January Issue by Royal Page

Friday, Jan. 21, 2011 Volume 29 Issue 5

the

ROYALPAGE

2400 Lindbergh Drive Minnetonka, MN 55305

Every year, families travel the world to adopt children into loving homes. The Royal Page tells some stories of adoption at HHS.

Art provided by Kate Monson Seniors take to the ice pg. 14 Snow causes problems with parking pg. 3

Familiar faces in advertisements pg. 7

Heart-O-Grams are right around the corner pg. 12

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District Fund found in surplus A recent audit of the Hopkins School District budget for the 2009-2010 year showed a surplus greater than projected. These additional funds could prove vital as state budget woes are expected to cause state funding to decrease going forward.

Madeline Rauma Staff Reporter

t a December school board meeting, auditors relayed the information of Hopkins School Districts’ reserve fund balance from last year. They presented details indicating that the fund balance had increased. “Beforehand, we had projected to exceed expenses for the 200910 General Fund by $2,878,641,” said Mr. John Toop, director of Business Services. “Actual results were that revenues exceeded expenses by $5,776,753,” Toop said. Essentially, the District found themselves with about $3 million more in the budget than expected. This is especially helpful seeing as the state of Minnesota, which provides the majority of funding for HHS, is facing a budget shortfall of $6 billion. There are several things that made the fund balance perform well. “Salaries were $400,000 under budget, fringe benefits were about $1,300,000 less than budgeted, and other costs excluding salary and fringe benefits were about $1,200,000 less than budgeted,” Toop said. Fringe benefits refer mostly to healthcare costs. This past year, the District set aside more money for healthcare then they ended up needing, resulting in the surplus funds. “We budgeted and planned well last year in regards to hiring teachers and ordering supplies,” said Mr. John Schultz, Superintendent. “We didn’t over-order or over-staff. “There were less retirements and less people getting sick which caused us not to have to spend much money on healthcare costs.” “Once we spend this money, we can’t spend it again,” Schultz

continued. Shultz would like to see the money put to use in the classrooms. “We plan to put it as close to student learning needs as possible. There will be a heavy classroom focus.” “It is fortunate that we have a sound fund balance, or savings account,” said Ms. Yvonne Selcer, School Board Chair. “This will enable us to make thoughtful, proactive decisions as we work to enhance the education of our students.” Many would like to see the District use this additional money to lower class sizes and add more teachers. According to Selcer, if the District did this, the money would be gone very quickly. “Due to the size of our district, our administration has informed the board that to decrease class size by one student on average for one year, the cost would be in excess of a half a million dollars,” Selcer said. Ms. Paula Klinger, Hopkins Education Assistant President, did not respond to requests for an interview. Another benefit of the fund surplus is that District will be able to maintain the same programming for things such as sports, clubs, and extracurricular activities. “In addition, the District will likely have to borrow less money because of the state of Minnesota delaying our state aid payments,” Toop said. The District plans for the money will be shaped by a projected state funding decrease for next year. “We placed most of this money into a severance account for teachers and other staff because we will need to pay this out to people when they retire from the School District,” Toop said. “The remaining reserve balance will help us to maintain what we have through next year.”

DECA puts on financial literacy seminar On Jan. 10 and 12, DECA students held seminars to enlighten students on financial skills. The aim was to teach students important financial skills. At the seminars, students partcipate in activities including one where they asked to budget money with a real-life salary. “We want to make it known what kids’ options are with the money they save,” said Seth Gellman, junior DECA member. 1. Gellman, who helped run the seminars, gives his presentation. Gellman covered the options students have for saving their money in his presentation. He discussed keeping a good credit score and low debt. 2. Ben Badower, senior, and Shoshana Engelson, junior, present their budgeting project. They were given a real-life salary and asked to budget their money. 3. Engelson, Susan Flynn, senior, and Badower talk about how they should use their money. They had to decide between spending money on housing, transportaion, food, clothing, among other things.

Photos by Worku Kebede

Extra credit policies differ by teacher Lauren Reuteler Staff Reporter

ven students who work studiously sometimes find themselves coming up short of the grades they hope for. “Extra credit is a good cushion to fall back on and keeps my grade up to where I want it to be.” said Danielle Burton, junior. She will always take up an extra credit opportunity even if she doesn’t need the extra points. High school is time consuming and stressful, and sometimes no matter how much time and effort kids is put into work, it doesn’t seem to be enough. Therefore, some teachers offer extra credit options to help boost grades. “I give extra credit to provide incentive for students to do some outside of class work, and to allow a chance for a student who may have done poorly on one assignment or test to boost their grade a little bit.” said Mr. Dale Stahl, Social Studies. Stahl offers extra credit in his classes as a way to “further their knowledge and understanding of the topic at hand.” For the most part extra credit is in the hands of the teacher offering it. There is only one overall rule that all teachers must follow. “All extra credit must be fair within a classroom,” said Willie Jett, principal, meaning that if one student in the classroom is given an extra credit option, it must be given to all other students as well. With very few limitations placed on teachers regarding extra credit, teachers are allowed to have different opinions on extra credit in their classes. Even within single departments, there are different policies. Ms. Jennifer Heimlich, who teaches AP World History, Philosophy, and Diversity Seminar, is a colleague of Stahl in the social studies department. Heimlich’s extra credit policies are not the same as Stahl’s. “I offer extra credit only in my AP class, but not in my other classes.” said Heimlich. Heimlich believes that students in regular level classes shouldn’t need the extra credit to boost their grade. “If students aren’t doing well it’s because they just aren’t doing the work or handing it in” said Heimlich. Stahl and Heimlich view extra credit a little differently due to the classes they teach, but they do agree on one thing. “I don’t allow students who are missing assignments to complete extra credit,” said Stahl. The rule is the same in Heimlich’s classes. In some cases, students who don’t want to do the mandatory work at hand just assume that little pieces of extra credit over the span of a term will give them a passing grade. Most teachers, however, don’t just give out simple extra credit. “Most of the extra credit I offer is directly attached to reinforcing skills, not to make up for missing work” said Heimlich. “I began offering extra credit in my AP class to ‘level the field’ a bit, and not punish students for taking a challenging class,” said Heimlich. Extra credit won’t significantly change a student’s grade but those few points that a student can earn here and there throughout a term can make a difference. The definition of extra credit varies by department. “I feel that until you’ve mastered the expectations of the class there’s no reason to be doing extra. Further, course credit for things not related to the mastery of the course of objectives is inappropriate,” said Alyson Purdy, science. Teachers aren’t the only ones involved when it comes to extra credit. Students are also there to fight for their grade. Burton notices that only half of her classes offer extra credit and sometimes when offered it doesn’t change her grade like she wanted. “If the extra credit is put in the assignments category it doesn’t help very much, but if its put in the test category it can help a lot.” said Burton. For every student it’s different. Where extra credit is placed in the grade book, along with what class it may be from, makes extra credit worth the work or not. “This year, extra credit has really helped me in AP World History because it is always put in the section that will benefit us the most, but it isn’t like that in every class,” said Burton.

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Record snowfall causes parking problems Students complain about snow-covered parking spots. Tarina Gartner Staff Reporter

he new parking system has generated several complaints this year. Currently, the issue of snow has taken center

stage. “It’s not often that you get 30 inches of snow in one winter,” said Ms. Anne Campbell, assistant principal. The record snowfall has made transitioning to a new parking system even more difficult. Even with this much snow, school officials believe the new parking system has been successful. Mr. Tim Swanson, supervisory paraprofessional, has been in the parking lot for 16 years and believes that the new system is going surprisingly well. One of the biggest problems with the large amounts of snow on the ground has been attempting to plow the student parking lots. The state requires that the parking lot has to be plowed by a reasonable time so students are able to park and this has kept those working the snow plows extremely busy. “We really appreciate how patient students are,” Campbell said. She said that she knows that it can be very frustrating not being able to see where to park, and she appreciates when students do as they should if there is a problem with their spot by parking in the daily parking and going in to talk to them. Not being able to see the lines on the ground has been a serious problem. Students start to park farther apart not being able to see the lines, which in the end creates less space to park, so parking spaces are lost. Also, parking in the wrong spots creates a

Photo by Jack Deutsch

The HHS parking lot is laden with fresh powder after a snow storm on Jan. 13. The large amounts of snow led to confusion in the parking lot as it has for much of the winter. Students, unable to see their spot numbers or guidelines, park unevenly, causing further problems. domino effect, which creates more and more people parking in the wrong spots. Swanson says that students should park as close as they can to their spot. As long as they are in the right row and the parking permit is visible no violation will be given.

“It was more of a problem at the beginning of the year, but it has been more efficient,” Swanson said. At the beginning of the year, students were still getting used to the new system, but now that students got used to it, it has become more efficient. However, the 33 inches of snow that fell in

December has led things to become more chaotic as it is not possible for students to see their spot numbers. “We have made improvements over the years, do what’s best for students, always open to new ideas,” said Swanson.

