The Islander November Issue 2015

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November 24, 2015

mihsislander.org

The Editorial Board

Throughout the last week in September, the Mercer Island School District attracted national attention for its ban on tag. Superintendent Dr. Gary Plano described the incident as a normal part of operating in a “learning institution.� What we, the editors of The Islander, have learned from pursuing this story is that the adult world is overrun by petty politics. In a situation where communication and accountability were key, both the administrators and the parents involved in

the issue did not fully exemplify these important attributes because of the political nature of their approaches to the benign topic of tag. Over the summer and into the beginning of the new school year, the District had internal conversations on setting new norms and expectations for elementary school students on the playground. The idea of a strict “handsoff policy� emerged from the idea that the District was trying to explain its process of renorming expectations to young children. “Our intent was to go to a hands-off pol-

icy at recess to start off the school year until we could do some deliberate teaching. It wasn’t meant for that to be a permanent rule. We were trying to get it into the minds of elementary kids. With kids who need rules and boundaries, it’s hard to be ambiguous,� said Assistant Superintendent Fred Rundle. The miscommunication between administrators and the community began after a Lakeridge Elementary School Advisory Council meeting. When parents heard of the District’s hopes to renorm playground expectations,

they began a Facebook group entitled STAR (Support Tag at Recess). When Q13 News picked up the story on Sept. 23, the STAR group and the District’s ban went viral. This controversy led to several public relations issues for the District. The Today Show aired the controversy in their “What’s Trending� segment on Sept. 28, where Matt Lauer Savannah Guthrie laughed at the District’s decision. Numerous news sites awarded Washington state the title “Nanny State of the Week� (continued on page 9)

of Pediatrics recommended a high school start time of 8:30 a.m. or later... Districts that have implemented the change find it to increase sleep, increase test scores, increase grades, reduce sleepiness, reduce depression, reduce suicides, reduce obesity, reduce traffic accidents and reduce drug use. There is little else we can do that serves all these ends,� said Dave Myerson, a school board member. Contrary to what several members of the school board believe though, some think that there is nothing to gain in sending students to school later. “Sure, kids need more sleep. But once you tell a kid, ‘you don’t have to get up until...’ they are just going to stay up later,� said Karin Hummel, a sixth grade math and science teacher at Islander Middle School.

Myerson is well aware of others believing that as a result of later start times, students will go to bed later. “In fact, sleep time increased from 20 to 40 minutes. These research findings, and much more, have been very well presented by the report of the Bellevue/Mercer Island High School Start Time Committee and are readily available on the Mercer Island School District website.� Said Myerson. Considering the board’s interest in shifting bell times, three scenarios are being discussed. Later start times at MIHS will have an affect on athletes, “I currently only have 3 to 7 minutes [to] get ready...I would like to note that currently I am only a novice at crew, but I know that the varsity starts earlier. Crew isn’t a sport that you can be

more than 15-ish minutes late to because each boat has a specific line-up...If you don’t mark yourself there, you don’t get to row,� said Anonymous, a Mt. Baker crew team participant at MIHS. If the board commits to one of the scenarios, not only will athletes have to change their daily schedules due to school being pushed back, but also coaches, “It might cut into practice time, and then we have to switch our schedule...probably lose a few because they can’t make it here, they’ll probably just come late,� said Chris Rice, a tennis coach at the Mercer Island Country Club. As a response to concerns that late starts will affect athletics and band schedules, Dave Myerson brought up another example of when the district changed bell times,

MISD School Board weighs opinions on late start by

Kelly Hou staff writer

About a year ago, the Mercer Island School District formed a joint-committee with the Bellevue School District composed of parents, teachers, students, and others. Together, they discussed if having different start times than the current bell times would be beneficial for schools, and mainly if high schoolers would be able to obtain more sleep with a later start time. Members of the committee recommended to the MISD school board to discontinue the idea. Yet despite the committee’s suggestion, several school board members are still in favor of delaying school start times because they believe that the positive effects it will have on students’ health are significant. “The American Academy

What is your Favorite

(continued on page 3)

Inside

MIHS leadership initiates Open ASB Features > Page 3

Jordan Morriss continues his successful journey in Soccer Sports > Page 4

Vegetarians celebrate Thanksgiving too Spread > Page 6/7

Senior appreciation signs cause controversy Opinions > Page 9

Talk on the Rock: “Eating a lot of food, passing out, napping, then getting woken up to eat dessert.� -Nick Delman, Senior

“Making stuffing with my dad and dressing my dog up as a turkey.�

Thanksgiving Tradition?

Volume V, Edition 3

Tag incident reflects the reality of adult politics by

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“We always dance with the turkey before we cook it!� -Claire Stein, Junior

-Anna Battisti, Junior

“My brother and I pull he wishbone apart and whoever gets the longer one gets to serve themselves first.� -Spencer Kingston, Junior

“Every year, we have dinner with my extended family. The food is really good! We have pretty classic stuff, and egg rolls which is kind of random.� -Ellie Sulla, Freshman

Another successful dodgeball tournament ends Campus Life > Page 11

Make sure to check out our new website at mihsislander.org!

2

FEATURES

mihsislander.org

Open ASB, the future of democracy Fido takes a bite out of crime two class officers were present to answer questions, conby cerns, or comment, as well as staff writers give a summary of what the The leadership class has leadership has in view for introduced a new program the future. The officers sat termed Open ASB where at a large table in the midstudents can provide sugdle of the room accompanied gestions to the student govby a host of students with ernment, have questions anideas for the school. “I think swered, and hear about the in terms, the actual flow was ASB’s current projects. Each good, people asked questions, month, on a and we always Wednesday had something to after school, talk about,” said ASB officers Oppenheim. are available The Open ASB to students system works and faculty for well because it 20 to 30 minoffers much more utes in room relevant feed301. back for the staff According and leadership to the ASB program using staff, this direct and releidea was first vant feedback. “It heard when allows us to take attending one your suggestions Photo by Spencer Klein of their annu- Brian Oppenheim, Luke Kenworthy, and DB Ngyuen run the first session of Open ASB. into consideration al leadership when making deconferences. Other schools in from questions about a cer- cisions, such as the HallowWashington state used simi- tain school system or a sug- een costume competition last lar programs to receive com- gestion a student may have month and the dodgeball munity feedback, so the lead- for the school. Each session tournament,” said ASB Secership team decided it would has an agenda, where cer- retary DB Nguyen. be a good idea to implement tain topics are discussed. Chris Twombley, the teachOpen ASB at MIHS. “If someone has an idea or er of the leadership class at Open ASB is an attempt concern, they just voice it to MIHS, said that he “wants to make the dealings behind the entire leadership,” said school to be a place where evdecisions at MIHS more Freshman Class Treasurer eryone feels welcome, where transparent for the general Jonathan Na. it’s fun, and spirited.” Open student body. “Students reThe first Open ASB was ASB is a step forward in that ally don’t know exactly what held on Nov. 18 in room 301, direction. [leadership does]. They know where all six ASB officers and

Luka Marceta and Spencer Klein

we plan Homecoming, and they know we hold the doors, but beyond that, it’s kind of a mystery to a lot of people,” said ASB Public Relations Manager Brian Oppenheim. In a session of Open ASB, students, members of the leadership class, and anyone connected to the school community will sit down and talk. Discussions can vary

A “New Season” of supermarkets by

Zoe Levin staff writer

The Portland-based New Seasons Market will take the place of Albertsons and join Mercer Island’s retail community in the fall of 2016. While this New Seasons Market will be the first to open in the Seattle area, there are already 18 New Seasons locations, including one store in Vancouver, Washington. New Seasons has its roots in Oregon, where three Portland families desired to create a neighborhood market with healthy food and community values. New Seasons Market is a certified B corporation, which means that shareholders not only hold the Market accountable for being profitable, but also for positively impacting society and the environment. New Seasons maintains these standards by carrying local, certified organic, non-GMO produce and and foods, as well as donating 10 percent of after-tax profits to local nonprofits and community organizations. New Seasons Market works hard to ensure that its stores carry both natural, healthy foods and everyday brands. “At New Seasons, you’ll find the best mix of lo-

cal and organic favorites with conventional classics—from free-range chicken to Frosted Flakes,” the Market’s website says. Creating a community atmosphere is just as important to New Seasons as providing healthy and local foods. “We look forward to making our Mercer Island store a welcoming, neighborhood gathering spot where people connect over delicious, quality food, get to know our wonderful staff and build community together,” said President and CEO of New Seasons Wendy Collie. Because of its range of healthy options, Mercer Island residents can look forward to a market that makes eating healthy easy and accessible. “I’m excited for the variety and the convenience,” said Mercer Island resident Giselle Greisman. New Seasons will also add job opportunities to Mercer Island. The Market plans to hire 150 local employees in the summer of 2016, before the store opens next fall. New Seasons Market will be located in downtown Mercer Island, so non-GMO, organic, free range tofu will always be a stones throw away from the yoga studio as well McDonalds.

