many Colors,” “Jolene,” and “I Will Always Love You.”

Into the 1980s, Parton released the album “9 to 5 and other Odd Jobs,” as well as starring in her first film “9 to 5” as Doralee Rhodes. The film was later turned into a musical in 2009. She also starred in “The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas,” “Steel Magnolias,” and “ Rhinestone,” where she starred alongside Sylvester Stallone. Parton also starred on Saturday Night Live as both host and musical guest. On June 14, 1984, Parton earned her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. On May 3, 1986 Parton’s theme park, Dollywood, opened in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. The park was a huge hit and is still around today.  

In 1988, Parton started the Dollywood Foundation, which initially was to offer scholarships to high school students. She also created the Imagination Library, where children up until past the age of 5 could receive a free book monthly. The library expanded and is available to children across America, Canada, Australia, Ireland, and the United Kingdom. She was also a huge advocate for human rights throughout her life. 

Parton’s Influence

The news of Parton’s passing affected the community, and fans discussed her music and contributions.

AP U.S History teacher David Russell said he was introduced to Parton’s music as a child.

 “I think she’s an all around good person who wanted to do good things; I like her music.” 

Senior Wyatt Clements agreed that Parton was an icon. 

“As an ex-Kentuckian, you can’t escape her music. I never got to visit her park when she was alive,” he said. 

Sophomore Bella Roman described Parton as inspiring, adding, “My whole family listens to her.” 

And after hearing of Parton’s passing, junior Kristopher Bonilla said, “I didn’t believe it at first, but the more I heard about it I was pretty upset.” 

Principal Pam Hall said Parton’s legacy extends beyond her music. 

“I love everything she stood for,” said Hall. “She was an advocate for women’s rights and human rights. She also donated millions quietly, I think that really speaks to her character.”

It is safe to say that Parton’s legacy has inspired many people of different generations. Her kindness and creativity were truly unforgettable. She was a music icon and continues to make people happy through her music, style, and positivity. 

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Youth not an obstacle for volleyball team

Red Devils face New Albany tonight

by Carter Glotzbach 

This past year JHS girls’ volleyball had one of their best seasons yet, and with a solid start to this year’s season and rival New Albany visiting tonight, it’s clear that the young team is ready to grow up.

Head coach Wes Briscoe sees new potential for growth in this year’s team. 

“This year’s team is one of my favorites, but it’s really hard to say how they stack up to last year considering how young they are. I also think that you’ll see some breakout seasons from new key players because they’re not having to wait behind older ones,” said Briscoe. 

Managers like junior Ryder Lott agree with the head coach’s sentiment. 

“I think the team is really young, but working with them I see a lot of potential in them,” said Lott.

While a younger team is usually viewed as a disadvantage, some see an opportunity. Assistant coach Mackenzie Wilkins said a younger team often provides best opportunity to teach new skills.  

“A younger team is a gift, in my opinion, because they are much more willing to learn and try new things,” she said. 

Junior Kaylee McDaniel states the team is unified despite the youth. 

“I think our team is definitely younger, but we have a much stronger bond and are more willing to play as a team,” she said. 

Junior Haliun Otgonbayar serves an ace during the JHS game against Rock Creek Academy. Photo by Isaiah Stewart.

Junior Haliun Otgonbayar agrees that the Red Devils have an exceptionally strong connection this year.

“We definitely are a tighter knit group and have a closer bond with each other. I think that definitely makes us more dedicated to the team,” said Otgonbayar.

Coach Briscoe recognizes the team’s unity, stating, “I’ve seen it a lot during practice. This year’s team has a much stronger bond than last year’s, and they are definitely more willing to play as a team.”

Players will rely on these bonds as they face local competition this season.

“Some of our biggest competitors are always at the Providence tournament, and last year they gave us some great competition. This year I hope we can make it further than last year’s team, but we’re still really young,” said Briscoe.

The Red Devils understand the strength of their schedule. 

“Providence is definitely a team to look out, for as well as New Albany, Charlestown and Floyd Central,” said McDaniel.

“I think that Floyd Central and New Albany are definitely the biggest competition that we have this year,” added Otgonbayar. 

Coach Briscoe sees the possibility of break-out performances this season. 

“I would keep an eye out for Kaylie Fuller,” he said. “She has shown a lot of potential in practice and could definitely be a high-level player with a few years of work. She’s a great practice player.”

Leadership from team veterans is expected as the volleyball team continues to play in the coming weeks.

“Jordyn Miller is a player I expect to do well this year. She’s a multi-sport athlete, but she’s definitely been working hard to earn her place on the team. Another player with good work ethic is Charlotte Hatfield — she has shown a lot of potential and worked hard in the off-season,” said Briscoe  

The Red Devils huddle up before the game against Christian Academy. Photo by Logan Vidt.

Lott said consistent play will be important as the season continues.

“I see a lot of potential in the team offensively, but I think they need to work on their consistency. If they can keep it up throughout the sets then I think they could have a top tier offense.”

