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Z Dream your dreams
“We’re always learning” is what Todd Chowan used to tell my French class. And he was right. Nobody knows everything, but Mr. Chowan definitely knew a lot. His knowledge went well beyond just the French language and he taught me countless lessons about life. “Practice makes perfect” and “do it right the first time or do it over” were some of Mr. Chowan’s most common phrases in the classroom. As time has progressed, I’ve found that his lines have proven true in an infinite number of situations. He has taught me the value of hard work and persistence and how to always put my best foot forward in whatever I do. I remember one day early last year in AP French, we decided to take a trip to the choir room. Mr. Chowan was playing the piano and I was listening closely to the harmonious sounds being produced. His fingers raced across all the notes, quick as lightning. He was a true musician. When I asked him how he had perfected his playing and singing, he responded with “It all comes with time
and a lot of practice. You’ll get there if you really want to.” He always seemed to know the right thing to say to his students. As last school year went on, Mr. Chowan was diagnosed with cancer. “We’ll make the best of it,” he told all of us. And he did. He often came to class with a smile on his face and a cheerful spirit to accompany it. What a difference it makes to look at the glass half full rather than half empty. He taught us all to look at the bright side of things, which is something that vey few people in today’s world can do. Looking back, I realize just how fortunate I was to have spent as much time as I did with Mr. Chowan. His innumerable lessons will stay with me as I grow older. He was one of very few teachers that I have encountered with a deep understanding of his students. His uncanny ability to understand them may perhaps be the thing about him that I will miss the most. Grant Marks, staff writer
photo of Chowan by Zephyrus
Zephyrus wants to thank all of those who filled out Post-Its but unfortunately, due the number of responses and limited space, we were unable to print everyone’s notes.
www.edinazephyrus.com
Volume 32 Issue 4
January, 13 2012
6754 Valley View Rd. Edina, MN 55439
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News
Volume 32 Issue 4
January 13, 2012
6754 Valley View Rd. Edina, MN 55439
Adderall abused for academics
photos by Stephanie Coleman and Maggie Wyatt
The abuse of adderall is continuously increasing among college campuses due to the high competition in academic performance.
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ollege crack,” “the smart drug,” and “steroids for the brain.” These are all names for the rising epidemic of Adderall abuse among college campuses. Adderall, a drug legally prescribed for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, is a highly addictive stimulant drug. Students abuse Adderall to “get an edge on their performance,” said Janet Schank, a co-advisor of Edina High School’s Sober Squad. The drug can help students stay up late for all night study sessions and keep up in school without feeling tired. “I would say that it is becoming more and more of a problem. I had never heard of Adderall addiction or use before going to college. Now I hear about people using Adderall at least a handful of times a week,” said Mitch Carter, a 2011 EHS graduate who currently attends the University of Minnesota. Getting access to the drug is not difficult. “I have heard that [college students] buy it from people that actually need it but don’t want to use it. I have also heard of people that pretend to have the need for it, but lie to the doctor to get their prescription,” said Carter. According to an ABC news report, 18 million prescriptions for the the drug were written in 2010.
Ms. Schank added that students can get “Adderall online, steal it from someone they know, or approach others that sell the drug.” The price of buying Adderall illegally starts at three to five dollars a pill up to however much the buyer will pay. There are many negative side effects linked to the drug including loss of appetite, increased heart rate, trouble sleeping, and nausea. “It is never a good idea to take a medication prescribed to someone else,” said Ann Little, school nurse. “It is unsafe and it is illegal.” The danger of using Adderall for nonmedical use is that it contains amphetamine, an addictive stimulant. Though not nearly as extreme or unsafe as methamphetamine, the side effects are similar. The Minnesota state charge of selling or possessing Adderall illegally is a sentence of up to 25 years of jail time and/or a fine of up to $500,000. The negative side effects and life-bearing consequences definitely outweigh the positive effect of being more awake for a couple of hours. Monica Omodt, copy and opinion editor source: samhsa.gov
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Have an eighth or ninth-grade sibling trying to decide which English class to take next year? As of December 12, they won’t have to. The Edina School Board, as well as administrators at both middle schools and the high school, acted on a recommendation from the board’s Teaching and Learning Subcommittee. They struck regular English 10 and Enriched English 10 from the class list at the high school and added Pre-AP English 9 and Pre-AP English 10. According to a district FAQ sheet, the classes comprise a “rigorous two-year … course in English Language Arts over grades 9 and 10.” The new course, introduced to help Edina meet the new state Common Core Standards, which mandate that schools prepare all students for reading and writing at a college level by the end of high school. The course also will serve to better prepare and encourage students who might not normally take AP English classes as upperclassmen, to take AP American and World Literature. Tim Klobuchar, the EHS Area Leader for the English department said that the new course was almost approved “a few years back,” but was postponed until the department went through a comprehensive curriculum review process this year.
art by Stephanie Coleman
In a differentiated instruction model, teachers will have different groups
of students reading different books and doing different activities based on their abilities.
”
As part of the new curriculum, teachers will focus on tailoring their instruction to specific students. District Director of Teaching and Learning Jenni Norlin-Weaver explained that “in a differentiated instruction model, teachers will have different groups of students reading different books and doing different activities based on their abilities.” Carol Burris, an adminstrator at a school that has implemented a
similar program, wrote that the most important thing “is not what you teach but how you teach.” In order to determine how to group students, teachers will mainly rely on formative assessments throughout the year, according to Mr. Klobuchar. Mrs. Norlin-Weaver said that formative assessments include small quizzes and activities over the course of the unit to see how well students understand the material. Erik Rehnberg, editor-in-chief (Several sources who were contacted for this article were unable to respond before the print deadline. For continued coverage of Pre-AP English, please go to http://edinazephyrus. com/tag/pre-ap or scan the QR code.)
