An integral part of childhood development is the knowledge and skills acquired in middle school. In elementary school, you are exposed to a small group of students, separated heavily by the grade you are a part of. However, once you hit middle school, not only are you exposed to students from various elementary schools in your district, but students in all grade levels interact with each other. This melting pot creates an environment that forces students to interact with one another, and create the social skills necessary for the real world. This integral part of development was shattered in 2020. Desks began to spread, masks blocked faces, interaction was minimized. The freshman in 2022, the class of 2026, were stripped of their entire middle school experience. For Kaydee Merrifield, this has created an issue in her freshman experience.
Kaydee Merrifield is part of the class of 2026 and a former River Valley Middle School student. For her, the Covid-19 pandemic has halted her social skills and academic knowledge. Covid-19 started, for Kaydee, during her sixth grade year. Everything went online, and she would not be back in school until July of her seventh grade year. Although, coming back to school would not be any more advantageous to these social skills and academic knowledge than staying at home. At lunch, Kaydee expected to be able to make a big group of friends and socialize with them daily, but it became impossible due to the rule of three to four students per table. Class was not much better either; desks were spread so far apart that it was impossible to turn to a neighboring desk to talk or give simple remarks. “I was really crossing my fingers to make more friends in middle school but I did not make as many as I wanted to because I could never get around people.”
Suddenly, Kaydee was a freshman in high school. “Coming to high school, it’s like somehow I got whiplash. Suddenly there’s a lot of stuff.” Everything she grew to know as normal in middle school was now irrelevant. The normal became the standards expected from Freshman three years ago. Teachers expecting these standards is detrimental to the success of the Freshman class. “My math teacher expects us to know certain things, but I didn’t get a chance to learn them.” It is not just math that has this expectation, it is almost every Freshman class. Kaydee was never a science person, but her Biology Honors instructor expects so much from her class that she is now getting constant C’s. This pressure for reaching an academic level that you did not build to efficiently is suffocating individuals’ mental health.
“I definitely became less social during Covid. I like talking to people; it takes me an hour to leave a party because I keep getting stuck in different conversations. Now, it takes me a lot longer to even introduce myself to people.” It is intimidating to come to a brand new school where you get to interact with a large assortment of people, but given that you could not socialize consistently with your own middle school classmates, Freshman year is that much more difficult.
Kaydee Merrifield has to pick up the pieces she was not taught quickly, but she is doing it successfully. She is making tons of new friends, and she has established a wonderful relationship with a new friend group. Although this year will be difficult, she continues to show that it is possible to make this situation work. All Class of 2026 Freshman are struggling with their academics and socialization, but as the year progresses, we hope all Freshman can work as hard as Kaydee Merrifield is.
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.
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.
JHS cheerleaders signal the kickoff to the homecoming game against Kokomo earlier this season. Photo by Malachi Conrad.
Junior Reese Dobson displays leadership on the mat and in the classroom
by Eliza Wooden
As cheerleader and junior Reese Dobson steps onto the mat, she yells out to her teammates, “You’ve got this! Let’s go, Jeff,” and steps into position.
The music begins, and Dobson is prepared. She is tight, supportive, and ready to do whatever it takes to end this routine on a high note.
“I make sure I come to practice with a good attitude and a good work ethic, and make sure that I am here to be positive, happy, help others, and work as hard as I can,” said Dobson.
Dobson is a leader and a strong representative for JHS, often friendly, extroverted, and compassionate, especially toward underclassmen.
Freshman Jamie Hatton said, “Reese is very kind, outgoing, smart, and positive. I have known Reese for about one year, and she has helped me be more confident in myself.”
Dobson is not just involved in cheerleading; she is also a student ambassador. That’s where she gets most of her leadership experience.
Senior Averi Burdette said, “Reese improves the cheer team by always having an outstanding attitude and being a great team leader. She encourages everyone and helps keep the team motivated, even when things get stressful or difficult.”
