May 9th, 2008 - MVHS Viewer

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Friday, May 9, 2008

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Volume 54

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Issue 11

Science Olympiad carries legacy to nationals

By Kirstin Yanisch staff writer

photo by Debbie Li

The annual Homeless Sleepout, hosted by Student Council on Apr. 26, raised about $2300 for the Simpson Homeless Shelter. About 50 students slept outside the school in cardboard boxes and tarps overnight to gain insight into how the homeless live.

photo by Nate Grann

MV students participated in the Day of Silence, part of a nationwide youthrun effort for LGBT rights on Apr. 25.

Students silenced themselves to represent the silencing of LGBT people.

Small structures line the room. The tension mounts as more and more weight is added to them. Gradually, the weight becomes too much to handle.

The ‘Boomilever,’ a structure made of small wooden sticks, falls to ground with a resounding crack. Members of MV’s Science Olympiad team step back and cheer, as they have just completed the ‘Boomilever’ category of an invitational meet.

By placing second at such meets, third at the regional tournament, and a surprising first place at State on March 1, the Science Olympiad team qualified to advance to the National Science Olympiad Tournament from May 30 to 31 at George Washington University in Washington D.C. The team, made up of 15 of the 31 active members, is now preparing for a crosscountry road trip to Washington D.C. on May 28. They will be accompanied by five alternate team members, one parent chaperone, and three coaches.

The team is driving, rather than flying, because of the amount of equipment they must carry: robots, model airplanes, and a giant instrument known as “The Octaphone,” a musical instrument made from a backpack and vacuum tubing.

Besides these things, the team will also be carrying a legacy. Mounds View has advanced to the national tournament every year since

photo courtesy of Matt Kalsow

The Mounds View Science Olympiad team, with members Zubair Saiyed, 12, (left) and Dawen Shen, 11 (right), will be attending the National Science Olympiad Tournament from May 30 to 31 at George Washington University in Washington D.C. The team’s work ethic and success at invitational meets has allowed them to advance to the national tournament every year since 2004 with the exception of 2007.

2004, except for 2007, which, according to science teacher and coach Thomas Carr, was more of a rebuilding year.

This year’s return to nationals was due in part to the team’s participation in invitational meets and extra practice, said math teacher and coach Mike Huberty. Huberty noted that he could “pinpoint this success to people who have worked their tails off practicing, building and re-building.”

Local communities pass laws aimed at ‘social hosting’

By Divya Gupta staff writer Over the past month, Waseca and Roseville have joined numerous other cities across the state in passing an ordinance designed to target “social hosting,” a term that applies to parties hosted by parents or other legal drinkers where alcohol is available to minors. Under the law, it is a crime for anyone over the age of 21 to knowingly host or attend parties where minors are drinking alcohol. The crime is punishable by up to 90 days in jail or a $1000 fine.

Chaska, Mankato, Red Wing, Lakeville, and several other cities have already adopted the policy and even more are expected to vote on it in the upcoming months.

However, according to city council member Terry Quigley, the City of Shoreview is not considering the ordinance at this time.

“There have been no reports of social hosting violations,” he said. “If there were situations with abusive social hosting… I feel confident staff and council would respond promptly and effectively.”

Although it is currently not an issue in our community, there are many objections to the ordinance at Mounds View.

“Telling someone absolutely

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not to do something is just going to make them want to do it more,” said Jeremy Scheiner, 11.

“This won’t solve the problem.

It’ll only lead to more underage drinking in less safe places.”

According to Lakeville Police Chief Tom Vonhof in an interview with the Pioneer Press, the law was designed with parent hosts in mind. Vonhof has seen some parents adopt the mindset that drinking at home is safer than drinking in other unknown places.

However, under the law, parents can still legally allow their children to drink in their own homes.

Matt Goldsmith, parent and supervisory para, strongly supported the ordinance.

“I don’t even throw parties for my kid on his birthday,” he said. “I think a parent who hosts a party for their kid where alcohol is involved is extremely irresponsible.”

Erica Tiffany, 12, approved the measure because she believes it will help teens as well as adults.

“I don’t think a lot of people under the age of 21 are able to control themselves or be responsible enough to drink, regardless of whose house it is in,” she said.

The ordinance applies to any adult connected to underage drinking, not just parents. For example, older siblings, friends, or other students at college could

be penalized for being aware of minors drinking alcohol at parties they attend, regardless of who purchased the alcohol. This law applies to colleges within the boundaries of the cities who have passed it, including Northwestern College and Minnesota State University-Mankato.

Devin Hess, 10, disagreed with this part of the law.

“You shouldn’t be held responsible for other people’s actions,” he said. “Minors could show up uninvited, and it’s not the other students’ faults.”

Members of many city councils, including Roseville, have explained that the law is based on awareness. If someone were legitimately ignorant to a minor consuming alcohol at their party, they would not be punished. Additionally, if appropriate measures were taken to stop underage drinkers, but were unsuccessful, the hosts are not liable.

Concerned college students have begun taking measures to ensure they are not punishable.

For example, Mankato Student Association board member Chris Frederick told the Star Tribune that many students on the Mankato campus have begun carding people at the entrance to parties.

Despite these arguments, city officials of places where the law has passed have reported little to no complaints.

The team is, in fact, very dedicated to their categories.

Students on the team turn in logs every week, where they record the number of minutes they spend working on Science Olympiad. On average, students study their material for five hours a week.

Team captain Luke Kramer, 12, has read seven books this year in order to research his category. But Science Olympiad isn’t all “study, study, study,” he

says. “We have had three or four study parties this year where we play games like Nintendo Wii or ping pong.”

According to team member Dawen Shen, 11, their hard work and play as a team has gained them rewards besides trophies and medals.

“You bond with the people on the team,” he said. “You learn things studying for Science Olympiad that you don’t in class like herpetology and ecology, and oceanography.”

Science Olympiad Captain Irene Saunders, 12, added that even more than the knowledge she has gained about science, she has “really learned to be efficient with my time and about working together with people to get things done.”

However, the team has run into trouble with funding for the trip this year. Because they weren’t expecting to attend the tournament, fundraising did not begin until after State. According to Huberty, the team needed to raise $12,000 to $15,000. With the help of the district and local corporate sponsors, the team has made a dent in the cost.

When the team loads the bus for George Washington University on May 28, they will bring with them their equipment, MV’s legacy, and a new team mentality.

“I think one of our strengths is that everyone knows each other well. That’s one of the things that carried us through this year,” said Saunders.

Decisions that affect you The Open Forum, hosted

by Student Council on April 9, gave students voice over administration policies.

By Ross Peterson staff writer Mozzarella cheese made a return to the Mounds View Pasta Bar in mid-April, following student complaints at the Student Council open forum on Wednesday, April 9.

Other changes sparked by the discussion are being considered.

Principal Julie Wikelius and Superintendent Dan Hoverman attended the forum, which gave students the opportunity to

A bill passed by both the House and Senate puts new regulations on the time teens can be on the road and who can be in the car.

By Brooke Roberts staff writer Both branches of the state legislature passed bills in late April changing the driving laws for new drivers. The transportation bill will now go to Governor Tim Pawlenty for approval.

On his radio talk show two weeks ago, Pawlenty stated that these seemed “reasonable steps to curtail the most dangerous period

discuss any school-related issue.

The most popular topic was the vandalism in early April.

However, students also brought up the closed lunch policy, the possibility of AP science classes, the state of the school’s funding and budget, and the high costs of parking permits and ala carte food.

Since then, changes have also been made to the parking permit forms. In the future, Wikelius said, they will state “what exactly are the costs and where the money will all go.”

However, the prospect of AP science classes is not likely.

Wikelius said she sees the classes as more of a “scheduling issue.” of driving.” If Pawlenty signs the bill, which appears likely, the new provisions will go into effect Sept. 1.

The law states that new drivers, in the first six months of having their license, cannot drive without an adult driver from midnight to 5 a.m. unless it is for school or work. They also cannot carry more than one non-family teen passenger during the first six months, and no more than three in the second six months.

According to the Center for Transportation Studies’ website, these rules are aimed at reducing the number of teen deaths from car accidents. Minnesota currently has the highest teen driving death rate nationwide.

2editorials Theater in the toilets op T 10 Ways to get expelled

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Wear a tank top.

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0% in all 2nd semester classes.

They can’t expel you for streaking at graduation.

Institute “No Pants Year.”

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Vandalism tapes reveal you as part of Jae Chang’s “Crew.”

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Prom babies mean you’ll remember it “Always.”

Have you ever wondered how fast hall monitors can run?

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Take “Make your mark on Mounds View” literally.

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Have self-respect

Last Viewer with these editors...what do you think I can get printed?

2007-2008 Viewer Editors

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Editor-in-Chief Anna Brockway Managing Editor Alice Liu News Belle Lin Editorials Andrew Larkin Commentary Sam Louwagie Features Abby House Kathleen Gormley Spread Lauren Peake Vicky Kelberer Variety Alicia Hilgers Reviews TT Phan Sports Chelsy Mateer Andy Madsen Gallery Ashley Aram Business Manager Elizabeth Steele Photographers/Artists Nate Grann David Derong Debbie Li Adviser Martha Rush Assistant Adviser David Weinberg Staff

- Cassie Ahiers, Colin Anderson, Karly Bergmann, Anna Blaske, Sean Delahunt, Divya Gupta, Dan Heaney, Alex Hoffman, John Liu, Marysa Meyer, Sean Moore, Collin Nisler, Brandon Osero, Shaked Peleg, Ross Peterson, Brooke Roberts, Maddy Stephens, Emily Storms, Sam Toninato, Kristen Vanderburg, Christina Xia, Kirstin Yanisch, Sabrina Zappa

The Viewer is published by the student editors at: Mounds View High School 1900 Lake Valentine Rd Arden Hills, Minnesota ECM Publishers, Inc.

May 9, 2008

By Brandon Osero staff writer

The stuffy theater experience is getting old. Sitting next to people in uncomfortable seats for several hours and having to stretch your neck just to see Jean ValJean sing “Bring Him Home” isn’t a worthwhile experience anymore. I’m tired of having to shush that annoying woman in the third row. If only there was a new venue… say, a public restroom.

Oh wait—there is.

The Irish Arts Center is putting on “Ladies & Gents” in the Bethesda Fountain bathrooms in Central Park. The play was written by Dublin playwright Paul Walker. Based on a real scandal in Ireland in 1957, it tells the story of a politician (Mr. X) involved in a sex scandal. While enjoying the intoxicating aroma of the public stalls, the audience watches the depraved Mr. X take advantage of a prostitute (Emily). She has her own seedy plans, hiring a young boy, Billy, to take pictures of Mr. X. With the bathrooms in all their natural splendor, the

unique setting truly gives a new dimension to crappy entertainment.

