The Little Hawk

the little hawk Iowa City, IA

Vol. 81

February 19, 2021

Issue 3

COVID-19 Vaccines: allocating, allotting, and administering

thelittlehawk.com

Quick NEWS The newspaper that leads

100% In-Person Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds signed a bill on January 29 that requires all school districts to provide 100% in-person learning. This caused the Iowa City Community School District to elimate the hybrid option for students and on February 15, the district transitioned into 100% in-person or 100% online learning.

Vaccination roll-out Teachers in the Iowa City Community School District have been recieving their first doses of the COVID-19 vaccine for the past few weeks starting on February 1.

FOOTBALL LEFT TO RIGHT: City High Teachers Judith Dickson, Steve Dodge, and Christine Mons all recieve their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF JUDITH DICKSON, STEVE DODGE, AND CHRISTINE MONS

By Emmelene Perencevich

W

ith around 40 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines administered in the U.S. so far, students and teachers at City High are moving up in line for vaccination.

“I’d hope to get vaccinated as soon as possible, but for now, I’m assuming that it will happen in April,” Ana Koch ‘21 said.

Dr. Ayers, an English teacher at City High, shares Koch’s sentiments.

“I’m looking forward to getting the vaccine,” Ayers, who will be getting the vaccine through the ICCSD process for teachers, said.

“The sooner the better, as far as I’m concerned. The problem, of course, is there are limits on supply across the country.”

Dr. Lauris C. Kaldjian, Director of the Program in Bioethics and Humanities and professor within the Department of Internal Medicine at the University of Iowa, also acknowledged the limited supply of the vaccine. “[While a vaccine shortage exists], disease trends... risk of exposure... and other factors shall be considered when sub-prioritizing Phase 1B populations while a vaccine shortage exists,” Kaldjian said, referencing the Iowa Department of Public Health’s (IDPH) website.

The IDPH outlines the vaccination process for people, like @instalittlehawk

teachers, who are in the 1B prior- I Quick Care Clinic at Sycamore itization group. Phase 1A consisted Mall. I checked in, waited in line of health care personnel. Phase 1B for a couple of minutes, and then includes people over the age of 65, went to a room where a nurse gave those who are at high risk of expo- me the shot.” sure, and those who are more vulDodge was given his first dose nerable to the disease. More specif- of the Moderna vaccine and was ically, it focuses on first responders, scheduled to receive his second childcare workers, frontline essen- dose four weeks later. tial workers who live/work in con“I think there is always a little gregate settings, individuals with risk with a new vaccine,” Dodge disabilities and their care staff, said. “I have a slight ache in my government wrist and officials and fingers of “I checked in, waited in line for the arm I staff, health and safety the shot a couple of minutes, and then got inspectors, in but other went to a room where a nurse than that I and correctional facilfeel fine.” gave me the shot.” ity staff and With the individuals vaccination STEVE DODGE CITY HIGH ECONOMICS TEACHER incarceratof teachers ed. under way, After students Phase 1B, Johnson County Public above the age of 16 who have cerHealth’s timeline is to move on to tain medical conditions are to be prioritization group 1C. vaccinated in the next prioritiza“The CDC refers to people aged tion group.

16 to 64 years with underlying “My understanding is that stumedical conditions as part of Phase dents with underlying medical 1C,” Kaldjian said. conditions, like other adults with Steve Dodge, a teacher at City underlying medical conditions, High, has already received a vac- would be prioritized before those cine. at the same age who do not have “I got an email telling me I was such conditions,” Kaldjian said. scheduled to get my first vaccine Because of her job, Koch was dose Friday, February 5 at 8:25 also meant to receive her first dose a.m.,” Dodge said. “The Universi- of the Moderna vaccine but was ty of Iowa called and asked some unable to due to the age restricbasic health questions a couple of tions on the vaccine. days before and I went to the U of “I work in a small daycare cen@thelittlehawk

Facebook.com/thelittlehawk

ter and since it’s considered essential work within the state of Iowa, the staff members are able to receive vaccinations,” Koch said. “I was supposed to be getting my vaccine [on February 4] for work, but the organization I’m at is only being offered the Moderna vaccine.

I have to wait until I’m 18 to get it.

I love my job, but it can be scary not knowing if I’ve been exposed to someone who has had the virus. It’s definitely still important to continue social distancing after being vaccinated though because you can still spread the virus to other people.”

With the move to 100% in-person school, Dodge also feels more comfortable at work after being vaccinated.

“I will still be careful about being within six feet but I will not be as worried. I will feel better about being in a classroom with twenty-five plus people most of the day when we go to 100% in person,” Dodge said.

Koch does not plan to attend school in person this year, even when she receives the vaccine.

“I feel safer learning online, especially with in-person school being 100% soon. I don’t believe that getting vaccinated means I’m free to go out and continue on like normal. I still have to be cognizant of my activities and how to protect my family,” Koch said. “The vaccination would protect me, but not other people.” @thelittlehawk

Mitch Moore has been named as the new head football coach and Kongalo Mwenemkamba ‘22 was ranked 25th kicker in the country by National Kicking Rankings.

MLK DAY City High participated in an MLK Day of learning for the third year in a row, honoring the late civil rights activist through educational and service-oriented activities via Zoom.

46th president of the united states On January 20, 2021, Joseph R. Biden was inagurated as the 46th President of the United States, along with his Vice President, Kamala Harris, who is the first woman and person of color to hold the office.

MATILDA Rehearsals for City High Drama’s Matilda have started after being postponed last spring due to the pandemic, however, Jennifer Brinkmeyer has taken over as director.

MASK MANDATE Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds has lifted the state’s mask mandate.

A2 NEWS

Dear Reader,

THE LITTLE HAWK THELITTLEHAWK.COM FEBRURARY 19th, 2021

LETTER FROM THE EDITORS

This year keeps changing constantly. We hope you are hanging in there! This issue came together with a lot of of zooms, caffeine, and pizza. If you need someone to talk to during this turbulent time, don’t hesitate to reach out to nestt@iowacityschools.org and if you want to find out more about the new NESTT program, crack open the features mag.

In this issue, we bring you lots of news about pandemic updates. We know that you have already heard so much about the pandemic, but this is important news so stay with us.

Other stories include MLK day and Black History Month coverage, news about the minimum wage, and school moving to all in-person or all online.

Flip to the opinion section for ideas on how to relax on valentine’s day. Also in the opinion section, you can read about Biden’s administration and America’s new political landscape.

In A&E you can read about what our show choirs are currently up to as well as the best new songs released during the pandemic.

Sports features a story about the new head football coach, an athlete spotlight on two senior gymnasts, and an article about how to stay fit during quarantine. It’s good to be prepared just in case.

Don’t forget to check out the features mag and we hope you like this issue!

With love,

Julianne Berry-Stoelzle and Jesse Hausnecht-Brown

NEWS 3A

THE LITTLE HAWK THELITTLEHAWK.COM FEBRURARY 19, 2021

ICCSD Denied State Waiver The waiver for the ICCSD to hold all classes online for two weeks was denied by state officals

A

By Rebecca Michaeli

s of Wednesday, January 6 2021, Johnson County’s 14-day COVID-19 positivity rate was 12%, 2% above the Iowa City Community School District’s threshold, but 3% below the state’s 15% guideline. The ICCSD applied for a waiver to hold all classes and extracurricular activities in the district online for two weeks, but the waiver was denied by state officials.

“State guidelines say that [the district] shouldn’t be requesting a move to online until a 15% community positivity rate.

The district asked us in their decision matrix, to look at that at above 10%. There’s some disconnect as far as best practice in some people’s mind, and what the state districts in Iowa do,” newly appointed ICCSD Superintendent, Matt Degner, said.

The ICCSD has applied for six waivers since the beginning of the delayed school year, starting on September 8. Of the six waivers the district has applied for, five have been granted, the most recent one has been denied.

“I don’t think much of the data we included was any different than any other time we’ve requested a waiver to provide online learning, but I think the state started to view the situation a little differently as far as wanting districts to be on site,” Degner said.

While about 40% of students are enrolled in the ICCSD Online Learning Program, 60% go to school in person, through the district’s Return-to-Learn program. The district is advised by local health officials from the Johnson County Public Health Department and the Healthy Kids Clinic at the University of Iowa, as safety is a top priority for the district.

“We have really tried to take the guidance of the local health department and have leaned on them for support and

ABOVE: An ICCSD road sign. PHOTO BY REBECCA MICHAELI

guidance, as these numerous situations have come up,” Degner said.

Every school district in the state of Iowa has their own protocol, positivity threshold, and differ in their implementation of public health mitigation measures.

“We have made the commitment to support the districts as best we can. We’ve set up a weekly, now bi-weekly, workgroups with all school nurses to discuss different protocols and case investigations,” Sam Jarvis, Community Manager at the Johnson County Department of Public Health, said.

“Every school district does it slightly differently. We recognize it’s a difficult position to be in, but overall it’s about safety and security.”

While many students in the hybrid learning model prefer to go to school in person, COVID-19 is still a significant concern for some.

“I do hybrid because I personally learn better in-person. When the positivity rate goes above 10% I do get a bit worried and wish school would go online for two weeks. I don’t mind going online for two weeks, it’s nice to be home and [my] schedule balances out,” Kimberly Marquez ‘22 said.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates that a 14-day community positivity rate of 5%t is a moderate risk for transmission of COVID-19. The CDC signals that a positivity rate of above 10% is the highest level of transmission in schools.

“Iowa was criticized for having higher [positivity] threshold metrics, and the Iowa City School District has established theirs that are much lower,” Jarvis said. “We have concerns where people are gathering, whether it’s small gatherings, larger gather-

ings, at work, social events, school, or anything. Given the fact that [the virus] spreads easily, there are a lot of mitigation measures that we’re asking the community to take.”

Some mitigation measures are more common behaviors that include washing your hands, covering your cough, and staying home when you’re ill. Other measures are newer, and have become exceedingly important over the past year. These include wearing a mask, social distancing, and in some cases, self-quarantining. In the ICCSD, face coverings are required for all students and staff to be worn while in school.

“Stay safe and stay healthy. We’ll be continuing to share information out in local media and our social media, and we really want people to stay tuned in because right now we’re also doing vaccine planning, so there is more information to come,” Jarvis said.

House-Joint resoultion five passes The first step in a state constitutional amendment that would end Iowan’s right to abortion was passed 55-45

W

By Henry Mildenstein

ith a 55-45 passing of the “House Joint Resolution 5, Iowa is one step closer to ending the state’s constitutional right to an abortion.

With a 55-45 passing of the “House Joint Resolution 5, Iowa is one step closer to ending the state’s constitutional right to an abortion.

Representative Christina Bohannan (D-district 85) explained that the bill would remove the right to abortion in all cases.

“The bill eliminates the fundamental right to abortion from the Iowa constitution for all cases. If [the bill] becomes law, there will be no right to abortion,” Bohannan said.

The bill is proposing and adamant to the Iowa Constitution, which would eliminate the right to an abortion in all cases, regardless of circumstance. While the bill passed the statehouse, it still has a long way to go before being in effect. Since the bill is an amendment proposal, the process for it to

be enacted has several steps. Since it was the first time the bill was passed, it would have to be passed by another general assembly. For this to happen, there would need to be an election first, so the bill will come up again the following year after Iowa has their next election of Representatives. If the bill was passed this way again it would then need to pass a public vote.

While Iowa has had a long history of legislative debates surrounding abortion, Bohannan is disturbed by the totality of the bill, which she voted against.

“What is so extreme about the bill was that it didn’t have any particular limitations.

It wasn’t about a 24 hour waiting period to get an abortion, or a limitation on how long into the pregnancy you get an abortion, it would end the constitutional right altogether,” Bohannan said.

The recently elected representative firmly expressed more issues she had with ending the constitutionalright to an abortion.

“It’s a bad bill, the constitutional right [to an abortion] didn’t spring out of nowhere.

There is a long constitutional history of protecting rights surrounding the decision around whether to have a child or not. I think the decision about what to do with one’s body is a fundamental privacy, and this bill eliminates that altogether. The [person] as a human being ceases to exist in the equation,” Bohannan said.

In an interview with the Iowa Capital Dispatch newsroom, Representative Steven Holt (R-district 18) said the amendment was meant to correct judicial overreach.

“I believe that House Joint Resolution 5 is needed, because the people of Iowa, and not unelected judges of the Iowa Supreme Court should decide how Iowa regulates abortion,” Holt said.

In addition to her personal distaste for the bill, Bohannan thinks it’s a bad idea for Iowan’s as a whole.

“For every one email I received in favor of the bill, I probably received 10 to 15 emails opposed to the bill. The polling we have shows that the overwhelming majority of people do believe that there should be

some have a constitutional right to abortion.

However, that’s not to say everybody agrees on exactly where to draw the line, or what the exception should be,” Bohannan said.

Megan Fields ‘21 first heard about the bill through social media and thought it came from a place of bias.

“The leaders of the house are all men In my opinion they should have little to no say on someone they personally know who would be getting an abortion, but they most definitely don’t get a say on bodies they don’t even know,” Fields said.

Fields and her friends are worried about the long term.

“I am worried mainly because the state is mostly republican, and I worry about my fellow uterus-owners. The people I’ve talked to think it’s ridiculous. Especially since the articles I’ve read don’t say anything about in case of rape or sexual assault,” Fields said.

After the next election of representatives in 2023, the bill will be voted on a second time to determine if it will go to a public vote.

NEWS 3A

THE LITTLE HAWK THELITTLEHAWK.COM FEBRURARY 19, 2021

ICCSD Denied State Waiver The waiver for the ICCSD to hold all classes online for two weeks was denied by state officals

A

By Rebecca Michaeli

s of Wednesday, January 6 2021, Johnson County’s 14-day COVID-19 positivity rate was 12%, 2% above the Iowa City Community School District’s threshold, but 3% below the state’s 15% guideline. The ICCSD applied for a waiver to hold all classes and extracurricular activities in the district online for two weeks, but the waiver was denied by state officials.

“State guidelines say that [the district] shouldn’t be requesting a move to online until a 15% community positivity rate.

The district asked us in their decision matrix, to look at that at above 10%. There’s some disconnect as far as best practice in some people’s mind, and what the state districts in Iowa do,” newly appointed ICCSD Superintendent, Matt Degner, said.

The ICCSD has applied for six waivers since the beginning of the delayed school year, starting on September 8. Of the six waivers the district has applied for, five have been granted, the most recent one has been denied.

“I don’t think much of the data we included was any different than any other time we’ve requested a waiver to provide online learning, but I think the state started to view the situation a little differently as far as wanting districts to be on site,” Degner said.

While about 40% of students are enrolled in the ICCSD Online Learning Program, 60% go to school in person, through the district’s Return-to-Learn program. The district is advised by local health officials from the Johnson County Public Health Department and the Healthy Kids Clinic at the University of Iowa, as safety is a top priority for the district.

“We have really tried to take the guidance of the local health department and have leaned on them for support and

ABOVE: An ICCSD road sign. PHOTO BY REBECCA MICHAELI

guidance, as these numerous situations have come up,” Degner said.

Every school district in the state of Iowa has their own protocol, positivity threshold, and differ in their implementation of public health mitigation measures.

“We have made the commitment to support the districts as best we can. We’ve set up a weekly, now bi-weekly, workgroups with all school nurses to discuss different protocols and case investigations,” Sam Jarvis, Community Manager at the Johnson County Department of Public Health, said.

“Every school district does it slightly differently. We recognize it’s a difficult position to be in, but overall it’s about safety and security.”

While many students in the hybrid learning model prefer to go to school in person, COVID-19 is still a significant concern for some.

“I do hybrid because I personally learn better in-person. When the positivity rate goes above 10% I do get a bit worried and wish school would go online for two weeks. I don’t mind going online for two weeks, it’s nice to be home and [my] schedule balances out,” Kimberly Marquez ‘22 said.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates that a 14-day community positivity rate of 5%t is a moderate risk for transmission of COVID-19. The CDC signals that a positivity rate of above 10% is the highest level of transmission in schools.

“Iowa was criticized for having higher [positivity] threshold metrics, and the Iowa City School District has established theirs that are much lower,” Jarvis said. “We have concerns where people are gathering, whether it’s small gatherings, larger gather-

ings, at work, social events, school, or anything. Given the fact that [the virus] spreads easily, there are a lot of mitigation measures that we’re asking the community to take.”

Some mitigation measures are more common behaviors that include washing your hands, covering your cough, and staying home when you’re ill. Other measures are newer, and have become exceedingly important over the past year. These include wearing a mask, social distancing, and in some cases, self-quarantining. In the ICCSD, face coverings are required for all students and staff to be worn while in school.

“Stay safe and stay healthy. We’ll be continuing to share information out in local media and our social media, and we really want people to stay tuned in because right now we’re also doing vaccine planning, so there is more information to come,” Jarvis said.

House-Joint resoultion five passes The first step in a state constitutional amendment that would end Iowan’s right to abortion was passed 55-45

By Henry Mildenstein

W

ith a 55-45 passing of the “House Joint Resolution 5, Iowa is one step closer to ending the state’s constitutional right to an abortion.

With a 55-45 passing of the “House Joint Resolution 5, Iowa is one step closer to ending the state’s constitutional right to an abortion.

Representative Christina Bohannan (D-district 85) explained that the bill would remove the right to abortion in all cases.

“The bill eliminates the fundamental right to abortion from the Iowa constitution for all cases. If [the bill] becomes law, there will be no right to abortion,” Bohannan said.

The bill is proposing and adamant to the Iowa Constitution, which would eliminate the right to an abortion in all cases, regardless of circumstance. While the bill passed the statehouse, it still has a long way to go before being in effect. Since the bill is an amendment proposal, the process for it to

be enacted has several steps. Since it was the first time the bill was passed, it would have to be passed by another general assembly. For this to happen, there would need to be an election first, so the bill will come up again the following year after Iowa has their next election of Representatives. If the bill was passed this way again it would then need to pass a public vote.

While Iowa has had a long history of legislative debates surrounding abortion, Bohannan is disturbed by the totality of the bill, which she voted against.

