Issue 5, Volume 94

The Pepperbox

JUNE

BOX BRIEFS

June 16: Graduation June 27th to July 15th: Summer School Semester 1 July 18th to August 4th: Summer School Semester 2 August 22nd: First Day of School Want to advertise or buy a mail subscription to the Pepperbox? Email Business Manager Bella Fratkin at pepperbox@nohum.k12.ca.us !

EDITORIAL STAFF Seri Welsh Editor-in-Chief Lila Cohen Editor-in-Chief Ian Letts News Editor Dylan Berman Feature Editor Madelyn Conley Deputy Feature Editor Emily Nalley Sports Editor Flannery Warner Opinion Editor Ty Franklin Photo Editor Amaya Mendle-Nickle Deputy-Photo Editor Bella Fratkin Business Manager Aidan Shelton Art Director Dele Rebstock Social Media Editor Sydney Trieu Web Editor Eva Johnson Copy Editor

REPORTERS Ruby Auckland Tabitha Born Haley Kenyon Zoe Macknicki Jean Thuy

Questions regarding editorial content of the Pepperbox should be directed toward its editors. Opinions expressed in this paper are not necessarily those of Arcata High School.

The Pepperbox would like to thank Western Web, based in Samoa, for printing at-cost. Western Web supports student journalism throughout Humboldt County and has made publications like the Pepperbox possible for decades.

We appreciate their dedication to keeping print media alive.

IN THE BOX Clewell Teaching Award. . . . 6 New Dean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 New Principal . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Student Board Reps. . . . . . . . .7 Retirees. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Goodbye Monge . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Ms. Stewart. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 New Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Summer Bucket List . . . . . . 10 Roe V Wade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Alternatives to College. . . . .12 College Admissions . . . . . . . 12 College Advice Column . . . 13 Memorable High School. . . 14 Teachers from AHS . . . . . . . 15 Pride Month . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Senior Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Senior Athletes . . . . . . . . . . .20 Senior Musicians . . . . . . . . . .21 Flow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 FAFSA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 AHS Swim Team . . . . . . . . . .23 Prom Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . .24

Advisor: Jessi Merill Western Web

-Editor’s Box-

Our Final Goodbye Seri Welsh

T

Co-editor-in-chief

ime and time again I’ve attempted to write this piece. I don’t know how to summarize two of the absolute craziest years of my life in 500 words. My first introduction to journalism class was the blank squares of Zoom my junior year.

After a teacher change, a single print issue, and absolutely no introduction to layout or traditional print issues, it was time to take on the role of co-editor-in-chief this school year.

My incredible co-editor-in-chief, Lila, and I were the only two students to retake the class. That left us with a new advisor, new staff, and no experience. We thought that would be the worst of our problems.

That was until our advisor went on leave from October to late April.

We didn’t know if we’d be able to continue publishing issues in her absence, leaving us even more lost than we were to begin with.

During this stressful time, I have no idea where I or the paper would have been without Lila. Left to run a class essentially on our own, Lila remained optimistic and calm; two things I definitely can’t say I did.

Through months of trial and error, she took it upon herself to learn as much as she could to both educate and motivate our staff. I am so incredibly grateful that my co-editor-in-chief also happens to be one of my best friends because I don’t think I could’ve gone through this journey with anyone else.

Through countless hours of transcribing interviews, writing articles, and laying out issues (generally the day before they’re sent to print) I can confidently say I have

learned so much more than just journalism in this class. For the first time, the Pepperbox gave me a platform to express my passions and opinions.

I had grown tired of the strict curriculum of AP classes that teachers were required to shove down our throats.

Finally, I could write about stuff that mattered to me, and that I felt could lead to education and action.

Journalism has allowed me to interact with people from all walks of life.

Writing articles about homelessness during the pandemic, important community celebrations, and local BIPOC businesses has led me to conversations I never would have otherwise.

Surrounded by some of the smartest people I know, I have found my voice, my passion, and my drive for change.

I think journalism is one of the most important classes students can take. It’s not uncommon for high school students to feel absolutely helpless as we watch the world crumble around us. And while I still feel fear for my future, lifting the voices of others gave me tremendous hope.

Our generation is determined to put the words our politicians refuse to facilitate into action.

While I don’t want to say goodbye to the Pepperbox, it means a new chapter of reporters will get to learn the lessons I did, and build the future our generation demands.

Signing off one last time.

Your co-editor-in-chief, Seri Welsh

We have a website! Go to thepepperbox. com for breaking news and more exciting content!

Interested in writing for Pepperbox?

Contact the editor. pepperbox@nohum.k12.ca.us

Lila Cohen

Co-editor-in-chief What a whirlwind. I have served as an editor for the Arcata High Pepperbox for the past two years and I have not had a dull moment.

Thousands of snapshots and clippings of laughter, of frustration, and unbounded pride fill my memory as I begin to write this final goodbye.

I remember my first article with the Pepperbox was covering the Farmer’s Market and its resilience during the pandemic. Now keep in mind, this was 2020 so we were still on Zoom and I had never done an interview ever for anyone.

But here I was, standing on the Plaza, armed with my pen, tiny notebook, and voice recording app opened and ready. Advice from my teacher echoed through my head as I remembered my class the day before, huddled in my bed as I was directed to take notes on the key elements of interviews I knew had to apply to real life.

That year of our lives was so unique and riddled with social anxiety and fear. Being a part of the Pepperbox that year I felt like I was a part of the solution.

I was able to talk and engage with students and was given the unique opportunity to be a scribe for this part of our lives, translating this complex web of emotions and transcribing them into neatly typed rows of print.

The year following brought new and different challenges. Seri and I took on the positions of Co-Editors-in-Chief, navigating and at times running the class and all other aspects of the paper ourselves.

We had to lean on eachother and delegate our work like we had never before. Seri took on the po-

Follow us on Instagram! @ahspepperbox

sition with confidence leading us through many catstrohes and never losing hope. She is persistent and worked hard to ensure every task was completed and done well.

We have gone throught a lot together and I truly don’t think our staff and our paper would be as successful without her by my side.

One of the more trying obstacles the Pepperbox experienced this year was the longterm absence of our advisor. In her absence, our staff learned how to truly run independently, as a staff-run and funded newspaper.

I am so proud of the five issues we produced this year, each being unique and important to my growth as a, writer, and leader. I feel like the whole year has been leading up to this issue, but somehow it still took me by surprise.

Up to this moment, mere hours away from sending our last paper off to print, I felt the work for this paper would be infinite; there would always be another article to edit, another graphic to make, or another source to track down.

Now, I am finally understanding this is the end; two insane and chaotic, wonderful, stressful, fulfilling years at this paper are quickly coming to a close.

I would like to share my gratitude to everyone who has supported the paper this year and our hardworking, resilient staff.

I am grateful, so very grateful for my time here and I will never forget everything I have gained from this experience. I believe the Pepperbox has a long future ahead of it and I am so excited to see what it becomes in the future.

Lila Rose Cohen, Co-Editor-in-Chief, signing off.

Quotable.

“I swear to god, I’m going to take those headphones and shove them down the toilet.”

-Ms. Rosebrook on student inattention

“If you want a higher grade in my class just talk **** about me.”

Mr. Mielke in Economics class

“Not only are they mixing liquids with each other, but they’re mixing theirs with everyone else’s.”

-Lucas Blair on couples making out in the bathroom

“I rather like my fleshy bits.”

-Will Salamunovich

“All English teachers are introverts who like to talk.”

- Mr. Kantner on his job

“I don’t know a lot about the hippity hoppitors.”

-Mr. Moore when asked if he knows who rapper 6ix9ine is

“I may be illiterate, but I can write a good essay.”

-Shawn Chappelle on his AP Literature essay

Lorem ipsum

Senior Activities

Thursday, June 9 SENIOR PICNIC Students arrive at the large gym at 8:30 a.m. for an all class picture.

Busses will then transport students to the picnic.

Lunch will be provided courtesy of Taqueria La Barca Students will then return to campus around 3:00 p.m.

Tuesday, June 14

GRAD PRACTICE Seniors arrive at McKinleyville High by 2:30 p.m. to be done by 4:00 p.m.

Come prepared with partner to be your walking buddy for graduation or one will be assigned. This the last opportunity to turn in your photography papers for grad photos.

Tuesday, June 16

Tuesday, June 17

GRADUATION DIPLOMA The AHS Graduation Ceremony is PICK-UP scheduled for June 16 at 2:00 p.m. at the Seniors will be MHS Stadium. There will not be a limit on able to pick up the number of attendees and tickets will diplomas at the not be required. office from around 9-4 p.m. on June 17th then SAFE AND SOBER Monday - Friday 9 p.m. - 3 a.m. at Arcata Community Center. Free admission for all Seniors at the following week Arcata High, Six Rivers, and Pacific Coast . from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Food, drinks, desserts, prizes (possible cash prizes) and games inside and outside

Frameables

Class schedule for Monday, 6/13 - Wednesday, 6/16 1st Period: Break: 2nd Period: Lunch:

8:30-10:30 10:30-10:40 10:45:-12:40 12:40

Class schedule for Thursday, June 6/16 - Wednesday 6/16th Period 1: Period 2: Period 3:

8:30-9:00 9:05-9:30 9:35-10:00 Break Period 4: 10:15-10:40 Period 5: 10:45-11:10 Period 6: 11:15-11:40 Finale Rally: 11:45-12:40 Lunch: 12:40 Graduation 2:00 @ MHS

The Pepperbox | Page 6

News

Tuesday, June 7th, 2022

Excellence in the arts Emily Nalley

O

Sports Editor

n May 11, 2022, at the Sequoia Conference Center, Tim Clewell was awarded the Teacher of Excellence award.

This award is in recognition of educators who demonstrate excellence in teaching and advocate for their profession. Recently, Clewell has demonstrated both.

Clewell’s commitment to his students was demonstrated while quarantining in Rome due to testing positive for COVID on the AP European trip. In an effort to keep everyone entertained and socializing, he held art classes in his hotel room.

When asked about how Clewell felt after he found out he had been awarded the Teacher of Excellence award he explained that he felt “surprised,” “honored” and “hum-

bled.”

“I love teaching; the classroom is my favorite place to be,” he said.

Clewell explained that in high school he hated school and now feels like he has “come back to pay his penance.”

He said it feels weird to be in the classroom so much. Clewell also explained how the whole process of getting his award works.

He explained that first you get your nomination and you will have to get letters of recommendation and fill out paperwork.

Next, you’ll have to turn in all of that paperwork and soon after, you will find out if you were one of the winners. Clewell’s reaction to finding out that he had gotten the award was “ooo, double surprising.”

Even though the process for the application was long, Clewell has been working as an art teacher for much longer. Clewell has been

teaching Arcata High School and Six Rivers Charter High School students for eight years.

“When a student finally gains the fluidity of that visual language, when it clicks, that feels good, that is my favorite part,” he said.

Clewell attributes his success to “persistence, hard work and ingenuity.”

“I genuinely love what I do,” he explained.

Clewell encourages all AHS and Six Rivers students to take art.

“Art is something that is a learned skill, art is not a gift, just like a language…so don’t come into the classroom thinking you need to know it,” he said.

In his class, he will teach you all of the basics that you will need to know if you are wanting to move on to higher level art classes.

If you see Tim Clewell around campus or have him as one of your

teachers make sure to congratulate him and show your appreciation to his dedication to his work and his students.

ly what they are until I get myself more familiarized with the school culture,” Burns said regarding her goals.

“I really want to work on making strong connections with staff, especially teachers, helping to support them to do their jobs and helping to make connections to engage kids to be at school and be successful,” Burns said.

Burns wants to be able to help students succeed in high school and connect students with resources that they need in order to do so.

As Burns explained, the dean position is mostly related to attendance. However, she is also going to focus on some of the strengths that she brings to the table, such as her experience in crisis and counseling.

She also wishes to set up some

things on campus related to social and emotional well-being and mental health.

“And for attendance, I have had a lot of experience being on the school attendance review board in the past. I really love doing work that tries to help kids come to school” Burns said.

Burns believes that the most important thing is to focus on what’s working and to make sure that we’re listening to the needs of our teachers, staff and students.

“I see Arcata High as being a wonderful school, I feel like it has a really nice culture to it,” Burns said.

Burns doesn’t find that one particular thing about AHS needs to be changed or altered, but she believes that continuing working on things that are going well and are beneficial to everyone on cam-

pus is important. She also hopes to help bring in kids that are struggling and having difficulty being at school.

“A lot of kids have had a hard time adjusting to coming back to in-person school. There are a lot of kids that have anxiety about being back at school” she said.

Burns’ main goal and biggest priority is having more support in place and more resources available for those in need, something that will be appreciated at Arcata High.

Emily Nalley/PEPPERBOX

One of Tim Clewell’s most loved Mexican modernism print pieces

Welcoming our new dean Ruby Auckland

N

Reporter

ext fall, during the 2022-2023 school year, we will be welcoming a new face to the Arcata High School campus; Jessie Burns, the school’s new dean.

Burns has been a school psychologist for 16 years in the community as well as a program administrator for special education. She’s been working at McKinleyville High School for the last five years. Not only is she the school psychologist for MHS, but she is also the administrator for a therapeutic learning center classroom located on the campus.

Burns’ future goals and aspirations for AHS are still yet to be determined, as she doesn’t know enough about the school’s dynamic yet.

