Mounds View Viewer 9/23/11

Mounds View

VIEWER 2011-2012

http://mvviewer.org Friday, September 23, 2011

Volume 59

Issue 1

<editor@mvviewer.org>

INSIDE

! ? ! ? ! r

a b c English as an Official Language

a e h u Didn’t yo

No more announcements Students want return of second hour news

by Matthew Voges staff reporter

The New Career Center

Homecoming

Love them or hate them, the announcements have long been a part of Mounds View High School.

At the start of second hour, the blurbs would inform students about what would be going on during and after school hours, while also celebrating student victories from the previous day.

“It felt like a good intro to the day,” said Graham Goodwiler, 10.

But this year, the announcements are gone.

According to Principal Julie Wikelius, canceling the announcements was a controversial decision.

“There were really mixed feelings,” she said, also pointing out that the old system wasn’t perfect either, because “if you missed them [the announcements], you missed them.”

The replacement of the audio announcements

is E-News, a system of communication that is open to subscription. This system consists of direct e-mails to students and/or parents, a posting on the bulletin outside the Commons, and the choice for teachers to post the hard copy—or read it—during second hour. The E-News can be viewed on http://www. moundsviewschools.org/ enews/default.asp.

Wikelius has said that E-News is “just a trial.”

The announcements will be reevaluated after MEA weekend, and then possibly reinstated. Wikelius also advised students to e-mail her with feedback.

Some students and teachers were apprehensive about the end of the announcements.

“I never felt like the announcements over the loud speaker were an interruption,” said English teacher Rebecca HauthSchmid.

English teacher David Weinberg said, “Taking them [the announcements] away takes away a part of what makes Mounds View good.”

E-News may also not be as convenient as the announcements were. When asked if she would make use of E-News, Grace Johnson, 10, said, “Probably not, or if I did, I don’t think most people would.”

Though the majority of students seemed to miss the announcements, this viewpoint was not unanimous: “It’s a waste of time,” said Isaac Jemielita, 11.

For Mounds View, this termination is not final. After receiving feedback, the school may decide to reinstate the announcements, or stick with E-News.

Poll: Which would you prefer?

Morning Announcements

E-News

30 student were polled information compiled by Max Wang

The End of an Era Fall Activities

Coach Ziggy Kauls Retires after 45 years

by Mikaela Warner staff reporter

New Things at MV

The Mounds View High School basketball head coach and legend Ziggy Kauls recently announced his retirement. The patriarch of the Mounds View Basketball program will retire after this season, his 45th year as a head coach.

After leading the team to

over 700 victories, Kauls has certainly left his mark on the program and on Mounds View as a whole. No successor has been named. Brett Burckhardt, 12, one of this year’s tricaptains, said, “It’s sad to see him go after 45 great years at Mounds View; he represented the program.”

See Sports, p. 11, for more on Ziggy Kauls

Photos by Anders Nygaard

Left: Coach Ziggy Kauls when he started started teaching at MV. Right: Coach Ziggy Kauls following his retirement announcement.

2editorials op T 10

September 23, 2011

staff editor ial

Unannounced Announcements

Signs you drink too much coffee

10 8

You can jump start your car without cables

You don’t tan, you roast

You call your significant other your coffeemate The only time you stand still is during an earthquake You grind the coffee beans in your mouth

6 4 2

You made employee of the month at Caribou, and you don’t even work there You’re constantly asking Keshav Mangalick to chemically optimize your caffeine deliver mechanism

You don’t even wait for the water to boil anymore Your fingers have fused to your coffee mug

You visit Maxwell House more than your own

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2010-2011 Viewer Editors Editor-in-Chief Managing Editor News Editorials Features Spread Variety Reviews Sports Gallery

Ryan Slechta John Ke Max Wang Zane Muller Alyssa Belsito Tristan Gustafson Nimmy Koshy Mali Bacig John Knopf Alvin Ma Akshay Patke Camry Kelly Catie Mattson Lauren Nguyen

Business Manager/Online Editor Erika Batiz Photographers Youngjun Park Adviser Martha Rush

Staff

Tristan Aschittino, Anthony Blustein, Anastasia Brodsky, Brian Burke, Neal callihan, Alexandra Fream, Aaron Hammerly, Allison Hare, Peter Ingraham, Martha Kauls, Benjamin Kramka, Paul Kroska, Selin Kurtoglu, Margaret LaMere, Zachary Laughlin, Thomas Lazorik, David Liu, Ryan Mackey, Quinn Madsen, Helena Nguyen, Nathaniel Nikoi, Peter Olson, John Petersen, Alexander Safanov, Nicholas Schmidtke, Stephanie Schuba, Alexandra Severson, Christopher Severson, Madeline Shaw, Adam Toninato, Matthew Voges, Alexander Wald, Conner Walsh, Mikaela Warner, Joy Xie, Christina Yoon

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

The beginning of second hour starts the same as it has for years; students shuffle around the room talking to friends, the teacher is at their desk preparing material for class. However, one important thing is missing: the morning announcements. Yes, that ohso-helpful magical, mystical voice that seemed to come from the clouds. The voice that told you nearly everything you needed to know about the day. But now, we are left with emptiness and a feeling of complete cluelessness.

The announcements were a great way for busy students to find out information about activities,

sports, and important events and deadlines. Now that the announcements are only online, many students will simply forget to check their email for them, and some may not have access to them when they need to. When the announcements were broadcasted every morning, students could feel confident that they were well informed on the happenings of the day, but now we are left in the dark and must find time in our already busy days to access our email and read the announcements to ourselves.

Although teachers are given the option of reading the announcements to the class

if they feel it is important, many simply choose not to. If a teacher feels strongly about the announcements, they are forced to use class time to open up their email and read the entire thing to the class, which is a huge waste of time and is what discontinuing the announcements is trying to prevent in the first place.

Some might argue that the announcements were rarely heard, or simply ignored, by talkative students more concerned with their social lives than what’s going on during the day. However, just because a few students choose not to listen doesn’t mean that the whole class should

miss out on the important information that frequently flowed from those crackly speakers.

Mounds View students are now without a valuable service that costs mere minutes to class time. We’ve added an extra ten minutes to the day; can’t we spare a few to aid students in their busy lives?

Bringing the announcements back would be a welcomed reprive from the monotony of second hour. Besides all these factors, the purely human element of the announcements, a cordial “Good morning Mounds View,” will be dearly missed.

16 Viewer Editors Agree 1 Disagrees ,

English should be the Official Language

by Alexander Safonov staff reporter America is known for being unique. While a majority of countries use the metric system, the U.S. favors its own customary system. It is one of the few nations that never had a monarchy. The very principles that the United States was built on were unheard of at the time.

And despite more than 85% f the world’s countries having at least one official language, America has none.

Theodore Roosevelt, the 26th president, once said, ”We have one language here, and that is the English language, and we intend to see that the [assimilation] crucible turns our people out as Americans.”

The idea may be old, but it’s important nevertheless.

English should be the official language. Executive Order 13166 (signed by Bill Clinton) is one of the only laws that addresses the issue. The Order states that “The Federal Government provides and funds an array of services that can be made accessible to otherwise eligible persons who are not proficient in the English language.” All government files must be readily translated at the request of a person with limited English proficiency (LEP).

