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the SPECTRUM
Tuesday | February 4 | 2025
Model UN Competes in NY
Members attend conference at Columbia University
very surprising…seeing people who came from... all around the world,” said Zach Dresner ‘27
On Thursday, Jan. 16, Model United Nations students traveled to the Big Apple for a conference at Columbia University in New York City. Ben Cady , Social Studies teacher and Model UN Advisor, said, “I thought it went great… [students] seemed to have a really good time.”
This particular competition was a Crisis Conference, resulting in long and hectic days for each student. “Each day was super busy…we had to be [at the conference] at 10 a.m. and had multiple sessions that lasted a few hours each,” said Cady. He added: “As teachers, from 10 a.m. to dinner time, we didn’t see them much.”
The Columbia Model United Nations Conference is one of the country’s top conferences, bringing delegates from various countries to participate in a unique and challenging debate-like experience. “It was
Learn how the Taher kitchen staff operates to feed the Upper School community.
In order to participate in the conference, each student wrote multiple position papers.
The conferences enriched not only collaboration but also analytical abilities. “There’s critical thinking skills, writing skills, oratory skills, and plus you’ve got people on your side,” said Cady.
Shucayb Harir ‘26 emphasized the importance of collaboration and preparation during these conferences as Upper School students frequently worked with students from other schools who they didn’t know. “We didn’t really do anything together… we mostly had different committees that we prepared for,” said Harir. He added, “You would just walk in and have to collaborate with competitors from different schools to find solutions.” Cady added to Harir’s opinion, saying “You’re in this situation with a lot of people
who you don’t know, so being able to navigate that [is important]... being able to form a team and then complete a goal, seems like something that you really get [at], through Model UN.”
Model UN conferences stand out as great opportunities to learn no matter experience level. Max Unglaub ‘26 , who has done Model UN since middle school, noted “It was a lot of fun. I learned a lot and met a lot of great people.” While Dresner, a newer member of the club added that “it was a good experience because I got to meet many new people and improve on my prior skills.”
In the coming weeks, there will be a Model UN competition taking place at the Marriott Hotel in Minneapolis. Unglaub, who will be participating, said “I think it will be an exciting opportunity to apply what I learned from New York to this upcoming competition. I think it’s an exciting opportunity to learn different perspectives and different sides of debate.”
Check out what the Health Occupations Students of America club has been up to. Read about the Mid-Winter Conference.
VISITING POET INTRIGUES STUDENT BODY
Anders Carlson-Wee visited Upper School American Literature classes and held a poetry reading during FLEX. Read all about his visit on Page 2.
STAVNEY ANNOUNCES DEPARTURE IN 2026
Head of School Anne Stavney has announced her departure from the school after the 20252026 school year. Look for more on this story coming on blakespectrum.org.
Joe Erickson ‘26 has played a crucial role for Boys’ Hockey. Read about a fan’s admiration.
“Your Voice in Print”
Sam Tomzcick
Tarun Gopalakrishnan | Features Editor
Model UN members Ella Cho ‘25 and Esther Lee ‘27 converse with social studies teacher Mackenzie McIlmail while walking towards the upcoming conference.
Izzie Miller
Betsy Fries
Issue V February 4, 2025
Editor-in-Chief: Camila Pardo
Managing Editors:
Lilah Johnson | Steven Cao
Copy Editor: Ben Aviles
Creative Director: Faith Zhao
News Editor: Izzie Miller
Student Life Editor:
Caitlin Strauss
Food Editor: Evie Chow
Sports Editors: Charlie Dean | Dillon Kaiser
Perspectives Editor: Rayan Nasir
Features Editor:
Tarun Gopalakrishnan
Online Editor: Yoni Zacks
Editor Emeritus: Gabriella Marment
Columnist: Ethan Klaiman
STAFF WRITERS: Evan Darmawan, Oliver Brown, Eva Gleason, Andrew Jetton, Charlee Jones, Chloe Kern, Ben Passi, Anna Tao, Isabella Valdesolo
STAFF ARTISTS:
Madeline Hou, Willow Overcash, Will Mitchell
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS: Axel Bisbee, Noah Zacks
BECOME A STAFF MEMBER:
Contribute to the paper three times consecutively to be promoted to a staff writer!
JOIN SPECTRUM:
Spectrum meets in Room 351 during both lunches every Tuesday. Please come if you are interested in writing, drawing, designing, podcasting, or taking pictures for the newspaper.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: Disagree with something that’s in the paper? Have an opinion you want to share? Like to draw editorial cartoons? Take a stand and speak out. E-mail letters or editorial cartoons to spectrum@blakeschool. org or deliver them to room 351. Please limit letters to 400 words.
MISSION STATEMENT:
The primary purpose of the Blake School Spectrum is to report news and to explain its meaning and significance to our readers and the community. We hope to inform, entertain and provide a school forum for the unrestricted exchange of ideas and opinions.
STYLE STATEMENT:
Spectrum uses Associated Press (AP) Style as of the February 2020 issue.
Discourse in House and Supreme Court
Even 67-67 Republican-Democrat Split in Minnesota House disrupted
Lilah Johnson | Managing Editor
With most eyes on the new administration in the federal government, it’s easy to miss what is going on right here in Minnesota.
The state House contains 134 representatives, which is typically evenly split between Democrats and Republicans (67/67). However, a Democrat named Curtis Johnson lost his seat be-
cause of a court ruling. Minnesotans are required to live in the district that they represent, and the ruling determined that he didn’t actually live in the district he had been elected to represent. Because of this, Republicans temporarily had a 67-66 advantage, which led the Democrats to stop showing up to sessions. The boycott began on Jan. 14.
the Democrats have stopped showing up to floor sessions, nothing is able to get done in the House. Since the state Supreme Court recently sided with the Democrats and decided that at least 68 members (one more than the number of Republicans in the House) needed to be present in order for anything to get done — this is
called a quorum. Without a quorum, no new laws are able to be passed and the House is stuck in a standstill.
Soon, a special election will be held in order to fill the final seat, and the House will be back to a 67-67 tie. However, until then, not much will get done since only 67 members will be present.
2025 Visiting Poet Enlightens and Surprises
Anders Carlson-Wee shares eccentric story with American Literature students
Ben Aviles | Copy Editor
From dumpster diving and professional rollerblading to publishing poems such as The Paris Review and The Harvard Review, Anders Carlson-Wee has lived a unique life. From Jan. 29-31, sophomores interacted with CarlsonWee in their American Literature class as well as a poetry reading on Jan. 31. The intent of the visit as described by organizer, fellow poet, and English teacher Mike Bazzett , was to “demystify the writing process” as “we often read these books and they can feel very separate from us.”
For Bazzett, the demystification was aided by seeing how Carlson-Wee was “just a regular guy.”
Additionally, he believes that it provided students with the opportunity to “engage the work in a different way… [because they] have access to the person who wrote it.”
From an early age, Carlson-Wee realized
that because of his goal to become a professional rollerblader, he realized that “I probably will never make much money… so I’ll have to learn how to fend for myself and live cheaply.” This set the stage for another realization: “Time was the thing I valued the most about life.”
Guided by the two principles of valuation of time and willingness to live cheaply, he recalls “I lived on about $3,000 per year for all of my twenties.” This lifestyle “allowed me to have an endless amount of space that I… almost like constant meditation or daydreaming,” thus providing him “a great number of hours learning how to write.”
The theory that he lives his life is “If you have to pay to do it, I didn’t do it.” This led him to dumpster diving for food. One of the largest lessons he learned from dumpster diving is “the magnitude of how much is being thrown away in… America. It’s... so vast
that it’s hard to comprehend.” He expounded with the stat that 40% of all food in the United States is wasted. He believed to rationalize “you have to laugh at it because if you’re not laughing you’re gonna have to cry pretty hard.” He expounded stating, “It becomes a type of comedy because you almost can’t let it remain a tragedy or you’ll explode.”
From dumpster diving, “You learn to think more creatively. You realize that everything can
from
be used and reused and reused again.” This idea has protruded into his writing as he “recycles language, making language do tricks that it’s not intended to do.”
Carlson-Wee hopes students realize that “[writing] is more readily available than people realize.” He hopes that writing can become part of everyone’s lives “Whether that means you wanna write a book or you just wanna keep a journal… as a part of your own emotional processing.”
“We are going to set out a bunch of different books, some of which include love with Black leads to fit the theme of Valentines Day.” Scott, Leader of Library Council
Minnesota State Capitol, centerpoint of recent political turmoil caused by a deadlock between Republicans and Democrats.
Carlson-Wee in Patrick Barry’s room in the Upper School.
Since
The Blake School 511 Kenwood
Black History Month books set out on display in Upper School Library
Lilah Johnson
Izzie Miller
Izzie Miller
Saleya Scott ‘25 (right) embracing Upper School librarian Bethany Winter (left).
Izzie Miller
“We drew
the middle and lower school for the idea of lights out in the library from Feb. 20 from 7 - 9:30 p.m.” Elizabeth MacNeill ‘27
Black Lives Matter (BLM) banner in Upper School library.
Izzie Miller
HOSA Members Attend Health Conference
Club members display knowledge in health education activities at conference
Eva Gleason | Staff Writer
“It was hard to manage an entire club when it’s associated with another organization. We had to go to a lot of Zoom meetings to learn, but it was worth it because I learned so many skills to be a better leader and for the medical field” said HOSA co-founder, Shucayb Harir ‘26
Future Health Professionals, originally Health Occupations Students of America, or HOSA, is a multinational organization networking health education and career preparation in six countries. With a mission to culminate student leadership and medical skills, HOSA bridges the gap between education and career exploration, providing students with hands-on opportunities and competitions.
Harir partnered with Krisha Pillai ‘26 to organize the school’s new HOSA sector, which in its brief lifespan, has already left a lasting imprint. The club has provided members with countless opportunities to not only build a medical foundation, but to also support the surrounding community. The club maintains
an active list of community service opportunities at hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes around the Twin Cities. At regional HOSA conferences, members address pressing health concerns afflicting their communities.