JHS faces New Albany at home tonight, and will visit North Harrison on Sept. 21 before hosting Floyd Central Sept. 29.

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JROTC uniforms reflect discipline, pride of cadets

by Raven Baker

The JHS Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) program has its own sense of community and discipline. 

Students train and test on military-related activities to help with starting a future in the military. Cadets also proudly wear their uniforms every Wednesday for a grade – they begin with the blues and can earn their ABU uniforms.

Cadets learn valuable life skills, teamwork, and leadership, which prepare them for both future military service and civilian life.

Junior Angel Siana, Cadet Second Lieutenant; Junior Wendy Rubio, Senior Master Sergeant; Col. Robert Benning; Junior Jocelyn Zarate, Junior Cadet Major; Junior Kameron Hayden, Cadet Second Lieutenant. Photo by Ashton Walcott.

Col. Robert Benning said uniforms are important to the tradition of the program.

“The purpose of school-issued uniforms for Junior Air Force cadets is to instill customs and courtesies, ensuring they learn to properly and proudly adhere to military standards,” said Benning. “The uniforms serve as a tool for education, preparing students for potential military careers by getting them familiar with regulations and expectations.”

Benning described several different uniform types.

“Students learn different uniform types like the OCP, which replicate active-duty wear. They also have their ABUs, which you earn with hard work put into the class.”

In addition, Benning said uniforms are tied to the grading system, “where older students grade younger ones on their uniform based on standards, which shows the importance of precision and regulation. The uniform is a key component in developing discipline and a sense of belonging within the JROTC program.”

Junior Angel Siana, Cadet Second Lieutenant

“I feel okay about the uniforms now that I’m more comfortable, though I was a bit self-conscious at first. It’s important for uniforms to be correct to set a good example for others. The uniform check is a bit lenient, but it’s preparing me for discipline.”

Junior Kameron Hayden, Cadet Second Lieutenant

“I find the uniforms comfortable, and they help me feel ready. It’s important to wear them correctly to show respect and be a good example. The uniform check is pretty simple, and it’s preparing me to be organized and disciplined.”

Junior Wendy Rubio, Senior Master Sergeant

“The uniforms aren’t bad, and I’m getting used to them; they help me with responsibility. It’s important to have them correct to show respect for the uniform and follow the rules. The uniform check requires a decent effort, and it’s preparing me for military experience and neatness.”

Junior Jocelyn Zarate, Junior Cadet Major

“The uniforms are not too bad, and I feel a bit competitive about them. Having them correct is important for assignment grades and helps me weekly. It prepares me for the future in the Air Force, and I’m part of JROTC for community service and field trips.”

Junior Angel Siana, Cadet Second Lieutenant
Junior Kameron Hayden, Cadet Second Lieutenant
Junior Wendy Rubio, Senior Master Sergeant
Junior Jocelyn Zarate, Junior Cadet Major

Benning said the JROTC program is a class to build up discipline and physically prepare students to be ready for the military, or help them start their future. The uniforms serve the purpose of giving encouragement to students on learning discipline and how to be neater, which are positive traits to obtain. 

Benning wants his students to wear their uniform with pride, but also properly. The uniforms also serve as an educational tool. Students enjoy their uniforms knowing they’re the example for the underclassmen. They show respect to the purpose while also being comfortable.

All photos by Ashton Walcott.

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Cross country program seeks support as athletes continue to excel

Editor’s Note: This story was completed before recent coaching changes with the cross country team.

by Isaiah Gatton and Elijah Lahrman

As the cross country season continues, the growing team hopes for increased support and recognition.

Former head coach Sam Mull spent 21 years involved with the program, first as an assistant before eventually becoming head coach. As a former JHS runner himself, Mull experienced the challenges of the sport firsthand.

“So when I was here, I did every sport possible, but I was mainly a runner. I did football, did basketball, wrestled, swam, cross-country, and track, but I was a track runner, mainly,” said Mull.

Mull said cross country presents a unique mental challenge because runners are constantly competing against some of the best athletes in the state and the daunting fact that it’s running.

“This is probably the toughest mental sport that you’ll ever participate in,” he said.

He explained that unlike team sports, athletes advance as individuals, and ultimately how well they do depends on them. 

“If you’re a 100-meter runner, you’re not competing against 475 other teams in the state; you’re competing against a 1000 other kids in the state. And you’ve got to advance against those thousand each week and get knocked out and knocked out until you make it to the final, final level. It’s a very, very difficult sport to advance in,” said Mull.

While the sport itself presents challenges, Mull said the Jeffersonville cross country program faces another problem: a lack of recognition and funding compared with other sports.

“We don’t get recognized as much as other team sports, such as basketball and football. Results are often overlooked or discredited. And when it comes to funding for equipment, it’s often overlooked. And I’ve had to go outside the school on many occasions to get basic equipment that schools should provide for both sports,” said Mull.

