Category: Arts & Culture

Review: Meet Your Maker Arts Festival Review

by Sam Ottinger

One of the prides that Hermitage Farm takes is how they offer a diverse selection of unique crafts from an equally diverse vendor selection. 

And this was certainly the case when I attended the Meet Your Maker Art’s Festival on Sunday, Oct. 27. 

Meet Your Maker was able to supply visitors with a great variety of items. This ranged from jewelry, like those found at the Love is a Seed booth ran by Amanda Mathews; clothing, like those found at Mojo Quilts and More ran by Angelique Shah; paperworks, like those found at Lion Palace ran by Liz Morely Glenn; or paintings, like those found at Makara Thach Sernett ran by a vendor by the same name, just to name a few of the crafts.

Amanda Mathews and her booth, Love is a Seed, standing next to Angelique Shah and her booth, Mojo Quilts and More. Photo by Sam Ottinger.

The wide range of items may seem like it would be an overwhelming experience, but in reality I found it to be one of the more peaceful arts festivals I have been to.

In addition to Hermitage Farm choosing a wide area for all the booths, making it feel open enough to not overwhelm but not empty to where it seemed that there was extra space, the multiple items left room for disinterest.

In many events, hearing of the presence of disinterest can be a very negative thing, but for an art event with a little over 100 vendors, it is essential to prevent feelings of missing out and rushing through. 

There was enough of one type of craft to be affordable to the buyers to get something from each, while also leaving room for other types that were others’ favorites.

One aspect that does need mentioning is the accessibility.

Due to this event taking place on a farm, there were not as many accommodations as a more leveled festival may have.

The parking was located on the top of a large declining hill, yet offered handicap parking nearing the front of the lot. In order to get to the area, guests could then walk down the hill and over another smaller hill. Yet another way guests could get to the main event was on one of the two tractors for a seasonal hayride.

The first vendor area, closest to where guests entered, was unpaved, which could make it harder to navigate with those who rely on non-powered wheelchairs. However, the second vendor area, the one past the top left corner of the first area and near the petting zoo, was in a circle of paved road at the entrance of each booth.

One of the joys that came with this event is that not only did guests have an enjoyable time, but the vendors were given space to be able to enjoy it just as much.

Due to the openness of the physical area, there was room for these business owners to be able to talk more about their story behind the art they produce.

Morley Glenn, the artist behind the Lion Palace booth, commented, “Once you start creating, you never want to stop” in describing what pushes her to continue this artistic business.

Makara Thach Sernett, who managed the Makara Thach Sernett booth, shared the story of her beginnings as an artist.

After growing up in a Thai refugee camp, Sernett focused not on studying any artistic field, but on law. Yet this career path wasn’t based on passion, but on survival.

Sernett’s life always came with worldly troubles that would prevent the transition in careers, like expectations of being the oldest in an immigrant family and the negative perceptions that come with the title of ‘refugee.’

When she met her husband, he asked her a profound question. “Now that you don’t have to fight to survive, what do you really want to do?” Her answer was painting.

“In [that] world I didn’t know what art was, but I felt the joy and whimsy it could bring,” Sernett commented.

After years of being self taught, she came to Meet Your Maker to use her landscapes and story to inspire others. Seeking to connect with others, even if they may not relate to her life.

Makara Thach Sernett stands inside her booth, Makara Thach Sernett, holding one of her pieces labeled “Vibrant Birch.” Photo by Sam Ottinger.

And Mathews, the main vendor of Love is a Seed, found her love for making jewelry when given kits for her birthday and other holidays.

“I found it to be so fun and satisfying to create quick little projects that I could wear,” Mathews said, describing her progression from kits to her own creations. She would share this fun activity with her soon to be husband, Harley Mathews, after graduating high school.

“The key to making something more your own is to follow your creative curiosities, create things that make you feel good, and have fun!” Mathews added, “Don’t be afraid to reinvent pieces you may already have, mix and match, and make it more personal. You can always create special pieces of jewelry out of just about anything!”

Just as the kits were given to her on the holidays, she then decided to gift her finished jewelry to others during these times of year. Even during other times she would still get requests for unique pieces.

Mathews saw the potential, and after working more on increasing her skills through practice and some college courses, she and her husband started to look into the future of getting her art out into the grander world. 

They would go to art markets and visit their friends, finding a match to respark their inspiration, Amanda Mathew’s asking “What if this is something we could do, as our life and our creativity?”

The Mathews started looking into participating in a market like those they visited. And during these looks, many would require more official business info.

“This was intimidating at first, but we were up for the task. We wanted to do this so we dove in head first!” And after talking to other vendors, friends, and family, they felt the support and founded their business, Love is a Seed, in the summer of 2014.

Hermitage Farm’s Meet Your Maker back in summer of 2022 caught Mathews’s eye when looking for more fall events. She saw the fun family fall event and applied. “It has become a place where I meet dear friends who are also amazing artisans and is my favorite event to do every year,” she commented.

Amanda Mathews inside her Love is a Seed booth, located near the entrance of the main vendor area. Photo by Sam Ottinger.

Meet Your Maker did not only allow me to purchase wonderful handmade crafts, but it also allowed me to be able to meet and connect with these business owners, of which I may not have even known about before attending, and learn more about the love of creation that fills many in our community.

Their stories not only connect us, but they also act as a light at the end of the tunnel for those who want to throw their hat in the ring and be one of these vendors, finally being able to turn their passion into an equally enjoyable work career.

by jhshyphen

Column: Music should be allowed in the classroom

by Ricky Cummins

Music is everywhere. It is in the streets, our homes, concerts, radios, and our phones. But, why not in school? Schools should be one of the many places where music is allowed and even encouraged.

Music is an integral part of our lives. From riding down the freeway to washing the dishes, we can find music almost anywhere at any time. I have used music my entire life to calm myself and focus on tasks that may be hard or difficult. When it comes to music, it is very important to me and my overall well being to the point where I can hardly focus in class without it.

Did you know that exposure to music can improve learning and increase a positive classroom atmosphere? Active engagement in music promotes how the brain functions. It sharpens and refines language and speech.

Music has also shown that it has the ability to help children learn how to read. In addition several studies have proven that calming and engaging music reduces stress, anxiety, and aggressive behavior. Teachers need to take this into consideration next time they have a student that has trouble paying attention or getting work done on time.

The type of music also matters; students perform better when listening to music they perceive as calming rather than music that is perceived as more aggressive. By considering these elements, teachers can find intentional and responsive ways to integrate music into their classrooms effectively.

Regardless of your prior experience with music, there are many exciting possibilities for having music into your learning environment. Whether it is working to create a calm mood for focused work, liven up a lesson on poetry, or build community, music can be used to positively shape the classroom environment and support student thriving.

by jhshyphen

Meet Your Maker art festival coming this weekend

by Sam Ottinger

Throughout the presence of life on earth, art has, and always will be, an important part of being human. 

And this weekend’s Goshen Kentucky Hermitage Farm’s Meet Your Maker Art’s Festival, on Oct. 26 and 27, is an opportunity to see the human trait of creativity in action.

“It’s inspiring to see so much talent come together in one space, and that’s what drives us every year, ” commented Ryan Mahony, the Program Director at Hermitage Farm.

This will be the fifth year that Meet Your Maker has been hosted at Hermitage Farm. And this year’s event has been the largest market throughout those five years, having a little over 100 different vendors with their own unique crafts.

“It’s inspiring to see so much talent come together in one space, and that’s what drives us every year.”

Hermitage Farm Program Director Ryan Mahony

These vendors aren’t just whoever signed up, from wherever, and paid the booth’s toll. These  vendors were chosen with close and deep consideration.

Mahony stated, “We carefully curate our vendors based on the uniqueness and quality of their work. Each vendor is a local maker, and we strive to include a wide variety of artisans — from pottery and handwoven textiles to jewelry and woodworking.” 

Not only are there crafts to browse and buy, but there are also food trucks, like Barn8, that can help satisfy attendees’ hunger as they satisfy their hunger for art.

These food trucks also went through a process before being confirmed as a part of this event. 

