THE
MHSC
Mandan High School, 905 8th Ave. NW, Mandan, ND
OPINION iPhone 6 review page 5
URIER •
Volume 23, Issue 2 • November 2014
CENTERSPREAD Voting Measures pages 8-9
FEATURE Robots page 10
Theater play sends audience “down the rabbit hole”
colton JUSTICE
- Feature Editor sarahKOVASH -co-Editor-in-Chief After waiting in line to get admitted, finding a seat in the packed crowd and skimming over the program the audience anxiously awaited what was about to begin. When the lights dimmed to reveal the stage the audience was transported into a land of mystery and awe: Mandan High School theater’s production of “Alice in Wonderland”. With a cast of 20 dedicated students that worked day after day to make this play possible. One that the community couldn’t get enough of. “Every night it sort of went better and better,” said senior Hannah Jacobson, the Queen of Hearts. “[Monday] night was definitely the best.” The play was almost two hours long with 14 scenes that all members of the cast acted out brilliantly.
Courier apologizes
The Courier Staff would like to formally apologize for the errors we made in our first issue of the 2014-15 school year. Because we are a student-run publication, mistakes will be made and we apologize in advance for anymore we may happen to make. We extend our apologies to our foreign exchange students this year. We did not print Jesper Hjelm-Kajaus’ last name and we misspelled Maria Ovesen’s. We would also like to apologize to the Girls’ Golf team and coach Dean Johs for not including them in the Sports Roundup. We would like to thank our readers for your patience and your dedication to reading our publication.
The numerous characters of junior Ashlyn Quintus kept the audience on their toes. She was the voice of the Cheshire Cat, the King of Hearts and the crowd favorite, the Mock Turtle. “[My favorite scene was] any one with Ashlyn because she always gets a lot of laughs,” Jacobson said. Junior James Haaland was also the voice of three characters, the Caterpillar, Gryphon and Humpty Dumpty. “It was a heck ‘o lot ‘o fun,” Haaland recited in the voice of Gryphon. The main characters of the play included Alice played by senior Marissa Koppy, the Mad Hatter played by senior Mike Bercier and the White Rabbit played by senior Colten Meuchel. “[My favorite part was] being able to have so many different characters come to life,” Koppy said. “And everyone had a fun time.” The other “mad” character in the play
was the March Hare played by junior Tim Bjugstad. Both his and Bercier’s energy had the crowd on edge and laughing throughout their scenes. “Being up there screaming for no reason about being mad,” Bercier said. “It’s one of the best things I’ve ever done.” This play would never have happened without the guidance from English teacher Lisa Quintus. “I love directing plays because of the creative opportunities and possibilities it presents,” Quintus said. “I also love directing because of the endless energy and creativity of the kids.” Acting helps students learn and grow, both inside and outside of school. “Every new play is a new adventure, and we all grow, learn, and have a good time together!” Quintus said. Photos of the play are available on our Facebook page, The MHS Courier.
Art Club plans to leave their mark KOVASH
sarah -co-Editor-in-Chief the front entrance display case next to the Counseling From the penguins Office and in the stairwell outside of the art room to of the Auditorium. the mural on the cafeteria The idea to add something wall, art students like to to the building came from add their personal artistic Gieser and it snowballed touch to Mandan High. from there. This year’s Art Club will They plan to complete be leaving behind their the mosaics before legacy on the building Christmas break and they when they add two mosaics hope to add something to the school’s entrances. new to the building each “Students, especially the year. seniors, want to leave their Their goal with these Photo by Sarah Kovash mark,” said Art Club advisor projects is to give Pictured above is Art Club’s John Gieser. students a different They have designed their newly designed sketch of the own version of the Mandan crest that will appear in one of perspective of what Art Club does said Gieser. Braves logo that will be in their mosaics.
2
Opinion
Behind the song
zack ECKROTH
- General Reporter Everyone has their favorite songs, but very few people actually know the meaning behind them. Listeners must ask themselves if there is more to the song than the lyrics, a catchy beat and a clever title. In 2007, Neil Diamond revealed that the song “Sweet Caroline” is about Caroline Kennedy, daughter of John F. Kennedy. After performing the song via satellite at Caroline’s 50th birthday party, he told the Associated Press the true meaning behind the song. “I’ve never discussed it with anybody before - intentionally. I thought maybe I would tell it to Caroline when I met her someday,” said Diamond. “I’m happy to have gotten it off my chest and to have expressed it to Caroline. I thought she might be embarrassed, but she seemed to be struck by it and really, really happy.” Another song that listeners may not know the true meaning behind is the popular song “Radioactive” by Imagine Dragons. The song is actually about a new beginning and the lead singer’s ability to cope with daily problems going into fame. “It’s about becoming self-empowered and rising above that. I wanted to write a masculine and primal song about conjuring and rising above human weakness,” said Reynolds. The next time that the radio is blaring in your car, listen closely to the lyrics, and see if you can decipher the artist’s true meaning behind the song.