At the Mid-Winter Conference, 1,500 HOSA members participated in targeted activities, such as CPR training, biotechnology seminars, and medical problemsolving. The conference also addressed the current health crisis among Indigenous communities, emphasizing the importance of adequate and standardized healthcare. Blake proved to be very successful with Alex Mithun ‘27, Aubrie Klein ‘27, and Camila Pardo ‘27 placing second in Health Education, Caden Johnson ‘26 placing fourth in Health Informatics, and Harir plac-
ing second in World Health and Disparities in Healthcare. “This is especially impressive given this is our HOSA chapter’s first time competing and the record number of schools participating this year --over 960 participants were registered” reports HOSA faculty advisor, Cris Larson
As a part of the club, students develop problemsolving, complex and critical thinking, and leadership skills. HOSA participants can also access scholarships, internships, and mentorship opportunities which can contribute to their future careers. “It’s also really fun,” said Harir. Beyond inspiring and equipping youth to explore medical careers, HOSA offers community and individual-based experiences that are engaging and very enjoyable.
How to Stop Scrolling So Much
Camila Pardo | Editor-in-Chief
Endless scrolling through social media has become the modern-day equivalent of falling down a rabbit hole, consuming hours upon hours of our lives before we even notice.
For many, this habitual activity for many has replaced enriching activities, leaving individuals with a sense of disconnect, drainage, and guilt. Fortunately, there are healthy alternatives such as engaging in physical activities, pursuing hobbies, or practicing mindfulness, and the following are a few habits to help those struggling with the vacuuming essence of social media.
her phone. Sometimes, Lee relies on those around her to hold her accountable for scrolling: “I have someone take my phone away from me,” and occasionally she “just chuck[s] it across the room.” Since implementing these practices, not only has Lee noticed that “I do my homework faster because I’m not multitasking.” She’s also noticed a significant improvement in hobbies she’d abandoned years ago. “Baking, cooking, and playing the piano” are all interests that Lee has recently started to enjoy since cutting down her time on social media.
In picture to the left, students gather at the HOSA conference they attended. Harir (far right) wins 2nd place for World Health & Disparities in Healthcare. Johnson (far left) places 4th in Health Informatics. Mithun, Pardo, and Klein (not pictured) win 2nd place for Health Education as a team.
Esther Lee ‘27 noted the profound impact that screen time has had on her life: “I’m very dependent on my phone,” she said. Lee often struggles with apps such as TikTok and Instagram and feels like she’s “constantly scrolling and I can’t get out of the app.” Despite feeling weighed down by screen time, Lee identified a couple of useful methods to avoid going on
Svara Arimilli ‘26 also finds the significance in reducing time on social media and has discovered alternative forms of productivity.
her social life and academic responsibilities. “So personally, I’ll try and wait to spend a lot of time on my phone until my homework is done, my room is clean, and I’ve worked out. And then, by that point, you have less time and you’re more tired, so you’re more likely to go to bed and waste less time,” illuminated Arimilli. Not only has Arimilli noticed increased productivity when implementing this habitual habit, but she has also noticed a steep decline in stress. Being chronically online can feel confining at times, especially when I find myself falling into a spiral of endless, mindless social media scrolling. The guilt that hits afterward is arguably the worst part of it all. To regain balance, I’ve made it a habit to put my phone on “Do Not Disturb” all of the time, giving myself the space to disconnect and be present. Turning off notifications assists in grounding me in control, giving me the space to be intentional with my time instead of letting my phone dictate it. Students
“Write down the things you need to do and things you’d like rather be doing instead and prioritize those,” advises Arimilli. Despite being dependent on her devices by simply being able “to be in contact with my parents and my friends to coordinate,” Arimilli still navigates a way around juggling both
Best Spots to Work and Study at Upper School
Community recommends ideal study spots on campus
Izzie Miller | News Editor
Picture this: you’re sitting in the bustling library during flex time trying to cram in some last-minute studying for your test next block. You haven’t been able to focus due to the incessant chatter of your fellow students. What should you do? Find another study space! Don’t want to go far from the library? Try the maker spaces! Leila Dalum ‘27 points out that “you got the big maker space and you got like that one little quiet area between the two physics classes,” when asked where her favorite spots are. Enclosed yet still a part of the larger
library, these two areas are a favorite of students like Dalum. She often heads to these spots “when [she has] to focus,” specifically for studying and reviewing course material. She personally prefers the smaller space because the larger “tends to get noisy” due to it containing a printer that seems to be in constant use. These two spots are a great way to have a more private area to get work done without being completely closed off from the surrounding environment.
As a senior, Meri Harkins ‘25 has had four years to seek out what study spaces work best for her. “One place that I love to go is the college counselor couches by [Mike]
outside of Mike Canfield’s office provide students with a quieter study space on the 2nd floor.
Canfield’s office,” Harkins states, referring to the comfy seating arranged on the west side of the second floor. She notes that the seating “really isn’t different from a lot of places. I’ve just found that less people will try to come up and talk to me,” allowing her to get more work done than
she may in spots with more people. With the neverending amounts of tests, assignments, and projects, this space provides a great spot to decompress in the stressful environment of school. Harkins states she often goes there when she gets “overstimulated” and needs a quieter space.
From Left to Right: Johnson, Will Schwemm ‘27 Leo Mithun ‘28
David Webster ‘27 Minha Ali ‘27 Loraine Pidot ‘26, Harir. Cris Larson
Chairs
Izzie Miller
According to Dalum, the Makerspace is one of the preferred spots to do homework.
Izzie Miller
Harir
Constantly scrolling on your phone can become a very addictive habit.
Graphic: Courtesy of LA Times
Eva Gleason Pillai Eva Gleason
NYC Stands Out as Best Food Capital to Community
New York City takes the cake as Best Food City
Evie Hjelm & Isabella
Valdesolo | Staff Writers
Traveling, a favorite experience by many, allows for new journeys and adventures while exploring new and exciting places. Food plays an important role in trips to new destinations, allowing for a perfect vacation to become even better with a delicious meal unique to its origin. Food influ-
ences the culture and experience that many have while visiting a location, and, similarly, the culture of a place influences the dishes to be had there. There are delectable tastes to be had from all over the globe, but which city has the best bites?
Despite the countless culinary destinations worldwide, each with its own unique dishes, one stands out as a renowned food capital, New York City. New York City brings together diverse cultures to create an unmatched food scene, surpassing all others and claiming the title of the best city for food. Its great melting pot of cultures al-
lows for immeasurable options and authentic cuisine.
Clara Leslie ‘28 appreciates the city’s diversity and its ability to “enhance all of the [food] options and give us many types of dishes.” While many cities have exceptional food, it’s hard to beat the vibrant flavors exhibited in New York, creating such a memorable culinary experience.
Rick Cawood agrees: “You can go to so many places in virtually every neighborhood and find something really outstanding.” The countless number of options that are so close to one another is another part of
why New York is such a popular choice.
Emily Alexander ‘26 also enjoys New York’s food diversity, commenting, “In New York, you have one place that has pizza and one that has ramen [next to each other].” The two choices are so different from one another, yet they come together in such a way that could only happen in New York City.
New York City is a popular destination rich in theater, shopping, landmarks, and of course, delicious meals to be had, but is the food scene the real reason for all of the tourism? Alexander believes that “The food is
one of the most popular reasons why people go there.” The food in New York City is a huge part of tourism, but Cawood offers a different stance saying that food and other parts of the tourism scene are “mutually reinforcing,”
meaning that many people go to the destination for other activities, while also greatly enjoying the food offered there.
Leslie reaffirms this, saying, “Food is made more popular because of tourism.”
Twin Cities Sandwich Shops Hit the Spot
Family-owned businesses thrive
Ben Aviles | Copy Editor
Let’s be honest: Sometimes, a sandwich just slaps. The horizon of possibilities brought by a sandwich is near infinite. A sandwich can be as simple as a piece of SPAM between two pieces of white bread, a ubiquitous staple of those just trying to get by, all the way to a delicatessen-level sandwich with fillings that push the edges of culinary possibility. The wide variety of sandwiches is nearly impossible to encapsulate and rank, yet I set out on a fool’s mission to do so. Here, (in no particular order) are the
three best sandwiches in the Twin Cities according to me (knowing full well that I may disagree with myself by the time of printing):
Cecil’s Deli: Hidden in an unassuming brick building, this family-owned staple of the Highland Park neighborhood has been in operation since 1949 and operates both a deli and a restaurant. Now, once you walk past the tightly packed deli and into an even tighter-packed restaurant, you enter the domain of the legendary Reuben. The sandwich formed of corned beef, rye bread, sauerkraut, and their homemade Thousand Island sauce is the definition of a comfort meal. The incredibly flavorful and juicy corned beef with the zingy
sauerkraut on the sturdy but absorptive rye is something out of a dream. A healthy coating of the Thousand Island sauce will drench your hands, but it will be worth it, because of the heavenly taste. If you are looking for an old-school deli sandwich, there is no place better than Cecil’s Deli.
STEPCHLD: Son of
immigrants from Ethiopia, and hailing from CedarRiverside, Kamal Mohamed recently opened STEPCHLD in Northeast Minneapolis. He serves up-scale contemporary American cuisine, including the best smashburger in the Twin Cities. The smashburger combines Ethiopian and American culture through the use of mitmita, an Ethi-
The Spam & Nori Croissant is available from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Thursdays through Saturdays, and from 8 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. on Mondays and Tuesdays at Diane’s Place, located at 117 14th Ave NE, Minneapolis, MN 55413.
Rediscovering the Warmth of Soups this Winter
A variety of soups provide
Ben Passi | Staff Writer
Nothing is more enjoyable than sitting down to have a nice bowl of soup with family. With the winter season in full swing, there is nothing better than having a hearty bowl of soup. While soups have fallen out of popularity in recent years, they serve as one of the best options for the winter. As more variations on popular cuisines
such as Italian, Chinese, and Mexican have taken society by storm, soups have been put on the back burner and lost some of their original popularity.
