Congratulations Officer Hillman, Mr. Faber, and Mr. Berg
on your Retirement!!!
Interview with TV Star/Pennfield Alumni: Lance Barber
Mr. Rio from Harper Creek set up an interview with Lance Barber, Pennfield Alumni (Class of 1991). Mr. Rio was nice enough to include a teacher from each of the Battle Creek Schools. I was lucky enough to join and get the chance to meet Lance. He is a proud Panther Alumni, and he said he would like to come visit our school in the near future. Lance currently plays Sheldon's father on the hit TV series 'Young Sheldon.' Check out the end of the video, he gives us Panthers a shout out!
Ms. Royer
Ms. Royer
Congrats Class of 2021!
See more photos here: https://photos.app.goo.gl/d66CyygXpnjwMrNP6
Art and Photography classes get OUTSIDE!!
No Toilet Paper Shortage Here!
Seniors 2021
Cheering up the Staff with Music
Brielle Barber ‘23 and Ally Keown ‘23
Teacher appreciation week is here, and the students of the Pennfield choirs did a big project to show their appreciation to the staff here at Pennfield High School. The teachers behind the project were Mr. Bowen and Ms. Sayles, head of the choir department. However they can’t take the credit, Mr. Bowen got the idea from Mrs. Fleisher!
This big project is where each member of the choir gets a staff member and asks them questions about their musical taste, etc and then makes a playlist of songs that they think their staff member might enjoy.
Mr. Bowen and Ms. Sayles said the purpose of this project is that, “We hope that students get to know staff members they might not encounter on a daily basis or have in a classroom, and it gives staff members an opportunity to meet the wonderful members in our choir.” They went on and said, “Our choir family works very hard at creating a sense of community in our classroom, and we thought it would be great if we could take that idea into the rest of the building and spread some much-needed joy. Music is our universal language so, what better way is there to get to know someone than through their musical taste?! As an added bonus, students might learn about a new genre or artist!”
One of the choir students, Junior Leslie Grattan said, “I think it is a great idea, very thoughtful for sure!” When asked if she thinks this will cheer up the staff member she said, “I think it will. Being online was a struggle for us students, but it was also a struggle for our teachers too and I think we sometimes forget that.”
Mr. Bowen and Ms. Sayles agreed with Leslie and said, “I definitely think this will brighten their day. When we were your age (back in The Olden Days,) we used to make mix-tapes on cassettes for our friends to cheer each other up, get psyched before a sporting event or performance, and sometimes just to jam. I'm confident the staff will have smiles on their faces as they listen to the mix-tapes you create. Also, how fun would it be to hear Mrs.Delano belting out her favorite tunes as she plugs in grades, or catch Ms. Blyveis dancing down the hallway?!”
This is a great way to show appreciation to our staff, remember to show appreciation to your teachers this week and thank them for being awesome!
Teacher appreciation week is here, and the students of the Pennfield choirs did a big project to show their appreciation to the staff here at Pennfield High School. The teachers behind the project were Mr. Bowen and Ms. Sayles, head of the choir department. However they can’t take the credit, Mr. Bowen got the idea from Mrs. Fleisher!
This big project is where each member of the choir gets a staff member and asks them questions about their musical taste, etc and then makes a playlist of songs that they think their staff member might enjoy.
Mr. Bowen and Ms. Sayles said the purpose of this project is that, “We hope that students get to know staff members they might not encounter on a daily basis or have in a classroom, and it gives staff members an opportunity to meet the wonderful members in our choir.” They went on and said, “Our choir family works very hard at creating a sense of community in our classroom, and we thought it would be great if we could take that idea into the rest of the building and spread some much-needed joy. Music is our universal language so, what better way is there to get to know someone than through their musical taste?! As an added bonus, students might learn about a new genre or artist!”
One of the choir students, Junior Leslie Grattan said, “I think it is a great idea, very thoughtful for sure!” When asked if she thinks this will cheer up the staff member she said, “I think it will. Being online was a struggle for us students, but it was also a struggle for our teachers too and I think we sometimes forget that.”
Mr. Bowen and Ms. Sayles agreed with Leslie and said, “I definitely think this will brighten their day. When we were your age (back in The Olden Days,) we used to make mix-tapes on cassettes for our friends to cheer each other up, get psyched before a sporting event or performance, and sometimes just to jam. I'm confident the staff will have smiles on their faces as they listen to the mix-tapes you create. Also, how fun would it be to hear Mrs.Delano belting out her favorite tunes as she plugs in grades, or catch Ms. Blyveis dancing down the hallway?!”
This is a great way to show appreciation to our staff, remember to show appreciation to your teachers this week and thank them for being awesome!
Summer Plans
Jessica Brosky '23
With the school year coming to a close many people are making plans for the summer. Some go on vacation and rest up for the next school year. While others enjoy a new freedom given to them by graduating high school. Senior Sarah Brosky and Freshman Sadie Penney give some insight about their summer plans.
A lot of people always look forward to summer each year. Some even go as far as counting down the days until summer. So it is no surprise that both Sadie and Sarah had some feelings about summer coming up. While Sadie said, “Yes I am super excited.” Sarah says, “Yes and no because I have work and school.”
Both Sarah and Sadie also have different plans for over the summer. While Sarah says, “I am going to work, going to nail school and going on a vacation.” Sadie said, “I am planning to be with my friends most of the time.”
It is no surprise that due to the pandemic getting better, many summer plans may be different from previous years. While Sadie said, “well since covid isn't that bad anymore we are planning to go do more things and have better adventures.” Sarah says, “Yes because now I am graduated.”
It sounds like both of these girls have great plans for the summer and are ready to get the summer started.
A lot of people always look forward to summer each year. Some even go as far as counting down the days until summer. So it is no surprise that both Sadie and Sarah had some feelings about summer coming up. While Sadie said, “Yes I am super excited.” Sarah says, “Yes and no because I have work and school.”
Both Sarah and Sadie also have different plans for over the summer. While Sarah says, “I am going to work, going to nail school and going on a vacation.” Sadie said, “I am planning to be with my friends most of the time.”
It is no surprise that due to the pandemic getting better, many summer plans may be different from previous years. While Sadie said, “well since covid isn't that bad anymore we are planning to go do more things and have better adventures.” Sarah says, “Yes because now I am graduated.”
It sounds like both of these girls have great plans for the summer and are ready to get the summer started.
Summer Job Opportunities
Addie Noffsinger '23
Jobs in the summer can sometimes be hard to get, especially if you have lots of plans during your free time away from school. But as us teenagers grow older, it becomes more essential to not only earn money, but learn how to work with other people, have responsibilities, and to have structure in your life when there’s not much else to do. So if you haven’t planned it already, here are some ideas for a summer job.
14 years old
Because of legal requirements, lots of official employers don’t usually hire people as young as 14. However, jobs with relatives, family friends, or even parents’ coworkers can be beneficial. If you’re 14, you could think about trying babysitting, house sitting, dog walking, pet sitting, or even plant watering. Also, doing lawn work like mowing or weeding is a good way to earn money. If these options aren’t what you’re looking for, simply asking around in your community might help you find something, since smaller, more temporary jobs are what you’ll most likely be hired for.
15 years old
Again, legal requirements are going to keep you from being able to work in a lot of official places. Thankfully, you could still do all the jobs listed above, plus a few other things. Restaurants have a position called the host or hostess, and even though it might be bending the rules, a lot of the time they’ll hire slightly younger people to fill the position. It isn’t the highest paying job, but for the summer it might work for a lot of people. You could additionally try tutoring, assisting at a local daycare, or asking around for positions. Also, if you have a family member or close friend that’s willing to hire you for a more official job, go for it!
16+ years old
Finally, these are the positions where it’s more legal to hire you for a real position. You might not get to be the CEO of a company, though. Restaurants are a good place to start. If you’re 16 or older, you could be hired as a cash register, drive-thru worker, dish washer, waitress or waiter, busboy (or girl), concession stand employee (think baseball games) and countless other things. Not to mention all the jobs previously listed. Again, you might not be the CEO, but it will be much easier to find a job now that you’re older.
Finding a job still might be hard. Especially with COVID-19, it isn’t that easy to do this year. But it isn’t impossible, either! If you’re still having trouble, don’t forget to ask around and advertise your services if needed. Good luck and have a great summer!
Jobs in the summer can sometimes be hard to get, especially if you have lots of plans during your free time away from school. But as us teenagers grow older, it becomes more essential to not only earn money, but learn how to work with other people, have responsibilities, and to have structure in your life when there’s not much else to do. So if you haven’t planned it already, here are some ideas for a summer job.
14 years old
Because of legal requirements, lots of official employers don’t usually hire people as young as 14. However, jobs with relatives, family friends, or even parents’ coworkers can be beneficial. If you’re 14, you could think about trying babysitting, house sitting, dog walking, pet sitting, or even plant watering. Also, doing lawn work like mowing or weeding is a good way to earn money. If these options aren’t what you’re looking for, simply asking around in your community might help you find something, since smaller, more temporary jobs are what you’ll most likely be hired for.
15 years old
Again, legal requirements are going to keep you from being able to work in a lot of official places. Thankfully, you could still do all the jobs listed above, plus a few other things. Restaurants have a position called the host or hostess, and even though it might be bending the rules, a lot of the time they’ll hire slightly younger people to fill the position. It isn’t the highest paying job, but for the summer it might work for a lot of people. You could additionally try tutoring, assisting at a local daycare, or asking around for positions. Also, if you have a family member or close friend that’s willing to hire you for a more official job, go for it!
16+ years old
Finally, these are the positions where it’s more legal to hire you for a real position. You might not get to be the CEO of a company, though. Restaurants are a good place to start. If you’re 16 or older, you could be hired as a cash register, drive-thru worker, dish washer, waitress or waiter, busboy (or girl), concession stand employee (think baseball games) and countless other things. Not to mention all the jobs previously listed. Again, you might not be the CEO, but it will be much easier to find a job now that you’re older.
Finding a job still might be hard. Especially with COVID-19, it isn’t that easy to do this year. But it isn’t impossible, either! If you’re still having trouble, don’t forget to ask around and advertise your services if needed. Good luck and have a great summer!
Prom
Sarah Ogden ‘23
Prom is a very anticipated event for most people, it allows students to get dressed up and have an amazing time with their friends. Last prom season, COVID-19 challenged us with many setbacks in the planning process. Unfortunately things are still the same and the school decided it was best to cancel Prom. However, we interviewed a Junior and Senior about how they took matters into their own hands and will be throwing their own Prom.
Junior, Madisen Wollaston feels “that the school is doing whatever they believe is safest and that’s commendable.” However she doesn’t want that to stop her or her peers from having memorable Junior year. “We are doing our best to independently fund a safe and enjoyable prom for the class of 2022. We have a location selected but the details are still being worked out.” Of course there will be many rules made for the event because of the virus. “We will be wearing masks and doing our best to be as smart as possible with this prom.” Masks are the most obvious rule but there will be an announcement made before the Prom of all the mandatory protocols for the night. Madi has never been to Prom before so she can’t wait for it to come. “I found a really cute dress and it’s simple and classy. I can’t wait to debut it!”
Senior, Naomi Todd is “obviously sad that prom got canceled to begin with.” But thankfully the senior classes PUP is helping put a prom together. The seniors prom will be at the Stone Barn on May 8th. Naomi thinks that the “school should’ve thrown prom because we’re still having one in the same place and time, so I don’t see much of a difference.” During the Prom, masks must be worn at all times and they must try their best to social distance. “People from other schools are also allowed to come as long as a Pennfield senior invited them.” Naomi is excited to have a fun evening with her friends by going out to dinner and taking pictures before the dance. She has been very busy and hasn’t been dress shopping yet but she plans “on wearing a blue dress of some sort to prom.”
High school goes by in the blink of an eye and it’s good to see that students can make the most out of a bad situation. Hopefully both the junior and senior classes will have a safe and memorable prom. A lot can change in a year so we’ll have to wait and see what is in store for the 2022 prom season.
Junior, Madisen Wollaston feels “that the school is doing whatever they believe is safest and that’s commendable.” However she doesn’t want that to stop her or her peers from having memorable Junior year. “We are doing our best to independently fund a safe and enjoyable prom for the class of 2022. We have a location selected but the details are still being worked out.” Of course there will be many rules made for the event because of the virus. “We will be wearing masks and doing our best to be as smart as possible with this prom.” Masks are the most obvious rule but there will be an announcement made before the Prom of all the mandatory protocols for the night. Madi has never been to Prom before so she can’t wait for it to come. “I found a really cute dress and it’s simple and classy. I can’t wait to debut it!”
Senior, Naomi Todd is “obviously sad that prom got canceled to begin with.” But thankfully the senior classes PUP is helping put a prom together. The seniors prom will be at the Stone Barn on May 8th. Naomi thinks that the “school should’ve thrown prom because we’re still having one in the same place and time, so I don’t see much of a difference.” During the Prom, masks must be worn at all times and they must try their best to social distance. “People from other schools are also allowed to come as long as a Pennfield senior invited them.” Naomi is excited to have a fun evening with her friends by going out to dinner and taking pictures before the dance. She has been very busy and hasn’t been dress shopping yet but she plans “on wearing a blue dress of some sort to prom.”
High school goes by in the blink of an eye and it’s good to see that students can make the most out of a bad situation. Hopefully both the junior and senior classes will have a safe and memorable prom. A lot can change in a year so we’ll have to wait and see what is in store for the 2022 prom season.
Graduation
Jessica B. '21, Sarah B. '21
Graduation is something that most seniors look forward to. With graduation just around the corner it is no surprise that seniors are thinking about the event. Seniors Jack Boyd and Sadie Drawhorn give some insight about graduation this year.
Graduating is a big milestone for students so it is no surprise that they have some opinions about graduating. While Jack says, “It seems crazy to me how fast it came.” Sadie said, “I am looking forward to graduating, I think for all of us it came a lot quicker than we expected but still something that we’ve been waiting so long to be able to do.”
It doesn’t end with graduation many students need plans for after they graduate. Both these seniors are no different. They both already have plans for their future. While Sadie states, “After graduation I plan on attending Michigan State University to study Business Administration. Jack said after graduation he will be, “Enjoying my summer everyday doing something new.”
With everything that changed this year it is no surprise that graduation is different too. Both these seniors also had opinions about graduating differently this year. Jack said, “I mean it is just like everything else, changes have to be made for the greater good.” While Sadie says, “Although graduation is different this year I am still grateful that we will be able to have a graduation even if it is nontraditional.”
Both of these seniors also had opinions on whether they would even want a traditional graduation. While Jack said, “ I’m just happy I've reached this milestone in my life.” Sadie says, “I do wish we were able to do a traditional graduation but obviously that is not a possibility with the current state of the world but I think that it will always be something to remember about our senior year and how nontraditional it was for so many of us.”
Even though graduation this year is going to be different it still sounds like both of these seniors are excited and ready to graduate. They both have great plans and will go far in life.
Graduating is a big milestone for students so it is no surprise that they have some opinions about graduating. While Jack says, “It seems crazy to me how fast it came.” Sadie said, “I am looking forward to graduating, I think for all of us it came a lot quicker than we expected but still something that we’ve been waiting so long to be able to do.”
It doesn’t end with graduation many students need plans for after they graduate. Both these seniors are no different. They both already have plans for their future. While Sadie states, “After graduation I plan on attending Michigan State University to study Business Administration. Jack said after graduation he will be, “Enjoying my summer everyday doing something new.”
With everything that changed this year it is no surprise that graduation is different too. Both these seniors also had opinions about graduating differently this year. Jack said, “I mean it is just like everything else, changes have to be made for the greater good.” While Sadie says, “Although graduation is different this year I am still grateful that we will be able to have a graduation even if it is nontraditional.”
