November 27

page theROYAL

Tuesday, Nov. 27, 2012 Volume 31 Issue 3

www.royalpage.org

Recycling program on the way

C-spread 8-9

Our passions are found through our experiences. We must work to find what we truly love.

-Roy Grossmann

opinion 5

Nordic skiiers prepare for a new season

sports 15

Ukrainian students visit U.S.

By Joe Greene Staff Reporter

Danielle Usselman, junior, works on a cellular respiration synthesis project during class. HAP curriculum was designed for visual learning.

Photo by Cydney Froehlich

Alternative learning program offers variety HAP gives students a chance to succeed without other stresses

By Phoebe Cohen Staff Reporter

A

fter a rough start to her high school career, Audrey Campbell, senior, was looking for an option.

Her GPA was not where she wanted it to be, and she had not been completely involved in her work. HAP offered her a new opportunity for success.

Hopkins Alternative Program (HAP), is an education option that allows students dealing with difficult situations to have the opportunity to succeed in an alternative learning

environment. Students benefit from smaller class sizes and a more structured and personalized learning environment.

HAP has been at HHS for 23 years, starting in 1989. Students can take up to four classes with HAP and the rest in the mainstream HHS curriculum.

There about 100 students involved in HAP. In HAP, credit is given differently than in mainstream classes. Students must be in class 90% or more of the days to earn full credit. They also have to complete 90% or more of their assigned work at a C level

or higher.

“In a mainstream class you either pass or fail. Here we give you credit based on the amount of work you did,” said Scott Neiman, HAP coordinator.

“It allows students to still earn partial credit even if they’re not meeting all the expectations, but on the other hand there’s high accountability for their work and for their attendance.”

Campbell has been a part of HAP since the middle of her sophomore year.

“My freshman and the first half of my sophomore year I was not doing very well and I

wasn’t very focused in school.

I decided that I needed a little extra help with catching up with my credits so I decided to join HAP,” Campbell said.

When Campbell first came into the program, she had a .9 GPA and was getting mostly Ds and Fs. Since then, Campbell has increased her GPA by a full two points and is graduating early, in March.

“I love it. And I love the teachers because it’s a closer relationship,” said Campbell, “They aren’t just interested in teaching us stuff and having us regurgitate it back to them.

They want us to interact, communicate and relate it to our lives.”

“Teachers get to know [students]. We know what their strengths and weaknesses are so we can work with that,” said Kathy Butler, Language Arts.

“Most students in this building have connections through their activities or things that they do. Most people wouldn’t really identify the teachers of their academic classes where they have those relationships and those connections, but for -HAP continued on page 11

After traveling halfway across the world, sixteen students from Ukraine are now touring the bustling halls of HHS, and they look astonished.

“I can’t believe it is a high school. My school is only half of this,” said sixteen year-old Dmytro Deyneko.

Yulia Linkevich, fifteen, agrees. “It’s huge. In Ukraine, we have only one school, not a junior high and a high school.”

Thirteen year-old, Iryna Moroz sees not just size of HHS, but also its resources.

“If Americans came to Ukraine, they would be shocked. We do not have a lot of computers or Activboards; not as many electronics. We still use chalkboards. I would rather learn with electronics,” Moroz said.

These students are part of the Youth Leadership Engagement Project for Minnesota and Ukraine Youth, a program that connects the Ukrainian city of Boryspil with the city of Hopkins. The aim is to give the Ukrainian students experiences in Hopkins’ civic, cultural, educational and family activities.

Ukrainian, Irina Fursman, and her husband, Richard want the United States and Ukraine to learn from one another. So they took on the “hobby” of trying to unite the civic leaderships of Hopkins and Boryspil, an idea that culminated in the two cities being officially designated Sister Cities.

-UKRAINE continued on page 2

2 news

the

RP Tuesday, Nov. 27, 2011

Ukrainian students visit U.S.

Ukraine continued from page 1

Out of this partnership, the Youth Engagement Project for Minnesota and Ukraine was born. The project’s aim is to give youth in Ukraine the opportunity to develop leadership skills and take in all that U.S. culture has to offer.

“The kids are adjusting fast to Hopkins. I think they are communicating and understanding better than I thought they would. I love seeing how open they are. They are like sponges absorbing information,” Fursman said.

For many of these students, America had only been a topic of discussion in their English history textbooks. But for one month, these select individuals are living in the United States with host families, becoming immersed in American culture.

HHS welcomed the Ukrainian students with a tour and an after school event with the International Club, complete with ice cream, parachutes and music from the Beach Boys.

Karin Johnson, science, and host parent to one of the students attended the event.

“All of the kids had a blast together! It was so neat to see kids from all over the world, from every continent (except Antarctica!) interacting with one another,” Johnson said.

“Everybody was very friendly to us. I would like to take that friendliness back with me to Ukraine,” Moroz said.

Top: Ukrainian students visiting a Technology Education class. They are listening to the teacher and learning what goes on in the classes.

Right: The Ukrainian students are in an AP Government class. They are in front of the class introducing themsellves.

Photos by Joe Greene

Touring HHS, the Ukrainian students noticed major differences in the way school is structured. In Ukraine, instead of students moving from class to class, the teachers come to them. A more stark difference is that students in Ukraine stay with the same group of students, in the same class, from first grade to eleventh grade.

Julia Miroshnyk, twenty-three, and an English, French and History teacher in Ukraine, is chaperoning the trip.

“I think both educational systems have their advantages and their disadvantages. The advantage to being in Ukraine is that you are always in one place, and you can study with the same

people from ages seven to seventeen. And after you graduate, you are still friends – still a big help to each other,” Miroshnyk said.

“We get to know each other more and more each year.

We become a big family, and classmates help and support each other,” Linkevich said.

But for Deyneko, the idea of moving from classroom to classroom is something that he would like to see back home.

“I think the American education system is better because you can go to different classrooms, and see items unique for that classroom. Teachers (in Ukraine) have the burden of carrying many items from classroom to classroom. I think

being in different classrooms in the Ukraine will help us learn better,” Deyneko said.

Deyneko is no stranger to leadership; he is the head of his student government at his school, Design-Osvita Lyceum in Ukraine. He is also one of the three heads of the student government organization in Kjiv Region Society of Children in Ukraine. He hopes his month-long venture in the U.S. can be a resource to help his school back home.

“I want to try to change the classrooms at our school so that teachers have their own rooms, and students go to them. As a leader of student government, I was successful in getting

our school a speaker system.

I think with the help of our head and assistant head of the school, I can also be successful this time,” Deyneko said.

Fursman hopes all the students will grow and change during this trip just as Deyneko has.

“When you go to a new experience like this, you actually learn something about yourself. You stretch your creativity, your openness, and you see everything differently after that,” Furman said.

Donna Adams, a Media Master Specialist in the district is also involved in the Youth Engagement Project. She facilitated a Skype session between Hopkins and Boryspil and sees

possibilities for HHS students.

“I hope Hopkins’ kids can see how young people all over the world can have the same hopes for the future. HHS students already have the opportunity to be in classes with other cultures.

Seeing kids from the other side of the world is just another great opportunity,” Adams said.

Fursman is optimistic that this kickoff to the Youth Leadership Engagement Project will not be a one-time occurrence.

“If I get invited back, I would love to do this again.

Next time, I would love to bring kids from Hopkins to Boryspil,” Fursman said.

Hurricane Sandy affects HHS families from afar

By Domitille Biehlmann Staff Reporter Frantic phone calls and concern circulated around HHS as students and faculty received information from the East Coast.

On October 29 Hurricane Sandy hit the East Coast. For Kayla Lindquist, senior, concern for her family and friends was inevitable.

Moments after Hurricane Sandy was announced, Lindquist contacted her friend, Stef Willis. Willis, senior and former HHS student, currently resides in Virginia.

“Stef was a good friend of

mine and we’ve stayed in contact since she left. It was really scary for me to hear about the hurricane,” Lindquist said.

For many, the hurricane simply caused minor flooding and power outages. As of November 9, according to the New York Daily News, 5.6 million homes and businesses are without power, down from its highest of 8.5 million.

“After I talked to Stef, she told me that a lot of people were exaggerating the outcome of the hurricane. She told me that many people thought that her entire city was evacuated and

that her entire house had been destroyed, but for many, that was not the case,” Lindquist said.

Others were faced with more distressing news. Kailey Longshore, senior, was among those who received news of evacuations from her family.

“On Monday morning I got a really concerning phone call from my relatives over there. My grandma and great aunt called to tell us that they had to evacuate their house and that they are currently staying at a friend’s house in Chicago,” Longshore said.

Due to the evacuation,

Longshore is planning to help assist in relief efforts within the community.

She plans to contribute through the Red Cross online donations.

Haley Wilson-Young, senior, also got in contact with her friends along the East Coast.

“I have a few friends who are from the East Coast and thankfully they told me that all they suffered were power outages and cancellation of school,” Wilson-Young said.

Hurricane Sandy was the largest Atlantic hurricane on record, surpassing Hurricane Katrina. It was among the most

destructive natural disasters the East Coast has ever seen.

The death toll reached 74 in the United States of America, “New York Daily News”.

Kelly Raines, senior, was fortunately faced with more positive news.

“My dad’s brothers and his sister live on the East Coast.

For some of them the electricity has been out for days. My dad says that they are having difficulty going to work because there is flooding. For the most part though, they are doing alright and have not suffered immense damages, “ Raines said.

NHS has announced that they have plans to assist in the hurricane relief. They are planning on making efforts to amend the situation with those who have connections and contribute to the organized relief efforts.

