The Eyrie - March 2014 by Eden Prairie High School

EYRIE

Eden Prairie High School

THE

Vol.53, No.4 // March 2014

Staff

March letter from the editors

Editors-in-chief Audrey Altmann Maddie Chicoine Laurie Linscott

i everyone! It is officially spring (although sometimes it may not feel like it) and to go along with the new season, we have this wonderful, brand new issue for you. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re welcome. Perhaps you can take it with on spring break and read it on the plane, on the beach or, if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re staying home, on your couch. After all, its pages are full of entertaining and informational stories that we really hope you enjoy! As always, go check out our website at theeyrie.org and follow us on Twitter at @The_Eyrie. Now go and have a fun and safe spring break, Eagles!

Adviser Jodie Flolid Managing editor Kendal Jacobus

Yours Truly,

A&E editors Kendal Jacobus Elizabeth Kenyon Cover story editor Maddie Chicoine Feature editor Hannah Brandser

Laurie Linscott, Audrey Altmann and Maddie Chicoine

News editor Laurie Linscott Opinion editor Audrey Altmann Profiles editor Veera Vasandani Sports editors Hannah Jeter Jean-Pierre Tossa Chief of photography Vivien Yue Graphics manager Kameron Boike Website manager Laurie Linscott Circulation manager Elizabeth Kenyon Business managers Luci Bessinger Owen Desai Elizabeth Kenyon Staff Hannah Belongie Vanna Bollier Max Chao Zoe Glenn Megan Hartle Gillian Holte Claire Jamar Nick Reiss Thomas Richter Sam Schnirring Sheridan Swee

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Policies

Mission Statement The Eyrie strives to be an accurate, informative and entertaining publication for the students and faculty of EPHS. Letters The Eyrie encourages all students and faculty to share their views with the school. All letters must be signed; however, names may be withheld in certain situations. Once received, the Eyrie reserves the right to edit letters for length or content. Editorials Staff Editorials are staff-written and approved by a two-thirds majority of the staff. All other opinion pieces reflect the views of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publication, student body, faculty or administration.

march 2014

Contact us We welcome your feedback, suggestions and letters. To submit letters or comments, stop by room 253 during third hour or email comments to theeyrie.ep@ gmail.com. Multi-media To follow the Eyrie on Twitter, use the Twitter handle the_eyrie. To find us on Facebook, search for the Eyrie. For daily content and school updates, visit theeyrie.org Printer The Eyrie is printed by the Eden Prairie Schools Printing Services, partnered with Loffler Companies-Shana Finnegan. 17185 Valley View Road, Eden Prairie, MN, 55346

EYRIE THE

VOL. 53, NO.4 // MARCH 2014

A&E

4 // Inside look at band Belye Nochi 8// Q&A with “Divergent” author and actor Ansel Elgort

News

10 // 10 things about the district budget 12 // Finding the right job during high school

Sports

14 // Students involved in self-defense 16 // Gay athletes respond to stereotypes of professional sports

Cover Story

20 // Drug use among high school students

Opinion

26 // The perks of being alone 27 // Appropriate drinking age debated

Profile

28 // Yanna Gong gets published

Features

35 // The most popular tends of 2014 revealed 37 // Throwback to the ‘90s kids’ childhood

28 12

COVER ILLUSTRATION BY VIVIEN YUE

March 2014

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A&E

From day to night a new ba BY OWEN DESAI

Trevor Stansberry has been self teaching himself how to play the drums since he was ten years old. Clayton Stansberry played the piano until eighth grade when he then decided to switch and learn how to play the guitar. Kai Peterson has been playing the piano since he was very young, starting in elementary school. These three juniors have all been jamming together since freshman year. “We’ve always thought about creating a band,” said Peterson. “We get along so well.” Although they had been messing around in the Stansberrys’ basement, it wasn’t until this year that they decided to become a bit more serious with the endeavor.

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March 2014

One of the most important parts of creating a band is coming up with a unique name. “Trevor and I have been in a few smaller bands when we were younger, and they all had different names,” Clayton said. They decided to go with the name Belye Nochi (pronounced bell-i no-chee), which is a German translation for White Nights. “I really like the way it sounds,” Clayton added.

Junior Savannah Seaver, who is in concert choir and is heavily involved in the drama department, has been singing for as long as she can remember. After being in the musical with Trevor and Clayton, Savannah was invited over to jam with the rest of the band. “I’m fine with being the only girl in the group. They have some of their own inside jokes, but I like singing with them. It’s fun,” said Seaver. Grant Matzke, the fifth member of the group and the only sophomore, was flattered when he was asked to join. He started learning how to play the bass guitar this past December and has picked it up relatively quickly.

and steps into the spotlight “It’s humbling because you’re around really good people and I really like what they’re doing,” Matzke said. Over the past few months, all of the members have gathered at the Stansberrys’ house at least once a week to practice covers of songs and even some originals written by Clayton. “I think the reason we get along so well is because we generally have the same taste in music,” Trevor said. Alt-J, Daughter, Regina Spektor, Bon Iver, The XXX, LCD Soundsystem and The Beatles are their musical inspirations, to name just a few. “I would describe our style as Indie-Rock

Alternative,” Trevor said. The camaraderie between the members makes practices fun for them all. “My favorite part about being in the band is hearing it all come together. I think that’s really cool,” Clayton said. Anyone can quickly see the chemistry between them, they’re basically all best friends. “I like just

messing around on the guitar and singing anything. One time we played a 12 minute version of Beyoncé’s ‘Single Ladies’ just for fun,” Clayton said. “We don’t have too many of our own songs right now,” Kai said. They’re currently working on writing and arranging more of their own original pieces. Still in the beginning phase, everything has been going well so far for Belye Nochi. Their first time performing together as band was at Jamnesty. If you didn’t have a chance to seem them there, hopefully you can catch Grant, Savannah, Kai, Trevor and Clayton performing next year.

March 2014

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A&E

One of junior Tori Gulon’s beautiful photographs that will be featured in the upcoming Eaglit.

SUMBITTED BY TORI GULON

A glimpse of the Eaglit BY HANNAH BELONGIE This upcoming spring, the EPHS literary magazine, the Eaglit will be coming out. The Eaglit is smaller, and filled of photography, poetry and other art from local students. The Eaglit exposes some of the many talented works of art that our students are a part of. An example of one of the submissions that we received this year is by Tori Gulon. We asked Tori a few questions to get a better understanding about her interest in photgraphy. This is just one of Tori’s pictures that she submitted. To see more, make sure to order an Eaglit this

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March 2014

spring. Q: What is your favorite thing about photography? A: “I just like taking pictures and making things look cool. I like to edit them a lot because it is fun and you can make the pictures look like your own style and unique from the original.” Q: Where did your inspiration come from for all of your pictures? A: “My inspiration for my pictures comes from other pictures that I see on tumblr, instagram and other pictures that I think are different and that I want mine to look like.” Q: Where did your inspiration come

from for your favorite picture? A: “My inspiration for this picture came from the woods behind my grandma’s house, because they are really pretty and especially when it’s snowy and the sun is setting.” Q: What is your favorite picture that you have taken? A: “My favorite picture that I have taken is a picture of the woods behind my grandma’s house with the sun setting. I like how the sun is setting and the trees are casting shadows. “

Lights, cameras, and students EPHS club members collaborate ideas to produce films BY GILLIAN HOLTE Everyone loves a good film, but not many people take the time to think about how the film was made. We all know some famous names that have worked behind the camera, but did you know there are some talented young filmmakers in our school? Young Filmmakers Club is full of students interested in the art of filmmaking. “What got me into filmmaking was the club and watching a lot of YouTube,” said senior Charlie Oster, the club’s president. You do not have to be a filmmaker to join the club. “I thought it would be interesting and it seemed like a fun club,” said sophomore Emily Corpuz. The club meets every week during zero hour and occasionally watches short films from prior years. The club is currently working on a music video they shot for the band Koo Koo Kanga Roo, who originate from Minneapolis. The club contacted the band through their advisor Perry Kennedy. “They were completely open to do anything,” said senior Jens Erickson, the club’s vice president. They recorded the bands song, Unicorns R Real. “You need a script, a location, actors and also find the time to film all of it,” said junior Kevin Adah about the work that goes into making a film. Some filmmakers head to the drama club to find actors to star in their films while others use themselves as the actors. To some of these students, filmmaking is more than just a hobby. “I like the atmosphere of trying to put a video together and editing it, and at the end of the day having something that you can be proud of,” said Erickson, who is interested in pursuing into a career in this field. Sophomores Ryan Lippert, Matt Olson and Brian Ness are currently working on a film for the Golden Waffle Iron Film Festival. The festival shows student made films that were made throughout the year. The film is based off the idea of misunderstanding the term “cheesy monster movie.” “The film is a parody of classic horror movies, mostly ‘Frankenstein,’” said Lippert. The film festival, also known as GWIFF, takes place in the Auditorium at the end of the school year.

PHOTOS BY KAMERON BOIKE

Top: Junior Martin Blanco films Koo Koo Kangeroo in front of the green screen for an upcoming music video. Bottom: Behind the scenes of the filmmakers shooting the green screen effect for “Unicorns R Real.”

March 2014

The Eyrie

A&E

The Eyrie’s sneak peak and review of ‘Divergent’ premiere BY AUDREY ALTMANN AND LAURIE LINSCOTT At the “Divergent” early screening, at the Theatres at Mall of America, we had the opportunity to interview author Veronica Roth and cast member Ansel Elgort about the movie. Here’s what they said: Audrey Altmann: How does it feel to have your book brought to life? Veronica Roth: It’s pretty crazy. In the book it feels like it’s on a small scale because it’s in my mind. When they put it on the screen, it’s like, ‘Oh my God, it’s an entire city!’ This fence they created is like huge and like intense on screen! It’s really bizarre and amazing to see it put together like this. There are so many grown up

PHOTO BY LAURIE LINSCOTT

Actor Ansel Elgort, who plays Caleb Prior, talks to student reporters at the early screening. BY ELIZABETH KENYON “Divergent,” the movie some consider to be the next “Hunger Games,” came out on March 21. Lucky for me, I got to see it on March 5 for a press screening at the Mall of America, and while I wouldn't compare it to the “Hunger Games,” I think it was something amazing all on its own. “Divergent” takes place in a futuristic Chicago. The whole city is under a factionbased system: Amity (peace), Dauntless (bravery), Abnegation (selflessness), Erudite (intelligence) and Candor (honesty). The main character, Beatrice, who later becomes known as Tris, struggles with the decision to either stay in the faction she was raised in or transfer to where she thinks she belongs.

