MV Viewer Issue 1 (2015-16)

Features

In This Issue FridAy September 25 2015

Variety

Spread

Viewer

Volume 63 Issue 1

photo by Eva Hoffman

System.out.println(“Coding Class 2015”);

by Samuel Kwong spread editor Until this year, students interested in coding have been forced to make the trek to Irondale in order to take computer science. However, math teacher Kaitie O’Bryan asked to offer a computer science course at Mounds View after seeing the importance of the field in her previous job. “[Computer science] affects many fields as well.

When I did graphic design with UnitedHealthcare, we needed to have an understanding of programming and data to develop relevant, targeted communication to members,” said O’Bryan.

While not officially an AP course, the class follows a similar structure to the curriculum recommended by the College Board, teaching students how to create computer programs, analyze data, and collaborate to create more advanced programs.

The class covers seven big ideas: Creativity, Abstraction, Data, Algorithms, Programming, The

Internet, and the Global Impact of Technology. The students use programs such as App Inventor to create apps, which are later tested on Android devices.

Although the class has only just begun, students are already enjoying it. They have already created an app of Martin Luther King, saying his “I have a dream” speech using the App Creator program. The final project will require students to create two unique apps, such as games, tour guide apps, or a variety of other options.

“The schematics are cool. [Computer Science] is a pretty neat class because we can make whatever we want,” said Emma Lorentz, 11.

However, O’Bryan’s class includes much more than just making apps.

“The goal of this course is to give students insight into programming but also to investigate the complexities of the internet, encoding information, and the role big data plays in society,” said O’Bryan.

With 14,000 computing job opportunities in

Minnesota alone, as well as all the rapid advances in technology, Mounds View’s computer science class will not only entertain, but also prepare students for the future.

More opportunities to learn coding 1. AP Computer Science at Irondale 2. JA Company and Coding Club: This year, JA Company will be working in close cooperation with the new MV Coding Club.

The company will be focused on software development, and a majority of the production team will be involved with coding. For more information, contact Furqan Syed at goldenfurqi@gmail.com

Library revamp provides something for all

by Emily Ruan editor-in-chief

From new seating to group workspaces to a student-run coffee corner, a host of changes to the Mounds View library greet students returning to school this fall.

“My vision was to create a place where kids could be themselves. They could let their hair down… and feel that it was a place for them,” said Principal Jeffery Ridlehoover.

Renovations cost around $40,000 and took the length of the summer. Now known as the Information and Learning Center, the modernized library provides collaborative workspaces, flexible design, and a variety of technology options available for student use.

“There wasn’t anything wrong with [the old library],” said Ridlehoover. “I wanted a new space, where kids could be innovative and creative.”

Students seem to welcome the redesign, with several commenting on the center’s spacious feel.

“The low shelves are a lot more open, which gives the illusion of more space,” said Ben Ojanen, 11. “They’re

Students enjoy free hour in the new library. making it feel a bit more social – more casual, less school-like.”

Natalie Louderback, 12, agreed. “It feels bigger,” she said. “When I walked in, I was like, ‘Everything about this is amazing.’”

In order to achieve the extra space, the library has quietly removed around half of its collection over the past

photo by Eva Hoffman

three years, making the shift from a traditional to mostly digital library.

Some students expressed concern at the shift.

“I feel like we’re stressing too much on electronic resources when print is a really important source of information,” said Danny Gedig, 12.

Gedig also wished that the renovations

were more extensive.

“With that much money, I expected a little more of a dramatic change,” he said. “The new layout is nice, but it’s a little underwhelming with the budget they had.”

On the other side of the room, the much-hyped coffee shop drew mixed reviews from students. Some, like Emily Su, 10, are indifferent towards it. Others, like Jessica Malong, 12, feel like allowing food into the library has helped it to shed its academic feel. “It’s so cute, like a café downtown,” she said.

The coffee shop and new layout were just the first phase of an ongoing project to convert the library into a modern digital learning space, according to Ridlehoover. 3D printers and a makerspace are rolling in next week, and more additions are anticipated down the road.

“We are at the front edge of the trend [toward technology-rich libraries],” said Ridlehoover. “We need to not stand still.”

2

editorials

Friday, September 25, 2015

top 10

Reasons to join the

viewer

10 Second Amendment *First Amendment9 food!!!

8 Free Cool couch School lunch gives (TBA)7 vegetarian students the bare minimum No cult 6activity Mounds View’s lunches continue to overlook vegetarian students on a regular basis ...Yet 5 Yong’s 4Peter not in it Make Top 10s3 2Vintage computers Please help1 illustration by Clare Carroll

2015-2016

Viewer Editors Editor-in-Chief

Emily Ruan

Managing Editor - Copy

Persis Ke

Managing Editor - Design

Eva Hoffman

Managing Editor - Online

Alex Jiang

Business Manager

Jordan Counihan News

Daniel Yong

Lunch -- the favorite period of the day for most Mounds View students. It’s a relaxed time to talk to friends, review for a test, finish late homework, and, of course, eat a filling mid-day meal.

Not for many vegetarian students, however. For these poor, forgotten-about cafeteria goers, lunch is often a struggle to find the rare, meat-free meal. Although the school has upped its emphasis on healthy eating and local foods in recent years, the effort to offer nutritious and varied options for vegetarian students has lagged far behind.

Mounds View must create a meal plan that offers vegetarian options on a daily basis. Constructing a menu that provides nutritious, meat-free alternatives that agree with the various student diets is essential.

This September, the school’s main line only offered one vegetarian option: cinnamon french toast. Even the salad bar regularly abandons students with only three vegetarian meals throughout the entire month and a plain salad for the remainder.

