Issue 2 - October 2014

Hal low scar een i ss y sh ort ue fea t stor y by uring a Joh nO sler

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www.edinazephyrus.com

October 31, 2014 | 35:3

TABLE OF CONTENTS

OPINION

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FEATURES

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The last thing you want is to be surrounded by kids who wouldn’t know a basketball from a hockey puck.

16 SPORTS

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CULTURE

NEWS

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

The Future of the Future Thoughts on the Current and Future State of Technology Jackson Van Dyke managing editor Seeing as this issue’s about Halloween, I would imagine the subject of this letter will be a bit of a surprise. But it would have been relatively unreasonable to write a somewhat controversial letter from the editor about Halloween.

In the past few years, we’ve all been forced to learn at least something about technology and computing, with the advent of the elearning2 initiative. Not to mention the undeniable effect Apple, and all the other big tech companies, have on our culture and society. The future of technology and computing in general is something under a decent amount of contention at any point in time. Especially as wearable technology is becoming somewhat commonplace, and computers are starting to be used in radically different ways.

Just as in math class, you can often find some stripped down and essential information about something by taking it to its limit, taking the progression of phones to its limit

would essentially give you an oversized credit card with a screen. To be perfectly honest, no part of me wants to use that. I don’t want the trouble of having to carry something so light and insignificant.

Phones will undeniably reach this point, and, obviously, there is a limit to how small a hard drive can get, or how small batteries can get, but realistically, these things are going to be increasingly done off site. With the advent of quantum computing, the power of a computer is going to grow immensely.

And in the near future a computer using this technology is going to be massive. It won’t be housed in a phone. It’ll be housed in a building designated specifically to processing information off site.

Plus, the model of data storage known as the cloud, which further supports the idea that the hardware needed in the actual piece of technology is going to keep shrinking. This is even evident now in the Chromebooks we all know so well. They’re bare bones simplistic computers. Not too complicated. Just enough processing power to access all your data, permanently stored on the Google cloud out in

California.

For a piece of technology to be a part of our lives it has to feel significant. Whether that comes from it being cutting edge, or that everyone has one, or that its simply outstandingly helpful to our lives.

I believe, this is what has ushered in the age of wearables. The consumer knows less about the technology, and thus for it to be significant, it has to be more infiltrated into our lives. Holding a removed, insignificant feeling phone is inferior in almost every way to being able to quickly access all your notifications on your watch. Or having a fully functional computer projected directly in front of your eyes. The ultimate in accessibility, function, and someday, social acceptance.

This brings up another question of what tech companies are going to come out on top during these revolutionary changes in the tech world. Apple, usually a big player in the frontier of tech, has recently somewhat disappointed its original philosophy. Before the iPhone, the smartphone was a block with a small screen and countless buttons. After the iPhone, every smartphone looked like the

Online

iPhone. Now wearables are the future of tech, and the Apple Watch is quite literally almost identical to every other smart watch on the market.

Minor changes in design and usability are great, but Apple needs to be fueled by massive revolutionary changes. Once Apple stops being trendy, and they don’t have a marketing mind like Jobs to keep revolutionary ideas flowing, Apple might end up a tech company ghost town.

This is going to undoubtedly happen to countless tech companies, unless they accept and revolutionize these new industries as Google has been doing for decades.

The direction of technology is always something up for debate. But as time goes on, we see devices shrinking, somewhat due to processing and storage both happening more off site. Devices will continue to shrink to a point where they will be accepted more and more as wearables.

That being said, enjoy this issue of Zephyrus.

Cover art inspired by Alfred Hitchcock’s “Psycho” (Universal Pictures)

www.edinazephyrus.com Twitter and Instagram: @edinazephyrus YouTube: edinazephyrus Facebook: Zephyrus

Original poster by Deviant Art user teotone92 (http://www. deviantart.com/art/ alfred-hitchcock-Psychoposter-1960-364012639)

On The Cover

Special thanks to Zephyrus opinion editor, Erik Lindquist (pictured on cover)

Annika Kieper, Jackson Van Dyke, and Matt Woolsey (Cover Art)

Zephyrus Staff Editorial Board Matt Woolsey, print editor in chief Drew Davis, online editor in chief Jackson Van Dyke, managing editor Tanner Sparrow, print copy editor

Hannah Kloos, online copy editor Patricia Leach, art editor Page Editors Chiara Kohlmayr Ellie Bender Sophie Cannon Noah Chestler Megan Hussey

Erik Lindquist John Osler Farhia Osman Audrey Sheehy Madeline Marker Staff Writers Ansel Smolund Josie Fay Nichole Schultz

Ellie Kohner Austin Buyse Hugh Cashman Daniela Garcia Anna Gratzer Jessica Mixon Megan Talghader Colette Bruder Lillie Westbrook

Nikki Lund Ella Romanelli Becca Edgington Julia Tollefson Isabel Thompson Molly Sparrow Photographers Annika Kieper Zoe Gunderson

Artist Gage Aulik Advisor Elizabeth Barniskis

Zephyrus is a monthly publication produced by students of Edina High School; 6754 Valley View Road; Edina, MN 55439; (952) 848-3800 x3087. Zephyrus is an open forum for student expression that recognizes the First Amendment guarentee of freedom of the press, and abides by Tinker standard. Opinions published in Zephyrus do not necessarily reflect the views of the entire staff, advisor, administration, or entire student body. Submissions and letters are printed based on space available. Anonymous letters may be printed only if a Zephyrus advisor or editor knows the author’s identity. Letters should be mailed to the school or given to the advisor or a staff member. Zephyrus reserves the right to edit any letters for clarity and length.

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NEWS

Building Up Experience Noah Chestler Opinion editor

Sophomore Creating Medical Club Anna Gratzer Staff writer The Medical Doctorate Junior Club was originally founded by Shaun Verma in 2009 in Atlanta, Georgia. He founded the program to have his peers consider their futures more seriously and to pursue his own interest in the medical field.

Sahej Shukla, a sophomore at Edina High School, was inspired by Verma’s interesting idea and created the MD Junior Club in a previous high school that he attended in Texas.

He is now planning start a group at EHS. Shukla stated that an average MD Junior Club consists of a guest speaker, typically a doctor or a nurse, to explain a skill used in their practice to the club. The club meets once again in a hospital setting to apply the knowledge they learned from the guest speaker.

Separately, the MD Junior Club meets one time a month to serve an underprivileged area in the community.

Between those meetings, members learn the three pillars of success which are knowledge (gathered from the guest speakers), skills (learned from the hands on experience performed in hospital settings), and lastly, attitude (which is made more positive from monthly volunteer work).

The three pillars of success also can be applied on seven day service trips to Honduras made throughout the year. In Honduras, twenty teenagers, five doctors, five adult mentors, and twenty local volunteers prescribe medication as well as work on building projects to enhance the lives of others.

