22-23 Marquette Messenger: Issue VIII

the

MESSENGER

n. VIII

VOLUME XXX, ISSUE VIII | MO 63017 | MARQUETTEMESSENGER.COM | MAY 2023

“The scale of the tragedy will be sensed for generations.”

ONE-YEAR UPDATE: Russo-Ukrainian War

See pgs. 8-9

INSIDE 05

10 06

05 BILL TO REMOVE WORK PERMIT A Missouri bill has been proposed to remove work permits for teens.

06 SUCCESS IN SCIENCE COMPETITION Junior Alice Liu placed fourth in the prestigious International Science and Engineering Fair.

10 STUDENT FOR THEATER AWARD Senior Adriano Robins is the only MHS student nominated for Best Lead Actor in the region.

13 The last orginal teacher at MHS, Frau Kimberly Hotze, German teacher, is retiring. See full story on pg. 7.

Water polo team experiences much success. See full story on pg. 14.

16

Front page illustration by Emma Tyulyayev

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The Messenger is a public forum, published eight times a year by students in the News Production class at Marquette High School, Chesterfield, MO, 63017. The publication serves to inform readers about issues concerning the community.

Opinions of Messenger columnists or the Editorial Board are not representative of the opinions of the entire Messenger staff or the administration. The full student publication policy can be viewed on the Messenger official website, marquettemessenger.com.

The Messenger takes responses for any issue. Send these to yourmhsnews@gmail.com. The Messenger reserves the right to edit submitted material and to refuse to print material because of space limitations, repetitive subject matter,

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ONLINE

PREVIEW

16 WATER POLO RECORD BREAK Senior Nico Case broke the school record of most goals scored in a single game of water polo.

Photographs by Kevin Arens, Aarushi Bute, Elliott Jorgensen, Chloe Schmitt, Ping Wang

ROLL CALL Editor in Chief Aarushi Bute Associate Editor Akhila Swarna Copy Editor Anika Talyan Online Editors Rue Siddiqui Prashu Sidella Production Editor Pranav Sriraman News Editor Annabelle Miller Features Editor Parker Brandt Arts & Entertainment Editor Anvi Talyan Sports Editors Shyam Punnachalil Jacob Robinson Opinions Editor Liza Cooper Illustrator Emma Tyulyayev Business Manager Aubrey Lacavich Social Media Editors Elliott Jorgensen Chloe Schmitt Staff Reporters Annie Alcorn Aiden Burkhardt Jack Cason Emily Chien Brooke Eck Willem Hummel Kate Jesperson Claire Lowder David Moss Justin Small Staff Adviser Emily Jorgensen

13 CAN AI REPLACE MUSIC ARTISTS? Messenger staffer, Brooke Eck, considers whether AI can replace pop stars.

libelous content or any other reason the editor in chief and adviser deem appropriate, including advertisements and letters to the editor.

The Messenger is nationally recognized as a member of the National Scholastic Press Association (NSPA), Columbia Scholastic Press Association (CSPA), the Journalism Education Association, Missouri Journalism Education Association and Quill & Scroll. This year, the publication was named a Hall of Fame recipient and Quill & Scroll George H. Gallup award winner.

Past issues have been named NSPA Pacemaker finalists and CSPA Crown finalists. The Messenger website is a Distinguished Site recipient.

The publication office is located in Room 226, (636) 891-6000 ext.

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MHSNews | Indoor Soccer League Celebrates Armenian Culture by | Stephan Bosnjak

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MHSNews | Stitch Club Promotes Wellness by | Shyam

Punnachalil

issue VIII

3

NEWS

Hudson Memorial Scholarship awarded aiden BURKHARDT • willem HUMMEL Following the death of Principal Carl Hudson during the 2022 school year, MHS staffers created the Carl Hudson Memorial Scholarship, a $1,000 scholarship offered to two minority students who write outstanding essays as part of the application process.

Senior Markeese Hunt is one of the two scholarship recipients this year.

“I was actually pretty happy that I get to share a part of him with me,” Hunt said.

Hunt wrote his scholarship essay on the educational difficulties he faced throughout high school.

“Well, I wrote about my challenges from freshman year to now, with me not taking education seriously to now knowing that it’s very important to me,” Hunt said.

Hunt said he was excited for the role the scholarship would play in his future at Missouri Baptist University where he will encompasses them. It doesn’t have play football. anything to do with their grades,” Costa Rhonda Costa, administrative assaid. sistant for the Freshman Office, has a Costa said Hudson always supportclose connection with Hudson’s family. ed all students and the Hudson family Costa said she helped Hudson’s wanted to give back to students who family contact Lisa Nieder, administrastruggle financially. tive assistant to the Activities Office, “Not all kids get scholarships beand Paula Ake, college counselor, in cause of their academics, but a lot of order to help set up the scholarship. kids go to college “The application process is really “The application process and still need that financial help,” Cosabout you as a is really about you as ta said. “Their goal person, things that would make you be a person, things that with this scholaris to help those like Mr. Hudson,” would make you be like ship kids who need a Costa said.

Mr. Hudson.” little bit more in the Students had to benefit department submit an applicaof getting a scholartion to a committee Rhonda Costa, ship.” composed of Costa, administrative assistant The scholarship the principals and fund allows Hudson the college counto positively impact selors. the community just as he always found The Hudson family prefers that ways to help students at the school each year a boy and girl is picked, and so far the council has held to this trend. during his life, Costa said.

“He would have them come work Kilea Jenkins, senior, is the second and sweep the floors. That way he recipient this year. could give them money, just so he “The whole goal of it is to really do wasn’t giving them money for free, but a scholarship that really is just about had them work towards something,” the people and their personality and Costa said. “He would make bets with their perseverance and everything that

7%

of college students receive a scholarship

Scholars earn national recognition david MOSS • justin SMALL Senior Kilea Jenkins (above) studies in Contemporary Issues. Senior Markeese Hunt (left) plays 9-square in Team Sports. Jenkins and Hunt both recieved the Carl Hudson Memorial Scholarship for the 202223 school year. The scholarship was created last year to honor former principal and Marquette Academic Cultural Club sponsor Carl Hudson.

Photographs by Cassie Sun

kids if they had certain grades they want. He would plan a dinner for them.

He would give them a certain amount of money. He would always come in just to try to have these kids reach certain goals.”

Senior Principal Dr. Richard Regina said the scholarship is a way for Hudson to keep giving back to MHS. “In the next couple of years, there’s not going to be too many students that know about Mr. Hudson anymore, and that part is sad, but the part that makes me happy is that some of these students who are sixth, seventh and eighth graders who have never have met Mr. Hudson, there’s a chance that he can make a positive impact on them as well,” Dr. Regina said.

Dr. Regina also said the scholarship continues Hudson’s role in the school.

“I think it’s important because it allows his legacy to live on and it provides students some financial resources as they head off to college,” Dr. Regina said.

Hudson’s family and MHS organizations that set up fundraisers throughout the year helped to fund the scholarship. There is enough money as of now to award students for the next five years.

Scholarship Fast Facts

$46 billion

is awarded by the U.S. Department of Education in scholarships each year

Information from the Education Data Initiative and Scholarship America

31%

of college tuition is paid for by scholarships and grants

Omoye Ehimare, senior, was pleasantly surprised when she was informed she was eligible for the National African American Recognition Program.