by

Jessica Waller back page editor

The Mercer Island Police Department launched the “Paws on Patrol” program in early 2015 to train residents to serve as extra eyes and ears for the MIPD, reporting any suspicious activity or crimes community members notice as they walk their dogs around the Island. The original program, termed Dog Walker Watch, started with the goal of reducing crime in communities. The program has spread throughout Washington state and the United States before the MIPD made its own, similar program. The Paws on Patrol program encourages people to use their daily strolls as part of a crime prevention strategy. Dog walkers are out at all hours of the day and are familiar with their neighborhoods. Residents are trained by police officers to pay more attention to their surroundings, forgoing cell phones, iPods, and other distractions to notice things that seem awry. With the recent increase in car prowls and house burglaries on the Island, this type of community policing is important. Citizens are warned to call the police and not pursue a suspicious situation by themselves. “95 per-

cent of police arrests nationwide are the direct result of a citizen’s phone call. Whether or not we find the suspect may depend on specific timely information we receive from citizens like our Paws on Patrol participants,” said Anna Ormsby, Mercer Island Police Support Officer. “This program is fun, and helps keep the citizens and police on the same side. So far, our citizens love the program and are proud to be part of the solution. It’s a win-win situation: our citizens are more involved in their community and we have more eyes and ears out there to let us know when something isn’t right,” said Ormsby. The Paws on Patrol training involves owners and their furry companions meeting with police officers at Luther Burbank Park, so a social element is also present. “One call to 911 was made by a Paws on Patrol participant who heard an alarm going off at a residence and saw water seeping from the siding. The 911 call resulted in a quick response from the fire department and likely preventing much more property damage. ” said Ormsby. This is an exciting volunteer opportunity and any high school student wanting to join this program can on the City of Mercer Island website.

Joe Bryant brings new life to radio by

Marissa Look and Jasmine Zou staff writers

dio. “Joe is fairly new to the current technology we use and is constantly learning,” said senior radio student Sam Hibbert, “He knows more about what it’s like to be a radio personality.” Bryant uses his connections and experience in the radio world to show his students what it means to be in enter-

Replacing former radio teacher Charlie Hilen, 20152016 will be Joe Bryant’s first year teaching at MIHS and he has many exciting plans for the future of MIHS’s radio program.     For 15 years, Bryant was a morning talk-show host on the popular radio program “The Bob Rivers Show with Bob, Spike and Joe.” After the radio show ended, Bryant considered Joe Bryant (left) and Sam Hibbert (right) going into real estate before tainment. He has brought in discovering the possibility of many guest speakers to his a job as the new MIHS radio class, including radio perbroadcasting teacher. sonalities BJ Shae, the Jodi “I knew a lot about radio,” Brothers, the Grammy winsaid Bryant, “What I didn’t ning singer Wanz. “What I quite realize was the technol- can really help kids learn ogy of the radio had passed to do,” said Bryant, “is to be me by.” As a talk-show host great communicators with Bryant did not have to push each other, with their famimany buttons or be involved lies, with their friends, with in the engineering of the ra- the future jobs and college

prospects.” The mostly hit-music-focused 88.9 FM will add more alternative bands and rock bands to their playlist. “[He] has helped us create a lot of new content for the station” said Hibbert. Student voices and student features will be more prominent. Already, they have done spotlights on athletes, drama students, and musicians. “We also want to start a faculty spotlight,” said Bryant. “We’re always looking for more great stories to tell on the radio.” Finally, Bryant hopes to get more students involved with the radio, and Photo by Ian Martin encourages more students to join the program. “If you like to have fun, if you’re outgoing, if you have a passion for music or just hanging out with your friends, and telling stories and talking, then I think you’re the kind of person who might enjoy this type of program,” said Bryant.

November 24, 2015

Features

3

MISD school board weights opinions on late start (cont.)

ferent start times. Some of a late start on Wednesdays, “I am very supportive of the scenarios consist of ear- “Why only on Wednesdays? these activities, and think lier start times for Islander I sleep in on weekends and that given suitable time and Middle School or the elemen- I’m certainly not bright eyed support, they can be accom- tary schools, and many focus and bushy tailed when I go modated in a late start sched- more on later starts for the to school on Monday. I also ule. After all, we evolved to high school, which will re- like having the extra time the present situation after a sult in a later release time to work on homework,” said much AnonHigh School Middle School Elementary Schools more ymous. acriMark Starts 8:30am f o rNo Change studentsStart 9:10am m o S h afer, Scenario 1: End 3:50pm nious a math comteacher Start 8:30am, 8:40am Scenario 2: No Change TheNo Change b o a r dEnd 3:20pm, 3:30pm a t M I H S , m u nity b e Starts 8:40am i sStarts 9:10am a l s oStarts 8:20am l i e v e s that the d e Scenario 3: End 3:40pm con-End 3:35pm sider-End 3:00pm change in Wednesbate 1 3 day start years t i m e s ago, with those against ing pushing back start times shouldn’t really affect anychanging the start time only on Wednesday, which is body. “For the teachers, from 7:30 to 8:00 with a more likely situation to oc- we’ll have our meetings in many of the same objec- cur for Mercer Island schools. the morning, so it doesn’t tions as now.” Said Myerson. With a later Wednesday affect any of the staff.” Aside from recent sleep start, students can sleep However, Hummel disstudies about teen sleep more and get out of school at agrees that there are benefits needs, other reasons such as the usual time of 3:00 p.m., to a new start time on one day avoiding traffic around the the same release time as on of the week. “It wreaks havoc high school when the new Monday, Tuesday, Wednes- on the kids’ sleep patterns in elementary school opens up day, and Thursday. Much of the middle of the week...then nearby and stretching out the idea for later start times it messes up your sleep for the K-5 school days to accommo- for schools was a response to next night.” Said Hummel. date having world language sleep studies about teenagers’ Rice believes that the idea for elementary students have sleep needs. However, some is a good compromise, but also been used to justify dif- question the effectiveness of his view on the new start (continued from page 1)

The downward spiral of NCL by

Christine Lee and Georgia Mattox staff writers

For the past 57 years, National Charity League has strived to develop strong female leaders through volunteer work and mother-daughter teamwork. However, recently some members have questioned the effectiveness and legitimacy of the league. With about 240 MIHS students involved in the organization, NCL is a key cultural point in MIHS society. NCL has, for many students, become a tedious extracurricular activity that is largely participated in for college application “fluffing.” “NCL is an easy way to get volunteer hours you need for college,” said Emma Gottlieb, a junior in the league. NCL requires members to attend monthly meetings where they learn life skills and socialize with others. “A lot of girls are quitting because the meetings are so boring,” said Hannah Samuels, another NCL member. Because high schoolers’ main goal is to gain volunteer hours, they often find the meetings unnecessary and time consuming. Despite attitudes towards these meetings, they do prepare students for the real world. “I look at that [the boring aspect of meetings] as preparing them that not everything you do in life is enjoyable or fun every moment,’ said Tracy Samuels, the grade level organizer of NCL.