Students hoping for a consistent vegetarian entree can go to the grill line, which offers one unvarying option: a high-sodium bean burger.

The school’s lack of meat-free options forces many vegetarian students like Mary Clare T. Hottinger, 11, to resort to otherwise unnecessary ways to eat lunch. Hottinger sometimes has to spend extra to buy her meals.

“Usually for lunch at school I just [eat] a granola bar and a fruit cup because there [are] some vegetarian things, but they’re gross. I don’t want to eat a cheese pizza or veggie burger every day. I think the fruit cup alone [costs] as much as the normal meal.” For vegetarian students receiving free or reduced lunch, suitable options in the main cafeteria line are especially important because the snack line or a bag lunch are usually not options.

Talia Miller, 11, has been forced to constantly bring her own

lunch because she is a vegan. “I might consider buying a school lunch if they had [more] options,” she said.

Along with the high cost and lack of variety, being a vegetarian at Mounds View also can be very inconvenient.

“Sometimes I forget my lunch from home or don’t have enough time to prepare it every morning,” said Hottinger. “It would be nice if I could just buy something I actually like that isn’t just option one or option two while not spending a lot of money or still feeling hungry when I leave.”

Reem Khan, 11, cannot eat many prepared meats as they are not halal (denoting or relating to meat prepared as prescribed by Muslim law). “When I come to school I’m really confused as to what I can eat, because, besides the veggie burger, there are really no options,” said Khan. “Sometimes I have to go hungry, so then I have to wait until after school [to eat].”

Mounds View wouldn’t be the first school to provide more vegetarian options. Schools in the California Lompoc Unified School District have found inexpensive and nutritious selections of meat-free meals. Under a program created in 2003 by the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, multiple vegetarian options are served weekly on “Meatless Mondays.”

With bean and cheese burritos, chili, baked ziti, and more, the Lompoc Schools offer meat-free meals that satisfy nonvegetarian students as well.

In 2012, seven percent of Americans identified themselves as vegetarians or vegans, almost doubling to 13 percent in 2013.

With a growing proportion of Americans following a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle, our public schools should be providing alternatives for them daily. Compromises must be made so that all students can enjoy school lunch.

When many students struggle daily to find meals they can eat, progress needs to be made. Whether vegetarian for moral, environmental, or religious reasons, these students deserve to have the same healthy variety of options as all other students at

Editorials

Kevin Sabeti-Oseid Furqan Syed Features

Emily Moses Katrina Renacia Spread

Samuel Kwong Katie Karjalahti Variety

Aaron Voiovich Reviews

Matthew Cooper Sports

Jordan Counihan Persis Ke Gallery Amber Zhao Photographers/Artists

Clare Carroll Eva Hoffman Julia Sacay David Zhang Adviser

Martha Rush Staff

Presidential Candidates 2016

As elections approach, many seniors will be voting for the first time. But are they familiar with the candidates? In hopes of addressing this concern, Viewer will present a series of candidate profiles and their views on heated issues. Stay tuned for more!

Ted cruz

martin o’malley

Democrat Candidate Abortion: Supports federal abortion funding Education Reform: Wants to refinance college loans based on income and freeze public tuition for colleges photo fair use from Fiscal Policies: Wants to raise taxes nms.umbc.edu Gun Control: Wants to increase gun control Drug Use: Against legalization of marijuana, doesn’t believe states have right to legalize marijuana Gay Marriage: Supports gay marriage Immigration: Wants to expand services for illegal immigrants and supports reform to help legal and illegal immigrants Healthcare: Supports government-run healthcare Political Scale: Moderate Left

Republican CanDidate Abortion: Pro-Life Education Reform: In favor of school choice and against Common Core Fiscal Policies: “free markets, fiscal responsibilphoto fair use from ity, and individual liberty.” cruz.senate.gov Gun Control: Against gun control Drug Use: Lower minimums and mandatory sentences, for states’ rights to legalize Gay Marriage: Against gay marriage and Supreme Court ruling Immigration: Against Amnesty for illegal aliens, for increasing skilled workers’ visa cap limit Healthcare: Against ObamaCare, allow insurance competition across state lines.

Political Scale: Extreme Right, fiscally and socially

Kofo Mustapha, Jeman Park

Viewer Mission Statement

The Viewer is published by the student editors at: Mounds View High School 1900 Lake Valentine Rd Arden Hills, Minnesota Sauk Centre Publishing

1. To publish news, information and opinion articles for and about student, faculty and administration activities, interests and policies.

2. To maintain high ethical standards with regard to fairness, personal and legal rights, responsibilities and accuracy.

3. To provide a forum for free and responsible expression of student opinion and present well-balanced, locally researched coverage of issues of broader student interest.

4. To strive for a high level of competency in the technical aspect of writing, including grammar, spelling, clarity, and precision.

5. To welcome diversity and increase the scope and depth of our coverage in order to heighten mutual understanding and awareness throughout our entire school community.

Articles and letters to the editor appearing on the editorials pages represent solely the opinions of the writers and do not represent in any way the viewpoint of Viewer, our advertisers, Mounds View High School or its staff.

The editors of the Viewer welcome and encourage the publication of all viewpoints.

3

Friday, September 25, 2015

editorials

The Refugee Crisis With the Syrian Civil War leaving over 9.5 million people displaced, the United States is under constant pressure from the international community to take in more refugees. The Obama Administration recently increased the Syrian refugee quota to 10,000 for the upcoming fiscal year, up from this year’s limit of 5,000 refugees. Activists, however, have requested upwards of 65,000. In weighing the benefits and drawbacks of refugee resettlement, the U.S. government should take into account the far-reaching effects on both the innocent victims of the conflict and the American people.