Features
6754 Valley View Rd. Edina, MN 55439
January 13, 2012
Volume 32 Issue 4
Edina student feature: the Romens twins
Edina High School juniors Walker and Weston Romens are identical twins. When asked separately “What is it like having a twin?” they gave nearly identical answers. “I get asked that all the time. You usually have someone with you,” said Weston. “A lot of people ask me that. You always have someone there with you,” said Walker. They have the same friends, and both play hockey and golf. They look so similar, their own parents get them mixed up sometimes. One way to tell them apart is during sports. “People can tell us apart in sports because we are mirror image twins, which means we shoot opposite in hockey,” explains Weston. To investigate twin telepathy, I quizzed Weston and Walker on their knowledge of each other.
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What tweets topped the charts at EHS?
art by Emily Maenner
photo by Jake Freeman
How well do you know your twin? What is Weston’s favorite type of sandwich? Walker: Roast beef. Correct: Club roast beef on a toasted bagel with mayo and mild cheddar. If Walker could have any pet in the world, what would it be? Weston: Our dog at home, Chloe. He loves that little girl. Correct: A panda. If Weston was stranded on a desert island, and he could only bring one person, who would it be? Walker: Brad Pitt. Correct: Tiger woods. If Walker was stranded on a desert island, and he could only bring one person, who would it be? Weston: Eva Longoria. He has a passionate flirtation with her. Correct: Houdini, to get me off the island.
To read more, go to edinazephyrus.com!
Who is Walker’s favorite boy band?
Maddie Kopiecki, staff writer
Weston: NSYNC. Correct: NSYNC. Sarah Nealon, staff writer
The secret life of a teacher’s assistant
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enior Lauren Bettenga goes to PetSmart with biology teacher Colleen Raasch once every couple of weeks. “When we go, it’s usually a short trip where we’ll pick up both frozen and live mice for the snakes to eat, replacement filters for the fish tanks (if needed), fish food, and just anything else that the animals might need that Mrs. Raasch is out of!” As Mrs. Raasch’s teacher assistant, this is just one of Bettenga’s many tasks. There is often much more to the life of a teacher’s assistant than what meets the eye. Behind the obvious veil of copy making and paper grading frequently are much more unusual tasks. Bettenga has also picked up wisdom from her work as a teacher assistant. She explained, “I have learned to appreciate the high level of organization required in establishing a successful classroom environment. There’s a lot of preparation that goes on behind the scenes!” Emily Maenner, a teacher assistant for social studies teacher Brian Simpson, has similar views. “Being a TA has definitely given me a greater appreciation for teachers in that there are often times when the lesson or material is clearly explained in class yet students don’t listen and therefore clearly miss the mark on the assignment. I try to listen more in class so I only have to hear directions once.”
Of course, teacher assistants are kept busy with other tasks, too. Senior Rebecca Kidder is a teacher assistant in Spanish teacher Alejandro Diaz’s fourth hour. Currently, her main jobs are to write, make copies of, and correct the vocabulary tests for the Spanish III class. Mr. Diaz has also given her money to buy him a sandwich and a coke on occasion. English teacher Jessica Froehlich said that she has her teacher assistants “help create curriculum, manage book check in/out, run errands to the copy center or for mail, help with theater production if a show is going on, assist in lessons during class, and clean the desks and white board.” Does this sound like fun to you? The process for becoming a teacher assistant is fairly simple. According to counselor Lisa Burnham, a student interested in becoming a teacher assistant should talk to the teacher that they wish to assist, and then head over to the counselor’s office to pick up a form to be filled out with their teacher and then returned to the counselor’s office. Although a student can do this any time of the year, the best option is during the first week of school. Clare Ling, staff writer art by Anne Cavanagh
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Features
Volume 32 Issue 4
January 13, 2012
6754 Valley View Rd. Edina, MN 55439
I love you, but… Do you wish you could make up the rules for dating at Edina High School? A rule that would make guys shower more, or one that that made girls talk less? Last month, students in Elizabeth Nimmo’s AP World History classes learned about the medieval practice of chivalry. “The Code of Chivalry,” Mrs. Nimmo said, “dictated social norms of behavior for a knight, including rules for romance and affection.” While men today “no longer court their lady loves with ballads and poems, there are still behaviors desired of both men and women in order to win the affection of the opposite sex.” Each year, the students in Mrs. Nimmo’s AP World History classes work to define a 21st century code of chivalry and courtly love. Students split up by gender and compose a list of what they wish the opposite sex would do differently. Why is the assignment such a popular activity with students? Mrs. Nimmo said she believes “students are curious about what the opposite sex thinks is a ‘turn on’ and what isn’t.” While there’s nothing new about trying to be attractive to others, Mrs. Nimmo observes that the “romantic norms continue to change over time.” After taking some of the lists from Mrs. Nimmo’s classes, interviewing some students and adding our own opinions, this list was produced. Girls wish boys would… • • • • • • • •
Wear sweaters and Sperrys, they make you look nicer Open the door for us, it’s polite Give more compliments, they boost our self-esteem Make the first move Be honest, we like to know the truth, and it eliminates space for awkwardness Brushing your teeth and showering is just good for your overall health “Have guys not be so cocky about everything they do,” Madeleine Eden, a junior, said “Guys should do all the things they did to get their girlfriend even when he’s dating her,” Senali Diasabeygunawardena, a sophomore, said
Boys wish girls would… • •
• • • • • •
• •
Not use “like” as filler in conversation Similarly, abbreviating things and then pluralizing them = not cool. At all. For example, “awks” is not a good way to abbreviate awkward Realize that guys have feelings too Not send one word texts Make the first move Know that they don’t always need to wear makeup Make eye contact Not make inside jokes with your friends around us. It’s really awkward (but not awks). Similarly, laughing randomly and refusing to tell us what it’s about is pretty irritating Take a compliment when we give it. We’ll give you more of them that way “Girls shouldn’t gossip so much,” said Jon Yang, a junior
Even if the population of sweater wearing boys does not grow and the sayings “like” and “awks” don’t disappear from Edina, keep in mind what each gender thinks of the other. It may help you someday. Hannah Sommerville and Micah Osler, staff writers