The organization has also been given a negative reputation for poor integration between social groups. “At the meetings it can get a little segregated, like people sort of split off into their friend groups. There is not really much integration during the social parts that occur,” Gottlieb said. The key focus of NCL, forging new friendships, seems to be defeated by various social groups. “We try to encourage everyone to leave that [social groups] at the door and be open to expanding new relationships,” said Tracy Samuels. The lack of unity among members defeats NCL’s intention to build strong female leaders. “The reason it is less fun is because the girls don’t make the best of it. They don’t take it seriously,” said Hannah Samuels. The grade level advisors are trying to make NCL better. they have even invited college counselors and yoga instructors to teach the girls life skills. Members also believe that the organization focuses too much on socializing as opposed to focusing on its goal as a charity league. “We spend all this money and throw these big events for ourselves. It’s a waste,” said Hannah Samuels. In addition to lack of motivation and excess socializing, other members have grown to dislike NCL because of the minimal amount of charity work itself. NCL members are required to volunteer for only ten hours per year and

attend ten hours of “league” which includes the tenth grade tea (an annual tea organized by sophomores), senior celebrations, and class meetings. “I feel like they should cut down on league hours and increase the amount of philanthropy hours because honestly what is the point [of so many league hours]?” said sophomore Louise Morton. NCL prides itself on bringing mothers and daughters together by giving back to the community. For some, this aspect of NCL still remains true: “If you don’t have time to hang out often with your mom it’s a good way to bond and do good for the community,” said Hannah Samuels. However, for many members, the bonding is overshadowed by the natural inclination to be with friends. “It is less about being with your mom as it is about doing charity with your friends in fun groups,” said an anonymous member of N C L . Although NCL is often regarded as merely a time to socialize with friends, many people find value in meeting new people and forging friendships. Those who commit their time to NCL and focus on charity events often find rewarding opportunities. NCL serves as a bridge for high school students to many different local charities. “As with anything in life you get out of it what you put into it. NCL can offer great value if you look for it,” said Tracy Samuels.

time opposes the idea that a late start Wednesday will have a negative effect on students, “One day a week where you get to sleep in a little bit longer, that’s better...[students] can look forward to that day where they can sleep in, maybe do a little extra homework.” Some believe that the decision to have a late start on Wednesdays affects not only students, but also parents. “If it were late start for just one day out of the week, parents would have to also bend their schedules to fit with the change,” said Rachel Tang, a freshman attending MIHS, “and then there would be major traffic at an awk-

ward time in mid-morning.” Looking forward, we will probably be anticipating some sort of change in the start times for schools. Late start Wednesdays have not been decided upon yet, “The late start Wednesdays are only being considered but not actually decided yet,” said Vicki Puckett, the principal at MIHS The three scenarios that are being discussed will impact extracurricular activities and the elementary band program. These issues and several more will be shared during a future meeting focused on start times.

Tim Eyman controversy by

Marissa Look and Richard Chess

staff writer and editor in chief In the General Election on Nov. 3, I-1366 was passed by Washington state voters, inciting a statewide controversy over constitutionality and feasibility of the Legislature being able to satisfy the requirements set forth by I-1366. To make matters worse, Tim Eyman, the initiative sponsor has recently been accused of illegally using campaign funds, the second time in his career. Eyman, a wrist watch salesman, has placed many tax-reducing initiatives on the Washington state ballot in the last decade. Although several of his past initiatives have been approved, many have been overturned or repealed by courts. In 2010, Eyman sponsored an initiative that would require a two-thirds majority vote of the Legislature or a simple majority of the people to increase any taxes, which passed. However, this initiative was struck down by the State Supreme Court because legislation can never overrule the Washington Constitution, which describes the manner for how any legislation must be passed. The new initiative that passed, I-1366, reduces the sales tax rate from 6.5 percent to 5.5 percent unless the State passes a constitutional amendment requiring a two-thirds majority vote of the Legislature or a simple majority of voters to increase any taxes. Lowering taxes appeals to many taxpayers across the state, yet there are several negative consequences of such a reduction. “[Decreasing sales tax is] a problem because we have increased needs for all sorts of things…most immediately is to fully fund the K-12 public schools,” said Mike Radow, a teacher at MIHS. Washington state lacks an

income tax, which already causes low revenue for the State. Decreasing the sales tax will cost the State about $8 billion dollars over five fiscal years, starting in 2017. Arguments in the State Supreme Court about the constitutionality of I-1366 were heard before the initiative was placed on the ballot. The Court decided to suspend arguments until after the election, to see if it would be necessary to make a decision. Unless the Court overturns this initiative, the Legislature will face a difficult task: passing an amendment that is not supported by Democrats, who hold a majority in the House of Representatives, or cutting funding to essential public services. Additionally, Eyman has been suspected of committing criminal acts while campaigning for initiatives. A Public Disclosure Commission report revealed that Eyman has been moving money between campaigns, while keeping some for himself: “Staff found evidence that Mr. Eyman made personal use of approximately $170,000 of funds, using them for personal living expenses to support his family.” This report comes just thirteen years after Eyman admitted to a similar crime, stealing funds from a campaign in 2000. He agreed to pay a fine and never again serve as treasurer of any political committee. Although the outcome of the current investigation cannot reverse I-1366, it may impact Eyman’s ability to persuade voters to pass future initiatives sponsored by him. The effect of the passage of I-1366 is still unknown, but the Court must make a speedy decision over the initiative’s constitutionality so that the Legislature has enough time to contemplate and debate how it will react to the changes.

4

SPORTS

Former MIHS soccer star puts the soccer world on notice

called up to play on U.S. Mens Senior National Team by staff writer against the Czech Republic. Jordan Morris, a 2013 Even though he did not play, MIHS alumni, has been atit was significant because he tracting attention on the socwas the first college player to cer field ever since he began get called up to play on the playing the sport. national team since 1999. Morris began his soccer Morris continued his role career at on the national team Eastside when he made his FC, a local first debut against p r e m i e r Ireland in 2014 s o c c e r and scored his first club that national goal against arguably Mexico in 2015. His offers the latest accomplishment highest level was being put on the of training roster for the World in Western Cup qualifying match Washington. against St. Vincent Photo courtesy FOX Sports and The Grenadines. Throughout high school, Jordan Morris celebrates after scoring a goal in a recent game against Mexico. Along with that, Morris spent three years was also named the Pac-12 Morris has been training playing with Eastside and Player of the Year. In a so far with the Sounders U-23 the MIHS team. In his senior outstanding year, Morris has Academy team. year, he was offered a spot scored eight goals and two Some people believe on the Seattle Sounders assists in just 13 games. He though that Morris could academy team. After his has also lead Stanford to a #8 have joined the Sounders senior year, Morris was seed in the 2015 NCAA soc- after his sophomore year at admitted to Stanford to play cer championship. Stanford. Morris decided to soccer. As for his international finish college before he went Now, Morris is playing career, Jordan has played pro so he could get his major his third year of soccer for with the U.S. U-20 squad in Science, Technology and Stanford, where he has had in the Toulon tournament Society. a large amount of success. where he made three apWith his recent signing So far this year, Morris leads pearances. He also has to a Homegrown player the Cardinals with eight played for the U.S. U-23 contract, Morris has made goals scored. He also has led team. many Mercer Islanders the Cardinals to the number His biggest accomplishment proud to associate with one position in the Pac-12 playing for the U-23 team what many people are with an overall record of 13- came in a 5-1 win against calling the next big thing 2-2. Barbados in which he scored for U.S. soccer. While playing in college, a goal. In 2014, Jordan got

Jamie Shannon

Morris received numerous accolades for his continued success at the collegiate level. He earned the Pac-12 Player of the Week award twice. Morris also made the Pac-12 first team his freshman and sophomore year. This past week, Morris

mihsislander.org

Snow is in the air and Ski Bus will take you there

The El Nino season this year promises more by staff writer snow-producing precipitaLast winter, ski resorts tion, and ski resorts plan to around Western Washing- open earlier than usual out ton received an average of of a desperation to get skiers 58 percent of their usual on the hill. Despite the pressnowfall, leading skiers and sure last season put on the boarders to worry about the ski industry, Mercer Islandfate of snow-dependent ser- ers will still have a ride up to vices such as Ski Bus. the mountains. When asked Ski Bus has transported how last season affected MIHS students in need of number Ski Bus participants fresh PNW powder to the this year, “It’s too early to Cascade Mountains since tell. We just opened registrathe late 1950s. Currently, tion Nov. 7, and we already Ski Bus primarily offers day have enough kids to fill up trips to Crystal Mountain one bus,” said President of Ski Resort, where students Ski Bus Charles Greer, so it can either take lessons or appears that Islanders have enjoy the outdoors with their nothing to worry about when friends. Unfortunately, last it comes to getting to the season prevented some of mountains. that fun. More good news: Crystal Ski Bus operated only four Mountain has made “special times last year as opposed to considerations,” which inthe usual six, largely due to clude decreased season ticket high temperatures coupled prices for those who held seawith preson passes cipitation last year that dewho wish molished to purchase the 2014 passes this snowpack. year. Ski Sadly, ski resorts resorts and a c r o s s Photo courtesy Liftopia W a s h i n g ski-related industries Crystal Mountain lures many local skiers to its runs. ton state also suffered adversities. are also seeking new emEmployment has dropped ployees for those looking to by 30 percent on average at earn extra money over the Northwest ski resorts due to weekends during the winter. weather-related job insecuri- Whether the mountains are ty. However, this season ap- calling you for the money or pears to look a little brighter for the snow, Ski Bus will be than the last. around to get you there.