Open enrollment reopened for 2011-2012 school year Isaac Fischer Staff Reporter

opkins Public Schools announced in mid-December that open enrollment will once again be available to students wishing to attend a Hopkins school next year. Open enrollment is when a student wishes to attend a public school in a district that he or she does not live in. If enrollment in a district is down, that district may choose to open up to students from outside of the district. In 2010, the Hopkins district had 7,264 total students who could have attended Hopkins schools. 1,113 of these students chose to either open-enroll out of Hopkins or attend a charter school. To fill the gap left by these students, 1,246 students were allowed to open-enroll into Hopkins. Open enrollment allows the District to maximize its space and resources. In the past, Hopkins has traditionally received more students though open-enrollment than it loses. This is beneficial to the District because with each student comes more funding. With more resources, everything from books to computers will be of a better quality, enhancing the learning environment for everybody. Students who open enroll face no additional costs and are treated just like a student living within the District. The only catch to open enrollment is that students must provide their own transportation. This is true unless they are a part of The Choice Is Yours program, which provides transportation for students coming from parts of Minneapolis in an effort to integrate school systems. Students may choose to open-enroll for many reasons. They

may feel more comfortable attending a school with more students with similiar ethnicity or religion. Many students choose to come to Hopkins because of its superior academics and large selection of rigorous classes. Along with a few other teachers, Ms. Heimlich, Social Studies, chooses to open-enroll her children into the Hopkins district. Her reasons for choosing open enrollment are common with many other parents. “The South Minneapolis District schools had to keep cutting funding,” said Heimlich. “Class sizes were growing, and the school was getting more crowded.” She decided that the Hopkins District was a better choice for her three children. Two attend North Junior High, and the other is at Alice Smith. Prospective students must turn in the official open-enrollment form by January 15. Any applications that are turned in after this date will be placed on a waiting list, and stand less of a chance for approval. The form can be found on the Hopkins Schools website, and is available in English, Spanish, Somali, and Hmong. The school is not required to accept all the applications it receives for open enrollment. According to Minnesota law, a school may refuse to allow a student who was expelled for possession of a dangerous weapon, drugs, or who committed an assault. Open enrollment opportunities at Hopkins, however, will not be available across the board next year. Grade 12 has closed for open enrollment next year because it has already reached maximum enrollment.

By the numbers Traditionally, Hopkins has seen more students choose to open enroll into the District than students who have chosen to leave the District by open enrolling in other districts or attending charter schools.

Year

2008

2009

2010

Total residents

7,395

7,312

7,264

Open enrollment out of district

682

771

846

Charter schools out

198

245

267

Open enrollment into

1,147

1,158

1,246

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The Royal Page 2010-2011

Editor in Chief Danielle Fink

Managing Editor Lissa Martinez

News Editor Ryan Levi

Opinion Editor Bill Gregg

Feature Editor Lissa Martinez

Variety Editor

Jasmine Geschwind

Sports Editors Saxon Dorshow Michael Frey

Business Manager Sonja Muus

Back Page Editor Marlee Gotlieb

Staff Reporters Ronny Ambers Quinn Anderson Maddy Braverman Sam Bumsted Jacob Clemen Jack Deutsch Isaac Fisher Michael Fields Tarina Gartner Marc Hennes Connor Hinck Worku Kebede Emmy Koppe Michael Larson Kate Monson Megan Mortrude Harry Orenstein Maddie Rauma Lauren Reuteler

Adviser

Mr. Kocur

The editorial represtents the opinion of the newspaper staff. Views expressed are not necessarily those of the administration, the student body or the advisor. Signed viewpoints represent the view of the writer. The Royal Page operates as an open forum student publication, and student editors make editorial decisions regarding content. Advertising information available by mail, fax and phone Annual Subscriptions are available for $20. The Royal Page encourages letters to the editor. Letters are not guaranteed publication, are subject to editing for content and length, must be signed and meet deadlines. Compliments and suggestions are also welcome.

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Rolling through skateboard competitions Marc Hennes

Staff Reporter

ndrew Leibman, junior, got his first skateboard at age seven and has been skating ever since. His love for the sport has pointed him towards success. “Skateboarding is really just an individual sport. It’s a creative way to be active without the stress of team sports,” Leibman said. Leibman currently skates for 3rd Lair, which is a skate park located in Golden Valley. The team won second place in Orlando Flor. the weekend of Jan. eighth during the contest called Bangers for Bucks. He has traveled to many different states for skateboarding competitions including Texas and Ariz. On top of all the out of state contests, Leibman also competes in local competitions hosted by 3rd Lair. Leibman is also working on getting more sponsors in addition to his 3rd Lair sponsorship. With the help of Adam Sterne, senior, Leibman was able shoot and finish his “sponsor me” video, which he plans to send out to different skateboarding companies in hopes of receiving sponsorship as well as free products and merchandise. Leibman will also be uploading his videos on YouTube to gain

more exposure. But Leibman isn’t just it for the money and merchandise. “My favorite thing about skateboarding, I guess would just be cruising around downtown finding cool places to skate. That’s what’s great about it, you’re just always moving,” Leibman said. Since the sport is very individual and creative, there are many different styles. Leibman prefers to stick to street style, which includes the use of handrails, stairs, curbs, benches, and many other things that would more commonly be found in a city. He loves the sport because there’s a lot of room to be creative and express himself. Leibman’s only complaint is all of the skater haters. Many people look down on the sport because in some ways it could be considered destructive. He explained has had to run from security guards and other types of authority numerous times due to their discontent with him skating. Although Leibman competes seriously he is also very laid back when it comes to practicing. He skates at 3rd Lair almost every day. “Some days I skate really hard for a couple hours but some days I just hangout and chill. Either way its better than just sitting at home,” Leibman said.

Spotlight on: Jewish Studies Club Lauren Reuteler Staff Reporter

ewish studies club has been a host to the many Jewish students who have been seeking more education into their religion. The club was started just three years ago, but has already seen an increase in members. Jewish studies club isn’t like a regular block class. “I like being in a room surrounded by friends, knowing that I’m accepted,” said Danny Hechter, senior. Hechter attends Jewish studies club every week. The group meets most Thursdays after school until 3:30. “Judaism isn’t only for synagogue, it’s there for us to learn lessons and appreciate society,” said Rabbi Aryeh Cohen, leader of Jewish Studies club. Rabbi Cohen started the club at St. Louis Park High School seven years ago. After four years of success at SLP, a student asked Rabbi Cohen to bring the club to HHS, and he did shortly after. When the club first began at HHS in 2008, only three or four students attended regularly. However, recently it has been easier to inform students of new information surrounding Jewish studies club on a weekly basis thanks to social networking like Facebook. This has brought club

membership up to an average of 15 students at each meeting. “It’s a great club because no matter what level of observance you’re on, you’re welcomed in,” Hechter said. The goal of Jewish studies club is not to convert, or to pressure students to deepen their Judaism; rather it’s there for students to learn about religion in a relaxed setting. Rabbi Cohen comes to the club to discuss a variety of different topics like, current events in Israel or controversial questions inside the religion. “He is defiantly a hip Rabbi who doesn’t judge, so you can ask whatever questions you want,” Hechter said. “It’s a great experience for Jewish kids to get together, learn, eat and hangout,” said Gary Barannikov, junior. Barannikov attends Jewish studies club frequently, which allows him to maintain and expand his knowledge of Judaism. “I would like for kids to walk out of the club with a new perspective on Judaism,” Rabbi Cohen said. He hopes that something good comes out of each meeting and that the students take what they have learned and use it to their best advantage.

Photo provided by Andrew Leibman

Leibman practices at 3rd Lair several times a week, but also incorporates things from the city into his tricks, like using a dumpster for a backside 5-0 grind.

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Q & A with Ellen Fisher, 2009 graduate Ellen Fisher, 2009 HHS graduate, joined the army shortly after her graduation. The Royal Page interviewed Fisher last year when she was preparing for her deployment. In June 2010 Fisher was deployed to Afghanistan after being stationed in Germany. Now, The Royal Page looks into Fisher’s experiences overseas, duties as a private, and being a woman amongst mostly men. Navy medical personnel and I like to think we I will be in the middle of dinner, or asleep when Q: When were you deployed to Afghani- army? work really well together. In fact just yesterday we get calls! You just never know. So you take it stan? A: Being a woman in the military can be all there was a bus accident in a local city involving day by day and appreciate the little things. cult if you don’t know how to stand up for nearly a dozen Afghan patients (including chilA: I deployed in June 2010 to Afghanistan. I diffi yourself. It’s definitely a male dominated world dren). The city brought their patients to us, which am currently stationed in Kandahar Province on out here but I have always been treated with says a lot about the trust the local people have in Q: How often can you call home? a little base (field operations base or FOB) called equality and respect and just like in any situa- our medical capabilities. We treated all and evFOB Lagman. A: I am able to communicate fairly easily tion, how you carry yourself dictates how you are eryone survived. At one point, some patients were Q: How long will you be in Afghanistan? A: My deployment lasts about one year, so

I will be returning to my home base in Germany next June. We’ve reached our halfway mark here so I’m pretty excited about that!

Q: How did you train for the army? A: I am currently an E-3 or PFC (private

first class) and I am one of a few other women here on the FOB, which has its ups and downs that’s for sure. I trained for four months at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, Texas to become a medic. I am currently stationed out of Germany and my unit is the Second Stryker Cavalry Regiment.

What is like to be a woman in the

treated in return.

Are you one of the younger soldiers in your base?

A: I am one of the youngest soldiers out

here. I just turned 19 a few months ago.

Q: What does your job entail? A: I am a medic and my job involves many

different aspects of medical care. I care for everyone out here...we see civilian contractors, Afghan civilians/soldiers, Romanian soldiers, US Soldiers, and even animals sometimes. My job ranges from working sick call at the aid station to helping with trauma situations. I see everything from colds to amputations. There’s a great medical staff out here composed of both Army and

in surgery and needed blood. American soldiers stepped up and donated to save lives that day.

What is the relationship like between the Afghan people and the United States Army?

A: I can’t speak on behalf of the U.S. Army

on such a broad topic like “U.S. Relations to the Afghan people,” but I can say what I see here in action. The people I work with don’t discriminate. We treat everyone equally and give them the best medical care possible. We do have our difference that’s for sure but our overall goal is to help Afghan citizens get on their feet so they can enjoy freedom from fear and tyranny. The toughest thing out here is never knowing what will happen next. Will another IED go off and hurt more American soldiers? Will there be an accident in the surrounding cities? Sometimes

Welcoming an “etudiant Français”

Photo by Quinn Anderson

Gibert enjoys more relaxed classes in the US. He currently enjoys studying astronomy.