Photo illustration by Domitille Biehlmann

the

RP Tuesday, Nov. 27, 2011 news 3 Spanish speaking students have a new route to take Juntos classes are being offered at NJH to native Spanish speaking students and immersion students

By Josh Gallop News Editor Hopkins schools has developed an advanced Spanish called, Juntos, that will allow students to study Spanish at a higher level their entire secondary career.

Juntos is the Spanish word meaning together, reflecting what makes the program unique. Both native Spanish speakers and students who went to an elementary Spanish immersion school, are taught together.

“We are bringing together two linguistically similar sets of students with sometimes very different backgrounds and sets of experiences,” said Ms. Shafranki, Spanish and world language coordinar.

The classes help both types of students with the skills they need to work on. “Immersion students have strengths that native speakers don’t have, and

native speakers have strengths that immersion students don’t have,” said Sara Garcia, AP and Exceptional Learning Programs Coordinator.

Juntos moves faster and goes more in depth than a normal Spanish class. Everyone has to test into Juntos, so every student starts out with a certain ability.

“Knowing students are already starting with that under their belt, they can go more quickly,” Garcia said.

This is the second year of the Juntos program. The classes are currently only offered at North Junior High (NJH), but as students advance through the program, it will be offered at HHS. They are working to implement AP Spanish in the 9th grade next year, and have an AP Spanish literature class at HHS in the 2014-15 school year.

By the time of graduation, a Juntos student will have been able to earn 16 college credits.

“We saw that there was a need within our own district for advanced Spanish courses for Heritage speakers. We also knew that ISLA [International Spanish Language Academy], the Spanish immersion charter school, that is located in our district, would have a need for continued immersion programming. We designed a program that meets both needs,” Shafranski said.

NJH was chosen to support the Spanish immersion program, while West Junior High (WJH) will provide a Mandarin Chinese immersion program beginning in the 2014-15 school year.

NJH was chosen to pilot the program because demographically, NJH has more Spanish speaking students than WJH. It was also chosen because of its proximity to HHS. There are high school students participating in the Juntos program who are able to walk

Detention numbers on the rise

By Stefanie Gedan Staff Reporter

Anne Harris, senior, sighed as one of the paras came into her Creative Writing classroom. She was asked to step out into the hall briefly.

Harris, along with many other HHS students, received a detention. These are the students who have received three sweep passes.

During most first block classes, paras come in and take the students out of their classes and to give them their detention slips. They will explain what is required of them to attend detention and when their detention will take place. Detention is offered on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday afternoons.

Students might think of it as a punishment, but administration believes otherwise. “It’s to hold people accountable,” said Mr. Trenton Lawson, assistant principal. “I do think [detention] will make [students] think twice about [being late to class].”

Lizzy Anderson, senior, received her first sweep pass after being late to her first block class. “[Being late] made me mad because now I am

one step closer to getting a detention,” Anderson said.

Detention is supposed to be a deterrent from being late to class. “[Detention] is not going to make you want to show up to class on time. It’ll only make you dislike the person running detention,” Harris said.

Other students believe the effectiveness of detention is based on the student. “[Detention] will not affect someone who doesn’t care,” said Samantha Tankenoff, sophomore, “It’ll only affect people who do care.”

Detention is where students do homework or read from 2:50-3:40 without talking, sleeping, listening to music, or being on their phone.

“[The school is] just locking someone in a room for an hour after school. It is not going to discipline them,” said Natalie Gaskins, senior.

While the rules are set forth by administration, detention itself is run by the paras.

Students can get detention by either entering the building without a student ID after the first bell has rung or by getting three sweep passes.

There has been an increase in the number of students in detention. “When you add [the requirement to bring IDs to school] that is another possibility to earn detention then of course your numbers are going to increase,” Lawson said.

over to NJH, which is a feat they would not be able to accomplish had it been at WJH. One of those students is Daniel Alvarado, Junior. He took Juntos 1 as a sophomore.

“It gives you more of an idea of the culture and a variety of Spanish. It broadens your horizon. It’s more like a normal English class but in Spanish,” Alvarado said.

The International Spanish Language Academhy (ISLA), an elementary Spanish immersion charter school in Hopkins, has recommended NJH as the school for their students to continue their education.

“Juntos creates a single path for students coming in with ISLA as a charter school,” Garcia said.

Students who attended ISLA feed into Hopkins schools, and they need a Spanish class that meets their standards.

“We had a tremendous

Hispanic and Latino Percent of Population

4.9%

“We live in a place where everyone speaks English, so it’s great to practice in an environment where everyone speaks Spanish.”

Minnesota

6 % Hopkins High

16.7% America

School

Christina Brown, sophomore and Juntos student Photo by Cydney Froeholich

amount of Spanish speakers who don’t fall into a good fitting language class,” Garcia said.

There are currently two sections of Juntos one and two sections of Juntos two being taught.

“We are getting amazing

Illustration by Brit Stein

feedback. We knew that we were creating a quality program and we are thrilled that we have received such a positive response from our administration, our parents and the community,” Shafranski said.

4 opinion

the

RPThursday, Nov. 1, 2012

Cartoons make Makeup distorts the real person life real Saturday morning cartoons were once the pinnacle of our lives.

Waking up with a glass of orange juice and watching the newest Pokemon episode became a ritual. These cartoons may have impacted on our lives than we realize.

Compared to how most of our childhood idols turned out, our cartoons have stood the test of time. Look at the headlines of any tabloid to see how Britney Spears or Lindsay Lohan are doing. Not exactly the great childhood icons they once were.

But the characters of our favorite television shows like Spongebob or Ash Ketchum have never been caught drunk driving or gone to jail. What makes these characters so great is their incorruptible nature, since technically they don’t exist.

Our cartoons distilled some of the greatest messages that people could still learn from. Ash Ketchum’s catchphrase of “Gotta Catch ‘em All!” inspired kids around the country to go for the best and never give up. As cheesy as it sounds, the theme is still as solid as any great american novel you read in class.

I know someday when I have children, hopefully later than sooner, I will encourage them to watch cartoons. Chances are they will listen to what the characters are saying more than what I am saying.

Maybe I’m a bad future parent, but I have faith in my cartoons.

True, some of the cartoons were corporate cash ins on much more quality shows, and the commercials were always trying to sell us some garbage toy, but that didn’t matter because these took us on another plane of imagination.

Even the more adult oriented shows maintain their prominence.

Try to find one person at this school who hasn’t seen an episode of the Simpsons. That show has been on for more than two decades, and although it’s lost some of its quality, it’s much better than some other programs on MTV. These programs inspire me on a creative and intellectual level. I remember first hearing that creators had to draw each second of the show, and it blew me away. My personal favorite show, Dragon Ball Z, inspired me to be a great warrior.

Great cartoons are not just me being nostalgic towards childhood, I still sit down and watch Adventure Time on Cartoon Network whenever I can. Not only is this show funny, but they’re artistic and beautiful.

Take one episode of Adventure Time where Jake, the dog, met his girlfriend’s unicorn parents for dinner, but Jake pretended to be a unicorn so they would like him more. In the end, he revealed he jwas ust a dog, but they him loved even more. There’s not a more beautiful message in the world than being yourself, and this cartoon portrayed in an absurd yet artistic way.

At their core, these cartoons are art. It’s art because it took painstaking hours to draw every scene, but also because of it’s simple nature. The ability to explain the life’s twists and turns to children is something even the world’s greatest scientists and writers have trouble doing. nature. The ability to explain the life’s twists and turns to children is something even the world’s greatest scientists and writers have trouble doing.

Will Burnton is a staff reporter for the Royal Page

Nothing but a pretty face. A cake face with raccoon eyes ultimately representing a barbie doll. All unnatural but seen as beautiful in society’s eyes.

Females continuously spend extra hours and endless amounts of money on themselves to maintain an image.

Not necessarily to create a perfect image, but one where they feel comfortable with themselves. One that media has portrayed as the right way to look.

Watching the transformation of someone putting on their makeup is an illusion. When they’re done, it’s nothing like the original. All features of the face are accentuated.

Eyes are lined dark to fill in the hollowness while the face is covered with various powders to add color or to balance it out.

Some females overdo this part of their makeup. When face makeup is piled on and not a natural color, they will look orange.

Looking like an oompa loompa may be attractive to some people, but I personally don’t think so.

It’s unfair to call someone artificial for wearing makeup, because, like some high school girls, I do as well. I don’t see anything wrong with it, but I do believe in limits.

Over the years, wearing makeup has become more popular with girls in high school. This may be due to lack of self esteem or insecurities. Some girls use this technique to attract guys.

“Real men don’t care if females wear makeup or not,” said Wally Lukas, junior.

It was interesting to hear a HHS male say this, but not only to say but to have a strong feeling about it.

Comments like this make people more authentic and have people like me, believe not everyone is artificial.

Males have a stereotype to see outter beauty and not the inner, but it’s people like him that make things a little more balanced about society.

Some guys prefer their girlfriend to wear makeup so they will look pretty.

I don’t fully blame them for feeling this way because it’s what they’re surrounded by, even if it feels shallow. Society can be so judgemental.

Females wake up before the sun comes up in order to get ready and be on time for school. I’ve heard of students taking as

short as 15 minutes to get ready, and up to two hours.

“The more makeup you wear, the less confidence you have in yourself,” said Fiori Goitom, senior.

This may be true for some people that are completely self absorbed, but for others they just want to feel good about how they look.

Self esteem is a huge issue during the high school years, but this shouldn’t result in girls spending two hours in front of the mirror fixing everything they see as imperfect.