“I think it’s hard to know exact-

Burns’ dean of students name tag Ruby Auckland/PEPPERBOX

Tuesday, June 7th, 2022

News

The Pepperbox | Page 7

AHS welcomes back Mr. Perry Madelyn Conley

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Deputy Feature Editor

ith Jim Monge’s retirement after the 2022 school year, Ron Perry, the current principal at Six Rivers Charter High School, will become Arcata High School’s new principal.

Perry attended AHS himself, graduating as valedictorian and top athlete of his class.

“I like to consider myself a positive person who wants to lift people up, and I’m excited to have the opportunity to work with like minded people at Arcata and there’s so many of them,” Perry said.

Perry has only good things to say about his high school experience at Arcata High and is looking forward to being on the same campus he went to school at.

He met his wife here and both of his daughters graduated from AHS as well.

When he realized his passion for helping kids he switched his major from engineering to history to become a teacher himself.

“This is a wonderful profession because everyday something happens that you’re not going to expect...I like that energy and sense of being on the edge a little bit and trying to successfully navigate

those challenges,” Perry said.

Perry has an impressive list of qualifications starting off with completing his teacher’s education and master’s degree at Stanford.

At Stanford, he got a wrestling scholarship, allowing him to continue doing an activity he likes.

“One of the things I enjoyed about athletics was the moments where everything disappears and it’s just you and the competition,” Perry said.

He began his teaching career in Redwood City and was there two years.

He then taught two years at a middle school in Palo Alto, 18 years at Eureka High School, and then became an administrator.

He was vice principal at Zane Middle School and is currently the principal at Six Rivers.

“I love to celebrate those things that are going right and see students break through and understand the steps on how they can do it themselves,” Perry said.

Outside of his job, Perry enjoys bike riding, exercising and playing music.

In doing the activities he enjoys, he finds those moments that keep him grounded and allow him to step away from everything.

“I play in a few bands and being a musician has been something that has really been an amazing experience. You have to find how you can fit in and compliment everyone else around you in order to make it sound just right,” Perry said.

Perry is looking forward to getting to know everybody on campus “and being part of a team that’s dedicated to working with students and helping everybody achieve their highest potential.”

He respects the traditions at Arcata High and not only wants to build upon them but also create new ones.

“We have the opportunity to

dents and bring important issues to the attention of the board.

This year, the Student Board Representative chosen for Arcata High School is incoming senior student, Stella Drobnick.

“Last year, I felt super in the dark just about what all the decisions were and how long they would last, and so I wanted to push myself into being more involved in that,” Drobnick explained.

She has held leadership posi-

tions in the past, including her position as Junior Class Treasurer, so she is excited to continue working with students to address issues important to them.

“The decision has already been made about what the schedule is going to be for next year, but I know that a lot of classmates that are going into their senior year don’t like it,” Drobnick shared. “I don’t know if that’s something I can change, but I can definitely just

take the lessons we learned over COVID and formulate something new and improved. It takes a lot of work to do, but I’m ready for it because Arcata is a place I care deeply about, and I want to see it thrive and I know that the people there are so good,” Perry said.

Perry is eager to make a difference at Arcata High. He hopes to continue the legacy of excellence that’s he experienced and help student achieve their highest potential.

“If you look at this like an orchestra where everybody has to play their part at Arcata High School, I hope that I can lead that,” Perry said.

Madelyn Conley/PEPPERBOX

Mr. Perry poses on the senior lawn, excited to return to Arcata High School in the fall

Student board representative Lila Cohen

Co-Editor-in-Chief Every year, the Northern Humboldt Union High School District (NHUHSD) School Board elects a student from each high school to represent their student body.

The interview process for the position involves letters of recommendation and interviews reviewed by board members in order to choose an engaged student that will work hard to represent stu-

share the opinions.”

Moving into the next year, Drobnick encourages students to come talk to her or reach out on Instagram (@stella.miaaa) if they have any thoughts or concerns she can bring to the board.

“If you have any concerns,” Drobnick reiterated, “you can come to me.”

The Pepperbox | Page 8

News

Tuesday, June 7th, 2022

Wishing 2022 retirees well Seri Welsh

Co-Editor-in-Chief Julie Angles hether it be CP English 1, AP English Language and Composition, or Sexuality and Gender Awareness club, as you enter room 107, it’s hard to miss English teacher, Julie Angles', notorious smile.

After 30 years of teaching, 29 of which were at Arcata High School, Angles is officially retiring this year.

While retirement comes with new adventures, Angles will miss her spontaneous class discussions.

“I’ve had a lot of great memories; they all involve just anytime we would be having a conversation on something and it would just go off on a tangent. Maybe we would be talking about a book, and I felt like I needed to get us back on track, but we were having such a good conversation I just let it go and sometimes we have the whole hour of just talking about life,” she explained.

In all her years of teaching, some of her favorite memories are of when her son, Jack, was at AHS. “I remember being really nervous when he was coming. I didn’t want to embarrass him, I didn’t want him to embarrass me. It ended up being just wonderful… I think in a way it brought us closer,” she stated.

One of Angles' favorite parts of teaching is how unique each day is.

“Every day is different, never boring; [I’m] always learning new things. I learn new things every day, even from material I’ve been teaching for years,” she stated.

In her retirement, she looks forward to trying new things and picking up old ones.

“It’s been a long time since I played the piano. I feel like I nev-

W

er got very good. I feel like I could practice and get better,” she stated.

While Angles recognizes the tremendous progress that’s been made in promoting equity on the AHS campus, she hopes in the next few years it will continue to expand.

“Just make sure everybody feels comfortable and safe. Just keep that up,” she stated.

In her 29 years at Arcata High, Angles has certainly left her mark.

“I know everybody is replaceable, so I know people will have forgotten about me, but I really hope that a little of me stays behind, a little flicker of ‘Jangles’ hangs around. ‘Cause I really have loved it here. These are the best years of my life really,” she stated.

It can be said with great confidence that Angles will be missed.

Susan Lovato usan Lovato has been at Arcata High School since 1994, teaching almost every single math class AHS has to offer.

Approaching retirement, Lovato noted how much everything has changed since she first began teaching.

“We took attendance on sheets of paper and did grades by hand.

[Now,] I am teaching children of former students,” she said.

In regards to their feelings about having Lovato as a teacher, the general consensus from students was clear.

“She makes math fun. The energy in [the classroom] is just really happy,” sophomore Athena Bagwell explained.

It’s evident Lovato’s students are close to her heart.

“I will miss the students the most. Their knowledge and their laughter always brighten my day,” Lovato explained.

While Lovato will miss her rela-

S

Seri Welsh/PEPPERBOX

Retiring Arcata High School teachers Julie Angles and Susan Lovato pose outside of room 107 on a cool, foggy morning tionships with students, she looks forward to spending time with her grandson and watching him grow.

Her favorite memory of teaching high school was going to the math fairs, something many missed out on during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Lovato was inspired to become a teacher because of her personal struggles with math in high school.

“I hated math in high school,” Lovato said.

After taking a “math anxiety” course at College of the Redwoods, she changed her mind and wanted

to make math a more positive experience for students in her position.

She has certainly achieved her goal.

“I love how interactive the class is. We play a bunch of games to learn the math rather than just worksheets,” freshman Autumn Hudgens explained.

Lovato’s advice for incoming teachers is short and simple.

“Laugh a lot,” she said.

We wish Lovato the best in her retirement.

Tuesday, June 7th, 2022

The Pepperbox | Page 9

News

Monge to retire after 10 years at AHS Dele Rebstock

A

Social Media Editor

fter eight years as assistant principal and the last two years as principal, Arcata High School Principal, Jim Monge, is retiring.

Before entering administration-related jobs, Monge worked as a teacher at both McKinleyville High School and Cal Poly Humboldt.

At McKinleyville High, he worked teaching business and math classes.

At Cal Poly Humboldt, he taught computer classes and education classes.

Switching from being a teacher to being an administrator brings on a new set of responsibilities and opportunities.

“I think it was the opportunity to serve. It’s not something I ever considered but because of the one job that opened up which led me into administration,” said Monge.

Monge said his favorite part of being principal is being around and interacting with the students and staff everyday.

After being at AHS for the past ten years, Monge has enjoyed his time and there will be a lot to miss.

“The students and the staff [is something he enjoys]. It’s all about enjoying going to work. When it’s fun to come to work with the people you work with and the people you see, it’s a great place,” said Monge.

With multiple teachers and administrators leaving this year, there will be some new staff on

Monge poses in his 2021 staff portrait

(NHUHSD), she worked as a teacher and an instructional coach before becoming an administrator.

“I was a teacher then instructional coach then I was an administrator…an instructional coach works closely with administrators and teachers district-wide, to prepare and present professional development. To serve on committees, to lead teams, to assist teachers one-on-one and lead groups. Anything that supports teachers,” said Stewart.

After being on the Arcata High campus for the last two years as Dean, Stewart will be returning to work for the district office, as a teacher on special assignment.

“It’s working with grants, the School Climate Transformation grant, specifically,” said Stewart.

This means that she will be working towards building a better school community and working on multi-tiered systems of support.

The grant is only two years long, so she will probably be back to AHS, however, what position she would be in at the school is up in the air and could be a lot of different things.

Stewart sometimes misses being a teacher, although she loves working so closely with students and families as the dean.

“I taught drama and English, and there’s just something amazing about sharing things with students every day,” said Stewart.

Working as the drama teacher, Stewart helped develop the Arcata Arts Institute (AAI).

“I think what I’m most proud of is helping to create the Arcata Arts Institute,” said Stewart.

AAI is a program at Arcata High School that provides workshops and intensives for students dedicated to the arts.

Through her time in different positions at AHS and within the

Life Touch/AHS

campus next year and Monge has some advice for them.

“Make sure that you’re excited about what you’re doing, keep that passion and fire going,” he said.

Monge doesn’t have any big plans for retirement, but he plans on doing work around his house.

He says there aren’t any changes he thinks need to take place in the next few years.

“I don’t have anything on my to do list; Mr. Perry might have some things he wants to do,” said Monge, referring to Ron Perry who will be taking over as Arcata High Principal in the fall.

Monge has really enjoyed his time at Arcata High and will miss the community here.

Ms. Stewart’s new job Dele Rebstock

A

Social Media Editor

rcata High School’s Dean of Students, Shelley Stewart, has taken a job at the district office and will no longer be at AHS after the last day of this school year.

This 2021-2022 school year was her second year being dean, but she has worked at Arcata High for decades.

“I started here in 1993; I left briefly to teach at the university then I came back,” said Stewart.

Stewart has worked in many different areas of the education field. Before coming to Arcata High, she started teaching at Suzuki Summer Academy, with Jean Bazemore (North Coast Preparatory Academy Director), where she taught dance, drama, French and creative writing.

During her time at AHS, and with the Northern Humboldt Union High School District

district, Stewart has made a significant impact.

Although she won’t be working directly at Arcata High’s campus next year, she will continue to have an impact on the NHUHSD through her work on the school climate transformation grant.

Life Touch/AHS

Stewart poses in her 2021 staff portrait

The Pepperbox | Page 10

A&E

Tuesday, June 7th, 2022

Senior Prom: Night at the Oscars Oscar Award Winners Best Dance Moves Kai Hansen Best Comedian Pheona Worrell Best Smile Ari Alter Best Dressed Yzabella Mazzotti Life of the Party Ty Franklin

Best Photographer Stanley Guo

Marina Yoda /AHS

Cutest Couple Arman Abbassi, Maxwell Sims Most Likely to Win an Actual Oscar Haven Fricke-Smyth Kai Hansen/AHS

Jennifer Coriell/AHS

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Emily Nalley/PEPPERBOX

Tuesday, June 7th, 2022

Feature

The Pepperbox | Page 11

Roe v Wade- What does it mean?

Flannery Warner

O

Opinion Editor

n May 2, 2022, the news outlet Politico obtained and leaked a Su preme Court majority draft opinion outlining a decision that would overturn Roe v. Wade.

Both pro-life and pro-choice individuals have raised concerns about this decision because many have argued it marks the first time the Supreme Court has adversely taken away American citizens rights.

But what does this really mean, and what should you know about its potential effects?

A majority opinion, in simplest terms, explains the rationale behind the argument that received the winning vote among the seven Supreme Court justices. For each case, justices and their clerks write up drafts detailing their point of view on the specific case.

They then allow these papers to circulate among the justices, trying to rally support for their particular side.

A past case, officially entitled Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, which explained the constitutionality of Mississippi’s ban on all abortions after fifteen weeks of pregnancy was brought into question in the leaked majority opinion draft.

The first draft, written by Justice Samuel Alito, was leaked and stated that the right to an abortion was not outlined in the Constitution.

Therefore, it was up to the individual states to decide the procedure’s regulation.

State governors and legislators would be responsible for setting the rules around when, where and how women can receive abortions.

Ultimately, this would be reversing the precedent outlined in Roe

v. Wade, a Supreme Court case that stated that the right to privacy is implied within the Constitution and included a woman’s right to an abortion.

To be clear, Roe has not been overturned yet, however, the opinion outlined in this draft is an indication of what the majority of the justices will vote for.

If this opinion gets the majority of the votes, Roe will be overturned.

Leaking a Supreme Court document is extremely rare, and ironically, the last time it happened was when the original 1973 Roe v.

Wade decision was leaked to the press.

The way this opinion was released was abrupt and shocked many politicians into releasing statements on the issue.