Dobson cares a lot about her school work, which is why she works to balance her student ambassador work, classes, and cheerleading with her roles as Junior Class president and Student Council.
Dobson said, “The most important thing is remembering to take a break sometimes and relax. Something that I struggle with is doing too many things at a time and letting it affect how I do those things and letting it get in my head.”
Adding to her busy schedule, Dobson takes Advanced Placement classes, which can be very hard for a student-athlete.
“My AP classes require a lot of studying, and I make sure to set off time aside each night to go over what I learned or what I need to prepare for a test,” she said.
That discipline shows up everywhere. Whether she’s in class, at a student ambassador event, or leading a Student Council meeting, teachers and teammates say Dobson brings the same energy she brings to the mat.
While some athletes focus only on the routine, Dobson checks in on teammates and runs through the cheer again with anyone who might have missed a count.
That mindset has made her a role model and leader. For underclassmen, she isn’t just the upperclassman who can hit a stunt; she’s the person who will help with homework or hype them up before their next varsity game.
Dobson said, “Something that I do is take a second and remember that everything is going to work out and that it’s okay if things get stressful or hard. I always want to do everything with my best intent, so sometimes the best thing for you to do is to take breaks and come back to it.”
When the music stops and Dobson steps off the mat, her job as a leader isn’t over. She immediately high-fives her teammates and tells them how well they did. Tight, ready, and positive, just like she started.
Freshman Cora Holt brings positive work ethic to cheerleading
by Evelyn Speedy
Freshman cheerleader Cora Holt walks in to practice, adjusts her backpack on her shoulder, and then sits down to warm up, preparing herself for a successful, productive practice.
On first thought, you might think that she is just there to cheer on the football and basketball players.
However, what some people don’t know is that she is much more than that.
Not only does Holt cheer on the sidelines, but she also competes with her team and puts in the work to get better everyday, all while being on four separate teams at JHS.
“Cheerleading is not just a club; it’s way harder than it looks,” said Holt.
Even when Holt was a little kid joining Jeff High’s cheer kiddie clinic, she has seen herself being a cheerleader in the future.
“High school cheer is something I’ve looked forward to for years, and now I finally get to be a part of it,” she said.
Even though this is Holt’s first time cheering for JHS, she still feels like she is where she should be and that she belongs both in and out of the gym.
“I enjoy being a cheerleader because it feels like my environment, it’s what I’m good at, and I truly feel like I belong there and it’s what I’m meant to do.”
Not only do her coaches feel as if she is a good teammate and cheerleader, but so do her teammates.
“She is a very good athlete with an amazing work ethic. She is always trying to get help from people and do what she can for her team,” said freshman cheerleader Adeline Bainbridge. “She brings a positive attitude everyday, even on hard practices she is always there and trying to uplift everyone.”
However, Holt did not get to where she is without putting in a massive amount of effort.
“Cora gives 110% effort in everything she does. She always makes sure she is doing her best, giving it her all, and she is always the first person to be willing to try something new,” said freshman cheerleader Jamie Hatton.
The work that she puts into her sport does not go unnoticed.
“I have seen her become a much stronger athlete this season and a lot more confident in herself and her skills,” said Bainbridge.
Holt also has many qualities and features that help her in the sport she loves.
“I feel as if my very loud and deep voice helps me cheer because we have to be very sharp with our voices and I think that it is something I have naturally, so it helps me be the best cheerleader I can be.”
She provided an “inside look” at the unique cheerleading experience.
“You can describe what cheer is, but you can’t describe what it feels like. That’s something you have to experience for yourself.”
At A Glance
Birthday: Feb. 11, 2012
Hometown: Jeffersonville, Indiana
Favorite Food: Caesar salad
Favorite Color: Baby blue
Favorite Movie: “Tangled“
Cheerleading provides opportunity and friendships to freshman Chloe Wyatt
by Gabriella Linares
Freshman Chloe Wyatt has just started her first year as a JHS cheerleader, but she has already begun to make an impact on all the people around her.