“What is so extreme about the bill was that it didn’t have any particular limitations.

It wasn’t about a 24 hour waiting period to get an abortion, or a limitation on how long into the pregnancy you get an abortion, it would end the constitutional right altogether,” Bohannan said.

The recently elected representative firmly expressed more issues she had with ending the constitutionalright to an abortion.

“It’s a bad bill, the constitutional right [to an abortion] didn’t spring out of nowhere.

There is a long constitutional history of protecting rights surrounding the decision around whether to have a child or not. I think the decision about what to do with one’s body is a fundamental privacy, and this bill eliminates that altogether. The [person] as a human being ceases to exist in the equation,” Bohannan said.

In an interview with the Iowa Capital Dispatch newsroom, Representative Steven Holt (R-district 18) said the amendment was meant to correct judicial overreach.

“I believe that House Joint Resolution 5 is needed, because the people of Iowa, and not unelected judges of the Iowa Supreme Court should decide how Iowa regulates abortion,” Holt said.

In addition to her personal distaste for the bill, Bohannan thinks it’s a bad idea for Iowan’s as a whole.

“For every one email I received in favor of the bill, I probably received 10 to 15 emails opposed to the bill. The polling we have shows that the overwhelming majority of people do believe that there should be

some have a constitutional right to abortion.

However, that’s not to say everybody agrees on exactly where to draw the line, or what the exception should be,” Bohannan said.

Megan Fields ‘21 first heard about the bill through social media and thought it came from a place of bias.

“The leaders of the house are all men In my opinion they should have little to no say on someone they personally know who would be getting an abortion, but they most definitely don’t get a say on bodies they don’t even know,” Fields said.

Fields and her friends are worried about the long term.

“I am worried mainly because the state is mostly republican, and I worry about my fellow uterus-owners. The people I’ve talked to think it’s ridiculous. Especially since the articles I’ve read don’t say anything about in case of rape or sexual assault,” Fields said.

After the next election of representatives in 2023, the bill will be voted on a second time to determine if it will go to a public vote.

THE LITTLE HAWK THELITTLEHAWK.COM FEBRUARY 19, 2021

A4 NEWS

Mock Trial online

City High’s three Mock Trial teams have been practicing via Zoom this year and will be competing through Zoom as well for their regional and state competitions.

By Shoshie Hemley

L

ast year, three City High mock trial teams qualified for the 2020 Iowa State Mock Trial Tournament.

However, due to the pandemic, the state competition was canceled and this year City High mock trial has been meeting via Zoom.

“It’s a lot harder to do everything online just because it’s harder to like communicate with your team get ideas across, and just like few as unified feel like you’re going towards like this common goal of districts or regionals, because like everything’s online it just feels more distant, but it’s really nice that we’re still doing it,” Ben Faden ‘22, a witness on the junior team said. “Mock trial is really fun, so I’m happy that we still have a way to do it, amidst all the stuff that’s going on.”

Francesca Brown ‘21, a witness on the senior team misses connecting with her teammates in person, but is happy to still be doing mock trial, even if over Zoom.

“I’m pretty used to doing a lot of things over Zoom. It’s not the same bonding experience you normally have with your team, but out of all the activities I participate in, it’s probably one of the strongest ones right now,” Brown said.

“During COVID-19, it’s probably one of the more productive things I have been doing.”

While students don’t get to connect with each other in person, there are some benefits to meeting for mock trial on Zoom.

“Scheduling is always really hard because everyone’s got a different schedule. So actually Zoom has helped us be more flexible and when we can find times to meet because we don’t always have to meet in person,” Faden said.

Not only have they been meet- facial expressions and hand gesing on Zoom, but the regional tures because my other body lancompetition will take place over guage won’t be seen,” Brown said.

Zoom as well.

“Hopefully it goes well. I think “It’s definitely weird and the there’s a lot riding on our witnesswhole system seems a bit odd. es, this year in particular. So, as It makes me, in some ways, both long as we can get by without too more and less nervous. I think do- many technical difficulties I think ing [regionals] over Zoom calms our team will be successful overall.” the nerves in some ways because Erin Liebig ‘22, a lawyer on the you’re not directly there in person. junior team, expressed the same It’s easier to not make direct eye sentiments as Brown regarding uscontact and focus less on that, but ing Zoom. at the same time it’s just so weird,” “I feel excited and kind of nerJohanna Kopelman ‘21, a witness vous. Mostly, what I’m nervous for on the senior team, said. “[How- isn’t the actual mock trial based acever], looking at these people on tivities, but just how [the trial] will your computer screen does make be online,” Liebig said. me more nervous and it is odd.

In a typical year, students new to Faden also feels that participat- mock trial join the meetings with ing in a trial online feels odd. everyone in the program and learn “It won’t really feel the same from the more experienced stubecause not everyone’s in the same dents at these meetings. However, place. Everyone has their camer- due to the pandemic, the teams in as off the produring “Out of all the activities I participate in, g r a m the trihave been al, so it’s probably one of the strongest ones m e e t i n g it’s not separately, right now.” really which has g o presented FRANCESCA BROWN CITY HIGH SENIOR ing to a probfeel as lem for much recruitl i k e ing and you’re with your team, it’s gonna teaching novice students who are feel more like a kind of solo act,” new to mock trial.

Faden said.

“We’ve had a harder time inEarlier in the year, the senior corporating some of those students and junior teams had a scrimmage who have experience and utilizing with a practice problem in order that experience to help our stuto get ready for doing a trial over dents who are new and need to Zoom. All participants must have learn the ropes. I think that’s a bit their cameras and microphones off more difficult process than usual,” unless they are the lawyer doing the Jason Schumann, one of the mock examination or the witness being trial coaches, said. “But because examined. we have some coaches who have a “I’m excited. I’m a little bit ner- lot of experience in the process, I vous about presenting myself as a think we have a decent idea of how witness over Zoom. I think I am to provide them with tools and an going to have to practice using big education and understanding of

how to do it successfully.”

The more experienced students, the senior and junior teams, both qualified for the state competition for the first time last year that was canceled due to the pandemic.

“We have two really quality, experienced teams that qualified for the state tournament last year.

And my hope or my expectation is that they will be very competitive. I think amongst a couple of the better teams in the state,” Schumann said. “And then we have a third team this year, which are all mostly novices to mock trial, never having done it before. We’re doing our best to get them up to speed and get them prepared. Hopefully, we’ll have three quality competitive teams and we’ll be able to be successful and hopefully qualify a few of those teams in the state tournament again.”

Although disappointed that the state competition was canceled last year, Liebig still hopes for a shot at the competition this year.

“It’s a funny thing because we didn’t get to go to state when this year we’re going to do it online anyway. We could have done it last year probably online,” Liebig said.

“Hopefully we go again. Hopefully we do [well] this year.”

This year is the senior team’s last chance to participate in the state competition after last year’s cancellation, and many on the team are hoping to get to prove themselves at regionals in order to qualify for state again.

“I had really, really high hopes for our team this year and I still do.

It’s not necessarily what I wanted, but I’m really glad that we still get to do something and that they’re still hosting regionals. I think I have really high hopes for our team and I think we’re going to do very well,” Kopelman said.

Photo story: Culinary Club hosts a Crepe Day

“Last year we made crepes a couple times and everyone loved it so we did it again this year. [You should] join culinary club because you get to eat everything you make and meet new people.”

JAKE ROTH CITY HIGH JUNIOR AND CULINARY CLUB CO-PRESIDENT

TOP: Annika Rutt ‘22 cuts bananas for culinary club’s Crepe Day. ABOVE: Ana Koch ‘21 puts toppings on her crepe.

LEFT: A student shows off a crepe they made.

TOP LEFT: Culinary Club co-presidents Jake Roth ‘22 and Ana Laura Leyser ‘22 flip crepes.

PHOTOS BY ANNA GAYLEY

Student senate awards club grants

By Jesse Hausknecht-Brown

F

or the second time this year, Student Senate sent out its club grant application forms. This year, because of COVID-19, the Student Senate has more money on hand to give out to clubs.

“A lot of those traditional activities that we typically are involved in, since we’re not doing those,” Melanie Gibbons, a City High social studies teacher and one of the Student Senate sponsors, said.

“We have some extra money.”

In a regular school year, without COVID-19, the Student Senate would spend money on City High traditions.

“The homecoming game, dances, and DJs, and all of that,” Gibbons said. “We’re not really spending money on that. So the Student Senate is interested in helping out other clubs and tries to provide opportunities for students.”

The Student Senate sent their club grant applications to all of the clubs within the last month. The form asks for the name of the club, how much money they want, the club’s purpose, and a short paragraph explaining what they plan to do with the money.

“Then the Student Senate reviews all of the grant applications and decides how much to give,” Katherine Geerdes ‘21, City High’s student body president, said. “Club members are also welcome to come to student senate meetings to talk about their club.”

The application form also states guidelines and criteria for clubs planning on applying for a grant.

First, the club “must be formally recognized by CHS administration.” The club must also “state the type of activity or event that the grant will support” and “describe how this activity/event will benefit the CHS student body.”

“Then [on the form] there are some examples like supplies, materials, speakers, having money to get a club started for example,” Gibbons said.

Clubs cannot ask for more than 500 dollars and the average amount awarded to clubs is around 300 dollars.

“The money comes mostly from dance revenue–homecoming, winter formal, and prom,” Geerdes said. “Varying amounts are given, but the most money a club can request is 500 dollars.”

In past school years, the Student Senate has received around 10-12 club grant applications, but this year they have only received four. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, fewer clubs are meeting and many aren’t able to hold in person events, so fewer clubs have applied for grants.

“We’ve gotten a lot [fewer] grant applications. Also, because club meetings are now on Zoom we all decide on grant decisions one at a time, whereas before we’d separate into groups,” Geerdes said.

Student Senate aims to help student groups and clubs at City High by giving back to the school community through club grants.

“We’re also accepting grants every trimester instead of once a year,” Geerdes said. “We wanted to give clubs multiple chances to communicate what they need to the Student Senate.”

THE LITTLE HAWK THELITTLEHAWK.COM FEBRURARY 19, 2021

5A NEWS

City High Spring Trimester With the the transition from the hybrid to completely in person school, planning is being done for the spring trimester

ABOVE: The front lawn of City from last May PHOTO BY NATALIE GREEN

By Emmelene Perencevich

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overnor Kim Reynolds signed a bill on January 29 requiring all schools to provide a five-day, 100% in-person option for students. For City High, this could mean doubling the number of students in the building at one time.

“So, with the 100% in-person model we have about 750 to 800 students in the building at one time. Whereas with the hybrid model we [had] just under 400 students with the A and B days,” Mary Peterson, a City High guidance counselor, said.

With this change, Peterson feels that social distancing may be more difficult, especially in classrooms.

“Everyone is still doing a great job of wearing masks and sanitizing,” Peterson said. “Teachers in [the hybrid model] are teaching in classrooms that have 10-18 students in them. With the 100% in-person model, the number of students in those classrooms would probably range more from 25-35.

So they would not be able to social distance,” Peterson said.

Lucie Brennan ‘21 has some

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concerns regarding this consequence of the new in-person model.

“I think that depending on how many kids picked 100% in-person it could be very hard to socially distance. Which leads me to think that there will be bigger outbreaks of COVID-19 in our schools,” Brennan said.

Along with the ambiguity surrounding this new enrollment option, there are no concrete plans regarding graduation or prom this year.

“Graduation this year is still a work in progress,” Ben Fraga, another City High guidance counselor, said. “Obviously, COVID-19 will dictate a lot. The other big change will be when we are back to some kind of normal, graduation will be at the new Coralville Arena, not Carver.”

This change in venue is not the only factor in holding graduation in-person.

“ICCSD will decide on what graduation will look like. Their decision will be made [based] on the state and local regulations and safety guidelines,” Fraga said. “I would assume decisions would be made

similar to what the district has on the website about COVID-19 Decision Matrix.”

If graduation is unable to take place in the arena, there is the possibility that this year’s graduation will look very similar to last year’s.

“There are alternatives. Last year we had seniors and families sign up for a time to receive their diploma in Opstad Auditorium one at a time. Family members were allowed to come and take pictures on the decorated stage,” Fraga said.

“The two-day process was livestreamed for those unable to make it into the building.”

There has also been discussion in the student senate around different options for hosting a prom.

“IMU could cancel prior to the dance. [The] student senate will host prom as always if we are allowed to. We have discussed the alternative of an outdoor prom if IMU is rescheduled,” Melanie Gibbens, the student senate sponsor, said.

At present, prom is scheduled for May 1 and is planned to be held at IMU as usual.

“The district would need to give permission for an event this size to

occur. Most of the decisions will be made by the school board, administration, and local health officials,” Gibbens said. “We’re waiting to see at this time.”

At this point, parents have decided what educational model to enroll their students in for the end of the second trimester. They will once again be given the option to switch models for the spring trimester.

“I am currently enrolled in 100% online,” Brennan said. “I thought that there would be outbreaks of COVID-19 at City which would cause the whole school to shut down for weeks at a time. I didn’t want to be going back and forth between online and in person, so I picked the options that seemed more consistent.”

Looking forward to next year, the 100% online model will continue to be available to students.

However, whether next year they will continue the 100% in-person model or revert back to the hybrid model is still unknown.

“I do know that no matter what we are going to have the 100% online option. That has become an accredited school, so it is going to

be a recognized school in the state of Iowa,” Peterson said. “Every student will have the opportunity to enroll in the online program next year.”

With the continuation of the 100% online program, there will be some changes in the guidance office.

“Next year, the only thing that will change for me is that I would potentially have to schedule between two buildings if a student is part-time. If a student signs up for 100% online, I am not going to be their counselor anymore. They’re going to have a brand new counselor that will be assigned to them through the online program,” Peterson said.

Peterson hopes that it will be safe enough to return to school soon.

“We don’t really know what this spring or next year will look like.

We have to wait and respond to how the community is responding to the virus and following protocols,” Peterson said. “The more the community follows them, the more likely it is that we will be able to safely return to school.”

Iowans’ reactions to the Georgia Senate race

By Rebecca Michaeli

n January 20, 2021, Jon Ossoff and Rev. Raphael Warnock from Georgia were sworn in as United States Senators, giving the Democratic Party control of the Senate along with the party’s control of the House of Representatives and Presidency.

Jake Roth ‘22, thinks that it’s important to care about politics outside of the state, and that this election is a criticle one.

“I think everyone should care about the Georgia senate race, Democrats and Republicans. It was the one race that would determine what party controls the Senate,” Roth said.

According to research from CIRCLE at Tufts, youth voter turnout in 2020 was much higher than in 2016, with calculations estimating 52-55% of young adults ages 18-29 voted in the presidential election.

City High students have also taken an interest in politics during this most recent election season.

“I think if you don’t care about politics, it’s a little bit insensitive because [politics] really do affect people and their everyday lives. They affect me, but they really affect everyone around me too, and I care about that,” Johanna Kopelman ‘21 said.

Some students were of eligible voting age and were able to vote for the first time during the 2020 election cycle.

“I voted [for the first time] and I felt more responsible. It felt like I could do something to make a change in this country,” Max Stelzer ‘21 said.

Voter turnout in state and local elections tends to be lower than voter turnout for national races, though the Ossoff and Warnock coordinated campaign worked to mobilize people from all over the country to support the race.

“Everyone’s vote is important, but I think the main reason to vote is that it’s a civic duty. If you live in a democracy, it is your responsibility to participate in that system, and get information about the candidates,” Sara

Mitchell, Political Science professor at the University of Iowa said. “The United States among other developed democracies has one of the lowest voter turnouts in our national races, but this year was encouraging because this race was a very high turnout race.”

David Jacoby is an Iowa State Representative from Iowa’s 74th district. Jacoby represents Coralville, Penn Township, and a section of Iowa City.

“No matter whether you win or lose, participation is key for everyone. It’s about participating, and Georgia showed it. Make sure to vote and caucus when you’re eligible,” Jacoby said.

While the Democratic Party controls the House and Senate on a national level, the Republican Party controls the Iowa state-level House and Senate.

“It’s an interesting dynamic because the same Republican trifecta in the state is the opposite with the Democrat trifecta in Washington DC. I think mixed government works best. I always hesitate when any

party, Democrats or Republicans, are totally in charge,” Jacoby said.

Kamala Harris made history as the first woman, Black American, and Asian-American to become Vice President. Jon Ossoff and Rev. Raphael Warnock also brought diversity to the senate chamber. Ossoff is one of eleven Jewish senators and Warnock is one of three Black senators currently serving in the U.S. Senate.

“I was happy [about the outcome] of the race. I was ecstatic that there was someone who is Black, who is representative of me, in the Senate, and that someone in my party affiliation was able to gain a majority,” Stelzer said.

The future of the United States and its political control was determined not only by Joe Biden and Kamala Harris being elected as President and Vice President, but by the formation of the United States Senate.

The Georgia senate race was critical in determining what the Democratic party can accomplish.

“After Biden won, it was

really about who could control the Senate and how effective at least his first two years of presidency would be in terms of passing policies. That really does trickle down to affecting everyone,” Kopelman said.

The political party that wins the majority of the United States Senate determines what policies the president can implement. As a result of Kamala Harris being elected as Vice President and President of the Senate, and Senator Chuck Shumer serving in his new role as Senate Majority Leader, the Democratic Party now has the deciding vote on decisions that are tied between parties.

“Why the Georgia race was consequential is because it moves the Senate to 50/50 in terms of Democrat and Republican seats. By rules, the Vice President breaks ties in those cases and because that person is Kamala Harris, that means Democrats will basically be the tiebreaker on those votes,” Mitchell explained.

As a result of the Democratic Party now having con-

trol of the Presidency, the House of Representatives, and the Senate, the country now has what is called a unified government.

“This matters because the kinds of policies that can be passed could be changed quite a bit.” Mitchell said.

“When one party has control of all three branches we have a unified government.

Under a unified government it’s easier for a party to enact its policy preferences.”