On the same day the decision was leaked, California Governor, Gavin Newsom, stated that he would push and advocate for voters to institute permanent protections regarding abortion access within the California legislatures.

This statement makes apparent that it will ultimately be up to voting citizens to make changes in their state legislatures if Roe is overturned.

We can expect a final decision to be handed down from the Court this summer. Some states will feel the impact immediately as they have “trigger laws” or laws that will immediately ban abortions or severely limit them to before sixweeks of pregnancy if the court makes the decision to overturn Roe. According a pro-choice research organization, the Guttmacher Institute, these states include Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Georgia, Idaho, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma,

South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, West Virginia, Wisconsin and Wyoming.

This will disproportionately affect individuals living in conservative states and under served communities.

In an effort to combat this, on May 18, Oakland City Council was the first city in California to declare itself a “sanctuary city for abortion.”

According to Bay City News Service, this means that the city will be a safe place for women wanting abortions.

The Oakland City Council further stated their support for U.S. House Bill 3755, which would place the right to an abortion in federal law. This bill, known as The Women’s Health Protection Act, passed the House of Representatives but is still trying to get enough votes in the U.S. Senate.

Within our local community, if Roe is overturned, it is unlikely that it will have a huge legislative impact due to the Democratic leaning of Humboldt and California’s overall legislature.

However, laws and legislation at a federal level may be on the horizon, which could limit abortion more broadly.

In addition, as young adults, a huge concern for many is access to birth control and contraceptives.

Many experts are stating that if this decision goes through and Roe is overturned, these products could be severely limited.

Dr. Kavita Arora, chair of the ethics committee at the American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists, was quoted in National Public Radio’s article saying this decision could affect procedures such as birth control, emergency contraception, trans-affirming healthcare and fertility treatments such as in vitro fertilization.

This decision opens debate over other policies protecting individuals’ reproductive rights. The effects of this case, regardless of the decision, will have sweeping impacts through either affirming Roe v. Wade or overturning it.

Meili McCann-Sayles/PEPPERBOX

Protesters in Eureka defend Roe v Wade and the right to abortion

The Pepperbox | Page 12

Feature

Tuesday, June 7th, 2022

Alternate college experiences Jeanette Thuy

M

Reporter

any seniors have spent the last 12 years of their lives at school. While some are continuing to attend another four years of schooling at a university, others have decided to take a gap year to work and travel.

There are students planning to do volunteer projects where they go to third world countries and help people in need.

Others have decided to get all their savings together, buy plane tickets and see where life takes them.

But why do people do this?

Many take a gap year because while traveling, people get to know themselves better. They may learn a new language or see different cultures. All the while, they can make many international friendships which can last a lifetime.

After work and travel, they have friends from multiple places which they can visit even after years of not seeing them.

Kayla Harvey, an Arcata High School senior, told me with excitement that she is planning to go with a friend to Europe. They are traveling to Italy, London and France for about three to four months.

Kayla Harvey and her friend plan to stay mostly in Airbnbs, and if they decide to stay longer, then they will be into workaways.

Workaways are places that provide free food and a place to sleep in exchange for work.

“During quarantine, I originally was just going straight to a four year college, but I kinda realized that my entire life I had to go to school, so I might as well travel and live my life before I have to settle down and go to four years of

school,” Harvey said.

AHS senior, Samantha Gaiera, is also planning to take a gap year.

She is first going to go to Maine.

Then, outside the US, she plans to travel to Thailand, Cambodia and Rome for three months. There are some other places she wants to go but she hasn’t decided yet.

She is excited about “meeting new people and just having crazy experiences [that] I can’t have in Humboldt,” Gaiera said.

She said that she is still planning to go to a four year college, but before that, she wants to learn more about the world.

Especially after the pandemic, she is currently done with school and wouldn’t be passionate about attending another four years right now.

She wants to take a gap year and go to school with passion because she likes learning.

All in all just take the time in your life to travel and make unforgettable experiences.

Jeanette Thuy/PEPPERBOX

Students Lucille Marsh and Samantha Gaiera are excited about their future adventures

The hardships of applying to college Amaya Mendle-Nickle

fall of 2022.

According to The Atlantic, Deputy Photo Editor his year, Arcata High School “colleges throughout the United seniors, as well as seniors all States have talked about the seover the country, have applied vere number of people who had to college. applied, which has caused the Applying to college has al- acceptance rates to plummet ways been an apprehensive this year.” time for students, and there is a This made acceptance to collot of anxiety in the air regard- lege especially difficult for this ing everything students have to years graduating class. do.

Whether people’s futures inThe COVID-19 pandemic has volve a gap year, community also greatly affected the appli- college, trade school or a four cation process. year university, it’s an accomSince a lot of colleges and plishment to graduate from universities were online for the high school. past two years, many graduatThe low acceptance rates ing students from the years of have been discouraging to se2020 and 2021 did not apply, niors, but they persevered and and instead applied this year for all applied to a variety of col-

T

leges.

Stanley Guo, an AHS senior, decided to only apply to University of California schools.

He applied to UC Davis, Berkeley, Santa Barbara, Los Angeles, Santa Cruz and San Diego.

Of those colleges, he was accepted to Santa Barbara and Davis and was waitlisted at a few of them.

Guo said this was a surprise to him since he has worked so hard throughout high school to maintain a high GPA and do extracurriculars.

“I think I’m okay with it because it is near the coast, and I know people going there,” Guo explained on his final commit-

ment to University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB).

Senior Ella Lukens, applied to Oregon State University, University of Oregon, Cal Poly SLO, UC Berkeley, UC Davis and UCSB. She ended up committing to the University of Oregon and is very happy with her decision.

“Absolutely,” Lukens said about the difficulty of this years college applications.

At the end of the day, it is most important to try your best and maintain good grades as well as extracurriculars.

Each student is individual in their own way, and wherever you end up going will help you in your future.

Tuesday, June 7th, 2022

Feature

The Pepperbox | Page 13

College advice question & answer Sydney Trieu

T

Web Editor

he end of the year is fast approaching, and looking back, the year has flown by.

Soon, this year’s juniors will be knee-deep in the college application process in the fall and moving onto the next chapter of their lives.

There are so many questions about both the college application process and experience that have been circling around conversations.

Here are some answers to common questions regarding both the college application process and the college experience itself.

Applying: How do I apply to college?

First, you have to choose which schools you want to apply to.

Then, you write the essays or short answer prompts that the schools have chosen for this year’s application pool.

These can be found on the school website, the CommonApp or the Coalition App. These essays and short answer prompts are used by colleges to get a better sense of who you are and if you’ll be a good fit for their school.

Then, you submit them before the deadline, which can range from November to January.

After doing that, you wait for a response from the school and after receiving their decision in March or April, you have to accept or decline your admissions offer by May 1. As a side note, turning in your application before the deadline doesn’t matter. It doesn’t affect your admission in any way.

Where to start?

As someone who recently applied to college, my first piece of advice is that you should figure out where you want to apply.

Maybe you have a dream school, but I would recommend having

three categories of schools: safety, target and reach.

Safety schools are schools that you are most likely going to get into.

Target schools are ones that you can still get into but also have a chance of being wait listed or denied.

Reach schools are ones that you are interested in but are most likely to be rejected from.

After figuring out where you’re applying, I recommend looking at their essay or short answer prompts and thinking about what topics or ideas could work for those topics.

How to choose the right college to apply to?

I recommend narrowing down your college choices by figuring out what you are looking for in your college experience.

There are a lot of categories you could focus on. Some of these include the size of the school, what academic subjects they’re known for, the amount of research or internships they offer, extracurricular activities (ie: sports) or location.

The options are endless and there will definitely be a college that fits your criteria.

When should I start writing my essays?

Start to plan out what you want to write about in the summer before your senior year.

Most people I know started the process in the fall of senior year, but it’ll be worth it to do it earlier.

It sounds early, but trust, this will save you so much stress.

You’ll have more time to edit your essays and come up with ideas. It will make the entire process feel less rushed, and you can feel like you put your best foot forward.

Where do I find out information about deadlines?

Most schools will have dead-

lines for when to submit your application and that information can be found on their websites under undergraduate admissions.

However, there are different options for admissions: regular, early action and early decision.

Early decision is applying before most people and receiving your decision before most people.

However, it’s a binding decision.

This means that if you’re accepted to the school, you have to attend that school in the fall; only under special circumstances can you decide not attend.

Early action is similar to early decision, but the decision isn’t binding.

Regular admissions are the latest you can apply and the majority of people apply under this category.

What should I write my essays about?

Anything you’re passionate about or topics important to you are great topics. As long as the admissions people can see your passion for the subject, it will give them insight into you as a person and why you’d be a good fit for that college.

How to write about yourself without sounding self-centered?

I think it’s super helpful to focus on how your actions and activities have benefited other people or the community and write enough to convey your achievements to the admissions team.

What extracurriculars look good on college applications?

Any activity works, just as long as you’re interested in it, passionate about it and committed to it. To put it simply, if you could write an essay about it, then you’re set.

Campus Life: What are dorms like and is it worth it to live in the dorms?

A lot of incoming freshmen end up living in the dorms their first

year. Most of the time, you’re going to be put in a double or triple, which is going to be very cramped.

It’s very rare to have a single.

However, the dorms can be super expensive and some choose to live off-campus in an apartment or live at home. These two options are much cheaper, but the commute may be challenging.

Living in the dorms is also very convenient since it cuts down on travel time to and from classes.

Living in dorms is a great way to get to know more people, especially if your floor is very social.

However, it can be chaotic since a lot of people are living in an enclosed space together.

How to make friends?

Clubs and organizations are a great way to make new friends that share the same interests as you.

Your roommate(s) is also another opportunity to make friends since you’ll be living with them for an entire school year. Another great way is to get to know your floor mates, if you’re living in a dorm.

Should I take a car?

It depends on the campus, but depending on the college, some of them don’t allow freshmen to take cars or the parking permits are very expensive.

I recommend researching your school, its policies around cars and public transportation options.

Overall, if you want to, you will get into a college. It may not be the one you were hoping for at the beginning of the year, but that’s how life works.

Not getting into your dream school isn’t the end of the world.

You can still make your college experience memorable.

As my mother put it, “It doesn’t matter where you go, it’s what you make of it.”

The Pepperbox | Page 14

A&E

Peace Out A-Town Ty Franklin

T

Photo Editor

his year’s senior class has had a pretty wild ride. The class of 2022 started off high school with a regular freshman year to a cut-short COVID-19 sophomore year, which then resulted in a completely online and socially distanced junior year, and finally, wrapped it up with a chaotic yet thrilling comeback to campus for senior year.

Seniors now find themselves with graduation caps and gowns waiting to be worn for the big day, and only 10 days remaining for them in this bizarre period of their lives called high school.

Countless memories have been made over the span of the past four years, and seniors have begun to get nostalgic and look back on their time at Arcata.

“I was standing on top of the lockers, dancing to Bamboleo, which was pretty cool,” senior Ben Moore said, remembering this gem from his sophomore year.

Memories from freshman and sophomore year seem distant for Moore and his peers now.

“Definitely just throwing some subwoofers in my buddys car and just bumping music in the parking lot, and having a good time,” senior Billy Baker shared.

For Baker and some other seniors at Arcata High this seems to be an everyday occurrence.

The big return to campus this year for the class of 2022 was an odd but excitable time. They went from being underclassmen to all of a sudden being the oldest kids around campus.

“A bunch of people got together in the parking lot and played wiffleball, and just hung out,” senior Skyler Burlison stated, remembering the first day of senior year.

Picking only one memory seems

to be a difficult task, instead the whole experience seems to blend together for most.

“I mean it’s kind of like all the little experiences that makeup the whole high school experience,” senior Everett Naman reasoned this about his time at AHS. In addition to these fond times seniors have shared, they have formed unforgettable moments in the athletic world as well.

“I hadn’t really been playing any sports, especially during COVID, and I became the team manager for the girls’ team, and it was a great sport to learn and I had a lot of fun,” senior Marley Thrift shared this experience of getting into volleyball.

“It was an amazing environment and it was really great to see everyone together showing their spirit,” senior Alex Jioras said about the boys varsity Arcata Invitational Basketball Championship win earlier this year.

These are only a handful of the memories that the class of 2022

were fortunate enough to create.

The senior class are now adults and are being thrust into the world to make their own decisions and find their way. They’re often asked, “What are you going to do next year?” and rarely, “How do you feel about graduating?”

“I felt pretty nervous about my plan, and although I haven’t made a ton of progress with it, I’m super excited, and I can’t wait to move out and get my real life started,” senior Noah Vincent had to say about his plan for next year.

“I’m so excited, I’ve never been more excited for anything else. I’m ready for change and ready for something new,” nearly graduated Martina Stoker said.

“I am excited to graduate and start the next chapter of my life, but at the same time I am sad about the experiences that my class missed out on because of COVID,” senior Melina Ledwith expressed.

“I feel kind of stuck in sophomore year honestly, I don’t feel like a senior, but it’s very whirlwind

Tuesday, June 7th, 2022

that it’s actually happening,” senior Adrianna Rich-Fallon stated about leaving AHS. Excitement and nerves seem to be common words tossed around by these seniors to describe their thoughts about the future. It seems like just yesterday the senior class were freshmen, frantically sprinting around campus introducing themselves to each other.

As the days count down, farewells and goodbyes have begun.

Arcata High has been a home for the class of 2022 and even though it may not have been a traditional four years, the class has made the most out of their circumstances and shown what it means to be a true tiger.