Germany

Number of Syrian refugees per country in 2015

Greece

Sweden

Austria

UK

USA

= 1000 people

Number of Syrian refugees resettled in the US so far

Maximum number of Syrian refugees the US will consider accepting in 2015

Number of Syrians referred by the UN waiting to be received by the US

Number of Syrians US senators called on Obama administration to accept

Maximum number of refugees US can accept in any year

U.s.

Response to the syrian refugee crisis

= 1000 people

information from Vox infographic by Eva Hoffman

Yes, we need to help

by Furqan Syed editorials editor A bombed home. A mother weeping over her daughter’s lifeless body. A child scrounging for a crust of bread.

These images serve to remind us of the conditions that over 4 million people displaced by the Syrian Civil War must endure on a daily basis. As of June, the United States has taken in less than 1,000 refugees, a miniscule amount in comparison to other countries.

Although the Obama Administration has promised to accept at least 10,000 refugees in the future, these actions are barely sufficient. America has a humanitarian responsibility to help provide a new life for these refugees and should take a more active role in doing so.

America should take a bigger responsibility in helping Syrian refugees because of its role in the Syrian crisis. Despite having good intent, the American government is still responsible for arming radical Sunnis in hopes of overthrowing the pro-Russian Syrian president. Seeing as America armed the rebels that created the violence, it should also help the uprooted refugees.

In the resettlement effort, the United States already lags behind many smaller European nations. Germany and France have announced their intention to take in an additional 55,000 refugees over the next two years, and Britain will take up to 20,000. If European countries with populations a mere fraction of the United States are willing to take in such large numbers of refugees, it’s clear that the United States is only shirking its social responsibility.

Some politicians state that the refugee problem is an Arab issue, and that this dilemma should be left to the Arab world. While it’s true that the Arab world has been pathetically slow in solving the Syrian dilemma, it’s unjustifiable to play the bystander role for political means.

Human lives should be always prioritized above politics.

A further argument some politicians have is that absorbing refugees will lead to more terrorism. Congressman Pete King stated, “We do not want another Boston Marathon bombing.” What King failed to realize is that terrorism arises from desperation, an emotion fostered by turning away uprooted refugees. By giving refugees a home, we can make them feel a sense of community that is necessary to curb radical Islam.

It’s clear that America needs to take a more active role in aiding Syrian refugees. Not only is doing so in the United States’ self-interest, but it is also crucial to maintaining America’s position as a beacon of freedom.

No, we can’t afford it

by Jeman Park staff writer Between 2004 and 2013, over 580,000 refugees from all across the globe sought sanctuary in the United States. Although this commitment to humanitarian aid is commendable, it’s impossible to ignore the economic impacts of resettling such a large number of refugees. So how much of a financial burden are these refugees to American taxpayers?

According to Ascentria Care Alliance, an organization that the government contracts to resettle the refugees, each refugee is given $925 to cover expenses for the first 30 days of their arrival. Over a mere 10-year span, asylum seekers have cost American taxpayers nearly $550 million dollars for just their first month in the United States.

As Democratic party leaders push to raise the yearly quota of refugees to 100,000 and beyond, the taxpayer burden is only expected to increase.

The money that would be spent resettling incoming Syrian refugees is merely the tip of the iceberg; it does not account for continued costs down the road such as welfare, Social Security, and other forms of state aid.

Furthermore, taking in more refugees isn’t an investment on which the United States sees much return. Syria lacks a stable education system and has a GDP per capita of under $2,100. Consequently, many refugees are poor and have little-to-no knowledge of English, making it difficult for them to become contributing members of society. Since almost two-thirds of all Syrian refugees lack a college education, they will compete with American youth for entry-level jobs, forcing many students to take out costly loans to pay for their education.

The process of admitting Syrian refugees to the United States is also extremely complex, involving multiple levels of health and security screenings. As a vast portion of Syria is currently under heavy control by the Islamic State, these background checks are vital to avoid letting in a member of the terrorist organization. However, such an extensive vetting process is difficult and time-consuming to conduct. It is not an American responsibility to pay for these refugees with the hard-earned money belonging to the American taxpayers.

As the world’s leading economic power, the United States is under increasing pressure to allow entry to a growing amount of Syrian refugees, unfairly contributing to the “American burden” placed on the United States by the global community.

The time has come for the American people to act upon these issues and stop turning a blind eye to those who take advantage of American generosity. Now is the time for the United States to step back from the Syrian crisis and focus our economic resources in areas that will actually benefit the American public.

4

features

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2015

DECA advisor emphasizes hands-on learning

by Aaron Voiovich variety editor Drawn to Mounds View by its progressive nature and creative teaching methods, Rebecca Allard, DECA advisor, transferred here from St. Francis High School after teaching there for 10 years.

“It’s only been a couple days of class so far, but I already feel very welcome and excited for the new challenge,” she said.

Allard brings a wide range of skills with her to Mounds View. An avid outdoor enthusiast, she plays on two ultimate Frisbee teams that compete around the state. Currently studying for her English as a Second language license through Hamline University, she looks forward to helping children and adults to better understand English in an academic setting.

“I plan to use my ESL licensure to more effectively plan, instruct, assess and differentiate for ESL students in my classes,” said Allard. “I have found that I am not only helping my ESL students, but I am truly better at teaching all students having gone through this program.”

In her first year in Mounds View, she has already taken on a number of responsibilities. In addition to teaching several marketing classes, she also coordinates Mounds View’s marketing internship program and serves as adviser to DECA, a competition that prepares students for careers in the business world.

As DECA adviser, she helps students prepare for events and manages the Mustang Stable, the school store staffed by DECA students. Allard seeks to operate the Stable in a way that gives students hands-on experience with the concepts they learn in class.

