Queen Taryn Irigoyen & King Luke Luttrell - Kingsburg High School
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March 25, 2021 Kingsburg High School Issue 3, Volume 94
Queen Taryn
Irigoyen &
King Luke
Luttrell
Features Opinions Sports
In this Issue: Kingsburg COVID-19
Community KHS Stu-
News Vaccines Made
Adds 3 New dent-Athletes
Available to
KHS Boosts Businesses in KHS Adminis- Finally Given
School Spirit With 2021 the Chance
tration
Homecoming Fes- the Compete
tivities
2
FEATURES
NEWS
VIKING Homecoming Dress Up Days Inspire Engagement
By Camille Zavala Dress up days have been orga- dant Addison Murguia is grateful to
VOICE Staff Reporter
With COVID-19 still run-
ning rampant, the need for school
nized the week among other activities
such as a rally, a homecoming court
and activities during the transition
get to participate in anything in this
modified school year.
“I’m just glad we are even
spirit is practically dire. Home- time. These dress up days are made to getting the chance to do anything this
coming week brought the perfect reflect the 4 class dance genres. year,” she said. “I think it’s something
opportunity for students and staff On Monday, students wereen- fun to look forward to since we have
alike to join together and celebrate couraged to wear their best 50’s garb had such a weird year.”
the school, the community and for “Crusin thru the 50’s.” The groovy Brett has vowed to not let
their class. vibe for Tuesday was“Dancing Disco.” the restrictions dampen the mood,
Homecoming week activ- Wednesday brought out everyone’s in- all while making sure to follow the
ities at KHS date back to over half ner cowboy with “Western Wednesday.” correct protocol. “I feel like in order
a century ago, a time where the With traveling back in time for a day, to make it happen we must follow the
Homecoming queen candidates Thursday brought“Throwback Thurs- restrictions,” she stated.
were hand picked by the football day” to the plate. Friday, as always, was “It will be challenging but I
team and the role of homecoming the traditional “Green and Gold”to feel like everyone feels the same way
king was non-existent. The week boost Viking pride. about Homecoming happening,” Brett
Kingsburg High leading up to the packed football Students and teachers alike are continued.
School 2020-2021 game included activities such as a encouraged to participate in the dress As for the dress up days, both
bonfire and the making of a throne up days whether they are in-person or girls say they’re all in. “I do plan on
Viking Voice Staff for the newly crowned homecom- distance learning. participating in the dress up days. I
Editor-in-Chief ing queen to sit at on the 40 yard When asked about her emo- feel like school spirit is something
Avneet Purewal line. tions towards Homecoming this year we all need, especially with the new
Dress up days were a little despite the restrictions we face, KHS circumstances,” interpreted Brett.
Editor bit different, with no themes. How- Freshman Kelcey Brett responded, “I’m Murguia agreed, “I think that
Zachery Howell ever, kids often showed up to school very excited that Homecoming is hap- if people want something fun then
in more formal attire than normal, pening, especially since there weren’t they will dress up and it will boost the
Staff Writers/ Reporters explained Judy Ostrom, 1966 KHS any other school events this year.” school spirit. It’s a safe way to bring
Kimmy Alexander graduate. Freshman Homecoming Atten- something fun to look forward to!”
Laura Angel
Lauren Berry Monday: Crusing Thru the 50’s Tuesday: Dancing Disco
Leila Dablan
Jadyn Franco
Trista Fry
Brittyn Jennings
Abigail Jobe
Brenda Marquez
Summer Mejia
Kristen Pacheco
Mary Palmer
Madelyn Wiest
Brynlee Woods
Camille Zavala
Friday: Green & Gold
Special Thanks to Johnie
Thomsen for Photography!
Any opinions expressed are
those of the author and in no
way represent the position of
the Kingsburg High Staff, ad-
ministration, Board of Trustees,
advertisers, or the Viking Voice
advisor.
Letters to the Editors Throwback Thursday
Western Wednesday
Email your comments, opin-
ions, and ideas on this issue’s
articles to the Viking Voice at
6004356@stu.kingsburghigh.
com Your responses may be
published next issue!
Check out the
Viking Valor page at
kingsburghigh.com
NEWS
3 March 25, 2021
Homecoming Week Celebrations, Finally!
By Avneet Purewal On Monday, March 15th, the Homecoming candi- the coronation ceremony.
dates competed in a dance competition with their running Before the football game began, the homecoming
Editor-in-Chief nominees came out. It was announced there that Irigoyen
partners. The winners were Taryn Irigoyen and Luke Lutrell
Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, KHS ASB
with their charming western-style dance. and Lutrell won Queen and King. They were both honored
and administration have been working hard to make the
On Tuesday, March 16th, senior candidates played and excited to be selected.