While the concept is unorthodox, using a bathroom for a theater isn’t that bad of an idea. Of course, a bathroom is foul and disgusting, but it could provide an authentic feel to the show. The formality of the traditional theater completely isolates the audience from the performance. However, in a real setting, the show becomes a living, breathing entity. The actors are just inches from the audience members’ faces. In the show, they may even touch viewers on their shoulders, but won’t acknowledge them. The proximity of the actors enhances the voyeuristic feel. Overall, the show blurs the reality of the bathrooms with the fantasy of the plot.

Recent events such as the Larry Craig and Eliot Spitzer scandals only enhance the effectiveness of such a performance. The character Emily’s comment that “most men are led by what’s in their pants” seems frequently confirmed by contemporary politicians.

It is unintentionally funny, but

also eerie. It is difficult to tell where reality ends, and the show begins. In a way, the show is like watching a private conversation Spitzer could have had.

Of course there are downsides to using the bathroom for the show. The bathrooms in Central Park can only hold about 30 people, so tickets will be sparse. It is standing room only, and no one will want to sit on the toilet papered, crusted floor anyway. Oh, and don’t think about using the toilets—adding onto the unique aroma will distract from the entertainment.

These negatives shouldn’t stop people from trying an unusual experience. At least it would be an entertaining topic to tell one’s friends about. More theater productions should try using different locations.

Instead of building a set for a show, why not have it at a real bar? How about putting on a production at an airport? The possibilities are endless. Theater is about trying new and bizarre things. By trying something novel, the Irish Arts Center has opened the door for an experience that is more than the typical bathroom break.

photo by Debbie Li

Mounds View’s new auditorium?

Green movements a sickening shade

Kids learn violent lesson

By Sean Moore staff writer

It sounded like a sophisticated bank heist, with multiple conspirators, knives, handcuffs, duct tape, a look-out man, and a “clean-up” man, responsible for destroying evidence afterwards.

Yet it was all plotted by third-graders at Center Elementary School in Georgia, who intended to kidnap and kill their teacher. Their plot was discovered by authorities when a student tipped off the police.

The plan was to strike the teacher on the head with a paperweight, and render her immobile with handcuffs and duct tape while she was unconscious, then stab her with the broken steak knife one of the students had brought to school. It was reported that the plot was in response to the teacher scolding one of the students for standing on a chair.

How could such a simple disciplinary action foster enough hate in a student for that student to actually plot a murder? One could make the feeble argument that those children, ages eight to ten, don’t understand death, but with the three-and-some hours of television that the typical American child watches daily and the countless hours of video games he or she plays, it’s nearly impossible for them not to understand the implications of violence.

What, then, prompted the children to decide that stabbing their teacher was the best course of action? This really can’t be blamed on the school, since there was nothing out of line in the actions of the school administrators or the teachers, and the school was extremely quick enough to notify the authorities to prevent this plot.

What about parents? While one parent can very well be neglectful enough to raise a violent child, bad parenting cannot adequately explain why nine children simultaneously

It seems that the whole world has gone green. However, just ask anyone in urban China, and you’ll see that this is not the case.

Nevertheless, as American consumers, we are constantly bombarded with slogans and encouragements to “think green”: green paint, green furniture, green houses, even green air (which, if taken literally, is probably not “green”).

With this rising tide of green, it’s hard to resist the urge to vomit. The messages containing these so-called “eco-friendly reminders” are completely hollow—they add nothing to our already growing awareness and concern.

Furthermore, the advertisements are hypocritical, advocating conservation and change, yet doing nothing to promote it.

British Petroleum has been trying to appeal to the environmentally-minded, with its advertising campaign that portrays the company as an oil company that goes “Beyond Petroleum.” BP, of course, rarely goes beyond petroleum; in fact, 93% of the energy they create comes directly from fossil fuels.

Other advertisements attempt to change public perception of global warming, associating concern for the environment with today’s hottest stars and fashions. As a part of Earth Week, media organizations like NBC changed the color of their logos to show their sympathies for environmental concerns.

It appears that this is the extent of NBC’s concern with global warming, however.

There was no change in how they powered their studios, no

attempt to offset their carbon emissions.

The problem isn’t that people are trying to change their lifestyles. Becoming more environmentally conscious will benefit everyone and provide an example for others to follow. The problem is that currently, doing good things for the environment isn’t really a personal choice; instead, “going green” has become the fashionable thing to do.

Making global warming the hip trend will only provide a temporary solution to the ongoing problem of conservation. Frankly, trends die. The green fad is no different. Eventually people will decide that their lifestyle is more important than the environment. Another regression to excessive waste will be harder to combat than the former gluttony of American consumerism, as the slogans currently fueling the green movement won’t even be fresh.

Furthermore, trivializing environmental stewardship will ultimately do more harm than good. The media sensationalizes a legitimate problem to the point where it is almost unrecognizably distorted. They turn a mounting global threat into an apocalyptic crisis never before seen in today’s world, and in the process they desensitize us to the actual problem.

The truly disheartening thing is that most companies and organizations promoting environmental concern are doing so because of the massive profit available for the taking.

By John Liu staff writer

conspired to kill the teacher.

Therefore, the only parties left to blame in this case are the students themselves, and the violent media targeted at children.

According to Nielsen Media Research, a company specialized in measuring media viewer statistics, an average child watches four hours of TV per day, and will have seen 8,000 murders on TV when he or she finishes sixth grade.

Children learn by imitation, and these acts of murder could easily lead a child to think that violence is a regular part of life, or even to glorify violence.

Besides on Law and Order, how often can you name an instance on TV where a violent deed is condemned?

Granted, children can avoid seeing a vast majority of intense violence on TV when their parents use the V-Chip, a feature of newer TVs which lets parents block airings of programs with a certain rating. But according to a 2003 study, only 15 percent of parents surveyed said they have ever used a V-Chip.

Almost 40 percent of parents did not even realize the V-Chip is included in their TV set. Many well-meaning parents are both too technologically challenged and too unaware to realize that such a useful tool exists, to the delight of TV executives and producers, who use violence and sex to attract as wide an audience as possible, and reap from the advertising profits.

Obviously, children with proper parenting and schooling rarely commit atrocious acts of violence, but this shouldn’t encourage the media to keep pumping out more and more violent programming that kids have easy access to. The task of reversing the negative effects TV shows have on children shouldn’t have to be a major societal obligation, but this kidnapping case clearly demonstrates the extent of its corruptive influence.

May 9, 2008

Olympic protesters win gold in hypocrisy

By Colin Anderson staff writer

The Olympics. Traditional games of harmony and international cooperation.

The place where brotherhood transcends conflict and hate.

Israel competes alongside Iran, Albania next to Serbia.

There are exceptions. The killing of Israeli competitors in Munich comes to mind. So do the boycott and counterboycott between the U.S. and USSR in the 1970s. And of course, the current uproar over China’s treatment of Tibet. The question needs to be asked however: Do the Tibetan protesters warrant such international attention?

China, the host of the 2008 Summer Olympics, has been threatened by the international community because of its alleged human rights abuses in the region of Tibet.

Nicolas Sarkozy, President of France, has led the way, threatening to not attend because of China’s recent crackdown on protesters in Tibet. Even the White House, usually slow to respond on questions of human rights abuses by its allies, has raised questions about China’s involvement in the deaths of protesters.

But is this apparent tyranny really what it seems?

The protests weren’t the peaceful kind one would think of Tibetans. These weren’t the sit-down, kumbaya-singing, love-fests that our generation sees in history documentaries.

They weren’t even the selfimmolation that occurred during the Vietnam War, which hurt no one but the monks.

The fire is instead set to ethnic Chinese citizens and businesses. Videos from the BBC captured the violence of the protests, showing Tibetans attacking ethnic Chinese with bats and knives in fire-ravaged Lhasa, the capital of Tibet.

This level of destruction relegates them down to the level of other violent separatist organizations: Hamas in Israel, Chechen rebels in Russia, and the Kurdish Workers’ Party (PKK) in Turkey, all of

which have been labeled as terrorists by the international community. According to the authorities, the root motivations of the groups don’t matter, just the innocent people killed in the name of their individual causes.

Still though, isn’t Tibet’s cause a good one? Perpetually conquered by the Chinese, Tibet’s culture is slowly ebbing away as China sends in thousands of immigrants on trains to the region. According to the BBC, over 6000 Buddhist monasteries have been destroyed since the start of China’s Cultural Revolution.

Monks have been expelled from their monasteries and arrested simply for possessing pictures of the Dalai Lama.

Tibetan political prisoners have been tortured; as described by the Free Tibet organization, “Torture often includes beatings, suspension by the arms, electric shock to the mouth and genitals, exposure to intense cold, and rape.”

So when is it excusable to kill for the sake of independence? Is it when your culture is threatened?

When your people are killed indiscriminately and imprisoned? Or should we learn a lesson from our own history, when the United States revolted for the sake of taxes?

Taxes. Our people were not walled off from the rest of the world and not receiving the aid they needed, like Hamas in Israel. Taxes, not the wanton killing of civilians by government forces, like the Chechens in Russia. Taxes, not the systemic destruction of a culture and relegation of a people to second class citizenship, like the Kurds in Turkey and Iraq.

Yes, the Tibetans’ bid for independence is justified. Yes, China should be pressured to step off of the Tibetan people.

The thing is, if we pursue China, we should support every group that campaigns for independence. If we don’t, we betray the principles of self determination and freedom that the United States was founded upon.

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Trees block sun, environmental common sense

By Dan Heaney staff writer Meet Mr. Treanor and Ms. Bisset. They are current homeowners in California, and proud owners of eight trees. Unfortunately for them, their trees block sun that could be reaching their neighbors’ solar panels.

The penalty for this despicable crime? A fine of up to $1000 a day, according to the New York Times.

In the case pushed to the Santa Clara County Superior Court, it was proposed that trees 4, 5, and 6 be sentenced to death–in other words, cut down. After spending nearly $37,000 in legal fees, the couple didn’t have sufficient funds to appeal the ruling.

Treat it as nothing more than backwards that the government has seen fit to destroy nature, in hopes of helping nature. If I were a neighbor solar panel enthusiast, I would make sure that nothing would get in the way of my beloved panels before I plopped them down. The Treanor and Bisset court case hints at a lack of experience in the United States at dealing with environmental court cases and discussions.