Hermitage Farm didn’t only want to include different types of crafts, but they also wanted to include a multitude of diverse, local, high-quality, food “that enhances the festival’s atmosphere.”

These careful considerations help to not only aim to rid this event of those who are just reselling items that they bought elsewhere, but it also ensures that those found vendoring truly have a passion for what they are selling.

This festival was created as a solution in the problem of searching for ways to give local artisans and crafters a place to be able to share their special craft with the community.

Meet Your Maker not only helps artists get their names out there, but it also helps consumers to have an easier place to find pieces that they enjoy enough to purchase.

“We want the community to know that Meet Your Maker is not just a market—it’s an opportunity to connect with artists, learn about their process, and support small businesses,” said Mahony.

He continued, “Each piece you purchase has a story behind it, and by attending, you’re helping keep the local arts scene alive and thriving.”

by jhshyphen

Art Club allows students to explore their creative sides

by Isaac Raymer

JHS has many after-school events that cover all sorts of hobbies, sports, and interests. One of these events is, of course, an art-based club that meets every Wednesday sponsored by art teacher Jennifer Beckman.

Beckman said that previously she was a photographer before she became a JHS teacher who would photograph areas for companies, such as their factories, mines, and other important shots for whoever she worked for at the time.

This photography job eventually led her to a scholarship to the Savannah College of Art and Design and study to become a teacher, and then get a job as a JHS art teacher.

Right as Beckman joined JHS she started to notice that there were a lot of students who wanted to get into art class, but just did not have the room in their schedule or weren’t in the right academies to be able to join  art class. So, she said that pushed her to host Art Club in her first year of teaching.

Since Art Club is completely self funded, she has a fair amount of creativity. Every week she does a different type of activity such as drawing, painting, clay, sculpting, and many more unique concepts that she likes to rotate as the week’s main activity. Generally $5 per project allows student artists to use all of the resources they need for their current project.

Even students not interested in the main activity at the weekly meeting can join their friends creating projects.

There are  also special activities that happen every so often, like field trips to art-related events such as museums, art shows, and anything that gives students the opportunity to grow as artists and just as people in general.

Beckman has said that her favorite part is seeing the community the Art Club makes from kids of every grade and how it feels like a family when they’re together, making for an “amazing environment.” for anyone who comes to join.

by jhshyphen

Review: Wonders of Gospelfest create a moving, energetic musical event

by Sam Ottinger

“Welcome to one of the most exciting nights of music anywhere in the Kentucky Indiana area,” choral director Kyle Broady commented last Tuesday night. And, he was absolutely right.

Gospelfest was a fantastic, moving, and very energetic event. The concert style worked perfectly to create an environment of connection among those in the audience. The singing along of audience members would typically be one of irritation, yet somehow they were able to make it feel as though it belongs among the singing voices of the choir.

 

Choir director Kyle Broady and Dr. Roosevelt Escalante direct all of the choirs at the annual Gospelfest on Tuesday, Sept. 24. Photo by Sam Ottinger.

The performance consisted of eight songs. The very first, sung by the chamber choir of JHS singers, started off slow with a soft piano sound of “I Believe,” yet it soon grew into an energetic piece as the sizzles of a cymbal joined, and the audience was encouraged to clap along. 

Following this piece was a favorite among the crowd, as well as one favorite of my own, known as “He Heard My Cry.” Senior Luna Guyse began with a solo accompanied by similar soft piano notes and then transitioned into a harmony and cymbal climb. The crowd cheered nearly after every other lyric.

The next two songs, “You Should Know” and “My Soul Has Been Anchored in the Lord,” were sung by the gospel ensemble, with solos from Guyse, freshman Vivienne Diehl, sophomore Presley Inzer, junior Nairah Jadusingh and junior Joshua Broady.

A very special quality that I noticed during Gospelfest was not just the opportunity of connecting with our community, but also being able to connect with our own family. During “My Soul Has Been Anchored in the Lord,” Roosevelt Escalante invited a surprised Broady to come up and sing alongside Broady’s son. 

“He [Dr. Roosevelt] wanted to do it so I could sing with my son, which was pretty special,” Broady said when asked how he felt at that moment.

Before the final song, “The Blood Still Works,” Dr. Escalante was able to perform with his daughter.

Both pieces didn’t just have beautifully sung vocals, but also the warmth of family being able to share the joys of singing together. The way Dr. Escalante’s daughter’s performance flowed into the final song felt as though that warmth was reaching out to encapsulate the audience with it, as the song once again allowed the audience to join along in clapping to the melody.

When going back to the song after Broady came up to sing, “Going up a Yonder,” there is another very special quality. This Gospelfest did not just include JHS choir students but also two other choirs, including the Southern Indiana Children’s Choir.

This was a brand new organization, performing for the very first time, consisting of children in second to fifth grade in Clark and Floyd County. They were selected from their elementary schools by their music specialist or teacher and had rehearsal only once a week.

This in itself made it special for how talented these young kids are, but the conductor who helped teach them their skills is none other than Leslie Gabhart, who used to be a choir teacher here at JHS, and she even was the choir teacher for Broady.

The other choir that combined forces for this Gospelfest was Borden Junior- Senior High School. All three choirs joined together to perform the jazzy piece “Bless the Lord.” Each choir was able to be powerful, yet not overwhelm the others.

“Bless the Lord” had to be my favorite piece for the whole concert. Throughout the song everyone just seemed to work well with one another. The live band, the JHS choir, the Borden choir and the Southern Indiana Children’s choir really showed off their talent with this piece.

The following piece, “No One Like You” – sung by the JHS and Borden choirs – returned to a slower, softer start. This song may not have been the most energetic one, but that does not mean it was even close to being boring. As a soloist started the lyrics off, there was a really captivating way that they performed. For after the third line the singers were able to raise their pitch on the word “me” to this enchanting sound.

For something that started more than two decades ago, the emotional energy created in that auditorium was as young and thriving as ever. The love that could be felt in that room, for the people and for the music, was something I haven’t felt after any other school event.

by jhshyphen

O Come Gospelfest: Choir performs annual event Tuesday night 

by Sam Ottinger

Every year as the fall months come around, an annual and very special performance comes along with it. 

This event is Gospelfest, performed in the JHS Auditorium this Tuesday, Sept. 24 at 7 p.m., with tickets ranging from 5-10 dollars. 

“It’s a full on gospel experience, right here in Jeff.”

Choir Director Kyle Broady

The very first production occurred 20 years ago, roughly back in the 2000’s. Contrary to what may be believed, the first Gospelfest was put on at New Albany. JHS was able to join in on this blossoming tradition due to both former choir directors being longtime friends.

Gospelfest is an all choir concert, which is entirely composed of African American gospel music, picked and conducted by a special guest who specializes in Black Gospel and jazz, Dr. Roosevelt Escalante.

“It’s a full on gospel experience, right here in Jeff,” choir director Kyle Broady stated. 

And an experience it shall be. The choir consists of 150+ students. In addition to the JHS choir, Borden High School will be performing with the Southern Indiana Children’s Choir. A live band will accompany the singers, while the sound system will be used in full in order to project the combining music towards the audience while in a full concert layout.

“This group, in particular, is going to make it pretty special,” added senior Luna Guyse, currently in her seventh year in a choir. 

Gospelfest may be a once-a-year performance, but it has touched many hearts. 

The choir director at Borden is a JHS alumnus, joining the Gospelfest last year due to how much she enjoyed it in her high school years. Yet she is not the only one with a connection to past Gospelfests, for the choir director of the Southern Indiana Children’s Choir had previously retired from being JHS’s choir director.

Many can’t wait for the performance, including current choir students. 

“We have a really good set coming up. We have a mix of good people returning, and a lot of good people coming in, it’s just great,” said senior Ella Motluck, currently in her seventh year in choir. 

The excitement isn’t just felt in one student, for the others are just as enthused.

“I’m really excited! Dr. Escalante picked out some really good songs this year,” said senior Sylvana Sandoval Camacho, who currently is in her sixth year of a choir.