Jonathon Perr

November 24, 2015

SPORTS

E-sport gaming develops loyal fan base popularity across the world

to master, which could generate problems for those by staff writer still in school, which is why Electronic sports have gamers typically drop out. been growing in popularity “It’s a tough decision, one since 2013, competing with person can be really good at the popularity of traditional video games, but they take so competitive sports. League much focus and time away to of Legends, the prototypi- stay good,” said the student. cal e-sport, is now the most Much like any sport, only popular game in the world, a select few will harness especially in North America, the skill to compete in these Korea, and Europe. e-sport tournaments. As Classified as a Multiplayer League of Legends develops Online Battle Arena, the vid- and spark new interests in eo game League of Legends gamers, the e-sports tourencourages nament players viewership to select count will championly continons and ue to grow. attempt In 2013, to destroy 32 milthe enemy lion people t e a m ’ s watched Photo courtesy AP/David Goldman the League N e x u s ( B a s e Choi “Bomber” Ji Sung won the Red Bull Battle Grounds of Legends tournament in Atlanta on July 13, 2014. core). They championdestroy the Nexus by acquir- ships and 27 million viewers ing gold from taking objec- in 2014. The company that tives on the map: slaying owns League of Legends, the dragon, defeating enemy Riot Games, has not yet dischampions, or killing enemy tributed the 2015 numbers. minions. However, it’s safe to predict League of Legends has var- that video games such as ious competitions in which League of Legends will conthe top 200 players in each tinue to grow in popularity, region form teams compet- as long as Riot Games coning to be season champions. tinues to pump out updates. Most people cannot believe League of Legends also has a that a video game could rival high chance to remain active in popularity over a tradition and enjoyable to a large varisport, but data provided by ety of an audience. Typically, various League of Legends single player games have the Championship Series web- sole purpose to complete the sites show numbers for on- game with no competitive valline viewership reaching an ue. League of Legends gives average of 29.5 million. For gamers’ the opportunity to comparison, only five million enjoy intriguing mechanical viewers per broadcast watch skills in a virtual world, with a college multifootball player as game. the main M o s t content. p e o p l e V a r y assume ing game e-sports m o d e s have a also connegative tribute to impact on League of student Legends’ learning. success, Photo courtesy Riot Games g i v i n g “Generally, [ v i d e o A player collects gold from enemy minions, toward his u n i q u e objective of victory in League of Legends. games are] experian incentive to keep working. ences to everyone who plays. Video games impact me in a Different game modes vary positive way; my parents will the map design, objectives, take my video games away. and mechanics. As the popuSo I stay focused,” said an larity of multiplayer online anonymous student at MIHS. battle arenas continue to Playing video games is also a develop, e-sports’ reputation great tool to stay connected: will increase, introducing “I have no easy access to larger ranges of audiences, people outside of school. So and viewership growth. it’s a great way to keep in E-sports continue to grow touch,” said the student. in popularity as gamers Furthermore, colleges all begin to gain interest in over North America have re- competitive video game play. cently started offering schol- Video games such as League arships for people who have of Legends continue to enough skill in video games update and add new content, to compete at a high level. catching the interest of Though gamers can be ac- gamers all around the globe, cepted into colleges, video which in return, increases games such as League of the championship’s total Legends take many hours viewership.

Dylan Notturno

Par-fect golfer Zach Evens still dominates the course

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‘Can I pursue this? Is this something I really want to by do?’” Though the distant staff writers future is uncertain, Evens Mercer Island senior Zach certainly plans to take an Evens came off an injury to aggressive approach toward claim the title of KingCo the State tournament this MVP, District champion coming spring. He and a spot on the Guilbelieves he and his ford College golf team. teammates Drew MIHS golf coach Tyson Christofferson and Peters said Evens’ season Braden Williams was, “the single most im“have a pretty good pressive individual high shot at least getting school golf season I have top three in State, seen.” hopefully winning.” Aside from Evens’ Luckily, coach MVP award, he also Peters has plenty of captained the team time to prepare the through an incredibly boys for the State successful season. He tournament. led the team to a second Evens recently place finish in KingCo, accepted an offer losing to Liberty by only to play at Guilford one stroke in the KingCo College in North Photo courtesy Zach Evens Carolina. Guilford tournament. Evens also took first place in Senior Zach Evens blasts off the tee. College presents the 3A Sea-King District ters reflected on Evens’ role the next opportunity for tournament by finishing on the team, “He was a work Evens. The Division III five strokes under on a par horse. He showed kids what North Carolina school boasts 72, setting an MIHS record. nerves of steel are about,” a PGA-level golf course, Evens bested the runner-up said Peters. “Whenever there where Evens looks to hone in the District tourney by was some kind of challenging his skills. an astounding three strokes. situation, he just got the job Golf is only one of the The Islanders took revenge done, and it was impressive.” many things on the horizon on the Liberty Patriots in When asked whether he for Evens. He plans to study the District tournament by would pursue a career in sports management and finishing in second place golf after college, Evens said, business while at Guilford. behind Roosevelt High “I am going to keep playing Although Evens is unsure School. It seems as though amateur tour tournaments whether he will play golf afEvens’ recent successes could throughout college, and then ter his time at Guilford, the only be a small taste of what at the end of college, I’m sport will certainly constiis to come. going to take a good, honest tute a significant part of his Peters has coached Evens look at myself and think, life in the years ahead.

Jonathan Perr and Ian Martin

through his entire MIHS golf career, and watched him grow from a freshman who “came in being number one” on the MIHS golf team to the “number one golfer in the District as a senior.” As Pe-

Favorite local ski destinations for Western Washington powder buffs by

Ian Martin staff writer

Many mountains in the nearby Cascade mountain range have already received a dusting of snow that has made many local skiers and snowboarders ponder the question, “Where should I ski?” Last year, ski resorts in the Pacific Northwest were dealt a horrible hand when it came to snow levels. In the 2014-15 ski season, Snoqualmie Pass received 104 inches of snow. Not once in the previous five years has that number gone below 290 inches. Another mountain that was affected by the snow last winter was Crystal Mountain. Last year Crystal Mountain received less then 200 inches of snow, far less then the season average of 486 inches. If this early snow indicates anything, these two mountains will have a great winter. For a fun weekend ski trip many Seattleites visit the semi-local ski resort Crystal Mountain. Crystal is the largest ski resort in the state with 2,600 acres and 50 named runs. Because

the mountain is so large, it gives ample opportunity for skiers and boarders to get “fresh tracks” throughout the day. The skiing at Crystal is unparalleled in Washington state, but the downside of the resort is that it is almost a two-hour drive away. If you are willing to drive the two hours then the skiing is worth it. The mountain offers runs for those of all skill levels. There is the Discovery Chair for those that are learning to ski or board. For those who consider themselves “experts,” Crystal offers chair lifts that provide access for difficult runs. Some of the chairs that lead to the harder runs are Chair 6 and the Northway Chair. When the snow at Crystal is good, long lift lines will often be a burden, but the wait is well worth the reward of hitting the slopes at Crystal. If you are looking for a mountain closer to Mercer Island, Snoqualmie Pass is the place for you. Only a short 45 minute drive away, Snoqualmie provides an awesome multi-mountain experience. With only 1,994 skiable acres, Snoqualmie

makes up for a smaller mountain by offering a backcountry and night skiing. The night skiing experience at Snoqualmie is one that I recommend trying at least once. Out of the four mountains that make up Snoqualmie, you can only night ski at Summit Central and Summit West. If you are a beginner on the slopes, I recommend going to Summit Central, Summit East or summit west. For those who are more advanced on the slopes, I recommend going to Alpental. The mountains that make up Snoqualmie are fun to ski but, unlike Crystal, rarely get great snow. If you are dying to hit the slopes for a little bit, I would strongly recommend driving the short distance to Snoqualmie for a quick snow day. Crystal and Snoqualmie are two fantastic mountains that offer a fun day of skiing to all levels of ability. If the snow that the two mountains have received are a accurate representation of how this year will turn out to be, then, I recommend skiing or boarding at both Crystal and Snoqualmie.