2020-21 school year as normal as possible. Homecoming
a competitive game of volleyball. There was one catch: Luttrell commented, “It is an honor to be crowned
festivities, with modifications, were held from March 15 to
players were tied with a rope to their running partner. The homecoming king! I am happy to represent our amazing
March 19th. Seniors Taryn Irigoyen and Luke Luttrell were
winners were Blaire Wilson and Gavin Fagundes with their student body. The homecoming activities were my favorite
crowned the KHS 2021 Queen and King.
elite volleyball playing skills. part of the week. It was a lot of fun to be able to just let
The Homecoming festivities included dress-
On Wednesday, March 17th, the King & Queen nominees loose and have a good time. My biggest piece of advice for
up days, Homecoming candidate competitions, a live-
competed in a football-style competition. They participated underclassmen is to put yourself out there. Have as much
streamed coronation video, and a dance video class compe-
in football activities to prove who were the most worthy fun as you can because these memories last forever. Go
tition.
candidates. The winners were Taryn Irigoyen and Luke Vikings!”
All of the fun activities led up to the first Viking
Luttrell with their impressive football performances. Irigoyen added, “I was super excited and honored
football game on Friday, March 19th. Students were excited
On Thursday, March 18th, an annual KHS pieing tradition to be crowned as queen. I love Kingsburg High and the
for the game and to have the school year feel somewhat
was held. The candidates for 2021 King & Queen were pied Kingsburg community in general! I really liked the dance
normal. The KHS Varsity Football Team beat CVC, 21-14,
by KHS students. Any student was able to pie any candi- competition and the football sled competition. Luke and I
on Friday. It was a close and intense game, but the Vikings
date(s) of their choice for $2 a pie during the transition were really competitive so we had a fun week! It was differ-
triumphed at the end.
period. ent for sure, but it was the first time we had some normalcy
KHS students are doing their best to stay optimis-
KHS was excited to be able to keep up the tradi- this year. I’m very grateful for the staff at KHS for working
tic about the opportunities that the school is providing for
tional Homecoming court voting. Students voted for a girl so hard to make homecoming happen for us. Homecoming
them. KHS Sophomore and Homecoming Representative
and boy to represent their class prior to the Homecoming week was super memorable and I had the best time!”
Liliana Dias interpreted, “Homecoming is different this
week. The freshman representatives were Addison Murguia Before the game, each class’ homecoming videos
year because this is the first time it is in the Spring. It is sad
and Gavin Jensen. The sophomore representatives were according to their prospective themes were also played.
to think there’s no student section because that’s usually the
Liliana Dias and Trace Jackson. The junior winners were KHS ASB Advisor Doug Davis explained, “We changed
best part of football season! I am so thankful our school
Kira Wilson and Chase Dias. things up this year and it was a combination of the videos
is doing Homecoming because something is better than
For the senior class, 5 pairs were chosen by the se- and spirit points (dressing up for Homecoming).” After
nothing.”
nior class. The candidates are as follows: Madeline Perkins halftime of the game, it was announced that seniors won,
In a normal school year, there would be Home-
with David Reimer, Blaire Wilson with Gavin Fagundes, juniors came in second, sophomores in third, and freshman
coming candidate competitions sometime during school.
Khloe Hodges with Cal Muxlow, Taryn Irigoyen with Luke in fourth.
Due to the AM/PM schedule split, ASB planned candidate
Luttrell, and Mattie Barnett with Eric Carillo. KHS had a fun week full of Homecoming ac-
competitions during the transition. Students were welcome
These pairs competed in activities during the tran- tivities. Junior Representative Kira Wilson added some
to watch the activities live in person, but they were also
sition period to try to win votes. The winners of the KHS advice for KHS students. She stated, “We should all try to
shown to all classes the next morning as a video. This was
2020-21 King & Queen were announced Friday, March appreciate what we have in this moment, because as we saw
done to make sure that students got to know the Home-
19th at the first home football game. The freshman, sopho- last year things can change unexpectedly, and many of the
coming candidates before voting for a winner on Wednes-
more, and junior class representatives were also present at opportunities we have now aren’t available to others.”
day.
Addison Murguia & Gavin Jensen Liliana Dias & Trace Jackson Kira Wilson & Chase Dias
Mattie Barnett & Eric Carillo Taryn Irigoyen & Luke Luttrell
Khloe Hodges & Cal Muxlow Blaire Wilson & Gavin Fagundes Madeline Perkins & David Reimer
4
FEATURES
NEWS
Academic Decathlon Team Takes Division III Title
By Avneet Purewal The KHS Academic Decathlon Team per- Albers stated, “I believe our team handled it well,
Editor-In-Chief formed well starting in the first year they competed. and the fact that we are on campus was nice because
The KHS Academic Decathlon team com- They placed second in 2019, third in 2020, and first it allowed me to provide internet access for students
peted in the virtual Fresno County competition in 2021. whose internet access might have been spotty at
on January 30 and February 6. KHS students won The COVID-19 pandemic brought challeng- home.”
