The Courier February 2016 Issue

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OPINION Wolf Tracks 2 CENTERSPREAD The Presidental Election Process 12-13 SPORTS Girls Shoot For State 20 905 8th Ave. NW, Mandan, ND

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Volume 24, Issue 4

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February 2016

Opinion

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Since I’m halfway through my junior year, the aspect of college has been popping up more often in my head. I have no idea what I want to do with my life after high school, or where I want to go. This is definitely a stressful aspect of my life right now, and I guarantee the seniors in the same position I’m in are 10 times more stressed out.

When I was younger I had my heart set on being an archeologist or a marine biologist.

I was always sure that I was going to go into

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gabrielle WOLF

- Asst. Editor-in-Chief

one of those fields, and I always felt bad for the people who struggled with deciding what they wanted to do with their lives. Now I’m the person I always felt bad for when I was younger.

As you get older, you become more realistic about the careers available to you. Not all jobs have availability, and they may be unrealistic, like wanting to be a princess or a superhero. In my case, I came to realize a lot of people want to go into marine biology, and most archeology jobs are unavailable.

Recently my father and I spent our Sunday

looking at colleges and the classes offered there in hopes that I would figure out what I wanted to do with my life or where I wanted to study.

I also took different career tests, that tell you what fields you would be good at. Lets just say, it wasn’t very helpful considering I’m bad at making decisions.

I hope that everyone in the situation that I’m in will eventually figure out what they want to do. There are so many job opportunities, and hopefully the career path we choose is something that we can enjoy everyday.

Diverging from the books

hannah- RAVNAAS General Reporter

This year on March 18, part one of the final installment of the Divergent series will be released, and as in almost every book to movie adaptation, the story line has been altered.

The first movie, Divergent, stays true to the original story and only makes minor changes to ensure the most important things get enough screen time. The movie industry always seems to skip over the slower parts that add in little details.

The vital changes include changing one of the main character’s, Tobias or Four, age from 18 to 24, which makes the relationship between him and Tris more awkward, and allows for him to be seen as an authority figure in the Dauntless Faction.

The overall tone was changed to make it less brutal and violent. Writers also didn’t cast some of the initiates into dauntless for the movie, to lower the budget.

Throughout the series the writers keep cutting supporting characters, even though they add more back story to the main characters and add a little color to the plot.

Now, SPOILER ALERT, in the second movie, Insurgent, the story takes an unexpected turn.

Instead of following the book again, writers decided to add their own flair to the story.

They added a box. But this box could only be opened by a very strong Divergent, like Tris Prior.

This addition definitely changes the outcome of the final series and opens up places for possible plot holes that might not be explained.

The message contained in this “box” was originally just a message left on a computer

which could only be accessed by someone who was very familiar with the system. The faction leaders all knew about this message.

In the books it wasn’t revealed that the faction system was just an experiment until the last book Allegiant. This steals some of the thunder from the final movie, and by splitting it into two movies, movie writers will have to come up with more of their own story.

All the little changes add up over time and it seems like the movies will have to end differently

than originally planned, even though the author, Veronica Roth, wanted to follow the books closely.

No matter how this series will end, one thing everyone can agree on is that the series was a big hit and captivated many.

Saxophonist and junior Bailee Walker sticks out in the pep band, sporting a Pink-Out T-shirt.

Front Page Photo by Casey Beck

Courier Staff and Editorial Policy

Trevor Murphy............................Editor-In-Chief Feature Editor Gabrielle Wolf...............Assistant-Editor-In-Chief Opinion Editor Casey Beck...................................Sports Editor Kaelan Reedy.................................News Editor Olivia Borchers........................General Reporter Brenna Hammer......................General Reporter Hannah Ravnaas.....................General Reporter Ashley Johnson.......................General Reporter Austin Nelson..........................General Reporter Mandi Joyce............................General Reporter Billy Fleck...............................General Reporter Shantel Jangula.......................General Reporter Shae Skager............................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.

mandi- JOYCE General Reporter

kaelan REEDY

You can be anyone you want for an entire day, who do you pick and why?

Who killed the Dead Sea?

All photos by Mandi Joyce

Sophomore Grant Myers

Junior Jennifer Ferderer

“No clue, ask a scientist.”

“If E=MC², then yes.”

“Depends on the day of the week.”

“Jensen Ackles, because I want to meet his family.”

“Barney Stinson, because everything he does is Legenwait for it- dary.”

“I did it. It was me.”

“Well you can’t really kill something that’s already dead, but if you mean logically…

Salt is the one to blame.”

Do you have any nicknames?

“Some of my friends and teachers call me Jonesy, but my friends also call me Sahara, like the desert.”

How big is your freshman pack?

“Depends on the day, some days it’s tiny, other days it’s huge.”

What is your most embarrassing moment so far?

“Being tripped and falling up the stairs, then dropping everything.”

Sara Jones

SIDE

- News Editor

Freshman Alex Catalano If you dug a hole through the center of the Earth and jumped in, would you stay at the center because of gravity or would you fall through?

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As a noob, what’s your biggest fear?

“Making a fool of myself and turning into the laughing stalk of the school.”

“Tyler Oakley… it’s pretty obvious.”

“Natural causes.”

Senior Tim Bjugstad

Vocal Intern Ashley Schrenk

“Neither, you would combust and turn to ash before you even reached the upper mantle.”

“If I didn’t implode or die by magma, I would tether myself to the core and have the best sauna ever.”

“I would want to be Morgan Freeman so I could bring joy to millions with a single word.”

“I would be Stephen Sondheim so I could step inside the mind of a musical genius.”

“North Skager, he’s so salty!”

“A killer whale.”

Do you have any nicknames?

“Brownie.”

How big is your freshman pack?

“Medium-Sized.”

What is your most embarrassing moment so far?

“I don’t really have any.”

As a noob, what’s your biggest fear?

“Probably getting hurt and having to walk around the school with crutches again.”

Mason Brown

*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.*

Opinion

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Point-Counterpoint

Corryn Emter, Sophomore: “For, because some teachers don’t teach very well and from the beginning to the end you can see how much they have gotten better and see if they are following all the rules of teaching.”

ashley- JOHNSON General Reporter

We asked students if they were for or against giving Grace Kuntz, their teachers an evaluation on how they taught. The Sophomore: “Against; students on the left explain why they are for evaluations teachers may have and the students on the right explain why they are been taught a certain against them. way and shouldn’t be The cons of students being told it’s bad.” able to evaluate the students can be negative. There could be biased reviews, favoritism Dalton Sougstad, or other issues, teachers Sophomore: won’t want to teach the Savanna “For; I think it would be a most challenging students S chauer, good idea so that students because they could get bad Sophomore: could have a chance to reviews, teachers are not the “Against; it’s share their thoughts on students’ only influence, and not our job.” the teaching ways of the experienced teachers will have an T h e r e teacher.” advantage over less experienced are many Hannah Ravnaas, Junior: colleagues because they benefits of “For, I think that teachers Shantel Jangula, tend to be given the allowing students should be evaluated S o p h o m ore: more advanced because then they “Students might students. to evaluate their teachers. will know what to hold grudges against Teachers can be rewarded for improve on and teachers and make their performance which will what students can unfair evaluations.” result in better qualified, more learn from.” advanced teachers.

Giving the most talented teachers Austin Nelson, Junior: Alexa Lembcke, “For, I feel like critiquing Junior: a reward will keep them the teacher is a good way “Against, because motivated to experiment and to get to know the teacher students might lie to also persuade them to keep and for the teacher to protect the teachers teaching for longer period of take criticism and maybe feelings or might lie time. learn how to improve their and be hurtful for no All photos taken by: Casey Beck teaching methods.” reason.”

hannah RAVNAAS

Look now for summer jobs

- General Reporter

As the end of the school year soon approaches, many students are thinking about getting a summer job in the Mandan-Bismarck area.