Pictures used with permission from wikipedia.org
mikaela HERBERG
MHS Courier
Herb’s blurbs
Since I tend to stuff my face, my dad often tells me to stop gobbling my food, but I April showers bring Mayflowers, and can’t even, or odd for that matter, the food Mayflowers bring pilgrims, and I am so happy they do because Thanksgiving is one is too good. After I have finished cleaning my plate, and of my favorite holidays. These are a few of I feel as though I am going to burst, there’s my punny Thanksgiving traditions. The purpose of Thanksgiving is to give nothing left for me to do but eat dessert. thanks for everything that you are thankful After all, the best thing to put in a pie is your teeth. for. Every year, I am “Pulling a The journey of seven thankful that I am not a thousand calories in a meal few strings turkey. ends on the couch. Once After all, turkeys with some properly plopped on the would never get to eat added puns cushions, it is time to a Herberg Thanksgiving break out the wishbone. on a feast, they are already Once it is literally stuffed. Turkey is not Thanksgiving broken-in, the winner the only thing my family triumphantly makes the dinner. eats for Thanksgiving. wish as the night draws My dad and I always to a close. keep our eyes peeled for sweet potatoes at Once Thanksgiving is the grocery store to add to our meal. I yam a over it is time to think big fan of putting marshmallows on the top about Christmas and all of the preparations of them. To make sure I can eat as much as I can, that need to be done. I wonder how Santa’s subordinate Clause’s every Thanksgiving I am sure to wear my handle the stress of helping him prepare for stretchy pants. The pilgrims must have started this traditions since their belt buckles Christmas when I have problems deciding which Pillsbury Christmas cookies to make. were on their hats. - co-Editor-in-Chief
Courier Staff and Editorial Policy
Sarah Kovash......................co-Editor-In-Chief Ad Manager News Editor Mikaela Herberg...............co-Editor-In-Chief Opinion Editor Colton Justice.............................Feature Editor Zack Eckroth.........................General Reporter Hannah Sagaser......................................Adviser
The Courier is a news/feature newspaper that is published throughout the school year. As an open forum for student expression, all content online and in print is decided and moderated by student editors. The staff welcomes
letters, articles, submissions, of any student, faculty, or community interest. Submissions may be turned into the Courier, room 221, and by message to mhscourier@gmail.com or facebook. com/mhscourier. All submissions must be signed by the author if they are to be published and subject to editing if space is restricted. The Courier strives to be objective in its news coverage. Columns and letters reflect only the opinions of the writers, not those of the Courier staff, administration, teachers, or student body. Editorials that are not signed reflect the consensus of the staff. The Courier is funded entirely through advertising sales and subscriptions. Contact the Courier at mhscourier@gmail. com if interested in advertising.
THE
sarahKOVASH -co-Editor-in-Chief
Freshman Tyrene Schmidt
Sophomore Orin Osse
“A book.”
“Another word for thesaurus is dinosaur.”
What is another word for thesaurus?
“To make up for the shortness.”
“Because abbreviation means to shorten things up so obviously the word must be long!”
Why is the word abbreviation so long?
“The opposite of opposite is the same.”
What is the opposite of opposite?
“The same.”
SIDE
FLIP “Sabrina Beans.”
Spanish Teacher Amy Wurth
“Webster’s cousin.”
“The Synonym Bible.”
“Thesaurus Prestigue Worldwide.”
“You have taken out so many letters from the other words that you have to put them somewhere.”
“Well, obviously whoever came up with that word liked long words.”
“Do I look like Mrs. Saur?”
“It’s ‘the same.’”
“The opposite of opposite is an infinite number of opposites.”
“Undefined.”
Senior Joey Mason
Junior Arnela Karic
Noobs of the month
Do you have any nicknames?
How big is your freshman pack? “Smaller than Emily Cicha’s.”
What is your most embarrassing moment so far?
“Dropping my tray at lunch and getting taco meat all over the floor.”