The Eyrie March 2014

people who take it very seriously, so that’s really touching. Laurie Linscott: Would you say that the movie is an accurate representation of what you had in mind when you wrote in the book? VR: I think they do a good job. Because in my mind everything’s kind of dilapidated and ‘retro-future’ and that whole visual is captured in this movie. AA: This movie and ‘The Fault in Our Stars,’ which you are also in, are really large-scale movies. Do you feel the pressure to live up to the fans’ expectations of your characters? Ansel Elgort: In ‘The Fault in Our Stars,’ yes. Because it’s so much the Gus and Hazel story [the main characters

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of ‘The Fault in Our Stars’]. But with ‘Divergent,’ not as much, just because it’s about the world [of the book]. I would feel more pressure if I was the director. But, they’ve done such a good job with set design, costume design and the whole setting. The pressure’s not on me there. LL: Which faction would you like to be in, and which faction do you think you would actually be in? AE: I actually wouldn’t want to choose a faction. I’m glad I don’t have to live in that world. Imagine having to choose what you do for the rest of your life at only 16, or else you’re factionless. But here, you can go to college and switch if you want to. I guess I would have to be Divergent!

PHOTO BY GILLIAN HOLTE

The “Divergent” movie poster portraying stars Shailene woodley and Theo James.

Author of the “Divergent” trilogy Veronica Roth signing a poster for fans.

Well, true to the title, she soon finds out that she is different from most other people. She is Divergent, which means that she doesn't fit into just one category, and the faction leaders are threatened by that. The movie was very different than the book; I'll admit that. However, for the first time in my life, I liked the changes. They made the movie version something better, while still staying true to the book. For instance, instead of paintball guns during an intense game of capture the flag, the initiates use guns with specialized needletype bullets that simulate the feeling of getting shot. It had important scenes from the book, while others were slightly tweaked (and not in a bad way). I'm not a fan of the word “epic,” but I feel I must use it to describe

many climactic scenes, as well as other heart-stopping events. The screen pulls you in and makes it so that you can't look away. All the other moments, whether they be exciting and fast-paced or slower and emotional, were excellent. Really, the whole film was flawlessly executed. There were even perfectly-placed spots of humor, sometimes from characters the readers would not expect comic relief from. Nevertheless, those character made the audience laugh several times. Oh, and Veronica Roth, the author of Divergent, appeared as a cameo in the movie. It was impossible to miss her. Basically, I love the movie as much as Four loves Tris. For those of you who don't understand that reference, that means I really, really love it.

Movie Review: ‘The Grand Budapest Hotel’ By Maddie Chicoine

The doors of the Uptown Theatre were plastered with yellow posters announcing that the 2:00, 4:30, and 7:00 showings of “The Grand Budapest Hotel” were all sold out. I have never seen the lobby as crowded as it was that Sunday afternoon. Disappointed patrons attempting to snag last minute tickets, assisted by theatre workers sporting the same purple “lobby boy” hat worn by the character Zero in the film. Farther inside, the widespread love of all things Wes Anderson was even more evident. True to the yellow posters, not one seat was left unoccupied. The story told in Wes Anderson’s distinct style revolved around the history of a once thriving hotel: The Grand Budapest. The story, told primarily through the eyes of Zero Moustafa, the hotel’s former lobby boy recounts his own adventures and those of Gustave H., the hotel’s concierge. Although seemingly more sinister than other films directed by Anderson, his directing brings a whimsical air that makes the movie feel magical. Through the lens of the camera we are given a

look into this absurd reality where chase scenes sometimes happen on sleds and romantic poems are recited at every opportunity. The comical aspect of this film comes less from the actor’s lines, and more from the way they are delivered. Wes Anderson’s casting ability lets the cast, dialogue and story reach its full potential. Every would-be ordinary moment in the film becomes anything but average. The obvious care put into the placement of every picture on the wall, every fork on the table and every item of clothing creates a masterpiece. Nothing has gone unnoticed. His love for film and the romantic can be felt even more prominently in the theatre setting. Although I have loved the several Wes Anderson films I have seen, “The Grand Budapest Hotel” took my admiration to new heights. Some may rush to dismiss this movie as an “indie” film, but it was far more. For every one of the 100 minutes that I spent in that darkened theatre, I sat on the edge of my seat, waiting with anticipation to learn the fates of the characters I had come to love. Those who agree to place an hour and a half of their life in the hands of this ingenious director will not be disappointed.

PHOTO BY MADDIE CHICOINE

Uptown Theatre is currently playing “The Grand Budapest Hotel.”

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MArch 2014 The Eyrie

NEWS

10 things to know about the budget BY HANNAH JETER

With the failure of the last referendum, the district is currently facing a $4 million budget gap.The Eden Prairie school district has a budget of about $100 million with 88% used for employee salaries and benefits. Here are 10 things you need to know:

10.

cabinet and the superintendent looked at the lists and compiled a condensed list. “Right now, the work of identifying the whole big list has happened, and now it’s what combination of things that have been identified could be put forward as cuts,” said McCartan. Tryggestad has already cut $300,000 in district administrative positions.

matter the size of the district,” he said.

There have been two meetings to get the input of the public. The meetings, on Feb. 5 and 6, had approximately 140 people in attendance, and residents worked in small groups to prioritize the eight categories of funding that could be cut. Approximately $1.3 million in cuts still need to be identified.

The immediate crisis is because of a referendum in the fall that failed. The referendum asked the question whether or not voters wanted to “revoke the existing operating levy of $1,306 per pupil unit and replace it with a levy for $2,269 per pupil unit each for the next 10 years beginning with the 2014-2015 school year.” This met much opposition, particularly from the Republican Party of Minnesota, which opposed the tax increases that the referendum would have brought. Now, the school district must launch an extensive series of cuts.

Eight categories of funding are on the chopping block. Here are categories listed in order of most recommended to be adjusted to balance the budget at the community meeting to least recommended for budget adjustment: increase fees for such things as activities, parking and transportation; reduce custodial services (building cleanliness and appearance); reduce student transportation services; reduce extracurricular activities; reduce nonclassroom social emotional support; reduce non-classroom student academic support; reduce elementary band and orchestra; and increase class sizes.

Underlying causes also Band parents “fight for” their include declining or flat programs. The Eden Prairie Band enrollment and declining or Parent Organization (BPO) technically flat funding. “Public education includes every parent of any student funding has been lagging in in a band program, but has around Minnesota for the past ten PHOTO BY SHERIDAN SWEE 50 to 60 “really active” parents, years,” said Superintendent Curt Superintendent Curt Tryggestad and Bob Noyed, director of Tryggestad. State aid has been district communications, explained the district budget to teachers. according to BPO co-president Susan Paulus. This is a large part of the increasing slower than costs. The reason that reducing elementary band and budget is based off the assumption of 8,940 orchestra programs are a lower priority for students enrolled in kindergarten through Money from the reserve fund diminished funding than non-classroom twelfth grade in the district, down from will cover part of the deficit. The social emotional support or non-classroom this fall’s enrollment of 9,213 students. unassigned general fund will be able to student academic support. “Everything Each additional student the district enrolls cover a maximum of $2 million of the on that list is just how can you function comes with state funding aid. A loss of deficit, effectively halving the gap. This without this, so we just hope that they can students equates to a loss of aid. unassigned fund is generally kept to insure figure out how to make it least painful,” the operation of the district when state Paulus said. “We always know that we “Budget reductions are a financial aid payments are delayed or emergencies are on the chopping block because it is process, but also a very political require additional spending. extra, but it is not. The band is part of the process.” Principal Conn McCartan has academics of this school.” emphasized the complex process that This has happened before. “We, cutting the budget can be. “You can cut sadly, have been through this process The district will try again. A something that saves you money, but in a number of times,” said McCartan. A referendum will be presented in November the end costs you money,” he said. “If a referendum for the 2010-2011 school that offers an option to close the funding program that is pretty big here ends up year failed, and thus we no longer have gap. If the levy is renewed and increased being cut, families might choose to go to secretaries in the resource centers. by $500 per pupil, the gap will be closed. “I another district that has that program.” Tryggestad also has much experience with am always hopeful that the community will reductions. “I have been a superintendent see the value of a strong and vibrant school Each school had to submit a plan for eleven years and have completed budget district. The level of funding has been yet to to reduce their budget by 4%. At EPHS adjustments each year. Eden Prairie has be set by the School Board, and ultimately this means possibly cutting administrative had budget reductions for at least the last the community will determine the type positions, trimming the maintenance five years. Each process to develop a budget of school system they want in our city,” budget or reducing extracurriculars. is unique, and reductions are difficult no Tryggestad said. After these were submitted, the executive

The Eyrie

March 2014

truck is to further our city’s commitment to healthy eating and active living,” said Park and Recreational Director Jay Lotthammer. “We plan to partner with Eden Prairie farmers to provide locally grown and fresh menu options.”. Basically, the committee is trying to make healthy options an easier choice by GRAPHIC BY KAMERON BOIKE eliminating unhealthy options. “Spreading the word about the project BY KENDAL JACOBUS is very important,” said Lotthammer. The more people know about it, the better The Mayor’s Health and Wellness the project can find sponsors. In fact, Committee is attempting to implement the committee is looking for high school a food truck at community and school volunteers as well. “This could also be a events to further enforce healthy living project that a committee of students of and eating in Eden Prairie. A mobile food students could adopt and assist the health truck would provide healthy options and wellness committee with fundraising and replace the traditional tent and efforts,” said Lotthammer. cooler concept. “A major goal of the food

City finds unique solution to healthier living

The healthy living mission began with the Mayor’s Health and Wellness committee, which was initiated by Mayor Nancy Tyra-Lukens as a way to engage residents in an effort to increase levels of health and wellness for all Eden Prairie residents. It is made up of residents and business owners who have a lot of training and enthusiasm for making community resident’s better and healthier. The committee continues to meet on a monthly basis to discuss strategies and methods for implementing health and wellness projects and initiatives. “The mission is to provide leadership in mobilizing a community-based coalition of organizations, physicians and individuals who are committed to improving public health by advocating for healthy eating and active living strategies in metro-area communities,” said Lotthammer. Currently, the committee is trying to raise funds through naming rights and sponsorships that would allow this project to become a reality.