For people like Sanvi Kurdikar ‘28, chicken noodle soup is their soup of choice. Or, if you’re anything like Kyra Axner ‘28, tomato soup with grilled cheese may be your go-to. Either way, the beauty of soups lies in their versatility. The combination of flavors and textures of soups is endless and makes them suitable for almost all scenarios.
While some favorites such as chicken noodles and tomato soup are preferred, I’ve found some of my favorites are lesser known, including chicken wild rice, french onion, and pho curry
soup. Chicken wild rice soup is a great example of the variety of ingredients available within soups. With wild rice, carrots, celery, and chicken, chicken wild rice soup is one of the most filling soups. The warm chicken broth flavor is broken up by fresh carrots and crunchy celery, making it ideal for a cold winter day. Similarly, curry pho serves as another soup full of textures. The contrasting flavors of cilantro, curry, and sriracha sauce make this soup full of color and give it a vibrant and fresh flavor. The yellow curry paste within this soup offers diverse and complex flavors such as those of umami and pairs perfectly with a spritz of lime juice. The elaborate flavors and brightness of cur-
ry pho provide a well-needed contrast from heavy traditional winter cuisine.
In contrast to curry pho, French onion soup offers nostalgic, rich, and heavy flavors. French onion soup is full of hearty creamy onion flavors that are incomparable to any other soup. French onion soup is one of the heartiest meals for the winter. Additionally, it is also a perfect place to dip a baguette. With its unique depth of flavor, french onion soup is an ideal choice in the heart of winter.
While there may be plenty of options for your winter feasts, soup is one of the best options as the temperature drops below freezing. As you spend time with family and community, be sure to bond over and enjoy a nice warm bowl of soup.
opian spice on top of two succulent smash patties. This burger truly took my breath away when I tried it. The cheese, patties, and mitmita sauce combine into an exciting combination of flavors that is truly innovative in the burger scene. If you are looking for a food adventure into sandwiches, this is the place for you.
Northern Waters Smokehaus: Overlooking Lake Superior, Northern Waters Smokehaus opened as a specialty shop for fish and cheese concourses. Over the last 25 years, they have become a Duluth staple. I know it is not in the Twin Cities, but I would be remiss not to mention them. They never fail to be bustling with people pick-
ing up orders, looking for a table, and enjoying these fantastic sandwiches. Each time that I go to Duluth, I necessitate a trip to Northern Waters Smokehaus as The Hedonist is absolutely unmissable. The delicious liver pate, spicy mayo, and piquant cornichons on a fresh baguette always hit the spot. It is simple enough to be widely appealing, yet complex enough to entertain the taste buds. This is not to mention their fresh and incredible fish sandwiches that utilize perfectly smoked salmon. Overall, they provide a well-rounded selection of sandwiches that you’d be hard-pressed to find a better option in Northern Minnesota. Next time you’re up North, it is a must-try.
Best Foods for Valentine’s Day
American cuisine, such as hamburgers and pizza, can be spotted in restaurants throughout New York City. From street carts to fine dining, the burger scene in NYC is unmatched.
Ben Aviles
Harry Wallace
Lula Alter
Lula Alter
soup is a popular and staple option for many.
Lula Alter
Taher Cooks Up Success
a dive into behind-the-scenes of lunches
Charlie Dean | Sports Editor
Eight workers. 250 pounds of food a day.
Over 500 people to serve. The job of the Taher staff is very time-consuming, difficult, and important; their work often goes unnoticed.
From 6:30 - 8:00 a.m., the staff cooks for two and half hours to prepare our food. Head Chef David Dahmes says “A lot goes on in the kitchen, and we all do our best to provide everyone with various, healthy options every day.”
Certain strategies are implemented to finish the food in time. Dahmes says that while everything is made fresh for the day, “[they’ll] assemble some items the day before, and then cook them [the day they’re served].” This includes sandwiches for field trips, burritos, and the 80 pizzas created each Tuesday and Thursday. Dahmes
also says that they sometimes make the main hot dish in two batches, “just so it’s fresher, and also be cause we don’t have the space to store all of the food all at once.”
The kitchen consists of a hot side and a frozen side. The frozen side contains the freezer, a huge walk-in cooler, and is where they make the salads and the deli bar. The other side con tains massive kettles, ovens, and tables, for making larger dishes such as the hot line and power bowl. Dahmes says that, “it’s about 100 pounds of protein for the main meal, and for the power bowl, it’s usually about 50 pounds.”
Cost plays a big role in a kitchen. Dahmes, who has worked at Edina Public Schools as
erenced how the school serves much fresher food but also more expensive food. This includes the “salmon or flank steak or shrimp over [at the power bowl],” which you wouldn’t see at many other
Image on the left shows Patty Lingall happily serving the Grab-nGo tray. Image on the right shows Saul Hananel handing out lunch to Zach Keller ‘26
schools.
Cost is also why only roughly one third of the pizzas are thick crust; as Dahmes says, “It’s a lot more expensive to do thick crust…So we try to balance them, and not give them out all at once, so it’s not all thick and then all thin.”
While Dahmes has “continued a lot of the items Chef Brett had before [him],” he has already made a couple of chang-
es. This in cludes getting rid of the unpopu lar Turkey Tetrazzini.
Dahmes says that “it just wasn’t popular, it didn’t look very appealing…and so we ran it twice and decided to cut it.”
Dahmes also commented on other dishes, mentioning that “Our easiest meal is probably the baked potato bar…It’s the easiest and it’s one of the ones you guys like the most, so it’s rewarding in that sense.”
In reference to his control over the menu, Dahmes stressed how important feedback is: “I always want to be open to you guys and anything you guys have to say. If you free to stop by.” Another way of giving feedback is through the forms accessed by the QR codes around the school. Michelle Pham ‘27, a Forum member who helped create the form, says that the form is “intended to gather information and feedback on school lunches…that goes directly to Taher staff.”
“They’re probably really tired when they’re making the food,” said Madeline Hou ‘26, “but then when they’re plating [the food] on your plates they’re very sweet and nice.”
Architecture Layers Histories
Architectural spaces reflect growing legacy
Eva Gleason | Staff Writer
“Doing Laundry and Now We’re Standing on Foundations; Nice Wind.”
A
collection of photos, artifacts, and letters from the archives symbolize the layers of history embedded in the architecture.
estled among the Minneapolis skyline, enveloped by rich Minnesota foliage, the Northrop Campus provides a sense of comfort and seclusion amidst the bustling city. Originally founded in 1900 as Graham Hall, the Northrop campus provided a quality secondary education for female students interested in furthering their academic studies. The school prepared daughters of the Minnesota elite for the most competitive female institutions, equipping them with skills in Latin, English, French, science, and mathematics necessary to enroll in Smith, Bryn Mawr, and Wellesley University among others.
In 1914, Graham Hall was purchased by a group of prominent figures and rechristened the Northrop Collegiate School, after University of Minnesota president Cyrus Northrop.
Three years later, the school moved to the current campus designed by renowned architect Edwin Hawley Hewitt. The original building reflects classic academic-style architecture, emphasizing the school’s
commitment to quality and excellence.
The brick, ivy-coated facade, traditional windows, and symmetrical floor plan are infused with old-world stability; a permanent dedication to stability and academic excellence.
As it now stands, the Upper School’s integrated campus is a reflection of its evolution. As Blake has expanded, so has its architectural philosophy. In recent years, the Upper School has invested in modernizing its campus to accommodate new learning practices. In 2014, the school partnered with James Dayton Design (JDD), to remodel the library and science wing. “The palette of the new space is light and airy, intended to allow the content of the classrooms, the students, and their work to be the focus,” writes JDD on their website, “Many of the walls throughout the wing are dry erase boards, encouraging discussion and dialog between students and faculty and fostering a relaxed environment for thought and inquiry.”
Floor-to-ceiling windows create a grounding and aesthetically pleasing environment for students to complete class work, study, or just hang out between classes, providing a pleasant distraction from the daily stress of being a student.
The Northrop Campus is more than just a collection of architectural styles. It is a representation of Blake’s commitment to academic excellence, pluralism, sustainability, and community integration.
Will Mitchell
Both images by Faith Zhao
Nordic Builds Culture For Team’s Bright Future
Captains empha size connection, development
Rayan Nasir | Perspectives Editor
With the coming of snow and cold comes the start of the 202425 Nordic season. Nordic skiing is a winter sport sim ilar to cross-country running, except on skis and snow. The sport combines endur ance with strength, balance, and technique. Additionally, it has two types of events, classic and skate skiing.
Hunter Simon ‘26, a captain for the team, said “The season has been going great. We lost some seniors last year but our team is still going strong. We have a great team culture.” Another skier, Sean Bizily ‘26 said “We have some really good skiers and hopefully some of the people on our team will make it to State.”
A noticeable skier who has made noise is Jack Rudolph ‘28, for whom Simon and Otis Friesen ‘26 had high praise. Friesen said “He is almost definitely going to make State and he’s probably gonna do pretty well at State this year. Si-
mon said he is “a very talented skier” and noted that he “trains almost year-round for Nordic skiing.”
With a new season comes new goals, and Frieson talked about the differences the team has made compared to other years.
Alpine Skies Through Challenge
Teams find success despite long nights
Dillon Kaiser | Sports Editor
Despite the long nights and subzero temperatures, the Alpine team has experienced success throughout the season. Captain Cole Eckes ‘26 says that “Our performance has been really strong as a team. Obviously we have had some rough days, as any team does, but I have been really proud of how the team has shown up when others have fallen so that we still have enough people counting.”
Improvement, both physical and mental, is a goal at every practice and race. Skier Lydia Geelan ‘26 says “practicing almost every day in the winter” is key during the short season, especially since “a lot of skiing is muscle memory.” Eckes said “I have seen myself and my teammates honing the mental side of the sport, and also taking really good care of our gear.”
