IN EDITORIALS 3
COLLEGE SPORTS
IN FEATURES 5
SUMMER ACTIVITIES
IN SPORTS 10
ONLINE
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Mounds View Baseball Team Update
GIRLS TRACK
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Friday, May 31, 2013
Volume 60, Issue 13
A surplus of victory A year of success for newly formed Econ Team by PHOEBE KE editor-in-chief With its first year, Mounds View Econ Team has managed to earn national rankings in Econ Challenge, Personal Finance Decathlon, and JA (Junior Achievement) Company. Both Econ Challenge and Personal Finance Decathlon teams placed third at national competitions in May. Many other groups within Econ Challenge, Personal Finance Decathlon, JA Titan, and Business Professionals of America (BPA) also placed in regional or state competitions. The success of the team had a firm foundation with its advisor, social studies teacher Martha Rush, and Captain Max Wang, 12, leading the team. Students of all grades joined
the team, and many had a rewarding experience this year. “Joining Econ Team was one of the best decisions I made this year. I participated in Econ Challenge and Personal Finance Decathlon, and we made it to nationals in each one. I also did JA Titan, and that was a lot of fun,” said Emily Ruan, 9. “Don’t feel intimidated about not knowing anything about [economics] at first -- I came in as a freshman not knowing how to draw supply and demand, but studied hard and eventually made it on to our econ team that placed third at nationals.” New programs such as JA Company and BPA were both in the competitions this year. BPA had six top-three finishes at the regional tournament, and the JA Company, Designspire, will be going to Washington
D.C. this summer for the national competition. Like any other entrepreneur, Designspire president Chris Kuehn, 12, faced challenges but also ran a successful business. Even with mishaps, the company pulled through, and he gained insight into the entrepreneurial world. “The thing I learned as president of Designspire was the importance of perseverance, and learning from failures,” Kuehn said. “Junior Achievement has taught me that being a leader is all about inspiration, organization, and collecting people around you more capable than yourself.” Econ team has not only widened students’ prospects of the real world, but also began Mounds View’s domination of economics.
Econ Team 2012-13 Econ Challenge: 1st place State AP division 3rd place Nationals Personal Finance Dicathalon: 1st place State 3rd place Nationals JA Titan: 1st place State JA Company: Designspire named JAUM Company of the Year
Photos courtesy of Minnesota Council for Economic Education
Top: Chris Collins, Emily Ruan, Eric Martin and Alex Jiang compete in Personal Finance quiz bowl. Martin and Jiang discuss the team round.
Science Olympiad:Top of the food chain by MAX WANG editor-in-chief, ‘12-‘13 “Let’s pwn those noobs!” rang the rallying cry of captain Connor Duffy, 12. The Mounds View Science Olympiad team took seventh place at the National Science Olympiad competition this year, the team’s best finish ever at nationals, and capping off arguably the most successful Science Olympiad season in Mounds View history. The team won the state competition in record-setting fashion, scoring an average of second place in every event, and beating the state’s prior record, which was set by Mounds View last year. “Our success was made possible by the unceasing hard work and dedication of our team members and coaches — a top 10 Nationals finish was something our team has dreamt of since its founding, and our determined push this year
finally paid off,” said Duffy. Pulling off such a success required a large amount of dedication. Some describe Science Olympiad as not just an activity, but a “lifestyle.” “It’s so gratifying to walk into the science hallway or Mr. Huberty’s room after school and see people pouring over glacier textbooks, testing gravity vehicles, or conducting flame tests to practice forensics,” said Duffy. Mounds View won a medal in three events at the nationals competition: Krystal Jamison, 10, and Janice Palmer, 11, took sixth in Elastic Launch Glider; Varun Mangalick, 10, and Jon Wang, 10, took third in Designer Genes; and Duffy and Angela Nan, 12, won first in Rocks and Minerals. With only 15 people on the team competing in 23 events, some members on the team had to play a large role. “With five Nationals events, I focused on making
“
I can honestly say that SciOly is my life. I’m already preparing for next year.
-Krystal Jamison, 10
sure I didn’t fail any of them, especially the building events,” said Mitchell Gu, 11. “I set aside lots of weekend time for building and testing the Robot Arm and Maglev, and stayed after school nearly every day to practice for Forestry, Astronomy and Circuit Lab.” For the seniors on the team, it was a fantastic way to finish. “Science Olympiad is a labor of love for all of us. I can’t believe it’s over after four amazing years,” said Duffy.
photo by Phoebe Ke
Krystal Jamison, 10, and Eric Chen, 11, make adjustments to their boomilever.
2editorials TOP
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So, you got a 5? by TRISTAN ASCHITTINO editorials editor
Post-AP relaxation tactics
10EnjoySnoozethe caress of
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a breeze upon your cheek Drink a mango smoothie
8Eat study guides 6
Enjoy a croissant Plot your revenge on the College Board
4
Write a novel expressing your personal philosophies
2
Dwell on all the mistakes you made
Cats
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5
3
Study for finals 2012-2013 Viewer Editors Editor-in-Chief Managing Editors -Design Business Manager News Editorials Features Spread Variety Reviews Sports Gallery
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Phoebe Ke Sasha Safonov Kyoka Millard Nina Bertelson Monica Kemp
Tristan Aschittino Alistair Tang Ryan Yoch Nicole Wahlin Neha Sethi Tommy Sletten Namrata Gadela Matt Voges Maddy Rosenow Molly Hancuh
Rebecca Nara Photographers/Artists Joy Xie, Ben Kaiser, Anders Nygaard, Kevin Lee, Sophie Gorham, Angela Nan, Christian Oswood Adviser Martha Rush
Online Crew
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Staff Nolan Carlson-Stevermer, Alec
Edgett, Jonathan Kim, Mitchell LeMay, Morgan Masters
Outgoing Senior Editors
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The Viewer is published by the student editors at: Mounds View High School 1900 Lake Valentine Rd Arden Hills, Minnesota Sauk Centre Publishing
May 31, 2013
There are many factors to consider when deciding to take an Advanced Placement course; however, the allpowerful exam in May -- which seems to be the predominant focus of many students -- should not be one of the key factors. The real value of AP courses themselves is not that single exam at the end of the year. An entire semester or even an entire year of hard work for a chance, a single day in May, to take one test? It seems as if there is too much emphasis on the exam. While AP classes should prepare students for the exam, of course, they shouldn’t lend their entire focus to one test. Because such classes are structured in the same way as many college classes will be, taking multiple AP classes can be extremely beneficial for college-bound students. The rigor and workload of APs and many college classes are also similar. Having a feel for the academic atmosphere of college before attending is without question advantageous. The College Board mandates a rigid structure and timeline for AP classes. Because of the routine structure and the fast pace, much of the learning for APs happens during student cramming sessions one day prior to unit or chapter tests. While this is a good way to “crack the system” so to speak (which
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Editors Agree
STAFF EDITORIAL 3
is an important skill in secondary and postsecondary education alike), it is an awful way to retain information. This is most often the case for information based classes (those that require the memorization of vast sums of knowledge) like AP European History and AP Biology. Much to the distaste of students, post-AP work is being used by many teachers to work around the rigid college board structure. While no one wants to plunge back into a homeworkintensive schedule after being burned out by AP tests and the rest of a long year, the last weeks of school offer an opportunity to break with the structure and explore topics of interest regardless of whether or not the College Board deems them AP material. Not completely abandoning homework and classwork at the end is essential to prevent the brain atrophy that occurs when the one believes all of the hard work of the year is over. While it is unpopular (it seems students prefer movie-marathons to daily assignments for some reason), it is a good idea. Perhaps, a democratic system for deciding the end of the year topics could be invoked. Students could vote from a list of subject-related topics that interest them. In the last weeks, students could potentially enjoy learning. For example, the College Board decided that AP