Giving blood, saving lives BY THOMAS RICHTER

“It gives me a lot of piece of mind knowing that my blood is helping someone,” said senior Christian Albanito. Albanito has helped his fair share of people after having given blood on thirteen separate occasions both at National Honor Society organized events here and at public events. Blood, despite how often we take it for granted, is a very scarce resource. In order to keep up with the constant demand for blood, over 41,000 donations are needed every day. Whether it be because of an accident or an illness, someone in the United States needs a blood transfusion every two seconds. There are many safe opportunities here to give blood and contribute to the effort. “We’ve gotten about 80 donors at each event so far this year,” said senior Kevin Khieu, “and each of those donations can save three lives.” Khieu is vice president of NHS and part Senior Kevin Bu waits for his turn to give blood.

of the NHS committee that helps organize the blood drives. Once they have reserved the space and scheduled the event, the committee contacts Memorial Blood Centers to come by during that school day to set up. The donation process is carried out by trained professionals from Memorial Blood Center. The entire process takes about fifteen minutes and only one pint of the human body’s ten pint supply is taken. The fourth and final EPHS blood drive will take place sometime in mid May. For students interested in donating, signups take place all week before the event in both commons during third hour. Visit the Blood Drive tables to get your name on the list of donators. “There’s nothing to be afraid of,” said Albanito, “It’s really easy. I get that some people don’t like needles, but everybody should try it at least once just to see how it is. After SUBMITTED PHOTO all, it’s a great cause.”

March 2014

The Eyrie

NEWS

Find a job that fits you BY MEGAN HARTLE AND CLAIRE JAMAR

Relaxed and calm, junior Audrey Sebastian is peacefully making smoothies in the nice environment that is Berry Blends. There are all different types of work environments that are found in different types of jobs. Are you a person who likes to stay busy or do you like to be more relaxed? Would you rather get experience in customer service or have a job with limited contact with people? Whatever your personality, there is a job out there that is right for you, the hard part is finding the right fit. Sebastian, an employee at Berry Blends in Eden Prairie, says she likes her job because, “It’s really chill and we have a lot of freedom, plus we get free smoothies.” The hours at Berry Blends are also manageable for a high school student because it closes at 8:30, which means late nights aren’t a problem. Audrey also adds that most employees work three to four days a week, and there is no required uniform. If you like clothes and sports and senior Matt Leibold; working at Sports Authority could be the right job for you. Leibold says that he likes his job because “it is a lot of fun and I have great co-workers.” Matt works 15-20 hours a week, and the latest he’s ever worked was 10:00 and that doesn’t happen often. Leibold chose to apply for this job because he was interested in working in retail and in sports, and he says that he would recommend it to anyone with similar interests. Junior Haley Nixon, raves about her job working with kids at the YMCA. In her words she said she likes, “Getting close to the kids and she loves her co-workers,” she adds jokingly, “All I do is color, go on field

Junior Haley Nixon enjoying making a human pyramid with the YMCA kids.

PHOTO BY CLAIRE JAMAR

Senior Jessica Rislove asking for more details on a job she is interested in.

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March 2014

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trips, and pelt kids with dodgeballs.” Nixon is done working by 6:00 pm every night, and she occasionally works in the mornings from 6:00 a.m - 9:00 a.m because she has first hour open. It is only required to work three days a week, however Nixon chooses to work 5 days instead. If you like working with kids and not working late hours, you might want to consider a job in childcare or with the YMCA. Another path one could choose is to work at a restaurant as a waiter/ waitress or a host/hostess. Junior Nick Ferris works at Jake’s restaurant in Eden Prairie. Ferris says, “I enjoy it for the most part and it is fun to talk to and get to know the people that come through the door.” He adds, “my co-workers are very accepting of me and treat me like everyone else even though I’m only a high-schooler.” The late nights at a dinner restaurant could be seen as a drawback, or a positive because if you have after-school commitments, you would still be able to work plenty of hours.

Eyrie Explains: Ukraine crisis BY NICK REISS The conflict in Ukraine began in November of 2013 with peaceful protests against the country’s government after President Viktor F. Yanukovych dropped a trade deal with the European Union because of pressures from Russia. As the protests began in Ukraine, Yanukovych fled unexplained, which escalated the protests to become lethal. As the protests escalated, over 100 people died and over 100 more injured. There were shots fired into crowds of people as the protests became increasingly lethal. Both sides stood across from each other in a riot-like standoff, throwing bricks and rocks and fighting head to head. The conflict caused a divide in Ukraine: half of Ukraine in the West, and the other half in the East and South.The west side wants Ukraine to be more a part of the EU and less a part of Russia, while the east wants Russia’s help. Ukraine has gained it’s sovereignty but they still need support from outside sources. However, many European countries are afraid to intervene for fear of being cut off from Russia’s vast oil sources which run through Ukraine. The United State’s first action was warning Russian president Vladimir Putin to not take military action against Ukraine or there will be consequences. But as tensions hightened Putin gave the military the order to enter Crimea. “This is the red alert, this is

not a threat, this is actually a declaration of war to my country,” said Ukraine’s new prime minister, Arseniy P. Yatsenyuk, during a press conference he held a few days after Russia entered Ukraine. The U.S. threatened to impose sanctions on Russia to force them to comply with legal obligations. “Russian actions in Ukraine are violating the sovereignty of Ukraine and pose a threat to peace and security,” said United States Ambassador to the United Nations, Samantha Power. Crimea held a referendum to become a part of Russia on March 16 and 97% voted for it. The U.S. stated that they will not recognize Crimea as part of Russia since it is illegal according to international law. Putin believes that it is legal and after announcing on March 18 that Russia will annex Crimea, the region was officially brought into the Russian Federation on March 20. Kiev does not want to lose Crimea, but they drew up plans for evacuating their military from Crimea. Additionally, Yatsenyuk, signed the trade deal with the EU that Yanukovych did not sign back in November. The G-8 meeting in Russia that was to take place over the summer has been suspended by all other G-8 members due to these events. This crisis is considered to be the worst relationship between Russia and the West since the Cold War. All situations and events are the most accurate and up to date at the time of print and are subject to change. Sources for this article include CNN, the Star Tribune and PBS.

Where in the world... 1.

Crimea- The area came under the control of Ukraine with the collapse of the Soviet Union. The majority of the population is ethnically Russian and in a recent referendum the people voted to become part of Russia. Russia has now officially annexed Crimea.

Kiev - The capital city of Ukraine and where the protests began after Ukraine’s president turned to Russia for economic help instead of the European Union.

4 1

Moscow - The capital city of Russia and where the Kremlin, the country’s government, works from.

Eastern Ukraine- Many ethnic Russians live in this area and with the secession of Crimea, attention is turning to this region to possibly follow.

March 2014

The Eyrie

SPORTS Martial arts teach life skills BY OWEN DESAI

den Prairie High School has a few students who specialize in different martial arts. They focus on a range of techniques that include kicks, hits, blocks, ducks and many more moves. Their experience and abilities are important for all students to know so they can better protect themselves and be prepared for any situation.

Senior Annika Bredehoft has been going to Metro Karate in Eden Prairie for eight and a half years. “I started when I was 9 and right now I have a 3rd degree black belt. A lot of people are surprised when they find out I do Karate; they always think I’m too small,” said Bredehoft. That is actually a very common misconception about this martial art. You can be any size. “Karate is more than just punching and kicking, it teaches you to become a better person,” she said. “Knowing Karate makes me feel much safer in any situation I am in,” Bredehoft said. In Karate, once a person reaches the black belt levels, it takes a student the same number of years to earn the next degree. Currently, Bredehoft is on her way to get her 4th degree black belt, which takes four years to obtain. Three times a week Bredehoft takes lessons and teaches other students, sometimes practicing her favorite move which is a Tornado kick. PHOTO BY KAMERON BOIKE

Gorilla Combat is a martial art training facility in Chanhassen. It specializes in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Submission Grappling, MMA and boxing, which is what senior Max Smith picked up this year. “I’ve been interested in learning kick boxing since sophomore year, but this year I decided to start doing it with my friends,” Smith said. Right now, this just a hobby for him, but he thinks it’s pretty cool and hopes to do more in the future. “My favorite part about kick boxing is the intensity of it all and fighting with people in the gym,” said Smith. “Going into it I didn’t realize how difficult it actually was.” Smith said that this martial art is a good alternative to regular exercise and helps with cardio workouts. His favorite martial art is Muay-Thai Boxing. Max Smith practices two or three times a week.

PHOTO BY VIVIEN YUE

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March 2014

Since 2001, senior Kevin Khieu has been practicing the martial art of Tae Kwon Do. At just four years old, Khieu’s parents enrolled him at American Karate Studio in Minnetonka, moving around, working out, and making a lot of new friends. As a 3rd degree Black Belt, his favorite part is teaching adults and kids. “The oldest person I’ve seen taking lessons was 64,” Khieu said. “It’s really easy to get started and learn the moves. You’re not competing against anyone else except yourself.” Khieu thinks that is important to know self defense because it is good to always be prepared; you never know what is going to happen. He is trained not to fight back, but to block and then knock down the opponent. Khieu’s favorite move is a Triple Flying Side Kick.

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Learning to fight for survival BY JEAN-PIERRE TOSSA “Empty hand self defense is important because it is something you can carry with you all the time,” said Eden Prairie National Karate Director William Hill. “You don’t need a permit for it.” Situations requiring knowledge of self defense are more common than most would believe. About 83.3% of Americans will become victims of attempted violent crime at least once in their lifetimes according to Dr. Aaron Banks of Gustavus Ad. University of Illinois’ Campus Advocacy Network surveyed 6,159 college students on their experiences with assault. They found that more than 25% of college-aged women have been the victims of attempted rape. “We are living in a world where threat to person and property is constant,” said physical education teacher Jennifer Reynolds. With an event so likely to happen, it is vital to know what to do in such a situation. Here are four simple self defense maneuvers that can be used in various situations: Side Stomp If grabbed from behind, locate your attacker’s feet. Lift up your knee and proceed to stomp down hard on his foot with your heel. Another good target to aim this stomp at is the shins. This technique will damge your attacker’s legs, distracting him and allowing you to escape.