Quinn Anderson Staff Reporter

amilies host many exchange students every year and that number has been continuously growing. On average, HHS has 6 to 10 students each school year. It’s difficult being an exchange stu-

dent trying to find friends, learning the culture, and keeping up with classes. Every year students try to make exchange students feel welcome by inviting them to school events and try to encourage them to join school activities. The year, one exchange student is Theo Gibert, senior. Gibert, from France, is living with his host family, the Baldvins. Josh Baldvin, junior is Gilbert’s host brother. “It was a little weird at first, but it’s a lot like having a sibling. It’s a new experience for both of us, and I think that we are both enjoying it,” Baldvin said. Having a new person in the family can be challenging sometimes, but everyone is enjoying Gibert’s company. “I love my host family, I feel very comfortable around them, and I can act the way I would back home with my actual family,” Gibert said. He stays connected to his family back in France through Skype and tries to Skype least once a month. Gibert looked forward to coming to the US to learn how to speak English and see what the country is like. “It’s nice trying something new out for a change,” Gibert said. “ I wanted to see the American way of life, what families do, what going to high school is like here.” Gibert came to the US through an organization called Youth for Understanding, a program that many other exchange

students at HHS have used. “Hopkins is a great school,” Gibert said. He likes how there are a wide variety selection of classes to take, whereas at his school in France the selection for classes are limited. “ The classes here are much more fun, you don’t just sit there all class,” Gibert said. Gibert has loved all of his classes this year particularly because of the level of difficulty. “Classes here are a lot easier than they were back in France. In France, all you do is sit in class and take notes. Here in most classes you do some learning activities to make classes more fun,” Gibert said. Gibert also loves all the activities that offered. “Hopkins has so much spirit compared to my school in France,” Gibert said. He attended the Hopkins homecoming game and said, “It was so much fun to watch the game with [my] friends and a great new experience.” Gibert has also gotten involved by joining Alpine Ski. “It’s such a fun sport and is one of the best experiences I’ve had here,” Giber said. Gibert wishes he could stay longer than his scheduled departure for France this June. “I love it here in Minnesota so far, I’ve made so many new friends, learned so much, experienced lots of new things, if I could I would gladly stay here for a longer time.”

and frequently out here...we have Internet and phones, which go down often but always manage to get fixed. Only thing is the time difference! I have to make sure I don’t wake anyone up when I call back home.

What is one thing you took for granted in America?

Just let your friends know that Americans have it good. Sure our country has issues and our government makes mistakes but our quality of life, our freedoms, our educational opportunities is a huge blessing that I know I took for granted. Interview conducted by Danielle Fink, Editor-InChief

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Moore excommunicated by church at 16 Lissa Martinez Feature and Managing Editor

Photo Provided by Montana Moore

Montana Moore, junior, and her boyfriend, Evan Morgan, 2010 HHS graduate, celebrate Moore’s first Christmas after leaving the Jehovah’s Witness church.

eaving her religious congregation at 16 was one of the best decisions Montana Moore, junior, could have ever made. Being one of Jehovah’ s Witnesses was always a very large part of Moore’s life at a young age, however by the time she was 12, Moore had started to have doubts about her faith. “The way I felt and acted about the religion was on a sliding scale downwards,” Moore said. Being a devout Witness means participating in the congregation meetings twice a week, going out in the preaching work, keeping family as a number one priority, and maintaining friends and other relationships within the congregation. Moore experienced difficulties throughout her elementary and middle school years, having a hard time making close friends and often being misunderstood and isolated due to her faith. Moore started attending HHS last year after many years of doubting her family’s faith. At 16, Moore told her parents and family about her struggles being a Witness and an announcement was made to the congregation that she was no longer a witness. “My entire family knew that I wasn’t exactly gung ho about it way before I ever told them I was leaving it, [but] they were still completely devastated,” Moore said. When a member decides to leave the faith, other members of the congregation are encouraged to not communicate with the individual, varying on the circum-

stances. Since Moore was not yet baptized, members of the congregation are still allowed to speak to her, but it is recommended that they do not outside of the meetings. “It was sad to lose family and friends, but I felt a sense of liberty and self-determination that I had never felt before,” Moore said. While losing friends was difficult, Moore also struggled greatly with her family. “I know that [my parents] felt like they had failed in raising me, because Witnesses believe that it is their godgiven duty to raise their children as Witnesses. I felt sad, but at the time, I was so [angry] that it didn’t really matter what anyone thought,” Moore said. Since gaining her religious independence, Moore has gained more freedom at home, but not after a few more struggles. “I live under my parent’s roof, and still am somewhat obligated to do what they ask of me. After the announcement to the congregation that I wasn’t a witness anymore was made, my parents wanted me to still live my life as a witness, which for me, was absolutely not going to happen,” Moore said. Shortly afterwards, Moore ran away from home for several days, and although it isn’t something she would recommend, it worked for her. “I think that finally was the wake up call for my parents that I was very unhappy and that changes were going to have to be made. It was extremely difficult at first for all of us, but it has been over a year since I made my choice,

and things are better between us,” Moore said. While Moore has distanced herself from the Jehovah’s Witness congregation, she does still believe in something. “I would consider myself a highly spiritual person. I am certain that there is something bigger than me, a higher power or life force,” Moore said. She looks forward to practicing things such as yoga and meditation, as she has learned that Christianity is not her chosen religion. “I want to take charge of my spirituality, and I don’t think that I need a church or religion to help me do that,” Moore said. The changes Moore went through were voluntary and she does not regret the choices she made. Moore also has a word of advice for anyone in a similar situation. “I think that spirituality is a very personal matter, and that it is something only the individual can decide for themselves. So, if anyone reading this is going through a similar situation, don’t be afraid to stand up for what your personal beliefs are,” Moore said. Moore also credits a passage from Buddha that helped her deal with her religious struggle; “Believe nothing on the faith of traditions, even though they have been held in honor for many generations and in diverse places. After examination, believe what you yourself have tested and found to be reasonable and conform your conduct thereto.”

Commercializing the famous faces found at HHS Tarina Gartner Staff Reporter

omar Daniel, junior, has had his face on ads and commercials since he was an infant. His first commercial was for Huggies Diapers. “It was the start of something that is still sticking,” Daniel said. Daniel and his brother, Cimeon, a fifth grader at Tanglen, have been in the modeling business together for many years. Modeling has become a family activity for the Daneil’s. The entire Daniel family has even been in a commercial for Best Buy. Daniel’s mother put him in his first commercial as a child. Daniel’s mothers still supports him in doing the commercials and she still urges him to continue in his career. Being apart of commercials can offer opportunities such as meeting celebrities. For example, Daniel has had the opportunity to meet Torii Hunter

when Cimeon was in a commercial for the Twins. Jason Finkelstein, junior, was just six years old when he did his first commercial for Earth Day. Finkelstein’s mom is also a big part of why he follows through with it. “She kind of liked being the model mom and I mean it was good money and just something fun to do for me and her,” Finkelstein said. Modeling has created a closer bond between Finkelstein and his mom, and has allowed them to have something in common. Finkelstein also had the opportunity to meet a major sports figure, Kevin Garnett, while doing a commercial for trading cards. Daniel and Finkelstein both appreciate the generous pay they get for each commercial, however most of the money they gain from them they put

towards college. One thing that Daniel and Finkelstein don’t like is having to wake up early. Going to a commercial shoot is early in the morning, and usually on a weekend. Lara Olvera-Velenchenko, junior, has recently starred in a commercial.Olvera-Velenchenko has only been in one commercial for a hair product called Pumpit. “I did it for free, so it was nice to be a part of a commercial where I could help out,” Olvera-Velenchenko said. O l v e r a -Ve l e n c h e n k o ’s friend, Natalie Murray, senior, was asked by her aunt for a red headed girl that would be willing to be in a commercial. Olvera-Velenchenko had come to mind when Murray had been asked. “From the experience I gained a better sense of knowledge on what the process is to make a commercial and I had fun being placed in the hands of someone directing you,” Ol-

Photos provided by Romar Daniel and Jason Finklestein

Daniel and Finkelstein both started their careers at an early age, and credit their mothers for supporting them and encouraging them to continue. vera-Velenchenko said. Olvera-Velenchenko had only been in the studio for 3040 minutes because she was only posing. “It was a fun ex-

perience [that makes you feel like an actual model],” OlveraVelenchenko said. Finkelstein and Daniel are both maintaining their career,

although they don’t plan to pursue full time. They still think it is good experience to have and are grateful for the opportunities.

The stories of internation The Royal Page takes a look at students and teachers who have been a part of the adoption process. Adoption has become more popular in recent years, especially among gay and infertile couples; along with many adults who wish to be single parents. In 1997, The Evan B. Donaldson Adoption Institute conducted a survey across America and found that 58% of Americans know someone who has been adopted, has adopted a child or has relinquished a child for adoption. There are many stereotypes about adoption. These featured students and teachers tell their story and the truth about how adoption has affected their life.

Facts on Adoption In 2001, there were 1.5 million adopted children in theUnited States, which represents 2.5% of all U.S. children. In 2009, U.S. citizens adopted 13,000 children from 106 different countries. Most international adoptions are from China, Ethiopia, Russia, South Korea, and Guatemala. Adoption costs differ according to

race, origin,

gender, and age of the child. Today, 99% of adopted children in the U.S. and older know that they were adopted.

ages five

There are different forms of adoption depending on the amount of communication the child will have with the biological parents. These include open, semi-open, and closed adoptions. Information compiled from http://www.pbs.org/pov/woainimommy/adoption_fact_sheet.php

Emma Schroer

or Emma Schroer, sophomore, being adopted is an important part of her life, but does not define who she is. Schroer was born in Yangzhou, China and was in an orphanage until she was six months old. “My birth parents probably felt that since I was a girl, I wouldn’t be able to take care of them when they are elders as well as a son would, so they gave me up,” said Schroer. Schroer does not have any memories of the orphanage. “My [adoptive] parents are the only parents that I have ever really known.” They decided to adopt a child from China two years after they got married. Schroer is in a closed adoption, and she does not have any interest in finding her birth parents. Being adopted has not caused Schroer to have difficulties. “I don’t think adopted kids will face problems in life. I certainly haven’t. People need to understand that kids just need a loving home. When someone opens up their home and adopts, the child will learn to love and appreciate their adoptive parents as their own,” Schroer said. Though she does not think about being adopted regularly, pieces of China are always with her. “My first name, Emma, is from my adoptive parents. They kept my Chinese first name, Xinhua, as my middle name,” Schroer said. Schroer believes that there are lots of deserving children who need homes. “Being adopted is something that I am proud of,” Schroer said.