Both of these seniors also had opinions on whether they would even want a traditional graduation. While Jack said, “ I’m just happy I've reached this milestone in my life.” Sadie says, “I do wish we were able to do a traditional graduation but obviously that is not a possibility with the current state of the world but I think that it will always be something to remember about our senior year and how nontraditional it was for so many of us.”
Even though graduation this year is going to be different it still sounds like both of these seniors are excited and ready to graduate. They both have great plans and will go far in life.
Lunch Card for Virtual Kids
Addie Noffsinger, ‘23
Families in Michigan may have noticed recently that they received a certain card for their virtual students. There were definitely a few parents who might’ve been confused, as well as a few who were relieved. We’re here to tell you the who, what, when, where, why, and how to these “lunch cards.”
What?
Although it’s out of order, it’s probably most important to explain the “what” first. This handout item is called an EBT card. It stands for Electronic Benefit Transfer. Families who were a part of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, were already eligible to receive this assistance, and did not need to apply for P-EBT (Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer) benefits. P-EBT was authorized by the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, which helps out families who’ve lost access to free or reduced price lunches due to the pandemic. Specifically, these cards were recently handed out to families in Michigan whose students were learning virtually.
When?
Early April is when many families received this card in the mail. However, programs for those in more immediate need have been working since early February, as announced by Governor Whitmer.
Where?
This program was initiated by the Department of Human services. The money is federal but is distributed by the state. This specific case of virtual students is definitely a Michigan thing.
Why?
This program is the state’s way of helping those in need, and it’s definitely a priority to help as many kids out as possible. Even one meal covered can make a huge difference for someone.
How?
According to Michigan.gov, “Families will receive an estimated $127.53 monthly for each eligible child who has no in-person classes and attends a school that is fully virtual and about $77.06 for each eligible child who attends a school with a hybrid schedule of in-person and remote learning.” So that’s how much. But how was the EBT card physically distributed? First, families did not need to apply for this assistance. Second, these cards were sent in the mail and activating them occurs electronically.
Who?
As previously mentioned, these cards were initially intended for families that were part of SNAP or that applied for the card. Also, students who had been receiving free or reduced price lunches had one of these cards. But now, there are new circumstances that Michigan has taken into account. Virtual or hybrid students receive financial assistance for meals now too. Any students that are grades Pre-K to 12 are eligible.
What?
Although it’s out of order, it’s probably most important to explain the “what” first. This handout item is called an EBT card. It stands for Electronic Benefit Transfer. Families who were a part of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, were already eligible to receive this assistance, and did not need to apply for P-EBT (Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer) benefits. P-EBT was authorized by the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, which helps out families who’ve lost access to free or reduced price lunches due to the pandemic. Specifically, these cards were recently handed out to families in Michigan whose students were learning virtually.
When?
Early April is when many families received this card in the mail. However, programs for those in more immediate need have been working since early February, as announced by Governor Whitmer.
Where?
This program was initiated by the Department of Human services. The money is federal but is distributed by the state. This specific case of virtual students is definitely a Michigan thing.
Why?
This program is the state’s way of helping those in need, and it’s definitely a priority to help as many kids out as possible. Even one meal covered can make a huge difference for someone.
How?
According to Michigan.gov, “Families will receive an estimated $127.53 monthly for each eligible child who has no in-person classes and attends a school that is fully virtual and about $77.06 for each eligible child who attends a school with a hybrid schedule of in-person and remote learning.” So that’s how much. But how was the EBT card physically distributed? First, families did not need to apply for this assistance. Second, these cards were sent in the mail and activating them occurs electronically.
Who?
As previously mentioned, these cards were initially intended for families that were part of SNAP or that applied for the card. Also, students who had been receiving free or reduced price lunches had one of these cards. But now, there are new circumstances that Michigan has taken into account. Virtual or hybrid students receive financial assistance for meals now too. Any students that are grades Pre-K to 12 are eligible.
Senior Memories
Ayri W.
Senior year is a hard time for everyone. No one is ready to say goodbye quite yet. With that being said some of the seniors of the 2021 school year gave us some of their favorite high school memories.
Kailey Shroyer: “My best memory from high school is probably Mr. Boyd’s class because I liked the group of people I sat with and Mr. Boyd is by far one of my favorite teachers and his class was always fun even though I probably wasn’t doing my work. I even bought him a Diet Coke before school once because he’s just that cool.” Faith Grupczynski: “The day I bowled my first 200 was our I-8 tournament when I placed 7th. Izzy Eves made us all breakfast and snacks to eat during our games. That was the most fun I had with my team. We were just bowling with our team and we were so loud at one point. The girls just light each other up.” Darby Andrews: “When I met my best friend. She was new and I had never talked to her before but we got assigned seats next to each other for seminar. She was super quiet and shy but I could just tell she was really friendly and that I wanted to know her. I’m pretty shy too and don’t usually talk to people first but once I did we immediately had a great conversation and have been inseparable since.” |
Maddie Robbins: “Going to football games with my friends and just walking around and talking and barely watching the football game until the last quarter.”
|
FINALLY Senior Quarter
Hailey Shemberger 21’
With graduation lingering so close and this being the final quarter for the class of 2021, the seniors have a short time left here at Pennfield High School. Seniors Catie Govier and Grace Endsly gave us a recap of their year and what else they are looking forward to with the little amount of time we have left before graduation.
As Catie looks back on her high school years but mostly senior year she shares a few memories and missed experiences due to our current situations this year. “I believe we really missed a lot of the great things about senior year in the first half of the year. Things like the first day of school, meeting up with friends, blood drives, after home football game dances.” With these being key events that Catie feels she missed out on she also shares a few things she's looking forward to in the short amount of time seniors have left of high school. “ I’m super excited for Prom, Graduation, Track season, and to enjoy the rest of my senior year to the fullest.”
With Grace also being a senior she shares her thoughts/feelings about this being the class of 2021’s final quarter of high school. “It makes me sad knowing this is my last year and that it was all behind a screen.” Although Grace is disappointed about spending her senior year behind a screen of a computer, she states a positive outcome of this experience. “Learning how to use my computer more and how fast I can do my assignments for the week.”
Although this year wasn’t what the class of 2021 imagined for themselves, they still managed to make it to the final stretch.
As Catie looks back on her high school years but mostly senior year she shares a few memories and missed experiences due to our current situations this year. “I believe we really missed a lot of the great things about senior year in the first half of the year. Things like the first day of school, meeting up with friends, blood drives, after home football game dances.” With these being key events that Catie feels she missed out on she also shares a few things she's looking forward to in the short amount of time seniors have left of high school. “ I’m super excited for Prom, Graduation, Track season, and to enjoy the rest of my senior year to the fullest.”
With Grace also being a senior she shares her thoughts/feelings about this being the class of 2021’s final quarter of high school. “It makes me sad knowing this is my last year and that it was all behind a screen.” Although Grace is disappointed about spending her senior year behind a screen of a computer, she states a positive outcome of this experience. “Learning how to use my computer more and how fast I can do my assignments for the week.”
Although this year wasn’t what the class of 2021 imagined for themselves, they still managed to make it to the final stretch.
Are Masks Making People Less friendly?
Madison Wood ‘23
With this strange time we are living in, masks have become the new normal. I know myself and many others still find ourselves smiling at others, trying to eat or drink something, etc. all with our masks on. I interviewed Sophomores, Aiden Portis and Brianna Carroll to figure out what mannerisms they still have and what they picked up over this pandemic.
Aiden told me he felt that, “Since it’s harder to read people’s expressions, I don’t talk as much as before.” And without being able to see the bottom half of a person’s face it’s hard to tell if someone is just squinting or actually smiling at you. All in all, he said he did find himself being less friendly to people he didn’t know, but with people he was closer to he didn’t notice much of a change in how he acted.
Next on the list is Brianna, she told me, “No, the masks didn’t change how much I talked to people because I didn’t talk much to begin with.” Like Aiden, she also catches herself smiling at different people when she walks by. She also told me she didn’t forget to pull her mask down in order to eat or drink something.
Masks are definitely something to get used to with the different challenges they bring but it seems these two are working their way around them fine.
Aiden told me he felt that, “Since it’s harder to read people’s expressions, I don’t talk as much as before.” And without being able to see the bottom half of a person’s face it’s hard to tell if someone is just squinting or actually smiling at you. All in all, he said he did find himself being less friendly to people he didn’t know, but with people he was closer to he didn’t notice much of a change in how he acted.
Next on the list is Brianna, she told me, “No, the masks didn’t change how much I talked to people because I didn’t talk much to begin with.” Like Aiden, she also catches herself smiling at different people when she walks by. She also told me she didn’t forget to pull her mask down in order to eat or drink something.
Masks are definitely something to get used to with the different challenges they bring but it seems these two are working their way around them fine.
Food From Around The World
Macy Gwynne ‘24
There are so many foods to choose from that aren’t just from the US. Other countries have delicious foods, and we’re going to talk about a few today. We interviewed Sophomore Abbigail Katerberg and staff member Mrs. Treadway about their opinions about foods from other places, as well as explore and go into more detail about the foods they talk about.
A food that Abbigail likes that’s not from the United States is Stroopwafels. A dish she has made that isn’t originally from the United States is Oliebollen; She says that her family usually makes them for New Years. If she could go somewhere outside of the US to try the food, she would go to Sweden because she likes some of the food that she’s had from there. A food that she would like to try is a chocolate coated candy called Smarties.
Mrs. Treadway loves almost all foods. She loves Greek food, such as lamb chops, tzatziki, saganaki and more. Her family has even made some Greek foods at home; She says that her husband is a great cook, so they turn out fabulous. If she had to pick another country to eat food from, she would pick Greece, Italy, or France. She thinks that Japan would also be an interesting place to try food from. She is a fan of the Japanese steakhouse, she loves the sauces and steak with seafood.
If you don’t know what they are, here are what some of the foods that were mentioned, are:
Stroopwafels are wafer cookies made from two thin layers of baked dough with a caramel filling that originated in Dutch and are popular in the Netherlands.
Oliebollen is a traditional Belgian or Dutch beignet (a type of fritter, or deep-fried pastry).
Tzatziki is a dip, soup or sauce that is usually found in cuisines from South Europe and the Middle East.
Saganaki is any of a variety of foods made in a small frying pan (the appetizer, fried cheese, is the best known Saganaki) that is usually found in Greek cuisine.
A food that Abbigail likes that’s not from the United States is Stroopwafels. A dish she has made that isn’t originally from the United States is Oliebollen; She says that her family usually makes them for New Years. If she could go somewhere outside of the US to try the food, she would go to Sweden because she likes some of the food that she’s had from there. A food that she would like to try is a chocolate coated candy called Smarties.
Mrs. Treadway loves almost all foods. She loves Greek food, such as lamb chops, tzatziki, saganaki and more. Her family has even made some Greek foods at home; She says that her husband is a great cook, so they turn out fabulous. If she had to pick another country to eat food from, she would pick Greece, Italy, or France. She thinks that Japan would also be an interesting place to try food from. She is a fan of the Japanese steakhouse, she loves the sauces and steak with seafood.
If you don’t know what they are, here are what some of the foods that were mentioned, are:
Stroopwafels are wafer cookies made from two thin layers of baked dough with a caramel filling that originated in Dutch and are popular in the Netherlands.
Oliebollen is a traditional Belgian or Dutch beignet (a type of fritter, or deep-fried pastry).
Tzatziki is a dip, soup or sauce that is usually found in cuisines from South Europe and the Middle East.
Saganaki is any of a variety of foods made in a small frying pan (the appetizer, fried cheese, is the best known Saganaki) that is usually found in Greek cuisine.
Spring Break Plans
Sarah Ogden ‘23
With spring right around the corner, we interviewed a few Pennfield students about their COVID spring break plans and how they may be different from previous years. For spring break last year, Sophomore Madison Youmans went to South Haven and got to swim in Lake Michigan. But this year she is planning on staying home for spring break because she is “trying to stay as safe as possible.” Unfortunately, most of Madison’s friends live in Detroit which is “a long journey to see them, so I'll just be with my family.” Madison is “excited for vaccines to be distributed to us” so she can feel safe going out and knowing that the people she cares about are safe as well. “I can't wait to be able to see my friends safely again.” Tenth grader, Makenzie Murphy just stayed home and hung out with her family for spring break last year. It wasn’t much different from previous years before COVID because “normally we don't do anything for spring break.” But this year she has the opportunity to go on vacation in Florida for ten days. “I have been to Florida a couple times and I'm going with my best friend and her family.” Makenzie is “most excited about spending a week in the sun at the beach.” However they are not taking a plane so she is not looking forward to “the 24 hour car ride.” |
Sophomore Mayci Clissold is “really excited to have a little break from all the stress that school brings.” For spring break this year, Mayci is “just going to stay home and be safe.” Normally Mayci and her family go to Chicago for spring break but due to COVID they have decided to stay home for the second year in a row. Although she is staying home “I have plans to hangout with my cousin from Hawaii.”
|
College Bound
Jessica B. & Sarah B.
As this school year starts to come to an end we have seniors preparing to go to college. Moving from high school to college can be a big process. Seniors Addison Walling and Christian Hill filled us in on their college plans.
Both Addison and Christian already have a college that they are going to attend next year. Christian said, “I will be going to KCC for the first two years then transferring to WMU for my last two and possibly getting a masters at Western as well.” While Addison said that she will be attending Ferris State University next year.
They also both have a Major for when they attend college. While Addison states, “I am double majoring in Business and Psychology.” Christian said, “I will be majoring in Chemical Engineering and minoring in life sciences. This will get me set up to go into the Biochemical engineering field.”
They both have already been accepted into the colleges as well. Christian states, “I got accepted back in November when KCC opened enrollment. Since I'm a dual enrolled student, I already had a lot of my info already in the system, a lot of the application process was already done.” While Addison said, “December last year is when I got my acceptance letter.”
They are also both preparing for college. While Addison said, “I don't really know how I am "preparing" but I have been slowly accumulating things that I need and mentally preparing myself.” Christian states, “I've filled out quite a few scholarship forms as well as the FAFSA and have been saving money for a long time now so that I can pay for as much college out of pocket as possible and be relatively low on debt when I get done. I also have been looking for jobs to do so that I can keep up with my finances as college continues.”
Though both of them sound all ready to go to college it is no surprise that they have feelings about going to college next year. Christian said, “I'm a little nervous to see what the workload will look like, but it's gonna be nice to have the extra bit of flexibility when scheduling classes.” While Addison states, “I feel nervous and excited just ready to leave Battle Creek.”
Sounds like both of these Seniors are ready to go to college next year and have a good game plan of what they are doing. There is no doubt that these Seniors will go far.
Both Addison and Christian already have a college that they are going to attend next year. Christian said, “I will be going to KCC for the first two years then transferring to WMU for my last two and possibly getting a masters at Western as well.” While Addison said that she will be attending Ferris State University next year.
They also both have a Major for when they attend college. While Addison states, “I am double majoring in Business and Psychology.” Christian said, “I will be majoring in Chemical Engineering and minoring in life sciences. This will get me set up to go into the Biochemical engineering field.”
They both have already been accepted into the colleges as well. Christian states, “I got accepted back in November when KCC opened enrollment. Since I'm a dual enrolled student, I already had a lot of my info already in the system, a lot of the application process was already done.” While Addison said, “December last year is when I got my acceptance letter.”
They are also both preparing for college. While Addison said, “I don't really know how I am "preparing" but I have been slowly accumulating things that I need and mentally preparing myself.” Christian states, “I've filled out quite a few scholarship forms as well as the FAFSA and have been saving money for a long time now so that I can pay for as much college out of pocket as possible and be relatively low on debt when I get done. I also have been looking for jobs to do so that I can keep up with my finances as college continues.”
Though both of them sound all ready to go to college it is no surprise that they have feelings about going to college next year. Christian said, “I'm a little nervous to see what the workload will look like, but it's gonna be nice to have the extra bit of flexibility when scheduling classes.” While Addison states, “I feel nervous and excited just ready to leave Battle Creek.”