“I didn’t know it existed in the first place, but it was just cool to be able to get that recognition,” Ehimare said.

Ehimare was one of three students at MHS to receive an award from the College Board National Recognition Program.

While the program doesn’t offer any money, Ehimare said she is excited to see how it will benefit her future as she attends the University of Southern California.

“It’s just cool to know that the hard work I put into school is getting recognized,” Ehimare said.

Julia Welker, A+/testing coordinator, said the program offers recognition to underrepresented students who identify as Black, African-American, Hispanic, Latino, Indigenous or who attend high school in rural communities.

These students must have a 3.5 GPA or higher and a high score on the PSAT or AP tests. The students submitted applications for the award.

Welker said the recognition award is an academic honor, and students can include it in college applications and resumes.

Anna Hill-Jones, junior, also received an award from the National African American Recognition Program.

Hill-Jones said when she was first informed she was eligible for the program after receiving emails from the College Board, she was incredibly proud.

“I was really excited and surprised too. I guess I just wasn’t expecting it,” Hill-Jones said.

Hill-Jones felt it was important she, as an African-American student, was able to receive recognition for her hard work and success in school.

“I feel like there’s usually not a lot of opportunities for people in African American communities,” Hill-Jones said. “I’m just glad that I did get an opportunity to win an award like this.”

Isa Oliver, senior, received an award from the National Hispanic Recognition Program. Oliver first learned of the program when she was informed by her counselor that she was eligible.

“I was mentioning how I was Hispanic, and she told me there was a really good program for that,” Oliver said.

Oliver said she was proud to be one of the few students who received the award.

NEWS

4

may 2023

STUCO rewrites their constitution willem HUMMEL The goal of Student Council, or STUCO, is to make MHS a more inclusive environment by increasing school spirit.

“We do that through things like the Homecoming dance,” Kara Zonies, sponsor, said. “We have been doing things like Black History Month. If you notice whenever we have a spirit week, we are the ones that always put out the banners. All kinds of things.”

The club is student-based, and students have to complete volunteer hours doing things within the school community.

Zonies said STUCO collected prom dresses for girls in need, and the people who helped out earned volunteer hours.

Currently, STUCO does not have a structured constitution that clearly lays the foundation for the club, but two weeks ago, the club went to a leadership meeting for area STUCO leaders in Valley Park where they were shown how other student councils are structured.

They found that in other STUCO organizations, the constitution spells out exactly what is required from different positions.

Zonies said they are going to have new chairpeople called “senators” who will be in charge of tasks like outreach.

“So when we do our canned food

drive during Homecoming, they are going to be the ones who are going to organize that,” Zonies said. “We are going to have a decorating committee, and they are going to be the ones who are going to do the banners every time we do spirit week. We are going to have someone in charge of diversity.”

Zonies said in the past a lack of a constitution has led to a problem where some officers have not performed duties that were expected of them.

“If the president does not fill what it is that is expected of them, the runner up is the person that then takes over that position,” Zonies said.

The new constitution will also contain the expected amount of hours members must complete and how to record those hours to decrease confusion and to provide a reference to members, Zonies said.

Zonies said a main advocate of the new constitution was actually the student leaders.

Junior Jayla Freeman, president of STUCO, said the constitution they have currently is outdated, and no one really pays attention to it.

“I think it has created an issue of we don’t really have a set of rules to follow, so this year we have been just playing it by ear,” Freeman said. “So we are hoping to rewrite it just to make it more accessible for the members.”

However, despite the lack of a constitution, Freeman said STUCO has

Sunjay Ramamoorthy, sophomore, and other Student Council volunteers helped at the Special Olympics. Photograph by Parker Brandt

done a good job in avoiding the issues that not having a constitution could have caused.

Freeman said a cohesive constitution allows for a central group of ideas and core values.

“It helps us define ourselves and what our mission is going to be throughout the year, and how we are going to go about conducting our business,” Freeman said.

Benjamin Buckallew, sophomore, has been elected as secretary of media for next school year, a position that has been built by the new constitution.

“Last year we only had a president and two secretaries, one person filled both spots,” Buckallew said. “This year we have double the amount of people helping out in the secretary spots, so we are still building our positions with this constitution.”

Buckallew said there are now four positions: secretary of media, secretary of management, vice president and the president.

“It’s going to help straighten out a bunch of stuff in STUCO and it’s going to help us not only in this year, but in many years to come,’’ Buckallew said.

Lack of student attendance causes concern Fast Fact

aubrey LACAVICH Everyday, Major Terry Zuber, ROTC teacher, walks into a classroom with about 10-20% of her students missing each hour.

“School is your job as a student and your grades are your paycheck,” Major Zuber said. “No matter what you pursue in your future, this is your framework.”

There are no disciplinary consequences for excused absences, making skipping school easy for students with complying parents. Credit suspensions for absences were discontinued several years ago due to the students who receive high grades, even with low attendance.

“We want our kids to be successful, and at what point does the teacher say ‘hey if you continue to choose to be late, I can’t help you’,” Major Zuber said.

Principal Dr. Steve Hankins said attendance at MHS is low for last year, around 92%, and statistically, that takes into account some of last semester/year pre-COVID. He said this rate is up to par with all the other high schools in the district.

Dr. Hankins said the National Security Education Program (NSEP) is an educational program in which MHS has received accreditation. MHS has continued to participate in the program to earn the accreditation with distinction. Only small schools have reached it because of their small population.

One part of the accreditation with distinction is attendance. The score is determined by if students have attended all their classes in a day, 90% of the time. The rate is determined by how many people attend school in one day. Dr. Hankins also said attendance may be low because teachers provide more

The average attendance for the entire school is 92.37% this year. The breakdown for each class is below: • Freshmen 93.9% • Sophomores 92.77% • Juniors 91.9% • Seniors 91.2% Information from MHS registrar

Evan Berkel, freshman, checks out of school early due to illness. This year, attendance has been low for every grade level and high school across the district, Principal Dr. Steve Hankins said. Photograph by Cassie Sun

online resources as a result of the pandemic, which allows students to catch up outside of class.

“So if you’re a kid, well, it’s easier to miss school,” Dr. Hankins said. “It’s good for those kids that are sick. We want to reduce their anxiety, but at the same time, there are some kids realizing that they can miss a day or two without impact.”

Attendance is important for students, Dr. Hankins said, because it can impact grades and mental health.

There are incentives for good attendance such as the A+ Program that offers scholarships for good attendance that can be used at local community

colleges and some other colleges on report cards because attendance is shown through the grades.

Brooke Lawson, senior, usually leaves school early or takes mental health days.

“I’ve left school early a few times because I find that I just can’t get my work done, and I struggle to get it done at home,” Lawson said. “So I like to go to restaurants, and I find I can just crank out all my work.”

Because it’s her senior year, her absences have only affected her food class and human anatomy class, and she makes up labs when she misses.

Junior Principal Amy Sturges said students can’t replace the difference in learning in-person and online.