There are many challenges that can come with events like this. “I’m not even sure I remembered everything,” Broady joked when showing off a checklist of preparations. And there are the challenges of keeping everyone on the same page when there is not constant contact.

Yet through that all, the choir pushes through it together, motivated by the knowledge of community that their performances bloom. For one of the most enjoyable parts of being in choir is, as Guyse put it, “Doing something you love, with people who love it just as much as you.”

by jhshyphen

New directors highlight band goals 

by Isaac Steven Raymer

New director Briston Hatchell instructs band students after school. Photo by Esme Estrin.

JHS has two new band directors Briston Hatchell and Sidney McDonald, who are co-teaching everything music related and like jazz, band, and guitar. 

Both band directors have said that they’ve considered themselves friends for a fair amount of years; both having music teaching experience before joining JHS. Hatchell said he has 10 years of teaching band, which includes several years at Floyd Central High School. McDonald has three years of teaching experience at both the middle and high school levels. 

It’s definitely clear they both have a passion for teaching music, and music as a whole. Both teachers have had their lives impacted by music.

Hatchell, early in life, said he wanted to be an architect until he realized there’s a lot of math involved. While he “wasn’t good at math,” he was talented with the trumpet, so in middle school he decided he wanted to teach music.

McDonald did not take the same path as Hatchell in high school, as she really liked chemistry and ended up becoming a chemistry major in college for a year. She decided to transfer schools for a music program since she missed music and decided to do drum core, which led to her transferring to Indiana State as a music major.  

Both teachers described that they love teaching, and they both put in a lot of work to make sure they are helping all their students the most they can. But it does become a very time consuming job.

An average week of teaching for them normally consists of marching band on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and most Saturdays after school, with an open band room around three days a week so kids can practice if they would like with either of the musical directors. 

A school day for them normally consists of AP music theory, guitar and then for the last three periods – 4th, 6th, and 7th – they collaborate and teach intermediate band, a big guitar class, and advanced band. 

Even though they are both doing a lot for all of JHS’s music-related activities, there is still much more they want to do with an emphasis on the band program.

Hatchell said, “We want it bigger, we want more kids and, you can put this in print, we have a school of 2,300 kids and our goal over five years is 10% of the school, so that’s 230 kids, so if we get to that then I say we achieved our goal.”

He makes it very clear that they both want to be able to teach the most they possibly can. They also stated that, even though the band is pretty well funded, they do run fundraisers to help JHS music-related classes be the highest quality they can be.  

Those interested in marching band can go to https://jeffersonvillebands.org to find every upcoming event involving JHS music.

by jhshyphen

Barbie (2023) Review

By: London Williams

Barbie has been loved for many generations. She’s the plastic doll we’ve all grown to love. She’s fantastic, and so is this film! ‘Barbie’ came out this past Summer on July 21, 2023. Competing alongside “Oppenheimer” as one of the year’s most anticipated movies. This movie has made over 1.34 billion at the Box Office (for the US) just so far! Barbie jumped out of her box and has been crushing it at the box office ever since the release of this film! The feeling after watching ‘Barbie’ is unlike any movie I’ve ever seen. This movie is so charming and nostalgic. It has you thinking about it long after watching. It manages to have a perfect balance of relatable, real-life issues while keeping its innocent, humorous, and lighthearted approach. 

The plot of Barbie is pretty simple; Barbie has an existential crisis and goes to the real world to figure out why her perfect life seems to be falling apart. Ken tags along, and they both go their separate ways in self-discovery. Barbie runs into the mother-daughter duo that has the answers to all her problems, while Ken is convinced that the real world is run by men. (Which of course, makes him go back to Barbieland to make a world full of Mojo Dojo Casa houses and horses.) This movie perfectly handles the topic of equality. After Barbie goes back to Barbieland and sees what Ken has done she is torn and devastated, things didn’t go well in the real world, and now Barbieland is falling apart too. It feels like the “man vs. woman” situation Barbie felt in the real world. The way Barbie feels is clear and relatable for women while being easy to understand and empathize with for someone who couldn’t personally relate. 

I believe that the casting for the movie was perfect. Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling did a fantastic job capturing their roles. It felt like Barbie and Ken came to life by how their humanization was portrayed. Robbie and Gosling took one-dimensional characters and gave them more depth and life. Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling are already extremely beloved actors. That’s another reason I think the casting is perfect. Who wouldn’t want to see the latest Margot Robbie or Ryan Gosling film? ‘Barbie’ also features many other well-known actors, including; Will Ferrel (as Mattel CEO), Michael Cera (as Alan), Dua Lipa (as Mermaid Barbie), and John Cena (as Male Mermaid), and that’s just to name a few! The casting for all the Barbies and Kens was epic, to say the least. It felt like every time I blinked there was an actor that I recognized. They even got Nicki Minaj and Ice Spice to create the song “Barbie World”! After that song came out, it was everywhere. I found myself having the song stuck in my head before and after finishing the movie. The release of “Barbie World” was one of the perfect buildups for the premiere of this film. Some would say it was also a “full circle” moment for Nicki Minaj since she frequently associates herself with the character. The song is also great as a standalone track that worked great with the end credits of the film. Who wouldn’t want to see this exceptional movie?  

I found the maturity rating for this movie very interesting. It’s definitely PG-13, but I noticed people being confused that a Barbie movie would be rated PG-13 instead of just PG. When I went to see this movie, there was an abundance of very small children walking in. This made me wonder about its advertising approach. This could just be parents assuming it was PG or just not caring if their 7-year-old sees a PG-13 movie; which definitely isn’t abnormal, but I thought it was worth noting. When I mentioned Barbie to a few adults in my life, they actually made comments about how they were surprised about the rating. After actually watching Barbie, it’s clear why it’s rated how it is; one very subtle sex joke, its mentions of death, and its topics of womens rights and equality. It feels like Barbie was in between PG-13 and PG, and they went with PG-13 to be safe. 

This movie has many beautiful moments. A notable one is when Barbie is sitting on a bench in the park by an older woman. She tells the woman that she is beautiful, as she is crying. Barbie realizes how beautiful people and the world are. Barbie is seen by a lot of people as a vision of the “perfect woman” who lives a “perfect life”. When Barbie sees the real world it makes it clear that it isn’t true. Nothing is perfect and that is what is beautiful. Things aren’t as simple as Barbie had originally thought. Beauty is all around us, and Barbie makes us realize that. Barbie truly is a beautiful experience you don’t want to miss! 

Winter ’26 Photo Essay: JHS photographers capture Southern Indiana winter weather

Despite the snow, ice, and on-line classes, JHS student photographers photographed some images of January’s cold weather as part of their Digital Photography class.

Most images are a part of their unit on black and white photography as they study the work of Ansel Adams this month.

Click on the images in the gallery below to view their photographs.

Photo by Abygail Lawson.
Photo by Dery Posas Reyes.
Photo by Kayleen Alvarado.
Photo by Kingsley Asare.
Photo by Tytionna Wickliffe.
Photo by Aaliyah Flowers.
Photo by Abril Blas Peralta.
Photo by Donna Muncy.
Photo by Isaiah Stewart.
Photo by Mariana Castro.
jhshyphen's avatar by jhshyphen

‘Stranger Things’ fans react to Season 5, discuss the series legacy

Editor’s Note: Proceed carefully, Stranger Things fans, as the following feature story contains spoilers.

by Shelby Keesee

On Dec. 31, 2025, at 8 p.m. EST, the highly anticipated Stranger Things series finale, written and directed by the Duffer Brothers, aired on Netflix, and later was accessible for viewers to see in select theaters.

The series ran for almost 10 years (2016-2025) and gained numerous fans through its 1980s nostalgia, references, unique plot, and most importantly, its characters.

Prior to the finale, two volumes containing episodes of the fifth season arrived on Netflix, with Volume 1 (episodes 1-4) releasing on Nov. 26, and Volume 2 (episodes 5-7) releasing on Dec. 25.

The Crawl

The first episode, entitled “The Crawl,” is set in 1987 in the fictional town of Hawkins, Indiana. The episode begins with a flashback to Will’s vanishing in the Upside Down, which was the first event that led viewers into Stranger Things’ complex and emotional story.