Turkeys Give By Hanna Puetz

to

Every year in November, millions of Americans celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday by laboring for hours over large turkeys, slow roasting sweet hams, or preparing dishes filled with beef, chicken, and even fish. However, about five percent of people in the U. S. currently consider themselves vegetarian, and close to half of those people are vegan, meaning their Thanksgiving feast centers not around an oversized turkey but instead around finding something meat-free to eat. Junior, Lauren Cartwright, has been a vegetarian her whole life and has never been concerned about the absence of meat in her diet. As an animal lover, being a vegetarian is just one way to defend the lives of animals. “My whole family really likes animals, we have a lot of pets, and I just really respect animals and I don’t like to eat them.” Thanksgiving at the Cartwright household is nothing unusual. Cartwright and her family make a variety of Thanksgiving dishes, only without the meat component. “My family just eats anything that anyone would normally eat for Thanksgiving. Obviously we don’t eat turkey, [but] just your regular Thanksgiving meals, like mashed potatoes and such.” Last year, Cartwright chose to stop eating dairy and eggs and became a vegan. Her motivation for the switch was after discovering some of the inhumane processes in dairy and egg production. “A lot of the food that we eat nowadays we don’t call into question the processes by which it arrives at our supermarket…seriously, you don’t think about it, you just eat it. But sometimes you should think about it before you eat it.” However, she does not adhere to vegan food restrictions all the time and occasionally consumes dairy products and eggs. Vegetarians and vegans alike also have the option of cooking with meat alternatives, such as tofu, tempeh, and seitan. “One of the good things about being a vegetarian is there’s a lot of meat substitutes that taste, well I would assume they taste the same [as meat],” said Cartwright. Cartwright and her family use tofu and other fake meats during Thanksgiving, and throughout the year, to get their daily protein and to add flavor to food. For Cartwright, the lifestyle choice of practicing vegetarianism and veganism has been rewarding. “I am definitely more conscious of what I eat even when I am not focusing on whether it has dairy or not. Overall I feel like I am a healthier person than before.” MIHS Drama teacher Daniela Melgar has been a vegetarian for 22 years, beginning in her childhood. Her choice to abstain from eating meat initially stemmed from her dislike for the taste. “I never liked meat as a kid. At the time, I couldn’t articulate why; I just knew I didn’t enjoy eating it,” said Melgar. However, as she continued to follow the vegetarian diet, Melgar said, “I was able to identify that I don’t like meat ‘cause I don’t like the feeling of consuming another animal.” On Thanksgiving, Melgar’s vegetarian lifestyle does not hold her back. She enjoys cooking a variety of unique dishes uncommon to the traditional Thanksgiving meal. “I always go for the non-traditional Thanksgiving food. Who says we have to follow the same menu everyone else does?” said Melgar. From Indian food to tofu stuffed mushrooms to cheese farro, Melgar celebrates the Thanksgiving meal with her own vegetarian traditions, and is very content doing so. Overall, Melgar loves being a vegetarian. However, her biggest pet peeve is when people ask her how she consumes enough protein without directly eating meat. “C’mon. We live in the 21st century. I have plenty of ways to get my protein (protein shakes, eggs, tofu, beans),” said Melgar, “I’m just fine.” Sophomore Sophie Kelly-Hedrick decided to become a vegetarian eight years ago after her sister

W

e thanks

o vegetarians made the change. She soon grew to like eating a meat-free diet. “I realized I felt better not eating any meat and the whole meat industry was really disturbing.” Although most of her family members eat meat, Kelly-Hedrick does not struggle finding vegetarian options on the turkey-centered Thanksgiving holiday because her family makes sure to include meatfree dishes as well. “We make stuffing outside of the turkey. Also [I eat] potatoes, cranberry sauce, yams, and pies.” Although Kelly-Hedrick encounters meat-filled foods often at home and elsewhere, she continues to enjoy practicing vegetarianism. “I like being vegetarian because it pushes me to try new dishes and other combinations, and I feel better when I don’t eat meat.” Although some vegetarians desist from eating meat due to the processes of meat production or to avoid the killing of animals, others simply dislike the flavor. “I never really liked the taste of meat; it’s all about the taste for me,” said junior Leah Paborsky. “So then in second grade I just had like an awakening, and was like, ‘I don’t like meat anymore.’” Generally, Paborsky does not find it challenging to eat vegetarian foods since she has for almost ten years. However, it is “more [challenging] for my mom who has to make the meals special for me.” Paborsky also added that eating out at a restaurant or at a friend’s house can be somewhat difficult as a vegetarian. On Thanksgiving, Paborsky eats the same side dishes as everyone else, with a salad instead of turkey. Following the traditional Thanksgiving menu can be difficult as a vegetarian, because many dishes include meat components. “If you want to be special and thematic, it’s kind of hard, but just to find food that goes with what other people are eating isn’t that hard.” Although a massive turkey with gravy and other meat based dishes often populate your mind when you first think of Thanksgiving, many people at MIHS and throughout the nation celebrate the holiday with a variety of traditional and non-traditional vegetarian foods with ease. Photo by Hanna Puetz

What is it?? Tofu Tempeh Seitan

We have all heard of tofu, and perhaps tempeh and seitan, but what are they really?

Tofu is a versatile ingredient and a staple in Asian cuisine. It is made from soybeans that have been crushed and liquefied into soy milk, which has then been congealed into soy curds that are pressed into tofu blocks. Basically, it is a soy bean product that absorbs the flavors of other ingredients and contains an abundance of protein, B-vitamins, and calcium. It comes in firm, soft, and silken states and can be used to create a variety of breakfast, dinner, and dessert dishes. Tempeh is a traditionally Indonesian meat substitute made from the natural fermentation of soybeans into a firm patty-like wedge. Although it is less popular in the United States than tofu, it is less processed and includes more protein and fiber per serving because it contains solid soybeans instead of soymilk curds. Seitan is a high-protein meat substitute made from cooked wheat gluten. It is common in Asian cuisine and many other fake meat products, such as vegetarian deli meat or chicken. If you have even eaten a garden burger or meat alternatives, such as mock beef, chicken or pork, it was mostly likely seitan. Photos courtesy Wikipedia

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mihsislander.org

November 24, 2015

Opinions

Tag incident reflects the reality of adult politics (continued) (continued from page 1)

Tolo is a no-go

by

Hanna Noren staff writer

parents. Melissa Neher, founder of the STAR Facebook page, declined to answer our questions regarding the controversy, telling us that she “applauds [our] journalistic approach to this story” but that her “view is the district ultimately made the right decision, and [she doesn’t] think it is beneficial to rehash how everything unfolded.” Many of the other parents we reached out to had similar responses. We believe these parents need to be held accountable their opinions. They stood by them in the heat of the controversy and the fact that they are largely unwilling to discuss them now only reinforces our growing belief that this incident was not an issue of recess behavior but one of petty politics. While this background is important in understanding the context of the controversy, the fact that it regards the childhood game of tag is largely irrelevant. This story would be completely out of date, and not much of a story at all if the issues lied solely in opinions on recess games. The reason this is still something worth talking about is that, as high school journalists, this story taught us something that is impossible to get in a classroom setting. In the process of arguing over what is best for the kids, the adults started acting like children. It seems ironic that the lessons we are being taught in school seem to not apply to the grown-ups.