“It’s a good way for my students to apply what they learn in class in a real world situation. If we talk about business cards and flyers in class, they have a way to apply what they’ve learned,” said Allard.

As well as taking an interesting approach to the store’s management, Allard has introduced an online component to the school store at MyLocker.net.

Students can now customize a wide variety of items including shirts, pants, hats, and even onesies.

Bringing a wide diversity of expertise to the table, Allard has the potential to make great improvements to Mounds View in the years to come.

photo courtesy of Rebecca Allard

Top: Allard chasing after a frisbee disc.

Bottom: Allard and her husband hiking.

From Yangon, Myanmar to Minnesota

by Jordan Counihan business manager New math teacher Aaron Wojahn’s journey to school was a bit longer than most teachers’ morning commutes. Having lived in Myanmar for the last four years, Wojahn traveled 8,000 miles and crossed international borders to accept a teaching position at Mounds View.

In Myanmar, Wojahn taught math at an International School. ”I really enjoyed working there and experiencing the culture in Southeast Asia,” said Wojahn.

He experienced many exciting things during his time in Myanmar. “Living overseas, I’ve been able to travel to many different countries,” he said. As travel from Myanmar is much less expensive than from the United States, Wojahn was able to visit many countries he might not have had the opportunity to otherwise.

Aaron Wojahn teaching his class.

photo by Julia Sacay

Wojahn and his family moved back to Minnesota in June. “It has been great being at Mounds View and back in Minnesota,” he said. “My family and I are still getting settled, so we are looking forward to the winter months, and I am planning on enjoying being back in Minnesota.”

When not busy with work, Wojahn loves to spend time with family and doing other relaxing activities. “I also enjoy getting out for a run when I can and playing PC games,” said Wojahn.

Over the next year, Wojahn will be teaching Advanced Algebra and AP Calculus 1 here at Mounds View.

But Wojahn’s time in Myanmar wasn’t all fun and games. One of his greatest struggles was the language barrier. “I had to get around by giving business cards to the taxi drivers because I couldn’t explain where I wanted to go,” said Wojahn.

Mounds View welcomes new teachers: Aaro nO Hum seland Ap H an Geo uma Ap M n Geo acro Rebecca Allard Business and Marketing DECA Club manager

ng Dongfa Zhao e Chines

Jessica Espy ARCC Chem and Honors Physical Science

Brian Larson Philharmonic Orchestra

Aaron Wo jahn Advanced Algebra Calculus I

Dana Zetterl un French d III

Alexandra Runnals , eminar 9 College S ed Advanc 0, English 1 op rk o sh Writing W

Nancy Johnson Biology Physical Science

Nic S

eeley Art

Lynn G Intro to ay S Pre-Ca tats lculus

ine Cather Jaspal nish AP Spa

5

Friday, September 25, 2015

features

The Power of Water Surface reflections

Student spends four weeks canoeing in the backcountry

by Persis Ke managing editor of copy

While a week-long getaway to the Boundary Waters is popular among many Minnesotans, few paddle as far as Henry Alexander, 12.

This summer, Alexander went on a 28-day canoeing trip through Canada’s Woodland Caribou Provincial Park and the Bloodvein River.

Bonding at depth

Traveling in the backcountry isn’t unusual for Alexander, and in the past six years, he has gone on multiple canoeing and backpacking trips throughout Minnesota, Canada, and Vermont.

This year’s trip was the next in a progression of trips offered by Camp Widjiwagan in Ely. After leaving on June 12, Alexander spent six days preparing for the trip.

“There’s two days of road trip out back, and we have four days in camp before we go on the trip, preparing our gear, planning out a route, planning all of our food, packing out all our food, packing out all of our gear, all those things,” said Alexander.

Once on the water, he enjoyed the abundant wildlife around him. In addition to multiple bald eagles, caribou, and black bears, Alexander also traveled through different landscapes.

“The topographical landscape changed quite a bit with larger trees to really open swampy, marshy areas, and that’s kind of interesting to see that progression,” he said.

Canoeing through hundreds of miles of Canadian waterways, Alexander also had time for self-reflection.

“I love traveling in the backcountry because it allows me to reflect on the life I’ve lived to this point, think about things that are going on in my life, and appreciate the beauty,” he said.

Alexander’s canoeing adventures will likely culminate into a longer trip next summer.

“Next year, I plan to take a 45-day canoe trip on a river, likely the Coppermine, in the Arctic Circle,” he said.

photos courtesy of Henry Alexander

Marine Sciences club members dive deep off the Cayman coast

by Emily Moses features editor Over the summer, while some students were exploring the depths of Netflix for entertainment, their peers were off scuba diving in foreign waters.

Through the Marine Sciences club run by chemistry teacher Graham Wright, students were given the opportunity to travel to the Cayman Islands for a week-long scuba adventure.

Within the tropical paradise, students, including Kacey Davitt, 12, got to enjoy beach house life, practice club-learned skills, and explore the lush island.

“It was all such an amazing experience,” said Davitt.

“Another [favorite] was experiencing a whole new country because it was my first time leaving the country. There were wild chickens and wild iguanas everywhere.”

In addition to the underwater experiences, group members also noted how much they loved the trip camaraderie.

“My favorite part about the club is connecting with the others in the group who I wouldn’t normally be friends with,” said Davitt. “We literally laugh all the time.”

Sean Fennig, 12 had a similar reflection. “All the awesome experiences under water and the friendships born down there. A lot of inside jokes and comedy came out of that weekend,” he said.

