Issue 2 2012-13

What’s Inside

Bad Dance Music

Editorials 2

Naviance Help Features 5

A Night in Paris Spread 6-7

Cupcake Galore Variety 8

K-Pop

Gallery 12

Construction Update Online

Mounds View

VIEWER

2012-2013

http://mvviewer.org

Friday, October 5, 2012

Volume 60

Issue 2

The Principal Method Principal Jeff Erickson and AP Doug Bullinger will play a larger role in discipline.

by Maximillian Wang editor-in-chief Since 2006, deans at Mounds View High school have handled both student disciplinary issues and students’ academic academic course load, a kind of academic one-stop-shop “dean model.”

This is now being modified. Serious disciplinary issues—ones that may lead to a suspension or other punishment— will be dealt with by Assistant Principal Doug Bullinger or Principal Jeff Erickson; other, more minor issues will still be handled by deans. Behaviors that break criminal law will still be handled by the school resource officer.

This move is part of a larger emphasis on improving student-dean relationships; for example, freshmen will be building four-year high school plans during their Freshmen Retreat.

The hope is that by separating the disciplinary roles of deans from their academic planning and student support roles, students will view deans in a more positive light.

“The new policy delineates who

handles what. If I’m a dean, and I’m doing a backpack search, it changes the relationship between student and dean.

It [the new disciplinary policy] takes away that element of fear. Also, it takes something off deans’ plates, as we’ve added new things to their schedule that will build relationships between them and students,” said Erickson.

Deans will still know about issues that their students may encounter. Instead of disciplining the student, though, they will provide “after-the-fact” support to avoid such future issues. This is a role that deans also fulfilled previously.

In the six years since the dean model was implemented, some students have found the “one-stop shop” model frustrating. In 2010, the Viewer published an editorial by then senior Kari Nielsen arguing that being a disciplinarian and a support person is impossible.

However, other students have found it helpful to have one primary go-to person in the office.

“Over the course of my four years at Mounds View, my dean has helped me with everything from letters of recommendation to scheduling, and I’ve gotten to know her very well,” said Will Weightman, 12. “I find the dean model incredibly useful and a good way to

<editor@mvviewer.org>

get to know another adult who is not a teacher.”

Recent changes in the administration—the recent arrival of a new principal, assistant principal, and two new deans—may have helped spark changes to the model, but Erickson said these issues were being discussed before he arrived.

“I think I moved it along, but it was certainly in the works. Last May, deans were already discussing the issue. As I listened last summer, I talked with the deans, and they thought it would be a good thing to do,” said Erickson.

Some might believe that this will only turn students’ “fear” of deans towards the principal or assistant principal’s office. Erickson hopes that doesn’t happen.

“I want to change the relationship between the student and dean—not that I want them to be scared of coming to my or Bullinger’s office. As my last role as assistant principal, I dealt with student management all the time. I think you can maintain a relationship of respect even in this role. If you treat students with respect and dignity, even with their mistakes, you’ll still maintain a relationship,” said Erickson.

The widening of America A new study predicts high obesity rates

by Peter Olson news editor What will life be like in 20 years? Perhaps there will be hovercars. Or maybe a man will land on Mars? Lightsabers? Possibly. However, one thing’s for certain: if America continues to eat giant portions, obesity might be our country’s worst problem.

According to “F as in fat,” a study by Trust for America’s Health, the adult obesity rate will be at least 44 percent for every state by 2030. This trend also has the potential to increase cases of obesityrelated diseases like heart disease and type 2 diabetes by 20 times the current number.

But how do we solve this problem? Some states have implemented a variety of tactics in order to combat this unhealthy situation. On September 13, New York passed a law that prohibits the sale of soda that is greater than 16 oz. in public places. According to TIME magazine, New York has also implemented bans on trans fats and required calories to be put on menus.

Some students like the growing trend to become

healthier and encourage the government to do more.

“I think they should [regulate food and beverage portions] because obesity is going to be a major factor in America. We need to make sure obesity rates don’t rise too much,” said Michael Hoff, 11.

However, the actions against the obesity problem have been criticized. Many dislike how the government has been given the power to dictate what people can or cannot eat.

“I don’t think it’s the government’s business to control what you eat,” said Jimmy Kaiser, 11.

Minnesota recently tried another approach to solving the obesity problem. According to WCCO, Minnesota’s Blue Cross and Blue Shield has created ads that try to persuade parents to be better role models when it comes to food.

These ads have received quite a bit of backlash. Minnesota Public Radio stated that a few people believe that these ads make obese people uncomfortable and more self-conscious about their body image. Some still agree with the message.

“I can see why people who are obese are

uncomfortable, but I think it’s still a good message because obesity’s a major issue and in order to reduce it, we have to get both children and parents in a healthier mindset,” said Hoff.

Mounds View has also been promoting healthier food choices by downgrading unhealthy food items and requiring a helping of fruits and veggies.

However, as stated in the editorial “An apple a day may get thrown away” (Sept. 21), students might not eat their required fruit serving and just throw it away.

Obesity is a pressing concern for America. Do we forego the freedom this democracy was founded upon to impose food or drink regulations? Or do we do nothing and watch our country slowly suffer?

Or is there another way? Mounds View students think so.

“I think the government should implement workout programs where they reward you for working out,” said Jonathan Yoon, 11. “If you had an incentive to do it, then more people should do it.”

2editorials op T 10

October 5, 2012

And we danced, miserably...

Ways to Annoy a Hipster

10

Stop using Reddit Use a web browser other than Chrome

8 6 4

Watch TLC unironically

2

Shave

Don’t listen to The Current Ask them if they’re homeless

Dress like Robbie He Buy non-organic foods Don’t know who Mezzanine Owls is

Call them a hipster

2012-2013 Viewer Editors Editor-in-Chief Managing Editors -Online/Design

-Copy Chief

Business Manager News Editorials Features Spread Variety Reviews Sports Gallery

9 7 5 3

by David Gonzalez-Dysinger Dancing is one of the most fundamental means of human editorials editor artistic expression. And it’s tons of fun to boot. School dances offer a chance to get together with your friends and express yourself through dance a.k.a. get jiggy with it. School dances should be a chance to have a great time getting down to awesome music, but the music played at these dances is badly chosen and lacking in variety, and the selection process for it lacks student input.