“As much as technology is awesome and things have evolved over the last couple of years, especially given everything in the past, you still can’t replace the teacher interaction and receiving that one-on-one feedback,” Sturges said.

issue VIII

5

NEWS

Proposed MO bill may remove teen work permit david MOSS

ment at around 3.5%,” Maki said. “But we don’t think they should balance a labor shortage on the backs of Last summer, Sneha Deo, freshman, applied for a teen workers.” variety of jobs and found employment at Culver’s in The Child Labor Coalition was active in opposing Ellisville. legislation that removed the work permit for those 14 “A lot of places didn’t accept 14 and 15 year olds,” and 15 years old in Arkansas, Maki said. Their reason Deo said. “I like making money so I can spend time for opposing it, and why they would oppose this with my friends, do fun stuff and not always ask my legislation in Missouri, is because the work permit parents for money.” provides age verification and ensures jobs are safe As a 15 year old, Deo is required by the state and allowed. of Missouri to obtain a work permit signed by the “When you remove those checks, more of the reschool, student and employer to be able to work. The sponsibility falls on the employer, the parents and the permit helps to ensure she doesn’t work past 7 p.m. teen,” Maki said. “The teen and the parents tend not on school nights and no more to know too much about child than 8 hours daily. labor law, and, frankly, some Debra Hux, Welcome However, a new bill in the tend not to know too Center secretary, signs employers Missouri Senate may remove the much about child labor law.” student work permits and work permit enabling students Maki said the work permit aged 14 and 15 to work without files a copy for the school, can help ensure that students any permission or interference who are already struggling in employer and state. from the school. Ten other states school don’t attain a part-time have passed or may pass legislajob. tion that would ease restrictions “We’re not against kids on child labor. having part-time jobs, but we would like to see the Ried Maki is the coordinator of the Child Labor federal and state protections maintained,” Maki said.

Coalition and director of child labor advocacy for the Andrew Rekart, freshman, is 15 years old and National Consumers League. He leads the coalition works at PJ’s Tavern in Ellisville. He said he has posby organizing meetings, advertising and interacting itive and negative feelings about the removal of the with Congress and federal agencies to influence and work permit, as this may speed up the hiring process change government policies pertaining to child labor and make it easier for job-seeking youth to find emlaws. ployment.

Maki said the overall trend of weakening child “I could see it being a downside though, because labor restrictions is due in part to large conservative at that point, their parents could force them to work,” majorities in many states across the nation that now Rekart said. feel they are able to take on these long-held protecScott Szevery, AP U.S. History teacher, said the tions. topic of child labor is an important part of U.S. histo“Some of these legislators are saying the reason ry. Over a century ago, it was decided that children they want to weaken protections is that there’s a should have a childhood and receive an education labor shortage, and this may be true with unemployrather than slave away in a factory, Szevery said.

Kathryn Schuermann, senior, worked at Sarah’s Cake Shop on Clarkson Road. She obtained a work permit to work as a 15 year old. Photograph by Molly Levine

Szevery said he questions the motives of legislators making it easier for minors to work. Students are often too busy to have a job on top of classes, homework and extracurriculars. The time for work is later, as students will be working for the rest of their adult lives.

However, it is sometimes necessary for teens to work in struggling households, Szevery said.

“I think what we need to decide on as a society is the best way to help those struggling families,” Szevery said. “Is it through child labor or government assistance that allows those kids to stay in school.”

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6

FEATURES

STEM Success

may 2023

Alice Liu, junior, presented her project and presentation within the chemistry category last week at the largest precollege STEM competition in the world, the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF). Photograph by Ping Wang

Force Green won a third place Think award at the First World Championships in Houston by competing in the First Tech Challenge championship. The theme for this year was PowerPlay where the team’s robot, nicknamed Scarlett, competed against other international teams. Photograph by Force Green

Force Green robotics team competes at Worlds jamie PARK

Worlds was being able to interact with teams from different countries.

Bright lights, themed costumes and a valuable learn“I’ve learned so much about the different cultures ing experience. from around the world, and while there were language From April 19-22, the Force Green Robotics barriers, it was certainly a cool experience,” Deo said.

Team and 192 more teams from across the world Force Green won a third place Think award at competed in the First World Championships in the competition, recognizing the team’s expertise in Houston. the design process. Garrett Palmquist, team coach, Senior Shravya Sunkugari, who is part of Force said the team’s success is in large part due to their Green’s outreach and documentation team, said the well-rounded capabilities. large number of teams were intimidating, but she However, while Palmquist assists his team with the enjoyed the chance to meet possible mentors and design process and brainstorming, he leaves the actual talk with other teams that were passionate about creation and building of the robot to the students. robotics.

“FIRST defines the coaches as mentors,” Palmquist “The creativity and diversity in robot design and said. “We provide guidance, advice and coaching to outreach projects was crazy compared to State,” the students, but they are the leaders of their efforts.”

Sunkugari said.

Palmquist said he hopes to use the Force Green qualified for “It was certainly a experience at Worlds to inspire ideas Worlds through the Missouri State on expanding community outreach efcool experience.” forts. He hopes Force Green can conChampionships, where they were awarded the second place Inspire nect with more business and technical awards. There are three Inspire professionals and look into setting up Sneha Deo, awards given to the best overall ongoing educational events with local freshman teams in the competition, based on schools or organizations. categories such as programming, The Force Green team also hopes public outreach, design process and technical comto improve and simplify their robot design by cremunities. ating a more efficient design process, which would Winning the second place Inspire awards gained leave more time to program and practice driving their Force Green the third qualifying spot to compete at robot. The team is also looking to improve specific Worlds, where they competed in the First Tech Chal- components, such as arm type, based on the challenge lenge (FTC) championship. for the upcoming season, which will be revealed in This year, the theme for FTC was PowerPlay, September. where the team’s robot, nicknamed Scarlett, competOverall, Palmquist said he hopes the experience ed against other teams by putting cones on different at Worlds will provide the team with motivation and level poles. inspiration.

Scarlett has a 3D printed claw, which is used to “Something magical happens when you gather pick up the cones. The robot’s movements are pre1,000s of brilliant, creative and inspiring students in a programmed for 30 seconds, but the rest of the game building,” Palmquist said. “Even though they may be uses a telerobotic system, or control of the robot competing with each other, they are also making new through a remote control. friends, going out of their way to help each other, and Freshman Sneha Deo, who is a member of Force forging memories and experiences which will stay Green’s outreach team, said her favorite part of with them for their lifetimes.”

Junior is first from MHS to place in prestigious competition brooke ECK · prashu SIDDELLA Alice Liu, junior, placed fourth last week at the largest pre-college STEM competition in the world, the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF).

She was the first student from MHS to ever place at ISEF. “People submit their projects to a regional or state fair, and if they advance, they all meet up at the giant convention in Dallas, where they present their projects to a panel of judges,” Liu said.

Liu’s project was a “Modified Nanoporous Gold Sensor for the Electrochemical Detection of Acetaminophen.”

“My topic was about a method to detect pharmaceutical pollutants, specifically acetaminophen, which is an ingredient in Tylenol,” Liu said. “So I used a chemical and monitored the current change to find out whether or not the pollutant was present.”

