MCMINNVILLE HIGH SCHOOL
OCTOBER 18, 2013
VOL. 94 NO. 4
mhsbruin.com
{BRUINMAGAZINE}
Mac to the Future
Editorial and Photo Collage go to PAGES 9,12
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
>
10 news
Prostart team prepares to pick new team, and MHS opens a new health clinic
5
sports
A story highlighting a typical dance practice
11 a&e
Bruin picks top three coffee shops in Mac Town, plus suggestions
6,7 fea-
Haley swinth/ The Bruin
Mac High embraces exchange students from around the world
THE BUZZ
NEWS
mhs bruin. com Instant news on the web
TAKE A SEAT
by EMILY NEEL
Mac to the Future Homecoming week came early this year, but, accordinng to the Bruin on page 8, did not leave an impression upon the students. Check out more photos on the back page and online!
Health Clinic Opens Students are welcome to stop in and talk about any concerns, and all visits are confidential. To read the full story, visit page 10.
INSIDE THIS ISSUE Page 3
hayden allen/ The Bruin
Page 10 PROSTART PREPARES NEW TEAM The culinary competition team has yet to be announced, but many students look forward to this year’s upcoming competitions.
Erik Rodriguez/ The Bruin
FIREFIGHTING OUT OF STATE
Senior Chris Derrickson put his firefighting knowledge to the test this summer.
Haley swinth/ The Bruin
Don’t let large class sizes influence your schoolwork! Read the story on page 9.
Page 4 INSIDE LOOK AT DANCE TEAM
Get an inside glance to MHS Dance Team practices and the time and hard work they dedicate each day. Haley swinth/ The Bruin
Page 5 FALL SPORTS RECAP IN PHOTOS
As fall sport season begins to come to a close, athletes and students can look back on some of the most memorable sport moments with these photos.
October 18, 2013
National Awards of The Bruin
National Pace Maker award-winner for 2001, 2002, 2004 National Pace Maker Finalist for years 2000-2005 National Design of the Year 2001, 2002 All National awards are distributed by the National Scholastic Press Association
Senior Chris Derrickson spent his summer vacation fighting fires in Utah and Nevada and recently spoke to MHS students about his experience
Letters should be limited to 200 words and may be subject to editing for libelous and/or obscene content as well as length. All letters must be signed and names will be published. Submission of material is not a guarantee of publication. Letters may be be dropped off in Room 227 or mailed to The Bruin, McMinnville High School, 615 E. 15th St., McMinnville, OR 97128.
Class Sizes Explode
PAGE 2
The Bruin is a registered member of the National Scholastic Press Association.
Taking Summer Vacation to Another Level
Letters to the Editor Policy
Exchange Students Get to know this year’s exchange students by reading about some of them online and in this paper on pages 6,7!