Photo by Cydney Froehlich

Caroline Ravits is a staff reporter for the Royal Page

Choosing the right path On average we have 70 years to live our lives. For 70 years we must always stand up for what we think is right. Whether we are born into wealth, or into nothing at all, everyone drives to be successful.

Throughout our school career we are told that we have two paths that we can go down. Either we can go to college and be successful, or we can have an early painful death. This is not the case.

Success does not derive from having more money in your pocket.

Success drives from accomplishing something with your life. Anyone can make a high salary, but if you aren’t making the world a better place does it even matter?

As kids, we were taught that it is important to go to school so that you can be who you want to be when you grow up. As young adults entering the world, it is quite a challenge to know what we want to do with our lives.

Coming from high school, we have the whole world at our fingertips. We have hundreds of options for colleges with even more for major. With these majors are even more jobs to choose from. How are we expected to make such big choices in such a short period of time?

When we meet a new person, there is always one question that seems to be brought to the table. What do you do? The question,

which in our country of “doing”, determines your status as an individual.

It is crazy to me that some people can say that they already know what they are going to be when they grow up. For example, how are you supposed to know that you want to be a chemical engineer if you have never actually had experience in that field.

Our passions are found through our experiences. We must work to find what we truly love. Sitting on a couch and looking at a laptop full of colleges that we haven’t ever actually seen won’t help us be able to really experience anything.

What we choose as an occupations will take up the next 45 years of our lives. We can’t just go to college to be a doctor and decide when we are 50 that we want to be an engineer. The job we choose now will most likely stick with us for the majority of our lives.

Don’t fret. There is a simple solution to this difficult problem. Do what you love. Don’t do a job simply because you will make more money. The greatest thing you can be is happy. Do what truly drives you, you will always have passion in your work.

Roy Grossmann is a staff reporter for the Royal Page

opinion 5

the

RPThursday, Nov. 1, 2012

No

Interviewed 100 people on November 12

“We get more time to eat with three lunches intead of four”- William Jones, Senior

Yes “It takes too long to get your food”- Lauren Poppie, Senior

No “You can’t find a spot to sit at lunch”- Nate Pasko, Sophomore

Yes

Illustration by Brit Stein

“Having time to eat outweighs a slightly more crowded lunch” -Michael Lieberman, Junior

Joel Ratner is the Opinion Editor and Hillary Donovan is a staff reporter of the Royal Page

T

op 10

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1

:

Reasons to love

Hopkins High School

The amazing HHS twitter accounts

Alexis the Depot Lady Hopkins basketball teams Accomplishing a lot during TASC Bands performing at lunch Zac Merie #1 on the field, #1 in our hearts, and #5 on this list Chicken tenders...oh wait Joey Mydra’s hair...rest in peace Omelet Day!!!

Yoga Pants

Use your civil duty and vote Thus far, students haven’t felt the need to engage in political debate or research politicians’ policies. However, in an election perfectly aligned during our senior year of high school and four years before college, the results have much more affect on our future.

Personally, I never felt excited or nervous about an election until this year. Four years ago, I didn’t think twice about what I believed politically or if I would want to engage in politics. Most of us listened to what the adults in our lives were saying.

This is still the case for some seniors, granted, but it’s evident we involve ourselves more and more in politics, as we grow older. Students volunteered for campaigns all across the board, and there was definitely no shortage of social media feuds.

While overwhelming, this kind of political involvement is important. It allows us to process our beliefs, compare them with others and confirm where we stand. As we begin our entrance into adulthood, the election results matter more to us now.

In four years, a majority of us will be graduat-

ing college and applying for jobs (some are even applying for jobs now), and in four years, President Obama’s second term will be up. It seems as though this conversation sparked students’ attention to the election, drawing them to shape their views.

Voting for the first time is not only something to be prideful of, but also it’s something to devote a lot of time to.

Students clearly felt strongly on the two amendments being voted on in this election as well. The marriage amendment was the hotter topic, discussed by stickers around the school, the pages of this newspaper and even students’ Facebook and Twitter accounts.

We students have had less time to develop our opinions on economics, but most already know where they stand morally on social topics. Thus why the marriage amendment was so highly conversed. We should, however, educate ourselves on economic policies as well.

In doing so, we become more prepared to vote and more able to affect our future government.

Ursula Arhart is the Editor-in-Chief for the Royal Page

Chips are more efficient Imagine yourself being checked into class as soon as you walk through the door. No hassle of presenting a student ID, just a single sweet chip to confirm your identity.

Radio frequency identification devices (RFID) are a daily part of the electronic age, and are fast becoming a part of passports, libraries and payment cards, and are widely expected to replace bar-code labels on consumer goods. RFID tags use a wireless radio-frequency electromagnetic field to transfer data from a tag attached to an object, to a remote reader, for the purposes of automatic identification and tracking.

After the recent change in the school policy requiring students to present their ID’s for admission after 7:47am, I began to ponder the convenience of an RFID chip for school identification. Chip readers throughout the school and/ or in classroom doorways would allow students to get to class more quickly and avoid timeconsuming confrontations with staff. Though for many students, it’s the forgotten student ID that causes the bigger headache.

In addition to the customary ID card, I propose we streamline the process further by distributing Royals backpacks with the unique student RFID chips sewn into them. Think of the convenience of having the RFID technology in both items. I might forget my ID, but never my backpack.

I personally experienced wearing an RFID chip this past spring in the wristband that I purchased for the River’s Edge outdoor concert.

Being of the generation who has grown up surrounded by computers and electronic gadgets, I found the technology captivating, not threatening. I was in awe that my feather light paper wristband contained an RFID chip barely noticeable to the human eye. Wearing the chip was painless. In fact, I found it downright liberating.

My RFID chipped wristband transmitted a serial number unique to me, the ticket purchaser.

The RFID readers situated throughout the expansive outdoor concert affirmed my status as a legitimate ticket holder and enabled me to pass through security checkpoints between stages without delay.

I was moving freely across the Harriet Island concert grounds without hassle. I also felt a sense of security since the chip prevented theft of my ticket and also discouraged non-paying concertgoers from hopping the fences. To me, the RFID wristband wasn’t a detriment, but a techno gift.

In 2004, several schools in Texas issued the gift of RFID technology in student ID cards.

The ID cards sparked outrage amongst the general public- comparisons were made to treating kids like cattle.

Others argued that the RFID chips were just the schools’ selfish means for getting government funds. Budgets are tied to average daily attendance. Schools lose cash if students aren’t in their seats when teachers do roll call in classrooms.

With the RFID technology, our school would have the ability to track students who may be with their guidance counselor, the nurse, meeting with another teacher or attending a school organized function that takes them out of the classroom. Technically still present on school grounds, these students could be counted for funding purposes. I’m supportive of our school getting their full government funding even if it means they have to track my 50th trip to the guidance office during my senior year.

I support RFID technology in our school. So tag my bag, chip my ID, speed me to class, keep the gangsters out, count my presence no matter my whereabouts, collect those government funds and apply some extra Benjamins to reducing student parking fees.

Chandler Luhowskyj is a staff reporter for the Royal Page

6 variety

the

RPFriday, November 27, 2012

The Twilight Saga comes to a close

By Maddie Shaw Variety Editor

HHS students share their views and experiences regarding Midnight premeres: “If it was a school night it would be different.

My parents would be like...’no’,” said Erik Craemer, senior. The Dark Knight Rises

“[The midnight premiere] was worth it.. because I could brag to other people that i saw it before them” said Jack Nissen, sophomore. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 “There’s more hype and more excitement and more people going to the midnight premiere,” said Izaak Herman, junior. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1

HHS DJ’s create their own music with Solar Sound

By Gannon Youakim Staff Reporter

Logo provided by Solar Sound and picture formatted by Gannon Youakim

Above displays the Solar Sound logo over some of their equipment. Solar Sound includes Nate Ellis, David Dotterweich, Ben Dustman, and Adam Tarshish.

Nate Ellis and David Dotterweich, seniors, saw a problem: HHS parties were missing something.

To solve this, they created their own DJ company, Solar Sound Inc. Ben Dustman, senior, and Adam Tarshish, junior, joined them along the way to form the group that they now have.

“There was this party, our first, and David and I slept over after dee-jaying it. We stayed up really late talking about how we could make this hobby a business,” said Ellis.

They spent time discussing what they would need and how to create a name for themselves. They got their name when they were on the computer and an image of space popped up in one of their browser windows. The alliteration of the words “solar” and “sound” fit well, and they later on had Dustman create the logo.

“It was really late, and we were overtired. It sort of just came together,” said Dotterweich.

As DJ’s, it is the group’s responsibility to cater to the desire of those they are entertaining. They try to do just that, employing bass heavy music and hip-hop. These are the types of things that are trending for high school students. “[We play] anything people want to dance to and just have a good time,” said Ellis.

Solar Sound Inc. has top of the line equipment that can be used

in many different venues. They have two Mackie Thump THA speakers and a Pioneer DDJ-SX Mixer, which are 15 inches wide.

They use a MacBook Pro to manage their music and also use a Galaxian sky laser and an industrial fogger to make their shows more lively.

Ellis and his partners have performed in around ten parties so far. According to them, the best has been the one they hosted on Saturday, Nov. 3rd. It was located in St. Paul in a warehouse.

“It was set up really well, and we did a good job promoting it,” said Dotterweich.

Another notable thing is that it was a costume parties. Attendees were prompted to come wearing something creative and party suitable. Also, part of the proceeds that Solar Sound Inc. received were donated to victims of Hurricane Sandy on the East Coast.