Editors Disagree
Biology students did not need to dissect fetal pigs, an experience most students had or will have the chance to partake in. To combat this restriction, Mark Johnson, AP Biology teacher, made pig dissection a post-AP unit. End of the year work also puts more points into the gradebook. While, it is nice to get college credit with an exam, the exam merely presents the chance to get the credit, and if one only slides through a course to take an exam, an entire year of education is spent in vain. The draw of a high stakes test, one with the potential to lessen the toil of college, is apparent, but reaping the real benefits of the class: the college familiarization and preparation and good old-fashioned real learning are far more important. After a narrow focus of study centered only on an AP exam, while a 4 or 5 seems nice, if the material was shallowly learned, it will only cause more problems in the future. If the ability to forego an introductory course is granted when the material has been shabbily learned, college students will have a rough future. In the end getting a 4 or 5 on an AP exam means little if a topic was learned half-heartedly. The AP class should be concerned about teaching students and getting them ready for college, allowing their interest for a certain subject to grow, not covering a standard-list of
Enter the world of Smell-O-Vision by PETER OLSON news editor ‘12-’13 Greetings, my dear children. Bored with your phone? Did Temple Run and Snapchat lose their gleam? Do you have an urge to blow off your life savings on a revolutionary invention? Then fear not, my dearies. I give you the newest and fabulous goodie that will change cell phones forever. I present to you Smell-o-vision, an innovation coming to the iPhone and Android this fall. Being developed overseas, Smell-o-vision will be the must-have addition to phones, allowing you to smell all kinds of odors. What’s that? Sounds silly? My friends, Smell-o-vision has many practical purposes. Suppose you’re watching Rocky IV on your phone. Imagine the smell of sweat emanating from the device. Or how about Texas Chainsaw Massacre? Instead of just witnessing the plethora of blood and gore, your nose can experience the nauseating aroma of rotting corpses and severed limbs, adding a new meaning to the smell of death. Still haven’t appealed to your taste (or smell)? Smell-o-vision goes beyond just movies. If a friend snapchats you a picture of roses and chocolates, you will be able to smell their aroma. In fact, this product will introduce brand new smells to the whole
SATIRE
world. Ever wondered what a text smelled like? With Smell-o-vision, you will answer this crucial question. Perhaps the most important aspect of Smell-o-vision is the new innovations that it will bring about. After the success of this gizmo, others will soon follow. Picture it.
cartoon by Sophie Gorham
Taste-o-vision. Feel-o-vision. Sixth-senseo-vision. Your phone will no longer be just a phone, but rather a vehicle to experience new and whimsical adventures. But do not worry. Senses aren’t our only marketable idea. We have numerous other devices just begging to be developed. Bad hair day? Try our built-in comb. First date? Our candle light-mint dispenser-sexy music attachment has you covered. Locked yourself out of the house?
Your phone will now double as a lock picker (Note: we are not responsible for any lawsuits or injury caused by breaking and entering). However, our proudest invention is “Burning d’em Franklins.” This component will incinerate all money in a two-foot radius, burning a hole in your wallet at a faster rate than spending the money on billions of evanescent apps. Of course, with all these new devices, your phone might not be able to handle it all. We propose removing those obsolete functions, like calling. Honestly, when was the last time you called someone on your phone? It might have been popular 50 years ago, but in this age of progression, calling is just as useless as Internet Explorer. We are always asked the question: why? Why spend millions of dollars turning phones into miniature Inspector Gadgets, when they could be used to fund research into cures for diseases or help feed starving people? Surely proving vital nutrients to the starving people of the world doesn’t hold a candle to temporarily satisfying our olfactory receptors. So children, do you now see the wonder of Smell-o-vision? Besides providing unique experiences, it is the start of a trend that will introduce a whole line of whimsical gizmos sure to leave an
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.
editorials
May 31, 2013
Shoot for the paycheck
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College athletics have become centered on profit not play by DAVID LIU sports editor, ‘12-’13 Sport. Competition. The concept of pitting yourself against another. The idea that hard work and practice trump all. The dream that the sweat, blood, and tears will pay off someday. But the ideals of amateur competition, one that revolves around passion and not money and fame, are becoming more and more tainted. College athletics were created as an addition to higher education. The National Collegiate Athletic Association, or the NCAA, was established to regulate college athletics and ensure that athletic contests reflect the “dignity and high purpose of education.” However, the atmosphere that centers the university around the sports, not the sports around the university, has evolved. The impact of this new environment reaches farther than the athletic department. Firstly, and most importantly, college athletics has deviated from its original role. The most blatant change can be seen in the NCAA and how it has moved away from its founding ideals. It no longer promotes higher education. The idea that they maintain an academic standard is rather comical, and the fact that refer to all athletes as “student-athletes” is rather ironic. In fact, only 54 percent of Division I-A football players and 44 percent of Division I basketball players graduate. Additionally, maintaining athletic departments has become more and more a game about money. A recent Deadspin infographic showed that the highest-paid active public employees in each state include 27 football coaches, 13 basketball coaches, and one hockey coach. Last year in Minnesota, the
highest paid public employee was the University of Minnesota Men’s Basketball Head Coach, Tubby Smith. On top of all that, the costs of maintaining the multi-million dollar stadiums and training facilities are being trickled down to the everyday students. According to data from 2011-2012, athletic departments at 99 major schools lost an average of $5 million once you factored out “student fees”money that comes out of students’ own pockets-and “university subsidies.” Then if you remove “contributions and donations”-- money that could be delegated to academic pursuits-- schools lose an average of $17 million. The only team that remains in the black is Army (United States Military Academy at West Point). Secondly, the admissions process is becoming more and more flawed because of the athletic departments. In a recent Time Magazine article, Fareed Zakaria says that “the single largest deviation from merit in America’s best colleges” is “their recruited-athletes programs.” And this problem has only grown and gotten worse in the last 20 years. The biggest issue is that colleges are often dropping their standards in order to build up their sports rosters. Many of these recruited athletes often do not meet the academic standards of the university. In turn, these “student-athletes” usually then proceed to do poorly in the classroom. Zakaria’s article also quotes a senior admissions officer at an Ivy League schools saying, “I have to turn down hundreds of highly qualified applicants...because we must take so many recruited athletes who are narrowly focused and less accomplished otherwise. They are gladiators, really.”
cartoon by Sophie Gorham
All in all, the system is broken. Granted, a good athletic department brings some publicity and rejuvenates the alumni network. But at what cost? Do students really need to be paying extra “activity fees” on top of their already exorbitant tuition prices, just to fund sports they’ll never be a part of? Why are donations and contributions being diverted away from education? The last redeeming feature of the American education system is the academic strength of our colleges and universities. Let’s keep education first.