“My first thought was, ‘Oh my God – they were babies. They were such little babies,’ and now they’re like, grown men and stuff,” stated Student Council sponsor Natalie Woods. “I don’t know if it did it justice – if I’ve never watched seasons one, two, three or four, and I just watched the flashback, I don’t think I would’ve been able to get the gist of what happened. So I feel like if they really wanted to do that fairly, it should’ve been an episode all on its own.”

The episode then reveals that Hawkins is under military occupation due to an “earthquake,” which leads the main cast into frequent “crawls” to look for Vecna, one of the main villains, in the Upside Down.

The Vanishing of Holly Wheeler

The second episode, entitled “The Vanishing of Holly Wheeler,” contains the season’s main storyline – Holly’s vanishing, orchestrated by “Mr. Whatsit,” who is later revealed to be an alter ego of Henry Creel/Vecna.

“They focused on Holly a lot. She was definitely the main character of this season, and if they were planning on making a Stranger Things follow-up, she’s the start of the next generation of kids.” said English teacher Eric Watson.

“I loved episode 2, probably my favorite of the whole season,” stated English teacher Allison Clary.

The Turnbow Trap and Sorcerer

“The Turnbow Trap” contains Derek Turnbow’s addition into the plot, and the fourth episode, “Sorcerer,” leads viewers into a turning point – Will’s realization of his sorcerer-like powers.

“But, my next one was number four, ‘Sorcerer,’ because, of course, that was so shocking — none of us knew Will had those powers,” said Clary.

Volume 2

The second volume, containing “Shock Jock,” “Escape from Camazotz,” and “The Bridge,” gave us key events prior to the final adventure. The episodes, containing Nancy and Jonathan’s near-death experience, Max’s escape, and Will’s vulnerable moment, received mixed feelings from viewers. Critics expressed that the Duffers’ writing in the volume either lacked professionalism, was rushed, or lacked character depth.

“The part with Max was kind of confusing to me. She’s in a coma, but she’s still alive and functioning with other people who are stuck in the Upside Down,” stated history teacher Kent Porter.

“I know on the internet, a lot of people were really upset that Will had his whole coming-out scene and everything,” English teacher Holden Henderson said. “I mean, I think it’s great to give people representation – that is a very emotionally taxing moment, and so it makes sense that he would feel that way, but I do think for the story itself, I feel like they (Duffers) spent too much time on it.”

“The Rightside Up” is Stranger Things’ final episode, and it mainly focused on the group teaming up to successfully defeat Vecna.

“The thing about the final episode is the build-up for this season – all of these Demodogs and Demogorgons and all these monsters having to do with all this stuff, but when they actually go into the Upside Down, it’s not there,” said Henderson. “A couple of episodes before, when the Demodogs were fighting all the soldiers outside of the gate, like, that was a huge fight with lots of monsters and stuff – you’d think Vecna would’ve probably tried to defend himself a little bit.”

But the finale’s emotional ending has sparked a contentious question among fans; was Eleven’s sacrifice an illusion – or did she actually die?

In the debate, some believe that she didn’t perish, with an example being Woods.

“I don’t think she did. She’s too strong to have died just like that. Out of all things that poor child has gone through, that’s it? She’s gonna be whisked away with the wind?” Woods stated.

Some others believe she truly died, including Porter.

“I think she did. The way they just kind of left it there with her being in the Upside Down with everything breaking apart, I think it got her.” Porter said.

However, others have a more neutral stance, like Watson.

“I think the way they did the ending was the coward’s way out. They gave everyone a happy ending, they had a dramatic moment where like, it was a pyrrhic victory; they won, but they had lost something very valuable,” stated Watson. “And I feel like leaving the hope that Eleven is still alive undercuts that in a way that was disappointing. I would’ve been happier if they would’ve picked one.”

One of the Greatest?

Despite the common criticism over season 5, the season and the series still appeal to fans as one of the greatest they’ve seen yet.

“I loved the whole series, and I overall loved season 5,” Clary said. “I know some people were disappointed with the very last episode, number 8, but I was not disappointed at all. It was a great way to wrap up everything and everybody – all the characters kind of climaxed, and I understand why Eleven had to go.”

“Season 5 I thought was very enjoyable, as far as a watching experience, I enjoyed watching it,” stated Henderson. “But, part of that was taking a step back from a cinema graphic, or a movie critic style approach, and more of just like, ‘Hey, I really like this series, I want to enjoy it.’ There were definitely some flaws, there were definitely some weaknesses, but overall, it was enjoyable.”

The Characters

Even though a percentage of the audience has not viewed season 5 yet, the characters in Stranger Things are unforgettable and complex.

“Favorite character? Either Steve – the babysitter guy, or Dustin,” stated math teacher Cory Densford, who has yet to watch the final season. “Those are definitely my favorites. I really liked Steve’s character arc. I always have a soft spot for those kind of villain characters.”

“I liked Hopper a whole lot. I’m a pretty sarcastic dude, and he delivered the most sarcasm, I think. And also, he’s just surrounded by teenagers and exhausted all the time, and that’s relatable to me,” Watson said.

“Everyone wants to say Will, because his character led up to that culminating point where he mind slayed Vecna, but I feel like it’s going to be Lucas for me,” said Woods. “He had such a role of keeping the group together. He didn’t have these main character storylines, but he was always the one that was there – if something went good, if something went bad, he really had the answers to everything.” 

Because of these characters’ relatability, viewers tend to feel more of an emotional response while watching Stranger Things.

“I think maybe part of that is because it’s taken place over nearly 10 years,” stated Clary. “I’ve literally watched since the first year, so a lot of people who have strong feelings, sometimes it’s because they’ve been watching for so long.”

“I think some of it has to do with the writing style and the characters. You usually feel very realistic towards them, so when we see characters we can kind of imagine as ourselves or our friends or our loved ones, we can see similarities, and since they are more realistic, we see them going through these things, so it seems more emotionally real to us as well,” said Henderson.

“Having characters that have flaws are important in media,” Densford stated. “Nobody’s perfect, and if they’re perfect, it’s hard to relate.”

The exceptional, emotional story and character depth has led fans to share the series with their friends and family.

“I’ve heard about it because my wife’s a big fan of it,” stated English teacher David Kummer, who has not yet watched the show. “She started watching it a couple of years ago and binge watched it.”

“Honestly, my son – he was the one who recommended it, and the minute we watched it, it stuck.” Woods said.

Overall, Stranger Things has made its impact on numerous fans, and its popularity will continue to rise over the years. 

The series’ versatility in multiple areas, such as its writing, unique plot, and in-depth characters makes it a historical show for viewers. Regardless of season five’s criticism, it still remains a favorite for many.

“It seems like there’s always a show every 10 years or so that becomes bigger than some of its parts,” stated Watson.

Graphic by Shelby Keesee.
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Red Devils defeat Seymour 69-41 on Senior Night

All photos by Magdalene Conrad, Kirk Owen, and Parker McCloskey. Click on each photo in the gallery below.

Sophomore MaKenna Taylor highfives her teammates during the announcement of the starting five. Photo by Parker McCloskey.
The Jeffersonville Girls’ Basketball team, coaches, family, and friends gather for a photo after Senior Night celebrations. Photo by Magdalene Conrad.
Senior Kelis Dansby looks to rebound during the warm-up period for Jeffersonville. Photo by Magdalene Conrad.
Before the game the team pledged to the flag, presented by the JROTC Apollo. Photo by Kirk Owen.
Senior Maizy Smith goes for a fade away shot with three Seymour players surrounding her. Photo by Kirk Owen.
Senior Kelis Dansby performs a layup during Tuesday’s game against Seymour. Photo by Parker McCloskey.
Senior Maizy Smith takes a shot contested by Seymour’s senior Claire Skaggs. Photo by Magdalene Conrad.
Sophomore Alicia Mangrum takes a shot for Jeffersonville. Mangrum scored 20 points in the game. Photo by Magdalene Conrad.
Sophomore Alicia Mangrum hits a jump shot for 2 points in the first quarter. Photo by Kirk Owen.
Senior Kelis Dansby drives the ball against her Seymour defender. Dansby scored 10 points. Photo by Parker McCloskey.
The Red Devils cheer on their teammates during the match-up against Seymour. Photo by Parker McCloskey.
Sophomore MaKenna Taylor performs a jump-shot. She scored 10 points in the Tuesday night win over Seymour. Photo by Parker McCloskey.
Sophomore MaKenna Taylor shoots a three-pointer for the Red Devils. The Red Devils faced Seymour this past Tuesday. Jeffersonville defeated the Owls 69-41. Photo by Magdalene Conrad.
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Jeff High defeats Floyd Central, Providence over the weekend

All photos by Malachi Conrad and Macaleb Conrad. Click on each photo in the gallery below.