On the surface, this sounds fair. But there are billions of government files, so one can

imagine how much money is English speaker, then he or she being put into translating them. must be able to communicate In fact, it seems as if America with a 911 operator or is coaxing non-English emergency personnel at the speakers from learning the scene. Knowing English in the language.

U.S. doesn’t only allow you to This can be further become more successful, but it witnessed by money spent also allows you to participate on bilingual curriculums in more in the democracy of this schools. Critics of an official country. language feel like getting rid On the other hand, English of these programs would be is not an easy language to discrimination against nonlearn. Still, signing up for free English English classes, speakers. such as ESL In reality, is a great way merican citizens translating to learn the need motivation to learn tests, language. These textbooks, programs are English, not something and hiring targeted at all that causes more harm bilingual ages, and are than good. teachers available in not all 50 states. only costs money, but it also However, these programs doesn’t achieve the very first are in high demand, and it is goal a school is supposed to: not uncommon to be put on a preparing kids for the real waiting list. If worst comes to world. worst, a simple Internet search It is difficult to get and/ can yield a myriad of free or maintain a job without websites teaching English as a being able to speak English. second language.

In a poll conducted by People opposing a national Zogby international, 90% language feel that non-English of Hispanic residents felt speakers would be unable to that knowing English was receive government services instrumental to success in and therefore be unequally America. This hindrance is treated, violating the 14th further demonstrated during Amendment. Yet none of the an emergency situation. If an 30 states that have English as accident occurs with a nonan official language prohibit

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government agencies from using a foreign language when it is in the public’s interest and when it is necessary (including using a foreign language to ensure equality among its citizens).

Opponents of a national language also believe that it will cause foreign speakers to “lose, or diminish, their first language.” While that may be true, if parents want their child to speak a certain language, they should be willing to teach it themselves. Official English laws would not mean that English is the only language that is spoken, just the one used in government operations. It is the choice of the person to learn any language just as it is their choice to learn English.

With approximately 5 percent of the population unable to speak English, having an official language would unite us all.

We can do better. LEP American Citizens need motivation to learn English, not something that causes more harm than good. People immigrating to the United States should at least plan on learning our language.

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.

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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.

September 23, 2011

editorials3

Culture of Fear

by Allison Hare staff reporter

People today can find news almost anywhere they go - the newspaper on their front step, at home on TV, on the radio on their way to school, and even talking to friends on Facebook.

With so much breaking news, one has to wonder - is all of it really so earth-shattering as the media makes it out to be?

Some news outlets today tend to exaggerate the truth in order to present a more dramatic story- one that will get higher ratings and more sales for their program. In their goal to maintain a solid amount of followers and income, they compromise the truth until it is barely recognizable.

One such case was the Times Square bomber of 2010.

News writers took the story of a crude, homemade bomb that failed to detonate in New York City and injected it with so much fear and panic that

people felt their country was under attack, much like it had been on 9/11. After the chaos of the situation subsided, experts discovered that the bomb was made of materials incapable of exploding. However, the media seemed reluctant to include this detail in their reports; with the exception of a few, no news stories mentioned it.

More recently, Hurricane Irene attracted far more media attention than it deserved.

People on the East Coast who, relying on their local news reports, had prepared for a disaster, experienced instead a tropical storm. Although there was some damage from the hurricane, it was not the apocalypse it had been made out to be. TV stations seemed to use a technique called “fear mongering” to create a story that would scare people into watching their program for updates about the disastrous hurricane.

A famous television news saying is, “If it bleeds,

it leads.” This can be seen in nearly all TV news programs, newspapers, and Internet news

to Mediascope, a non-profit media research organization, the media thinks this is what people want to see.

“Market research suggests that stories of crime and violence increase newscasts’ ratings,” the organization stated in a recent report.

Many stories of positive events are seen as mundane by the news writers, and therefore not shared with the public. A few cartoon courtesy of Bill McLemore people may not be interested sources. When you flip on your in this type of news, but it’s TV to the local channel, you important to show a wide can expect to see gruesome variety of stories for everyone’s stories full of murder and enjoyment. violence. Why? According Some may argue that the

Technology Takeover Twitter use in French school pioneers integration of electronic learning

by Aaron Hammerly staff reporter Think back to elementary school and those long boring days of practicing writing by copying the same sentence over and over again, your hand cramping so badly that you just want to fling your pencil across the room. Well, about 50 schools in France have chucked those dotted worksheets and yellow number twos and adopted a hip new way of practicing writing skills... using Twitter.

Amandine Terrier, a teacher in France, got the idea when her class took a trip to Paris. The students’ parents were able to follow their children on Twitter to get updates on how the trip was going. When the kids returned the next year, they were begging Terrier let them Tweet.

She pioneered the use of Twitter, not only as a website to portray a person’s constant thoughts, but also as a learning tool. Hopefully, Twitter will flap its little wings and head across the pond to the U.S., and

Editor opinions What your Viewer editors think of various issues.

even into Mounds View School District.

With new rules allowing students wider use of electronics in classes, Mounds View is getting closer to using social networking sites like Twitter and Facebook in communication and teaching. The Mounds View administration is finally recognizing and adjusting to the growing trend of technology in learning.

Students already use Facebook as a medium for homework help by creating study groups and using group chat. These students are not using it to cheat, but rather in a style similar to forums on Moodle, where they discuss assignments with their peers.

These groups are the perfect example of how technology--and the Internet-can be used for learning tools.

Not only that, but they also make it easier for a student who missed school to catch up. Through social networking sites, students would also be able to communicate directly with their teacher.

By using social networking sites, classes will be able to contact other classes in different states, even across the world, just as Terrier’s class does in France. Students will become more current with world events and possibly use these skills to their advantage in the future.

Some may argue that using electronics more in class encourages cheating. But, quite honestly, if a student is going to cheat, they will find a way to do it. Plus, technology use is still not allowed during tests; therefore, the majority of academic dishonesty would take place outside of school anyways.

Using Twitter and Facebook, high school students can debate with other schools across the country and the world. Educators are finally realizing the benefits in using more technology and social networking sites for educational purposes.

“We are not using carpool lanes efficiently. If people started carpooling more there can be less traffic and less time spent waiting.”

- Lauren Nguyen Gallery editor

“Minnesota has one of the best hip-hop scenes around.

Local artists like Brother Ali and P.O.S. are putting out music that far surpasses anything you’ll hear on Top 40 radio.”

-Zane Muller Editorials editor

media is simply doing its job: informing the people of news, especially news that could potentially harm them. This should be done, of course, but with caution so as not to overexaggerate the stories. Some people are easily frightened by what they see in the news, and scaring the public is not worth however many more viewers a news program may get from exaggeration.

Many people describe the media today as creating a “culture of fear.” Because of their greed for money, high ratings and viewers, news outlets misrepresent stories at the expense of the public. The media needs to stop blowing stories out of proportion, and start relaying accurate and honest news with no other motive than to inform the public.