Liu’s project and presentation earned her fourth place in the American Chemical Society Education Division. There were more than 80 finalists in this category at ISEF. Not only was this ISEF a competition, but it was also a place to learn about others’ STEM journeys. “​​I wish I could have gone to more of the seminars they had where there was a panel of different people talking about their STEM journey,” Liu said. “It was a lot of fun and really cool meeting people from all around the world.”

Dr. Cathy Farrar, science teacher, is where Liu learned of ISEF. Participants first have to compete locally and take either first or second place. Liu placed second in the St. Louis Science Fair, which qualified her for ISEF. The presentation that competitors have to give is based heavily on self research.

“You have to be the one to come up with the question, to do all the work, to do all the analysis and then you compete at the local level and then you get a spot at ISEF,” Dr. Farrar said. “Then from all the people that get sent they have a selection process.

There’s all kinds of reasons you can get disqualified from competing. You get past that hurdle, then you get to go to ISEF.” Dr. Farrar stresses the importance of Liu’s project because when acetaminophen levels are high, it may increase the risk of liver damage.

She also shares her excitement for Liu’s accomplishments.

“It is like the biggest competition for science research at the high school level in the entire world,” Dr. Farrar said. “If all scientists were Alice, the world is in good hands with that because she’s awesome.”

issue VIII

FEATURES

MHS’ last original teacher retires One of the things she is most proud of is her opportunity to teach students Having been a teacher since MHS first about the language and culture of opened in 1993, Frau Kimberly Hotze, Germany. She said she hopes learning German teacher, is retiring after this the new language could inspire them school year. She is the last of MHS’ to expand their horizons and travel original staff to retire. around the world.

“I feel so honored to have been able “My goal is that they’ll want to to be part of the first group of teachers travel anywhere, hopefully to a Gerhere,” Hotze said. “It’s been so rewardman-speaking country,” Hotze said. ing to help set traditions along with Junior Greta Woitach, president other students and staff.” of the German Club, said she enjoys MHS opened fall of 1993 to only working with Hotze to organize the freshmen and sophomores. Each year club’s activities. after another grade Woitach said Howas added until the tze always makes her “She really cares first seniors graduatpassion for teaching about her students the German language ed in 1996. and wants to make evident to her stuHotze’s favorite aspect of teaching dents. everyone learn has been the de“She really cares German in the best velopment of not about her students way she can.” only the school as and wants to make a whole, but each everyone learn Gerindividual student. man in the best way Greta Woitach, “I have students she can,” Woitach junior come back and visit said. years after they’ve Principal Dr. graduated,” she said. “Past students will Steve Hankins has many fond memosay hi if they see me, even if they only ries of working with Hotze. took my class for a year or so.”

“I’ve been able to go in her classAnd it’s not just the students’ room and just see the amazing work change that astonishes Hotze. She said she has done with the German kids and it’s been incredible to see the education the German program,” Dr. Hankins system itself advance. said.

“I started out with a chalkboard Marc Tenholder, Class of 1996, was and chalk and now I have a computer,” a student of Hotze’s his sophomore Hotze said. year, a student teacher his senior year

7

claire LOWDER · justin SMALL

Frau Kimberly Hotze teaches students in a combined class of German 4 and 5. This will be Hotze’s last year teaching as she is retiring to pursue other passions. She has taught German at MHS for 31 years. Photograph by Cassie Sun

and visited Hamburg, Germany, with her.

Tenholder said Hotze is one of the reasons he majored in German at Louisiana State University, along with his German background.

“Because of her and the influence of her, my family and I have a lot to be thankful for,” Tenholder said.

In the beginning of learning the language, Tenholder said he struggled but

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because of Hotze’s teaching, he learned to love it.

Tenholder said it’s hard to believe Hotze is retiring.

“I think it’s wonderful and good for her,” Tenholder said. “She deserves a happy retirement and I know that she will leave a legacy.”

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IN-DE

8

1 Year Update: Russo-Ukrain

Students, staff reflect on war david MOSS

hold up this much,” Solomakhina said. “It sucks that they’re still in this position though.”

Karina Solomakhina, senior, is from the U.S., but the rest of her family is from Ukraine, and most of them currently live there and have been faced with hard choices as the war there has now lasted for more than a year.

Solomakhina said three of her dad’s nieces and their families have moved to Canada recently as a direct result from the attempted Russian invasion of Ukraine, which has now lasted for 14 months.

“Learning English makes them nervous because it’s a big change and it’s harder to learn a new language when you’re older,” Solomakhina said.

She said they are now looking for jobs to support their family.

“It’s really great that Ukraine has been able to

Professional Perspective Dr. Sophia Wilson, professor of political science at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and president of the American Association for Ukrainian Studies, said Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has been nothing short of genocide.

“There is an abundance of evidence that there were war crimes committed, not as a side effect of war but as a strategy of war,” Dr. Wilson said.

Dr. Wilson said civilians in much of unoccupied Ukraine face Russian artillery fire and aerial bombardment, while those under Russian occupation face the violence and harsh repression of the Russian

military.

Russia has also attempted to suppress Ukrainian culture and language in occupied regions. As part of this, thousands of Ukrainian children have been forcefully deported to Russia where they are prevented from studying their native language and are taught how to be Russian, Dr. Wilson said.

“They’ve given Ukrainians two choices: either subjugate or die,” Dr. Wilson said.

Though it is generally assumed Russia did not expect significant Ukrainian resistance, Dr. Wilson believes otherwise. After the Ukrainian Revolution in 2014, a democratic government was formed. Russia, fearful of their lack of control over the new democracy, attempted to occupy the country by supporting rebel groups in Ukraine.

“Ukrainian civilians then went on the street, and they fought against these Russia-orchestrated coups

Major Events in the Russo-Ukrainian War

The Russo-Ukrainian War has led to many key moments and developments for both countries.

April, 2022 Kyiv Russia pulls back from Kyiv May, 2023 Russia launches 8th attack on Kyiv since month started

Death Toll Ukraine

Military deaths may be more than 23,000 but not confirmed

Russia

Military deaths may be more than 30,000

Civilian Total

Dead or wounded may be nearly 30,000, though the actual number is likely much higher Information from MediaZona and United Nations

July, 2022 Port of Chornomorsk Global food security problem is ended when Russia and Ukraine start trading grain again at Ukraine's Black Sea Ports

March, 2022 Kherson Russia claims control of Kherson and Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant, which is Europe's largest November, 2022 Ukraine counteroffensive leads to Russia pullback from Kherson

September, 2022 Kharkiv Ukraine forces Russia back from Kharkiv March, 2022 Mariupol Russia strikes Mariupol Theater, in what has been considered one of the deadliest acts of the war October, 2022 Crimean Bridge Bridge blown up by truck with explosives.

Russia blames Ukraine and launches missile strikes on Ukraine power plants that leads to power outages

Fighting in Bahmut, with each side claiming they control the city, Ukraine gets its first delivery of Western Tanks March, 2023 Bahmut

May, 2022 After a 3-month siege, Ukraine surrenders to Russia forces in Mariupol

Information from PBS and Euronews

EPTH

9

nian War in 2014,” Dr. Wilson said. “We need to remember that history.”