Success in sarcasm
How to properly use the most important component of English by SASHA SAFONOV managing editor
SATIRE
Hyperbole, cliche, profanity. Sarcasm. People use a broad spectrum of devices to place emphasis on a certain point. These devices thrive from their moderate use, as to not diminish their quality to emphasize, bringing a sentence out of the ordinary. Unfortunately, the nation suffers from a sarcasm deficiency of sorts, as in one can never have enough sarcasm. As far as I’m concerned, every sentence is an opportunity to be sarcastic. Looking at the way other people act, I am not alone. Wow, that was so cool! Nice one! You must be so proud! Once a clever, ironic message meant to poke fun at (originating in the English language in 1579 with Edmund Spenser’s “The Shepardes Calender”), sarcasm has been upgraded in modern verbal speaking to “say something in an horribly irritating and flat tone, and people will enjoy it.” It becomes immediately apparent that the less intelligent the sarcastic remark, the greater emotional
Editor opinions What your Viewer editors think of various issues.
response that it produces. After all, the more mocking and jeering that is done, the more friends you’ll have! It is so well liked that it has gotten its own month, in October, known as Sarcasm Awareness Month. Verbal sarcasm is a very fine art, and can readily establish the personalities, especially during first encounters. Want to be perceived as the hip, snarky, snivelling annoyance? Then sarcasm’s perfect for you! Practice makes perfect. The more you demonstrate sarcasm, the better it will be, and the bigger impact it will have on the same strain of people you interact with everyday. Quick sarcastic remarks never fail to impress. Do enough and you will be showered by compliments such as “smart aleck,” or “pretentious punk.” The deceit is that it requires little thought! The introduction of the internet brought along the increased amount of sarcasm by text. Such biting remarks flood Facebook walls and Twitter posts, misguiding those not worthy of understanding your ill-conceived sense of humor while managing to
“People who think Bridesmaids or Pitch Perfect might be the new Mean Girls need to realize they don’t even go here.” - James Birr online editor
“Sneezing on someone is like giving them a part of yourself.”
- Neha Sethi spread editor
entertain those that understand it as much as if they heard you say it. Finally, one of the most applicable uses of sarcasm is the passive-aggressive stick it to the man. It is the easiest and most commonly used way of talking back to an authority figure-- a sure fire way to lose your job or get an ear flick or two. Way to show them who’s boss! Bottomline-- sarcasm is GREAT and applicable in absolutely every situation! Once used mostly by the likes of Mark Twain and Oscar Wilde to say things of substance, it now seems like everybody wants to show a level of intellectual skill in minor nuances. The abundance of sarcasm today provides an equal level of enjoyment, particularly the self-lavishing of the sarcastic person. After all, isn’t quantity better than quality?
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4features The behind stars
May 31, 2013
STRIPES
THE STATS ON S.T.R.I.P.E.S
• S.T.R.I.P.E.S.
• • •
stands for Students Together Respecting the Importance of Education in School S.T.R.I.P.E.S. was started in Irondale in 2008. The Mounds View program started this year. Mental Karate is a program that S.T.R.I.P.E.S. uses to help students set goals and selfassess.
David Braun, 11, plays guitar during passing time.
photo by Ben Kaiser
Sims remembers leaving his father by MAX WANG when he was young, running out of his editor-in-chief, ‘12-’13 home with his mother and two older Senior Achidi Oketch had his doubts brothers. at first. Sure, his friend had told him that it “We went to our family’s station was a good program -- but how would this Sims running track wagon, trying to leave my father. He be anything different than what he’d came out, punched a hole in the window, during high school. seen before? said, ‘You think you guys are going to photo courtesy of “I want to see what this guy leave me? Get the hell back upstairs.’” Marvin Sims brings to the table,” said Oketch. Two weeks later, they tried to leave It turns out that S.T.R.I.P.E.S., a again, this time while their father was program run by Irondale Dean Marvin sleeping. “We ended up moving to Apple Sims, had a lot to offer, a lot more than he Valley. That’s where my life began.” “Mr. Sims showed had expected. Sims instantly discovered his talent me that he’s doing Oketch had a rocky start when he aras an athlete, though his father would more than his job, you rived at Mounds View as a freshman. have disapproved. know. He really wants “I had just moved here, and my parents “I ended up signing up for football to see us succeed, had split,” he said. “I just didn’t set my at Valley View Middle School. First and that’s what really mind to it. I wasn’t really concrete with time I ever touched a football on a stood out to me.” school, and my biggest issue was not doing punt-return, I went 60 yards for a -Achidi Oketch [homework]. It eventually became habitual. touchdown. They called it back,” said I just never did homework.” Achidi Oketch builds Sims. “So I went 70 yards for a touchHis early years in high school were down. [They] brought it back again, and his strength. filled with football and dancing with his I went 80 yards for a touchdown. I knew photo by Ben Kaiser dance crew, MARV3L Squad. But his I had something special.” grades were slipping, homework took a “When we saw Apple Valley at Pony “He told me, ‘You’re backseat, and he had yet to reconcile with not going to do Relays, he [Sims] would anchor the his parents. [anything] with your relays. There would be no way we were “I kept blaming the fact on my parents, life with grades like going to win,” recalled Ross Fleming, [I thought they were] the source of my this.’ He laid into Mounds View’s head track coach. “He problems. It really took up until my junior me like my dad was the most dominant sprinter on the year to really let it go, to finally release should’ve laid into most dominant track team in the state. everything that I bottled in,” said Oketch. “I me, but my dad was He just ran with such power.” realized, wow, I let something that was out never there, so when But Sims’ grades brought him of my hands control how I could be sucI left his office, I’m trouble. In particular, he remembers one cessful in my life.” sitting outside like, encounter at the start of his freshman Oketch credits S.T.R.I.P.E.S. with ‘Man, I can’t believe year that made him reconsider his athelping him change his attitude. Though he spoke to me like titude toward school. Oketch has participated in that.’ But I respected “My [football] coach brought me similar programs with the guy.” aside, and he said, ‘What are you gosimilar goals, he really - Marvin Sims ing to do with your life?’ At that time, hasn’t felt the same conI thought I was gonna go on and be a nection until he joined S.T.R.I.P.E.S. plumber or electrician, I had my life “Mr. Sims showed me that he’s doing already figured out,” said Sims. more than his job, you know. He really However, Sims’ coach thought difwants to see us succeed, and that’s what ferently. “He told me, ‘You’re not going “Most the people in really stood out to me, like, this guy really STRIPES, the reason to do [anything] with your life with cares what we want to do with our future,” grades like this.’ He laid into me like my that they’re in there, said Oketch. “I don’t want people to think that we’re in there, is dad should’ve laid into me, but my dad S.T.R.I.P.E.S. is a program where you just was never there, so when I left his office, that we’re all having join. It affects you outside S.T.R.I.P.E.S.; troubles in our lives. I’m sitting outside like, ‘Man, I can’t it makes you want to go out and do stuff And with better believe he spoke to me like that.’ But I but also go out and meet new people, build schooling, we hope to respected the guy.” new connections with people, the need to achieve better living Sims created the S.T.R.I.P.E.S. succeed.” at home.” program so that he could help students S.T.R.I.P.E.S. is a brotherhood meant - David Braun in the same way that his coaches helped to support students through the difficulhim. By believing in students, by telling ties of school and life. Originally started at JP Akwa, 12, shows off them that they can do it, and by showing Irondale, a Mounds View version started his dancing. them the opportunities that education this year. Members meet twice photo by Anders Nygaard brings, he can put them on the right a week to make, discuss, Congratulations Anna! track for the future. and self-assess Class of 2013 S.T.R.I.P.E.S. member David goals. www.lmjoriginals.com Braun, 11, is known for carrying Some programs that the his guitar around school, strapped around his group is involved in are Mental backpack, like a wayward street musician. Karate and Career Coaches. Mental Braun hopes to be a biochemical nanotechniKarate is a leadership and motivation cian one day, a goal that he hopes S.T.R.I.P.E.S. program developed by Harvard graduate will help him achieve. and Sudanese refugee Mawi Asgedom. Career He hopes to use his skills to heal others, like Coaches organizes parents and those in the comhis aunt, who recently died of lung cancer. munity to come speak about their jobs and how “Most the people in STRIPES, the reason that they have reached their goals. they’re in there, that we’re in there, is that we’re Ultimately, the group is grounded in the belief that all having troubles in our lives,” said Braun. “And education is the great equalizer - -a promise that Sims ADVERTISEMENT with better schooling, we hope to achieve better has seen fulfilled in his life. living at home.”