Things to Know

by Deputy Gulden guest writer Welcome back to Mounds View School! I am in my Junior year as a School Resource Officer here at Mounds View. What you should know: * Don’t leave valuables unattended in the cubbies outside of the Media Center. * Lock up your valuables in the locker room before, during and after school and also while at practices or games. * Don’t carry phones, iPods or calculators in the water bottle pocket of your backpacks during passing times or any other time. * Don’t leave wallets, phones, iPods or any other valuables unattended on your desk or in your backpack. * Items from the self serve lines in the cafeteria must be paid for at the cashier. * They really do use breathalyzers at the school dances! * Graffiti, vandalism and

“The school should stop supporting ‘nutritious’ school lunches on one hand and vending machines on another. Make a choice and stick with it.”

-Max Wang News editor

cafeteria food messes get bathrooms closed throughout the building.

I am looking forward to another great year at Mounds View High School.

It only takes a few bad decisions to impact the school and the community in a very negative way. As a member of this school community it is your responsibility to report suspicious activity to a teacher or staff member.

This is your school and your legacy.

Have a safe and happy school year!

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“If I wanted to see #hashtags I would be on Twitter, not looking at my Facebook news feed.”

-Camry Kelly

Sports editor

4features

September 23, 2011

Meet a few of MV’s new faces

Inside look on the new assistant principal

by Nimmy Koshy and Helena Nguyen staff reporters Freshly waxed floors and clean crisp classrooms beckon a new year at Mounds View High School. As the new school year starts, a position has been reinstated in the administration: Associate Principal.

Doug Bullinger, previously at Edina, took over the spot this summer..

This position was actually reinstated for more flexibility among the administration. “I asked the Superintendent if the AP (associate principal) position could be reinstated at Mounds View because it was apparent that the deans were pulled in too many directions and I didn’t think I was able to do all that I wanted to do,” said Wikelius.

In essence, Bullinger acts as the intercessor between the deans and the principal, promoting better communication among the administration.

According to Bullinger, “I am the point person for a lot of the teacher teams in the

photo by Youngjun Park

building, and I work closely with Ms. Wikelius and Mr. Madison in making decisions aimed to increase student learning, make building operations smoother, and facilitate communication among staff.”

After receiving an education at the University of Minnesota, Bullinger taught science at Osseo until taking a position at Edina High School as a “Data Coach.”

“Last year I took a position as Edina’s K-12 Data Coach, where I helped teams of teachers and principals from across all nine buildings in that district access, analyze, and interpret student data. I’ve also been

New perspective on a global scale

by Tristan Aschittino staff reporter Michele Milan, the new world history teacher at Mounds View has had an extensive background as a teacher. She has taught at the Mounds View Area Learning Center, Arona Sobriety High School, a charter school, and now, Mounds View High School.

“I have been teaching since 1999,” she said.

Her 12 years of experience includes teaching almost every social study course available.

She has taught economics, government, personal finance, sociology, and many other social studies related courses.

Outside of social studies, she even teaches motorcycle safety.

“The only one that I haven’t really taught is psychology,” said Milan.

She also has had plenty of schooling to prepare her for teaching such a diversity of classes. “My undergrad is a mix of psychology and sociology,” she said.

Milan has approximately 180 students in her five world history classes. Mounds View is different from the other schools she has taught mostly because of, according to her, the “sheer largeness. All of the other schools I have worked at, I have worked with smaller populations of students.”

an adjunct instructor at St. Kate’s University in St. Paul for the past four years,” said Bullinger.

Bullinger had to go through an extensive, thorough process to get the position. According to Wikelius, “The Superintendent approved the request, and we posted the position and selected Mr. Bullinger after receiving nearly 100 applications.

“He brings experience and skills that will help to make Mounds View an even better school,” she added.

Bullinger has already begun successfully working his way into the school; however, filling a new position has its challenges.

He cites adapting to his new environment as his greatest obstacle. “Learning -- and doing so as quickly as possible. As one person said “it’s like drinking from a fire hose” right now; there’s just so much to learn and so little time. But everyday is better and, again, having good teams of people around me makes it easier.”

photo by Youngjun Park

photo by Youngjun Park

what people have done and see the best of them. I also find that whatever issue students cause it has yet to shock me, as I’ve been around some kids who have done some pretty bad things,” said Bjorklund.

As much as he enjoyed working as a Juvenile Correction Counselor, there were some pitfalls of the career - one of these being that he never got to witness the journey the students would take.

“When I was working with the kids, I never got to see the end result,” said Bjorklund.

The woman behind the lab coat

by Tasia Brodsky staff reporter

Milan teaches mostly juniors, though a few seniors are enrolled in her world history classes.

She likes teaching world history because, she said, “it gives a broader perspective, plus I think it’s interesting.”

Also, “it exposes myself and students to a global view of the world,” she said.

What Milan likes best about Mounds View is the courtesy of the student body and the effort that they put into their work. “Students are polite and put effort into their work.

It is an excellent school. I feel proud to be working here,” she said.

Knight turned Mustang: Caleb Bjorklund

by Adam Toninato staff reporter During this past summer, Mounds View experienced a major turnover in the dean’s office. One of several new deans hired was Caleb Bjorklund.

He previously worked at Minnehaha Academy as a college and guidance counselor, but transferred to Mounds View for the 20112012 school year.

“I am a really big fan of the district; I graduated from Irondale,” said Bjorklund.

He has been very well received by the students he works with.

“He is super knowledgeable when it comes to colleges and the application process; he really helped me out a lot,” said Beth Knopf, 12.

Before Bjorklund went into the field of education, he was a Juvenile Correction Counselor. He did not speak ill of his time there; he said that the previous work engagement only prepared him to interact better with students.

“It helps you to look past

Holly Maeckelbergh, Mounds View’s new Honors Biology and Anatomy and Physiology teacher, greets her students each day at the door.

As they enter, she recites their names and mentions their interests or hobbies.

“It is important for me to know more than just the kids in my classroom, and I also want to be able to see the kids in my classroom outside of the classroom, at their sporting events, at their choir concerts. That’s important to me,” she said.

Maeckelbergh went to the College of Biological Sciences at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, where she received degrees in genetic counseling and teaching. She said she has always loved working with kids and been fascinated by biology. She combined those degrees to become a biology teacher. Maeckelbergh has also worked at Coon Rapids High School and Hopkins Junior High.

On the difference between her previous teaching jobs and Mounds View, she said: “I am just so impressed that you guys offer so many [activities] here!

You hit everybody, which I think is great! I have never

that have those skills and have that comfort level. I am hoping to meet those types of kids and adult leaders in the building who have those personalities. I find them very entertaining to work with and to be around.”

“I’m really excited to have Mrs. [Maeckelbergh] at Mounds View, and a part of our drama team,” said English teacher Bethany DeCent, photo by Youngjun Park Mounds View’s theater worked at a school where you director. “I am confident that she will be a great fit for had so many opportunities.” our costuming crew. I look Maeckelbergh added that she forward to working with her hopes to go to as many of her more and having the kids get students’ events, saying, “If to know her as well.” they invite me, I will come.”

Maeckelbergh is also Maeckelbergh is going starting the Marine Biology to be the costume director club, which will be meeting for Mounds View’s Theatre once a month. The club will program, as well as starting consist of discussions and her own ‘Marine Biology planning for a scuba trip that Club’. She also expressed a will take place this summer. great interest in joining the This program will be open to Mustang Cup Staff Team. freshmen and seniors alike, Her plan for the theatre program’s first show this year, and is happy to accept anyone with an interest in Marine ‘Alice in Wonderland,’ is to Biology. “It’s an absolutely learn the ropes and get used incredible experience!” she to how the theatre program works as a group. To embrace said.