Dr. Wilson said Ukrainians cared very deeply about their democracy and culture, and Russian intelligence knew the people of Ukraine would resist the coming invasion in 2022.

“That is why they came in by bombing on the first days with terror and gun use against civilians,” Dr. Wilson said.

Dr. Wilson said the war has been constantly changing, but Ukraine has had some overall success against Russia. Ukraine has regained their Northern territory along with several cities under siege by the Russian military.

And despite the continued bombings, Dr. Wilson said the country is returning somewhat to a state of normalcy, with people heading back to work and children back to in-person school in the capital of Kiev.

With the help of young Ukrainians and motivated college students, Dr. Wilson said many bombed-out buildings have been rebuilt.

Solomakhina said her family has sent money to their relatives in Ukraine and checked in on them through Skype video calls. Currently, they are holding up despite many fears and difficulties.

“They’ve heard the bombings from a distance,” Solomakhina said. “For now, I think they’re in a safe place.”

Dr. Wilson said the conflict, though terribly harmful to so many, is an important moment for Ukraine.

“The scale of the tragedy will be sensed for generations,” Dr. Wilson said. “Ukraine is not just some distant country in Eastern Europe. It’s where global history is changing right now. A hundred years from now, when they are looking at 2023, this is one of the major events that they’ll be studying, because this is definitely a point of no return.”

Dr. Wilson said the idea that the war results from harmful Russian imperial ambitions in their former territories. This creates a Russo-centric attitude regarding the conflict. Dr. Wilson said this conflict is bringing more focus on Ukraine as a nation of significance.

Student Perspective Isabella Tyulyayev, sophomore, said her mother is from Ukraine and her father is from Russia. Tyulyayev’s mother still has many family friends in Ukraine.

Tyulyayev said the conflict will get worse before it improves.

“I don’t think people are actually thinking about those who are being affected by the conflict and are needing help,” Tyulyayev said. “They’re just thinking about the politics behind it.”

Roman Kidin, sophomore, said his father came to the U.S. from Russia more than 20 years ago at age 17. Most of his family still lives in Russia, and two of his uncles have been forced to fight in the Russian military against Ukraine.

Kidin said his relatives in Russia are acting as if they are completely fine, but his dad knows they are not.

“They’re really struggling on money and basic necessities right now since the economy’s very low due to U.S. embargoes,” Kidin said. “My dad has to send a lot of money to support them.”

Kidin said he doesn’t support Russia’s invasion, but he doesn’t completely support Ukraine either.

Oksana Tyulyaev, MHS Parent, poses with flowers at a wedding in Ukraine. Tyulyaev lived in Eastern Ukraine for 19 years, and moved to the U.S. because of the economic situation in Ukraine and because she had relatives here. "My parents thought it would never end in Ukraine," Tyulyaev said.

Photograph used with permission by Oksana Tyulyaev

Oksana Tyulyaev, MHS Parent, plays horse on a tree with her sister. Tyulyaev lived in Ukraine until she was 19 and said she really liked the community there. "I miss that a lot, when we moved to the U.S. we didn't have the opportunity to socialize with people like that," Tyulyaev said.

Photograph used with permission by Oksana Tyulyaev

Karina Solomakhina, senior, and her family members attend a kids camp in Ukraine. Karina has had family move from Ukraine to Canada due to the Russo-Ukrainian War and has some family still living in Ukraine.

"It's really scary. We want to help our family in Ukraine as much as possible," Solomakhina said. Photograph by Karina Solomakhina

“A hundred years from now, when they are looking at 2023, this is one of the major events that they’ll be studying, because this is definitely a point of no return."

Dr. Sophia Wilson, professor “A lot of people think Russians are the sole problem,” Kidin said. “I think they don’t see the other side and the whole story. Russia wants to liberate Russians living in Ukraine that are being persecuted.”

Teacher Perspective Katie Bauman, AP European History teacher, said the war is taking longer than Russia likely anticipated.

Ukrainian nationalism and pride in their country has played a significant role in their ability to repel Russian forces, something Russia may have underestimated, Bauman said.

“Russian people themselves aren’t necessarily getting the full story of why they’re invading Ukraine nor the atrocities that are being committed,” Bauman

said.

Because of the atrocities —attacks and rapes of Ukrainian people in occupied cities by the Russian military—Bauman said she wishes the U.S. could do more to step in and prevent further conflict.

The U.S. has so far sent $30 billion worth of military equipment to Ukraine, according to the Department of Defense; however, Ukraine has asked for additional support.

“I do not think Russian aggression is done,” Bauman said. “If they are successful in Ukraine, I think that that’s certainly a jumping off point for them to continue their expansion further into Eastern Europe.”

10

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

1

may 2023

Photo Illustration

by Anvi Talyan

Senior nominated for best lead actor brooke ECK Recently, Adriano Robins, senior, learned he was once again nominated for the Best Lead Actor award for the St. Louis High School Musical Theatre Awards (SLHSMTA).

Put on by The Fabulous Fox, The Muny and Fox Performing Arts Charitable Foundation, SLHSMTA is a regional chapter of the National High School Musical Theatre Awards (Jimmy Awards), which recognizes high school theater companies and their actors for their outstanding theater accomplishments.

The awards ceremony will be held tonight.

“A bunch of schools get recognized for their theater achievement,” Robins said. “There’s Outstanding Production, Best Lead Actress and Actor, which is what I’m nominated for, Best Supporting, and a ton of other awards.”

The winners of Best Actor and Best Actress will get to go to the Jimmy Awards in New York and compete against other students who won their regional awards.

Robins is the only MHS student nominated this year, along with a choreography award recognizing Kyle and Victoria Rudolph, who are both MHS graduates.

“It was truly an honor because it just made me feel like we’re getting on the map with theaters around St. Louis," Robins said.

Robins won the Best Lead Actor award last year.

“Last year I was just riding the high of being seen and having people like my performance,” Robins said.

“This year I definitely feel more grounded and focused, thinking about what I can do to prepare again.”

Robins will attend the Ithaca College theater program, looking forward to further his theater career.

Rebecca Blindauer, theater teacher, said she expected Robins would be nominated again this year.

“I think there was maybe, at least on my part, some expectation that he might get nominated again, but I also knew that he was nominated last year, so we weren’t sure and it’s really super cool,” Blindauer said.

Blindauer praises Robins not only for his talent but for who he is as a person.

“He’s crazy good at what he does, and it makes me feel even better that he’s a really great person too," Blindauer said.

Isa Oliver, senior, said she views Robins as both a role model and a friend.

Oliver said Robins is memorable not only due to his talent but also the way he carries himself on and off the stage.

“Not only is he a great singer and actor, but I think the way he carries himself and the confidence he has onstage is pretty unmatched,” Oliver said. “He has a kind of charisma that I think a lot of people are drawn to, and I think that translates onto the stage, which makes his performances very notable.”

2

3

1. Adriano Robins, senior, belts out "Morning Glow" during the MTC production of "Pippin," alongside the ensemble.

Robins starred as the lead male role, Pippin, and has starred in other MTC productions such as this year's play "Clue" and last year's musical "Legally Blonde."

2. Sophia Chirco, freshman, and Adriano Robins, senior, face the audience during "Pippin." Chirco and Robins went on to sing the duet "No Time At All" with the ensemble accompanying them in the background.

