The Talon - Issue #3 (2023-24)

2023-2024-Issue 3

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Table of Contents Introduction: Page 1 Mock Election: Page 2 Winter Sports: Page 3 Short Story Part 3: Page 4 Joseph Musical: Page 5-6 Fall Fashion: Page 7 Budget Gifts: Page 8

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, Eagles! Time has flown by incredibly fast, and as we approach the end of the semester, our class has come up with a variety of recaps and information to keep you entertained this holiday season!

Our Journalism class would also love to reach our student body on social media, so be sure to follow us on IG: @ihs_the_talon_ If you would like your class, club, sport, or activity, contact any of The Talon Journalism Staff, or Mrs. Kodman at kkodman@immanuelschools. com

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American Solidarity Party Triumphs in the Mock Election

By Charles Going, an unbiased voter.

The recent mock election turned out to be a rollercoaster of political shenanigans and unexpected twists. Armed with enthusiasm and a flair for campaigning, students transformed the school grounds into a battleground of ideologies, balloons, and catchy slogans.

From the resilient Republicans Scottie and Mikah to the environmentally-conscious duo Nate and Tad representing the Green Party, each team put on a show worthy of the political stage. The Libertarians, helmed by Jacob Rios. and Ava Regier, preached liberty fervently, while the Democrats, led by Paul Shanor and Jade Laemlen, sought to sway voters with their progressive ideas, and the God-driven campaigners Jakob Percival and Elijah Garay.

The campaign day on the green was a spectacle to behold. Students transformed into minipoliticians, armed not with policy papers, but with handmade banners, colorful flyers, and promises that would put seasoned politicians to shame. The air was thick with excitement, laughter, and the scent of freshly cut grass — and maybe a hint of political intrigue.

When the high school voting day arrived, it was a testament to democracy. The ballot boxes overflowed with choices that mirrored the real world, albeit with a touch of youthful exuberance. The tension was palpable as the results rolled in, revealing the American Solidarity Party as the victors. Could it have been divine intervention? I have no idea.

As the mock election dust settles, one thing is for certain: these students have showcased the beauty of passionate engagement in the political process, leaving us all entertained, inspired, and perhaps a bit puzzled by the divine political aspirations.

WINTER SPORTS As the winter sports season kicks off, we’re excited to look ahead to a whole new season of games and events. We here at the talon contacted winter sports coaches to get the lowdown on this year’s season. If you’re interested in knowing dates, rivals, and information about the upcoming sports, read on!

First up is girls soccer. This season has kicked off with a bang, with one win, one loss, and one tie from the varsity. This year the team is being led by coach Virginia Thomas, who Immanuel is excited to welcome into her first year here. Some of her goals for this season include seeing the girls grow in their sport, and their trust and dependency on each other as both teammates and friends. CVC is shaping up to be the ‘team to beat’ so look out for the CVC vs. Immanuel match! While I was not able to contact the boys soccer team coach, Coach Zulik, the boys team has so far been competing well, so make sure to make it to their upcoming games!

As we recently hosted the tournament of champions, I’m sure everybody is aware that basketball season has started up! The girls basketball team has just recently kicked off their season.

Despite having some of their top players taken out for the season because of injuries, they are striving for the best,

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some of their goals including winning the Valley Championship, as well as the League.

Coached by Mr. Loren LeBeau, the girls are eagerly looking forward to what promises to be an exciting year. As far as boys basketball, the team is led by Coach Brown, who is anticipating a good season, with a dedicated and determined team ready to challenge the toughest teams in the league.

Their big game will be against the CVC team, and they are eagerly hoping to claim the victory.

While it is technically considered a spring sport, boys volleyball begins in January, only a month from now, ushering in Immanuel’s second year of the sport.

Coached by our very own Mr. Baltezar, the team is aspiring for the league title, as well as anticipating a friendly rivalry with the team to beat, Reedley high. They are returning after their inaugural season excited, ready, and anticipating yet another great year. The final team we’ll be covering is the men’s wrestling team. Although we were unable to reach Coach Cavazos, we are confident that the wrestling team will excel during this upcoming season. All things considered, we here at the Talon are eagerly looking forward to what this upcoming season of sports has to offer!