Maeckelbergh’s final the traditions and customs comment on Mounds View of how everything is run in High School was, “I love theatre, than meld into the everything about it! The program with her personal kids are fantastic, the staff is touches. incredibly supportive and a “I’m just excited to be lot of fun!” part of the group! Theatre is a passion of mine. I have a lot of respect for people

September 23, 2011

The Vikings: on the move?

5 features

photo courtesy of gridironfans.com

The proposed design of the new stadium.

by Nathaniel Nikoi staff reporter With just this season left on the Metrodome lease, the Vikings are looking at four options for the future: downtown Minneapolis, St.Paul, Arden Hills, and Brooklyn Park.

Proposed plans for a new Vikings stadium started in 2007, but were in the background until December 12, 2010, when the Metrodome roof collapsed.

Many sites were originally proposed for the new stadium, but in May 2011, the choices were narrowed down when Ramsey County officials offered to partner with the Vikings on their new stadium, offering the formal army ammunition plant in Arden Hills as the new location.

The plan includes substantial improvements to the surrounding area, a capacity of 65,000, along with restrooms and concessions.

The site at Arden Hills creates the space for the stadium, a new Vikings headquarters, and the space for Vikings owner and primary developer, Zygi Wilf, to develop hotels, restaurants, and entertainment centers around the stadium. The site would also allow space for tailgating, which the other sites could not.

Those in favor of a new stadium say it would be good for the economy, attract businesses and create jobs. Those against it say it is unnecessary and brings unwanted taxes upon people. Shoreview is yet to take an official position on the stadium.

Blake Huffman, a Shoreview Council member, is voicing out his concerns. “I’m just a guy here that is just amazed at the size of the project and the limited discussion about it,” Huffman said according to the online Shoreview Post.

To solve this lack of discussion, he decided to post a petition about the stadium last June. Huffman says that concerns of the community, such as property value, traffic, noise, crime and the environment, have not been addressed. The Viewer was unable to reach Huffman for an interview.

People in favor of the stadium

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are hoping Mark Dayton will call a special session this fall for a legislature vote on public funding for the stadium. A referendum has also been proposed, which would allow Ramsey County residents to vote on whether to impose a .5 percent sales tax increase in the county, which would provide $350 million for the stadium, according to the Daily Norseman blog.

Many feel that the Metrodome does not fit the needs of the Vikings, the NFL and the expectations of the fans. According to Roy Terwilliger, chairman of Metropolitan Sports Facilities Commission, building a new Vikings stadium would benefit the people (local fans who are taxpayers) and also businesses who are directly or indirectly impacted by the Vikings.

Terwilliger also suggests the reason for the unprofitable management of the Vikings franchise and why the Vikings can’t show a competitive team is because of the current stadium situation.

The Vikings need to reach a deal for a new stadium soon, or else the Vikings may be relocated to Los Angeles.

“I would be disappointed if the Vikings were relocated... Though relocation would be good for the team, it would not be good for the fans,” said Dan LeMay, 10.

Dan Minalilh, 10, agreed.

“I want the Vikings Stadium deal to happen because I would be closer to the game,” he said.

Matt Muenzberg, a staff writer for the Benilde-St. Margaret School news site, said, “Asking Minnesotans who don’t even pay attention (let alone attend games) to contribute almost $1 billion is beyond ridiculous and shouldn’t even be considered.”

Polls have shown that the majority of people don’t think the Vikings need a new stadium yet, and that they could play at the Metrodome for a few more years.

Many say that building a new stadium would create new jobs, but Muenzberg disagreed, saying that while the stadium may create new jobs, none of them would be permanent jobs “that would give anybody relief from the hard times

would be disappointed if the vikings were relocated... Though relocation would be good for the team, it would not be good for the fans.

Dan LeMay, 10

photo by Youngjun Park

This year, career counselor Scott Wiens is working at both MV and Irondale.

New process for career help

by Stephanie Schuba staff reporter Many students rely on the Career Center for direction with college, but this year, things have changed. Colleen Lavin, the previous Career Center director, retired last year, leaving the position open. This spot has been filled by Scott Wiens, a former dean at Mounds View.

As the new career center director, Wiens has implemented some changes.

One of these changes is the availability of the career center to students. Wiens now only works at Mounds View on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. The rest of his time is spent at Irondale.

Another change is that the school will be promoting the use of Naviance more than they previously have. Naviance

allows users to look into colleges, as well as view when colleges will be visiting Mounds View. Lavin supports this move, and she said that Naviance was “an excellent source of information and a great way to communicate.”

Jeffery Landby, 12 dislikes these changes. “I feel like it could be harder to get the help I need with college,” he said.

Another concern is that pushing Naviance will not be as useful as asking questions to an actual person.

“I like to walk in, ask my question, and go,” said John Voskresensky, 12.

Despite the push towards Naviance, the career center will continue to provide the same help it always has, and is a great way to get started in the process of applying to colleges.

Students take on AP Biology

by Tristan Aschittino staff reporter Fifty-six highly motivated students, ready for a challenge, added Advanced Placement (AP) Biology to their schedules at the end of last year. These students were to be the first to take the new class at Mounds View.

AP Biology was not previously an option at Mounds View for various reasons.

“For a long time we felt that we sufficiently challenged students in biology,” said Mark Johnson, teacher of the new class.

In the past few years, several students commuted to Irondale in order to take the class.

The course was adopted for several reasons, including the realization that it was no longer feasible to bus students to Irondale when the number of students enrolling in the course was sufficient to supply one or more classes at Mounds View.

“The primary reason,” said Johnson, “is an increase in student and parent demand for that option.”

This new class is mostly structured around reading, and a small quantity of worksheets. The textbook definitely supports this, with its 1,263 pages.

“The book is so heavy,” said Josh Yue, 10.

Despite its size, Johnson said this textbook is worth reading.

“I love it,” said Johnson, “It’s a beautiful, challenging read.”

AP Biology is an extremely difficult course in comparison to the honors and

regular counterparts. though, according to Johnson, the level of difficulty between regular biology and honors is greater than the difference between honors and AP. “It is clearly more detailed than honors bio,” he said.

Johnson said the amount of reading is approximately the same for both honors and regular biology, although the material is more challenging in AP. Johnson explained that the most challenging part of the class would be “the difficulty of material and the sheer workload.” He also thinks that the labs will be a challenge for students, but enjoyable.

This class could be much harder for the large amount of students that have had quite limited biology backgrounds. Most students have only had 7th grade Life Science to prepare them for high school biology. Johnson sees this as an obstacle, but he also said that “it can be done as a first year biology course.”

According to Johnson, tests, called “knowledge celebrations” or KCs, in AP Biology, will resemble tests in students’ previous science classes only in format.

They will consist of predominantly multiple choice questions with a minimum of one essay question per KC. The amount of free-response questions will be greater than previous knowledge celebrations he has given before.

“I think the biggest difference will be the difficulty,” said Johnson.

Johnson feels that students that enrolled in the course most likely are interested in what biology has to offer.