All photos by Sarah Kovash
Do you have any nicknames? “Gavinator Milletron.”
How big is your freshman pack? “King Kongs’ would be an understatement to mine.
What is your most embarrassing moment so far? “Messing up rhythms in band.”
As a noob, what’s your biggest fear?
As a noob, what’s your biggest fear?
Sabrina Matthews
“Doing solos in band.”
“Looking stupid at school.”
Gavin Miller
Each month the Courier will feature one male and one female freshmen to be the noobs of the month. Noobs are randomly chosen by staff.
4
MHS Courier Opinion Resolve your struggles with these phone apps
zack ECKROTH
- General Reporter Life is difficult, it has its ups and downs, but we all know the biggest struggles are usually the simple things, like learning a new language, identifying a random number that keeps calling you or even picking the right song that relates to your activity. Well turns out, they make apps for all that. Duolingo is an app that is available on iPhone and Android systems that teaches you a new language in a surprisingly fun way, it forms it into more of a game. Duolingo was voted iPhone app of the year in 2013, Google's Best of the Best in 2013 and TechCrunch's Best Education Startup in 2014. One reviewer commented, “This is the best electronic language resource I've ever used. And it's free! I tried Rosetta Stone for other languages but nothing really stuck. I use it
between coursework/study sessions, on public transport, just before going to sleep, etc.” Klink is an app that is also available on iPhone and Android systems that takes the struggle out of searching for a phone number by searching in more than 100 directories to bring the most up-to-date profile information about a caller, even if the number is not in your contacts list. Klink performs this search within seconds to return to you all the information it finds in your accounts, on the Internet and in Klink’s unique global directory right when your phone rings. One reviewer commented, “When I am at work and I get a call I can see on my phone who is calling me even if the caller is not in my address book. This saves me a lot of time because I can simply not answer unwanted calls. Also this app enhanced my contact by adding photos and information from social networks.” Songza is a free music streaming app
available on iPhone and Android that have recommendation service for Internet users in the United States and Canada. Its playlists are made by music experts, the service recommends various playlists based on time of day and mood or activity. Songza offers playlists for activities such as waking up, working out, commuting, concentrating, unwinding, entertaining, and sleeping. Users can vote songs up or down, and the service will adapt to the user’s personal music preferences. Users can find playlists not just based on artists, songs, or genres, but also based on themes, interests, and eras, such as “90s One-Hit Wonders”, or “Music of Fashion Week. At the end of the day life is always difficult, but even a simple app can make it a whole lot easier to get through our everyday struggles.
FACS I
Independent Living Independent Living students took part in the Island Group Activity, where they had to work as a team to determine needs and wants within their group.
Early Childhood Care
FACS I students are currently in their sewing unit. They showed their Mandan pride by making a cross stitch bookmark. They also got their names embroidered on the aprons they made which they will use while in the kitchens.
CTE Classes Foods & Nutrition I
Early Childhood Care students develop art projects they will use while working in elementary classrooms next quarter. Check out their adorable balloon animals!
Two groups of Foods & Nutrition I students show off the rice pilaf they made together in under an hour.
Opinion/Review
November mikaela HERBERG
The iPhone 6: bigger than bigger
- co-Editor-in-Chief The iPhone 6 is magnificent, beautiful, impressive and for lack of better terminology, it just rocks. The phone is jam packed with tons of new features and its minor glitches are nothing to complain about. The iPhone 6 is truly bigger than “bigger,” as Apple would say. The phone has a 4.7 inch retina HD display and is also the thinnest smartphone on the market being 6.9 mm thick. Possibly the most ground breaking feature on the new iPhone is called Apple Pay. The days of carrying a wallet are in the past. This feature allows the customer to pay for their purchases by a single touch on the home button. Touch ID keeps credit and debit card information safe and secure so that only one specific fingerprint can access it, the owners. “My Touch ID doesn’t always work,” said freshman John Fredricks about his iPhone 6. “If it would work more often it would probably be my favorite feature on the
Ingredients
phone.” As stated on Apple’s website, more people take photos on the iPhone every day than on any other camera. The camera on the iPhone 6 has the ability to capture slo-mo and time-lapse videos. The phone also features cinematic video stabilization which keeps shots steady, even when the hands taking them are not. “My favorite part aside from the bigger screen is the camera and taking slow-mo videos! I don’t have a least favorite part so far,” senior Emily Kautzman said. The shutter speed of the camera is also twice as fast as
French Toast Cupcakes
1 - box Betty Crocker™ SuperMoist™ yellow cake mix, 1 cup water, 1/2 cup vegetable oil and 3 eggs called for on back of box
n n
1/2 - teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 - teaspoon vanilla
n
Frosting
n n n n
1 - teaspoon maple extract
1/3 - cup butter, softened 3 - cups powdered sugar 3 - tablespoons milk
Garnish
n
Crumbled cooked bacon
the shutter speed of the iPhone 5s, allowing users to capture even more great photos. iPhone 6’s new burst mode takes ten photos every second to help one capture the perfect selfie, every time. FaceTime also received a makeover. The new HD front facing camera captures 81 percent more light to help enhance the users chatting experience. For many users the hardest thing to get used to is that the lock key has been moved from the top of the phone to the right-hand side. Apple decided to move the position of the lock to make it easier to click with just one hand. According to Forbes Magazine, over 20 million iPhone 6’s have already been sold, 10 million in its first three days on the market. All signs point to the phone having continued success.