Members of the 2026-27 cross-country team pose for a photo before their first meet on August 15. Photo by Aby Lawson.

The lack of support is something athletes have noticed as well. Senior cross country runner Lizette Gonzalez said the team needs more support from the school and community in order to grow.

“The team needs more girls, more support from school, parents, friends, and others so we can thrive as a team. ‘Cause right now, our backbone is basically Mull. He’s the one that’s been getting us everything, either funding or fundraisers, or just paying out of pocket,” said Gonzalez.

Mull also had problems getting funding for his other sport, track and field, saying that the condition of the equipment isn’t up to the standard needed due to having the same hurdles for 30 years, and how the track itself is not up to the condition of other schools, suggesting that it may need to be updated to 8 to 10 lanes.

Athletic director AJ Moye said the JHS athletic programs often have to generate their own funding rather than relying on a large yearly athletic budget.

“We have to generate a lot of our own revenue. We have to generate a lot of our own funds to help out our students and help our student-athletes get better facilities, get better things,” he said.

Moye said the athletic department works to form partnerships with businesses and promote student-athletes both on and off the field.

“We show them our student-athletes; we show them not only what they do in terms of their athletic fields, but man, we show them in the classroom,” said Moye. “It’s not like every year I’m getting $250,000. So I have to go out and form partnerships, go out, market our student-athletes.”

Despite these challenges, Mull said there are positive signs for the cross country team this year. The girls’ team has grown, with Mull saying the program has more athletes this year than in any of his previous four seasons. The boys’ team, however, remains at around eight runners, a number that has stayed relatively consistent over the past few years.

“We have a lot of girls. Most girls I’ve had in the four years I’ve had the team. Boys, looks like we’re sitting at eight, which we’ve stayed at for the past couple of years, and I would like to see that grow, but we just continue to truck along with what we’ve got, keep encouraging people to come out,” said Mull.

For students who might want to try running, Mull encourages them not to discount themselves.

“It’s one of those things that you got to come out, and you just got to prove yourself day in and day out, and a lot of people find that maybe it’s not for them, but there’s another handful of those kids that also find out that it is very rewarding and they find out being much better than they thought they were,” he said.

With more students joining the team and greater support from the school and community, the cross country program has an opportunity to continue growing both on and off the course.

Junior Marcus Baker runs in the cross country team’s first meet of the season on August 15. Photo by Aby Lawson.

Junior Marcus Baker has been part of the cross-country team for three years and has contributed a lot of his efforts to the team, motivating everyone, showing up to practice, and overall being a figurehead. 

“I think cross country is a mental sport for everybody. I think it is good for people to go out and run. Get out all your personal stuff at home,” said Baker. “For me, running helps with my mental stuff, getting all my stress out.”

Baker looks past the fact that cross country can be a difficult and physical sport. Instead, he sees it as a way to decompress and hang out with friends. For him and many other runners, cross country is more than just a sport; it is also a way to improve their mental well-being and build relationships with their teammates. 

Funding is important for the continued growth of the cross country program, providing better equipment, uniforms, and transportation for the team.

“It would be cool to get some new uniforms,” said Baker. 

With more financial support from the school and community, the team could have more opportunities to improve, compete, and attract new runners. As the cross country team continues to grow each year, support from the community could play an important role in helping the program reach its full potential.

“The will to win means nothing without the will to prepare,” stated Mull.

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JHS defeats Jennings County 4-0 on Saturday

Red Devils improve to 8-1-1 this season

Photos by Reilly Davis.

Senior Adrian Turner and Senior Alan Lopez fight for the ball during warm-ups in their 4-0 win over Jennings County. The shut-out win helped the Red Devils improve their season record to 8-1-1. Photo by Reilly Davis.
Senior Jaxon Parker puts on the captain’s armband in Jeff’s 4-0 win over Jennings County on Saturday. Photo by Reilly Davis.
Senior Alan Lopez breaks the team down during Jeff’s 4-0 win over Jennings County. Photo by Reilly Davis.
Senior Oscar Arredondo lines up a shot in Saturday’s 4-0 win over Jennings County. Photo by Reilly Davis.
Senior Bryan Juarez looks for a pass in Jeff’s 4-0 win over Jennings County. Photo by Reilly Davis.
Senior Jaxon Parker scores his first of two goals during Jeff’s 4-0 win over Jennings County on Saturday. Photo by Reilly Davis.
Sophomore Austin Spears dribbles up the line during Jeff’s 4-0 win over Jennings County. Photo by Reilly Davis.
Senior Alan Lopez takes a free kick in Jeff’s 4-0 win over Jennings County. Photo by Reilly Davis.
Sophomore Joao Beya dribbles through Jennings County’s defense in Jeff’s 4-0 win over Jennings County. Photo by Reilly Davis.
Freshman Ryan McKinley makes a defender jump during Jeff’s 4-0 win over Jennings County. Photo by Reilly Davis.
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Digital Dispatch: Sept. 14, 2026