“It was off the beaten path,” said Tarshish. “[The party] was well maintained, and there were few incidents.”

Adam Shapiro, junior, is a HHS student that attended the party. He decided to go after his friends started talking to him about it and he saw word of it on Facebook. Shapiro talked to Ellis about it to see if his group would be there.

“They did a really good job setting up and preparing. The music, location, and timing were all great,” said Shapiro. “It was a fun party and they had the right idea.”

variety 7

the

RPFriday, November 27, 2012

Mainstreet includes an array of buisnesses

By Elise Christianson Staff Reporter “It’s a run-down city that looks dirty and old, but then you meet the people there and go inside the stores, and it becomes the warmest town on planet earth,” said Billy Lewis, senior.

Downtown Hopkins has a mix of shopping, entertainment, and food all wrapped up on one street: Main Street.

There are many little shops and boutiques on Main Street.

Shops like Sassy Pantz, Lillian’s, and Shop Again sell accessories and clothing aimed mainly at girls. While Shop Again and Sassy Pantz are open on a normal weekly schedule, Lillian’s is only open on select days of each month. In November and December, Lillian’s will be open every Saturday.

“I really like Lillian’s,” said Courtney Weinard, senior.

“You’re just welcome there.”

There are gift shops spread throughout Main Street. Hillary’s and Specially Yours are gift shops that sell customizable and unique gifts like jewelry and art pieces. Something Safari is another gift shop that specializes in selling both old and new toys.

Main Street is also home to eight different antique stores.

These antique shops are part

of the Hopkins Antique Shops Association or HASA. HASA has over 200 antique dealers who buy and sell a variety of antique items. The Hopkins Antique Days in the spring and Antique Stroll in the fall are sponsored by HASA. When it comes to entertainment, Main Street has the Hopkins Center for the Arts.

The Center has theater performances, art exhibits, and classes. Some of these classes include yoga, painting, and different types of dancing.

Some of the performances are put on by the Stages Theater Company. Currently, they are showing the play “Madeline’s Christmas”.

Across from the Hopkins Center for the Arts is the Hopkins Cinema 6 movie theater. The theater sells tickets for $2.50 before 6 p.m. and $3.00 after 6 p.m. While the movies are not the most recent releases, the tickets are relatively cheap.

Weinard works at the Cinema 6 movie theater, so she visits Main Street regularly. “[Main Street has] that old town feel to it,” Weinard said.

“Even though it’s a really big part of the city, it still feels like a small town.”

Main Street offers some

health and personal care businesses as well.

One can get their hair done at places like Split Endz & Moor, Head Over Heels Salon, and Fantastic Sam’s.

Fantastic Sam’s and Head over Heels Salon offer solely hair care while Split Endz & Moore offer other services like manicures and pedicures. Nails on 8th and V Nails also offer manicures and pedicures.

Another business on Main Street is Bud’s Music Center, a store that rents instruments and gives music lessons. Lewis works at Bud’s Music Center.

“I love it. The craziest people live there, and it always keeps my job interesting,” Lewis said.

Located next to Bud’s Music Center is Hoagies. Hoagies is a diner that is open as early as 5 a.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays, but they only serve breakfast and lunch. They have homemade cinnamon rolls on their breakfast menu and homemade soups on their lunch menu.

One can get coffee at Munkabeans & Sunshine Cafe which also serves breakfast and lunch as well as other freshly baked treats.

Ethnic restaurants are scattered throughout Main Street.

The restaurants range from Japanese to Indian to Mexican.

Ethnic restaurants on Main Street include Aji, Curry ‘N’ Noodles, Samba, Star Wok, and Chipotle.

Jake Huttner, senior, lives near Main Street which gives him the chance to visit often.

“Who doesn’t love Chipotle?” Huttner said. “Chipotle is delicious.”

When it comes to desserts, Main Street has two ice cream shops, Cold Stone Creamery and Dairy Queen. Both shops sell not only ice cream, but ice cream cakes as well.

“I love the block [on Main Street] that has Chipotle, Erbert and Gerbert’s, and Cold Stone,” Lewis said. “It’s like my 3 favorite things all within 100 feet of each other.”

Main Street is also host to city events like the Raspberry Festival. Tj Gowen, senior, is this year’s Raspberry Festival queen. “[The Raspberry Festival] is a huge volunteer experience,” Gowen said. “You go around and express how great your community is.”

The Raspberry Festival has a parade through downtown Hopkins and multiple other activities such as bike races, sales, art, and music. The festival is

Photo taken by Cydney Froehlich

The Hopkins Theatre is located within the heart of Mainstreet. They offer affordable late afternoon and evening showings of semi-recent movies.

held in the middle of July every year.

“Most of the stores in [downtown Hopkins] are one of a kind and like Raspberry

[Festival], it’s one of a kind, so it fits in with all those little shops,” Gowen said. “Main Street... shows the heart of Hopkins.”

NEW STORY YAYAYAYAYAYAYAYAYA

3.

1.

1-3. Students will now be able to recycle all mixed recycling (cardboard, paper, glass, plastic, etc. ) in just one bin, rather than placing them in separate bins.

2.

Photos 1-3 by Joel Ratner

ethinking recycling

31%

of HHS students say they do not recycle *The Royal Page surveyed 100 people in Nov.

“I want to have less of a carbon footprint.”

-Wyatt Mekler, senior

“It’s too

“I make sure to put my bottles

inconvenient.”

in the blue bin.”

- Sarah Lentsch, sophomore

- Sam Kleist, senior

recyclable items (p board etc.) aside fro Additionall have trash in them if it were garbage.

Earth club works with administra- be sorted out and p tion to establish new system which tors used to throw [ will increase recycling in classrooms trash, this year it w Earth club adviser. and lunchroom Much of the ring in the lunchroo For many students, roughly 31 percent according to a Royal Page survey, recycling at aware of how to pr and end up putting HHS is too inconvenient to be put into prac“In the lunchroom tice. said Jillaine Deyou Many students believe that there isn’t The new ini a recycling system at HHS. “I don’t recycle problem by orderin because HHS doesn’t have a recycling sysrooms. Bins will be tem,” said Josh Margolis, junior. ples of what they c HHS has had a recycling system for There will b years, but it has not been properly carried out by staff or students. “The reality in our school compostable items, waste being thrown is, especially in the classroom, 90 percent of nizes that these bin the things being thrown away could be recya plan to help. “Ear cled,” said Rachael Gotlieb, senior and Earth the bins telling stud Club president.

Gotlieb said.

This problem was recognized by Jeff Earth club w Goldy, Health and Safety Coordinator for the Buildings and Grounds department. “It’s very whether or not this mixed and matched. Kids just throw stuff into ful. “Funding will c and Grounds depar the nearest bin,” Goldy said.

This resulted in Goldy approaching the come from earth cl Earth club h Earth club about a new recycling initiative.

The major difference in this recycling teachers in order to the appropriate tras system is that students will be able to put mixed recycling into one bin. This includes all their classrooms. “

4.

paper, plastic, glass, cardom plastic bags. ly, recycling bins which will no longer be tossed as They will instead be sent to properly disposed of. “Jani[mixed recycling] in the will change,” said Rob Fuhr,

simple. There’s a bin for trash waste, and there’s a bin for all recycling,” Goldy said.

Fuhr believes that an important step in carrying out this system will be changing the way students view recycling. “In junior high, there was always someone standing around the corner telling kids to recycle. In high school, there’s less parenting, and they’re just not thinking about recycling” Fuhr said. e change will also be occurEarth club members will raise awareom. Students are often unness about recycling and the new system. “We roperly separate their trash hope to be in classrooms, in lunchrooms, and things in the wrong bins. on Khop educating people about recycling it is really complicated,” until it becomes habit,” Fuhr said. ung, junior.

According to Goldy, HHS is generatitiative will address this ing so much trash that it needs to be taken out ng new bins for the lunchthree times a day. “[High schoolers] have their e marked with clear examcoffee cups, they have their Caribou. There’s can and can’t hold. just more options for garbage to come in,” be specific bins marked for Fuhr said. , reducing the amount of Changing this large of a system will n away. Earth club recogtake a lot of time. “It’ll be a crawl, walk, run ns may confuse kids and has progression. It’s going to take time to do the rth club will stand next to research, generate publicity, and make the dents where to put things,” culture change,” Goldy said.

If this system is successful, they hope will have a major role in for it to expand. “If we can get it figured out s system will be successhere, really start the practice here, then we can come from the Buildings work on getting getting it to the two junior rtment. The man power will highs, and eventually the elementary schools,” lub,” Goldy said.

Goldy said. has been contacting all Lydia Wilson is the editor-in-chief, and o make sure that they have Joel Ratner is the opinion editor for the sh and recycling bins in Royal Page “In classrooms, it’ll be real

4-7. Recycling from the school is then collected by janitors and transported to Waste Management Recycling, a plant in Minneapolis. Once collected at the plant (4), recycling is sent down a conveyor belt (5) . Workers remove trash and sort through the different types of recycling (6). Different types of sorted material are organized to be recycled (7).

5.

Photos 4-7 by Cydney Froehlich

6.

7.