features
May 31, 2013
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Summer: So much more than vacation by PHOEBE KE editor-in-chief As the end of the school year nears, students anticipate the last bell, and the start of summer. Many are already planning their summers, filled with trips, sports, programs, and time to relax. In the past, Mounds View students have participated in activities that make their summer truly unique. There are many different things students can do over the summer to learn more, see more things, or to gain more experience in certain fields. Varun Mangalick, 10, attended Northwestern University’s Center for Talented Development last year to take a chemistry course. Mangalick took it because the courses offered there were comparable to an AP class, and he could receive credit for it. Though many students take AP courses, this course was different. A full-year course was condensed into three weeks; it flew by. “I wasn’t sure how much I had retained from our short, whirlwind course path. However, when our final was National Chemistry Olympiad problems and I knew most of them, I realized how far we had gone,” said Mangalick. Mangalick recommends this course over a community college because of the overall learning material and experience, though the tuition is pricey. He hopes to continue his learning experiences this summer with research oriented programs. Connor Duffy, 12, attended the six-week long, cost-free Research Science Institute (RSI) at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) last summer. With only “80 of the world’s most accomplished high school students,” students “experience the entire research cycle from start to finish.” Duffy had the opportunity “to work alongside top-notch scientists on cutting-edge research,” he said. During “the best six weeks” he’s ever had, Duffy was able to experience many things far beyond the
New Ways to Enjoy Summer • Take a class for school credit • Apply for research at a University • Go on a mission trip
typical high school junior does. He was able to work under an MIT professor on a bioengineering project, had access to the laboratory and the rest of the university, and was surrounded by mentors, tutors, TAs, and counselors to help him through the research process. Duffy met many successful scientists such as Nobel laureates and learned how to be a successful researcher. Also, he was able to explore Boston during his stay. On top of the research, he was able to “gain a wider worldview that extends beyond the bubble of [his] high school or town,” said Duffy. Research aside, the social aspect is what Duffy enjoyed the most. With their mutual interest, Duffy and members of RSI have become lifelong friends. For many, RSI is where they have truly felt at home, where they have found their place of belonging. “I can personally say that the people at RSI are some of the most amazing, intelligent, friendly people I have ever met. I consider many of them my best friends, and we all keep in regular contact,” said Duffy. At the end of the program, Duffy wrapped up his RSI experience with a presentation of his research findings. He said, “There’s nothing quite like that proud feeling of having created new scientific knowledge, and sharing it with the people you
have come to know so well over an unforgettable summer.” Christian Oswood, 11, went to Iringa, Tanzania last summer for a missions trip. Through his church, people from Tanzania came to Minnesota to visit, and so Oswood’s family decided to go visit Tanzania. On the trip, Oswood did help with service in the area, such as chopping bamboo, but mostly the trip was talking to people, and visiting a church and their parishes. He and his family also went on a short safari near the end of the trip. Before arriving in Tanzania, Oswood had a certain impression of it but when he got there, he was pleasantly surprised. “It was better than I expected. In some of the houses we stopped in, they had lots of comfy furniture. We stopped in one house that wasn’t done being built yet and people were living it. Because there are no loans there, people build their houses as they go, so they’ll put the roof on when they have the money. So they add stuff one room at a time,” he said. The connections Oswood made allowed him to realize the differences and similarities between his life and the lives of those in Tanzania. He noticed many things while staying over at another family’s house. “It was interesting to see how they lived, because this was a former Danish mission where the guy was living, so it was more a European-style house. It was interesting to see how similar it was in some ways.” From this trip, Oswood overcame the language barrier to invaluable lessons.“We had some college boys who hung out with us to help translate, but we were still able to get our message across even though we didn’t share a language,” he said. “People can be happy with whatever they have, no matter what they have.” Whether students’ summer plans are gaining knowledge, helping others, or working, summer is a fun time to experience something new.
An easy way to make a difference Students are coming together to help the community by NICOLE WAHLIN features editor By raising $300 in just 30 minutes, Youth Impact, a student-run charity, has demonstrated its ability to bring students together for a good cause. And they did it while eating popcorn. Youth Impact’s goal is laid out in its mission statement on Facebook and Twitter: “Through service projects and group donations, Youth Impact is committed to bringing a generation together to work for a better world. Youth Impact’s goal is to raise awareness in the community and provide aid for people in need.” These goals were created by a group of 14 freshmen, sophomores, and juniors from Roseville, TotinoGrace, and Mounds View. These students make up the board of directors, and have met nearly every week for the past six months to build the organization into what it is today. “We are truly committed to creating something here to help people,” said board member Danny DeWitt, 10. Four “donation” meetings will take place each year, with volunteer opportunities occurring periodically in between. The first donation meeting took place at Peace United Methodist Church (though the organization is not religiously affiliated) on Sunday, May 19. The meeting was kept short, only 45 minutes with regular breaks for socializing and snacks.
“By having short meetings it keeps things fresh while still allowing major tasks to be completed,” said board member Logan Maccani, 10. Students are asked to donate $10 each upon check-in. The student then receives a slip of paper which will be used later to vote for the charity they think most deserves the money. The leaders waited a short time to start the meeting, giving everyone a chance to get a glass of lemonade or play a game of foosball. After a short introduction was given about the charity and its mission, the voting process began. Gerritt Deiters, 10, Ryan Yoch, 10, and Roseville freshman Amanda Baden, each pitched a charity to the group. Students who attended the meeting were then able to walk around the room and ask questions of Deiters, Yoch, or Baden. By using the paper given to them at check-in, attendees voted for the charity they liked best. The charities presented were Solid Ground, Youth Link, and STAND. Solid Ground is a charity that provides jobs and affordable housing to those in need. Committed to ending poverty, Youth Link is a group that aids and educates homeless youth. STAND is a student-run organization that helps genocide victims around the world. All three charities have local ties. After the voting period, which
included more socializing and popcorn eating, the ballots were counted and the winning charity was announced. Solid Ground won the votes of the majority and was granted the $300 donation. In addition to raising a large sum of money in a short time, Youth Impact’s first meeting left a lasting impression on its new members. “I really learned a lot in the first meeting,” said Troy Ito, 10. “I could tell that a difference was being made.” Even though the next donation meeting won’t take place until the fall, those interested can join the group on Facebook or follow @YouthImpactMN on Twitter to learn more information about summer volunteering opportunities. “These projects won’t bore you,” said board member Kathleen Leuty, 10, from Totino Grace. “Through activities like giving sandwiches to the homeless, you can actually look into the eyes of the people you are helping.” Raising money, helping the community, and having fun. With a promising start, Youth Impact is a great choice for anyone seeking to make the world a better place-- both locally and internationally.