Senior Quentin Ross gets his hair cut by licensed barber Saffevell Ingram in the main hallway near the cafeteria. Ingram regularly visits JHS to offer haircuts during students’ lunch times. “I’ve been doing this for four years and I love being able to make people smile and feel good about themselves,” said Ingram. Photo by Kayleen Alvarado.
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by jhshyphen

In Remembrance Of: Prominent People Lost in 2022

By: Madison Pritchard

Vivienne Westwood: 1941-2022

Vivienne Westwood was a force to be reckoned with during her successful career in fashion. She got her start in 1965 after meeting and moving in with Malcolm McClaren. Together, they opened a vintage fashion stall called Let It Rock. Here, Westwood began to design and create clothing based off of ideas McClaren had. The designs were representative of the “normal” style of the time, which often included very bold and promiscuous slogans or graphics. These articles of clothing were immensely successful within the punk youth demographic in Britain, however, they garnered negative attention from the more conservative right-wing reporters.

Eventually, Westwood and McClaren parted ways in 1986 and Vivienne began her own brand, Vivienne Westwood, which stayed true to her unique and extravagant roots. Here she became a household name because she was never afraid of being too bold or too brazen with her designs. Her influence on the fashion world is forever remembered as an important one for the strides she took to make a difference. 

Stephen “tWitch” Boss: 1982-2022

Over his lifetime, Stephen “tWitch” Boss developed impressive skills in acting, producing, choreographing and dancing. In 2008, he was on the hit TV show “So You Think You Can Dance” and ended as the runner-up contestant. During this season, he performed a dance titled “Mercy” with fellow contestant Katee Shean that earned them a choreography award nomination from the 61st Primetime Emmy Awards. In following seasons of SYTYCD he participated as an All Star dancer. 

He became the guest DJ on “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” in 2014, and then in 2020 became a co-executive producer of the show. He also starred in the “Step Up” movies of 2010, 2012 and 2014 as character Jason Hardlerson. Then in 2015 he acted in “Magic Mike XXL”. In death, he leaves behind his wife, fellow SYTYCD contestant Allison Holker, their three children, and a loving fanbase who know him as a lighthearted, hardworking, and devoted man. 

Irene Cara: 1959-2022

Popular songstress and actor from the 80’s, Irene Cara worked on a multitude of projects that earned her claim to fame. One of her most popular songs being the title song “Fame” from the 1980 musical film of the same name, where she played Coco Hernandez. The song rose to number 1 on music charts from multiple countries, earning her a spot in mainstream music. Then in 1983, she sang the song “Flashdance… What A Feeling” from the film “Flashdance”. This performance won her an Academy Award for Best Original Song and the Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. 

Later in life, she voiced Snow White in the unofficial sequel to Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Happily Ever After, and also appeared as Mary Magdalene in the musical tour for Jesus Christ Superstar. After these jobs though, she never was able to go back to the level of success she had once reached, and began to slowly drift away from the limelight. 

Takeoff: 1994-2022

Kirshnik Khari Ball, or more commonly known from his professional name Takeoff, was one-third of the critically acclaimed rap trio, Migos. Made up of his uncle, Quavo, and cousin, Offset, they first hit the hip hop scene in 2008. But only in 2013 did they begin to garner attention for their work after the release of their single “Versace”. Their first number 1 hit “Bad and Boujee” was what really pushed them to the forefront of the rap genre.

Migos’ second and third studio albums “Culture” and “Culture II” both debuted at number 1 on Billboard 200. Soon after in 2018, Takeoff announced an upcoming solo album titled “The Last Rocket”. In October 2022, as his final project, Takeoff released a collaborative album with Quavo named “Only Built for Infinity Links” in the month leading up to his death. 

Because of his important contributions and impact he had on the hip hop genre, the public commemoration of his life entitled “Celebration of Life” amassed over 20,000 attendees.

by jhshyphen

The Weird Obsession with Marilyn Monroe

Written by Madison Pritchard

T-shirts, mugs, blankets, posters, figurines, and dolls. These are all merchandise items you can find with Marilyn Monroe’s name, face, or features plastered all over them. She has dominated the pop culture scene for well over seven decades, and there seems to be no sign of stopping that trend anytime soon. But what really prompted her ever-lasting popularity and her staple reign in pop culture?

Marilyn, born Norma Jean Mortenson,  was your classic rags-to-riches story. She was  born in Los Angeles and in her early life she  went from foster home to foster home. Marilyn  married her first husband at sixteen and started  her first job. While working, she was scouted and  began a new career as a pin-up model and acted  in a multitude of short-films.

The public’s fascination with Monroe began back in the 1950s with her iconic roles in the films “Gentlemen  Prefer Blondes”, “The Seven Year Itch”, and “Some  Like It Hot’’. Along with her feat of becoming  Playboy’s first cover girl, and being crowned the “Sexiest Woman of the Century”  by People  magazine. She is also widely known as a leading and revolutionizing sex symbol of the fifties.