Many students who have negative opinions of dances cite the bad music as the main reason for their dislike. The music selection is too heavy on Top 40 songs and dated club rap tracks (like “hits” by Soulja Boy) that weren’t great in the first place. To make it worse, photo by Ben Kaiser as the night wears on, the DJs seem to run out of songs and

start repeating them, or play obscure B-sides of famous pop stars.

Not only is the music unsatisfactory, but it is also hard to dance to—one can only head nod and jump so much during a school dance. The techno dances have the same problem—how do you dance to dubstep anyway? There should be more house music and other up-tempo tunes, perhaps even swing.

The music also lacks variety. Every dance uses the same basic song list, and few attempts are made to play music outside of the mainstream club scene. It’s as if the DJs forgot that rock, country, and even jazz can make for good dance music. Also, with the diverse population present at Mounds View, the lack of any foreign music at dances,

even “Gangnam Style” and reggaeton, is disappointing.

There should be an entire dance devoted to K-Pop alone.

Mounds View school dances can be improved by hiring quality DJs. The turntablists who currently orchestrate our dances are not only responsible for our poor selection of music, but also are unenthusiastic and impersonal.

For example, the DJ at the most recent Back to School dance refused to take requests. If costs are prohibitive to hiring better DJs, dances should be opened up to student DJs. Or instead, students should be given the chance to vote on what music will be played at dances.

Mounds View deserves better dances: give the power to the students and they will ensure this happens.

Staff Selling yourself for Stanford 1 Editorial Seniors shouldn’t join activities just to pad their college applications.

Max Wang

Megan Ruan Akshay Patke Tristan Achittino Peter Olson

David Gonzalez-Dysinger Allison Hare Mali Bacig Cammie Kelly John Knopf Sasha Safonov Selin Kurtoglu Matt Voges David Liu Adam Toninato

Youngjun Park Photographers/Artists Tim Apolloni, Sophie Gorham, Ben Kaiser, Angela Nan Anders Nygaard, Joy Xie Adviser

School dances desperately need better music

Martha Rush

Staff

Samantha Baschky, Josephine Bergmann, Nina Bertelsen, James Birr, Nolan Carlson-Stevermer, Alec Edgett, Kobi Endrizzi, Jered Everson, Namrata Gadela, Molly Hancuh, John Hingos, Jospeh Janey, Phoebe Ke, Monica Kemp, Jonathan Kim, Mitchell LeMay, Kyoka Millard, Matthew Montgomery, Rebecca Nara, Ntonobari Ollor, Kyler Roberts, Madeline Rosenow, Neha Sethi, Mark Sheldon, Thomas Sletten, Alistair Tang, Nicole Wahlin, Ryan Yoch

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

With college application deadlines just around the corner, the last rush to take the ACT, write and rewrite essays, and boost activity resumés has begun. Many students now seem to be joining or forming activities just to pad their college applications.

Some even go so far as to ask for leadership positions that require little to no actual responsibilities and merely look good on paper.

One has to wonder: Where was the motivation of these students to create and join these activities earlier in their high school careers?

The addition of insincere members to any club or activity is unfair to the students who have dedicated long hours to that activity.

This is especially true when such members only devote a minimal amount of time to that club, but still expect it to carry

the same weight on a college application as for the student who devoted years to that activity.

For example, Volunteer Club is filled with members who merely show up for meetings and put little to no hours into community service.

These “fake” members make it that much harder for people who actually care about the activities to get the attention they need from coaches and advisors and can also prove a distraction.

The myth at Mounds View that “the more activities you have, the better” creates clubs full of artificial participants who want nothing more than an extra activity to pin to the end of their college application. The truth is that, ultimately, colleges don’t even care about the volume of activities each student has.

Instead, they focus

photo courtesy of hoax-slayer.com

more on the dedication that should show through each student’s hours committed to and accomplishments resulting from that activity.

Students should instead devote themselves to the activities they love the most, and try to excel in them as much as possible.

High school, and especially senior year, should be a time for living life and having fun before the responsibilities of college and adulthood sink in. This doesn’t mean that one shouldn’t try new things and attempt to broaden one’s horizons senior

year; joining new clubs senior year is a great way to make senior year memorable and explore activities and interests that one hasn’t previously had a chance to get involved with. But seniors should get involved for the sheer joy and experience of it, not to cram a few extra lines onto their resumes.

13 Editors Agree, 2 Disagree

Viewer Mission Statement 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.

October 5, 2012

3 editorials

Test scores are not everything

Teachers should be judged on the quality of their teaching, not standardized test scores

by Maximillian Wang and Allison Hare editor-in-chief and editorials editor Up until September 19, teachers in the Chicago Public School System were on a strike that left 350,000 students without schools to attend. At the center of the conflict was an evaluation system, backed by the Chicago school board and Mayor Rahm Emanuel, that would have judged teachers based on the standardized test scores of their students.

The teachers opposed the new system because they felt standardized test scores did not accurately portray the quality of their teaching.

While an incentive program based on standardized tests has been suggested in other school districts, this system would present major flaws.

Most tests used to evaluate students, and hence, teachers, would not accurately reflect the quality of teaching.

Prominent tests in Minnesota include the SAT, ACT, and the MCA-II, all of which cover a

wide variety of subject areas that do not necessarily reflect a class subject.

Using Advanced

classes, like AP Language and Composition and AP Psychology, are supposed to be year-long courses, but are

Chicago teachers protest during their strike in September Placement (AP) tests to evaluate AP teachers would also be a poor standard; AP tests vary greatly in difficulty, and can be influenced by factors unrelated to the teacher (for example, some

taught for only a semester at Mounds View). The resulting test scores could also reflect a student’s inherent intelligence or socioeconomic factors.