Shukla shared a quote from one of the physicians on the 2014 spring break trip to Honduras: “It’s not the Americans helping Hondurans, it’s not the rich helping the poor, it’s not kids helping the underserved, it’s people helping people.”

“The world is not a nice place and we need people, especially youth, to help out others in order to change that,” said Shukla.

photo by Annika Kieper photo by Annika Kieper

This year, thanks to Project Lead The Way (PLTW) teacher Jodi Ramirez, a new pilot program for Edina High School students has started in PLTW. A select few students are now able to go off campus every week and participate in an engineering internship.

Seniors Logan Ramlet and Tony Tolins share their experiences with the program so far.

“Ms. Ramirez could tell that I was really interested in engineering and that I could broaden my horizons with different kinds of engineering,” said Ramlet when asked about how he got chosen to take part in the internship.

Both Ramlet and Tolins are working at Precision Gasket Company (PGC) for their eight-week internship. “PGC specializes in adhesives, gasketing, EMI-thermal, and sound and vibration technology,” said Tolins.

Both interns are working with applications engineers, whose job it is to plan out the design and implementation of products. “The applications engineer I work with is named Tristan, we will sit down and he will run me through his current status and projects. We will discuss the theories behind the applications which he chooses materials for. I’d say I definitely learn a lot [from Tristan],” said Ramlet.

Tolins has been assigned to assess and control sound vibrations in cars. “I’m getting to address a real world problem that is directly connected to me and use the real engineering and problem solving techniques to address this problem,” said Tolins.

The interns are working at PGC three days a week, for an hour at a time. While the internship is unpaid, they are “gaining valuable knowledge and getting real world experience as engineers,” said Tolins.

Taking PLTW classes throughout high school has been a help in the internship for both students. “The classes I have taken have

taught me the basic concepts of engineering and some specific knowledge that has helped me understand what is going on at PGC,” said Tolins.

Being an intern at PGC is not only a good learning experience, but has also helped shape their future. “I’d definitely say that I’m going to be an engineer when I’m older, that’s what I want to go to school for,” said Ramlet.

Experiences like these are what has given EHS a reputation for being a great place to learn, as all sorts of opportunities are available for students who are willing to commit themselves. “I think that it’s important for students to know that there is a lot of learning to be done outside the walls of EHS. You can learn the concepts and get examples of how they are applied, but once you’re in the real world and you’re dealing with these problems that need to be fixed, you really understand how to think quick on your feet,” said Ramlet.

Logan Ramlet, a student taking advantage of PLTW’s internships

Ready, Set, Write!

Jessica Mixon Staff writer

Sahej Shukla, created a new branch of the Medical Doctor Junior Club

photo by Annika Kieper

Within the walls of Edina High School are some potential novel writers. National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) is novel writing challenge for the month of November. According to their website, in 2013 over 300,000 different people from actors, to students, to teachers participated in NaNoWriMo. Participants start on November 1, and work towards the goal of a 50,000 word novel by November 30 at 11:59 p.m.

NaNoWriMo is a great opportunity that motivates young writers to start writing. “It’s a good program because it just gets you to write, and I feel like that [is] one of the major issues young authors have,” said junior Owen Thompson, who has plans and an idea for a novel.

Most busy young authors struggle to find the time to be able to write. “It’s just difficult when we have so much going on to just sit

down for an hour or two and spit something out on the page. But with the month limit and a goal in mind, it gives people that structure they need to get going!” said Thompson.

With thirty days to write 50,000 words, there is definitely structure. “If you actually want to finish, you have to write an average of almost 2,000 words a day,” said Ashley Law, a junior who is considering writing a novel.

The NaNoWriMo program is more than just a deadline. It also offers inexperienced authors a sometimes needed support group. Writers can “make an account on the website, and then there’s this community where [writers] can support each other,” said Law. Some authors even get their work during NaNoWriMo published. Erin Morgenstern’s “The Night Circus,” which was written during NaNoWriMo, spent seven weeks on the New York Times best seller list. Though not many books experience as much success, countless books, from all kinds of writers, get published as a result of NaNoWriMo.

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NEWS

United 4 UNICEF Going to We Day 2014

The expansive crowd filling the Excel Energy Center in St. Paul, Minnesota at last year’s We Day

Sophie Cannon culture editor

A packed Xcel Energy Center on a Wednesday night filled with amazing teenagers from all around Minnesota. Crazy fun performers and amazing speakers all day.

This life-changing scenario is going to become a reality for some members of the Edina High School United 4 UNICEF group at an event called We Day. What is We Day? “It’s an annual event that gathers youth volunteers and shows them how they can make and have made an impact on people’s lives. There are a bunch of inspirational speakers and a few bands that keep you entertained all day. This event

is mainly sponsored by the international organization Free the Children that inspires people to take action to make the world a better place,” explained junior Keaton Belbas, a veteran member of United 4 UNICEF. This year, the event will be held on Nov. 12th. Some of the spectacular talent and speakers this year includes Magic Johnson, The Band Perry, and Kweku Mandela (Nelson Mandela’s grandson).

However, just being a member of the school’s United 4 UNICEF club does not automatically qualify you for a ticket to We Day. “This year Edina was awarded twentyfive tickets… they will be awarded to the most committed and dedicated students in the

club,” said the Youth Serving Youth (YSY) Employment and Program Manager Rachel Grenier.

Before receiving the tickets, the club had to participate in at least one global and one local community service project. “[The club] brought the Trick or Treat for UNICEF campaign to Edina High School and local area kids clubs, participated in the Walk to End Hunger at the [Mall of America], and raised money for [Volunteers Enlisted to Assist People],” Grenier said.

On a global level, United 4 UNICEF at Edina works with the international organization UNICEF in order to make the world a better place, little by little.

Last year was the first time both Belbas

photo courtesy of Drew Davis and Grenier attended We Day at the Xcel Energy Center, and they both had an amazing experience. “The Jonas Brothers were a big plus, but the part that stuck with me the most was one of the inspirational speakers,” Belbas said.

We Day is an amazing opportunity for teenagers to hear stories like these and to realize what a difference they can make in the world.

“The energy was just incredible,” said Grenier. Want to experience this amazing opportunity? There are opportunities to volunteer listed on the We Day website.

Putting a Lid on Highway 100?

Meghan Talghader staff writer

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photo by Drew Davis

The Edina lid is an idea brought up by the city council to bring more land into the district and make it easier for pedestrians to get to various locations.

A “lid” is basically the concept of creating a tunnel across a certain highway and placing a giant space of land right above it. The land, when construction is finished, will look like a park. So even if it’s placed on top of a highway, it allows people to walk across the lid and enjoy themselves. The lid would cross highway 100, connecting west of Highway 100 to City Hall, the 50th and France business district and south on France Avenue to the Southdale area. The creation of the project was decided after noticing how successful the construction of highway lids are in many other cities such as Dallas, San Diego, and Duluth.