This is the absurdity

energy costs for many German homeowners.

Yet whenever the US has attempted to back the science of solar paneling or working solutions to stimulate renewable energy, their support and petty court battles have only been laughable.

In the case of Treanor and Bisset, both neighbors are, in a way, trying to help the environment. But instead of providing an enlightened compromise, the government has seemingly flipped a coin in deciding which side to back.

So what has delayed the process so long that, even though we have possible solutions, the United States hasn’t done anything to implement them effectively?

Just as a guideline, it would probably be a good idea to not cut down nature just to try and save some energy. Try solutions in places where they work: in deserts, where nothing is happening anyway, panels make plenty of sense.

Unfortunately, this is something that is going to take a long time to solve. And there won’t be one clear-cut answer to all of our problems.

But if we put all of our potential solutions together, we’d be better off than now.

of our current situation, particularly in the United States. It is now commonly accepted that global warming, pollution, and other problems are a very real certainty, and that things must be dealt with.

Yet the plans being developed are pushed aside by skeptics, or, in the case of Treanor and Bisset, handled poorly by the government.

Perhaps no one solution will be enough, but the United States still needs to fix its approach towards solutions and their implementation.

According to Nova, many other countries are actively seeking expansion of their renewable energy programs.

In 2020, Germany plans to achieve 30 percent of their energy through renewable resources. In contrast, the US has a proposed mandate requiring only 15 percent of energy to be renewable by the same date. And while that is certainly an improvement over the current position, Germany stands as an example for what we could be doing better.

Backed by their government, German citizens are paid to put up solar panels. Not surprisingly, many citizens have seen the potential gains and pounced on the opportunity. This has led to nearly non-existent

photo by Nate Grann

Treanor and Bisset’s trees block neighboring solar panels, causing a problem for the government.

Correction s The Viewer would like to apologize for an error in the April 18 issue in an article about the MCA exams.

We mistakenly quoted that Mounds View has a pass rate

of 98%. Actually, in 2007, Mounds View students had a 98% pass rate for the MCA writing test, 84% pass rate for the reading test, and 69% pass rate for the Math test.

It was also reported in the April 18 issue that the vandalism incident occured on April 12. It actually occured on the morning of Saturday, April 5.

Billion dollar loss not so charitable

By Dan Heaney staff writer Every year, Americans donate hundreds of billions of dollars to various organizations and foundations across the country. And only every so often, a report will surface that some of this money had been lost through fraud or theft.

In a recent New York Times article, reports revealed that these foundations lost nearly $40 billion, or about the same amount of money that they actually donate.

In 58 fraud cases that were examined, the average fraud loss was $100,000, but the number reached as high as $200 million. The most common suspect in such a case was a “female employee with no criminal record who earned less than $50,000 a year and had worked for the nonprofit at least three years.” Generally, she stole less than $40,000.

The most disturbing aspect of this report wasn’t the amount of money that was lost, but the public’s resulting loss of trust in charitable institutions. When

somebody donates money to a charity, they certainly have better intentions than funding some middle-class family’s vacation to Florida. When the public hears this number, they may be less willing to give their hard-earned salary away.

However, there is some skepticism as to the gravity of the situation. In the New York Times article, Diana Aviv, president and chief executive of the Independent Sector, provided a possible explanation as to why the number was so high, “They’re lumping all those

sectors together, and it could be that the for-profit sector experiences a higher level of fraud, while the nonprofit sector and government experience lower levels.”

She did add, “Even if the figure is $20 billion, that’s still a huge amount and needs to be addressed.”

This number isn’t to say that Americans’ donations will have less effect than in years past. It appears that charity organizations have known for a while that these thefts were occurring; they just remained

quiet about them.

So will the public just decide to donate less? If history provides any hint to the future, then the answer would be no.

For quite some time now, even the general public has been aware of these actions. Perhaps now that the exact numbers are out, however, charitable instutitions may see a dip in donations.

4features

May 9, 2008

Classically accomplished Julia Valen, 10, pliés to center stage

Stephen Krishnan,10, strums to success

photo by Debbie Li

photo courtesy of Dave Trayers

Julia Valen, 10, second from left, is a passionate and skilled ballerina.

Stephen Krishnan, 10, is an accomplished and talented classical guitarist.

By Emily Storms staff writer While many little girls dream of someday becoming a prima ballerina, for most the magic entailed with tutus and pointe shoes is lost after preschool.

However, for Julia Valen, 10, the magic was never lost and her dreams became reality. Valen is a real-live, trained, and dedicated classical ballerina.

Valen has been dancing since she was seven, when her best friend suggested she try ballet.

“My friend quit after a year, but I realized that I love to dance,” said Valen.

Currently, Valen dances with the Classical Ballet Academy, a prestigious dance school in St. Paul connected with Professional Ballet Minnesota.

Valen is at the studio six days a week for a total of 20-25 hours, with only Fridays off. Even on Sundays, she dances for seven hours.

This huge time commitment has made Valen learn to carefully manage her time and stay on top of her schoolwork.

Because of her intense schedule, Valen does not have time for everything she wishes she could do.

“I love being in plays, but I can’t do that anymore. I have to be really focused, and I don’t have much time for other things.”

But Valen’s passionate dedication to ballet has helped her move up to nearly the top level of the sport.

By Sean Moore staff writer

“I truly love to dance, so it’s all worth it,” she said.

Valen danced the lead role of Clara in The Nutcracker when she was in eighth grade, and is currently part of the Corps de Ballet and Four Little Swan groups with Ballet Minnesota. She is performing in the upcoming Swan Lake ballet.

Valen also auditioned for and was invited to numerous summer ballet programs with some of the most prestigious ballet companies in the country. Auditions are often held in Minneapolis or Chicago, and Valen attends auditions with other girls from the Classical Ballet Academy.

“Auditions don’t really make me nervous, they’re actually pretty fun. It’s really cool to see all the other dancers,” Valen said.

As a result of her auditions, Valen was invited and plans to attend the Joffrey Ballet program in New York City this summer, a highly acclaimed program where she will be surrounded by some of the best ballerinas in the country.

Despite these accomplishments, Valen remains realistic about her expectations for the future. The discipline she has learned from ballet also has carried over into her academic life.

“It would be cool to be a professional dancer, but I’m also really focused on academics,” she said.

The recording room is quiet. Stephen Krishnan, 10, glances at his sheet music as he pulls his guitar over his head. With a final twist of a tuning peg, he receives a nod from the sound producer. And with that, Krishnan strikes the first melodious chord.

But no amplifier distorts the dynamic phrasing, no drumbeat or overpaid singer howls along with him. The only sound is Krishnan’s dynamic phrasing emanating from his hollow-body acoustic. And for Krishnan, that is enough.

Krishnan differs from most teenage guitarists in that his main focus is classical guitar. Krishnan’s talent and many years of experience—he’s been playing since he was five years old—recently paid off when he came in first in the annual Schubert Club Competition and won what many young musicians only dream of: recording in the Maud Moon Weyerhaeuser studio for Minnesota Public Radio (MPR).

“It was a really cool experience,” said Krishnan. “The recording studio had an awesome setup, and I got to tour MPR and watch some shows being recorded.”

In addition to being recorded and aired during a Wednesday session of MPR, Krishnan played in a recital on April 25. He was also awarded a $2,000 grant to go towards his music education.

Krishnan has over ten years of experience playing classical guitar.

This fall he won a similar, albeit less competitive, contest with Classical Dream Theater.

“About a year ago, I just stopped getting nervous when I played in front of judges. Most people get really nervous right before they play. Now it seems natural to me.”

Though classical guitar has come to be second nature for Krishnan, for most, the concept is quite abstract.

While classical may be more eloquent and complex, most people prefer the simplicity of guitar in mainstream rock.

“Classical guitar contains a lot more dynamic phrasing,” said Krishnan.

“Guitar in everyday music is really heavy on chords. The stuff I mainly play focuses more on individual notes.”

Don’t think for a second that Krishnan is a music snob, though.

Some of his favorite bands include Led Zeppelin and Metallica. And though he’s committed to his art, Krishnan also enjoys fishing and basketball, although he admits, “I’m not very good at it.”

Upon his satisfying victory at the Schubert Club Competition, Krishnan has decided to take a break from competing for a year though he will still continue to practice, at times more than an hour a day, and improve his already bountiful talent.

But whether it’s playing in front of a massive audience or just in the garage with a couple of friends, Krishnan’s skills on the classical guitar are second to none.

MV students receive lesser-known awards

By Divya Gupta staff writer On Thursday, April 24, Mounds View held an awards ceremony acknowledging a variety of successes for students receiving academic letters and 42 AP Rising Scholars.

AP Rising Scholar awards were given to students who scored an average of 3.5 on all AP tests taken, or those who scored an average of at least three on a minimum of five AP exams.

Also awarded at the ceremony were a number of lesser-known honors. These included awards for highachieving academic students, students showing exceptional leadership skills, and skilled young scientists. Each award has its own specific criteria, and students that meet these requirements are selected from the student body.

Though relatively unknown, these honors are not new.

“As far as I know, they’ve always happened,” said Dean Dave Notaro. “I’ve organized the ceremony only for the past three years, though.”

Xing Li, 11, Frank Li, 11, and Allison Jones, 11, were the recipients of the Yale, Harvard, and Middlebury book awards, respectively. They each received a book written by a faculty member or alumni associated with each of the schools.

These awards are organized by the individual schools’ alumni, but are not directly connected with any of the schools. The alumni sent a list of criteria to Mounds View, where a committee of deans nominated students. Generally, weighted class rank is the most important factor.

Though for some the prize may not seem especially worthy, the recipients believe that being recognized by such prestigious institutions will help them in the future.

“Although I don’t think I’m going to apply to Harvard, it’s not out of my mind,” said Frank Li. “I’m hoping to go to some Ivy League-level school, like Stanford or Princeton or Cornell.”

Sean Moore, 11, and Louisa Savereide, 11, were given two different science awards. Moore received the Bausch and Lamb Honorary Science Award for

demonstrating excellence in accelerated science courses, as well as having high PSAT scores in science and math. he will get $7,500 a year if he attends the University of Rochester.

Savereide was awarded a medal for outstanding math and science performances by the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in New York. She will receive $15,000 a year if she chooses to attend their school. Still, she remains uncertain as to its impact on her future.

“I’ll consider applying to it,” she said. “But it just doesn’t seem to be very balanced.