Standardized-testing based merit pay could also

make classrooms more testcentered. Teachers would “teach to the test,” diverting time away from the course’s

many teachers in the Chicago School District turned to changing students’ answers on standardized tests by tampering with Scantron sheets.

The best alternative to test-based evaluation would be colleague and administrative evaluation.

In the corporate sector, employees are evaluated by their coworkers and managers on their performance; teachers shouldn’t be any different. This system would be better able to represent teachers’ performance than standardized test system.

Having tests on course material prior to and after taking the course could also make up a small portion of the evaluation, as this will show mastery of course material and growth over photo courtesy of MCT campus time.

In the end, the only subject matter in the hopes logical basis for judgment on a of boosting students’ scores teacher’s performance should to hit a target score. It could be that teacher’s actual ability also lead to cheating by to teach, not inapplicable teachers; in the best-selling standardized test scores book Freakonomics, Prof. that are often affected by Steven Levitt showed that uncontrollable circumstances.

Does it merit a ceremony?

by Maximillian Wang editor-in-chief On Sept. 25, 15 Mounds View students were honored by their peers, teachers, and administrators as National Merit semifinalists (myself included), most of whom will go on to become finalists.

Later, on Oct. 9, these same students will be recognized by the Mounds View School Board. Finalists will have a chance at hundreds of scholarships nationwide,

Editor opinions What your Viewer editors think of various issues.

including the Gold Scholar award, a $10,000 per year scholarship at the University of Minnesota.

The problem, though, is that this entire award—and the attention and accolades that accompany it—is based only on a student’s PSAT score, a standardized test like the SAT, taken mostly by juniors.

With a score of 213 or over in Minnesota, a student will likely become a finalist and get a crack at the cash; a score “Capitalism. It rewards the hardworking and punishes those who are lazy.”

- Peter Olson news editor

below 213, even a 212, and that student’s out of luck.

One score, just one, can make the difference of thousands of dollars. The entire PSAT test is multiple choice, and covers only three subject areas: math, reading, and writing. This is a bad test for measuring true scholars and true merit.

Which is why I felt the awards ceremony and group picture and press coverage was too big a deal for such a

small thing. Great, I got this score on the PSAT—but was that really the superintendent who just showed up at MV to shake my hand?

I worry about more than just where the money’s going.

I’m afraid of the message this sends to students. Students should be honored for for doing things of substance: writing an essay, conducting research, dedicating themselves to volunteering.

Why is a test so honored by

“The reality of Marxist ideology is neglected in a Mounds View education. This should change.”

“Rice is good for when you’re hungry and you want 2000 of something.”

- Matt Voges reviews editor

- Adam Toninato sports editor

a school and the nation as a whole, while these deeds are so far out of the public eye?

I am grateful for the school’s and National Merit Scholarship Corporation’s support, but there has to be a better way to choose students and honor them for their “scholarship”—because this current method is encouraging the wrong priorities among students.

“If the school administration is going to get rid of D lunch, they can’t punish us with open mike lunches as well.”

- John Knopf spread editor

4features

Oktoberfestivities

by Camry Kelly features editor

Moonwalk October marks National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and ever since October 2009, Mounds View High has been supporting breast cancer victims and cancer research through the Moonwalk.

The Moonwalk is open to everyone. Unlike previous years, it is not just a walk— there will be a DJ on the football field for a dance. Kidfriendly music will be played until 9:30 p.m., so all ages are welcome.

There will also be gift card prizes given out to the craziest pink outfit and

wildest dancer. All the money will go to the Susan G. Komen Foundation.

When: October 13, 7:00 p.m.-10:00 p.m.

Where: MV stadium Cost: $10 for admission and an optional $10 shirt being sold online at the Mustang Store.

Wear: Pink colored clothes in honor of cancer awareness

October 5, 2012

Walk out of the dark Suicide claims more than 36,000 lives each year in America. Walk Out of the Darkness is a three to five mile walk organized by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. The foundation’s goal is to raise money to prevent future suicides.

The funds help sponsor educational programs that teach ways to spot the warning signs of suicide, and support research into suicide and suicide prevention. The walk is also an opportunity for those who have been affected by suicide to come together and get involved through educational, outreach, and awareness programs.

Registration: Online registration ends October 12 at noon. There will be on-site registration.

When: October 14 Check-in starts at 8:30 a.m. Walk starts at 10:00 a.m.

Contact Taylor Iwaszko at taylor. iwaszko@gmail.com for further assistance.

Where: Black Bear Crossing at Como Park Who: Mounds View students, parents, and friends can register under Team 2013. Donations can also be made online to Team 2013 in honor of those who have been affected by suicide. The link to Team 2013’s site will be online at www.mvviewer.org.

Wear: Mounds View colors to show school spirit!

New ’stangs ...Continued from last issue

by Mali Bacig features editor

Beth Baxley

Kate Struss

Jillian Lindstrom

Autumn Joyce

University: University of Wisconsin- Lacrosse Plan B: Child psychology

University: Minnesota State University- Mankato Plan B: A travel agent

University: University of Minnesota- Morris Plan B: Photographer

University: Beloit College Plan B: A travel writer

October 5, 2012

College? or....

Alternatives to postsecondary education

Alex Stych, 2010 graduate of Mounds View, in uniform.

It’s a hard life, but the military does offer many benefits to those who join, including medical coverage, education programs, a lifetime career, and generally a low cost of

Ms. Nesset in Szentes, Hungary during the spring of 1992.

Peace Corps and Americorps are commu-

nity-focused volunteer organizations. The Peace Corps is a two-year commitment and mainly works overseas. Americorps works in the United States and U.S. territories, and its programs last for 10 months to a year.