Her original boom was her cover on  Playboy Magazine. What many don’t know is that this was a non-consensual act on owner Hugh Hefner’s part. She had originally posed nude for a calendar company out of “desperation” in which she made reportedly $50. The photos were eventually sold  to Hefner for $500 dollars, which kickstarted his Playboy empire while Marilyn got none of the  profits.

Marilyn is one of the most  successful examples of using an on vs. off screen  persona. So while these two personas were  different, they shared a lot of the same qualities.  Like her sense of literal humor. This prompted critics to claim that she was just acting as herself,  instead of stepping into a new character. Her roles in Hollywood were consumed  by the “Blonde-Bombshell” typecast and sexist  stereotypes. In most of her movies she is depicted as a young ‘hopeless’ girl who eventually gets with a wealthy and sophisticated man. Marilyn’s acting career was often looked down upon by critics who criticized her for relying on her attractiveness, rather than acknowledging the fact that Marilyn was actually an intelligent and professionally trained actress who would make fun of the characters she played.

Into her personal affairs, Monroe was  married three times, divorced three times. It was  also highly speculated that she was in some sort of  relationship to former president John F. Kennedy.  This only added more allure to her persona. It left many people wanting to know more about this public,  but also private figure.

Unlike many golden-age Hollywood  starlets like Lucille Ball, Elizabeth Taylor, or Eve  Arden, Monroe never had the chance to grow  old and age. So, fast forward to her untimely  death in 1962, when she was in her mid thirties.  She passed, and was left forever-36, a young and  beautiful woman frozen in time, never to grow  out of the image people already had of her.

Her early death plays a huge role in her  long-time fame. It left people able to dehumanize  her, because she, physically, never changed. Just  an unaging sex symbol. It begs the question of  morality in the case of famous figures. She also  never seems to have been able to rest, even after  death. She also was never given credit for her  incredibly successful career.

After her death, her estate was given to  her acting coach, Lee Strasberg, who eventually  passed, and then the estate was given to his then wife, Anna Strasberg, who is assumed to  have had no connection to Marilyn other than  through Lee. Anna eventually sold Marilyn’s  estate to CMG Worldwide in 1994, which is how large corporations gained access to  the ability to create merchandise and make  immense profits off of Monroe.

Despite her career, most people have seen or known about Marilyn before even watching her films. Her face is plastered on merchandise and is included in in random advertisements that have no  connection to her or what she stood for. Popular moments that reference or imitate Monroe span from even the earliest moments after her death to now, in 2022. For example, the 1980 Chanel No. 5 perfume commercial where Carole Bouquet  literally turns into Monroe is a little freakish to watch. Or Madonna’s recreation of Monroe in “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend” for her 1984 “Material Girl” music video that hit the nail right on its head. And even to the 2017 burial of Hugh Hefner next to Monroe, even  though they never actually knew each other, as Hefner revealed in a 2012 interview with CBS News,  stating  that he felt a connection to her because of her  significance to the popularity of Playboy. Or even most recently, the controversy surrounding  Kim Kardashian wearing Monroe’s “Happy  Birthday Mr. President” dress to the 2022 Met  Gala.

Even now, people still want more of her. The biopics and biographies, merchandise, or  recreations of her work in film are still copied and multiplied year  by year. Ironically, she is likely more scrutinized now than she was when she was alive. People need to leave her alone, and let her rest. Let the fascination of Marilyn Monroe die with her, one last time.  

Nov. 2022


by jhshyphen

Student Opinions Vary on the COVID -19 Vaccine Despite Proven Effectiveness

Story by Raquel Lopez

Like many other issues in theUnited States, COVID-19 vaccines have become divisive and politicized. Additionally, with the Pfizer vaccine being fully approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the possibility of vaccine mandates in public spaces is increasingly becoming a reality.

Currently, all evidence points to the conclusion that the vaccines are both safe and effective. Studies by the CDC show that all approved vaccines provide strong protection against COVID, including the delta variant of the virus. According to theCDC, unvaccinated people are 29 times more likely to be hospitalized with COVID than their fully vaccinated peers.

At JeffersonvilleHigh School, while vaccines are not required, they are recommended. At the time of this publication, the policy has recently changed. When school initially started, vaccinated students were not required to quarantine if they were asymptomatic and had proof of vaccination on record; on the other hand, unvaccinated students would have to quarantine for 14 days, regardless of whether they tested positive or negative. On Aug. 24, Greater Clark County Schools announced that the quarantine time could be decreased to eight days if the student had proof of a negative test result. On Aug. 31, following the Indiana Department of Health guidelines, schools were no longer required to contact trace if a student were to test positive regardless of vaccination status.