Photo by Mikaela Herberg
Cupcakes n
5
! y o j n E
Baking Instructions Follow baking instructions on the back of cake mix box
n Place cupcake wrappers into cupcake tin n Add enough batter to fill half of each wrapper
“It’s like dessert for breakfast, all anyone ever needs.” - Alumna Hannah Schlosser
Photo used and editted with rights from Lynn Gardner https://www.flickr.com/photos/grandgrrl/
News
6
Important dates to remember for November and December:
National Honor Society’s next meeting at 7:30 a.m. in the back of the library.
Nov. 5 Nov. 10 Nov. 20 Dec. 1
FCCLA’s next meeting from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. in room 118. Spanish Club’s next meeting in room 224. FCCLA’s fundraising night at the Pizza Ranch in Mandan.
Dec. 8-19
National Honor Society members go to Mandan Elementary Schools to give Internet Safety Presentations.
sarah KOVASH - co-Editor-in-Chief
MHS Courier
Club Roundup
CTE Department
DECA, FBLA, FCCLA, SADD and Student Council participated in the annual Trick or Treat for Canned Goods on Monday, Oct. 13 and Monday, Oct. 20. Together the groups collected over 2040 pounds of nonperishable items to donate to the local food pantry. FCCLA will have their District Meeting on Wednesday, Nov. 19 at the Heritage Center in Bismarck. They would like to invite students and faculty to support their chapter by eating at the Pizza Ranch on Monday, Dec. 1. FBLA’s theme this year is "Step Up to the Challenge" and it reflects the goals that FBLA members strive to achieve. For more information on FBLA, go to www.nd-fbla.org.
Leadership, National Honor Society and Student Council
Leadership, National Honor Society and Student Coucil hosted an Anti-Bullying walk on Sunday, Oct. 12. The week before the walk they sold orange Unite Against Bullying t-shirts and raised $260. National Honor Society members who plan to help out with the Internet Safety Presentations will have training for them on Tuesday, Dec. 2. For further details, please contact counselor Alyssa Caya.
FCA
FCA meets every Friday in room 121 at 6:45 a.m. They have a free breakfast and conversations on life and faith. Any one and everyone is welcome to join, whether they are an athlete or not.
FCCLA and FBLA will be hosting a FFA Babysitting Day on Sunday, Dec. 14 as an FFA’s next meeting will be coming up in annual fundraiser for the Children's Miracle November. For more information please Network and March of Dimes. contact Mrs. Wanner or Mrs. Reiter.
News
November
7
Officer Walt addresses the school
All lights are flashing green as a new school year is underway, brimming with all kinds of exciting activities. Officer Walt is on board for another nine month stint and he is really excited to be a small part in the big scheme of all the MHS happenings. Let us be reminded of some considerations that will help us experience a safer and more wholesome environment in and around the school. Rather than ‘rules,’ let me say these are strong ‘expectations’ that will help each of us have a greater respect, care and wellbeing for all students and staff. Team spirit is the name of the game everybody working together to make good things happen!