Americorps offers an education award. The Segal Americorps Education Award, which is given to every member who completes a term of service. It can be put toward expenses at qualified universi-

ties educational training, or qualified student loans. The award is available up to seven years after the term of service is completed.

Also, both programs cover general living expenses.

Volunteer work includes building houses, working on community development, helping with youth education, and educating communities about health concerns. These two programs will teach many different skills and are a great way to prepare for college or explore different areas of the world.

Dunwoody College of Technology, a local vocational school, located in Minneapolis.

Vocational school, also called trade school, this type of school teaches students skills that are required to perform a specific job—it is very different from a liberal arts college education. There

5 features

living (meals and room and board are paid for). Others are attracted by the honor and camaraderie that accompany joining.

The military has many options. If interested, it is important to meet with a recruiter in the area. The nearest recruiting office for the Army is located in the Crossroads Center of Roseville, near the Rosedale Mall. Paperwork is often required. Recruiters can help determine which branch is the right fit and give a better idea of the process to join.

The Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, and Coast Guard are a few of

the different options. A test called the ASVAB, Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery, is required for new recruits and helps determine if one is ready to attend basic training. The process to join the military is long and detailed, but many find it well worth the work. Although there are many benefits to joining the military, there are also many dangers involved. The typical length of commitment is four years of Active Duty followed by four years in the Individual Ready Reserve (IRR).

are vocational schools in a wide range of areas, including welding, automotive technology, and electrical work.

Most trade schools take two years to complete.

Many vocational schools in the United States are government owned or sponsored. The Everest Institute and Regency Beauty Institute are examples of vocational schools in Minnesota. Tuition for these schools can vary from $5,000 to $20,000 per year. The first step is to contact the school you are interested in to find out about potential costs, financial aid, the program’s area of focus, and application process. According to

CNNMoney.com, machinists knowledgeable in computers are in extremely high demand. Dunwoody College of Technology has recently experienced a large increase in inquiries about their students.

“We graduated 20 students in June and we had 400 inquiries about them from manufacturers,” said E.J. Daigle, the school’s director of robotics and manufacturing.

With so many increasing opportunities in skilled trades, vocational school is a great opportunity to learn a skill in high demand.

photo courtesy of Gretchen Nesset

the ACT or the SAT. Some colleges also want SAT Subject tests. It is your responsibility to find out which test(s) your college requires. Because test scores are your property, it is also your responsibility to send your scores to your colleges. We do not send any test scores. ~Dean/Counselor Letter of Recommendation Many colleges require this letter.

Your dean will complete a letter for you if necessary. If you do need this, please speak with your dean to let them know and let the records person in the Student Services Office know as well. In order to write the best letter for you, your dean will need information about you. That information can be obtained through your resume.

If you go into Naviance and got the

photo courtesy of dunwoody.edu

information compiled by Malia Bacig

Navigate your Naviance Seniors, Listed below are some topics that you need to be aware of as you apply for college. ~High School transcripts Your school will send your transcript to your college electronically.

If colleges don’t accept electronic submission, we will mail it. In either case, you need to put into Naviance, under the “Colleges” tab, the school to which you are applying. List these under “colleges I am applying to.”

Then you need to complete the paper form that is available in the Student Services Office or on the school’s website. Your transcripts will not be sent until this form is completed and turned in. ~Test Scores Every college will accept either

photo courtesy of Alex Stych

“About You” tab, there is a resume that you can complete there. Be as thorough as possible when completing this resume. ~Teacher Letters of Recommendation If you are completing the Common Application, you must use Naviance to do this. The Common Application is requiring this, not your school. All teachers have a Naviance account and can use that to submit letters. You must first ask your teacher to do this. Then you have to add them to your Naviance account under the “Colleges” tab. All teachers are listed on a pull down box. ~Deadlines Be very aware of deadlines.

Missed deadlines often mean that your application will not be

considered. ~Senior Grades Matter How you do and what you take matter. The college you attend will receive a final copy of your transcript, and every college to which you apply will receive a list of classes you are taking or are planning to take this year. Some colleges rescind offers of admission if your grades decline. In fact, for the first time in history, the University of Minnesota rescinded several offers of admission this fall.

Senior grades are serious!

I invite you to see me if you have any questions about this process.

-Mr. Wiens

1.

Andrew Björklund

Favorite place to travel to: Mountains of Colorado/Montana Activity: Hockey Favorite movie: Miracle Future occupation: Businessman Favorite celebrity: Diamond Dallas Page or Emma Watson Favorite saying: “You need to define the moment or the moment defines you.”

2.

Allison Hare

Activities: Orchestra, Viewer, and National Honor Society Favorite place to travel to: Bomb shelter in her backyard Future occupation: Miss America Pageants Favorite movie: White Chicks Most selfless act: Being friends with Emmy Jin

1

2

5 3

4

3.

Austin Smestad

Favorite subject: Math Favorite dish: Steak Activities: Football, baseball, and Group Leading Against Destructive Decisions (GLADD) Favorite celebrity: Megan Fox Most selfless act: Spending the whole day helping the food shelf Favorite book: Where’s Waldo?

Favorite movie: Transformers.

Favorite saying: “If you ain’t first, you’re last.”

4.

5.

Erin Towle

Favorite subject: Spanish Favorite dish: Chicken wings Favorite celebrity: Adele Most selfless act: Confirming a friend on Facebook Favorite book: Chicken Soup for the Teen’s Soul Favorite movie: Tommy Boy Outlook on life: “It is good to be alive.”

James Kacans

Activities: Football and dance Favorite movie: Toy Story Favorite place to travel: The kitchen Favorite celebrity: Michael Jackson Future occupation: Dental Hygienist Most selfless act: Giving a teammate his own shoelace Favorite saying: “When life gives you lemons, make apple juice.”

6

10.