Knee/Kick to the Groin If attacked or grabbed from the front, lift your knee forcefully into your attacker’s groin area. An alternative is to kick with the top of the foot, striking your opponent in the groin. This is a highly effective move that can permanently injure and cripple an attacker, allowing you to flee and seek help.

Grip Escape If grabbed by the arm, find where your attacker’s thumb on his gripping arm is located. Proceed to forcefully pull towards the thumb. This will allow you to escape most grasps.

Where to learn: Annika Bredehoft takes lessons at Metro Karate 16370 Wagner Way Eden Prairie, MN 55344 Max Smith practices at Gorilla Combat Sports 1401 Park Road Chanhassen, MN 55317 Kevin Khieu learns skills at American Karate Studio 13110 Excelsior Blvd Minnetonka, MN 55343

Additional Tips: - Do not walk with earbuds on at night - Try to travel in groups

Palm Heel and Scratch If attacked from the front, ram your palm upwards into the bottom of your attacker’s nose. This will greatly injure and disorient him. Afterwards, extend your fingers and scratch down the front of his face. This will allow you to gather your attacker’s DNA under your fingertips, providing evidence for the police to use.

- Carry mace or pepper spray - Tell someone where you are going - Always of be wary of your environment - Most importantly, repetition and practice is needed for self defense to be of value

March 2014

The Eyrie

SPORTS

Gay athletes in the spotlight Is the media focus on sexuality instead of athletic ability helping support the gay community, or is it holding them down by labeling these people as gay athletes rather than just athletes? BY MAX CHAO In the past few months, gay athletes have been taking center stage in the world of sports. Between the New Jersey Nets’ Jason Collins and NFL hopeful Michael Sam, there is nonstop coverage of these players. But the media focuses on these people’s sexuality rather than their athletic ability. Collins has been in the NBA for 13 years already, and most people have only heard his name recently since Senior Andrew Fisher has competed in Nordic skiing since freshman year. PHOTO BY KAMERON BOIKE his coming out. “I appreciate the media’s recognition people feel like they are finally able to come out,” said Fisher. of gay athletes like Jason Collins and Michael Sam,” said Marcus These athletes are breaking new ground in the country, and Russell, an openly gay junior who participates in cross country, their inclusion in professional sports may help other, younger kids Nordic skiing and track and field. “It helps remind the general be who they are, according to Fisher. “Younger kids and other public that a person’s sexual orientation doesn’t have to define who people are looking up to these athletes and seeing that it doesn’t they are, and it certainly doesn’t have to limit their abilities.” really matter who you are, so they are good role models,” said Even though there are few openly gay athletes, it is highly Fisher. probable that there are many other gay athletes who simply The emergence of gay athletes is one step in the much larger haven’t come out of the closet yet. In 2010, the National Survey LGBT rights movement. Although the coverage of these athletes of Sexual Health found that roughly 8% of the male population is helping give publicity to these people and the gay community, identified as gay. Russell believes that people need to realize that Russell would like to see the world move past the players’ these athletes didn’t suddenly become gay. “They have been gay sexuality. the whole time, they just didn’t say anything about it.” “As an openly gay varsity athlete, I am incredibly grateful LGBT rights and acceptance have been getting pushed harder to my teammates for judging me based on my character and and harder in the last few years. Andrew Fisher, a gay senior who performance, rather than my sexuality,” says Russell. “I hope is involved in track and Nordic, believes that this is why there we may one day reach a level of maturity in our society in which have been so many athletes coming out. “More and more people athletes are measured solely on their athletic ability, and not their are coming out and gay marriage is a more relevant issue now, so sexual orientation.”

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I am incredibly grateful to my teammates for judging me based on my character and performance, rather than my sexuality - Marcus Russell

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Left: Junior Marcus Russell will be captain of next year’s Nordic ski team.

PHOTO BY SHERIDAN SWEE

The Eyrie

March 2014

Every year, students pack up workout bags and train for months in pursuit of a dream: to be immortalized as intramural team champions. Many teams try, but only one will succeed.

The three time champions of girls intramural basketball are, from left to right, seniors Nikki Myhre, Sophia Opatz, Alexis Wingert, Samantha Pothen, Jennifer Page, Jalen Parrington, Katie Tomlinson, and Lindsey Hiepler.

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Intramural teams compete for gold

BY CLAIRE JAMAR

ntramural sports: Many will compete, few will be able to call themselves champions at the end of the day. Senior Alexis Wingert, a proud champion of the girls intramural basketball league -better known as “swag ball”- says that it takes, “Unity, Gucci, and Dedication.” Aside from the championship, Wingert really enjoyed the entire season because she loves the “beautiful game,” and she plays for her “teammies.” Wingert is no stranger to swag ball championships as this is her team’s third year in a row winning the title. For input from the male side of “swag ball,” senior champion Matt Murakami said that to be a winner, “it takes a lot of blood sweat and tears.” He also encourages “a great squad with a lot of team chemistry.” Don’t be fooled by the appearance of all fun and games, intramural sports can get plenty competitive. Senior Katie Tomlinson, another intramural champion, says, “my

favorite part of the flag football season this year was winning games and tackling Asil Asfour.” Tomlinson has been on the same flag football team since her freshman year, and the team was ecstatic to take home the title their senior year. Senior Claire McCartan, another member of the winning girls flag football team, has nothing but positive things to say about flag football. McCartan said, “It was so much fun to be on a team with all of my best friends that I don’t usually get to play sports with.” Many intramural participants have never played a high school sport, or they play sports very different from the intramural they play.This offers for a diverse group of people in which differing athletic abilities can all have fun. McCartan adds that for her team to win the title, “it took being unbelievably athletic. For myself it took nothing because I got benched.” You don’t need to start as a freshman to be a champion, anyone can take up an intramural at any point in their high school

career, and still have a chance at the title. McCartan, for example, took up flag football for the first time this year, and that didn’t stop her from becoming a premier flagfootball player. Wingert said that her experience with intramural sports have been, “a great way to meet so many new friends and bond with the old.” Aside from winning the championship, intramurals can still be a great way to get involved with the school and have a lot of fun while you’re at it. All of the intramural athletes mentioned said that they would recommend intramurals to anyone at our school. Murakami elaborates that, “they’re a great way to have fun with friends. It’s also a great way to get some bragging rights which is the most important part” The Spring intramurals begin competing after Spring Break. The upcoming intramural sports are beach volleyball, ultimate frisbee, and Quidditch are all offered in co-ed forms along with single gender teams. Furei potiliuspies estilin Far Left: The boys’ “swagball” championship team posed after winning the title. Left: The girls flag football champions showed their dedication to each other after taking home the league victory.

March 2014

The Eyrie

SPORTS

2 6 3

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It will be fun to get to know the new people who joined this year - Madison Duffy

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Spring Sports Preview

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Boy’s golf is hoping for a season similar to last year’s. “We’re defending state champs so we want to repeat and win again. So we have really high goals this year compared to last year’s,” said senior captain Ryan Mayer.

PHOTO BY THOMAS RICHTER

The baseball team comes in to the season with high expectations. Senior captain Mark Gasner said, “The team goals are to win our section and win state. We have a lot of guys returning this year.”

PHOTO BY THOMAS RICHTER

Badminton heats up in the main gym every morning. Junior Madison Duffy says, “It’ll be fun to get to know the new people who joined this year. Badminton is really fun and you learn a lot and it’s actually a good workout.”

PHOTO BY SHERIDAN SWEE

Boy’s lacrosse has high hopes for the season. Senior captain George Kennedy said, “We’ve got a lot of great guys on this year’s team and it should be a lot of fun. We’re hoping for another outcome like last year’s.”

PHOTO BY CLAIRE JAMAR

The snowy conditions are keeping girl’s lacrosse inside the dome for now, but it hasn’t dampened the team’s enthusiasm. “I’m super excited for lacrosse and I can’t wait for the season,” said freshman Sammy Morton. “I think it will be a great season for us because we have so much talent as a team and all enjoy being with each other.” PHOTO BY CLAIRE JAMAR

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Track athletes run a few warm-up laps before their workout. “We have a good freshman and sophomore class so we are looking forward to this year. Hopefully we can get out and do the outdoor meets earlier as the weather allows,” said senior Evan Banks. PHOTO BY CLAIRE JAMAR

The girl’s softball team practices throwing and hitting in the dome each day. Sophomore Madison Whitley said, “We won the conference championship last year so I feel that our team is getting better. Our goals this year are to beat Prior Lake again and go to state.” PHOTO BY THOMAS RICHTER

The girl’s golf team practices their swing every day inside the dome. Junior Katie Gondek is looking forward to a great season. PHOTO BY THOMAS RICHTER

MARCH 2014

The Eyrie

COVER STORY

STORY BY MEGAN HARTLE AND SHERIAN SWEE

The Eyrie

March 2014

any students at EPHS believe that drugs are used by a majority of teenagers and are common place. Perception is far from reality, however, and the actual numbers are shocking. Students believe that 83% of students have smoked marijuana by the time they are juniors when in reality, only 20% have actually used, according to the Minnesota Student Survey given every three years to juniors and freshmen with questions regarding various topics including drugs. “It is a common topic of discussion, which leads students to think it is a way bigger problem than it really is,” said senior Kaylee Simonson. This is a reassuring statistic for students and the community as a whole, according to Dean Kim Kane. “It’s so nice to hear that not everybody is using and, in fact, [the students] that aren’t are in the majority,” she said. The Minnesota Survey gives insights into the habits and attitudes of EPHS students. The perceived risk of using marijuana has decreased and there has not been an increase in users. However, this is no reason to dismiss concerns about drug use. According to principal Conn McCartan, “Until the day it doesn’t affect anyone at EPHS, yes, we do have a drug problem.” Fewer than 2% of students use hard drugs ranging from LSD to crack. The top three abused substances are alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana. Although an increase in heroin users in the metro area has been publicized recently, this trend hasn’t been reflected in EPHS students. “Trends ebb and flow. What might have been a popular choice of drug one year might not be popular the next year,” said Kane. The three substances that have remained consistent are tobacco, alcohol and marijuana. The perception that many people in school use drugs might influence peer pressure, Simonson said. The way a person responds to peer pressure “depends on the type of person, and peer pressure comes from specific groups.” Junior Kerry Gay has a similar view on peer pressure. “If people choose to care, they might be influenced,” said Gay. The media glorifies drug use in music and music videos, students said. “There are a lot of music videos that include drug references and some even portray the artist doing drugs. This leads kids to think it’s okay to do drugs in order to be like their idols,” said junior Kenna Monger. Many artists are portraying drug use throughout their music and on their album covers. “There are many artists that use direct drug references in their songs,” said junior Samantha Considine, “Some of the artists include Two Chainz, Mac Miller, Kid Cudi, Chief Keef, Kendrick Lamar, and ASAP.” The estimated price of marijuana is dropping each year according to research done by the National Drug Control Policy of the United States, making it more accessible to adults as well as teenagers. However, the cost of supporting drug habits can be very