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(503) 474-2522 KATHY BEYER Adviser EMILY NEEL Editor-in-Chief KATELYN OBREGON Manager of Online TRYSTON THAYER Sports Editor ERICA WOOD Features Editor OLIVIA BOWMAN News/ Copy Editor HANNAH LUNDEEN Opinions Editor HALEY SWINTH Photo Editor SYDNEY BROWN A&E Editor ANIKA EAST A&E Editor
REPORTERS & PHOTOGRAPHERS
DREW ALTRINGER TALON BINKS SYDNEY BROWN KEEGAN CASSIDY MADISYN CHAUFTY NOAH DAUGHERTY ANIKA EAST AUBREY LOVEALL JOANELLE EWALT MAKAYLA MENDOZA JUSTIN NAVARRO KATELYN OBREGON LEUXIE RANK HALEY SWINTH TRYSTON THAYER TAYLOR VOGEL ERICA WOOD OLIVIA BOWMAN BRYCE BROOKER BIANCA FLORES HANNAH LUNDEEN ERIK RODRIGUEZ
BE INFORMED. BE SMART. BE SAFE! Confidential office visits with a Yamhill County Public Health Nurse. by MADISYN CHAUFTY
ERIC RODRIGUEZ/THE BRUIN
Although it’s only a few months each year, summer is most kids’ favorite time of the year. It’s a time where they get to relax, enjoy themselves and get a break from all the stress school brings. During these short months off, many people choose to go places, such as senior, Chris Derrickson. Derrickson travelled to two different states, Nevada and Utah over the summer to fight wild land fires and get future job experience. “My father fought fires for the National Guard, so I wanted to follow in his footsteps.” said Derrickson, who hopes to pursue firefighting as a career. Derrickson took a firefighting class at MHS last school year that helped him get a job with the Sheridan Fire Department. He was then offered the opportunity to go out of state and practice firefighting in the real world. PAGE 3
OCTOBER 18, 2013
Derrickson learned a lot from his time out of state. He worked long, hard days in the heat wearing multiple layers of clothing, and learned what it was like on the job. The work gave him a taste of what his future would be like on the job. “I grew a lot mentally and physically.” said Derrickson. He spent his time in a very good* working environment and was able to meet other students who shared the same interests as him. “When I went there, I only knew one person, everyone else I met and became fast friends with.” said Derrickson. He also earned money for college, which will help him immensely over the next few years. Although the trip went rather smoothly and safely, Derrickson experienced a few scary moments on the job. One time on the job, Derrickson
BRUIN MAGAZINE
and his fellow firefighters got stuck in the truck. He was never entirely sure whether the fire was coming toward them, and often had to think on his feet to avoid disaster. However despite the challenges he faced, Derrickson is planning on returning to the program next summer. He lans to apply for the Elite Firefighting Group, a step up from his position last summer. Derrickson thought the trip really cemented his decisions for the future. “I thought it was a good summer and can definitely be a future career for me.” he said. The trip really helped him realize exactly what he wanted to do in life. For most students, summer vacation is the epitome of relaxation and fun, new experiences, or even getting a jump on the next school year.
Services offered: helathy relationship info, pregnancy prevention info, limited STI testing and info, pregnancy tests EVERY TUESDAY 1:00-4:00 PM Walk-in the Health Room in 1st Hall anytime or call 503-565-4240 A Partnership between McMinnville School District & Yamhill County Public Health Supporting Student Success!
SPORTS
SPORTS
Fall sports Recap: TEAM RECORDS:
The fall season is heading to post-season play, for updated stats & schedules, go to mhsbruin.com
Football: 3-5 Volleyball: 9-2 Cross Country: 3-5 Girls Soccer: 4-5 Boys Soccer: 5-4
Top Left: The Grizzlies girls’ soccer team falls short, making their record 4-5.
A Dance Team Worth Respecting
Bottom Left: Junior Oliver Vera helps the team score another win against Hillsboro to end Homecoming on a good note. The Grizzlies are currently ranked eleventh in state.
Bianca Flores / The Bruin
The dance team spends countless hours preparing to perform at assemblies & games
Bottom Right: Junior Taylor Peterson serves up a fast one against Forest Grove. They are currently fifth in state.
by Leuxie Rank
The MHS Grizzlies Dance Team provides school spirit, inspiration, and entertainment to the school and community. Ove 70 dancers make up the team. The dancers work hard practicing a few hours at a time Monday through Thursday. In return it takes a lot to be a Grizzlies dancer. Head coach and choreographer, Gina Regalado said, “Besides the hours or practice, community service and fundraisers, being a dancer is only half of what it takes to be on the team. (To be honest I am too afraid to add up the amount of time each student puts into the team!) It also takes school spirit, believing in the Grizzlies, putting the needs of others before their own, community service and respecting themselves, their school, peers, teachers, administrators and community.” Many of the team members also explain that indeed they try their very best to provide school spirit through their dancing and inspire others to find a love or passion for the sport. It does mean an extensive amount of work to be in charge of such a hard working group of people. Regalado said, “It means so much to me. When I was in high school I was given the opportunity to be a part of my high school dance team and my school. I felt I belonged and was making a conPAGE 4
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tribution to my school. Today all I want to do is give the same opportunity to those who want it, through dance.” Knowing that not everyone may be a superior dancer, they motivate people to get on their feet and have a gratifying time. Whether it is at a football game or a school assembly, the dancers are expected to be team leaders and examples of encouragement for all the high school students and teachers. Team members have said the experience of being a part of a big family, welcoming people, and dancing for the team has been one of the best privileges. Regalado informs us what she wants to accomplish with the dancers, “I would like for every member to realize their worth. To realize they have many options in life and can make their dreams come true. If you can be brave enough to dance without holding back in front of their peers then they are strong enough to get through anything that life will throw at them. I just want them to have great lives and to be happy. And of course to build a strong and long lasting program, one that can always be counted on.”