first place in Division 3, most improved team, and es to the 2021 Academic Decathlon. The competition KHS Academic Decathlon Team not only
brought home 1 individual medal despite facing was held completely virtual, differing from the usual placed first in Division 3, but they also won the
many difficulties in the competition this year due to in-person format. “Most Improved Team” in the competition. They
the COVID-19 pandemic. All parts of the decathlon competition were were given this award because their score went up by
KHS first had an Academic Decathlon team done through individual devices. The Speech and In- over 20% compared to last year.
in the 1980s, but it didn’t continue. KHS’ Athletic terview section was held through the Zoom applica- Albers added, “I think our team performed
Decathlon Team is very young, having been amazingly. We won our division, and
revived after decades of inactivity in the actually came in eleventh overall (out of 23
2018-2019 school year. schools). Based on the size of our school
The Academic Decathlon team was and our newness we are in Division 3, and
started up again by English 2 and AP Lit- yet we came in ahead of Division 1 schools
erature and Composition teacher, Daniel like Sanger, Buchanan, and Clovis West. I
Albers. have always said that I think Kingsburg
Albers began teaching at KHS in High has the potential to compete with any
2018. He formerly taught at Orosi High high school in the county, and I think our
School prior to KHS. At Orosi, he took over results this year went a long way to proving
the Academic Decathlon Team. They com- this.”
peted in Tulare County’s Academic Decath- To reward the team for this accom-
lon and were very successful. plishment, Fresno County will give each
When Albers began teaching at member a $50 scholarship. Additionally,
KHS, he was very excited to coach the Aca- some of the KHS team fees will be waived
demic Decathlon Team. next year. KHS Junior Clinton Rhodes, per-
He explained, “In my previous job at Orosi formed exceptionally well and placed 9th
High School, I coached Academic Decathlon out of all students in the competition. He
from 2009 to 2018. We won our division in will receive a $100 scholarship as well.
2015, 2016, 2017, and 2018 (Orosi is in Tulare Coun- tion. KHS Graduate and Smittcamp Honors Student KHS is excited to see how their academic
ty and so they don’t compete against Kingsburg). at Fresno State, Shareen Purewal, served as a judge decathlon team performs next year. Albers said, “We
When I started at KHS I was excited to see that there this year. will still be in Division 3 most likely, as we would
was not an Academic Decathlon team but that the She commented, “I was a judge for the need a few years of slightly higher scores to move up
administration was open to starting one. I believed speech and interview aspect. The coordinators tried in divisions. I would like to win our division again,
that it would be possible for us to become a real to keep the competition the same as it was in previ- and possibly move into the top ten schools overall
competitor in the county competition. I also think ous years. I was really impressed with how well the (we were very close). I would also like to increase the
that the competition is a wonderful opportunity for students did this year. It is truly amazing considering number of individual awards we win, like Clinton’s
students to learn and compete. all the difficulties that they have faced.” 9th place win.
Interest here was small at first, but the fact that we Other parts of the competition include an Albers added, “It would also be nice to
won second place in our division in our first year got essay, objective tests, and a super quiz. recruit new people. The team has grown a lot, from
us some attention. We were even on the news, KSEE Due to the nature of virtual competition, eight students in 2019 to fifteen in 2020 and 2021,
24! It was an exciting year, and I think that we can there were many obstacles to consider including but I would love even more people to show up and
keep building on our success and growing as a team.” internet stability and laptop battery life. participate.”
KHS Shines During 6 Year WASC Visit
By Brittyn Jennings attend a college or get a certain job. as chairs. They both put a lot of hard work and time
Staff Reporter “The ACS WASC Commission is comprised into making sure the process ran smoothly.
During the days of March 7th to 10th of up to thirty-five persons, representing various Kerry Peterson and Jacob Simmons led the
Kingsburg High School was under evaluation by the constituencies of ACS WASC, selected by the Com- Organization and Purpose group, Michele Schiller
WASC organization. mission’s Nomination Review Committee from and Gail Williams discussed Curriculum in their
“The purpose of the Commission is to foster candidates nominated by member organizations or group, Elizabeth Vandervelde and Leigh Ann Olsen
excellence in elementary, secondary, adult and post- the Commission,” (www.acswasc.org). led the Learning and Teaching Group, Frank Car-
secondary institutions, and supplementary education Schools are observed every six years with bajal and Ken Harvey managed the Assessment and
programs. The Commission encourages school im- a three year check up. The evaluation of Kingsburg Accountability Group, and Shanna McDonals and
provement through a process of continuing evalu- High School was different this year. Normally, com- Doug Davis headed the School Culture and Support
ation and recognizes institutions through granting missioners would walk around campus. Whereas Group.