This idea had always been pushed aside, according to Bill Neuendorf, Edina’s economic development manager. He claimed that even if everything goes according to plan, it would be impossible for the project to be completed in less than 10 years from now. “It’s definitely one of those hyper-ambitious — some might say crazy — ideas,” Neuendorf said. “And as an aging community, if we don’t look to the future and plan for 10 years down the road, we’re going to be stagnant.”

The cost of bringing an additional eight acres of land into Edina because of this new highway lid is still undetermined. The City Council, however, voted Tuesday night to seek a $100,000 grant from Hennepin County for a feasibility study, and to match it with $100,000 of their own.

“I think a highway lid in Edina is great idea,” said Meghana Iyer, a sophomore at Edina High School, “it will definitely be interesting to see when it’s done.”

Possible revolutionary new changes to Highway 100, this way!

FEATURES

Parents Who Are Running for City Council The Student Perspective

Passion Taken to the Next Level Ella Romanelli staff writer

Nikki Lund staff writer

photo by Nate Saunders

photo by Annika Kieper

photo by Annika Kieper

Junior Nico Meersman, the creator of the Innovative Mechatronics classroom

School, Life, and JUGHEADS Colette Bruder staff writer JUGHEADS is a youth development program that teaches kids juggling, working with third through twelfth graders.They will celebrate their twentieth anniversary this year. According to founder and Director of JUGHEADS Paul Arneberg, JUGHEADS is, “an athletic sport, performing art and mental workout.”

Jugglers attend about four hours of practice each week and at least one hour of outside practice per week. “I juggle three times a week, including one day where I volunteer to teach others how to juggle,” said EHS student and JUGHEADS mentor Max Schleck. Another EHS student and juggler, Riga Moettus, practices the same amount.

Important events for JUGHEADS include game day kick-offs, standard/endurance testing, Jingle-Jam, Juggle Jam and competitions in St. Paul along with in Madison, and the International Jugglers Association Festival (IJA) over the summer. Schleck said “My favorite event is when, during the summer, jugglers attend IJA which is held around the nation.

You get to see people that in the summer you wouldn’t dream of meeting,” said Moettus. “My favorite event is probably Juggle Jam, the big show we put on at the end of the year.”

Arneberg encourages people to join this interesting program. “JUGHEADS offers a unique niche by allowing people to be themselves and more than they thought they could be, increasing both self-confidence and leadership,” he said.

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“It’s about developing kids character and virtue more than their juggling abilities,” Arneberg said. Moettus agreed saying, “My favorite part of JUGHEADS is probably the relationships. You get to know everyone in the club very well and develop great friendships.”

“It’s a way to get away from the stresses of school and just relax and relieve the stresses of life,” Schleck added.

“Also in a world where everyone applying to that college you want to go to is a football captain or a Model UN star, juggling makes you stand out from the crowd and have the people reading your applications remember you,” Schleck said.

photo by Megan Hussey

Having a parent run for a political position is quite the experience. Will Staunton’s dad, Kevin Staunton and Leah Stewart’s dad, Bob Stewart are both running for city council. Will and Leah know what the process of being a candidate’s child is like.

“It’s an exciting process,” said Will Staunton. “He ran for office twice before awhile ago, and it’s interesting to go through the process again now that I’m older.”

Having gone through the whole process more than once, it has sparked some interest in him.

“This process has made me more interested in politics especially at the city level,” said Staunton. He thinks that he would one day maybe run for some sort of political position but probably not city council. Having already seen the process for running for city council, he may want to Senior Leah Stewart holding her father’s try something new. yard sign Leah Stewart has also gained an interest in politics because of her dad. “It’s been interesting to see how a campaign really works, it’s a lot harder than it seems. But my dad has met many people through the campaign, which he has really enjoyed, and which I think I would also enjoy. I’m similar to him in that I like to be really involved, so I could see myself wanting to run for something like this when I’m older,” said Staunton When your parent is running for something as big as city council, there’s definitely some ups and downs on the campaign trail. One thing that Staunton said was cool about the process was “seeing all the election posters around the city.”

Stewart agreed with him saying, “I think the most fun part is that every time I drive around Edina, I see new signs put up for my dad! That makes me really excited, to think about how many people are Junior Will Staunton pictured with his father’s lawn sign supporting him.” But when asked about the hard parts of having a parent running, both Staunton and Stewart talked about their families being so preoccupied with the campaign.

“He has been very busy since Sept. and will continue to get busier until election day,” said Staunton.

“Between door knocking and fundraisers, it’s been a hectic couple months,” added Stewart.

If his dad gets elected to city council, Staunton doesn’t believe that his life would be any different. “I don’t think much will be different if he wins. His schedule wouldn’t change much.” Also, when asked how he would feel about having a parent on city council,” he replied. “It feels pretty cool, and I’m sure he [Staunton’s dad] would be ecstatic to be on city council.” Stewart, however, believes the opposite. “I think something that will be different if he wins could be that I’d be more aware of the key issues in Edina, since he [Stewart’s dad] would be spending so much time learning about them.”

All in all, Stewart and Staunton are going through quite an interesting process with parents running for city council. The voting for the selection of city council will take place on Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2014.

Every tenth grade student at Edina High School is required to complete a three step passion project their sophomore year. Last year, one EHS student went above and beyond, designing his passion into a class. “I find the action part of my project much more interesting than my passion in particular,” said junior Nicholas Meersman.

The class is called Innovative Mechatronics and it is a completely interactive course designed to give students an interesting experience with engineering.

“Students’ interest in the topic is directly proportional to the rate of learning,” said Meersman.

Meersman is convinced that if students are interested in engineering than they could potentially be able to absorb the material quicker.

Each step of the curriculum comes with a building kit that the student must complete and conceptually understand. Once the student finishes the 18 steps, they are given a final project to complete. They are may combine any kits to create a project of their own choosing.

Meersman is currently trying to get his class accepted into the Edina courses. “I am in the process of getting Dr. Locklear on board,” said Meersman.

IN-DEPTH

The Brotherhood of Infinite Hellfire John Osler news editor

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art by Sophie Cannon

FEATURES

EHS Senior Takes On American Idol Molly Sparrow staff writer

How to Find the Right College Nichole Schultz news editor Senior year is something that we all look forward to. However, with all of the exciting times going on there is also the responsibility of applying to college. A typical college talk with my parents usually ends in raised voices and frustration. Applying to college is stressful, not only for us as students but also for our parents. Often times this leads to tension while trying to talk about our next four years of education. While our parents are a great source of guidance, the college talk is not always easy. Edina High School has provided us with many great resources to guide us on our search but it is always helpful to get advice from your peers.

Have no fear! Our seasoned senior class has some helpful tips to assist you in your college search.

Phoebe Cotter “Look for something that will fit who you are personality wise, and something that will make you feel at home, not just the academics, because you will be spending the next 4+ years here.”

Ann Magne “Find the place with the hottest boys.”

Matt Masterman “The main priority is obviously women. Do some research on the best broads and go from there.”