The only problem with everyone looking for a job is that the competition becomes much harder.

High schoolers are already at a disadvantage.

They are young and usually don’t have any job experience, except for maybe baby sitting or yard work for family friends. College students are a more preferable choice, because employers know that they are more dependable and are willing to work long hours.

This is very easy to see in retail based jobs.

College students come home for the summer and want to earn money for college next year, while (most) high schoolers only work to have a little extra money.

Employers try to hire high schoolers at a

lower wage. But, every time they hire people, employers have to raise the hiring wage, in order to attract new potential employees. There is always another business willing to pay more, and employers know this.

But the pay inequality doesn’t end with just high school students. Many middle aged workers also get duped.

One of my coworkers, who has had at least eight years of experience in retail, only gets paid 50 cents more per hour than me. Whereas a freshman in college, with very little experience, is making $1.25 more than me per hour. That’s a 75 cent gap between a more experienced worker and new retail worker.

While this small pay gap may not seem like a big deal, it definitely adds up, especially if you are supporting a family, saving money for college, or paying off a car.

But, retail jobs rarely offer any room for advancement. Yes, it is possible to become a

manager, but then the job requires that you work about 40 hours per week. Also, they require that managers are older than 18.

Now retail jobs are not the only options around, there are CNA jobs, waiter/waitressing, and many, many more. But each job requires certain skill sets, usually acquired by post secondary education.

And, as always, when high school students go back to school and want to work afterwards, their hours get cut severely since everyone wants the same hours. Managers are more willing to work with the schedules of more experienced employees.

The best way to ensure getting a job is to start searching early. Apply to many places and don’t bank on just one. Always compare the starting wages as well as employee benefits. Once a person gets experience it will always help out when seeking a better job.

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Opinion

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The best apps you’ve never heard of shae-SKAGER General Reporter Smartphones have defined this generation of students all over the country. Some have hundreds of apps; some have only a few, but with thousands of apps hitting Apple and Android phones every day, even the smartphone generation can get a little lost. Listed here are some of the best apps found throughout the years that have been brushed aside by our generation. Grab your phone and free up some storage space.

Stylebook If your closet or dresser is a mess, this is the app for you. It allows you to database and categorize your wardrobe, making it accessible from anywhere. Within the app, you can build outfits and save them to your calendar, making planning a week of outfits a breeze. It also includes free style assistants and guides to help you pick the perfect shirt for those new jeans.

Sound too girly? No problem - The company has another similar app on the market designed just for guys. It is currently only available on Apple, but an Android version is in the works.

Price: $3.99 App Store Rating: 4 stars

Skyview Essential for any would-be stargazers, this app can give you a tour of our solar system and beyond from anywhere, even inside during broad daylight. The app beautifully illustrates many constellations, planets, stars and satellites and can be set to notify you about upcoming celestial sightings and astronomical events. It also displays object paths and times of orbit and has a “night-mode” to save your night vision when using the app outside. Every object is searchable and can be found at any time, even Southern Hemisphere objects - and does not require Wifi. There’s nothing like catching glimpses of barely-there satellites, telescopes and rocket bodies pass overhead at both midnight and high afternoon. This app is available for both Apple and Android phones.

Price: $1.99 for the full version. A free version is also available.

App Store Rating: 5 stars

WalkForADog (Wooftrax) This app is not your typical walking app.

Instead of tracking your heart rate and path, this app tracks how long you walk and transforms it into money that is donated to an animal shelter of your choice. Mandan’s local animal shelter, Central Dakota Humane Society, has an account set up to take donations. Take your dog out for a walk, or just walk on your own, and watch your health improve while supporting a great cause. Dogs are not required for this app to work, and it runs smoothly in the background in conjunction with other exercise trackers. The amount donated is dependent on how many active walkers there are supporting the shelter, so get up, grab a leash and a few baggies, and get moving. This app is available for Apple and Android phones.

Price: Free App Store Rating: 3.5 stars

Screenshots by Shae Skager

Technology: our greatest privilege austin-NELSON General Reporter Phone use in the cafeteria is a great privilege and should not be abused or taken advantage of.

I have really appreciated the use of phones in the cafeteria, and have used it to get homework done, listen to music, and occasionally check social media. I personally think that having more freedom with our devices makes lunch, and the school day, more enjoyable. I can also understand Andresen’s view on the issue of students losing the privilage because some students use them wherever they want.

“In all reality, they are used whenever a student goes to the bathroom and are used going down to the cafeteria. Many student council members wanted to address the issue so they wouldn’t lose the privilege,” Principal Mark Andresen said.

When lunch is happening, it still doesn’t give students the right to use their phones whenever they want. We as students have the freedom to use our phones inside the cafeteria and not in the halls or the bathroom during lunch.

“Realistically, when I made the decision last fall, it was to give the students an option, instead of using them in class, they have the cafeteria.

I recognize that it is a lifeline for students and even adults,” Andresen said Andresen’s concerns with phones are disruption and cheating, and I think that phones in the cafeteria has minimized the problem of them in the classroom, and with the IPads, cell phone use should further decrease.

Restrictions will be set on the IPads so students don’t download games and other apps that will cause a disruption or distraction, and the school is working on creating its own app store. With all of this, it sparked a question: Will we still be having our phones in the cafeteria if we have our ipads? Our personal devices, as well as the

Ipads, will be allowed next year in the cafeteria.

The tablets will be restricted. Andresen is letting us have our personal devices for less restrictive purposes like texting and social media. I believe phones in the cafeteria is a great idea and I can really see Mr. Andresen’s point, and why he threatened to revoke the privilege.

Our phones are a large part of our lives with social media, homework and a basic form of communication. I use my phone to help me keep in touch with my teachers and my friends. If I don’t know how to do something, I use my phone. If I want to know what’s going on in the lives of my peers, I use my phone. If I want a good laugh, I use my phone. This is why I think cellphones are important to have during lunch, and the freedom is fantastic. Having them in the cafeteria is such an amazing privilege.

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Courier Calendar March

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Mon

29

Parent Teacher Conferences Leap Year

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8

Professional Development No School

Big Muddy Band Festival

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Day Light Savings

Jazz II & MMS Ft. Lincoln Elem.

Jazz Opus atMMS Program at MHS

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10

23

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High School All State Band

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11

12

30

18

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25

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SaintPatrick’sDay Roosevelt Elem.

Program at MHS

Nine Weeks Tests

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Boy’s State Swim and Dive

Boys & Girls State Basketball

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Brass Festival

Spring Begins

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Junior High All State Band

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22

4

Sat

Boys & Girls WDA Basketball

Girl’s Track

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Lewis & Clark Program at MHS

Deca State Conference Boy’s &

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Thu

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ParentTeacher Conferences CB1 & 8th Grade concert

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Wed

No school Good Friday

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WDA Choir

Easter Day No School

Attention: Please excuse any events that were left out of this issue’s calendar. To ensure this doesn’t happen again, send event dates to mhscourier@gmail.com. Thank you. Background picture courtesy of Sawtooth Flickr.com

February

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Testing is forever changed

An overview of the changes to standard tests in 2016 trevor -MURPHY Editor-in-Chief Throughout the average student’s career, a person has to take tests just to progress. However, there are some big changes being made to how students test and what tests they take.

Civics Test

A new addition to the class of 2017’s requirements to graduate will be a citizenship test. In essence it will be the same test that immigrants take when they want to become permanent citizens of the US. This will be a mandatory test that all seniors will take in their problems of democracy class.