She may seem like just an ordinary girl who wants to cheer for the players of the school. However, there is more to her cheerleading story than it seems.
Most people wouldn’t think that she has been cheering almost all her life.
“When I was little, my mom put me into the kiddie clinic at JHS in 2018, and ever since then I fell in love with it,” stated Wyatt.
Cheer has been different for her almost everywhere she goes, but so far at JHS, it has treated her well.
“It has been fun and has helped me get to know the people and the school.”
JHS cheer has helped her in so many ways other than just getting out of her comfort zone. She has learned a lot about herself during the time she has been a cheerleader.
The Red Devils cheer at the cheer competition at Providence High School, on Sept. 26. “I love cheering with this team because they express themselves so well and are always there for me,” stated freshman cheerleader Chloe Wyatt. Photo by Trinity Broadway.
“Cheer helps me be myself and express my feelings and emotions. It has helped me become a better person and it’s also taught me about myself.”
Wyatt has a dream after she leaves high school, and this dream of hers still involves cheerleading.
“My dream after high school is to be a cheerleader at the University of Kentucky, be a pediatrician, and or to be on a Worlds cheerleading team.”
Outside of cheer, she is a role model to others and in general a genuine person. She strives to be understanding and helpful for others, even if she isn’t in that situation.
“I try to always be there for my friends and understand what they’re going through.”
Wyatt’s friends have learned a lot from her, like learning to be better people. They say she brings out the best in the people she is around and makes whatever room she walks in brighter.
“Chloe has taught me to just be myself no matter what others think. She brings out a different side of me. Being around Chloe makes me feel happy and safe. Every time I’m with her, I feel like I can be myself,” freshman Lailah Miller stated.
She brings a passionate smile to everyone she is around, in and out of cheer. She is filled with a bright and bubbly personality, according to her friends.
“She is a very passionate person in anything she believes. She carries a smile through everything and is confident in what she does. When I’m around her, it is constant laughter and smiles,” said freshman Willow Williams.
Cheer is always seen as an extracurricular activity, but to Wyatt, it has given her lifelong friends and mentors.
“My coaches and teammates are always there for me and show up when I need them.”
Senior Kylie Parsons works on her Disney-themed parking spot over fall break. Photo by Gabrielle Watkins.Senior Kaniyah Woodley’s Scream-inspired parking spot. Photo by Shelby Keesee.Senior Reese Somerville paints the letters of her senior parking spot. Photo by Gabrielle Watkins.Senior Viviana Gonzalez’s marine-themed parking spot. Photo by Shelby Keesee.Senior Ariana Adams poses with her surfer-themed parking spot. JHS Seniors had the opportunity to work on their parking spots during fall break. Photo by Gabrielle Watkins.Senior Egypt Whitehead’s Spiderman-themed parking spot. Photo by Shelby Keesee.Senior Elizabeth Roberts works on her parking spot containing multiple quotes. Photo by Gabrielle Watkins.Senior Azarel Hernandez’s Spiderman-themed parking spot. Photo by Shelby Keesee.Senior McKayla Hannan paints the stars on her tarot card-themed parking spot. Photo by Gabrielle Watkins.
Red Devils defeat New Albany 41-22 in fall break football victory
All photos by Mason Ridge.