Jacob Brandys

acob Brandys, junior, was born in South America, and was adopted by a Minnesotan family while he was still a baby. Brandys doesn’t know why his birth parents gave him up, but shortly after his birth, he was sent to live in an orphanage, in which he spent four months. “If I met my birth parents, I would ask ‘Why did you give me up? Was it because of money?’” said Brandys. Brandys has a younger brother who was adopted from Guatemala, and he explains that they get along just like biological siblings. Also, both of their names were given by their adoptive parents. He and his brother refer to their adoptive parents as ‘mom and dad,’ because “They’re the only parents I’ve known,” Brandys said. He has never discussed his adoption process in depth with his parents, but knows why he was chosen. “Basically, mom couldn’t have kids…so they found some pictures, and they chose me because I was the cutest one,” Brandys said. Brandys has never felt awkward about being adiopted. “Children can be normal in whatever situation [they are in], as long as they are loved,” Brandys said. Despite being born on the South side of the equator, Brandys has spent all but four months of his life living in Minnesota. He knows only one lifestyle, one that he is very comfortable with. In the future, Brandys would definitely consider a child of his own in the future. “Yes, I would share what I have now,” Brandys said.

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nally adopted children

Molly Chalmers

olly Chalmers was born in Bogotá, Columbia. She was given up for adoption bese her birth mother wasn’t able to e her. The birth father left, and her h mother was only 17 years old. Chalmers was in an orphanage il she was two months old called udame’ which translates to ‘help ’ Chalmers wasn’t adopted with siblings. However; her parents had aughter and son before adopting almers. Her sister passed away in early 20’s. Chalmers plans to return to Combia this summer. “I’m curious about birth parents,” Chalmers said. Her ents changed her name from Karen cia Rodriguez Urrego to Molly but de her birth name her middle name. almers parents often call her by her umbian name. Chalmers has had to face all the me challenges as teenagers do with ir parents, but considers her life to overall normal. “I’m blessed to have n adopted by great parents,” Chalrs said. Chalmers calls her adoptive ents ‘mom’ and ‘dad’ and explains t it feels natural. Chalmers explains that she would sider adopting when she grows up. doption isn’t a bad thing, in my opin, because there is always a family in d of a child and willing to give them love and nurturing they need,” almers said. Adoption has affected her perspecs about issues and it also helps her make good decisions. She is in the cess of learning Spanish and hopes be fluent one day.

Claire Hamre

orn in Seoul, South Korea and adopted as infant, Claire Hamre, senior, has experienced the ups and downs of an open adoption. Hamre was born with the name Yae-Soon Kim, and spent two to three months in a Korean foster home when she was an infant, before she was adopted by her parents and brought to the United States. “Basically, my parents just weren’t ready to have a child and thought I’d be better off in the U.S., so they gave me away,” Hamre said. Hamre and her birth parents still communicate regularly through letters. Four years ago, Hamre even had the opportunity to visit them in South Korea. “It was really emotional. There was a lot of crying and they were apologizing a lot for what they had done. [The visit] was basically a meet up to see what was going on in life and how I was doing,” Hamre said. While adoption has given Hamre opportunities in life, she has also had to struggle with her differences. “It’s a struggle at points and sometimes I wish I wasn’t adopted to know what it’s like to live with my biological parents,” Hamre said. Hamre’s biological parents also have two other children. In the U.S., Hamre has an older brother who is also adopted from another family from South Korea. As for the future, Hamre wants to maintain a good relationship with her birth parents and plans to visit them again next summer. “I feel like they are a part of my life, even if they are halfway across the world,” Hamre said.

Daniel & Sarah Bell

r. William Bell, band director, has two adopted children. His oldest child, Sarah, is eight and a half. Sarah was adopted from Siberia, Russia when she was eight months old. “My wife and I both individually came up with adopting a child from Russia, ” said Bell. Bell and his wife had been talking about adopting a child for a while. “We really decided to do it when 9/11 happened,” said Bell. “It made us think, if we’re really going to adopt a child, we have to get to business soon.” Bell and his wife visited Russia twice before they were allowed to take Sarah home with them. Their youngest child, Daniel, is five years old and was also adopted at eight months from Guatemala. Originally, Bell and his wife wanted to adopt another child from Russia but the adoption policies in Russia had changed since the Bells adopted Sarah. It was now harder and “more closed” to adopt from Russia. Within months of filling out the paperwork, Bell already knew who his son would be. “My wife did all the paperwork, and it is a lot of paperwork,” Bell said. The Bells decided to travel to Guatemala twice before adopting Daniel. The first time, they visited him, and the second time, they brought him back to the United States. Bell describes the adoption process as having many twists and turns. He explains at times it seemed like adopting a child would not be possible. “It is definitely worth it though,” Bell said.

Emily Costa

t the age of five months, Emily Costa, sophomore, was adopted from an orphanage in Hungzhou, China. “I was only in the orphanage for five months before my adoptive parents came and brought me back to America. I was the only child my family adopted,” said Costa. “I don’t know why I was put up for adoption, and I don’t have any contact with my birth parents now.” Costa is in a closed adoption, but she explained that it hasn’t impacted her life. “I’ve grown up here, and this I what I’m used to,” Costa said. “I’m really close to my adoptive parents. I call them ‘mom’ and dad,’ and I don’t think of them any differently…I’ve always been around them.” Her adoptive parents provided her with the name ‘Emily’ when she was adopted. “The orphanage called me by the name ‘Wang Jiang,” Costa said. In first grade, Costa and her family lived in China. There, she studied Chinese and began to speak it fluently. “My mom taught English in China, while I learned Chinese. I don’t remember all of it now, though,” Costa said. Emily says that being adopted hasn’t changed anything in her life, and he hasn’t faced any problems. “I’m very open about it, if people ask, I don’t have any problems discussing it. I’m very Americanized,” Costa said. Costa has not tried to contact her birth parents thus far, and she doesn’t know if she ever will. “I might, there’s just so many people in China. It would be very hard.”

John Narum

ohn Narum, junior, was born to a family of 15 in the Philippines, yet he grew up an only child in Minnesota. Narum was adopted when he was two years old. For the first two years of his life, he grew up in an oprhanage in the Philippines. Narum’s adoptive parents started the adoption process a year before they flew to the Philippines to bring Narum to the United States. Narum was given up for adoption because 15 children was too much for his birth parents to take care of. Growing up for Narum was just like any other child. He also sees his adopted parents as his real parents. “I don’t really wish to see my real parents because of the situation they’re in,” said Narum. Narum does understand the stereotypes people may have of him because he is adopted but he just ignores them. He knows that he had a normal childhood, and has just as good of a chance as anyone to succeed in life. Narum’s adoptive parents also wanted to adopt a daughter from the Philippines, but it never happened. “For my parents it [adopting] was between Korea or the Philippines. They chose the Philippines because they liked the society there more,” Narum said. Narum loves his parents and thinks of them as his real parents. “I would like people to know that being adopted is not much different than being a biological child, the relationship between parent and kid can be the same,” Narum said.

opinion

10page the ROYAL

Unique ideas help to preserve the identities at HHS

y fellow HHS students, the state of the school is strong. Looking back at this past year, as far as I can tell, good ol’ HHS is “cookin’ with gas” as my father would say. During the November elections, both referenda passed. The District will receive a Capital Bond of $3 million for security and safety improvements. There will also be a tax levy that will generate a projected $6.5 million per year for the next ten years. HHS survived a bomb threat under the wise guidance of Mr. Willie Jett, principal. All students got to study the walls of the NJH structure and come to a consensus on what shade of green they could possibly be. The year 2010 saw a lot of trends at HHS. Snap backs have emerged as a way to represent your favorite teams, sports, or simply something to match your outfit. Abbreviating words has also become the “in” thing, but I’ll be the one to say that abbreviating is actually ‘NC’ (not cool). Although I’m no expert on women’s clothing, the girls seem to be wearing blue jeans. Another trend that was seen in HHS was supporting the basketball team once they make it to the State Tournament. For those of you who didn’t know, they won the State Championship. If only the student body had the same kind of devotion for the basketball team as they do for the Chess Club.

There also seems to be growing allegiance to an unofficial student group that loves to toss up the A-OK hand gesture. A Mr. Connor Hinck, senior, was elected Homecoming King, which only gave students one more reason to forget about the result of the game and admire his charming smile. His Queen, Shoniqua Walker, senior, got to admire from up close, just one of the many perks of being the Homecoming Queen. Being a Vikings fan was very “in” last year, and it was more of an emotional thrill than the new Twilight movie. The loss in the NFC Championship brought sadness, depression, broken dreams, empty wallets, and most importantly uncertainty about Brett Favre’s future as a Purple People Eater. Farve came back and HHS students got their 84 jerseys out in anticipation of the return of everyone’s favorite bad boy, Randy Moss. That era of good feelings didn’t last long as the Vikings went on to have a dismal season ending with a 6-10 record, which made them last in the NFC North Division, even behind the Lowly Lions. Moss left Minnesota just as fast as he came and was less than productive while he was here. Being a Vikings fan raised countless students’ and teachers’ blood pressures. What do these trends mean for the health of HHS? Our students have a dynamic unlike many schools in the area. Our students

op Superbowl halftime 10 shows we’d like to see

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1

Story time with Mr. Bruce J. Fine A pre-screening of Mr. Hering’s upcoming Calculus video, coming soon to Moodle A solo by that one sub that sings opera A sparring match between Sensei Jack Deutsch and the Karate Kid

The movie Helvetica A reunion of the group Hanson featuring the ressurection of “MMMBop” The traveling version of the Westminster Kennel Club’s Best in Show competition Watching the Washington Generals upset the Harlem Globetrotters for once A Southwest exhibition game: Co-Captains 2.0 vs. Nick Boyce’s team

Wardrobe malfunction take two featuring Rex Ryan

have continued to have myriad identities, adding to the school’s distinctive reputation. There is nothing wrong with being distinctive; as a matter of fact, I like HHS because of the fact that it is unlike the other schools in the area. The real world itself is a unique place full of unique people. Moving into the new year, I ask that all students continue to contribute to the school’s pizzazz. Continue to have differing opinions on what is hip and cool, as the kids say. May (insert higher power here) bless you, and may (insert higher power here) bless HHS. William Foley Gregg is theOpinion editor the Royal Page.