Club members endorse the activity to beginner and pro divers alike. “I would highly recommend the club and I will be joining it again this year,” said group member Zachary Brown, 10.

photos by Eva Hoffman

We ain’t got time to cheer

by Samuel Kwong spread editor Ranked one of the best high schools in the nation by U.S. News and World Report, Mounds View’s academic prowess is unquestioned. However, this achievement may be costing us school spirit.

Academic drive and busy schedules have made school appear more and more just a place to earn a ticket to college, and attendance at pepfests, dances and other events is lagging.

“More students have no sixth hour, attend PSEO, and are simply more busy, whether it be homework, jobs, or some other extracurricular,” said Associate Principal Michael Schwartz.

Although some sports, such as football, have retained high attendance in the past few years, a noticeable number of people no longer participate in other traditional spirit events like Homecoming week and pep fests.

Students and teachers have a few hunches about the causes of the decline in school spirit.

Attendance at pep fests, one of the main spirit events, seems to decrease as students progress through their high school career. One problem is lack of air circulation, according to some students. With hundreds of sweaty teenagers crowded shoulder to shoulder in a room for an hour, it’s not difficult to understand dislike of the environment.

Others simply find pep fests less entertaining than they once were, feeling that the themes and events have become somewhat repetitive over the years.

“We just don’t put ourselves out there. When I was a freshman, I would totally go for it, but now it just doesn’t feel as cool. [There’s just too many repeats],” said Claudia Cigaik, 11.

Many students cite lack of time as their main reason for

choosing to skip many traditional spirit events.

“Academics and extracurriculars impact the future, but [school spirited] events just impact the moment,” said Emma Tsai, 11.

Although academics take priority for these students, they demonstrate their school spirit in other ways.

“I don’t really go to the football games and pep fests,” said Tyler Hong, 11. “But I wear Mounds View clothes, and represent Mounds View in other ways than aren’t football, whether it’s orchestra, tennis, or more.”

Alex Li, 10, agreed. “I’d say Science Olympiad, Math Team, and Econ Team have the Mounds View spirit, just in a different way,” said Li. “I feel proud about representing our school through them.”

If school leaders want to improve attendance numbers at football games and pep fests, student suggestions include coming up with newer, more varied themes, occasionally handing out free prizes, and reducing the cost.

Despite the diminishing participation in traditional spirit events, many students still possess school pride. Whether they show it through wearing school apparel, participating in school clubs, or the attending the classic Homecoming pep fest and game, Mounds View students are still proud to be Mustangs.

GREE

School Recently?

HasHas School SpiritSpirit GoneGone DownDown in Recent Years?

Stayed Stayed the same same the

18%

What School Event Shows the What School Event Shows theMost MostSchool School Spirit?

Spirit?

Other 20% Other

Do you b

Half-time at Half time at sporting events sporting events 8%

No No

14%

&WH

Yes 68% Yes

Pepfest 12% Pepfest

Powder Puff Powder Puff volleyball 5% volleyball 51 students polled information compiled by Samuel Kwong infographics by Eva Hoffman

Homecoming School spirit Week 5% week

50%

Homecoming Homecoming Football Football game Game

photos by Annalee Blake and David Zhang

bleed

EN

HITE? What is school spirit?

by Amber Zhao gallery editor “Let’s get a little bit rowdy! R-O-W… D-Y!” For school spirit enthusiasts, Rowdy is more than just a cheer; it’s an expression of student connectedness, tradition and Mustang pride. In fact, school spirit is an important part of the high school experience.

“School spirit is important because it really shows that we value all of our students at Mounds View. It’s something that really bonds us together,” said Senior Stable Captain Grant Delaune, 12.

Although school spirit is often measured by football game and pep fest attendance, Delaune stresses that it’s more than just football.

“School spirit is supporting all the events at Mounds View - not just football, but also volleyball, basketball, track, and other sports that

don’t get as much recognition,” he said.

For football fan Morgan Doble, 12, school spirit is good sportsmanship, no matter what. “[Good sportsmanship] is important because it teaches me life values, like respect,” she said.

But the benefits of school spirit spread beyond Doble and her friends. “It brightens people’s day when you show your school spirit.

If someone is down, participating in these cheers with other peers can really make them smile,” said Doble.

In this way, school spirit decreases the divide between different “cliques.” “Events like pep fests and football games are really a time to go out and support fellow classmates, not just the friends you sit with at lunch,” said Delaune.

More than just cheers, school spirit unites students from different cliques into one cohesive unit, both on and off the field.

8

variety

Friday, September 25, 2015

Savor the last of Minnesota summer

photos by Emily Moses, Ben Alexander and Eva Hoffman

The trail not taken

No kayak? No problem

by Eva Hoffman managing editor of design

by Jordan Counihan business manager

Minnesota is home to a multitude of hiking and walking trails, many of which slide under the radar of all but the most avid hikers. Fall is the perfect time to explore these trails, when the leaves are turning colors and the snow hasn’t set in yet.

Many pleasant walks can be found close to home. Located off of a small parking lot on County Road F, Sucker Lake Road starts off winding through the surrounding forest and continues onto a strip of land surrounded by lake on both sides. As the lake is not open to water traffic, wildlife such as herons, egrets, and swans can be spotted frequently.

Another unknown gem, Fort Snelling State Park, is a mere 30-minute drive away. In addition to housing one of Minnesota’s most famous historic sites, Fort Snelling is home to a beautiful walking trail around Pike Island. Meandering along the beach and through the woods, the trail circles the tip of the island where the Mississippi River and the Minnesota River meet. The sandy beach at the river junction is the perfect spot for an afternoon picnic.

Trails and paths around the Twin Cities are a great way to get outside before the cold weather comes. Whether located around Mounds View or further away from home, trails are the perfect pastime for anyone looking for a new experience.