All art by Natalie Paule
How to stay sane until spring break For juniors Gigi Lawver and Maddie Hartwig, the long stretch between winter break and spring break are broken up with fun mini-trips each year. Lawver looks forward to her annual girls weekend with her mom in Florida and Hartwig always gets excited to ski with her dad out in Vail. For those of us who aren’t as lucky as these girls, they gave us some great advice on how to spend those seemingly endless weeks back in Minnesota as we wait for warmer temps and sunshine. “Take advantage of winter. Go to Afton Alps or Trollhaugen and ski,” Lawver recommended. Hartwig also recommended skiing. She enjoys going to Welch Village. Lawver suggested the “classic sledding and skating.” Sledding down the enormous hill at the high school is fun for even those hardcore daredevils. There are smaller sledding hills at Browndale Park and Creek Valley Elementary School for the tamer riders. Cornelia Elementary School and Arden Park have public skating rinks and if you bring a hockey stick, there are usually pick-up games on the weekends. Senior Jens Foyer spends his winters out in the fresh air. “I teach with Skijammers” he said. He helps younger kids learn how to shred the slopes on their snowboards. On those days where the weather outside is a little too frightful, there are fun things to do indoors, too. Spending time with friends and doing something out of the ordinary are all ways to beat the January blues. “Bake for a friend and deliver it on a gloomy day” said Lawver. It is important to remember that third quarter only comes once a year and that it will be over before we know it. As you begin the countdown to spring vacation, “Try to have a positive attitude about it all and instead of moping around, get out there and enjoy it” said Hartwig. Grace Meyer, staff writer
Can’t vote, but still political T
he hallways of this high school are empty today. The only people milling around the mostly abandoned building are a couple of teachers, some janitors, and the occasional administrator. They go about their daily tasks, writing lesson plans and preparing for classes to start up again. This, however, is no ordinary day. It’s 1969, and outside of the windows of Central High School in Mineapolis, one can glimpse what amounts to a mob of people congregated on the lawn, chanting slogans and waving signs to protest the Vietnam War. Adults are gathered around, trying to talk the students back into their classes. They aren’t budging. It’s been a while since students in the Twin Cities have been pushed to these extremes, but the political convictions that fueled that rally remain, especially in Edina. While it’s rare for students to walk out of class to protest anything nowadays, there is still an air of political involvement at Edina High. It’s difficult to place exactly why this is – parents? Location? – but no matter what the reason, Edina High is inarguably a very politically active place. One of Edina High’s most prominent political figures is senior Gabe Aderhold, who gained national attention this summer for interrupting Michele Bachmann (R-Minn.) during a rally in Iowa to chastise her for what he considered her unfair views towards gays and lesbians. His experience may have catapulted him to fame, but Aderhold says that he has been involved in politics long before this year. “I began getting involved [in politics] with my parents around 2006, but didn’t start doing things by myself until 2008, when I worked for Barack Obama,” Aderhold said. “Then, I had an internship in 2010 for Matt Entenza, a candidate for governor.” He doesn’t plan on leaving the political scene anytime soon, either. He’s one of the directors of the Minnesota Young DFL, and he’s not stopping there. In his words, he is “planning on getting very involved in the election this year.” Another student political activist (for different reasons) is sophomore Helen Risser, whose
mother Julie ran for state Senate District 41 as a Green Party candiate. Due to her unique position as a third-party candidate, Ms. Risser employed her young daughter, 11 at the time, as a campaign manager. “I had fairly optimistic predictions for her,” the younger Risser said. Thankfully, her mother, who lost the bid to Geoff Michel, was prepared. “One thing [my mother] said was that she wasn’t expecting to get elected as a third party candidate, but just wanted a way to get her ideas in the public political consciousness,” Risser said. Risser plans to get involved in politcs in a few years, but not as a canidate. “I can’t really see myself in a major political office, but I would be interested in campaigning for a candidate I support.” To some, though, politics aren’t a fervent passion or aspiration: it’s just mom or dad’s job. A prime example is junior Sarah Downey. Her father is State Representative Keith Downey, but she herself tries to stay out of the political field. “I don’t think I’m particularly involved [in politics], save for the fact that my dad is the state representative,” Downey said. “I get a good taste of politics but personally am not involved in any political organizations, at school or otherwise.” This kind of political discourse is welcomed by administrators. “I think it’s great to be involved in the political process at any age,” said Dr. Bruce Locklear, principal at Edina High School. “It helps students become globally aware, which will help us transition to how business will be done in the near future.” Dr. Locklear also thinks that, in the long run, it benefits students to be involved in the political process. “In the [political] process, involved awareness and comprehensive knowledge of current events are vital assets, just like in every other area of life.” Micah Osler, staff writer
Sports 6754 Valley View Rd. Edina, MN 55439
Volume 32 Issue 4
January 13, 2012
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#jabs Tyler Nanne played hockey with Jack Jablonski for four years. When Jablonski, a sophomore, was left paralyzed after being checked into the boards during a BenildeSt. Margaret’s junior varsity game, Nanne was shocked. “It wasn’t a real bad hit,” said Nanne, “but the results were horrible.”
photo by Ali Miller
Nanne is not alone. Edina High School and the rest of the Twin Cities have been buzzing about the injury. Facebook and Twitter have exploded with support. Jablonski’s number 13 became a ubiquitous profile picture while his hashtag, #jabs, was trending nationwide. On January 5, Edina students joined other students across the Twin Cities by wearing white to show support for Jabs.
photo by Taylor Peterson
Senior Jenna Privette of St. Croix Lutheran girls varisty hockey team suffered a similar injury just days later. The Edina boys varsity hockey team went back to basics in their first game after Jablonski’s accident. “Coach Giles told us to ease up on hard hits,” said junior captain Parker Reno. “Nobody wants to see something like this happen again.” Nanne spoke for the entire state when he said, “Jabs is always in the back of our minds.” Vivi Engen, staff writer
photo by Janie Dahl
The Varsity boys hockey team gathers on the ice before each game to boost morale.