“Seniors, to graduate, will have to get a 60 percent or higher next year, and this year’s sophomores will have to get a 70 percent.” history teacher Ryne Jungling said.

This is going to help keep students stay up to date by reestablishing a base knowledge of American history. Things on the test will be things that have been throughout middle and high school.

“It’s going to help students to be a little more engaged in social studies… there will be some level of proficiency in basic civics and personal responsibility for someone when they graduate high school,” Jungling said. “Classes like math, science and english have some sort of standard testing, and this is an opportunity of way for social studies to [find out] what our students really know, because we don’t have a way to compare, across the state, what students know.”

Seniors next year will be given at least two chances in class, per quarter, but there will be adjustments to take it more times, if students don’t make the cut. Their first attempt will be within the first week of POD II and there will another chance to get a passing grade around nine-weeks testing.

“This is going to be more of a low key test for a lot of students,” Jungling said. “There

reading passages.

These changes are set to be done by March 3; however, it will have the greatest effects on the graduates of 2017, anyone else SAT Photo from wikipedia.org that’s hopeful of fine because it The official logo of the SAT, showing what they’re going college in the coming year and shows you know helping students on the the curriculum.” coasts.

Another big A big reason that students don’t take the SAT, change for seniors of ‘16-’17 is the SAT. The SAT, or Scholastic Aptitude Test, will have the “largest especially in the Mid-West, is that they don’t think rework of standardized tests in the last decade” it will help; however, it can be very beneficial.

“The SAT can help you get more money from according to the Princeton Review.

A NY Times article said, “It’s going to change scholarships, and gets you into colleges on the West Coast, or that’s what I’ve heard,” senior who does well.”

Students with Tate Russell said.

A common misconception about the SAT is that low reading rates, less than it doesn’t help if your college of choice isn’t on 500 words the coasts, but students have found that taking per minute, this test makes it easier to take the ACT. The rework of the SAT will make it similar to will be heavily a f f e c t e d the ACT; however, the major difference is that c o n s i d e r i n g the SAT will test students ability to do the work one of the and how they find the answer, but the answer b i g g e s t will not be as important as the attempt.

Put very simply the SAT will now be directly changes is the amount competitive to the ACT in how it is graded, and of math word there’s a decent chance that colleges nationwide problems and will want the SAT just as much, if not more than the length of the ACT. the required will be plenty [of] students, by the second attempt, [that will] be close to passing it, and some will pass in the first, and that’s

“ It’s going to help students to be a little more engaged in social studies… ”

News

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The fifth leap year of the century hannah RAVNAAS

fourth of a day gets combined every four years to According to the BBC news magazine, other make a “leap day.” Incidentally, this is the same countries have different traditions about women calendar we still use today. proposing.

February 29. The day that only comes around Timeanddate.com also said that If a Danish man refuses every 4 years, but why is that? different calendars around the world a woman’s proposal, he Originally, there wasn’t a specific leap day, so have a different system for coming has to give her 12 pairs of much as a leap month. According to timeanddate. up with leap years, such as in the gloves to hide her ringless com, after about one hundred years, the existing country Iran. Within a 33 year time hand and nurse her pride. calendar was off by twenty four days: just enough span their calendar has eight leap Many Greeks believe for a “month” to be added. So, some years had years. that the whole leap year, essentially 13 months.

The Hindu and especially the leap Then, Julius Caesar, only a have a leap Used with permission from encrypted- day, is extremely unlucky.

Roman general at the time, year that occurs And so many couples decided to add one day tbn3.gstatic.com every three or avoid proposing and even every four years to even out four years in Frogs are commonly used to getting married during a his “Julian Calendar.” indicate leap day. an 11 year time leap year.

His calendar looked similar frame.

On a luckier note to the one we know today.

They add an extra month, though, the chances of being born on leap day is It had 12 months and almost like the Julian one in 1,461.

365 days, but the months Calender did.

These people are usually called “leaplings” or weren’t in the same order, After the Gregorian just “leap-day babies.” For most years, they get or the same length.

Calendar was accepted, to choose whether they celebrate their birthday As the years went on, there became a tradition of on February 28 or March 1. some flaws in the counting women proposing to men on On average, about four million babies are born started to show up, meaning February 29th. each year on February 29, according to CNN that there were too many As the story goes, St. reporter Supraja Seshadri. Yet, surprisingly, days being counted in a Patrick gave women one there is not one student in Mandan High School single year. day to propose because who has a birthday on February 29.

To fix this problem, Pope they were complaining that In part of this day’s “scarcity,” February 29 is Gregory XIII popularized Used wih permission from Wikipedia “men were always taking too Rare Disease Day. the Gregorian Calendar, long.”

Rarediseaseday.org states that they call to which was created by Luigi Pope Gregory XIII instituted the This also happened because attention all the diseases that usually get missed Lilio, an Italian astronomer, Gregorian Calender. it was only proper for men to by most big medical fields. This day usually falls philosopher, and doctor. propose to women, and since on the last day of February, but it is especially This calendar evened out the months to 30 a leap day wasn’t “a real day” women were able prevalent on leap day. or 31 days with one exception: February. It to use it to their advantage.

For the most part. this day is seen as just also counted 365 and one fourth days. The one another day. Considering how many changes were made to the calendar to create this day, maybe there should be a greater celebration for it, or at least the people who only get to celebrate their real birthday every four years.

- General Reporter

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The Courier

Family Wellness Center to open in Mandan kaelan REEDY

- News Editor

A new family-oriented fitness center is coming to Mandan, sponsored by the Missouri Valley Family YMCA and Sanford Health, set to be completed in the Spring of 2016.

The center will be located directly beside Raging Rivers Waterpark, taking the place of a defunct go-kart track and miniature golf course. The land was worth 1.7 million dollars, according to sanfordhealth.org.

The facility will include fitness studios and a gymnasium, along with other services such as child care and physical therapy.

“We’re going to create a vibrant and healthy community.

We’re going to fight obesity and disease. We’re going to take care of our aged population,” said Missouri Family Valley YMCA CEO Bill Bauman.

The facility intends to reduce chronic disease risk factors in children and adults through

activity, nutrition, most and education. recognized It also aims to family promote families fitness spending time organization together, and meet and the the needs of an region’s aging population. largest health Child care will also care system,” be a focus of the said Craig facility.

Lambrecht, “Only 25 - 40% MD, president of the need for child of Sanford care in BismarckBismarck.

Photo used with permission from Google Maps “We will Mandan is currently being met,” said a Family Wellness undoubtedly flyer. “Family Wellness will allow for additional be able to best serve our growing community’s child care space and programming.” wellness needs by working together.”

The $12.3 million dollar project has been The sponsors of the Family Wellness Center funded significantly through the efforts of have high hopes for the success of the Sanford Health, the Missouri Valley Family program, and families who will use it.

YMCA, and the City of Mandan Visitors Fund.

“This is something I know – I know – our “This project is bringing together the region’s communities will adore,” he said.

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Mandan Faces Modifications Significant changes will come with the 2016-2017 school year. The number of class periods in a day will decrease, required graduation credits will change, and students will have access to new technology.

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E kaelan -RNe ws Editor Next year’s seniors will only need to take 5 classes.

7 Periods The number of class periods in a day are being reduced.

All Freshman and Sophomores will be required to take all 7 classes, while Juniors and Seniors will be required to take 6.

The credit requirement for gym will be decreased by 1 credit.

Credits Grades and class credits will face changes.