As the days shorten and the temperature falls, swimming outdoors is out of the question. However, Minnesota’s lakes and rivers can still be enjoyed through other means.

Canoeing and kayaking are great activities for the upcoming autumn days.

Eric’s Canoe and Kayak Rental in St. Croix Falls offers both along the beautiful St. Croix River or the Taylors Falls Dam. Trips are seven miles and usually take two to three hours. At $40 a canoe or $60 for two kayaks, a group of four friends can spend a day out for less than $25 a person. The hour drive is worth it for the cost and beautiful view.

Ben Alexander, 12, took a trip out to Eric’s earlier this year. “We rented the canoes from Eric’s Canoe Rental,” he said. “It was really fun; you can go at your own leisure and dock along the river to swim or have a picnic. I would definitely recommend it.”

Another option a little closer to home is Above the Falls Sports in Minneapolis.

At $60 a person, groups can kayak down the Mississippi for two and a half hours, and get the chance to see the industrial history of Minneapolis from the river.

Soaking up the sun will get harder as the days cool down, so take advantage of this opportunity before it’s too late. It’s a great activity for a group of friends or even a cute date.

Adventure on two wheels

by Emily Moses features editor

Ranked by Forbes as the most bike-friendly city in the nation, Minneapolis has endless options for fall cycling. From long rides down the Mississippi to short sprints around Lake Calhoun, bike paths traverse the entire city.

One of the most popular trails in Minneapolis is the Midtown Greenway.

Frequented by pro cyclists and beginning tricyclists alike, the Greenway serves as both a bike highway and a trail for a relaxing family ride.

Cutting through South Minneapolis on a former railway, the trail meanders through the scenic Chain of Lakes all the way up to Minnetonka. Along the way, bikers can stop by popular restaurants including Tin Fish, Rustica Bakery & Coffee Bar, and others at the Midtown Global Market; these are just a few of the places to eat located along the trail.

Another well-known trail located in the heart of the city is the Gateway trail. Stretching from the depths of St. Paul to the outskirts of Grant, the trail runs over 18 miles. A popular six-mile offshoot trail from the Gateway leads straight to Stillwater. These trails have a reputation for being scenic and convenient. Although biking is one of the main forms of transportation here, the trail is also friendly to jogging, walking, and even horseback riding.

For those interested in biking with a new group, the Twin Cities Bicycling Club (TCBC) may be what you’re looking for. This club offers about ten different rides across the Twin Cities each day for the cost of $3. With various rides that target all abilities, TCBC uses cycling to connect people from all over the city.

9

Friday, September 25, 2015

reviews

The best movies of the summer

Mad Max: Fury Road

by Matthew Cooper reviews editor Out of all the blockbusters released during this summer movie season, none were quite like Mad Max: Fury Road.

Unlike your typical action movie, Fury Road does not understand the meaning of the word restraint, and consequently, it turned out to be one of the best movies of this summer. Every scene of Fury Road is absolutely nuts. This is a chaotic thrill ride of top-tier spectacle that always has the pedal to the metal.

Fury Road takes place in a postapocalyptic wasteland where water, gasoline, and bullets are the most valuable resources available, and having a car and a gun is the difference between life and death. There is next to no hope in this world populated by crazed maniacs whose only objective is survival. In the film, Max (the incredibly versatile Tom Hardy) must help Furiosa (an

Inside Out

unrecognizable Charlize Theron) escort five women to the safety of “the green place” while being pursued by a small army of lunatics. The result is a twohour chase scene and one of the best action movies of our generation.

Taking over the role from Mel Gibson, Tom Hardy does a magnificent job as the titular madman. As Max only speaks when he absolutely has to, Hardy accomplishes a great deal with grunts and evocative facial expressions.

It’s easy to view Theron’s Furiosa as the film’s main protagonist. Theron kills it in the role and has a great screen presence. Fury Road is essentially her story, with Max a bystander just swept along for the ride.

But the real star of Fury Road is director George Miller, who has crafted some of the most technically impressive and visually stunning action scenes in memory. Every scene in the film is a feast for the eyes. Miller uses push-ins

photo fair use from io9.com

and pull-outs to create a consistently kinetic feel. With the assistance of cinematographer John Seale, he also frames the subject of every shot in the center of the screen. This small detail makes a world of difference for Fury Road, allowing the audience to follow all motion between the quick cuts because the subject of the shot never changes areas of the screen.

Additionally, Miller seamlessly blends practical and visual effects with excellent results. Nearly every car crash, explosion, and gunfight was done for real on moving vehicles while computer-generated images enhance the background and remove stunt rigs. The resulting action is fittingly meaty and intense.

It’s not just the technical proficiency of the action scenes that sets them above those of other films, but also the content. One chase sees a group of “war boys” defending an 18-wheeler

The Verdict Mad Max: Fury Road is an exceptional feat of relentless, chaotic spectacle.

91

Fall Movie Calendar

by Daniel Yong news editor The best animated films are aimed not just toward children, but toward audiences of all ages.

Movies like Monsters, Inc. and Toy Story are great films that had this trait, and Inside Out is no different. Inside Out will entertain everyone from kids to grandparents, as it tells its story with characters that everyone can relate to.

In the world of Inside Out, the mind is controlled by the personifications of five emotions: Joy, Sadness, Anger, Disgust, and Fear. These emotions work together to create memories. The film follows 11-year-old Riley as she moves from Minnesota to California. Riley struggles to adapt to her new home, which causes a series of events that leaves Joy and Sadness lost in her mind. The duo must attempt to get back to the mind’s Headquarters as fast as possible.

Inside Out is an incredibly well written film.