Sophie Gorham

Activities: Mustang Mentors, theatre, Shakespeare, synergy, Young Democrats, and National Honor Society Favorite subject: Anatomy and Physiology Favorite movie: Troll 2 Favorite place to travel: The refrigerator Favorite celebrity: Megan Ruan

9.

Nate Douvier 9 7

Activities: Football, hockey, and baseball Future occupation: Author Favorite subject: Psychology Favorite book: The Night Before Christmas Favorite movie: Tombstone Favorite place to travel to: Frisco Bay Favorite saying: “When the going gets tough, the tough get going.”

10

8

8.

Marcy Towle

Favorite movie: Little Mermaid.

Favorite book: The Lion King Picture Book Future occupation: Aerobics instructor, complete with the headband Favorite celebrity: Marcel the Shell Favorite dish: Cream cheese puffs Outlook on life: “Carpe diem.”

Most selfless act: Playing wall ball with a freshman

6.

7.

Kathryn Larson

Activities: Hockey, softball, Group Leading Against Destructive Decisions (GLADD), and National Honor Society Favorite place to travel to: Hawaii Favorite book: The Hunger Games Favorite class: Gym Future occupation: Physical therapist Outlook on life: “Love yourself, and help as many people’s lives in a positive way.”

Vaheed Nejad

Future occupation: International businessman Favorite class: Foods Favorite place to travel: Europe Favorite movie: Cheech & Chong Favorite saying: “Live everyday like it’s the weekend.” photos by Ben Kaiser and Anders Nygaard illustration by Sophie Gorham

8variety

October 5, 2012

TOP THREE CUPCAKE SHOPS IN THE TWIN CITIES

by Selin Kurtoglu and Tristan Aschittino variety editor and business manager

Turtle Bread

Turtle Bread

As much as we all love cupcakes, sometimes we need a break from a full-on sugar apocalypse. That’s where Turtle Bread 4762 Chicago Avenue South Minneapolis comes in.

Offering both sweet and hearty treats, Turtle Bread in Minneapolis’s 48th and Chicago neighborhood is a popular local hangout. This quaint bakery shop is nestled between Pizza Biga, a ma-and-pa pizza kitchen, and a sewing studio. Huge windows light the space, making for a happy, homey atmosphere.

The shop is roomy and spacious. Even photo courtesy of turtlebread.com when busy, there are always tables open.

The bakery goods are self-served, set out in baskets around the room. These include fresh breads, scones, muffins and cookies. Everything is baked in a semiopen kitchen, so the shop smells delicious all the time.

At the counter, Turtle Bread offers different cakes, pies, tarts, and—of course—cupcakes! Although not as wide-ranged as others in the metro area, they are as delicious as any. Turtle Bread also offers a lunch menu and a coffee bar.

Cupcake

Cupcake, as the name implies, sells cupcakes.

More importantly, Cupcake sells a vast variety of creative cupcakes.

At this sweet, relaxed shop on University Avenue in Minneapolis, you can take your pick from 44 different cupcakes. There is definitely something for every type of sweet tooth. Cupcake offers light, fruity options like their Lemon Blueberry, dark chocolate heavens like Chocolate Cream Pie, and everything in between.

In addition to having every type of cupcake, the shop also houses a café, with breakfast and lunch 3338 Southeast University Avenue Minneapolis, MN menus, and a coffee bar.

55414 Cupcake’s atmosphere isn’t like your usual bakery. Inside you’ll find a handful of studiouslooking individuals typing away on laptops and munching on sandwiches. Cupcake isn’t so much of a pick-up-the-cupcakes-and-leave bakery; it is a small café with a huge list of delicious cupcakes tacked on at the end.

So if you ever get tired of having to choose chocolate, vanilla, or red velvet for your cupcake, say goodbye to the days of limited options, say hello to your new Cupcake heaven. photo courtesy of 365twincitiesmn.com

Cupcake

Cupcake Caramel

If cupcakes are what you crave, then Cupcake Caramel is the place to be.

Cupcake Caramel, a division of Sweets Bakeshop, is a small bakery in Minneapolis that makes some of the best cupcakes in the state and a French macaroon that is the reigning champion of Minnesota.

Because the bakery specializes solely in cakemaking in its many forms (cupcakes, cakes, cake pops, and french macarons), the bakers can devote all of their efforts to perfecting the pastries without spending time baking breads, donuts, or other baked goods.

The interior of the bakery is just as inspired as their food. The cleanliness is probably the first thing one would notice upon entering. The shop is immaculate. A soft, feminine color scheme is apparent.

The colors of the interior include soft pinks, blues, and

Cupcake Caramel 4747 Nicollet Avenue S Minneapolis, MN 55419

yellows. Cake pops, designer cakes, and an assortment of cupcakes line the spotless white walls.

The shop was far from perfect, however. A definite setback of the place was its service, or rather, the lack of it. When I was there, the employees were busy in the back room, leaving the counter vacant as a line began to form in front of it. Ten minutes went by before the staff even recognized that customers were waiting to be served. The bakers were nice but rushed the customers along.

That being said, the wait was worth it. The French Affair chocolate macaroon with dark chocolate ganache was absolutely delicious, though it wasn’t cheap—$2 per three-bite macaroon. The cupcake prices were also somewhat high for their size ($3).

Luckily, taste made up for it. Their most popular

photo courtesy of mostridiculouscupcake, Better maninlowertown.blogspot.com Than dot, dot, dot, had a sweet buttercream frosting which was complemented by a sprinkle of toffee chips and a drizzle of caramel, all atop a moist chocolate cake. Their Peanut Butter Bliss cupcake was equally delectable. It was iced with chocolate and filled with a peanut butter nugget.

Cupcake Caramel has another location in the Rosedale Center, a mere 10 minute drive from Mounds View.

All in all, the bakeshop scores high in the flavor category, so it’s worth the trip, but only if you are patient with the staff (and, of course, like cupcakes).

October 5, 2012

A la Africa In the United States, where flavor is often derived from a gratuity of fats, sodium, and corn syrup, ethnic foods are a real treat.