accreditation to the schools that meet an acceptable this year commissioners were present on chrome- On March 8th, a selected group of KHS
level of quality in accordance with the established books, via Zoom. Through this process, the KHS staff seniors, juniors, and sophomores participated in
criteria,” according to www.acswasc.org. created different plans and goals for the future of the an interview with the WASC delegates. Students
Attending an accredited high school and/ school. expressed that they felt positive feedback from the
or college is very important. Attending these schools Prior to the accreditation week, KHS staff WASC interviewers.
fortifies students diplomas for jobs and colleges. It and a group of selected students worked together to Although KHS has not received back a final deci-
shows that a school is teaching at the level that is reflect on KHS in the past few years. sion on their accreditation, all staff and students that
nationally accepted. A college recognizes this accred- KHS Librarian Lauara Vallenari and Assis- helped throughout the process feel like a positive
itation, and without one, students may not be able to tant Principal Heather Wilson led the WASC process decision is coming.
FEATURES
5 March 25, 2021
Dutch Bros, Grocery Outlet & Adventist Health in Kingsburg
By Trista Fry
Right next to Dutch Bros, Kingsburg has also Grocery Outlet is able to provide such amaz-
Staff Reporter started construction on a new Grocery store, Grocery ing deals on a diversified range of products because
While many projects were halted during Outlet. Grocery Outlet is a chain of affordable super- of its buyers. Their buyers scour the world to find the
the global pandemic, the growth of the Kingsburg markets that provides discounted and overstocked most thrilling and exciting details to bring the world’s
Business District was not slowed. The City of Kings- products from name brand and private label suppli- top name brands to shoppers at an affordable price.
burg has broken way to three new businesses entering ers. KHS Sophomore Sydney Brock stated, “I am
on the corner of Sierra and Simpson Streets. Grocery One of Grocery Outlet’s main goals is to pro- glad that the vacant spot is being filled by a grocery
Outlet, Adventist Health, and Dutch store that offers low prices, but I am
Bros will eventually call the area home. concerned that there are a lot of grocery
They expect the construction of the stores in the area.”
projects to be finished in 2021 or early Finally, in the same area as the Dutch
2022. Bros and Grocery Outlet, there is going
Dutch Bros is one of the larg- to be an Adventist Health Medical Of-
est privately held drive-through coffee fice.
chains in the entire United States. The Adventist Medical building that
They are headquartered in Grant Pass, is located at 1521 Draper Street will
Oregon, and were founded in 1992 soon be moved into the new building
by Dane and Travis Boersma, former under construction at 1781 Simpson
dairy businessmen. Avenue. The Current Adventist Health
It has quickly expanded to 328 office has been open to the community
locations across the Western Unit- since 2010.
ed States and captured the hearts of The new facility is quite the upgrade
many young coffee enthusiasts. Many as it is triple the current facility’s size
people are excited about the arrival of and it will have 31 exam rooms and 5
a Dutch Bros in Kingsburg, as the only dental chairs.
other locations that are closest are in Andrea Kofl, President of Adventist
Lemoore, Hanford, Clovis, or Fresno. Health in the Central Valley added,
KHS Freshman Lauren Berry exclaimed, vide thrilling details to all of its customers. “We are honored that this brand-new building will
“I’m super excited for Dutch Bros to be coming to They have been providing discounts since not only expand our services in Kingsburg but extend
Kingsburg! I’m ready to not have to drive to Fresno or 1946. Their founder, Jim Read, opened the first store our commitment to the health and wellbeing of the
Hanford since I go there all the time!” in 1946 to sell deep discounts on military surplus community.”
Dutch Brothers Coffee Company has been items. Three generations later the Read family is con- Staff and providers will transition to this new
able to gain popularity amongst so many people tinuing the tradition with more than 300 stores across site upon its completion, which is expected in 2021.
because of its diverse selection of drinks, and its out the nation. The Kingsburg community is very grateful
of the box coffee making reputation. Some of their Every week about 1.5 million shoppers shop to be breaking way on these new businesses that will
creations include cold brews, dutch freezes, the amer- at Grocery Outlet and Kingsburg is about to add to provide jobs to residents, prosper the community, and
icano, and a rebel energy drink. that astounding number. increase the productivity of the town.
The show must go on, but not quite yet!
By Kristen Pacheco actors interacting on stage, delivering their lines help project voices but we would struggle with a muf-
Staff Reporter forcefully or even singing with masks on. Addition- fled sound and interference between mic and mask.”