At a glance... -Trending towards the unique is what makes HHS distinct -Students must continue to stand out to preserve this dynamic

New Year’s resolutions give false hope

he time has come and passed for New Year’s resolutions. Each year the world makes new hollow promises that they will inevitably break. Every year, I save myself the heartache and sorrow that comes with breaking a New Year’s resolution. I choose not to make a New Year’s resolution. I don’t believe in New Year’s Resolutions. The idea that I should make a promise to better myself for the upcoming year isn’t ridiculous to me, I just don’t believe in them. I can tell myself that, but the truth in the matter is that I don’t want to admit that I am at fault. Admitting that I have problems that need fixing requires both willpower and humility. It takes willpower to be dedicated to a change. It takes humility to realize a change is necessary. At this current stage in my life, I lack both of these qualities. So, because of this, I sit back and watch everyone fail with his or her goals. Sitting back every year has allowed me the time to ponder and observe the trends of New Year’s resolutions. What I have noticed, is that New Year’s resolutions are very artificial, unnatural, and forced. People every year create a New Year’s Resolution on this basis that it is the social norm, it is what they are “supposed to do.” Society tells them through the media and traditions that New Year’s Resolutions are necessary and proper. It is these people whose resolutions will ultimately fail. This is the reason why I don’t like New Year’s resolutions. New Year’s resolutions reveal an underlying societal flaw with the world, this country, and this school. It reveals the lack of willpower among people today. This belief originates in the fact that people require a holiday to try and make a change with their lives. This idea is very good. Trying to change your life for the better is a good proposition and I cannot in good conscience stand

against it. These trends, though, are seen in many different areas as well. I cannot look down upon Lent or condone it. However, I can asses that Lent is another holiday soceity uses to make changes in their lives. Granted, this is for religous sake, and so this can contribute to someone’s life positively all while contributing religously. Ideally, people should be able to realize the changes that need to be made and start them without the aid of a superficial holiday. Changes can be made by original ideas of passion more effectively than through resolutions. When a resolution originates genuinely, out of some sort of self-humility, if the person is determined enough, these people can make a monumental difference in themselves. Genuine ideas and genuine passion lead to results. Many Americans and many of my classmates are likely in the same boat as me, unwilling to accept change, and afraid to fail. For this reason, they use New Year’s as a leaning post to support them. Trying to make a change in one’s life is hard and New Year’s is often taken lightly. This offers many people an opportunity to not take themselves so seriously. As much as I may advertise that I am against New Year’s resolutions, the truth is that I am afraid to take the leap of faith. When I am ready to make changes, though, I will do it on my own, not with the aid of a resolution.

Connor William Hinck is a Co-Web Tzar for the Royal Page

At a glance... -New Year’s resolutions reveal underlying social problems -Life changes require passion, willpower, and humility

opinion

1 1 page the ROYAL

Point: Cliques cause exclusion of students Staff Editorial:

t’s a comforting feeling to have close friends, especially in the adolescent years. People like having a group of friends who will always be there to hang out with. These are people who know each other extremely well because of all the time they’ve spent together. It’s a sinking feeling on a Friday or Saturday night to be free, but have nothing to do, no one to hang out with. Just about everyone feels insecure or “unpopular” at some point in their high school years. Therefore a system of cliques has been created where people find a core group of friends to spend social nights with. I’m not saying I’m not a culprit. Many times this past summer, I would look back at the week past and realize I had been with the same group of kids just about every day, often doing the same thing. The cause for this repetitiveness is the human tendency to be “creatures of habit”. Once we find something we enjoy, and people we are comfortable with, we will stick with that activity until the fun is thoroughly worn out of it. This is a result of a flaw with the social networking systems of high school students. Once a clique is formed, it often takes great skill and determination for an outsider to earn his or her way in. It is almost like unofficial initiation that cliques require to become one of the “guys/ girls”. The first hurdle to overcome is to spend time with the group once or twice. Unfortunately, cliques go to great extremes in order to exclude people from their group or keep them uninformed, such as: forming

false explanations of what they are doing, telling the “outsider” the wrong meeting place or time, saying you need some time with just so-and-so because “we’ve got a lot to talk about”, or simply telling the person you don’t want to hang out. Kids can be rude and exclusive, with few feelings for others. If someone is able to break down the walls of a clique, other scenarios may unfold, which causes the person not to be included. The person may be judged to be too quiet, or “doesn’t add anything to the group”. They could be too loud and outgoing, posing a threat to the clique kingpins, who don’t want to lose their standing within the group. They might ask too many questions because they don’t understand what the group is talking about. But how should they know your inside jokes, who has a crush on who, or when something really funny happened? They weren’t there to see it, so why are kids being so critical? It takes a remarkable outsider to earn his or her way into a clique, to make it through the series of tests and earn acceptance into the clique. They need to be popular, but not overly, outgoing and personable, but not overpowering, and bright enough to understand inside jokes without being annoying. If you’re a person trying to work your way into a new or different group at HHS, good luck. Michael James Larson is a Staff Reporter for the Royal Page

Counterpoint: Cliques offer a support group

eople grouping up is an undeniable fact of life. Cliques are nothing more than these groups in a high school setting. Cliques can help you through your hard and busy high school years. Without a close-knit group of friends or clique that you can depend on high school would be a more difficult experience. For example, cliques help kids cope with the stresses of high school by creating a support group. Cliques also allow students to have a dependable group of people. If friend groups were larger or non-existent, it would make close friends less reliable, destroying the support group. Anyways, cliques are just groups of people with common interests that kids can rely on to hang out with or console them, and what’s so bad about that? Some people might say why can’t we all be friends, but then like I said earlier; there is no one to truly rely on. No one would be more committed to you as a friend than anyone else. It’s like if everyone was good at basketball than no one could compete at a higher level. For someone to truly care about you they have to care about you more than the majority of people. Cliques are not just a high school phenomenon; they happen through out life. Children have their cliques in elementary, and grown-

ups have their cliques in the work place. Teachers at this school even have cliques, such as the west wing and the south wing cliques. Cliques aren’t considered bad in the many other cases outside of school because they aren’t being forced around so many of their peers. They get to choose where they live and where they work, so they aren’t faced with people outside their cliques so often. Often times, to my knowledge, workplace cliques are even more exclusive. High school cliques have a tendency to be meaner to other cliques, but cliques do not cause that. Those tendencies are caused by insecurities due to the age of high school students. I have personal experience without having a clique. During ninth grade I was gliding between two different cliques, and I was always the odd man out; it was impossible to just find people to hang out with. Once I started becoming closer friends with one group than the other things got better. I was able to hang out with them more and had a closer group of friends to depend on. Cliques are going to happen; all you can do is accept them and use the good things that they do provide. Samuel Jacob Bumsted is a Co-Web Tzar for the Royal Page

Open letter to Mark Dayton

ear Governor Dayton, First, we would like to congratulate you on being elected governor of Minnesota. We are sure that as you start your term and begin the difficult task of solving the many problems that face our state today, you have heard from many different groups concerning what they would like to see you do and accomplish as governor. We, the Royal Page editorial board, would like to take this opportunity to do the same from the perspective of high school students at Hopkins High School. After taking the oath of office, you said that education is one of your top priorities saying, “Nothing is more important than providing all our students with the best education that is possible.” We whole-heartedly agree. Since 2000, Hopkins High School has lost 40 full-time staff positions to budget cuts or one-third of our faculty. These cuts have placed enormous strain on our school. Our average class size is about 34 students and some classes have as many as 38 or 39. Overpopulated classes put enormous pressure on teachers who are forced to put in 12 months worth of work into nine months of school. Students suffer because they often can’t get the individual attention from their teachers they need. Also, overfull classes make it extremely difficult to switch from a study hall or free block into an academic class. Our problems at HHS are not unique. Schools across Minnesota are struggling to find adequate funding. Only more funding can help lower class sizes and reduce the burden on teachers. In the same speech where you named education as a top priority, you encouraged local businesses to adopt a school and do what they can to help out schools. Having businesses adopt a school would no doubt be extremely helpful but this alone cannot be our only solution to public education funding. The Star Tribune ran a staff editorial on Dec. 31 (“Passing the hat to fund schools is risky”) that highlighted the dangers of leaving public school funding up to private citizens and groups. We agree with the Star Tribune in their assessment that this type of solution leaves schools at the mercy of the generosity and prosperity of private citizens, which is especially risky in tough economic times. Also, if schools are forced to rely on private donations, schools in less affluent regions of the state will be at a distinct disadvantage. Several years ago, the Hopkins community was able to raise $200,000 to help retain staff members in the face of budget shortfalls. However, other communities around the state may not be able to raise those types of funds especially in tough economic times. This is completely contrary to the mission of public education: providing a quality education to all kids no matter of situation or means. We understand that providing additional funds to education will become increasingly difficult as the state attempts to balance a budget that currently sits deep in debt. We hope that when you are forced to make difficult decisions on which state programs to cut funding from, you will remember what you said during your first hours in office and ensure that money is not siphoned away from educating Minnesota children. After all, today’s students will need all the preparation we can get if we are to someday solve the problems that today’s politicans seem so intent upon saddling us with. Sincerely, The Royal Page Editorial Board

Cartoon by Daniel Raskin

This is the opinion of the Royal Page staff.

variety

12page

the ROYAL

Festival of Nations project brings out students’ creative sides Not only did the research take time,

Maddy Braverman Staff Reporter but cooking did as well. “Baking the

anuary 14 has been on the minds of a certain population for two months. Around 140 students in AP World History know this date as the day they can take a sigh of relief, for this quarter at least. This is the day that the AP World students meet in the Old Gym to create the “Festival of Nations”. The Festival of Nations has been a project for the AP World History students to do ever since the class was first taught five years ago. Groups of three to five students, or individuals, are each given a country to research and present to the rest of the school. The groups are to present their countries to the school using some sort of structure to represent their country, costumes, games, prizes, and a brochure. The AP World students put in hours and weekends to come out with a finished product. “It is a lot of work,” says Rachel Sadowsky, junior. Her group member Dani Segelbaum, junior, reported it took two weeks just to do the research on Argentina. Their group worked once a week for five hours each time. “They’re so stressed for two months while they are working on the project,” said Ms. Jennifer Heimlich, Social Studies.

