October 5, 2012

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Swenson competes in European volleyball tournament

Friday, October 5, 2012 Volume 31 Issue 1

www.royalpage.org

sports 14

When people have to hide who they are, at a place where they have to be five times a week, it demolishes the idea of being unique.

-Caroline Ravits

opinion 5

AP Art students bring art to Nicaragua feature 11

HOMECOMING 2012

Last year’s events aside, homecoming ticket sales and spirit skyrocketed

By Ursula Arhart Editor in Chief After a 2011 homecoming of fiascos and drama, this year’s homecoming turned around for a night of pride and spirit.

Last year, there were a number of violations, including both chemical and violent. This year, there were none.

“Everything went fabulous. The whole week, pep-fest, game, dance… it all ran smooth and seamless,” said Traci Meyer, Dean of Students.

The turnaround of events was not, however, done with ease. There were a number of faculty members that went into the process of heightening security to create a safer homecoming environment. “[This year’s success] had to do with a lot of planning and hard work behind the scenes,” Meyer said.

Between administration, police officers and the extra security that was hired by administration, this year’s homecoming was well staffed. Despite these extra measures of security and restrictions, ticket sales for the game increased this year.

The athletic office reported that in 2011, 625 adult tickets and 1,397 student tickets were sold. This year, 729 adult tickets and 1,993 student tickets were sold, which is a more than 40 percent increase for student

Students maybe chose to make better decisions -Traci Meyer Dean of Students

ticket sales.

“Personally, I thought the crowd was much more spirited, and maybe it’s just being a senior, but I felt more school pride,” said Will Chizek, senior and member of the football team.

Not only did administration put a lot of work into this year’s homecoming, but also students changed their attitudes and made the right decisions. “Students maybe chose to make better choices or didn’t come at all,” Meyer said.

Students may have had to deal with bag checks, showing their IDs and staying inside the gates, but the overall effect was minimal.

Junior high principals and teachers were also in attendance, and students younger than ninth grade needed to be accompanied by a parent.

For Meyer, the general spirit of the crowd increased alongside the ticket sales.

“I’ve been here 12 years, and this year’s [homecoming] was amazing,” Meyer said.

The same security mea-

Top left: Seniors sport yellow for the pep fest Top right: Sophomores sit on either end of the gym in purple Bottom: Terrance Bowers (12), junior, runs to stop the Edina ball sures will be taken in the coming years to ensure this safety and success.

“Overall, we want kids safe,” Meyers said.

So far, there are no other plans to change the organization of homecoming.

“Not only did the students respect the restrictions, they chose to respect each other too,” Meyer said, “That’s why I work here.”

“I loved seeing my friends come out, dress up and fill the stands,” Chizek said.

Photos by Cydney Froehlich

Scan this code for extra photo and video coverage of homecoming week

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RPFriday, October 5, 2012

Royal Corner and Spirit Shop combine

By Joel Ratner Opinion Editor Although maybe unnoticed, big changes have happened in the HHS stores. The biggest change has been the merger of the Royal Corner and the Spirit Shop.

The stores have turned into a single non-profit organization. They now carry the same inventory; however, both locations are kept open because the Spirit Shop is ideal for events at Lindbergh and the Royal Corner is ideal during

conferences and is close to the academic wings.

Mr. Theirl, business teacher and school store supervisor, has worked hard to make this merger a reality. “Within this merger, we’ve upgraded our systems to POS Retail Software that allows us to see inventory in real time, bar code merchandise, accept credit/debit cards, run reports, and use data to make business decisions,” said Theirl.

HHS keeps enough of the profits to operate the business, but the rest goes back to HHS. When people buy from

the store, they are essentially funding learning opportunities as well as other initiatives that HHS would not have the opportunities to offer.

Both the Spirit Shop and the Royal Corner are open during lunch. “When students have extra time during lunch they come by the Spirit Shop,” said Julie Woolfrey, Spirit Shop manager.

“The Spirit Shop and the Royal Corner will increase sales because we have extended into West and North Junior High,” said Woolfrey.

“We made the changes to give students more opportunity to learn. Rather than work with a limited inventory and compete for sales, we thought joining forces to market Hopkins spirit wear will not only provide more opportunities for students to be involved in marketing, management, and finance decisions, but also lead to greater profits” said Theirl.