It doesn’t let you major in German, which is a problem for me.”

Luke Hutchison received the Frederick Douglass and Susan B. Anthony Award. He, like Moore, can get $7,500 a year if he goes to the University of Rochester.

Though these awards are relatively unknown to students, they do hold value for the individual recipients.

“I was humbled to be honored with an award named after these two great Americans who fought for the ideals our country was founded upon,” Hutchison said.

And the winners are...

Xing Li, 11 Yale Book Award Frank Li, 11 Harvard Book Award Allison Jones, 11 Middlebury Book Award Taylor Warnes, 11 Xerox Technology Award For students who show great interest in the information technology field Louisa Savereide, 11 Rensselaer Medal For students showing high aptitude and skills in math and science Sean Moore, 11 Bausch and Lamb Honorary Science Award For students showing high potential and performance in science Vinnie Floeder, 11 Boys State Award Week-long seminar at Southwest State

Rose Marie Bart, 11 Girls State Award Week-long seminar at Bethel Ian Goldsmith, 11 Geroge Eastman Young Learders Award For students who show exemplary leadership and participation in extra-curricular activities Luke Hutchison, 11 Fredrick Douglass and Susan B. Antony Award Given to students who demonstrate “revolutionary spirit” from the University of Rochester Reyna Sawtell, 12 African American Academic Achievement Award For African American students showing high achievement in academics and good leadership skills President’s Volunteer Service Award For students who have given a great deal of their time to volunteer work.

May 9, 2008

5 features

Putting the ‘pal’ in principal

By Marysa Meyer staff writer After 22 years of teaching outside of the Mounds View School District, 15 years in the district, and five years as principal of Island Lake Elementary School, Dr. Michelle Brouse is retiring.

Todd Durand, husband of MV Math teacher Jessica Durand, will be filling the position of Island Lake principal in the coming school year. Currently, Todd Durand is a Dean of Students at Washburn Elementary School in Bloomington, Minnesota.

He has also served as an elementary school teacher in the Bloomington district.

The decision to hire Durand was made after a committee of parents, staff members, Building Instructional Leadership Team members, and Superintendent Dan Hoverman interviewed various candidates.

Only seven to eight of the

people who applied will not be made until his for the position second year as principal. were actually His first year will offer interviewed by the many opportunities for Durand committee. to become familiar with staff, “I talked to parents and students. and interviewed “I am very excited to the top three be part of a team as strong finalists,” said as that of Island Lake,” said Dan Hoverman.

Durand. “In general, school “[Durand] staff members are very hard had a really working, dedicated individuals. comprehensive I have heard wonderful things background with about Island Lake and I look the Bloomington forward to meeting everyone.” district. His Many Island Lake staff approach to members are looking forward leadership lined up to Durand’s presence in the with what I believe administration. a good principal “I think change is always would need.” good! He will bring new ideas, With new new vision, and new energy,” leadership come said Island Lake third grade photo courtesy of Jessica Durand teacher Julie Connolly. new school policies Todd Durand socializes with students during lunchtime at on curriculum, Jessica Durand is also organization, excited for her husband’s new his former school, Washburn Elementary. and scheduling. position. school year will be made without However, because Durand will “It’s his dream job,” she him. Likely, major changes such be starting on July 1, 2008, said. “He’s always wanted to many decisions for the upcoming as student and staff placement be a principal in the district. He

was thrilled when he got the opportunity to interview.”

Not only does her husband get to work in the same district, but he will be working at the elementary school that his wife attended.

“I have heard firsthand how great the teachers are,” she said.

However, with her husband’s extra responsibilities, changes will be made in the family to accommodate his busy schedule.

“I know he’s going to put in long hours,” said Jessica Durand.

“I’m going to work part-time next year so I can be home with our girls.”

Despite these changes, the Durands are looking forward to the opportunities that they will encounter over the next few years.

“I have always sought jobs where I can make an impact,” said Todd Durand. “Being able to do so in such a strong district is something that will be very rewarding.”

‘Environmental Leaders of the Year’

Target, other stores beginning to sell reusable bags

By Maddy Stephens staff writer The red bags are each printed with a skinny white tree whose tiny branches bare voluminous foliage of Target logos. They are part of big corporations’ introduction of reusable bags, and so far they are a hit with shoppers and the media.

“It’s not something we’re used to,” said Victor Khong, 11.

“We’ve grown up loving going to Target and not caring about paper or plastic.”

According to Target’s website, local design company, WINK, produced the eyecatching design for the bags.

Sandy Anderson, 12, said, “Now when I want to bring a reusable bag somewhere, I don’t have to worry about being that creepy, ugly hippy dude with a burlap sack… I really appreciate their effort to make them look cool.”

Some students think that big companies like Target Corporation, Rainbow Foods, and Byerly’s grocery stores would actually save money by supplying customers with their own reusable bag.

“It’s a really good idea for them… they are saving money because they don’t have to keep producing plastic bags. Instead, they are just using what they already have to make something sustainable,” said Amelia Narigon, 12.

Not only that, but the company’s efforts earned them a place in the April 8 issue of Newsweek, which features the

title “Environmental Leaders of the Year” in brilliant green block text.

Earlier this year, Rainbow began to import Roundy’s brand re-usables. Nationally, Target introduced its bags in December of 2007.

Some cashiers appreciate the bags. Jenny Ihbe, 12, a former Target cashier, was excited about the prospect of the red bags.

“Using the bags would probably make things a lot easier,” said Ihbe. “For example, if you are a cashier and someone has 18 bags, you have to place all the items into plastic bags, and then transfer them to a cart… if someone brings their own bag, then they’d be more likely to put their own stuff in the bag.”

Although mainstream use of the bags might be slow, Mounds View students are adopting them quickly... but not always for the intended purpose.

“Bringing a bag to Target to shop for Target—this is kind of weird. Not enough people will do it,” said Khong.

Julia Baker, 12, said, “The Target bags are a really good idea, but the thing is, not everyone is going to use them for shopping. People use the Cub bags for carrying their books.”

Nathan Insixiengmay, 11, said, “If you look over there, a lot of people have canvas bags at school. So I don’t think they’d use it for shopping.”

Although the shift from disposable to re-usable bags is a small step, some students said the change will encourage insightful thinking.

“Even if we just use the

SENIORS:

photo by Debbie Li

Danielle Cole, 9, is one of many MV students who use their canvas tote as a school bag rather than an eco-friendly way of grocery shopping. bags a little bit, it will at least catch people’s attention and get them thinking…and that’s a huge part of environmentalism,” said Narigon.

Turn in your Viewer senior polls outside room 240 today and e-mail your senior farewells to: mvviewer@yahoo.com.

They should include: your name, plans for next year, and an appropriate message under 100 characters. Due at midnight!

Gourmet Take-N-Bake or Baked Personal Pizzas!

Hwy 96 & Lexington 651-494-3706 Graduation Party Special 10% OFF orders over $50 15% OFF orders over $100 Good until June 30, 2008

Rumors circulate of classroom tragedy

By Karly Bergmann staff writer Many students have heard variations of the story of the alleged suicide at Mounds View.

Some recount a girl taking her life because she didn’t make Prom Queen, while others say it was a boy who hung himself because he fell short of becoming his class’s Valedictorian.

While neither rumor is valid, the sad truth is that a Mounds View student did take his life in 1986.

According to David Weinberg, who taught English at Mounds View at the time of the suicide, the hanging was in fact committed by a junior in room 124.

“He was a kid who was having issues,” said Weinberg.

“He was a good student, but not

perfect. He told Mr. Wegleitner that he had to get something out of the room and asked for the key. When he [Wegleitner] walked into the room, he was hanging from the ceiling. From one of the old lighting fixtures we used to have.”

When asked if he could confirm that the boy killed himself on account of not making Valedictorian, Weinberg wasn’t sure, but did say, “I know it took place in the spring—so it may have been a possible Valedictorian issue.”

Social studies teacher Kay Schaffer, who was also teaching at the time of the incident, disagreed, “I don’t think that’s true at all. This young man was terribly depressed… and I don’t think Valedictorian was chosen at the time.”

One would assume that an

event of this proportion would be grabbing headlines across the country, but Weinberg said Mounds View did their best to keep this scandal private.

“They [Mounds View] swept it under the rug. They kept it quiet,” he said.

But since the Suburban Myth Busters have revealed the story, students have been surprised to hear the truth. Upon hearing the real story, Erik Monson, 9, wasn’t convinced.

“Really? You positive?” he asked.

Since Mounds View’s hushhush attitude kept this story an “urban legend,” all that is remembered are the passed-down stories and beliefs of those who were there or who have finally discovered the real story.

Prince’s purported purple house shrouded in mystery

By Sean Delahunt staff writer “Rumor has it that he [Prince] was going to move to Blue Jay Lane in North Oaks, and he wanted his house to be purple, and North Oaks was like, ‘No purple houses here, man!’” claimed Mark Schwerkoske, 11.

Schwerkoske’s tale that Prince, the famous musician and Minnesota native, was denied a purple house in North Oaks has been a legend circulating through MV for years.

Though the legend has changed more often than Prince’s image— sometimes even including the details of him wanting to add a helicopter pad to his property—the basic story stays the same. Prince wanted to move to North Oaks and paint his house his favorite color but was denied permission, causing him to live elsewhere.

Though it sounds crazy, this myth has been taken as fact for years, with no one able to prove it right or wrong.

What we do know is that Prince did end up building “Paisley Park” in Chanhassen, but the story doesn’t stop there.

The Suburban MythBusters contacted multiple branches of the Ramsey County Sheriff Department but all of them remained suspiciously silent. The North Oaks Home Owners Association was also contacted but was unable to help with the investigation. They then deferred the MythBusters to City Administrator Jim March, who was able to provide

little new information as well.

“I don’t know anything about the Prince story,” said March.

But although little truth could be uncovered, many remain hopeful that there is some reality to the myth.

“Jim March is hiding something, and I’m gonna find out what!” exclaimed Schwerkoske.

Mysterious sign leads non

By Cassie Ahiers staff writer Outside Lorrie Moore’s art room is a particularly suspicious exit sign, “Enchanted Exit Number 135.”

The strange thing about the exit sign is that it points directly into a wall.

Many students have heard that it leads one into another realm or dimension, if one can just figure out the right way to enter through the bricks. Rumors also say that strange occurrences take place below the sign, and that a ghost may haunt the hallway.

The Suburban Myth Busters were able to trace the story directly back to one young man, Jack Basten, 11. Although he couldn’t tell us much about the real meaning behind the sign, he was able to tell us all he knew.