Georgia’s Secretary of State certified the results of the runoff election on January 19, Jon Ossoff defeating former Senator David Perdue and Rev. Raphael Warnock defeating former Senator Kelly Loeffler. After being inaugurated as Vice President and President of the Senate on January 20, Kamala Harris officially swore in Ossoff and Warnock to the Senate on the same day.

“I think there are some people who are currently satisfied with how everything is, and I definitely am not. I think this is a great start, but there’s so much more to still do,” Kopelman said.

THE LITTLE HAWK THELITTLEHAWK.COM FEBRURARY 19, 2021

6A NEWS

Martin Luther King Jr. Day At City High City High hosted it’s third anual day of MLK activites, this time with Zoom presentations

ABOVE: City High teacher Dr. Ayers doing an MLK day Zoom presentation PHOTO BY EMILY MARTINEZ

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By Emily Martinez

or the past two years, City High has held a day of learning dedicated to educating students about civil rights activist, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., along with other educational activities, field trips, and speakers. Due to the pandemic, the district held a completely virtual day of learning for all students grades seven through 12 in the ICCSD to participate in on Wednesday, January 13.

“Participating in Martin Luther King Day sessions is very important because it is our responsibility to keep Dr. King’s legacy alive. Dr. King made the world a better place, and for us to offer sessions that are aligned with his vision is a way for us, also, to make the world a better place,” City High Principal John Bacon said.

Many teachers and staff urged students to participate in this virtual event as a way to learn more about Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and other interesting educational activities.

“I chose to participate because I love learning about MLK Jr. and the history of civil rights and diversity around the world,” Adam Holmes ‘21 said. “I like how the school offers it because it’s a nice break from normal classes and it allows people to learn more about things that are happening in real life right now.”

The virtual event consisted of three, 50 to 55 minute long sessions in which students could choose from a variety of sessions and activities.

“I chose to participate in this year’s virtual MLK Day event because I was actually looking forward to it,” Natalie Nunez ‘22 said.

“I’ve participated in the previous years MLK Day events and I’ve left gaining more knowledge and I enjoyed them.”

With over 50 sessions to choose from, many were ready to learn about Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. himself and his activism, student mental health, social justice, and more.

“I participated in Mr. Schumann and Mr. Burkle’s sessions as well as hosted one with the MVP group, so I definitely learned different things in each group,” Melanie TranDoung ‘21 said. “With MVP, we discussed the topic of racial inequality and I learned more about myself and the other people in my group as well. I was able to learn more about Iowa’s history in Mr. Schumann class and as for Mr. Burkle’s session, I was able to learn more about comics.”

Many students felt the sessions were overall beneficial and an opportunity to learn about interesting topics in an educational setting. Because sessions were completely virtual, both hybrid students, along with online students, were able to attend and participate.

“I learned that everyone has a different story. Each story is its own and is very unique. In my first session, [a] woman talked about her immigration story from Vietnam to the states and I was shocked to learn how different it was compared to my parents.

Both my parents are immigrants and I’ve been told of their own immigration stories, however, theirs were very different from the woman’s. I learned to not just assume I know someone’s story,” Nunez said.

Featured sessions included local speakers such as Dr. Don Parker, Humanize My Hoodie Movement, B.F. Burt, Dr. Maria Bruno, and many more.

“I learned a lot about the history and culture of Blues music from going back to the times of Slavery in the United States, and how it’s developed since then,” Holmes said.

“B.F. Burt also played some really cool music so that was a fun session. My other two sessions were about diversity and black history in comics. Comics are something that I’m very interested in so it was really cool to learn about the origins of certain characters and how comics have changed and became more diverse over the years.”

Compared to other years, students still

ABOVE: Students in an MLK day presentation Zoom. PHOTO BY EMILY MARTINEZ

found the virtual day of learning to be an enjoyable and accessible event to take part in from home.

“I actually did enjoy having a virtual day of learning for the MLK events because I have a hard time sitting in one place for a long time while trying to pay attention. But since it was virtual I was able to pay more attention since I was in the comfort of my own home. I was able to move around instead of just sitting for a long period which actually helped me pay better attention,” Nunez said.

Despite Holmes’ enjoyment of the MLK day events, he had some critiques over the organization, stating that several of the sessions could have run smoother during the day.

“I would’ve much preferred to be in person, but I think overall it went alright.

There was quite a bit of miscommunication, I think a lot of teachers and students were confused [about] how things were supposed to work. Also, I’m sure more people skipped this year since it was only a half-day and virtual,” Holmes said. “There were a couple of interruptions from students and the Zoom chats were pretty crazy. It was an interesting choice to let junior high students be in the same call with high schoolers, but I get that they wanted to offer the same presentations.”

Many found having educational events like MLK Day during school allowed students to be able to learn more about activists such as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and American history that many are unaware of as a way to give students a broader perspective of how and why our society is the way it is and what we can learn from it.

“I think it’s important for all students to have an understanding on different topics that may not directly pertain to them,” TranDoung said. “I think, educationally, students have to be willing to go to the events and want to choose sessions that would further their experience. Having many different options is definitely a great way for people

to learn about things they might not have known or further expanded on their [knowledge].”

Students also found that the variety of sessions offered opened up more opportunities for students to want to participate.

“I strongly believe that students benefit from having educational events. For the MLK Day events, they make it so you can choose events that are in your interest. They do not force you to attend an event you don’t want to. They do it this way so that you go to events that you’re interested in,” Nunez said.

“I would like to see more speakers of color [though]. Although I am sure that there were plenty of POC speaking at these events, for my specific sessions there were only white speakers and it just felt odd for them to be talking about race/racism as they have never actually experienced it first hand.”

Offering a day of learning during school was useful for Holmes who was given the option to participate in activities and topics that interest them like the civil rights movement.

“I do think students benefit [from educational events like MLK Day]. The ones who didn’t go or skipped probably wouldn’t have gotten as much out of it, but I’m just really glad that our school does offer something like this. You get a different experience from school. You learn about MLK Jr.’s values and how important the civil rights movement was, and it’s much more human and introspective than like a math class,” Holmes.

While many are still unsure of what is to come in terms of COVID-19, Bacon thinks that students at city are still eager to have educational events such as MLK Day of learning, whether it be virtual learning or in-person class.

“We live in a community that has so many people doing amazing things. A day like this is a very cool way to bring in community members to enrich the educational experience of our students,” Bacon said.

ICCSD Removes Hybrid School The Iowa City Community School district now requires school to be 100% online or in-person.

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By Adalie Burton

igned by Governor Kim Reynolds on January 29, new state law SF 160 requires that schools offer a 100% in-person program to students. Following this decision, the Iowa City Community School District announced that they would be discontinuing the hybrid program that has been in place since September. This change was implemented on February 15, causing

hybrid students to choose between attending in-person classes full time and studying from home for the foreseeable future.

Pam Hills ‘23, thinks that the transition away from a hybrid option could harm students and decided to stay in online school as a result. “[This is] definitely unfair to the students and teachers,” Hills said. “I decided to stay in the online program because of how many kids I knew would be going back to school,

and because I knew students and teachers in the hybrid program have been getting sick.”

This decision was made because there aren’t enough teachers in the district to offer two separate in-person programs. February 3 was the last day to declare which program students would be enrolling in. Friday, February 12 was a day off for students while teachers and staff prepared for the shift to the 100% in-person program.

“While bringing back students on cam-

pus five days a week hinders the district’s ability to maintain the health and safety protocols currently in place, layering multiple in-person models in the same building will make this challenge even more difficult,” ICCSD spokesperson Kristin Pedersen told the Press-Citizen on January 26.

Currently, it appears that this verdict will be in place until the end of the 2020-2021 school year, or until it is safe for all students to return to school full time.

THE LITTLE HAWK THELITTLEHAWK.COM FEBRUARY 19, 2021

In the kitchen

NEWS A7

What City High students are cooking and baking during the pandemic.

ABOVE: Various dishes that Lily Vanderlinden ‘21 has made during the pandemic including falafel, salsa, and a strawberry and cream tart.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF LILY VANDERLINDEN

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By Shoshie Hemley

ince the pandemic started in March, many high school students have found themselves with more free time on their hands. Some have made use of this extra time through picking up new skills and hobbies. Many have taken up the age-old activity of cooking.

“I probably do something like every other week. I made cookies this week and a few weeks ago I made cream puffs. A lot of it is what ends up on my Tik Tok For You Page, which is kind of embarrassing,” Katherine Geerdes ‘21 said. “I’ve kind of switched over to cookies and mostly desserts, like cinnamon rolls.

Like Geerdes, Lily Vandelinden ‘21 has also picked up baking desserts, among other things, during the pandemic. Vanderlinden had been wanting to make macaroons. After making them, she continued to cook and bake.

“Before the pandemic, we were super busy with things like theater and school, but I always wanted to try to make macarons.

They’re really pretty and I was just always drawn to them,” Vanderlinden said. “During the first part of quarantine, I was able to dedicate some time to it and I learned how to mechanize and how to pipe them into perfect circles. I also learned that I don’t like macarons because they’re too sweet for me.

But I do like to make them for other people and also, they’re pretty.”

Amelia Lang-Fallon ‘23 has been baking during the pandemic but has started baking gluten-free due to her recent diagnosis with celiac disease.

“I’ve been experimenting a lot with mak- different mushroom species that you usually ing gluten free bread, and I made some glu- can’t find at the store, and I try different ways ten free cake, which has been surprisingly to cook them.” easy. There’s actually a lot of resources and a lot of general flour that’s gluten free that you Strathearn started out by hunting for Mocan buy,” Lang-Fallon said. “The recipes are rel mushrooms, a popular springtime activity actually harder to find because it’s not that for many Iowans. simple, you can’t just substitute in gluten free “[Hunting for Morels] made me wonder flour for regular flour. So it’s a bit more com- what other stuff I could find. Throughout plicated, and finding good recipes that taste the summer, I would go looking for other the same and produce the same results with stuff, not specifically for edible mushrooms, gluten free flour is definitely a challenge. It’s just for anything,” Strathearn said. “I would been fun to experiment and see what we can find this mushroom called Chicken of the come up with.”

Wood and Shrimp of the Wood as well.

L a n g - Fa l l o n We’d slice it up has found her “Baking is something that is very easily and fry it, and it inspiration for tastes very similar accessible and it’s a good thing to do to chicken, which recipes through various forms of is pretty good.” because I’m sitting at home.” media such as the Not only has AMELIA LANG-FALLON Great British BakStrathearn been CITY HIGH SOPHOMORE ing Show. Like experimenting Geerdes, she also with various found inspiration mushroom recon Tik Tok. ipes, but he has “There are a few accounts on Tik Tok that also started exploring Asian cuisine.

I find are [easy to follow]. I like seeing people “I really like food with noodles and kimenjoy baking, not any specific recipes or any- chi as well,” Strathearn, who has been going thing. That inspires me,” Lang-Fallon said. to a local Asian grocery, Chong’s, to shop, Sam Strathearn ‘21, however, found his said. “I’m still on my cooking journey.” inspiration for starting to try new recipes in One reason some highschool students nature. Strathearn started mushroom hunt- have picked up baking during the pandemic ing in the beginning of the pandemic which is that they find that it is a way to unwind. led him to finding different ways to cook “It’s kind of calming, for me at least. A with mushrooms. few years ago, we got one of those automat“I forge them myself and then I cut them ic mixers, so I can just watch it. I’m sure if up and serve them at home with my family. I didn’t have to watch it, it’d be a lot more That hobby transforms into a thing for cook- difficult, or I’d just be too lazy to do it all ing,” Strathearn said. “I’ve collected a lot of that often,” Geerdes said. “I think it’s kind

of calming, just getting recipes or getting ingredients and then not having to work that hard.”

For others, in a time of isolation, baking gives students something to do.

“Since we are in a pandemic, it’s hard to go out and see your friends. Baking is something that is very easily accessible and it’s a good thing to do because I’m sitting at home,” Lang-Fallon said. “I don’t want to just be watching something. It’s creative and it makes me do something.”

Some students also feel that baking and cooking is a time for bonding with others.

Strathearn has been cooking his recipes and foraging for mushrooms with his sister.

“We’ve definitely gotten closer because of it. She’s really excited to go foraging this spring with me and I feel that just being in nature with people is kind of a bonding experience,” Strathearn said.

Vanderlinden has spent time making dinner with her mom who has also been teaching her family recipes.

“I used to cook with her before the pandemic, but obviously we had more time constraints. So I really enjoyed learning how to make meals that take all day, like how to make a roast, mashed potatoes, gravy, and some veggies. [Making] a full meal, that takes a longer time, so I’ve really liked being able to connect with her,” Vanderlinden said.

Vanderlinden hopes to continue exploring baking and cooking even after the pandemic is over.

“With the success of my macaroons, I’ve started making them to give as gifts to people,” Vanderlinden said. “It’s an outlet and I totally want to do that feature.”

A8 NEWS

THE LITTLE HAWK THELITTLEHAWK.COM FEBRUARY 19, 2021

Driver’s License “brakes” records

By Shoshie Hemley

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vryel Reed ‘21 loves the song “driver’s license,” but she wouldn’t have listened to it if it weren’t for Tik Tok. “Every other video on my For You Page was people reacting to it, and then you’d see them crying and I’m like, ‘there’s no way a song is that good that everyone is listening to it,’” Reed said.

The song taking over Reed and many others’ For You Pages is 17-year-old Filipina-American Olivia Rodrigo’s viral hit, “Driver’s License.” Her debut single, which she released on January 8, has been breaking records and taking over social media.

“I feel like it’s good to high schoolers because we all are getting our driver’s licenses right now, at least my grade is,” Sarah Brenneman ‘23 said.

Brenneman, like many others, discovered Rodrigo through the Disney Channel Show, High School Musical the Series, which Rodrigo stars as Nina Salazaar-Roberts in.

“I think she’s grown as an artist. I feel like her music is more mature now, I kind of want to get my heart broken again, just so I can relate,” Brenneman said.

The Disney actress, who also starred in the TV show Bizaardvark, has been breaking record after record. After debuting number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, the song garnered 76.1 million streams in the first week and has been the top song on all music streaming platforms.

As of January 22, Driver’s License tops the Spotify USA Top 50 playlist, with over three million daily streams, the second song with over one million streams, and every other song on the chart

under 800,000 daily streams.

Thomazin Jury ‘21 didn’t expect to like the song at first.

“I’m usually not that big of a music person. When the song came out I was like ‘oh it’s just gonna be like you know another song that’s going to get a lot of hype,’ but it’s not going to really be that good,” Jury said. “There are some things about music that definitely do resonate with me, especially in this song. I don’t know, I might have been very emotional when I was or something when I first listened to it because I definitely cried after listening to it a couple [of ] times.”

The song’s popularity is partly due to social media’s viral nature.

“I feel like Tik Tok definitely is a big reason that that song went viral,” Brenneman said.

According to Spotify, the song broke the record for most streams in one day for a non-holiday song three days after its release and then breaking its own record again the next day.

“I do think that Tik Tok played a lot of that role [of making it popular] as well.

When you’re on your For You Page or just scrolling through the app, that sound has been trending. I think our generation is very good at making something well known,” Jury said.

Some users of Tik Tok have made videos of themselves reacting to the song, often in tears. One popular Tik Tok creator who goes by the username Emmwee, posted a video the day after the song’s release talking about how she both “went to bed thinking about that song,” and “woke up thinking about that song.” The video has over 1.6 million views and 488.4k likes.

ART BY SOPHIA WAGNER “Our generation has such a voice today,” Jury said. “I would say 10 years ago if a song became popular, it would just become popular through common chatter, but with the resources that we have and the technology that we’re able to use, songs and new media coming out are so much easier to share with other people and not share with just one person but you could share with multiple people.”

Other users of Tik Tok have made a different trend regarding the song.

The users sit in front of their camera lip-syncing the song and when it hits the chorus, they fall back and transition to them lying in bed often dressed up with special lighting or makeup.

“If you have a song that goes viral on Tik Tok, you’re pretty much set for life. It really just goes to show that like social media, specifically Tik Tok, has really changed the game when it comes to finding new music,” Reed said. “If someone makes a dance to your song, or you just have a really good song, and it goes viral off of a couple [of ] videos, it really changes the game.”

Not only is the song going viral on

Tik Tok, but so is the gossip.

“It is very enticing, but I think if there wasn’t that drama it wouldn’t have probably been to where it’s at now, even though that’s kind of sad to say,” Jury said. “Either way, I still think that the lyrics that she wrote are quite genius. I can’t do that. Overall, I just think it’s a good song, and people like listening to it.”

Most people have come to the consensus that the song is about a breakup between Rodrigo and her High School Musical the Series Costar, Joshua Bassett, who is now rumored by some to be dating another ex-Disney star, Sabrina Carpenter, who is known for her role on Girl Meets World.

“I feel like even a lot of people are trying really hard to put themselves in a relatable position or they literally do relate, because that has been a really popular beauty standard, the blonde hair and blue eyes, especially on Tik Tok,” Brenneman said in reference to a line of the song many speculate is about Carpenter. “I feel like people are just kind of freaking out over this huge hit. She talks about how this guy is leaving her

for this blonde girl that is everything she’s insecure about.”

Among Rodrigo’s many records, she is now the first Asian-American woman to reach number one on Apple Music Charts and US iTunes as well.

“Honestly, I just wish her all the best. I really want her to come out with more music. She’s so good. If that one song was so crazy popular, I can’t imagine what an EP or an album would do.

I think it’s crazy,” Reed said.

Jury, who is also Filipina-American and a performer, is happy about Rodrigo’s success.

“I think for a lot of women of color, it’s hard to find someone that they can look up to in the industry and I know for a lot of Asians, especially in film and music, it’s definitely hard to find someone that you can relate to and look up to if you want to be in that profession,” Jury said. “Having someone so young like her, and someone who is an Asian-American, do so well in such a short amount of time can be very inspiring to a lot of young girls who maybe want to be like her or have a profession like her as well.”

Interact club finds ways to serve the community during the pandemic

By Greta Stanier

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uring the pandemic, City High’s clubs have been faced with many obstacles and challenges. Safety issues regarding COVID-19 have caused clubs to change the way they meet and conduct their activities.