Annie Engen “I always look at the average class size because although the campus and activities are important you are at college to learn and you need to pick a school where the classroom environment suits you best.”

Sam Ehde Senior Annie Engen “Talk to your counselor and see if they have any ideas on colleges for you to look into.”

Sigrid Brost “Don’t waste your time applying to schools you can’t afford because when you get in, it’s even more disappointing.”

Tommy Joas “You have to go to a place that you are comfortable at, and whether that is someplace farther away or Senior Sam Ehde close to home is important.”

Taylor Halva “Only apply to schools you are one hundred percent sure you’d love to go to if accepted. You may think you should apply to fifteen schools just because you can but it is honestly such a pain. Dwindle your list down as much as you can!”

Colton Dover “It helps to find out what you like and don’t like about colleges. Maybe they are too big or too small and things of that such.”

Esme Brown “Finding your right school is important, I also don’t think people should get too stressed.

No matter what school you end up going to your college experience is what you make it.”

Senior Matt Masterman

Suit Up With Wazir Ansel Smolund staff writer

everyday. He has his own cubicle that allows him to stay focused and get work done, but there’s also the freedom of working outdoors in the courtyard area and work with his team.

“I love my team, and the work environment is very nice there,” said Jafar.

Jafar plans on going into the SAP system at college, which stands for Systems Applications and Production.

“All businesses are going to start to use this program, and Cargill plans on adding 60,000 jobs through this system,” said Jafar on how the SAP system will help him with his career.

Jafar plans on getting a two year information technology degree, so he can quickly get back into the workforce at Cargill.

“I’ve learned that the corporate world isn’t actually that hard, it’s not the

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cliche everyone thinks,” said Jafar on his experience thus far at his internship. Jafar would recomend to any high schooler to look into getting an internship.

photo by Nate Saunders

Wazir Jafar doesn’t have the normal daily schedule of most students at Edina.

You may have noticed him walking around the school in one of his forty dress shirts and multiple suits. He leaves every day after third hour to go to Cargill, a Fortune 500 company, where he has a paid internship.

Jafar got the internship through a program called Genesis Works, a program that helps students get paid internships. To get that internship, you are required to go through eight weeks of training. So this past summer, Jafar went through that training and learned professional skills, how to dress for an interview, and how to communicate with coworkers in an office.

The other half of the Genesis Works

program is learning various IT skills, such as constructing Excel spreadsheets and how to configure IP in computers. “I was able to meet a ton of new people and coworkers.

You never know who you’re going to get to work with,” said Jafar on his experience in the Genesis Works program. Jafar has had this internship at Cargill for about two months now. The typical day for Jafar includes independently reviewing and processing through different weekly reports.

There are also group projects he works on, such as rebuilding a new, organized website and reconstructing the server because he also works in network security.

Jafar’s work schedule for the week consists of working Monday through Friday’s until about 5 p.m. each day.

Jafar has enjoyed his experience at Cargill not only because of the work training he gets, but he loves going there

Senior Wazir Jafar

photos by Annika Kieper

On the fourteenth season of American Idol, Edina High School’s very own senior Lauren Christensen got to be part of the experience. Christensen found out about American Idol tryouts in Minneapolis ten days before it came to town and knew right away she would tryout.

Christensen went with her mom to audition in June at the Mariucci Arena among 3,000 other hopefuls. She arrived at 7 a.m., but had to wait until 4 p.m. to perform in front of two producers. Many people don’t know that the audition viewers watch on TV actually comes after several rounds of previous auditions. She sang only fifteen seconds of “Blown Away” by Carrie Underwood when she got a golden ticket for the next round. “Only about 300 people made it through that day, so I was elated and extremely surprised that I’d be coming back for the fall audition” said Christensen.

On Sep. 22nd there were three auditions, and those who made it through all of them would advance to the first TV round.

Everyone auditioning that day was put into two big waiting rooms.

“The coolest thing about the whole experience was listening to so many amazing singers collaborate for the fun of it. Watching strangers just meet and then five minutes later be singing together is something I’ll never forget!” said Christensen.

That day Christensen made it past her first two auditions, but was cut after her third audition. It was unfortunate because that was the last audition before the TV rounds which would come two days later.

“I was disappointed at first, but the reason I auditioned in the first place was for the experience, and I definitely had an incredible one,” said Christensen.

Senior Advice:

OPINION

North Lot vs. South Lot Head-to-Head

Why the North Lot Rocks Megan Hussey culture editor

When I applied for a parking permit this year, I knew the north lot was the only option for me. Not only do you get to avoid the meanies who won’t let you into the line after school, you get to be meanie that won’t let others in.

There is nothing more joyful than driving past the students stuck in line and waving goodbye.

But seriously, the parking lot is a mad house after school. I suppose the reason is because nobody wants to spend another minute in the wonderful place called school than necessary.

Unless you are able to drive away in south lot right at 3:10, chances are you’ll be stuck there until north lot clears.

Whoever recommends you get the lot closer to where your classes are clearly has never had north lot. North lot allows me to exit the school premises at around 3:20, and this is when my last class is in the English hallway.

It’s definitely a longer walk to get to door 7

than it would be to EPAC, but in the long run I can avoid the lines upon lines building up to just enter the main line. I find it calming to drift through the line and listen to my favorite playlist after a hard day’s work at school.

I know if I had south lot, I would have constant anxiety of dying in a car accident attempting to get into the right lane.

To be honest, I have to give kudos to the people who drive out of south lot every day.

I don’t think I would be able to do it without going insane with worry.

High school drivers are aggressive, and putting them all together at once in a tight space is a recipe for disaster. Add to it people trying to get in from south lot, and I’m surprised we don’t have daily car accidents.

When it comes down to it, I feel north lot is definitely better than south lot. For those of you who disagree, think of how much easier it is to get out of north lot.

The high school parking lot is already messed up, we don’t need the added worry of getting in a position to leave.

Why the South Lot is Superior Ellie Bender features editor When I found out I would get to park in the south lot this year, I was ecstatic. There is nothing about the south lot not to love. First off, when you come in in the morning, you get a beautiful view of the whole school. Nothing is quite as mesmerizing as the subtle glow of the turf in the moonlight as you enter at a time of the day that some may not even consider morning. Parking in the north lot, you only get a quick glance of the entire building as you sadly drive slowly past before leaving yourself with a sub-par view of a hill and a track made out of dirt.

For any Valley View veterans, pulling in every morning watching the middle schoolers milling around before wandering off to their first block period can be calming and reminiscent of the easier days. On top of that, the addition of Valley View parents leaving the lot adds an exciting sense of mystery.

Is that your friend you always honk at or a dad still wearing pajamas in that Subaru? In the afternoon, the parents create a pleasant atmosphere. Not only are they more respectful about letting you in, watching the middle schoolers driving with their parents makes you feel cool and mature as you sit in your car with

your friends, heading home to do homework for the rest of the night like the cool, mature, high schooler you are.