Maintaining well-conditioned skis can make a big difference when it comes to racing on the slopes. The immense time commitment of skiing is demanding for the athletes. Eckes says that “Most nights we ski until 7:00 and get home around 8:00, which can be tough on the body and mind.” He admits that past years of experience have helped him physically and mentally, however, he still struggles with the demanding conditions. To handle the challenges, Eckes and his teammates focus on the recovery process. Eckes states “there is a big commitment to staying rested and keeping the body well fueled throughout the tough weeks…it’s easy to get behind on sleep, fuel and hydration.” For Geelan, in addition to the normal difficulties, “The biggest challenge has been coming back from an ACL tear from last season, and trusting [herself] and [her] abilities in the demanding sport.”
A typical race day involves sharpening the skis
and checking in on the gear during the school day. Then, after taking the bus to the hill, getting into gear and inspecting the course, the race begins. What Eckes loves most about race nights is that “they end earlier than practices and [he] get[s] home around 7:00 or 7:30.” Geelan says that in addition to racing, a big part of race days are “cheer[ing] on our teammates.”
Both the boys’ and girls’ teams won Conferences on Jan. 29, who now have won 24 of the last 26 IMAC titles. Eckes is confident in the team’s ability to succeed in the future, believing that “the boys’ team will qualify for State.” He also aims to qualify for State individually. Eckes loves the overall dynamic of the team, stating that “it is the perfect blend of fun and casual socializing, while also being competitive.” Geelan also loves the team dynamic, saying that “Although we are serious and competitive when it comes to our racing, we always have so much fun together.”
ance. We’re doing these by increasing the amount of workouts we have.”
Simon also shared another goal which was building a better connection between the Varsity and JV teams. He said, “We want to keep our team connected because sometimes you sacrifice your team’s connectedness to specialized Varsity and JV, which we’ve had lots of discussions about if we should do that for our team and so far we have.”
cause the races are pretty cold. When the race comes down, I try and just focus and make sure I can maintain my form.” Bizily said that “form is a huge part and usually when you start getting tired your form gets much worse and when your form is worse it’s much harder to ski…Keeping a balance between those two things and ensuring that you’re able to keep them both all together.”
He said, “We have a lot of younger skiers, so we’re… trying to teach them…technique and get our younger skiers to develop.” Simon added, “We want to have more time during practice to improve things like technique and our endur-
Connecting the boys and girls team has also been a focus for the team. Simon said “We’re definitely looking to join the girls and boys team because sometimes they can feel a little separate…We’re trying to do that and we also want to make the team fun. There were a lot of fun seniors we had so we don’t want it to feel like the team lost energy.”
Bizily says that before a race, “I usually warm up and I ski one lap of the course. And I also wear some extra clothes be-
Frieson said his personal goal is simply “To make it to State.” Simon wants to “Improve [his] uphill technique” and “want[s] to get an All-Conference honorable mention.”
Frieson said “We have a really fun team atmosphere. It’s not a super intense team…we’re kind of like a chill team; we like to have fun at practice.” For students thinking about joining the Nordic team, Simon said “We have great leaders and the team will help you learn if you’re worried about learning how to do it.”
Former Blake Skater Finding Pro Success
‘19 grad ranked team’s best rookie
Lilah Johnson | Managing Editor
2024 was one of the biggest years ever for women’s sports all around the world. Leagues such as the WNBA and the NWSL saw some of the biggest viewership and attendance ever and the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) had its inaugural season. Former Blake hockey star Izzy Daniel ‘19 was selected 18th overall in the second PWHL draft in 2024 and is now playing for the Toronto Sceptres. Daniel began playing for Blake’s varsity team as a freshman in 2015. During her time at Blake, she was a two-time team MVP, three-time AllConference honoree, and two-time All-Minnesota
State honoree. She began playing for Cornell in 2019 and had a standout season in her senior year. In 2023-24, she was named Ivy League Player of the Year and was the first Cornell player to win the Patty Kazmaier Award. This award is given to the best player in NCAA Division 1 women’s hockey and is based on both skill and character.
This year with the Sceptres, Daniel has played her way up to Toronto’s top line and has been making an immediate impact. The season began on Nov. 30, and the team has played 15 games, all of which Daniel has played in. They have a 5-6-4 record, fourth best in the league. In their most recent game on Feb. 1, the Sceptres beat the Ottawa Charge 4-2. Per PWHL stats, she ranks eighth among all rookies, and best on the Sceptres. Look out for a feature article about Daniel in a coming issue of the paper.
Daniel skates in a loss to the Montréal Victoire. She next plays the Minnesota Frost on Feb. 11.
Captain Sawyer Guider ‘25 poses after a run at the Wild Mountain Invitational on Jan. 27.
Friesen skis classic in the boys’ Conference race on Jan. 29. Friesen placed 10th in the race.
Ben Aviles
Smith
Figure Skating Prepares for Upcoming Show on Feb. 22
Skaters master teamwork, creativity
Charlie Dean |
Sports Editor
The Blake figure skating team is made up of roughly 25 athletes, who practice both together and individually. According to captain Vivien Pihlstrom ‘25 , “[you’re] based [where] you skate for the club season,” and then there are also “Sunday practices, occasionally,” where the whole team comes together to practice. Pihlstrom says that while most of the skaters do club teams throughout the year, “the high school season…starts in November” and goes until “[late] February.”
Sinclair Christie ‘26 says “we take pretty much anyone who can skate… even if you’re a beginner you have an opportunity to skate on the team.”
Christie also says “You
get to meet so many people that you would never think would skate…I think it’s a great way to meet people in both the Upper School and Middle School.” Christie says that the team is “such a kind collection of people,” and that it’s also “a great way to improve your skating.”
Another captain, Sam Tomczik ‘25 , says that he’s also “developed [his] teamwork and community building” by being on the team. Tomczik added that the team is “a fun environment, and it’s unique, since it’s not a typical high school sport…and it’s nice that we’re able to come together in an unconventional way.”
Skaters compete in certain events throughout the year, such as the one called the Cyber Challenge. Pihlstrom explains, “it’s with a lot of other high schools around the US, and there’s one day where we filmed a bunch of different elements that we’ve practiced. And
then we submit them to the [competition].” Other events include the Artistic Challenge, which is similar except with more emphasis on artistry, which as Christie explains, is a “bunch of pretty things.”
The biggest event of the year for the team is Blake Skate Day, an event that happens this year on Feb. 22. The event is made up of a group opening and closing act, which are separated by solos by most of the skaters. While skaters work on their individual acts for long periods of time, the group numbers are learned the day of the performance. Christie says that “our coach Kelly [ Corcoran Smith ] choreographs [the opening number], and we all learn it on that day.”
Pihlstrom explains that “he’ll teach us some of the dances off-ice during that day, and then use the dances that we learned off-ice to supplement our training on ice.” Learning
Training Unthwarted by Winter
Posada strikes out winter hurdles
Steven Cao | Managing Editor
Upper School student athletes often face a challenge different from athletes from warm areas: the harsh Minnesota winters with cold temperatures and snow. Many outdoor sports athletes are forced to move indoors and find ways to continue training until the weather calms.
Jesse Posada ‘26 , a pitcher for the varsity team and Mac Strength Grizzlies travel team, trains at Tier-1 Performance, an academy that focuses on lifting and strength workouts. “I go lift there [Tier-1] Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, then I go to my club facility to hit and pitch, that’s Wednesday and every day on the weekends,” Posada said. He focuses on building his lower and upper body strength by
the acts takes a lot of time: Pihlstrom says that the day is “[between] 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.” Each year, the event has a different theme, to which the opening and closing numbers are themed around. Pihlstrom says that this year’s theme is “swing dance,” a jazz style. Christie says “We did Western last year, and then before that, we did some Dua Lipa theme.”
The event is from
6 - 8 p.m. and is free to anybody who wants to come. Tomczik says that people should come because “It’s our only event of the year, so it’s technically everything in one. It’s our opener, our final, our senior night…it’s everything.” Christie says “We didn’t have a great turnout last year…so please come… it’s actually really fun. And I think we’ll have
Erickson’s Rituals Intrigue Fans
Assistant Captain embodies consistency, kindness, on-ice leadership
Soren Reyes | Contributing Writer
Joe Erickson ‘26, a name that conjures images of bravery and unrelenting resolve. As a junior, Erickson has already cemented himself as a leader both on and off the ice. Yet, a sense of nonchalant mystery surrounds him, increasing his allure. His pregame rituals display his meticulousness and consistency.
Before each game, Erickson enjoys dining on a meal of pasta and immersing his senses in the tune “Timeless” by Playboi Carti and The Weeknd. Every detail matters to Erickson, even the selection of his daily hat, requiring Erickson to plan his wardrobe. His dedication to hockey
doing workouts such as dead lifts. However, his baseball-oriented practices are much different compared to outdoor practice. Due to the limited space, players will often focus on fundamentals and stay fresh until they can hit the field again. “You basically hit in the cages for a while, and then throw as much as you can and once it gets warm, you get on the baseball field a lot better.” Posada believes.
goes beyond the ice arena as every night before bed, Erickson practices his celebrations in the mirror to ensure they are game-ready.
Erickson has many nightly routines, such as his skin care routine. He said that every night when he showers, he lathers his face with shampoo, and rinses it off to “clean his pores.” His nightly routine is consistent.
Another way Erickson maintains his good looks and glowing aura is by making sure to be in bed by 2 a.m. to get his beauty sleep.
On and off the ice, Erickson is a kind-hearted and friendly guy. One moment that stands out to me personally, is a time this semester Erickson and I were assigned to the same group for a history project. When we sat down to begin, he turned to me with a warm smile and asked, “What is your name again?” While he didn’t know who I was, his kindness left an impact
on me that I will never forget.