“About a month ago exit sign and noticed that directly right, straight into stopped dead in my track entire lunch hour asking p anything about it,” said B Basten even created exit signs in the school to mystery, but these clues, only lead him to brick wa And even though no understood the meaning b all mysteries, the students lend their own explanatio “Some people though Harry Potter, if you tap th the wall you could enter H it could be like platform n quarters,” said Basten.

Others have witnesse occurrences around the si “I think there is some

Bust MV Myt

The Viewer the unver of Moun High staff writer rev is

By Karly Bergmann

Starting off as far-fetched stories or misinterpreted facts, urban legends and myths don’t only change each time they are told, but seem more legitimate every year they’ve been around.

Because of this, we tend to accept them as fact and let them begin to influence our everyday lives.

Take Halloween candy, for exampl Every year, kids dress up, go out, and return home with pillow cases full of Halloween candy. But before they are a to reap the fruits of their labor, each Sn bar and Kit Kat has to be carefully insp parent for glass shards, razor blades, o subtle hole in the wrapper where a mad poison into the chocolaty goodness with This routine has been performed ev since our parents were hauling in their o because everyone knows there is a very razor-blade filled candy. Right? Wrong.

According to the Nov 9, 1989 Los An

by Joel Best, only two of the 78 investiga candy poisoning were legitimate. And of an accident and the other was intentiona prove that the poisoned candy myth deve connotations of the “satanic” holiday and it.

Curious to discover other myths and u everyday lives at Mounds View, the Viewe Busters, a group dedicated to uncovering View’s age-old questions.

artwork by Anna Brockway

ne in the right direction

I looked up at the t the arrow pointed o the wall. I ks and spent the people if they new Basten. a map of all the o try and solve the like exit sign 135, alls. one else behind it, like with s were happy to ons. ht it was like he right bricks in Hogsmeade, or nine and three

ed strange ign as well. e kind of door

there that leads to the roof, because one time I was alone in the hallway when a janitor just appeared out of nowhere in front of the wall,” said Kathryn Weems,11.

A few people, who wished to remain anonymous, can even attest to hearing that the hallway is haunted, and even though the custodians change the sign, it always appears this way the next morning.

Some more practical students assumed that the arrow symbolizes exiting left at the end of the hallway, rather than directly below the sign, but this explanation only leads to more questions; a left at the end of the hallway leads one deeper into the school and further away from safety in an emergency.

“I really have no idea what it means, it was probably just a mistake,” said Lauren Kelleher, 11.

Upon closer inspection, the SMB were able to find that the exit sign’s arrow

ting V’s ths

looked as if it could be removed, and thus reversed. It’s possible that a prankster or just a dyslexic custodian might have switched the direction it is pointing. If in fact the arrow did point to the next hallway on the left, then it would be leading pedestrians to a real exit.

And so although the SMB were able to find the true source of this confusion, some students remain convinced that there is greater meaning behind it.

“Perhaps it is a more philosophical exit sign. It points you into the art room where you can free yourself from the confines of reality and find a creative escape,” said Basten.

And whether you agree there is meaning behind it or not, you have to admit the myth of the “Enchanted Exit 135” is busted.

Tunnels do lurk beneath MV

By Karly Bergmann staff writer

Though they sound like a piece of an Indiana Jones plot, or as unbelievable as the mole men, the tunnels under Mounds View do exist.

When asked about the secret tunnels, David Freed, 11, responded like most students, having heard of them, but knowing little more.

“I have no idea where they [the tunnels] are or what they’re for,” said Freed.

Fortunately, associate principal Mark Tateosian knows more about the alleged tunnel system.

“In any large building there’s going to be a need for space for certain systems, such as electrical and phone lines and heating and cooling systems. That space is provided through the tunnels, which give people access to said systems,” he said.

According to Tateosian, as technology began growing in the Mounds View district the past

20 years, the demand for more technology and maintenance space increased. This in turn led to the expansive tunnel system that now resides under Mounds View’s floors.

Suburban Myth Busters were still curious to see these tunnels for themselves, but unfortunately they are strictly forbidden to all students.

“Why would we want to risk a student’s safety [by allowing them to go in the tunnels]? They are a restricted space… and wouldn’t meet the school’s exit codes,” said Tateosian.

Because of this, the only view of these mysterious maintenance tunnels the SMB were able to see was the opening of a small, squareshaped tunnel with a dirt floor located in the basement.

It was just a glimpse of what lies below the school’s floors, and though the tunnel system may still be shrouded in darkness, it’s no longer shrouded in mystery.

r dives into rified myths Abandoned shack nds View School and sparks hobo legends veals what staff writer s fiction and what is fact.

By Sean Delahunt

Last year during biology class, a group of students from the Class of ’09 made an astounding discovery. Deep in the woods near the upper field of Mounds View was a place dubbed the “hobo shack,” a place where a real live hobo may have once lived.

This shack is far from being an actual building or hut of any sort, but rather just a few sticks woven le. together to make walls, along with a rotted-out mattress and a few broken hurdles. Though there is no allowed proof that anyone actually has lived nickers there, mystery surrounds it. The pected by a Suburban Myth Busters set out to or the more find the truth. dman injected “I would say it’s been there h a needle. since the beginning of time,” said very Hallows Eve Charlie Marcotte, 11. own sugar loads, Very little is known about y real risk of poisoned either the shack or its inhabitant.

“He’s just shrouded in ngeles Times article mystery, nobody has heard ated cases of Halloween any facts about him,” said f those two, one was Marcotte. al murder. These facts The shack has been eloped from other negative talked about from d the myth has no merit behind time to time but nobody has really urban legends that affect our gone to great er put together the Suburban Myth the truth behind some of Mounds

lengths to find the origin.

Some students were very interested in the hobo and decided to fabricate their own stories about the man that may have once lived in our school’s woods.

Jack Basten, 11 wrote a screenplay about the shack; though it is fiction, it is based on rumors he heard about the shack and the hobo himself.

“I asked around and heard stories, like the hobo sometimes snuck into school at night, or he’s dead and haunts all the souls that dare trespass on the holy hobo grounds.” said Basten. “Rumors say that the hobo was found dead in his shack and the police were going to come back for the body, but they found the hobo shack empty.”

After these rumors circulated Basten became very interested and formulated his own story to go along with the rumors he had already heard.

Basten described the film as a horror movie but with slight humor, playing off the legend of how the hobo was obsessed with the school.

“The hobo must be remembered!” he said.

The truth about the hobo will remain unknown, unless he returns.

Creepy Case Files

By Cassie Ahiers staff writer

Greased Pigs It has been said that about ten years ago seniors snuck in piglets and let them loose into the hallways of the school.

Myth Confirmed In 1999 the senior prank involved releasing five greased piglets into Mounds View. They were extremely hard to catch, and besides the fact that they were slippery, they each had a number painted on their back. The witty pranksters numbered them one through six and conveniently left out the number five, forcing the administration to search for the missing fifth pig all day long.

Flying Car Another senior prank that is rumored to have occurred included a “flying” car. The myth states that students were able to hoist a teacher’s car onto the roof of the school using a construction crane.

Myth Busted Although we could find no record of this event actually taking place, there may be some truth behind it. This senior prank may have been fabricated and added on to over the years, for it has been confirmed that about fifteen years ago a group of seniors were able to hoist a student’s car onto one of the large metal sculptures that used to stand outside of the front doors of Mounds View. Although not quite as unbelievable as the original tale, the actual prank is still legendary in its own right.

The Marshmallow Man

It is rumored that an insane man who lived in North Oaks used to terrorize children who would come near his lawn.

The Marshmallow Man, named after his white, oddlyshaped house, was rumored to have frightened anyone who would come near. The man, who may have been bipolar, supposedly killed his family, and then himself one summer night many years ago.

Myth Busted The “Marshmallow house,” also known as the “Toilet Paper House,” has no police records that show any unusual occurrences taking place there. The city hall was unable to confirm or deny any of the rumors, which leaves many students still skeptical. But for the most part students will continue to stray comfortably far from this eerie home.

The Flushable Computer This myth tells the story of a crazed student who was driven to the edge by his teacher and decided to take revenge. In order to get back at her, the student snuck into her room one day while she was gone, and urinated on her computer.

Myth Confirmed This myth can be traced back to 2003. Although the student’s name would not be released, we confirmed his actions from multiple faculty members. The occurrence was very unexpected due to the fact that the student had no history of violent or bizarre behavior. According to our sources, after a difficult semester with Gretchen Kvikstad, now a substitute teacher, the student snapped. He went into Kvikstad’s classroom, unplugged her computer, and threw it into a toilet.

8variety

May 9, 2008

Students go on the road

By Shaked Peleg and Maddy Stephens staff writers

As the sun sets on the 2008 school year, licensed students seek closure on the bumpy interstates connecting Shoreview to the outside world.

Many students, seniors in particular, fantasize about the worn-down Seven Elevens and hour-long games of 20 questions played while speeding down highway, which the classical road trip embodies.

“I’m just excited to spend time with my friends on the drive up there,” said Taylor Randle, 12.

Randle is leading a road trip to the Boundary Waters after the graduation ceremony on June 5. The trip would be exclusive to graduating seniors, but not necessarily to a certain clique within the senior class.

“Anyone is welcome… really,” said Randle.

So far the list includes only three or four names, but, according to Randle, it will include “a lot more [people].”

Her plans are not yet concrete, in fact, she said, “It’s probably going to be a more spur of the moment kind of thing,” but she is sure that she wants “to do something one more time before we all split apart next year, kind of go out with a bang for the summer.”

As the road trip is a pretty universal teenage fantasy, Randle is not the only one planning a final on-the-road farewell to high school days. Trent Huhn, 12, Thomas Jemelita, 12, Alan Long, 12, Will Obst, 12, Sam Helgeson, 12, Pete Stacy, 12, and a few other stragglers hastily booked space in a cheap hostel outside of Chicago when they decided to make the pilgrimage to Lollapalooza, an annual music festival in Grant Park. The quintet sought the road trip as the denouement of their childhood, and ascent into “manhood.”

Huhn and company’s venture to Chicago is, like many senior road trips, an opportunity

photo illustration by David Derong

Supervisory Para Molly Wurst, Alan Jin, 10, Thomas Jemelieta, 12, Meg McMurray, 12, Jake Rafter, 12, and Brian Bradbury, 12, create a parody of Little Miss Sunshine. to bring a sense of conclusion to the end of their time together. “[We] have just been friends forever… and this is our last opportunity for a big outing,” said Huhn.