Top Right: Senior Darby Ramos stops a Forest Grove defender.
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Over 50 toppings! Eight delicious yogurt choices!
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New Flavors every day of the week! hALEY sWINTH / The Bruin PAGE 5
October 18, 2013
BRUIN MAGAZINE
Pedro Spain
A Record 14 Exchange Students traveled from 10 countries to spend the school year at MHS
Patrick Denmark
Laurine Germany
Pia-Lena Germany
Emiliano Colombia
Around The World
Edoardo Italy
Justus Germany
Chiharu Japan
Sopitnapa Thailand
Q: “What foods do you miss from Germany?” A: “The fruit is different; it’s not as fresh. All you can eat is apples and bananas here. Q: “Your thoughts on American sweets.” A: “You put chocolate on your fruit. It’s already sweet enough, why do you do that?
Heavy Topics
Hadi Lebanon
Xinyu China
Verena Italy
Ida Denmark
Q: “What foods do you miss from Finland?” A: “Karjalanpiirakka (rice pie) and real bread.” Q: “Your thoughts on American sweets.” A: “Your licorice is really bad! It’s not black!” (She also tried corndogs and liked them.) Lotta Finland
Transportation: Justus said, “You Americans have no public trains, buses, no bikes. You just sit in the car and you have to find a ride everytime you want to go somewhere.” Lotta said, “All you do is drive cars! You never walk anywhere.” Favorite American clothing stores: Hollister, A&F, American Eagle, Charlotte Russe, Victoria Secret*, and Vans. Lotta said, “The difference between how you where close is that Americans are more casual and Europeans are more stylish.” Pets: Everyone has cats! And dogs live inside. Justus said, “Dogs should be outside.” Alcohol: Americans abuse beer; you should just enjoy one. Age 18 is the drinking age in Europe. PAGE 6
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October 18, 2013
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What We Think
OPINIONS
Homecoming Suffers From Identity Crisis Editorial Board
Emily Neel
Editor-in-Chief
Homecoming 2013-2014 suffered from a major identity crisis. What is Homecoming? Or was it more a Spirit Day on Friday? Although Color Day brought out HUGE school spirit, the rest of the week did not feel like Homecoming. The week was lackluster Monday through Thursday with no lunch activities and hardly anyone dressing up--including the majority of ASB students themselves. The Bruin counted on Wednesday & we found only three ASB students dressed up. Midweek of Homecoming Hannah Lundeen & Olivia Bowman sat down with ASB president Nathan Lausmann to ask why ASB themselves were not dressing up--including himself and vice president Jordan Rosenberry. We never really got an answer. We said that the carnival was spruced up from last year and hall decorations done well, but there were no lunch activities. He again did not have an answer, except to say that the weather was not cooperating. We asked why there was no lunch activities indoors.