Many fans have been impacted by Erickson in the same way, as shown in the signs they create, many featuring his face, or photos of him shirtless. These signs of him come from many different people, many claiming to be his biggest super fans. His teammate, Charlie Moore ‘26, shared that a large reason he moved to Minnesota from Colorado was for the opportunity to play hockey with Erickson. “He’s more than my teammate, he’s my king,” Moore said, and it’s not hard to see why. Even with all his success and attention, Erickson remains a grounded and humble individual. The Upper School community is eager to see where Erickson’s talent and determination will take him in the future, both in college and beyond. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on how he leads the team.
Steven Cao
Posada plays left hand pitcher, outfielder, and occasionally first base. Photo taken during the 2024 Boys’ Baseball season at Blake Field.
Erickson stands during the playing National Anthem. Photo taken on Dec. 27 before the game against Duluth Marshall High School at Tria Rink.
Steven Cao
Skating team gathers younger students at the Skate with the Bears event held on Jan. 2024 at the Blake Ice Arena to create team bonding.
Steven Cao
Charlie Dean
Code - Switching Stunts
Code - Switching Stunts Code - Switching Stunts
Words from the Expert
Yoni Zacks | Online Editor
What really is code-switching?
According to Director of the Office of Equity and Community Engagement Amber Buck , code-switching is “I would define codeswitching as the ways in which people change their speech, appearance, mannerisms, and in some cases their behavior to fit in or to minimize risks or to maximize rewards in any specific environment.”
The rewards usually come from conformity. “We have these ideas around what’s comfortable and what’s not, and we usually look around at what everyone else is wearing and try to fit into what that looks like. So you’re minimizing the risk of possible negative judgment of parents, of students, of staff not taking you seriously to do your job because they’re judg-
Within
Walls OUR
ing you based on what you’re wearing,” Buck furthered.
To combat this discomfort, Buck gives several recommendations. The first is to find a space where you can be your authentic self. “Sometimes it’s not a physical place, sometimes it’s a person … feeling like you belong and feeling like you don’t have to wear a mask, and feeling like you can be completely yourself, is
something that I aspire for all students to have. It’s hard to get sometimes. It’s hard to sustain sometimes, but having a place in this building or with a certain person that you feel like you can truly be yourself is of utmost importance,” she said. “It requires talking to people that maybe you wouldn’t talk to, going into places that maybe you wouldn’t be your first place to go, and exploring and getting outside your comfort zone and finding a new one,” she added.
Buck understands that every person in the school community has a role to play in these spaces. “It’s our jobs as the adults in the space to create a space that lends itself more to finding that or helping students develop the skills to find them through the various skills that they’re learning in school … it’s important [for students] to remember what it’s like to not
feel like you belong. And take steps to be a safe person for other students,” she said.
However, Buck doesn’t believe that code-switching is inherently negative. “I’ve heard people refer to code-switching as cultural competence, understanding what is needed for certain environments and not necessarily reducing your authenticity in those environments, but being able to adapt to something that’s different than what you’re used to. And so I don’t think code switching in itself is negative, though it can have negative implications on your mental health, on your authenticity at work and what that feels like. There are various versions of ourselves that come out with our parents that don’t come out with our teachers that don’t come out with our friends, and I don’t necessarily think that’s inherently good or bad.”
“It’s a doubleedged sword,”
Saléya Scott ‘25 said. Scott sees code-switching all the time in the Upper School, and used to be a strong code-switcher herself. “Freshman year I presented myself way more open and I always had a smile on my face because people would come up to me and say ‘Oh oh I thought you’re mean’ … I know people assume things because I’m Black. I talk differently with my parents, I use a lot more AAVE (African American Vernacular English)… at school, I used to use a lot more “proper” language … [but] I
don’t code-switch as much anymore because I feel comfortable,” Scott added.
Joaquin Pliego ‘25, a Pre-K lifer, has experienced code-switching in a variety of ways during his time as a student. “I feel like Blake being a majority white establishment and community kind of forces some people of color within our community to assimilate into a box, into an ideal of what it means to go here … I’ve been here my entire life, and yet at the same time, I’ve also
been finding my identity, my entire life as a mixed race Latino person in a predominantly white space … I’ve had to throughout the years find a balance of do I want to hide parts of my identity and be a different version of myself at school than I am at home and outside of school or do I kind of want to merge those two and become a more fluid person in my identity?” He recalled. Pliego has also witnessed a different kind of code-switching. “I’ve
been on financial aid my entire time at Blake, I’m a lower middle-class student and I’ve always sort of felt the need to code switch and act like my peers who are much wealthier than me and kind of acting in their mannerisms to put on a facade,” he said.
Having experienced code-switching, Scott sees both the benefits and the downsides of it. “I think it’s an okay thing. It’s a good thing to have it as a skill because you can talk to anyone…I know how
to survive in different environments. It’s a bad thing because there’s a thing in the back of your head saying ‘You’re only doing this because people perceive you in a certain way’ … it’s a good life skill for everyone to have because I think you don’t want to talk to your friends the same way you talk to your boss,” she remarked.
Macaella Sikhoya ‘25 has also witnessed a lot of code-switching, which she believes is a negative thing. “I think as a community, we
need to do a better job of accepting people as they are so that people don’t feel like they have to change … I don’t think that anyone should change themselves in order to fit in,” she advised.
Pliego agrees. “How I’ve combated codeswitching is honestly just by being vulnerable, by being my authentic self and by finding likeminded people who are trying to make strides towards embracing diversity, equity and inclusion. I think that [embracing our differences] is a really important part of our community because that’s what makes us unique and a strong community,” he said.
Yoni Zacks
Yoni Zacks | Online Editor
Buck
This is Buck’s first year working as the Director of the Office of Equity & Community Engagement.
Amber Buck defines code-switching is defined as “the ways in which people change their speech, appearance, mannerisms, and in some cases their behavior to fit in or to minimize risks or to maximize rewards in any specific environment.
New Year, New Goals, New Me... Is It Toxic?
Fixation on New Year’s as time of change is wrong lens
Chloe Kern | Staff Writer
When you think of New Year’s, what do you think of? Maybe you think of staying up until midnight and watching the ball drop in Times Square. Maybe you think of fireworks and huge letters spelling out whichever year comes next. Maybe you think of the past year or the year to come. And maybe you think of New Year’s resolutions.
I have never been a fan of New Year’s resolutions. I find them tedious; to think of a goal that I can polish up and share with the world. It has to seem impressive but attainable, commendable yet personal. Above all, New Year’s resolutions seem like something glitzy that you would walk past in a boutique window. Herein lies the problem with New Year’s resolutions. Goals should be relevant and raw. They should not have to be shared with others for validation or merit. Goals should be something that we are motivated to do for ourselves.
Statistics show that more than 90% of U.S. resolutions are abandoned (usually within the first couple of months), according to a CBS News article. But why do we make resolutions if the data shows that, just a few weeks later, we overwhelmingly abandon them? Because, according to Hamza Banatwala ‘26 , “It’s around the phrase new year, new me. It’s an opportunity to change.”
Although he thought that the introspection promoted by resolutions is beneficial, he said, “ Having goals specifically for New
Year’s seems a little funny to me. You should always be improving.” I have set a resolution every year for as long as I can remember, but not because I felt a need to change. I set resolutions because of social pressure and the norm of tradition. My lack of motivation shows: I have not followed through on a single one. This year, when asked about my resolution, I thought about something I could say that would make me look good; Something that was sophisticated and socially beneficial. I searched for my response, even as I thought about how I had no intention of following through on my words. “I want to _______,”
I finally said. And yes, that is a blank, intentionally. I cannot recall my fabricated ambition.
Larsen Winternheimer ‘27 had a similar experience. She said of her past resolutions, “ [I made resolutions], but I forgot them because I don’t think I really did them.” When asked about why she made resolutions without much intention behind them (“I didn’t really think anything needed to be changed,” Winternheimer admitted), she responded, “I’m sure my mom asked me and I’d be like, oh, I’ll just, like, do this, and then I didn’t.”
So this is it, my problem with resolutions: they are all for show. They have lost what makes goal-
We need to free ourselves from the fiction of New Year’s
setting advantageous in the first place. Without the motivation that results from timely goals and true reflection, they have become yet another trifle to show off. And this cycle of lies and promises that we cannot help but break is toxic. We need to free ourselves from the fiction of New Year’s resolutions. Goals need to be enacted when, where, and how we see ourselves wanting to change. You cannot just put a timeline on becoming better, and New Year’s resolutions attempt that. We need to break the constraints of timing and persona in order to achieve true personal progress. And this is how New Year’s resolutions fail.
Animated Movies Offer New Look at Life Through Nostalgia
gia and joy by serving as moments of reflection on childhood. Madeleine
Lessons taught through kids movies aid everyone
Animated movies are traditionally oriented toward younger audiences, however, they are also full of complex lessons and nostalgia that make them suitable for any age range, including high school students. Society often labels animated movies as media for kids, which feeds into the societal idea that people need to “grow up.” However, this thinking is extremely close-minded and doesn’t recognize the extreme benefits of indulging in animated movies.
Nostalgia is a sentimental longing or wistful affection for the past; typically for a period or place with happy personal associations. The older we get, the busier we get. With the evolution of our lives and our interests, the naïvety and joy of being a kid often is left behind. Animated movies provide the sweet feeling of nostal-
DesJardin ‘28 and Isabelle Walker ‘28 expressed the nostalgic feeling of watching movies such as Frozen, Rio, and Megamind. Childhood classics are the epitome of comfort, especially with the stress of being a student. Walker remarked “I still watch them to this day” and described them as “extremely nostalgic.”
Research from the acclaimed Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin explains that “[n]ostalgia can serve as a psychological resource that improves mood, increases self-esteem, and provides a sense of social connectedness.” Recognizing the benefits of indulging in nostalgia is beneficial. Due to their nostalgia, childhood movies are good for all ages to watch. Additionally, childhood movies provide an array of positive messages and life lessons. Some of my favorite movies include Inside Out, Monsters Inc., and Ratatouille, which significantly impacted my perception of life.