Due to COVID-19, the Drama Department ally, we wouldn’t be able to have an audience unless The idea of doing the production of Fiddler On The
has had to make some tough decisions on whether or we did a virtual performance. In that case, it would Roof was then brought to attention due to its cancel-
not there is going to be a school play this year. be hard to get the rights for a virtual performance lation last year because of the COVID-19 pandemic
Because of the Coronavirus, schools have and I don’t think it would do our kids justice for the and school closures.
been putting off their productions and holding their amount of time and energy a play requires both on When asked if she would like to do Fiddler
breath as they wait to see if things would change. All and off stage. Actors and back stage crew and build- on The Roof again this year if she were given the
theatre productions have been put on hold and pre- ers work very closely together over long hours and chance, KHS sophomore, Emily Fedor, (playing the
cautions have been implemented to help prevent the social distancing would be impossible in that kind of lead role of Hodel) responded, “If there was to be a
spread of COVID-19. The restrictions have limited situation.” play this year, I would like to do a new play because
theatre groups and their ability to perform togeth- When asked if there were any plans for put- even though we spent hours learning choreography
er. Schools have been encouraged to perform out- ting on a play this year and how those plans would and lines, doing a new play this year would lead to
side,even in the cold, and must require face coverings work with COVID-19 restrictions, KHS Drama and new opportunities, and might even attract more peo-
over musicians’ faces and performers’ faces at all Choir Instructor Richard Mynderup responded, ple to participate in it.”
times. “Unfortunately there will not be a spring production Fedor also said that she would be very disap-
Contrary to the information above, Fres- this year. Ms. Vallenari and I really tried to figure pointed if it was officially announced that there would
no State was allowed to put on their production of out what to do to be creative. But in the end and due be no play because theatre is a place for people to be
Detroit ‘67 and live stream the entire show online for to all of the current performance restrictions by the themselves and try new things whether it’s acting,
people to watch in the comfort of their own homes. county health department we felt it best to let COVID singing, dancing, or stage directing.
The performers were socially distanced throughout play out the rest of this year. We would be forced Unfortunately, the announcement has finally
the whole show and wore face masks as well. to severely limit the number of students that could become official. KHS will not put on Fiddler on The
When asked if livestreaming might be an option for participate. And we would be very limited in what we Roof nor will it be doing a new play this year because
KHS, Media Teacher Laura Vallenari responded, “It is could even offer in the way of a title. And the hardest of the Coronavirus.
difficult to get the rights to a show for live streaming. part about all of this is our students would not be able Although this is very disappointing for all
We would have to invest in whatever live streaming to perform in front of a live audience.” theatre lovers, it is important to stay positive and
service is allowed by that particular playwright. How Vallenari commented, “Students would have hope for the best. Students should look forward to
would ticket sales be handled?” to wear masks and remain socially distant on and off next year when KHS will finally get to put on another
Vallenari added, “It is just too hard to have of the stage. Microphones would need to be used to play.
6
FEATURES
OPINIONS
Vaccine Options Increase as Availability Grows
By Brenda Marquez & Abigail Jobe
Staff Reporters ing, cleaning, walking, or writing. These side effects Some KHS students are eager to get the
went away after a few days. COVID vaccine as soon as possible. Getting the
COVID-19 cases are decreasing in Califor- The vaccine has met the requirements for COVID-19 Vaccine will not only protect them, but
nia and vaccines are becoming more widely avail- emergency use of authorization. In the United others around them. There may be less cases in the
able. States, 33.9 million people have been fully vaccinat- state and the virus will become less infectious.
According to ScienceNews, on December ed and 98.2 million doses have been given. Experts When asked whether or not she wants to take
14, the first Americans got a vaccine designed to are also saying that if you do get the vaccine, it will the vaccine, KHS Junior Kayla Adame stated, “If I had
protect against COVID-19. Health care workers and prevent you from becoming seriously ill if you come the chance to get vaccinated, I would because I would
older adults living in care facilities were put at the across COVID-19. They are saying that in the com- be doing something good not only for me but oth-
head of the line. Over the next few months, more ing months the vaccine will become widely avail- ers as well. It is beneficial to get vaccinated because
adults were made qualified to get the vaccine. able. COVID numbers will decrease.”
Pfizer’s vaccine is currently authorized for those ages Biden has stated that on May 1, 2021, he will order Other students disagree with this mindset.
16 and up, while Moderna and Johnson & Johnson states to allow all adults to be eligible to receive the KHS Freshman Rosalynn Carpenter mentioned, “I
are approved for adults 18 and older. Many wonder vaccine. He wants Americans to be vaccinated by would not choose to take the COVID-19 vaccine be-
about whether or not children under the age of 16 July 4, 2021 so that they can openly celebrate Inde- cause I don’t think it’s necessary. Also we don’t know
will be vaccinated. As reported by WUSA9, kids 12 pendence Day. the long term effects of the vaccine and it may help
and up will most likely be able to get the vaccine by The COVID-19 vaccine was made available but I just don’t feel the need to take it.”
fall or spring of 2021. Younger children will not be for KHS teachers to take, if they chose to receive As stated by NatureNews, it’s possible that
able to get the vaccine until months ahead. it. KHS Teacher Diana Crass has just received her the vaccine will not stop or significantly lessen the
The COVID-19 vaccines help our bod- second dose for the vaccine. She was given the first chances of infection, but it may make infected people
ies develop immunity to the virus that causes shot on Feb. 6, 2021, in Fowler. less likely to pass on the virus.