Sounds like both of these Seniors are ready to go to college next year and have a good game plan of what they are doing. There is no doubt that these Seniors will go far.
Challenges for the Yearbook
Madison Wood ‘23
This school year has been interesting, to say the least, it has been very difficult to form any kind of schedule since you never knew when new COVID restrictions would be placed. This year had been especially difficult for the yearbook team since we weren’t in school for the first semester. Sports also proved to be a problem since seasons got pushed back or canceled. I asked Seniors, Aubrey Gray, and Kelsie Lamb as well as Mrs. Royer about their experiences with the yearbook this year.
When I asked both girls about how their experience was getting pictures they gave similar answers saying it was definitely different and challenging but parents helped a lot with the pictures they took. “My experience getting pictures this year is definitely different from any other. Of course, it is hard to get to a lot of games with a limited number of spectators. However, with so many parents that take pictures, they are kind enough to usually let me use theirs if I need them,” said Kelsie.
There are so many differences between this year and last making it complicated to get pictures and even to work on the yearbook. Mrs. Royer said it was really hard to try and help the team since she wasn’t there with them to see what they were having problems with. Aubrey agreed with Mrs. Royer about being in school making it easier since she could go around and get quick pictures when needed but she can’t do that as easily now.
Aubrey and Kelsie did have different opinions on the hardest part about working on the yearbook though. Where Aubrey said, “The hardest thing about a yearbook can sometimes be the creative side of it. You want to make sure that each page is interesting and cool to look at and it can sometimes be hard to think of different things you can do with the pages to kind of spice them up.” While Kelsie doesn’t think there is any specific part of the yearbook that she could consider the hardest. “I would not say there really is a hard part about the yearbook. It is kind of a class that you get to control how you layout your pages and what pictures you use.” She told me. She also told me the only thing she could consider hard was COVID making it hard to get the necessary pictures for the yearbook.
When it comes to pet peeves there is something the two can agree on and it’s having the same people in a lot of pictures. Aubrey told me, “My biggest pet peeve about getting pictures would have to be how only certain people like to get their pictures taken, I get that some people just don’t like getting their picture taken but it makes it really hard when it comes to working on a page because you can’t have all of the same people in all of the pictures.” Kelsie agrees but added to it saying it was hard because you could never have too many pictures but you didn’t want too much of one person or thing.
All in all the whole yearbook team works very hard for a great final product and does a great job every year. This year is no exception even with all the challenges thrown their way.
When I asked both girls about how their experience was getting pictures they gave similar answers saying it was definitely different and challenging but parents helped a lot with the pictures they took. “My experience getting pictures this year is definitely different from any other. Of course, it is hard to get to a lot of games with a limited number of spectators. However, with so many parents that take pictures, they are kind enough to usually let me use theirs if I need them,” said Kelsie.
There are so many differences between this year and last making it complicated to get pictures and even to work on the yearbook. Mrs. Royer said it was really hard to try and help the team since she wasn’t there with them to see what they were having problems with. Aubrey agreed with Mrs. Royer about being in school making it easier since she could go around and get quick pictures when needed but she can’t do that as easily now.
Aubrey and Kelsie did have different opinions on the hardest part about working on the yearbook though. Where Aubrey said, “The hardest thing about a yearbook can sometimes be the creative side of it. You want to make sure that each page is interesting and cool to look at and it can sometimes be hard to think of different things you can do with the pages to kind of spice them up.” While Kelsie doesn’t think there is any specific part of the yearbook that she could consider the hardest. “I would not say there really is a hard part about the yearbook. It is kind of a class that you get to control how you layout your pages and what pictures you use.” She told me. She also told me the only thing she could consider hard was COVID making it hard to get the necessary pictures for the yearbook.
When it comes to pet peeves there is something the two can agree on and it’s having the same people in a lot of pictures. Aubrey told me, “My biggest pet peeve about getting pictures would have to be how only certain people like to get their pictures taken, I get that some people just don’t like getting their picture taken but it makes it really hard when it comes to working on a page because you can’t have all of the same people in all of the pictures.” Kelsie agrees but added to it saying it was hard because you could never have too many pictures but you didn’t want too much of one person or thing.
All in all the whole yearbook team works very hard for a great final product and does a great job every year. This year is no exception even with all the challenges thrown their way.
Student Spotlight: Panther Picks
Natalie Garcia ‘22
The Pennfield School newspaper, “The Emerald,” is kicking off something new- Panther Picks! Panther Picks is a way to highlight some of the faces in the hallways. Students are selected at random, asked a few questions about themselves, and then their answers along with a picture of them are featured in “The Emerald.”
When freshman Bailey Aberle was asked about Panther Picks she said she thinks it’s a great idea! As a new student to Pennfield High School she says, “it’s helpful to new students. You get to know others better.” Bailey says that one of the benefits to these student shoutouts is that it could encourage other kids to want to do it too. All in all, Panther Picks is a great way to learn more about your fellow students!
http://thephsemerald.weebly.com/panther-picks.html
When freshman Bailey Aberle was asked about Panther Picks she said she thinks it’s a great idea! As a new student to Pennfield High School she says, “it’s helpful to new students. You get to know others better.” Bailey says that one of the benefits to these student shoutouts is that it could encourage other kids to want to do it too. All in all, Panther Picks is a great way to learn more about your fellow students!
http://thephsemerald.weebly.com/panther-picks.html
Future CACC Students
Sarah Ogden ‘23
The Calhoun Area Career Center or CACC for short, is a great program for juniors and seniors to explore possible career paths. It offers a range of classes from aviation to culinary arts. We interviewed a couple of students at Pennfield about the CACC classes they have chosen to take.
Pennfield sophomore, Taren Todd would like to attend the CACC’s Software Development Program her junior year. The class “teaches us about coding and developing the software that goes into technology.” The Software Development Program teaches students a lot of important computer skills. Therefore, Taren is able to get a feel of what software development is like, and whether or not she will want to pursue this career after high school. “I’m very excited but also a little nervous.” The CACC caters to many school districts and it can be hard for students to get into certain classes. Thankfully for Taren, the Software Development Program is “not a very competitive class to get into.”
Sophomore Kyle Thomas has plans to take the CACC’s Agriscience Program his Junior year. “It's about developing knowledge and exploring new things in agriculture.” It covers a range of subjects such as animal systems, crops, food and environmental science. Like most students, Kyle is “excited and a little nervous” to attend the CACC. For a while now, Kyle has shown an interest in farming and would someday like to have a farm of his own, so the Agriscience Program is the perfect class for him. One thing he’s concerned about is, “it might be just a little challenging because I wasn't the best at biology.” But overall he is ready to further his farming knowledge.
Taking classes at the CACC is a big commitment for students. It can bring on lots of stress but at the same time, excitement and anticipation for doing something they are passionate about. It is a great learning opportunity for students, so if you are a sophomore or junior interested in going for the 21-22 school year, talk to either one of the counselors for guidance.
Pennfield sophomore, Taren Todd would like to attend the CACC’s Software Development Program her junior year. The class “teaches us about coding and developing the software that goes into technology.” The Software Development Program teaches students a lot of important computer skills. Therefore, Taren is able to get a feel of what software development is like, and whether or not she will want to pursue this career after high school. “I’m very excited but also a little nervous.” The CACC caters to many school districts and it can be hard for students to get into certain classes. Thankfully for Taren, the Software Development Program is “not a very competitive class to get into.”
Sophomore Kyle Thomas has plans to take the CACC’s Agriscience Program his Junior year. “It's about developing knowledge and exploring new things in agriculture.” It covers a range of subjects such as animal systems, crops, food and environmental science. Like most students, Kyle is “excited and a little nervous” to attend the CACC. For a while now, Kyle has shown an interest in farming and would someday like to have a farm of his own, so the Agriscience Program is the perfect class for him. One thing he’s concerned about is, “it might be just a little challenging because I wasn't the best at biology.” But overall he is ready to further his farming knowledge.
Taking classes at the CACC is a big commitment for students. It can bring on lots of stress but at the same time, excitement and anticipation for doing something they are passionate about. It is a great learning opportunity for students, so if you are a sophomore or junior interested in going for the 21-22 school year, talk to either one of the counselors for guidance.
Winter Carnival Court
Brieller Barber’ 23
|
Even though we aren’t having a dance this year Winter Carnival court is still in full swing. Here’s the list for Winter Carnival court this year and some info to get to know them (well.. the ones that responded: maybe we’ll catch the rest later)!
Jack didn’t think he was going to be on court but said, “I’m truly blessed that my peers and student body voted me again to represent our grade.” A Fun fact about Jack is he’s actually left handed. What does Jack want to do after high school? “I always always wanted to be a teacher for the longest time but now I’m planning on being an occupational therapist.”
|
Faith never expected to be on court, “To be honest I didn't think I would be on winter carnival court, when I found out I was on it I was excited.” Faith says, “A fun fact about me is that over the summer I started selling my paintings as a small business. I painted for fun and decided to share something I love with others.” “The job I feel is best fit for me in the future is accounting.” She went on and said, “People say it sounds boring but to me numbers are exciting.” “After high school I'm going to KCC for 2 years, bowling for their team and then transferring to Western Michigan University to get my bachelor's. While I'm at Western I hope to organize a men and women's bowling team.”
“I’m super honored to be on court. Court wasn’t really something that I was striving to be on, but it’s super cool! I just try my best to be nice to everyone and just show them God’s love!” Seth says one fun fact about him is, “ I love to fish. I just love being outdoors in general. There’s something about being out in nature and just being able to get away from the world and relax a little.” “When I was younger I always wanted to be a professional athlete. I would always have a ball in my hand and have dreams of playing in the NFL or MLB, and those goals haven’t changed really. I am playing college baseball at Spring Arbor and if I can play pro ball then I probably will but if not I still want to do something that is sports related, whether that be coaching, being an agent, or sports management.”
“I'm honored to be on Winter Carnival court this year to represent the class of 2021. I didn't expect Winter Carnival to go through as everything was up in the air about resuming basketball and Covid-19 restrictions, but after finding out that Winter Carnival was on everything went super quick. Therefore, I was surprised that I made Winter Carnival Court as I was on Homecoming Court but super thrilled I get the opportunity as most of our Senior Year has been limited.” Allison says, “A fact about me that not a lot of people know would be that I enjoy hunting and fishing with my grandpa. I also love camping at Tubbs Lake every summer with my family.” She then went on and said, “ When I was younger my heart was set on being a teacher or a childcare provider. Yes, my decision of becoming a teacher came to an end when I hit middle school. I was undecided for a while about what I wanted to do but always thought a forensic anthropologist was super fascinating. I have decided to attend Saginaw Valley State University to become a Physician Assistant after I graduate High School.”
“I am super grateful and excited for this experience of being on the court. I was not expecting to be on winter carnival court at all. I was on homecoming court and I thought that was shocking so to be on winter carnival too I was even more surprised and happy about the opportunity. I was at cheer practice with Makayla and I remember telling Makayla we were on the court and she thought I was joking.” Bailey says, “I have a lot of hobbies that I feel like not a lot of people know about like writing poetry, riding quads, and riding horses.” “When I was super young I wanted to be a fashion designer in Paris but by 3rd grade that changed and I wanted to be a pediatrician. Ever since then I wanted to be a pediatrician the only thing that has changed is I want to specialize in pediatric neurology. That being said I am hoping to attend a university and then apply for med school.”
Cody says, “I don't mind being on court, but I never thought I'd be on it.” Some fun facts about Cody is that he really enjoys playing baseball and lifting weights. He says, “I've always wanted to be a baseball player and that hasn't changed.”
“I feel grateful to be on winter carnival court. I never pictured myself being on court, so it was definitely a shocker seeing my name on the list.” She then said, “A fun fact about myself is that I am the oldest of 6 siblings and over this past summer I have started up a mini photography business and photographed many seniors.” Lastly Makayla said, “When I was younger I always wanted to be a flight attendant. It is definitely still a dream to be able to travel and get paid for it, but as of right now I am going to be a Graphic Designer.”
Congratulations to King Jack and Queen Abby!
Winter Carnival 2021
Day 1: PJ's
Valentines Treats and Crafts
Ayrianna Waschak ‘21
|
Cupid Chow
Ingredients: Creamy peanut butter, butter, milk chocolate chips, vanilla, chex mix cereal, powdered sugar, M&M’s, sprinkles, and bowls Steps to make it: Combine ½ cup peanut butter, ¼ cup butter and 1 cup chocolate chips in a microwave safe bowl Microwave for one minute, then stir until fully melted and creamy Add 1 tsp vanilla and stir In a large bowl with a cover, pour chocolate mix over 9 cups cereal Cover and shake until cereal is evenly coated Sprinkle 2 cups powdered sugar over cereal Cover and shake again until fully coated Add in 1 cup M&M’s and as many sprinkles as you want Mix all together Put in the fridge and/or enjoy! |
Cupid Floats
Ingredients: Vanilla ice cream, cherry soda, red licorice, and a cup
Steps to make it:
Add one or two scoops of ice cream into a cup
Fill the cup with cherry soda
Cut off the ends of a piece of licorice to use as a straw
Enjoy!
Oreo Pops
Ingredients: Oreo cookies, 4” lollipop sticks or something to hold them, candy melts- red, bright pink and bright white, sprinkles- jumbo hearts, mini hearts, and sugar pearls, 3 microwave safe cups, something to help you decorate (piping bags), and parchment paper
Steps to make it:
Twist and separate oreos in two halves (put top half aside)
Melt the some candy melts for 20 seconds increments, stirring between each one
Dip one end of lollipop stick into melted chocolate and put it between the oreo halves
Allow candy to cool and firm before moving on (can place in freezer for quicker cool down)
Fill bowls or cups ⅔ full of candy melts and repeat step 2
Dip oreo in melted chocolates to cover the whole oreo and place them on parchment paper to completely cool
Add sprinkles while they are still wet if you would like
Repeat for all oreos
Enjoy!
Stackable Books
Materials: Cheap books, and any color paints
Steps to make it:
Paint book covers a color of your choice
Let books dry
Either write or paint on any desired words on the spine (Ex. top book would say 25 cent, middle book would say valentine, bottom book would say kisses)
Let dry
Stack books biggest to smallest or however you want them
Either glue or tie a string to make the books stay
Ingredients: Vanilla ice cream, cherry soda, red licorice, and a cup
Steps to make it:
Add one or two scoops of ice cream into a cup
Fill the cup with cherry soda
Cut off the ends of a piece of licorice to use as a straw
Enjoy!
Oreo Pops
Ingredients: Oreo cookies, 4” lollipop sticks or something to hold them, candy melts- red, bright pink and bright white, sprinkles- jumbo hearts, mini hearts, and sugar pearls, 3 microwave safe cups, something to help you decorate (piping bags), and parchment paper
Steps to make it:
Twist and separate oreos in two halves (put top half aside)
Melt the some candy melts for 20 seconds increments, stirring between each one
Dip one end of lollipop stick into melted chocolate and put it between the oreo halves
Allow candy to cool and firm before moving on (can place in freezer for quicker cool down)
Fill bowls or cups ⅔ full of candy melts and repeat step 2
Dip oreo in melted chocolates to cover the whole oreo and place them on parchment paper to completely cool
Add sprinkles while they are still wet if you would like
Repeat for all oreos
Enjoy!
Stackable Books
Materials: Cheap books, and any color paints
Steps to make it:
Paint book covers a color of your choice
Let books dry
Either write or paint on any desired words on the spine (Ex. top book would say 25 cent, middle book would say valentine, bottom book would say kisses)
Let dry
Stack books biggest to smallest or however you want them
Either glue or tie a string to make the books stay
Mask Fashion
Ally Keown ’23
Hitting the Road
Sarah Ogden ‘23
Getting your driver's license is a big milestone for many people. Unfortunately, COVID may have delayed that process for some people. We interviewed a student here at Pennfield High School about her driving experience.