Ethiopian food, in particular, lends a refreshing hand to the Twin Cities culinary scene. Ethiopian is eaten communally, on and with Injera bread.

Injera resembles a massive, slightly sour pancake used for dipping and scooping—it is your utensil. The whole process may be a bit confusing at first, but it really is fun and a nice change from European silverware etiquette.

Where to go: T’s Place 2713 E. Lake St Minneapolis

9 reviews

photo courtesy of Anders Nygaard

Fasika 510 Snelling Ave N St. Paul

Dip into Flamingo for a taste of Ethiopia

by Matthew Voges reviews editor

Flamingo Restaurant is one spot where this fantastic ethnic genre can be enjoyed.

Flamingo is located at 490 N. Syndicate St., St. Paul, and offers a uniquely intimate dining experience.

It is run by Shegitu Kebede from Ethiopia and Frewoini Haile from Eritrea. The soft courtesy of their service greatly eases the trying of new food; however, it should be said that sometimes the restaurant does seem a bit understaffed, so it can take a

bit to get your food.

The atmosphere is lovely.

The restaurant is quite small so it never gets too loud, but always seems full and “happening.” Adding to the atmosphere, a number of arts coat the walls and available surfaces. There are beautiful photographs, paintings of ethnic scenes and a number of pottery pieces too. The tone could work for most any occasion: a second date or an outing with family. The communal style of eating Ethiopian food is especially conducive to large groups. If

you plan on sharing, get one large for every two people. At $10 per person, the prices are very reasonable.

Now, the menu offers a wide variety of food. Before you even order there is a difficult decision to make— what to drink? The various lemonades and juices are the quintessential refreshing beverage. They all have guava, mango, strawberry or a combination of the three. The shakes follow the same theme as far as fruit is concerned, but are characterized by a smooth, thick, considerable, yet

appropriate, flavor. You can’t really go wrong, but the shakes come highly recommended.

There are appetizers ranging from Sambusas (pastry shells with beef or lentils) to a Caesar salad. The entrees are composed of pita bread sandwiches, rice dishes, and the majority of courses served upon the staple Injera bread.

The entrees are all very good. The Traveler offers a comprehensive sampling of lamb, beef, onions, tomatoes, and jalapenos. A particular favorite is the Dorho Kilwa/ Doro Tibbs. This dish is

Kanye’s latest: G.O.O.D. but not great

by Akshay Patke and David Gonzalez-Dysinger managing editor and editorials editor

Everything Kanye West does is an event, and Cruel Summer is perhaps the biggest hip hop event of the year.

The compilation album brings together

photo courtesy of geekrevolt.com

the artists in West’s G.O.O.D. Music label to deliver a dozen tracks of the high-end couture rap that West has become known for. Harking back to the powerhouse record labels of the late ’90s like Bad Boy and No Limit, G.O.O.D. Music boasts some of the biggest stars in hip hop. Despite the huge potential of such a collaboration, Cruel Summer ultimately fails to live up to its astronomical expectations.

Cruel Summer lacks the vibrant chemistry between artists that West’s last blockbuster project, Watch The Throne, possessed.

While Yeezy and Hova were a perfectly matched tag team, the artists on G.O.O.D. music too often feel like a disparate collective of random rappers whose performances range from intensely focused (CyHi the Prince, Pusha T) to apathetic and phoned in (2

Blue Nile 2027 E. Franklin Ave Minneapolis

Chainz). Cruel Summer also has too many guest spots from non-G.O.O.D. affiliated artists, like R. Kelly and Jadakiss, although has-been Ma$e surprises with an uncharacteristically solid verse on “Higher.”

West also makes the unfortunate choice to outsource production duties to in-house producers like Hit-Boy. Although the effort to showcase lesser known talent is admirable, it leads to less epic and significantly more simplistic beats than West’s previous work. Also, Cruel Summer is lyrically weak, except for “New God Flow,” six minutes of straight murder that make the rest of the album seem that much more disappointing.

But in the end, Cruel Summer is not a bad album. The album ends up feeling like a disappointment only because West and the G.O.O.D. Music crew set the bar so high in the past. This potential shines through on the singles “Mercy,” “Clique,” and “Cold,” which are all undeniable bangers. The beats on

served on Injera and comes with chicken, an egg, and a variety of vegetables. It might be described as an amalgam of spices and textures that thoroughly please the senses.

There is a bit of a spiciness factor in some Flamingo dishes, but with a cool drink it is nothing to worry about.

Overall, Flamingo Restaurant—and Ethiopian food in general—makes for a great experience and warrants an honest try by any Mounds View student.

8/10

these songs were catchy and innovative, and the lyrics were clever and rich with allusion. “Mercy” was arguably the rap song of the summer, and despite its lack of lyrical depth, it was still ripe with meme-worthy lines like “I threw suicides [suicide doors] on a private jet/you know what that means I’m fly to death.” Perhaps one of the reasons the album is disappointing is because the singles were released long before the album, generating hype that proved impossible to live up to.

Despite its many shortcomings, Cruel Summer has several memorable verses and beats. G.O.O.D. Music has yet to live up to its true potential, but with West leading them, anything is possible.

6.5/10

sports 10 Another Whey to get stronger October 5, 2012

Will protein make you a pro?

by Adam Toninato sports editor Athletes of every sport are always trying to get bigger, faster, and stronger.

High school athletes are no exception. More and more Mounds View athletes are adding protein to their diets.

One of the easiest ways is by taking protein supplements.

“I just try and get the most out of my workouts, and that’s what protein is for,” said Brian Lee, 12.

But is all this protein necessary? Excess protein is broken down into an acid and can harm the body in many ways.

The most commonly used protein supplement is whey.

Whey is an all-natural protein supplement that is used by athletes in a variety of sports.

It is a byproduct of rennet acid added to curdled milk. Whey comes in a powder and is added to liquids for consumption.