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The Dead of Night

by Simone Light The detective searched the main floor, Robert the second, and Anita the third. The house had grown cold with the thought of someone peeking behind every corner. Every breath spoke of the twicesuccessful murderer running rampant in the halls.

Anita turned swiftly at a dull scratch behind her. The hallway was lit by a single oil lamp, casting a six-foot glow around its base. Lottie would be coming for her next. She had already picked off the weakest ones.

First the old man, then the distraught young woman.

She warily surveyed the hallway, searching for the source of the noise, only to find a small mouse gnawing at the floorboards.

Anita turned back to the door in front of her, shaking her head. You’re being silly, she thought to herself. She wished longingly for Robert who despite his downfalls and nagging on her had always been her protector. It had been his idea to split up. He had said that the library would be the safest place because it would be close to impossible to reach the third floor in the amount of time that Lottie was given. It would be impossible for Lottie to get to the third floor. And having to be silent about it, she would have been caught.

Impossible.

Yet, the silver knob of the door was still turned apprehensively, expecting Lottie to come charging at her with calloused hands outstretched, ready to give Anita the same fate as her sister.

Anita ran her hand across the wall, searching for the switch that would light the room. A chandelier from above ignited with a click. A large desk sat in the middle of the room, the report that Robert had been writing from his last expedition spread across it. The paneled walls were lined floor to ceiling with shelves.

Anita had been in the study many times and had detested each visit she experienced. Cases filled the empty spaces on the shelves where the crowd of books would lessen. They proudly displayed the animals that Robert had killed and taxidermied. They were his trophies for finding new species. The faces of the animals were stuck in a look of shock and horror.

Calling out in their last attempt to escape from impending death. Maybe Lottie helps him kill them.

Anita let out a bitter laugh but had no time to finish her musings before she heard shouting echoing from downstairs. Robert’s footfalls pounded up the wooden staircase, as he barreled into the library.

Anita turned towards him, to find him clutching a worn paper in his hand.

He strode towards her, holding the paper out in front of him. “You need to see this.”

Anita slowly took the paper from him and turned it over. On the front was a photograph. The date at the bottom read Christmas Day, 1910. The black and white picture showed a trio of teens, no older than eighteen. They were bundled in their winter attire, standing out in the snow, by a newly formed snowman. The cheery faces were unmistakable underneath the scarves and hats.

Charlotte Raymonds, James Thompson, and Detective Martin Glenn stood together in the photograph. Anita looked up in shock. Robert nodded as though he knew exactly what she was thinking. “These three have a past.”

To be continued...

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Joseph: A Behind the Scenes Look at Our Musicals

by Simone Light Our fall musical has wrapped up, and in that families have been able to experience yet another wonderful Immanuel production! Whether you have seen pieces of shows during chapel previews, or gone to see each show multiple times, there is no doubt that the quality of the productions can be matched.

However, most would not know what goes on in the background. Months of preparation go into these musicals, especially for a production as music-heavy as Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.

The funky music brings a lighthearted feel to the musical but also provides a challenge for any singing part in the show. When our director, Mr. Merritt, was asked what his favorite song was to listen to and teach, he answered, “I really loved ‘Jacob and Sons/Joseph’s Coat.’It was a great way to open the show, it is fun and really allows the audience to see the different characters the show will offer. Not to mention our Chamber Choir sounded amazing singing those 2 songs.”

The dancing throughout was also very impressive and beautiful. One of the most notorious scenes was during the song “Cannan Days” in which Leah Hansen and Leah Thomas danced with two of the brothers. Leah Thomas spoke on this, saying, “Learning the “Canaan Days” dance was pretty challenging. Shout out to Micah for not ever dropping me even though I definitely felt unsafe most of the time.” Another was during the Hoedown after “One More Angel in Heaven.”

Thanks to an alumni of Immanuel, Hannah Brown for choreographing that song for us.