Senior Ke’mari Smith celebrates with sophomore Quincy Greene after he scores a touchdown against New Albany. The Red Devils won the Saturday morning game 41-22. Photo by Mason Ridge.Junior Jaylen Howard runs through New Albany’s defense on Saturday, Oct. 3. The Red Devils used their ground game to defeat Hoosier Hills Conference rival New Albany 41-22. Photo by Mason Ridge.Sophomore Devaughn Walker celebrates after JHS scores a touchdown against New Albany on Oct. 3 at Bill Ware Field. The Red Devils defeated the Bulldogs 41-22 to earn their second Hoosier Hills Conference win of the season. Photo by Mason Ridge.Senior Cordell Thomas hands the ball off to junior Jaylen Howard as JHS faced off with New Albany on Oct. 3. Thomas had 149 passing yards and four touchdown passes against the Bulldogs in the 41-22 win. Photo by Mason Ridge.Freshman Noah Sparks blocks New Albany’s defense from breaking through during the Oct. 3 JHS victory over the Bulldogs. JHS won 41-22. Photo by Mason Ridge.Junior Jacob Fifer snaps the ball for senior Abigail Lemon to kick an extra point after Jeff scored a touchdown against New Albany on Oct. 3. Photo by Mason Ridge.Junior Jaylen Howard celebrates after scoring a touchdown against New Albany. JHS defeated the Bulldogs 41-22 on Oct. 3. Photo by Mason Ridge.Senior Braylon Gray hits a celebration after JHS won the Oct. 3 game against New Albany 41-22. The Red Devils (2-6; 2-3 in the Hoosier Hills Conference) were defeated at Columbus East 43-13 on Friday, Oct. 9. JHS travels to Indianapolis Lutheran this Friday and will play at 7 p.m. Photo by Mason Ridge.
Ashleigh Bacon works to register JHS students to vote on Oct. 2. Bacon said, “I think young people should realize they have a voice. Having a voice is important. Stuff needs to change.” Photo by Isaiah Stewart.Ashleigh Bacon talks with junior Kahlani Hunt about voter registration during lunchtime on Oct. 2. Photo by Isaiah Stewart. New world history teacher Frank Newkirk works to register JHS students to vote on Oct. 2. Photo by Gabriella Kraft.
Senior Abi Lemon attempts to gain possession of the ball against her Salem opponents. Photo by Shelby Keesee.Senior Abi Lemon and sophomore Jackie Escobar celebrate after Lemon scores a goal against the Salem Lions last night. The Red Devils defeated the Lions 5-1. Photo by Shelby Keesee.Senior Madison Grogan kicks the ball in hopes of scoring a goal against Salem last night. Photo by Shelby Keesee.Freshman Maria Leonardo-Juan gains possession of the ball after downing an opponent during the first half of last night’s game against Salem. Photo by Shelby Keesee.Sophomore Anny Ramirez kicks the ball in last night’s game against Salem. Photo by Shelby Keesee.Senior Laela Rudicel throws the ball during the Red Devils’ game against the Lions. Photo by Shelby Keesee.Sophomore Sonnie Darku claps after her teammate scores a goal against Salem last night. Photo by Shelby Keesee.Junior Chimamanda Chidi-Okorie rushes with the ball. Photo by Shelby Keesee.Senior Laela Rudicel smiles while walking towards the center of the field. Photo by Shelby Keesee.
Birthday: May 6, 1999 Hometown: Corydon, Indiana Favorite sport: Softball Favorite food: Pasta Favorite movie: “Iron Man“ Favorite music genre: Pop music Hobbies: Reading, arts and crafts Time spent teaching: Two years.
Biology and PLTW Human Body Systems teacher Karson Cecil sits at her desk, checking emails and grading assignments as the students in her seventh period Human Body Systems class work, constructing an origami diagram of a bone. A Louisville Police badge sits on her desk in a case.
One may walk past Cecil’s classroom without a second thought, just thinking that she is any ordinary science teacher; however, that isn’t the case here.
At a first glance, no one would know that she once worked as a crime scene technician for the Louisville Police.
“My experience as a crime scene technician was fantastic; it was a fulfilling job and it was always something new each day. I left that position due to the schedule being too chaotic,” Cecil said.
However, one may wonder why she would take up such a job, with so much danger and unpredictability.
“I just applied and showed up. But the biggest influence is ‘Criminal Minds’, the show,” Cecil stated.
After quitting her job as a crime scene technician she took her career in a completely different direction.