Senior Zion Mitchell attempts a layup through contact. Photo by Malachi Conrad.
Coach Sherron Wilkerson gives his team advice and motivates them to win the game. Jeff beat Floyd Central 49-48 on Jan. 16 in the closing seconds of the game. Photo by Malachi Conrad.
Sophomore Fred Stone shoots a 3-pointer in the 2nd quarter against Floyd Central on Friday. Jeff won 49-48 in the final seconds with a go-ahead basket by senior Terrence Nord. by Photo by Malachi Conrad.
Junior Vontrell James looks to pass the ball at the Jeff-FC game on Friday. Photo by Malachi Conrad.
Sophomore Mason Longest looks to pass the ball while being defended at Floyd Central on Friday night. Photo by Malachi Conrad.
The starting lineup in Jeffersonville’s game against Providence talks to each other before the jump ball. The Red Devils beat Providence 50-39 Saturday night. Photo by Malachi Conrad.
Junior Jacob Wilkerson shoots a wide-open mid-range shot against Providence. Photo by Malachi Conrad.
Junior Vontrell James scans the floor, preparing to pass the ball. Photo by Macaleb Conrad.
Senior Germaine Perry begins to drive the ball in the third quarter. Photo by Malachi Conrad.
Junior Jacob Wilkerson makes a layup at the end of the game. The 50-39 win against Providence capped off two days of victories against local teams for Jeff High. Photo by Malachi Conrad.
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Hoosier fans anxiously await Monday’s national championship football game

by Brennan Zoeller and Jilliann Denbo

From taking down No. 9 Alabama 38-3, to then embarrassing No. 5 Oregon 56-22, the undefeated 15-0 Hoosiers don’t seem to be slowing down as they head into Monday’s national championship game against Miami (13-2).  

On Monday, Indiana hopes to win it all in Miami. Since 1899, the Hoosiers have never won a football national championship and have been among the programs with the most football losses.

Hoosier fans hope that changes Monday night.

“I think they’ve worked harder than anyone else and deserve it. They’re professional when it counts and don’t show mercy, which is why they’re so good,” said sophomore John Steele.

Some are sure Indiana will beat Miami, but others are still nervous only because they are used to losing.

“Miami is obviously a great team, but I think we may be even better. I am still nervous but I think some of those nerves stem from so many years of watching IU football lose. I’ve been conditioned to expect us to lose and I am still trying to remind myself that we have a real possibility to win the national championship,” said Northaven Academic improvement coordinator Kelly Allen, an IU fan.

This national championship game is bringing many long-time fans together to watch their all time favorite team.

“Family had a lot to do with me being an IU fan. But in 1987 I was 15 years old watching Keith Smart hit a last second shot to win the basketball national championship against Syracuse. If you have to pick a moment, that’s when I knew I was a Hoosier,” said IU fan Robert Denbo.

Fans have always been giving a lot to the IU community, doing anything they can to show true support.

“I show my support for my team by sharing stuff on social media and wearing my IU gear. I give to the Alumni Association as well. IU has the largest Alumni Association in the entire nation and it has the most people raising lots of money by going to games and by watching games on TV,” said Northaven principal and Hoosier fan Laura Morris.

While some fans have been cheering from home on their TVs , others have actually been going to the games.

“Seeing the joy on IU fans’ (of all ages) faces as they attend these games has been so exciting. It has been a thrilling time for fans,” Allen said from experience after being to many games.

When Allen says “of all ages,” she means it. Students all the way to teachers and parents have been ecstatic and call it a “miracle.”

“It’s crazy. I went from not even thinking about Indiana when it came to football as a fan, to now about to win a national championship. It’s a miracle,” said sophomore Liam Wooden.

The Hoosiers football team has brought hope to many, and this hope is shown and expressed in different ways, reaching all audiences.

“The way the team works together to accomplish this year’s wins has given me so much hope. Our Heisman (winner Fernando) Mendoza has also been performing better than amazing. Since 1975 I’ve been an IU fan and they’ve never come this far,” said JHS graduate and IU fan Kathleen Brennan.

With the national championship on Monday, Indiana fans are pumped up more than ever, with very high expectations.

“I think Indiana has a pretty good chance of beating Miami in the national championship because the Hoosiers have proven to be a powerhouse with trust in each other throughout the season,” stated Josie Zoeller, 2024 JHS graduate.

No. 1 Indiana (15-0) will play No. 10 Miami (13-2) in the 2026 College Football Playoff (CFP) National Championship on Monday, Jan. 19, 2026:

  • Kickoff: 7:30 p.m. ET
  • Location: Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens, Florida
  • TV/Radio: Broadcast on ESPN. Radio coverage is available through the IU Alumni Association, featuring Don Fischer’s call synced to the telecast. 

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JHS defeats New Albany 60-48 in Hoosier Hills Conference match-up

All photos by Magdalene Conrad and Parker McCloskey. Click on each photo in the gallery below.

Senior Kelis Dansby is called during the starting five walkout and performs her signature handshake with junior Lila Schur before last night’s game at New Albany High School. JHS won 60-48. Photo by Magdalene Conrad.
Senior Kiya Boatwright tips off for the Lady Red Devils. Jeffersonville defeated the Bulldogs 60-48 last night in a Hoosier Hills Conference match-up. Photo by Magdalene Conrad.
S
Senior Kiya Boatwright shoots a layup for the Lady Red Devils against New Albany junior guard Alyviah Lewis-Redd. JHS won 60-48. Photo by Magdalene Conrad.
Sophomore Makenna Taylor competes and shoots during last night’s Hoosier Hills Conference game at New Albany. JHS won 60-48 after taking control during the second half. Photo by Magdalene Conrad.
Sophomore Alicia Mangrum dribbles the ball. JHS defeated New Albany 60-48 last night. Photo by Parker McCloskey.
Sophomore Mckenna Taylor prepares to pass the ball. Photo by Parker McCloskey.
Sophomore Makenna Taylor shoots a three pointer during last night’s game at New Albany. Photo by Magdalene Conrad.
Senior Kelis Dansby shoots a free throw during last night’s 60-48 win against New Albany. Photo by Parker McCloskey.
Senior Kiya Boatwright shoots the ball from mid-range as New Albany plays defense. Photo by Parker McCloskey.
Senior Kelis Dansby brings the ball up the court against New Albany last night. The Red Devils took control of the game in the second half. Photo by Parker McCloskey.
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Red Devil wrestlers face off with Charlestown

All photos by Magdalene Conrad and Malachi Conrad. Click on each photo in the gallery below.

Senior Gavin Grisham goes for a pin against opposing Charlestown in last night’s matchup. Photo by Magdalene Conrad
Sophomore Logan Vidit maintains control, trying to stand back up. Photo by Malachi Conrad.
Sophomore John Steele submits his opponent. Photo by Malachi Conrad.
Freshman Noah Sparkman applies a submission hold to try to win his match. Photo by Malachi Conrad.
Senior Quinten Smith deflects his opponent’s grab attempt, maintaining a good defense. Photo by Malachi Conrad.
Sophomore Chandler Cooke mentally prepares for his match against his Charlestown opponent. Photo by Malachi Conrad.
Junior Rodolfo Olvera showing the spectators his win against Charlestown during last night’s match. The Devils lost 42-29. Photo by Magdalene Conrad.
Senior James Dyer attempts to submit his opponent at last night’s event. Photo by Malachi Conrad.
Junior Elijah Lahrman picks his opponent’s legs up while on the ground, trying to get in a winning position. Photo by Malachi Conrad.
Sophomore Dylan Grismer looks at his opponent, trying to figure out his next move, going on to win the match later on. Photo by Malachi Conrad.
Sophomore Jaylen Howard gets a pin for the Red Devils. Photo by Magdalene Conrad.
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Red Devils swim to first-place finish in Jeffersonville High School Co-Ed Swimming Invitational

All photos by Parker McCloskey and Malachi Conrad. Click on the photos in the gallery below.