Interact club, a club devoted to volunteering and community service, has been confronted with the question of how to volunteer in the community and connect with organizations while staying safe.

“As much as I love doing interactive stuff and being more active, It’s kind of hard to do those things while trying to keep everyone safe,” Melanie Tran-Duong ‘21, one of the leaders of Interact Club, said. “There’s still a pandemic going on, so we don’t want to just get together and volunteer, because I don’t think that would be really helping people as much as it’s hurting people.”

Many aspects of volunteering and community service have been altered due to the pandemic.

“Being in person and being able to interact with people that you don’t know has changed,” Ella Fast ‘23, a member of Interact Club said. “For example, before COVID-19, I was able to go to different places, like the animal shelter, and interact with people that I don’t normally talk to, but now it’s a lot harder to interact with those people.”

Interact club has struggled in finding as many opportunities to reach out in the community.

“We do so many group activities, group projects, and we go out into the community, so it has been very difficult to maintain a high level of activity. Many places are no longer offering volunteer opportunities,” Dr. Humston, the advisor of the club said.

Despite these challenges, Interact Club has been making things work. The club

meets online every week and has made it possible for both online and hybrid students to participate in their activities.

“We’ve been sharing ideas of how we can help the community, and staying in touch with each other. It’s important to keep in mind that everybody’s going through different stuff,” Fast said.

The club has found ways to safely do community service and has enjoyed getting together in small groups, while socially distant. In the fall, the club got together to clean up trash around City High. In the winter, club members individually made fleece tie blankets that were donated to the Crisis center.

“We have taken some of our activities and divided them up for students to work independently on them. They have done a great job of seeking out opportunities,” Dr. Humston said.

In November, the club set up a canned food drive.

However, they were unable

to collect many donations due to the fact that ICCSD moved back to a fully online model. The club is planning to extend the drive in the future.

While collecting donations for the canned food drive, the club found it quite difficult to reach as many people.

“The food drive was hard because we were trying to figure out a way that online students would be able to donate as well,” Fast said.

“We were trying to figure out how people can drop things off at a certain time or another kind of system.”

As for Interact Club’s upcoming plans, the club has been organizing their annual Valentine’s Day Matchomatics fundraiser. According to Tran-Duong, the club also hopes to do more small group activities, like another trash cleanup.

“I feel like we’re just moving as things go, just playing it by ear and moving along with what is happening because it’s kind of hard to

BELOW: Mary Cate Pugh ‘23 volunteering at Crowded Closet.

PHOTO BY GRETA STANIER

predict what will happen in the future” Tran-Duong explained.

Even though the COVID-19 pandemic has caused issues for Interact Club, their mission of community service has been increasingly important.

“Volunteering and service [are] so focused on community good,” Dr. Humston said. “I have learned just

how much we need to be together and how much we really need community.”

As the club continues to help out in the community, its members have learned a lot.

“Doing your best to help people, especially in times of hardship for the greater community, it’s even more important in times like these,” Fast said.

THE LITTLE HAWK THELITTLEHAWK.COM FEBRURARY 19, 2021

NEWS 9A

The DC riot and its effects on Iowans Iowans share their reactions to the Capitol riots in D.C.

ABOVE: Iowa City Mayor Bruce Teague giving a speech during the summer PHOTO BY JACK BROOKS, CITY OF IOWA CITY

By Rebecca Michaeli and Aala Basheir

A

fter the results of the 2020 elections were confirmed, many described tensions as high between the two major political parties. On Wednesday, January 6, 2021, Donald Trump spoke at his “Save America” rally, where supporters of the former President gathered near the White House. As the events of the day unfolded, violence increased, resulting in rioters storming the United States Capitol building.

“Finding out how the storming of the Capitol actually went, I was shocked at how far [rioters] got-- the fact that they actually got in, I was very disappointed to hear that,” Faith Odhiambo ‘22 said. As a person of color, Odhiambo described a feeling of fear. “The day after, I was still in shock. I did feel a vibe change as I went about my life. I feel like after that happened, all POC were scared.”

Rioters stormed the Capitol building, breaking through barricades, shattering windows, and entering the offices of United States Representatives.

“We saw quite a few things happening.

We saw that people were upset about the election, the results of the election, and claims that it was stolen,” Bruce Teague, Mayor of Iowa City said. Teague offered his perspective as the second Black mayor of Iowa City. “But amongst that, we also have what I would consider to be, visible hate against people of color. It was clear that there was a presence of individuals that have a white supremacy mindset and that are very vocal.”

The state of Iowa voted to elect Donald Trump as president in 2016 and voted to reelect him in the 2020 presidential race.

Iowa City’s election results differed. Donald Trump was unsuccessful in winning Iowa City throughout both election cycles. “[January 6, 2021] felt like a political war to me. It just proved how Trump had, and still has, so much power over many of his followers,” Simone Garza, a co-organizer of

the Iowa Freedom Riders said events of January 6, 2021.

The evening of January 6, 2021, Wash“[The advisory] was definitely necessary ington D.C. Mayor, Muriel Bowser, issued because of how our state is, but it’s sad to a citywide curfew beginning at 6 p.m. After see that that’s something that has to be put the events of the day, Mayor Bowser issued out. It’s just very sad that that is our reality,” a state of public emergency continuing for Odhiambo said.

15 days.

Growing up in Burlington, Iowa, Garza “When talking about overt racism, there has always enjoyed helping others. She is is a reason to be overly cautious during times currently a senior at the University of Iowa when there’s a group of people that are en- majoring in mass communication and jourgaged in heightened, excited behavior. That nalism, with a minor in philosophy. In adwas an opportunity for people to be a lit- dition to her involvement in politics, she is tle more cautious during this time,” Mayor also heavily interested in the arts, often comTeague said bining the two. To further help people and Although no mayors in the state of Iowa bring attention to issues that are important issued a state of public emergency, following to her, she joined the IFR. the 6th, the Iowa Freedom Riders (IFR), a “It’s more than just police brutality, it’s racial justice activist group established in dealing with the discrimination, the racial May of 2020, issued a travel advisory for profiling, and the violence that is dealt with Black Iowans commuting during evening every day in society, and there is nothing behours in Iowa City. ing done about it. People like me [and other “There was a lot of circulation of messag- IFR organizers], were fed up with seeing the es being spread where same result happenTrump supporters "Finding out how the storming of ing every day, every were attempting to the Capitol actually went, I was year, the same thing act on violence and just a different percommit hate crimes. shocked at how far [rioters] got-- son.

Something It’s one of those things the fact they actually got in, I was needs to be done where [regardless] of about that,” Garza very disappointed to hear that.” said. whether information is completely true or The Iowa FreeFAITH ODHIAMBO CITY HIGH JUNIOR not, I would rather dom Riders led see someone be safe,” Black Lives Matter Garza said. “Iowa is protests throughout considered a Sundown the summer around State, and I feel like it’s Iowa City. The goal needed to look out for of the protests was each other.” to unify as a community and create change.

The term “Sundown Town” has a histori“Our intention was to be peaceful. It was cal connotation. Sundown Towns were typ- not to act out in any negative or harsh way. ically all-white communities that purpose- Our goal was to fix the problem we confully excluded Black Americans along with stantly see every day. What happened on the other minority groups. Printed and verbal sixth, I really found that interesting, because warnings would prohibit Black citizens from if it were a person of color, we wouldn’t have working or traveling in an area past sun- made it that far,” Garza said. “Even if we down. The phrase is now used to warn Black didn’t have weapons, even if it was a peaceful residents that traveling alone at night that it protest, it amazes me how they had that aumay be unsafe. The hashtag #BlackEmergen- thority and power.” cyIA was circulating on social media after the At the height of the Black Lives Matter

protests, President Trump publicly stated via Twitter, that vandalism towards federal properties can result in up to ten years in prison. Protesters also received a variety of retaliation from law enforcement including rubber bullets, tear gas, and physical force.

According to an article in The Guardian, there have been reports of over 950 incidents of police brutality against BLM protesters in the past year.

“There was definitely a lack [of consequences] for rioters [at the Capitol]. I know if these were Black Lives Matter protesters this wouldn’t have happened and they would’ve been put in jail much quicker. I’ve been seeing people getting minimal sentences for a high crime that was committed,” Odhiambo said. “After attending BLM protests, I saw 18-year olds getting arrested on the spot for not doing anything at all. It was saddening to see.”

The past year has also been significantly busier for local municipal government concerning matters related to COVID-19, the revival of the Black Lives Matter Movement, social justice activism, and the Derecho that swept the state. Input from the public has also increased. “[My job] has been quite busy. The influence, concerns, and comments to the [Iowa City] Council from the public have increased during this period, because of so many significant events that have happened in our community,” Mayor Teague said.

While many express that events such as the one seen on January 6 become taxing to minority groups, it also opens a line of communication, allowing tough conversations to happen which in turn promote the overall movement towards equality.

“There have been a lot of people reaching out and giving their opinion on these matters, engagement has increased. I have really been open to hearing all voices. I did have to take a moment to really speak to a few people to help them understand what Black Lives Matter really means,” Mayor Teague said. “I’ve had to remind people, you know, you’re talking to a Black man.”

A10 NEWS

THE LITTLE HAWK THELITTLEHAWK.COM FEBRUARY 19, 2021

Two Sides of a Bill Some argue the proposed $15 federal minimum wage increase is long overdue while others feel it’s too extreme for today’s economic climate

BELOW: Since July 24, 2009, the federal minimum wage has stayed at $7.25 an hour. PHOTO BY HAIELIGH STEFFEN

By Haileigh Steffen

A

fter thirteen years of work, then-5th-grader Izzy Jurgens’s ‘22 single mother, Dee, was fired from her job at a local grocery store. Having already decided to switch career paths because she found she was working too much to make ends meet, Dee was planning on going back to school for her bachelor’s to be a medical laboratory scientist.

However, she became unemployed without time to fully save up for her education. Having gained certification for phlebotomy a year back, Dee worked the best job she could to get her through school: a phlebotomist. Although not minimum wage, Dee was paid $19,000 ($20,747, adjusted for inflation) that year, supporting both Izzy and her grandmother. Jurgens reports it was a rough year, using federal programs such as food stamps and programs for single mothers to

provide for their basic needs.

Dee’s income was above minimum wage but the Jurgens household was at Iowa’s poverty line, the 100% poverty level.

Last year was the year of the essential worker. Many of these essential workers also make the minimum wage, sparking conversations from both sides of the political ideologies on Capitol Hill.

Newly Inaugurated President Joe Biden’s recent proposed $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief package contained a piece of legislation that pushed for a $15 federal minimum wage, nearly doubling the current $7.25 federal standard. The last increase was in 2009, raising the wage from $6.55 ($7.90, adjusted for inflation) to the current federal minimum wage, leading some to wonder if this change is long overdue or too extreme for current economic times. More recently, Democratic Senators have proposed the Raise the Wage Act of 2021, legislation that would “gradually raise

the federal minimum wage from $7.25 to $15 by 2025.”

In 1991, John Burkle, City High Government teacher, got his first job. As a lifeguard at the West Liberty pool, Burkle took home $4.50 ($8.55), twenty-five cents above Iowa’s 1991’s minimum wage of $4.25 ($8.08). Burkle recalls having no complaints about his wage since he had no expenses to pay, therefore allowing him to spend his money entirely based on wants rather than needs, which “was mostly comic books and fast food.”

However, for some Americans, their minimum wage job isn’t a source of disposable income but rather a household’s shared salary.

“I don’t think I could support more than just myself with my $10.10 hourly wage,” Jurgens said.

“I also don’t think that working adults should be forced to live paycheck to paycheck without being able to provide opportunities for their children. I don’t think it is

“I don’t think I could support more than just myself with my $10.10 hourly wage. I also don’t think that working adults should be forced to live paycheck to paycheck without being able to provide opportunities for their children. I don’t think it is ethical to not pay someone the value of their work.”

IZZY JURGENS CITY HIGH JUNIOR

ethical to not pay someone the value of their work.”

Across the country, around one and ten Americans are at or below this line, with an additional two out of five Americans living at the 200% poverty level.

“Politically, the argument of the minimum wage comes down to the conservative mentality which tends to favor business and people earning what they earn based on merit,” John Burkle said. “The better work that you do, the more you will be rewarded for your effort and will be more desirable within the workforce.”

Additionally, many conservative voices argue that unemployment will increase due to companies cutting staff to maintain profit margins. This argument is furthered when taking into consideration the current economic upheaval after shutdowns and quarantines throughout the United States.

After all, between having no job and having a low paying job, the

THE LITTLE HAWK THELITTLEHAWK.COM FEBRUARY 19, 2021

What do the Little Hawks think?

Source: Little Hawk Social Media Survey

A11 NEWS

unemployed population of America outs and digital ordering tools to not would most likely choose to have a pay so many the higher minimum low paying job. wage. In some areas, a minimum “The opposite of [conservative wage can help to force large employmentality] is a liberal mentality, ers with power over wages to pay a which tends to favor the working fairer wage that may help workers class over the owning class,” Burkle get closer to a living wage.” said. “The idea of a living wage is When companies are forced to their main argument as currently if pay employees higher wages, oftenyou work a full-time minimum wage job, you only take home $15,000 a year, which is nearly impossible “For example, a can of to live off of. Raising the Coke may have been minimum wage will cut into profits for businesses but it 60 cents in 2009 but could also allow for more is now a $1 yet in that growth of the economy as more people could have disspan there hasn’t been posable income that they a raise to the minimum could then make purchases wage. So people may or invest to improve their lives. With more people have been just getting making more money, you by in 2009 but today are could cut some government welfare programs as they consistently behind on would no longer be needed, their bills because of the theoretically.”

Burkle personally becost inflation” lieves raising the minimum JOHN BURKLE wage will improve many CITY HIGH TEACHER Americans’ quality of life.

He understands both sides of the argument but insists that it would only be an ideological fight at first.

According to him, many of his busi- times benefits, such as health care, ness-owning friends have been rais- are cut from their pay. This means ing their entry-level pay to gain and employees have to pick up the tab keep quality workers. He believes for health care elsewhere, essentially that larger businesses that are already making their wage the same. making billions of dollars a year keep “The current federal minimum their wages low because they know certainly has not kept up with inflathey can find desperate, unemployed tion to allow anything close to a livworkers. Burkle believes those larger ing wage,” Dodge said. “Many new businesses still can afford to raise the classes of workers like Uber drivers minimum wage, yet still profit. are classified as independent conAdditionally, when workers do tractors so the minimum wage does not make enough money, they often not apply. I think we need to look at rely on federally funded programs not just raising the minimum wage such as food stamps (SNAPs) and but also address the many workers Medicaid. This produces a burden for who the minimum wage does not on taxpayers who are effectively sub- even apply due to job classification. sidizing non-livable wages.

Job training to help move workers to Over the years, the minimum higher-level jobs should be part of wage has not kept pace with infla- the solution to getting people to a tion, as the price of goods and ser- living wage also.” vices has incrementally increased One early morning in December due to inflation. of 2020, Dee noticed something im“For example, a can of Coke may portant missing from her bank achave been 60 cents in 2009 but is count. That something was $1,300 now a $1 yet in that span there hasn’t from her checking account, all she been a raise to the minimum wage. had saved to put towards her final So people may have been just get- semester of college tuition. She was ting by in 2009 but today are consis- four months away from graduation tently behind on their bills because to become a medical laboratory sciof the cost inflation,” Burkle said. entist.

“When the minimum wage was first The bank refused to return what introduced it was a living wage that had been stolen. Even though her families could subsist on. That’s not economic situation had improved the case today. In the recent past, over the previous few years, Dee America’s government has put more was being forced to live paycheck emphasis on corporate profits in an to paycheck. One surprise expense attempt to stimulate trickle-down could deter her future, according economics where the more profit a to Jurgens. In 2019, two out of evcorporation makes the more money ery five Americans live paycheck to they will invest in their workforce. paycheck according to the Federal Yet there is no way to force corpora- Reserve, meaning that a surprise tions to use their profits to increase expense such as a $400 car repair the pay of their employees.” would cause economic hardship for City High Economics teacher months. After six years of working Steve Dodge remembers when the late nights and early mornings, Dee minimum wage went up to $3.35 would have to wait out another year (8.06) per hour during his high- of economic instability. school years in the mid-eighties. Af“I think what motivates her to get ter the increases in wages, he recalls up each morning is the promise that mainly fast-food restaurants having she can one day relax, take a break customers to fill their drinks to cut from her long hours,” Izzy Jurgens back on staff, attempting to main- said. “What people don’t understand tain current profits. is that the, ‘oh, just work harder or “Economists are often against get a better job if you want to make a minimum wage because it causes money,’ doesn’t apply anymore. You some unemployment,” Dodge said. need money to make money in our “Firms may install more self-check- society.”

A12 OPINION

THE LITTLE HAWK THELITTLEHAWK.COM FEBRUARY 19, 2021

Complacency in the Biden Era As the American people look towards a more stable administration, it’s still important to maintain a level of accountability for our leaders in the next four years

ART BY HAILEIGH STEFFEN

By Isaac Bullwinkle

B

iden is now the President of the United States of America. We longed for the day where instead of going up when our President spoke, our blood pressure would instead go down. Stability can be misleading, however. Does the existence of a President who is not Donald Trump mean we get to sit around and forget about ‘politics’ like the naïve fourth graders we once were?

The Trump administration showed America that it can’t just let politicians do politics and stand idly by. The Biden administration should be no different; Just because the person in charge is a good guy

who makes our blood pressure go down doesn’t mean we shouldn’t pay attention to what he does.

Biden is arguably the most powerful person in the entire world. He may seem very personable, trustworthy, and incapable of doing injustice, but he is the President of the United States. As a reminder of what a President can do, President Obama’s administration repeatedly launched drone strikes on the Middle East, killing countless civilians including many children.

Joe Biden is not a saving grace to this country. His campaign was largely based on the fact that he was not Trump, that he was not an openly racist, sexist, fascist. But what is Joe Biden? What is he going to do to help not only Americans

in need of systemic change, but those affected worldwide by tragic American foreign policy rooted in American imperialism going back hundreds of years? America has deeply problematic systemic issues, and Joe Biden will not be the one to address them.