10feature The Royal Page 2012-2013

Editors in Chief Ursula Arhart Lydia Wilson

News Editor Josh Gallop

Opinion Editor Joel Ratner

Feature Editors Naomi Borowsky Rachel Alter

Variety Editor Maddie Shaw

Sports Editors Sam Bloomfield Eli Badower

Back Page Editor Casey Pasko

Photo Editor

Cydney Froehlich

Business Managers Tarina Gartner Joe Greene

Web Czars

Thomas Heegaard Hannah Vaughn

Staff Reporters

Maggie Abel Domi Biehlmann Will Burnton Elise Christianson Phoebe Cohen Hillary Donovan Alex Felemovicius Stefanie Gedan Roy Grossmann Sam Hromatka Chandler Luhowskyj Ellie Maag Sam Parker Caroline Ravits Brit Stein Gannon Youakim

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.

page theROYAL

the

RPTuesday, November 27, 2012

Finding new ways to deal with stress HHS offers a course centered around healthy stress relief techniques

By Brit Stein Staff Reporter When Stephon Sharp, junior, sat down to take his ACT test on October 27, he called on something he learned in Ms. Jane Kleinman’s, Health, Stress Management Class.

“I did the breathing exercise before the ACT to calm myself down,” Sharp said.

Students learn and participate in several stress management techniques in Kleinman’s class.

“I try and find any alternative that might help them manage their stress; the motto is skills not pills. Kids should manage their emotions through their individual skills, not through chemicals which only exacerbate any mental health issues,” said Ms. Jane Kleinman, Health Department.

The course focuses on students recognizing stress and learning healthy ways to resolve stress.

“Almost anyone can benefit from learning how to deal with stress as it's a normal part of life,” said Mr. Nick Abel, guidance counselor.

Stress itself is not a bad thing, says child psychologist Brenda Bryant, PhD, professor of human development at University of California Davis to WebMD. "You are not really truly alive

without stress. Being challenged makes you learn new things and keeps your brain functioning. In all the major theories of learning, there is stress. But if stress is really interfering with development, that is a problem. Sometimes with too much stress kids get immobilized," Bryant said.

The Stress Management class attempts to give students multiple tools to address stress in their lives.

“The goal of the class is to do at least some stress management activity every day because we always tend to find some excuse for not doing it. Most kids claim that they can’t find the time” Kleinman said.

The kids are assigned to find their own area of concentration, and apply the techniques that help them at least four or more times a week.

“I signed up for the class because it was really fun while also being beneficial. Also, because it taught me how to manage stress and give me life skills,” said Justine Walker, senior.

15 percent of class time is spent doing background information about different stress management techniques, 75 percent is stress management activity participation, and 10 percent is guest speakers.

“My favorite activity was definitely drumming alive.

We sat on medicine balls with drumsticks and just made music. It was calming and helped

relieve a lot of stress,” Sharp said.

The course includes breath awareness, guided imagery, coping therapies (art, aroma, music and humor), Asian/Eastern meditations and philosophies, yoga, physical exercises (African drumming, zumba and boxing), and mindfulness (learning to focus, living in the present, and bringing yourself back).

“I want students to walk away with things that they enjoy to head off any emotional anxiety. I’m hopeful students that took the class are going to have a toolbox for when they are faced with stressors, especially in college,” Kleinman said.

Colleges have also increasingly been offering stress management classes for students.

According to a study conducted by the University of Minnesota, 25 percent of its students seek mental health help. Kleinman bases her curriculum off of similar courses offered in numerous colleges.

"I truly believe that high school students are getting more stressed out every year as their schedules get more overloaded and admissions to colleges gets more competitive,” Abel said.

“It’s definitely a need in the classroom,” Kleinman said, “Unfortunately, there is a major portion of the population that we miss with this course.

High achieving students usually can’t fit it into their

Pigeon Pose

schedule, or else think it would look like a lesser class to colleges. However, many colleges are offering stress management classes, and actually see it as a step in the right direction.”

HHS piloted the stress management class two years ago as a response to a student survey conducted by the administration. The administration also decided to pilot the class in response to the numerous students that were coming to health teachers with panic attacks.

“I identified a need for the course and proposed it a while ago and didnt get support.

However, a few years ago, the administration also acknowledged the need for the course and supported a pilot class,” Kleinman said.

Students have voiced that the class has been helpful for them. This has b e seen through an increase in enrollment and lots of positive feedback on Kleinman’s end of the year student review.

“I think that everyone and

Tree Pose

Helps increase flexibility in hips.

Warrior Pose

Helps strengthen shoulders, arms, and back.

anyone should take this class because everyone has stress and wants to know how to deal with it. Everyone can get something out of the class and also learn something about themselves,” Walker said.

Below: Alex Felemovicius, sophomore, demonstrates three yoga positions used to relieve stress and anxiety.

Improves balance and stability in legs.

Photo illustrations by Cydney Froehlich

RPTuesday, November 27, 2012

feature11

the

Crouser confects pastries and caters to HHS sweet tooth

By Maggie Abel Staff Reporter Erica Crouser, senior, looked as though she was just asked the world’s hardest question.

“It has to be cake balls,” Crouser said.

Cake balls, or small, roundshaped cakes, are Crouser’s favorite treat to bake.

“They are so time consuming, but they turn out great all the time,” Crouser said.

Crouser created her own catering company, Edible Joy, in the spring of 2011.

After baking cupcakes for her mom’s birthday, Crouser was hooked.

“I started surfing the internet for recipes and trying out all these different kinds of things, just buying a bunch of cookbooks, and I was just really fascinated with both making the cake and decorating it. I love both pieces of it,” Crouser said.

Crouser began to bake faster than her family could eat, so she decided to share her treats and

make a little money off of her hobby.

“After one of my mom's coworkers asked her to bake him something and he paid her, she realized she could make a profit off of it,” said Jessica Crouser, sophomore.

Jessica, Erica’s sister, helps the company by spreading the words to her friends and encouraging them to have Erica bake for them.

Erica bakes everything from scratch. Her family sometimes helps with buying ingredients, but cake mixes and pre-made frosting are forbidden.

“I don’t like to buy any store bought material because I feel like that’s cheating,” Erica said.

Erica strived to make Edible Joy flexible and informal.

“I usually cater for birthdays and family events, whatever someone might need,” Erica said.

Erica also recently catered muffins for the HHS Cross Country team.

“It was super cute. She baked [muffins] for our senior

pancake breakfast and we all ate them together. They were great!” said Roxy Krietzman, junior.

Prices vary depending on the ingredients, difficulty and time spent on each treat. Any additional flavors or decorations cost extra as well.

“If it’s a small cake it might be $15-18, a bigger cake $20-25 and a batch of cupcakes $2025,” Erica said. “I kinda play it by ear. I don’t have a strict pricing rule because I feel like it doesn’t seem fair.”

As a senior, career choice has been on Erica’s mind.

“I don’t think it’s a career I would pursue, but it’s just something I’d love to do on the side,” Erica said.

As long as Erica has the time, resources, and space to continue Edible Joy, it is something she’d love to continue throughout college.

“If the whole school thing doesn’t work out I can just open my own bakery!” Erica said.

Photos provided by Erica Crouser

Crouser presents: Edible Joy!

HAP: alternative learning program offers variety HAP from page 1 our students, this is where those are found,” Neiman said.

“I walk into school every day and in mainstream I wouldn’t be like “Hey Scott, what’s up!”

But in HAP I tell him about my weekend and the drama in my life. I feel so comfortable.

It’s like a second home for me,” Campbell said.

“The relationships are there, and a lot of our kids are kids who haven’t had successes in school and they don’t like school. But when you can come into a program where you actually have relationships with people, all of the sudden school becomes something that you can do again, and/or maybe you can do for the first time. And I think that’s a huge advantage,” said Eric Turner, Social Studies.

Through HAP, Campbell

has developed skills that are helping her plan for her future.

“I’m applying to schools right now. Before I never thought that was in my future.

But I know that I’m going to college and I’m going to finish college. I can use all the tools that I’ve learned in HAP to help me get there,” Campbell said.

“It’s rewarding to see students make that huge leap from feeling like they can’t do school to saying ‘Yes I can, and not only can I do school but I can look ahead to the future and see what possibilities I have for myself,’” Butler said.

On November 2, Campbell was elected to represent MAAP, Minnesota Association for Alternative Programs. She will get the opportunity to at-

tend teacher conferences, meet with legislative representatives, and help the Maap Stars Spring Events conference.

Besides forming close relationships with teachers, HAP students feel a close connection with each other.

“Even if [students] don’t like another individual in the program, they still stand up for each other. HAP kids are a community,” Turner said.

“I don’t get along with everyone in the program but if anyone else outside of the program were to bash on HAP I would say, no, I know these kids are smart and they’re just growing in their own way,” Campbell said.

Many students at HHS have never heard of HAP, and those who have, may not fully understand it.

“I think there’s a stigma

that comes with “alternative” education. I think a lot of mainstream kids perceive us as being stupid and that we can’t learn so we are doing this instead. And I don’t think that’s true at all because a lot of the kids that are in this program are very outgoing and they know what they’re talking about, it’s just that they need a different environment,” Campbell said.

“When you graduate from high school there’s going to be a thousand different paths you can follow. For some reason in high school we think there are one or two paths that are good. There should be all kinds of ways and opportunities for people to maximize themselves and their potential,” Neiman said.

“The message I’d like to get

across to people is that doing something in a different way doesn’t make it better or worse.

Having something that allows

us to do something in a way that allows us to be successful is what we should all want for one another,” Neiman said.

Photo by Cydney Froehlich

I feel so comfortable. It’s like a second home for me.

HAP student, Lindsey Kartak, works on her xcomputer during class time.

the

RPTuesday, November 27, 2012

Shapiro finds her place in the Marfan Syndrome community

By Rachel Alter Feature Editor As the dreaded fitness testing began for her gym class, Elayna Shapiro, junior, observed with a smile on her face as the other students performed their synchronized push ups to the monotone voice repeatedly droning “down, up, down, up.”