Junior Liam Turk-Gagel swims during the free-style on Saturday, Jan. 10. The Jeffersonville High School Co-Ed Swimming Invitational included multiple Southern Indiana teams. The event recognized alumni in the final high school meet in the current pool before the move to the new natatorium in the fall. Jeff won the event as a team. Photo by Parker McCloskey.
Freshman Charlie Frakes does a backstroke technique during Saturday’s swim meet. Photo by Malachi Conrad.
Senior Jaga Pagva performs the breaststroke while on a relay. Photo by Parker McCloskey.
Senior Jaga Pagva swims during the relay at the Jeffersonville High School Co-Ed Swimming Invitational. JHS finished first in the meet on Jan. 10. Photo by Malachi Conrad.
Freshman Brandon Rubio swims the butterfly in the medley relay on Saturday. Photo by Parker McCloskey.
Freshman Dashiel Leonard swims during the free-style at Saturday’s event, designed to honor alumni as part of the final high school meet in the current pool. Photo by Parker McCloskey.
Senior Adelaide Bingham performs a butterfly stroke while on a relay. Photo by Parker McCloskey.
Junior Macyn Jackson performs a backstroke on a relay. Photo by Parker McCloskey.
Junior Macyn Jackson performing a backstroke on a relay. Photo by Parker McCloskey.
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New Albany defeats JHS 79-56

All photos by Magdalene Conrad, Malachi Conrad, Parker McCloskey and Mackenzie Stubblefield. Click on photos in the gallery below to view images.

Senior Cash Whitehead looks to play defense against the Bulldogs. Photo by Magdalene Conrad.
Senior Zion Mitchell goes into a tough layup through contact. Photo by Malachi Conrad.

Sophomore Aiden Toler celebrates the successful free throw. Photo by Malachi Conrad.
Senior Terrence Nord shoots a three-pointer against New Albany senior Braxton Mayfield. Photo by Magdalene Conrad.
Jeffersonville High School student section poses for the photo before the match against New Albany last night. Photo by Malachi Conrad.
Junior Germaine Perry performing a free-throw. Photo by Parker McCloskey.
Senior Terrence Nord takes a breath during the matchup against New Albany. The Red Devils were defeated 79-56. Photo by Magdalene Conrad.
Head coach Sherron Wilkerson and the Red Devils huddle together before the first half. Photo by Parker McCloskey.
Junior Jacob Wilkerson goes for a layup against the New Albany Bulldogs last night. The annual rivalry game was held at New Albany High School. Photo by Magdalene Conrad.
Junior Jacob Wilkerson keeps the ball safe during hard defense. New Albany beat JHS 79-56 during last night’s rivalry game. Photo by Malachi Conrad.
Sophomore Damauri Crosby celebrates with senior Zion Mitchell after he scored a hard-earned layup. Photo by Malachi Conrad.
Junior Jacob Wilkerson and senior Zion Mitchell high-five each other going into a timeout. Photo by Malachi Conrad.
Senior Elijah Cheeks dribbles the ball up the court in the first quarter. Photo by Malachi Conrad.
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Supplies for Food Pantry and Connor’s Closet

by Areli Hernandez

Additional Reporting: Tyler Conley 

Graphic by Daysha Gray.

The food pantry and Connor’s Closet at Jeffersonville High School prioritizes the needs of students and families. As winter break comes to an end, items and clothing are in high demand to help students. 

Those interested in donating supplies for the Food Pantry may turn them in to room A225 or in A204. For more information, contact Michelle Houchin. 

Michelle Houchin: mhouchin@gccschools.com

Graphic by Daysha Gray.

If someone outside the school is interested in donating items for Connor’s Closet, contact Stephanie Soper or Jennifer Mitchell for further information. Students who are interested in donating, may bring their donations to room C125.

ALL clothing must be in new conditions. 

Stephanie Soper: ssoper@gccschools.com

Jennifer Mitchell: jmitchell@gccschools.com

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JHS wrestlers defeat Providence during Senior Night on Wednesday

All photos by Malachi Conrad. Click on photos in the gallery below.

Sophomore Timothy Wilkins tries to finish the match against his opponent. JHS competed against Providence Wednesday night. Photo by Malachi Conrad.
Sophomore Dylan Grismer celebrates his win over Providence. Photo by Malachi Conrad.
Sophomore Dylan Grismer prepares to attach his Providence opponent. Photo by Malachi Conrad.

Junior Rudy Olvera goes against his opponent. Jeffersonville did not lose a match at the event Wednesday night. Photo by Malachi Conrad.
Sophomore Jaylen Howard gets awarded his win by the referee. Photo by Malachi Conrad.
Senior Quinten Smith goes head to head against Providence. Smith was one of several seniors honored during Senior Night. Photo by Malachi Conrad.
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Red Devils battle New Albany tonight at 7:30 p.m.

by Austin Bainbridge

The Red Devils enter a hostile environment tonight against an imposing New Albany team after dropping three out of the last four games. 

The environment at New Albany should add to the excitement of the rivalry game.

Head coach Sherron Wilkerson talks to his team in the third quarter of the Lawrence North game on Jan. 3. The Red Devils face New Albany tonight at 7:30. Photo by Malachi Conrad.

“New Albany’s a loud environment that really helps their players along with getting in the opponent’s head,” said sophomore guard Cornelius Weobong.

Red Devil fans are also ready to see Jeff get back to form.

“I don’t think New Albany has the basketball IQ to beat our guys,” said sophomore fan Preston McCombs.

Jeff is looking to get back in the win column by changing their approach.

“I think as a team we need to pick it up in practice and work hard to prepare for this team,” said senior point guard Elijah Cheeks.

The team is also looking for leaders to help get the young team ready to play.

“Me and (Terrence) Nord need need to pick up our leadership in game and practice; we have to get people to give it their all,” said Cheeks

The New Albany team is headlined by stars like sophomore shooting guard Noah Washington, who will be a struggle to stop.

“New Albany is looking dangerous this year — they have some good players, but I still have confidence we can stop them,” said head coach Sherron Wilkerson.

The team is also looking to get out to an early lead and retain it throughout the game.

“We want to come out on fire and not wait until our backs are against the wall to comeback and put up points,” said Cheeks.

Jeff has its own players to watch out for, especially junior Jacob Wilkerson.

“(Jacob) Wilkerson has to keep doing what he’s doing — he’s balling right now; he just has to keep on track,” said Cheeks.

While New Albany seems like an unstoppable team, Jeff sees weaknesses to exploit.

“They don’t play defense and don’t really want to guard the ball; I think with our offense we can take advantage of that and win this game,” said Cheeks.

Graphic by Magdalene Conrad.
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Red Devils prepare to face New Albany this Thursday

Lawrence North defeats JHS 71-53 on Jan. 3

All photos by Parker McCloskey and Malachi Conrad. Click on photos in the gallery below.

The Red Devils plan out their game plan before the tip off against Lawrence North on Jan. 3. JHS plays at New Albany on Thursday, Jan. 8 at 7:30 p.m. The game was moved from Friday to accommodate the Indiana Peach Bowl game on Friday night. Photo by Malachi Conrad.
Junior Jacob Wilkerson takes a mid range jumper during the JHS-Lawrence North game. Lawrence North won 71-53 on Jan. 3. The Red Devils face off with rival New Albany at New Albany High School this Thursday, Jan. 8 at 7:30 p.m. Photo by Parker McCloskey.
Sophomore Aiden Toler scores a layup in the first quarter against Lawrence North. Photo by Malachi Conrad.
Senior Cash Whitehead protects the ball while looking for an opening during the Lawrence North game on Jan. 3. Photo by Parker McCloskey.
Head coach Sherron Wilkerson talks to his team in the third quarter during a timeout. Photo by Malachi Conrad.
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Silver Creek defeats JHS 64-51

State championship rings handed out prior to last night’s game

All photos by Magdalene Conrad, Malachi Conrad, Parket McCloskey, and Isaiah Stewart. Click on photographs in the gallery below.