Christian Oswood, 10, agrees.“This class has the potential to be really interesting.”

Can you unmas

Your 2011 royalty is disgu

See if you can match each pictu

A.

Annie Gustafson is

student council president, golf captain, and all-around stellar student. She would use the power of the crown to “make open lunches for seniors.”

G.

D.

Ayeir Karnwie-Tuah

is a defensive lineman for the football team, a member of student council, and a thrower.

When asked what super power he wants he said,”the power to control space and time.”

B.

Phil Boje is a versatile ani-

mal on the soccer field playing forward this year. He also made the USA hockey national development camp. If he had $100, ”I would buy Tacy Haws-lay gifts.”

C. Anne Liao is involved in

speech, orchestra, and varsity tennis. When asked what super power she wants, she said, “Teleportation, because then you could see whoever you want... whenever you want." information compiled by Brian Burke, Adam Toninato, Tom Lazorik, and Aaron Hammerly

Corinne Lawler is an NHS

co-president and student council representative. Her weapon of choice to fight zombies is ”the golden gun, and I’m using the doubletap.”

H.

E.

Elizabeth Mark is involved

in student council, lacrosse, NHS, performance team, and Mustang Mentors. When asked on a scale of 1-10 how attractive her interviewer was she said, ”11.”

Maddie Peake is a soc-

cer and hockey captain. When asked what her most attractive feature she said, ”my feet, obviously.”

I.

F.

Rachel Parupsky partici-

pates in basketball, volleyball, and choir. When asked what she would do with the power of the crown, she said, ”Is there power in the crown?”

Maggie Tremann runs

cross country and track, and plays the piano. If she had $100, “I’d probably take my dog to PETCO because she likes it there.”

sk your royalty?

uised for the masquerade.

ure to its name and description!

photos by Youngjun Park

M.

J.

Keshav Mangalick is

involved in math team and Science Olympiad. He is also a terrific dancer. When asked to describe himself in three words, he said, “I love curry!”

Annie Mata is a Mustang

Mentor officer, and also involved in hockey and NHS. She said, “I’d rather be a cowboy over a pirate, because I love country music.”

P.

Jostyn Kohner is involved

in theater and choir. If he could go back to any time period, he would choose “the 30s, because I love old Hollywood!”

N.

K.

Ryan Slechta is the swim

team captain. He’s also involved in JSA, Viewer, and NHS. He said, “My most attractive feature is my chlorine-stained hair.”

Nick Helgeson is in cross

country, baseball, NHS, orchestra, and chess club. He said, “If I had webbed feet and hands, I would become a professional hand and foot model.”

Q.

Rachel PfenningWendt is one of the cheerleading captains. Her choice weapon to fight zombies is a taser.

O.

Matt Wildes is on the foot-

ball team, track team, and NHS. When asked if would rather have an extra arm or a leg, he said, “An extra arm so I could be more handy.”

Alx Wald is in cross country,

Spanish club, and Quidditch team, in which he plays Chaser.

When asked what his one super power would be, he said, “The power to not let Mrs. Rush edit my articles.”

R.

Peter Vo is involved in math

team and Science Olympiad.

He wants to be remembered as the “guy who won Homecoming Royalty.”

answers:K, L, N, I, J, R, M, P, B, G, A, F, O, H, D, Q, C, E

L.

8variety

September 23, 2011

FALL into autumn with these COOL activities

by Ben Kramka, Ryan Mackey, & Alex Fream staff reporters

Fall is here. Time to put away the beach towels and find some fun among the leaves.

Join a Glee Club. Chances are you’ve been there. You

show off their talent,” Hershey said. “They are really excited about it.”

The club is heavily influenced by the FOX show, Glee.

Glee averages more than 11 million viewers a week. In fact, show choirs are popping up all over the place, and it isn’t just a coincidence. Viewers call it “The Glee Effect,” and because of it, show choirs are more popular than ever.

“I think it’s a great idea to have this Glee Club,” said Mounds View Choir Director Erik Espe, “It fills a different musical need for our choir students.”

Glee Club’s first performance is Nov. 11 at Chippewa Middle School.

Go to the Renaissance Festival. If seeing people battle

It also hosts unique activities on many. For example, on Sept. 25, photography classes are available with a professional photographer from the Star Tribune.

Then on Oct. 1-2 one can take a mini-vacation to Ireland by visiting the Festival’s Shamrocks and Shenanigans which features Irish dancers, musicians, and food and drink fit for a king!

With so many things to do, see, and eat, any knight, witch, or Mounds View student would be delighted to spend a day at the Renaissance Fair.

Go to the Twin Cities Corn Maze. The Twin Cities

fall-lover. There is a 17.5 acre corn maze shaped like baseball and bats for those brave enough to attempt it. On top of that, there’s a corn pit where you can lay in a sea of bright yellow corn. The tickets are $9 each with a portion of every ticket going towards the Minnesota Twins Community Fund.

The maze is open weekends from 10:00 am until 5:00 pm, and offers discounts to all groups who call ahead of time to reserve space.

have skipped out on your challenging chemistry assignment and instead plopped yourself in front of the TV and watched the hit show Glee, wishing it could be your own reality. But what if life really was like Glee: dancing and singing your heart out on stage just for fun? Well, for some choir students at Mounds View and Chippewa, a real life Glee Club makes that dream a reality.

Chippewa Music Director Diane Hershey has started to form a Glee Club, consisting of students from grades 8-12, practicing every Monday night at the middle school.

“I really wanted to give the kids a moment to shine and photo courtesy of www.tvfanatic.com

to the death on horses sounds appealing, then find a way to the Renaissance Festival of Minnesota. The Festival is located a mere 30 miles southwest of Mounds View very close to Shakopee. The Festival is open until Oct. 2 and costs $20.95.

Once inside, there are all kinds of amazing things to see.

The price may be a bit steep, and the drive a bit long, but the experience will pay for itself.

The Renaissance Festival hosts jousting, pirate games, and all the roasted, savory food one can eat. There is a new bird show with 300 birds and a new marketplace with 30 vendors. photo courtesy of littleknight.wordpress.com

Corn Maze is a wonderful way to experience Fall.

“It allowed me to enjoy the wonderful Fall season before the harshness of winter,” said Sam Warnes, 12.

Situated in Brooklyn Park, the 20th annual corn maze celebrates the season by offering a fun event for all to enjoy, while at the same time helping support the community.

Although the drive is a bit far, the trip is well worth the effort. This year’s maze has many activities and foods for the

photo courtesy johnsonteamrealestate.com

Chomp on cheap eats this Homecoming

by Madeline Shaw staff reporter

You rented a tux.

You bought a corsage.

You finally found a date. As everything falls into place, there is still one thing you have yet to check off your homecoming to-do list: restaurant reservations.

With the dance one , where will you end up going?

Dinner may not be the most important part of the night, but,

in some cases, it can be the most fun. Some places, such as The Chatterbox Pub in St. Paul, offer games as well as delicious grub.

“It has really good food and they have a bunch of board games and Nintendo games...it’s just fun,” said Nicolette Griffiths, 12. This kind of restaurant is perfect for a playful group that loves to grab a bite

while trying out their hops in Super Mario.