At the age of eight, Shapiro was diagnosed with Marfan Syndrome, a connective tissue disorder that affects the heart, joints, and other parts of the body.

“The giveaway was the fact that my arm span was taller than my body,” Shapiro said.

The size of Shapiro’s aorta is larger than the average aorta, meaning that she is unable to put large amounts of stress on her heart because it could cause the aorta to tear and rupture.

Shapiro also has mitral valve prolapse which means that her mitral valve is loose and doesn’t fully close when her heart pumps, so some of the blood flows back into the right atrium.

This means her heart has to

work harder.

Although Marfan Syndrome has affected the amount and type of physical activity Shapiro is able to do, she still stays active.

“I can run, but I could never do a marathon. I ski with my family, but I have to stay on the green circles and blue squares, no black diamonds. I can’t do extreme tubing, and I have never been on the Power Tower or Steel Venom. The G-force of some of the roller coasters is not good for me,” Shapiro said.

Shapiro’s less supported joints have been a limiting factor and have caused her to take extra caution when doing physical activities.

“If I was playing soccer and injured my knee, it wouldn’t heal as well as a normal person’s knee would. My joints aren’t weak, the ligaments just have less support,” Shapiro said.

Shapiro played soccer until sixth grade and was a member of the swim team from seventh to eighth grade, but as the sports became more competitive, the risk for injury during contact sports was too high, so she took

on running and Nordic.

“Her willingness to play sports is something that I find impressive. Elayna really is just like anyone else. If I didn’t know her so well I would never have guessed that she has a heart problem,” said Sophia Showalter, junior.

As the cool winter air hits Minnesota, many people complain about the shivers, but cold weather proves to be an extra challenge for Shapiro.

“I have the circulation of an 80 year old woman. My hands and feet get so cold sometimes I can’t even feel them,” Shapiro said.

Shapiro’s physical appearance fits the Marfan Syndrome stereotype of being tall and thin.

“There have been instances where people that don’t know Elayna make judgements such as that she doesn’t eat. Elayna eats a lot. It really annoys me when people say she should ‘eat a hamburger’ because they don’t know what she deals with. I just wish people would consider that there might be more to the story than just what they see,” Show-

alter said.

When Shapiro drove to Chicago for her first National Marfan Foundation (NMF) conference with her friend, Becky, and Becky’s mom, she saw the stereotype to its extremes.

“It was such a cool experience to meet so many Marfs. I was considered short! One girl I befriended was 6’6”! Everyone could relate. We discussed everything from the struggle to finding clothes like jeans to adoption,” Shapiro said.

Since Marfan Syndrome is a hereditary syndrome, Shapiro’s children have a 50 percent chance of inheriting it, possibly more severely than her.

However, Shapiro was a mutation. Approximately 25 to 30 percent of affected people are mutations and the first in their family to have the disorder, according to NMF. Shapiro is still hopeful.

“There were many doctors there [NMF] that talked about the advancements in reproductive science that would be around when we’re older,” Shapiro said.

Through various camps and

organizations, Shapiro has had the opportunity to talk and develop relationships with others who are living similar lifestyles as her.

“I think it’s really cool that she is connected with other teens who have to go through similar things because I obviously don’t have the first-hand experience that her other friends do,” Showalter said.

Shapiro has been going to Camp Odayin since 2008 and has met many people through the program.

Camp Odayin is a camp for kids with heart problems, not specifically Marfans. Nearly every child has had open heart surgery and has a scar, not including Shapiro.

“I have made so many friends there, and two of them have Marfans. There are kids with all different types of conditions and syndromes, but as cheesy as this sounds, we all have special hearts,” Shapiro said.

The staff are all volunteers and many of them have heart problems as well. Shapiro and her friends hope to be counsel-

ors when they are older.

“Camp Odayin makes you realize how much people take for granted their health. My friend had open heart surgery for the second time about a year ago. The first time I called her after surgery, I was so relieved to hear her voice. The surgery was successful but she still might need a heart transplant in the future. Even though I have Marfans, I am lucky because I will most likely never need surgery,” Shapiro said.

“The heart is such an important organ, it is a struggle, physically and mentally, to deal with its complications,” Shapiro said.

Shapiro is one in an estimated 200,000 people in the U.S. who are affected by Marfan Syndrome or a related connective tissue disorder, according to the NMF. “Both of these organizations have allowed me to meet inspirational people. Even though Marfans has many restrictions, I have met so many wonderful people because of it, that I could never regret being diagnosed with it,” Shapiro said.

Guten Tag! Seniors studying abroad write to HHS to say hello

The second in a series of letters from students studying abroad this term After a year of preparing for my exchange in Germany, I’m finally here. It’s relieving to at last see signs written in German and hear people speaking it- our German class was beginning to suspect that Frau Dirks had made up the language.

It’s only been two weeks and my conversational German has improved dramatically. I’m learning an incredible amount and I’m having so much fun!

Every morning, I perch on the back of my host sister’s Fahrrad (bicycle) and we bike to the bus stop. There are no school buses here in Hamburg, so students ride public transport to school.

Gymnasium Grootmoor (my school) is more similar to Hopkins than I had anticipated. I entered Gymnasium (the equivalent of a high school)

thinking that class would be a much more formal affair. In fact, I’ve found that kids in my class are in many ways more rebellious than kids in Hopkins.

The teachers have a “if you miss what I’m saying, then that’s your own issue” attitude. Not a lot of Hausaufgaben (homework) is assigned, but the curriculum seems to be much more intense than ours.

My teachers are kind, but maintain more distant relationships with their students than the teachers do at Hopkins. Surprisingly enough, English is my least favorite subject here.

The teacher is British and told the class not to let my American slang contaminate everything they’ve learned. The school grounds include elementary school through high school,

so I frequently pass young kids in the hallways.

They even participate in student government! A group of 3rd graders are campaigning against kids from my grade. They appear to have popular support right now.

Our equivalent of the mall is an outdoor courtyard- I think I prefer it that way! So much is different (even the way they solve equations in math!), but I’m learning to adjust.

I live in Hamburg, which is a magnificent city.

I walk or use public transportation to get almost everywhere- the Germans are much more conscious of their carbon footprint. It’s the second biggest city in Germany, with a population of almost two million people. Much of the architecture

Left: Gorlin attends school at Gymnasium Grootmoor in Germany. In her free time, she explores the city with her hostfamily.

Right: Gorlin and her German host mother spend time together at a local restauraunt.

Photos provided by Rachel Gorlin

from before WWII is still intact, so it’s interesting to live amongst these gorgeous historical sites.

The Rathaus (town hall) is my favorite building- the facade is covered with intricate sculptures of gargoyles. I enjoy going to the Bäker (Bakery) and buying sweet breads.

An incredible amount of bread and cold cuts are consumed here, so there’s a bakery on practically every street of Hamburg.

Participating in AFS has taught me to view myself as a global citizen, not just a resident of Hopkins, Minnesota. I hope to experience a whole new way of living. I can’t wait to see where this adventure takes me!

Rachel Gorlin

sports 13

the

RPTueday, Nov. 27, 2012

Hedstrom battles through knee injuries, returns to team Eli Badower Sports Editor

Photo by Cydney Froehlich Eric Hedstrom, senior, palming the ball. Hedstrom was out for two years due to his knee injuries.

Eric Hedstrom, senior, has not stepped foot on the court for an official high school basketball game in two years due to knee problems.

That will change this upcoming season. Hedstrom has been attending open gym and playing in organized games on weekends with other HHS basketball players.

The battle back to the court was not an easy one. Hedstrom saw 12 different doctors in two years, and underwent several different healing methods.

Despite the fact that he has not played the past two seasons, Hedstrom still contributed to the team in different ways. He still attended almost every game and countless practices despite not being able to play.

“I filled up cups, kept stats, and cheered a lot from the bench. I can’t tell you how many times people asked me if I was the team manager,” Hedstrom said. “But I don’t regret any of it because not many people get to be a part of what we’ve got going here at Hopkins.”

Hedstrom does not really know what to expect from this season. He has never played a minute of varsity, despite having a bright future as a freshman.

“I’ll pretty much do whatever they tell me to do. Rebound, defend, piss opponents off, look

cute in pictures, I’ll do anything. I’m one of the biggest guys on the team this year, so I’m gonna have to hold down the fort against 6’7”-7’0” centers,” Hedstrom said.

Hedstrom’s size will help the Royals fill a desperate need. At 6’5”, Hedstrom will be one of the tallest players on a team that could have used his size a season ago.

“With him (Hedstrom) banging down low, we probably would’ve beaten Osseo,” Jamal Davis, senior said.

Hedstrom will try to use his high energy to play a big role on the team.

“Eric’s a big time defensive stopper, but that’s not all he can do. He will grab a bunch of boards and if you give him the ball in the post, he knows how to score,” said Jake Wright, junior.

The coaching staff, however, is remaining cautious.

“I wouldn’t say we even have any expectations for him”, said Mr. Dale Stahl, assistant coach and Social Studies. “Anything he can do for us this year is a bonus.”

Hedstrom has already had some difficulty transitioning into game form.

“The most difficult part of coming back to the game has been my mental groove. As of now, everything is just a split second off. It gets better every week though, so I should be back to game form by the time the season rolls around,” Hedstrom said.

Players and coaches alike are glad to have Hedstrom back from the two year hiatus. Not just for the good of the team, but for Hedstrom himself.

“He’s a kid that’s been around the program for a long time without being able to play. For him personally, I’m just really happy that he will get a chance to play again,” Stahl said.