I’ve found deep personal connections with their message about emotional intelligence, facing your fears, and not
“Kids” movies are not just for kids, they’re for everyone.
letting identity or circumstances restrict dreams. By coming at animated movies with a more mature perspective, students and older audiences are still able to gain much from them. The complexity integrated into many animated movies was probably missed when you watched these movies as a 7-year-old. Rewatching and recognizing deeper meanings in children’s
movies can help high school students enjoy the joy of childhood classics and find ideas and lessons that were not seen before. From an educational perspective, broad ranges of morals and life lessons lead all ages to consider the status quo and how it has changed over time. Exposing all ages to culturally diverse movies such as Mulan and Coco offers further cultural education.
Furthermore, recognizing the complexity and vast benefits of indulging in animated movies makes them a perfect option for students. For highschool students, they provide the benefit of taking well-needed breaks from schoolwork.
The stigma surrounding animating movies and the idea that they are only meant for young audiences needs to be broken. Societal norms that tell students and people of all ages that they need to “grow up” or move on from childhood are extremely misleading. Integrating animated movies into high school students’ lives is extremely beneficial. Animated movies are not just for kids, they’re for everyone.
Ben Passi | Staff Writer
Willow Overcash
Madeline Hou
Indebted to New Year’s resolutions and challenged by the cold weather of the New Year, many are left drowning and failing to complete their goals.
Watching animated films as an older person should be guiltless.
Role of Athletes in Politics
Athletics should follow private businesses in political decorum
Yoni Zacks | Online Editor
Athletes are people, too. In our society, we treat athletes as above people, and ]sometimes, it can feel like they are exempt from the rules of society. In society, we have norms. One of those norms is not to bring up politics at work, which is also becoming a rule at some companies, according to CNN. The same rules apply to athletes: Just like “regular” employees, they are allowed to express their political beliefs outside of work hours. This is especially important during election season, as athletes are often featured in the highest-rated events on TV each year.
One recent example is Nick Bosa. Bosa, a star defensive end for the San Francisco 49ers, interrupted a teammate’s postgame interview on NBC to show off a “Make America Great Again” hat. This is an example of bringing politics into the workplace since he is still in his capacity as an NFL player and showing off his political endorsement. The NFL fined him, rightly so. He violated their policies of not bringing politics into work.
However, I have no problem with Bosa posting a picture on his story of him meeting Trump following his assassination. He’s using his own platform on his own time and not acting as a representative of the NFL, a private corporation.
Some people might respond by saying “Isn’t he protected by the First Amendment?” The First Amendment protects you from government restrictions on your speech, not private companies. The exact words are “Congress shall make no law … abridging the freedom of speech.” The NFL is not Congress, so the First Amendment doesn’t apply.
Ethics, Usage Questions Loom Over TikTok
What does the TikTok ban truly signify to individuals, society, and broader technological landscape within the United States? This question has sparked much debate as the platform has faced scrutiny over privacy concerns, national security, and societal influence.
The temporary ban, justified by concerns surrounding national security and alleged data sharing with foreign entities, prompted deep reflections and critical inquiries. Despite these claims, the app was banned for a mere 12 hours, casting doubt on the severity of the perceived threat. The ban left many individuals questioning whether it was a genuine response to security risks, or if it was yet another attempt at asserting
government control over digital platforms.
The controversy surrounding TikTok also prompted discourse over the fundamental right of freedom of speech. TikTok initially emerged as unique for the diversity of voices and perspectives, however, the platform’s commitment to expression is not without flaws. Accusations surrounding algorithmic censorship, particularly around sensitive issues such as the Uyghur crisis in China, negative remarks made about Trump, or simple references regarding political figures, reveal the app’s limitations.
From a societal perspective, TikTok’s influence extends beyond politics. While some condemn the app for its censorship, addictive nature, and its detrimental effects on at-
tention spans and mental health, others recognize its potential as an implement for creativity, learning, and even economic benefit. TikTok has provided countless individuals with a platform for self-expression, entrepreneurship, and bridging gaps within society.
The ban underscored society’s dependence on shortform content and proved to society that banning TikTok is simply not the appropriate solution. Once conversations about the ban surfaced, users rapidly sought alternatives like Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts, and RedNote, highlighting that the desire for easily digestible, algorithm-driven entertainment remains pervasive.
In the end, the TikTok ban serves as a microcosm of larger debates about the balance between security,
VOICE OF THE STAFF
What does the TikTok ban truly signify to individuals, society, and the broader technological landscape within the United States?
freedom, and the ethical responsibilities of technology companies. It forces us to question not only how we interact with digital platforms but also how these platforms shape our worldviews, behaviors, and societal norms.
The Editorial Staff suggests being aware. To navigate the complexities of social media use, individuals must develop a more informed and intentional approach. Be cognizant of the fact that algorithms are designed to reinforce personal bias instead of shaping a balanced perspective. Users must be mindful of their digital footprint and the personal data they share. Understanding cookie settings, data permissions, and app security measures strongly assist in mitigating risks associated with online activity.
TikTok Ban, Unbanning Leads to Reflection, Questions
Rethought relationships with the app leave some reminiscent
Evie Chow | Food Editor
For years now, the idea of a TikTok ban has come and gone, causing more than 170 million users in the United States to question whether or not the ever-popular social media app will live to see another day. Concerns about national security have caused TikTok to be put under scrutiny over the past few years, but the app has managed to survive several scares, including a temporary Jan. 19 ban that caused a frenzy across the country.
Admittedly, after first hearing about the prospect of a TikTok ban, I was slightly re-
lieved. Through the years, I have constantly found myself scrolling on TikTok rather than doing my homework, or putting off other tasks to indulge in the short clips that TikTok provides. I figured that with a TikTok ban, I would procrastinate less, and lengthen my attention span that TikTok has shortened. Upon not being able to access TikTok, however, I quickly realized the impact of this platform. While scrolling through my drafts for what I thought was one final time, I realized that I’ve used this app as a means of preserving some of my most cherished memories. I noticed the same out of many other members of our community, as I saw my friends posting drafts that dated back to 2019 on their stories. For many, it had become a digital scrapbook of nostalgic moments.
In the short 15-hour stint in which I
didn’t have access to TikTok, I found myself reflecting on both sides of the situation. As I embarrassingly tried to open the app multiple times, only to remember it was under a ban, I realized how crucial it was to find a balance between protecting our privacy and security in an increasingly digital world while preserving these irreplaceable keepsakes. As we debate the future of TikTok, we should be asking ourselves if we are willing to lose these memories and connections.
The future of TikTok remains uncertain moving forward, as although an executive order was issued by President Trump, the app has been removed from all United States app stores as of this moment. It is unclear whether or not TikTok will be bought by an American company, but President Trump has stated that he wishes to salvage both the app and national security.
Pregame jersey for Forward Madison, a soccer team in USL 2 following the murder of George Floyd and subsequent riots.
Ben Aviles
Willow Overcash
Many have developed unhealthy relationships with TikTok, but post-ban, many were left feeling sentimental about the app.
Perspectives on Best Social Media Platforms
Social Networks’ Long History: How They Evolved Over 180 Years
Tracing the roots of content sharing
Cole Eckes | Contributing Writer
Social media is older than the Civil War. Despite the widespread content sharing that has become a defining characteristic of the modern age and “advancement,” the whole concept has roots that go centuries into the past.
The first instance of this sharing of media was in 1844, with the first telegraph message via Morse code; “What hath God wrought?” Indeed, this uncertainty and fear foretold the development of social media over the next one hundred and eighty years. The technology of international media sharing continued to improve, all the way until the U.S. Department of Defense developed the
first rendition of the internet in 1969. From there, advancements in technology grew exponentially as the market expanded and new players such as CompuServe and America Online joined the fray. As the turn of the century passed, social media began to take on the form we know today. LinkedIn was created in 2002 as a networking site for professionals, and was closely followed by Facebook
TikTok Dominates Entertainment
Revolutionizing creativity, connection worldwide
Dillon Kaiser | Sports Editor
TikTok is a social media platform mostly known for short-form video content, where users can create, share, and discover videos that are usually between 15 seconds and three minutes long. Its ability to produce a new type of entertainment, creativity, and user engagement has allowed it to gain popularity among more than 1.6 billion users worldwide.
Although TikTok is very popular, it has faced problematic issues over privacy, data security, and algorithmic control. Some governments have addressed its connection to China, where its company, ByteDance, is based.
Additionally, there are debates around the mental health impact of social media platforms like TikTok, particularly in terms of body image, online bullying, and addiction to scrolling.
Ben Johnson ‘26 lost his ability to watch TikTok
after the ban, as he deleted TikTok the night after it was banned from the App Store. Johnson says, “It’s devastating. I find myself yearning for TikTok and instead use Insta[gram], however, it’s just not the same.” Johnson then adds, “My life sucks after not being able to use TikTok.”
Jay Ali ‘26, a frequent user of TikTok, says, “Yes, I do [enjoy using TikTok].”
He also highlights key characteristics of TikTok that make it special, stating, “What makes TikTok unique is its search engine and its unfiltered content.” Ali believes that TikTok is more entertaining than educational, however, he adds that it depends on how you build your “For You Page” (FYP) which personalizes videos for a user’s preference.
Logan Kaiser ‘27, another TikTok user, says that TikTok is informative and entertaining, as he states, “It gives me a lot of new information and, I mean, it’s pretty enjoyable to scroll through, doing absolutely nothing.” Kaiser finds TikTok more helpful than Instagram reels, saying, “It is definitely more useful for learning helpful stuff compared to In-
in 2004. These sites, among many others, provided a space for individuals to share information on such a public and widespread scale unseen before in human history. Given the immense reach of these social media sites to the public, they were established as a tremendously profitable business due to advertising revenue. With this new sphere of economic potential unlocked, the social media race was on.