Boys hockey hits the ice with major changes “We’re ranked #1. We scored 26 goals in three games, so we’re pretty good,” declared senior Mitch Pederson. At first, one might assume these to be the Edina varsity team’s stats. Au contraire. These numbers belong to the Edina Hockey Association’s Junior Gold A team (JGA). Pederson, a defenseman, is one of JGA’s 17 players, all of whom are Edina seniors. “We were not expecting this many seniors, but we’re happy to have so many,” said assistant coach Jim Friedrichs, known to his players simply as Frieds. What results from this team composition? “We have a team that will stick behind each other and take care of each other,” said Friedrichs. “We all relate to each other. Everybody chimes into the conversation in the locker room,” said Pederson. This team’s chemistry seems to be the secret to JGA’s success. “We have a lot of mature kids this year,” said Friedrichs. “This team is as qualified as any high school team in most of the area.” JGA isn’t the only team that can boast of a solid season. With a record of 12-2, the Edina boys varsity team is continuing their legacy of competitiveness. They’ve accomplished this amidst a lot of new, young faces on the team; in fact, nearly half of the; players this year are underclassmen. “They’re adapting really well to the change of pace of high school hockey. It’s fun to see,” said varsity captain Nick Leer. Sophomore Cullen Munson is one of these young, new
faces who made the team for the first time this year. The age of the team isn’t important, though, according to Munson. “People underestimate our team because we are considered ‘young,’ but if you can play at the [required] level it shouldn’t matter how old you are,” he said. The Edina hockey teams have been stacking up on more than goals and wins. The fans have been pouring in, too. “There are just as many kids at our [JGA] games this year as at varsity games when I played last year,” said Pederson. “It was one of the most well-attended Holiday Classics in a couple of years,” said Leer of the varsity team’s December tournaments. The fan bases have shifted this year, however. Senior Molly Little, who is a superfan for both the JGA and the varsity teams, explained that “there’s definitely more seniors at JGA, but all in all there’s definitely more fans at the varsity games.” Why the concentration of seniors at JGA? The answer is simple. “The JGA are really fun to go to because we get to cheer on our [senior] friends and it’s free,” said Little. Where seniors play, seniors will stay—and watch. Edina hockey is seeing some major changes in players’ age and fan base this season. Still, the players are winning and the fans are happy. “There are more games to go to, which is the important thing. We all love to watch hockey,” said Little. Tyler Gieseke, opinion editor
The unsung heroes of the game
E
dina High School is revered for its strong athletes; young warriors like soccer star, sophomore, Lara Boman and hockey hero, junior, Parker Reno are praised on the daily for their performance on varsity teams. However, behind every celebrated athlete is a less celebrated, but still valuable, athlete. These high school stars are often labeled as benchwarmers. “We are an extremely misunderstood group,” said senior varsity football player Jimmy Jensen stated. The term benchwarmer often has a negative stigma attached to it, when in reality benchwarmers play an important role on the team. “We keep the towels ready for the starters and provide emotional support when we lose,” Jensen added. Senior Max Feinberg, who “usually starts on the left bench” of the varsity soccer team thinks of himself “as more of a leader than a player.” And, what’s a team without leaders? Jensen advised benchwarmers to “go to lots of team parties. Also, only attend 76% percent of practices.” He also promotes having good relationships with fellow benchwarmers. Some of his favorite fellow benchwarmers from the 2011 season included seniors Reece Williamson and Peter Wikman and
juniors Peter Heffelfinger and “Marley Allison, when he’s faking an injury.” Feinberg humorously suggested wearing warm clothes and not worrying about paying attention to the game. Brad Dahlman, an EHS football coach, stated that benchwarmers “bring a lot of morale to the team.” Jensen added that “high school football has been a great ride, and I would do it all over again if I could.” While senior benchwarmers are pretty lax, many benchwarmers, especially younger athletes, warm the bench to get a chance to play varsity and be a starter the following season. Sophomore Henry Rose, member of the varsity hockey team, claimed he might be on first or second line by senior year. Jon Yang, junior and varsity tennis player, was a benchwarmer his freshman year. However, after working hard and sticking it out through the season, he has become one of the tennis team’s top players. He would not have been able to do this without benchwarmers. “Senior benchwarmers, like Doug Baker, [who graduated in 2010] inspired me to work hard and be on top.” Tara Gupta, staff writer
art by Anne Cavanagh
8 Opinion
www.edinazephyrus.com
Volume 32 Issue 4
January 13, 2012
6754 Valley View Rd. Edina, MN 55439
Staff editorial: The teenage truth on ageism
I
am sick of being treated like an immature, hoodlum teenager who walks around with a complete disregard for everyone else. I don’t like shopping since I can never get attention from clerks. I don’t like going out to eat with friends because waiters tend to treat us poorly. People often forget that ageism, a term, which typically refers to older people being discriminated against in the work place, also applies to teenagers in their daily lives. Teenage hooligans and troublemakers do exist, but those are not grounds on which to write off their entire age group as equally bothersome. Take Perkins, for instance. The last time I was there was in late October. I arrived with some friends, and before even seating us, the hostess demanded that we each purchase something off the menu if we were going to stay. Throughout the rest of the evening, I watched said hostess to see if she would repeat her instructions to any adults. She did not. Since then, I haven’t returned to Perkins. How about when it comes to more serious things, like the police? Isn’t it true that as teenagers, the cops are more likely to pull us over for minor infractions when they may have left an adult go under the same circumstances? Most cops would argue that these are precautionary measures, believing that teenagers make up the age group most likely to get into an accident. This is a common misconception. According to study conducted by the National Youth Rights Association (NYRA), drivers between the ages of 25 and 34 are twice as likely as teenagers to have an accident. The same thing goes for curfew. Originally introduced to reduce crime, curfews became popular across the U.S. with the spread of
vandalism, often assumed to be the handiwork of teenagers. I have no doubt that at some point, some rebellious teen somewhere drew some graffiti under the cover of night, but I should not have to come home by a certain time simply because authorities fear that I might do the same. In fact, the NYRA conducted a separate study about the affects of curfews on crime rates. The study revealed that the repeal of strictly enforced curfews actually decreased crime rates more than the original implementation of the curfews. Now why should my age be a determining factor in how I am viewed? Should adults treat teens with a lower level of professionalism, respect, or trust simply because they were born earlier? I don’t think so. As a teenager, I am willing to accept that there are people both young and old who are superior to me in many ways. Why can’t adults? I would go so far as to say that this belief in equal respect for all ages should stretch to our government’s foundations. For example, our Founding Fathers believed in no taxation without representation. Well, I hold a job. I pay taxes. And I can’t remember the last time a government official highlighted teen interests in their political platform. Yes, with age comes wisdom. Yes, there are teenagers who are up to no good. And yes, teenagers still have a lot to learn. But all that does not make it acceptable for anyone of any age to be ageist towards teenagers. Alma Pronove, editor in chief, writing for the Zephyrus Staff