The “pretty mainstream bands that all of us listen to,” according to Huhn, inspired these friends to incorporate Lollapalooza into a road trip plan a long time in the works.

“We’ve been planning on doing a road trip for a really long time,” said Stacy. “When we found out that a lot of our favorite bands were going to be at Lolla, we decided to combine the two.”

Lollapalooza’s lineup includes, but is not limited to, rapper Kanye West, Radiohead, Rage Against the Machine, and Gnarls Barkley.

The vast mountains and valleys of the US are host to many music festivals, such as South by Southwest in Austin, Texas, Coachella in Indio, California, and Pitchfork in Chicago. Lollapalloza, however, is one of the few that boasts ticket sales to more than a dozen Mounds View seniors, due to its proximity and accessibility.

The Viewer asked 100 seniors: What do you think of your class song, “Best Days” by Graham Colton?

But why a road trip, when we’ve got airplanes, crosscountry trains, and the legendary 20-bucks-a-pop-MegaBus? Randle’s road trip reverie, like many students’, was birthed out of a quintessential teenage fantasy. Huhn, however, said that his covet for the road is based on stone-cold practicality.

“Four of us had a really bad experience using the MegaBus this winter break,” said Huhn. “We got home at 11:30 Christmas Eve, and were supposed to get home a few hours earlier the day before.”

Other seniors have yet to pinpoint their destination and the date of their departure from suburbia, but seem just as enthusiastic about road tripping and the adventures it procures.

“It just seems like a really good way to go see a lot…and have a good time with your friends,” said Aeli Rosin, 12, a senior who has yet to define plans regarding the roadtrip that she envisions.

Rosin agreed with Randle that a road trip, despite drilling gas-prices and tedious roadhours, would be optimal.

“It’s better to go on a road

22

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Some juniors, however, have more unique reasons for embarking on such an adventure.

Laura Edwards, 11, is planning on carrying on a legacy of going on a road trip with friends after senior year.

“It’s something my whole family does. My brother did it and my parents did too,” she said.

Her brother, a 2003 Mounds View graduate, “went to California and saw some concerts,” much like Huhn and Stacy are planning on doing in Chicago.

In fact, there are many common themes in all students’ road trip plans. The biggest one, though, is every teen’s desire “to have the best summer possible,” said Randle.

While seniors enjoy their conclusive slide to graduation, they fear the nostalgia and memories that will be left behind in the streets of Shoreview.

Juniors and seniors alike cling to the exemplary road trip as a resource that can provide the finale that they crave.

Best days yet to come

By Karly Bergmann staff writer

It’s the seniors’ last day in high school. A day of triumph and sadness, a day when memories are recounted and goodbyes are said. And then, just before they hear the bell ring for the last time, the ’08 class song comes on over the PA system, just like the end credits of a movie. And just like at a movie theater, the graduating class files out of the doors, ready to enter the real world.

But the real question is, will the Mounds View Class of 2008 have its own musical tribute?

According to Tyler Pihl, 12, senior class officer, the answer is ‘yes.’

Student Counsel Advisor Michael Coty said that the tradition of a Senior Class song is a relatively new one, as it started with the Class of 2006.

“It was the Senior Class officers’ idea. They pretty much came forward and asked ‘can we do this?’”

The class song of 2006 was “Here Comes the Sun” by The Beatles, and Don’t Know and Know and it fit perfectly with the hopeful air that know it Dislike it the Class of ’06 emitted and their bright Like it futures. The next year, the Class of 2007 information compiled by Divya Gupta decided to continue the tradition and on photo courtesy of David Derong their last day of school, the halls exploded

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trip because there’s no one telling you when to do what. You can stop whenever you want to, start whenever you want to…it’s pretty flexible,” said Rosin.

Even juniors have their hopeful eyes set on the looming and legendary summer of senior year. Naturally, their plans are even less developed than most seniors, but that does not stop them from fantasizing of the day they will finally be able explore the roads, free from the authority of parents and teachers.

Amy Whillock, 11, who has been planning a road trip ever since she saw the movie “Little Miss Sunshine,” describes it as “the freedom of being out on the open road.”

Whillock already has big dreams for her road trip, some more realistic than others.

“All we know is that we want to take a VW microbus and every time we go to a restaurant we’ll say it’s someone’s birthday so we get a free dessert,” she said.

Whillock’s motive mirrors that of most seniors.

“It’s the last hurrah before we go off to college and never see each other again,” she said.

with celebration as the epic ballad “We Are the Champions” by Queen blared.

With Freddy Mercury wailing, “We are the champions, my friends!” the question of “how much spirit does ’07 really have?” was answered.

But the question that has stirred students persists: What will ‘08’s song be?

“We [the senior class officers] started looking at songs we liked and heard on the radio and then got together one day and chose one,” Pihl said. “We [also] sent out a senior survey asking people for suggestions and took some songs from there that we though may be appropriate.”

After careful deliberation, the senior class officers decided to try something a little different, and the song of ’08 was decided as “Best Days” by Graham Colton. Pihl admits to it being a bit of an “obscure” song that not many people have heard of, but claims the senior class officers didn’t want to pick something “cliché.”

After hearing what her class song was, Sandy Anderson, 12, didn’t agree with the “obscure” and unknown song idea.

“I think we should all know the song.

And love it,” said Anderson.

Cassie Westerhaus, 12, agreed. She had never heard the song before, but after listening to it on a friend’s iPod she said, “When I picture a class song, I’m thinking something up-beat. Like, ‘yeah!

We’re moving on!’ Not something sad like, ‘we’re leaving our best days.’”

Kelsey Minten, 12, also felt that “there are better options for a class song.”

Remembering “Here Comes the Sun” from the Class of 2006, she exclaimed, “I loved that one! That made me really happy leaving school even though it wasn’t my last day.”

Other students see this year’s song differently.

“I like to dance to it…it makes me happy when I’m sad,” said Aaron Blaha, 12.

“I love that song. [The] Graham Colton band rocks,” said Kerri Haider, 12.

Even though students at Mounds View have torn opinions about the ’08 song, it is a tradition that they would like to keep.

“I think that everyone should have a class song, it’s a good idea,” said Erica Tiffany, 12.

May 9, 2008

Narrow Stairs lead straight to my heart Move over Led Zeppelin. The title of Greatest Epic (Soft) Rock Band of the Twentieth Century has been taken by none other than Death Cab for Cutie.

“I eventually arrived at the place where your soul had died,” crooned lead singer Ben Gibbard over the heartbreaking rock-opera opener “Bixby Canyon Bridge.”

My soul was brought back to life upon hearing the first notes flow from his picturesque lips.

Death Cab for Cutie vaulted from indie-rock vagaries to their well-deserved stardom amongst prestigious music critics and teenage girls somewhere around the release of Transatlanticism, their fourth fulllength. Ditching their only innovative drummer after one album, The Photo Album, they proved that pop music needed them so much closer (with the help of O.C. hunk Adam Brody).

Plans cemented their success on the Caribou Coffee Radio Hits music scene, with such hits as the perceptive pop masterpiece “Soul Meets Body,” or intense confessional ballads like “I Will Follow You Into the Dark.”

The emotional depth of Plans affirmed for me that I would follow my love, Ben Gibbard, everywhere. His work, his haunts, his house…. true love knows no boundaries.

Narrow Stairs, their latest release, continues Death Cab’s exponential musical improvements since their earlier… “Indie” releases. Opening with two consecutive epic ballads, both of which center almost entirely on Gibbard’s sweet, sweet poetry, the thirteen minutes of faint synth lines occasionally broken by climactic 4/4 drum and guitar riffs confirm it. Nothing this epic could ever go wrong.

But after their mastery of the pop

MUSIC LOCAL MUSIC LOCAL

Said It Would Be Easy.” The song starts with tickling piano and sharp guitar, showing Cloud Cult’s versatility. It successfully finds the balance between cellos and computers, setting a high bar for the rest of the album.

Unfortunately, it fails when Cloud Cult messes with its sound too much. In “The Tornado Lessons,” the group decides to speed up the vocals. In theory, it’s a good idea, but it ends up sounding like Alvin and the Chipmunks.

Feel Good Ghosts is a scattered album.

It’s amazing at parts and obnoxious during others. To be sure, hardcore Cloud Cult fans will love it. For everyone else, it’s worth a try, but if you want to hear more of Cloud Cult, this album isn’t the place to start.

Sounds like: A more orchestral version of the Flaming Lips. Lots of cello, but also lots of computer bleeps. It’s your call.

6 / 10

ATMOSPHERE: IF LIFE GIVES YOU LEMONADE, PAINT THAT S*** GOLD Atmosphere has changed since their previous release, You Can’t Imagine How Much Fun We’re Having. While the last album was made up of booming drums and intense scratches, If Life Gives You Lemonade, Paint That S*** Gold is slide guitar and piano.

That isn’t to say that Atmosphere has become completely unrecognizable. The Minneapolis hip-hop group still tosses out lyrics that are still heavy and pessimistic, telling stories of pain, abuse, and poverty.

So while the content reminds the same, its composition is what makes the difference.

In place of samples, they employ synths and the piano; in place of consistent drums, faint tapping or no drums at all. They even managed to make use of a jazz flute.

Becoming accustomed to the heavy experimentation found on this album may be hard. Once it happens, though, the album

is well worth it. Tracks like “Guarantees” and “You” are provoking... they’re strange but they work. One of the only tracks that is questionable is the claustrophobic “Skinny.”

All of the experimentation is just annoying.

Atmosphere has moved in a completely new direction with If Life Gives You Lemonade, Paint That S*** Gold. For the most part, it’s worth going along with them.

Sounds like: A softer, more mature style of hiphop. A little bit of old soul, a little bit of synth, a little bit of jazz, they’re all mixed in there.

8.5 / 10

“You Can Do Better than Me” actually comes as close to happiness as I ever get, with the music composed almost ironically in light of the depressing lyrics.

The full-circle return to almost painfully slow pianos over Gibbard’s inspirational falsetto on closing track “The Ice is Getting Thinner” leaves nothing to be desired, and almost makes my love for Gibbard strong enough to convince me to break the ice, put down my binoculars, walk up to him and confess it.

Ben Gibbard, your mastery of epic ballad and soft rock, pop hits and angst swells have awed me. Narrow Stairs has left me, yet again, waiting for your soul to meet my body.