The following two decades were littered with new social media companies that rose in popularity, including YouTube, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, Twitch, Discord, and TikTok. These programs quickly reached hundreds of millions and even billions of users. By the end of 2024, there were over five billion social media users, with the number growing by the day. The variety of content and media shar-
ing ability has become a defining part of daily life for people across the globe, most notably among the younger generations. Within the U.S., up to 40% of kids from ages 8-12 use social media, with that number skyrocketing to 95% from ages 13-17. However, social media is prevalent in almost every generation at this point, and the question of social media remains; “What hath God wrought?”
Reels: The King of Short Content
stagram reels. However, it is slightly more unprofessional than Instagram and Twitter.”
Kaiser spends three hours a day on TikTok, and says, “When I first started using TikTok I thought it was useless and then I used it more and my FYP became more relatable.” Kaiser opposes the TikTok ban, saying, “No, TikTok should not be banned because it has news sources and you get to know what’s going on both locally and nationally.”
For consistent users like Ali and Kaiser, TikTok is an important aspect of their day and their addiction is still strong, however, TikTok still faces challenges over privacy, data security, and its impact on mental health.
Transforming content sharing with reach, engagement
Connor Briand | Staff Writer
Instagram Reels has become the best platform for short-form video content, surpassing competitors such as TikTok and Snapchat Spotlight due to its seamless integration into Instagram as a broader app. With over 2 billion active users, Reels benefits from Instagram’s extensive user base and diverse demographics, allowing it to reach audiences of all backgrounds.
The platform’s advanced algorithm en-
hances discoverability when suggesting content beyond followers, and across new creators. Additionally, Instagram strengthens its connection with creators by offering monetization tools, incentivizing creators to continue to create content, thereby fostering long-term engagement.
Though TikTok also excels in both long-term creator and viewer engagements, the basis of content tends to be crafted for solely teenagers and young adults. Due to bad press, most people over the age of 34 are drawn away, prompting an app dominated by the young generation. However, Instagram has still created a space for users of all ages and ethnicities to share content.
Instagram reels the users in by displaying content of new creators, in categories that the algorithm has found you to enjoy.
It is also important to hear the voices of its users as well as understanding the factual basis of Instagram Reels.
Nick Russeth ‘27 claims the app is “sleek”
stating “Instagram reels adapts better to what I want to watch.” A common theme I’ve found in interviewing people is their acknowledgment of the far superior algorithm found to be on Instagram.
The second most mentioned superiority can be best summarized by Moises Huerta ‘27 when he said “The broader app is definitely superior to TikTok because it’s easier to share posts with your friends and you can just do more with the app in general.” This was followed up by an interesting side point from Huerta: “TikTok in my opinion is an app that is there to distract you from life and school.”
This claim is supported by John Piacentini, a professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences at UCLA stated, “TikTok has become a new coping strategy.” Due to the addictive nature of TikTok, it’s very apparent that Reels is far superior compared to TikTok and all other short-form content.
Jesse Posada ‘26 [left] and Jay Ali ‘26 [right] watching Instagram and TikTok during Office Hours in the morning to pass some time.
Camila Pardo
February Crossword
Charlie Dean | Sports Editor
Bears prepare to compete in college
Faith Zhao | Creative Director
What experiences does a pole vaulter and a hockey player have in common? The growth and realizations that come with the commitment process.
At her very first practice, the track coach asked “Well who wants to try pole vaulting?” Looking around, Kate Austrian ‘25 was one of the very few that raised their hands. “I guess maybe it was the fact that coming from skating I was less afraid of jumping in the air and hurling my body at things. I just decided to try it,” said Austrian. “I really loved it.”
Janie McGawn ‘26 started hockey at five years old, mainly because her older brother, who is also at Dartmouth, played as well. McGawn explains how hockey feels, “Just like happiness, I just feel good…I don’t really know what I’d do without it.”
During competitions, Austrian recalls her exhilaration, “When you make the bar, especially at a competition, it’s like ‘Oh my gosh’ I just did it’...it’s really an adrenaline rush, you don’t even remember.”
Austrian struggled with translating her jumps during her practice to her actual competitions. She says, “it’s when you’re at a meet knowing you can make 10 feet and you don’t even hit seven… I used
TWO STU DENT ATH LETES COM MIT
“[Hockey] helped me have a good work ethic, like with school.” - Janie McGawn ‘26
to have a really really hard time with that.” Furthermore, pole vaulting helped Austrian not only test her physical capabilities, but also her mindset. “It helped me be okay with failure and that [when I fail], it’s okay because you go back the next week and try again. There’s nothing wrong with you and the fact that you can’t do it. It just wasn’t your day.”
For McGawn, not only is she passionate about the ice, but also the people. “The community, you meet all of these people and these friends from all over the place that I’ve known from tournaments and stuff and so it’s cool to have these people.” McGawn’s love for hockey extends past state lines, traveling from her home state California to Minnesota just for hockey. McGawn’s close friend and teammate, Mak Williams ‘26 , a new student, recently did the same thing; moving from California to Minnesota for her junior year for more hockey opportunities. She is currently staying with McGawn and her family.
Austrian at first didn’t consider Caltech until a college counselor recommended the school. “I feel like I wasn’t that scared. It was honestly because I loved the school so much that I just felt like it was the right place for me
and if I was rejected it was because it wasn’t the right
students that apply, only 3.1% get accepted. “I didn’t realize that I was smart enough to get into Caltech, I didn’t realize I was strong enough, I didn’t realize I was strong enough, I didn’t realize I could jump high enough” said Austrian.
place and I couldn’t see that.”
“I don’t know, maybe I was delusional,” said Austrian,”but no, I wasn’t that scared.”
Throughout McGawn’s process, she concurs, “I’ve talked to quite a few schools, but I just really liked Dartmouth, [especially] having my brother there. It kind of felt like home I guess. I feel like I could just see myself there.”
Throughout the process, there have been redirections and the realization of the sheer amount of opportunities there are. Just the idea of playing at a college amazes McGawn, saying, “Playing hockey at a school is just so fun, you get to do all these amazing things, you get to practice everyday…I feel like I don’t want to take anything for granted [but] just enjoy it.”
For Austrian, Caltech is daunting, out of the 16,000
During the Caltech recruitment camp, Austrian was prepared to run and sprint faster and faster. In her group, she was working hard to keep her pace with the other girls. It wasn’t until later she realized that the girl she kept pace with was one of the top three hurdlers in the state of New York. “Oh, well if I can keep up with her, who else can I keep up with?”
Throughout the process, Austrian reflects that “If you asked me three months earlier that year in the middle of the track season if I thought I was good enough to be recruited, I would say ‘ummm….no.’ If it didn’t work out, that would have been a bummer, [but it was] just a confidence boost that people do want you. People are interested in you and you are smart enough to get into a school.”
The commitment process is exciting. It’s exhilarating to see what a person can learn and realize about oneself. “Just run as fast as you can. Jump as high as you can. Just go for it,” said Austrian’s coach.
Submitted by Izzie Miller
Logos of Dartmouth and Caltech (left to right) where McGawn and Austrian will be competiting.
McGawn in action looking to save the next shot that comes her way in a game against North Wright County on Jan 25.
Alumni Reconnect in Government
Kelly Morrison ‘87 and Dean Phillips ‘87 share connections beyond representing Minnesota in Congress
Yoni Zacks | Online Editor
“Iknow that if you talk to all my classmates or classmates that year and ask them who’s most likely to become a member of Congress, I guarantee you most would have said Kelly [Morrison ‘87], and very few would have said me,” Dean Phillips ‘87 joked. Phillips and Morrison are going through the traditional transition measures for Congressional District 3, but with a personal flair: the two have been friends since Lower School at the Hopkins Campus. They went through the same experience students are going through, down to the “senior speeches we had to do, that were so nerve-wracking,” Phillips said. Phillips, Morrison, and Morrison’s parents spoke to The Spectrum at the U.S. House Representative’s final town hall, a 300-person standing-room-only event at the Ridgedale Library. Morrison, continuing their friendship, surprised Phillips with a cake. The four of them took a picture together in front of the US and Minnesota flags before their interviews. Their classmates were contacted through the Blake alumni database. Their friendship began the way most Lower School friendships do. Through the alumni database, several of their classmates were willing to share memories and tell stories. “We all rode the bus together in fifth grade,” their friend Georgie Slade ‘87 said. They continued to grow as friends, and by Upper School, they spent plenty of time together. “He used to spend half the summer at our house, because Kelly would attract a bunch of people, and he would
come over with a bunch of people, and he was always kind of hanging around … he’s got a great sense of humor,” Morrison’s dad, Jack Morrison ‘63, recalled. Phillips and Morrison, who to this day banter as they did in Upper School, have very fond memories of their time at Blake. “So we had fun. And we worked really, really hard. We studied and did our homework every single night,” Phillips joked. Morrison’s favorite memory? “Cheering for Dean on the ice,” she said. Phillips fondly recalls the “homecomings and hockey games and bonfires and … probably the same things all of you guys are doing right now.”
One of Morrison’s highlights from high school was Phillips’s sense of humor, which “won’t come as a surprise to all of you … he’s one of the funniest people
in our class, he always kept everyone laughing,” she recalled fondly. Phillips won best laugh for their class in the 1987 yearbook, while Morrison, who joked that she doesn’t want students to see the yearbook, won friendliest.
Slade has a very unique memory associated with Phillips in high school: His unique music taste. “I just find that a lot of his tastes were a lot less mainstream and he was just sort of an interesting guy. His mom had a new wave punk rock boutique when we were in middle school and that was kind of fun … what I think of him is a really smart guy, but also kind of quirky and in a cool way,” she recalled.
Slade also remembers Morrison’s kindness. “I would say probably that she was always one of the hardest working students at school that I know and I also know that she was always so considerate of everybody you know, writing notes, recognizing other people and lifting them up, and that was something that was really pretty incredible,” she remarked.