Adriano Robins, senior, sings a solo during the fall musical "Pippin."

3. Adriano Robins, senior, and Stephan Bosnjak, sophomore, rehearse last year's spring play "Puffs." Robins and Bosnjak danced alongside many of their crew members in preparation for opening night.

Photographs by Elliott Jorgensen

issue VIII

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

SNOWBALL FIGHT!

11

Messenger staff reviews local snow cone stands in preperation for summer.

liza COOPER • jacob ROBINSON

Ballwin Sno-Cone 151 Ries Rd When you pull up to Ballwin Sno-Cone, located at 151 Ries Road, a camp fire illuminates the area and the sound of music blares as kids run around to play arcade games. Ballwin Sno-Cone isn’t just a dessert place, but rather a place that hosts live music and events, like movie nights. Ballwin Sno-Cone has multiple snow cone flavors for a low price, including specialty flavors that include extras like ice cream.

Also, Ballwin Sno-Cone offers other foods like hotdogs, chicken strips and funnel cake. Overall, the welcoming atmosphere and variety of menu items makes Ballwin Sno-Cone a must-visit this summer.

R&M Tropical Sno 126 Meramec Station Rd R&M Tropical Sno, a small stand-alone shack, serves snow cones with a variety of flavors ranging from Blue Razz to Creamsicle. There are picnic tables along the front, and when you order, you have the option to pay a quarter for a snowball or $1 for five that you can throw at your friends or family. The creamsicle flavor was good with an immaculate flavor that matched that of a real creamsicle pop, and for $3 for a small it wasn’t priced badly. And the customer service was great.

Kiraboos Shaved Ice 15957 Manchester Rd Kiraboos Shaved Ice can be conveniently accessed by people who live in Ballwin, Ellisville or Chesterfield. Kiraboos offers many outdoor seating options, along with great customer service. The menu offers a plethora of flavor options — they have everything from Honeydew to Wedding Cake. However, the two flavors that we tried, Black Cherry and Pina Colada, tasted quite artificial. Furthermore, the consistency of the ice is almost too thin, causing the snowcone to melt very quickly.

Photographs by Liza Cooper and Jacob Robinson

12

7 may 2023

OPINIONS

SPEAK OUT WHAT IS THE BEST THING ABOUT BEING YOUR AGE?

“The best thing is that I have a lot of freedom. It’s less work and more relaxing. I have a lot more time.”

SATVIK SEETHARAMAN,

freshman, 15 years old

“If I have a job, I can make money, but I don’t have any serious bills I need to pay except car stuff. It’s nice, because if I was an adult, I’d have to pay rent and other things.”

LAUREN SCOTT,

sophomore, 16 years old “The best thing about my age is trying to figure stuff out.

Because as of right now, I know where I’m headed — but there’s still a lot of options available for me.”

junior, 17 years old

“I would say freedom.

I can drive, but I also don’t have that much responsibility.”

JOYCE LIU,

senior, 17 years old

“The best thing is that I still feel good.

I can still move and my students keep me young. I don’t know if that’s because I’m 49 or if it’s because I work in a high school, but I feel young.”

principal, 49 years old

End the war on DEI Texas legislators in the House recently voted to pass Senate Bill 17, a bill that requires the state’s public universities to cease operation of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs, initiatives and offices.

With a 83-62 vote, the bill eliminates a university’s ability to accommodate the needs of their diverse populations and promote inclusive and healthy environments.

This is a grave mistake.

The proponents of the bill, namely Rep. John Kuempel, R-Seguin and Sen. Brandon Creighton, R-Conroe, wrongfully believe that DEI offices in schools are “politically charged” and emphasize equity over merit.

These reasons reflect the general aversion toward DEI efforts. Even in RSD, there has been a constant tug of war with DEI between the interests of students and the community.

Within the past year, the RSD Board of Education (BOE) cut contracts of SistaKeeper Empowerment Center, the L.O.V.E. Project and leadership programs conducted by Tony Thompson Inc. These programs were tailored primarily for Black students and were considered a means of achieving equity within the district.

The mere mention of anything race related within the curriculum causes a frenzy among the community. On top of that, the resignation of former executive

director of student services Dr. Terry Harris due to challenges among the community showcases the cynicism towards DEI. However, as students of MHS, a diverse public school with an active DEI committee, we witness the importance of DEI work firsthand.

Many successful programming included the Festival of Nations and murals that reinforce MHS values.

As students, we feel that the DEI committee’s work has made our school feel more interconnected.

Promoting diversity isn’t meant to be threatening simply because every single person is diverse. Diversity doesn’t necessarily refer to race, ethnicity or cultural backgrounds.

The word is all-encompassing.

Age. Social class. Genders. Sexual orientations. Religious or moral systems.

Physical ability.

Each individual is a culmination of their identity and experiences. The push for diversity is meant to be uplifting, not threatening.

DEI work arises out of the motivation to make all feel comfortable within their place of work. Encouraging unique perspectives and open dialogue is a facet of the DEI mission.

At MHS, our diversity is our secret weapon. If more students ally with the DEI cause through DEI community initiatives, then we can make substantial progress within our own school.

The war is convoluted, but with more support for DEI, we can achieve more unity and inclusivity.

EDITORIAL

BOARD

CHRISTOPHER SMALL,

DR. RICK REGINA,

Illustration by Emma Tyulyayev

Interested in voicing your opinion in the paper?

Submit a Letter to the Editor through the website linked in the QR code or email mhsnews@gmail.com

issue VIII

Savor your high school experience If there is one thing I truly regret doing in the past It’s freshman year. I’m couple of years, it’s sitting in biology class, wishing time away. tapping my pencil During freshimpatiently on the desk. Glancing over man and sophoat the clock, I make a mental note that more years, I only I have 30 minutes left in the class. I wanted to be older. turn back towards my teacher, who is Older people have explaining Watson and Crick’s model their lives figured of DNA. I glance back at the clock. out and acne-free Twenty-nine minutes. skin. Older people It’s sophomore year. I’m at home, don’t have to read Toni Morrison and listening to my teacher explaining Song analyze the metaphors. of Solomon by Toni Morrison over Wishing away time was something Zoom. I look at the analog clock sitting I enjoyed doing. I loved thinking about on my office desk. 9:45 a.m. I pick up what dress I would wear to Graduation “Song of Solomon” and reread the pasor the look on my parents’ faces when I sage my teacher is talking about. Look showed them my diploma. back at the clock. 9:48 a.m.

I spent so much valuable time durIt’s junior year. I’m at the first home ing the beginning of high school thinkfootball game of ing about the future instead the season, screamof actively experiencing If there is one ing at the top of the present. I don’t rememmy lungs with my ber the color of my first thing I truly friends because we Homecoming date’s tie or regret doing in scored a touchthe grade I got on my first the past couple Spanish vocabulary test – down. I am hungry of years, it’s and wonder when random things that make up the game will be a high school experience. wishing time over. I glance at the But now, I wish I had away. time on my phone. paid more attention and It’s 7:45 p.m. But stopped looking at the clock. special teams is coming out onto the High school is a time of growth, opporfield for another kickoff, so I forget tunity and freedom. At no other stage about my hunger. of my life will I be able to learn about Now, it’s senior year. I am so busy. forensic science and then go to a coffee I am spending time with my friends on shop after school with my friends I’ve the weekend, reading my 2,000 page known since kindergarten and pay with history textbook and figuring out summy mom’s credit card. Who would mer plans. I am so busy, but the thing I want to wish that away? want most is for time to freeze.