INSIDE THE DEN
Olivia Bowman News Editor
Katelyn Obregon Online Editor
It was a shame that window painting didn’t occur, but we understand that this is of no fault of ASB since the weather did not cooperate. Finally, Lausmann said he would ask ASB to dress up the next day for Zombie/ Apocalypse Day. By our count, 12 of the 26 ASB students in class dressed up. The assembly on Friday was full of spirit, but the Homecoming King & Queen were not part of the Assembly. It felt out of place to not have the court there. Traditionally, the King and Queen “reign” over the week. The grand finale, the assembly, was deafening, exciting, and even touching when the whole school pitched in to sing the national anthem, but it was just that, an assembly, not a Homecoming Assembly. All sense of tradition has slowly been lost over the years and now there is none. This blame goes to not just this year’s ASB class, but to those in the last 10 years. Homecoming is a celebration that alumni & community members can recognize that is for the entire McMinnville
Hannah Lundeen Opinion Editor
Large Class Sizes Out of Control
Haley Swinth Photo Editor
High School Community & alumni. We are not asking to throw it all out, but bring back some tradition so it is recognizable as Homecoming. Suggestions? We have some. -The King & Queen should “reign” over the week and knight the captains of ALL sports teams at the beginning of week, not just recognize football -Reward students who dressed up & have class competition for hall decorations & other activities -Have indoor lunch activities every day -Advertise Homecoming to the community This is a short list, but a start. We understand that ASB will likely be upset and that they spent thankless and countless hours preparing, but we feel that it is time to ask them to rethink the week. We suggest a committee be formed with MHS staff & community members to advise the ASB leaders on the traditions of MHS & bring some back. This is a celebration for the whole community, not just another assembly.
Each issue the The Bruin Editorial Board meets to discuss the topics of the school and give their opinion.The board consists of Emily Neel [Editor], Hannah Lundeen [Opinion Editor], Olivia Bowman[News Editor], Katlyn Obregon [Online Editor], Haley Swith [Photo Editor], Erica Wood [Features Editor], Anika East [A&E Editor], and Sydney Brown [A&E Editor].
A
Taylor vogel / The Bruin
haley swinth / The Bruin
PHOTO POLL
How do you feel about the larger classes this year?
“Too many.” -Freshman Sebastian Oak
Class Sizes Rise Dramatically at MHS, reaching numbers in high 40’s
“They need to shrink [sizes] or transfer [students] to another period.” -Sophomore Rachel Briggs
“[Classes] are overcrowded and take up too much learning space.” -Junior Delaney Ackerman
Keegan cassidy / The Bruin
“They’re so big, I see a new kid everyday.” -Senior Andrew Huffer
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“I don’t think this is fair for students.” -Teacher Erin Brisbin
October 18, 2013
PAGE 8
by HANNAH LUNDEEN As the 2013-14 school year begins, students and teachers brace themselves for daunting class sizes, some reaching into the high forties and fifties. High class sizes have become a normality in the modern day public school system and Oregon has some of the highest in the country. Some argue that class size i s unimportant and a student’s education depends solely on the quality of teaching, but research shows that students in smaller classes are much more likely to succeed. Whether it’s the teacher’s first or twentieth year teaching, a crowded class room proves much more difficult than a smaller one. Teachers must reduce the individual time spent with each student because with a class of 40, there isn’t time to give each student oneon-one attention. “In larger classes such as a language or science class, it is much harder to stand out- to be an individual. Everything is much more standardized to fit the needs of the curriculum,” said junior Adrian Martin. Also, with so many students in one room it is difficult to differentiate between students who actually comprehend the material and students who are just going through the motions, not absorbing anything. Spanish teacher Beth Ann Pope knows firsthand what it’s like to teach under large class PAGE 9
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sizes. “We had three full-time Spanish [teachers] for a long time, and Megan Briery was hired as full-time Spanish. Then there were layoffs and now she’s down to two classes [of ] Spanish,” said Pope. Many teachers are spread thinly, and not able to teach the way they would if class sizes were smaller. “The staffing is really the key piece, and there just hasn’t been any money for an extra person, which we desperately need,” said Pope. Although it can be difficult to stand out in large classes, it’s still your job to make sure you know the material. Don’t sit all semester and not know what’s going on; take responsibility for your learning and if you don’t understand things, get help! There are many outlets for help such as after school or simply asking for one on one attention from a teacher. Also, online resources can be a lifesaver if teachers aren’t available. In the end, there are no clear cut answers for how to reduce class sizes. The problem doesn’t lay within class sizes itself, but this country’s attitude towards education. The solution may not be simple, but with classes of up to 50 students, hiring new teachers is a necessity. No one should sit in a room with over 40 students.