Principal Pam Hall prepares to hand out last year’s 4A state championship rings. Photo by Magdalene Conrad.
Senior Terrence Nord prepares to shoot the ball during warmups before Thursday’s game against Silver Creek. The Red Devils are 2-2 so far on the season. Players and coaches were also presented with championship rings from last season’s state championship before the varsity game. Photo by Parker McCloskey.
The JHS student section holds up copies of the Hyphen student newspaper during Silver Creek’s starting five announcements. The special issue highlighted the Red Devils’ run to the state championship last year. Photo by Magdalene Conrad.
Senior Elijah Cheeks and junior Caleb Jones greet each other during the player starting lineups. Photo by Parker McCloskey.
Sophomore Damauri Crosby leaps for the ball during the opening jump against Silver Creek. Silver Creek won 64-51. Photo by Parker McCloskey.
Junior Tre Mitchell takes a shot against the opposing Silver Creek Dragons. Photo by Magdalene Conrad.
Senior Terrence Nord lays up the ball against the Silver Creek Dragons at last night’s matchup. Photo by Magdalene Conrad.
Senior Elijah Cheeks takes a moment during last night’s game. Photo by Magdalene Conrad.
Junior Caleb Jones and senior Terrence Nord perform a handshake during the starting five announcements. Photo by Magdalene Conrad.
Senior Terrence Nord protects the ball against his Silver Creek senior Dane Sprigler. Photo by Parker McCloskey.
The Jeffersonville pep band performs during halftime of the JHS-Silver Creek game. Photo by Malachi Conrad.
The Jeffersonville cheer team goes out during a timeout to perform a routine. Photo by Malachi Conrad.
Senior Elijah Cheeks passes the ball during the JHS game against Silver Creek Thursday night. The Dragons won 64-51 and are 6-0 on the season so far. Photo by Parker McCloskey.
Sophomore Damauri Crosby attacks the post looking to score. Photo by Malachi Conrad.
Head coach Sherron Wilkerson gives the Red Devils the game plan for yesterday’s game. Photo by Malachi Conrad.
Junior Jacob Wilkerson shoots a free throw against Silver Creek. Photo by Isaiah Stewart.
Senior Cash Whitehead takes the ball up the court during Thursday’s game against Silver Creek. Photo by Isaiah Stewart.
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Niemi wins Sophomore Class JHS Christmas Shirt Fundraiser

Stephanie Niemi poses with the Christmas candy basket she won as part of the Sophomore Class JHS Christmas shirt fundraiser. The Sophomore Class had a drawing for the gift basket for anyone who purchased a shirt, and Niemi’s name was drawn as the winner. The Sophomore Class thanks everyone who participated. Submitted photo.
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“Elemental” Is a Mix of Vibrancy and Heart

By Lacy Blanton

“Elemental” (2023) is the newest animated film produced by Disney and Pixar. Although marketed for young viewers, the film has two adult stories to share: one of romance and the other of immigration.

In a world where the four natural elements (Fire, Water, Air, and Earth) are the anthropomorphic inhabitants comes Ember Lumen: A young Fire woman who’s the daughter of “Fireland”-immigrants, living tucked away in Firetown, a district of Element City. Her family and culture mean everything to her – evident through her goal of becoming the next owner of her aging father’s convenience store. Just when she believes her future life is all figured out, Ember meets an unlikely friend (and her very unlikely Prince Charming), Wade Ripple: a young Water man, through certain circumstances. Their relationship may appear to look doomed from the start as the societal belief of Element City is that “elements don’t mix”, but that idea may be challenged as Ember and Wade grow closer as friends, and even a little more than that. 

One of the main highlights that can draw any person into watching the film is its animation. Almost every scene was beautifully colorful; from the backgrounds, locations, and character designs. The greatest comparison of its style is of a watercolor painting – vibrant, fresh, yet so calming. Its shimmering flair never grew too overwhelming for the eyes to see and multiple scenes had something new for viewers to see, such as the Lumen’s bustling convenience shop, the ‘Cyclone Stadium’ and Brook Ripple’s (Wade’s mother) aquatic luxury penthouse.

The character designs were remarkably impressive by how much their movements were reminiscent of their real-life counterparts. The artists and animators truly embraced the concept of the characters being their respective elements in scenes of having them display their own unique abilities, to how they can struggle or benefit from another elemental force. 

Both stories of Ember’s family, and the love story between her and Wade balance with each other. Impressively, they even intertwine at times. The Lumen family’s struggles and resiliency as Fire people residing in Element City is a reflection of what many real-life immigrants in our everyday world experience. It’s something insightful and inspiring to see. 

As an animated movie: was it a rom-com, and was it romantic? Very much so! Wade and Ember had an adorably wholesome relationship thanks to their chemistry, appreciation for each other, and willingness to help lift one another up. Wade intuitively goes out of his way to make Ember happy, and the latter is always attempting to protect him from her parents’ distrust toward Water people. Being of different elements: the couple is a perfect metaphor of an interracial couple – It has its difficulties, but they make it work out of means of true love. 

The film had a way of making the audience feel for the main characters. All you wanted was for Wade and Ember to be happily together without any challenges, and for Ember to have the best of both worlds with her parents, career, and her newly found love.

Peter Sohn, the director, was inspired to create “Elemental” based on his own personal experience of being born to Korean-immigrant parents in 1970’s New York City. To hear such an inspiration that originated from childhood is a highly vulnerable yet special thing. When watching the film, you could feel the love that Sohn had poured into it with scenes or background information on the Lumen’s being native to Fireland. 

Around the time of its release, “Elemental” received generally positive reception, with merely a few mixed reviews from critics; praising the picture for its visuals but pointing out how the storytelling felt underwhelming – a very unusual detriment for a “Pixar” flick. While it doesn’t live up to the sheer masterpieces of “Wall-E”, the “Toy Story” franchise, “Finding Nemo”, or even “Soul”: “Elemental” is still an enjoyable, heartfelt picture that tells a mixed but balanced story of an opposites-attract romance, the importance of family and their sacrifices they make. No matter any accusations of “underwhelming” storytelling from critics: the vibrant animation, endearing lead characters and their bond, and the director’s inspiration outway such criticism.

As a self-declared “Pixar” fan: this wasn’t a definite favorite film from the company’s collection, but nonetheless, a charming picture that one can hold dear to them for a long time, and that can be most likely said the same for Peter Sohn. 

    

by jhshyphen

The Repetition of Star Wars

by Sam Broady

Star Wars has been releasing a lot of content lately. You can watch it all on Disney Plus. But will you enjoy it? Do you like repetitive spinoffs that keep you attached to the past? Or do you like refreshing stories with new characters and expansive lore? I believe the writers should focus more on originality than formula. This was the great mistake of the Disney purchase in 2012. They continue to show their desperate merchandise intentions through all these films, series, games, and more. But Star Wars isn’t the only cash-grab franchise; that term applies to Marvel, Pixar, and the rest of Disney as well.

Let’s start with the sequel trilogy. Whether you enjoy it or not, there’s no denying its similarity to the original trilogy and its reliance on fan service. Disney didn’t plan a storyline, their writing was based on the audience’s reactions to each installment. For example, the amount of backlash that “The Last Jedi” received led to a retcon of everything in “The Rise of Skywalker”. Rey is a Palpatine instead of a nobody; Anakin’s lightsaber is fixed; Kylo has his mask back; and Rose is heavily sidelined. Fast forward to season 2 of “The Mandalorian”. The first season is its own story, but the next one is a festival of cameos from well-known franchise characters including Cobb Vanth, Bo Katan, Ahsoka Tano, Luke Skywalker, and R2-D2. Then there’s an animated series entitled “The Bad Batch”, a prime example of one cliche after the other. There are some good episodes, but most of them have no stakes and old characters are thrown into the story on occasion to keep us engaged. Next we have “The Book of Boba Fett” which is literally living in the past. There are cameos everywhere and Tatooine is an overused location that loves smashing familiar sites in your face. Which is one of the problems with the series “Obi-Wan Kenobi”. It’s nothing new; it uses shaky cam too often; and it’s the third time we’ve seen the protagonist care for a child.