“I chose science because my degree is in science, and it’s my favorite subject,” she answered.
Despite the troubles and annoyances of being a teacher, she has still decided to stick with this career as a science teacher.
“I like getting to help students find something that’s interesting to them and discover that science can be pretty fun.”
Cecil had to take various different classes in high school and then college in order to be able to pursue her career in teaching, biology, and human anatomy.
“In high school I took Advanced Science classes and then in college I took a lot of biology and chemistry classes. I also took an education class, not with interest in teaching, just to fill a space, but then I went to grad school and took anatomy classes,” Cecil said.
Cecil is still a new teacher, at least compared to others, having chosen to teach at JHS for a simple reason.
“Yeah, because it’s close to my home and they were looking to hire a science teacher,” Cecil stated.
Her students have had many positive impacts on her life.
“My students impact my life by brightening my day and they always keep me learning too, they teach me new things which are important. They teach me slang, and I’ve learned some TikTok dances,” she said.
However, Cecil has also had impacts on the lives of her students as well.
“I say she’s taught me a lot and helped me learn a lot of information I need to know for my career,” said sophomore Haylee Schwarz, a student in Cecil’s PLTW Human Body Systems class.
Cecil has also been an inspiration for her students.
“She inspires me to be a better person because of the way she teaches,” stated sophomore Layla Dizdar, another PLTW Human Body Systems student.
Cecil thinks that science is a very important subject, especially in today’s world.
“Science explains the world and how it’s always changing. It is also important that people are able to keep up with new information,” she stated.
Some may find biology and human anatomy to be boring, so one may wonder how Cecil keeps her class fun and interesting.
“I try to incorporate different styles of learning and different games,” she said.
But, do her methods really work at all?
“I find it fun because I like learning the stuff but I find it interesting because of the people,” said Schwarz.
Cecil also has a way to motivate her students to work efficiently.
“Knowing we can have fun after our work is done is a big motivator for everyone,” said Dizdar.
Many people seem to have a positive opinion of Cecil as well.
“I think she’s a very funny and kind individual,” stated Dizdar.
Despite Cecil having a rather chaotic history, and teaching such an important and complicated subject, she has one, very simple goal in her life.
“My biggest goal in life is to have a small hobby farm with miniature cows.”
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.
That was a rhetorical question said by Andrew Tate. Rhetorical questions such as this one serve as jabs at the logic or moral fiber of an opponent. With the question of money and cars being used as a moral criticism, the question is based on the idea that money is morality and greed is good. In being based on such an idea, it brings a lot of questions about those who are asking it.
What created this void of meaning that’s been filled by this nasty materialism, who is this void in, and how is it better filled?
To take a look at the father of the aforementioned rhetorical question to get some insight, the phrase was coined by internet celebrity, kickboxer, self described misogynist, and likely human trafficker Andrew Tate. Tate was raised on an estate in Luton, England by his chessmaster father and his catering assistant mother, with Tate gaining television and kickboxing fame; Tate’s fame was short-lived due to a leaked video of him beating a woman with a belt. But Tate clawed out of his exile as the rising star of the online ‘Manosphere’.
An online coalition of disenfranchised men known as the ‘Manosphere’ has raised a myriad of pro-male figures into stardom from Andrew Tate to Jordan Peterson. The members of this coalition dwell in their own world, rejected by all else, that even has its own slang and lingo. These men often cite unfair rejection and mistreatment from others, especially women, for their behavior of sexual harassment and sexism. Whether or not those complaints are valid or a strawman is debatable.
The manosphere often leaves the internet to affect the material world. Elliot Roger, killer of six and self-described “supreme gentleman”, subscribed to these defeatist ideas of loneliness and despair and used them to justify his rampage. However, his behavior as described by himself and others had shown him not as a lonely soul, but one who drives others away while blaming them for leaving him behind. This demonstrates not the state of victimhood these men describe, but a state of hostile misogyny that makes everyone miserable and these men hateful.