expensive – especia lly when in high sc hool. When asked about perso nal spending expe nditures, a student said that he had spent $360 on drugs and alcohol in th e past two weeks. Kane believes that news coverage of medical marijuana has infl uenced student op inions because coverage highlights the me dical benefits are over the harm ful effects. “There is a huge movement to legali ze marijuana, an d there is a lot more inform ation that shows benefits or helpful aspects,” said Kane. “For pe ople using marijuana in a me dical setting, they are going to be very passion ate and not pay att ention to the harmful effec ts.” Senior Christian Cavello feels the same way. “People aren’t very educated on the negative effects of drugs,” he said. Across Minnesota , boys are more ac tive drug users than girls – a statistic that is true here. This tre nd has continued since the 2010 survey. There could be mu ltiple explanations for this trend. “It does n’t surprise me,” said junior Maddie Lin dquist, “Guys smoke and use more than gir ls. It’s more socially acce ptable.” Freshman Cooper Rogness added, “Girls doing drug s is unattractive and less common than gu ys doing drugs.” The results of the student survey show that 16% of junior boys smok ed marijuana for the first time between ages 15-16. “I was alw ays the sober one in the group. Everyon e always asked me to smoke and drink , and I never did,” said an anonymous jun ior. That changed on April 20 when he was with frien ds: “they passed me a bong as a kind of joke, but I hit it.” Another junior sa id he tried drugs for the first time at a New Years Eve pa rty freshman year. In dealing with dr ug use, the school plan range s from prevention to disciplinary ac tion. A full set of regulations reg arding how the school reacts to dr ug-related

“It is a common topic of discussion, which leads students to think it is a bigger problem than it really is.”

March 2014

The Eyrie

COVER STORY

STORY BY MEGAN HARTLE AND SHERIAN SWEE

The Eyrie

March 2014

“It is a common topic of discussion, which leads students to think it is a bigger problem than it really is.”

March 2014

The Eyrie

COVER STORY WARNING SIGNS: SYMPTIOMS OF ADDICTION The first step to overcoming a drug-related substance abuse problem is to acknowledge that there is a problem. There are many signs and symptoms that can be seen in the home or at school. In addition, there are general physical or emotional signs. It is important to be familiar with recognizing these signs and symptoms. Some examples include:

-Loss of interest in family and social activities -Sudden increase or decrease in appetite or sleep pattern -Sudden drop in grades or poor attitude towards extracurricular activities -Reduced memory and attention span -Change in friends -Behavior becomes negative, argumentative, paranoid or confused, destructive, anxious (For the complete list of signs and symptoms, visit the EPHS Health Services web page: http://www.edenpr.org/Page/1242)

GETTING HELP: NEARBY TREATMENT CENTERS If you or someone you know has a chemical health problem, there are many local options to receive help and treatment. Two of the rehabilitation centers include: Relate and Fairview Riverside.

Relate Counseling Center: A community based mental and chemical health center for teenagers and families alike. 15320 Minnetonka Blvd., Suite 200 Minnetonka, MN 55345 (952) 932-7277 Fairview Riverside: A clinic that has 24/7 scheduling and provides extended hours and same-day appointments. 606 24th Ave. S., Suite 700 Minneapolis, MN 55454 (612) 672-2450

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March 2014

problems can be fou nd in the student ha ndbook. For a third violation, or if there is an intent to sell, exp ulsion will be considered. “We are not a cookie cutter ope ration. We want to look at how we ind ividually support tha t student and hold them accountable ba sed on that,” said Ka ne. “We want to make sure that when there are worries or concerns, we are able to support them. As a dean, it’s not jus t about being punitive but also ab out being helpful. We want to send a message that it isn’t tolerated here.” While unable to releas e the number of stu dents who are expelled or suspe nded in a given year, the deans were able to say that the numbers are compa rable to other schools in Hennepin County. According to the survey, 99% of students don ’t use prescription dru gs to get high, but use them for other purposes ins tead. “A lot of people take Adder all for school purposes and not for recreational use like how a lot of students smoke weed and drink,” said jun ior Anna Davis. While it is a felony to possess illegal drugs such as marijuana, it is ha rder to prove that a student is under the influence of drugs other than alcohol. “Alcohol is easy to det ect because we have a preliminary breath tes t machine,” said pol ice liaison officer Patty Van Sickle. While the re is not a specific way to tes t for drugs, students who are suspected to be under the influence of dru gs are sent to the nurse’s offi ce. There the school nurse, Carolyn Henning, wil l check a student’s vit als if needed. Students suspected of drug us e may also be searched. In the metro-area, the re has been a rise in the number of heroin overdoses, with three teenagers passing aw ay last year. Van Sic kle said that she has no t seen an increase in heroin use among stu dents, but added tha t it is “extremely dang erous.” “I want people to understand that you can use it only once and die from it,” she said. Due to the rise in ove rdoses, State Senator Chris Eaton of District 40 proposed a bill for thi s legislative session that would allow He nnepin County officer s and other safety per sonnel in the state to carry the drug Na laxone, which is powerful enough to reverse the effect of a heroin overdose. “I believe that if they incorporate the proper training, it’s a great idea,” said Van Sickle. “[As police officers] we’re requir ed to be EMT certified anyway, so it’s just one step further.” When asked about str ategies to combat drug use wit hin the school, Kane said, “We hope that we have candid and honest con versations with people – familie s included – about what could happen if students or young peo ple continue to use or even start.”

The Eyrie asks students about drug use BY OWEN DESI AND CLAIRE JAMAR

How has your perception of drug use changed since you entered high school?

“It hasn’t really changed, I still don’t approve of it. But it is not as surprising to hear about it.” -Melissa Printup, senior

“More people than you think actually do it. It seems more common.”-Cole Froemming, sophomore “It seems okay now, because everyone does it,” -Deja Wilson, junior

“It seems more common. I thought it was rare when I heard it in eighth grade, but it is more common and acceptable even though it is bad.” -Emily McLaughlin, freshman

What is our school’s perception of drug users?

“Some students perceive it as desirable activity, while others look down upon it and think it should never happen. It really depends on the students point of view.” -Josh Lanasa, junior

“People mostly judge others because of how they look and who they hang out with.” -Anna Rogoz, freshman

“Students think drug users are stoned all the time and that is the only thing they do.” -Jack Bluhm, senior

“I think they’re more accepted because it’s not abnormal anymore to hear of someone doing drugs.” -Maddy Lindquist, junior

“I have nothing against them but they lose my respect.” -Kyle Connelly, freshman

DRUGS IN EPHS BY THE NUMBERS...

These numbers represent the EPHS student body based on the Minnesota Student Survey given in 2013 to freshman and juniors. Survey results are similar.

“Students have a negative perception and drugs users are not looked highly upon. People don’t think it’s that cool, for the most part people don’t do it.” -Lizzie Allen, senior

•17% of juniors thought that smoking marijuana once or twice a week posed •3% of juniors reported that they tried to cut down on their drug use but couldn’t. no risk at all. •11% of juniors thought that it would •35% of juniors thought that not be wrong at all to smoke marijuana. smoking marijuana once or twice a week posed a great risk. •11% of juniors thought that it would not be wrong at all to have one or more drinks of •4% of junior males reported using alcohol nearly every day. marijuana daily. •2% of junior males reported that they •29% of juniors have used had used crack, or cocaine in any other form marijuana. •99% of freshman males reported •67% of juniors have never used that they had not used crack, or cocaine in any alcohol.

form.

•97%

of freshman reported that they had not used prescription drugs within the past 30 days.

March 2014

The Eyrie

OPINION

Staff Editorial: College isn’t

always the only option available

he question on almost every high school student’s mind is, “What am I going to do after graduation?” A majority answer with a four-year college. This reflex response can be attributed to the fact that Eden Prairie has a strong college-going culture. However, this option is not the only one available for post-secondary education. Most people are aware that after high school, you can go to a four-year university, a two-year, a trade school, the military and many more. Because EPHS is considered to have a high level of education, a lot of students feel the pressure to attend a “traditional” four-year school, often times without even considering other options. Eden Prairie has always been proud of its graduates who go on to college and takes special pride that a large amount do. According to data from the National Student Clearinghouse about our

graduates, Eden Prairie has more high school students go on to college than any other in the surrounding suburbs. This fact is definitely something to be proud of, but should not be the only focus of the high school. For example, our school has a Career Resource Center filled with post-secondary options, the majority of which are colleges. The other options are there, but not as prominent. When presentations are given here, 99 percent of the speech is on college. This shouldn’t be the case. The presentations should be evenly split between the other options. In this community, not attending a conventional, four-year university has a negative, and misplaced, connotation attached. Other options aren’t necessarily seen as valuable, which is a mistake. Many respectable occupations don’t require time at a college but have their own version of education or training. For instance, in order to become a police

officer, a person isn’t required to have a college diploma. The Police Academy is separate post-secondary education. This respected profession, along with others should be taken into consideration for more students who don’t necessarily want to attend a traditional college. Many feel the intense pressure to go to college from all around. But, the truth is that college is not the best option for everyone. Just as every person is different, their educational needs and wants are different. Going to a trade school in order to avoid debt or working at a job you really love is nothing to be ashamed of. The mentality of students should be changed. While students should realize this fact, adults in the school and community need to understand reality. The pressure placed on some students is misdirected and unfair. This school needs to emphasize that idea more than the idea that everyone needs to go to college.