Youth Impact has four donation meetings a year Meetings held at Peace United Methodist Church, 5050 Hodgson in Shoreview Service projects are also planned. For more info, Twitter: @YouthImpactMN photo by Nicole Wahlin
A Whole Ne JMA
Øystein Skogvold, Norway
“In Europe, the stereotypical American is [viewed as] ignorant, ultra Christian, and obese person,” said Øystein Skogvold, 12. Contrary to the stereotype, Skogvold has found people to be polite, and much more extroverted than Norwegians. In Norway, the school system includes much more freedom. School starts at 8:30. There are two hour breaks twice a week, no homework, and 45-minute lunch breaks are open for students to eat wherever they please. “In Norway, if you tell the teacher you are going to the bathroom you are going to get weird looks. You just stand up and go,” said Skogvold. Skogvold will miss the school spirit and sports. Once he leaves, he suspects that he will miss the cheaper, “more fat and greasy” food that he likes so much. A highlight of the exchange program experience has been meeting new people from all around the world. Now, when traveling, Skogvold can meet up with a few friends wherever he goes.
Sometimes it’s the little things that we miss most. For Lea Tullmyn, 12, being away from home has her craving the one of a kind German bread. “I most miss from Germany [the] good whole grain bread-- not like the toast here,” said Tullmyn. Through the experience, Tullmyn noticed herself becoming more confident. To her surprise, she found that she missed her brother. Tullmyn misses her family and friends in Germany, but will also miss her host family and new friends that she made here, not knowing when she will be able to see them again. “My experience was life changing because I now have two families and know two different ways of life. I’m going to bring home all my memories and Lea Tullmyn, Germany maybe I can even make my German family a little bit American, as I showed my American family some German tradition,” said Tullmyn.
Méline Provost, France
We’ve all wondered at some point what it would be like to go on a year long vacation, to leave our friends and family to experience a whole new culture and way of life. Ten exchange students at Mounds View have had the opportunity to do exactly that. Each exchange student has their own reasons for coming to the United States -- whether it be to learn the language, experience the culture or beef up their resumes. Going through the long interviews and tests to be able to participate in an exchange program to the United States had paid off for them. Part of the reason for all the work comes with being assigned a host family. Students have no say in where they end up, but prospective host parents can view the constant flow of information. For many, getting good host parents can be tricky. Some exchange students have to switch homes two or three times before finding a happy home.
Many students are looking forward to spring after the long, cold winter but, Méline Provost, 12, is going to miss winter. “I will miss the snow because we don’t have snow in France,” said Provost. While being in Minnesota, she has missed indulging in exquisite French bread and cheese. Having been so immersed in American language and culture, often times while talking to her parents, she notices that she switches from speaking French to English and vice versa. When Provost returns to France, she looks forward “to show how I have improved my English compared with other [students],” said Provost. While excited for her upcoming days of glory, Provost will miss the generosity of people here. “The people are kind and sweet, they take care of you,” said Provost.
In her first days at Mounds View, Julie Beaugé, 12, was bemused by the casualness in the school environment. “In France, at school, everyone is wearing jeans and a nice shirt. Here I was surprised at the beginning because everyone wears sweat pants and sweater,” said Beaugé. A highlight of her time here was being able to practice track everyday, as sports in French schools, are not an everyday luxury. As she reflects on her
time here, Beaugé realizes how much she has learned. “French people don’t really care about the lyrics of the songs when it is in English or another language because we cannot understand anything, but now when I’m listening [to] an English song I’m like, yeah, I can understand what he is singing,” said Beaugé.
Julie Beaugé, France
Antoine Vaxelaire, France
The decision to become an exchange student for Antoine Vaxelaire, 12, was a result of his sister. His older sister had spent a year in Germany, becoming fluent in the language. Vaxelaire had always dreamed of living in America. Not knowing if he will always live in France, he decided to try it out for a year. “It is helpful for later when I want to get a job here I can say America is a great,” said Vaxelaire. He is aware to all the unknowns that surround him as he prepares himself to return home. It is difficult to pinpoint how one has changed until you go back to the people who knew you best. For Vaxelaire, this is precisely the case, as he wonders
Stories written by Namrata Gadela, variety editor, and Monica Kemp, news editor
whether he has matured compared to his old friends. Having not left America, Vaxelaire doesn’t quite know everything that he will miss. Except for one thing. “I will miss the people of course,” said Vaxelaire. He feels that by gaining a greater mastery of the English language, he has overcome his fear of traveling. “I want to travel a lot now. I’m not afraid because I can speak English,” said Vaxelaire.
ew World Everything, from their homes to their schools, is different. “In Russia, we say everything you see is through pink glasses. Everything. It doesn’t matter if its good or bad, you think it’s awesome,”said Yevgeniy Pozdeyev, 12. It is only after a month or two that reality sets in. They are forced to become independent, among people who don’t know them very well, and their close friends and family miles away. They relish the fact that they have each other to be able to get through many similar quandaries. “It’s really, really difficult but well worth it,” said Pozdeyev. As they prepare for home, many are reminded of the cultural shocks that they incurred on their arrival and the even bigger struggle of going back to what used to be their norm. In the meantime, they shared with us their impressions, experiences, and all that they have learned.
Bakhmal Odibekova, Tajikistan
A student eager to go to school seems as common as a diamond. Yet the cultural change brings out of Tajikistan exchange student Bakhmal Odibekova, 12, what many might think to be impossible -- enjoying school. “This is a great opportunity for me. I [get to] choose the subject that will be useful for my future, like business management and personal finance, how to be successful and how to use my money in a good way,” said Odibekova. She finds a memorable part of the school to be the teachers. “The teachers are great, they really want to teach us...[they] talk to you like they are your friends. They always give you a chance to take test corrections,” said Odibekova. One of the things she misses the most about Tajikistan is her language. “There is like no one who can talk to you in your language and it’s really hard. It is a lot easier to express yourself in your own language,” said Odibekova. She has mixed feeling of heading home, because of all that she has learned here. “I learned to be more mature and my outlook is bigger. I also learned that I can get up at 5:30 a.m. for the bus as to not miss it,” said Odibekova.
A common struggle for exchange students is gaining a lot of responsibility. For Lukša Dohodil, 12, the lesson of responsibility came in the form of laundry. “[My] big life change was I must wash my clothes and put it together alone. It was big drama, every time,” said Dohodil. He now sees his country in a new way. “I see it much smaller than I thought it is. Many people have no idea where Czech Republic is,” said Dohodil. Remembering his time in Europe, he understands the mutuality of ignorance. “If you speak with European people and ask them for some states in USA, they will have no idea,” said Dohodil. He remembers one time, when somebody asked him if there were really cars in Czech Republic. “I said no, we are driving horses,” said Dohodil.