I’m not saying that Joe Biden won’t do any good for our country. He will provide COVID-19 aid and distribute vaccines quickly and effectively. He will rejoin the Paris Climate Accord, and he will provide a pathway to citizenship for immigrants desperately in need. I am saying that America’s systemic issues won’t be fixed by an incrementalist who appoints incrementalists. The system that has oppressed poor people for hun-

“The Trump administration showed America that it can’t just let politicians do politics and stand idly by. The Biden administration should be no different.”

ISAAC BULLWINKLE OPINION CO-EDITOR

dreds of years is simply going to keep doing that under the Biden administration.

We can’t stand around accepting that awful things are happening right in front of our eyes and be ‘fine’ with Joe Biden. Now is not the time for leniency. We must hold Biden accountable at all times, challenge his policies and push for progressive action.

The last four years have been horrible under Donald Trump, but this doesn’t change the fact that President Biden still deserves to be questioned and held accountable.

Don’t let yourself fall into a safety net of complacency. America needs you to step outside of your comfort zone.

THE LITTLE HAWK THELITTLEHAWK.COM FEBRUARY 19, 2021

A13 OPINION

BLM and the Capital Mob The differences in Black Lives Matter protests and conservative mob at the Capitol reveals ongoing systemic racism in America

ART BY HAILEIGH STEFFEN

By Julius Perez

O

n Wednesday, January 6, a conservative mob broke their way into the US Capitol to protest what they call a fraudulent or rigged election, which decided that Donald Trump will be removed from office and determined that Joseph Biden would become the 46th president of the United States. Just months before, overwhelmingly peaceful protests broke out all over the country to protest the death of a Black man by

police, George Floyd, and against systemic racism in America. The difference in action taken by police, specifically the capitol police, against the different groups reveal deeply problematic issues in the police in the US. The group that stormed the US capital because their beloved Trump lost, and the groups that demonstrated against police brutality and racism deserve different names. The group that conducted illegal activities and sedition should be referred to as a mob, while the Black Lives Matter (BLM) groups

should be referred to as protesters.

93% of those protests were found to be peaceful, while 100% of those breaking their way into the capitol were doing something illegal.

One of the clearest examples of the disparity in police reaction can be seen through the number of arrests. 52 people were arrested in DC on the day of the raid, while 289 protests of racial justice were arrested just on just the day of June 1st in DC, with 427 arrests of protesters during the BLM demonstrations during the period of May 30th, to June 2nd 2020 in DC.

Officers were seen taking pictures with members of the mob at the capital, while during the summer, all around the country, officers fired rubber bullets into crowds of BLM protesters.

Besides the officers removing barricades and posting selfies with the rioters, there was encouragement from the President of the United States himself. To continue to compare response to BLM protests and the mayhem at the capitol you can see what Trump said about the two groups. In response to BLM protests, Trump

tweeted “When the looting starts, the shooting starts.” His response to the Capitol rioters was “We love you, you’re very special.”

The overall point is that if the protesters had been Black, and protesting for racial justice while breaking into the capital, the police would have responded differently.

In contrast to the encouraging response to Capitol rioting from the police, the BLM protesters would have met fierce violence from them. After all, “They’ve killed us for less,” said the NAACP on Twitter.

100% In-Person School Will Harm Iowa Families Recent news of changes in school enrollment options might leave students to choose between two choices that don’t work for them, their health, or their community

By Isaac Bullwinkle

G

overnor Kim Reynolds has instituted a plan in which Iowa students have two choices for third- trimester attendance: 100% in-person school or 100% online.

The hybrid option, which was reportedly a very comfortable middle ground for many students in both

highschool and other levels of education, is eliminated by this plan.

Unfortunately, it isn’t safe for students, their families, or teachers.

The institution of 100% in-person school will harm Iowa families.

There’s a reason the hybrid plan was popular among students; The combination of in-person and asynchronous work struck a vital balance between getting to go to

school, not only for the sake of education but for that classical high school experience. While obviously imperfect, the hybrid plan worked, and it worked safely. Now, many students are being forced into a decision where neither option works for them.

Many hybrid students chose the hybrid plan because they understandably had trouble with online

learning. When learning online, it’s truly hard to find the motivation to finish assignments on time and to be held accountable to do so. The hybrid plan let students choose what was best for them while being relatively safe. Now, students have to choose between two extremes; Either an unsafe learning environment or an education system that doesn’t work for them.

Governor Reynolds is knowingly putting student’s health and education at risk by instituting this new policy. Schools had developed a system that worked for almost everyone, and now it is being thrown in the trash. Students, teachers, and their families will get sick, and Governor Reynolds will be directly responsible.

THE LITTLE HAWK THELITTLEHAWK.COM FEBRUARY 19, 2021

A14 OPINION

Navigating Valentine’s Day for Needed Self-Care Instead of celebrating Valentine’s Day the traditional way, opt to provide your over-worked self with a little self-love and care this February

By Emmelene Perencevich

F

ebruary in quarantine has me stressed and depressed, and the weather we have been having is not helping.

From school to the safety of your loved ones and more, there is a lot to worry about this year.

Despite everything going on, I am actually looking forward to Valentine’s Day. It might seem frivolous, sure, but I think that it could be a good opportunity to focus on a little self-care. It has been so easy to get burnt out with everything going on. Taking a day to truly unwind may be just what we all need.

So, without further ado, here are a few of my unsolicited suggestions on how to enjoy your Valentine’s Day safely during a global pandemic: Tip 1. Bake! Baking is relatively inexpensive and fun! Also, I have found that it can be a huge pickme-up when I am feeling lonely.

There are also a ton of Valentine’s Day-themed recipes out there, especially on YouTube and Tik Tok. Baked goods are the perfect gift to drop off at friends’ houses. They are delicious, but they also let them know you still care!

Tip 2. Cozy Up. I know that I have spent an unreasonable amount of time just lying around my house

this past year, but it’s never really been special. This Valentine’s Day put on your favorite sweater, pour yourself a mug of cocoa, coffee, or tea, and binge-watch your favorite show! Even if you do that every day

anyway, pretend it’s special. Just changing your mindset might help you enjoy it more!

Tip 3. Spa Day. If you have a bath and that special bubble soap, take a bubble bath! Bring a book

you’ve been meaning to read or watch Netflix or listen to your favorite playlist! Pretend you don’t have homework for just one second. Take a couple of deep breaths.

Exfoliate. Do facemasks over face-

time with your friends. Paint your toenails even though no one will see them. Put cucumbers over your eyes like the popular girls do in Disney Channel Original Movies.

Do it for yourself!

Biden’s Inauguration Recently inaugurated President Joe Biden’s swift action and bipartisan healing agenda might be what a divided America needs during these urgent, unprecedented times

By Isaac Bullwinkle

P

resident Joe Biden began his historic inauguration speech with words of optimism. “Today is America’s day. Today is democracy’s day.”

Biden spoke of America’s strength and the resilience of the Constitution. As we depart from the Trump administration, the ongoing threat of fascism departs with it. With the beginning of the Biden administration, issues that have been begging for answers for too long like climate change, immigration, and racism in our country will finally be addressed.

President Biden’s administration will also address the more pressing issues of our time today. Instead of being largely ignored by the old President, issues like stimulus checks, eviction moratoriums, and effective nationwide vaccine distribution will be at the forefront of Biden’s agenda. Americans in dire need of these reliefs will get what they have been deserving for far too long.

Not only will Biden’s administration address issues of our nation, it will address the nation’s soul as well. Joe Biden is the perfect person to revert the ongoing polarization of America. Rather than partak-

ing in the increasing polarization in our country, Biden will work to bring us together, not further apart.

Biden knows Americans; He has spent 50 years of his life in public service, an unimaginable amount of time spent helping others. Biden lost his wife and daughter to a car crash and his son to cancer. He understands how Americans are deeply lost, and he knows how to find them.

What does the restoration of the soul of our nation mean? It means providing a helping hand to anyone who needs it regardless of any differences or preconceived notions one has about them. It means

“The Trump administration showed America that it can’t just let politicians do politics and stand idly by. The Biden administration should be no different” ISAAC BULLWINKLE OPINION CO-EDITOR

treating everyone equally under the law and under the constitution. It means coming together to overcome our differences, and it means working together for a better future for our children and our children’s children.

Joe Biden is not perfect by any means, but he is what America needs right now. As Biden said in his inauguration address, the restoration of the soul of our nation requires the unity of that nation’s people. And who better to unify the American people than Joe Biden.

A15 CULTURE

THE LITTLE HAWK THELITTLEHAWK.COM FEBRUARY 19, 2021

Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a dedicated “day of service” to commemorate the famous American civil rights activist, is also a day of education for the ICCSD

By Emily Martinez

M

artin Luther King Jr. Day, also known as MLK Day, is a national holiday celebrated on the third Monday of January each year. This holiday is dedicated to being a day of service and learning about civil rights activist Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his legacy during the Civil Rights Movement. For City High students, this holiday represents a way to continue honoring Dr. King’s message and issues concerning the Black community.

“Martin Luther King was a great American hero. He was a fighter for justice and equal rights and that’s really important that we recognize that today and [that] we try to live it out every day,” Joe Bacon ‘21 said.

Dr. King was a spokesperson and leader of the Civil Rights Movement who spoke out against segregation and sought equality and human rights for African Americans during his era. His speeches and words alone motivated and influenced others alike and still to this day his words resonate greatly with others, including City High students who are admired by his activism.

“I think [MLK Day is] important to celebrate because he was a very big leader for civil rights, and his whole movement of equality and standing up against what’s wrong,” Jess Young said. “I think he was just a very influential person, all around, and I think it’s very important for people to see the struggles of what life was like, only a couple of decades ago. And also, to see how far we’ve come as a country, and to see that things were a lot worse and that his fight for civil rights really did help the United States as a whole.”

Students and others have found ways to take part in this holiday this year by spreading awareness on social media, educating oneself on the history of MLK and current events that affect the Black community.

“It’s a good time to educate yourself about things that Black people have gone through in the last 100 years in the U.S. and know what you can do to help make life more equal for them,” Matisse Arnone ‘23 said. “There are lots of organizations that people can volunteer for in the community, and I think [MLK Day is] a good day to give back to your community by volunteering at the food pantry, or doing something like that.”

Students also found this holiday to be a great opportunity for voicing opinions about current issues and how they relate to Dr.

ART BY HAILEIGH STEFFEN King and his activism.

“It’s really important to take part in our political system. It was an election year so a lot of people really voiced their opinions about certain issues including police brutality so I think making sure your voice is heard, making sure you vote, donating to the right places, and signing petitions is all really important to solving the issues that occur today,” Bacon said.

However, recently there has been some controversy over how the education system presents historic Black people such as Dr. King and how much of his legacy and views have been looked over.

“I feel like the education system just talks about [MLK’s] fight for civil rights but he did a lot of other things that weren’t really covered like capitalism and other forms of equality as well,” Young said. “I would just say to do a little more research about his movement and then maybe even look at people who are inspired by him and see if there’s a [similar] movement that you can get behind.”

For the past two years, the ICCSD held a day of learning for students across the district grades 7th through 12th to participate in a day of educational activities. This year, however, due to COVID-19 the district held its annual day of learning completely virtual.

“There’s always room for im-

provement, but I think the school district has done a pretty solid job with the introduction recently of not just [having] the day off of school on Martin Luther King Day, they kind of turn it into an educational holiday, not just school [and offered] a lot of really interesting like classes,” Bacon said.

Students also feel that the ICCSD has done a good job of making Black students feel supported, however it lacks in representing other historic Black people and the treatment of Black students.

“I think our community does do a good job on the aspect of making sure that Black people feel supported and by letting them know that people are here from you and there’s someone who can go and talk to you,” Young said.

“At the same time, there are some issues within the community, specifically about the school district as a whole. There are ways as to how Black kids are treated [compared] to other kids like we see Black kids getting suspended, and in trouble more often than white kids for this exact thing. I think that the education system as a whole is very whitewashed, I would say we don’t really learn about that many powerful Black people [other than] Rosa Parks, MLK [or]the Black Panthers.”

Dr. King was a preacher of

many aspects, such as ending segregation and discrimination against Black people and instead emphasized the idea of equality and kindness for all.

“I think [MLK’s] message [was] that we as a society shouldn’t discriminate against people based on the color of their skin, because no one has control of that,” Arnone said. “[People] have control [over] their personality and so that is what we can judge people based on.”

Dr. King was also very vocal about being peaceful in terms of protesting in order to get his message across and ultimately becoming a symbol of nonviolence protests, however, on many occasions, Dr. King defended the action of rioters stating that “A riot is the language of the unheard” when condemning the social and economic injustices Black Americans faced.

“Our society today is a me versus you mentality. I’m trying to get better at this as well because I find myself judging others for thinking a certain way, when really you should be trying to understand each other and why you believe what you believe,” Young said. “I think a lot of people need to work on that. Social media has really pushed the divide between specifically the left and right and I think MLK would be very upset to see how much divide has [been] caused over the last couple of years.”

With the reemergence of advocating against issues within the Black community such as the Black Lives Matter Movement and protest from students and others alike, giving awareness to historic Black heroes such as Martin Luther King Jr. continues to be of great importance when it comes to sharing his message and legacy.

“I think it’s a practice that you preach [type of ] situation. It’s very hypocritical to support Martin Luther King Jr. and his message, and then go [support] politicians that are completely adhesive. You have to just put yourself into other people’s shoes,” Young said. “I think that you should [practice what you preach] by yourself [by] treating people more equally and [being] more understanding.”

Martin Luther King Jr.’s influence on injustice in the Black community is a topic that still relates to students and others today. Taking this national holiday to educate oneself on issues concerning the Black community and Dr. King’s overall activism is an important aspect to sharing his legacy and contributing to this day of service.

“A lot of people throw up posts and stuff on MLK Day for whatever purpose they want him but I think really taking what he says to heart and trying to live that out on a day to day basis is [really] important,” Bacon said.

A16 CULTURE

THE LITTLE HAWK THELITTLEHAWK.COM FEBRUARY 19, 2021

ART BY HAILEIGH STEFFEN

“We’re able to not only grow as leaders and organizers but help support our community with donations and promote open communication on period poverty. We hope that this drive supports menstruating persons and all those that receive any donations. It’s important to recognize the stigmatized conversation around menstruating in order to make a lasting change of continued support for intersectional community growth.”

BEA KASKIE LIBERTY HIGH JUNIOR

“The goal this organization hopes to achieve is to bring the community together by encouraging them to help their neighbors in need [and/or those] that are less privileged than themselves.”

NATALIE NUNEZ CITY HIGH JUNIOR

Accessibility to menstrual care and general hygiene products are necessities that many struggle to obtain due to cost, an issue that the organization by the name of “Her Drive” strives to change

By Emily Martinez

A

ccessibility to period products and other essential items such as tampons, pads, underwear, and bras are necessities that many women in the U.S. struggle to obtain due to the affordability of such items as they are seen as a “luxury” for women. An organization by the name Her Drive noticed these accessibility issues for women in need and made a change for the better by starting their own donation drive from Chicago, Illinois, which has now expanded to various states across the U.S., including Iowa.

“Her drive is a nonprofit organization that was founded in June

of 2020. They provide bras, menstrual care, and general hygiene products to people in need in an effort to combat periods and have hygiene poverty,” Kaitlyn Johnson ‘22, an organizer from Liberty High School, said. “As of now, they have donated over 3,000 new/ gently used bras, 39,000 menstrual care products, and 6,000 general hygiene items to places all across the United States with over 100 drives. There are also an additional 300+ drives scheduled for spring 2021.”

City High School participated in this drive on January 16 through February 14 by main organizers Johnson and Bea Kaskie ‘22 from Liberty High School. Other local donation drives were located at

Smash Juice Bar, North Liberty Rec, North Liberty Hyvee, and 365 Nutrition.

“Her Drive drive is a national nonprofit, but it provides the resources for individuals across the nation to create local drives in order to promote the mission at both a small and large scale,” Kaskie said. “We’re able to not only grow as leaders and organizers but help support our community with donations and promote open communication on period poverty. We hope that this drive supports menstruating persons and all those that receive any donations. It’s important to recognize the stigmatized conversation around menstruating in order to make a lasting change of continued support for intersec-

tional community growth.”

Students were able to bring new/gently used bras, menstrual care items, and general hygiene products to the drive’s collection box located in the main foyer of the school building where it could be easily accessible. Students were also able to sign up for contactless free pickup to take part in the donation drive.

“The goal this organization hopes to achieve is to bring the community together by encouraging them to help their neighbors in need [and/or those] that are less privileged than themselves,” Natalie Nunez ‘22 said. “They hope to help people in need as much as they possibly can, as they [have the privilege to do so].”

As for the future of this organization, organizers for this drive hope to do a separate service project focusing on intersectional environmentalism and feminism.

“This organization has helped women in Iowa by providing them the common products a person should have, free at no cost, as they are doing this to simply help out those in need,” Nunez said. “They see [those] hygiene products are not as available to everyone and do whatever they can in order to give to those who need it [and] they are also focused on supporting BIPOC communities!”

More information can be found at www.herdrive.org and any questions can be sent to Kaitlynnljohnston@gmail.com

THE LITTLE HAWK THELITTLEHAWK.COM February 19, 2021

A17 A&E

Letter from the editors A

fter many hours of debate, we came to a conclusion that the best representation of this issue would be a single conversation, except, to add a bit of spice, we of course had to put it to the tune of “Dorothea”. Thank you very much, Ms. Swift.

Hey Ruth Meehan Do you ever think about ice cream?

I really want some.

I’m skipping the prom.

Hey, how’s your mom?

Can you tell your sister I said, “Hi.” And dang, Ruth Meehan

Wait I think I see him Okay, my zoom is working Did you go to the meeting

Well

Ooh

I guess you’ll never know

Ooh

Wait, why is there so much snow?

Happy Reading!