The grading scale will be upped to a 5.0 scale. Dual Credit/AP classes allows students to rise above a 4.0.

ppeals f gym a ure, o k c la “The e nat loth-lik to my s ’t see how it’s on happy but I d ial. I’m fi e ben c t it’s not good , bu y about it The only wa for me. ising is if it’s rc I’m exe y,” said junior tor a d n a m ork.

Alec St

In the upcoming school year, both Mandan students and staff will experience changes within the school.

Period 1 will likely start at 8:10, later than the current 7:45. Classes will be 48 minutes long.

Several classes will be removed.

Study Hall, tutoring, and free periods will be defunct.

In the future, it’s possible an English 4 class will be put into the curriculum.

There will still only be one graduation speaker.

“I shou feel all k ld i educ have p ds hysic ation al a lot , and take of them now wo the junio class,” n’t said r Ma Rick lachai man .

The iPads will be handed out after an orientation session before school starts.

iPads All students will receive new iPads for use in their classes.

Classes The exact timeframe has not yet been decided.

All students who receive a 4.0 or higher will be considered Valedictorians.

Some classes will be added, and some will be dropped.

A student enrichment class will be available to all students during 6th period.

A “Student Technology Specialist” class, or an STS class, will be created for students interested in helping others with iPads.

“I hope that we enhance education, and engage kids further. There are better learning opportunities that they will have access to,” said Principal Mark Andresen.

Students will receive training similar to IT work.

iPads will be the responsibility of the student.

The class will be in the library, and anyone who needs help is welcome.

The Presidential The presidential election process. While we’ve been hearing all about it since early last year, no one ever explains how it works. From the primaries to the presidency, this article will explain the in’s and out’s of the presidential process.

Primaries Social studies teacher Ryne Jungling describes the primaries as, “the process by which many candidates for a party's nomination becomes a few (or one) candidates for a party's nomination.”

While that might seem simple at the surface, it gets much more complicated. There are many different types of primaries that vary state to state. These can be split into the primary system or the caucus system.

Types of Primaries

Caucus

Primaries

The caucus system works by gathering individuals of a certain party into a building (such as a church or school), and has them offer debates on why their candidate is better.

They then vote on which candidates they want the precinct (voting location) to represent.

There are two types of caucuses, closed and open.

In the primary system, individuals will choose their candidate by voting for them at a polling place. In this system, no debates are involved. There are two different types of primaries that are used in the U.S. They are the closed and open primary systems.

Open Caucus In this type of caucus, anyone affiliated with any party can go and caucus for their candidate of choice.

For example, an Independent could vote in a Republican or Democrat caucus because party affiliation is irrelevant.

Open Primary In open primaries, you don’t have to be registered with a party to vote for your candidate trying to win that party’s nomination. For example, if you were an Independent in an open primary state you could vote for a Republican candidate or Democratic candidate without having to register for a certain party.

Closed Caucus Only voters registered with a certain party can caucus for their candidate in a closed caucus.

For example, only registered Republicans can vote for a Republican candidate in a closed caucus.

billy- FLECK General Reporter

Party Positions Republicans Abortion Pro life and against abortion at all stages.

Their policies to allow exceptions that vary state to state.

Taxes Generally want a lower tax rate for all people and businesses.

Foreign Policy Generally have a very aggressive foreign policy. Many Republicans want to put boots on the ground in the Middle East to fight ISIS.

Climate Change Most Republicans deny climate change exists. Want to reduce regulations on energy industries.

Closed Primary In closed primaries, only those affiliated with a certain party can vote for those parties’ candidates. For example, if you want to vote for a Republican in a closed primary state you have to be registered as a Republican.

Through these different types of primaries a candidate from each party is selected. They run from February 1 (Iowa) all the way to June 14 (District of Columbia). While the primaries may seem complicated, it’s important to remember that all of these methods aim to accomplish one goal which is to get a candidate nominated for their party.

Gun Control Generally believe that less gun control is better. Many Republicans are against further regulations on the ability to purchase guns.

LGBT Rights Generally against same sex marriage. Many Republicans don’t believe in workplace and public protection for LGBT people.

College Many Republicans believe that students should take a second look at a four-year degree because many students are left jobless after graduation. Instead, they recommend alternative careers in the technical education field.

Immigration Generally want increased border security and the completion of the wall between the U.S. and Mexico. Most Republicans oppose amnesty for undocumented immigrants.

Election Process

s on the Issues Democrats Abortion Pro choice and for abortion at almost all stages of a pregnancy. Democrats want to keep the process safe for women and keep them in control of their reproductive organs.

Taxes Generally want a higher tax rate on the rich and businesses.

Foreign Policy Generally prefer diplomacy over war.

Democrats utilize peace talks, multinational approaches to issues, or a peacekeeping mission.

Climate Change Generally concerned about climate change.

Want to increase the amount of renewable energy and reduce carbon emissions.

Gun Control Generally promote increased gun regulation.

Support stronger instant background checks and want to close loopholes in laws.

LGBT Rights For same sex marriage. Want more protection for LGBT people in the workplace and public.

College Democrats believe that more students should go to college. To accomplish this goal they’ve allowed students to get better student loans, restructure existing loans and expand the amount of aid available to those who need it.

Immigration Want increased border security. Generally pursue amnesty policy for undocumented immigrants. Current plans aim to gives five million immigrants deportation relief.

General Election The general election is the part of the presidential election process that most people are familiar with. In this part of the election, the nominees for both parties face off. Often these candidates will campaign in the swing states. Swing states are states that don’t have Democrat or Republican tendencies. Current swing states include Ohio, Iowa, Florida, Virginia, Colorado, Nevada and New Hampshire.

In addition to campaigning, the presidential candidates will have three debates throughout the general election season and the vice presidents will have one. They use these debates to showcase their platform and explain why voters should choose them.

Finally, on November 8 of this year, the voters will choose who the next President of the United States will be. In each state, electors will be awarded to a certain candidate through the electoral college system. Finally, when one candidate reaches 270 electoral college votes they win the election and become the president.

Electoral College The electoral college is the group of electors that decides who the president will be. The group is made up of the United States Congress (Members of the House of Representatives and the Senate). There are 535 members of the electoral college. To become president, a candidate must win 270 of these votes. The majority of states use the winner takes all system. In this system, if a candidate wins the popular vote of a state, they get all of that state’s electoral vote. However, two states (Maine and Nebraska) use the district system. In the district system, each legislative district gets one vote and the popular vote of the state as a whole chooses the way the senators will vote. These states consider it a fairer way to divide electoral votes.

How You Can Get Involved The easiest, and most important way to get involved in the presidential election, is to vote. In order to vote in North Dakota, you must be 18 years old and need a form of identification. For polling place voting (voting on election day), these include a valid North Dakota driver’s license, a non-driver’s identification card, a tribal government issued identification card, and a long-term care identification certificate. If you will be gone on the voting day, voting early is possible through absentee/mail voting.

The identification needed for absentee voting includes those used for polling place voting, a military or passport ID or an attester. To find out were you can vote go to the North Dakota Secretary of State’s website https://vip.sos.nd.gov/PortalList.aspx to find your precinct’s voting location. On election day go there to vote. If you’re going to utilize absentee/mail voting, go to the Secretary of State’s website at https://vip.sos.nd.gov/absentee/Default.aspx and follow the process there.

Another way to get involved is by contacted your party’s office. In North Dakota both the Democrats and Republicans have local and state offices that you can contact and get involved with.

On a national level you can donate money to your party, or the candidate of your choice, by going on their website.

You can even support your candidate by sharing their social media posts, messaging others about their message, or even just liking their social media pages. It doesn’t have to be anything big, just get involved. Every voter’s voice is important, and getting involved is easy. 20 minutes of your time could make a difference. So this November, make sure you get to your nearest polling place.