3. Tobacco:
Being There
MHS is a tobacco-free campus, and we are not to use any form of tobacco by I want to express my students or staff! If caught, you will deep heartfelt gratitude to the receive a citation - no warnings MHS students and staff for your many are issued.
expressions of sympathy, prayer and loving support during a very difficult time. My wife Lola died of cancer on August 28, 2014. She was a woman Food or beverages of strength, beauty and grace who had a strong faith are not permitted in the in the Lord. We were married for 58 years, worked areas of the entrances to side by side in ministry, sang lots of duets, traveled the school during lunch to many places and raised three boys, all graduating hours. It’s related to number two. from MHS. What would Lola want me to be doing 5. Speeding: right now? Without a doubt she would say, “Honey, Please slow down - 15 you need to be at Mandan High School, doing what General Expectations miles per hour on school you love most. They are like family and you campus. and Information are loved, appreciated and needed.” My 6. Seat Belts: thanks and love to all of you. God 1. Parking: North Dakota law says, if you’re bless you. Use designated spaces only to park your under 18, you are required to wear
4. Food and Beverages:
vehicles, including parking lots and street a seat belt. side. Students, please do not park in ‘staff 7. Stop Signs: only’ parking areas. The Brave Center also Observe STOP signs! Observation: most has a ‘no student parking area.’ Violation of students do not observe them! the latter two areas will get you a ticket with 8. Pedestrians: a fine. Pedestrians have the right-of-way where 2. Littering: there are crosswalks - Give them a break. Most of the students are very conscientious
about throwing their garbage in the receptacles provided or simply leaving it in your vehicle. KUDOS! What about the rest of you? Keep it clean, so we will be known for having the cleanest looking campus in the state! All it takes is a little pride.
First Lutheran Church
November 6: Hot dogs November 13: Sloppy Joe November 20: Deli sandwiches December 4: Super nachos December 11:Hot dogs December 18:Sloppy joe
Walter Schott
9. Doors:
Many of the doors throughout the school remain locked during the day, and must be kept as such for security reasons.
10. Respect:
Bullying, taunting, disrespect and disdainful language will not be tolerated and are an embarrassment to those who choose to take the high road of decency. There is a lot of precious cargo around MHS. Let’s be determined to take good care of each other so no one falls prey to any danger, harm or injury. Always make wise decisions, think before you act, exercise kindness and do a good deed daily that involves someone other than you. Let me also acknowledge another important team member whose presence is a vital part of our well-being as students and staff here at MHS. He is our Resource Officer, Rick Widicker. It is a joy working with him and I know you all appreciate his services.
Photo submitted by Hannah Sagaser
*Article submitted by Walter Schott
sarahKOVASH -co-Editor-in-Chief
Understanding the 2014
US House of R
If approved, it would amend the state constitution to provide for the “inalienable right to life” at every stage of human development. The primary goal of the amendment is to include fetal development as a stage of life.
“ “
Don’t take for granted the right to vote, it is a privilege that has been earned through much determination and sacrifice. -CTE Teacher Whitney Rinas Make sure to have your picture ID or you will be embarrassed to be rejected. -Fine Arts Teacher Shawn Boehm
“
“
Measure 2: The North Dakota Property Transfer Tax Ban Ammendment
The North Dakota Property Transfer Tax Ban Amendment would prevent the state from imposing mortgage, sales or transfer taxes on the mortgage or transfer of real property.
“
http://cramer.house.gov/
Measure 1: The Life Begins at Conception Amendment
“
“
Make sure you know where your official polling location is, which you can find online. And if you are of voting age, please take advantage of your right to vote! -History Teacher Megan Hanson Don’t vote upon an ideological sets of standards. -Math Teacher James Gustafson
“
“
“
Measure 4: The North Dakota Referral and Initiative Reform Amendment If approved, this would require initiated measures to have significant fiscal impact on the state in order to be placed on the general election ballot. It also would prohibit initated constitutional amendments that would make direct appropriation of public funds for a specific purpose.
Libertarian Ca Jack Seam
Jack Seaman’s campaign addre issues concerning civil liberties, fo policy, military spending, the war
marriage equality, gun ri For more information www.jackfornd.com.
Secretary http://nd.gov/sos/about/ jaeger-bio.html
If approved, Measure 3 would eliminate the part-time eight-member board of Higher Education and create an appointed full-time three-member commission that would oversee and administer all public higher education in the state.
Kevin Cramer’s campaign addresses the issue of Congress, defense and national security, the economy and jobs, financial services, foreign affairs, the tax reform and transportation. For more information visit Cramer’s website at http://www.cramer.house.gov.
Both Sinner and Cramer would like to address issues concerning agriculture, education, energy and veterans.