There’s a pattern to be noticed here. Disney is relying too much on our familiarity with the franchise in order to get viewers. I think plenty of people would still watch their content if they took a new approach. “The Mandalorian” was the first Star Wars series on Disney Plus and it succeeded because it’s a standalone story with a completely different tone. But people don’t realize that. The final arc of “The Clone Wars” is in the top tier of television. “Andor” is such a bold take on the lore and it doesn’t feel like Star Wars at all. Clearly, Disney isn’t always lazy. “Rogue One” is a great film that tells its own engaging story without the Skywalkers. “Rebels” is a fun series with many meaningful moments such as Ahsoka’s duel with Vader and Kenobi’s confrontation with Maul. The point is that Star Wars needs to be more consistent with its quality. One day, it’s the same old content. The next day, it’s the best we’ve seen in a long time. The reason Star Wars became popular in the first place is because it was something no one has ever seen before. It’s an exploratory adventure with memorable characters and iconic imagery that blew everyone’s minds with the ambition of its filmmaking. Now, they need to continue building off of that.

The other Disney projects have the same issues. The Marvel Cinematic Universe is even more formulaic and I cannot stand how unoriginal the majority of its installments are. They’re typical superhero stories with an overuse of poor CGI. Again, not all of them are like that. It mostly applies to Phase 4 and the amount of content released isn’t helping. They need more time to craft thoughtful and passionate projects. Pixar isn’t necessarily in the same boat, but even their films have a tiring formula at this point. Sure, each installment has its own creative premise and execution. But they all have very similar messages. Whether they’re about life, family, or friendship.

The moral is that people don’t like seeing the same thing over and over. We only pay to do so because we expect something from franchises that we fell in love with. Writers like Dave Filoni, Jon Favreau, and Rian Johnson need to stay in the business because they have bold takes on storytelling in Star Wars. Dave Filoni dove so deep into the lore of the universe; Jon Favreau crafted an original and immersive western story; and Rian Johnson wasn’t afraid to take a trilogy into a new direction. I believe techniques like those are what’s most important.

by jhshyphen

Speaking Out on “The Poet X”

By Lacy Blanton, Guest Journalist

Image: HarperCollins Publishers, 2023

“Even with the tambourine and festive singing, these days, church seems less party and more prison” is one of many quotes and themes from the ingenious book “The Poet X” that simply took my breath away through amazement. 

“The Poet X” is a 2018 young adult novel written by Harlem-based author and poet Elizabeth Acevedo, published by “HarperTeen”. 

The story follows fifteen-year-old Dominican girl Xiomara Batista living in the vibrant city of Harlem, New York. A land home to thousands of Afro-Latino identities, and its culturally rich street life that her overprotective Mamí shields her from. Xiomara (who also goes by “Xio” or “X”) hides the beautiful talent of her writing in a notebook. In it, she lyrically pours out her thoughts and documents the struggles in her daily life. These struggles include frequent sexual harassment from men, questioning the authenticity of her birth-religion and Mamí making that freedom of choice difficult for her, and her confused feelings after a blossoming crush on a boy at her school. X discovers and is captured by the Black-based culture of slam poetry, which she begins to explore within her notebook. Living in a world where people try to keep her silent, X learns the power of her poetic words and fights for them to be heard. 

A feature that makes this novel compelling is how it is written from an in-verse perspective. Each chapter is reminiscent of a page from a notebook, and almost every chapter is a poem that documents X’s life. Each poem or “entry” has a style that is easy-to-follow. They’re typically short but powerfully clever nonetheless. (A huge plus for those who struggle paying attention when reading.) Other details are that each chapter is dated to a month and a day of the week. All of this helps create an atmosphere that you’re truly immersed into X’s world, that you really are reading the notebook of an impressionable but talented teenager. And with that, rooting for the main character feels essential. The shockingly realistic plot and brutal honesty is also an immense factor to the novel’s merit. The summary given above are just several of the many heavy topics that the story tackles, but all are dealt with in a respectful and believable fashion. The novel is loaded with memorable quotes that’ll make readers’ fingers snap and go “mmm” with their mouths, most likely linked to the straightforwardness. As X and her family are Latinx, there are several chapters or phrases completely written in Spanish. Additionally helping the novel contain a piece of realism and have the readers feel even more immersed in the protagonist’s culture. Above else, the message of speaking out was the true shining star. Acevedo didn’t just write this book, she made this with true love and passionate words. 

I, like many reviewers that have marveled over this book, are touched by this story. X’s passions, struggles, and life holds a mirror to mine. Not only as a person of color, high schooler, and twin, but also as a writer and poet wishing for my work to be heard. 

Since its release, many schools across the US have outright banned the book for its inclusive themes of sexuality in adolescence, and claims of it being ‘anti-religious’ and having ‘alternative beliefs’. What these schools fail to realize is that “The Poet X” was not written for controversy, spectacle, or shock. It is a daring book that tells the real lives and situations of numerous individuals. From a current teenager’s coming-of-age to a grown adult who had similar experiences to X’s growing up. Acevedo’s central message about the power of voice alongside the art that is slam poetry within this story is a message for all to hear. It is absolutely going to save and inspire many.

by jhshyphen

TOP 5 SHOWS THAT YOU SHOULD WATCH

By Luke Whobrey

1 – Breaking Bad

Though often heralded as an oft crime thriller, “Breaking Bad” has had a resurgence in popularity with the release of a spinoff, “Better Call Saul” (an equally nefarious-themed acquaintance), as well as a variety of internet memes chronicling its main character, Walter White’s mouth-agape expression in response to a tragedy. The show, focusing on themes of disparity as well as chronicled events of impending doom, present a narrative meant to show that while action is a gripping feature, there is more to be presumed within what we perceive as “Illegal.”

2 – The Sopranos

A crime drama starring New Jersey’s finest James Gandolfini, the “Sopranos” focuses on an Italian-American mobster who attempts to reconcile his family life with his infidelities as well as the numerous amounts of punches, gunshots, and kicks he has to throw to get people his way. Running for seven seasons, David Chase presents a narrative acquainted with that of oldie-goldies in cinema, reminiscent of “The Godfather”, “Goodfellas”, and “The Untouchables”. 

3 – The Walking Dead

A post-apocalyptic horror show with elements of the Western genre, especially that of Spaghetti Western, “The Walking Dead” chronicles in its first few seasons the life of a certain Rick Grimes, a police officer who awakens in a hospital after having been shot by a criminal. While asleep, the world around him collapsed to hordes of flesh-eating monsters that the characters in the show refer to as “walkers.” Delivering horror with a slice of standoff, “The Walking Dead” provides enough entertainment in both its catalogue of weapons as well as its production of acquired nuances, a feat seldom accomplished in mainstream media.

4 – The Last of Us

Despite only recently coming out and having four episodes total as of writing this, “The Last of Us”, like “The Walking Dead”, focuses through both flashbacks and interactions on a world destroyed by both firebombing from a desperate military as well as the undead who brought it upon themselves. The show echoes themes of affection and bewildered morality, as well as the unfortunate alliances and sacrifices needed to be made to fight against a foe, in this case one mutated with a large appetite for brains. 

5 – Futurama

While a wild suggestion with its two-dimensional landscape compared to the previous shows, “Futurama” serves as one of “The Simpsons” creator Matt Groening’s finest works, coming elements of comedy with surrealism, non-sequiturs, and futuristic vendettas, all held together by a stream-of-consciousness format explored in the character of Philip Fry, a despondent salesman who finds himself sent 1,000 years into the future in cryostasis. 

by lukaswhobrius