However, with all of this in mind, one thing escapes us: how do we solve this?
Andrew Tate, just like the entire subculture he dwells in, spreads via shocking and rule breaking content. They take hold on the minds of men via scandal and unleashing repressed desires. They take hold, but they can be shaken off. We can be better, but we have to do some things.
Just like romance, communication is key in deradicalization. By unsealing the lid on these emotions by normalizing conversations about loneliness as opposed to ‘tolerating masculine solitude’ we may give these feelings an escape valve that isn’t as dangerous as when they come bursting out directed by muscled misogynists. Just as one can be pulled in, one can be pulled out by openness and acceptance of the other. And thus, the other may cease to be so terrifying and the hate may be quelled in the end.
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.
Two weeks ago, a rumor of a name change for the social media company Facebook was spreading fast among internet users. Facebook has been around since February 2004, and it has developed and changed quite a bit. The name, however, has remained the same. Back in 2003, the original intention of the social media app was a “hot or not” style website, originally called Facemash, where students at Harvard University could rate the faces of their classmates. While it got shut down two days later, founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg aimed to redesign the website, giving it its new purpose – connecting people. In early 2004, it was re-released as the Facebook we know today.
On Thursday, Oct. 28, 2021, Facebook announced the new company name as Meta Platforms, in reference to the metaverse (a fictional future vision of the internet.) According to CNBC, the change comes after the company faced scrutiny over the spread of “hate speech” and “misinformation” earlier this year.
In relation to the name change, the company will still remain in control of the other social media platforms such as Instagram, Oculus, Whatsapp, etc. and they will become what is known as subsidiaries, which means they will be less of a focus for the company but still important nonetheless.
“The best way to understand the metaverse is to experience it yourself,” Zuckerberg said in his announcement. “It doesn’t fully exist yet.” He hopes this name change will give a fresh face for the embattled company.
Foreign films are nothing new to the United States. Most of them are Bollywood productions from India or horror films from Japan and Korea, like the Oscar award-winning ‘Parasite’ released in 2019. But now, with the release of “Lamb,” Director Valdimar Jóhannsson may be making Icelandic film history.
The trailer for “Lamb” left many wondering about the film, and soon theories started to form in the comment section of the trailer’sYouTube video. The film is rated R and is advertised as horror. However, “Lamb” will most likely be seen more as a thought art-house film than a horror film to the American audience. The movie has very little dialogue, leaving much of the plot for the audience’s brain to figure out. And the ending is so abrupt, viewers will be shocked it’s over. For an hour and 46-minute movie, it leaves a lot for the brain to ponder.
The film takes place in the mountainous lands of Iceland. The two main characters are sheep farmers who live a typical life until one of their ewes gives birth to a lamb with a significant abnormality. The lamb is half-human. She resembles a lamb from her head to her right arm, and the rest of her is human. We can assume our two main characters, Maria and Ingvar, are desperate for a child due to their immediate acceptance of bringing the lamb child into their life. They name the little female lamb Ada. The name has a special meaning to the film, but that is for the viewers to find themselves. When Uncle Pétur shows up, their lifestyle with Ada is challenged. Not only by Pétur but also by something far more sinister.
The characters are well-rounded but also mysterious. To the viewer, they can either be seen as protagonists or antagonists, depending on their perception. Their outfits are typical modern-day Icelandic sweaters that help them keep warm in the freezing climate of Iceland. One big question from fans is how Ada’s character was formulated? When asked how he approached Ada’s look, Valdimar Jóhannsson highlighted patience. “The actors were also very important because we used lambs, children, and puppets to shoot those scenes, so shooting took a long time, and they had to be very patient,” he said to Screen Daily.
When asked where the inspiration came from, Valdimar Jóhannsson said, “I was inspired by so many things: films, folklore, books, paintings, images. I started to create a sort of sketchbook with some elements of the story and drawings…” he said to Screen Daily.