Dulce de Leche cookies took awhile,” said Claire Huber, junior, who is also researching Argentina. Groups were required to provide food from their country, and to have enough for everyone coming to visit the festival. “We spent a lot of time making the tres leches cake over winter break,” said Marlee Krietzman, junior. Other groups did not have as much luck working over winter break as Krietzman’s group did. “It has been really hard finding a day to get everyone together at the same time,” said Charlie Bank, junior. Other groups struggled with being able to meet enough to feel they had made adequate progress. For example, a group researching Ecuador had plans to make a hut from straw, make potato bread rolls, and feature Christina Aguilera as the music because she is part Ecuadorian. However, the week before the project was due they had only built part of a fence and found costumes. The group planned to spend all weekend doing the project to have it done by Friday, January 14. “There are challenges to group projects” said Heimlich, “but students learn to collaborate. They will have to work with groups later in life, and working in them now helps them with the future.”

Photo by: Maddy Braverman

Charlie Bank, junior, quizzes his cafe visitors on Argentinian trivia at Festival of Nations on Jan. 14.

Heart-O-Gram Experiences AP Environmental Science students explore Seneca Kate Monson

Staff Reporter

Mr. Sammler took his AP Environmental Science students to the Seneca Wastewater Treatment Plant and the Bell Museum to further explore how we affect our environment.

Sonja Muus Staff Reporter

“My boyfriend sent me one Heart-O-Gram each block spelling out I love you ! On the back of the last one, he asked me out.” -Katy Corbin

“A Heart-O-Gram group dressed up as the Three Amigos and did Spanish love songs.” -Jayd Lorenz

“My favorite Heart-O-Gram moment was when Geoff sang to me, because my brother was in it.” –John Mundahl

“Sophomore year, when David Harris got fourteen Heart-OGrams in one class period.” -Dami Mafe

“[We remember] singing to Cliff and Cliff dancing.” -Ms. Sherrie Reese & Ms. Marcy Burnevik

“Probably when all of the math teachers from upstairs sang Mrs. Sperling a Heart-O-Gram.” -Mr. Youakim

n Thursday, January 6, Mr. Sammler, Science, took a field trip to the Seneca Wastewater Treatment Plant and Bell Museum of Natural History with his AP Environmental Science students. “Besides the smell [of the water treatment plant], [the field trip] was actually pretty interesting,” said Nicole Anderson, senior. In class, students were learning about water quality and waste management focusing mainly on solid waste, but the field trip was an opportunity for the students to learn about a different aspect of waste management. “We didn’t cover how wastes flushed down the toilet are dealt with [in class]. This [field trip] was an attempt to show [the students how this waste is dealt with] and see the process in actual view,” Sammler said. Anderson was up toward the front of the group of kids and got to talk to the owner of the plant. “I learned a lot about the process of turning water into a cleaner source and how it goes back into lakes and rivers,” Anderson said, “I’ve never been to a place like it before.” The students also went to the Bell

Museum of Natural History. Rather than just touring the public side of the museum featuring a collection of preserved animals from around the state, Sammler’s students got to enter the private side of the museum. This side holds the scientific collections of alcohol preserved specimen currently being researched. “[The Bell Museum] is also just a really cool place, and most students do not even know that these types of places exist on campuses so it is a good introduction for some [students] about this line of work or study,” Sammler said. This is not the only field trip that Sammler’s AP Environmental Science classes have taken this year. Earlier this year, they went to Minnehaha creek to collect water samples. The students tested the water quality at two different spots in the creek and compared their results. On top of studying water and waste, the students in AP Environmental Science study population, nutrient cycling, and the effects of chemicals on humans and organisms. These are specific areas of study but the class generally covers the science behind the Eart, how humans infulence its natural cycles, and political issues surrounding the environment. Anderson really enjoys the class not only

because of the topics studied, but also because of the teacher. “I really like Environmental Science, but Mr. Sammler is a really good teacher. [Students] listen and pay attention just because of the way he teaches,” Anderson said, “I would recommend it to anyone.” One of Sammler’s main goals in teaching this class is to give students some ideas for career paths. “This is a chace for some [students] to wet their whistle in these ideas. I am sure that in years from now, somebody in one of these classes will be working in a treatment plant. I already know students from past years doing bird and fish research for various universities. There is interest out there…students just need to know where they can quench that interest,” Sammler said. Besides discussing careers in the future, the class also helps students form better habits in their daily lives. “This is a great class to help people in making decisions in their daily lives about how to be a better person and citizen in the world. It is a great guide to explaining why you should do certain things and avoid doing others…people inherently want to do the right thing and this class is basically a guide to helping to do that,” Sammler said.

variety

13 page the ROYAL

Coffee shops around the Twin Cities Many students go to coffee shops to hang out or do homework, below are some of the more unique coffee shops around the Twin Cities for students to check out. Location: 2809 Hennepin Ave. Uptown Mpls

Location: 3440 Bloomington Ave. Mpls

*Be sure to try their homemade croissants!

da May

Cafe

*This unique coffee shop is located in a Victorian house from 1877!

oun r G n

*Urban Bean offers italian sodas and fresh lemonade!

*Birchwood offers delicious breakfast!

od hwo

Birc

off C n a

nB a b r U

Location: 3311 E 25th St. Mpls

off C s n

be a k n u

m ncom

Location: 1206 Main Street Hopkins

*Munkabeans serves homemade sandwiches!

Location: 3255 Bryant Ave. S. Mpls

Location: 2401 Lyndale Ave. South Mpls

Cafe

*Muddy Waters offers a variety of vegetarian food!

Wa y d ud

Ca s r e t

Information compiled by: Jasmine Geschwind, Variety Editor

AP Europe students put together films to share with class Harry Orenstein

Staff Reporter

he annual AP Euro video project was recently completed, turned in, and graded. The idea of the project is to create a visual representation that covers a major event between the years 1650 and 1820. Also, it had to be categorized under the following topics; government structure; economics; fine arts and literature; foreign relations and armed conflict; science and technology; and religion and philosophy. The video project was a crucial part of the student’s grade this quarter. “It’s a huge chunk of points,” said Clay Thompson, junior. The finished project included two commercials, a narration of the presentation, and had to be fifteen to eighteen minutes long. Ideally, an A project would be extremely polished with good transitions. It would also contain a wealth of relevant information about the topic. The planning, making, and editing of the movie required creativity and time. Unfortunately, stress, procrastination, and hard work went into making the movie. The project was originally assigned No-

vember 5, however many groups started around the middle of December. “Our group pretty much did our entire project over winter break,” said Andy Elmeer, junior. Elmeer’s group featured Peter the Great. Stress played a large role because many people were out of town during winter break. “We never even met together as an entire group once,” said John Mundahl, junior. Mundahl’s group featured Maximilien Robespierre. Robespierre was a very liberal radical who fueled the French Revolution. This issue also occurred in other groups. “One of the members in our group was out of town the entire winter break. We had to film her in on the Sunday before we went back to school,” said Jacob Rabichev, junior. Rabichev’s group featured Louis the sixteenth. Loius the sixteenth was a king who was executed during the French Revolution. With the continuous hours spent together tension flared in some groups. “We had a few beefs, but we grilled them up and ate them,” said Nick Dale and Tim Shannon, juniors. Some groups, on the other hand, were very motivated.

“The thought of Mr. Rexroth and the children in our classroom smiling was what motivated my group to succeed,” said Rabichev. Students creative sides came out when determining what their movie themes would be. Some groups based there video off real movies. For example, Nick and Tim’s excellent adventure was based off Bill and Ted’s excellent adventure. However, the majority of the groups gave a modern twist to the story of their person or nation. Even though the time commitment was a lot, and hard work was a main factor during the project, most groups felt very confident in their work. “I am 110 percent confident in my group’s work,” said Rabichev.