In past years, MIHS students celebrated the conclusion of finals with Tolo festivities the following weekend. This year, however, MIHS Senior Service Club has scheduled Tolo on January 23: the weekend before finals. Tolo is an event run by Senior Service Club and is the club’s biggest fundraiser of the year. The club utilizes the profit from Tolo to pay for its volunteer projects such as the blood drive and installing filtered water fountains around the school. The dance provides a fun way for students to unwind after suffering a week of exams. This year, however, students question why Tolo was scheduled for the stressful weekend before finals. “For some reason [the Saturday after finals] is not available; I think other schools are doing it then. We couldn’t get the date. I guess the photographers and everyone else we needed are doing all the other schools,” said Senior Service Club member Priya Dowell. Tolo was scheduled later than other schools in the area. As a result, they were unable to reserve the equipment and personnel needed. According to Senior Service Club members, the alternative date for Tolo was less desirable than the last weekend of first semester. “It would either have to be the week before [finals] or way earlier in December,

excited to dress up and wear signs for the seniors we’ve staff writer been playing with all year,” said Natalie Robinson, a juAs many students know, senior on the varsity volleyball nior appreciation signs, worn team. the day of senior night, have by The main reason these been banned at MIHS due to signs are prohibited at MIHS the controversy surrounding is administration concern them. These signs are seen by over embarrassing team some as an exclusive and inmembers. “We want to be intimidating way of celebrating clusive and not make people seniors. Many students argue feel belittled,” said athletic that these signs are merely a director Mark Zmuda. This way for players to appreciate reason is completely undertheir seniors and thank them standable; no one at MIHS for their hard work and dedshould ever have to feel ication to the sport. These pressured or forced to wear signs usually display senior things they are not photos and the slocomfortable with. Howgan “we love our seever, members of the niors!” teams have consented Seniors play a to wearing these signs large role on sports and they are not flashy teams and they or ostentatious. If anywork hard to set a thing, team members good example for relish the chance to say their fellow teamgoodbye to their seniors mates. It is underwhile also promoting standable and even Photo courtesy Jane Gormley expected for team- Underclassmen tape signs onto their shirts to comply with the rule of “no their senior night game. “I have heard people mates to celebrate signs around your neck.” even refer to [the signs] these important players in obvious and drastic And most upperclassmen are as the image of slavery” said

athletic director Mark Zmuda. Offensive signs boasting, “Property of seniors” and “We belong to our seniors” do seem to imply possession. However, slogans such as “We love our seniors” and “We appreciate our seniors” should be looked at as a sign of respect and appreciation for students who greatly deserve the recognition. The fact that this positive tradition has been compared to slavery is, in itself, an even greater issue. How could something as horrific as slavery be compared to the harmless tradition of celebrating people? These signs have simply been banned at MIHS, which is an important example of acting upon the easiest solution, rather than searching for a compromise. Specific guidelines and regulations do need to be set to avoid offending others, but eliminating the tradition completely is not the way to solve the problem. If rules are set in place to regulate these signs,

over the hands-off policy. This treatment was humiliating and could have been avoided through a change in behavior from both sides of the issue. The controversy was largely an issue of miscommunication. The problems the community had with the District’s ideas could have been resolved more quickly and quietly had parents simply approached administrators instead of creating what Plano referred to as a “media firestorm.” While the District has accepted its mistake in not consulting stakeholders in their decision-making process, it is also up to the parents to approach the District and ask questions when they do not understand or do not agree with something. Between the SAC meeting and the publication of the Q13 article, there seemed to be a lapse in communication between the District and the parents. Both parties were aware there was an issue, yet conversations did not start up again until after the article brought the issue back into question. Internal conversations between concerned parents and the District could have easily prevented the media storm. However, the reality is that the story went viral. To minimize the humiliation the District was experiencing at this point, it needed to voice its side of the story more aggressively. The District made mistakes and the

hands-off policy was not a perfect solution. Its repeal of the ban was clearly a kneejerk reaction to pressures from the media response. However, the plan had good intentions and could have been salvaged instead of completely scrapping the idea altogether. In our conversations with both Dr. Plano and Rundle, we have come to understand the District’s perspective on the policy and what really happened in a way that would have been impossible had we not gone directly to the source. The information from these conversations drastically changed our original opinion about the District decision. If there was more communication like this prior to the creation of the STAR Facebook page between parents and administrators, the District could have found a solution based on a mutual understanding without involving all of America. We believe the District had good intentions in renorming playground behaviors but when the situation spiraled out of control, much of the negative attention the community received could have been avoided had the District stood its ground while opening the topic to discussion, instead of completely scrapping their original plan. Our Editorial Board experienced the same issues of accountability and communication after the ban was revoked when attempting to collect information from

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which would have been even worse,” said Dowell. Many students still aren’t satisfied with this excuse. “Why can’t they just let us have fun?” said an anonymous junior student. The week of finals is always a demanding time as students make the final push to reach their desired grades. Knowing that Tolo follows their week of latenights, stress, and studying, students see a reward for their hard work. Tolo gives students a night to celebrate first semester as finals coming to a close. Scheduling Tolo the weekend before finals will cause students unnecessary stress and distract them from studying. Students will spend Saturday preparing for the festivities, Sunday recovering from an eventful night, and Monday gossiping about “what went down.” As Tuesday hits, anxious students will scramble to study so they can to perform well on their exams. Many students have already decided they will not attend Tolo this year. “I don’t think I am going to be able to go to Tolo. I don’t expect a lot of people to go to Tolo,” said an anonymous member of Senior Service Club. A smaller attendance will result in a decreased profit for Senior Service Club. If the club wishes to maximize their profit, and are aware that many students will not attend the fundraiser, they should schedule it for a more favorable weekend for all.

Hazing is never amazing, but we always love our seniors by

Georgia Mattox

ways such as senior signs. “When the soccer team wore signs [to school on the day of] senior night, we were simply looking to promote our game and celebrate the seniors,” said Namya Malik, a senior on the varsity girls soccer team. The administration’s concern over shaved heads, mohawks, and face paint is understandable, but these signs are nothing more than a harmless and fun way of acknowledging seniors. “Volleyball has been celebrating seniors at school the day of senior night for years.

then students would be willing to work to create signs that focus on appreciation and eliminate any offensive suggestions. Our high school is great at including and valuing all students, so why should this instance be any different? As a student involved in different activities at MIHS I see first hand the amount of work our seniors take on. This longstanding tradition finally gives them the recognition they deserve. After the signs are properly regulated and display only positive messages, I believe they will be widely accepted by the student body. “I think the tradition just shows that you’re a part of the team and it really does make the seniors feel special and appreciated that much more,” said Robinson. MIHS students will never stop appreciating seniors and we should not have to; seniors deserve the recognition they get, and so much more.

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CAMPUS LIFE

The rising popularity of the sneaker culture by

Jake D’Souza staff writer

with basketball players such as Julius “Dr. J” Erving wearing Converse basketball sneakers. They became even more popular during the Micheal Jordan era in the ‘80s when he released his signature brand with Nike.