Kierstynn Lepper is a sophomore here at Pennfield High school and is a member of the dance team. Kierstynn has been driving for over 3 months now since she got her license back in early November of 2020. At first, she was “definitely a more nervous driver but as I've been driving more on my own I have become a lot more confident.” Living in Michigan comes with the challenges of driving in the winter which can be difficult for any driver. “Driving in the snow for me is a little scary but as long as I am cautious it isn't too bad.” It’s easy to say that Kierstynn’s favorite part of driving is the freedom that comes with it. “I really like being able to go where I want without having to wait on a parent to take me.” However, having to monitor her gas tank and come up with money to fill it up is what she hates the most, which is understandable.
Kierstynn Lepper is a sophomore here at Pennfield High school and is a member of the dance team. Kierstynn has been driving for over 3 months now since she got her license back in early November of 2020. At first, she was “definitely a more nervous driver but as I've been driving more on my own I have become a lot more confident.” Living in Michigan comes with the challenges of driving in the winter which can be difficult for any driver. “Driving in the snow for me is a little scary but as long as I am cautious it isn't too bad.” It’s easy to say that Kierstynn’s favorite part of driving is the freedom that comes with it. “I really like being able to go where I want without having to wait on a parent to take me.” However, having to monitor her gas tank and come up with money to fill it up is what she hates the most, which is understandable.
Backpack Must Haves
Brielle Barber’ 23
If you’ve been a student here at Pennfield high school before you know that previous years, we have not been allowed to take our backpacks to class. However this year is different and we are allowed to take our backpacks to our classes. Since this new rule, many students have some backpack necessities that they take to their classes. Sophomore’s Selbi Mackenzie and Aubrey Picketts gave us some insight on some of their backpack must haves.
Selbi’s most essential items in her backpack are her phone and chromebook. “I NEVER go to my locker. I haven't even opened it because I have everything I need.” She says she always keeps gum in her backpack just in case, and always has some extras in her backpack to be prepared for anything. Selbi says, “It is so much easier and nicer to be able to carry my backpack to classes, I love it. I hope they don’t take it away again when the pandemic is over.” |
|
Aubrey agrees with Selbi and says her most essential items are her phone and chromebook.
“In my opinion it’s so much easier to carry my backpack class to class.” She added on saying, “I keep some extra things in my backpack, but not much.” One item that is random in her backpack is her lip gloss. “I love being able to take my backpack class to class, because I have everything I need with me at all times.”
Seems like lots of people are enjoying being able to take their backpacks to class, and are hoping they continue this for years to come!
“In my opinion it’s so much easier to carry my backpack class to class.” She added on saying, “I keep some extra things in my backpack, but not much.” One item that is random in her backpack is her lip gloss. “I love being able to take my backpack class to class, because I have everything I need with me at all times.”
Seems like lots of people are enjoying being able to take their backpacks to class, and are hoping they continue this for years to come!
The Netflix Scoop
Alyssa Hanner 24’
Netflix is an American entertainment company that streams all types of shows and movies for our entertainment. Netflix is one of the things that keep us teenagers entertained when we are tired of being on our phones, since Netflix seems to cater more to the younger generation. We got the chance to interview Freshman Haliey Peterson, Elleigh Trumper, and Mikayla Bennett to see what type of shows kept them reeled in and which ones make them want to turn off the T.V.
When asked their favorite Netflix movie or series and why they all had different answers. Elleigh said her favorite show was Criminal Minds because that is her dream job, while Haliey said her favorite show was Outer Banks because it kept you on the edge the entire show and it has a really good story line. As for Mikayla, her favorite show is The Vampire Diaries because as soon as she started watching it she couldn't stop. When asked a show they started watching but never finished, Haliey answered with Grey's Anatomy because there were too many Seasons as for Mikayla, she didn't finish Lucifer because she also thought there were too many Seasons to the show. Elleigh on the other hand never finished The Originals because it wasn't as realistic as The Vampire Diaries.
In regards to a show or movie they would recommend to somebody they all expressed different opinions. As Hailey said she would recommend Outer Banks, Mikayla would recommend the series Glow Up and Elleigh recommend Shameless, Criminal Minds, and The Magic School Bus. When asked what some new released shows or movies they planned on getting into, some of their recommendations were, After We Collided, Real Steel, Good Girls, Outer Banks, The Vampire Diaries, and Stranger things. Since everyone has their own opinions on the best and the worst Netflix originals, did any of these shows catch your interest?
When asked their favorite Netflix movie or series and why they all had different answers. Elleigh said her favorite show was Criminal Minds because that is her dream job, while Haliey said her favorite show was Outer Banks because it kept you on the edge the entire show and it has a really good story line. As for Mikayla, her favorite show is The Vampire Diaries because as soon as she started watching it she couldn't stop. When asked a show they started watching but never finished, Haliey answered with Grey's Anatomy because there were too many Seasons as for Mikayla, she didn't finish Lucifer because she also thought there were too many Seasons to the show. Elleigh on the other hand never finished The Originals because it wasn't as realistic as The Vampire Diaries.
In regards to a show or movie they would recommend to somebody they all expressed different opinions. As Hailey said she would recommend Outer Banks, Mikayla would recommend the series Glow Up and Elleigh recommend Shameless, Criminal Minds, and The Magic School Bus. When asked what some new released shows or movies they planned on getting into, some of their recommendations were, After We Collided, Real Steel, Good Girls, Outer Banks, The Vampire Diaries, and Stranger things. Since everyone has their own opinions on the best and the worst Netflix originals, did any of these shows catch your interest?
Lunch: COVID Style
Virtual Learning While Visually Impaired
Sarah Ogden '23
Everyone has faced a range of challenges in this virtual world of online learning. In the past, we interviewed many students about their online experience for the 20-21 school year. However there’s one student in particular we didn’t interview about their unique situation. Sophomore, Nasko Cleland.
For those of you who don’t know, Nasko is a blind student here at Pennfield High School and is a member of the wrestling team. What Nasko misses the most about going to school is “being with my friends and getting in person help from teachers.” Nasko doesn’t mind online learning because it allows him to hang out with his family more but wishes he had the same interaction with teachers and friends like previous years. “The biggest challenge is getting assignments that are tactile and delivered to my house.” Naskos accommodations needed for school can sometimes be a pain. For example, some assignments have to be brailed for him to read but sometimes end up being delayed which is not ideal. Also, he has his fair share of technical difficulties. “There are some websites that are inaccessible and it's harder to get help.”
Every summer, Nasko attends a training center program for the blind. There they teach kids important life skills like time management, technology use, and how to be prepared for anything. “This prepared me for this virtual environment because I know how to use my computer Jaws. Jaws is a screen reader that blind users utilize.” Learning on your own can be tough but thankfully Nasko has many tools and helpful hands around him. Nasko stays in contact with friends in the blind community and has been reconnecting with people from middle school and high school. “ I do want to return to in person classes. The reason why is because interaction with friends and teachers are important. We should also be able to work with each other and learn more effectively!”
It’s great to hear about online learning from a different perspective. It allows us to see others challenges and how they manage them. Nasko may have a different experience then most, but it doesn’t make him any less eager to learn!
For those of you who don’t know, Nasko is a blind student here at Pennfield High School and is a member of the wrestling team. What Nasko misses the most about going to school is “being with my friends and getting in person help from teachers.” Nasko doesn’t mind online learning because it allows him to hang out with his family more but wishes he had the same interaction with teachers and friends like previous years. “The biggest challenge is getting assignments that are tactile and delivered to my house.” Naskos accommodations needed for school can sometimes be a pain. For example, some assignments have to be brailed for him to read but sometimes end up being delayed which is not ideal. Also, he has his fair share of technical difficulties. “There are some websites that are inaccessible and it's harder to get help.”
Every summer, Nasko attends a training center program for the blind. There they teach kids important life skills like time management, technology use, and how to be prepared for anything. “This prepared me for this virtual environment because I know how to use my computer Jaws. Jaws is a screen reader that blind users utilize.” Learning on your own can be tough but thankfully Nasko has many tools and helpful hands around him. Nasko stays in contact with friends in the blind community and has been reconnecting with people from middle school and high school. “ I do want to return to in person classes. The reason why is because interaction with friends and teachers are important. We should also be able to work with each other and learn more effectively!”
It’s great to hear about online learning from a different perspective. It allows us to see others challenges and how they manage them. Nasko may have a different experience then most, but it doesn’t make him any less eager to learn!
Link Leader Update!
Austynn Ramos ‘23
Being a LINK Leader is an important job. LINK Leaders help our freshmen transition to high school each year. Senior Cameron Reichel is one proud LINK Leader. “A LINK leader helps freshmen and spreads positivity throughout the school. We are always thinking of others and planning events that can be fun for everyone,” but it is a little tricky with virtual school. “This year due to virtual school it can be hard to have a lot of fun through the computer, but we try our best to make life good for the freshmen.” Cameron likes making new friends and he has a good time being a LINK leader, it gives him many opportunities to find new friends! He also really likes that he can be a positive role model in the lives of the freshmen by socializing and hanging out with them. “Link Crew Coordinator Mr. Lessnau has played a large leadership role this year by leading us and showing responsibility while trying to make the online environment the best it can be for the freshmen. Being responsible is easy when you lead by example and do what you have to do to help yourself and others.” Being a LINK leader seems fun, maybe you can be one!?
Going Back to Face-to-Face Learning
Valerie ‘24, Ashlynn ‘24
There has been a lot of discussion about what the best option for Pennfield schools would be. Should we go back to in-person? Should we do a hybrid plan? Or should we just stay virtual? Many parents have their own ideas on what should happen, but how do the students feel about this situation?
We asked freshmen Azariah Sweet, Anayah Taylor, Landon Wilson and sophomore Kendall Gothberg about how they feel regarding their learning. When asked if they thought that it would be easier or harder for them to handle going back to in-person learning, Kendall and Anayah both agreed that it would be easier for them because it would give more motivation and help focus. Azariah says she thinks it would be more difficult because she’s not used to getting up early and going to her classes. Landon said that either way he would be just fine. “I think I’d get better grades than I do virtually,” said Anayah when asked what some positive things about going back in-person would be. Landon said, “I think going back in person will make school way easier since people will actually pay attention and the teachers will be there to help.” Some negative things that could possibly happen, Anayah, Azariah and Landon all agreed that there could be kids who won’t follow the mask protocol. Whether you chose to stay virtual or begin in person learning, we hope you have a good learning experience. |
|
Battle Creek Math and Science Center Climate Change
Ayrianna Waschak ‘21
Climate change has always been an important issue, but this year some students are hoping to make a change. The Battle Creek Math and Science Center put together a group of kids to educate more people on how to help make a change.
On February 20th, they will be hosting a Zoom meeting with a number of different sessions that will have various speakers from all over the place. Each session will be 55 minutes long. There are 5 different sessions; climate science, technology, justice, policy, and action that anyone will be able to join. Every session is going to be different, teaching us a new way to make a difference.
Covid definitely made a change on how this event was constructed. Normally, the project is limited to speakers that can travel to them, but now they are able to have more speakers from further away. Along with being virtual, they are able to allow more people to attend other than students that are able to take a school bus there.
All of the students play a different part in creating this, so of course they are all going to have a favorite thing about it. We had the pleasure to talk to some of the students about their favorite parts. Junior, Kaylynn Budreaustated, “My favorite part is that it gives me something to be proud of because I’m able to influence other people.” Senior, Lauren Smith told us that she also likes to be able to influence people since this is something that she wants to do in the future, she also liked being able to talk to people all over to have them be a part of this project. Junior, Treshai Hubbard said, “I like being able to educate people and be an influencer during this project.” “I’m happy to see everything for the project,” stated senior, Jacob Witzke. Science teacher, Mr. Muhich told us, “Climate change is a huge problem. High schoolers will always face effects because most schools don’t teach important things for them to learn like this.”
Do you want to make a change? Attend the meeting on February 20th for students and February 21st for teachers. You can also learn more about it on their website: https://www.hsclimatesymposium.com/ or on their instagram: hsclimatesymposium. They hope to see you all there!
On February 20th, they will be hosting a Zoom meeting with a number of different sessions that will have various speakers from all over the place. Each session will be 55 minutes long. There are 5 different sessions; climate science, technology, justice, policy, and action that anyone will be able to join. Every session is going to be different, teaching us a new way to make a difference.
Covid definitely made a change on how this event was constructed. Normally, the project is limited to speakers that can travel to them, but now they are able to have more speakers from further away. Along with being virtual, they are able to allow more people to attend other than students that are able to take a school bus there.
All of the students play a different part in creating this, so of course they are all going to have a favorite thing about it. We had the pleasure to talk to some of the students about their favorite parts. Junior, Kaylynn Budreaustated, “My favorite part is that it gives me something to be proud of because I’m able to influence other people.” Senior, Lauren Smith told us that she also likes to be able to influence people since this is something that she wants to do in the future, she also liked being able to talk to people all over to have them be a part of this project. Junior, Treshai Hubbard said, “I like being able to educate people and be an influencer during this project.” “I’m happy to see everything for the project,” stated senior, Jacob Witzke. Science teacher, Mr. Muhich told us, “Climate change is a huge problem. High schoolers will always face effects because most schools don’t teach important things for them to learn like this.”
Do you want to make a change? Attend the meeting on February 20th for students and February 21st for teachers. You can also learn more about it on their website: https://www.hsclimatesymposium.com/ or on their instagram: hsclimatesymposium. They hope to see you all there!
Covid Vaccine Update, Effects?
Hailey Shemberger ’21
With the covid vaccine having been released for almost a month now means some data has been collected on it. With social media being a main source of information for the younger generation about the vaccine, are we being given the correct information? And is the information changing the way we feel about the vaccine?
The CDC states that the vaccines are as safe as possible, and with the covid-vaccine being out for a couple months data has been collected and they have a better understanding on how well the vaccine works. With the vaccine being new there has been a system created to monitor the effects of the vaccine. Also there has been recommendations created of evaluating the vaccine like the following:
Normal Symptoms:
The CDC states that the vaccines are as safe as possible, and with the covid-vaccine being out for a couple months data has been collected and they have a better understanding on how well the vaccine works. With the vaccine being new there has been a system created to monitor the effects of the vaccine. Also there has been recommendations created of evaluating the vaccine like the following:
- CDC: V-safe — A new smartphone-based, after-vaccination health checker for people who receive COVID-19 vaccines. V-safe uses text messaging and web surveys from CDC to check in with vaccine recipients following COVID-19 vaccination. V-safe also provides second vaccine dose reminders if needed, and telephone follow up to anyone who reports medically significant (important) adverse events.
- CDC: National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) — An acute and long-term care facility monitoring system with reporting to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System or VAERS that will allow for determination of COVID-19 vaccine adverse event reporting rates.
- FDA: Other large insurer/payer databases — A system of administrative and claims-based data for surveillance and research.
Normal Symptoms:
- Arm pain in area of shot
- Swelling of area of shot
- Fever
- Chills
- Tiredness
- Headache
- If the redness or tenderness where you got the shot increases after 24 hours
- If your side effects are worrying you or do not seem to be going away after a few days
NHS American Heart Association
Sarah Brosky ‘21
Every year at Pennfield High School, the National Honors Society raises money for the American Heart Association. They usually put on a Red Out game by selling t-shirts and other items to help raise money. However, this year due to Covid-19, the National Honors Society has had to find other ways to help raise money. According to Seniors Brooke Robertson and Jack Boyd, committee members of NHS, they’re thinking about putting out a donation box to collect donations. In return these donors will receive a “Thank you” gift such as wristbands, t-shirts, etc. When asked about NHS’s end goal for the AHA, Brooke Robertson said,
“We love to help the AHA, they are amazing and have worked closely with us for a while, and our goal is to continue to raise money for them despite not being able to have a red out game.”