They have persevered through hard times and thrived in the uncomfortable. From a depressing mask filled pandemic to dressing up and sharing a special prom with their friends, they’ve been through it all. It’s been chaotic, exhilarating, but most of all it’s been real. Peace Out, A-Town - Class of 2022.

Seniors are thrilled to have an assembly, two years after the last one took place at AHS

Mr. Clewell/AHS

Tuesday, June 7th, 2022

A&E

The Pepperbox | Page 15

Alumni teachers of Arcata High Aidan Shelton

S

Art Director

tudents often forget that staff were once teens as well. Many of Arcata High School’s staff members went here, much more than were interviewed on this list.

With several of these staff members attending high school together, we sat down with some of them for a conversation about what AHS was like back in their day.

Mr. Moore and Ms. Coriell: The iconic history teacher Owen Moore was just entering Arcata High School in ‘97 as a freshman while Jennifer Coriell, the AP Euro and history teacher, was starting her senior year as well.

Coriell was the classic popular girl at the time.

“I hung out with the cheerleaders and dated basketball players; that’s pretty cliquey,” Coriell said.

While they didn’t talk much, being at opposite ends of the food chain, they would later become colleagues and the best of friends.

“She was older and really cool.

I was a nerdy freshman” Moore said. Moore, on the other hand, did varsity sports, was in clubs, and even participated in theater. That’s where he had his most embarrassing moment of high school.

“I gave Ms. Stewart a concussion. We were rehearsing for a school play and I opened the door really fast and hit her. It gave her a concussion and sprained her wrist.

That’s absolutely my most shameful moment. I felt so bad and gave her flowers” said Mr. Moore.

According to Moore and Coriell, the school was a very different place in the ‘90s.

It was much less tolerant and diverse back in the day, with the only openly gay student being heavily bullied. Mental health had not been realized as important yet

either.

“I never heard the words mental health; it was all about not getting Aids,” said Mr. Moore. “It was all about not driving drunk and wearing a condom.”

Vickers and Hogan: Cindy Vickers, the Director of Fiscal Services, and Jim Hogan, Head Custodian, also went to high school together at the same time, with Hogan being in school from ‘81-’85 and Vickers being here from ‘85-’89.

While they didn’t have too many memories of each other, Vicker’s sister sure did.

“He went to high school with my sister, who, when I talk about him, says, ‘oh, he was such a hunk.

He was such a hunk in high school; Jimmy was good looking.’

So I guess you were popular” Vickers said to Hogan. Both had shared experiences with sports, however. Hogan and Vickers played softball and basketball, and Hogan played football, baseball, and basketball.

He was the star quarterback on offense and a lineman on defense.

While both may have been in the jock and class clown categories, they definitely had their fair share of embarrassing moments.

“I would say mine would be when I did a U turn in front of the Old Fellows Hall. I punched it, spun out, hit the gravel and knocked out the handrail on that stairway over there. Everybody saw it too” proclaimed Hogan.

Ms. Rosebrook and Mr. Kalson: Not only did Jennifer Rosebrook and Neil Kalson go to high school together during the same year, they also went to Sunny Brae Middle School together.

They knew each other quite well.

The biggest difference and most memorable experience of high school was the AIBT sleepover.

“Me and Ms. Day (JCS Teacher)

went walking over to the AIBT sleepover with our sleeping bags, but not wanting to wear a jacket ‘cause, we didn’t have a jacket that looked cool, freezing to death..” said Rosebrook.

The whole school would spend the night at the gym during the famous basketball tournament.

“You could spend the night with all your friends, male and female, in the gym, pretty much unsupervised. We won’t outline why we don’t do that anymore” Kalson responded.

Many staff were students at the same time as Kalson and Rosebrook, some the same age, and some older.

“I had a huge crush on Mr. Perry because he was a senior and I was a freshman. I wrote a big heart around his picture ‘cause he was like student body president, football player, I just thought he was the bomb,” Rosebrook said.

Ron Perry and Tahnia Campbell Perry and Campbell, who will be Principal and Assistant Principal next year, also went to high school together in ‘85.

Both have many shared mem-

ories of sports, including of some coaches who are still widely known today.

“I was coached my senior year

by Jerry Paul, who is pretty well known and famous in the coaching area all over the state. Also, I would like to acknowledge James Washington was my coach” Campbell said.

While being a star athlete, Perry was still able to excel academically.

“I remember my freshman year getting my grades and Mike Pugh grabbing it from my hands saying what kind of grades you can get there ‘cause everybody else was like “I’m eligible!” And then I had 4.0 and they were all saying Perr’s a square look at his grades!” said Perry.

From being athletes to bookworms, theater kids to cheerleaders, the staff around us had very diverse high school experiences.

It was quite interesting to learn about how they knew each other from their days at Arcata High School.

Ian Letts/PEPPERBOX

AHS Alumni and current staff members pose on the Senior Lawn

The Pepperbox | Page 16

Feature

Tuesday, June 7th, 2022

The significance of Pride month Bella Fratkin

I

Business Manager

n June of 1970, one year after the Stonewall uprising, the first Pride Month was celebrated.

Pride Month is a time of celebration for the LGBTQ+ community to pay tribute to how far the movement has come and recognize the struggles they face today.

Sophomore Vito DeMarino, former leader of the Sexuality and Gender Awareness club (SAGA), shared why they think Pride Month is so important.

“It’s a remembrance of the people we lost and the people who went [through] their lives living a lie,” they said.

The Stonewall uprising is typically described as the tipping point for the gay liberation movement in the U.S. It consisted of a series of riots between the police and protesters, spanning the course of six days starting on June 28, 1969.

It began when law enforcement raided one of the most popular gay bars which was one of the only safe spaces for queer people to gather. This bar was in the Stonewall Inn located in the Greenwich Village in lower Manhattan.

Because homosexuality was a crime until 1966, a gay person couldn’t be served alcohol. This meant many queer establishments served alcohol without a license.

This led to a lot of police raids.

These raids would often turn into riots due to police violence.

Transgender protesters, and particularly trans people of color, were the biggest targets of violence from the police and felt the greatest weight of discrimination.

Black trans activist Marsha P. Johnson. Johnson is thought to be one of the first rioters at Stonewall and played a major role in the movement for change.

She was one of the founding members of the gay liberation front and was seen as an icon after the Stonewall riots.

Julie Angles, the SAGA advisor, spoke to the importance of education as a means to combat hate.

“It’s all about love for goodness sake!,” she remarked.

Sophomore Trinity Arnold talked about the isolation that queer people sometimes face in our society and how times like Pride Month are great opportunities for LGBTQ+ people to find community.

Bella Fratkin/PEPPERBOX

These AHS students prepare to celebrate Pride Month on the senior lawn with homemade signs celebrating love of all kinds

Homosexuality was decriminalized by the Supreme Court in June of 2003, only 19 years ago.

We’ve come a long way as a country with the legalization of gay marriage and more widespread acceptance for the LQBTQ+ community, but the fight for equality is far from over.

Pride Month is a time to celebrate the sacrifices that activists made for queer people to have the rights we see today.

For DeMarino, Pride Month is “...a celebration of a culture that has been repressed by our society.

It’s a celebration of what didn’t die under oppression.”

The North Coast Journal is proud to support local student journalism.

~SENIOR M

College of the Ave Fergus-Foulkes Redwoods~ Jasmari Ramos Roman Aguilar Adrianna Rich Fallon Sydni Avila Cherish Robinson Cabrillo College California State Universit William Baker Tess Roscoe Aluk Till East Bay Julian Bell-Wallace Finley Simmons Cal Poly Humboldt College of the Redwoods Chapman University Anthony Barnes Gunnar Bowman Maxwell Sims Shasta College California State Universit Cameron Klein Northwest Lineman College Syrus Houle Dylan Small Feather River College Channel Islands Central Oregon Chico State April Cedergreen Axryn Southerland Butte College Ellanor Elvine-Kreis Community College Shawn Chappelle Finn Sullivan Phoenix Nicoletto University of California, Sacramento State Rebecca Circe Samuel Trewartha Sonoma State UC Davis Ohlone Community San Diego Santa Rosa Jr.College Anna Clark Dezmond Walker College Finn McRae Cal State East Bay UC Berkeley Brayden Horner Tapanga Washington Chabot Community College Nicholas University of California, San Francisco State Abigail CostelOhlone Community College Pheona Worrell San Jose State Parker Los Angeles UC Santa Cruz UC Merced lo-Anderson Marina Yoda Cabrillo College Sydney Trieu Dylan Ellison Vincent Agliolo Ireland Sommer Carter Emmes Cal Poly Humboldt UC Davis University of California, Evelyn Emmons Crosby Fitzgerald Emily Nalley Santa Cruz Cal Poly San Luis Obispo Sofia Frahm Butte College Amara Kelley Amaya Mendle-Nickle Barbara Ty Franklin Carson Tucker UC Santa Emily Kencke Santa Barbara City College Noah Meisel State Channel Islands Pedro Gonzalez Martin Kernberg San Francisco State CalUCLA Chapman University Ian Letts Scripps College Long Beach City College Jade Kapala Ryder Koppenhaver Skyler Burlison El Camino Community College Finn Murphy Fullerton State Chet Keasey Harrison McDonald Rowan Fogg Isaiah Preciado UC San Diego Solomon Kessenich Noah Mierau Sienna Long San Diego State Aimee Reiner Miaka La Rose Vaidehi Patel Bronwyn Lovett Malcolm Seemann University of California, Bryce Lee Mathias Severn Aidan Shelton Julia Simondet Berkeley Everett Marsh Marley Thrift Judah White Western Oregon William Salamunovich Caleb McCarthy Wiley Thrift Zea Weiss-Wynne University Grace Talty Chanel McFarland Harmony Tryon University of Sierra Sobota Lila Rose Cohen Aiden McGraw Quintin Westfall California, Sacramento State Oregon State University Owen MiranEvelyn Wilhelm Santa Barbara University Ella Lukens da-Hupp Piper Winkler Haven Fricke-Smyth Santa Rosa Junior College Luna Weiss-Wynne Will Moss Anaiyah Yemaya Stanley Guo Madison Stromberg Chico State Dahlia Parker Northwest Lineman Eva Johnson Maria Jimenez-Nava University Araya Peterson Melina Ledwith College Northeastern University Sylenna Poe Kai Purcell Yzabella Mazzotti James Fracess Ari Alter San Diego State Lane Community College Axeri Ramirez San Jose State Dele Rebstock University Calvin Sway Guadalupe RamirezUniversity Sonoma State Sophia Dreyer Gonzalez Long Beach City College Alyssa Jubb Samuel Aldag Alexander Jioras Gabriel Ramos Wyatt Homan Marina Clark-Luera Katherine Quintero

MAP 2022~

Employment Shilo Bailey-Martin El Camino Community College Wyatt Baker Nicholas Chorny Becky Brown ty,Gap Year Jozlyn Clark Undecided Keigen Shaykett Lane Community College Bowdoin College Ayden Davenport Alicia Iskra Western Oregon University Ivory Allen Oregon State University Nate Ferguson Michael Badberg Central Oregon Community College Northeastern University University of Oregon ty,Jennifer Bazan Harvard University Cal Poly, San Steven Fraga Hampshire College Camille Brady Luis Obispo Oberlin College Columbia University Iszabow Ivon University of Chicago Lance Camilli Sydney Lusa Brigham Young University Haley Kenyon University of Pennsylvania Tabitha Born Aero MacDonald Elizabeth Johnson Thea Gale University of Nathan McKay Bodie Lewis California, Irvine Joshua Moody Jesse McNeil Aislin McKinney Vivian Cronin Kayla Harvey Benjamin Moore Military University of Hawai’i at Mānoa Freya Nutter Connor McKay Colton Owens Sophia Pulley Egor Tokarev Kayla Schlem Santa Barbara College Blanche Macdonald Paycie Holland Ariyah Shearer Oberlin College, OH Sophia Mizoguchi Centre, Canada Milo Crockenberg Anthony Thompson Kai Hansen e Keigen Shaykett Everett Naman Ariana Burchill Jair Thornton Continuing Education University of Miniya Bellinger Trent Simmons Noah Vincent Erin Garrison Pennsylvania, PE Ava White Diego Contreras Ash Walters Arwen Cliver Jude Ortega Verto Education, Italy Alexander Spanos Isaac Weaver University of Oregon Natalia Wallace Hampshire College, Savanah Busman Kaleb Ashdon-Brown Kevin Diaz Wolf Williams MA Scripps College Kadence Knight Aiden Waters n Emma Caldwell Fiona Cox Flannery Warner Jacob Crandall University of Hawaii Harvard University Taj Ortiz-Beck Benjamin Lindquist at Mānoa, HI LeMonie Hutt Tristan Straka Amadeus Garcia Brown Martina Stoker Kyla Graves California State Judith Palacios Gonzalez Bowdoin College Thomas Rydz-Earls University, Fullerton Returning to home country Meadow Jennings Alvaro GalinMeiLi McCann-Sayles Maria de las Mercedes Caram- Argentine The University of do-Ramirez Jeanette Thuy- Germany Chicago Trent Gaethle Serendipity Welsh Samantha Gaiera Blache Macdonald Verto Education, Itay Shasta College Feather River College Alex Gorge Corrina Cunningham Columbia University Chabot Community College Isaiah Levy Shane Purcell Brigham Young University of California, University, UT Mathilde Macdonald Merced Nathan Fukushima Anneli Macdonald

The Pepperbox | Page 21

A&E

Tuesday, June 7th, 2022

Arcata High’s senior athletes Zoe Macknicki Reporter

P

laying sports is a big part of high school for many students.