By visiting the website: “vote.nd.gov” you will find information on where your polling place is, what forms of identification will/will not work, examples of what the actual ballot will look like, and much more. -Counselor Callie Olson
Measure 3: The North Dakota Commission Higher Education Ammendment
Republican Candidate Kevin Cramer
Republican Candidate Al Jaeger Al Jaeger has served as North Dakota’s fourteenth Secretary of State since 1992. He is responsible for ensuring proper and
fair elections, proper recording of official documents and acts and efficient business registration. He currently serves on the State Historical Board.
Libertari Rolan
Roland Riemers goal for his cam voting public an alternative to poli stimulate debate on the issues as w
up the Libertarian Party a years.“ To look at how R issues, go to http://dem
4 North Dakota Election Democratic Candidate George B. Sinner
andidate man
esses the oreign on drugs,
ights and immigration. n visit Seaman’s website at
http://jackfornd.com/
George B. Sinner’s campaign addresses the issue of Western North Dakota’s infrastructure, work safety and law enforcement, as well as Tribal relations and protecting seniors. For more information visit Sinner’s website at http://www.sinnerforcongress.com.
http://sinnerforcongress.com
Representatives
All three candidates’ campaigns address the our national debt and budget, taxes and the IRS and health care.
y of State April Fairfield has served the people of North Dakota since she was 25, making her the youngest woman elected to the State Legislature. She is committed to ensuring the integrity of North Dakota’s elections and protecting the legitimate voting rights of all North Dakota citizens.
ian Candidate nd Riemers
mpaign is to “offer the itics as usual and to well as helping to build
as a viable alternative for future Riemers’ plans to address the mocracy.com/Roland-Riemers.
If approved, five percent of the state’s oil extraction tax revenue would be redirected to a Clean Water, Wildlife and Parks Trust and Fund.
“ “
“ “
Make sure you are marking what you actually want to mark. -Special Education Teacher Amanada Kolosky In order to be an informed voter, people need to know both sides of an issue. And, in order to do this, people need to read a variety of publications in the state as well as listen to many talk shows. -English Teacher Kathleen Moch
Measure 6: The North Dakota Parental Rights Initiative If approved, it would be a legal presumption that each parent is a fit parent and is entitled to be awarded equal parental rights by a court.
“
A person should also take time to learn about the candidates. Talking with parents may help, but ultimately it is the individual voters responsibility to know how the candidates stand on issues.
“
-History Teacher Brad Solemsaas
http://april4nd.com/
Democratic Candidate April Fairfield
Measure 5: The North Dakota Clean Water, Wildlife and Parks Amendment
Measure 7: The North Dakota Pharmacy Ownership Initiative
If approved, the requirement that majority ownership in a pharmacy be held by a registered pharmacist would be removed. This would repeal a law that bans chain retailers such as Walmart and Target from operating pharmacies.
“ “
They cannot explain the measures to you at the polls. Do your homework so you can make an informed decision. -Fine Arts Teacher Keri Hess-Bolte
“
I encourage anyone who of voting age, to certainly act on their right to vote. -Counselor Alyssa Caya
“
Measure 8: The North Dakota School Year Begins After Labor Day Initiative
If approved, this measure would mandate that pulic school classes begin after Labor Day. Currently each school district in North Dakota is allowed to design their own school calendar, including the academic year’s starting date. All photos used with permission from candidates’ websites or from the candidate themselves.
Student Life
10
MHS Courier
Robots render humans obsolete
The good, the bad and the inevitability of the robot takeover.