COVID-19. The body is left with T-lymphocytes One of the questions she was asked was if Numerous students and teachers are excit-
that will remember how to fight that virus in the she did any research before she was given the vac- ed about the COVID vaccine. Some say it gives the
future. It takes a few weeks for the body to produce cine. She replied, “I did because I wanted to make eldery allowance to go out to the real world and not
T-lymphocytes after vaccination. It is possible that sure it was effective. I wanted Moderna (which I re- be stuck at home all day. Others feel that with the
a person could be infected with the virus just before ceived) rather than Pfizer because it could be stored COVID vaccine, everything will be back to normal in
or after vaccination and then get sick. Sometimes without a special freezer. Pfizer is harder to trans- no time. There will be more activities to participate in
after vaccination, the process of building immunity port and can go bad faster than Moderna without at school like sports and social events.
can cause symptoms. These symptoms are normal the special precautions.” Because COVID-19 affects children and
and are a sign that the body is building immunity. When asked if she felt safer at work now adults differently, it’s important to understand wheth-
According to CDCGOV, side effects for that she has been given the vaccine, she said, “I do, er a vaccine might work equally well in everyone.
Moderna and Pfizer include fever, chills, tiredness, but only if students and staff are still taking precau- Individuals have different opinions on whether or not
and headaches. Most side effects are mild to mod- tions. Although the vaccine is only 94% effective, they would like to receive the vaccine when it’s made
erate and they can last between two to five days. A the virus is still out there and everybody needs to available to them. Each KHS student and teacher will
small portion of people had severe side effects which still be cautious until we get a majority of the people make the decision that’s right for themselves, under
affected their ability to do daily activities like cook- vaccinated.” the cirumstances that they are facing.
Late Work Policies Vary, Communication Remains Key
By Jadyn Franco past, when I have had a much more flexible poli- “This year has been an exception because
Staff Reporter cy on late work, I believe students did take advan-
students have been out on extended absences
tage of it. Since I have become more strict with due to COVID or having been in contact with
Students at KHS have been having a hard
my policy, I have had far less late assignments. Isomeone who has tested positive. I have tried to
time turning in work on time this year. This year
have learned that students will meet whatever ex- be understanding that students have struggled
has been hard for not just teachers, but also stu-
with adjusting to our new schedule. It has
dents.
been stressful for some families,” explained
Late work is something that students
Friesen.
have been really struggling with. Some teach-
Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic and hy-
ers are strict on late work, but some give
brid learning, it really is a struggle for some
students an extension.
students to stay on track. They can also have
KHS English teacher Phillip Bergstrom
a hard time with learning with all the stress
has a policy with his late work. Bergstrom
they have.
stated, “My official policy is that I will not ac-
When asked about how this would bene-
cept late work after one week of the due date;
fit the students, Friesen stated, “I think it is
however, I often will be flexible if a student
beneficial for teachers to be understanding
communicates with me about any serious or
of our students’ situation this year, howev-
compelling reasons.”
er I still believe it is important to teach the
Communicating with your teacher is
pectation you put out there for them. If you have students the value of meeting expectations and
really important or they won’t really understand
high standards, they will meet them. If you have rising to the occasion.”
why the work was late. Sometimes late work can
low standards, they will meet those too.” KHS staff and students are making the
have to do with struggles at home or something
It is important that kids use this as a best of the difficult situation they are in. KHS
more with the students.
chance to bring up their grades. administration remains extremely proud of all
When asked if he thinks students take
KHS Social Science teacher Carrie Friesen students for persevering through this school year.
advantage of extensions Bergstrom stated, “In the
had a different mindset about late work.
WORLD
7 March 25, 2021
Biden Administration Makes Progress: Vaccines, Stimulus
By Zachery Howell istration and its followers on purposefully misin- was mentioned in a statement released by the
Page Editor terpreting the name of the virus. White House titled ‘Executive Order on Prevent-
Also, tackling issues related to immi- ing and Combating Discrimination on the Basis
Since President Joe Biden’s inauguration,
gration, Biden has lifted the inhumane Muslim of Gender Identity or Sexual Orientation.’
two weeks after a domestic terrorist attack, he has
travel ban. This also includes a stop to the con- He also passed the highly popular $1.9
accomplished many things. Many of his accom-
tinuation of building the border wall between Trillion Coronavirus Stimulus Package to ensure
plishments have to do with roll-backs in the
Mexico and the US. However, this new emphasis the economy is strengthened through uncertain
Trump administration COVID-19 response.
on lifting border restrictions does not, for what- times caused by quarantine and shutdowns.