In the meantime, follow your candidates on social media

because you can make a difference.

Student Life

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The Courier

UNPLUGGED

We gave up social media for a week and this is what happened brenna- HAMMER General Reporter shantel- JANGULA General Reporter As teenagers today, we are always being told to get off of our phones, go play games or read a book like they did in the “good ol’ days.” There is no end to the debate about whether or not life was actually better before the social networking sites dominated our world.

So, to hopefully find a real answer to the question, we took on what seems to be the impossible, and gave up all social media for an entire week.

Not only that, but we limited ourselves to only have three games on our phones, text three people, and only charged our phones once a day. With tons of support from our parents and teachers, and looks of doubt from our peers, we started our week of digital detox, and this is what happened.

Brenna

Going into the week of my social media cleanse, I honestly had no idea what to expect.

I had heard from many people around me the typical “Life was so much better when we didn’t have smart phones,” but I thought that life was better with all of the technology we now have. After all, why would they have invented all of these things if they weren’t for the better?

I started the experiment thinking that something extremely dramatic would happen. Either I would feel a huge burden being lifted off my shoulders and I would discover the secret of life, or I would become a total social outcast.

I reluctantly gave up my social networking apps, as well as most of the features my phone had to offer and anxiously pondered

what I would do next.

We can sit on our Facebook Messenger apps Over the and talk to course a complete of the stranger all week, I night, yet started we can’t noticing even hold a s o m e ten minute slight conversation changes. with one of I seemed our “closest less tired, friends” in because person. As a I was society, we are definitely contaminated Photo by Casey Beck with getting social Brenna and Shantel prepare for their social media m o r e media bugs, cleanse. sleep. and there is My mood no easy fix. seemed to stabilize, and I was slightly Though media can be a very good thing and happier, although it wasn’t as dramatic as keeps us connected with our friends and I expected. The best thing, though, is how family that live away from us, it also brings productive I was. I suddenly discovered how us further away from those sitting right next much time there actually was in a day, and to us. It definitely wouldn’t hurt to shut it was enough to knit down, and be humans. a few scarves, clean Shantel my room, get all of My social media cleanse was a gigantic eye my homework done, opening experience. and still go to all of First of all, I’m the kind of person who my sports, work and is very socially connected. I know all the whatnot. breakthrough celebrity scandals, Facebook However, disputes, and the the positive perfect Instagram filter changes surely for every occasion. didn’t come My week started off without some very abruptly. I logged negatives. off of all of my social When I found myself sitting with a media around 11 P.M. group of friends who were on their on Sunday night. When phones, I sat there awkwardly, I went to school the trying unsuccessfully to start a next day I felt like I conversation. I also desperately was hiding something.

Photo used with permission by It’s kind of like the, “I missed my social media for the fact Wikimedia that it’s how I get all of my news have a full pack of gum and keep in touch with distant friends and in my pocket, and you can’t have any” kind family. of feeling...

The biggest thing I learned from the week is how socially unconnected we really are. Continued on the next page

“AS A SOCIETY, WE ARE CONTAMINATED WITH SOCIAL MEDIA BUGS, AND THERE IS NO EASY FIX.”

February

Student Life

15

Unplugged: Continued ...My friend’s were proud of me and were was mad, stressed or sad I usually would mostly teasing me. I even got the chance to go on Facebook until I’m distracted. But scroll through my friend’s Facebook with the when I couldn’t use my media, I would get exception even more that I frustrated. couldn’t look I found myself at the screen. doing anything So far, the to get that cleanse was fix of social going fine, media, and I and for the even resorted most part, it to tracking my was amusing calories on a to others. health app, It wasn’t and I was until midway in desperate through need of a good my week, I Pinterest hunt.

Photo by Mandi Joyce realized how I did notice serious my Brenna and Shantel were photographed to show their my creativity censorship from the social media world. addiction was lacking. was I find it I didn’t want similar to a substance abuse, which, sounds to write, and most shockingly, I wasn’t like a bit much, but is completely true. If I excited to color in my coloring book. My

procrastination was still in full flare.

In the last days of my cleanse, I was missing Snapchat more than anything. I thought about logging on, just for a peek.

Fortunately, my stubbornness was powering through and I was ready to survive the last two days of my detox.

On the following Monday of my cleanse, I was able to log on to my social media. I logged on to all of them, and after fifteen minutes of blissfully scrolling, not only did my eyes hurt, but I was bored. As of now, I have no intention of going back to old habits.

I realized that social media isn’t worth all the lost time. Facebook and Pinterest were my go-tos, and I could dedicate an entire day of usage to them, but now I find little interest in them.

I recommend all of my peers to take this challenge. Create a lifestyle worthy of happiness. Create a lifestyle that doesn’t start with scrolling through Instagram every morning. Create a lifestyle that takes you beyond the screen of your phone.

Student Life

16

The Courier

Holidays you didn’t know you should be celebrating brenna- HAMMER General Reporter

On March 8th, you don’t have to worry about homemade dip. changing your clothes, washing your hair, or On March 25, the world’s most pondered brushing your teeth. question shall be It is Be Nasty Day and answeredcan you Looking for a reason to throw a party or eat anything goes! waffle it? Put anything your favorite cheat Get yourself you want in a waffle food? Look no furthera delicious sub iron to celebrate Waffle here are some of the sandwich and jam Day, or just dress up a wackiest, weirdest, out to “Yellow classic waffle with fruit, wildest holidays in Submarine” on peanut butter, nutella, March that you should March 17National whipped cream, and totally celebrate.

Submarine Day! more!

March 3rd is the Six inch or foot And last, but surely day to spend with long, yellow or not least, on March your favorite pet and red, whatever kind 28 put anything, and wonder how the world of submarine you I mean ANYTHING, would change if they want to celebrate, on a stick to show Photo with permission of Flickr had opposable thumbs. this is the day! your spirit on National It’s national “If pets March 28th is national “something on a March 14 is Something on a Stick had thumbs” day! Not stick” day. keepin’ it real with Day! Cupcakes, fruit, only could your cat Photo with permission of Potato Chip Day, but on March 23, you can candy, baconif you can think it, you can stick it! knock your glasses of Wikimedia take it up a notch and celebrate Chips and So wear your most comfortable sweats, grab a water off the counter, March 3rd is national “if Dip Day. Head on down to your favorite sub and some chips, put a waffle on a stick, and but he could pick them pets had thumbs” day. Mexican restaurant for some salsa and get in the spirit! Everyday's a holiday, so party up and dump them out guac, or just cozy up at home with your favorite on! all over the floor, just to show his love for you!

Student Life

February

17

consider your college options counselor at Bismarck State College, “is that the college is accredited and that the credits will transfer on, to a four year school if the student is Talking with judgy relatives can be absolutely wanting to pursue a bachelor’s degree.” horrible, especially when talking of the dreaded Not only should students be sure their credits topic: College. Once it’s brought up, the subject transfer from a community can not be changed until they’re satisfied. college to another of their choice, Question after question, you try to dodge them but any college they have an and change the subject, but it will not cease! interest in. While thinking about Trying to formulate a response can be hard whilst colleges, one should always be getting bombarded by nosey relatives. sure to keep their research game But don’t fret, there are ways to get and stay on point. ahead of the game, so next “Most important time college is brought up in thing,” said not-so-casual conversation, Mattson, “is you’ll be prepared. researching the At one point in time we all school you want thought we knew what we to go to. Compare were going to be when we the schools that grew up. Now, most of us are offer that program and see which close to the age when we must would fit you best.” decide what we will do with our There are many things to look life. for when choosing a college, these This can be discouraging, are a few of them accreditation, but the option of attending a student population/class sizes, community college to complete programs offered (obviously), your generals can save you financial aid opportunities, and Photo from Flickr money and gives you more housing situation.