“I have to add it to milk,” said Lee. “When I put it in water, I usually end up gagging and throwing it away, but if I put it in milk, it actually tastes pretty good.”

One of the best ways to improve your strength quickly is to eat a large serving of

protein at every meal. Foods such as dark meats, nuts, chicken, turkey, and spinach also contain large amounts of natural protein (Web MD).

Eating wholesome meals with large amounts of protein is the easiest way to get large amounts good protein into your system. However, students often feel that they need more protein than they are already consuming.

“After a big workout, I always hit up Chipotle. I could live there. One time after working out with Coach Rainy [who organizes intensive weight-lifting for the track and field team], I got two burritos and drank a protein shake and then I wasn’t even sore,” said Sam Maccani, 12.

Two burritos from Chipotle is about 2700 calories. The calories had little to do with the euphoric feeling after the workout, but the 110 grams of protein, excluding the shake, may have helped.

Research done by sports medicine magazine Live Science has shown that using protein supplements and increasing protein consumption can help increase muscle mass, decrease recovery time, reduce post workout soreness and

increase metabolic rate.

Matt Harding, 12, said, “I’ve been taking it [whey] for a couple of years and it helps me get faster results and feel better after workouts.”

There are objections though. According to Live Science, unless exercising at a professional level, protein supplements can do more harm than good. At extreme levels of exercise, the body needs roughly one gram of protein for every two pounds of weight.

For example, a 180 pound man needs about 90 grams of protein per day if he works out regularly.

One cup of one percent milk, though, contains 12 grams of protein, so meeting protein requirements is usually not difficult. As such, protein supplements are often wasted.

Excess protein is broken down into an acidic by-product that has been linked to kidney failure and osteoporosis.

Nevertheless, a healthy, protein-rich diet can help future D1 athletes or those just trying to stay fit. Chances are all the protein you need is already in your diet, but if pushing yourself to extremes, protein supplements in moderation can be beneficial.

NHL on thin ice

by Nathaniel Nikoi staff writer

The American Hockey League. That’s the name NHL fans are going to have to get accustomed to hearing, as many young talents will be playing for the “minors” instead of the NHL this year.

As of now there isn’t going to be an NHL season this year. The 2012-2013 season is under lockout, one that is sure to kill the excitement of the fans.

The lockout was announced on Sept. 16 around 12:01 a.m., after attempts for compromise failed. This is not the first time fans have had to feel the pain of another lost season. The last lockout was the 2004-2005 season, which lasted the whole season.

Before that, the lockout in 1994-95 took place due to labor disputes.

As it stands, the main cause for the lockout is a dispute between the players

and team owners over the division of the National Hockey League’s $3.3 billion in annual revenue. Currently, players received 57 percent of the revenue. The NHL’s argument is that the players are receiving too much of the revenue.

Negotiations began July 13, when the NHL made a proposal for player salary cuts.

According to the proposal, players would receive 49 percent of the revenue in the first year, a 48 percent cut the second year, and 36 percent from the third year to the sixth. If a compromise of that sort can’t be reached, the NHL wants equal share in revenue.

The players did not respond well to this; the National Hockey League Players Association (NHLPA), produced a counter proposal of their own, causing the stalemate. So who is at fault in the lockout? Some blame the commissioner, Gary Bettman.

In the time that Bettman has

been commissioner, there have been three lockouts.

“Bettman is a troll, and he hasn’t done anything good for the game,” said Ryan Elvidge, 12.

A few passionate fans do not like to bother themselves with the details and just want

“

photo by And

ers Nygaard

Top 5 ways to add protein to your diet

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

MEAT POULTRY NUTS SPINACH WHOLE MILK

They feel that the NHL’s proposal is unfair to the players.

“That’s not fair because the players are the entire league, that’s the reason why fans go out to watch. They want to see the players, not the owners,” said Elvidge.

T

hat’s not fair because the players are kind of the entire league, that’s the reason why fans go out to watch. They

”

want to see the players, not the owners,

-Ryan Elvidge, 12

to be able to watch the sport they love.

“I hate it. It is stupid.

They just need to settle things out so I can watch the cup [Stanley Cup],” said Andrew Bjorklund, 12.

Supporters at Mounds View say they understand the NHLPA’s disapproval of the terms proposed by the NHL.

While negotiations continue, some players are making alternate plans. Some of the NHL’s elite players are making their way over to Europe. The Russian Kontinental Hockey League (KHL), will get quite a few new faces. Players like Paul Datsyuk, Kaspars Daugavins, Ruslan Fedotenko, Sergei

Gonchar, Jiri Hudler, Ilya Kovalchuk, Nikolai Kulemin, Evgeni Malkin, and Alexei Ponikarovsky.

NHL teams are also forwarding some of their young talent to their affiliate teams in the American Hockey League (AHL). Players like Jeff Skinner, Justin Faulk, Adam Henrique, Adam Larsson, Zack Kassian, Chris Tanev, Travis Hamonic, and Nino Niederreiter are to join their affiliate teams. Hockey fans may hear names of a few more young talents joining AHL. Fans will just have to wait this year out and get hope that by next season at least some agreement has been made for the sport.

“If they keep doing stuff like this eventually people will get bored and nobody will watch them. The fans will find other less picky sports to watch,” said Will Weightman, 12.

October 5, 2012

sports11

A Backfield of Brothers

Three brothers bring success to Mounds View’s football program

by David Liu sports editor There are only a handful of siblings that can find success in the same sport. The Williams sisters come to mind. Or maybe the Manning brothers. Well, at Mounds View, there are the Frederickson brothers.

The three brothers all play football. More specifically, they’re all quarterbacks.

Mitchell, Joseph, and Nate grew up around football. From a young age they were playing catch and backyard football with the their family.

“We sometimes go up to our cabin and play football with our cousins,” said Joseph Fredrickson, 10. “It gets pretty competitive.”