Letters to the Editor Teen books turned into film finally given the spotlight

Lengthen the stoplight to school, fix the traffic flow

There has been a well-deserved rush of movies based on teen books as of late. Thankfully, some have gone over well, think Harry Potter or The Hunger Games. But, not all have, like that cautionary tale of a movie where special effects tried and failed to take the place of acting and creativity: Eragon. Even I, as a teen and fan of the book, could not go to that. Filmmakers have not been discouraged, however, as popular books such as Divergent, The Maze Runner, The Fault in our Stars, and many more are to take on the big screen this year. It seems that teen books have finally gotten their time to shine. However, filmmakers take heed. When caught up in the rush to get the words into pictures, take care to make it a good movie on its own, but don't stray too far from the book. We fanatics will revolt. Think of cautionary tales from book to film such as Percy Jackson. To the moviegoers, don't disregard this new phenomenon. And, to the teen book lovers, rejoice! It seems we have finally gotten our due.

The light on Eden Prairie Road that intersects with Highway 5 isn't long enough and causes major traffic back up. The city needs to fix this light in order to create less of a traffic back up amongst other lights before it. I drive to school every morning down Eden Prairie Road and it takes me 20 minutes to drive down that street when my house is a mile and a half away from school. I think that's a bit ridiculous! Although it also might be worse because it is rush hour, even when it's not rush hour, it takes me way longer to get to school then it should. There's a simple solution: fix it Eden Prairie!

Freshman Ally Cottrell

The Eyrie

March 2014

Junior Kate Morrison

GRAPHIC BY KAMERON BOIKE

Technology cripples human interaction BY RYAN HARTLEY The kids of this generation are starting to realize that maybe Grandpa was right when he said, “…back in the good ‘ole days,”. There is a growing fascination with previous decades; teens wishing that they were born in a different generation so that they could experience the good vibes that we all get when we watch a classic film like “Grease” or “Fast Times at Ridgemont High”. Maybe some of these dreamers believe that it’s the styles or the music that makes them want to travel back in time, but there is nothing stopping them from going to a thrift shop or buying an album by The Beatles on iTunes. What we see in these classic movies that grabs our interest is the interaction between humans, which is, unfortunately, so foreign to us today. Texting is so easy to do. Social media is an easy way to get updated on what’s going on. The thing is, these don’t require people to use their voice. Since these methods of communicating are easier, they have become our go to way of interaction. People have become lazy and even have developed a level of discomfort in conversing face to face. When technology wasn’t in the picture, verbal communication was the

only form of interaction and it was done naturally. Social hangouts, such as diners and malls, were packed with teenagers socializing on a Saturday night. These days, such social scenes are often abandoned. Kids don’t have to meet up in large numbers to find out what’s new and what the plans are for the night when they can do so with a text message. I have seen smart phones used as a social crutch way to often. When conversation runs out and things gets awkward, the phone is pulled out to check Twitter, Snapchat, etc. instead of putting the effort in to keep the conversation going. Although it’s not always thought of this way, communicating with others is a skill and it’s one that we used to be really good at when it was our only option. As years pass, this problem is only going to continue to get worse as technology progresses and consumes us. Generations from now, people will look back and wish they could have experienced these next few decades. Maybe we should set aside our phones from time to time and experience it ourselves. Ryan is a guest columnist from the EPHS Journalism and Media Studies class.

Unenjoyable tests prove necessary BY THOMAS RICHTER

RON

AME YK CB

PHI

GRA

ACT, SAT, PSAT, AP, PLAN, MCA and how about the NWEA? You probably remember these, or are still dreading some of these odd combinations of capital letters because of all the stress, hours of preparation, hand cramps, headaches, re-testing, tears and more stress you have to deal with right before taking them. And that’s on top of all the other junk you have to worry about, so why pile on another test when we already have more than enough on our plates? So yes, they suck, but they’re also necessary. There needs to be some sort of baseline, some statistic that all students, regardless of any external variables, can be compared with. Something that teachers and colleges can look at to make a decision about what kind of applicant would be a good fit for their class or campus. Without these tests, colleges KE

BOI

would have a tougher time making each decision because students from one high school and one background may have the same GPA and course schedule, even though their level of preparedness may be much different. The standardized test is going to be what separates those two applicants. Standardized tests don’t change from student to student. They’re unbiased, the great equalizer in the ever changing space of the educational system. Without them, the decision makers would be lost, and all those poor decisions would eventually trickle down and affect us. I don’t like them. Nobody likes them. But in the words of english teacher Rolf Olson, “It’s like medicine. You might not always like it, but it will always be good for you.”

I’m Just Sayin’: Passionate Dislike of Affection BY HANNAH BRANDSER I’m just sayin’ that since freshman year, I have developed a strong dislike for school PDA. Congrats that you have a boyfriend or girlfriend, but I do not need to see that in the hallway. No one wants to see PDA, so save it for after 2:35pm. Oftentimes when I am walking through the hallway, I come across a couple making out. Shortly after that, my eyes start to burn and I run away quickly. The funny thing is that usually the couples I see are the same couples. They meet in the same spot, at the same time every single day. Even after I give these couples constant, harsh death glares, it does not stop them. Nothing does. Walking to my car after school is the place where I see the most PDA. There are several couples giving that last “goodbye” kiss, even though they will definitely see their “bae” again in the next 18 hours, if not earlier. And the worst part is the couples stand right in the midst of everything, making it nearly impossible to avoid seeing their sentimental kiss. So, if you are reading this and it sounds vaguely familiar, stop what you are doing and move out of the way. What does it take to stop school PDA? That is a question I am still trying to find the answer to. From personal experience, I can tell you that walking up on PDA in the hallway is not a fun sight to see. And I can promise you that I am not the only person who thinks that. Take consideration of what other people are looking at. Also, keep your hands, and your lips, to yourself. It is hard for me to see how couples are even comfortable showing their love for each other in front of people. Displaying your affection for someone is cute, when it is done in private. When it is done in public, you may get the sense that people are judging you and your significant other, because they probably are! So for everyone else’s sake, could you not? This is a rotating column written by a different, opinionated staff member each issue.

March 2014

The Eyrie

OPINION

Why are bad words so bad? BY MAX CHAO

“

Curse words, like it or not, are a huge part of pop culture and everyday life. In any form media and in pretty much every conversation that takes place, there will probably be some form of cursing. So the question is if they are such a huge part of life in 2014, why are they so taboo? Practically every single swear word has a synonym that people will not bat an eye at if it is used instead of its rude counterpart. People have become too fixated being offended by the actual word instead of the meaning of the word or the context it is used in. In the defense of anti-cursing people, I will admit that literally every swear word means something nasty, crude or offensive. You will not hear a swear word that compliments someone on how nice they are. Most of these words probably earned their restricted status from simply representing crass acts or concepts that were never to be brought up in conversation. If someone takes cursing out of their

People’s offense to curse words basically comes down to what we were taught. When we are young, we are taught not to use these words, so we teach our kids not to use these words, and so on.

”

vocabulary for the sake of being more polite or if they were raised with more traditional manners, then good for them. People’s dislike of to curse words basically comes down to what we were taught. When we are young, we are taught not to use these words, so we teach our kids not to use these words, and so on. Refrain from the use of swear words is a basic part of etiquette that has been ingrained into our culture. There are certain words that represent racial or sexual prejudices, and I do think that they should be avoided since a lot of these issues were present until fairly recently. A lot of people think that it’s hypocritical when members of the groups that these slurs were directed towards start using them themselves. Personally, I am fine with it. These people are taking an otherwise awful word and turning it into a term of endearment. Basically, curse words are just words, and depending on the situation they are used in, they shouldn’t be taken any more offensively than other words that mean the same thing.

Alone doesn’t always have to mean lonely Solitude can be as satisfying as being social if you have the right attitude BY VEERA VASANDANI According the unwritten laws of high school etiquette, the only way to achieve happiness and acceptance is being in a relationship, surrounding yourself with friends and having an insane amount of followers on “insert social media site here.” It may seem difficult at first, but believe me when I say it’s okay to break the rules and enjoy your own company sometimes. Being alone is not the same as being lonely, although there is a seemingly fine line between the two. Understandably, humans are social creatures. The warm and fuzzy feeling people get in relationships, or even just spending some quality time with family, is addicting. Being encompassed around loved ones is a reassuring way to know that you are loved. However, sometimes loving yourself and accepting your own company can

The Eyrie

March 2014

be just as fulfilling as being in a room full of admirers. If you do decide to endeavor on this bold adventure of solitude and you are lonely at first, be patient. Because solitude is walking along Lake Street, just you and your city, taking things in that you often don’t take the time to appreciate when you’re busy with other people. It is allowing your senses to be your company. It is taking the time to soak in your surroundings, instead of just existing blindly within them. The beauty of being alone is freeing yourself from the pressures of your social circle, happy to stay at home for a while and to wind down after a long day. It is ordering your favorite food, flipping through Netflix and delving deep into the comforter that has doubled as a shield for the never-ending cold. It is being as informal and messy as you want to be, happy in the knowledge that no one will PHOTO BY KAMERON BOIKE be there to judge you for even slightly stepping outside of the social norms. Solitude isn’t just for the forever aloners, the outcasts, the introverts or the unhappy. It’s for everyone.

Point/Counterpoint:

APPROPRIATE DRINKING AGE For safety of all, remain at 21 Lower to 18; change the future BY NICK REISS

BY LUCI BESSINGER

Drinking is always associated with the number 21. Someone’s first legal drink is usually a passage to adulthood. When someone turns 21 they usually know who they are and will have to make important decisions during this time. Drinking could become the biggest choice of their lives. Turning 21 is around the time people know if drinking is part of their lives, 21 is the best time to choose. Drinking doesn’t seem much of a problem when everyone drinks. People everywhere consume alcohol in different sorts and in different ways. In 2011 according to the Youth Risk Behavior Survey 39% of people under 21 drank some form of alcohol. Alcohol isn’t seen as a terrible thing, because more people are accepting it into our culture every day. While everyone is busy talking about marijuana someone dies in an alcohol-related car accident every thirty minutes. If the drinking age dropped to eighteen, minors will have an easier way to access alcohol. Students who turn eighteen during high school could go to school with a hangover. We fear everything we don’t know about, but alcohol has been legal since prohibition and is now a part of our lives. Lowering the drinking age is encouraging drinking, when we should be discouraging it. Alcohol is the most destructive drug in America. You can see people drinking everywhere you go, but you most people don’t understand the consequences before it’s too late. If we were to do something with it we should raise the drinking age. With over 14 million alcoholics in the United States, three in every ten Americans will be in an alcohol-related crash in their lives. Studies show that 1000 lives are saved a year due to raising the drinking age.