This donation box won’t be out until the month of February, which happens to be “American Heart Month.” Since this year has been hard for everyone, let’s make it better by donating to a good cause. If you would like more information on the donation box or the American Heart Association, email Mrs. Hammond at [email protected].
“We love to help the AHA, they are amazing and have worked closely with us for a while, and our goal is to continue to raise money for them despite not being able to have a red out game.”
This donation box won’t be out until the month of February, which happens to be “American Heart Month.” Since this year has been hard for everyone, let’s make it better by donating to a good cause. If you would like more information on the donation box or the American Heart Association, email Mrs. Hammond at [email protected].
Build-A-Bear Donations
Valerie Sykes ‘24
|
Senior Ayrianna Waschak has been donating Build-A-Bears to kids for 8 years. Ayrianna said, “I think this is a very easy way to help someone or just put a smile on their face, and not everyone sees that it is super easy to help someone even by doing something as easy as donating one bear to someone.”
In 2013 she donated 2 bears, in 2014 she donated 4 bears, in 2015 she donated 8 bears, in 2016 she donated 17 bears, in 2017 she donated 60 bears, in 2018 she donated 40 bears, in 2019 she donated 36 bears, and this year she donated 22 bears. She has donated a total of 189 bears. She donates them to the Salvation Army to little kids who don't have much. It's not very expensive because most of the money comes from pop cans that her family saves or from anyone who would like to donate them to her. She normally has a bunch of family and friends donate a ton of pop cans. |
Her grandma comes with her every year and is the reason she started all of this. The most bears she has donated was 60 bears and there's actually a story behind that. A fireman had challenged her to double the 17 bears from the year before thinking she wouldn't do it. She was so committed to the challenge she ended up tripling it. The best thing she has ever got out of this, other than the gift of giving, was riding in the firetruck and she took a friend and her sister. They took them to donate the bears and then dropped them off at her house. She said, “it was really cool, we were able to take a picture on the truck and with the fireman outside of her house.”
She doesn't get to give the bears directly to the kids but she wishes she could so she could see the smiles on their faces.
She doesn't get to give the bears directly to the kids but she wishes she could so she could see the smiles on their faces.
Virtual Exams
Brielle Barber, Madison Wood
|
Winter Break is just around the corner which means midterm exams are also coming up. This year's exams are probably going to be the most difficult ones for students this year, because of being virtual for the whole first semester. Freshman, Alexis Avery, and Junior, Madison Bommersbach filled us in on how they feel about these hectic exams, and if they feel they will do well or not.
Being a Freshman is already hard enough since it’s their first year of high school. But it doesn’t help when the whole first semester is online and you have to take your first ever exams virtual as well. Alexis says she’s definitely feeling nervous and overwhelmed, and who can blame her? But she says she’s just probably overthinking it and says, “I think I'll do fine.” She thinks she’ll do the best on her math exam because she’s pretty good at math. Madison is a Junior so unlike Alexis, these aren’t her first high school midterm exams. She says, “I’m nervous about exams but I know that the teachers are very understanding about how stressful this situation is that we are facing.” Even though she feels nervous she continued on and said, “I feel as though I am prepared for my exams considering I know what the questions will be like ahead of time.” Both girls feel that if we were in person everyone would do much better. Alexis says, “I learn better in person, so I don't feel like I'm taking in all the information that I'm getting at once. Madison added on saying, “At this point, it’s obvious that if we were in school students would do much better in person rather than virtual, only because face to face learning makes it a lot easier to focus and learn.” Many students stress over exams, so just remember to stay calm and try your best! |
NHS
Jessica Brosky 23’
NHS or National Honors Society is a club at the high school that consists of students with a good GPA and a want to help the community.
NHS is a club available for students to join as early as their sophomore year. Junior, Tanner Govier, Senior, Naomi Todd, and Senior, Cathrine Govier gave some insight on their experiences with being in NHS.
One main requirement to be in NHS is completing hours of community service. Each student is responsible for completing 15 hours of community service each school year. What Cathrine, Naomi and Tanner do for community service is different.
Cathrine says, “I’ve been tutoring and over the summer I was a lifeguard and game assistant at a campground.”
Tanner said, “I helped the cheerleaders do their pop can drive and helped them raise money for new uniforms and such, I also tutored someone.”
While Naomi states, “This year, I have gone to the food bank and packed food, rang the bell at Family Fare for Salvation Army, packed food for Santa's Helper for the holiday boxes, and also as a Link Leader, I have signed up to do Google Meets for the freshman to get help from me and other upperclassmen in Biology, Math, and English.”
To become part of NHS you have to apply and be inducted. Most people are inducted into NHS when they are sophomores and Cathrine, Naomi and Tanner are no different. They all were inducted their sophomore year.
For Cathrine and Naomi, this is their second year in NHS and their final year. While this year is Tanner’s first year in NHS. Cathrine said, “The biggest difference is that it is harder to find community service because of COVID.” While Naomi stated, “The meetings being online has really been the main part of the difference to me this year, but that never changed the community service options that have been given to me and the rest of NHS.”
Both Cathrine and Tanner said that one reason they joined NHS was that it looks good on college applications. Cathrine also said, “I joined NHS so that I could be apart of something bigger than myself.” While Tanner added, “ I wanted to join because I already did a lot of volunteering anyway plus it sounded like a fun thing to be apart of.” Finally Naomi said, “Well not only do I love doing community service, but I also thought it would just be an honor to be chosen to be apart of NHS because of my grades and community service and recommendations and that would let me know that hard work pays off.”
They all also had favorite things about being apart of NHS. Cathrine said, “My favorite part is being involved in something greater than myself.” Tanner says, “My favorite part about NHS is being able to go out and help our community and do fun things with other friends in NHS.” While Naomi stated, “My favorite part about NHS is the community service projects that we do! They have always been so thought out to sincerely help and impact people who need it and I love that a lot.”
Overall, NHS has really helped these students find ways to help their community and make them realize that giving back can be fun.
NHS is a club available for students to join as early as their sophomore year. Junior, Tanner Govier, Senior, Naomi Todd, and Senior, Cathrine Govier gave some insight on their experiences with being in NHS.
One main requirement to be in NHS is completing hours of community service. Each student is responsible for completing 15 hours of community service each school year. What Cathrine, Naomi and Tanner do for community service is different.
Cathrine says, “I’ve been tutoring and over the summer I was a lifeguard and game assistant at a campground.”
Tanner said, “I helped the cheerleaders do their pop can drive and helped them raise money for new uniforms and such, I also tutored someone.”
While Naomi states, “This year, I have gone to the food bank and packed food, rang the bell at Family Fare for Salvation Army, packed food for Santa's Helper for the holiday boxes, and also as a Link Leader, I have signed up to do Google Meets for the freshman to get help from me and other upperclassmen in Biology, Math, and English.”
To become part of NHS you have to apply and be inducted. Most people are inducted into NHS when they are sophomores and Cathrine, Naomi and Tanner are no different. They all were inducted their sophomore year.
For Cathrine and Naomi, this is their second year in NHS and their final year. While this year is Tanner’s first year in NHS. Cathrine said, “The biggest difference is that it is harder to find community service because of COVID.” While Naomi stated, “The meetings being online has really been the main part of the difference to me this year, but that never changed the community service options that have been given to me and the rest of NHS.”
Both Cathrine and Tanner said that one reason they joined NHS was that it looks good on college applications. Cathrine also said, “I joined NHS so that I could be apart of something bigger than myself.” While Tanner added, “ I wanted to join because I already did a lot of volunteering anyway plus it sounded like a fun thing to be apart of.” Finally Naomi said, “Well not only do I love doing community service, but I also thought it would just be an honor to be chosen to be apart of NHS because of my grades and community service and recommendations and that would let me know that hard work pays off.”
They all also had favorite things about being apart of NHS. Cathrine said, “My favorite part is being involved in something greater than myself.” Tanner says, “My favorite part about NHS is being able to go out and help our community and do fun things with other friends in NHS.” While Naomi stated, “My favorite part about NHS is the community service projects that we do! They have always been so thought out to sincerely help and impact people who need it and I love that a lot.”
Overall, NHS has really helped these students find ways to help their community and make them realize that giving back can be fun.
Holiday Treats
Ally Keown ‘23
|
Are you looking to make some good holiday treats? The best and easiest are Toffee and Puppy Chow. These treats will leave you baking for days. After making them our Anonymous Judges will rate them out of 10 to see actually how good they are! First we start off with the best toffee you will ever make. Things you will need to make this toffee are 40 Saltine Crackers, ¾ cups of Brown Sugar, 1 cup of Butter and 2 cups of Chocolate Chips. If you want to, you can also put things like pecans, sprinkles, caramel, and even crushed peppermints to really get into the Christmas spirit. Supplies we will need are a big spoon or something to spread the chocolate chips, tin foil, large saucepan and a baking sheet. |
Now let's get to assembling the toffee. On a baking pan put your saltines next to each other covering the bottom of the pan. With the large saucepan put in the butter and the sugar on Medium heat until the brown sugar dissolves then pour evenly over the crackers. After the sugary concoction is onto the crackers bake at 350 degrees for 8 -10 minutes or until bubbly. Right after you take it out of the oven quickly sprinkle your chocolate chips all over the crackers and once the chocolate chips are soft, take your spoon and spread it everywhere. After you're done this is your chance to put on your toppings. Put it in your refrigerator for an hour then it's ready to eat.
Next we are making an all time favorite, Muddy Buddies or Puppy Chow as some people know it. To make these you will need 9 cups of Chex Mix, 1 cup of chocolate chips, ½ cup of peanut butter, ¼ cup of butter, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 ½ cups of powdered sugar and toppings like M&Ms, peanuts, or sprinkles. Some things we will need are a bowl, spoon or spatula, wax paper, and a plastic bag.
To make these tasty snacks you will first take your bowl and put the peanut butter, chocolate chips, and butter on high in the microwave for about 30 seconds or longer. Then stir until combined and add vanilla extract and mix. After that pour your Chex into the mixture and stir that until covered evenly. Now we put the Chex in the plastic bag and put the powdered sugar in it and shake it until most of the powdered sugar sticks to the Chex. Now you can add your extra toppings to make it a sugary trail mix. Now you spread it onto wax paper to cool and store in the refrigerator.
Now it's time for our Anonymous Judges to review these delicious creations. The toffee was a 10/10, 10/10, and 9/10, for a total of 29/30. The muddy buddies are a 10/10, 8.5/10, and 7/10, for a total of 25.5/30. Since these have such great scores they must be good! So if you find yourself bored and having nothing to do, treat yourself to one of these great snacks.
Next we are making an all time favorite, Muddy Buddies or Puppy Chow as some people know it. To make these you will need 9 cups of Chex Mix, 1 cup of chocolate chips, ½ cup of peanut butter, ¼ cup of butter, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 ½ cups of powdered sugar and toppings like M&Ms, peanuts, or sprinkles. Some things we will need are a bowl, spoon or spatula, wax paper, and a plastic bag.
To make these tasty snacks you will first take your bowl and put the peanut butter, chocolate chips, and butter on high in the microwave for about 30 seconds or longer. Then stir until combined and add vanilla extract and mix. After that pour your Chex into the mixture and stir that until covered evenly. Now we put the Chex in the plastic bag and put the powdered sugar in it and shake it until most of the powdered sugar sticks to the Chex. Now you can add your extra toppings to make it a sugary trail mix. Now you spread it onto wax paper to cool and store in the refrigerator.
Now it's time for our Anonymous Judges to review these delicious creations. The toffee was a 10/10, 10/10, and 9/10, for a total of 29/30. The muddy buddies are a 10/10, 8.5/10, and 7/10, for a total of 25.5/30. Since these have such great scores they must be good! So if you find yourself bored and having nothing to do, treat yourself to one of these great snacks.
Christmas Crafts
Ayrianna Waschak 21’
Grinch Bath Salt:
Materials: epsom salt, food coloring or soap colorant, heart sprinkles, peppermint essential oil, kosher salt, baking soda, and a jar to store it Steps to make it: Mix salt, epsom salt, and baking soda in a bowl. Add in 10-12 drops of the peppermint oil and food coloring. Then mix in heart sprinkles. Put into a jar and store in a dry place. Grinch Ornament: Materials: green pom poms (different shades), red sharpies or heart stickers, and an ornament Steps to make it: Put the different shades of green pom poms into the ornament making it as full as you want. Draw or add on the heart to the outside of the ornament. |
|
Snowman Ornament:
Materials: fake snow, black and orange sharpies, an ornament, and a funnel
Steps to make it:
Fill the ornament to the top with fake snow using the funnel.
Take the orange and draw on the carrot nose.
Take the black and draw dots for the eyes and the mouth.
Christmas Tree Ornament:
Materials: popsicle sticks, any size and color string, a star sticker, scissors and something to let you hang up the ornament
Steps to make it:
Put star on top of the popsicle stick.
Make some long cut string pieces and tie them to the popsicle stick (make as many as you want).
Cut at angle going inwards towards the star.
Place a hanger in the back and place it in the tree.
Materials: fake snow, black and orange sharpies, an ornament, and a funnel
Steps to make it:
Fill the ornament to the top with fake snow using the funnel.
Take the orange and draw on the carrot nose.
Take the black and draw dots for the eyes and the mouth.
Christmas Tree Ornament:
Materials: popsicle sticks, any size and color string, a star sticker, scissors and something to let you hang up the ornament
Steps to make it:
Put star on top of the popsicle stick.
Make some long cut string pieces and tie them to the popsicle stick (make as many as you want).
Cut at angle going inwards towards the star.
Place a hanger in the back and place it in the tree.
Joys of 2020
Sarah Ogden ‘23
It’s pretty easy to complain and point out the flaws of 2020. The pandemic was definitely a set back along with many other things. But this year also taught us the importance of friends and family through tough times. A couple of Pennfield students shared their favorite parts of 2020 and what they are grateful for.
The first Pennfield student is Junior, Madisen Wollaston. Over this past year, Madi’s favorite part was the summer time. Even though due to COVID-19 restrictions and lovely quarantining, she “still had a blast.” The time over the summer allowed her to get closer with her little sister as well. There is one person in particular who Madi considers a mentor that helped her “further my education.” She is pleased to say that she is dual enrolled through KCC thanks to her great mentor. Something we can all say is that 2020 has taught us many lessons, “I’ve learned through the pandemic that sometimes you have to put others before yourself.” Compared to a year ago, Madi believes she is more compassionate and understanding with others and would like to think she is a better person today.
The next Pennfield student is Senior, Sophia Thunder. Sophia had a great year of growth and self reflection. “I now have more faith in myself than ever, more confidence, and drive to continue working on myself.” With all the extra time given to her, she “learned that no matter how hard you try, your world will never be perfect. Just keep your head up, you can’t change the world.” Like most of us Sophia is extremely grateful for the connections she has with her friends and family. However there’s one person in particular that helped her tremendously through the year, her little sister Cecie. “Cecie has always given me a reason to keep going, and for that, I cannot thank her enough.” Sophia has picked up a few new hobbies and interests such as baking, cooking, working at home, and photography. Compared to a year ago, Sophia has “grown tremendously.” She couldn’t be more proud of it.
It can get tiring hearing about all the sadness and drama going on in the world. So it’s nice to listen to positive things for once to remind us that the world has more to offer than misery. Things might not be sunshine and rainbows but it’s great to hear people making the most out of every situation.
The first Pennfield student is Junior, Madisen Wollaston. Over this past year, Madi’s favorite part was the summer time. Even though due to COVID-19 restrictions and lovely quarantining, she “still had a blast.” The time over the summer allowed her to get closer with her little sister as well. There is one person in particular who Madi considers a mentor that helped her “further my education.” She is pleased to say that she is dual enrolled through KCC thanks to her great mentor. Something we can all say is that 2020 has taught us many lessons, “I’ve learned through the pandemic that sometimes you have to put others before yourself.” Compared to a year ago, Madi believes she is more compassionate and understanding with others and would like to think she is a better person today.