art by Natalie Paule
Political scandals: Entertaining political corruption
art by Kat Skibbe
Occupy poll results According to www.edinazephyrus.com
• I do not support it (44%, 11 votes)
• I support it (40%, 10 votes)
• I do not have an opinion about the Occupy movement (16%, 4 votes)
I love a good political scandal. There’s just something about seeing a public fi gure preaching values on CNN one week and going to court the next. It’s just awesome, it’s one more for the little guy, its shadenfreude in its purest form, I mean, I may not be a lawmaker, but at least I’m not a hypocrite. Political scandals have gone a long way since the days of Woodworth and Bernstein. In the old days if you revealed secrets concerning your governing officials, you were branded a communist and sent to the “freedom pits” but now, with the free and easy exchange of information, political scandals are much more prevalent. The two biggest scandals in the last year are the Weiner and Cain scandals and, because Karma is bi-partisan, they happen to represent opposite sides of the political spectrum. In May 2011 Anthony Weiner used his Twitter account to send pictures of his “whatnots” to a young woman in Washington. If you think this journalist is immature enough to poke jokes about the irony of this situation, then you are absolutely right. Everything about this was priceless, Weiner sent pictures of his “weiner” over his public Twitter account, I mean, come on man think, the universe even tried to tell you that was a stupid idea. And then there is Herman Cain. Since October 30 four women have come out and accused Cain of sexual harassment, and one has said that she and Cain have had an affair for fifteen years. Before this, Cain was in the front runner of the Republican presidential campaign, and now he has dropped out of the race completely. Political scandals are the quasi-intellectual’s “Entertainment Tonight” he can gossip and judge but, at the same time, he feels intelligent because he is making observations on people and issues that matter. The only difference between Larry Craig and Paris Hilton is one is a senator and the other is...a...hotel heiress? When you get down to it, Bill and Hillary are no different than Brad and Angelina and because of this, political scandals will be around for a long time. Thomas Matthes, staff writer
Zephyrus Staff
editors in chief: Alma Pronove, Erik Rehnberg, Krystal Walker copy editor: Monica Omodt art editor: Natalie Paule advertising manager: Michael Jacobson news editors: Stephanie Coleman, Michael Jacobson features editors: Anna Ellingboe, Ellie Lagorio sports editor: Rayelle Washington in-depth editor: Andrea Kimball opinion editors: Tyler Gieseke, Monica Omodt culture editors: Sloane Nilsen, Ashley Smith back page editors: Natalie Paule, Alma Pronove staff writers: Emily Cherkassky, Megan Couture, Vivian Engen, Jake Freeman, Tara Gupta, Jack Hulstrand, Maddie Kopiecki, Clare Ling, Grant Marks, Thomas Matthes, Grace Meyer, Sarah Nealon, Micah Osler, Hannah Sommerville, Alex Van Gorp photographers/artists: Connor Bjornnes, Julia Bolter, Anne Cavanagh, Kelsey Ehrlich, Ashley Eickhoff, Jake Freeman, Cici Holmquist, Elizabeth Jarvey, Jamie Jones, Rebecca Kidder, Claire Kouatli, Raquel Radenbaugh, Zai Rutter, Anna Schmiel, Kat Skibbe, Emma Westbrook webmaster: Will Rurik advertising manager: Alex Van Gorp 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. Interested in advertising in Zephyrus? Contact our Advertising Manager at zephyrusadvertisements@gmail.com
Opinion 6754 Valley View Rd. Edina, MN 55439
Volume 32 Issue 4
To be FBO or not to be FBO?
January 13, 2012
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Organ Donation Give a little to save a lot
Yikes. You’re with a bunch of people before school in the commons when you ask how your friend’s significant other is doing, and your friend says that they broke up a few months ago. It would have been really easy to avoid that whole scenario if she just went “Facebook official” (FBO) in the first place, but she was set so strongly against that. Let’s be honest, Facebook is full of strangers. Your closest 600 friends do not need to know every little thing about your life. Not wanting to tell everyone on the planet that you just started dating that one guy in your bio class makes sense. Besides, there’s always that obnoxious kid in the class that announces it to the teacher. You and your boyfriend/girlfriend are now used as the example for explaining how DNA is taken from the gene pools of both parents (you two), and you know it is going to be an embarrassing unit. What is the point of announcing to every single Facebook friend that you are in a relationship or just got out of one, anyways? When you suddenly become single on Facebook, it is irritating when everyone is saying how sorry they are for you, or that they will always be there for you. Newsflash: it’s a high school relationship, not a marriage! Sophomore Andres Pinto said, “It’s their choice [to go FBO], I don’t really care.” However, he added, “It gets annoying when people make a big deal out of it.” Being FBO is a simple way to stop all those rumors around school about you and someone you’re already dating. However, it is a great idea to only date “in real life” (IRL) and not on the glorious World Wide Web. “It’s more private [not being FBO],” said junior Joe Wood. “It doesn’t matter either way if your Facebook friends know who you’re dating or not.” Sure, Facebook is a great way to announce messages to the world, but sometimes it might not be the best choice to announce that you are in a relationship. For some brave folks out there, it may not be too bad when the bio teacher finds out that you’re dating the student behind you in class. As for some of us, well, we will be staying far from “FBO,” so Great Aunt Clara doesn’t dare ask embarrassing questions about our boyfriend/girlfriend at the dinner table. Megan Couture, staff writer
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In 1992, Bruce Paule died of lung failure. He was in his late fifties and on the donor list for a new pair of lungs. All patients on the list were given a pager that would ring when a lung was ready. They would have one hour to get to the hospital. He spent his last ten years living within an hour’s drive away from his hospital. He got a call for a new pair of lungs, but he didn’t answer it; his pager had died and he missed the call. He never got to the top of the list again. Bruce was my great uncle, whom I never met. Obviously, organ donation is close to my heart and I am a strong proponent of it, but I still feel like there are enough benefits that everyone should become a donor, or at least strongly consider it. I realize that some may be concerned by where your body parts will go after you die, but what’s the point in freaking out if we won’t be there to see what happens to us? Our bodies aren’t of any use to us after we die, and they will just rot in the ground if they are not used. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, one body donation can save a at least eight lives. And with over 112,518 people waiting for an organ, the need is real. Yes, there are artifical substitutes for many organs, but they don’t replace a cadaver’s organ. An artifical heart valve puts the patient on blood thinners for life, and an animal valve will wear out in ten years, while a human valve will last a lifetime. The need for organs is constant and growing. Each day, 19 people who are waiting for an organ die, according to the National Network of Organ Donors. When you pass your license test or renew your license you are given the option of becoming an organ donor. People eighteen years or older can also join the Be the Match registry which is the organization for bone marrow donations. Blood is also a constant need which students over the age of 16 can help satisfy by donating at the school’s blood drive or donating on their own time at Red Cross locations. It may not seem like a big commitment now, but in the end you can save many lives. Natalie Paule, art /photo editor