Sometimes I wonder how 18 year olds are able to vote for the future leader of our country, but yet not able to casually enjoy a drink legally. In addition, the idea that the common 18-year-old is not “mature” enough to handle alcohol, but yet can fight for our country, is simply frightening. We say that real men join the army after high school, but are these “real men” the same men who cannot drink legally for another three years? Embarrassingly, yes they are. We all know that alcohol is seen as the “forbidden fruit” when we are underage. This is definitely the curiosity that kills. How is the tolerance of alcohol affected by the current drinking age? Teens who go to college their first year and drink for the first time often get dangerously sick due to alcohol poisoning (and the current, nonsensical legal drinking age law). Furthermore, death rates would highly decrease if the drinking age was changed to 18. In 2012, 157 people GRAPHIC BY KAMERON BOIKE died from alcohol poisoning in the Twin Cities. However in 1973, when the drinking age was 18, only 17 people died due to alcohol in this area. Various countries don’t have any drinking age. An example of one of these countries is Spain. Spain’s death rate by alcohol is .4 per 100,000 people, while the death rate by alcohol in the United States is 1.6 per 100,000 people. Since it is illegal for teens to legally drink in public, they tend to drink hard liquor that is clear and unnoticeable in water bottles. And because all of this hard liquor is being consumed, more minors, DUIs and deaths are present in society. Does the government strive for us to fail? Don’t they know that there will always be the rebels of the law? Don’t they know they are setting us up for failure? If it wasn’t illegal to drink at the age of 18, would it really be as appealing?

Student opinions “It should be 18 because all college supervisors know that drinking exists in high school so they are just setting us up for a loss.”

“It should be 25 because that’s when the brain stops developing.”

Sophomore George McDowell

Junior Asil Asfour

“I’m unsure of how I feel about the drinking age because parental discretion should be more of a key role.” Freshman Jacob Thomas PHOTOS BY CLAIRE JAMAR

March 2014

The Eyrie

OPINION

Opinionettes

Bad time for white pants Enough criticizing peoples’ taste in music! BY LAUREN ALTMAN

Why do people think it’s okay to wear white pants outside of the summer months? Especially in Minnesota, the snow comes right after the school buses do. Do you want to blend in with the snow? Personally, I’d rather be picked up by a bus than run over by one. Also, white pants just really aren’t for some people; but, if you’re going to wear them, wear your white pants between Memorial Day and Labor Day. No exceptions. Just like you wouldn’t wear a parka in the summer time, please refrain from wearing white pants in the winter.

Are hipsters really hipster? BY ELIZABETH KENYON We’re all familiar with the hipster look. We see it all the time. There is just one major problem with this. According to my Dictionary! App, a hipster is “someone who rejects the established culture.” In other words, someone who does not do what everyone else does. Well, if everyone is dressing like a hipster, then there is only one accurate conclusion to reach: everyone who dresses like a hipster is not actually a hipster. A “real” hipster is someone who does their own thing, not what is popular among others at the time. (I did not know it was possible to use the word “hipster” that many times). The point is, the look we see in the hallways (you know what I mean) needs to stop being referred to as the hipster look. It is not.

She Said

She said

BY SHERIDAN SWEE AND MADDIE CHICOINE Sheridan Swee: Why isn’t there anything good to watch on TV anymore? Maddie Chicoine: Have you seen “Toddlers in Tiaras?” SS: I had the unfortunate experience of seeing it once, and now I’m scarred for life. MC: Are you kidding? I love that show. SS: Why? It’s a bunch of spoiled little girls getting yelled at by their crazy moms for not looking like they’re 20 when they’re 4 years old. MC: I mean, the spray tans and fake teeth are a little much, but you have to admit it’s entertaining to watch. SS: I don’t think so. In fact, I think reality TV has taken up too much of the airwaves lately. Whatever happened to the days when the History Channel had

The Eyrie

BY THOMAS RICHTER Nothing grinds my gears more than when someone insults someone else’s choice of music. Or when someone says that a certain genre or style or artist is crap and that anyone who can stand listening to them for even a second must be deaf. The way I see it, there isn’t strictly good and bad music, but rather music you like and music you don’t. Yeah, I don’t really like certain kinds of rap or metal, but I don’t go around calling it all garbage music, because there are a million people who like that kind of sound, and I really don’t think that those same million people all just have a terrible taste in music. I just would rather not listen to it. It’s like anything else that falls into the category of art. There’s stuff you like and stuff you don’t. I think within a certain genre it’s fair to call various artists better than others, but worshiping one type of music while completely discrediting another is unfair to everybody involved. GRAPHIC BY KAMERON BOIKE

Exploring the pros and cons of reality television documentaries? MC: They realized their viewing audience was dying. Most people would rather watch reality TV than two hour specials about Gettysburg. SS: I don’t understand why anyone would want to waste their time living vicariously through someone else instead of living their own life. MC: We’re not trying to live vicariously; we just want a look into the lives of someone as fascinating as Snooki. SS: The only fascinating thing about Snooki is that she still has a functioning liver. MC: But the average American works nine to five at some boring day job. It’s fascinating to watch someone else’s “normal.” Especially a normal as absurd as the ones in “Jersey Shore.” SS: Is it worth spending the time, though, if their version of “normal” is being

February 2014

unproductive and stupid? MC: My life would be so boring if I only did things that were considered productive. SS: So, your life is interesting because you watch people who do interesting things on TV? MC: Thankfully, no, but I think it provides a good escape every once in a while. SS: I agree that everyone needs an escape, but I don’t understand why the escape is reality TV. MC: I think sometimes people just need a good laugh. Besides, it’s hard not to flip through channels and pause on an episode of “The Bachelor.” SS: As long as you don’t take it too far. I’ll be concerned if you start acting like one of the Kardashians. This is a rotating debate written by two Eyrie staff members.

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March 2014

The Eyrie

PROFILE

YANNAgong

PHOTOS BY VIVIEN YUE

The Eyrie

MARCH 214

Ms. Write: Senior Yanna

Gong gets published

BY SAMANTHA SCHNIRRING

hile most high school students are busy worrying about their English essays, one EPHS senior has already managed a literary feat that few of us will accomplish in our lifetimes-- having a book accepted for publication. “Initially, I was hoping to write a research paper on the issue of the education systems here and in China,” senior Yanna Gong said, “and by the end of the process, I had accumulated so much information where, when I was starting to write it, I could tell that it wasn’t going to be a 20-page research paper. It was just so much information, and so many things to say, and so many short stories to share, that I ended up accumulating it into this kind of manuscript.” Gong did extensive research in order to write the book. “I took a couple trips back to China, starting about three summers ago, and did some interviews and talked to teachers, students, principals,” she said. “The story that I like to talk about is this taxi driver that I met. He had a daughter and was saying how he was trying to do everything he possibly can so that his daughter doesn’t have to do what he does. And it just shows that kind of self-sacrifice that parents have for their kids, and trying to provide a better future, financially, for them.” After working for three years on what became her manuscript, Gong began searching for a publisher. “It was touch-and-go, just seeing if I could find a publisher willing or interested in publishing it,” she said. She found that publisher in China Books, the largest and most established

publisher in America for books concerning Chinese culture. Despite this being Gong’s biggest literary achievement, it hasn’t been the only writing success that she has had. “She’s written quite a few essays and received some accolades for her writing even when she was younger,” said Mary Strampe, who was Gong’s English teacher for two years and who sponsored Gong in several essay contests. “She’s very serious about her writing, and I think really a person who likes to craft what she says.” The book, titled Gaokao after the rigorous three-day college entrance exam that Chinese students must take during their senior year, is an exploration of China’s culture of achievement. “In the United States, for the college process we have the SAT, the ACT, grades, test scores, essays, letters of recommendation,” Gong said. “In China, it’s just all dependent on this one test.” The exam tests math, science, Chinese, and a foreign language, and also includes an essay. The last year of high school in China is often almost completely devoted to preparing for the exam, and a student’s score directly determines which colleges he or she may attend. Almost more important than the subjects it tests is the widespread effect it has on the culture that surrounds the educational system. “There’s just so much pressure mounted on students in trying to make them do well on the test,” Gong said. “The test kind of acts as this center to how students react, how

“I hope that this can actually have some kind of effect and some kind of impact on people, because right now it’s just words on a piece of paper.”

MS. WRITE continued on pg. 32 >>

MARCH 2014

The Eyrie

PROFILE

<< MS. WRITE continued from pg. 31 teachers react, how parents react since there’s just this one sole determinant of where you end up going for the next four years.” The topic is one that is personal to Gong. Being a daughter of immigrants who moved to the United States 20 years ago, she says that at times there can be a bit of a culture clash. “A lot of what my teachers expect differs from what my parents expect,” she said. “We do class discussions and presentations, but then when I go home maybe I tell my dad, ‘oh, we’re learning about the I Have a Dream speech,’ and the first thing he says is, ‘can you recite the speech to me from memory?’ because they’re expected, in China, to know everything from memorization. So there’s this difference between what my parents want and what I want.” Even after Gong had managed to combine her research with her personal experiences, the work wasn’t done. “The editing process was a lot more difficult that I had expected,” she said. “There were some sections that the publisher and the editors really liked, but then there were some sections that they thought, ‘this needs a little bit more work,’ ‘this needs a little bit more spin to it.’” The result was many nights spent rewriting and revising sections and sending them back and forth between her and China Books, located in San Francisco. “It was fairly time-consuming,” Gong said with a laugh. She wrote the book in the hope that it would bring attention to the relentless drive that many students in China possess, saying, “hopefully, after publishing, this will maybe spark interest in other people’s lives.” The last edits of the book have been sent to the publisher and copies of it have been printed. The book is set to be published on May 13 of this year. “I don’t think I understand the magnitude of what this actually is, I can’t wrap my head around that,” Gong said. “I hope that this can actually have some kind of effect and some kind of impact on people, because right now it’s just words on a piece of paper.”