The pads, the helmet, the tackles have become second-nature to the brothers. Each one started playing in youth football, and each one has stayed true to the game for all these years. “[It] started with third grade football,” said Mitch Fredrickson, 12. “My parents signed me up. I had always grown up around sports.”

Football and family go hand in hand in the Fredrickson family. Playing football is synonymous with being a Fredrickson.

“Yeah, it’s tradition. My dad played football.

All my cousins have been football players. And it’s continued down to me and my brothers,” said Nate Fredrickson, 9.

But their skills come from more than tradition.

The brothers are known more for their work ethic and desire to improve their game. Coaches rave about their thoroughness in improving their game, always looking for ways to get better and to minimize mistakes.

“They try to perfect their craft. I have had the pleasure to coach all three in some capacity and they are always asking the right questions and always looking to improve,” said Coach Chad Utley, the head freshman coach. “They also do a good job of letting mistakes go, not worrying about the past, looking to the next play.”

The brothers also have many similar traits that allow them to succeed as quarterbacks.

“I think all three boys are natural leaders and

good athletes,” said Utley. “They all do a great job of understanding everyone’s role on the offense and do a great job of leading their teams. They are a natural fit for quarterback.”

The position of quarterback can be considered the most important position on the offensive side of the ball. The quarterback is like a conductor of an orchestra. He decides the plays, picks through the defense to find his receivers, throws the passes, fakes the handoffs—in just a matter of seconds. One small mistake, and the defense might end up with the ball.

“The quarterback’s greatest ability is to distribute the ball,” said Head Football Coach Jim Galvin. “[He needs to] get the ball to the open person or the person with the best chance of scoring a touchdown.”

But in the end, the brothers are more about the team than about the glory.

“I enjoy football so much because what you get out is what you put in,” said Mitch Fredrickson. “It’s really rewarding to get to win because it makes all that work seem worthwhile.”

Mitch Fredrickson, 12, Nate Fredrickson, 9, and Joseph Fredrickson, 10, (left to right) say that playing football is part of being a Fredrickson.

photo by Anders Nygaard

Athlete of the Issue Q: How long have you been doing cross-country?

A: I’ve been running since middle school. My first official 5K race was when I was eleven in the New Brighton Fun Run, and got third place.

Q: What made you want to get involved in cross-country?

A: During the mile runs we did in school I always did really well so that made me want to pursue running more.

Q:When did you make the varsity team?

A: I’ve been on the varsity team since eighth grade.

Q: How was your first year of running?

Michael Hoff Junior Varsity Cross-Country

A: It was a little bit intimidating being an eighth grader on a high school varsity team, but as time went on the team warmed up to me and showed their leadership, which made things comfortable for me and made want to further pursue my running.

Q: What advice can you give to those thinking of taking on cross-country?

A: I would tell them to get involved. It is a great sport to get into, and there are a great group of guys all around.

Q: What is the fastest time you’ve run in the 5k?

A: My fastest time is 16:38.

Q: What is one of your favorite things about cross-country?

A: When we go to the White Water camp because it is fun and we get to spend quality time with each other.

Q: What legacy do you hope to leave here at Mounds View?

A: I want to be remembered as having a humble character as a cross-country runner and being one of the encouraging nature.

12gallery

KPOP October 5, 2012

What is your jam?

Oppan Gangam Style! If you have not heard of this phrase, it means you have been living in a cave. “Gangnam Style” is currently one of the most popular songs around the world and belongs to a genre called K-Pop (Korean pop). The word K-Pop itself is mostly a description of the origin of the songs, and includes a variety of style of music such as pop, rap, and rock. The K-Pop songs are famous for their catchy tunes and choreography that attract fans throughout the entertainment world. Although K-Pop is already quite popular among some Mounds View students, “Gangnam Style” has made students become more and more aware of the world of K-Pop. Presented here are a couple well-known K-Pop stars.

PSY

by Akshay Patke managing editor Park Jae-sang (Psy) does not fit the mold of an average K-Pop star; he’s neither not young nor hip, nor does he have have an impressive muscular figure. What he lacks in image, Psy makes up with his raw musical talent and pure swag. Unlike many K-Pop stars, Park studied music in college; he attended both Boston University and Berklee College of Music. Once he earned his degree, Park returned to South Korea and made his debut as a rapper in 2001 with his first album PSY... From the Psycho World.

This album gave Psy some recognition, but it also earned him the title “Bizarre Singer” because his lyrics were blunt and peculiar in comparison to other K-Pop stars at the time. Since then, Psy has released five more albums and has become a Korean idol purely for the fact that everything he does is absolutely absurd yet ingenious. What sets Psy apart from other K-Pop stars is the fact that he is a satirist; Psy deliberately behaves weirdly, as his name Psy or Psychotic implies.

SNSD GEE photos courtesy of www.wonderfulgeneration.net, forums.allkpop.com, www.themusicvideocritic.com, www.unitedkpop.com, theksource.blogspot.com

by Youngjun Park gallery editor The girl group called Girl’s Generation or SNSD, as commonly called by its fans, is famous for mesmerizing the audience with their stage presence. The group consists of nine members: Taeyeon, Jessica, Sunny, Tiffany, Hyoyeon, Yuri, Sooyoung, Yoona, and Seohyun. Since their debut in 2007 with Into the New World, they have produced many hits such as “Gee and Genie”, and have grown popular internationally. By 2011, the group was selected by SISA press as The Most Influential Entertainers in Korea. Their advance to the American world of entertainment began with The Boys, which was released in both Korean and English at the same time.

Co-written by Tiffany, one of the members of the group, and produced by Teddy Riley, who is famous for his work with Michael Jackson, the song served as a benchmark for the group’s career in the US, marking top-30 on the iTunes top selling songs. Not stopping their advance, they have continued to produce many hits in many countries including “Twinkle” and “Paparazzi.” One can only be captivated by their catchy songs, coordinated choreography and the members’ out-of-this-world-looks that continue to attract many fans.