While some students dream of having the opportunity of playing at the collegiate level, many don’t get this chance. The 2022 graduating class at Arcata High School has many seniors who will have the opportunity to continue their sport at the college they will be attending in the fall.

Kai Purcell will continue his academic and athletic career at the College of the Redwoods this fall to major in humanities and communications while also continuing to play basketball.

“I’m most excited to not only be able to play at the next level, but also continue to play in front of my family and hometown friends. I thought about moving somewhere else, and then I remembered how good La Chiquta’s burritos were,” he said.

Chet Keasey plans to attend College of the Redwoods this fall and will continue to play baseball while there. Keasey really enjoys playing baseball and is excited to meet new teammates and continue to play at the collegiate level. “It’s a fun sport to do, and if I have time to do it, I would like to continue to do it,” he said.

Ray Hamill/Humboldt Sports

Senior Kai Purcell, playing in the Niclai tournament this February against the Crusaders

Vincent Agliolo plans to attend Santa Rosa Junior College this fall where he will continue to play baseball. He has been playing baseball since he was eight and is excited to play at the next level and continue to improve and get experience.

“It’s always been a passion for me, I want to be able to play baseball as long as I can,” Agliolo said.

Ray Hamill/Humboldt Sports

Senior Chet Keasey, running the bases on May 8 as they play McKinleyville High Panthers

Ray Hamill/Humboldt Sports

Senior Alex Gorge, in action at the Charlie Lakin Tournament Championship game on May 14 Alex Gorge is one of many seniors taking his baseball career to the collegiate level. Gorge plans to attend Shasta College in the fall.

He will major in fire science and continue his path to play baseball there. “I enjoy the sport, and Shasta gave me an opportunity to do what I want with my future,” Gorge said.

Carson Tucker, a co-captain of the football team, plans to continue football. Tucker is trying to decide between Contra Costa College and Butte College, majoring in sociology. He has played on the Arcata High football team for four years, and he is excited to compete and make new friends.

Ray Hamill/Humboldt Sports

Senior Carson Tucker, running down the field to score big for the Arcata High Tigers during the 2021 fall season

Ray Hamill/Humboldt Sports

Senior Vincent Agliolo pitching against the McKinleyville Panthers on April 22nd Sam Trewartha will attend College of the Redwoods to major in business and play basketball. He is excited to start the season at CR and to be able to continue his athletic and academic career at CR. “It’s super fun, there’s nothing else quite like it, it’s a team sport and you get to make new friends that you wouldn’t normally make,” Trewartha said.

Ray Hamill/Humboldt Sports

Senior Sam Trewartha, playing during the 2022 winter season

The Pepperbox | Page 22

A&E Shane Purcell plans to play football for Contra Costa College this fall. As the quarterback for the Tigers, he had a vital role in the success of our team this year. Shane Purcell has played for four years on the varsity football team.

Emily Nalley will continue her swimming career at the University of California, Davis. She swims competitively with the Humboldt Swim Club, Arcata’s local swim club. Nalley has been swimming competitively for nine years.

“I’m excited about getting to be a part of a team right when I get there, and having a group of friends.”

Ray Hamill/Humboldt Sports

Ray Hamill/Humboldt Sports

Senior Nick Parker, in action against the Del Norte Warriors in the 2022 season.

Corrina Cunningham, plays softball, and plans to continue playing at Feather River College.

She will be majoring in forestry.

“I’m really excited for the team dynamic, to be honest it’s going to be epic.” Cunningham has been an asset to Arcata High’s softball team this year. She has always really enjoyed playing and finds it a good way to create many new memories with friends.

Nick Parker will attend Ohlone College located in Fullerton, California. He will major in engineering and continue to play baseball.

He has always wanted to play in college, so getting this opportunity was very exciting for Parker.

Ray Hamill/Humboldt Sports “I have always wanted to play Senior Shane Purcell, playing since high school and as a kid, so quarterback for the Tigers for I was fortunate enough to be able the 2021 football season. to,” he said.

All of these Arcata High seniors have a great opportunity to continue their education and athletic journey in college. They have all played a significant role on their high school teams, and we wish them the best of luck in continuing their athletic journey through college.

Senior Corrina Cunningham pitching for the Tigers against McKinleyville High.

Jennifer Coriell/AHS

Senior Emily Nalley swims for the Humboldt Swim Club in one of her swim meets.

Tuesday, June 7th, 2022

Arcata High’s senior musicians Dylan Berman

T

Feature Editor

he seniors of Arcata High School consistently blow us away with their many talents, including music.

AHS, with the Arcata Arts Institute (AAI), orchestra, steel pan and jazz band (among others), offers a huge array of opportunities for musically inclined students.

Because of this, many graduating seniors are set to further pursue their musical passions heading into college.

Some, like Mathias Severn, are going to study music academically at Arcata’s very own Cal Poly Humboldt (CPH). Severn has been playing saxophone for seven years and is going on to major in film, but with a minor in music, in an attempt to pursue a future job writing soundtracks.

“That’s kind of a dream job for me, [but] for now, I’m just taking it one step at a time,” he explained.

Severn is in the school’s AAI music program and has been in the school’s jazz band all four years.

He plans to be a part of the jazz band at CPH. Senior Kaleb Ashdon, in the

AAI program and jazz band with Severn, is also planning to study music in college.

Ashdon can play piano and trumpet, but mainly produces original music.

He plans to major in music technology at the University of Oregon, a degree involving music production and music theory.

“Seeing people’s reactions is super rewarding, when sharing my music, people really like it,” Ashdon said, going on to explain that music helps him express himself and put feelings into sound.

Will Salamunovich is an AHS senior who plays bass in his band, The Incandescent Moles. He wants to continue playing while he attends UC Berkeley “Music isn’t really a career path for me…but I have a lot of fun with it, my band mates have a lot of fun with it, and that’s really the whole point,” Salamunovich said.

Salamunovich has been in the school orchestra all four years, and has played trumpet for eight years, picking up the bass in the last year.

Dylan Berman/PEPPERBOX

Serin Houston/PEPPERBOX

Katie Salamunovich/PEPPERBOX

The Pepperbox | Page 20

A&E

Tuesday, June 7th, 2022

FLOW runway event 2022 T

he 2022 Flow fashion show was the first in AAI runway event in two years. The show featured 10 designers and over 40 designs by students from both Arcata High School and McKinleyville High School. The event ended up being a huge success with over 285 in-person attendants and 30 online viewers. Below are a collection of the models and designers at the Flow event on May 21.

Chamomile Maliyah Hubbard

The Human Condition Sophia Pulley

Redwood Forest Fairies Lila Davis Petals of Nostalgia Annalee Mattingly

Heavy Metal Bri Stiles Conscious Creations Sophia Griffin

Strictly Only Slimes Donte Lamberson

Here We Go Again Emily Nalley

Visible World Cora Dandeneau

Arachne Sparrow Ray-Kaneko All Photos by Senior AAI student Paycie Holland

The Pepperbox | Page 23

The Saltbox The frustrating FAFSA fiasco Tuesday, June 7th, 2022

Saltbox

Things we’re salty about

Eva Johnson

A parent could be making money but still be in college debt, but he Free Application for Feder- that question isn’t asked, so stual Student Aid (FAFSA), or as I dents aren’t getting all the aid they like to call it, the most over compli- truly need.

The FAFSA only takes assets cated and incomprehensible form ever, is something many students and investments into account, dishave to deal with at some point,​​ regarding any acquired debt. Stuwhether they like it or not. If you dents are caught in a vicious cycle haven’t had to fill it out already, or between their guardians paying at least tried, you are in for a terri- off their own debt while trying to help the student pay for college. ble time.

FAFSA needs to ask questions It’s true there are benefits to filling it out, like maybe receiving that are a full snapshot of assets, needed financial aid for your eco- debts, money parents and guardnomic situation, however, to put it ians pay for a sibling(s), expenses for the schools a student applied to lightly, it needs a major overhaul.

One major issue with the form is and more.

Something else about this prothe amount of important questions that aren’t asked. If they were, cess that’s just dumb is that filling they could help determine how to out the application is so complicatget you the necessary financial aid. ed that many students can’t even

T

Copy Edtior

do it without help. Even parents and guardians have a hard time.

The majority of people can’t make sense of the system, and there are few known guides for anyone for filling it out. If English isn’t your first language, it can be even harder to figure out what the FAFSA is asking.

There are students who didn’t have enough information or time to fill it out, so they just gave up.

That’s a huge issue for those who need the opportunity for financial aid. And, if you somehow finish the FAFSA and are awarded financial aid, interpreting how much aid you get is ridiculously complicated.

Nobody explains how much money you get, what it means, how you are going to receive it and

how it’s going to influence how much you have to pay for college.

You are clueless about how you are going to be paying for the next semester. Through the process, students don’t have needed resources for help.

It’s not like I’m expecting an overnight change, but maybe a night, provided by the school, where students and guardians can come together with a professional can work out the FAFSA would help.

Another resource that could help would be an accessible Google document where students could find videos, websites, contacts to professionals or anything else they might need for help. It really shouldn’t be so difficult to get financial aid.

Arcata High has a swim team?!

Sydney Trieu

O

Web Editor

ut of all of the sports at Arcata High School, one that isn’t as well known as football or basketball is swimming. Yes, that’s right.

Arcata High has a swim team.

Granted, it’s technically a club, but it counts towards physical education credits, so it’s counted as a sport. It’s considered a club because the high school’s team isn’t a part of a league.

Hence, the club status. Herein lies the problem. This causes them to not have certain privileges that other sports teams on campus have.

One of these privileges is funding. Sports teams usually get a set amount of money from the high school. However, since the swim

team is only listed as a club. The team only gets $20 from the school, which is only enough to cover the cost of swim caps.

The lack of a budget also causes another issue with traveling for competitions. When traveling for swim meets, almost the entire cost has to come out of pocket from the athletes and their families. This puts a lot of strain and financial responsibilities on the students.

This is one of the factor that deters some students from joining the team.

Circling back to the point about swim meets, all of the meets are out of the area. This is because there is no pool willing to host a swim meet or it doesn’t meet the regulation standards.

This means that the team has to

travel just to compete with other teams. The closest meet is in Fort Bragg, which is still a good three hours away.

Even then, there are only a handful of swim meets. The most that have ever been done in a season was four. This is much less compared to many other teams across the country.

Usually, most teams have one a week for the eight week season.

This limits the opportunity for athletes to qualify for the championship meets at the end of the seasons.

Another complaint that swimmers have is the lack of recognition swimmers get. Their accomplishments are rarely recognized for their accomplishments at school functions, even though they do

well. This is an issue because these athletes put in a lot of blood, sweat and tears to get to where they’re at now.

It’s no surprise that the swim team isn’t very fond of swimming for the high school. They feel that they put all this work in but never see the fruits of their labor.

It’s honestly no surprise that they’re such a small group comprising of usually a handful of students. But, this year’s team was the largest it’s ever been at 20 student-athletes.

Hopefully, this growth and trajectory can continue for later seasons. However, the school needs put more effort into promoting the swim team and designate them an actual sport rather than a club in order to keep the team growing.

The Pepperbox | Page 24

The Saltbox The pressures of Senior Prom Opinion

Tuesday, June 7th, 2022

Things we’re salty about

Haley Kenyon Reporter

S

enior Prom: not just another school dance. Full length gowns, tuxedos, food, drinks and a venue off campus, it truly is a spectacular night the senior class puts on. But does anyone talk about how stressful it is?

Planning the perfect prom night doesn’t just start a week or two before the dance, it can start months in advance. Buying an outfit is one of the first things done.

Often a centerpiece for color schemes and a way to stand out, unfortunately, the options of where to buy prom dresses or tux-

edos is limited, so it’s best to either go out of town or online to buy a dress or that one shop in Arcata for a tuxedo.

Online shopping is risky because you can’t try it on, but going out of town is expensive. When your outfit is obtained, it might need alterations, so there's that as well. Then comes the decision if you want to go with a date, a group or solo.

Getting people together in a group can be difficult, but once a group has been confirmed, then it’s the problem of agreeing on a place for dinner and a place for photos along with a time.

Then comes making reserva-

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tions and appointments.

It sucks calling restaurants and having them say that there’s no tables or the times available are early in the day. Trying to make appointments for hair or nails is difficult too since so many people are trying to as well.

This year especially. With McKinleyville and Eureka having their senior proms the same day and NPA’s graduation earlier in the day, it makes it 20 times harder to get your desired place and time for dinner or other appointments.

If you’re going with a date, whether it’s just the two of you or within a group, it can add more stress.

Now, you need to go to your house and your date’s house so

both parents can take photos and exclaim that “You guys look so amazing!” while you stand there awkwardly.

Matching isn’t that hard, but getting a corsage and boutonniere means another place you’ll have to call to see if they can make one.

Finally, it’s June fourth. Half is waiting anxiously for upcoming appointments and picking up items like flowers, clothes, etc while the other half is scrambling things together and trying to get where you need to be on time.

Let’s stop with the sugar coating on how magical prom is and acknowledge how frustrating it is to go through all that stress just to have a few hours of lowlights and mediocre dancing.