MinniSODA Tax
dina High School social studies teacher Elizabeth Nimmo, a former Some people find the proposed tax to be overreaching and that the government is one-a-day Diet Coca-Cola addict, recently announced to her 6th period playing on Minnesotans’ addictions to make a quick buck, but in fact, this wouldn’t be the first tax imposed on an unhealthy product in Minnesota. class that she was giving up Diet Coke. “I was feeling guilty about Minnesota has a tax rate on cigarettes which is $1.586 per pack. This tax is meant drinking Diet Coke at school...you know, like I wasn’t being a very to discourage smoking by putting a financial strain on smokers. good role model.” Ms. Nimmo’s wake-up call was a news report about the negative In addition to encouraging health effects of drinking pop such healthful behavior, money raised as heart attacks and strokes. from the proposed tax would help The ill effects of pop have caught our state with its current deficit, the attention of government officials which is estimated at $5 billion. as well. First introduced in New York, According to an article written propositions for a tax on pop made by Roger Feldman in the Star Trilittle progress and were voted against bune, the majority of pop tax proat every turn. Now Minnesota is lookposals “call for a small tax, such as ing to adopt a pop tax, but will it be two cents per 12-ounce can, which shot down like in other states? would raise the cost of a 12-pack The tax is a good idea; the profit (now $4.80, on average) by 5 permade from the proposed tax would cent.” making the average cost of not only raise money for the state, a 12-pack $5.04. By Feldman’s but encourage healthy behavior estimates, if the whole country inamong Minnesotans as well. stituted this pop tax, the average With Minnesota’s adult obesity American family would pay about rate at 25.5%, a tax on the sugary $6.86 more per year in taxes, and drink is just what the doctor ordered. art and photo by Natalie Paule the U.S. would raise roughly $36 In the Minnesota Daily, Health Commissioner Dr. Dan Frieden claimed Enjoying a refreshing drink of Coca-Cola could soon cost you extra cash. million in a year on pop tax alone. Future funds raised by a Minthat the tax would raise $1.2 billion nesota tax on pop could not only help Minnesota’s government with the for the state while also reducing consumption of pop by 10%. deficit, but the money could be used to fund social programs to help lower While the proposed pop tax had no effect on Ms. Nimmo’s decision, she the obesity rate of Minnesota. said, “The fact that there is such a tax proposal implies that drinking soda pop Maddie Kopiecki, staff writer can’t possibly be good for you.”
10 Culture www.edinazephyrus.com
Volume 32 Issue 4
January 13, 2012
Bromance before romance
“Bromance is like romance but with no close touching except for butt slaps and fist bumping,” said senior John Hill. At Edina High School, bromances are anything but scarce. Just walking down the hallways, one can always find two guys hugging or fist bumping until their knuckles turn purple. That being said, what accounts for the prevalence of bromance at any high school? Well, it boils down to about three factors. For starters, being in a bromance gives guys time to talk about the manly elements of their lives. Being that we live in the rural city of Edina, chopping wood, lifting heavy things, fast cars, and hammering nails are what define most conversations amongst men here. If you’re in a bromance with another male, you can talk about all of this as you are hugging. This will prevent others from eavesdropping and thinking you’re a moron. Second of all, it’s been proven that being bromantic with somebody boosts self confidence. Well, it does for me anyway. When I go on man dates with my friend, Michael Jacobson, I make sure to chirp him about his
skinny physique and grotesque wardrobe selections. I do this because I know that it will make me feel much better about myself at his expense. Bromance also allows guys to converse about girls and come up with a strategic plan of action to win them over. Everybody knows that girls hate nice guys, right? In order to woo a woman into liking you it is necessary to be malicious and ignore any and all girls that you encounter. When people go on bromantic man dates, for instance, they will often prank call a girl several dozen times to get her attention. While she may be furious at you and even call the cops, she’s still thinking about you, and that’s all that matters. It’s simple and fun to start a bromance. All you need is a couple of male friends, an open mind, and a bit of time to get comfortable with your significant other. Before you know it, you and your bro will be bawling on each other’s shoulders, watching re-runs of “The Notebook,” truly having the time of your lives. Grant Marks, staff writer
6754 Valley View Rd. Edina, MN 55439
Bookmark This! In the Sargasso Sea by Thomas A. Janvier From the start, the plan for Bookmark This! was to review books that would help EHS students find a truly new reading experience. No book has done that quite like this month’s pick, In the Sargasso Sea by Thomas A. Janvier. Originally published in 1898, it’s not your average fluffy beachside novel, but, I got it for free on my Kindle! Roger Stetworth, the main character, is a young man seeking his fortune out at sea. When his ship is wrecked, he becomes marooned in the fabled Sargasso Sea, a region in the Atlantic where ocean currents swill up debris and weeds into one concentrated area. The sea is thick with weeds that are so plentiful you can practically walk on them, and shipwrecks stick out of the sea everywhere, some from the early 1800s. Roger hops from ship to ship, discovering stores of food that allow him to survive for months. He chances upon a freshly wrecked ship with a surviving cat aboard, who becomes his companion. The two friends discover an old lifeboat and after intensive work, escape the sea together. This book was intense - the story was sometimes disgusting, scary, and always stressful, but the pace was pretty slow. I whole-heartedly recommend it, but make sure you know what you’re getting into: a depressing, morose story of human desperation and failure. I’m serious. But we read books like that all the time in school, and some are fun, right? Give the book a chance. It’s not like anything I would ever pick up (I found it on accident), but it was intriguing and ultimately fabulous enough for Bookmark This! Bookmark This! is a monthly column where I feature truly fabulous books that EHS students may have overlooked. If you have a book suggestion or comment, you can contact me at bookmarkthisreviews@gmail. com. Keep reading! Andrea Kimball, columnist
We at the hotel, motel, Holiday Inn What is the scoop on the best hotels in and around Edina?