“Eric has been a great teammate these past couple years and it will be great to see his positivity and dedication pay off on the court this year,” Wright said.

Hedstrom also has an interesting story off the court. He is homeschooled, but quick to dispel the common myths about homeschooling. He has attended post secondary education option (PSEO) at Normandale Community College for the past two years.

“It doesn’t just involve me sitting at home at my kitchen table and calling my mom ‘teacher’.

She hasn’t been my teacher since fifth grade before I started homeschool co-ops,” Hedstrom said.

Hedstrom plans on pursuing a Doctor in Physical Therapy (DPT) in college, a passion he realized after being out those two seasons.

With how bad Hedstrom’s injuries were, teammates questioned whether he would ever suit up for the varsity team.

“Last year I didn’t think he was ever going to play again,” Davis said. “How hard he’s worked will make it that much better to play with him again.”

Girls basketball has sights set on completing three-peat Sam Parker Staff Reporter After a long summer of waiting, the girls basketball team will take the floor this year, looking for their third straight State Championship.

They will have to perform at a high level with three key seniors gone, Sydney Coffey, Brianna Boileau, and Gracia Hutson.

“The loss of those three seniors will definitely affect our team this year because the three of them carried the team on their backs last year.

This year, however, we have 13 new seniors to step up to the plate and carry the team to a successful season,” said Rachel Orbuch, senior.

With the loss of these three key contributors, the team cannot take any shortcuts to achieve success. The coaches are aware of the new challenges they face.

“We will roll up our sleeves and from day one work our tails off to be the best we can. There aren’t any shortcuts, you have to put the time in and be dedicated to work as hard as you can and work together as a team to succeed,” said Gary Westman, assistant coach.

Nia Coffey, Taylor Anderson, and Mikaala Shackelford, all seniors, will lead the new look Royals into the upcoming season.

“I am really looking forward to getting back with the team and playing together again,” said Nia Coffey, senior.

The players know that with hard work and determination throughout the season, they will find themselves in a position to compete at a high level.

“The bar has definitely been set high, the girls know that, but they are going to approach this season the same as any other and work as hard as they can and they understand they have to play in the present. One practice at a time, one game at a time,” Westman said.

HHS will be poised to have another strong season and compete for a third straight State Championship.

“I believe that a third straight State Championship is within reach with a lot of hard work and practice,” Coffey said.

“I am looking forward this season to making it the best one yet, and living it up. Hopefully we will get another shot at the state title because that was my favorite part of the season last year, and I know we have the potential to three-peat,” Orbuch said.

Even more than the players, the coaches have had to deal with the thought of a three-peat ever since the final whistle of last year’s State Championship.

“I can’t tell you that the thought of doing something no other class 4A girls team has ever done and win three State Championships in a row hasn’t entered our girl’s minds. But we have some returning players that know the hard work that it takes, as well as some younger players that are showing a lot of enthusiasm and a good work ethic,” Westman said.

Although it seems as though the talent is there and the work ethic will continue to be present, the coaches are still stressing that hard work throughout practice and the regular season will pay off come tournament time.

“March is a long way away, and the girls know they just have to work hard each and every game

from game one and let the season run its course,” Westman said.

Photo by Cydney Froehlich From left to right: Sarah Westman, senior, and Nia Hollie, freshman, play one on one in open gym.

Open gym has proved to be a useful tool in the Royals development.

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14 sports

Boys basketball looking to rebound Sam Hromatka Staff Reporter Rebound. Something the HHS boys basketball team hasn’t had to do for some time.

After three straight state championships from 2009-2011, HHS was unable to secure the much desired “4-peat” when they lost to Osseo 87-86 in triple overtime in the 2012 State Tournament semifinals.

“Last season is last season, they’re totally different. Different guys, different situations,” said Mr. Ken Novak, head coach and Social Studies.

The Royals will have to overcome their lack of size this season, with smaller players than in previous years. The tallest player is 6’6” “We’re going to have to work hard. We are undersized, mostly guards, probably the smallest team in our section or conference,” Novak said.

This year, HHS returns only one starter, Jamal Davis, senior. With Davis being the only returning starter, he will be forced to play a much bigger role this season.

“Jamal is our only returning starter, so he will need to do more this season,” Novak said. “He will have to be able to go inside and outside, distribute the ball, rebound, and be very consistent.”

Many other players will have to step up, as HHS graduated four starters: Zach Stahl, Siyani Chambers, Demitrius Martin, and Nick Jorgenson.

“We lost a lot of guys from last season. We’ve got some sophomore and JV players returning from last year, so we will see how it shakes out,” Novak said.

Siyani Chambers was the starting point guard for the Royals for three seasons and two State Championships. He is now starting for the Harvard University Crimson. His younger brother Kamali Chambers, junior, will now attempt to fill his shoes.

“This season will be different. He [Siyani] taught me a lot, how to lead the team. It’s my turn,” Kamali said.

Kamali came off the bench last season, occassionally filling in for Siyani during games.

“When you are on the bench in the first minutes of the game, you can see and feel the flow of the game before you go in,” Kamali said. “It will be an adjustment starting.”

There are a lot of expectations put on HHS basketball players due to the history of the program.

“To help this team I can bring the energy, be a leader, play defense take the right shots, and win,” Kamali said. “People may compare me to Siyani, but I need to write my own story.”

Jake Wright, junior, and Stephon Sharp, junior, are both looking to increase their contributions to the team this season.

“If I rebound, play defense, and the share the ball well, this year will be successful to me,” Sharp said.

Wright and Sharp both played off the bench last year. Wright started in the State Tournament, when he most notably hit a buzzer beater in the semifinals at the end of the first overtime to push the game into yet another overtime period. The shot ended up on the famed “SportsCenter Top 10 Plays.”

“I’ve been working really hard this offseason to improve my game,” Wright said. “There is always room for improvement in all aspects of my play.”

During the state tournament last season, Zach Stahl was benched for off the court disciplinary problems. Phillip Stribling, senior, filled Stahl’s shoes down low. Stribling provided a big body and grabbed rebounds, a major weakness for the Royals.

“Last season I wasn’t an impact player, so I worked hard to become one,” Stribling said. “Losing Stahl wasn’t good for us, but it gave me an opportunity to make an impact. I don’t take anything for granted and never will.”

Novak is not worried about people’s expectations for this year’s squad, just results.

“I’m not concerned with what people think of us, and I’m not concerned with our record,” Novak said, “In 20 years our record is 532 wins and 48 losses, there’s nobody in the state or even the nation that is close to that.”

Every team and every season has their doubters, and the Royals are no different after failing to win the State Championship and losing four

starters. Wright has something to say to them.

“Anyone that’s doubting us has a surprise coming,” Wright said.

ing in each event.

Last season, both brothers advanced to the state meet; Corey for the 100 breaststroke and Colin for the 200 IM. Corey placed eighth in state with a time of 1:00.83, which is five seconds slower than the state record. Due to previous success, Mr. Greg Bartz, head coach and math, thinks that dropping five seconds is a possibility.

“Last season, Corey and I worked on the strategy of swimming his 100 breaststroke, and by the end of the season he was able to drop over 5 seconds, finishing eighth at the State meet as a seventh grader,” Bartz said.

Colin has set himself up to be a role model for many swimmers on the team, due to his experience on varsity.

“By being on a team with my brother, I am definitely challenged. I have the duty of being a role model for him and others on the team,” Colin

said. “I try to be as open as possible with my teammates to try and make everyone succeed.”

His efforts and leadership are not only noticed

by Corey and the rest of the team, but by Bartz as well.

“Colin is a great teacher to the younger and less experienced swimmers. Many times throughout the season, Colin will help out at the JV practice, helping the younger swimmers become better by working on their strokes, starts, and turns,” Bartz said.

Together, these brothers train at the Minnetonka Swim Club year round. They have been attending this club for many years, and it is a place where much of their success has came from.

Colin and Corey don’t get the chance to compete against each other very often. When the opportunity comes, however, the brothers get very excited and look to it as a way to improve.

“I enjoy competing against my brother since he competes at a very high level, and I like seeing if I can get up and match or do better than him,” Corey said.

Because the brothers are in different events, most of their friendly competition takes place during practice. Both brothers agree that during practice, they might race each other for the fun of it, but their main goal is to push each others limits and make themselves improve.

For this upcoming season, Corey and Colin plan on working extra hard to do even better than they have in the past.

It has become evident that these brothers would not be where they are today without the support of each other.

“The experience would be totally different without my brother. We’re in this together, and we’re in this to succeed,” Colin said.

Photo by Cydney Froehlich Kamali Chambers, junior, drives in for the layup. Chambers was a key bench performer last year and will play an even larger role this season.

Lau brothers swimming to the finish line Alex Felemovicius Staff Reporter Success isn’t always strictly based on individual’s effort. Sometimes, it is based on the help and competition of a partner, or in this case, brother.

Beginning at a very young age, Colin Lau, junior, and Corey Lau, eighth grade, started their journey in the pool. Colin is beginning his third year on the varsity swimming team, and Corey is beginning his second. Both made it to State a season ago, Corey was the youngest swimmer there.

When Colin first competed on the varsity team, he swam the 100 breaststroke. However, with the arrival of his brother the following year, he moved on to the 200 individual medley (IM) and 100 butterfly, as Corey took over the breaststroke event. Colin did this due to the rule that their can only be two people per school compet-

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RPTuesday, Nov. 27, 2012

Nordic season begins well before snow falls Sam Bloomfield Sports Editor As winter rolls along, the ominous forecasting of snow proves disheartening for most HHS students. But for the Nordic team, it is their chance to finally put their hard work to the test.