Meanwhile, views on COVID vaccines vary among Jeff High students. While there are students who are clearly for or against vaccination, some students are undecided. Senior Claire Storz is pro-vaccination. “I always hear or see the numbers of deaths due to COVID and I want people to get vaccinated so we don’t have to lose loved ones. Or so I don’t have to hear people complaining about the mask mandate. I highly encourage it [getting theCOVID vaccine], especially if someone they know is immunocompromised. It can help protect them as well”

On the other hand, Senior Vaughndez Banes is against the COVID-19 vaccine. “I feel like theCOVID vaccine was rushed and I personally had COVID and I was sick like a lot of other people but it never got too bad,” Banes said, before adding, “and knowing the COVID vaccine won’t prevent COVID, only help with symptoms just isn’t enough to push me over the edge.”

In California, students attending Los Angeles Unified Public Schools are now required to be vaccinated by the end of the calendar year, according to CNN. Banes says that if vaccinations were to be mandated in Greater Clark County schools, he would transfer schools. “The way I see it is, if your mask works so well, why are you worried about mine. Same thing with the vaccine,” Banes explains.

Freshman Savannah Monroe is in the middle of the debate, supporting them in certain circumstances. Monroe explains that she feels as if maybe they were developed too fast. However, she also said, “But I definitely think a vaccine was needed due to the rising cases. But overall, I’m for the vaccines but I think they [scientists and the government] should prove the effectiveness and safety to convince the public to get them”

by jhshyphen

Staff Editorial: Climate Change Coming Home

For many years now, students at Jeff High have only encountered climate change through indirect information. We have read about it in textbooks and seen its effects from watching the news. But climate change is no longer limited to distant coastal cities and extreme weather events like hurricanes and wildfires. The effects of climate change are growing, and something must be done to tackle this threat.

In the past, when climate change was discussed in this newspaper, we primarily relied on non-local stories and scientific predictions, but recent weather events have caused us to wonder about the impact of climate change on students at Jeff High. This is a fact that many athletes know all too well considering the number of canceled practices this fall due to extreme heat.

Although the cost of climate change has only resulted in a few missed practices so far, future heatwaves may have more severe consequences for students playing sports at Jeff High. According to The New York Times, temperatures from June to August across the United States were the hottest on record. If we fail to respond to the climate crisis, then these heatwaves will continue into the unforeseeable future.

While it’s hard to attribute any one event to climate change, a recent report published by the Union of Concerned Scientists draws a devastating connection between climate change and an increase in the number of heatwaves across the U.S. Midwest. Unfortunately, these increases are expected to continue as humans pump more greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. Even under the best-case scenario, in which fossil fuels are curbed quickly, the report claims that “The average number of days per year over 90 degrees Fahrenheit are projected to increase 2-3 times by end-of-century.”

Heat is just one of many changes that we can expect to see until something is done to combat climate change. Although most of our readers are high school students, hoping for a bright future in the face of a global crisis created long before they were born, we can still take action to reverse the effects of climate change in our daily lives by conserving energy, reducing the use of plastics, and recycling, and by reaching out to our leaders, at all levels of government and business, by asking them to do their part to rescue this planet and preserve it for future generations

by jhshyphen

Staff Editorial: Moving Forward

This year, our coverage has been dominated by one topic: COVID-19. The pandemic has altered every aspect of our lives. Articles about what were the usual high school moments – sports, dances and clubs now included precautions and notes about how the pandemic affected the event. 

Despite this, we don’t believe the pandemic was over-covered, as its effect can barely be understood even now. Its impact has been all encompassing and has forced us to reconcile with long held beliefs and norms in the face of unprecedented change. We too have reflected not only on our work, but what this pandemic has taught us about ourselves and our world.

As vaccination rates rise and cases fall, life will start to look more normal. However, we as a school and a community should not immediately snap back to the ways of before without question. We would be remiss if we allowed this pandemic to come and go without teaching us something about ourselves.

Here are some things we have learned:

1.) We need community. While America has always been a nation that prides itself on individualism, we must realize that some issues are too widespread and important to face alone. In times of trouble we need help; we need each other.

2.) Division is our weakness. There are important differences in politics today, and those disagreements should be hashed out and vigorously debated. But it is when we fail to recognize our common humanity that those small differences become irreconcilable. That’s when we fail.

3.) School is more complicated than we thought. With virtual school, our learning drastically changed. For some it was a dream come true – the chance to work at your own pace and make your own schedule. For others it was a nightmare – sitting in bed on your chromebook with motivation decreasing by the second. But as we move forward we understand that school is about more than learning in a classroom. It’s about social interaction; it’s about the structure of the school day and it’s about our personal growth.

4.) We all can benefit from some personal changes. In quarantine most of us took up new activities. Whether it was crafting, meditation, or baking, we learned new skills, and as life slowed down we were able to make the changes that we needed. Many people also had changes to their friend group and peers. While change isn’t always easy, sometimes change is what we need.

5.) We need to pay more attention to local government. Often all eyes are on our national government. We hold our breath for presidential and congressional elections, but often the most important governing is done at the local level.In the beginning of the pandemic it was state governments that took action, shutting down businesses and schools in the name of public safety. As we attempted to reenter school this year, it was the school board who set guidelines and rules for how we went back to school safely. While sometimes hard to understand or less exciting, local government matters.