The Eyrie

MARCH 2014

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December 2013

The Eyrie

FEATURE

Too many touch-ups caused by wanting the perfect image

By Luci Bessinger

“Guys Instagram just to show off their sport or if they are just hanging out with the “bros.”” In addition to the idea of self-esteem, editing also plays a huge role in how one may feel about themselves. Junior Cole Vlasak stated, “Instagram is simply just an evaluation system, there to evaluate your appearance.” Following this statement, Senior Connor Dedeker said, “It’s cool if you just add a filter to make the picture more visually appealing, but changing eye color or whitening your teeth is taking it too far and you are then changing who you truly are.” Students at the Eden Prairie High School agreed that Twitter also has a negative effect on the community. This social media outlet is a place for one to post updates about their lives to their “followers.” These followers then are able to “favorite,” “reply,” and “retweet” these updates. Schneider said, “People see these things as a way to compare themselves

ocial Media. It is growing everyday, but what is its effect on society as a whole? Instagram’s growth rate has gone up 66 percent in the last year. This popular social media outlet is known to be a place for people to post pictures of themselves and then receive “likes” and “comments” from their “followers.” Junior Nick Schneider said, “Many people feel like they need to Instagram pictures they look good in just to boost their self-esteem and that shouldn’t feel that that is a necessity.” Through these opinions, it is seen that current social media sites highly affect selfesteem. Senior Matthew Fuller said, “Girls Instagram just to show cool pictures and also just to show off how attractive they may be, which is becoming more common for today’s social media.” Supporting this point, Sophomore Maria Martinson said,

of how “cool” they are.” It is known that Twitter is a good site to share news quickly, but is it also creating a fake society? Fuller also said, “Social media had connected us in a way that’s good for college but it is getting to a point where it is consuming our culture.” Twitter has also created a standard of need to be funny. This standard has come about because multiple people believe the number of “favorites” they receive is how “cool” they are or how many friends they have. Vlasak added, “There definitely are people who only tweet for favorites.” In conclusion, it is fairly obvious that social media highly affects peoples’ selfesteems. These popular sites have changed society, but is it for the better or worse? Junior Ellie Barrett said, “Social media has created a fake society because if we didn’t have it, people would be more outgoing and not so hidden behind their computer screens.”

Most-used editting apps Afterlight

Afterlight is a photo editing app that you would use mainly for filtering and revamping the look of your photos. Editing tools of this app include saturating, changing the brightness and contrast, and adding a grain. Along with those tools, Afterlight has a variety of borders you can put on your photo, but not just any borders. Some unique borders include a sun, an anchor, and a heart.

Facetune

Facetune is an application that many teens use to edit their physical features before posting a picture out for the world to see. The editing tools range from teeth-whitening to accentuating eyelashes, and blemish removal to even changing the color of your eyes. Although you may look better on someone’s phone screen, you may be giving a false impression of what you actually look like

Whitagram

Whitagram is an app dedicated to placing borders on your photos. If your photo doesn’t fit on a square Instagram post, this app allows you to resize and post whatever crop of the photo you want to be seen. Not only can you make the border white, but you can make it any color you want. This is a popular app because borders are commonly seen among teens social media posts.

The Eyrie

March 2014

Popular trends

1 2 1. Hunter boots 2. Vera Bradley lunchboxes 3. Flannel with a hoodie 4. Colored pants 5. Tumbler cup 6. Converse chucks 7. Sweggy socks with cuffed jeans 8. March madness

7 8 March 2014

The Eyrie

FEATURE

Tom talks tech:

A new dimension in printing BY THOMAS RICHTER

Just what is 3D printing? Well, it’s exactly what it sounds like. It’s like regular printing, but in 3D. Instead of a printer that applies ink to that single sheet of paper, There’s a three dimensional object and a printer that is capable of recreating that object with layer upon layer of “ink.” With that ink being either a plastic or alloy metal. Every print starts with a digital 3D model. Let’s take an iPhone case, for example. You would start by getting on a computer and opening up some sort of design software. Here is where you would actually create the part, set it’s dimensions, map out all of the features and all access holes for the buttons. After that gets done, you would send the file to get printed. Just like you would a word document or photograph. The printer loads the model, and layer by layer applies melted plastic in the shape of the model, which then hardens to form the finished part. So, why 3D printing? For one, there is less waste material when working with an additive versus a subtractive process. 3D printers are also more energy efficient than their subtractive counterparts. They are more cost efficient too. Instead of paying an employee to sit at a mill and machine a part, you can run a machine overnight making a part and have it done in the morning at a fraction of the cost. This new technology also allows for relatively unskilled workers to make very complex parts on site right then and there. And with the price of smaller printers dropping fast, many companies are pushing to have small desktop 3D printers in every home and business.

What? It’s just like a regular printer, except in 3D

When? It’s only just starting to emerge, but I would bet that there’s a 3D printer in most middle class homes in less than ten years. Basically, if you have a 2D printer right now, I’m going to guess you’ll have a 3D one by 2025 How Much? You can actually just go buy one right now for a few thousand dollars if you have that kind of cash lying around, but it’s going to take a few years for that price to get more reasonable. Again, what? Alright, think of it like this. Instead of printing an essay on a piece of paper. You can print a figurine of the main character in your favorite TV show out of a spool of solid, thermoplastic. So imagine for a second. All of the technological barriers have been shattered. Shopping for a new appliance? Have the company send you a file, and then print off a scale 3D model right from your computer. Have a broken part on your computer? Don’t wait five days without a computer for the exact part to come in the mail, print one off in a few hours. Lost your car keys? Use the 3D model saved on your computer to print a new set. Now that’s some Star Trek level replicator tech right there. But before we get too excited, there’s still a lot of work in progress with 3D printing. It’s only just starting to emerge into the manufacturing spotlight. This is what I’ll PHOTO BY THOMAS RICHTER say. Give it ten years. Ten years and we will A 3D printed Halo ODST Figurine printed by all have a little 3D printer sitting on our Stratasys, a local company. desks. Forget those boring old, 2D printers; those are so last decade.

When is the snow going to melt? BY GILLIAN HOLTE

The abundance of snow outside seems like it will never go away. It snows and it snows and never looks nice. At this rate it feels like the snow will still be here by the time graduation comes around. Have a guess when all the snow will be gone? Here are some of your fellow students and faculty predictions of when all of Minnesota’s snow will gone.

The Eyrie

March 2014

Predictions:

Science teacher Gary Parnes - March 25 at 2:30pm Freshman Carter Mason - March 29 Junior Daniella Romashin - April 19 Senior Natalie Steblay - April 25 Principal Conn McCartan - April 30 Sophomore Ally Fawver - May 6 Junior Kelsey Dibias May - 15

Freshman students bundle up to face to snow.

PHOTO BY VIVIEN YUE

THROWBACK! Remembering childhood memories, TV, movies and games for the ‘90s kids BY ELIZABETH KENYON

While it may feel like high school could not be going by any slower than it already is, we look back on our previous years and think about how it seems to have gone by in a blur. And while it doesn’t seem like that right now, this school year will be no different when we look back on it someday as well. As everyone gets older, thinking about the rest of our lives can be a bit daunting. We start to think about life when it wasn’t all about homework, extracurriculars and which college you’re going to attend. Our childhoods. So, in case you’ve forgotten, here are a few of the TV shows, movies and games that some of us 90’s kids came to know and love once a long, long time ago:

TelevisionRugrats:

Can’t get any better than talking babies, right? One of the reasons the show was so great is that the characters weren’t all the same. We got the nerd (Chuckie), the tomboy (Lil), the sweetie pie (Susie), and the brat (Angelica), to name a few. The adventures they’ve gone on (whether it was all their imaginations or an actual experience), were always hilarious, especially because of the occasional personality clash. However, it was not a staple show for everyone. “My mom wouldn’t let me watch the Rugrats because she thought it was a bad influence,” sophomore Jenna Barbari said. “I was pretty upset about that.” The grown-ups in the show were pretty great as well, especially Tommy’s borderline crazy inventor of a father, Drew.

Kim Possible:

A cheerleader who saves the wold. Awesome. That show taught our young minds that dealing with extraordinary problems, all while dealing with real life issues at the same time is, well, possible. “I watched Kim Possible every day for a while in elementary school,” said Barbari. Even though we’ve never had to deal with the evil Dr. Drakken and Shego (and her weird glowing hands), we’ve probably met more than a few Bonnie’s within our high school years (if you know what I mean). Oh, and the crop tops Kim Possible was known to always wear are now popular among this generation. Coincidence? I think not!

GamesImagination:

Not a board game. I’m talking about the worlds we created in our minds to pass the time (you know you did it too). Nowadays, you see kids on their iPads, playing apps we never had when we were that age. We would run around, pretending to be Kim Possible or Buzz Lightyear ourselves, battling villains while creating our own sound effects and dialogue. Good times, good times.

Twister:

Even though most of us couldn’t even reach all the way across the mat, this was one of the greatest games of our time. Who didn’t love giving their siblings or friends the most challenging instructions possible to see if they could do it? “It made my childhood really fun because its a really fun challenge to do with friends,” sophomore Sara Soendergaard.

MoviesToy Story (1 and 2):

A staple for the 90’s kids. We grew up with Buzz Lightyear and Woody. “It meant everything to me,” Jack Plant, junior, said. Toy Story is the ultimate movie of acceptance, friendship and of course, childhood. While the idea of our toys coming alive when we’re not around might strike someone as a bit creepy, the Toy Story movies were anything but.

The Parent Trap:

A recreation of the classic movie made in the 60’s, way back when little Lindsay Lohan was young and innocent. What kid didn’t like a good movie about meddling children? Beneath the surface, this movie held a message of hope that two people in love can find their way back to each other someday (even if fate is substituted by identical twins that decide to switch places after discovering their related). Make sure you don’t leave the memories of that stress-free time behind as your life speeds on ahead. Look back, enjoy and don’t forget your childhood.

Students playing throwback game Twister in the hallway.

PHOTOS BY KAMERON BOIKE

March 2014

The Eyrie

FEATURE

Spring Break

Spring break is just around the corner and The Eyrie is here to help with the newest trends. Enjoy!

OUT

1. Bikinis

1. Tankinis

2. Selfies

2. Self-timer

3. Real tan

3. Spray tan

4. Kindles/iPads

4. Real books

5. Flip-flops

5. Water shoes

6. Night beach parties

6. Hotel lobby w/parents

7. Palm trees

7. Cactuses

8. Paddle boarding

8. Boogie boarding

9. Surf brand swim trunks

9. Hollister swim trunks

10. Sweg

10. Swag

Palm trees are one of the “ins” on our list.

The Eyrie

March 2014

FLICKR PHOTO, CREATIVE COMMONS LICENSE

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