Sounds like: A dove crying gently in Autumn as the only woman I’ll ever love leaves. :(

11 / 10

EDITORS’ MIX

So since we’ve spent a whole year together, I figure it’s due time to reveal what I’ve been into lately. This is my last issue, after all. (To be fair, I’ll probably not understand why I chose these particular songs in about a month.) For now, though:

School, and the Girls Who Go There - Destroyer I like nearly everything by Destroyer. That’s the thing about it... no one can just like Destroyer. Once you’re hooked, you’re gone. You won’t love anything else as much ever again. Anyway, I currently dig this song quite a bit.

Violator - White Williams Smoke, White Williams’ debut album, uses a laptop and is made up of analog synths and studio equipment. Essentially, it’s unapologetic, colorful, addictive pop. I read this thing that said it portends a time of “American Apparel-wearing, energy-drinking teenangers wearing night-vision goggles.” It’s probably true.

Handpocket - Best Friends Forever Best Friends Forever is a group from Minneapolis that is fronted by two girls. I guess you could say the songs are kind of on the sappy side, but who cares? Handpocket is probably the catchiest, cutest song in the whole world.

I Just Wasn’t Made For These Times - The Beach Boys A lot of people associate The Beach Boys with that “Surfin’ USA” song. I don’t really like that song much. However, I do love Pet Sounds, and this song in particular. Essentially Brian Wilson is pretty awesome and it shows.

Weilder of Words - Tyrannosaurus Rex I used to think I liked T. Rex (when they went electric) more than I liked Tyrannosaurus Rex (pre-electric, folkish stuff)... then I went to Portland for the ’08 spring break, listened to this song, and realized that I was so wrong. Now I’m all hooked on everything before T. Rex and my life is better for it, I think.

A Song From Under the Floorboards - Magazine Magazine’s sound stems from the post-punk and new-wave movements. And yes, it is as awesome as it sounds. I usually listen to this song when I am not in the greatest of moods.

Actually, nevermind, I listen to it when I’m in a good mood too.

Benny and the Jets - Elton John

TAPES N’ TAPES: WALK IT OFF Tapes n’ Tapes has always drawn comparisons to Modest Mouse. However, this comparison isn’t necessarily a compliment in Walk It Off, as the group sounds like a bad Modest Mouse rip-off.

There are a few noteworthy tracks on the album. “Hang Them All” is even better than their old stuff, with urgent guitars complimented by a mysterious organ part.

Another good moment is “Conquest,” a song with erratic percussion.

However, the few good tracks get lost in the rest of the bad. “Le Ruse” sounds like a generic indie-rock with its classic percussion and messy guitars.

A confessional by

Andrew Larkin

format, it would be folly for Death Cab to abandon their roots. “No Sunlight,” with its moving refrain of “No Sunlight, No Sunlight,” gives energy and angst to Gibbard’s reflection on the time “the optimist died inside of me.” “Cath” keeps the energy behind the wistfully reflective lyrics flowing, offering a glimpse of the fire raging in the souls of the other, less attractive band members.

Roaring power chords and the use of a crash cymbal offer our inner fury a few tracks to vent on, before “Talking Bird” restores the quiet, lonely mood of miserable reflection we all prefer in our music.

Indeed, the obvious mood shifts give the album the (contrived?) emotional variety necessary to reflect the complexities in all souls. In a way, it’s like Ben Gibbard’s arrangements vocalize the deep sentiments we all have, kind of. The marching jingle of

CLOUD CULT: FEEL GOOD GHOSTS Cloud Cult is admittedly pretty weird.

The group combines cinematic strings with techno blips to create semi-bizarre music.

Their most recent album, Feel Good Ghosts, isn’t an exception.

The problem with the album is that, at times, the group takes it too far. Overall, Feel Good Ghosts is musically all over the place.

While some songs have cellos and accordions, others mix computerized vocals with blurry guitar riffs. Many songs change styles halfway through, morphing from soft, acoustic ditties into guitar-driven rock songs.

The album is fantastic when Cloud Cult sticks to the basics, like in the opener “No One

9 reviews

Unfortunately, this generic trait is laced throughout the album. Many of the songs fail to be interesting. To make it worse, the group seems to try to make it better by distorting the vocals. The end result is just unintelligible lyrics that are annoying.

It’s not that the Walk It Off is terrible, but it’s definitely not good. The group clearly has a lot of talent, but Tapes n’ Tapes has apparently decided to stick to the stereotypical indie-rock formula... in turn, making them sound like recycled outtakes from a better band.

Sounds like: A bunch of kids trying to sound like Modest Mouse, failing to be original or even sounding good. It doesn’t work.

4 / 10

Ah, yes... Elton John. I’m not really sure why I like this song so much. It all started when I went to New York in October to visit one of my friends. This girl there was really infatuated with it and it hasn’t gotten out of my head since then. I kind of wanted this to be the ’08 class song but what can you do.

Can’t Forget About You - Nas This song is so slick; I know all the words. It features Chrisette Michele, who is awesome in it. It’s so good, you don’t even understand. Oh, and it’s produced by will.i.am, which is kind of fun to know.

Slippery People - Talking Heads I think everyone can agree that the Talking Heads are really rad. They started off as art-punks and progressed with the times, mixing in world music, funk, new wave, and pop. This song is one of my favorites from Stop Making Sense.

Starman - David Bowie

I felt obligated to put David Bowie on this list, as many of my friends like him quite a bit (remember David Bowie Day?). stories written by Sam Toninato photos courtesy of amazon.com A lot of sing-a-longs, that’s all I’m saying.

10sports

Health May 9, 2008

! d o b e m o s e w a n a Get

The Viewer shares ways to stay in shape with everyday activities

photo illustrations by David Derong

Anna Blaske, 11, uses her workout techniques on a daily basis. Here, she is working on her arm-curl during school lunch.

Instead of using a backpack to carry your books, carry your own for sculpted arms. Offer to carry your friends’ books as well to get that extra push!

To continue to get your arms in top-notch condition, go to the library, reach to the top shelf, take the largest book down, and then put it back up! Repeat to fatigue.

At school: Work it out during passing time

By Kristen Vanderburg staff writer The winter snow has melted, the birds are singing, and the sun is shining… spring must be here.

To adjust to the winter’s cold temperatures, students covered up in layers of clothing and ate extra food to compensate for depressing weather. Their muscles, inevitably, became covered with a thin layer of fat.

Now it’s time to readjust to the warm weather, and students’ bodies may not be up to par.

But don’t bother running around the neighborhood or going to the gym when exercise is easier to get right here at Mounds View. Whether it’s working out your legs, arms, or abs, these exercises are convenient and worthwhile.

Abs are one thing many students are self conscious about.

To prepare for the beach, try this oblique muscular workout: First, start with your feet shoulder width apart. Then, with your upper body, bend to the right, creating a 45 degree angle. Bring your upper body back to a standing position, and repeat the same motion going to the left. While doing this exercise, it’s important to remain perpendicular to the ground in order to get the full effect.

Continue doing this exercise until you feel fatigued, and before you know it, that little pudge on your stomach will dissolve into rock hard abs, and you will gain confidence to strut your stuff in that cute string bikini you bought for spring break. This exercise is perfect for when you are standing up during a lab, waiting in line for lunch, or just plain bored during passing time.

If arm jiggle is something you worry about, there are some easy solutions: try raising your hand in class more often and

At work:

for longer periods of time. Try raising your hand mid-lecture by a teacher and keep it up the entire time, or just raise your hand for no reason and say you forgot your question.

Another great way to work your arms is carrying your books during passing time rather than storing them in your backpack.

If one book isn’t enough, offer to carry your friend’s.

Speaking of books, hit up the library if you want a serious arm workout. Head to where the largest books are, reach up to the top shelf, and grab the thickest one you see. Take the book down and put it back up, then repeat this through the entire row of books or just until you feel the burn run through your biceps. Not only will this tone your arm muscles, it’s also very discreet and you’ll look intelligent while doing it.

Take exercise a step further at lunch by buying two Propels and using them as weights. Sit at the end of the table at lunch

and use the side with no one next to you to begin to tone your biceps. Repeat armcurling motion to fatigue.

Now with your arms and stomach in top-notch condition, it’s time to work your legs. Each passing time is seven minutes long, and instead of standing in the middle of the hall talking to your friends, why not challenge them to a speed walking competition or see how many times you can loop around the upper commons?

Better yet, see how fast you can make it up the stairs by timing yourself, and trying to improve the next day.

With all these handy workout tricks in mind, you can’t go wrong when it comes to getting in shape. Your arms will tone up, your legs will become firm, and your abs will finally be that long-awaited six pack. Soon, Mounds View will be kicking it into high gear and saying good-bye to body fat.

At home:

Squeeze your buns together Get abs of steel during ads

By Anna Blaske staff writer With days filled with school, homework, and jobs, many of us don’t have the time to fit in the recommended 30 minutes a day of physical activity.

What most of us don’t realize is that we can fit it in—it simply takes a bit of creativity.

For example, I figure as long as I’m stuck working in a tanning salon for six hours I might as well get a workout in.

Running from room to room wiping down beds with much rigor, to name a few, are things I do when I feel lazy.

Working as a cashier? No problem!

This is where you get your butt toning in.

Continually squeeze your cheeks together while checking out customers’ products, and within a couple of days you’ll notice that hiney going from flab to fab.

Julia Renner, 12, said, “You could get one of those exercise balls and sit on it instead of the chair at work!”

The exercise ball is a great idea

because it makes you have to use your muscles to sit up. It not only tones the back and core muscles but works on balance as well.

Kayla Sawtell, 10, a Papa Murphy’s employee, said, “I stand on one leg to work my leg muscles and get better balance.”

Other clever toning ideas include wheeling around the heaviest person at the nursing home when you take him to and from his daily sponge bath. Using water bottles, books, or other heavy objects as free weights, or having cart races with your fellow “Clean Team” members.

The possibilities of obtaining physical exercise are endless when you incorporate a little bit of creativity into your workday. Not only is a fantastic body achieved, but it makes the time go faster as you idle it away under the fluorescent lights of Target.

By Anna Blaske staff writer I find it hard not to feel like a fat slob as I sit on my couch with potato chips in one hand and the remote in the other.

To rid myself of that “I’m going to die before I reach 50” feeling, I pull myself off the couch and do push-ups and crunches between commercials. Not only does it get me closer to those abs of steel I’ve always wanted, but it gives me a great sense of accomplishment to have actually done something while watching TV. Sometimes it seems hard to do simple activities like jumping jacks and crunches, but they do add up. Not only do you start to notice the bodily changes, but the mental improvements are great as well.