Although fun and affordable are qualities most people look for during their search, some are more interested in experiencing something culturally different. “India Palace would be my first choice,” says Tasia Brodsky, 12. The food here is a bit expensive

but the portions are generous and the spices are fresh. India Palace is a good place to keep in mind if you crave Indian flavors.

Restaurant are located in Roseville and St. Paul.

In the end, the final decision may not be up to you.

“Somewhere Italian because the girl likes Italian, and the girl gets

what the girl wants,” said Jeff Landby, 12. If you end up with a date kind enough to let you choose, avoid picking the most expensive places.

All in all, homecoming is meant to be fun and enjoyable. So, pick a place that fits your standards and dig in.

Intriguing and Deadly

Singles

Mat Kearney - “Ships In The Night”

by Martha Kauls staff reporter With names like Damon, Paltrow, and Winslet rolling through the credits, people might expect Contagion to be a movie where attractive people, romance, and action are the main focus. However, these A-list celebrities are almost unrecognizable in this surprisingly subtle film about a deadly disease that spreads worldwide in days.

It may not be a movie teenagers will be clamoring to see, but Contagion certainly captures some disturbingly accurate aspects about disease, government, and society’s reaction to crisis.

Contagion starts off with Beth Emhoff (Paltrow) in a Chicago airport during a layover from Hong Kong to Minneapolis. She is on the phone and claims her cough is due to jet lag. Two days later, she has a seizure and dies.

Meanwhile, Dr. Ellis Cheever (Laurence Fishburne) tries to determine the origins of the disease and sends Dr. Erin Mears (Winslet) to Minneapolis to investigate more about Beth Emhoff and the consequent spread of the virus.

As more people become sick and die worldwide, a cynical blogger named Alan (Jude Law) attempts to blame the disease on Dr. Cheever by claiming that the government is withholding the vaccine. No doubt about it, Contagion moves very quickly and lacks a protagonist, which would normally detract from

Editor

hora let

p

September 23, 2011

9 reviews Kearney’s Spoken Word style combined with lyrics that stay away from the pop music norm makes this song a winner. Also, the catchy melody will ensure that you will be listening to this again--and again--and again.

Sounds like: A breath of fresh air with a beautiful sunset in the background -John Ke managing editor 9/10

7/10 the plot, but it works because there is no real plot line in this movie. It mainly focuses on the social chaos that ensues after the MEV-1 virus is spread.

The setting is mostly based in Minneapolis and Hong Kong, but also has scenes that take place at the headquarters for the Center for Disease Control and the World Health Organization. This constant change makes the movie feel a bit choppy, but it is filmed almost like a documentary.

There are little-to-no special effects, which is refreshing for this type of film, but this admittedly makes it boring at times. However, the whole movie is very understated and believable; it uses stars like

Damon and Winslet to make Contagion seamlessly feel like nonfiction.

This movie does not go overboard with causes or solutions to disease control and prevention.

It simply says ‘this is what would happen if a deadly disease broke out, and there would be nothing that could be done about it.’ Hardly reassuring, but this is not a movie to go see if you are looking for an uplifting message.

Even though this may not be an instant classic or even a movie that you would want to see over and over again, Contagion effectively does what director Steven Soderbergh set out to do; it keeps you thinking about it for hours afterward.

Nicki Minaj - “Super Bass” Super Bass is the best composition of rap, R&B and pop. It is like a melting pot of the most popular genres into one.

Sounds like: The offspring of Brittney Spears and Rhianna -Lauren Nguyen gallery editor 9.5/10

Coldplay - “Paradise” Coldplay has successfully combined electronica, orchestra, and alternative rock together to make a beautiful masterpiece.

Sounds like: The soundtrack to the most blissful dream you will ever have.

-Akshay Patke reviews editor 7/10

Hotter than ever Breaking the stereotype

by Tom Lazorik staff reporter For Red Hot Chili Peppers fans, these past five years have been the longest they have experienced so far waiting for the band to release a new album.

They might have been wondering when the new CD was coming out, or even if the band was making a new album.

On Aug. 26, the people got what they were waiting for...or did they? It was a longer wait than usual, but the wait was worth it. I’m With You is just as pleasing as previous RHCP albums.

Red Hot Chili Peppers were formed in the mid ‘80s, but did not receive worldwide popularity until the release of their fifth studio album, Blood, Sugar, Sex, Magik in 1991. Since then, RHCP have been making musical gold. They have been considered a big influence on music by performing erratic stage antics and by being one of the first bands to popularize the combination of funk and rock.

Though not quite as popular as in their glory days in the ‘90s, they are still considered to be an illustrious band. Now with the release of their tenth studio album, the Chili Peppers past popularity can only be revived.

I’m With You sticks with the funk rock and alternative

rock combination, which is definitely preferred and maybe even expected. Thankfully, none of the tracks on this 14-song CD are misses. The funkiest song would probably be “Ethiopia.”

It has some crazy bass slapping and some funk-tastic vocals. The best song is most likely “Look Around” and just like all the songs on the CD, “Look Around” is just as catchy as ever, but there is something irresistible about the overall arrangement of this song.

Many fans are scared by the fact that guitarist John Frusciante is no longer with the group, and Josh Klinghoffer has filled in as the Chili Pepper’s new guitarist.

Frusciante will be missed, but thankfully KIinghoffer works well with the band, because only the best can play for the Red Hot Chili Peppers!

Is it the best of their works?

No way. Is it the worst? Certainly not. I’m With You works splendidly and holds up nicely with previous RHCP albums. It reminds fans of why they fell for RHCP in the first place. They have smart lyrics, a fresh sound, and a wild personality that they can pull off better than any other.

9/10

by Nick Schmitdke staff reporter Many rappers are known to write music that center on sex, drugs, and money. For the most part, Lil Wayne is no exception. However, his most recent album, Tha Carter IV, does not seem to fit this stereotype. Shortly after its release on Aug. 29, the album immediately hit number one on iTunes. Even though this album does not predominantly focus on mainstream topics of the industry, it still manages to appeal to the majority of his original audience.

For example, the song “How to Love” was written completely acoustic, and actually had a meaning about deeper subjects such as love, unlike songs from other rappers. “How to Love” peaked at number five on the Billboard Hot 100.

Other songs such as “Mirror” also take his music in a surprising direction that seems to be much deeper than the pattern set by other artists in this genre.

This particular song features artist Bruno Mars, who has a completely

different style than Lil Wayne. In my opinion, this addition has been really beneficial to the overall quality of the album. This album would have been better if more of the music was written in this style.

Unfortunately, some songs such as, “John” are as generic as ever and fit right in with every other rapper, but this keeps hardcore rap fans pleased and not too upset by Lil Wayne’s change. However, some songs on the album such as , “She Will”, “6 foot 7 foot”, and “John,” match Lil Wayne’s old style and long time fans of his will enjoy them.

Although there are some songs on Tha Carter IV that still play into the rapper stereotype, there is enough variety to appeal to a broader audience. Now that his songs have a deeper meaning, Lil Wayne has improved himself as a artist.

6/10

photos courtesy of wikipedia.com

sports 10 From Mustang to Ranger September 23, 2011

2005 grad Mark Hamburger takes his skills to a whole new level

by Quinn Madsen

staff reporter

On a hot August night in Arlington, Texas, Mark Hamburger accomplished something no other MVHS graduate has done before. Hamburger became the first former Mounds View student to appear in a Major League baseball game.