Most people view sneakers as nothing but feet protectors. However, to others, sneakers are more than that, and a massive fan base revolves around limited-edit i o n sneake r s . People who v i e w sneakers as m o r e than a clothing a r t i cle call Pairs of Air Jordans (above) can sometimes sell online on sites like eBay for more than $10,000. A massive market exists t h e m - selves “sneakerheads.” A sneaker head for limited-edition sneakers. has knowledge and pas- Nearly every weekend, comsion for sneakers. Similar panies such as Nike and Adito how some people collect das release a pair, or multiple baseball cards, a sneak- pairs, of shoes in a very limer head collects sneakers. ited quantity that proceed to Despite only recently sell out within seconds online. In stores, sneakerheads becoming a fairly popular sub-culture, the idea may line up at store fronts for of sneaker collecting has hours, or even days, before the been around for years. release date in order to secure The idea of collecting a pair of the coveted shoes. Due to the limited quansneakers began in the 1970s

mihsislander.org

tity of some sneakers, many people are unsuccessful at purchasing a pair. This leads to a large resale market of these sneakers on sites like eBay. According to Gizmodo, the sneaker resale market is worth $400 million on eBay alone. “The most I’ve paid is $660 for a pair of sneakers, Adidas 350 Boost ‘Pirate Black,’” said freshman Rainer McDonald. Even $660 Photo courtesy YouTube can be considered cheap c o m p a r e d to some extremely rare Air Jordans that can fetch tens of thousands of dollars on eBay and similar sites. Sneakerheads are found all over the world, even in MIHS. “The idea of being a sneakerhead kind of gets you into this whole new community of people you wouldn’t otherwise be with,” said MIHS sneakerhead, Ezra Tillinger. Sneakerheads are every-

where and many of them of sneakerheads, the busienjoy talking about their ness of buying and selling kicks. Websites, and even is booming. Most sneakerconventions, exist sole- heads do not simply like ly for buying and selling shoes because of the money sneakers, as well as meet- or hype around them, but ing fellow sneakerheads. because sneakers can be Sneakers are more than just overpriced feet protectors. The lucrative business of reselling sneakers can teach sneakerheads a lot. “It has taught me negotiation and business skills,” said McDonald. Through buying and selling sneakers, one has the opportunity to speak This is how a sneakerhead tells time. Photo courtesy Pinterest directly to a customer and learn the focal point of an outfit. proper business etiquette “I like sneakers because of while gaining experience. the value they hold and I Buyers and sellers learn simply like the looks of the how to negotiate to get the shoes,” said McDonald. The best price possible through sneaker culture is amazing these transactions as well. and the people in it are even With the rising number more so.

abilities, such as the Spartan Charge and Ground Pound, have been added. These come together great in the new

When you start the multiplayer, you have the option to choose from one of the starting “Specialists,”

Your guide to newly released autumn video games Starting with Locke’s Fireteam Osiris, fans will be delighted to see the return of ODST soldier Buck, as well as others. On Master Chief’s Blue Team, alongside the Chief fans will recognize older Spartans such as Kelly, Linda, and Fred making an appearance. The ability to play with friends online also enhances this experience. However, newcomers are not recommended to start Halo with Halo 5’s campaign mode, seeing as it could be easily confusing. Moving on to multiplayer, 343 has kept and tweaked elements they incorporated into “Halo 4,” while adding new ones as well. The unlimited sprinting from “Halo

This year zombie mode has taken a different, more staff writer bizarre approach in “Shadows of Evil” as players gathFall is here, and as many er items for sacrifiknow, this is the time video cial rituals, turn into game developers love to rebeasts, and defeat lease their games. This year three-headed alien has one of the best lineups monsters all while liswe have seen to date, with tening to jazz playing regular titles like “Call of in the background. Duty” and “Assassin’s Creed” With many secrets making an appearance, and and a huge map, also other returning ones, “Shadows of Evil” such as “Halo” and “Fallout.” is sure to keep you Whether or not you are busy. If you enjoyed deciding to buy a game that “Black Ops 2,” eiwas recently released or tryther for the zombies, ing to figure out which ones multiplayer, or even to look forward to, this guide the campaign, you’ll will help make sure you are ready for this gaming season. Photo courtesy GameSpot enjoy “Black Ops 3.” Players in the new multiplayer mode “Warzone” will benefit from coordinating with teammates. Moving on from Starting off with the newly gamemode Warzone, where using unlock tokens earned these juggernauts, there are released games, “Halo” made players battle it out against from leveling up, each with many more games that are to its return to consoles on Oct. each other in massive their own unique abilities. be released soon that you may 2 7 t h , matches, as well as A.I. For example, at rank 22 want to keep an eye on. Firstw i t h combatant, such as the Cov- you unlock Seraph, who can ly, “Star Wars Battlefront” is 343 Inenant and Prometheans. either pull out a one shot due to hit shelves on Nov. 26. dustry’s Fun as this all may be, kill Annihilator pistol when If you are a big “Star Wars” “ H a l o the lack of split-screen is it is recharged, or a Combat fan and like video games, 5.”Many a huge drawback. I have Focus ability, which doubles this is a must buy. Whethare callhad the most fun in video your points earned towards er battling against massive ing it one games just sitting down kill-streaks and total scores AT-ATs on Hoth, or playing of the with my brother and for a limited amount of time. the new survival mode, this best Halo friends and playing toWith a total of nine spe- game is a delight to play. games gether on the same TV, but cialists and eighteen abiliPerhaps the most antice v e r this has been completely ties, the battlefield is more ipated game of this season m a d e . removed from the game chaotic than ever, and I is “Fallout 4,” which was With the to ensure solid 60 FPS. have to say, activating an released on Nov. 10. With first ever “Call of Duty” has also ability and getting a multi- a massive explorable open addition kill feels very empower- world and fascinating stoPhoto courtesy Arstechnia made a big appearance of two The new Outrider and Reaper specialists are both game unlockables CoD. this year, with the fan fa- ing, until you get chopped ry, along with new craftdifferent perspectives, including 4” has been kept, however, vorite franchise “Black Ops by a combat axe across the ing and combat features, those of Locke and Mas- while sprinting shields do 3” This new entry is set apart map traditional CoD style. many think this may be ter Chief, the story is en- not recharge. Loadouts have from the rest with the big If you liked “Black Ops 2,” the biggest game of 2015. tertaining and captivating. been removed, and new fun new addition of Specialists. you’ll like this multi-player. by

Luka Marceta

November 24, 2015

CAMPUS LIFE

11

A singing review of MIHS musical, Hello, Dolly! by

Cassey Yabes staff writer

This fall the American musical comedy, Hello, Dolly!, hit the MIHS stage. The MIHS Drama Department’s rendition of the Broadway classic revolves around Mrs. Dolly Gallagher Levi, who brings her matchmaking business to New York City. The show premiered on Nov. 12 and closed on Nov. 21. At the turn of the twentieth century, matchmaker Dolly Gallagher Levi, played by Emma Lerner, goes to New York City in search of a wife for the famous half-a-millionaire and widower Horace Vandergelder, played by Sean Meehan. However, Dolly, who is a widow herself, actually intends to marry Horace. As the show progresses, Dolly meddles with other people’s love lives, including Horace’s employees, Cornelius Hackl and Barnaby Tucker, played

by Garrett Misselwitz and duced in the 1960s, some of execution of the musical’s Josh Tanzer respective- the songs are outdated. In dance routines, especially ly, and hat shop workers the song “It Takes a Wom- the choreography from the Irene Molloy and Minnie an,” the men sing about Harmonia Gardens RestauFay, played by Ann-Sophie how it takes a woman to do rant scenes. The ensemble Frichot-Skog and Han- the household chores. De- members, who portrayed nah Conradt respectively. spite the old-fashioned view lightning-fast waiters of an Due to limited time for expensive advertising the auditions, I restaurant, was unsure of how the Dradashed and ma Department would rej u m p e d cruit enough people for the across the musical. I also wondered stage while how Dolly’s cast would carrying tackle the classic musical’s heaping upbeat dance numbers plates of and memorable songs. food. DeI was pleasantly surspite the prised: the Drama Deexhausting partment presented an routine, the entertaining and hilarcast danced Photo by Cassey Yabes ious production of this The Hello Dolly! cast crowds around Mrs. Dolly Gallagher Levi (played by Emma Lerner). remarktraditional musical. With ably and the vibrant set and the col- of women portrayed by this stayed energetic orful costumes I was imme- song, the cast performed this throughout the show. diately transported back to number well, along with the The play would not be comtwetieth century New York. rest of the musical’s songs. plete without its iconic charThe cast sounded excelMuch of the show consisted acters, who were all unique lent when they sang the mu- of group performances with and hilarious in their own sical’s upbeat songs. Since plenty of dance numbers. I ways. For example, Dolly is the play was originally pro- was impressed by the cast’s a fast-talking, quick-acting

lady while Horace is a grumpy and brusque old man. They often have scenes together, and it was always funny to see how they contrasted each other. My favorite characters were the trouble makers Cornelius and Barnaby, who, from exploding tomato cans to accidentally stealing their boss’s purse, always made the audience laugh whenever they stepped onto the stage. Despite the absurdity of some of the jokes, the audience still laughed at the hilarity that occurred onstage. Overall, Dolly was a very fun show: the musical’s colorful characters and wacky antics made the show charming and enjoyable for everyone. The vibrant set, costumes, and characters also contributed to the show’s cheerful mood. Although I have yet to see a Broadway musical, I imagine that MIHS Drama’s rendition of Dolly comes close to one.