“Lamb” is an intriguing humanity versus nature story that will keep you trying to figure out the plot for the entirety of the film and keep you engaged throughout the movie. If bizarre and abnormal concepts are your thing, “Lamb” is the movie for you.
Everyone eats food differently. Some of us eat the conventional way, then there are those of us with questionable methods for eating various foods that the rest of us judge…but never discuss. What if you were asked how you eat a certain food? Would you believe this is how everyone should eat it? Today, one of the hottest debates in food consumption will be put to rest: What is the proper way to eat Oreos?
When given the question–“How do you eat your Oreos”–there were many like-minded people with similar responses. Most people responded: “with milk.” Yet many were not very detailed in their responses other than Senior Nick Goss who replied, “I drown it in milk with a fork until all of the bubbles in the milk are done.”
Along with the milk, there were a lot of “like a normal cookie” responses. Nothing special, just like a cookie. “I eat them the way they come because I’m not a psychopath,” says Abby Napper, also a senior.
Although there were many repeat responses, there were also a few unique responses too. Kirati Kiviniemi on Instagram says, “I enjoy scraping off the middle and only eating the cookies if I’m not feeling lazy.” Taking a sixth grade dissection project approach in this case, his form closely relates to the also common separation technique in which you separate the cookie down the middle, creating one cookie that is plain and one with all the cream.
The most intense debate was deciding whether the cookies should be eaten as a whole or separated into halves. Separate being eating one side before the other. 65%of those who answered said whole, while the other 35% replied separately. For those who chose to eat separately, another question was posed. Should you eat the cream side first or the cookieside? 52% said they would go for the cookie side first, the other 48% said they would chow down on the cream. And for the final question there was a decisive winner. When asked whether to eat Oreos with or without milk, 82%sided with milk, while 18% thought the glass of milk should be left out of the equation.
After interviewing the students at Jeff High, including in decisive students, the proper way to eat an Oreo was finally determined: You should eat an Oreo as a whole cookie with a cool glass of milk. Though on days when you feel that you should take that risk of separation, eating the plain cookie side before the cream cookie side is recommended in order to save the best for last. This is unless you are Evan Cawthorn, a senior, who had strong opinions when asked about eating Oreos saying, “I don’t. I hate them”
Look no further than the Purrfect Day Café for the perfect place to spend a free day. You get the opportunity to play with adorable kittens and sometimes even adult cats. Even if you are not looking to adopt, visiting the cats is still a beneficial activity. It helps the cats become socialized
and friendly to people of any age. 11 a.m. to four p.m. is when children are allowed in with an adult supervisor. Four p.m. to eight p.m. is for anyone over 18.
All of the kitties are from the Kentucky HumaneSociety. For the first time, the Kentucky Humane Society has had more cat adoptions than dog adoptions. Usually, cats only makeup a third of their adoptions, according to Spectrum News. When you enter the café, you can find a scrapbook of all the different types of cats they have been cared for and have been adopted. Their diversity ranges from senior cats to blind cats, all of whom need a loving home. You get an hour in the playroom to bond with acat, and it is advised that you spend 30 minutes before deciding on the cat you want to adopt.
Lots of small businesses had to close during the pandemic but not Purrfect Day Café. Their adoption rate went up because people wanted a furry friend to keep them company while they were at home. “The community made sure we were not going anywhere,” said the manager, who is also known as Top Cat, Robert Mason. The business has been going strong since2018, and it continues to thrive. On Wednesday, the 18th of August, they reached their goal of 5,000 cat adoptions.
This place isn’t just a hang-out space to play with cats, though. It truly is a café with a variety of drinks and treats to enjoy. There is even wine and beer to purchase for an older audience and an outdoor patio called the “catio” where you can enjoy your beverage. Drinks are allowed in with the cats but not snacks. Upstairs you will find a party room where you can celebrate a birthday or other celebration. You can even purchase fun t-shirts, sequin cat ears, and colorful stickers to decorate with and support the business. Some of their merchandise promotes their LGBTQ+ friendly stance.