Many people complain about having to wait longer in the south lot to get out than the north lot. While this is true, it is rare that you hear anyone talking about the positives of this waiting time. There really isn’t anything not to love about it. Not only does being enclosed in a car with others force everyone to talk to each other, the drama caused by people honking and yelling at each other from their cars is far more exciting than any show on Netflix that you could be watching at home.

For many athletes, the off-season can cause you to become out of shape. If this is a concern of yours, make sure you carpool with someone with a south Lot parking pass before you can get your own (which you will definitely want to). Not only is trying to get out to your car before the lines get too long a mediumintensity cardio workout (results do depend on current fitness levels), the exhilaration is comparable if not greater than the suspense of the final seconds of any sporting event.

If parking in the south lot has taught me anything, it is not to take life to seriously. You never know what fun, exciting, moment you may miss if you’re not forced to slow down and enjoy the ride.

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photos by Annika Kieper & Zoe Gunderson

OPINION

Juniors Leave Anyway Why Juniors Should Be Allowed to Leave For Collaborative Time Audrey Sheehy in-depth editor

Is Edina Too Competitive?

Photo by Patricia Jackson

The “Average” Student Here is an Outstanding Student Somewhere Else

Senior Sidonie Gindre working hard during collaborative time

Photo by Patricia Jackson

The current rule is that only seniors are allowed to leave campus for early releases and lunch, but Collaborative Wednesdays give all students almost two hours of time. Juniors should be allowed to leave.

The main objections include that leaving campus is a senior privilege and that there are school liability issues. Additionally, arguments have been made that juniors need to stay focused as well as there has to be limits set on who is able to leave. But I am here to tell you that none of these arguments are strong when compared to the contrary.

Don’t seniors have enough privileges already? There are so many they could probably fill a page. To name a few, seniors get Senior Women apparel, they can be super fans, attend prom, be elected to Homecoming and Sweethearts courts, and get guaranteed tickets to the state hockey games. Let’s be honest seniors, last year you would have agreed, so step back into your junior shoes to consider this argument.

Yes, the school does have liability, but if juniors get signed permission slips from their parents that would be taken care of. Plus a lot

of juniors and seniors are the same age, so why can a seventeen-year-old senior leave campus but a seventeen-year-old junior can’t?

That legally does not make any sense. The title is the only difference between being told you may leave and getting stopped by a security guard. If there should be any restriction, it should be on age not class.

Allowing juniors to leave during collab time would also be beneficial. Not only would collab time allow them to take a break from school and clear their minds, it would allow them to be able to leave and go home. Some students just need to be at home in a completely silent environment to be productive. Also, juniors leaving during collab time helps boost Edina’s local restaurants.

With more students leaving and having time for lunch, more money will be spent on food.

In terms of giving juniors time to catch up on the most rigorous year of high school, isn’t that their own personal responsibility?

If they aren’t driven enough to do their work then either they will suffer or their parents won’t sign the permission slip. This is a world of personal choice and at some point students need to be held accountable.

All this being said, sophomores should still be required to stay on campus during collab.

Junior Thomas Brandt getting caught while leaving during collaborative time A majority of juniors and seniors have their licenses. Also, sophomores are new to the high school, they need the extra help from teachers to transition into a harder high school curriculum. Many high schools let both juniors and seniors leave for lunch period, all I am asking for is that juniors leave during collaborative time. If we are going to be honest with ourselves, an amount of juniors leave Ellie Kohner staff writer Edina, home of the cake eaters, Hornets and overachievers; not only do we have the reputation of being wealthy, but working harder than anyone else in and outside of school. We have high standards to maintain and live up to. But are we taking this too far?

Not only do many students achieve 4.0s, but also participate in athletics, clubs, volunteering and many more extracurriculars. Gotta fill all those activity spaces on the college applications right?

Edina High School students seem to work harder, do more, and achieve just about everything.

Students spend countless hours working on homework, studying, and trying to keep up with everything else.

Sleeping eight or more hours is rare on school nights due to the heavy workload many students are signed up for.

So, you may ask, just how one achieves such goals just in high school? Just ask one of our sixteen National Merit Semifinalists.

Just this year according to the Daily Beast, we were ranked 57th out of over 1,200 public high schools in the nation. The highest any Minnesota public

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anyways, even with the restrictions and rules. Sure, the punishments are severe, but only if you get caught. We should lift this restriction so juniors at least have the choice to leave because it would provide them with more options that aren’t provided during collaborative time at EHS.

high school has ever been ranked. Could it be all those AP classes students are taking? Or the hard work and dedication Edina students have been putting in.

Besides all of these extracurricular activities, students at EHS take an insane amount of AP, enriched and advanced classes. All these kids taking AP classes are starting to create a contest about who can take the most, or who can get their GPA the highest.

Now Edina is even thinking about adding an IB program. Not only do these classes help push GPAs past 4.0’s, but show colleges you’re ready for the next step and will succeed at their school. Not all effects of these classes are positive though; many students push themselves too hard and wear themselves out.

Senior Matt Jirsa said overachieving at Edina is “like getting a twenty-piece McNuggests, knowing you probably got too much but you eat them and make it hurt anyway.”

The ACT is becoming another place where it’s not just about doing your best, but having to do better than everyone you know. People used to take the ACT once or twice without studying; but now students are starting to take it 3,4 or even 5 times. Spending hours studying up, thousands of dollars on tutoring and some kids are even going to extremes and using drugs such as Adderall. These extremes are becoming a “norm” and I believe it’s just becoming too much.

Overall Edina’s academic achievements are exceptional. We have high standards we have held for many years and students are pushing themselves harder than ever. Don’t get too caught up on being the best, it is just high school, spend some time enjoying it.

OPINION

Educating About Rape Culture Early Hannah Kloos online copy editor Open any newspaper and you’ll see the headlines: “University of WisconsinMilwaukee fraternity suspended over date rape allegations”, “Columbia student carrying mattress until alleged rapist leaves”, “85 colleges under federal investigation for sexual assault cases”, etc. These are just a few examples that are contributing to what’s being called “America’s college rape epidemic.”

At Edina High School, around ninety-six per cent of our students are college-bound, and yet there is no solid framework to educate all students about sexual assault. This needs to change.

The statistics surrounding sexual assault are startling. One in five women will be raped before they graduate college. Unfortunately, only twelve percent of these cases will ever be reported, partly due to the debilitating

shame surrounding this issue and perpetual mishandling of cases by universities.

Talking about sex, especially consensual, safe sex can be uncomfortable, but we have to do it, and high schools can be involved in this process. I’m not talking about typical sex-ed classes, because although they often have the right intentions, critical

messages can get lost in inherently preachy teacher-to-student dynamics.

Additionally, while I encourage everyone to have at least a basic knowledge of selfdefense, by only focusing on instructing potential victims, a crucial opportunity is being bypassed. In an ideal world, self-defense wouldn’t be necessary at all.