As we enter our new normal, we hope all people learn the lessons this past year has given us. As we head optimistically into the future, let’s make sure to not return to the status quo, but rather, to re enter our normal routines with an open mind, an appetite for improvement and the will to change our lives for the better.

by jhshyphen

Online Testing: The Challenge of Ensuring Fairness and Avoiding Dishonesty

Jeffersonville High School teachers are using a range of approaches to make sure students are keeping it honest when testing

Story by Amber Walker

With the introduction of Chromebooks, Greater Clark County Schools students were able to switch to online lessons and assignments relatively quickly and easily during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, one issue stands out as a sticky subject: online assessments. 

Cheating on tests is not a new problem. Even before COVID-19, students were able to cheat using a range of methods, from writing notes on your palm to sharing pictures to wearing special sunglasses that allow you to spy on your classmates’ papers. However, the large number of students who are attending school online during the pandemic makes it much more difficult for teachers to spot and prevent cheating. 

Since the pandemic started, many schools have adopted tech solutions to prevent cheating. For example, GCCS Chromebooks have built-in monitoring software called Classwize. Using this service, teachers can monitor students’ screen activity and task behavior. Brittany Wright, who teaches Algebra 1 and Geometry at Jeff High, says she has used Classwize to keep students on task whether they are at home or physically in class working on their Chromebooks. “I can close their browser if they are doing something they’re not supposed to,” Wright says. However, the system is not foolproof because students may still have access to other devices such as phones and tablets. Still, Wright says, Classwize is “better than nothing.”

Some teachers approached the issue by making more thought-provoking, opinion-based test questions. English teacher Taylor Troncin says, “This school year, I have had to think outside of the box when it comes to assessments. Instead of doing multiple choice or true/false questions, I have started using more open ended questions, which challenge students to not only answer questions, but to explain their reasoning.” Troncin is also looking at the concept of an assessment more creatively. “I have moved more towards projects that can be completed virtually,” she says. 

While open-ended questions make it more difficult for students to cheat, there is a major drawback: it takes extra time for teachers to grade long-answer questions. 

Another tactic being used is scrambled questions and answers. Some teachers are also limiting the time students have to complete tests. Finally, open-book and open-note tests have become more common — even for traditional, in person classes. 

As for fairness, it might seem like online students have advantages over traditional students because they are not monitored as easily. Also, as science teacher Eric Robinson points out, taking tests at home allows for “opportunities that aren’t available in your more traditional classroom” such as a more comfortable environment. However, Robinson has noticed one thing in particular that works against online students: motivation. Robinson says, “It’s made students not as concerned about test-taking. It doesn’t feel as concrete to them.” In short, when it comes to testing online, Robinson says “there is more opportunity, but there is also less desire.”

The reasons students are inclined to cheat are often ambiguous. Perhaps it is done out of a simple necessity to move onto the next level in life. Perhaps it is done to achieve a perfect score or avoid failure. Sometimes students just don’t feel up to the task. Even if academic dishonesty cannot be prevented entirely, Jeff High teachers are taking steps to minimize cheating and level the playing field for all students.

Story by Amber Walker

by jhshyphen

Photo Gallery: It’s The Look of The Century

Vintage, Cottagecore, aesthetics galore! All throughout Jeff High, there are plenty of students who have their own unique sense of style. Some of these students agreed to an interview to talk with us about how it all comes together.