A large part of the reason I changed

liza COOPER

One of the things my friends and I like to do to preserve our high school memories is take pictures with small digital cameras, disposable cameras or camcorders. I used my digital camera during fun events like Wacky Olympics and football games, but also during other times where I just wanted to capture everyday moments.

Photograph by Liza Cooper my mind was the onset of COVID-19.

The time I had to spend alone, away from people and places I previously had taken for granted, made me reconsider the true importance of savoring my high school experience.

I hate cheesy texting abbreviations, but YOLO is now a moniker I swear by.

You only live once and wishing time away is a waste of time in itself. This change of mindset has enabled me to feel at ease with my current self and situation without wishing for something greater.

Even though I didn’t realize it before, I now know one of the greatest pleasures in life is experiencing the present and living in the moment.

Pop stars are irreplaceable, even with AI brooke ECK Recently, videos of AI generated songs being “covered” by artists who have never sang them have been going viral.

In short, AI bots are able to produce tracks of artists singing songs they have never sang, and the results are scarily accurate.

This development in music technology has sparked conversation about the future of music.

Will pop stars be replaced by AI bots? Will anyone actually have to sing their music?

While this AI technology is impressive, the music industry and our beloved pop stars will undoubtedly remain stable for a very long time.

One of the most amazing parts of music is the ability for people to connect to it emotionally. If robots write and produce all songs, that emotion in music that so many people are drawn to will disappear completely and many people’s reasons for listening to music will no longer exist.

13

OPINIONS

AI-generated music also cuts Pop singer Sabrina Carpenter performs at the off the ability to Factory on Sunday, April 30. While AI could introduce new replicate Carpenter’s voice, her stage presence and artists. Plenty connection with fans cannot be replaced with a of people enjoy robot. Photograph by Cassie Sun exploring new artists and bands.

Because AI can only replicate a limited number of voices, the music industry could no longer push new artists, thus making a large dent in the industry’s profit.

Arguably the biggest reason against AI is it could never fully replace real musicians in live events. For a lot of people, the best part of listening to an artist is getting to go to their concerts and see them perform live.

If real people were no longer writing, producing and singing their songs, concerts would go extinct. The emotional connection between artists and an audience cannot be replicated by a robot.

While AI will most likely be used to create new melodies and beats, we don’t have to worry about robots replacing our favorite musicians any time soon.

Should states be able to ban TikTok? Recently, Montana lawmakers signed a bill into action that would ban the popular social media app TikTok starting in 2024. TikTok sued the state of Montana on Monday, May 22, citing an infringement on the First Amendment.

YES

aarushi BUTE

While I do agree that banning TikTok could have negative consequences, states should have the right to ban the app, especially when it concerns national security. It sets a precedent to pass new and stronger laws against cyber attacks.

TikTok, in particular, has evidence of releasing personal information from average citizens. In a leaked audio of a meeting, China-based TikTok employees have repeatedly said that they have been accessing this data. Aside from security concerns, TikTok was fined for illegally processing the data of 1.4 million children under 13 without parental consent. With all its potential to harm in mind, there should be action taken that protects the data of citizens. While banning the app may seem abrupt to many, states do have the right to take action when it threatens the security of their citizens.

NO parker BRANDT Rumored TikTok bans have been in circulation since the Trump administration and the beginning of quarantine. They all have one thing in common: impracticality.

Realistically, there isn’t a feasible way to impose bans like these, unless states are administering the devices themselves or are in control of the devices’ settings. The driving force behind these bans is security concerns toward the Chinese government and its access to information about users in other countries. However, when users sign up for any social media, regardless of its origin, they sign an agreement to share certain information with the company behind the screen. Not only is it of the users’ discretion where and when they share their information through social media, but it is also a freedom we relish in the age of technology we live in.

14

SPORTS

may 2023

Brigg Ernstrom, senior, practices throwing the javelin during practice on Tuesday, May 23, in preparation for State this weekend. Ernstrom broke the school record this season for the longest javelin throw at Sectionals on Saturday, May 20, at Poplar Bluff High School. Photograph by Anika Talyan

Senior breaks javelin record by 5.98 meters annie ALCORN When Brigg Ernstrom, senior, started throwing javelin during his sophomore year track season, he said he never predicted breaking a school record two years later.

There was a record set last year of 43.89 meters, and Ernstrom threw for 49.87 meters at Sectionals on Saturday, May 20, at Poplar Bluff High School, setting the new school record.

“I wasn’t expecting to break the record so early in the season,” Ernstrom said. “That was definitely not my goal coming into this season.”

Ernstrom said he never thought he would enjoy javelin as much as he does now. When he started two years ago, he was having a lot of fun with it, so he decided to keep with it and work on improving each season.

“Breaking this record makes me want to throw

even further than that for the rest of the season,” Matt Nienhaus, track and field coach, said he was Ernstrom said. pleasantly surprised with how quickly Ernstrom Ernstrom is currently placed became so successful in javelin. ninth in the state for javelin, Javelin is a combination of and to help Ernstrom get better natural ability and hard work, “Breaking this record this season, his teammate Nate Nienhaus said Ernstrom has makes me want to throw and McKay, senior, critiques his the perfect mix of both. even further than that for throws before going into any “Brigg is committed to meets. success,” Nienhaus said. “He is the rest of the season.”

“He just really helped me get the type of athlete that would better,” Ernstrom said. probably just keep going if we Brigg Ermstrom, McKay said Ernstrom has didn’t shut him down.” soared this season after taking Nienhaus said he is thrilled senior his corrections about the for Ernstrom, and he believes he little stuff, and it makes him happy to see him so can be successful at State this Friday and Saturday. successful.

“However, we make no assumptions,” Nienhaus “I’m super proud of him,” McKay said. “I hope said. “We will continue to tweak things to find that I get to join him at State so we can go together and next best throw.” continue doing well.”

Boys golf earns fifth at State annie ALCORN

Connor Hopwood, senior, tees up to swing at the State Championship Golf Tournament at Silo Ridge Golf and Country Club held Monday, May 15, and Tuesday, May 16.

The boys golf team placed fifth place trophy at the tournament. Photograph by Eric Schweain

By remaining undefeated in their Conference matches and placing second at Districts, the boys golf team not only qualified for State, but came home with a fifth place trophy.

The golf team traveled to Bolivar, Missouri, to play in the State Championship Golf Tournament at Silo Ridge Golf and Country Club on Monday, May 15, and Tuesday, May 16.

Connor Hopwood, senior, played at State for the first time and said he is proud of the team for pushing through heavy wind and rain on the first day and placing in the top five.

“The weather was unfortunate,” Hopwood said.

“But, I still feel like I hit the ball extremely well.”

The par for the course was 72, and Hopwood shot a 77 on the first day and a 75 on the second day. He said while those scores are not his best, he still feels like he played well for the team.