The Nordic season for the Royals starts well before the snow falls, so they can be sharp for their short season.

“Off-season is crucial to Nordic skiers because we do not have access to our specific sport year round like basketball, volleyball, or running do,” said Sarah Benton, senior.

The Royals implemented an extremely rigorous off-season workout regime this year, in anticipation of the upcoming season.

“The training I did this summer ended up being more than I have ever done,” said Harris Dirnberger, senior. “I increased my volume, and did more running and bounding exercises.”

These Nordic athletes have participated in many different forms of offseason training, seeking to improve in any way they can. Many skiers participate in either Track, Cross Country, or even Soccer, and many skiers are in privately coached training programs with other skiers throughout the Twin Cities, according to Mr. Rob Fuhr, head coach and Media Arts.

Many others have joined the Mountain Biking club as their off-season training, including

Spotlight Athlete

Benton, the founder of the club.

“I spent more time biking, and less time roller skiing or running, and I am extremely happy with this choice,” Benton said. “It was a great group of kids, and I think that biking muscles carry over to skiing very well.”

In addition to off-season workouts, they are also trying to get as much time in the snow as they can, especially when they spent most of last year skiing on man-made snow. Over the Thanksgiving break, many skiers, such as Dirnberger, Benton, and others, traveled to West Yellowstone, Montana to get some practice on real snow.

Through the intense off-season workouts, team leadership has blossomed, especially from senior captains Maddy Hinck, Will Chizek, Dirnberger, and Benton.

“We really consider everyone who is a senior to be a leader, and this year we have many that we can count on,” said Mr. Kevin Kos, head coach and English. “It starts with our captains, Sarah, Maddie, Will and Harris, and it continues through an awesome list of kids in their final year.”

Nordic also has the unique trait of carrying everyone who tries out on their roster, which often leads to a very large team. With this, the team has to find a balance to suit both the elite skiers, as well as those just beginning.

“One of our primary goals is to take a skier who doesn’t know anything, and to give them this sport for life,” Fuhr said.

The month to come @ Girls Basketball 11/29/12 HHS, coming off of a 31-1 season and their second consecutive State Championship, is looking to start off their season in a positive direction at Esko High School, who finished last years season 25-4.

Player to watch: Nia Coffey, senior.

Coffey, the 24th ranked recruit in the country, according to espn.com, is committed to Northwestern.

@

Name: Tim Weiner Grade: 12 Sport: Hockey Athletic Idol: Pierre-Marc Bouchard Favorite Memory: “Being on the ice when Tanner Holmquist scored a game-winning goal in overtime.”

Girls Hockey 12/01/12 The Royals keep the season rolling against the Burnsville Blaze. Burnsville went 5-7-5 in conference play a season ago. HHS went 2-5-1 last year in conference. The Royals lose 3 seniors Allison Rolandelli, Olivia Chase, and Marielle Mankey from last year’s team.

Player to watch: Corbin Boyd, sophomore. Boyd had 13 goals and 34 assists last year.

@ Boys Basketball 12/01/12 The Royals open their 2012-2013 season with the Tip Off Classic at home against Centennial High School. Centennial was 12-15 last year, losing in the first round of sections. On the other side, the Royals went 29-2, taking third place in the State Tournament.

Player to watch: Jamal Davis, senior, is the only returning starter from last year’s team.

With this inclusive mentality, the Nordic team has become well-known for having great team chemistry.

“Coach Fuhr and I have known many of our seniors since they were 7th graders, so they get what we want them to do,” Kos said. “In a lot of ways these students have grown up and love being together.”

The Royals are coming into this season off of an impressive finish last year. They made their mark in the State Tournament at Giants Ridge in Biwabik, Minnesota, with the boys taking second place and the girls taking third.

In addition to their impressive team effort, the Royals showed strength in the individual competition. The Royals had three top 10 individual

finishers in the meet, including Dirnberger (fifth place), Jakob Ellingson, senior, (seventh place), and Benton (ninth place).

“It was awesome to do as well as we did as a team in State. I think it will drive us and give us motivation for this years season,” Dirnberger said.

With a strong group of experienced and motivated skiers, the Royals have their sights set on making a splash in the State Tournament.

“As a team I hope to win the State meet, and have the best year yet at ski camp,” Dirnberger said.

“Considering the strength of our girls, it won’t be hard to have a successful year in team results,” Benton said. “I’d love to be back on the podium at state with all of my girls.”

Photo by Hillary Donovan From left to rught: Will Chizek, senior, and Sarah Benton, senior, take a run after school. The Nordic team has been training non-stop to prepare for this season.

Captains play roles that respective sports demand

Minnesota State High School League has basic requirements for captains of all sports. However, some captains at HHS go above and beyond those requirements.

Hillary Donovan Staff Reporter The responsibilities of captains at HHS vary between sports. The Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) has a list of what captains should do for their team and how to help the team achieve greatness.

According to MSHSL, captains have to be leaders, teach teammates, assist the coach, encourage others, attend scheduled meetings, and be a role model.

“As a captain, I make up dances, I help organize things that we do, and I help run practice,” said Emily Costa, senior, dance team captain.

To be a captain on dance team, the girls have to go above and beyond the requirements of MSHSL. They have to write a paper on why they think they would make a good captain for the team. Once the season starts, captains put in at least 30 hours of extra work, including planning and choreographing.

Once the competitive season starts, captains have multiple practices from nine in the morning until five in the afternoon choreographing dances.

“As a captain you have a lot of extra responsi-

bilities and are expected to help motivate and keep the team going forward,” said Claire Miller, senior, dance team captain.

To be a captain on the boys soccer team, the captains work hard and lead the team. Boys soccer captains are voted in by their teammates and coaches, and they meet all of the requirements that MSHSL set.

“I just tried to lead by example, tried not to have a negative attitude and be mature,” Lapp said. “It’s great knowing that your teammates and coaches voted for you to lead the team.”

Overall, each captain puts in a lot of work and effort.

“Being a captain is a lot of work, but it is very rewarding to help and be involved with the team,” Miller said.

As a captain, you have a lot of extra responsibilities.

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RPTuesday, November 27, 2012

Emma DeRubeis, senior. Photo by Lisa Perssson.

Mark Grayson, senior. Photo by Lisa Persson.

Photo by Lisa Persson.

Sophie Stillman, senior. Photo by Will Chizek.

Romie Karls, senior.

Photo by Will Chizek.

Lauren Poppie, senior. Photo

by Will Chizek.

Lisa Persson:

Will Chizek:

•$70 •1 hour shoot •100 unedited shots •15 edited shots of your choice

Jessie R. Photo by Lisa Persson.

$50-75 depending on work process

Sierra Chizek, senior at Casselton High School. Photo by Will Chizek.

Persson and Chizek are a popular choice for senior photos Will Chizek and Lisa Persson, seniors, have taken advantage of their photography skills to take senior photos for their classmates.

“I did not initially start photographing people, at least not beauty shots or senior portrait style, but I love the medium because you can portray different emotions by using different models and putting them in different scenarios,” Chizek said.

Neither Chizek nor Persson set out to become portrait photographers. Persson’s interest in photography stemmed from a drawing background and watching photography gain popularity with upperclassmen on Facebook, while Chizek grew up around photography and became more interested through Media Arts.

“Taking a really cool picture made me feel the same way as when I thought I drew a really cool picture, so I went with it,” Persson said.

On a fall day in 9th grade, Persson did a photoshoot in the leaves with a friend for fun, but she received enough positive feedback that she realized her photography could grow to become more than simply a hobby.

“I really liked making people feel good about the way they looked, and I started taking pictures of all my friends for fun,” Persson said.

As Persson’s portrait photography grew, Chizek took notice.

“It wasn’t until junior year when I started thinking I could charge for them, after seeing my dear friend Lisa begin charging for photos,” Chizek said.

Chizek and Persson both take advantage of Minnesota’s diverse outdoors as a backdrop for their photoshoots.

“Mill Ruins Park in Minneapolis is my absolute favorite shoot location; everything around that area is very diverse, and the backgrounds are abstract and beautiful. I

also love it when my clients take me somewhere I’ve never been before,” Persson said.

Chizek takes a similar approach and agrees that it is best to do the shoot at a location that holds significance for the subject.

“I love working outdoors, especially utilizing some of Minnesota’s most unique landscapes, from beautiful woods and lakes to unique buildings and the downtown scene. I think it makes it much more special to be in a place that is meaningful for the subject, or portrays some sense of uniqueness,” Chizek said.

Working with their peers has proven to be rewarding for both photographers.

“I love working with my friends because I feel comfortable around them, and I hope they feel comfortable around me. I think that’s why working with Lisa [Persson] or me is appealing to people because they don’t have to go through

a company where they aren’t familiar with the photographer.

Our subjects know us and what we are about,” Chizek said.

Persson agreed and said that it’s easier when photographing a friend because she can joke around like she usually would, allowing her to get a real smile out of them.

Business has gone up for both Chizek and Persson. Satisfied customers opened up the door to Christmas cards and other jobs, not just senior photos.

Persson has photographed more than 100 senior sessions to date, with an estimated 60% of customers she knows personally and 40% acquired via networking.

“The cool thing about photography is that each photo speaks for itself, and is a direct advertisement for me,” Persson said.

Casey Pasko is the back page editor for the Royal Page

Sierra Chizek, senior at Casselton High School. Photo by Will Chizek.

Marissa M, senior at Benilde-St. Margaret’s. Photo by Lisa Persson.