Students in AP Euro relax and and watch each other’s short movies after weeks of hard work. Photo by: Harry Orenstein

sports

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ROYAL

With winter comes pond hockey Jacob Clemen Staff Reporter

hile the winter months force many off the roads and keep them trapped in their homes, seniors at HHS are braving the elements to participate in a storied Minnesota tradition. A group of about 20 seniors has taken an interest in the sport of pond hockey. The senior boys, most of whom have no formal experience playing hockey, enjoy the competition and socializing that comes from the game. “We get about 15 guys each day,” said Jack Hamilton, senior, “we all know each other and are all at about the same skill level so it is a lot of fun.” Hamilton is one of the most fervent pond hockey enthusiasts and is often involved in coordinating games. “We usually play five times a week,” Hamilton said, “we will just send out a text seeing who can play that night and depending on when people are available we’ll pick a time and rink.” David Abel, senior, enjoys the spontaneity and frequency of the games. “We know that we’ll basically play every night. It’s cool to have something fun to do that is easy to plan for,” Abel said. The convenience that pond hockey provides the players is a determining factor in their sport of choice. “We used to play basketball during the winter but it became too difficult to find an open gym and we didn’t want to pay every time we played at places other than Lindbergh,” Hamilton said. The Lindbergh Center often offers open gym time to students to play basketball, but generally only two or three times a week and these athletes wanted to play more often. Their change in sports will pay off this month, as the Lindbergh Center is not offering a single open gym session throughout January. “It is an interesting and new sport,” said Connor Benton, senior, “when you play with different people each night and on different rinks it is more fresh and exciting than other sports.” The hockey enthusiasts skate at one of four locations, Lion’s Park, Excelsior, Gatewood and Wayzata East, depending on their needs. One rink offers the best ice, while another allows skaters to control the lights in order to play later into the night, and another has the largest amount of skaters from other schools which provides exciting competition. The competition generally comes from players from schools such as Wayzata or Minnetonka that also use the rinks. “When we play kids from Wayzata or Minnetonka it can get a little heated or physical,” Hamilton said, “that can be more fun.” Though the games can get physical, the sport on the local rinks is quite different from professional and organized hockey. “We don’t check or anything like that,” Benton said, “you can’t lift the puck if you’re around other people and we don’t have real

Saxon S. Dorshow Sports Editor

Photo by Jacob Clemen

From left to right, David Abel, senior, Mike Larson, senior, Michael Swanson, senior, and Aaron Ugorets, senior, play pond hockey recently at Lion’s Park in Golden Valley. goalies, someone might stand near the goal but they don’t have gear on.” In fact, the only gear the players use are sticks and skates that are often bought secondhand or found in an attic or garage. “Last year we mostly just had shoes or boots,” Abel said, “now we’ve upgraded a little bit and got a bunch of old skates.” The most important things to bring, according to Benton, are gloves. “You need gloves if you want to be out in the cold and still hang onto your stick,” Benton said, “especially because we’ll play down to negative degree weather.” It is not very surprising that the seniors found pond hockey as an easily accessible activity as Minnesota is known for its hockey culture. The state is often called “The State of Hockey” and the local professional team, the Minnesota Wild, host the Pond Hockey North America Championship on Lake Minnetonka each winter. As the tradition of pond hockey has been passed along in Minnesota, so too will it remain a tradition for the seniors. Hamilton said, “I will probably play intramural hockey in college and when I come back home for winter break after I’ve gone away I’ll definitely try and reunite with some of the guys for a game or two.”

Bremer leads young, talented alpine team Michael Larson Staff Reporter

he Alpine Ski Team is excited after a positive opening to their season and is looking forward to contending for the section title. This group has a great opportunity to do well in the conference and possibly make it to state. The team is led by Brett Bremer, junior, who has raced nationally, and internationally in the last few years. In the state championship race, he has finished in the top ten the last two years and is currently ranked second in state. “He didn’t even have his best race last year at state, but he still finished tenth,” said Sam Bumsted, junior. “Skiing has always been a family tradition,” Bremer said,” every year since I was little we’ve gone to Beaver Creek, Colorado. It’s my favorite place in the world.” The racing began a couple years later with teammate, Nick Eagon, junior, and Bremer are now members of the Buck Hill Ski Club. With the club, Bremer has gone to races across the continent and even competed in the Junior Olympics. He has had three top 20 finishes and placed as high as eleventh, which he earned in Michigan on December 12. With these high finishes and the national exposure from the national races, a college scholarship would appear to be a cinch, but it’s a lot more difficult than it sounds. “Colleges look at

Student viewpoint: It’s time to forgive Michael Vick

Europeans and Canadians before Americans, and even then, the scouts look to the east and west coasts before they finally reach the Midwest,” Bremer said, “but if there’s an opportunity, I would love to take it.” When competing at such a high level, most athletes chose to focus and train for that sport alone. But even with Bremer’s prowess in skiing, he is still a three-sport athlete, playing lacrosse and football. “I’ve always got something going on, and I like having the variety in my life,” Bremer said. Skiing alongside Bremer on the Alpine team is a strong cast, including Bumsted, Eagon, Jonatan Hoegstroem, senior; Matt Sinderson, junior; and Danny Sutter, senior captain. Recently at the Wild Mountain Invite, the team took third, a strong showing in the twenty-team field. In high school, the competitions are in a type of race called slalom, where skiers turn around flags as they fly down the slope. Practices take place at Hyland Park, and races are often at places long distances from HHS. The sport takes a lot of time and dedication, as long bus rides from races and practices are a part of daily life for the skiers. The team is brimming with potential, containing many young and improving athletes. “If everyone does their job, I think we definitely have a good chance of going to state,” Bremer said.

s the National Football League playoffs come underway, people everywhere are riled up about a certain issue that has nothing to do with anything happening on the football field. People everywhere are buzzing over Michael Vick. Vick has had a miraculous season. Since taking over as the starting quarterback of the Eagles in the early weeks of the season, he has established himself as one of the most singularly dominate players in the league. He is being mentioned as a likely candidate for the league’s Most Valuable Player award and led his team to the playoffs before being ousted by the Green Bay Packers on January 9th. However, all of the discussion about Vick is only partially based on his stupendous play. Michael Vick, as many are likely to recall, pled guilty of helping to run a dogfighting ring in his native state of Virginia in 2007. He admitted to torturing and killing dogs and was sentenced to serve 23 months in federal prison. The Atlanta Falcons, his team at the time, released him. Michael Vick had gone from the top to the bottom, and the public reveled in his fall from grace. Michael Vick instantly became the most disliked athlete in America. He was roundly protested and openly detested. Upon his release from prison, there was much speculation as to whether another NFL team would afford the beleaguered quarterback a chance. The Eagles chose to, and Vick has developed into one of the best quarterbacks in the league. He is due for a new contract next year, and will likely make tens of millions of dollars in the coming season. Many people take exception to this. Recently, a Fox News radio host went on the air saying that Vick should have been “executed” for his crime and should not have the privilege of playing in the NFL. People everywhere are disgusted that a person that committed such crimes is currently living the posh existence of an NFL superstar. All of this speculation of course begs the question that everyone is asking: What kind of society do we live in where a person that tortured and killed defenseless animals can make millions of dollars playing a game just years later? My answer? Our society is one that thrives on the idea of second chances and a shot at redemption. Michael Vick’s crimes were inhumane. There can be no debating that. But let’s step back and observe the situation objectively. True, he killed animals. Yet, in our society, for right or wrong, this is not generally looked down upon. The same people that decry Vick likely go hunting, wear fur, or at the very least eat meat. The only reason people get all bent out of shape about what Vick did is because of the fact that in our society, dogs are given the status as “man’s best friend.” Not only that, but Vick paid for his actions. In our country, we have a justice system that states that, once a person fulfills a punishment prescribed by the courts, they are free to rejoin society and, by extension, seek to make their living in any way they want to. Vick was sentenced to prison. He went to prison, was released, and now has the right to make his living. If Vick was a gas station attendant, would people complain about him getting his job back? No, they would not. The people that complain about Vick getting a second shot at the NFL are likely jealous of the money and stature that come with being an NFL player, and don’t think a felon should have access to these perks. Tough beans. Michael Vick has an extremely rare skill set and has the right to use that skill set to make a living, regardless of his past actions. As long as there is someone who is willing to pay him millions of dollars to play a child’s game, he has the right to do just that. In the end, people who like to bash Vick need to move on. He did the crime and did his time. Done. Over. Enough said. Leave the man alone and find something new to complain about. Or better yet, just stop complaining.

sports Wrestling team has high hopes Jack Deutsch Staff Reporter

hen every single wrestler on the Varsity team has a winning record, the goal is clear. “We want to win our conference and get seated number one in sections and end up qualifying as a team for state,” said Mr. Al Price, Varsity Wrestling Coach. The main contributors to the success so far this year are Romar Daniel and Jacob Price, juniors, and Michael De Jolsvay, senior captain. With records of 12-1, 12-1 and 13-0, it shows that hard work pays off. The team works hard during practices that include conditioning, certain techniques used to pin your opponent, and working on things the team didn’t do well in the last tournament. When wrestling at the weight class of 103, diet starts to be the main factor when losing and gaining weight as the year goes on. Jacob Price, junior, wrestled at 112 starting the season, but has now cut weight to move down to the 103 slot. “My diet mainly consists of fruits and vegetables and a lot of protein and water. I trim weight by working out after any meal I can while burning more calories than I take in,” Price said. The porcess of losing weight is highly controversial. “Many people have questioned the process of losing weight and may say it’s dangerous, but really it’s not,” Coach Price said. Before the wrestling season begins, there is a certification process that includes both the athletic trainer and doctor examining each individual wrestler. Then, they give them a minimum weight that their body can go down to. The doctor then checks this off,

and the parent can either agree or raise the weight that they feel best fits their child. The process helps keep wrestlers safe from seriously hurting their bodies. Daniel, with his 12-1 record, was not even planning on wrestling this winter. He has been a three-sport varsity athlete since he was a freshman. He has lettered in track and field, football, and wrestling. “I was going to focus on football and hire a trainer to get myself ready for football combines, but Coach Price and Coach Marcy would come to the weight room every day after school to talk to me about how bad of a decision that was. They said I could possibly make it to state this year as an individual, and maybe even as a team. I thought about how my team members were disappointed and decided that wrestling would be my best option right now,” Daniel said. Daniel has been very successful these past few weeks. He won at a tournament on Jan. 8. There, he beat a top wrestler who went to nationals last year. Daniel’s focus is the same every match. “I start by praying for both of us, to keep us safe, and I ask God to help me perform to the best of my ability, win or lose,” Daniel said. A father-son relationship has evolved in the past few years. “My dad is great because it’s like having a tutor that is with you at all times to help you, and he plays no favorites,” Jacob said. Coach Price also cherishes this relarionship. “At times, I can be harder on him than with others, but I don’t favor him more than any other wrestler on the team,” he said.