Like Pitbull in his song “Hotel Room Service,” I learned that hotels are actually pretty cool. Ever wanted to get out of the house for the night? Want to get away from homework and school? Well here is a solution for you! I had the privilege to contact six unique, 24/7 motels and hotels in or near Edina. Although you do need to be 21 to rent a hotel room, talk to your favorite college friend or older sibling about booking a hotel room. The Westin (3201 Galleria, Edina, MN, 55435; 952-5675000) Right in the center of Edina, the Westin is the most expensive hotel in the area, although it does offer a fantastic selection of activities nearby. Even if the rooms do start at $189, you have quite a few options for going
out at night. Nearby is an AMC theaters, not to mention the Southdale Shopping Center, home to its very own Macy’s, H&M, Apple Store, and plenty of interesting people. When you thought you wouldn’t like to spend more money, think again! The Westin has a small gift shop, as well as its own restaurant, the seafood grill, McCormick and Schmicks Seafood Grill. The Sofitel (5601 West 78th Street, Bloomington, 55439; 952835-1900) With the unique European theme and polite staff, the Sofitel is really the best you can get near Edina. One of the coolest things about the hotel is that they have no designated price for a room. Called a “dynamic rate”, it depends entirely on the type of room, how busy the Sofitel is, how flexible you are with cancellation, and how far you book in advance. Another fun fact, according to the front desk, “[It] is the first Sofitel in North America, and offers French cuisine, and a European flare.” The Sofitel also has a four diamond review, and offers help 24/7 to their customers. Furthermore, when you call the Sofitel, the first word they say to you is Bonjour! (Although in a horrible American accent.) Motel 6 (7640 Cedar Avenue South, Richfield, MN, 55423; 612-861-4491) Let’s be honest. This motel doesn’t even deserve a review. First of all, their “on-hold song” is so annoying. Oh my gosh, I couldn’t stand it and almost had to put on my
own music. Seriously. On top of that, when I did finally get ahole of someone I found the girl to be very rude over the phone. The person at the front desk seemed to be in quite an unhappy mood, and responded with a lazy tone. On the otherhand, the price per night is only $45.99 and is located 2 miles from the Mall of America. But honestly? I’d rather stay at a Westin in New York City and walk thousands of miles to MOA than stay at this motel. The DoubleTree Hilton (7800 Normandale Blvd, Bloomington, 55439; 952-835-7800) Like the unique Sofitel, the DoubleTree Hilton does not offer a concrete price for their rooms. Although the cost does not depend such a wide variety of aspects, they do take into account how occupied they are. Prices rise as more people stay at the hotel. The DoubleTree Hilton also gives a free shuttle ride to both the airport and Mall of America every hour, on the hour. The hotel also contains two restaurants, Navigator and 9 Mile Grill. Both are open 7 days a week, and hours vary. So there you have it! Although some of the hotels (and motels) are not located directly in Edina, they are all in an approximately 10 minute radius. Now it’s just up to you to decide which one fits your wants and desires the most. For more motel and hotel reviews, check out www.edinazephyrus.com Sloane Nilsen, culture editor
Culture
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6754 Valley View Rd. Edina, MN 55439
Volume 32 Issue 4
January 13, 2012
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Best apps for iPhones
When the iPhone first came to Sprint I was ecstatic, I could finally ditch my defective Palm and get those apps I had been hearing all about. After two months with my new favorite phone here are a list of the apps I have found to be must haves. (Apps are not in any particular order).
1 2 3 4 5
Scribblenauts Remix
This game is the master of creativity, letting you type in any noun with adjectives describing it and it will appear on the screen and interact just how you would expect. Any game where I can fly around on a “friendly rainbow winged panda” while I watch a “tiny heroic plumber” riding on a “huge skateboard” attempt to defeat an “enormous evil llama” is good in my books.
Words with Friends
If you own an iPhone and somehow don’t have this scrabble knockoff game get it. Everyone else has it so you’ll have plenty of people to play. How good is it? Well, Alec Baldwin got kicked off a plane for refusing to stop playing, yeah it’s that good .
Sound Hound
Ever wonder what that song on the radio is? Well your iPhone will know the answer after downloading this app. It listens to any song playing and identifies in a matter of seconds like its counterpart Shazam. Unlike Shazam, you get unlimited sound identifications.
Temple Run
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iVIP
Swipe your fingers and tilt your iPhone to help your character dodge fire and tree trunks, jump over crevices and out run demon monkeys. If you want to read more about Temple Run visit www.edinazephyrus.com/?p=1187
IMDb
Next time you and your friends find yourselves wondering what show it was that Shia Labeouf got his start in, IMDb can answer that (it was Even Stevens by the way). It can also answer pretty much any other movie or TV related question.