Programs like Mentors in Violence Prevention (MVP) that have been implemented in school districts in Massachusetts, Iowa, Colorado, Washington, and elsewhere, put a greater emphasis on student leadership, especially among male student-athletes, who are six times more likely to commit crimes of sexual assault than their peers. They also utilize a bystander approach that empowers students to intervene if they suspect abuse and support those who have been abused.

In Edina, where education is so prized, we have an opportunity to broaden our definition to include teaching these important life skills.

If a program like this were to be enacted at Edina High School, students could enter college with the awareness and sensibility to help prevent sexual assault for themselves and their new communities. We have the resources and responsibility to make this a priority. It’s up to us.

Why Gym Class Should be Redesigned Patricia Leach art editor

Cheer member Sarah Jerstad.

My second recommendation is to require other students to complete a certain amount of physical activity a week, during the school year and record it. It essentially just be online gym; completing gym outside of school.

The only difference would be that it

online gym then they get less options than the other kids. Opportunities through the school system should be inclusive and not favor students who have more money.

I understand that you have to pay for the teacher, but taking an extra class like zero hour is free and kids don’t have to pay for it. If they

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photo by Patricia Jackson

Gym class. We’ve all been there. We’ve all suffered through countless fitness tests, the awkward mile run where you realize that the last time you ran may or may not have been in the 2nd grade. Or you’re on the other end of the spectrum: an athlete. You go running everyday and spend three hours a day at practice, the last thing you want is to be surrounded by kids who wouldn’t know a basketball from a hockey puck.

It’s safe to say that we’re all at different places in our “physical journey” and of course physical fitness is important; but is it really necessary to spend an entire class on it if you’re in good shape? Is it fair to force students who are anxious about their physical fitness to embarrass themselves? I think not.

“No one likes going to class all sweaty and gross. When I come to school I want to look and feel good, both of which gym negates,” said senior Max Kile.

This is not a critique of our gym teachers; don’t be confused. Edina has excellent gym teachers and great facilities.

Physical fitness is incredibly important.

Numerous articles including one by the Research Centre for Gender and Health support the need for exercise, linking it to improved mental health and overall well Students Evan Holm, Colin Dobin, Sia Tortorelis, Paige Briggs, and Cristiana Hawthorne demonstate being. But there has to be another way. the drag that is gym class.

My recommendation is a two part system would be at no cost to the student. They have do an outside of school independent study that benefits both ends of the spectrum. a program like this in the summer called filling their gym requirement it should be free.

First off, students who are in a Varsity sport Options, but a lot of kids work or travel in “If you are going to require us to take a or are involved in any type of regular physical the summer making it inconvenient. It also class then we shouldn’t have to pay for it, activity should be exempted from gym requires you clock in time at the weight room, especially if we are only doing online gym so altogether. The goal is to have physically fit which would be difficult for some students to we can take a different class,” said Jerstad. students and kids who play sports intensively find transportation.

Besides the previously stated points stated receive plenty of exercise.

I’ve never understood why students above, indepently filling your own physical “I feel like if I am representing Edina in a must pay to do outside gym when it saves the fitness requires gives the student myriad varsity sport that I should not be required to schools money for teachers and resources. benefits for which they will be better off. First take gym. I’m already working my but off in Also, if there’s a student who can’t afford off is the time it saves students. Without gym, practice,” said senior and Varsity Competition

students can take more classes.

For students hoping to maximize the number of AP classes they complete before they graduate, they can take extra AP classes.

This helps them get through college faster and save money.

A second advantage to independent gym is that students get to work out the way they want. Having control over their physical fitness makes it feel less forced and more enjoyable. They don’t have to sit in gym playing badminton when they would rather be swimming or jumping rope.

Furthermore, students will learn to work out on their own, hopefully leading to lifelong workout habits.

Thirdly, it avoids the stereotyping effect of co-ed gym. The stereotype effect is a situational predicament in which individuals conform to their own stereotypes.

In the terms of gym, there is the problem of girls applying themselves less athletically with other people. According to a study by Uri Gneezy, Muriel Niederle and Aldo Rustichini on Performance in a Competitive Environment based on Gender, they found that females tend to apply themselves less.

While this is not true for everyone it is a serious problem. Individual gym may be a start to the solution.

The problem is that you could go on and on about issues with gym class and the opportunities it takes away. It creates unnecessary embarrassing situations for students and is not fair for students who partake in vigorous activity daily for sports.

Perhaps at one point gym class was necessary but with sports becoming more intense and with AP classes offering students time and money saved from college.

It only seems fair to let physical activity be left up to the student, after all we’re at a time where we need to learn how to be responsible with our lives.

CULTURE

DIY Halloween Costumes Save time this Hallloween with 5 easy DIY costume ideas!

Sophie Cannon culture editor

Learn more about the Day of the Dead, celebrated annually in Mexico.

art by Megan Talghader

As one of the most beloved holidays by children and adults alike, Halloween does require a little bit of preparation. Buying candy for kids who trick or treat (and yourself), carving a pumpkin or two, and making fun evening plans are all the little things that make Halloween so special. However, the one major preparation that sometimes gets people down is trying to find that perfect costume to wear. Costumes at places like Party City can be old, overdone, and really expensive, and yet re-wearing the witches hat from seventh grade is pretty drab. Have no fear, because Zephryus has a list of costumes that you can DIY on the fly and still look amazing in.

Basic Girl This funny and sarcastic costume will have people laughing as well as admiring your creativity. You can play this costume up or down, and depending on what you have in your wardrobe, you can go cray! An added bonus is that this costume is not only funny and cute, but also wildly comfortable, especially if it’s a cold night.

Materials: LuLuLemon Leggings, Uggs or fluffy boots, a North Face zip up, Vera Bradley headband, and lastly make sure to go to starbucks before and grab a Pumpkin Spice Latte.

Hipster The male counterpart to the previous is as easy and ironic as ever. Go as a hipster! With plenty of practice from hipster day during spirit week, this costume should be a breeze.

Materials: Tight skinny jeans of any color, a plaid shirt, an open cardigan, a scarf or afghan, hipster glasses, a beanie, and some headphones around your neck to top it off.

Walking Dead Zombie Want to go a more traditional route but still keep it relevant? Go as a zombie from the Walking Dead. People who watch the show will love it, and those who don’t will just think that you are a brain-eating zombie! Perfect!

Materials: Take any outfit you want to be wearing and destroy it! Scissors to cut holes, red paint or fake blood, dirt, fake gore, and complete the look with amazing zombie makeup. Add dark circles, wrinkles, decay, whatever!

Group Costumes from Pop Culture Dress up with friends! There are plenty of movies and shows with recognizable friend groups that are simple and fun to dress up as. For girls, be the four girls from Mean Girls.

Materials: Four friends, pink skirts, pink tank tops, and a burn book. Or go as the santa scene and all wear matching santa skirts and hats.