Unfortuenately, this seems time to decide on a major.

This will help you shrink the “One thing to make sure,” said about the amount of books long list of possible colleges you Ashley Mattson, an admissions you will aquire in college. made after receiving many of

olivia- BORCHERS General Reporter

their inquiry letters.

Once the choices have been narrowed down by careful consideration and reconsideration, schedule a campus visit. To schedule a visit, go on that college’s website, they should have a tab labeled something such as discover [insert name of college here] or admissions, the page it takes you to will more than likely have a tab labeled visit.

“College should feel like home,” senior Nathan Wanner said, “so you should make sure the campus feels right.”

Unfortunately, college is not free, which means save up and look for all the scholarships and grants applicable to you.

Mandan High is good at keeping students up-to-date with scholarship information and opportunities and the counseling office has a lot of info on these things.

There are so many things to keep an eye out for and to stay away from when picking a college that’s right for you. It can be stressful and tiring, but remember college is an exciting new chapter in life.

So, before Aunt Tina and Uncle Paul visit next and inquire about your life beyond High School, remember to research. Responses will roll off your tongue like water over Niagara Falls.

"College should feel like home, so you should make sure the campus feels right."

ashley- JOHNSON General Reporter More and more students are taking time off from school after their senior year.

“Taking time off before college gives you the gift of time to learn about two essential things: yourself and the world around you,” Fred Kaelin, the executive director of Dynamy Internship Year said.

The pressure of paying for college or needing to know exactly what you want to do for the rest of your life can cause anxiety and become one reason why students take time off. Senior Emily Henderson has decided to take about a year off before college.

“I can live life and not jump right into the school grind..,” Henderson said.

Parents tend to have a hard time with their child not jumping right into college like they had to.

“While there is significant peer pressure,

go for a Gap year

parental pressure and school pressure to go off to save up money and figure out life a little right on to college, the adventurous few who more.” said BSC Freshman, Sheyanne LaVallie. take time off are richly rewarded,” Kaelin said.

Taking time off of school can be a great option Being able to discover interests and learn more that many take. It’s not always right for everyone about life are some of the rewards and does come with risks. that students can benefit from.

Applying for college when “Taking time off school gives me out of high school can be very the opportunity to figure out what tricky because the guidance I want as well as give me freedom counselors are not at students to be young and make memories fingertips. While in high school with friends” said BSC Sophomore counselors try to prepare Hailey Morrell. everyone for what they need to The price of college has do for scholarships and how to increased from what parents have apply to many schools.

Photo with permission by had to pay. Taking time off of Many scholarships only work cliparts.co school to save up can become a when a student is going straight really beneficial reason to take a into college. break.

The select schools that offer gap year “I didn’t take a break from school. I was in scholarships include Harvard and Princeton a hurry to start my classes because I’ll be in thanks to many gap year programs that have college for a long time. I wish I had taken time recently been started.

Student Life

18

The Courier

Poll shows cafeteria popularity casey BECK

- Sports Editor

A recent poll conducted by the Courier has highlighted the lunch time habits of Mandan High. Over 250 students were asked two simple questions on where they ate their lunch and how often they ate lunch at First Lutheran Church.

Expectations for the outcome of the poll were mixed. However the results showed several tendencies among students at Mandan High.

The first thing the polled showed was that the Mandan Cafeteria is still the most popular place for lunch among all grades. Well over 75 percent of both male and female students ate in the lunchroom, as their most common spot.

On average, under classmen ate at the school most often with seniors and junior frequenting less often.

While expected to have a high turnout rate, it was not expected for the cafeteria to have a traffic rate of over 75 percent.

Students eating away from school: at home were the second largest group. This choice had a popularity of roughly 15 percent among the polled group. This choice was most popular with

Fast food come in with roughly 6 percent of the upperclassmen and even sophomores.

This most likely correlates to the majority of total vote. These options included Burger King, McDonald's, and Subway these students owning 4% other 6% Fast Food The “other” option cars. While, freshmen and received the fewest sophomores would rather amounts of response. stay at the school to eat. 15% Home This choice had responses Another important varying from “not eating factor highlighted in the lunch” to Walmart to gas questionnaire was the stations. lunch at First Lutheran During the process, Church and how often 75% several oddities were also people ate there every cafeteria highlighted. Two students Thursday.

As with the lunch room, polled recorded as not the poll found that First eating lunch at all. While Lutheran is a very popular few others stated they ate in cars or in other spot among Mandan Students. However, the school population pooled places of the school.

This new Courier poll highlighted the lunch was rather split. 50 percent of the students asked said they frequented the church more often habits of Mandan High and showed where the than not. While, the other 50 percent stated the students of Mandan High eat. The high school cafeteria and First Lutheran Church are still the opposite.

Several other options were given to students most frequented and the most popular out of all who participated in the Courier poll. Options to choices. This poll has shown everything it was meant to and more. select fast food and “other” were also used.

February

Student Life

19

I’m Shantel! I am a I am Trevor Murphy, My name is Billy Fleck and I am sophomore and am one of and I’m the Editor-in-Chief currently a senior with plans to go the nine new additions to the of the wondrous paper you are to NDSU after graduation for an 2016 Courier Staff, which makes reading. On top of that I am the economics degree. My activities me a general reporter. Outside of the feature editor. I’m easily impressed, include national honors society, Courier, I work at Plato’s Closet. I’m not and don’t necessarily have any hobbies, student congress, debate much of a socializer, so I spend my spare time but I’m pretty good at procrastinating by doing and speech. scrolling through Pinterest looking at unrealistic nothing. I thoroughly enjoy watching movies and My name is Ashley and I’m my favorite color is either blue or purple, and I Hey, I’m Olivia Borchers, ways to make cupcakes and what not. I’m also kind of a music fanatic. Currently favorite bands are a junior as well as a new have two because it's a really specific shade of a junior new to the fantastic the Arctic Monkeys, The Neighbourhood, general reporter for the Courier. blue and purple is more than acceptable. Courier staff this semester. I’m and Nirvana. After high school, I plan I’m not in any extracurriculars involved in many activities at the Some of the things I enjoy are running, at the moment except journalism food, and slamming revolving doors. school such as Swing Choir, Theatre, to move to Portland, OR or Seattle, and national honor society. I enjoy Random piece of information, I get Band, Latin Club, Student Council, WA and get a degree in Mortuary participating in the school plays as a my hairs cut at Great Clips over Leadership Group, Leo’s Club, FOR Club, Science to further a career “Techie”. I also collect random old tins that Pep Band, and National Honor Society. After as a Mortician. in Bismarck.

I inherited from my grandma. I am planning on High School I plan on going to BSC for one or two going to University of Mary after I graduate to My name is Gabby, and years then transferring to NDSU and majoring My name is Brenna and pursue a career as a speech pathologist. My I am Assistant Editor-inin Architecture. In my spare time, you I am a sophomore and one major dream is to travel to Brazil Chief and Opinion Editor of The can find me painting, sleeping, buying general reporter for the 2016 Courier. When I’m not in school or and visit one of the many sloth highlighters, wandering the aisles of Courier. Besides writing, I really doing extracurriculars I work at the sanctuaries they have because walmart with my best friend, or like playing sports and music. I play Dairy Queen in Mandan. I’m a huge book I truly believe sloths are my writing music.