Dodgeball Tournament 2K15 Introducing Killkelly by

Hanna Puetz staff writer

first round…we spent about a day on that total trying to make sure everything is as generally fair as we can.” Teams were also required to pay a $20 participation fee to enter the tournament

A large crowd of fans gathered in the gym to watch 42 student teams compete in the MIHS annual dodgeball tournament, organized by the ASB and the Maroon Lotus, on Friday, Nov. 13, organized by the ASB and Maroon Lotus spirit group. After two hours and six rounds of competition, two teams, The Untouchaballs and D3 Bound, prevailed and went on to play in the finals, in which Marcus Schiller winds up to hit his opponent. the latter emerged victorious. The winning team will play a teacher team to help kick start the Maroon in the upcoming assembly. Lotus. “It was like a fundUnlike last year, the new raiser for [the Lotus] to get MIHS spirit group, the Ma- money to get started on gear roon Lotus, helped lead- and future events,” said seership sponsor and put on nior Artemis Zafari, who also this year’s dodgeball tour- helped coordinate the event. On the day of the tournanament to make it an even ment, teams wore matchbigger success. Last year’s ing uniforms to school. At tournament consisted of 27 3p.m., the tournament beteams and spanned over a gan, and first round matchtwo-day period. This year, participation increased ups took place on two courts across all grade levels. inside the gym. Members Students formed teams of ASB and the Maroon Loand entered the tournament tus, as well as MIHS staff, through the Maroon Lotus’ refereed the event as teams online Facebook event page. competed to move on to the On Monday, Nov. 9, a brack- next round. Students and et had been put up near the teachers alike watched from commons displaying match- the bleachers and enjoyed ups for each team in the first pizza and refreshments. Overall, the tournament round. Regarding the creran successfully and many ation of the bracket, senior students enjoyed particiASB President Tiger McBurpating. Sophomore Phoeney said, “We tried to look at be Larson, member of the every single team and make Abusement Park team, said, sure that [the match-ups] are as even as possible in the “I think [the tournament]

went amazing, and the fact that it was organized completely only by students was just amazing to me. It was a huge success in my eyes.” For those who missed out on dodgeball this time, the ASB and Maroon L o t u s are planning a second tournam e n t for later in the school year, between the winter and spring Photo courtesy Nia Tate sports seasons. They also plan to work on improving the tournament to make it even better in the future. “As successful as it was, I think we’re going to work on a lot of things,” said senior flag dude Ryan Jones. “In the next tournament in the winter or spring, it’s going to be way better, and people should be really excited for it.” As for whether dodgeball will continue in the future depends on help from juniors and sophomores in the upcoming tournament. “We’re a bunch of seniors, but I will say like in class, we’re going to try to bring some juniors and some sophomores into helping us plan the next one so they can understand how it’s run,” said McBurney. Start forming your teams, for the winter-spring dodgeball tournament will be here before you know it. Count on a fun and entertaining school-wide event.

in the school district. It was actually Kelly [John-Lewis] staff writer who called me up and was With Kelly John-Lewis like “hey, got this job opentransitioning to a new job, ing.” When I went to Mercer MIHS administrators have Island back in the day I first brought in a new security liai- met Kelly being my football son, Patrick Kilkelly, to take coach. I was offense, defense over John-Lewis’s old job to- lineman, Kelly was offense, ward the end of the semester. defense line coach, and after Q. What is the rela- that I think it was my jutionship between your nior year or sophomore year, position and the police? I was TA for Kelly. Yeah, A. There’s a little bit of I’ve known Kelly for like 11 interaction, with the S.R.O years...he called me up and (student resource officer) was like “Hey, basically I’m Mark Munez. We work with transitioning into a new job, them a little bit. Munez deals we’re looking for someone with a police report for any- else”. [Then he] asked me if I one who is 18 and under, so wanted the job, and I thought dealing with all the juveniles ‘Well great segue into the on the island. So we do inter- school district, network in and it will allow me act with him, work with him time to work on my degree in cases where situations while continuing to work.’ arise with students, espeQ. Do you see any probcially when it’s on campus. lems or conQ. What cerns that duties does you’d like to your new address or fix job entail? during your A. Number employment? one is the A. So far, safety and I’ve only been well-being here a couple of students, weeks, but Photo by Spencer Klein b e s i d e s A warm welcome to Patrick Killkelly! I mean, as that, being long as I can a deterrent. Also supervision for sporting events, you make a positive influence know, making sure we’re and have a positive infludoing the right things, not ence with the students, and being negative. Like mak- be a deterrent in a good way, ing sure everybody is where and just basically I wouldn’t they’re supposed to be, mak- say try to change things, but ing sure no one is bringing make it a safer environment things on [campus] that for all the students here. they’re not supposed to. I can make sure to do a job Q. How and why did you end to help prevent the students up doing security for MIHS? from getting into positions A. My eventual goal is to they shouldn’t be in, but also become a teacher, so it was if they do find themselves in a great transition into from positions where I can come what I was doing to get with- in and help out best I can. by

Spencer Klein

Your Thanksgiving sdf Itinerary jgl Compiled by: Nate Sigmon

Wednesday, November 25th

Friday, November 27th The only marathon to watch is Planet Earth on BBC America from 8 a.m. to 6 a.m. Saturday. See beautiful stories and images from nature across the globe in this critically acclaimed documentary series.

A SNL Thanksgiving is being shown on Wednesday.

OR Marc Gasol and the Memphis Grizzlies duke it out with 2014-15 MVP Runner-up James Harden and the Houston Rockets on NBA TV at 5 p.m.

Sunday, November 29th

OR

Dwyane Wade and the Miami Heat do battle with rookie sensation Kristaps Porzingis at 4:30 p.m. on NBA TV, while Derrick Rose and the Chicago Bulls hoop with Paul George and the Indiana Pacers on Fox Sports 1.

Saturday, November 28th The only marathon worth watching on Saturday is the Star Trek movie marathon on SyFy from 11:30 a.m. until 4:30 a.m. Sunday.

OR

Kenneth Faried and the Denver Nuggets ball out with Dirk Nowitzki and the Dallas Mavericks on NBA TV at 5:30 p.m. With all these incredible marathons and sporting spectacles, remember to give thanks for television and movies this Thanksgiving weekend.

ISLANDER

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Helena Shield Richard Chess Samantha Philipp Isabella Murillo Lily Clugston Jessica Waller Jane Gormley Samantha Philipp

Staff Writers Nathan Benson, James Cartwright, Jacob D’Souza, Kelly Hou, Spencer Klein, Christine Lee, Zoe Levin, Marissa Look, Luka Marceta, Ian Martin, Georgia Mattox, Hanna Noren, Dylan Notturno, Jon Perr, Hanna Puetz, Leia Saloranta, Jamie Shannon, Nate Sigmon, Ezra Tillinger, Cassey Yabes, Jasmine Zou Adviser: Chris Twombley

Gasol and the Grizzlies battle with Nerlens Noel and the tanking Philadelphia 76’ers on NBA TV at 3 p.m.

Thursday, November 26th The Swamp People marathon runs from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. on The History Channel. The Three Stooges marathon on IFC runs from 7:20 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. The thrilling James Bond film series will play on SyFy from 8 a.m. until 5 a.m. on Friday. The incredible Godfather Trilogy will run on AMC from 11:30 a.m. until 4:30 a.m. on Friday morning. Finally, the ageless Andy Griffith Show will marathon from 1:12 p.m. until 8.

OR

Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers look to down the Detroit Lions on FOX at 9:30 a.m., before Charles Woodson and the Oakland Raiders battle with Dez Bryant and the Dallas Cowboys on CBS at 1:30. Antonio Brown and the Pittsburgh Steelers wrap up the Thanksgiving Day slate against C.J. Mosley and the Baltimore Ravens at 5:30 on NBC.

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