Tuesday, June 7th, 2022

Faux (Not News)

The Pepperbox | Page 12

All sports cut to fund football Ian Letts

I

News Editor

n a shocking meeting on May 10, 2022, Northern Humboldt Union High School District board decided that most Arcata High School sports funding will be cut in favor of further funding for the AHS Football team.

“We really just felt the football team was more important to invest in than our other sports going forward,” an AHS board member stated.

“We are really excited about the direction the school is taking in the sports department, and we promise to make our community proud!,” a junior football player said.

Going into the 2022-2023 season, the football team will spend their extra funds on daily massages for players, professional-grade

jerseys replaced after every game, and the flooring in the hallways will be replaced by Astroturf.

Additionally, the team will be installing an exclusive third floor at AHS designed specifically for full immersion into football. Classes offered will include ‘The Physics of Football,’ ‘US History: The Important Stuff,’ and ‘English Language For The Field.’

Students will be required to take at least two classes on this floor.

“I’m personally really excited about taking ‘PE: For Football,’” a sophomore member of the team stated. “It’s going to be nice to have practice during school hours instead of having to go to a different, dumb class all year,” he continued.

Some parents and select members of the administrative staff are even calling for these classes to re-

place current mandatory classes.

“It is my belief that football is the most important thing for these kids to learn about,” one parent stated.

When the football players are not in class on the exclusive third floor, they have been encouraged to tackle every student they see in the hallways in order to remain in the football mindset throughout the day.

“I am scared about the possibility of being tackled by a football player at any moment, but I’m also excited to be a part of the team’s success next season,” an excited sophomore said.

However, there are students at Arcata High who do not support the transition to a more football oriented school.

“To all students who are unsure

or are unwilling to make this transition, I understand…but you will need to consider your options for the future, as you may be unwanted at Arcata High School,” a surprisingly truthful AHS administrator said.

The school has stated they will compensate all students affected by this decision, but that doesn’t seem to be enough.

“To be honest, why do the football players get all of the attention around here, we are real people too,” a courageous junior stated.

However, the football players have a different view on the matter.

“I just don’t understand how they could be so spoiled, all we want is for the world to revolve around us,” an incredulous freshman football player stated.

of the track. However, since the lower field sits in a basin, a majority of the money was spent on a drainage system.

This drainage system was designed to prevent the lower field from flooding during the winter months.

This left little room for much else and some parts of the original plans were forced to be cut, including seating for spectators.

This is not the first time this has happened though.

The lower field track is an example of poor planning and should be used as learning opportunities for the school in order for it to prevent future projects and endeavors from ending up with less-thanideal results.

“Even though the field didn’t end up with the results we expected, we can still use it as a learning opportunity to prevent something like this from happening in the fu-

ture,” said administration.

With the resources the school now has available, it can finally use those resources to solve other issues that plagues students.

Administration’s response to the change of plans regarding the lower field shows the progress being made in terms of rebounding

and finding a solution that still improves the campus without making the project a complete waste.

An Arcata High School senior echoed this same sentiment.

“I think it’s so great that the school is turning it back to the original state. It’s not actually a waste of money!”

Lower field track reverted to parking lot Sydney Trieu

T

Online Manager

his upcoming summer, the newly constructed lower field is set to be returned back to its original state.

This decision comes from the belief that the lower field’s condition was better before the construction of the new track.

“I would’ve rather played our games in the lower field before the new track was laid. There’s nothing like playing a game in knee-deep mud and twisting your ankles every five steps,” a junior soccer athlete said.

This sentiment is shared across other sports as well. A majority of the athletes are frustrated with the lower field is the lack of spaces for spectators.

The reason behind the lack of seating for spectators is the lack of funds. A large amount of money was set aside for the construction

Seri Welsh/PEPPERBOX

The new track and lower field is being replaced by a parking lot

The Pepperbox | Page 11

Faux (Not News)

Tuesday, June 7th, 2022

Sex-ed, no update needed Eva Johnson

I

Copy Editor

n a 2021-2022 poll, sexual education has come in as the most informative class at Arcata High School for the 20th year in a row!

It’s been reported by many freshmen that the information taught is perfect even though it hasn’t been updated since the 1930s.

Attending sex-ed daily for a semester, according to every AHS freshman, is as enjoyable and enriching as the California Physical Fitness Testing.

Teachers not discussing safe, honest and realistic sex is a hit!

After attending the class, all freshmen report that asking their partner “do you have a condom?” is as simple as asking “can I have that extra slice of pizza?” Natural!

“Who really needs to know the

realities of sex? We honestly just need to know what a condom is and we’re ready to go,” one freshman reported.

The freshman continued to say that they are more than 100% prepared to step out into the world knowing that they have a well-rounded sex education.

Additionally, they are glad that only straight sex is talked about.

“As a person who isn’t straight, discussing sex between a male and female is extremely important to me and my safety,” another freshman shared.

In class, the banana and condom demonstration continues on! People are grateful that a true representation of something life size has not taken its place.

“Seeing an above average size probably decreases self-esteem is-

sues in boys who think that they have to have a certain, you know, size,” a female freshman said.

Health teachers feel that sex-ed in the form it is now covers everything that students need to know for the future and isn’t lacking a single thing.

“We feel we have accomplished the practice of teaching what’s considered ‘normal’ and safe sex.

Students don’t need to understand more than the basics we teach.

That’s not going to be useful to them,” one teacher stated.

Even parents are thankful for the sex education their children get.

“I am glad that my kids aren’t learning what real sex is like for everyone. I’m sure they will figure it out themselves with what they know already. It allows me more

time to binge-watch Netflix,” a parent reported.

The old curriculum is one of the top reasons that freshman rated sex-ed as the top class.

“I appreciate the fact that we are learning the same thing as my grandparents did, that’s why it’s the most informative. The old curriculum is super helpful to me!” the student concluded.

Eva Johnson/PEPPERBOX

Student demonstrates the methods of condom use

AHS adopts “Intro to Cannabis” class Bella Fratkin

M

Business Manager

arijuana is an extremely influential part of Humboldt culture so Arcata High School felt it was important that its students acquire the necessary knowledge needed to pursue a job that involves these skills if they wish.

No teachers at AHS were willing to teach this class so a group of passionate student stoners had to take matters into their own hands to make sure this “important academic topic is no longer overlooked,” as they put it.

The leaders of this class were inspired by the Intro to Cannabis class that is now offered at Cal Poly Humboldt.

They were also used to hearing complaints from fellow students about the lack of quality education surrounding the drug.

They criticized the way health

classes only taught about the negative effects. They learned about how it can stunt brain development and cause mild hallucinations, but students complained that teachers never took any time to celebrate the positive side effects such as fun.

This class has received a massive positive response from students and to some, it’s even provided motivation for them to come to school when they otherwise wouldn’t bother.

“This is gonna be a game changer. I’m used to either skipping class to get stoned or if I do decide to show up I’ll smoke in the bathroom during flex time, but now I can smoke during class too. I’m gonna be living the dream!,” a junior stated.

The first assignment on the lesson plan for the class is for the students to test out various marijuana

strains that are grown locally in order to determine the best one in all of Humboldt.

So if you plan on joining this class expect to get “zooted out of your mind,” one student leader stated.

The student leaders worked together to create lessons that will provide the students of the class with all of the necessary skills to be expert growers.

The main courses for the year are greenhouse making, how to get your grow certified, trim class, how to make the perfect pre roll and more.

They’ve now posted a class list on their Google Classroom so incoming students can get prepared.

The list has the usual recommendations with things like pencils, a college ruled notebook, a couple of pens, and of course, a spare lighter and your favorite

munchies.

As great as this all sounds, some questions remain to be answered such as, is this class even legal?

We’ll leave that up to you to decide.

Bella Fratkin/PEPPERBOX

The supplies list includes lighters and munchies

Tuesday, June 7th, 2022

Faux (Not News)

The Pepperbox | Page 10

Arcata and McKinleyville officially end rivalry Aidan Shelton Art Director

W

hen we hear the word “rivals,” many examples come to mind. England and France. America and the Soviet Union. And most notably, Arcata and McKinleyville.

Through intense basketball matches, gritty football duels and the slaughter of Mack in soccer, the two high schools have been sworn enemies since the dawn of time.

“If I had to describe the rivalry, I’d use one word. Carnage. Absolute carnage,” said Grace Talty, a senior Arcata Basketball player.

Throughout the countless years of battle, bigotry and bias between the two has emerged.

Mckinleyvillians saw their Arcata counterparts as soft people who would rather smoke and party than play sports, and Arcata saw their Mack rival as “wack.”

These wretched perceptions of each other would continue the cycle of destruction, until the adversaries decided to look past their passionate hate and give their foe another chance.

Countless warriors from both Arcata and McKinleyville fought the endless battle for supremacy between these two schools. Many paid the ultimate price.

For years, these two schools have engaged in brutal combat.

Ever since the Humboldt Civil War of 1980, when McKinleyville split from Arcata Union High School and became an independent school, the schools have been bitter enemies. Once fellow classmates, now the students were against each other.

But in a historic moment, the two rival schools have ended generations of tension and disdain. On April 20, 2022, on the very field

that was considered a war zone between the schools, notable leaders and legendary players from both sides came together and signed the Treaty of Northern Humboldt, officially becoming allies in the

I’ve always been told that Mack is the enemy. That Mack is in fact, wack. But now that I’ve met the enemy, is Mack really that wack?

- Carson Tucker Humboldt Del Norte War. “I’ve always been told that Mack is the enemy. That Mack is in fact, wack. But now that I’ve met the enemy, is Mack really that wack?” expressed Captain Carson Tucker of the 21st Arcata Football Regiment.

The two adversaries met on the McKinleyville High School football field, which was a battlefield for not just football, but soccer and track as well.

And while none of these duels were close, with Arcata gaining decisive victories in all mentioned, the two former enemies discussed terms as equals.

After hours of intense discussion and debate, a proposition was formed.

An alliance was to be formed consisting of all major sports of the two schools under a joint command.

This new fierce force to be reckoned with would be called by a unifying name, Marcata™.

While this new alliance was quite promising, it was built from bloodshed and havoc.

It needs to be remembered that these two had been combatants for

Aidan Shelton/PEPPERBOX

Formally bitter rivals, Arcata sprinter Alexander Spanos and Mack Sprinter Jaysen Rodriguez shake hands as the best of friends decades, so there were liters of bad blood.

It was hard for many athletes to overcome their prejudices and traumatic memories, but alas, hope prevailed.

“On a regular field, there were rules of engagement. We had refs.

But on the mud filled trenches of the games against Mack, there were no rules. It was an absolute bloodbath.” said Captain Mathias Severn, 10th Soccer Regiment.

Many unspeakable atrocities were committed in the name of the rivalry.

It was vicious. It was ruthless.

And it was personal. It turned many innocent and pure students into stone cold killing machines.

“I was a war machine. I knew nothing else but kill, kill, kill. I’d spike the ball and an enemy player would go down. Then I’d do it again. I had no remorse for the enemy,” voiced Captain Sydney Hasselquist, 1st Volleyball Regiment.

One major driving force of this new alliance is the appearance of a

common enemy.

The hordes of Eureka athletes has become too much for any one team to handle.

Compared to the Soviet Red Army of WWII, Eureka’s rosters almost doubled some other teams.

This is apparent the most in track, where some meets have entire races with just Eureka runners.

The two teams needed to unite out of an act of survival.

“I still see the waves and waves of red uniforms when I sleep.

There’s just too many of them,” Luke Moxon, an Arcata Sprinter, said fearfully.

Struggle. Aversion. Conflict. All of these are words. But more importantly, these are all obstacles that the two sides had to conquer in order to create a functionable alliance.

And while Mack may indeed still be in fact, quite wack, Arcata forces will no longer look at McKinleyville as a wack enemy, but instead, a wack friend.

The Pepperbox | Page 9

Faux (Not News)

Tuesday, June 7th, 2022

AHS teacher spotted at high school party Ty Franklin

R

Photo Editor

eports have been coming in all around campus of a mysterious man in a Chewbacca costume attending a student party over the weekend. Students are bewildered and looking for answers.

Chewbacca showed up suddenly, turned up a little, and disappeared into thin air. Conspiracies are pointed towards one man in particular for the chewbacca candidate… Jeff Mielke.

“That’s right, it was the disciplinary obsessed and so-called “hip and relatable history teacher,” a group of sophomore girls stated.

Anonymous sources from the party were brought in and seated in a dark room lit up by a single interrogation spotlight.

“I’m pretty sure it was him, the dance moves he was busting out were Mielke caliber. The Whip & Nae Nae, The Griddy, and even a little ‘Soulja Boy’ action here and there,” an anonymous source stated.

“Why? Why would Mielke risk his job and show up to a high school party? Especially since he is obviously pro-discipline during school hours, and is a 40 something year old man. The story just isn’t quite adding up,” one student reasoned.

“It was most likely a student who was feeling like cosplaying Chewbacca no big deal, there’s no chance it was Mielke or any other teacher,” one chewbacca witness stated.

While others seemed to be quite set on the fact that Mielke was the top suspect.

“I was in an intense game of cup pong, and I missed a big time shot.

The next thing I knew, the Chewbacca dude passed by me and whispered something along the lines of ‘Do better,’ which instantly made

me think, JEFF,” a witness claimed.

“You know how Mielke always says his cheesy line of “Everybodys got choices.” Apparently Jeff…

Apparently WE all do have choices,” a student said while staring off into the distance dramatically.

The debate had started and rumors of the Chewbacca scandal had reached all ends of campus.