Since in office, President Biden has signed
ever reason, extend to inhumanely detaining Gun control has also been a focus for the
at least 17 executive actions-- 15 of
new president. Biden has proposed
them being executive orders, most of
‘common sense’ gun control laws.
which have to do with reversing many
These gun laws are meant to ban
major Trump Administration orders
certain assault weapons as well as
and legislation.
requiring background checks for any
President Biden has already
and all gun sales.
ensured that America will be rejoin-
Biden authorized a “symbolic”
ing the World Health Organization,
military bombing in Syria on Feb. 25
sending Dr. Anthony Fauci as head of
in response to a rocket attack kill-
delegations to the organization’s execu-
ing one Filipino contractor with the
tive board meetings.
American-led militia and injuring 6
There has also been a large
other people. According to the Pen-
focus on the distribution of vaccines in
tagon, the bombing destroyed several
America, all three of the major vac-
buildings said to have been used by
cines being labeled by the FDA and Dr.
Iranian-backed militia groups. The
Fauci as effective (Pfizer, Moderna, and
bombing killed at least 22 people.
Johnson and Johnson).
immigrant families at the border. One unaccom- For at least the first 100 days of
A crackdown on certain racial equity
panied migrant girl being held for 531 days and Bidens’ presidency, it is to be expected for his
issues has also been a point of focus for Biden.
counting. administration to continue to address institution-
There has been a strict emphasis on condemning
As far as LGBTQ rights, Biden has re- al-racism, climate change, and the COVID-19
xenophobia against Asian-Americans in light
pealed a law passed under the Trump Admin- response. Only time will show his true intentions
of the an increase in hate crimes against Asian-
istration regarding the Trans Military Ban. This as President of the United States.
Americans in 2020 fueled by the Trump Admin-
Super Bowl LV Solidifies Brady’s GOAT Status
By Madelyn Wiest distanced all around the stadium. There were 30,000 Even though this year was a little different compared
Staff Reporter cardboard cutouts in the stands throughout the sta- to the previous years, the halftime show was still
On Sunday, February 7th, 2021, the Tampa dium, making it feel more full. performed.
Bay Buccaneers won the 55th Super Bowl at the Ray- “Players, coaches and staff from the Tampa The Weeknd performed at the Pepsi LV
mond James Stadium in Tampa Bay. Bay Buccaneers and the Kansas City Chiefs are being Super Bowl halftime show this year. This popular
The Buccaneers beat the Kansas City Chiefs, tested twice daily,” read a quote from the Becker’s Candian singer-songwriter’s birth name is Abel Mak-
31-9. The Chiefs scored the first field goal in this Hospital Review article called “COVID-19 precau- konen Tesfaye and his stage name is Tesfaye.
Super Bowl making the initial score 3-0. tions + the Super Bowl: 7 things to know.” On the topic of the halftime show, KHS
This was the first time that these Freshman Bridget Harrell said, “I
two teams have played in the NFL Super thought the halftime show was a little bi-
Bowl. Both teams have played in the Super zarre.” Many different bands have played
Bowl. For the Kansas City Chiefs, this was during the halftime show at the Super
their fourth time playing in the Super Bowl, Bowl, but none were quite the same as
and for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, this this performance.
was their second time playing in the Super Instead of using just the stage for
Bowl. This was also the 17th time that Flor- their performance, The Weeknd also
ida has hosted the Super Bowl. used the stands. This has never been
This year’s game was entertaining done before, but because many fans
for many football fans and even just people cannot crowd around a stage in the field,
who watch it for fun. KHS Emilie Parker it created many different and unique
stated, “I think it was a good game, pretty options for a Super Bowl halftime show.
clean, no one got seriously hurt. My team Another performance during this
didn’t win, but it was still a fun game.” Super Bowl was the performance of the
The game was not super close as the National Anthem. “The Star Spangled
Buccaneers started taking the lead before Banner” was performed by Jazmine
halftime. The Chiefs fought hard and kept up the More safety precautions that were taken for Sullivan and Eric Church.
intensity, but never quite caught up to their score. the Super Bowl were that “Every attendee will receive This year’s Super Bowl may have been differ-
Even through the COVID-19 pandemic, personal protective equipment, including a KN95 ent in many various ways from previous years, but
2500 people still attended the Super Bowl. Within mask and hand sanitizer,” the same Becker’s Hospital fans still got to watch the Super Bowl and experience
those 2,500 people, 7,500 of those were vaccinated Review article states. Furthermore, most parties that it all the same. The game between the Kansas City
health workers. All of these people were socially have been held for the Super Bowl did not happen Chiefs and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers made for one
this year. unforgettable Super Bowl.
SPORTS
March 25, 2021
8
FEATURES
Indoor Sports Allowed, New CIF Youth Sports Guidelines
By Summer Mejia to play in games. Same rules apply to Girls and Boys would return. As schools are returning, sports are as
Staff Reporter Tennis. well, with guidelines of course.