A fair amount of the student body has been a part of some sort of production, however, those who haven’t are strongly encouraged to join. Leah Thomas also told us about this, “Performing arts is very much like a team so for all of the athletes that might think performing arts is embarrassing and not for them, it could be. It’s definitely not for the weak. It takes a lot of confidence and effort to do well but it is so worth it and the memories and community made is tighter-knit because of it.”

There are also many values that come from being a part of the performing arts department, which Mr. Merritt spoke on, “The Lord has gifted many students with amazing abilities to sing, dance, and act. He has also gifted us with the ability to be at Immanuel where we can showcase the talents he gave us in a honoring way towards Him. In the

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same way that an athlete competes their heart out during a game, and does so in a way that would bring honor and glory to God, we too can do the similar task of practicing and performing a show to the best of our ability. In doing so we can bring honor, praise, and glory to God. I love that families get to come and see how much their child has grown in their God-given talents.”

Thanks to Immanuel for allowing the performing arts department to continue creating these fantastic shows, and the choir classes for putting in so much effort to make them happen. Special thanks to Mr. Merritt for sacrificing so many hours and for putting all the seen and unseen aspects together to make a truly amazing show.

Photo Credit: Leah Thomas

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Fall Fashion

by Leah Thomas

As the cold weather has crept in, new fashion trends have appeared.

Here are some of the most popular fall/winter fashion trends you may have spotted around campus…

Starting it off, we’ve seen a blast to the past for all the girls on campus, as bows and ribbons have made their way back into style. Reminding everyone of their kindergarten Christmas pageants, bows and ribbons have been the latest girly trend to reach the spotlight. Adding ribbon to sweaters, shoes, and most commonly seen as a hair accessory. Next time you want to spice up your basic fall sweater and jeans, try this ballet inspired fashion trend and watch the compliments fly in.

Another blast from the past, the trend from the 2000’s has also made its way back into people’s closets. The UGG boot has made a very loud appearance in 2023 fashion and has everyone loving the comfycozy feeling of glorified slippers in the cold weather. The UGG has begun to evolve from only the simple brown and original size, to now the many sizes and colors. From platform to ultra mini, UGGS have grabbed everyone’s attention. And whether that attention be good or bad, no one can argue that this has been the start to some very cozy fashion trends.

To add to the comfy-cozy style this fall and winter, grandma sweaters and sweater vests have become very relevant. Funky patterns, fluffy, and everything crochet, this trend has taken captive closets. In 2023, we have kick out graphic patterns and text and have decided to honor the elderly by copying their wardrobe.

Gift Giving On Budget

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by Sydney Friesen With Christmas just around the corner, checking gifts off your list is important. Whether it's finding one more present for your oh-so-trendy sister, or trying to put together a Secret Santa, We’ve got you covered. In this section on Gift Giving On Budget -Christmas Edition- we’ll share helpful tips and tricks on what to buy for your last minutes shopping needs.

Thrifting is getting more and more popular which makes it perfect to find a good combination of items at well-known thrift stores. Handmade goods, jewelry, and cute sweaters are all in-store when you stop by a local store. Secret Santa and White Elephant gifts can also be found here with random assortments of Christmas mugs and someone's uncle's ugly Christmas sweater. For friends who are more sentimental, try crafting up something yourself. Homemade sugar scrubs or a picture collage to put up on their wall is an easy way to make them smile.

Now if you are not into getting your hands dirty, here are some suggestions for places to shop if you don’t want to spend up all the allowance you earned from taking out the trash last week. Marshalls and TJ Maxx will forever be my favorites. They have everything you need to mix up the perfect gift bag. selection. Skincare, Christmas decor, candles, and the fuzzy slippers you didn’t know you needed are all at your fingertips. Though Christmas isn’t all about the gifts, it's the joy you get putting the gift together and the joy you get when you see them open it, that adds a little more to this season. Concluding this short section on gifts, remember that whoever your gift is for, they will love it no matter

what (most likely.) Don’t stress over it too much without forgetting to enjoy the moment of being with family and coming together over Christmas.

So when you are out deciding over the apple cider candle or the frosted cranberry, remember the reason for the season.