Students were holding Pro-Mielke rallies to show their support.

They flew flags with pictures of Mielke’s face and Kanye West album covers. They read from the teachings of Mielke’s economics and US history classes.

While the Anti-Mielke oppositions were protesting Mielke and his “stupid sarcasm” and how his reign must be ended.

They held meetings mocking and sharing Mielke jokes, stating they weren’t original.

Even going as far as making fun of his vest-life tradition; his sacred wednesday tradition of wearing a vest on hump day. Arcata High had never been so divided.

“A school divided against itself cannot stand,” Associated Student Body President Isaiah Levy declared.

It was getting so out of control administrators were forced to step in. They sent an email out to parents, teachers and students alike stating the details of the situation, pleading for the false rumors to stop.

“You can’t believe a word they say, I can smell the hair gel covering it up!” senior Ella Vine-Kreis claimed.

The lunch bell rang on a sunny Wednesday afternoon. Students filed out to their cars and the parking lot came alive. Until one thing stopped students in their tracks… the Chewbacca man in the flesh.

It was the same man in the costume worn the night of the party right there in front of everyone

hitting the WAP dance on the pavement. Students were pulling out their cameras simply stunned.

“I’ve never seen anything like it…that was the most majestic WAP I’ve ever encountered,” sophomore Evan Azinger commented.

One key thing was noticed by students during this WAP routine.

Mielke was watching in the doorway of his classroom. He just stood there, looking confused.

Within the blink of an eye the dance routine stopped and Chewbacca got up onto his feet and sprinted away from the school.

After this instance, accusations began to drop and everyone asked a new question…who…is it? The

Chewbacca man has never been seen again and students are puzzled.

“I don’t know who it was, I don’t know what it was, but it was an omen, it meant something,” freshman Sionna Khattab said mysteriously.

“This is classic Mielke! He hired someone and provided them with the suit to clear his name!” Junior Gabriela Davidson added with confidence and hatred.

All we know is that this will perplex students for years to come, and class after class will pass on the mystery of the Chewbacca man of Arcata High.

Ty Franklin/PEPPERBOX

Mr. Mielke prepares to yell at tardy students outside his classroom

Tuesday, June 7th, 2022

Faux (Not News)

The Pepperbox | Page 8

Condit and Montoya set to return Amaya Mendle-Nickle

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Deputy Photo Editor

his year, Arcata High School has experienced a severe teacher shortage. Students show up to class, and gasp, another teacher is gone.

These teachers have had many excuses as to why they have disappeared. Maybe they had a family emergency or maybe they just needed an excuse to retire early.

We have had our fair share of substitute teachers, but at the end of the day, the school decided there’s still a lack of staff.

To deal with this issue, AHS decided to bring back some of their original teachers, the retired gems.

One day, coming back from break, an AHS senior spotted a familiar red mullet and button up floral shirt strutting down the hallway.

They knew what they were in for; it just had to be Cindy Condit.

She is back to teach science after having been retired for less than a year.

However, Condit had time to explore creativity in retirement, so she decided to switch things up

from a normal science class.

Since many students had her before she retired, the legend herself decided to do another pineapple lab for her marine biology students, but with a Spongebob theme for the marine setting.

“It just makes me reminisce on my freshman years; all that stress and pressure of the pineapple lab is back and better than ever,” said an AHS marine biology student.

Since coming back from retirement, Condit demanded that she have the school’s permission to bring her two beloved dogs, Katanga and Boscow, to school with her.

Because the students hadn’t had a real teacher for months, Condit decided to implement afternoon walks on the beach with her dogs as part of her classes in order to clear everyone’s minds and boost serotonin levels.

The other retired teacher to return was Jamie Montoya. Ever since he optionally retired in 2019, it’s been very hard to find Spanish substitutes and teachers.

So, Montoya made a return, as beloved and respected by the student body as ever. Instead of teach-

ing how to read, write and master grammar and fluency in Spanish, Montoya had different ideas.

Each day, students walked into class smelling the aroma of homemade tortillas and knew there was about to be a fiesta.

Bailando was heard streaming out of class, and if you peered into the classroom, you would see

ly summer. As of December 2021, experts within the school system began reporting an unusual disturbance in this trend. As the end of the school year approaches, attendance numbers continue to rise.

This new phenomenon of obedience has been aptly dubbed “Reverse Senioritis” by leading school psychologist in the industry. However, attendance numbers are not all that have been affected.

New studies by the BASA (Board of All Schools in America) show that average test scores, assignment scores, and overall grades

have jumped by as much as 40% above the same statistics from previous years.

“This year is turning out to be like one we’ve never seen! The sheer emphasis these kids are placing on attendance alone should strike fear in anyone,” a long-time Arcata High teacher proclaimed.

The trend of increased attendance primarily consists of high school seniors, according to Realnam, though she admits most preliminary studies have been heavily senior-centric.

Other grade level’s behavior has

Montoya playing the guitar and students having a dance party.

“I really love this new Spanish class; it has such a unique vibe!” said a freshman student.

The returning teachers have added a fun element of change with their return, and it most definitely can’t get any more interesting.

Amaya Mendle-Nickle/PEPPERBOX

Ms. Condit pets the tiger in one of AHS’s iconic murals. Her return due to lack of staff has been welcomed by students

Senior attendance sky rockets Tabitha Born

T

Reporter

o the unobservant passers-by, little seems amiss in the bustling, educational hub of Arcata High School.

But, upon closer inspection, little details hint towards the truth.

Close-parked cars, brimming hallways, empty library shelves, full classrooms; all signs point to one culprit: improved attendance!

Traditionally, graduating senior classes show a decrease in attendance, participation, and overall school spirit in the spring and ear-

yet to be observed on this level.

The lack of information available has left experts grasping for straws when it comes to the end trajectory of Reverse Senioritis.

Will these students burn out before graduation, or will they continue along this track of rigorous i-dotting and t-crossing?

Little may be known about the future implications of this odd behavioral trend, but one thing is for certain; teenage attendance will have an even hairier eyeball on it than ever before.

The Pepperbox | Page 7

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Tuesday, June 7th, 2022

Freshmen return to seventh grade Seri Welsh

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Co-Editor-in-Chief

ith the past two years feeling like an absolute waste of time with the COVID-19 pandemic, the state of California is reassessing its educational strategies.

Studies have found that with students in virtual school for over a year, standardized math and english scores have plummeted. One California study found that this year’s freshmen are at an average math level of third graders in 2019.

“I signed up to teach freshmen algebra, not third-grade multiplication times tables,” an Arcata High School math teacher expressed.

Another study out of our very own Northern Humboldt Union High School District noted that high schoolers’ social skills have hit an all-time low. A senior at AHS noted the disarray returning to school after the pandemic.

“People forgot how to talk; I swear I heard a freshman barking.

People are completely unaware of their surroundings. Underclassmen scurry in front of cars and

cuddle in the bathroom,” he stated.

An English teacher couldn’t agree more.

“It’s absolute mayhem. I feel like I’m trying to herd cats into a dog house. Students have forgotten the absolute basics,” she noted.

Because of students’ apparent regression, California government officials have made one of the most controversial decisions in state history. Students in elementary school through college have been forced to return to the grades they were in prior to the pandemic.

Students that have received a high school diploma or a college diploma have had their degrees revoked and have been forced to return to their previous institutions.

This decision was certainly not met with unanimous approval from the public. Many parents are outraged.

“I was stuck at home with my kids for almost two years. If I had to suffer through that, they damn well better get credit for that time,” a parent of an AHS junior expressed.

A senior parent echoed this sentiment.

“You have no idea how much money I had to spend on wine while my kids were home. If they are going back to their pre-pandemic grades, I demand a reimbursement on that wine,” she stated.

Regardless of the outcry, the state government has made it clear

fact I wish to spend the rest of my life here at AHS,” Monge stated, referring to the connection he felt between him and the campus.

In fact, he feels such a deep connection to AHS, he’s decided that when he returns from his absence, he will move his whole life and everything he has here.

He will be converting a small section of the attendance office into a home as he feels he couldn’t live a second away from the campus.

“Every time I leave work and return back home, a piece of me is left at AHS. I can’t bear to be apart from the walls of Arcata High as

well as the amazing people associated with it. The whole staff along with each and every student makes me the powerful person I am,” Monge said, explaining why he’s decided to move onto the school campus.

No one knows the complete reason for Monge’s absence but he has claimed that instead of fully retiring and completely leaving AHS for good, he decided that a short, temporary time away would give him a nice break.

He’s also claimed that taking a leap of absence is in fact a trendy thing to do this school year, as many other teachers have been

that this decision is nonnegotiable.

With that, AHS welcomes back former alumni into their junior and senior classes.

While this decision may lead to a more successful future society, it comes with some hard goodbyes.

AHS bids a temporary goodbye to the underclassmen, wishing them good luck in their seventh and eighth-grade years.

Seri Welsh/PEPPERBOX

Underclassmen still use pacifiers in year two of the pandemic

Monge to haunt Arcata High School Ruby Auckland

A

Reporter

fter dedicating a vast decade of his life to Arcata High School, working to make a respectful, inclusive, safe and engaging environment, Principal Jim Monge has made the heart wrenching decision to take a leap of absence.

Many believed that Monge was retiring, ending this era of his career, but the rumors are false.

Monge has made it clear he will never retire as he wishes to spend the rest of his life aiding AHS..

“I’ve spent so much of my time here at Arcata High, and now I feel as if I am one with the campus, in

doing so. Monge just wanted to hop on the trend.

“I will never be done with Arcata High; my work here will never be complete,” Monge said.

Since he feels such a relation to the campus, he has made the decision to die, right here on the school grounds, leaving his spirit to look over and haunt AHS for eternity.

“Though I physically may not be here anymore or be the person in power, my spirit will forever live on,” Monge said.

“AHS is my mind, body and soul,” Monge stated, indicating that every single one of those aspects will live on forever here at AHS.

Tuesday, June 7th, 2022

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The Pepperbox | Page 6

Tiger Tickets fix all behavioral issues Lila Cohen

Co-Editor-in-Chief

T

iger Tickets or golden tickets; who can tell the difference? Since their release earlier this month, Tiger Tickets have been the only things on Arcata High Students’ minds.

Flashy and colorful, these tickets are proving to truly be the way to students’ hearts and the single best motivator for positive behavior.

“I just can’t take my eyes off them,” an Arcata High sophomore reflected. “I really can’t explain it, but they are just so exciting to hold.”

The Tiger Tickets have been a plan in the works for about three years according to office personnel.

Even a former AHS administrator made their contribution to the idea, suggesting changes to the font style printed on the cards and slight changes to the hue of the paper.

When Jim Monge came into his position as principal, he changed the colors again to leave his mark on the idea.

Monge emphasized that the Tiger Ticket, although not his idea, was implemented during his time in power.

“I remember first hearing about the Tiger Ticket thing when I was a freshman and getting super pumped about it. It’s taken forever, but it’s honestly so worth it. I remember on release day my friends and I made these matching t-shirts with puffy paint to celebrate,” a senior student explained.

The student elaborated that on release day all of their friends had a competition going for who could get a ticket first.

“On release day, we had absolutely zero behavioral incidents for the first time in modern AHS

history. I’m so proud of our students,” Monge stated in an email addressed to AHS families.

The tickets are distributed to the staff in big shiny rolls and each staff member distributes them using their discretion.

Every time a teacher or staffer thinks a student is doing something extraordinarily positive or good they have the option of rewarding them with a ticket.

The tickets are then filled out with the student’s information and added to a drawing pot with the chance of being chosen to receive an award.

This potential for reward is considered to be the main motivator for their exemplary behavior, according to Monge’s email to AHS families on April 20.

“I don’t know if I really like the tickets, to be honest. I don’t get anyone in my lunch detention anymore and it’s sort of sad like I don’t want to sit alone,” history teacher, Owen Moore, reflected.

The rewards currently being distributed to the Tiger Ticket re-

Pinkerton showed up at my house at like 11 pm to give me a ticket.

- AHS Senior cipients include an assigned parking spot for one day, a 50-cent gift card to Brio, five dollars to the student store and free school lunch till the end of the year.

With the rewards being so high,

Lila Cohen/PEPPERBOX

Julie Angles presents her student Aurora Pitts with a Tiger Ticket after demonstrating exemplary behavior in her class on Wednesday, May 13 students are getting competitive with their good deeds.

“I saw these three kids in my English class like dive at each other when Angles dropped her pencil, each wanting to be the one to pick it up so they could maybe get a Tiger Ticket,” a freshman student shared. “It was wack.”

Some students have reported that teachers have gone to unusual lengths to deliver their Tiger Tickets.

“Pinkerton showed up at my house at like 11 pm to give me a ticket,” explained one of history teacher Adam Pinkerton’s students.

Apparently, Pinkerton had been watching the student when he was at the grocery store and how he had picked up an orange that had rolled on the floor.

“It was truly a gracious act and I felt like it had to be rewarded,” Pinkerton commented.

The student was shocked and thrilled to find Pinkerton on their doorstep and after a lengthy dis-

cussion on the topic of food systems in America over tea and cookies, Pinkerton presented the student with a Tiger Ticket.

Situations such as this one are not uncommon amongst staffers.

There have been reports of Michelle Camilli as well as Library Clerk, Debora Jacobsen, tracking students down at house parties and other weekend activities to deliver their Tiger Tickets from the past week.