national anthem
B C D F
MHS assemblies often experience difficulties with the sound system. As Jordan Ferry began to sing the national anthem during the Homecoming assembly, the whole student body sang along with her when her microphone began to crack. It was extremely moving to see all students bond together to help one of their own during one of the most community-oriented weeks of school.
soar SOAR has produced its first shows this year and welcomes Bethany Mohler & Walter Stahl as its anchor this year. During the assemblies, it has also projected footage of the crowd and activities on the big screen. Now we just hope that each show is shown in class.
Homecoming’s Lack Of spirit Homecoming week was….lackluster. Students didn’t see any new lunchtime or after school events, or very many activities at all. The weather was not what we had hoped, but we still believe ASB should have hosted indoor events. On the bright side, the hall decorations were festive and Colors Day was still filled with its usual excitement.
lack of fans at sporting events It’s really hard to play your best without the support of a cheering crowd. Sporting events, particularly girls’ soccer and JV events, have experienced a significant shortage of fans to root on our teams. Hopefully, MHS will pick up its school spirit for winter sports.
Large class Sizes With class sizes that feel more like lecture halls, it is hard for both the students and teachers to accomplish what they need to. Students have a harder time paying attention and being able to participate. Teachers have to control a larger group of students and learn all of their names, strengths, and weaknesses.
ARTS and ENTERTAINMENT
Bruin Coffee Picks
NEWS
MHS Health Clinic Provides Safe Space for Students
Polls were passed around to Bruin students to help determine the best coffee shops in MAC TOWN.
40%
Dutch Brothers
The new clinic is open to the community and provides health services, counseling, and referrals to all by JUSTIN NAVARRO
Last year, McMinnville High School was given the unique privilege of starting a health clinic. Its purpose is to help McMinnville High School students, as well as outside members of the community. The health clinic is open to those who are ill, or simply need help that is too expensive in other health clinics. It provides health resources and couseling to anyone who asks for it. The director of the health clinic, Dana Smothers said, “the idea to do it was because of the teen pregnancy rate in the county, as well as providing easier access to services for students.” She hopes the clinic will serve MHS students positively and give them a place to go when they need help. The clinic provides non-profit services to all members of the Yamhill county. When asked what she wanted all MHS students to know, Smothers said, “I am here with what I can provide them. And (like a team, family and teachers), we are here to help you to succeed and be healthy.” No doubt , the best part about being part of a health clinic is getting to help the community. Smothers said, “The best part is the people, the students and, of course, the wonderful staff that helps make this possible.” An unnamed MHS student expressed her opinions about the clinic. “It’s such an amazing feeling
knowing that there is always help available. At a time when you need help the most, the health clinic is there to help you.” As teenagers, communication is a valuable thing. Some individuals, however, would prefer to seek professional help than talk to family or friends. This health clinic goes above and beyond normal health couseling and is glad to assist with any problem students have. Another anonymous source said “You’re never alone. As teens, it feels like the world is ending. It certainly is not. There is help. “ So far the clinic has gotten nothing but rave reviews. “Thank you, health clinic. I see so much of a difference than I did before.” the source said. Much of the contributions to make this clinic possible, came from the McMinnville Health Department, who agreed with Smothers’ idea of assisting all members of the community. “It brings me joy to know that we can make a difference in the McMinnville community, especially to teens who are in need of help,” Smothers said with a humble smile. The McMinnville community is not alone when looking for help, the MHS Health Clinic is always there for everyone of all ages. Students and community members can find the free health clinic in the health room in first hall any time of day.