The next Pennfield student is Senior, Sophia Thunder. Sophia had a great year of growth and self reflection. “I now have more faith in myself than ever, more confidence, and drive to continue working on myself.” With all the extra time given to her, she “learned that no matter how hard you try, your world will never be perfect. Just keep your head up, you can’t change the world.” Like most of us Sophia is extremely grateful for the connections she has with her friends and family. However there’s one person in particular that helped her tremendously through the year, her little sister Cecie. “Cecie has always given me a reason to keep going, and for that, I cannot thank her enough.” Sophia has picked up a few new hobbies and interests such as baking, cooking, working at home, and photography. Compared to a year ago, Sophia has “grown tremendously.” She couldn’t be more proud of it.
It can get tiring hearing about all the sadness and drama going on in the world. So it’s nice to listen to positive things for once to remind us that the world has more to offer than misery. Things might not be sunshine and rainbows but it’s great to hear people making the most out of every situation.
2020 - A Year to Remember
Addison Noffsinger ‘23
|
Although it feels like this year has been a hot dumpster fire, we can still look for the positives in all the stressful events of this year. To recap 2020 and all the mishaps we’ve come across, let’s start with the unfortunate passing of an inspirational figure. Passing of Kobe Bryant - It may feel like years ago, but on January 26th, 2020, the beloved athlete, father, and husband Kobe Bryant passed away in a traumatic helicopter crash, along with his daughter Gianna and seven other people on their way to a basketball tournament. He was only 41, while his daughter was just 13. His death shocked the nation, causing waves of grief to wash through not just fans, but all people who had heard of the basketball legend. Freshman, Ella Vanlwaarden says, “it was impacting a lot of people around me.” |
COVID-19 Officially a Pandemic - Let’s go all the way back to March 11, 2020. It was actually on the 9th of January that the World Health Organization (WHO) announced a strange disease was discovered in Wuhan, China, and on the 31st the Global Health Emergency was declared. But on this date, the 11th of March, an official pandemic was announced. Two days later our state of Michigan shut down all K-12 schools, as well as banned all gatherings of over 250 people or more. Quarantine was definitely an adjustment and a very hard thing to overcome, and Olivet sophomore, Thela Priesman says, “It always felt like one weekend we should have been doing one thing and the next weekend doing another, but that was not happening since we were all stuck at home.” But now it is getting back to normal, and there is hope on the horizon.
Donations - An important part of the pandemic was the donations from the most common person to one of the most elite. People around the world learned how to sew in order to donate homemade masks to hospitals in need. Not just them, but big business leaders donated thousands, if not millions of necessary materials to organizations that needed it desperately. People like Apple CEO Tim Cook, who pledged to donate 10 million masks to healthcare workers, or Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg, who said on Twitter, “Facebook donated our emergency reserve of 720,000 masks that we had bought in case the wildfires continued.”
BLM Movement - One confusingly positive and negative thing to happen this year was the Black Lives Matter movement. It started on May 26, 2020, following the tragic death of George Floyd, a 46 year old black man. The protests lasted for weeks afterwards across the country, starting in Minneapolis where George Floyd had previously lived and where he was killed. These protests were aimed at achieving racial equality, especially for black citizens in the United States. Even if a common American didn’t march in the protests or helped advocate for the movement, everyone was affected by it whether it was hearing it from the news or a close friend or relative was more involved. Pennfield teacher, Andrea DeLano suggests a book that helped her change her mindset: “I read How to Be an Antiracist by Ibram X. Kendi. It is a powerful book about changing our thinking from passive to active.”
Westcoast Wildfires - In early September the United States was saddened again when they heard about the Westcoast Wildfires. Even over in Michigan people are affected by the tragic burning in California, Oregon, and Washington, as well as nine other states in the region. Ella says, “The wildfires have changed my life a little just with the fact that my family could be in danger.” Although other states aren’t experiencing this natural disaster, we should still pitch in and help as much as we can so that families like Ella’s aren’t harmed.
Election - The most recent major event that the United States has gone through was the Presidential election, which ended on November 13, 2020. Although there was plenty of confusion, anger, and bitterness between parties, the U.S. got through the worst of it. Mrs. Delano says, “It is still an anxious time, but I feel that now we can go forward with hope.” With that, we should continue to move forward and be as caring and understanding as we can.
Looking Forward - There are plenty of great things to look forward to in the rest of 2020. We still have a rich holiday season ahead of us, even if we don’t get to gather with as much family as we’d like. There’s also a very effective vaccine for COVID-19 that we can all benefit from. Like Thela says, “My family, friends, and farm animals mean the most to me, so being with them all the time is definitely what I am looking forward to.”
Resources -
1 - (AJMC; AJMC staff; 07/03/2020; accessed 11/22/2020; URL)
2 - (Click on Detroit; April 27, 2020; accessed 11/22/2020; OMNE; URL)
3 - (Time; Mahita Gajanan; 01/27/2020; accessed 11/22/2020; Time USA, LLC; URL)
4 - (The Verge; Kim Lyons; 03/25/2020; accessed 11/22/2020; Vox Media, LLC; URL)
5 - (Wikipedia; 11/22/2020; accessed 11/22/2020; Wikipedia Foundation, Inc.; URL)
6 - (The New York Times; Larry Buchanan, Quoctrung Bui and Jugal K. Patel; 07/03/2020; accessed 11/22/2020; NYTCo.; URL)
7 - (Wikipedia; 11/22/2020; accessed 11/22/2020; Wikipedia Foundation, Inc.; URL)
8 - (BBC; 09/10/2020; accessed 11/22/2020; BBC; URL)
Donations - An important part of the pandemic was the donations from the most common person to one of the most elite. People around the world learned how to sew in order to donate homemade masks to hospitals in need. Not just them, but big business leaders donated thousands, if not millions of necessary materials to organizations that needed it desperately. People like Apple CEO Tim Cook, who pledged to donate 10 million masks to healthcare workers, or Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg, who said on Twitter, “Facebook donated our emergency reserve of 720,000 masks that we had bought in case the wildfires continued.”
BLM Movement - One confusingly positive and negative thing to happen this year was the Black Lives Matter movement. It started on May 26, 2020, following the tragic death of George Floyd, a 46 year old black man. The protests lasted for weeks afterwards across the country, starting in Minneapolis where George Floyd had previously lived and where he was killed. These protests were aimed at achieving racial equality, especially for black citizens in the United States. Even if a common American didn’t march in the protests or helped advocate for the movement, everyone was affected by it whether it was hearing it from the news or a close friend or relative was more involved. Pennfield teacher, Andrea DeLano suggests a book that helped her change her mindset: “I read How to Be an Antiracist by Ibram X. Kendi. It is a powerful book about changing our thinking from passive to active.”
Westcoast Wildfires - In early September the United States was saddened again when they heard about the Westcoast Wildfires. Even over in Michigan people are affected by the tragic burning in California, Oregon, and Washington, as well as nine other states in the region. Ella says, “The wildfires have changed my life a little just with the fact that my family could be in danger.” Although other states aren’t experiencing this natural disaster, we should still pitch in and help as much as we can so that families like Ella’s aren’t harmed.
Election - The most recent major event that the United States has gone through was the Presidential election, which ended on November 13, 2020. Although there was plenty of confusion, anger, and bitterness between parties, the U.S. got through the worst of it. Mrs. Delano says, “It is still an anxious time, but I feel that now we can go forward with hope.” With that, we should continue to move forward and be as caring and understanding as we can.
Looking Forward - There are plenty of great things to look forward to in the rest of 2020. We still have a rich holiday season ahead of us, even if we don’t get to gather with as much family as we’d like. There’s also a very effective vaccine for COVID-19 that we can all benefit from. Like Thela says, “My family, friends, and farm animals mean the most to me, so being with them all the time is definitely what I am looking forward to.”
Resources -
1 - (AJMC; AJMC staff; 07/03/2020; accessed 11/22/2020; URL)
2 - (Click on Detroit; April 27, 2020; accessed 11/22/2020; OMNE; URL)
3 - (Time; Mahita Gajanan; 01/27/2020; accessed 11/22/2020; Time USA, LLC; URL)
4 - (The Verge; Kim Lyons; 03/25/2020; accessed 11/22/2020; Vox Media, LLC; URL)
5 - (Wikipedia; 11/22/2020; accessed 11/22/2020; Wikipedia Foundation, Inc.; URL)
6 - (The New York Times; Larry Buchanan, Quoctrung Bui and Jugal K. Patel; 07/03/2020; accessed 11/22/2020; NYTCo.; URL)
7 - (Wikipedia; 11/22/2020; accessed 11/22/2020; Wikipedia Foundation, Inc.; URL)
8 - (BBC; 09/10/2020; accessed 11/22/2020; BBC; URL)
New Places to Eat in BC
Ayrianna Waschak 21’
McGonigle’s Deli and the Hot Chocolate House are a few newer places in Battle Creek for people to enjoy.
McGonigle’s Deli McGonigle’s has been around the Battle Creek area for a while, but they added another part in the Pennfield area called the McGonigle’s Deli. A few of the Pennfield students work there and were willing to talk about their experience there. Junior, Kaitlynn Caswell told us, “It's really fun working at McGonigle's Deli, we have a great environment and welcome everyone.” She says, “My favorite part about working at McGonigle's is how fun it is, even though we are working it doesn't feel like it. We also get to combine our ideas to create new pizzas and sandwiches that we put on our feature board each week.” She then went on and said,”I don't really have a least favorite part about working here, if I have to say anything it is seeing the disappointment in customers when their order gets messed up.” So glad to hear that this Pennfield student loves working there! If you are in the Pennfield area try to stop by to say hi and try out some of the great looking food! Hot Chocolate House This is a fairly new home based business in town. The owner, Stacey Green, started her small business in September 2020. She was asked a series of questions to get to know her and her business. The first question she was asked was why she started her business. She answered with, “I have always had a love for baking and creating. I was out of work due to covid and ended up coming across a facebook page on hot cocoa bombs. I started looking into it and thought I could do that. I made samples, set up my page and it went crazy with orders.” So glad to hear that someone was set on something and followed it. With that being said she explained her favorite part of this business, “My favorite part is being able to put smiles on my customers faces and the surprise they have when they open them up.” On the not so good part of the job she told us that the hardest part was coming up with designs and flavors. Stacey says that she wants to take this job slow and not go super crazy but she has definitely started thinking about what will be next! Go ahead and find the Hot Chocolate House on Facebook and place an order of some of her milk chocolates, cookies and creams, a salted caramel brownie and maybe even some mint and peppermint for the upcoming holiday season! |
|
What Have Students Learned From Digital Classes?
Reilee Myers ‘21
Being in digital classes this year has provided many students with an opportunity to reflect on in-person classes. Senior, Destany Okon, Sophomore Makenzie Murphy, and Freshman Brena Moore have all had times where digital classes were harder than in-person classes. They were all asked about how digital classes have influenced their perception of in-person classes.
When asked about what they missed from in-person classes, they all said they missed seeing other people in person. Brena also mentioned missing the opportunity to do work in class. Makenzie was surprised she even missed in-person classes because she found it harder to keep working with digital classes as time went on. Brena was surprised to find that she missed doing work in class because she finds it boring doing all the work at home.
They all had ideas to improve in-person classes based off of their experiences with digital classes. Brena felt that encouraging people to ask questions more would be beneficial.
Makenzie found that, due to the sometimes confusing nature of assignments, extra credit opportunities should be more frequent, and Destany felt that digital office hours should be maintained after in-person classes are reinstated. As for improving digital classes, Destany felt that more effort should be used to ensure that large amounts of assignments don’t share a single due date, while Makenzie wished for improvements in the video quality of the virtual classes.
When asked about what they missed from in-person classes, they all said they missed seeing other people in person. Brena also mentioned missing the opportunity to do work in class. Makenzie was surprised she even missed in-person classes because she found it harder to keep working with digital classes as time went on. Brena was surprised to find that she missed doing work in class because she finds it boring doing all the work at home.
They all had ideas to improve in-person classes based off of their experiences with digital classes. Brena felt that encouraging people to ask questions more would be beneficial.
Makenzie found that, due to the sometimes confusing nature of assignments, extra credit opportunities should be more frequent, and Destany felt that digital office hours should be maintained after in-person classes are reinstated. As for improving digital classes, Destany felt that more effort should be used to ensure that large amounts of assignments don’t share a single due date, while Makenzie wished for improvements in the video quality of the virtual classes.
Widen the Gaps Between Using Your Apps
Addie Noffsinger ‘23
There are plenty of concerns from parents and students alike about phone usage this upcoming winter. Normally, there would be an uptick, evidence that is supported by students, but especially this year with people quarantining from home there might just be a huge spike. Two students and a parent were interviewed for their beliefs on the matter, and hope that their tips for staying busy and off of screens for as long as possible will help young minds grow and develop this winter.
We all know an overuse of screen time can be bad. Since the first few weeks of online learning, students and teachers have been complaining about their eyes or heads hurting excessively after hours on class calls. So how can we reduce time spent on our personal screens, especially if it is unnecessary? As many of you know, certain apps can be addicting. According to both Cecelia Bronson and Sarah Ogden, when it comes to Tik Tok, “It's just so addicting to be on,” and, “Tik Tok is very addicting, Each video is less than a minute long so it doesn't seem like it would take up much of your time. But I can easily waste an hour on Tik Tok without even realizing it.” If you’ve felt this way about any of the apps on your phone, don’t panic! There are plenty of ways to reduce time spent on your phone and use it for more progressive things, which don’t exactly have to be school work or sports.
If you’re struggling with putting your phone down, it may be helpful to try and walk down the time you spend on your device. For instance, if you spend 6 hours on your screens, try to watch the time so that tomorrow you only spend 5 hours and 30 minutes; the next day you would walk it down to 5 hours, and the next would be 4 hours and 30 min, etc. Also, no worries if your screen time is way over 6 hours! The ballpark average of screen time amongst our interviewees is around 7 ½ hours per day, and our participants spend a lot of their time with animals, sports, school, and work. It is doctor recommended that you should spend only 2 hours on screens tops, but without walking it down or using a different tactic that works for you can make that number overwhelming.
To fill your free time, it could help to pick up activities not including screens. Pennfield parent Becky Noffsinger says it helps her stay off tech by “Working, hanging out with family, doing chores around the house, gardening, exercising, [and] watching TV.” Cecelia adds that, “I am either reading, doing homework, working out, or spending time with friends and family,” when she isn’t on her phone. And Sarah also says, “I enjoy long walks and fishing.” Finding something without a screen can be surprisingly helpful, and doing it outside is even better. However, with a cold upcoming winter, finding anything off of screens is better than spending 10 or more hours watching TV or scrolling through Instagram.
A lot of you aren’t athletes. Those who are will most likely find it easier to stay off your tech because a lot of that time is instead filled with practice or games. Although that is very helpful, it doesn’t mean you can’t do something physical to occupy your time when taking breaks from homework. Learning to play a musical instrument, like Cecelia, or working with animals, like Sarah, are both great ways to use your hands on something other than a keyboard. And don’t forget that parents struggle too! Becky, as a parent, sometimes feels drawn to her phone when she isn’t working. Some ways she cuts her time are to “Keep it out of reach so it's harder to absentmindedly pick [her phone] up. No phones at the dinner table or in the bedroom at night (I break this one a lot!). Generally try to focus on the IRL people around me.” Therefore, another good way to get off the phone is start up a conversation with those around you.
You’ve heard a lot of negative things about phones so far. Don’t get too down! There’s a reason we have them to use as tools in the first place. According to Becky, “ It's how you stay connected with your social network, especially now during Covid. And it's scientifically designed to keep your brain watching.” We simply need to be more cautious when it comes to the “scientifically designed to keep your brain watching” part. Sarah suggests, “Get kids more involved in the outdoors and spend time with people in person rather than behind a screen.” So try something next time you feel the need to reach for your phone; go to the person closest to you, ask if they’re busy, and if not, ask them how their day was. You might be surprised by the way your mind forgets to check your phone.