Often after a good play, the cats will fall asleep in your lap. It’s a great place to bring a friend or to make a friend, human or feline. So what are you waiting for? Head to 1741 Bardstown Road in Louisville, Kentucky, for a day of fun!
After a year of quarantines and online learning, the Jeff High hallway crowds are back again, and students have taken notice. “The hallways are so crowded it makes no sense,” said Miles Harper, a Jeff High student. While others like Toby Kauchak echoed similar concerns, saying, “They’re very crowded and loud.” Year after year, students clustering together in crowds during passing and blocking movement in the hallways and stairwells have become a hallmark of the Jeff High experience. While some congestion is inevitable, here are a few tips to make your hallway experience and that of your peers much easier.
– There is never a reason to talk in a circle. There is nothing worse than walking down the hallway and being stopped by a group of people talking in a circle. If it is that serious–and it probably isn’t–please at least try to find a more spacious area such as the commons. And if you can’t do that, feel free to discuss in a more compatible shape such as a line or a condensed oval.
– No Public Displays of Affection. The love of your life will still be there after the hour and a half class, and, no matter what you think, people do not want to see that. Your friends definitely mock you for this behind your back.
– Walk on the right side of the hallway. There is no reason to walk on the left unless you are heading to a locker or a class. Please stick to the right.
– The main stairs are actually not the best place to have a meaningful conversation. Despite what you might think, your conversation is most likely to be heard by the 50 people who walk by you. If you really need to talk, just know that literally anywhere else in the school is a better spot.
– Don’t run. You are at school, it’s not worth running. However, an exception can be made for light jogs to the lunch line? Especially if heading to the sandwich line to avoid waiting for food for over half your lunch.
Hopefully, these tips will help create a better hallway experience, and if not, it’s at least nice to complain about this perennial problem.
The 2021-2022 school year has brought many changes for Greater Clark County Schools(GCCS). The largest change has been the elimination of the My School Online virtual learning option and the creation of an alternative online option referred to as the Virtual Academy. Unlike last year, parents were required to enroll students in the new online option during the summer break. Also, this year, in-person students are no longer permitted to switch over to the virtual learning option as they were last year with My School Online.
Senior Shay Graziano, aMy School Online student last year who returned to in-person school this year, states “Honestly I switched back to normal school [this year] because I found that I was unmotivated to do work and procrastinated a lot. Literally almost failed my art class because of it. Something about me being at school instead of at home makes me work differently.”
Last year, the online option created many challenges for teachers and students alike. My School Online required teachers to design and teach lessons simultaneously for both in-person students and online only students, and online only students were often required to attend virtual Google Meets to interact with teachers. Although there were some students and families who benefited from My School Onlinelast year because of concerns over COVID-19, some online only students struggled and fell behind in their learning.
Whereas the elimination of My School Online has helped some students who struggled with virtual learning last year return to in-person school, some students who actually did better with virtual learning have been forced to return to in-person school without any available online option. The elimination of My School Online for in-person students has also created some confusion for students who have been quarantined during the school year dueto Covid and forced to work from home without a virtual learning option to connect them to their classes.
Additionally, students who have enrolled in theVirtual Academy option for this school year are not allowed to participate in sports or extracurricular activities unlike students enrolled in My School Online last year. For some students, being able to play sports and participate in extracurricular activities was the primary reason that they chose to return to in-person school. “The reason I’m not going online is because I play volleyball, and if I go online, I can’t do sports anymore,“ says Junior Bella Hall.
The return to in-person school has been a shock to many students who spent last year online only. For many returning students, the hallways have never seemed so jammed packed with people and it’s been hard to adjust. “The hardest thing about being back at school is probably the fact that you are around so many different people at once and our school does not have the capacity to distance everyone. It is not their fault, but you never know who is sick and who isn’t until it’s too late and you’re already exposed,” says Hall.