As a member of the Texas Rangers, he pitched a scoreless inning of relief against the Tampa Bay Rays on August 31.

Hamburger expressed his feelings about making the major leagues to Emily Jones of texasrangers.com, “I’m super stoked, crazy excited, and I’m blessed to be here. I’ve been having a fun time working my way up, and now that I’m here, it’s a goal reached.”

Hamburger has traveled a long road from Shoreview Youth Baseball to reach the major leagues.

He was a good athlete, but his high school athletic career was nothing like his peers, who consisted of basketball star Travis Busch and Adam Weber, a threesport athlete who just ended his career as Gophers quarterback.

Hamburger played JV football his junior and senior year and never really shined on the baseball field until he led the Mustangs with 4 wins and 31 strikeouts in 2005, his senior year.

Although unable to contact Mark Hamburger, the Viewer talked to head football Coach Jim Galvin “Mark was a very involved kid; he was in Student Council and also played football and baseball.

He was a great athlete except for his speed. For some

Putting the

reason he was just really slow but had great hands. He was also the best volleyball player and dodgeball player I’ve ever seen.”

After graduating from MVHS in 2005, Hamburger played one year of junior college baseball at Mesabi Range Community College in Vermillion, Minnesota. Despite a great season at Mesabi, he wasn’t sure what he wanted to do.

Even though he

C in XC

The C-team historically has more fun than the hard working varsity squad. That’s probably because the varsity team is never seen breaking into song or giving a group hug like the C-team is commonly seen doing. There is a true

community spirit with the C-team that leads everyone to help each other improve so during the next years they have the ability to contribute to the varsity or junior varsity squad.

A typical day as a C team racer goes a little like this: 2:25- Get changed, eat a snack, and arrive at the Wrestling Gym. 2:26- Do varying amounts of pushups depending on how Coach Fleming’s day went.

2:30- Fleming’s daily speech or guest speaker.

2:45- Meet with Coach Day to find out what type of run we’ll be forced to do today.

2:50- One last group song before the pain begins.

3:00- Head out for the daily running work-out.

4:00- Core workout or Weightlifting and Chinese Yoga with Coach Wright.

photo from Ross Fleming

4:55- Drive home wondering why on earth you joined cross country and pray to God to make the hurt stop.

by Alx Wald and Peter Ingraham

staff reporters

was uncertain about a baseball career, he did go to the Metrodome for an open tryout with the Minnesota Twins in June 2007, according to the Texas Daily.

Impressed by his ability to throw 93 mph, the Twins signed Hamburger for a $1,200 bonus, and he began his climb to the major leagues, pitching in the Gulf Coast League. A year later, he was traded by the Twins to the Rangers for reliever Eddie Guardado. For the next four years he pitched in the minors until his call-up from the Rangers in August.

After his Aug. 31 major league debut, he gave up three runs on three hits and a walk in two innings on September against the Boston Red Sox. In his third appearance he threw another scoreless inning against the Rays on September 5, and a scoreless one third of an inning September 10 against the Oakland Athletics at Arlington.

Fortunately for Hamburger, the Rangers are in contention to return to the post season for the second straight year after they reached the World Series in 2010.

Like father like son

by Alx Wald

staff reporter This issue’s athlete of the month is a 5 feet, 10 inches, and 130-pound cross-country prodigy, who appropriately comes from Eugene, Oregon - the site of the U.S. Olympic trials and a city widely known as the “Mecca” of cross-country. If you haven’t guessed it already, Viewer’s Athlete of the Month for September is Ryan Plasencia, 10.

Plasencia is a humble sophomore who has quickly been making a name for himself in the Minnesota cross-country community.

Speaking of the Plasencia name, Steve Plasencia, Ryan Plasencia’s father, was a twotime Olympian in the 10,000 meters (1988 in Seoul, South Korea and 1992 in Barcelona, Spain). To add to his résumé, Steve Plasencia also holds the American Masters Record in the 5000 meters, and currently coaches the national powerhouse - University of Minnesota Cross-Country and Track teams.

But you wont see his son basking in the his father’s glory- he’s out to bring newfound fame to the Plasencia name.

Despite his father’s success and highly symbolic birth-town, Ryan Plasencia, who also shows promise in ice

Athlete of the Issue

hockey and baseball, has never expected things to come easy for him. Perhaps this is what separates Plasencia most from his competition.

He out-hustles his peers not only during the season but also in the off-season.

“My summers are really busy and I have to work really hard to stay in shape,” he says.

These hard-working summers and his blazing two mile personal best time of 11:19 have put him on the cusp of a Varsity team that is expected to have a shot at winning the State CrossCountry Meet come November.

Ross Fleming, the Boys Cross-Country Head Coach is very fond of his young padawan. “My favorite thing about Ryan is his impeccable form and stride length, his

great running name, and most of all, he never bothers me,” he said.

Another thing that sets Plasencia apart from his peers is his humility. He is very grateful for everything he has and what he has been given.

“It wouldn’t be possible without the unconditional support and love of my parents, especially my wonderful mother,” he says.

Plasencia’s great personality and work ethic are very apparent, which all his teammates, even his elders, look up to. Nick Helgeson is a senior on the cross-country team and spoke highly of his younger peer.

“His passion comes from within and it is very evident to his teammates and peers; its almost a contagious kind of passion, it makes you want to do mile repeats until your feet bleed…knowing that I am running with the legend that is Ryan Plasencia inspires me to accomplish feats I never thought possible. His words are sparse, his work ethic profound, and that’s why he’s my best friend,” said Helgeson.

A boy who is flying high above his peers, but still has many achievements ahead of him, Ryan Plasencia is a great athlete and a great person, making him the Viewer’s September Athlete of the Month.

11 sports No longer Kauling the shots September 23, 2011

Long time basketball coach announces retirement

By Chris Severson staff reporter “It feels normal,” said Coach Ziggy Kauls. “I won’t have to answer the question, ‘How much longer do you plan on coaching?’”

On Thursday, Sept. 8, Kauls called a meeting with his team to tell them that he would be retiring after his upcoming 45th season.

He talked about recent sickness,and lack of energy, and told his players that if he couldn’t coach to the best of his ability, he didn’t want to coach at all.

“I just hope we can have a great season and leave him on a great note,” said Michael Kerfeld, 12.

Throughout his career, Kauls has enjoyed the coaching process. He has seen the young players develop and improve and has helped them to make

photo courtesy of Ziggy Kauls

photo by Anders Nygaard

Ziggy Kauls in 1972 and today. personal decisions as well as decisions on the court.

Coaching is not limited to what goes on when players are in season and out on the court, and Kauls has been able to make lifelong friends and help make his players better adults and citizens.

He said in an interview on Mounds View’s website, “It’s been an amazing experience being a part of Mustang basketball, but it’s never been about me.”

With Kauls’ focus on his players, he looked back at what made his experiences at

I’ve Got the Fever

Girls soccer looks to repeat

By Alex Wald staff reporter October 26, 2011: the beginning of this year’s Girls State Soccer Tournament at the H.H.H. Metrodome in Minneapolis. This date is constantly on the mind of Girls Soccer captains Julia Kruger, 12, Katie Hultberg, 12, and Kirsten Rasmussen, 12, as they step onto the turf at Mustang Stadium to begin practice.