We all know an overuse of screen time can be bad. Since the first few weeks of online learning, students and teachers have been complaining about their eyes or heads hurting excessively after hours on class calls. So how can we reduce time spent on our personal screens, especially if it is unnecessary? As many of you know, certain apps can be addicting. According to both Cecelia Bronson and Sarah Ogden, when it comes to Tik Tok, “It's just so addicting to be on,” and, “Tik Tok is very addicting, Each video is less than a minute long so it doesn't seem like it would take up much of your time. But I can easily waste an hour on Tik Tok without even realizing it.” If you’ve felt this way about any of the apps on your phone, don’t panic! There are plenty of ways to reduce time spent on your phone and use it for more progressive things, which don’t exactly have to be school work or sports.
If you’re struggling with putting your phone down, it may be helpful to try and walk down the time you spend on your device. For instance, if you spend 6 hours on your screens, try to watch the time so that tomorrow you only spend 5 hours and 30 minutes; the next day you would walk it down to 5 hours, and the next would be 4 hours and 30 min, etc. Also, no worries if your screen time is way over 6 hours! The ballpark average of screen time amongst our interviewees is around 7 ½ hours per day, and our participants spend a lot of their time with animals, sports, school, and work. It is doctor recommended that you should spend only 2 hours on screens tops, but without walking it down or using a different tactic that works for you can make that number overwhelming.
To fill your free time, it could help to pick up activities not including screens. Pennfield parent Becky Noffsinger says it helps her stay off tech by “Working, hanging out with family, doing chores around the house, gardening, exercising, [and] watching TV.” Cecelia adds that, “I am either reading, doing homework, working out, or spending time with friends and family,” when she isn’t on her phone. And Sarah also says, “I enjoy long walks and fishing.” Finding something without a screen can be surprisingly helpful, and doing it outside is even better. However, with a cold upcoming winter, finding anything off of screens is better than spending 10 or more hours watching TV or scrolling through Instagram.
A lot of you aren’t athletes. Those who are will most likely find it easier to stay off your tech because a lot of that time is instead filled with practice or games. Although that is very helpful, it doesn’t mean you can’t do something physical to occupy your time when taking breaks from homework. Learning to play a musical instrument, like Cecelia, or working with animals, like Sarah, are both great ways to use your hands on something other than a keyboard. And don’t forget that parents struggle too! Becky, as a parent, sometimes feels drawn to her phone when she isn’t working. Some ways she cuts her time are to “Keep it out of reach so it's harder to absentmindedly pick [her phone] up. No phones at the dinner table or in the bedroom at night (I break this one a lot!). Generally try to focus on the IRL people around me.” Therefore, another good way to get off the phone is start up a conversation with those around you.
You’ve heard a lot of negative things about phones so far. Don’t get too down! There’s a reason we have them to use as tools in the first place. According to Becky, “ It's how you stay connected with your social network, especially now during Covid. And it's scientifically designed to keep your brain watching.” We simply need to be more cautious when it comes to the “scientifically designed to keep your brain watching” part. Sarah suggests, “Get kids more involved in the outdoors and spend time with people in person rather than behind a screen.” So try something next time you feel the need to reach for your phone; go to the person closest to you, ask if they’re busy, and if not, ask them how their day was. You might be surprised by the way your mind forgets to check your phone.
High School Reality 2017-2020
Hailey Shemberger '21
High school, when thought about in 8th grade it had high expectations. With the only references being teenage movies that gave false information or expectations. For example, the High School Musical movies were definitely the peak of my childhood and filled my pure middle school heart and many others with excitement for high school. I was ready for the unbelievable experience! With actual high school presenting unbelievable experiences, it made me very thankful, but it definitely wasn't an ongoing high school musical and there definitely weren't any Troy Boltons and my little freshman heart was destroyed. But I got over it and realigned my expectations for the rest of high school. So here is each year of high school described by multiple people, this is as realistic as it can be.
Freshman year:
While entering high school is an obvious upgrade from getting out of middle school, the downgrade is being back at the bottom of the “food chain.” Most students enter with the mindset of having fun and starting a new chapter. Tori Young described her adjustment from middle school to freshman year, “I didn't notice a big difference between 8th and 9th grade other than I was in a school with all older people. I definitely prefer high school over middle school because of that.” Although another student Darby Andrews said, “I expected the homework load and classes to be harder but I didn’t think about how I needed to prepare for that.” With the transition there are resources to make the adjustment easier, such as LINK Crew. With new teachers, students felt like they knew they needed more time to adjust to the workload and their schedule and to create and organize a new system.
Sophomore year:
The second year of high school, when Tori was asked what changed from freshman year to sophomore year she described sophomore year with the word “slump!” Also students say teachers raised their expectations and that the homework load increased. Students believe that as you get older, teachers think highly of you because you start to gain more experience. Students gained a better sense of responsibility and organization.
Junior year:
Junior year is said to be the most stressful, overwhelming, and important year of high school. The class of 2021 might say most of the stress we didn't get, because a big part of the stress is having to take and prepare for the SAT’s. Another stressful thing for junior year is starting to look at our options of colleges and for some that's an easy conversation. For others it’s a dead end and a scary conversation, not only do you have to think about what college you will attend, but you also have to think about what career you want to pursue. COVID-19 prevented the class of 2021 to finish their junior year at school and students expressed how it affected them. “I didn’t have any assignments or anything so it was pretty easy. I just missed going to school to see my friends and keep up my routine,” said Tori. Another student Darby said, “Being in the unknown made it hard to focus on what we needed to be focusing on. It definitely made a negative impact on students.”
Senior year:
With school being moved online we all were devastated especially seniors with this being our last and final year. Many students had to re-adjust their expectations for their final year of high school. Darby explained, “I was really excited to do all of the ‘senior things’ this year but now I don’t even really care that much about them.” Many students were confused and lost the first week of school this year. Tori expressed her frustration by stating, “I did not make it to the first week of school because I didn’t have my password yet. That was a very stressful time!” With the second quarter just beginning, some “kinks” have been fixed but online school definitely isn't perfect and is still a challenge.
With the unknown of how school will be from now on, students in all grades must adapt for the moment because we do not have a set time of when things will go back to “normal” if it ever will. All the students and teachers can do for now is learn from the mistakes and what works and what doesn’t. The best thing to do is communicate with your teachers with issues you have, teachers are very understanding because they are struggling with adjusting too. Try to appreciate the understanding of the teachers, but do not take advantage of it.
Freshman year:
While entering high school is an obvious upgrade from getting out of middle school, the downgrade is being back at the bottom of the “food chain.” Most students enter with the mindset of having fun and starting a new chapter. Tori Young described her adjustment from middle school to freshman year, “I didn't notice a big difference between 8th and 9th grade other than I was in a school with all older people. I definitely prefer high school over middle school because of that.” Although another student Darby Andrews said, “I expected the homework load and classes to be harder but I didn’t think about how I needed to prepare for that.” With the transition there are resources to make the adjustment easier, such as LINK Crew. With new teachers, students felt like they knew they needed more time to adjust to the workload and their schedule and to create and organize a new system.
Sophomore year:
The second year of high school, when Tori was asked what changed from freshman year to sophomore year she described sophomore year with the word “slump!” Also students say teachers raised their expectations and that the homework load increased. Students believe that as you get older, teachers think highly of you because you start to gain more experience. Students gained a better sense of responsibility and organization.
Junior year:
Junior year is said to be the most stressful, overwhelming, and important year of high school. The class of 2021 might say most of the stress we didn't get, because a big part of the stress is having to take and prepare for the SAT’s. Another stressful thing for junior year is starting to look at our options of colleges and for some that's an easy conversation. For others it’s a dead end and a scary conversation, not only do you have to think about what college you will attend, but you also have to think about what career you want to pursue. COVID-19 prevented the class of 2021 to finish their junior year at school and students expressed how it affected them. “I didn’t have any assignments or anything so it was pretty easy. I just missed going to school to see my friends and keep up my routine,” said Tori. Another student Darby said, “Being in the unknown made it hard to focus on what we needed to be focusing on. It definitely made a negative impact on students.”
Senior year:
With school being moved online we all were devastated especially seniors with this being our last and final year. Many students had to re-adjust their expectations for their final year of high school. Darby explained, “I was really excited to do all of the ‘senior things’ this year but now I don’t even really care that much about them.” Many students were confused and lost the first week of school this year. Tori expressed her frustration by stating, “I did not make it to the first week of school because I didn’t have my password yet. That was a very stressful time!” With the second quarter just beginning, some “kinks” have been fixed but online school definitely isn't perfect and is still a challenge.
With the unknown of how school will be from now on, students in all grades must adapt for the moment because we do not have a set time of when things will go back to “normal” if it ever will. All the students and teachers can do for now is learn from the mistakes and what works and what doesn’t. The best thing to do is communicate with your teachers with issues you have, teachers are very understanding because they are struggling with adjusting too. Try to appreciate the understanding of the teachers, but do not take advantage of it.
November National Holidays
Macy Gwynne '24
There are so many National Holidays, there is pretty much a National Holiday for everything. National Hoodie Day? Check. National chocolate day? Check. There’s even a National Bubble Wrap Appreciation Day! Here are a ton of National holidays in November that everyone should keep in mind.
November 5th is National Bonfire Night, so if you’re able to and the weather is good, don’t forget to have a bonfire. The next day, November 6th, is National Nacho Day, so don’t forget to get yourself some yummy nachos. Sorry chocolate lovers, but on November 10th it’s National Vanilla Cupcake Day, so if you’re a vanilla person, get yourself a vanilla cupcake. Following the chocolate lovers nightmare and vanilla lovers dream, is National Singles Day. On November 11th, all you single pringles get to celebrate, because it’s your day. November 13th is National World Kindness day, so do something kind for someone, and try not to be mean. Don’t forget to spread some kindness, and if you see someone being mean, don’t forget to inform them it’s National World Kindness Day, and they should try to be kinder. After World Kindness Day is National Pickle Day. November 15th is both National Recycling Day and National Clean Out Your Fridge Day, so don’t forget to clean your fridge and recycle what you can when doing so. If you missed National Vanilla Cupcake Day or don’t like vanilla, then don’t worry because November 26th is National Cake Day. National Small Business Day is on November 28th. November is also National Healthy Skin Month, so don’t forget to take care of your skin. It’s also National Fun With Fondue Month, so if you're able to get your hands on some fondue, then you’re allowed to go crazy and have some fun. November is National Novel Writing Month, so if you’ve been wanting to write a novel, now's your chance! Finally, November is also National Scholarship Month as well, so you better get on that if you need it.
There are so many different and interesting holidays this month. Hopefully there's a holiday in there that you will celebrate! Have an amazing November everyone.
November 5th is National Bonfire Night, so if you’re able to and the weather is good, don’t forget to have a bonfire. The next day, November 6th, is National Nacho Day, so don’t forget to get yourself some yummy nachos. Sorry chocolate lovers, but on November 10th it’s National Vanilla Cupcake Day, so if you’re a vanilla person, get yourself a vanilla cupcake. Following the chocolate lovers nightmare and vanilla lovers dream, is National Singles Day. On November 11th, all you single pringles get to celebrate, because it’s your day. November 13th is National World Kindness day, so do something kind for someone, and try not to be mean. Don’t forget to spread some kindness, and if you see someone being mean, don’t forget to inform them it’s National World Kindness Day, and they should try to be kinder. After World Kindness Day is National Pickle Day. November 15th is both National Recycling Day and National Clean Out Your Fridge Day, so don’t forget to clean your fridge and recycle what you can when doing so. If you missed National Vanilla Cupcake Day or don’t like vanilla, then don’t worry because November 26th is National Cake Day. National Small Business Day is on November 28th. November is also National Healthy Skin Month, so don’t forget to take care of your skin. It’s also National Fun With Fondue Month, so if you're able to get your hands on some fondue, then you’re allowed to go crazy and have some fun. November is National Novel Writing Month, so if you’ve been wanting to write a novel, now's your chance! Finally, November is also National Scholarship Month as well, so you better get on that if you need it.
There are so many different and interesting holidays this month. Hopefully there's a holiday in there that you will celebrate! Have an amazing November everyone.
Anxiety Affects Teens in a Variety of Ways
Reilee Myers ‘21
The pandemic has caused much stress and anxiety for many people. Combined with the need to adapt to virtual classes, many students have been facing issues surrounding their ability to handle anxiety. Freshman Areli Copland, sophomore Taren Todd, and seniors Adrian Metty and Cameron Reichel all gave very different stories surrounding their ability to cope with the pandemic.
Surprisingly, they all had different opinions regarding themselves even having additional stress to manage. Taren expressed a lack of extra stress in favor of enjoying more connections with her family. Adrian found it stressful to go to the store early in the pandemic, but has since adjusted to things. Alternatively, Cameron has found the combination of school and the loss of the baseball season to be stressful for himself and his fellow athletes. Areli expressed frustration with what she felt was an excessive workload from her classes. Demonstrating a variety of impacts on people, Adrian expressed the stress causing her to feel tired most of the time, while Areli expressed difficulty being able to find time for friends and family between schoolwork.
They also managed their stress in a variety of ways. Areli motivates herself to push through the workload by thinking about her ideal career. Cameron found exercise and organization to be more calming. Adrian expressed a similar sentiment to Cameron in regard to organizing things. Taren tried to simply take more time for herself after finishing her schoolwork.
As for the effectiveness of their stress management strategies, there was a certain degree of variation. Areli found her strategies to be ineffective. Taren found it took some time to optimize her strategies. Adrian and Cameron both found their strategies to be effective, but Adrian found most of her stress was school related.
Everyone seemed to find little difficulty in finding out what worked best for them. Though it is unfortunate that some of them struggled with low effectiveness, they all seem to have found the strength to continue on.
Surprisingly, they all had different opinions regarding themselves even having additional stress to manage. Taren expressed a lack of extra stress in favor of enjoying more connections with her family. Adrian found it stressful to go to the store early in the pandemic, but has since adjusted to things. Alternatively, Cameron has found the combination of school and the loss of the baseball season to be stressful for himself and his fellow athletes. Areli expressed frustration with what she felt was an excessive workload from her classes. Demonstrating a variety of impacts on people, Adrian expressed the stress causing her to feel tired most of the time, while Areli expressed difficulty being able to find time for friends and family between schoolwork.
They also managed their stress in a variety of ways. Areli motivates herself to push through the workload by thinking about her ideal career. Cameron found exercise and organization to be more calming. Adrian expressed a similar sentiment to Cameron in regard to organizing things. Taren tried to simply take more time for herself after finishing her schoolwork.
As for the effectiveness of their stress management strategies, there was a certain degree of variation. Areli found her strategies to be ineffective. Taren found it took some time to optimize her strategies. Adrian and Cameron both found their strategies to be effective, but Adrian found most of her stress was school related.
Everyone seemed to find little difficulty in finding out what worked best for them. Though it is unfortunate that some of them struggled with low effectiveness, they all seem to have found the strength to continue on.
Free Lunch Program
Ayrianna Waschak 21' (10/21/20)
Do you miss school? The Pennfield lunch staff misses school and seeing everyone's faces everyday.