Captions by November Shawler and Chloey Trinkle
All photos submitted

  • Senior Joryn Burns says, “I love a good sweater, and some like to say I am serving ‘grandma chic.’” Burns has an appreciation for styles that can go on either side of the style spectrum.“[It’s] comfortable and I can dress it up or down. [They] make me look way more put together than I actually am.” She adds, “I am always trying new outfit ideas and trying to perfect my dream aesthetic.”
  • Sophomore Tanner Michelle says “my style is something I struggle to define! It’s directly pulled from the music I listen to… In all honesty, I’m just a rocker chick.” She also says her style truly reflects her personality and priorities. “In the most basic explanation I can give, it is who I am. Not only that, but through my attire, I can voice my beliefs and opinions. As a bisexual, feminist, activist […] I use everything I can to create change and break the social norms!” She also thinks about the larger impact of her fashion choices — for instance, by shopping at thrift stores rather than buying mass-produced fast fashion. “I am really big about climate change and our environment,” she says. She finds her style comfortable and loves to wear it. “It can get a little cold, though, because I usually like to flaunt my femininity and show a little skin!”
  • Sophomore Brecken Maddox describes her style as “academic cottagecore.” What does that mean? “People often describe my style as ranging from ‘potato farmer’ to ‘hot zookeeper,’ but I take that as a compliment.” Jokingly, she adds, “I’d like to think that if I was to walk around at night, children would mistake me for a ghost.” Maddox says, “Dressing this way makes me feel confident. It’s a way to show myself as I really am rather than what people expect. I think that dressing nicely, and the way that I feel most represents me, is a form of self care.” She finds her style comfortable and says that, “I’m more comfortable in a 70’s suit than leggings and a t-shirt.” Like Michelle, Maddox opts for second-hand finds. “Using true vintage clothing is a great way to avoid fast fashion. Shopping at vintage shops allows you to get well-made and long lasting clothes, unlike what most brands produce today which is made to last a year or so before falling apart.”
  • Junior Victoria “Jade” Worrall describes her style as “Alternative, pastel goth, emo, fancy? I like to wear whatever speaks to me the most which is almost always alternative style.” She adds that her style “brings me lots of joy and confidence, and I hope it inspires people to dress however they like.“ She thinks that “even if it is uncomfortable physically at times I still feel comfortable in it mentally […] I like the freedom of expression it gives me.”
  • Senior Zoe Beavin has a more old-fashioned approach to style. “I would call my style of clothing very retro/artistic, I love old clothing and remaking it into something else or just wearing it how it looks. Most of my clothing is music bands and some oversized sweaters that I extremely love.” Beavin’s fashion choices are inspired by a time before our generation. “I wear it because I love the clothing from the 1990s and I want my whole closet to look like I went in a time machine and this was all I brought back.” Despite having a retro style, Beavin prioritizes comfort over all else. “My style is very comfortable, I can’t get enough of oversized clothing and layered clothing. […] There’s just so much you can do with your clothing; you can protest a message, show off art, or promote a business. Clothing, I think, is very important to our culture. You can express your emotions all through just one shirt or even socks!”
  • Junior Aiyana Scott describes her style as “‘trendy/edgy/city vibe.’” She added, “I wear my clothes to make a statement or to stand out but I really like to look my best.” Similar to Beavin, Scott makes comfort a priority. “All of my outfits are mostly based on comfort so that I can work in them, but what I like most about them is that they last long, like I can wear an old shirt and put it with something new and it comes out great.”
  • Junior Kyndia Motley (who didn’t include her face in this submitted photo) finds it difficult to sum up her style in one word. “Honestly, I would call my style whatever I can come up with. Real talk, I just try to do my best to look as spicy as I can. Whether it’s bummy, cute, casual, etc.” She says that she wears it because “it’s fun for me to just do me through what I wear. I like how I can control what I wear and how I wear it — to an extent.” Motley uses her style to express herself in more ways than one. “Depending on what I am wearing, reflects on my mood that day. I like how my outfit choices depict how I feel that day.”


When someone chooses their sense of style, it may come from a multitude of different sources. It could come from a certain era of fashion in the past, a certain celebrity who wears certain styles of clothing, experimenting with old items of clothing and revamping them into something new, or even just seeing something from a store and developing your own style based on that. Whatever it may be, everyone has their own taste and it comes down to preference. In the end, it’s all about expressing yourself.

by jhshyphen

Jeffersonville High School Leaders Considering Whether to Stick With Block Schedule Next School Year

At the beginning of this school year, Jeffersonville High School implemented a block schedule as part of the school’s efforts to reduce the spread of COVID-19. According to Principal Pam Hall, “When we went to [block schedule] shortly before school started, the main reason was contact tracing and limiting exposures. The other was to limit movement.”


Now, as Jeff High starts to plan ahead for life after COVID-19, the question arises: stay on a block schedule next school year or go back to “normal”?


Hall says the process of making that decision is underway, but it could take a while to make sure all perspectives are considered. Step one was sending a survey to faculty and staff. This occurred in early January. Of those who completed the survey, 55 percent said they prefer the block schedule and 45 percent said they prefer seven periods a day.

Staff survey provided by Jeffersonville High School


Next, Jeff High’s administrators met with leaders from] other high schools in the district. Those schools had also conducted surveys about whether to keep the block schedule.


The next step in the process is to meet with the building leadership team at Jeff High (a group of people who
represents different departments and interests) to discuss the pros and cons of each option. The survey data is just one part of the puzzle. They must also consider the potential impact on student scheduling, lunch times, teachers’ planning time and more.


Whether Jeff High stays on block schedule or reverts to seven periods, Hall says the longer classes have been
beneficial during this challenging year, and not just for contact tracing purposes. “We learned we need to slow down and make sure students have the skills to be successful.”

Story By The Hyphen Staff

by jhshyphen

PDF: February 2021

The Hyphen is back with our first print issue since the COVID-19 pandemic began. This issue includes:

  • News and reader voices about the possibility of keeping a block schedule next year
  • An exploration of the term “politically correct” and its role in today’s cancel culture
  • A photo gallery featuring students who have a unique sense of style 
  • Interviews with new boys and girls basketball head coaches
  • A look inside how COVID-19 affected this year’s wrestling season
  • And more

Download PDF

by jhshyphen