“We have been needing something like this for so long. I’m just happy we finally found something to fix all of our student behavioral issues,” the administration reflected.

“The Tiger Tickets were the thing that finally inspired me to stop vaping,” a junior student shared.

“Without that extra bit of motivation, I would probably still be getting caught every morning in the bathroom with my vape. So in some ways, Tiger Tickets saved me.”

The Pepperbox | Page 5

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Graduation Humiliation Dylan Berman

A

Feature Editor

t a recent school board meeting, three new locations for the 2022 senior class graduation were proposed in response to concerns regarding graduating at McKinleyville High School.

The proposed locations were the pool of a Super Eight motel in Redding, the Bayshore Mall and the Arcata Wastewater Treatment Plant.

School officials making sure to emphasize that they chose the locations for their wonderful ambiance and class, definitely not out of desperation.

The new location proposals are following a student organized walkout, protesting using MHS as the location for graduation.

Students marched on the plaza holding signs reading things like “Mack is wack,” “just make graduation not suck, please,” and “oh God, why.”

Reactions to these proposed new locations are mixed, but most seniors seem to echo something along the lines of “it can’t nearly be as embarrassing as graduating on the field of a rival high school.”

Some seniors actually expressed excitement about the new locations.

“At first, I was frustrated that my one and only graduation, the culmination of four years of dedicated studies at the school, was probably happening in a garbage dump in the middle of nowhere or a rival high school, but now, I’m super excited about the Redding Super Eight,” said one senior, bubbling with joy.

They went on to explain that they are hoping to hit the water after the ceremony and are planning to wear swim trunks under their robes.

Many seniors echoed their ex-

citement for the “splashtastic” pool party fun sure to accompany graduation by the poolside.

Administration has begun preparing a dress code for the water oriented aspect of the potential location.

For female students, this means long sleeve rash guards and swim trunks that cover the knees, whereas male seniors can probably wear transparent speedos with no repercussions.

Other students can’t wait to graduate in the Bayshore Mall food court.

“It’ll be nice to see the mall with more than 25 people in it at one time, probably the first time that will have happened in decades,” said one senior.

There have already been talks about the potential issue of the edgier seniors wandering off to Hot Topic during the ceremony.

Many senior friend groups are already planning shopping trips around their mall graduation, another plus of the location.

The Wastewater Treatment Plant is certainly one of the stranger options, but some students expressed excitement about the location.

“It won’t smell as bad as Mack would,” said one thrilled senior.

Another asked “how much did the city pay the school to even have this as an option?”

Students are beyond hype about the atmosphere and idyllic bay views that come with graduation at the Wastewater Treatment Plant.

Talks of alternative locations are especially relevant as many express concern over a potential sabotage of graduation by Mack High students.

“I understand, in this rivalry, that tensions run deep, but I call on every student to remember, a district divided against itself cannot stand,” said a diplomatic represen-

Tuesday, June 7th, 2022

Dylan Berman/PEPPERBOX

The ongoing process of finding a graduation location has been difficult, with many options explored and rejected tative of AHS. Many seniors don’t seem they’re taking the potential embarrassment of graduating at Mack well, especially considering the two school’s long term rivalry.

“What do you get when you cross an Arcata High Senior whose year was half ruined by COVID, with a society that abandons him, and treats him like trash?” screamed one senior, breaking into tears.

The Arcata High administration

addressed the discussion around graduation in an email sent out on Tuesday.

“We want to let seniors who may feel slightly disappointed in the proposed graduation locations know, we hear you, we understand your feelings and we are going to do absolutely nothing about it,” read the email.

The board will vote on a final location for graduation out of the three highly desired options Friday.

Tuesday, June 7th, 2022

Faux(Not News)

The Pepperbox | Page 4

Vape club explodes on campus Zoe Macknicki

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Reporter

here is a new club forming at Arcata High School. Formerly known as the Kids Who Cut Class Club, this new club is known as the Vape Club.

This club meets regularly in the school bathrooms and is part of a movement to advocate for skipping class and looking bad ass.

It allows students to get together, avoid all responsibilities and vape.

“There are many reasons why you should join the club. You get unlimited access to vapes, and it gets you out of turning in the god awful Bio labs,” president of the bathroom vape club says.

Meetings are held in every bathroom on the Arcata High campus.

Some bathrooms are more popular than others and always have the most people.

For instance, the girls bathroom next to the office is a particularly popular spot for members in all grades.

Students meet up during every period approximately half way through each block.

Now, you may be wondering what happens if a teacher walks in.

“You never have to worry, you just all stand on top of the toilet seat and huddle together to ensure no one sees you, and the smoke… well, you just wave it away with your hand,” one member said.

As this club continues to grow, the support has become unreal.

More people are flooding the bathrooms for the hourly meetings.

“I think that this is the best club on campus, and I think it has potential to become more than a club.

I think that this is going to be a lifestyle not too far down the road,” one senior said.

With the large amount of support from the student body, they plan to find a bigger area to hold these meetings.

“We are hoping to expand to a larger area like the locker rooms up in the gym,” said a junior.

They hope to see everyone there to continue the support for this new and upcoming lifestyle.

With the kids that skip class to attend the Vape Club, there are also the students that are just trying to use the bathroom. Often-

times, these kids just have to pee and all the stalls are full.

“I just want to use the bathroom.

I don’t want to have to wait outside the stall while my bladder is screaming at me,” one student said.

While this is a problem for the everyday student, the members of the vape club don’t care.

“Just find another bathroom, we are just minding our business in the stalls,” president of the vape club said.

With the wildly popular club,

the bathrooms are crowded and overflowing with people.

Hopefully, it will be offered even more frequently than it is now!

This new club has become a hit and will now be the most popular club on campus.

It is projected to be even more popular than Interact.

If you have any interest in the Vape Club, make sure to join them at a bathroom closest to you Monday through Friday at anytime.

Zoe Macknicki/PEPPERBOX

Members of the vape club congregate in the girls bathroom near the French classroom. The Vape Club has exploded in popularity in the last few weeks at the school

AHS drunk and contained event Flannery Warner

S

Opinion Editor

afe and Sober, now renamed Drunk and Contained, will take place on June 16 in the Arcata High School Fine Arts Building.

The Arcata High School student body made a deal with the governor of California to lower the drinking age specifically for this event, put on by the Mommy and Daddy Tigers Inc. of Arcata High and sponsored by local breweries, hard liquor makers and cider producers.

“We can’t wait to supply stu-

dents with refreshments for this event. Our security staff is very sick of chasing down high schoolers trying to steal it,” a local supermarket manager stated.

Likewise, administrators are hoping this initiative will help keep the rate of students getting convicted of underage alcohol possession low.

“I like it; it is an admirable and creative solution,” the Chief of Police stated.

The student population was equally on board with the idea.

“I think getting local businesses

to donate refreshments is amazing. The school is doing a great job of supporting our local economy,” a senior stated in regards to the newly branded event.

The administration is recommending a strict dress code for this event in order to promote student safety.

This includes flat comfortable shoes for when individuals become unstable on their feet, multiple changes of clothes for any sudden “stomach bugs” and a sleeping bag to stay overnight to further prevent DUIs.

In relation to the new mandate, two long term teachers at Arcata High have both enthusiastically agreed to chaperon the sleepover.

“Because of our detention experience, we know how to deal with half-asleep, glazed-eyed teenagers,” one of them stated.

“We hope that these new protocols will keep seniors in a safe, restricted environment while they partake in activities that students participate in regardless of the efforts we make to dissuade them,” administration stated.

The Pepperbox | Page 3

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Tuesday, June 7th, 2022

Senior trip to the Bayshore Mall Dele Rebstock

I

Social Media Manager

t’s nothing new that high schools’ budgets have become increasingly small, leaving them without money to spare for special activities.

In past years, Arcata High School senior classes have gone to Six Flags or the Redding Waterpark.

Due to previous classes’ misbehavior, the senior classes that follow have been banned from taking field trips to those locations.

As well as being banned from senior trip locations, the AHS Class of 2022’s fundraising is lacking because of time lost during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Previous classes that have stayed in the area for their trips

have opted for Senior Picnics, but the class of 2022 wanted to do something different.

Which led the senior class officers to vote to take the senior class trip to the Bayshore Mall.

“Because our class went through a lot with COVID, the other class officers, and I wanted to pick a trip that would be memorable for everyone,” said Senior Class President, Sydney Lusa.

The officers did their best to pick an experience that would suit everyone’s needs.

The response from the class was better than they could have imagined.

“I’ve been so caught up in my homework, I haven’t had time to go to the Bayshore Mall in months.

This trip couldn’t have come at a better time,” said an AHS senior.

Leading up to the trip the seniors had a raffle for gift cards to some of the shops around the mall including Boot Barn, Hot Topic and Claire’s.

This was done to promote excitement around the trip and help fund the activities.

At the mall, students were provided a complimentary lunch in the food court, giving them the opportunity to dine at options from Pretzel Maker to Chinese Gourmet Express.

After lunch, the students spent a few hours touring around the mall shopping.

A favorite store among students was Claire’s, some students even got new piercings while there.

“My friends and I all got matching cartilage piercings, it was something we’ll remember forev-

er!” said an AHS senior.

Then, it was time to go on a class walk at the Hiksharki Trail, formerly known as the Devil’s Playground.

After spending the day in a mall, it was a way for students to spend time in nature and take a break from materialism.

Overall, the class trip was very successful and had excellent feedback from students.

“It was such an unforgettable day, I feel like it was a great way to celebrate the end of high school,” said Nick Parker, AHS senior.

Due to a positive response from the senior class, it is a possibility that the following generations of students will also have the opportunity to have their senior class trip at the Bayshore Mall.

Pants+Bathing Suits: If you’re tired of having bathing suits not covering the parts you wish were covered, then just slap on some pants underneath. You can still show off that cute new swim suit while not feeling too exposed or feeling the need to shave. It’s a win win!

Swim Goggles: Sometimes you might find yourself in an unexpected water balloon fight. To avoid messing up your eye makeup or getting water in your eyes just wear swim goggles every time you go out. You’re now prepared for every situation and looking stylish with your new and improved eye wear.

Do It Yourself Little Black Dress: We all know that everyone needs a little black dress for their wardrobe, but what if you’re on a budget? Now, you don’t need to spend more than five dollars on one. Just

grab a black trash bag, cut three holes for your arms and head (number can vary if you’re missing any limbs), then put it on and wrap a belt around your waist. You now have a cute new dress for a low budget!

So, when you’re about to go to the most epic pool party of the summer, wear that DIY black dress or bald cap but remember to post your snazzy fits and add a hashtag in there too. Go wild and have a great summer!

Hot trends to try this summer Haley Kenyon

H

Reporter

ey there buddies and pals!

Feeling behind in the newest trends of 2022? No need to fret anymore because I’m about to tell you the trends coming this summer that are so HOT they’ll melt your ice cream.

Full Length Mesh Hats: Ever bugged by pesky mosquitoes or flies? Well this hat will protect you from those buzzing fiends all day!

Not only does it eliminate the need for bug spray, but also provides natural shade, so say goodbye to sunscreen too. Save some money while staying comfortable.

Bald Caps: Why bother with trying new hairstyles when you know they’ll end up not as expected? Just put on the hassle-free bald cap and bam! You’ve just become the coolest person out there, a.k.a.

Mister Worldwide.

Zoe Macknicki/PEPPERBOX

Approaching summer, students experiment with new trends

The Pepperbox

JUNE.

BOX BRIEFS

I could tell you all about the new schedule and when all the youngens have to return to this prison but I’m graduating next week and honestly I don’t give a f**k. Plus the admin can’t get it togther enough to decide on a schedule for next year sooo...

EDITORIAL STAFF REPORTERS Seri Welsh Editor-in-Chief Lila Cohen Editor-in-Chief Ian Letts News Editor Dylan Berman Feature Editor Madelyn Conley Deputy Feature Editor Emily Nalley Sports Editor Flannery Warner Opinion Editor Ty Franklin Photo Editor Amaya Mendle-Nickle Deputy-Photo Editor Bella Fratkin Business Manager Aidan Shelton Art Director Dele Rebstock Social Media Editor Sydney Trieu Web Editor Eva Johnson Copy Editor

Ruby Auckland Tabitha Born Haley Kenyon Zoe Macknicki Jean Thuy

DISCLAIMER Welcome to the PepperFAUX, everything in this section is satire, fake news, NOT REAL. Please for all of our sake, don’t take this stuff personally, its all jokes haha so funny. This is purely for your entertainment (and ours) kind of like The Onion. All Fake. All Satirical. NOT REAL. It is important for us to also note that everything witten under this section is protected by law, so yes it is legal. As in Pepperbox fashion, the editors would like to suggest you watch John Oliver’s bit on slap suits, it’s important to be educated y’all, go watch it.

IN THE BOX

Hot Summer Trends . . . . . . . 3 Senior Trip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Nicotine Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Drunk and Contained . . . . . .4 Graduation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Tiger Tickets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Effects of Zoom. . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Monge Haunts . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Retired Teachers Return . . . .8 Senioritis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Teacher seen at Party . . . . . . 9 Sports Treaty. . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Cannabis Class . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Sex-Ed Update . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 New Track . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 AHS Football Dominates. . . 12

If you feel the need to be a “Karen” and take issue with something we wrote, you can email us at pepperbox@ no.k12.ca.us but to be honest we probably won’t reply because we’re about to graduate and don’t care anymore.

Advisor: Jessi Merill