Since March when school was let out for the year, Pennfield’s lunch staff have been handing out free breakfast and lunches for the students in the Battle Creek area. The lunch staff collectively said, “The lunches don’t have as much selection as they did in the beginning. You can now get 7 meals and all meals have to contain a fruit and a protein. We also hand out breakfast and milk.” The lunches are made for kids under the age of 18 and 25 if you have a disability. The lunch staff wants to make sure that the kids are getting the nutrients they need while still doing school work. The staff goes above and beyond this year because they never thought that they would have to pass out lunches like this when picking this career. They also never thought they would have to pass lunches to kids outside during the winter, but they said some snow won’t stop them from giving the kids their lunches. The lunch staff told us that the free lunch program is 100% funded by USDA. “The USDA pays for the food we give out and everything else that is given to the kids,” said the lunch staff. They hand out about 16,200 meals a week, without counting the few schools that aren’t online. |
If you’re thinking about going down to the high school on Mondays between the times, 11:30-12:30pm or 5:30-6:30pm, the lunch staff would love to see everyone again and can’t wait for us to go back to school.
|
2020 Homecoming King and Queen
Ally Keown '23 (10/15/20)
An inside scoop from our Pennfield 2020 Homecoming King and Queen.
Being the Homecoming King and Queen could be the highlight of anyone's year. For this year it was Senior, Naomi Todd and Senior, DaShaun Bailey to take the crown. With their high school career almost over, being King and Queen must have topped it all off. “It is such an honor to be Homecoming Queen!” Naomi said. “It still doesn’t feel real,” DaShaun stated. With them having the whole band backing them up and their friends, they both still weren’t expecting it. We all can’t help but wonder what was going through their brain when the crown was placed on their heads. Naomi said she felt so thankful, nervous, and excited about becoming the Homecoming Queen so fast. DaShaun on the other hand had his mouth dropped as he stood there in shock. If you're nominated for something as big as being on Homecoming Court you have to have some supporters to help your win. Some of Naomi’s supporters were Brooke Robinson, her Nana, Shannon Haywood, and the king himself DaShaun Bailey. “They were very encouraging and positive!” she quoted. DaShaun said some of his many supporters were his closest friends and especially Naomi, and that they all supported him the whole time. To celebrate their success they both went to eat together at Chili’s with some close friends and family. They were asked when did they know you wanted to be on the Homecoming Court? Naomi mentioned that she knew when her good friends Zach Crandall and Emma O’Donnell won Homecoming King and Queen last year. DaShaun found out he wanted to be on Homecoming Court during his freshman homecoming football game when everyone was announced. He liked that they were all recognized and dressed up. |
Everyone has made at least one good memory in high school that they will never forget. For our King and Queen many of their best memories were in band. Band camp, marching band, and basketball games just to name a few of their favorite moments. Being named 2020’s Homecoming King and Queen will probably be at the top of that list. Since their years of being a Pennfield Panther are almost over, after high school is over Naomi wants to go to Western Michigan University to major in political science and minor in business. DaShaun would also like to go to Western Michigan University to get a degree in criminal justice and chemistry. Congratulations Naomi Todd and DaShaun Bailey for winning homecoming King and Queen. Hopefully it was a night you’ll never forget! |
Band Spaced More than Ever
Jessica Brosky ‘23 (10/15/20)
|
When the pandemic hit, the band was still crossing their fingers they would get a chance to march and share the season together even if there were regulations. Sadly that didn’t happen. Any type of band camp was not allowed or cancelled and band would have to be a virtual class this school year. The band still doesn’t know when they will all get to be together to have a season, but Junior Sam Bradley and Sophomore Madison Collins have some hope and insight for the band to be together this year. A big difference to the band is currently everything is virtual which many members aren’t used to. Madison says, “I really don't like not having in-person band class right now.” |
Sam claims that he feels sad about not being able to have in-person Band but that he doesn’t miss it too badly.
The band is doing playing assignments online right now. They are recording themselves playing their parts of the music, while Mr. Driver, the Band Director, is listening to the recordings and giving feedback to each student to help them get better at playing their instrument. The band is also doing Google Meets two times a week just like all the other classes this school year.
Sam had a great way of looking at Google Meets by saying, “I think Google Meets are a positive and negative thing. I can be by myself when I learn, but yet, I don’t have teacher interaction as I would as if I was in class.”
Overall, both Madison and Sam agree that Google Meet is just not the same as being in person.
Luck has changed recently for the band though. At first, the band was told that there was probably not going to be a way for them to perform this football season. This changed very recently when the band was told that they could perform at the Homecoming game on Friday as long as they followed regulations.
These regulations include having the students wear masks when not playing and staying 6 feet apart at all times. Mr.Driver agreed and the band is allowed to perform at the Homecoming game.
The Homecoming game doesn’t solve everything though. The band still doesn’t know whether they are going to have a concert season this year.
Sam again had some input on the matter. “Personally, I don’t think there will be a concert season. It would be cool if there was, I know the seniors really want it… but since I’m only a junior it doesn’t affect me,” He said.
All in all, the band just has to be really optimistic that they could still potentially have a concert season.
Even though the band is mostly virtual right now they still continue to have a strong bond like always. They are hopeful that one day everything will go back to “normal,” even if it is the “new normal.”
The band is doing playing assignments online right now. They are recording themselves playing their parts of the music, while Mr. Driver, the Band Director, is listening to the recordings and giving feedback to each student to help them get better at playing their instrument. The band is also doing Google Meets two times a week just like all the other classes this school year.
Sam had a great way of looking at Google Meets by saying, “I think Google Meets are a positive and negative thing. I can be by myself when I learn, but yet, I don’t have teacher interaction as I would as if I was in class.”
Overall, both Madison and Sam agree that Google Meet is just not the same as being in person.
Luck has changed recently for the band though. At first, the band was told that there was probably not going to be a way for them to perform this football season. This changed very recently when the band was told that they could perform at the Homecoming game on Friday as long as they followed regulations.
These regulations include having the students wear masks when not playing and staying 6 feet apart at all times. Mr.Driver agreed and the band is allowed to perform at the Homecoming game.
The Homecoming game doesn’t solve everything though. The band still doesn’t know whether they are going to have a concert season this year.
Sam again had some input on the matter. “Personally, I don’t think there will be a concert season. It would be cool if there was, I know the seniors really want it… but since I’m only a junior it doesn’t affect me,” He said.
All in all, the band just has to be really optimistic that they could still potentially have a concert season.
Even though the band is mostly virtual right now they still continue to have a strong bond like always. They are hopeful that one day everything will go back to “normal,” even if it is the “new normal.”
Dancing their way through COVID
Mackenzie Pemberton '23 (10/11/20)
With the regulations due to COVID, sports teams believed that they were not going to have a fall season, although sometime during the summer the MHSAA released that they were going to allow fall sports to begin. Football, volleyball, soccer, cheer leading, cross country, swimming, and dance are now all in full swing. Freshmen, Sadie Penney and Alexis Avery along with sophomore, Emilia Braman expressed their thoughts about the dance team and the late start to the season.
About 2 months ago the Pennfield High School Dance Team was allowed to start practice. Sadie Penney has been dancing for 2 years, and this is her first time dancing for Pennfield. When asked if it was difficult practicing with regulations she said, “Yes, kind of, because we can’t really take our masks off so we have to take a lot of brakes to drink water.” Everybody has different thoughts about COVID and the regulations that it comes with. Emilia Braman said, “not really” when asked if she thought it was difficult to practice with the regulations. Along with sports, people also have to do online school. It may be difficult to keep up with the sport you play along with virtual school. Maintaining good grades can be hard when doing online school. Regarding keeping on top of her studies, Alexis Avery says, “I’ve been keeping up with my studies except Biology, but as long as you have a good schedule then you’re on track.” |
Sports and virtual school can be very stressful Sadie Penny says, “Dance takes my mind off the crazy school stuff going on and just lets me feel like there are no worries in the world.”
There are many regulations that come with COVID, but people still want their sports seasons. Emilia says, “I would rather deal with regulations because everyone said the dance team was really fun and it is, and I love doing sports for the school.” Sometimes people on sports teams don’t get along, that’s not the case for the dance team. Emilia, Alexis, and Sadie all said they all get along really well. The dance team will perform at the Homecoming football game, but they are not sure about any competitions or other football games. |
How Has LINK Adjusted To The Pandemic?
Transitioning from middle school to high school can be difficult for many students. It can seem very scary, especially with the chaotic way high school is portrayed in media, such as movies and television. The purpose of LINK crew is to help freshmen adjust to high school and their new routines.
Senior, Izak Schipper described himself as a people person. He wanted to give people extra support and make the school a more welcoming place, which is what inspired him to become a LINK leader.
Link Coordinator, Mr. Lessnau said that LINK was established at our school five years ago with the goal of making the school a more “welcoming, inclusive, and positive space” for the students.
Izak said, that LINK leaders offer a
“net of support” for the freshmen. They help freshmen study or get other support if they need it. Mr. Lessau said that, as LINK coordinator, it’s his job to ensure the LINK leaders get the skills and training they need to help the freshmen.
When asked about what it’s like to be a LINK leader, Izak said, “It can be hard to open up to new people but it’s a rewarding experience.”
He mentioned that it is hard sometimes helping the freshmen work with the virtual learning because it is new to him too. Mr. Lessnau also felt that it is rewarding and helps build leadership skills, but noted that it is different for everyone.
Izak said that he sometimes doesn’t feel as though he is doing enough, but he remains hopeful, saying he finds it “extremely rewarding.”
Mr. Lessnau was more focused on the fact that this year is different, and invited suggestions from the freshmen class.
On the subject of the pandemic’s impact on LINK, Izak said that LINK had to do its training in a Google Meet, rather than in person. He expressed appreciation for the excited looks on the faces of freshmen during the virtual freshmen orientation. Mr. Lessnau expressed a similar sentiment.
Izak and Mr. Lessnau expressed repeatedly that they felt happy with the impact they were having on the freshmen class. Hopefully, freshmen for years to come will have the same amount of support, even in the face of extraordinary circumstances like today.
-- Reilee Myers ‘21, Keegan Newman ‘21 (10/11/20)
Hop, Skip and a Click Away From Your Day
Staff and students describe how they organize their day.
Have you started to feel overwhelmed by virtual learning? Or maybe you feel okay with it, and need to relate to someone who feels the same. After interviewing a staff member and two busy students, we felt more connected to those who have a different range of emotions during this pandemic. You might pick up a helpful tip or two, and since organizing your schedule is crucial in today’s learning atmosphere, we hope it’ll help. Pennfield Senior, Jenifer Ogden feels her schedule could “definitely be better.” Although she enjoys the freedom of sleeping in most mornings, Jennifer wishes her schedule was planned out differently. “I have an online class for the Calhoun Area Career Center and I also take an online class at KCC. I wish my two Pennfield classes were on Tuesday and Thursday instead, it would be easier to complete assignments if they were spaced out a little more.” Since her schedule revolves around being online, she finds ways to detox from staring at a computer screen for countless hours each day. “I love to read, I’ll grab my favorite book and set everything aside and stop worrying about school and distress from the day.” Our second Pennfield Senior, Ellie Noffsinger, feels the changes in her daily schedule too. She describes the tweaks in her days because of COVID-19, but also because of the extra classes she’s taking. Like all our seniors this year, her schedule is, in a word, hectic. Ellie is involved in KCC, the Math and Science Center, and AP classes. Jokingly, she said “I cry” when describing how she dealt with overwhelming assignments. So don’t worry, because even though she wasn’t serious, you aren’t the only one having a mental breakdown. But afterwards, more earnestly, she described it like this: “I try to do them a couple days ahead of time.” So for seniors, and probably for every other student right now, a good idea would be to get ahead on the assignments that you can, and if you get behind, email your teachers and let them know where you’re at. Most teachers won’t reprimand you for having too many assignments, or bad internet, or whatever good reason causes you to fall behind. |
Ellie helped touch on another subject most of you will deal with, if you aren’t already. Referring to her after school activities, she said “It adds stress because on top of homework it’s just one more thing to do in my schedule, but it also is nice to have a change in scenery.” If you’re feeling stressed because of a sport or club, try to ask yourself what is stressing you out about that activity, and what you can do to change that. After all, the main point of a sport or club is to have fun and learn, and nowadays it's so much more important to have contact outside of your phone or chromebook. Ellie also mentioned that detoxing is important, especially after being on a screen for so long. “If I need a nap because I’m tired then I do that. But I might take a walk or make myself some food so I’m moving around.” So don’t be too concerned if you feel sluggish or zombie-like after classes - just do whatever you feel is best, whether it’s taking a nap or running a mile.
Don’t worry, we know there are plenty of other perspectives besides a senior’s. Mrs. Treadway, an English Teacher at Pennfield High School, and also a Pennfield parent of two, offered some perspectives and tips for online learning. “Those early morning days I feel like are a little easier.” Starting off the day earlier allows this busy teacher and parent to “balance everything.” As most of you know, class doesn’t start until 11:20 on certain days, but we should still be getting up early like we would to go to school. It gives her more time to get organized and complete her work while watching over her own kids. Sticking to a schedule during this pandemic will help you balance your time, work, and most importantly your mental health. It’s important to not fall behind, so make sure you figure out what works best for you and make sure to stick with it! -- Addison Noffsinger ‘23, Sarah Ogden ‘23 (9/28/20) |
Senior Parking Spots
Covid can’t stop a new upcoming tradition!
It hasn’t always been a tradition at Pennfield High School, but now the senior class is able to express themselves by painting a parking spot. We were able to hear from seniors, Milani Taylor-Bacon and Naomi Todd. Milani thinks that her design represents her very well. Naomi mentioned that she chose her design because band is her passion and she also loves the design. Although both ladies did an excellent job, they mentioned that if they were to re-do their parking spot, they would do a few things differently. Milani said, “I wouldn’t change it, but I would buy a lot more paint.” Naomi said, “If I could redo my spot I would paint, ‘if you’re reading this I am late’.”
“My favorite part of painting was being able to hang out with friends and adding glitter into my paint and my least favorite part was that it was taking too long,” said Milani. Naomi also told us, “my favorite part about painting was being with my friends and seeing the outcome! My least favorite part was how physically painful it was to be on my knees.” One of the big questions is, will we even get the chance to park in our spots this year? “I hope so because it is my senior year and I would like to see everyone and have fun, but if not I guess I won’t be sad and just spend it with friends,” Milani answered. Naomi told us, “I think at some point we will be able to park in the spots and I would be so sad if we don’t.” We all hope that everyone will be able to use their parking spots this year and we were so happy to be able to see all the familiar faces while we worked. We can’t wait to see this tradition carry on and all the new ideas that people will come up with! -- Ayrianna Waschak ‘21 (9/28/20) |
|
What's Binge-Worthy?
Streaming services seem to know how to make people watch, but what services are people using? What shows are they really watching? Hear from two seniors on the matter and learn how the pandemic has affected the usage of these services.
Streaming services are the go-to thing a lot of the time for people when they want to watch something, but like always people have their opinion on what ones are worth watching. Most people would probably say Netflix if you asked them what their favorite streaming service is and these two seniors are no different. When asked what their favorite service is, senior Addison Walling said “Netflix or Disney+.” While senior Sarah Brosky said “Netflix or Youtube.” So when it comes to streaming services to watch, Netflix seems to get the vote from these two. When asked what shows they are watching Addison and Sarah both said “Ratched.” So add that to your shows to check out because it must be good seeing how often these two seniors watch Netflix. These girls relate to a majority of people when it comes to how much time they spend on streaming services. When asked how often they use streaming services Addison and Sarah replied “Everyday.” Though they had different responses when it comes to what time of day they use it. Addison stated, “All day anytime.” While Sarah said, “At night after school.” So according to these two, Netflix is always to be seen in their web history. It’s no wonder that COVID may have an impact on these two seniors when it comes to streaming services. When asked if COVID affected how often they use these services Sarah simply said “Yes.” While Addison stated “No it’s the same.” They also have different things to say when it comes to starting services recently. While Addison says, “I started Hulu recently to watch more movies.” Sarah sticks to the ones she knows and hasn’t started any new services. |
Overall, streaming services are being used more and more these days. Some people may watch more now because of COVID. While others might continue to binge watch just as much. All in all, according to these seniors, Sarah and Addison, Netflix is Binge-Worthy and Ratched is the show to watch. -- Jessica Brosky ‘23 (9/23/20) |