Yevgeniy Pozdeyev, Russia
Like many exchange students, Agin Erden, 10, misses her family and friends. But the contrast in culture has made it well worth the experience. “I like [to] live [a] different life with different people, being [in a] different situation, and doing different things.” Erden observed that students in Turkey don’t have jobs, while in the United States they do. Education and healthcare in Turkey is nearly free of charge, and public transportation is a common
Lukša Dohodil, Czech Republic
When most people think of a sauna, normally swimming in ice isn’t the first thing to come to mind. In Russia, a “bana is like a sauna but 1000 times better. Only in Russia when we got to sauna or bana we go swimming in snow or in ice... I miss it so much,” said Yevgeniy Pozdeyez, 12. But what Pozdeyev misses in bana is made up for in friends. “It’s a little different from here because here when you go somewhere you go with big company and you pretty much know everybody but don’t know everybody as close. Like in Russia I had three or four best friends and I know them probably even better than myself cause I’ve known them for a long time,” said Pozdeyev. Of course, all his new friends will be missed. Pozdyev’s brother was an exchange student as well. “Now he has started skyping me more and preparing me to come back because it will be another cultural shock,” said Pozdeyev.
luxury. For the most part, people can walk whether it be to the shopping center or work. Erden feels that by having the chance to live in an environment that differs so much from what she is used to has helped her “understand the world and different people so for future I can make decisions more objective and understand other people [better],” said Erden.
Agin Erden, Turkey
Sabrina Freund, Austria
Like any other high school student far from home, Sabrina Freund, 11, misses her friends, family-- and public transportation? “In Vienna there is a bus stop a few minutes away from my house. I can reach the underground with it, from where I can go anywhere in the city,” said Freund. Different from here, where many people are dependent on their parents for rides if they don’t have a car. “So I have the feeling you can do less things because of course you don’t want them [your parents] to be stressed and give you a ride every time. It is just that you feel a little bit more independent if you have the possibility to go to places on your own by taking public transportation,” said Freund.
photos by Ben Kaiser and Anders Nygaard
The experience has taught her how to “live by myself, how to do things on my own, how to find my way in the world, and it has helped my English improve,” said Freund. We might call it lost in translation, but a little misunderstanding has created a lot of comedic moments for Freund while in United States. “People ask me if I live in the place with kangaroos when I tell them I’m from Austria. Then I say, ‘No, that’s Australia.’”
8 variety
May 31, 2013
Start summer with a Northern Spark
by NAMRATA GADELA variety editor A unique way to spend a summer Saturday night, Northern Spark is an exhilarating event in Lowertown St. Paul on June 8. An all night event, a plethora of artists from around the country have projects set up around St. Paul. With over 100 new projects filled with originality and creativity, there is no way anyone can be bored. The best part is it is all free. Travel with friends or family, pick a route and see
the city. Travel on foot, by bike, or take advantage of the free metro transit available. Cyclists can also take part in Nice Ride, a bike share system. Pay $6 and rent a bike to travel with, then simply return it to any one of the bike stations set up around the event. Start the evening off at Union Depot for Mayda’s concert, a music-enriched beginning. Besides various art projects, there are other events as well. Be astonished by a dazzling display of dance; Ananya Dance Theater is performing a Dance of a Thousand Water Dreams about water in different cosmologies.
If the stars outside are not interesting enough, Bell Museum is sponsoring a exploradome exhibit. Check out the do-it-yourself activities and get creative. Ready to hurtle to space? Head to the Astronaut Training Academy at Union Depot Plaza. Not sure which of these events to see? There are a few themed routes, and the My Night tool is available to assemble a list of projects one wants to see. Northern Sparks has something for everybody, and it offers a fresh experience that caters to whatever your interests are.
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When school is out, and you’re looking for a weekend full of eclectic exhibits, head over to the Stone Arch Bridge Festival in Minneapolis, June 14-16. Many different works of art from both local and national artists, ranging from drawings to ceramics to jewelry to photography to scrumptious treats, will be displayed. Throughout the weekend, many musical groups will be showcased, giving frequent concerts from local musicians. Families are welcome, and can
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Celebrate culture at Stone Arch Bridge Festival by PHOEBE KE editor-in-chief
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experience art in many forms such as a birdhouse building, face painting, or caricatures. Not only can people go to the festival for a good time, but it is a good way to celebrate Father’s Day. A collection of classic, imported, and restored cars would make a father’s day that much better. So go out and enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells of the Mississippi Riverfront.
A Jazzy June at the Twin Cities Jazz Festival by KYOKA MILLARD design managing editor For all music lovers enamoured by vibrant displays of music and warm summer weather, the Twin Cities Jazz Festival is the perfect match. The largest jazz festival in Minnesota is back, marking its 15 year milestone. From June 27-29 in Mears Park (St. Paul), legendary jazz musician Cyrus Chestnut will conduct his famously energetic performances alongside many other artists. These other headliners, which
include Kenny Werner, Matt Slocum, and Walter Smith III, will combine forces on several occasions during the festival. Although many will be performing at the main stage in Mears Park, other locations will also be occupied by the spirited sound of jazz, including the Saint Paul Hotel and the Black Dog Café in St. Paul. The Twin Cities Jazz Festival, full of liveliness and creativity, is an annual event that brings a fresh soul to the state of Minnesota. Whether a musical virtuoso or simply a curious visitor, the festival’s energy is sure to captivate the soul of anyone.
Orphic odes by MATTHEW VOGES reviews editor, ‘12-’13 Most music of the high art caliber relies almost entirely upon some sort of transcendental instrumental, yet on occasion poetry melds flawlessly with melody to create something uniquely comprehensive. In few places is this blend better realized than the traditional genre of American folk music. Quintessential examples include Leonard Cohen and Bob Dylan. Now, The Handsome Family has made a highly successful attempt to follow in this tradition with their new album Wilderness. The band consists of Brett and Rennie Sparks, a husband and wife team based in New Mexico, which employs a certain division of labor to achieve their particular effect. Basically, Rennie writes the lyrics and Brett brings them to life as the songwriter. They also employ an eclectic mix of instruments ranging from the archetypal folk banjo to mandolins and electric guitars. None of this variety takes away from the nostalgic, provincial flavor expected of the genre. The album’s tone rises in immediacy from a harmonic ethereality in “Flies”
to the dark sublimity of “Octopus,” which combines existential crises and a euphemistic, upbeat melody and the cryptic intensity of “Caterpillars” and “Glow Worm.” It really isn’t a cheery album, but towards the end Wilderness settles down into a sleepy serenity. It would be a disservice not to mention the lyrics’ poignancy. Though each song is named after a single animal, the stories told are actually about things like Mary the Window Smasher and the death of General Custer. The historic context is interlaced with vivid imagery and stimulating motifs, each relating to the influences of nature in some way or another. Imperfections arise on the few occasions that the lyrics do not quite live up to the music, or the music to the lyrics. For those interested in either a simple narrative or a particular emotional setting, this isn’t it. This music’s purpose reflects traditional Chinese Shanshui poetry, containing both poem and landscape, and Wilderness should be explored in this light.