Lady Gaga Guru
Lady Gaga has been at the top of the charts since the summer of 2005 and is still wowing and confusing the masses. From her unique style to her thirteen minute videos, junior Ella Montgomery put it best, “Her videos are great, I just don’t know what’s going on.” On the other hand, a handful of EHS students understand Gaga, students like junior Samson St. James. He expressed, “Gaga’s music and videos are always so fascinating and real. They are her way of communicating to her fans about her life.” If you have ever felt like Montgomery and long to feel like St. James, then look no further, we are your Guru’s of Gaga, and are here to explain to you the meaning of the Lady Gaga video “You and I.” “You and I” is one of Gaga’s most personal music videos.To someone unfamiliar with her past and personal life, it may be difficult to understand. The video revolves around her ex fiancé, Lüc Carl and their relationship which began over six years ago. They met at his bar in New York called Saint Jerome’s, when Gaga was working as a burlesque dancer. They have been together on and off ever since. Their romance was never perfect; Lüc was womanizing and emotionally abusive. Almost every
Photo by Natalie Paule
Ever want to quickly prove your wealth to someone? The iVIP app has the solution for you. Not only is it the most expensive app on the app store it also requires you to prove that you are a “High Net Worth Individual” who is worth over $1,000,000. If you’re still interested, the app lets you have reduced rates and exclusive access to yacht and penthouse rentals as well as backstage passes and other high class things. Michael Jacobson, news editor
song Gaga has ever written, from “Bad Romance,” to “Judas,” has been about him. The video starts out on a lonely, country road, and we see Gaga, tired and bloody. She has run all the way from New York to Nebraska to get Lüc back. She passes an ice cream truck and on the side is an arrow pointing forward and underneath the arrow it says, “Follow the crowd.” The truck represents her childhood and the struggles she faced trying to fit in. Gaga was bullied throughout school and suffered several traumatic events that had a permanent impact on her. When asked about the ice cream truck in an interview, she replied that she lost her innocence very early. While she won’t expound on what this exactly, these events have scarred her and still pain her, which is why she drops to the ground crying when she sees the truck. We shift away from it, and the screen starts flashing, past and future. Gaga, dark haired, represents the past and all of the science/Frankenstein experiments represent how Lüc tried to change her; trying to make her into his ideal girl. He tried to make her into someone “normal,” robbing her of her personality. He could not though. All of his attempts to change
All art by Natalie Paule Art by Natalie Paule
her just made her stronger and into the person she is today. Each time he tried she became more magical and transformed into Yuyi, the beautiful, fantastical mermaid. She is in a permanent state of Gaga, halfway between reality and fantasy. Over time, he falls in love with this creature he has created. He sees beauty where he once saw outlandishness. Flash forward, it is the present and Gaga has gone back to Nebraska for Lüc. Notice there is now metal and wires where once there was skin. Though she still bears the scars, her wounds (the trauma of her childhood, the heartbreak Lüc inflicted upon her etc.) have healed and she has become the bionic woman, stronger than ever before. He sees that she is the same girl he fell in love with years ago, and despite the time apart, she loves him more than ever. We believe the cornfield + piano + beer scene represents going “back to the bar.” By going back to Saint Jerome’s and their old apartment and realizing they can still be together just like old times.This theme is carried throughout the entire album. This article was written in conjunction with junior, Aliya Nesser. Contact gagagurus@gmail.com for more information. Rayelle Washington, sports editor
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COUPLE LOOKING FOR THIRD WHEEL TO RUIN THEIR RELATIONSHIP
One cheerful, head-over-heels in love couple looking for a third wheel to accompany them everywhere! Previous experience with photo bombing and being clingy required. Ability to upload an inappropriate amount of couple pictures to Facebook preferred. Please contact lovebirds849@canoodle.com
NERD LOOKING FOR A STUDY PARTNER
With a 4.99 GPA and an outstanding resume in the making, I am looking for a partner to enhance my knowledge. I desire a woman who enjoys the classics, studying into the a.m. and finds holding hands enthralling. Please contact me promptly at grammarsnob@ivyleague.com
Volume 32 Issue 4
January 13, 2012
HIPSTER IN SEARCH OF A HIPSTER COHORT FOR IRONIC PURPOSES
Do you love uptown? Do you love underground cafes that do not pass FDA standards? Love spending $1,000 dollars a week on rags found in thrifty, vintage stores? Do you hate KDWB? Please send me a telegram at FOSTERthePEOPLEb4u
Alma Pronove & Natalie Paule back page experts
PARTY BOY IN SEARCH OF ARM CANDY
6754 Valley View Rd. Edina, MN 55439
TREE HUGGER LOOKING TO HUG SOMEONE ELSE I’ve been committed to the environment for close to a decade, and I am finally ready to extend that commitment to someone else. My canoe is my main source of transportation, so experienced paddling is required. I love chewing on bark and building wing splints for baby birds. Please email me at savethewhales12@enviro.com
Aspiring frat boy who loves combing his own flow and complimenting his biceps in public is looking for a girl who uses Pantene Pro V shampoo and abuses fake tanner. Favorite hobbies include online shopping for Oakleys and eating Chipotle. Blondes preferred. No gingers. Are you interested and beautiful? Hit me up with an e-bomb at ladiesloveme@lax4lyfe.com
GUIDO SEARCHING FOR A NICE ITATLIAN CHICK
I love myself because I am one fine piece of muscle. I enjoy tanning for hours, shopping for chain necklaces and taking off my shirt at every opportunity. I love my ear and nipple piercings so my chick should at least have a couple piercings. I like to stand next to pale people to look more orange, but my future chick needs to be a healthy carrot color. Get at me at bodlikeagod@GTL.com
EXCHANGE STUDENT LOOKING FOR SOMEONE TO EXPLORE THE WORLD Hello! I’ve been an exchange student in over five countries. Each semester I uproot my life and start anew in another public high school. I am looking for someone with a knowledge of reading subways maps. A love for taking pictures of landmarks a must. Please contact me at Xchangegurl@travel4life.com
GAMER LOOKING FOR A NIGHT OWL
After years and years of pulling all nighters to up my COD rankings, I am finally willing to share the spotlight with a fellow gamer. Obviously, they will need to be ranked top 20 in the standings for COD, Skyrim or Mindcraft. Note that I am easily wooed by crates of red bull and pink game controllers. My gamer tag is AIMx4xMYxHEART
all photos by Natalie Paule