To the seniors now, Phillips and Morrison have
loads of advice. “Keep your mind open. Learn about things that you didn’t expect to, follow your heart, and be empathetic, know that we all go through stuff. Be there for your friends, love your family. YOLO.” Morrison recommended. Phillips agreed, adding “YOLO. And recognize how lucky you are to have this education for being afforded. And take risks because you’re never going to achieve anything unless you … face discomfort. I know that Kelly and I both know that feeling of jumping into a political race without any experience. But that’s exactly what you all have to do.”
“It’s a blessing to be afforded. When [lessons and opportunities] present themselves, don’t wait because I think we can speak for a lot of people in our country and the world. Everyone looks back one day and thinks about all the things that they didn’t do and they wish they did. Very few people look back and regret not having tried,” he continued. Morrison offered some advice beyond Blake: “don’t let people tell you that high school or college are the best years of your life. Oh, it gets so much better. It just keeps getting better. And know that you’ll have different chapters in your life. Some of it will be harder, some of it will be more challenging. But there’s always something that will cross the road. So stay in the hope. When you’re having a bad day, help somebody. That’s what these jobs are about and it’s the best antidote. Serving other people is the best thing. So help somebody,” she said.
Morrison’s mom, Chris Morrison ‘65, is extremely
“Don’t let people tell you high school and college are the best years of your life. Oh, it gets so much better. It just keeps getting better.” - Morrison
proud of Phillips as he passes his seat to her daughter. “I’ve seen [Phillips] through various stages of his development and to the man that he is today, and he has been consistent in admitting when he’s wrong, taking it when he’s right, and developing new points of view about things in a way that few people do … I feel really privileged to be his friend,” Chris said. Slade agreed, adding, “I’m so proud of both of them. I think it’s great. I think that they both have really sound heads on their shoulders And I think that, because of their background being having leadership …I think that they both understand how it’s really important that they’re actually representing other people, and I appreciate that.” Phillips and Morrison: Representatives, Blake alumni, and, most importantly, friends to the end.
Morrison with her parents and Phillips with his mom at the House of Representatives final town hall.
Noah Zacks
Jenny Crosby ‘87 & Phillips won “Best Laugh” in the 1987 yearbook.
Blake Archive
Blake Archive
Neil Alsip ‘87 & Morrison won “Best Smile” in the 1987 yearbook.
Noah Zacks
Phillips and Morrison laugh as they reminisce upon memories of their time at Blake.
Morrison was a captain of the girls’ tennis team during her senior year.
Blake Archive
Blake Archive
Morrison and King D. Jackson ‘87 were voted homecoming king and queen in 1987.
In a trailer, sitting in the parking lot behind Bauhaus brewhouse is the best barbeque in the Twin Cities, Animales Barbeque Company Jon Wipfli, the founder, and coowner of Animales grew up in Wausau, Wisconsin, a smaller city with large Hmong influence. He describes food at a young age as being, “very simple… just kind of a standard Midwestern fare.” But, entering high school, he says he and his friends “would just go eat at Hmong delis in high school. That was our thing.”
The ability of cultural food to transcend physical space intrigued Wipfli. In the first cookbook he picked up, “There was just so much food in there that I had never heard of. Just completely didn’t know existed in the world. It wasn’t even in my realm of knowledge.” At home, he explained the recipes as “just mind-blowing, all the different flavors you could experience just by picking up this book.”
Wipfli pursued the love of food at the French Culinary Institute in New York. After spending three years working in New York City, he quickly realized “working in fine dining restaurants or being a souschef… If you look at your paycheck, you can’t even afford meals there.”
This troubled him deeply, as his roots in Wisconsin showed him an accessible dream of food. He moved back to Minnesota, stating, “I just wanted to feed like everyday blue-collar people, which is what I feel I was.” This led him to the creation of Animales Barbeque Co. He believes that the fine dining experience still has value, as “you can also take some of those techniques and everything else you learned cooking fine dining and you can simplify them into a system and make really high-quality food… that people come to eat every day.”
Accessible high-quality materials are vital to his mission with Animales, stating we source a lot of the same, from the same farms as places like Spoon and Stable.” To do this while keeping prices low, they source their ingredients very locally.
Wipfli describes that frequently, “I just walk in the market and we just pick out what looks good and then you develop, you know, you take that back to the kitchen and you say, this is what I got, what can we do with it?” This has led to dishes like the Fall Salad where “You have push pears, butternut squash, kale, cabbage, champagne, vinaigrette, and then that seared kind of crispy chicken with chili crunch on it,” which provides a fresh-tasting fall-feeling salad.
Accessibility has a personal touch for Wipfli as well because he is a husband and father of two. He says that he tries to “find someone who’s making just a quality scratch product [at a] reasonable price” with the “trust that it’s…food in my body or my family’s body that we understand…is quality driven.” This is another large factor in his mission of accessibility. He provides for others what he looks for in food for himself and his family.
Animales is located at 1315 Tyler Street NE in Minneapolis.
1. This buttery, juicy, and messy collection of flavors is unmissable when visting Animales. Despite the meat being the star of the show, the pickles also feature with a zingy pop.
Northeast Minneapolis BBQ Serves Up Tasty Eats
2. The Fall Salad, a seasonal salad is a delicous mix of fresh flavors sourced from the Minneapolis Farmer’s Market along with other local sources. Currently, it is not avalible, but it has been replaced by another seasonal salad.
3. The Pork Belly and Mac and Cheese, a frequent fixture on the Animales menu, is comprised of deliciously fatty pork belly with jalapeños and mac and cheese. The flavors combine for a unique flavor.
ANIMALES
As a goal, accessibility is admirable, but what cannot be missed is how delicious the food from Animales Barbeque Co. is. Coming back to the Fall Salad from earlier, $7 was truly a steal. With fresh vegetables that burst with flavor and perfectly seared and chopped chicken, this salad was addictive. Not only the taste but also the variety of textures from the crunchy kale to the smoother and sweeter butternut squash led to an adventure for my taste buds. The freshness of the materials used also cannot be understated as it tasted identical to the vegetables directly from the Minneapolis Farmers Market. This reminded me of a happy fall day raking leaves.
As I passed the salad to
my mother, I grabbed the Super Smashburger from my brother’s hands and took a bite of heaven. Was I expecting a barbeque trailer to have the best smashburger I have ever tasted? No, not really. Nonetheless, it was. The crispy texture of the patty combined with the juiciness of the meat with melted cheese in between two brioche buns created the perfect burger experience that I consider to be unpassable. This is without mentioning the delicious “special sauce” and beer cheese dipping sauce that made this burger so soggy yet so flavorful. This burger required the most napkins out of all the dishes and it was 100% worth it.
After a full stack of napkins, I took the next dish, which was
the Smoked Pork Belly BLT. Now, was there any bacon? No, none at all, and for the first time in my life, the crisp of bacon was in not missed. The tenderness of the pork belly was dreamy as it melted in my mouth in a moment of bliss. It was accompanied by fresh-tasting lettuce and tomatoes and cushioned by house-made focaccia, which pillowed each scrumptious bite. Finally, I tried the Pork Belly and Mac and Cheese. It made me see a cheesy, tender, melty, and delicious paradise. The pork belly has the same incredible texture and taste as it was in the Smoked Pork Belly BLT, but with the mac and cheese, the game was elevated to another level. Throw in some jalapeños and all of a sudden there is this smoky, gooey, melty, and slightly spicy mixture of flavors that not even the pickiest of eaters would dare denounce.
From a story of accessibility to the delicious cookout taste to the food, Animales Barbeque Co. makes barbeque that rivals any I have had in San Antonio, Kansas City, or St. Louis. Truly phenomenal, well-sourced, and creative barbeque that hits the spot in every way imaginable. After the meal, the cold walk to the car was well worth it, because in my stomach and heart, I had all the barbeque-ey warmth I would ever need.
Ben Aviles | Copy Editor
3.
All Photos by Ben Aviles
4. The Waygu Butter Burger does not fall short. It contains two smashpatties with a crisp crunch while keeping the juicy and tender hallmarks of wagyu.
4.
Stunts Authenticity
Stunts Authenticity Stunts Authenticity
responses, the numbers represent the percentage of students who agree with the statements.
What Does Code-Switching Mean to You?
Andrew Jetton | Staff Writer
“C“Wode-switching is a complicated topic because I feel like you can never tell what people are experiencing outside of Blake. In order to create a more inclusive environment I think it is important to understand that people act differently inside and outside of Blake. For me personally, I am a very energetic person and I feel like the Blake community is very welcoming. I can connect this to the ideas that I learned in Ms. Buck’s speech, specifically the ideas about privilege and how you never really understand what people are going through. I feel like being kind and caring will help people come out of their shell.” Will Venable ‘28
hile I don’t feel like I notice many individuals changing the way that they interact with others, I do think that some is inevitable, sometimes it may be something as how they dress. I think that this fits perfectly with the ideas that Ms. Buck discussed, as sometimes it is hard to tell what people are going through and what issues or ideas challenge them outside of school. Some ways I think that Blake students could try to be more inclusive is by welcoming new ideas. For example, if a student wears something out of the ordinary, compliment it rather than putting people down.”
Raina Prigge ‘27
“C“I
feel like code switching is very common at Blake, especially to fit into the language that students use. For example a student may use lots of curse words around their friends but not at home. One takeaway that I got from Amber Buck’s speech is that a reason why harmful racist and ableist language is being used is in order to fit in. Therefore, in order to stop this language we should create communities within are friend groups that support positive language rather than harmful language.” Sulayman Syed ‘26
ode-switching to me occurs when a student will change who they are at home versus at school to fit into a group of people. Sometimes this can be by changing outfits or by speaking differently than at home. I think that code switching happens everywhere and although we can recognize it, it is unrealistic to expect to be able to mitigate it. One takeaway I had from Amber Buck’s speech was the idea of shame, and how people handle it.” Meri Harkins ‘25
Camila Pardo
Prigge