Just remember, I nerd, and will probably read anything given hockey and soccer, and I love to make like my puns intended. music on my piano or guitar. I’m pretty much spirit animal. to me (suggestions are appreciated) and movies are my life. Yellow is the best color out there, My name is Amanda, but a train wreck, as I am always sick, injured, even though some people may disagree. most know me as Mandi. I am or both. Someday I hope to either be an Unlike most of the staff, I have no idea a senior this year and on staff I am optometrist or an English teacher, and what I want to do when I get out a general reporter. I am in band and more than anything in the world, I of high school, but I’m thinking I play the flute, I am a soprano in choir want to travel to Rio de Janeiro, about law school, or something and swing choir, I am in theatre and during Brazil and go to see The involving criminology. marching band I was in the color guard. I love

The Courier staff now has 13 members. With all the new writers, we thought we would share something about the old and the new reporters on staff.

aff

s

instruments so that’s fun.

St

Blurb

Lion King on Broadway. animals, particularly cats, and my favorite drink is apple juice. I am an avid reader and fandom I’m Shae! I’m I’m Casey Beck and I’m extraordinar, so you can often find me at Barnes a senior and a new staff the Sports Editor here on the Courier. Other than the and Noble. After I graduate I plan on going member to the Courier this paper I run both Cross Country to BSC for Mass Media/Communications, semester. I’m involved with tons and Track and Field. I’m also then traveling the world with my best of activities and clubs in the school, apart of the Debate team and National friend. I’m excited to be on staff including band, choir, swing choir, Honor Society. After high school, my plans this year and to bring interesting speech, musical, National Honor Society, are pretty vague as I’ve looked into colleges, stories to the Courier!

Leo’s Club, and Spanish Club. Yep, I’m trade schools, and the military. However, always busy. I’ll be attending AND next year for if there was one thing I would really Communications. I’m in the process of writing I’m Kaelan! Aside from like to do it would be to run track several novels and I love to perform. editing news, I like to at University of Mary, while I’m really excited to be a part of collect soap bars in my spare getting a degree to be a the Courier this year! I wish time. So far, I have seven of history teacher.

I could’ve done it sooner! them. One is blueberry scented, and originates from Native Alaskans. Another My name is Hannah My name is Austin Nelson has a dollar bill in the middle, randomly Ravnaas. I am a junior and and I am one of the new priced, which you can collect once the this is my first year writing members of the courier staff. soap bar gets small enough. I’m for the Courier. I am in National I am involved with school and hoping it’s a $50, but I suppose Honors Society, Latin Club, Science spend a large majority of my time on I’d accept a $20.

Club, pep band, and now Journalism. I my extracurriculars. My extracurriculars am currently taking two dual credit classes, are Jazz band, The courier, Swing choir, and as well as one class at BSC. When I’m not Speech. Just a small fact about me I wear flannel working or doing homework, I’m either every day and tend to wear a bowtie with it sleeping or binge watching Netflix as well. My college plans for the future are with my dog. I also enjoy long to go to Minot or California and major walks through Walmart with in psychology to become a doctor. my bestfriend and to buy To wrap it all up I play eight highlighters and/or gelato.

Sports

20

The Courier

Mandan girls shoot for State casey BECK

- Sports Editor

The Mandan girls’ basketball team has been shooting for state since the season opener in December. The Braves are currently well-placed for the WDA tournament starting March 3. The girls as of now have a record of 11-5 in conference and are set at number two in the west.

However, Head Coach Abby Thomas’s girls have had some ups and downs this season.

They started the season in December with two devastating losses in two weeks. These first two conference losses against Century and Legacy stuck with the team. It is important to note that these first two losses were against the current first and third place holders, respectively, in the WDA. Despite, these losses the team was able to come back in week three with two wins against Dickinson and Jamestown. This 2-2 conference record would stick until week six when the Braves would win two more games and bring their ranking out of lower half and up to number four.

Lately, the Braves’ ranking has been dipping

up and down, but had started to flatline around showed what we were capable of”, said Thomas.

The girls’ success third. Until week 11, can be attributed to when they shot up to many things, but the an impressive second key factor is the girls just under Century. The themselves. The varsity girls are currently on a team is comprised of five game win streak mostly underclassmen and are trying to keep and four upperclassmen. it that way and it does However, many JV appear that it is going to stay that way. players have recently During week 11, the been getting more and Braves were able to more play time. This will score an impressive 100 ensure a bright future points against Williston. next year and an easy transition when Seniors The Mandan girls’ team Miranda Lowman, was the first to hit this Hannah Hanson, and high rank all season Alicia Weiand depart this and no other team has Photo by Casey Beck spring. achieved this feat yet.

Freshman Kennedy Harris goes for a layup “We are best when “We were waiting for we play together as a a game like that where against Legacy. team rather than as everyone shot well.

We’ve had a lot of games where this person individuals ,” Thomas added. “Our work ethic has was on and this person wasn’t. That game really also improved as the season has gone through.”

February

Sports

21

Boys and girls hockey wrap up the season the tournament.

WDA tournament on February 18-20. They “I believe if we play three full periods, control needed to win 2 out of three games to qualify to the puck when we have possession and give it participate in the state tournament. The started everything we have, both with a 4-0 win against Jamestown and proceeded The boys and physically and mentally, that to a game against Minot, which they lost 0-5. girls hockey we will be playing in the In the final game against Dickinson, they played teams have winner’s bracket of the state hard but couldn’t pull out the win. They lost 2-4 had a very tourney,” Mack said. and are not participating in the state tournament. successful The boys hockey team Overall, however, the boys had a very successful s e a s o n , has also had a successful season, and the loss against was both shocking with the season with a 9-6-1 win- and devastating to everyone involved. boys sitting lose-tie record. In the WDA Mullally thinks the seniors have had a large part at fourth tournament, they won one in the team’s success this season, and believes place prior out of three games which did they are the foundation of the team. to the WDA not earn them a spot in the “I think generally we’ve had some good play tournament, state tournament. out of our seniors, which you always need at and the girls “We were picked to finish this time of the year. Your leadership has to start at fifth prior Photo by Brenna Hammer fourth in our division,” boys’ with your seniors, and I think we’ve had several to the state head s e n i o r s t o u r n a m e n t . The girls’ team huddles before a play well The boys’ team home game against Jamestown. coach Matt Mullally said in different did not place prior to the r o l e s , ” high enough to qualify them for the state tournament.

Mullally said. tournament. The girls’ team earned a spot at the state The younger state tournament and they are hoping for a good “You always think we could maybe place a boys have outcome. also really Girls hockey coach Dewitt Mack believes the little higher, but I think stepped up to girls are doing very well this season with their given the team we are, fill in for last 11-7-0 win-lose-tie record, given that they only we’re right where we expected.” years seniors have one school feeding their team.

The girls will be and other “With the ‘all-star’ teams in 1-4 place, I think experienced we are in the best spot we could earn,” Mack facing Grand Forks players who said. “All star teams are teams that are made up in the first round of are no longer of multiple schools (i.e.. Bismarck, Grand Forks, the state tournament on February 25 at an on the team.

West Fargo, Fargo North/South).”

Photo by Casey Beck “Depth A big part of the girls’ season was when they undetermined time.

The boys’ team Junior Austin Leingang and Senior Jared Zittleman wise we beat Grand Forks for the first time ever, and the didn’t have team hopes to pull out some more big wins at participated in the chase the puck at a game against Dickinson. t w e l v e , thirteen, fourteen, guys that were coming back with a lot of experience,” Mullally said. “As the year went on we had to develop that experience as we went along.”