According to Mark Hammer, PhD, of University College London’s department of epidemiology and public health, “Although as little as 20 minutes of physical activity might provide some benefit, those individuals that were physically active every day had the lowest risks of mental

and physical ill health.”

Working out at home doesn’t always have to be a hassle either. With a little creativity, you can make things like mother-daughter bonding fun.

“My mom does hip hop abs and sometimes I join in, it’s actually really funny,” said Kayla Sawtell, 10.

Or if you’re someone who likes to go out, try going salsa dancing instead of out to eat.

Ellie Mata, 10, said, “I like to go dancing on Tuesdays. I wear heels, and they do wonders on my thighs.”

You don’t have to make a big production out of getting exercise. Even the simplest chores can make a difference.

“I never mind unloading the dishwasher,” said Leah Hansen, 11. “I really feel it in my arms when I lift those heavy plates.”

Whether you’re bonding with your family, doing chores around the house, or just having fun, do something for your mind and body by incorporating some form of physical activity daily.

May 9, 2008

The ultimate sport

By Trent Huhn guest writer Recently, students in zombie-clad silver jerseys, sporting the words “Spinferno Ultimate” have appeared in the halls of Mounds View. These are not prophets of a zombie Armageddon, but instead members of Mounds View’s Ultimate Frisbee team.

This spring marks the fourth year that Mounds View has fielded a team in the Minnesota High School Ultimate League. This season, over 40 students are playing for the school’s club team, Spinferno.

Although the majority of team members are MV students, students from other schools are also welcome. Two teams, an A and a B team, compete in a series of league games throughout the spring as well as various weekend tournaments.

Ultimate, as it is commonly referred to, is a fast-paced game played on a soccer-size field.

Fourteen people are on the field at a time, seven from each team. The only way to advance the disc is to throw it backwards or forwards.

Once a player catches it, they can’t move. A dropped disc results in an automatic turnover with no stoppage of play. Scoring is done by throwing the disc to someone in the opposing team’s end zone.

Games are typically played to 15 points.

A common misconception students have about Ultimate is that it’s not a serious sport. However, Spinferno players disagreed.

“People think it’s a lazy sport, but it requires so much running back and forth on the field. We can’t be scared to dive on the ground for the disc,” said Captain Nick Gilbert, 12.

What makes Ultimate a truly unique sport is that it is ruled by a set of guidelines called “Spirit of the Game.” With no referees present, it is the player’s responsibility to call their own infractions.

Sportsmanship is placed in the highest regard: teams cheer just as hard for the opposing team as their own.

“It’s like no other

sport; everyone is nice to each other and really respectful. Everyone gets to compete and have a splendiferous time.

Nothing is ever personal, we all just play,” said Kevin Sullivan, 12, B team spirit captain.

The Spirit Captains are in charge of keeping up team morale and enforcing good sportsmanship.

Sullivan, along with Amelia Narigon, 12, are spirit team captains of the B team and Andrew Larkin, 12, is spirit captain for the A team.

At the State Tournament, two trophies are given out, one for being the actual tournamet champions, and one, called the Spirit Trophy, is given for being the most spirited team.

“It’s just as prestigious as winning the State Tournament,” said Mike Steele.

Although many students participate in Ultimate and enjoy the game, the team has experienced some setbacks. The Ultimate team is not an officially recognized sport at Mounds View or in the Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL).

“I would like to have more recognition in Mounds View, especially since we got second in state last year,” said Steph Schwartz, 12, captain.

In addition, a place to practice is hard to find since the team is not a school-sanctioned sport.

“We can’t always use the Mounds View fields to practice. We also can’t make announcements about our upcoming games because we aren’t officially affiliated with Mounds View,” said Tim Yuan, 11.

Nevertheless, Ultimate members remain excited about the sport and look forward to tournaments and pick-up games at McCullough Park in Shoreview.

For students who have little experience with the sport, MV’s Ultimate team welcomes all students to join in. If you’ve never played ultimate before, it’s worth checking out. Pickup games are frequently played at McCullough Park.

11

sports

Piersak vaults to stardom Matt Piersak, 12, was bleeding green for Mounds View before he was even enrolled. With his hard work and discipline, he made a name for himself in both wrestling and track at Mounds View.

By Alex Hoffman staff writer

on the wrestling team with Piersak since they were freshmen. By competing with Matt Piersak has been a part Piersak for four of Mounds View athletics since years, Balzer has he was in eighth grade, wrestling gotten to know for Mounds View for five years, him as teammate and pole vaulting for the State and also as an Championship-caliber track team outstanding leader. for four years.

“He leads by Being a varsity athlete in two always working sports requires a lot of dedication. hard, and never Piersak works every day to get goofing around,” better at the things he does. said Balzer.

“To train for wrestling and Every leader pole vaulting I lift every day. I also brings something to run a lot in the summer, and go the team that makes to camps during the summer and teammates perform winter [for wrestling],” he said. better and Piersak Even though his seasons are is no different. only during the winter and spring, According to Piersak strives to stay in shape Balzer, the most year-round. Putting in this kind of important thing effort takes discipline, and that’s Piersak brings what Piersak says is the most to the team is important thing he has learned intensity. This from MV athletics. photo by Debbie Li intensity helps the “Mounds View athletics team focus on their Matt Piersak, 12, works hard to train for both of his have taught me about discipline. match, and that sports. His hard work has led to All-Conference Honors in Everything you do is easier if you focus pays off on the both pole vaulting and wrestling. stay disciplined to the task you are scoreboard. on,” said Piersak. the biggest track meet of the year, While Piersak enjoys Piersak has wrestled and different from other track individual competition, he says since second grade, and has meets. Every individual of each his best memory of wrestling was been a strong state competitor of the 26 teams that make it are going to State as a team when he for multiple seasons. He has graded. was a junior. The Mustangs ended gotten recognition for his talent With great talent in both up getting fourth in State, which by receiving All-Conference sports, Piersak was lightly is no small feat considering that honorable mention twice and Allrecruited by a few schools, such Minnesota is one of the biggest Conference twice. He says that the as St. Cloud State and Augsburg wrestling states in the nation. reason he likes wrestling so much for wrestling, and Junior College Another way Piersak combines Bridgewater State for track. is that there are only two people his drive to compete as both an competing.

“There weren’t many schools individual and a team comes from “One comes out a winner, calling for both sports, but I was his participation on the track team. the other a loser. It all depends on lucky to get some that had the Piersak is a talented pole vaulter, you,” said Piersak. major I was looking at, which is and received All-Conference Andrew Balzer, 12, has been meteorology, and since St. Cloud recognition last State has that major and a pretty year. good wrestling team [St. Cloud Piersak’s was ranked 14th in the nation in favorite memory of Division II last season.], I decided being on the track to commit there as a walk-on,” said team was winning Piersak.

True Team State Piersak hopes to continue his last year. strong work ethic at St. Cloud.

“Last year’s His tenure as a Mustang athlete True Team is one of has been filled with hard work and my best memories. success since eighth grade. With I knew I was his plans to apply his qualities of actually a part of us hard work and dedication to his photo by Debbie Li doing well, and that future, Piersak’s success is sure to felt really good,” continue.

Piersak’s intensity and discipline to stay focused helped said Piersak. him become a great leader on the wrestling team.

True Team is

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May 9, 2007

FA S H I O N Molly Hottman

THEN

When Molly Hottman, 12, was a freshman, she didn’t take much time getting dressed each day: “I never really thought about what I wore, I just put on jeans every day.”

Now a senior, Hottman has left her daily uniform of jeans far behind.

Rarely found in similar outfits, her wardrobe definitely has variety.

She makes it a point not to repeat the same combination of clothes twice.

“I wear dresses, skirts, leggings, more now,” she said. “And for sure more bright colors and patterns.”

Marty Weigand, 12, is not proud of his freshman wardrobe, “I wore crappy clothes when I was a freshman, not brand name or anything.”

But a lot has changed since then.

“I realized that the clothes I was wearing before just weren’t very attractive. Now I dress the way I dress because it’s comfortable and I think it looks better.”

Weigand actually puts thought into what he wears, creating outfits from some of his favorite stores: Hollister, Abercrombie, and H&M. Weigand believes his wardrobe changes have caused others to change their opinion of him, but he thinks it’s unwarranted.

“A lot of people have said that I’m full of myself now, just because of the way I dress,” he said.

Mo u n d s V i e w seniors flash back to their freshman styles and explain the reasons f o r t h e i r f o u r- y e a r fashion change.

AND NOW

Towards the end of freshman year, Rajvi Mehta had a wardrobe, and attitude change.

“When I was in the 9th grade, I was at the point where I still cared what people thought about me and how I looked. I guess that’s what sparked the change, I stopped caring what people thought and just wore what I wanted to wear,” said Mehta.

She slowly began to change her style from “department-store trends” to a more edgy, unique look. “Freshman year I was trying to get out of the whole ‘my mom picked my clothes for me’ phase. I think that’s when I first started shopping at Forever 21.”

“I don’t know if I can find any words to describe my style... I think I’d just say it’s more “me” now than it ever was.”

Rajvi Mehta

M a r t y We i g a n d

For the last four years, Mara Zimmerman, 12, has been changing her style.

Back in freshman year, her clothes were very preppy and pink. But little is left of that now.

Standing in grey jeans and an edgy layered T-shirt, it’s hard to imagine a girl who once blended into the crowd.

“People started to notice that my style was changing, but no one changed their opinions of me,” she said. She explained that she used to wear what everyone else wears, but now she dresses for herself.

“Freshmen year I just wore a ton of pink, but now I have found a style that is more myself,” said Zimmerman.

Mara Zimmerman

Nate Hopkins would describe his current style as “alternative.” “[I wear] skinny jeans and plain Ts. And Chuck Taylors. I wear those a lot,” he said.

This is a drastic change from his signature freshman look of “ghetto baller.”

“I wore basketball jerseys a lot, and had matching tennis shoes for each jersey.”

According to Hopkins, the reason for his fashion change was the influence from his group of friends.

“I hung out with sporty kids. And then kind of stopped and didn’t need to be sporty anymore,” he said. Hopkins enjoys his new style and thinks it portrays him better.

Fortunately, Hopkins’ eclectic friends fit him as well as his new daily footwear.

Nate Hopkins stories by Emily Storms, Karly Bergmann, and Cassie Ahiers photos courtesy of jackpurcell.com, gawker.com, brandchannel.com, angelfire.com, delias.com, urbanoutfitters.com, bsr.org