9/10
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Imagine a world that just like our own, yet different. The streets, the trees, the oceans all the same. However, it is not a parallel universe. This twinned world exists right above our own with inverted gravity, and only those of the highest class inhabit it. This is the cringe-worthy premise of Juan Diego Solanas’ romantic sci-fi wreck, Upside Down (Yes, that is it’s actual name). The film follows the story of the “seemingly-ordinary” Adam (Jim Sturgess), a poor member of the right-side up world, in his cliche romantic pursuit of a girl from the upper world, Eden (Kirsten Dunst). Against all odds, Adam struggles for his love. From a description, Upside Down sounds ridiculous and much like every other movie ever created. That’s because it is. There is not a even single second of anything even mildly entertaining about this movie. Adam is as dry and generic a male protagonist can get. The
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Star-crossed by AKSHAY PATKE managing editor, ‘12-’13
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May 31, 2013
only facet of his character is his love for Eden. The idea of a twin world with inverted gravity sounds ridiculous, but if done correctly could make for interesting film; however, Solanas did everything he could possibly do wrong. Rather than bringing new ideas to the table to allow his radical premise to flourish, he decided to drown it in a vast sea of cliche. Starcrossed lovers? That’s an interesting idea that has never been done before. Except in Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet and just about every other romance to come after. The worst part is that the movie gives the viewer little reason to even care about the character’s struggle. Near the beginning of the movie, Adam is shot for interacting with Eden. Adam instantly releases Eden and she is pulled by the gravity of the upper world. As Adam begins to faint from his shot, he watches blood spread around Eden’s body. Though it may sound heartbreaking, in the context of
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The future of music RAM isn’t without its missteps however. The album has a tendency to get too ambitious, like when it tries to move away from danceable fare to progrocky torch songs like “The Game of Love,” which sounds like a rejected demo from 808s and Heartbreak, and not in a good way. Daft Punk also attempts some sprawling, diverse compositions to mixed success. The awesome 9-minute “Georgio By Moroder” is the best track on the album, featuring easily one of the greatest drops of all time, as well as a string orchestra, a guitar solo, and a drum breakdown that sounds like it was performed by Animal from the Muppets. “Touch” attempts a similar grand bombast, but instead falls into overblown schlock. With Random Access Memories, Daft Punk has reached a creative milestone; an overindulgent, decadent masterpiece in the tradition of Kanye West’s My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy. It tries to do far too much, and succeeds at more of it than it has any right to.
by DAVID GONZALEZ-DYSINGER editorials editor, ‘12-’13 Electronic music has a tendency to skew towards the cold and robotic. Daft Punk is a prime example of this, as their main gimmick consists of actually dressing like robots. Thus, Random Access Memories, with its live instruments and warm funk/ disco influence, is a revolutionary album regardless of whether it actually is good or not. And it is very good. Most of the hype has focused on the lead single “Get Lucky,” an infectious piece of throwback disco cheese featuring the infectiously cheesy Pharrell Williams, who has thankfully abandoned his wannabe thug persona from his days with the Neptunes. As good of a song as “Get Lucky” is, it is dwarfed by the other Pharrell collaboration, “Lose Yourself to Dance,” a massive track that will undoubtedly dominate dancefloors across America as if the ’70s never left. Both of these songs feature Nile Rodgers, guitarist of disco band Chic, who provides some irresistibly funky riffs.
the film it isn’t. The love between Adam and Eden is random, unexplained, and was not nearly impactful enough to be considered love at first sight. The nonsensical romance makes it extremely difficult for the viewer to even connect to the movie. The rest of film is simply a repetition of cliched scenes like this. Even the stunningly gorgeous CGI used to illustrate the upper world could not even salvage this wreck. The shots of flipped skyscrapers were appealing to the eye, but once again it’s something that’s done been before in many significantly better films such as Inception. The movie cannot even serve as a comedy as any viewer will only be able to enjoy this film while banging their head against the seat in front of them. If you ever find yourself in a theater watching Upside Down, run out immediately and buy tickets to Star Trek.
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10sports
May 31, 2013
Sharon Swallen coaches her varsity team against Champlin Park last fall.
courtesy of Ann Nash Photography
15 years of success Girls soccer coach Sharon Swallen leaves program to focus on family by Mitchell Lemay and Joe Janey staff reporter and online sports editor A strong program is built from the ground up. A foundation must be created and that all starts with the coaching. One such foundation, Sharon Swallen, Mounds View’s girls soccer head coach since 2000, will be resigning this year with no shortage of accomplishments. As with any journey, Swallen’s coaching career at Mounds View began with a rocky start. “My first few years of coaching were extremely challenging,” said Swallen. 2000, Swallen’s first season, only saw five victories for the Mustangs. “After that season, it became my goal to build a more competitive soccer program at Mounds View High School. It started with having high expectations and standards, including pre-season fitness testing to hold players accountable for their training prior to the season,” said Swallen. Her expectations brought the beginning of a dynasty. For the next 11 years, Mounds View girls soccer reached the Section final every year and qualified for state seven of those years. In only her second year as head coach in 2001 the
Mustangs found themselves with their back against the wall. After busting through the state bracket, they were set to face White Bear Lake in the championship. White Bear was heavily favored to take the championship, but all the Mustangs’ hard offseason work paid off. The girls upset the Bears in one of the greatest games in their history. Greatness followed the team from this point on. As the players came and went, one thing was consistent -- winning. Swallen had now created the program she had wanted since she first received the gig as head fall coach. Three years ago the team came close to another state title. They finished 3rd overall in the 2010 state tournament. On-field achievements are one thing, but the most rewarding part of Swallen’s profession came in another aspect of the game. “My fondest memories were the bonds and relationships I had been able to build with my coaching staff and players. There are many great people I am blessed to have connected with through Mounds View soccer,” said Swallen. She had built the soccer program from the ground up and had gained the respect of many players. “Coach pushed us to the limit and forced us to be the
best we could be,” said Marnie Zilka, 10. After 12 years of fruitful coaching, Swallen has made the choice to resign as head coach of the Mustangs and focus on her family. “I’d like to go to my children’s games and events at night,” said Swallen. Coaching takes an immense amount of time and has occupied approximately 17 years of her life. Swallen plans on going back to school to further her education in teaching with her new free time. With her resignation, the hunt for a new head coach is on. “We have a number of applicants who are qualified,” said Bob Madison, activities director. Following the application process, Madison, and a group of players and parents, will be conducting interviews to select an adequate replacement. Madison is unsure about when the selection will be made. “We’d like to get it done. ASAP, but we want to hire the right person,” he said. Swallen’s exit may leave big shoes to fill, but not all is lost. From 1998 and 1999, the pre-Swallen team lost in the Section quarterfinals, a drastic departure from the current state contending status of the team. Even when gone, Swallen will be present with her effective soccer method.
True Team State Results
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On May 17, Mounds View’s very own True Team took fourth place at the state meet in Stillwater. The meet emphasizes the importance of teamwork rather than specialiation in specific events. Stillwater South took first, Prior Lake took second, and Lakeville North took third.
Go to mvviewer.org to vote on more polls!
photos by Julie Beaugé
Top Left: Amanda Speltz, 10 Bottom Left: Nicole Geist, 11 Top Right: Malia Bacig, 12 Bottom Right: Veronica Rassmussen, 10
Congratulations Emily! Class of 2013 www.lmjoriginals.com
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May 31, 2013
Strength unseen by statistics By JERED EVERSON staff reporter Like most spring sports, the 2013 Mustang softball season got off to a shaky start due to the bizarre continuation of winter weather. In a sport that relies heavily on outdoor practice, the girls had to play “catchup” for the majority of the season. While a regular season record of 7-11 is respectable in the loaded Suburban East Conference, many of the team members think the record understates the capabilities and performance of the team. Captain Kathryn Larson, 12, said, “We finished our regular season below our expectations, but I do not think it reflects our team’s performance. We are a strong fielding and hitting
photo by Anders Nygaard
Captain Taylor Linn, 12, sprints for home.
team from the top of the order to the bottom.” With remarkable depth in the SEC, wins were very difficult to come by. Hard-nosed, gritty, and passionate efforts were required day-in and day-out. Quite often, the teams that separate themselves from the pack are the ones with leadership. Larson, 12, said, “As a leader I try to focus on being an example of hard work and a good example on and off the field on how to treat teammates and coaches. Building relationships between players is very important as a leader.” Notable victories include doubleheader sweeps against White Bear and Roseville, in which the Mustangs drove in a total of 54 runs. In the Roseville game, Senior Captain Maddie Gorman ignited the team with a staggering three home runs. Gorman has five of the team’s thirteen home runs on the year; Larson (2), A. Linn (2), Co-Captain T. Linn (1), Pomeroy (1), Struve (1), and Murphy (1) make up the rest. Of course, natural talent can only go so far. Coaching has always been an integral part of Mounds View athletics, and this was the case again this year. The Mustangs are led by Head Coach Frank Roth, and Assistant Coaches Mike Koch, Chris Hanson, and Kent Reed.
photo by Anders Nygaard
Captain Kathryn Larson, 12, pitches in the section game.