Overall, the boys and girls teams have had very successful seasons and the players and coaches are excited to see how next season plays out.

brenna- HAMMER General Reporter

Sports

22

The Courier

Sports Round-Up

casey BECK

- Sports Editor

Boys’ Basketball

Boys’ Swimming and Diving

The boys’ basketball team has had a year of ups and down, but should keep a high streak The Mandan Braves swim and dive team are in going into WDA. The Braves one of their best seasons in are currently fourth in the recent years.

WDA with a conference record The boys currently take of 8-9. an average of fifth place at The Boys have a strong tournaments and invites. core of five seniors with the In duals, the boys’ team addition of both sophomores have a win-loss record of Cam and Trae Steckler. The 7-2. team has also been phasing in Several key swimmers more of their JV players into on the team this year the varsity arena. have been junior and The team has had a fairly athlete of the month Reed consistent run at sixth place Bergman, juniors Trajon area in the region. This Vigen and Luke Peterson, position has given the team freshman TJ Reinhardt, a wealth of games that have and sophomore Joey Clark. tested the team.

Seniors Logan Weigel and The boys sadly lost a one Clayton Koldova have also point game to the number one made an impact. ranked Century; However, the As the season winds last ranked Legacy was also down, the coming meets able to beat out the Braves.

Photo by Casey Beck will be some of the most All in all, the boys are a Junior Jaden Andresen goes to important for the boys. good place to come into the The next meet for the shoot against Legacy. Andresen boys will be the State Meet WDA tournament and state.

The next game for the and other JV players have gotten on March 4. boys will be the West Region more varsity play time.

Tournament starting March 3 in Bismarck.

Girls’ Basketball The Braves have had a great season and are only looking to expand on their current victories.

The girls team is currently ranked second in the WDA with a record of 12-5. Mandan is also the team with the highest scoring game.

That stunning 100-64 victory over Williston cemented the team as a top contender for not only the WDA tournament in March, but also for the State title.

The next game for the girls will be March 3 at the WDA tournament.

Boys’ Hockey The boy’s hockey team had a successful year; However, they were unable to close the deal at WDA to get to State.

The Braves ended the season in fourth place in the West Region with a conference record of 10-5.

Head Coach Matt Mullaly’s boys came into the WDA tournament strong with a 4-0 win against Jamestown; However, the boys then lost to Minot and were unable to keep momentum in their final game against Dickinson.

This will be the final season for the nine seniors on the team.

Wrestling

The Braves wrestling team shot out of WDA ahead and was also able to keep the momentum at State.

At the State Tournament, the team was able to secure 110 points giving them a ninth place ranking. The top placer for the boys was junior Dale Spilman, 170, taking the championship slot.

Spilman also broke the school record for most pins in a season with 28 and finished the season with an impressive record of 45 wins to only three loses.

Some of other high scoring wrestlers for Mandan were junior Karsen Mosbrucker, eigth grader William Knleinkneckt, freshmen Jacob Boehm and Isaac Fleck.

The 2016 Braves also broke the team point record with 276. The previous season record was 251.

Head Coach DeWitt Besides State, the boys Mack’s girls’ have had a also had an impressive good year and are looking show at the West Region to expand on their season Tournament. This is where on the coming weeks.

Head Coach Luke Mellmer The girls are currently was named West Region sixth in the WDA behind Wrestling Coach of the all of the multi-school Year. Later, Mellmer was teams. The Mandan girls’ Photo by Casey Beck also bestowed the title of also have a record of 11-7 State Wrestling Coach of putting them neck and Senior Isaac Fleck grapples with a the Year. wrestler from Bismarck neck with Fargo NorthOverall, the Braves South. wrestling team had a The next tournament for the girls will be the fantastic year benchmarked by great wrestlers North Dakota State Tournament on February 25 and coaches. through 27.

Girls’ Hockey

Information taken from wdasports.org and updated Feb. 24

Sports December and January Athletes of the Month

February

December Athletes Senior Mariah Marsh

Girls’ Hockey

Who is your sport’s role model?

My dad.

What is your favorite memory of your current season?

Photo by Brenna Hammer Beating Grand Forks for the first time, ever.

Coach Dewitt Mack nominated senior Mariah Marsh for her accomplishments: Mariah had a great month of December. She has won about 75 percent of all face-offs she has taken. She contributed to a significant win for the Mandan Girls’ Hockey program when we beat the Grand Forks Girls’ All-Star team for the first time ever.

Mariah is also one of our leaders both on and off the ice. As a captain she is the leader on the ice, both during practice and during games. Off the ice, she is a team leader while preparing for practice and when traveling in coordinating the team with game preparation.

Junior Dale Spilman Boys’ Wrestling

Who is your sports role model?

David Mellen Is there a win that sticks in Photo by Casey Beck your mind Winning WDA and having my team all chant my name was a pretty great experience.

What were some struggles this season?

My life is very hectic, so it was hard focusing on wrestling and trying to keep up with everything else.

Coach Luke Mellmer nominated junior Dale

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shantel- JANGULA General Reporter

Spilman for his accomplishments: “Dale so far this season is currently ranked #2 in the state at 182 pounds. Dale has been a real motivator this season. Whether it is in the classroom as an honor-roll student, in the wrestling room as a team captain, or at the competition as the only undefeated wrestler, Dale is a leader.”

Junior Reed Bergman Boys’ Swimming Photo submitted by Reed What’s Bergman

the best advice you’ve ever

been given?

Look to the future, not the past.

If you were a pizza, what flavor would you be any why?

Anchovy pizza, because I’m a fish out of water.

Coach Ralph Manley nominated junior Reed Bergman for his accomplishments: “Reed had an outstanding month of December for the team.The first was the Bismarck/Legacy Double Dual. During the Bismarck Invite Reed swam to a 4th-place finish in the 200yd Individual Medley and 1st place in the 100yd Backstroke.

Reed is truly an all-around swimmer! Overall, Reed had eight 1st-place finishes in the month.

To date, Reed is State Qualified in six of eight swimming events, with our main season coming in to view quickly.”

January Athletes

Sophomore Trae Steckler Boys’ Basketball What is your favorite memory of your current season?

My favorite sports memory was when we Photo used with permission of Jon were playing in Saint Jablonski Cloud, and the opposing team called us a bunch of farm boys.

If you could arm wrestle anyone on the team, who would it be and why?

I would arm wrestle my brother because I know I can beat him.

Coach Brandon Schafer nominated Trae Steckler for his accomplishments.

“Trae had a big month for us, leading the team in scoring and rebounding in six of our seven games, including three double-doubles.

Trae averaged 20 points and nine rebounds per game, including a total of 20 offensive rebounds, which is about three per game. Trae shot a great field goal percentage of 59 percent from the floor, including a perfect 2-2 from three.Trae works extremely hard and has the trust of his teammates when he has the ball. I am proud to nominate Trae Steckler for the January Athlete of the Month as he is very deserving of the award.”

Senior Chelsey Norton Girls’ Hockey Do you have any

Photo by Brenna Hammer pre-game rituals

or a lucky item or song?

I visualize myself saving different shots that are usually hard for me.

Why do you participate in your sport?

I love my team and the feeling I get from beating teams like Grand Forks.

Coach Dewitt Mack nominated Chelsey for her accomplishments: “Being a goalie is a thankless job. You are the last line of defense when the team doesn’t stop the attacker and the responsibility appears to rest solely with the goalie. Chelsey has been our goalie on the high school girl’s hockey team for the past five years. She has accepted that responsibility whole heartedly and is really turning it on, which is substantiated by the great stats she put up in January.

The team trusts that Chelsey will come through with the big save every time she steps on the ice and will continue to lead us to a record-setting year and a very successful State Tournament.”