mikaela HERBERG
- co-Editor-in-Chief Humans are becoming unnecessary in the workforce. It may be hard to believe, but 70 percent of today’s occupations will become automated before the end of this century, according to Kevin Kelly of Wired Magazine. Robots are taking human jobs much like they did during the Industrial Revolution. This time, however, the machines that are doing the work will not need to be manned by humans like they were 200 years ago. These machines will not create jobs, they will take millions away. There are benefits and drawbacks to this. This new revolution is being led by a new wave of automation, one that is centered on artificial intelligence, machine learning and distributed smarts. This upheaval will touch all types of jobs, from manual labor to knowledge work. So yes, dear reader, robots may even take your job. Employers will love robots for many reasons. For example, robots don’t make human errors, they don’t need to get paid and they can work for hours on end, which could increase production rates. So what types of jobs will robots take? Robots have already taken over jobs that humans once did because they do them better. Machines have already begun to replace assembly line and warehouses
workers. One reason is that machines are able to lift heavy boxes for hours on end, sort them, and load them onto trucks. Once robots have completely made their journey into whitecollar jobs, they will start to target jobs that have required high level degrees in the past. The tasks of any informationintensive job can be automated. It doesn’t matter if it is doctors, lawyer sor architects. Areas of medicine that are not defined by paperwork, such as surgery, are already increasingly robotic. Miniaturized instruments attached to robotic arms are able to make smaller and more accurate incisions. This not only is more accurate, but it also benefits the patient by giving them minimal scarring, less bodily trauma and a faster recovery time. However, there are a few jobs that robots
can’t do. “Robots could never be teachers because they don’t have the ability to show compassion,” English teacher Dori Schaefbauer said. “To be a teacher robots would also need life experience, something they are unable to achieve.” The human race will continue to see robots take over. They will continue to do jobs that we have been doing, and do them much
better than we can. They will do jobs that we as humans can’t do at all. Robots will even do jobs that we never imagined needed to be done. Robots are paving the way to help us discover new jobs for ourselves. They are ultimately letting us focus on becoming more human, which is an irony in itself. This upheavel in the workforce is here whether the world is ready for it or not. The millions of people that will become unemployed may have some resentment t o w a r d s robots, but will hopefully find new jobs that will make the world as we know it a better place to live.
November
Student Life
11
Student Life
12
MHS Courier
Student lives a life of school, music and dance
colton JUSTICE
- Feature Editor
Sophomore Johan Stenslie is a student of many talents. Along with being involved in several school activities and having a Norwegian heritage that is a prominent aspect of his life, he is musically inclined as well. Stenslie is a part of Cross Country, Swing Choir, Leo’s Club, Student Council and Jazz Choir. “I want to be social. I love people so I want to get to know people from different groups, different circles in our school,” Stenslie said. “Also I love to play music so anything musical I join right away, the rest is just for social.” As for being musically inclined he regularly plays piano, accordion, banjo, percussion and the pennywhistle, an Irish instrument that is like a recorder but smaller and played in a different key. “Piano is without a doubt my favorite instrument. There’s so much you can do on a piano. You can play the bass, the melody, you can play the harmonies, everything,” Stenslie said. “You can do so many styles on the piano jazz, classical, pop, heavy metal, anything. You name it.” Stenslie teaches piano lessons on top of all
dancing, something he has learned from both his parents. “I love swing dancing. My parents taught me how to swing dance when I was really young and it’s a wonderful, wonderful form of dance,” Stenslie said. “People just gotta step up their game and learn how to actually dance, it’s a hundred times better than twerking.” Because of his Norwegian heritage English is actually his second language, with Norwegian being his first. “Got not bror is something Johan Stenslie playing piano at a church function. that I his school activities. Stenslie usually tell currently has three students, to people,” but the most he’s had at one Stenslie said. time was five, with their ages It means ranging from five years old good night to 23. brother and His interest in music began he tells it with his dad. As a high school to all of his student Stenslie’s dad was bros. pretty much in every sport Along with you could imagine but e v erything quit the piano lessons he Stenslie was in. This is something already does he’s regretted ever since he still wants and has pushed all his to do more. children to become He wants to involved in anything learn how to musical. Johan Stenslie swing dances with his mom. dance the Stenslie has a few tango. The other hobbies that he pursues as well. interest in this was sparked by his parents He is also an avid birdwatcher, a hobby also after his dad took his mom to tango he got from his dad. “I love birds. I can identify pretty much lessons. So how does he do everything he does? anything you see here in North Dakota “I don’t own TV or video games,” Stenslie and in Norway.” One of his other hobbies is swing said. “It’s as simple an answer as that.” Johan Stenslie lets birds eat out of his hand. All Photos Submitted by Johan Stenslie
Student Life
November
13
Take part in these community activities
mikaela HERBERG
- co-Editor-in-Chief
Be involved in these festive upcoming events
r tcracke The Nu s Auditorium p.m. e Mehu The Bell 12, 2014 7:30 .m. r e b 2:30 p Decem 3, 2014 1 r e b . Decem 7:30 p.m 2:30 p.m. 1 20 4 ber 14, Decem ance’s ins D ky’s la P rn aikovs Northe of Tch l a y a ker. portr Nutcrac le at the ab il a are av Tickets hus. e Belle M
essiah The M 7, 2014 ber h, Decem eran Churc Luth Trinity ismarck ND . B :30 p.m 9 . .m 7:30 p
Sant a’s Main Arrival P S Nove treet, M arade a mbe ndan r 10:45 29, 2014 a.m.