For guys, be your favorite Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle.

Materials: Four all green outfits, four eye masks with one in orange, blue, red, and purple, the assorted weapons (fake of course), and DIY turtle shells. (Take a foil baking dish, spray paint it green, punch holes in each side, attach strings to holes for arm straps, voila!)

Don’t let a time crunch ruin your Halloween this year.

Do-it-yourself costumes are inexpensive and also fun to make. Make a party out of it and get friends together to make your costumes. Have a creative and stress free Halloween!

Red’s Savoy Pizza

Daniela Garcia staff writer

One of Edina’s Newest Restaurants is a Great Alternative to Fast Food Ellie Kohner staff writer

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photo by Drew Davis

Red’s Savoy Pizza is located in Edina right off of 77th and is one of the newest hangouts in Edina. Open till 11 p.m. on weekends, it’s a great alternative to the usual McDonalds or Buffalo Wild Wings. Offering pizza, pasta, salads and desserts, there’s something there for everyone.

They now have 14 locations, including one in Edina, Uptown, and two in St. Paul. A few of my friends and I decided to give it a try. You can buy pizza by the slice or a whole one. Both kinds are delicious; pizza by the slice is convenient for a quick lunch, dinner or snack and a whole pizza being a great size for sharing with friends.

Looking for a new place to eat during Collaborative Wednesdays? They have a great deal for lunch, with a buffet from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on all weekdays.

“Red’s Savoy is my favorite pizza place. It’s moderately healthy, yet greasy, and tastes good,” said junior Ava Kruse. Overall the pizza was great, the atmosphere was fun, and Red’s Savoy is about to be the new late night option in Edina.

Dia de los Muertos

The Day of the Dead is not something that should be sad, it’s a day to celebrate those who have departed.

It is a Mexican tradition, but it is also celebrated by other latin countries. It’s a day to make traditional food, and honor those who meant so much to you.

Typically, this practice is done in mass amounts.

It consists of praying for loved ones. It allows people to grieve. This event is once a year, and is celebrated by many. This practice has been around for more than 4,000 years.

Senior at Edina High school, Alison SantosLanderos, celebrates this holiday every year. “It’s a good way to remember those who have died, but are still alive in our hearts,” said Santos-Landeros.

She said her family is religious, and this holiday is sacred.

The Day of the Dead is celebrated on Nov. 1st and sometimes Nov. 2nd. Perhaps the most familiar symbol is a skeleton, or skulls. These symbols appear everywhere during the holiday. These symbols are almost always portrayed as enjoying life, often in things such as clothes and entertaining situations.

The actual belief to this holiday is that the spirit of the dead visit their families on Oct. 31 and leave on Nov. 2. Often traditional families make altars for the deceased.

The day of the dead is Mexico’s most famous holiday of the year, a day to remember loss in a happy way.

“It’s special because we appreciate people who have passed but also those who are still alive now,” said Santos-Landeros.

The Finesse of 50th and France Matt Woolsey editor in chief Located on the fringe of Edina, to the point where half of it is actually in Minneapolis, 50 and France brings an awesome blend of Minneapolis culture coupled with Edina prestige. That being said, sometimes it seems like there isn’t a lot to do there, especially if you live closer to Southdale Mall. However, it only takes a little exploration further down France Avenue to find that 50 and France is actually buzzing with activity, especially when it comes to food.

With 50 and France being surrounded by residential neighborhoods, a fun night out for any age is a short walk away. “It’s really convenient because a lot of my friends live in Morningside, Country Club, or other neighborhoods close by and we can all meet up there,” said Edina High School junior Maggie Wells, whose mother manages the women’s clothing store Evereve at 50 and France.

For those outsiders who don’t have the luxury of rolling out of bed and straight into Breadsmith for a delicious chocolate babka, and don’t know what to do at 50 and France, it isn’t hard to find something that is worth the trip to 50 and France.

Wells would recommend a “tiramisu yogurt with cookie dough,” from yogurt lab. If your more of a morning person, try a breakfast at the 50 Street Café.

They have chocolate pancakes that rival, if not top another Edina favorite, the Original Pancake House.

Looking for dinner? Most of the food at 50 and France is more high end, but if you’re willing to spend a little more to upgrade from a McDonalds burger, try out Red Cow. They venture into a more creative territory of burgers, like the delicious Manhattan Burger, served on a pretzel bun.

There is plenty to do at the corners of 50 and France, and you don’t have to be a local to enjoy it.

CULTURE

Wuollet Bakery A Delicious Edina Tradition

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Lillie Westbrook staff writer Reino Wuollet started Wuollet Bakery 70 years ago, with one location and $1000. Now, with six locations and a vast array of baked treats, Wuollet Bakery has become a Twin Cities landmark. The original bakery isn’t very far from the Edina store now, located where Broder’s Pasta Bar is currently. Mike and Jim Jurmu (brothers) and Doug Wuollet (their cousin) are the current owners, keeping the company a family-run business.

“Our most popular item I think would be the Princess Torte,” said Catherine Olsen, the store manager and wedding cake coordinator at Edina. “It’s a really classic Swedish cake, kind of nostalgic for a lot of people.” After tasting several items at the bakery, I would suggest their Brownie Enormous, which lives up to its name. But the food is only half of the experience. When I came in, I waited in line for about five minutes for an employee

to finish a conversation with the customer but it all depends on the different locations in front of me. I didn’t mind, I loved the themselves.” While there seems to be no atmosphere and the idea that there were celebration for their anniversary, it seems to regular customers who knew the staff so well. be that Wuollet Bakery will see many more.

“We want to continue the tradition of providing high quality baked goods, classic and nostalgic treats for everyone in the Twin Cities.” said Olsen about the future of Wuollet’s.

There are no current plans for a new location, having just opened a bakery in the skyway in downtown Minneapolis. However, just because they aren’t expanding their reach right now, it doesn’t mean that the bakery will stop the tradition of excellent food and service. They will keep offering all their specialty cakes, standard cookies, cupcakes, danishes, and brownies, as well as offering their famous wedding cakes.

As for their 70th anniversary, “We Wuollet Bakery storefront in Edina don’t really have any plans,” said Olsen, who was unsure of the exact date of the photo by Patricia Jackson anniversary. “We might have some specials,

Teacher Tunes

What’s on Edina High School Teachers’ Playlists?

Josie Fay staff writer

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Have you ever wondered what your teachers listen to on their radio or their playlist? Well now here is your chance. Teachers from all different departments of the school listen to type of music.

Ms. Nimmo (1) (Social Studies Department) She keeps up with the current top hits by listening to Maroon 5, Kelly Clarkson, and Train.

Mr. McManus (2) (Math Department) He enjoys some smooth jazz from Count Basie and Woody Herman.

Mr. Boltmann (3) (Physical Education Department) He likes some classic rock like AC/DC and Motley Crue.