Inspirationally entertaining How entertainment has shaped one student’s passion for STEM

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By Sophia Wagner na Laura Leyser ‘22 shuts her textbook and leaves her bedroom. Despite not being able to attend any science classes this year, Leyser continues to take advantage of any scientific resources she can. Over the course of her high school career, one of the main resources Leyser has taken advantage of is her Netflix subscription.

“I wanted to be a graphic designer for a long time, but then I started watching all of these movies,” Leyeser said. “I realized I wanted to grow up and get to do what they did. It was also great to see women working in STEM.”

Outside the Wite

Brain On Fire

Grey’s Anatomy

Leyser has noticed that as she continues to study science in and out of the classroom, she has been able to grasp some of the more difficult aspects of the shows and movies she watches, developing a depper understanding..

“When I heard that movies are not actually that accurate, I started doing more research to see what I could find that was wrong,” Leyser said. “There was one day, we were watching this show, and then there was this woman and she was bald. In my head I thought she had alopecia, and then I literally looked it up and she had it. That was the first time I correctly, I guess, illegally diagnosed someone and it was so cool.”

“Grey’s Anatomy was the first show that I saw that got me interested in the medical field.

It was cool to see the surgical parts, and how they talk to patients, and really just how the hospital works. Also, how the technology works! In the beginning of the show they have all these old machines, but by the end they have really sophisticated software, like a digital cadaver that you get to see right in front of you. Everything evolved throughout the show.”

““What happens is she starts feeling these odd symptoms, like she can’t hear very well.

She starts fainting and then as the disease progresses she can’t move her body. She’s basically locked in her body. And no one knows what’s going on, or what happened to her, and then they figure it out. It’s a true story so I thought it was really cool.”

“I just watched a movie called Outside the Wire. It’s basically this war that’s going on in Europe, and the U.S. is kind of the peacekeepers and helping them sort out the worst stuff.

They have these machines and robots that are super interesting. There’s this guy who’s a robot but he’s very human-like. No one would know he’s a robot based on how he looks.”

LH Book Reviews: The Rules of Enchantment

“

By Adalie Burton

She spent a lifetime never feeling worthy enough to take anything without an invitation,” - Wendy Tardieu, The Rules of Enchantment I received a copy of this book from TCK Publishing in exchange for an honest review.

All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Fantasy romance novels are in no way uncommon, finding their way onto many of the bookshelves in Iowa City. The keyword ‘fantasy’, when searched in the Iowa City Public Library catalog, returns over ten thousand results. Naturally, it stands to reason that writing a fantasy novel that stands out from the rest is no easy task.

Wendy Tardieu’s The Rules of Enchantment is easily distinguished from the other fantasy books I’ve read, if imperfect in many ways. Tardieu introduced a fascinating setting, but fell through when it came to world-building and developing chemistry between the main characters. For being marketed so strongly as a romance novel, there’s an inherent disappointment in the fact that their first kiss, which comes nearly halfway through the book, feels so abrupt.

However, there are plenty of positive attributes to go with the book’s weaknesses.

For example, the plot itself weaves together magic and politics in a fascinating mixture of suspense and romance. Further, each character has their own well-built view of the world and general philosophy, which they adhere to throughout the story. The main characters, Leith and Kyler, are both likeable and easy to relate to, without being carbon copies of one another.

It’s easy to judge The Rules of Enchantment by its cover, but it is much less cliché than it is made out to be. It is, at its core, a fantasy student-teacher relationship, which is definitely not for everyone. Tardieu has managed to fit a shocking amount of plot into under 200 pages, but that came at the expense of an under-developed setting. If you’re looking for a quick read, or an easy introduction to fantasy, The Rules of Enchantment might be a good book to try out.

THE LITTLE HAWK THELITTLEHAWK.COM February 19, 2021

A18 A&E

City High show choirs to have virtual Spring Show With COVID-19 raging, the long awaited showchior spring show looks different this year: singers reflect on the season so far

D

By Rachel Marsh

ancers are up by 4 a.m., get to school by 5:30 and wander onto a bus surrounded by tired music kids - some waking up, some awake, and some still with a blanket around them. Finally the sun comes up just enough to see the faraway school as the bus pulls up. Screaming, cheering, dancing, laughing, crying, and sleeping all soon to come in the many hours left before getting back on the bus to arrive home just before the 24-hour trip clock chimes. All that is left is a memory in the absence of show choir competitions. A video stands as a replacement.

“This season has been difficult to say the least, but I am constantly impressed by how our show choir has found a way to conquer all the obstacles in our way. I think that all the challenges that this year has unleashed has pushed our group to be closer and more tight-knit,” said Greta Lowry ‘21. “We have all had the option to take the easy way out and quit, but it is clear that everyone in show choir is participating because it brings them a kind of joy and pride that can’t otherwise be expressed.”

The Fourth Avenue Jazz Company and Charisma show choir groups will be a part of making a season end video, complete with the special acts and MCs to commentate as well as both groups shows. The video

will be shared with the City community spring show. Also, our show isn't nearly as with a ticket system. put together as it normally would be by this “This year's spring show definitely isn’t time of the year. Things have been more rewhat I envisioned for my senior year, but laxed with all of the breaks from school.”

I’m still just as excited to show how far Fourth Ave, the varsity group, has their we’ve come, especially in such difficult cir- show based around an evil villain who tried cumstances. I hope we will get the chance to take over the world. Throughout the to perform live this year, so I think an out- show, the villain controls the ensemble and door performance would be beneficial and eventually falls to unity and happiness. The a lot of fun for our villain is soloist Ian group,” Lowry said.

Allen ‘21, eventual Charisma, the “I really just wish we could perform duet partner with JV group, wel- it this year. The solo and duet are Jacy Pugh ‘21 who comed a new direchelps him through tor this year. In his obviously amazing, but not being his journey. first year of teaching I love able to perform for a live audience the“Personally at City High, Matt show. I really just Walker has accepted kind of takes away from that.” wish we could perthe role of the outform it this year. The JACY PUGH going director insolo and duet are CITY HIGH SENIOR cluding Charisma. obviously amazing, The all-girls group but not being able to show is about travel with songs California perform for a live audience kind of takes Girls by Katy Perry and Empire State of away from that,” Pugh said.

Mind.

Ever since their choreography camps in “I think that our show, the songs and July and September, the groups have been the choreography, are really good this year working every week they’re able despite and dare I say better than last year. Which challenges with the pandemic. Their camps is nice because even though we aren't do- were online, over Zoom. Eventually they ing show choir normally we still have a fun moved to dancing in the faculty lot parkshow,” Ryan Brenter ‘23 said. “It’s also kind ing spaces and when the weather turned to of disappointing because we don't get to winter, spread out in the cafeteria. take the show to competitions and live per“I feel like the leadership role I have takformances. At least we still have our virtual en on in show choir this year is extremely

rewarding because I can help other members learn choreography to the best of their and my ability especially since we learned the choreography online. I enjoy helping our newer members reach their full potential, no matter how much previous dance experience they have,” dance captain Lowry said. “This leadership role has affected my experience by pushing me to always want to improve my abilities for the sake of others. This role has pushed me to come out of my comfort zone and help others who are struggling.”

In Fourth Ave, numbers are dropping.

Specifically in the numbers of boys, this year one-third of the group are boys. This is significantly fewer than the usual half and half boys to girls, they welcomed only one freshman boy this year. Director Tyler Hagy has asked group members to recruit early for next year because being in a choir class is a requirement to participate in show choir.

“One difference just through the difference in the number of boys is that firstly, it is more vocally demanding as you often have not as many people as one might prefer on each part, though fortunately, it's pretty balanced tenor-bass wise. Formation-wise, it gives guys more attention being front and center, as the ratio of girls to boys favors a more guy-centric pattern,” Charles Faden ‘22 said.

Art Club gets new screen printing materials Materials will facilitate a new screen printing class taught by Dan Peterson

By Emmelene Perencevich

T

he strong smell of ink wafted through the art room as Scout Wycoff ‘21 placed a t-shirt on the press. After receiving funds from Student Senate, the purchase of an exposure unit has brought new methods to the City High Arts Department.

“We've been acquiring some cool stuff for silk screening for the past couple [of ] years,” Michael Close, one of the City High art teachers, said. “This is the machine that allows us to ‘burn’ images to screens for printing. We had a homemade one that Dan put together a few years ago, but this new one really kicks butt and does an amazing job.”

Wycoff is an AP art student who has experience with the various new screen printing materials the art program has been acquiring, and making, over the years.

“Dan and Michael have made their own frames for the screen printing, and have reused the frames already made for new prints,” Wycoff said. “They also got a new tub to wash out the screens but unfortunately, they need to still hook it up to the plumbing system somehow.”

Along with making their own frames, they were also gifted some by Blueyah Blueberry Farm.

“Last year we found someone giving away a bunch of silkscreen frames on Craigslist, [which] are typical $20-30 each and [Blueyah Blueberry Farm outside of Oxford] gave us about 30 of them. [It was a] very cool and generous donation to City High,” Close said. “Because we got all these free frames, we purchased a screen stretcher so we can attach the screens on our own. It took us a little bit to figure it out because all the instructions and videos we could find on how

to use it were in Chinese, but we prevailed and got it working.”

After setting up their screen stretcher and exposure unit, they began to test them out.

“Dan and Michael have also been experimenting with their new machine for the past few weeks with different types of images,” Wycoff said. “To make the drawings you can use almost any medium and even use a collage. You can put different colors together on the screen to make a stripe effect or put them in different places to incorporate different colors.”

Close explained how to use the new exposure unit.

“We used to cut out stencils and place them under the screens, then we upgraded to the homemade light table so we could use images, now we have tools that professionals use in shops,” Close said.

Wycoff had a chance to learn about the machine herself.

“It’s super cool, Dan explained to me how it works and it’s really interesting,” Wycoff said. “It kinda looks like a copying machine but when you put a screen down and a drawing on a clear slide over it the light goes

through around the drawing and causes the screen to block around the drawing.”

With this new machine comes a new class at City High.

“Dan will be teaching a printmaking class next year that will be using the silk screening materials to print posters and t-shirts as well as teaching other forms of printmaking,” Close said.

No stranger to screen printing, Close feels like the class will be a natural evolution of the screen printing work they have been doing.

“We have been screen printing in various classes and with the Art Club for many years,” Close said.

“We have also led screen printing in activism workshops the past few years on MLK Day.” This year, Wycoff participated in their MLK Day workshop, which took place on January 13.

“I went to the screen printing workshop they had on MLK Day and made a bunch of prints that I’m going to use for a collage in a project,” Wycoff said. “Our workshop was very successful, but if we had a class, the school would give them money for some new inks, shirts, and have the washing

tub set up correctly. I really think that their class is gonna be a lot of fun for whoever joins.”

Along with allowing for a screen printing class and supporting an MLK Day activity, Close believes that the new materials could be used to benefit Art Club.

“In the long run, I'd like to see the Art Club have a full-blown shop for clubs, organizations, and students to be able to submit a t-shirt design and get it printed inhouse for a small fee that would directly benefit our

Art Club,” Close said.

Wycoff made a print of her dog at the workshop, but also maintains the screen printing materials’ various uses and the advantage of having the new art class at City.

“You can use the screens for so many different things.

You can make posters, any type of clothing item, or you can use the prints to make other projects,” Wycoff said.

“It makes me wish I could be a junior so I could take the class next year.”

ART BY SCOUT WYCOFF

THE LITTLE HAWK THELITTLEHAWK.COM February 19, 2020

A19 A&E

Arts and sports: Who can compete?

By Ruth Meehan and Rebecca Michaeli

T

he normally bustling auditorium has remained empty. The usually full stands filled with sports fans have been left bare. Due to COVID-19, the way we experience games and performances has drastically changed.

Sports teams have been able to have games and meets while all curricular and extracurricular performing arts live performances have been canceled or postponed.

“It was very disappointing,” Tyler Hagy, City High choir director, said. “All of us as music teachers got into the profession because we wanted to make music. Knowing that some of the concerts that I love like the masterworks concert that was scheduled for last December wouldn’t happen was very sad.”

New regulations have been advised to keep students safe while participating in activities. Protocols determining the health and safety procedures for sports teams at City High are suggested by the Iowa School Athletic Association that governs boys and the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Association that governs girls. The state of Iowa is one of the only states that has two separate athletic associations.

“Each governing body puts out some direction around [mask policies]. For everything that’s curricular, during the school day, masks are required 100% of the time. The only time that there can be exceptions to that is things like during a competition,” John Bacon, City High Principal, said. “Once you’re actually in competition, it becomes optional and [masks] are not required by the state. If it’s practice time, and you’re not directly competing, then you are supposed to have the m a s k on.”

While the Iowa athletic associations have to compete in games and meets, keeping in good answer for that, and I don’t know that implemented some mandatory guidelines, mind health and safety protocol, show choir anybody does at the district level of the buildmost protocols are up to the school and and other performing arts have not been ing level. I would say from my own personal team’s discretion. able to hold any performances in-person. opinion standpoint is that they should not “It’s up to both the [state and district] lev“I feel like what makes a show choir be holding games. I have not yet heard from els to decide. The season are the anybody that I have spoken to any reasonstate said ‘here’s competitions that able rationale why it is the case that games what we think everyone looks are occurring,” Hagy said. “I also don’t think should happen’, forward to. Not we should be having performances right “One of the most frustrating and then it’s realhaving them now. It shouldn’t be that they are doing this things for me as a coach is that ly up to each dismakes it feel su- thing that maybe isn’t so great so let’s do our every district has handled this trict. Mr. Hansen, per different, and thing that’s not so great either. I think that our athletic direcwe’re not where all of it [games and performances] shouldn’t differently.” tor, meets with we’re usually at be happening at this moment so that in fuCORY CONNELL not only schools during the season. ture times, hopefully relatively we should be CITY HIGH HEAD WRESTLING COACH in our district, but Usually, we have able to do some of those things.” also in our conferthe entire show While Hagy is adamant that sports as ence,” Lynsey Barput together, and well as performing arts shouldn’t be in full nard, girls basketball coach, said. we’re just fine-tuning things,” DePrenger swing at the moment, he understands that Basketball players wear a mask during said. “It’s very slow going, and sometimes there may be factors influencing decision practice, but a majority of athletes take off gets a little frustrating.” making. Especially in regards to sports and their masks while playing. Whether or not City High choir director Tyler Hagy said performing arts. fans are allowed at games is a school district’s that he and other music educators started to “I would say that the stakeholders in decision. see performance cancelations coming early those different activities or events seem “We have our masks on the whole time this school year. to have somewhat of different priorities. in practice and lifting, but when we get to “I think we saw the writing on the wall, Whether that is right or wrong I don’t know. games and we’re playing, some people will in a sense. At the time we had no clue how All I have is my own opinion and I believe choose to take them off,” Andie Westlake long the vaccines would take to be made and that what we have done on the music side is ’22 said. “Having no fans is definitely weird. the mitigations that we would need to do. try and make things as safe as possible while Usually, we’re used to having friends, family Knowing too that we would be in this kind providing as normal experiences as possible. members, cheerleaders, and the dance team, of hybrid model and not really be able to I don’t think that necessarily there is maliso it’s a lot different playing with fewer peo- meet as a whole ensemble at any given time. cious intent behind the decisions that have ple.”

The reality of that made it kind of clear that been made but I do think that the stakeThe boys wrestling season will conclude probably a concert or performance would holders who have been asked their opinions on February 23, 2021, at their state tourna- not be viable,” Hagy said. about these decisions have said different ment. The wrestling team will attend nine Even though some things about sporting things. Therefore, the decision making has wrestling meets total before the season is events have been different, players have still been different than a consistent message esover, while in a normal year, they would par- been able to compete. Performing arts sentially between athletics and music ticipate in forty meets. Masks are supposed students have not had the same expealong with other performing arts,” to be worn during warm ups, but similar to rience. There has not been one live Hagy said. basketball players, wrestlers take them off performance for any of the curricWhile there is some inconsistenwhile competing. ular or extracurricular ensembles cy between sports and the perform“One of the most since March 2020. Bacon says ing arts this year, Bacon ensures frustrating that these decisions are also imthat the issue is being things for pacted by an organization. addressed. me as a “There are Iowa “We do want to coach H i g h make sure we’re is that S c h o o l giving kids every e v e r y music opportunity while district has guidealso doing what’s handled this l i n e s . right and what’s differently. I feel T h a t safe. I do recognize like there are differ- o r g a that there’s a little ent rules for different n i z a discrepancy between schools. I wish there t i o n shared with athletic events that was more of a top-down s c h o o l s their recommenare happening and approach, more guidance dations and guidance for music concerts that are not from the Iowa High events. However, it’s a little difhappening,” Bacon School [Athletic] Asso- ferent in the sense that it’s not a said. “This is a topciation saying ‘this is formal governing body. My unic that is being how it is handled. This derstanding of the music group discussed by the is the way it is for ev- is that it’s more of a supportive school district erybody in the state’,” organization that provided and a converCory Connell, head some guidance and advice, sation that’s wrestling coach at City but they’re necessarily hard happening High School, said. and fast rules. There is still right now.”

Mia DePrenger ‘22 some discretion for local plays volleyball and also par- school districts to decide ticipates in the 4th Avenue Jazz what they want to do in Company show choir, so has expe- relation to music events,” rienced how both departments have Bacon said. been affected by COVID-19.

When asked why sports “Not being able to practice [volley- are able to have games ball] at the full potential we could’ve in unmasked while all perthe beginning kind of sucked. But then forming arts performancwe all got pretty used to it, and it really es have been shut down, felt like a normal [volleyball] season,” Hagy said that there isn’t DePrenger said. a clear answer.

While sports teams have been able “I don’t really have a ART BY JESSE HAUSKNECHT-BROWN

A20 A&E

THE LITTLE HAWK THELITTLEHAWK.COM February 19, 2020

Rehearsals begin for spring musical The City High drama department has decided not to do Little Women and is doing Matilda, what would have been last year’s spring musical, this year

ABOVE: Rachel Meehan ‘21 logs onto a computer for rehearsal. Meehan was cast as Miss Honey in Matilda. PHOTO BY RUTH MEEHAN

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By Sophie Wagner

fter a duration of silence, the drama department has released a new update: Little Women has been canceled in favor of a revue of last year’s musical, Matilda. The show will be cut down to a smaller time length in order to allow for more safety precaution, however, students and faculty of City High remain excited at the aspect of working with their fellow theatre enthusiasts.