Pro: Way cheaper than Starbucks! Con: All of their drinks are very sweet, and they do not use quality coffee
Courtesy of city-data.com
Prostart is a cooking competition where high school students from all across Oregon come to compete against one another. The competitors must prepare a 3 course meal in 60 minutes or less. The meal consists of a starter/ entrée, a main course, and dessert, and can contain any major foods that do not include alcohol. Mac High is sending five students from Prostart to compete this year, including four competitors and one alternate member. The team is selected by mentor chef and restaurant owner, Paul Bachand. Coach Carolyn Nyquist has high hopes for the team, and said they are “very competitive ”and “serious contenders.” The winning competition team will receive scholarship opportunities, a knife set, and an all-expenses paid trip to nationals. Junior Tessa Stevens has high hopes for Prostart this year. She hopes to be chosen for the competitive team, but plans to give moral support either way. Even if she’s not chosen for the competitive team, Stevens still thinks PAGE10
OCTOBER 18, 2013
BRUIN MAGAZINE
MHS has a “great shot [at winning].” She said the students trying out for the teams have an “amazing [teacher], and great student abilities.” Stevens was not a part of the competitive team last year but went to competition offer moral support to her peers, as did fellow junior Bailey Dreibelbis. Dreibelbis hopes to compete this year as well, and believes he has a good shot of being chosen for the team. Dreibelbis is unsure about this year’s team, but hopes they will pull out a win as well. “…even though our team has a great set of skills, we do not know their background and they have their own set of different skills,” said Dreibelbis. Still students have high hopes for Prostart this year. In the past, the Prostart competitive team has been made up of all seniors, but this year could bring some changes in terms of the team.
Our Pick:Try an iced white mocha with caramel for just $3.50!
Quizno’s Dynamite Deals! Students and staff members can come in anywhere between 11a.m.-2p.m. to take part in these deals!
Starbucks
Starbucks is a classic and never disappoints! Pro: Starbucks always has delicious holiday drinks Con: Very expensive and addictive, which will consume all your money Our Pick: Try keeping it simple with an iced vanilla latte!
Prostart students work year-round to ensure readiness for competition, where they are judged on their presentation, quality and more.
mhsbruin.com
40%
Prostart Competitive Team Looks Promising
by JOANELLE EWALT
Be sure to check out The Bruin online for new stories, polls, live broadcasts, photo albums & updates
By looking around the school throughout the day, it’s clear that Dutch Bros. is a student favorite.
Haley Swinth / The Bruin
MHS’ cooking competition team hopes for a place at this year’s national competition
Come to us first for MHS News & Information
Courtesy of citysearch.com
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Your choice of small turkey, ham, or roast beef deli sandwich , bag of chips, and medium fountain drink
Free medium drink with your purchase of $4.00
1411 NE Highway 99W (503) 857-0154
20%
Union Block
Union Block is locally owned by the Elmers so when you make a purchase, you are helping the community! Pro: Use high-end coffee and give student discounts when you show your ID! Con: Discount doesn’t work on speacialty drinks, which are a number one choice Our Pick: Try a blended snickers!
haley swinth/ The Bruin Courtesy of city-data.com PAGE 11 October 18, 2013
BRUIN MAGAZINE
Now selling by the slice! 11a.m.-2p.m.
$1.00 per slice
PLUS! It’s only $0.50 for additional toppings
MAC TO THE FUTURE
PAGE 12 October 18, 2013
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The week ended in the Color Day & Parade in Downton McMinnville Left: A freshman gets excited about his first Homecoming. Top right: Senior ASB vice president Jordan Rosenberry shows his colors during the Homecoming rally.Bottom right: Seniors Molly Olson Leslie Ramirez get hyped up during parade. Bottom: Cheer leads the parade through Third Street. Underneath: Senior Bryce Anderson shows his spirit.
Haley Swinth / The Bruin