“Being with this group of guys is just so fun,” Hopwood said. “We get to talk to each other on the course and create strong bonds.”

Eric Schweain, head coach, said Hopwood and the other seniors were phenomenal players and role models for the team this season.

Going into this season, Schweain put his players into a competition with each other early on to prepare for the big tournaments like Districts and State, and he said it proved to work well for the boys.

“I have so much respect for them because they were competing against each other,” Schweain said.

“But, they were also helping each other which shows the true nature of golf.”

Schweain said the main reason for success this year is simply the player’s talents. He said there has been a strong cycle of golf players over the years and that has shaped the golf program to be as strong as it is today.

“The players are dedicated to golf,” Schweain said.

“As a coach, I benefit from these young men that put so much into their craft.”

Thomas Shuert, sophomore, practiced on his own at Meadowbrook Country Club throughout the season to prepare for his first time at State.

Shuert said he did not play his personal best at State, but he is proud of himself for just making it there.

“I already have a goal for next year to play better at State,” Shuert said. “I have something to look forward to.”

issue VIII

SPORTS

15

Tour de Clarkson: Seniors ride again aubrey LACAVICH · willem HUMMEL

“Just seeing the smiles on everyone’s faces and knowing that this is baGathering in the Lifetime Fitness parksically the last hoorah was my favorite,” ing lot at 7:45 a.m., a herd of seniors Stremlau said on bikes, golf carts and even mowers Stang Gang announced on Insprepared for the Tour de Clarkson, the tagram the criteria for rides, telling annual tradition of seniors taking alter- everyone to bring anything non-tradinative wheels to school. tional including bikes.

Ellot Barkofske, senior, joined the School Resource Officer Steve Aspigroup with a bike, excited to participate nall led the group safely to MHS. in another senior activity.

“I made sure the intersections were “It’s a long time tradition and I shut down at Kehrs Mill and Clarkson wanted to do it with my friends,” Valley so we could get the kids through Barkofske said. “I safely,” Officer Aspithought it would be nall said.

“I’m sure it looked fun and it’s just anThe officers funny when there’s other thing to add to gathered the seniors the end of the year 50 bikes on Clarkson and set ground rules, festivities.” which included stayfollowing a police The herd went ing in the lanes and escort.” with a police escort between police cars down Clarkson for safety.

Road from Lifetime “Everyone was Elott Barkofske, Fitness through the safe. No one was senior entrance of MHS, injured and that’s all around the track and we want,” Officer into the parking lot.

Aspinall said.

“I’m sure it looked funny when John Winka, senior, said the experithere’s 50 bikes on Clarkson following ence was enjoyable. a police escort,” Barkofske said.

“Everybody helped out. If you Sam Stremlau, Senior Class presdidn’t have air in your tires, they would ident, planned the tour with Chase give you air. The police were very helpHeeb, senior. He sent an email to Ches- ful and they escorted us,” Winka said. terfield police and talked to the School “It was just fun to have a big group of Resource Officer in advance. people riding bikes to school.”

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Seniors ride down Clarkson Road on the annual Tour de Clarkson, celebrating senior year. With a police escort, about 50 students rode bikes, golf carts and mowers to school. Photograph by Geoff Cooper Sam Stremlau, senior, parked his bike in his usual parking spot at the start of the school day. Stremlau said it was a good way to close out the year while having some fun with his class. Photograph by Parker Brandt

16

SPORTS

may 2023

Sydney Barkley, junior, attempts to score against the Oakville High School defense on Wednesday, March 15. The final score was 14-7, resulting in a win for MHS. Photograph by Kevin Arens

Girls water polo places second at State jack CASON Although the girls water polo team made it to State, they lost to Ladue with a score of 6-4, placing second.

“We were expected to win the game,” Sydney Barkley, junior, said.

“I wouldn’t say we were cocky, but we definitely felt like we had to prove ourselves.”

This was the second year the team has placed second at State, and Barkley said she was excited to return to State

for the third time.

Olivia Bryzski, freshman, describes the game being, “highly emotional.”

Despite it being her first year on the team, Bryzski recalls her teammates, “bottling up their emotions,” in order to take home the State Championship Title.

Bryzski said the team has gained confidence and learned to work better together, which led to their successes later in the season.

“A lot of it is just mental.

We’ve had a better attitude going into the recent games,” Bryzski said.

Bryzski is already brainstorming strategies to come out on top next year “I see so much talent in my teammates,” she said. “We strive to work together, rather than focusing on players that stand out more than others.”

Claire Maniscalo, head coach, implemented more play time in the pool and pushed for a hard work ethic among the team this year.

The changes landed them first place

at District Semifinals.

“We didn’t expect to win,” she said.

“Especially considering we were going up against larger teams such as Ladue.”

Maniscalo described the team’s success leading up to the State Championships to be surreal.

“This year they started a fire in them,” she said. “And they won’t stop until they win.”

Additional reporting by Claire Lowder and Annabelle Miller.

Senior breaks 20-year-old record anvi TALYAN

Nico Case, senior, attempts to score during water polo practice on Friday, March 10. Photograph

by Kevin Arens

Shooting the yellow ball past the goalie’s outstretched arms, Nico Case, senior, had no idea he had just broken the school record for most goals scored in one water polo game, raising the previous record of 12 by one goal.

While the record had been matched multiple times in past years, Case was the first to beat the 2003 record during a game against John Burroughs on Wednesday, April 19.

“I was not expecting it,” Case said.

“Especially two years ago or last year, I would not expect that many goals.”

The highest number of goals Case had scored in one game had previously been seven, so once he hit nine goals during the Burroughs game, he thought he might have a chance to break the record.

Case has been playing since eighth grade after seeing his brothers play, and said he has been able to improve his game by getting stronger and faster.

Case said he felt he not only got better throughout the season but the team also improved along the way.

“There’s a period of adjustment where you have to get to know the new team, learn how each of the players play, know our weaknesses and our strengths and build upon that,” Case said.

Though Case won’t be returning for another season at MHS as he is graduating, he plans to coach club water polo and is considering playing on a recreation team in college if he gets the chance.

Claire Maniscalo, head coach, said that in her four years of coaching, she has never seen a player get close to breaking that record.

“Thirteen goals in a game is pretty impressive,” Maniscalo said. “So it was really neat.”

Case has been playing for Maniscalo since his freshman year, and she has seen his growth as a player, especially with him taking on the role of captain this year.

“This year he had to take a closer look at not just himself, but his impact on the entire team,” Maniscalo said.

“So, it wasn’t just a focus on him getting better. He was a lot more focused on making sure that his entire team grew with him.”

Roni Rozenblit, senior, has been teammates with Case since elementary school in club swimming and has been on the MHS swim and water polo teams with him since freshman year.

Rozenblit said Case definitely showed potential early on in the year to break the record.

“He is a very skilled player,” Rozenblit said. “If anyone was going to do it, it was going to be him.”

Rozenblit couldn’t play during the Johns Burroughs games, which gave Case the opportunity to break the record.

Rozenblit said he will miss not being Case’s teammate “It’ll be different, but I enjoyed the time we had,” Rozenblit said.