It not only follows Riley’s emotions, but also her real-life struggles in a new home, weaving the two stories together seamlessly. This makes the film very relatable, as many people have experienced difficulties similar to Riley’s. Additionally, the movie showcases how the emotions need to work together, enforcing the importance of all emotions for a stable mind.

In addition to being well scripted, the film is also beautifully animated. Colorful and bursting with creativity, its imaginative scenery makes the

from a pack of spiked cars by throwing explosive-tipped javelins. Another features motorcyclists leaping off of sand hills to bombard a vehicle with bombs. What’s more impressive is that Fury Road manages to continuously top itself in scale and spectacle as the film progresses.

Mad Max: Fury Road represents the very best the action genre has to offer. It’s more concerned with delivering chaotic thrills than anything else and it is more than successful. Fury Road will go down in cinematic history from both filmmaking and entertainment perspectives as an action movie done right.

photo fair use from wired.com

mind feel like a fun amusement park rather than a boring collection of neural pathways.

Overall, Inside Out is a fantastic movie for viewers of all ages. Its colorful animation style is universally appealing, and the characters are so relatable that audiences can definitely take something away from watching the film. This film is a moving experience, both inside and out.

The Verdict

Inside Out is so much more than just a kids movie - it’s a treat for the eyes, the mind, and the heart.

89

Everest (Sept 25) Sicario (Sept 25) The Walk (Sept 30) Legend (Oct 2) The Martian (Oct 2) Macbeth (Oct 2) Pan (Oct 9) Steve Jobs (Oct 9) Bridge of Spies (Oct 16) Beasts of No Nation (Oct 16) Spectre (Nov 6) The Peanuts Movie (Nov 6) Trumbo (Nov 6) The Good Dinosaur (Nov 25) Creed (Nov 25) The Danish Girl (Nov 27)

See the full list at mvviewer.org

10

Sports

Friday, september 25, 2015

Boys tennis takes State

by Persis Ke managing editor On June 4, the boys tennis team’s season culminated with the ultimate cherry-on-top: a state championship title.

After a disappointing quarterfinal loss the previous season, the team had high hopes for the 2014-2015 season.

“My expectations were either coming close to win the State Tournament or winning the State Tournament,” said Jake Trondson, 12.

To achieve their goal of a state title, the team knew they had to improve both individually and as a team.

“The thing we most focused on improving was our intensity and practice vigor,” said Sam Hohenshell, 12.

“We had the talent, but our team was sidetracked easily.

Sometimes practices would be a bit too casual and that would transfer into a sloppy performance at our next match.”

The extra work paid off.

After going 19-1 during the regular season, the team was

Athlete of the issue

ranked number one heading into the playoffs.

In the first round, Mounds View had a dominating 6-1 win over Cretin-Derham Hall, setting up a semifinal match against Rochester Century High School.

“Rochester Century… was a very good, undefeated team,” said Coach Michael Cartwright. “We had to overcome the challenge of that team, which was really on fire for the State Tournament.”

After another 6-1 win, the team faced Elk River High School in the championship game.

“We had beaten Elk River earlier in the year, but they had gone doubles strong against us,” said Cartwright. “In the State championship match, they went singles strong, so we had to respond to that.”

Trondson added, “The finals were a lot of pressure. Our team was really scared about finding the right lineup and not making any mistakes like we have in the past.”

Mounds View swept the doubles points but lost three singles matches. The final singles match, played by eighth-grader Petro Alexakis, was the deciding game.

“The finals were actually supposed to be a bit of a blowout, but an upset at three singles left us at a 3-3 tie and it came down to our fourth singles,” said Hohenshell. “I had extreme confidence in Petro, as throughout the season he had proven himself to be a player who thrived under pressure and excitement. However, I couldn’t help but worry that Elk River would pull off another upset.”

After Alexakis’s 6-3, 6-3 victory, the team rushed onto the court.

“Running onto the court after match point was probably the highlight of my athletic career,” said Hohenshell. “Our entire team played five to six days a week year-round, and for us to be rewarded for years of hard work with a state championship and basically

Q: How long have you been playing football?

A: I have played organized football since third grade.

Q: What’s your favorite part about playing football?

A: I love the satisfaction of seeing our hard work before and during the season pay off. I also love working toward a goal and having such great camaraderie with teammates and coaches.

Q: What is your goal for this season?

A: Our goal for this season is to make it to the state tournament and make a deep playoff run once we get there.

Football

Below, the winning team.

photos courtesy of Michael Cartwright

Q: How do you prepare for games?

A: We look at a film of our opponent playing in a past game and get a feel of their play style. We work on technique, knowing our responsibilities, and muscle memory so that everything can come naturally on game day.

Carter Rholl

reaching the pinnacle of high school athletics was the best thing that could have happened to us.”

The team will look to repeat this year, but the title run will not be without its difficulties.

“We lost our second and third singles players, and we lost half of our doubles players, so we have to reload at both the doubles and the singles,” said Cartwright. “The new players coming in have to have Top, Team holds trophy. Above, the same attitude and consisJake Trondson at state tency and aggressiveness as the championships. people we lost.”

Q: As a captain, how do you encourage the team?

A: Through leading by example and by being vocal, I encourage the team to always be mentally sharp on the field, as well as encouraging the team to be successful of the field.

Q: What is the best advice you received from your coach?

A: Each missed opportunity to get better is one that you will regret later, so make the most of each opportunity now.

Q: Who inspired you to play football?

A: I grew up watching football on TV, which first got me really intrigued with the sport and eventually inspired me to try playing football out for myself.

Q: If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?