Mr. Sanger (4) (Science Department) On a more serious note, Mr. Sanger listens to National Public Radio. This way he can stay informed and intelligent.

Mr. Diaz (5) (World Language Department) Obviously he likes Hispanic music. His favorite is “Porque te vas” by Jeanette, a well-known Latino performer.

Mrs. Cosgrove (6) (English Department) “Still Crazy After All These Years” by Paul Simon is one of her favorites because she danced to it at her son’s wedding.

Now you can jam with your favorite teachers at Sadie’s!

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photos by Patricia Jackson, Patricia Leach, and

The 50th and France storefront sidewalk

Nate Saunders

photo by Patricia Jackson

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SPORTS

Temperatures Drop, Sports Heat Up As, fall sports seasons are coming to an end, winter sports begin. Players and coaches are getting excited about the upcoming season and have set the bar high.

Boys Hockey Edina is known mostly for its hockey. This year, the teams returning players and strong underclassmen will help Edina Boy’s Hockey have a successful season. “We have a good number of returning players from last year that can provide us with experience, and a lot of talented young players that will come up big for us. We feel our team has more depth than any other in the state, and our coaching staff is second to none.

Like any other year, we expect nothing less than to win a championship,” said senior captain Matt Masterman.

Girls Hockey Girls Hockey has high standards for the upcoming season.

“My expectations for the season are that all of our returner’s take a big leaderships role because our team will wmost likely

They underwent a transition with a new coaching staff last year, but after learning the new coach’s techniques and drills, they are excited to start the new season. “We have a lot of experience returning and the foundation of how we do things has been installed--unlike last season, our guys don’t need to learn our basic system of doing things. It’ll be exciting to pick up where we left off,” said Head Boys’ Basketball Coach Joe Burger.

Comp Cheer Last year, Edina Comp Cheer split from one large varsity team to two smaller varsity teams. The transition has been successful for both teams. “Last year with our two varsity teams everyone was able to cheer at the football games which was exciting. Then both varsities had a very successful local competition season. We ended our season in February where both teams attended nationals in Orlando Florida and had a wonderful experience,” said Head Green Varsity Comp Cheer Coach Jackie Enestvedt.

photo courtesy of Taylor Williamson

Madeline Marker sports editor

Taylor Williamson heads toward the net consist of a lot of younger girls and having multiple leaders on the team will make it much easier for the new girls to adjust to high school hockey,” said senior captain Taylor Williamson.

Boys Basketball

Wrestle Mania Comes To Edina Colette Bruder staff writer

Hip Hop Dance Team Continues To Grow Hugh Cashman staff writer

Hayden Vosbeek takes down his opponent

about HHDT is that the practices are essential because not everyone has a big background in dance, let alone competitive dance. Unlike their other dancing counterparts in the Edina Dance Teams, HHDT takes people who try out and potentially have never danced outside of the comfort of their own home, to their own music just having fun.

It may sound like a lot, but as one can infer based off the looks on the dancer’s faces after performances, it is not all work and no play. “HHDT practices on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:15-4:30.. And every other Saturday from 11:30 am - 2:30 pm... It’s not too much time but you do need to show up every practice,” said Salova.

They have a completely new mix and routine to go with it every time they perform. There is a cost to put out a clean, entertaining dance every week.

The hard work is necessary.

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photo by Annika Kieper

You might know the Hip Hop Dance Team (HHDT) from the screams of excitement before they perform at pep fests or football games. You might know a team member, but the truth is not many people know a whole lot about everyone’s favorite halftime entertainment.

HHDT like all other successful, close knit teams, is a family. “The family aspect that comes with being on the team is my favorite part. I meet a lot of really interesting and awesome people that I would never have even talked to if I didn’t join.” said junior Katya Salova.

The comradery really shows in the chemistry of the routines. There’s a reason everyone goes crazy when they take center stage. “Our job is to pump the crowd up and entertain,” said Salova.

HHDT is an activity that has grown extremely popular at EHS. Along with the Edina Dance Team and Comp Cheer,

HHDT’s job is to get everyone full of energy in the stands. With edgy hip hop beats, the team has a flashy and provocative style.

The team has garnered a little bit of a reputation for ‘twerking’ which is another name for booty shaking. “I’m indifferent about HHDT’s rep as the twerk team, we don’t just go out there and twerk the whole time, we have actual choreography... Twerking is just a dance move, we do a lot more than one dance move,” said Salova. She makes a great point that despite the fun atmosphere, and the small dance party that HHDT puts on the field at halftime, they put in a lot of work to put out the product that everyone has come to love.

“To kids that are thinking about joining it but are afraid… Most of our best dancers came in without experience but they did have the passion. It is a great way to get out of your comfort zone and try something new. You never know... You might end up loving it,” said Salova.

One thing that is important to note

because it’s a blast. Its the only sport I know of that you can slam someone on the ground and get rewarded for it,” Benkowski said when encouraging people to join Zephyrus.

“Someone should consider joining because it’s a fun and different sport that you don’t often get the chance to be a part of a new team like this, ” said Sawatzky.

photo courtesy of Hayden Vosbeek

Edina will have a their own wrestling team this year for the first time since 1994. “The biggest goal for the first couple years is to build a presence in Edina and Edina Public Schools.

We want to build excitement around our program and have it be a consistent competitive team,” said coach Joshua Burhans.

“My team goal is ultimately to get the team off to a good start. Set up a good foundation so our team can be successful in the future,” said senior captain Hayden Vosbeek.

“My goals and plans for the season are to help set up a team that will continue to grow in the future, ”said senior captain Noah Sawatzky.

“My personal goal for the upcoming season is to qualify for state. Being in such a tough section it’d be pretty spectacular to make it to state, ” said senior captain Sam Benkowski.

“My personal goals are to get over 20 wins and go to individual state,” said Vosbeek.

The wrestling season is November through February where students practice two hours after school every weekday with

one or two matches on Saturdays. “It’s a lot of hard work.

People should try it out if they are looking for a challenge, ” said Vosbeek.

“The brotherhood the team holds is crazy. Winning in this sport is one of the best feelings ever. When your hand gets raised after a match and you think about all the hard practices you’ve had that help you win that match, its an awesome feeling,” said Benkowski.

“Nothing feels better than having the red raise your hand and you know that you just completely dominated someone, ” said Vosbeek.

“My favorite part would probably be the competition and teamwork, ” said Sawatzky.

“Wrestling provides great cross training for all sports.

During wrestling drills and practices athletes are gaining power, explosiveness, leverage, balance, confidence, and mental and physical toughness. All of these skills come into play no matter what sport you are in, ” said Burhans.

“Wrestling is like no other sport because it changes you.

You become stronger mentally and physically.” He went on to say, “People should think about joining wrestling to better themselves as athletes and as people, ” said Vosbeek.

“Everyone should consider coming out for wrestling

From left to right: Zoe Lilak, Marni Kolodziezak, Pheretha Quevi-Attakpla, Katya Salova strike a pose.