Last year, on the backs of graduated seniors who are now playing in college, including Lydia Storms (Clarke University), Alex Ronchak (Wisconsin-Green Bay), and Emma Worthington (WisconsinMilwaukee), the girls beat all odds to reach the state semifinals. There they lost to eventual champion Eden Prairie 2-0, and then matched #2 ranked Stillwater 1-1 to share third.

Kruger, Rasmussen, and Hultberg know they have a tall order in filling those shoes.

“We worked hard at captains practices every week this summer in order to prepare for the upcoming season, hopefully it pays off,” said Kruger.

And pay off it has. Though the season is young, the girls records sits at 5-1-2, including a 6-0 trouncing of district rival Irondale and a tie with #3 ranked Centennial.

At first glance at the roster, observers may jump to the conclusion that 2011 will be a rebuilding year for Girls Soccer.

The Varsity team is young and inexperienced; only five seniors are on varsity and especially strong junior, sophomore, and freshmen classes are fighting over many roster spots vacated by last year’s senior class.

Forward Jenny Mullin, 12, looks at it a little differently. “For us it’s more like reloading than rebuilding. The underclassmen have really stepped up so far and

are demonstrating ability as well as maturity beyond their years,” she said.

The underclassmen point to strong leadership from the seniors and captains as a reason to believe this year will be a success. Emily Michaelson, 9, is the youngest player on the team.

“The seniors force us to work hard in practice and I cannot believe how good I have already become. I really look up to them. Someday, I want to be Jenny Mullin,” she said.

With so many girls from all different grades, differences in age and maturity might prevent some teams from having good team chemistry. According to Mullin, that could not be further from the truth.

“We don’t see each other as much at school and we all look forward to hanging out at practice,” she said. “It all goes back to the maturity of the younger players. Our team camp-out, dance competition, and other activities have allowed us to build friendships and trust off the field, if we can trust and believe in each other on the field as well, no team in the world can stop us,” she said.

For as well as the girls are moving on the field, they seem to be moving even better off the field… and into the hearts of the fans. Elliot Gehl, 11, appears to have the worst case.

“The best part about crosscountry is when we run around the track and girls soccer is practicing.

It pushes us a little harder because we all want to impress them,“ he said.

Gehl is not alone. Kruger has noticed this phenomenon and says, “Hopefully this wave of affection will bring more fans to Girls Soccer games and give us the momentum we need to go as far into the state tournament as last year, if not win the whole thing.”

Mounds View so memorable.

“I’ve enjoyed incredible loyalty and remarkable consistency in my coaching staff, but the true success of this program belongs to the hundreds of players who have upheld our traditions and embraced teamwork over the decades.

I’ll miss them all very much, and I’ll be watching the future of this program with a lot of pride,”he said.

Players on the basketball team reacted in many ways to the news.

“It was surprising and sad at the same time. He has been in that position for so long it’s weird thinking of someone else coaching,” said T.C Merickel, 12.

With the search for the next coach beginning after the end of the upcoming season, it is hard to envision the new face of Mounds View Basketball.

Kauls is only the second coach

in Mounds View history.

He has been very successful as the head coach, taking 12 of his teams to the state tournament and winning twice. These winning seasons brought both publicity and pride to Mounds View Basketball. Younger athletes were inspired and in the following years, there have only been five losing seasons recorded. He went on to coach three Mr. Basketball winners and rack up over 700 wins.

“Ziggy has had an amazing and legendary career as Mounds View’s head coach, and I know all of the accomplishments and achievements will not go unrecognized,” said Andrew Justin, 12.

With the end approaching, “It’s hard to single out single events, there were so many highlights over 44 years,” said Kauls.

12gallery

September 23, 2011

Out of the

Miller’s wand is magic

by Paul Kroska staff reporter Though sorcery is not an acceptable method to prepare for a test in any math or science classroom, if you head down the social studies hallway to Kathryn Miller’s classroom, you could see some practical magic at work.

Miller recalls the day she bought her magic wand, one of the more unusual objects you’ll find in a Mounds View classroom.

“It is a magic wand that I use to help students on their tests,” Miller said. She obtained this object when she was shopping and had to stop to buy it. “The wand needed to be bought, I’ve had the wand for about three years and use it on every test day.”

The wand is a good luck charm for the class and provides moral support.

“I haven’t done any formal studies if the wand makes students do better on tests, but they always complain when I forget to [use it],” said Miller.

It seems that all the classes deeply enjoy Miller, in part because of her magic wand.

“The wand definitely makes me do significantly better, and I feel somewhat magical when she waves it at the class on test days,” said Tyler Wiegert, 12.

Miller’s wand gives “oomph” to frantic students who are worried on test days and a compelling part of the class.

With the wave of a magic wand and your test scores could slightly improve, for the fortunate students of Miller at least. Next time you venture into Miller’s class ask of her wand, but be cautious if she starts cackling.

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Some Mounds View teachers have unique quirks. You decide if they are cons or perks.

What is quirky? Lost in time?

Butler mystifies with clock collection

“Most teachers at Mounds View are pretty unique.”

- Jimmy Jaeger, 12

photo by Youngjun Park

“Mrs. Nesset has some crazy stuff in her ceiling,” - William Weightman, 11 photo by Youngjun Park

“Mr. Butler and Mr. Huberty are constantly consuming Mountain Dew,” - Robbie He, 11

photo by Youngjun Park

by David Liu staff reporter As students, we need clocks. We need alarm clocks to wake us up every day. We need clocks to tell us the time for important events, such as lunch or the end of the day.

Our lives are on a timetable.

We often check the clock in the classroom and calculate how much longer we have until the bell rings. But have you ever tried to tell the time in Dan Butler’s classroom?

Butler, one of Mounds View’s math teachers, has a plethora of clocks. If you are silent you may be able to hear them tick and tock. Each clock has its own unique feature or characteristic. He has one from the Museum of Modern Art, one that tells you what day of the week it is, and one that is based on the unit circle.

He even has one that goes backwards! Without skill and

experience, telling time in this room can be an arduous task.

As for his methods of collection, Butler is nonchalant. “Some I get online, some I get from students, and some I just find,” he said.

classrooms in this school,” said Alan Zhao, 12.

While many teachers have posters, some have plants, and a few have dead animals, there is only one clock collection. The abnormality of assortment of his time-keepers captivates some of his students. “It is like a wall of time,” said Keshav Mangalick, 12.

There is some curiosity as to why Butler decided to keep his assortment of timepieces in his classroom instead of the safekeeping of his home. “They appeal to my sense of mathematics, numbers, and especially my whimsical nature,” he said.

But these clocks don’t only appeal to Butler. Many of his pupils also enjoy the clocks’ company. “They create a very comforting atmosphere, and I don’t know what Mr. Butler’s room would be like without those clocks,” said Zhao. photo by Youngjun Park So, for all you clockBecause of his clocks, watchers out there, a challenge many students find his has been put out: test your classroom unique. skills against Butler’s time“This impressive keeping extravaganza. collection sets Butler’s room apart from all other