A: I would like to be able to fly because I have always wondered what it would feel like, and it would be easy to get to places. information compiled by Katrina Renacia

11

Friday, September 25, 2015

Rachel Boyer

Mariah Northrop

Emily Boyer Emily Nash

sports

Sierra Smith Lauren Wikstrom

Julia Anderson

photos by Eva Hoffman, Persis Ke, Emily Moses, gomvmustangs.com

Senior season bittersweet for seven soccer girls

by Katrina Renacia features editor The varsity soccer girls are jamming to their warm-up CD, getting pumped up for their game. After seven years of playing together, seven seniors on the team are finally down to their very last season.

Captain Mariah Northrop, 12, has been playing soccer since she was three. She comes from a family of soccer players, and was given her first soccer ball at the age of 18 months.

“There’s just something about me and the ball.

I feel like I could just go out alone and play with it whenever,” she said.

Another captain, Emily Boyer, 12, has been playing soccer since the age of five. Boyer has been playing alongside seniors Northrop, Julia Anderson, Emily Nash, Lauren Wikstrom, Sierra Smith and Rachel Boyer since seventh grade.

“We’re always together,” said Emily. “It’s very normal to hang out with my teammates. They’re a part of my family.”

After years of playing together, the team has a very strong foundation.

“When you have a bunch of different people who are all talented in their own ways, sometimes it’s really hard to connect. But that has never been an issue in our team,” Emily said. “We know each others’ game and teamwork comes naturally to us.”

Coach Terri Patraw believes that the team’s camaraderie will take them far.

“Chemistry comes from playing together. We are very fortunate to have a huge advantage in this area over other schools,” she said. “The coaching staff has been in place for three years, so there is a real understanding by the seniors of the style of play we want.”

Northrop agrees with Patraw. “No matter how good you are, you can’t do it all on your own. Even if we’re all good players, we’re nothing without the team,” she said.

Through all the seasons they’ve shared, the girls have mastered their pre-game rituals and learned how to motivate each other.

“We have this thing called ‘FTF’ which means

‘For the Food,’” said Northrop. “It keeps us motivated to keep working hard.” Aside from practices, the team also engages in various activities such as carbo loads, sleepovers and getting ready for football games together.

As their last year of soccer together is almost halfway through, the girls are more determined than ever to meet their goal of winning State and leaving a legacy.

“This is what we’ve been working for,” said Northrop. “This is where all the hard work pays off.”

Emily added, “I’m playing every minute in every game like it’s my last… we want to leave a legacy for the lower years and have them remember us, as well as this season.”

Although their time together is coming to an end as they part ways for college, their sisterhood -- as well as their love for soccer -- will always remain.

“Even though we’ll be scattered around the country when we go to college,” said Anderson, “I know our friendship will always be the same, and our memories will last forever.”

photos by Ann Nash and Julia Sacay

Top left, Rachel Boyer races down the sideline. Bottom left, Mariah Northrop lunges at the ball. Center, Seniors Rachel Boyer, Olivia Elvidge, Sierra Smith, Lauren Wikstrom, Mariah Northrop, Emily Nash, Julia Anderson, and Emily Boyer pose for a group photo. Top right, Julia Anderson shields the ball from an opponent. Bottom right, Lauren Wikstrom looks to make a pass.

12 gallery

Friday September 25, 2015

Get to know the freshmen Julia McGough, 9, is an accomplished dancer, spending three hours each day at Metro Dance Center.

McGough has been dancing since she was five, when she had to pick between dance and gymnastics. “I picked dance because it has more emotion, and not just physical aspects like gymnastics,” she said. Last year, she was the Grand National Champion solo competitor at the Midwest Starz competition. This year, she’s working toward another win in a group dance.

For Diana Zhu, 9, skating isn’t just a hobby; it’s a passion. What first began as a fun activity is now something Zhu commits herself to every day, practicing three to four hours after school. This drive has taken her not only to state competitions, but to national ones as well. She started skating competitively 5 years ago, and competes in three to four competitions each summer. Last year, she won first place at State and qualified to attend the national 2015 U.S. Figure Skating Championships.

photo by Eva Hoffman

Angel Vo, 9, spent her summer on the volleyball courts at Minnesota Volleyball Academy with her dad, coach Quang Vo. Now a freshman on the Mounds View varsity volleyball team, Vo plays the position of the libero, a defense specialist. While not unheard of, it’s uncommon for a freshman to make varsity. Fellow teammate Cynthia Escutin, 11, said, “On a good year, there might be a freshman good enough to make varsity, but we’ve been lucky to have some really talented freshmen these past few years.” Vo has played in many club tournaments, and has even made it to nationals twice, once for a U13 and once for a U16 team.

Eamon and Ellie Hauth-Schmid aren’t your typical sibling pair. Born just two minutes apart, Eamon and Ellie are closer than most. New transfers to Mounds View this year, they previously attended the Twin Cities German Immersion School, where they had every class together. Being close has its benefits. “I can get to know people that could end up being a close friend through Ellie,” said Eamon. “We can always ask each other questions about homework,” said Ellie. However, they disagree on things too. “We fight a lot about who gets the bigger piece of dessert, or if they’re using the other person’s toothpaste,” said Ellie.

If you visited the Education Building at the State Fair a few weeks ago, there’s a good chance you saw Michelle Wang’s artwork.

This year, she won first place for a sketch, and second place for both a watercolor and an acrylic. Wang, 9, has been painting at the Mei Lin Art Studio under the instruction of Yudong Shen since age seven. She likes to focus on people and animals, but her mediums are varied. “I like watercolor, sketching, acrylic, chinese painting, and mixed media,” she says. This summer, Wang plans to enter her artwork in the State Fair again, as well as the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards.

by Daniel Yong and Amber Zhao news editor and gallery editor