Mannh
eim S te Christm amroller as Bismar ck Civic Ce Novem ber 21, nter 8:00 p.m 2014 .
Ch dan ristma sT H assi igh S ree Se stin cho lling g D o Sell ing ykshor the Lio l Leo’s n n s will tarts o Park, M ’s Club Club go u nD and e ntil the cembe an r tree s ru 1st an n ou d t Man
pecial mas S t s i r h 2014 Line C Lorie cember 17, e D , 2014 ber 18 m e c e D .m. 7:30 p ditorium u A ehus Belle M
14
Sports
MHS Courier
Sports
November
September Athletes of the Month
colton JUSTICE
Sports Roundup
- Feature Editor
15
Girls Volleyball
Senior Madysen Zander
Football
The Girls Volleyball team has competed in a total of 34 matches with a record of 1717 so far this year. The team’s next match will be on Tuesday, Nov. 4 against Century at 7 p.m. in the MHS gymnasium. “Our season this year has been very good,” said senior Madysen Zander. “We are very close to making it to state!” “We have had a pretty good season so far [and] now we are preparing for WDA [and] State,” said senior Rachelle Harr.
Junior Erik Porter
Bryce Andresen was the top runner for the Boys’ team and seventh-grade student Kelby Rinas ran best for the Girls’ team, taking first for Mandan and 17th overall.
“I thought our season could have been a lot better but over all the team was a great team,” said senior Jorden Michlitsch. “They choose to improve and make themselves better.”
The Braves Football team competed in “Mady has been eight games this year with an overall record instrumental in our team’s of 2-6. “This years team has made improvements success this past month, as our libero, she has tallied from the start to the finish of the year,” said 220 digs and 17 aces. Not Head Coach Todd Sheldon. “I am proud to only is Mady one of our be associated with this team due to their most reliable defenders, physical approach to the game and their she ranks up there with never say die attitude.” the best in the region. Her Boys Tennis consistent play is one of the main reasons The Boys Tennis team competed we’ve been able to run a dynamic and upin 12 games this year and had an tempo offense this year and will be a crucial overall record of 3-9. Junior Erik part of success going forward,” said Head Porter was the West Region singles Coach Anna Folk. champion. Senior Bryce “Though our record may not show success, we all improved Andresen “Bryce has been an tremendously,” said senior Keaton exceptional leader all Sedivec. season in meets and at “I had a good season with a practice. Every practice he disappointing finish,” said Porter. is motivating and cheering “But I can’t complain. As a team we on his teammates to do had a bit of a growing year.” Photo submitted by Jane Porter better and work h a r d e r . Senior player Sedivec, pictured fourth from the Boys and Girls Cross In races this month Bryce right, thought the team had a great year. has led the team in all Country four meets and placed in the top 20, out The Boys and Girls Cross Country teams of an average of 90 runners, in each race have competed in ten meets this year. Both Boys Soccer against some of the best competition in the teams place 13th at the Class A Meet at The Boys Soccer team played a total of 17 state.” said Head Coach Nick Towner. the Minot Souris Valley Golf Course. Senior games this year with a record of 3-12-2. “Erik Porter had maybe the best month of tennis a Mandan boy’s tennis player has ever had. During the regular season duals, he went 5-1 against West opponents playing #1 singles including a win over the defending West Region singles champion. At the Minot Round Robin, Erik took 1st Place at #1 singles going 6-0 against the top players of each team in the region. Erik continued his stellar play at the West Fargo Invite placing 4th at #1 singles in a very difficult tournament that included every team in the state,” said Head Coach Paul Christen. All photos were submitted
Girls Golf
The Girls Golf team played a total of 11 games this year taking 11th at the Class A Tournament at the Jamestown Country Club. Sophomore KayCee Schulz placed 9th at the Tournament. Schulz finished this year earning All WDA, All Regional and All State Tournament Team and All State Team. “... not bad for a sophomore,” said Head Coach Dean Johs.
Girls Swimming & Diving
The Girls Swim & Dive team has competed in a total of 12 meets with a record of 7-5. The next meet for the team will be the WDA Championships with the time and location to be announced. “My swim team is my home away from home, the girls are like my sisters,” said junior Anna Freidig. “I am proud of each and every one of them.”
(All information for Sports Roundup is updated as of October 28, 2014. Any meets/games from October 29-November 3 are not included.)