For both boys and girls Tennis, only Varsity players When any sport that is commencing, as of
With COVID-19 restrictions, KHS sports are allowed to play in games and travel March, new require-
have not been able to proceed as they would any to away games. This is a way to limit ments were added.
regular year. the risk for all teams. When a player is not
Since sports were not on the table when Kingsburg For a while, besides Imman- playing the actual
High returned back to school, fall and winter sports uel in Reedley, KHS was one of the sport, they are to
were to be pushed until February. This including; few schools that had gone back to remain a distance
Football, Girls Tennis, Soccer and Basketball to name in-person schooling. Making it hard of six feet and wear
a few. to commence sports, seeing as other a mask. When they
For example as Girls Tennis was pushed to schools were not in session at the time. are playing, a mask is
the Spring sports, this posed a problem for the Boys However, some schools have started to not required.
Tennis team. Boys Tennis is a Spring sport, with the return to in-person schooling, allowing Indoor sports,
girls team practicing and playing at the same time, sports to slowly start. such as basketball,
some complications came. As any normal year there “We are very excited that our have even deeper
would be the same two coaches for each season, Outdoor Athletics Events have begun. guidelines for future
However, this year, the coaches each were assigned a It is great to see our student-athletes scrimmages. Along
team. Unable to give competing on the with wearing a face
each team the usual field, Coaches are having the covering when not participating in the sport, there is
attention and prep- opportunity to coach, and spec- a limit of how many people can be inside the gym-
ping as needed. tators in the stands,” stated KHS nasium. This meaning that players must limit their
Along with Athletic Director Scott Hodges. amount of family and friends from attending games.
the different layout Currently, Kingsburg-Fresno “We hope to begin Indoor Athletic Events
of sports, games and County is located in the purple soon.” stated Hodges.
players were also tier. This means the county is As for games away from KHS, more precau-
affected by the CIF widespread. For KHS sports this tions must take place. Normally, teams would take a
(California Interscho- means several things. bus from KHS to the location of the game, however
lastic Federation) Since Kingsburg High returned this year is not the same.
guidelines. to school when they were in To comply with guidelines, teams must
Boys and the red tier (substantial), sports provide a ride to and from the game. Meaning a
Girls soccer is usually were able to start practicing minimum of 2 vehicles per team. This means that the
played as a Winter even when they were moved to team should get a specific van or parents and coaches
sport, however this the purple tier. must step up and provide transportation.
year it became a While other schools were still online, KHS Although this school year at KHS was very
Spring sport. For Boys and Girls Soccer, according was able to practice, preparing for when schools different from past years, the Vikings persisted and
to the CIF guideline, only Varsity players are allowed have worked with what they got.
KHS Athletes Compete Through Club Leagues
By Lauren Berry players are competing through club teams. Al- trying to remain positive by keeping a positive
Staff Reporter though guidelines would allow a school season, it attitude on and off the court. Advice I have for my
The athletes at Kingsburg High have hoped is not being planned as of right now. teammates would be to just stay positive and keep
for a normal sports season and finally got the At the beginning of the 2020-2021 school working hard.”
chance to play. year, athletes thought it wasn’t going to be possible With this year’s sports being postponed
Many sports teams such as volleyball, to have a sports season. Murguia elaborated, “I until spring, athletes were unsure if there was
football, and water polo have started to play as think it has just taught me to be thankful that we going to be a CIF season. KHS Senior Volleyball
club teams. Like KHS, many other students in sur- are slowly getting back to normal which is better Player, Ellie Movsesian, explained, “I’m not really
rounding schools have also begun playing club expecting a CIF season just because
sports. we got to have our own club season
Due to COVID-19, school sports sea- and many of our teammates have
sons were pushed to start in late March. Many moved on to other sports.”
sports such as volleyball, football, and others She continued, “I’ve been trying
are sports that would be played in the fall, are to remain positive by just enjoying
now being played in the spring. these last games that we have had
With all the sports being played as and taken advantage of the playing
spring sports this year, many students are jug- time we have had.”
gling multiple sports at one time. Some athletes Sports being played during a
had to make the difficult decision of choosing pandemic has taught athletes many
between what sport they wanted to play. KHS valuable lessons. Movesian interpret-
Freshman softball and volleyball player Ad- ed, “COVID-19 has made me realize
dison Murguia, explained, “Since the volleyball than never. We are even able to practice and play how much I have taken for granted. It definitely
season got cancelled I was super bummed, but I again since some schools don’t have the chance to discouraged me in the beginning with our fall sea-
was glad we were at least able to do something for do that right now.” son being cancelled but it has been so fun getting
softball.” With this year being different from all to play with my teammates again.”
She continued, “I’m glad CIF is letting us the other years, it can be difficult to stay positive This sports season will definitely be dif-
have a season and I can’t wait to play again!” throughout this sports season. KHS Sophomore ferent from the rest, but athletes are grateful that
According to Murguia, KHS volleyball Claire Toliver plays volleyball. She said, “I’m KHS is giving them the opportunity to play.
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