Girls basketball making a run of their own Michael Frey Sports Editor

s the boys basketball team continues to dominate the competition in an undefeated season, the girls are on a tear of their own going undefeated through Jan 11. “We work hard in the off season and we all get along,” said Julia Wiemer, senior captain. All the girls worked hard in the off-season by playing on summer teams, going to camps and attending captains practices. Once the season started, they were all ready to start hot and pursue a state title. “Practices are harder than games; they’re long and we must pay attention to detail, but it’s worth it to have a good team,” Wiemer said. At practices, Coach Cosgriff always makes sure the girls pay close attention to detail. This is so they know the plays and can execute them during games. The girls are the number one ranked team in the state among all high schools and number five in the nation. “This is due to hard practices, good conditioning and great team chemistry,” Wiemer said. She is not the only one that holds this view. “We’re all friends, just get along and there are no cliques,” said Shannon O’Toole, senior captain. They all spend a lot of time together at games, practices, and tournaments. “If we get along well off the court, it’s easier for us to play well together throughout the season,” Wiemer said. Part of team chemistry is team spirit, and the girls always either wear their warm-up gear to school on game days, or wear some type of wacky outfit. Either way it unites the team and in a way gets them pumped up for the game. This is important when they have to play top-ranked teams like Lakeville North or DeLaSalle. Most of the girls have normal, pre-game rituals. Just about all of the girls take naps before each game to be well rested and most, if not all, eat the same food before every game. Some eat at Chipotle or Noodles or any type of food that they think will help them play. “We all have a common goal, and that’s to get to state and win,” Wiemer said. The most recent state titles occurred in 2004 and 2006 and they made the section championship game in 2009 but lost. The girls hope to maintain their winning ways, work hard and make a serious run at the state championship and live up to their number one state ranking. One downside this year is that the team lost Jill Greenfield, senior, who was a captain last year as a junior.

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“Jill was a great fit to the team and a great leader as well, all of us got a long and I really liked playing with her,” Wiemer said. Jill joined the varsity squad as a sophomore and started most games along side long time friend, Wiemer last season. This year, Greenfield has decided to focus on other sports and is not playing basketball. Even though Greenfield isn’t playing this year, the other captains have taken over and they feel confident in leading this team to state. “I want to be a good role model and leave good morals for the younger girls,” Wiemer said. There are seven seniors on the team this year and only four juniors, so come next season, it will be a younger team. The seniors want to instill the right attitude and work ethic into each underclassman.

“We all have a common goal, and that’s to get to state and win” -Julia Wiemer, Senior Captain Photo by Connor Hinck

“We’re all friends, just get along and there are no cliques” -Shannon O’Toole, Senior Captain Photo by Connor Hinck

ROYAL

Where are former HHS athletes now? Michael Fields Staff Reporter Mike Lehan (’98, Football, Track & Field): Lehan was An All-State Running Back with 25 touchdowns as a senior, and also finished fifth in the 100-meter dash in the state track and field meet. At the University of Minnesota, Lehan focused on football, specifically defense, starting for four years as a cornerback. In 2003, the Cleveland Browns selected him in the fifth round of the NFL Draft with the 152nd overall pick. Lehan played for the Miami Dolphins and New Orleans Saints before retiring in 2009 at the age of 29. Kris Humphries (’03, Basketball): As a senior, Humphries led Hopkins to its first state championship in 49 years. After one year at the University of Minnesota, Humphries entered the 2004 NBA Draft and was selected by the Utah Jazz with the 14 overall pick. After stints with the Toronto Raptors and Dallas Mavericks, Humphries has found himself playing for the New Jersey Nets, averaging 7.8 points per game so far this season. Garrott Kuzzy (’03, Nordic skiing): Kuzzy helped Hopkins win its third Boys Nordic Skiing team state championship during his senior year, and also brought home the individual title. After graduating from Middlebury College in Vermont in 2006, Kuzzy turned professional. He qualified for the 2010 Olympic Winter Games in Vancouver. Kuzzy finished 47 in the individual classic sprint event, and helped a USA relay team to a 13th place finish in the 4 x 10 kilometer classic/freestyle relay. Leslie Knight (’04, Basketball): Knight was named the 2004 Associated Press Player of the Year after leading Hopkins to a state championship. She set the Hopkins scoring and rebounds records, both of which are still intact today. Knight went on to play for four years at the University of Minnesota, earning second team All-Big Ten Honors as a senior in 2008. Knight finished her college career averaging 8.6 points per game, with a field goal percentage of 50.6%. Blake Hoffarber (’07, Basketball): Famous for his buzzer-beating shot from his rear end that sent the 2005 state championship game into double-overtime and earned him an ESPY Award, Hoffarber followed his performance as a junior by helping Hopkins win another state championship in 2006. Now a senior at the University of Minnesota, Hoffarber holds the U of M record for three-point shots made, and is on track to be the school’s fourth most accurate three-point shooter in history. Sean Borman (’09, Baseball): A standout quarterback, Borman also starred as a pitcher on the baseball team at Hopkins, earning All-Metro honors as a pitcher and shortstop. Borman now plays at Des Moines Area Community College, a top-ranked junior college. Borman is solely a first baseman, hitting with an average .340 with 44 runs batted in, helping the Bears to a 47-11 record. He also hit 12 home runs, including five in one game. Becky Kortum (’09, Hockey): Kortum’s 43 goals and 28 assists helped Hopkins to a runner-up finish in the state tournament in 2009, and earned her the honor of Ms. Hockey. Kortum signed on with the University of Minnesota, and had an immediate impact, scoring four goals and having 10 assists during her freshman season. 19 games into her sophomore season this year, Kortum has tallied eight goals and four assists.

The Scouts of HHS

very Monday night, Ben Smith, senior, dresses in his Eagle Scout uniform as he prepares for his weekly troop meeting. Boy Scouts, which Smith has been a part of since second or third grade, is part of several HHS students’ lives, including Haydn Luker, Phil Robin, and Michael Halsey, seniors. But Boy Scouts is more than learning wilderness survival skills and having fun with other troop members. According to Robin, it “helps you in life. You learn how to help people and take care of yourself. You learn how to become good citizens.” Not to mention the serious time commitment if wanting to reach the top rank of Eagle Scout. Before receiving this ranking, a Boy Scout must pass through the ranks of Tenderfoot, Second Class, First Class, Star, Life, and Eagle, advancing by passing specific tests that are organized by requirements and merit badges. Additionally, a Scout must create and complete a Leadership Service Project and have volunteer hours. “Eagle is a big commitment,” Halsey said. “You have to do things at home and spend a lot of time working towards it. Some people come to the meetings and participate in the activities just for fun.” Not all Scouts wish to or are able to reach the ranking of Eagle Scout. To receive the Eagle Scout ranking, a Scout must meet all the requirements prior to their 18th birthday. “Only five percent of all Scouts get the final rank of Eagle,” Smith said. “Too many Scouts get to Life [the ranking] and quit. I continue because I want to

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Boys in Scouting will use Scout skills to save another’s life

Alumni of Boy Scouts of America make up

85 percent of FBI Agents

“My favorite badge is the 60th Anniversary Many Point badge.

It’s a place that my troop goes to every year and it was a special point in time.” -Phil Robin, senior

further improve myself and finish what I started.” Mark Gertner, junior, is among the five percent who have obtained the ranking of Eagle Scout. “I started in first grade as a Cub Scout,” Gertner said. “I’ve earned 38 patches and learned how to be a good leader.” According to the National Eagle Scout Association website, being an Eagle Scout “has always carried with it a special significance, not only in Scouting but also as [a boy] enters higher education, business or industry, and community service.” Many of the boy scouts at HHS see how the skills they have acquired will help them later in life. “Aside from simply being able to start a fire in the woods, I’ve learned personal responsibility and knowing how your decisions affect other people,” Luker said. “I’m going into computer sciences,” Smith said. “What I’ve learned through Boy Scouts will help me because I know how to work with multiple people. In computer sciences, one thing that is vital is being able to cooperate with a group efficiently and lead them to complete a project.” “Being a Boy Scout means to live by the Scout Oath and Law. Most don’t. You must understand the oath to live life by it. This means not just helping an elderly person cross the street, but if you see anyone struggling with anything go help them even if you don’t know them. It means to live positively and fulfill your life,” Halsey said.

“My favorite badge is the Atomic Energy badge because it was the the ﬁrst one I ever did and I am proud of it becasue my troop usually doesn’t complete that badge.” -Ben Smith, senior

64 percent of Air Force Academy graduates

Alumni of Boy Scouts of America make up

26 of the ﬁrst 29 astronauts

“My favorite badge is the Indian lore badge because I got it at boyscout camp and I had a really fun teacher named bubbles.” -Jon Furlich, senior

“My favorite badge is the sail“My favorite badge is the pioneering badge because we got ing badge because I did it at Scout camp and we had to sail the whole to make things time and tip our out of platboat over which forms.” was fun.” -Michael -Neil Stein, Halsey, sophomore senior

Marlee Gotlieb is the Backpage Editor for the Royal Page.

Alumni of Boy Scouts of America make up

“My favorite badge is one to do with natural resources. For example, the soil and water conservation badge.” -Mark Gertner, junior

Scout Oath

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Boys in Scouting will credit Scout skills with saving his own life

Alumni of Boy Scouts of America make up

58 percent of West Point graduates

On my honor I will do my best To do my duty to God and my country and to obey the Scout Law; To help other people at all times; To keep myself physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight.

Scout Law

A Scout is trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean, and reverent.