Doug Lestina, the technical director of the City High Drama Department, is looking forward to getting the musical started.

“Most of it is not because of Matilda specifically, but because our fantastic theater students have an opportunity to get working again,” Lestina explained. “Just having the chance to spend some time together and do what we love is the best part.”

Maya Richards ‘21 was cast in both Matilda and in Little Women and shares Lestina’s enthusiasm towards reconnecting with the theatre community.

“I was happy with whatever they chose to do because I just wanted to hang out with people and be a part of something again,” Richards said. “I really am looking forward to seeing people and getting to perform the

best we can one last time.”

Despite the sudden uptake in moods across the theatre boards, there is concern that the musical may face similar fates to previous shows, resulting in yet another cancelation in the music department. Rachel Meehan ‘21, who is cast as Miss Honey in Matilda, is hopeful for the performance’s success but realizes that there are still factors that may propose challenges to the show.

“I think the most challenging part of doing Matilda this year will be to keep student’s morale up throughout the whole process,” Meehan commented. “The performing arts have been hit especially hard during the pan-

demic, and I anticipate there will be many people constantly worrying about the musical getting shut down. Many, if not all, of the fine arts performances and concerts have been canceled, so I think it will be challenging to remain positive as well as making sure we are following all the public health guidelines to keep us and our families safe, so there might be the possibility of a show later in the year.”

Matilda began rehearsals on February 9.

Students log into Zoom for vocal rehearsals and gather at City to learn choreography. As of now, the show is scheduled for the weekend of April 16.

Creativity in chaos

D

By Rachel Marsh

isclaimer: These songs might not apply to everyone, this is a generalization. Everyone has different music tastes or they might not even listen to music.

Over the course of 2020 into 2021, artists have continued to showcase their passion by releasing new music. Taking a look back at quarantine and heading into the new year still in quarantine, let’s take a look back at the biggest songs and albums.

According to Rolling Stone, the top 5 songs of 2020, that came out in 2020, were “August” by Taylor Swift, “People I’ve Been Sad” by Christine and the Queens, “Key West (Philosophers Pirate)” by Bob Dylan, “WAP” by Cardi B feat. Megan Thee Stallion, and “Dynamite” by BTS. In a survey to the school, the winner was WAP with 38.2% of the vote. Coming close behind in second was “August”, and the tie for third between “Key West” and “Dynamite”. “People I’ve Been Sad” did not receive any votes.

“WAP” by Cardi B feat Megan Thee Stallion came out on August 7, 2020 and sparked controversy. The lyrics became quite popular and won the American Music Award for Favorite Song Rap/Hip Hop and a People Choice Award for Favorite Collab-

oration Song. It was at the number one spot Folklore was followed by the sister album on Billboard’s top 100 for a time and in the Evermore, channeling folk roots in a new era week following its release, earned 93 million for Swift. Folklore was released in July, Evstreams in the US. ermore released in December with 33 tracks “I think WAP is a very interesting song total between the two. Swift is known for to say the least. It’s definitely not song of the her lyrics. According to her fans, she did not year, but it has a nice beat over it and the fact disappoint on these two albums. Top songs that two black women can create a song that “Champagne Problems”, “Betty” and “Invistops charts is really really cool. It’s also a song ible string” earned Folklore 289.85 million that’s fun to just blast in streams of its songs withthe car with your friends “I love folklore because the in the first week, making while you scream the lyrit the biggest streaming ics,” Elianno Bowen-Burt songs are able to bring me a week of 2020 for any ‘22 said. little bit of peace in this album by a woman and Moving onto albums, biggest non-rap album otherwise hectic time.” this year, according to Rolling Stone had their top 5 as Future NostalBillboard.

IAN ALLEN CITY HIGH SENIOR gia by Dua Lipa, Rough “I love folklore beand Rowdy Days by cause the songs are able Bob Dylan, YHLQMDLG by Bad Bunny, to bring me a little bit of peace in this othFetch the Bolt Cutters by Fiona Apple, and erwise hectic time. Taylor’s lyricism inspires in first place Folklore by Taylor Swift. Those me so much as an artist,” Ian Allen ‘21 said. songs ranked differently at City High, with Coming in a different category were muFolklore taking a bigger lead with 54.6% sic fads - songs that are on repeat for a week followed by Rough and Rowdy Days by straight. Right at the beginning of quaranBob Dylan, Future Nostalgia by Dua Lipa, tine, Conan Gray released his debut album YHLQMDLG by Bad Bunny, and Fetch the Kid Krow and his song “Heather” became Bolt Cutters by Fionna Apple. quite popular, earning over 380 million Taylor Swift was quite busy this quar- cumulative streams on Spotify as well as a antine with not just one album, but two. long-lasting tik tok trend.

“I think the song is creative and original.

He has a unique voice that a lot of people like to listen to, especially for this song,” Jake Roth ‘22 said.

One more recent musical fad was “Driver’s License” by Olivia Rodrigo. Earning more than 65 million streams on Spotify in its first week, the song broke Spotify’s record for most streams in a single week. The heartbreak ballad struck the heartstrings of many listeners and also sparked many tik tok trends.

“I like Drivers License not only because it’s a fantastic song, but it also has made a really great community of people who are just frustrated with past relationships which I completely understand,” said Megan Fields ‘21. “I’ve had some pretty bad experiences with past ‘flames’ and the song captured it very well.”

Overall, during quarantine, there has been no shortage of songs to top the charts and break records. Whether the song is a pump-up or about heartbreak, artists have continued to share their words and beats with the world.

“I’ve found music to be incredibly helpful over quarantine. It’s allowed me to take a break from the world when it gets a little hectic,” Sophie Brenton ‘24 said.

SPORTS THE LITTLE HAWK THELITTLEHAWK.COM FEBRUARY 19, 2021

Athlete Spotlight:

Jordan Sekafetz & Natalie Green Two seniors look back at their years of competitive gymnastics, focuing on how the sport affected their lives

ABOVE MIDDLE: Natalie Green ‘21 and Jordan Sekafetz ‘21 posing on a beam during their senior year of gymnastics. ABOVE LEFT: Natalie Green ‘21 holding her finishing position of her floor routine after her first few years of gymnastics.

ABOVE RIGHT: Young Jordan Sekafetz ‘21 balancing on a beam. PHOTOS COURTESY OF NATALIE GREEN AND JORDAN SEKAFETZ

By Julianne Berry-Stoelzle

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oth Natalie Green ‘21 and Jordan Sekafetz ‘21 have been participating in gymnastics for the majority of their lives. Now, with the end of their last year of competitive gymnastics in sight, they reflect on what they have experienced and learned along the way.

“I am definitely sad. It’s been a big part of my life forever,and so it’s definitely gonna be weird to be done with it, but it’s taught me a lot of great things and it’s made me the person I am today,” Sekafetz said.

Sekafetz first got into gymnastics when she was six years old, and then started competing competitively when she joined Iowa Gymnast around the age of nine.

“My family has always done gymnastics. All my aunts did it, my dad used to take tumbling classes, and my aunt actually owns a gym

up in Cedar Rapids,” Sekafetz said.

“It’s always been a big part of our family.”

Green did not start gymnastics until the age of eight. She played soccer beforehand, but decided to try gymnastics after going to multiple birthday parties at the Iowa Gym-Nest.

“It’s so different than every other sport I’ve tried. It’s addicting to be honest,” Green said. “Sometimes it’s a little rough, but it’s definitely challenging and I think that’s what drew me to it.”

The four events for women’s gymnastics are vault, uneven bars, floor and beam. Each of these requires its own routine.

“I’m a floor person. I love anything that involves twisting on floor, like a double twist,” Green said. “The variety of everything [is great]. There’s four different events so there’s always going to be something that you like and there’s always going to be something you don’t.”

During the summer, they focus on learning new skills, which is Green’s favorite part of gymnastics since it is a lot less repetitive than practicing routines. According to Sekafetz, this is one of the hardest parts of gymnastics.

“It’s definitely terrifying, especially the older you get, you realize that you can definitely get hurt.

But it’s kind of like one of those things once you do it the first time, you get it over with,” Sekafetz said.

“Learning new skills is hard, like mentally and physically just getting yourself to do it.”

Throughout this season, Sekafetz is continuously running through the routines she has already learned to stay prepared for the coming meets as well as working on half twist on floor, which consists of a roundoff, back handspring, and backflip with a half twist.

“Gymnastics really brings you to push yourself and also [to] just trust yourself, that you’re gonna be

fine, you’re gonna land, you’re not going to hurt yourself, and that that floor isn’t going to move. It’ll still be there when you’re landing,” Sekafetz said.

This mental aspect of gymnastics has also stood out to Green.

“Mental toughness is a really big [part of ] the sport because you can get in your head a lot and you can get mental blocks on skills.

Working through those is not fun but once you’re on the other side you feel really good,” Green said.

“This sport is something that you don’t do unless you’re a little crazy.”

Besides hard work and determination, gymnastics has also reminded Sekafetz to be in the present.

“Especially now, it’s taught me to enjoy the moment, because it does go by really fast,” Sekafetz said. “I personally feel like gymnastics is a fast-paced sport, and it has just gone by really quickly so just like enjoying every moment you get with people [is important].”

Next year, both Sekafetz and Green will be starting college, leaving competitive gymnastics behind them, at least for the foreseeable future.

“I think every now and then I’ll do a handstand or a cartwheel or something, but I don’t plan on competing in college or doing rec in college. Maybe I’ll coach. I would like [gymnastics] to stay in my life, but I don’t really know [if it will],” Green said.

With this year’s gymnastics season starting late and having limited meets due to COVID, Green does not feel like the season is drawing to a close.

“I don’t think it’s really sunk in yet, but I know when it does that I’m going to be really sad. I don’t think I’m quite ready to leave yet because I’ve been on this team for like six or seven years now and it’s been pretty much my whole life.

I’ll be sad when the time does come,” Green said.”I’m gonna miss it. That’s for sure.”

B2 SPORTS

THE LITTLE HAWK THELITTLEHAWK.COM FEBRUARY 19, 2021

Cheer limited due to COVID-19 The City High cheer team has continued practices this year, but has not been able to go to competitions

ABOVE: Sarah Schuh ‘21, Louise Shabani ‘21, Grace Kirshling ‘24, Penelope Wilmoth ‘21, and Tanisha Garrett ‘22 lead the City High students section in a cheer during City’s playoff win against Ottumwa.

PHOTO BY NATALIE GREEN

By Jae Dancer

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hen cheerleading assistant coach Kara Spurrell needed to take maternity leave, captains Julia McReynolds ‘21 and Mia Garcia ‘21 stepped up to help run practices.

“I’ve been doing this since freshman year and I’ve grown to really love the sport. So, being a captain and sort of coach is fun [because] I like getting to talk more closely with new people on the team,” McReynolds said.

Although this year has been different for many sports and clubs, City High cheer has

been practicing regularly and staying safe by following certain COVID-19 precautions such as staying six feet apart and wearing masks. The cheer team also practiced outside for a majority of the season until it got too cold and they moved their practices to the cafeteria.

“So far cheer has been going good. Obviously, with the virus, it’s not the same and we’ve had to make some different adjustments,” McReynolds said.

The cheer team also has many traditions including Thanksgiving dinner, the Christmas gift exchange, and senior night, which

they were not able to do this year because of COVID-19.

“Since we weren’t able to do a lot of team bonding things this year I just want our team to be more connected,” McReynolds said.

The cheer season usually goes from June to March beginning with summer practices but this year their season didn’t start until late December. The team practices two times a week with conditioning and lifting afterward depending on the week.

“Normally it pretty much takes up the full school year more or less if you decide to do all two or three seasons,” McReynolds

said.

Last year the cheer team traveled to the Iowa Fairgrounds for their state competition, where they placed 9th overall. This year due to COVID-19 they are unable to travel and compete this year.

“Obviously I’m really disappointed because at competitions there’s other coaches and college recruits there and that’s a big thing for me. I want other people to see the skills I have so it’s disappointing but what I’m hoping is to become a college cheerleader so I can compete in the future,” McReynolds said.

LETTER FROM THE EDITORS Well folks, Here we are again. Still living in a worldwide pandemic. Still struggling to wrap our minds around how quickly everything changed. Somehow, despite all of this turmoil, sports were able to continue, at least mostly. Multiple quarantines have made that a lot harder. Shout out to the boys swim team for landing on their feet after having to quarantine at a most unfortunate time in their season, and girls basketball team, we are still waiting for you to get out of quarantine long enough to show us what you got this year. Then, there’s bowling, which at the time we are writing this letter, has not had to quarantine a single time. In a global pandemic, smaller sports definitely have the advantage.

Besides stories on the separate sports teams, you will find an athlete spotlight on Jordan and Natalie, two seniors who are looking back at what they have learned through their years of competitive gymnastics. They provide unique insights into the mental aspects of gymnastics and open up about what the final year of participating in a sport is like.

This section also includes a deep dive into sports specialization and pressure on athletes to be good, a story about the new head football coach Mitch Moore, and one about how to stay fit during quarantine. For all you athletes being quarantined, this one’s for you.

We hope that you enjoy reading this issue! Oh, and stay hydrated,

Julianne & Jae

THE LITTLE HAWK THELITTLEHAWK.COM FEBRUARY 19, 2021

B3 SPORTS

Boys basketball insider With the City High boys basketball teams midway through their season, Cedric Dunnwald ‘21 describes what has happened so far and discusses the future of the team

By Rachel Marsh

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lay to the bell, play hard. Use your teammates, score points. Shoot as much as you can, go for a layup.

Remember your plays, win for your

team.

Now, for the City High Boys Basketball teams, many things have changed. Only play to the bell if the starting bell chimes.

Use your teammates from far away. Shoot the ball, but wash your hands afterward. For Cedric Dunnwald ‘21 and many others, this year has been one to remember.

“My favorite moment this year was definitely the first game of the season when we played at West high school and beat them in overtime. Not only was the win a great moment, but being in the moment in the atmosphere that was presented was unbelievable especially for these times,” Dunnwald said.

One of the biggest challenges, for basketball as well as the other sports teams, is COVID-19. This means breaks for quarantines, distances during drills, and fewer crowds at games.

“I think the season is going pretty good.

It’s been tough having to Covid cases on our team making it that we have to quarantine for a total of four weeks of the season,” said Dunnwald. “[This] makes it really tough for us as players and as a team to get in a groove in the rhythm to be successful on the court.”

Seniors in 2021 have lost many elements of their senior year. Recruitment has changed dramatically, with an increased focus on video footage as recruiters are not as able to watch games in person. Students that have been in basketball all throughout high school have been faced with choosing which

LEFT: Byron Benton ‘21 dribbles past defender during game against West High. ABOVE RIGHT: Bram Sueppel ‘21 prepares to shoot a basket.

BELOW RIGHT: Coach Brennan Swayzer talks to Jamari Newsome ‘22. PHOTOS BY NATALIE GREEN

risks they want to take.

“Knowing the risk of the virus, what kept me [playing] was to finish my four years at City High the right way. I didn’t wanna be a quitter and I had already tested positive two weeks prior to the season starting. So going into it, I knew that I would be pretty safe,” Dunnwald said.

The ICCSD decided that even for indoor sports, masks are not mandatory during games for athletes that are actively in the game but mandatory for athletes that are on the bench. While playing, athletes can de-

cide whether they want to wear a mask or not, with many choosing not to.

“The reason the majority of us don’t wear them while we play games is [that] when we play they tend to fall down and become useless,” Dunnwald said. “If you’re too busy messing with your mask that ends up distracting you from focusing on what you have to do on the court. When your mask is falling down every time you run up and down the court at that point it’s just better to take it off because the mask isn’t doing you any good.”

Despite the challenges, the team is still hopeful heading into the remaining part of the season and the postseason.

“I think our team comes every single day and competes at 100%. The thing I love about our team is that no one takes stuff personally. Everyone is out there having fun and trying to make everybody better, and that’s what great teams do,” Dunnwald said.

“Looking into the future I think that we just need to continue playing as a team and playing for one another and I think that will give us success down the road.”

Girls basketball plays on despite setbacks The City High girls basketball teams have faced challenges this season: COVID-19, quarantines, and stepping into new responsibilities.

Take a look through their season thus far, and what they hope to accomplish

ABOVE: Ella Cook ‘21 goes for a layup as a West High defender tries to block her. PHOTO BY MADELYN HELLWIG

A

By Rachel Marsh

team struggling with breaks and COVID-19 restrictions but working to overcome and persevere: the story of the pandemic.

The infamous story of trying to continue normalcy heard over and over again.

According to varsity assistant coach Lynsey Barnard, both the Junior Varsity and Varsity City High girls basketball teams have not changed their goals this season and are

trekking on with a positive attitude.

“Our JV team battles every day in practice and in games. We consistently ask a lot out of them. Not only do they have to get ready for their own games, but they also have to push the varsity girls every day as well,” Barnard said.

In the pandemic maintaining a consistent, competitive, full roster comes with its challenges. The team as a whole has been quarantined multiple times and has recently entered yet another quarantine leading to zoom practices and independent practice.

“COVID isn’t something that we have control over, and we can’t make excuses for being behind because we’re shut down or having multiple games a week and being tired because we had to reschedule games,” Barnard said.

This year, they had many new players come out, and players that they have had in the past, decide not to play because of the dangers of the virus.

“There were potential starters and valuable returning players on all three teams that felt it was safer not to play basketball this season, and that’s something our coaching staff completely understands and supports,

but still has added a layer of difficulty to this season,” Barnard said.

The varsity girls are midway through their season and currently ranked 8th.

They’ve beaten Liberty, Muscatine, Kennedy, Wahlert, and Xavier. They hope to continue to climb in rankings and continue into the postseason.