Roth and his associates have worked tirelessly throughout the season to make adjustments to weather and injuries, formulate gameplans for each and every game, and build lifelong relationships with their players. Gorman, 12, said, “Our coaches are very supportive of us and always help us to be the best players we can be.” The Mustangs were given the fifth seed in the 2013 Section 5AAA Tournament. With a favorable matchup against twelfth seeded crosstown rival Totino Grace on May 20, the team was poised to make a run in the playoffs. Unfortunately, the girls were upset 9-8 and their season came to an end.
Section Tournament 2013
Girls Lacrosse:
After only losing three games in the season and having a big win against rival Rosedale, the girls lacrosse team was seeded second in their section.
Girls softball:
Though their record may not accurately show their dedication and talent, the softball team, seeded fifth in sections lost 9-8 against Totino Grace. Seeded twelveth in the first round of sections, ending their season with a 7-11 record.
Boys Track and Field:
Just four points away from third place, the boys track and field team won fourth at True Team State after dominating True Team Sections. Their individual state is June 7 and 8 at Hamline University.
Boys Tennis:
Mara Herbert, 12, sprints for the hand off.
photos by Julie Beaugé
After being seeded second at sections, the boys tennis team lost in the semi-finals to Maple Grove, who was seeded first. CJ Lloyd, 11, made it to the singles quarterfinals before losing to Zach Adkins from Maple Grove. The doubles team of Bartels and Morris lost in the finals to a doubles team from Maple Grove.
Boys Baseball:
With a 13-5 record, the Mustangs won SEC cochampions and earned the second seed in sections, giving them a bye through the first game.
Girls Track and Field:
Along with winning True Team Sections and taking fourth place in True Team State, they won All Conference. Veronica Rasmussen, 10, broke the record in shot put. Individual state is June 7 and 8 at Hamline University.
Boys Lacrosse:
The boys finished with a 5-5 record to earn them the third seed in Section 5 brackets.
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sports
Athlete of the Issue
Jenna Olson Senior Lacrosse Jenna Olson, 12, has made an impact on the varisty lacrosse team since sophomore year. Olson was named All-Conference and team MVP her sophomore year and was part of the 2010 team that beat Stillwater to advance to the State Tournament. Olson continues to be one of the team’s top scorers and plans to continue her lacrosse career at Bethel University. Q: What do you exepect from your teammates? A: I want to develop a team that is selfless and can work as a whole team, not just as individuals. Q: What are your goals for the remainder of the season? A: I want to leave the program strong and make a difference in Mounds View Lacrosse. Q: How long have you been playing? A: Since 8th grade. I did Highview after school stuff, but I’ve been playing high school since freshman year. Q: What do you like about lacrosse? A: I love how different it is. I love the rush you get after a perfect transition down the field. Q: What’s your fondest memory of your lacrosse center? A: Going to state and beating Stillwater freshman year Q: How do you get your team fired up? A: I get them fired up by saying “LET’S GO GUYS!” Q: If you could be one superhero, who would it be? Why? A: Spider Man. I wanted to be just like him, swinging from buildings and shooting webs at people’s mouths to shut them up. That’d be awesome.
information compiled by MADDY ROSENOW
12gallery
May 31, 2013
Emerging Artists Graduating seniors showcase their art achievements of high school and prepare to unleash their talent on the real world.
art by Kirsten Zollner
self portait by Kenneth Lee
photo by Jonathan Kim
photo by Rebecca Nara
Tommy Pham Anne Johnson Kenneth Lee
by REBECCA NARA gallery editor
by JONATHAN KIM staff reporter
by REBECCA NARA gallery editor
“An artist is not paid for his labor but for his vision,” said expressionist painter James Whistler. To Tommy Pham, 12, the process of creating art alone is well worth the finished product. “I relax when I’m doing it, I don’t think when I’m drawing,” said Tommy Pham, 12. “It’s different than doing math.” Pham prefers to work with pencil and colored pencil, consistently incorporating texture into his work. Pham finds inspiration from the media, mostly movies and cartoons, as well as his own invention. “I make up my own stuff. I’ll take this part of a movie, add that part of another,” he said. After senior year, Pham intends to complete Advanced Individual Training (AIT) and graduate from the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) for the US Army.
An artist puts a part of themselves into every piece of work, including their skill, memories, and ultimately their personality. Nothing represents this better than the whimsical white bunny of Anne Johnson, 12, similar to one she received as a child from her mom. For her outside-the-box creativity and hardwork, Johnson will be receiving the Senior Art Award. “I really enjoy art because with all the pressure that Mounds View puts on you to do everything perfectly, in art you can find your own way and make it your own, which I really enjoy,” said Johnson. Art is more enjoyable for her than most of her academic classes. She would even come in during lunches and before school to finish her artwork. Johnson thanks art teacher Joelle Imholte for her dedication to the art program. “I felt that Mrs. Imholte really cared about us doing a good job and would always be willing to come before or after school,” she said.
For some, two semesters of art credits might be a chore, but for Kenneth Lee, 12, it wasn’t enough. In addition to Intro to Art, 2D, Advanced 2D, and Senior Art, Lee pursued visual arts classes for for ten years outside of school. That’s only the start of his career. “It’s a way to express myself without words,” said Lee. A major source of his inspiration is the electronic group Daft Punk, best known for their songs “Get Lucky”, “Around the World”, and “One More Time.” The musicians wear helmets when they perform, reflecting colored light off the visors as well as featuring paths of light on their clothes in a Tron-like style. Lee captures the contrast of multicolor against monochrome in his work from the “Paint in a Series” project. The two companion paintings are done in acrylic, his preferred medium. To continue as an artist, Lee will be attending the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, ranked second in the nation for its art program.
The contrast between the owls is emphasised by the separate convases in this rendition of the “Paint in a Series” project.
Unnerving and calming symbols alike are present in this “Personally Invested” project. pottery by Zak Al-Khatib, Maren Christy, Paige Clements, Beth Dahlin, Syrus Jalali, Kyle Klejewski, Haylee Krase, Johnny Paulsen, Ralph Sadaca, Hannah Scharpen, Andrew Schultz, Zoe Soderberg, Erin Towle, Delena Wong, all seniors.
FREE ECONOMY SENIOR SESSION UNTIL JULY 15
*space is limited Call now at 651.366.7853
art by Juliet Laske
GET READY FOR YOUR SENIOR YEAR! Class of 2014
The designs on these clay pots are inspired by Native American works.