“It is great to be ranked this high, especially after losing three of our starters from last year. If we continue to keep playing as a team, handling our business on the court, and keep winning more games, I think we can be ranked even higher,” Kacie Earl ‘22 said.

Last year, the team’s consistent starters were Rose Nkumu, Paige Rocca, and Aubrey Joens, all of whom are now playing Division 1 basketball in college, leaving big spots to fill. This year the players have had to step up into not only those but also into the responsibility of preparing for games independently.

“As much as we try, sometimes it’s hard to make a practice feel like a game,” said Georgia Kimm ‘22. “I hope that this year our team is able to make it to state again to show we’re just as good as last year.”

B4 SPORTS

THE LITTLE HAWK THELITTLEHAWK.COM FEBRUARY 19, 2021

Specialized and multi-sport athletes

Comparing the risks associated with specilizing in one sport versus participating in mutliple sports

ABOVE: Carey Koenig ‘21 kneeling on the ground after catcing the softball with her left hand. PHOTO BY NATALIE GREEN

THE LITTLE HAWK THELITTLEHAWK.COM FEBRUARY 19, 2021

B3 SPORTS

National Athletic Trainers’ Association

Youth Sport Specilization Safety Recommendations: 1) Delay specilizing in a single sport as long as possible 2) One team at a time 3) Less than 8 months of sports a year 4) No more hours of exercise a week than age in years 4) Two days of rest per week

LEFT: Cece Kelly-Harvey ‘21 holds up a basketball at the girls state basketball tournament in 2020. TOP RIGHT: Elliot Dunnwald ‘22 nearing the finish of his five km race. MIDDLE RIGHT: City high football player gets up during game against Cedar Falls. BOTTOM RIGHT: Isabelle Polfliet ‘23 swimming the 100 yard backstroke.

PHOTOS BY NATALIE GREEN, RACHEL MARSH, AND JULIANNE BERRY-STOELZLE

By Julianne Berry-Stoelzle and Jae Dancer

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any athletes train to get better. They put so much time and effort into their sport because they want to improve, to drop another second or increase their hitting record. They feel pressure from both themselves and those around them. This drive, while effective in some cases, can also become unhealthy.

Sports specialization, which is when an athlete only participates in one sport year round, can be the result of goals to get a college scholarship or make it professionally. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, sports specialization has increased within the US over the past few years, with athletes starting to specialize at even younger ages than before. One of the driving factors of this is club and travel teams.

“I think for parents, they do that to their kids because they’re expecting them to get to the next level. They’re putting so much time and pressure on them to be a single sport athlete,” Mitch Moore, the new City High head football coach said.

The AAP affirms that sports specialization in youth athletes can cause detrimental effects both physically and psychologically. In fact, AAP clinical reports state that the effects of sports specialization in child athletes can contribute to “overuse injuries, overtraining, and burnout in child and adolescent athletes.” “[Sports specialization] should be discouraged for as long as possible,” City High athletic trainer Jennifer McHenry said. “It puts a lot of pressure on parts of your body, like your arm in baseball.

If you do too much throwing too soon, it wears your arm down faster. Those kinds of things aren’t good for young developing bodies. You’d be better off doing more

sports and varied sports with varied activities where your body doesn’t get into a repetitive motion.”

The AAP recommends that young athletes focus on enjoying various activities and play versus early specialization programs made to produce elite-level athletes.

“It is extremely beneficial for kids to do multiple sports, especially at young ages, whether it’s elementary school, junior high, or high school,” Cory Connell, City High’s head wrestling coach said. “They learn how to compete and as a result are more coachable.”

Connell has been actively posting on instagram and twitter, encouraging football players to also go out for wrestling.

However, he supports athletes from all sports willing to give wrestling a try.

“I think athletes who do multiple sports are more confident. They compete harder. If they are faced with some adversity, they can change gears quicker in the sense that they’ve probably faced some adversity similar [in a different sport] and they can relate back to that and move on quicker versus a person who’s only done one sport,” Connell said.

City High athlete Cece Kelly-Harvey ‘21 has been a tri-sport varsity athlete in cross country, basketball, and track throughout most of her high school career, her endurance and continuous fitness, helping her in all her sports.

“From cross country, when I got right into basketball, I would not be as tired as the [other] girls during the drills and practices. I would just be running up and down the court and everybody was struggling and I would have to sprint, and pass people who couldn’t make it,” Kelly-Harvey said.

While she encourages athletes to do multiple sports, McHenry also warns athletes to be extra careful when doing multiple sports at the same time, since this can

also increase the risk of injuries.

“It would be great if while you’re out for basketball you’re focusing on basketball and you’re not doing volleyball.

It would be great, but I don’t think it’s probably a realistic option [for most athletes],” McHenrey said. “[When doing two sports,] it has to be up to the athlete to communicate. They have to say, ‘Listen, this was a really hard day in basketball practice. We lifted and so, if I’m going to come to soccer tonight, then I can only do this much. I need rest more than I need to practice.’ It [requires] a lot of communication that can be done but it really has to be worked out between the three parties: the two coaches and the kid.”

Carey Koenig ‘21 has been a two time varsity athlete in both softball and basketball. With year round softball, both club and school, on top of the winter basketball season, Koenig has struggled to maintain a high level of commitment to both sports.

“It was just a lot harder for me to balance everything because I had to take into consideration weight lifting for softball and then having basketball practice everyday. I was really tired all the time,” Koenig said.

For her senior year, Koenig has decided to not participate in basketball and instead focus her efforts on softball, which she plans on continuing in college.

“All those people that play different sports know that they need to put the time in to be good for softball [because] we always have these expectations that you need to focus on softball to get better,” Koenig said.

How many sports athletes decide to do is ultimately up to them and their parents, however it is important for them to make informed decisions.

“You just have to pay attention to your body and listen to what it’s telling you,” McHenry said.

B6 SPORTS

THE LITTLE HAWK THELITTLEHAWK.COM FEBRUARY 19, 2021

New head football coach: Mitch Moore

By Jae Dancer

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hen it comes to coaching, Mitch Moore, the new head coach of City High’s varsity football team, is not one to be called underqualified. Throughout his career, Moore has coached at various high schools throughout Iowa and nearby states as well as collegiate level schools including Wisconsin-Whitewater University, Oklahoma State, and Iowa State University.

“I’ve always [been] a huge fan of the profession of coaching and that was always my lifelong goal,” Moore said.

“I’d say at a young age I loved coaching. I knew I wanted to impact people through the game of sports.”

Born and raised in Huxley, Iowa.

Moore graduated from UW-Whitewater in 2008 after playing three years semipro as a receiver for the Cedar Rapids Warhawks. Moore has participated and coached in six National Title games between the years of 2005 - 2012.

“I really enjoy finding what makes every kid be the best version of themselves and so I think I bring a ton of energy every day,” Moore said.

In his years as a college athlete, he was faced with injury and was forced to sit out for a season. This gave him a chance to observe and be inspired by what goes into coaching a team.

“I kind of got to be an assistant coach and see the ins and outs of what football and coaching were really like from that perspective and so I think that guided me on my path,” Moore said.

In 2011-2012, Moore worked as the wide receivers coach and recruiting coordinator at Southeast Oklahoma State as well as the assistant director for football recruiting and player personnel at Iowa State University in 2014, giving him an extensive background in athlete recruitment and development.

Driven by the positive Iowa City community and the chance to settle down, Moore will now be taking on the new head coach position for the City High football program.

“This job and this community are so neat because I think there’s obviously something about City High, the community, and the history that coaches want to stay here and develop a program,” Moore said.

He has already started using social media to connect with athletes and get them hyped for the coming season.

“There [are] a bunch of kids in the program right now who haven’t felt the success of some of the past programs in history and so I think this is an opportunity to give this team some new energy, hope, and optimism for just a really unique and fun future,” Moore said.

ABOVE: Cale Seaton ‘24 pins his Cedar Falls opponent. PHOTO BY NATALIE GREEN

Wrestling with change Wrestlers and coaches continued to participate and compete this winter sports season, despite the suspension and delay of practices due to COVID-19

T

By Emily Martinez

his winter sports season, City High wrestlers and coaches alike have had to adapt to delays and limitations of practices and meets due to COVID-19. Despite all of these adjustments, they were still able to have a season. “[The delay of practices] for sure affected the team,” Cory Connell, head wrestling coach, said. “My favorite part of coaching is developing wrestlers to be the best they can be on and off the mat. We weren’t able to get as much technique, development in all positions, or mat time as we usually do. I think [the delay] also affected [wrestlers] in a positive way, that when they were in there they were focused, worked hard, and we’re grateful to be in there as a team.”

All in-person sports and extracurricular activities were suspended due to the ICCSD switching to 100% online learning back in early December of 2020.

“I think covid hasn’t really affected our progress, at least as much as you’d think it would,” Nick Marker ‘23 said. “With the current situation, we’re split into an advanced group and a less advanced group, which really allowed us to get back on track faster. The more advanced guys were able to skip past all the basic techniques and just work on honing in on the little details we need to work on. We’ve missed out on a lot of competition, but as a team, we want to be optimistic. We’re gonna be a lot [sharper] for districts, mentally and physically, and no ones gonna know what’s coming from us.”

Throughout the season, coaches invited speakers such as Dan Gable, Jim Miller, Kyven Gadson, Casey Krieter, Aaron Costello to their team Zoom meeting to give wres-

tlers tips and keep them motivated. match. If anything, we were even hungrier “Every day we weren’t able to practice, for competition,” Marker said. we zoomed as a team. We talked a lot about Many wrestlers struggled with sports taking responsibility for their own greatness suspensions and quarantines. Nonetheless, and being independent enough to be able to when it came down to preparation, wrestlers work to be great without a coach standing found their coaches to be one of their main there telling them what to do,” Connell said. motivators.

By late December, the suspension of “We have had plenty of preparation for in-person sports and extracurricular activi- our meets. Our coaches do a very good job ties was lifted and sports were able to con- in practice, so when it comes time to comtinue with the rest of the season with health plete it’s all up to us,” Kueter said. “Perand safety limitations. sonally, I have learned a lot this year, and I “We did a lot of different things this year. look forward to using those skills at the upPractices were separate between JV and Var- coming tournaments. The biggest jump I’ve sity, we limited partners, wore masks up till made this season is my conditioning. I think we started wrestling, took temps every day, my conditioning is way better compared to etc. Since groups were split up we went last year, and that’s gonna play a big role this at different paces as well. Varsity moved year.” quicker since they had more Wrestlers and coaches were “If anything, we were able to overcome the challenges knowledge and JV moved even hungrier for they were met with this season a little slower because they had to pick a lot up,” Conby adapting to their environcompetition.” nell said. ment and remaining motivated.

NICK MARKER In the month of Janu“We went back a little beCITY HIGH SOPHOMORE ary, other sports including fore winter break so we got our boys wrestling, bowling, and basketball were two weeks of practice in before our competiforced to quarantine due to being exposed to tion with West. A big thing for us is visualizCOVID-19, causing more set back in terms ing. Our coaches always talk about wrestling of practices and meets. Wrestlers continued a match 100 times in your head before you on with their season by mid-January. actually wrestle it. It makes you more pre“I think the biggest struggle was just not pared, it boosts your confidence, [it] makes being able to compete, especially for guys you want to fight,” Marker said. like Ben Kueter ‘23, Kael Kurtz ‘24, and As for next season, wrestlers and coachCale Seaton ‘24. It’s evident early on in their es have high expectations for the team as a careers that they have big futures. We all whole and hope they won’t face as many limwant matches, we want to prove ourselves. itations as they did this season.

There were lots of good matches, especial“I would like to see my teammates be ly for them that they missed out on. Ones more confident heading into competition against ranked [wrestlers] that they were [next season]. I feel like some of them have looking forward to. It definitely hurt them doubt in their abilities, and there is no reaa lot, but you just [had to] put your head son for doubt because we have been putting down and keep preparing for your next work in all year,” Kueter said.

THE LITTLE HAWK THELITTLEHAWK.COM FEBRUARY 19, 2021

B7 SPORTS TOP: A 15-pound weight lays on the floor.

BOTTOM: A bowl of spinach is ready to be eaten. PHOTOS BY JULIANNE BERRYSTOELZLE

Staying fit throughout quarantine Due to COVID-19, many athletes have found themselves in quarantine during the middle of their season, needing a way to maintain their fitness

By Max Berry-Stoelzle

W

ith the continuation of sports throughout COVID-19, there is always a risk of catching the Coronavirus. This has led to many quarantines throughout the season since one positive test from a team member, who has been at practice, is enough to send the rest of the team into quarantine.

Often sports teams come back having lost

a lot of ground on their previous performances, but there are ways to minimize these losses.

“It’s not super fun, but it’s only temporary, so you’ll be ok in the long run,” Laila Butler-Mills ‘21, a captain of the City High girls swim team said.

So far this school year, multiple sports teams had to quarantine, including the girls swim team, the girls and boys basketball teams, and

the boys swimming, and wrestling team. But what can these athletes do at home to help reduce the loss of their fitness during quarantine?

“When we think about [exercise] we talk about two types of activities. One is aerobic activity and one is muscle strengthening” Dr. Mellen, an Associate Professor of Instruction at the University of Iowa, said.

The American Heart Association and Mayo Clinic both recommend at least 150 minutes of aerobic activity spread out over a week, and doing muscle

strengthening activity twice a week.

“I think there’s a lot more opportunities for activities that people can find online,” Dr. Mellen said. “I think the bigger challenge is the mental aspect. As an active person, they’re used to having a very consistent training that they’re doing at a very high level, now all of a sudden cannot do that.”

Even though athletes can’t do in person practices, there are still activities that they can do on their own to maintain fitness.

“I went on a few bike rides, [as well as did] workouts outside. Just circuits in my yard that I made up.” Butler-Mills ’21 said “I’ld, just [make sure to] exercise every day.”

Besides exercising, it is important to look at other aspects of health as well, such as sleep and food intake. “[You have to] think holistically about health and incorporating activity, making sure that what you’re eating is a healthy pattern of eating, and then also making sure to practice other good self care behaviors,” Dr. Mellen said.

“Sleep is really important. It can affect your [other] activities, and I think that that [it’s] often something that can get overlooked when we think about health and the importance of health.”

For high school stu-

dents, the CDC (United States Center for Disease Control) recommends eight to ten hours of good sleep per night. To help improve sleep the CDC recommends keeping a consistent sleep schedule, and getting exercise during the day. It is also important for athletes to watch their food intake.

“The key is just making sure that people are matching what that fuel is to what their training is,” Dr. Mellen said. “If they have reduced their exercise a little bit, then they don’t need the same high level intake of carbohydrates, as they might when they’re training, much more intensely.”

Even once they get out of quarantine, athletes may still feel its effects, due to their reduced level of fitness.

“My concern is people who think [that they] just didn’t do as much exercise for the last two weeks, and try to do too much too quickly trying to make up for lost time,” Dr. Mellen said. “[Start slow.] After those first few days, increase the volume of your activity.

By doing that, you’re going to see those fitness gains increase.”

As athletes rejoin sports after quarantine, they won’t be able to immediately go back to the same workouts they were doing before quarantine. They will have to build back up to the level over the course of a few days or weeks.

“It was mostly just making sure that each day I did a little bit more than the last,” Butler-Mills said. “It probably took me about a week after I got out of quarantine to build up all the way to my regular swimming and lifting workouts.”

B8 SPORTS

THE LITTLE HAWK THELITTLEHAWK.COM FEBRUARY 19, 2021

Boys swim team maintains momentum

There have been more obstacles than ever in the way of this year’s swimmers, from COVID-19 to changes in coaching, but they have made the best of it

By Max Berry-Stoelzle

A

t the sound of a beep, all of the swimmers on the blocks dive into the water, as their teammates erupt into cheers. Like any other year, they race. Unlike any other year, they put on masks once they get out of the pool. Needless to say, it was an unprecedented season for the City High boys swim team.

“We did a really good job coming together, especially this year there not only is COVID-19 impacting our swimming, but [also] the changes with coaches and teammates. I think that we did a very good job [of ] having a nice attitude on the team,” Isaac Weigel ‘21, a captain on the swim team said. “I think people are working harder this year. Everyone is making more of an effort to either not lose the condition that they have been in or to push themselves a little bit farther.”

Despite the obstacles, the beginning of the season looked promising for the City High Boys Swim Team. The team had large amounts of improvements, and the Varsity team managed to go undefeated in dual meets, with only one tie. However, halfway through

ABOVE: Jared Coiner ‘23 and Chase Loftus ‘22 swim to the other end of the pool holding their masks above the water. PHOTO BY JULIANNE BERRY-STOELZLE

the season, the team was forced into quarantine due to a positive COVID-19 test.

“In an ideal world you [wouldn’t] have any shutdowns.

They interrupt practice, but they’re [necessary],” Weigel said.

Even though the team got forced into quarantine throughout the middle of the month of Janu-

ary, they continued to train with practices over Zoom.

“The team had tremendous momentum heading into the quarantine, and it was our mission to keep

that going,” Head Coach Mandi Kowal said. “Sometimes, you don’t realize how good you have it until it’s gone. This year, we didn’t have two back to back weeks of training [before districts].”

After coming out of quarantine, the Little Hawks immediately got back in the pool preparing for the Mississippi Valley Conference super meet. There they managed to take second place with a total of 287 points.

“I think the team did a really good job of having a good mindset going into the meet. They were very competitive, and didn’t let the practice get to them mentally,” Chase Loftus ‘22, a captain on the City High Boys Swim team said.

At the IAHSAA District meet hosted by Clinton High School, City High managed to get third with 365 points, only 6 points behind second place Cedar Rapids Washington. “[This year] there has been tremendous improvement with the team which is remarkable considering we haven’t been able to train the way we coaches would like,” Kowal said. “From technical changes to tactical changes to many PR’s (personal records) you can’t ask for more.”

Bowling through it all

The City High bowlers have continued through their season without major interruptions for quarantining

ABOVE: A collection of bowling photos from the 2020-21 season.. PHOTOS BY NATALIE GREEN