A new class has also been proposed in HHS called “School Based Enterprise” that will allow students interested in learning how to run a business

with hands-on opportunity to experience all aspects of running a business working at the store. This class lets students accomplish this as well as receive credits for the course.

Wyatt Mekler, senior and Royal Corner manager, has really helped the store grow.

“I believe “School Based Enterprise” is a lifetime opportunity and more people should take advantage of it,” said Mekler.

Students at HHS should see Mr. Theirl to learn how they could be involved in the

“School Based Enterprise”.

Students involved with the store this year will also be working to get the store “certified” as a gold level store for DECA. The stores must meet operating and reporting standards established by National DECA. If those involved can meet these standards, they will earn a trip to Anaheim, California this spring to share our “best” practices with 15,000 DECA members, business partners, and sponsors at the National DECA conference.

A Different Kind of Laboratory Hopkins buisness students are partnering with the Spirit Shop to operate and run a store. The students are responsible for the point of sale, marketing, inventory, and running the store during lunch hours.

These are some of the items for sale in the Spirit Shop.

Athletic Shorts Cost: $18.00 Crew-Neck Sweater Cost: $35.00

Lawson takes the reins of assistant principal

By Josh Gallop News Editor Mr. Trenton Lawson, Assistant Principal, had to stand out among the 100 applicants vying for the position this summer. Only about 15 were chosen for screening, and only four of those were called back for extensive interviews.

The interviews consisted of four, hour-long sessions. Three of the stations were panels comprised of students, parents, and staff. And the fourth asked Lawson to write an essay on the spot.

Lawson had the qualities needed to excel in his field.

“He’s a leader who has a strong ability to connect with students and has experience overseeing attendance and discipline,” said Patty Johnson, Principal.

Lawson’s academic and professional life prepared him for the rigorous process.

“I was a student who excelled

at times and struggled at times and learned from my mistakes,” Lawson said.

Lawson was born in Illinois and raised by a single mom. As a kid he moved around a lot to wherever his mom could find work as a nurse.

After graduating from St. Olaf College in Northfield, Lawson’s first job was at a children’s home association in Illinois where it was 24/7 care of wards of the state.

“A lot of the issues I saw with children and parents reflected educational issues,” Lawson said. “I saw education as a way for students and parents to improve their lives, and I felt like I could make a difference.”

Lawson decided to return to Minnesota. “I graduated from Roosevelt High School and had relatives living here. Minnesota always felt like home to me,” Lawson said.

He took a job with St. Paul Public Schools as a social

worker. At the same time he completed his master’s degree in social work and began his administrative licensure program at the University of Minnesota.

He took an internship with the Hopkins School District. “I met students and staff and loved it here. I promised myself if an opportunity ever opened up, I’d come back,” Lawson said.

That opening occurred this summer when Ms. Anne Campbell, former assistant principal, left Hopkins to become the Athletic Director of Grand Rapids High School.

“Trent is a great fit for this position; his knowledge as a social worker will benefit kids and families. And he has a caring personality, and he is passionate for all kids,” said Campbell.

Lawson plans on using those attributes to make connections at HHS. “Everything starts with relationships, I hope to

build great relationships with families and improve academic achievement,” Lawson said.

Lawson will be balancing the job with his family and hobbies. He has been married to his wife for 13 years, and they have four kids between the ages of 5 and 14. His wife is an English teacher at Park Center.

“My advice is to find some balance with long, long work days, attending events, and making time for family; the job can be 24/7,” Campbell said.

“The hardest part of the job was trying to find enough time to do all things well. Most days are very busy with committees, dealing with behavioral issues, attendance, and just the day to day operations.”

Lawson will turn to his hobbies to unwind. They include watching his kids in their activities, playing basketball, working out, and disco skating. “I can really jam on skates,” Lawson said.

Baseball Hat Cost: $15.00 Nike Dri-Fit Shirt Cost: $21.00

More HHS students taking AP classes

By Stefanie Gedan Staff Reporter This year AP Euro, AP World, and AP U.S. History have the highest number of enrolled students since the beginning of the AP program at HHS. APUSH currently has 140 students enrolled compared to last year’s 105 students and the previous year’s 110 students.

In past years, three APUSH sections have been offered.

To handle the increased numbers of students, an additional section being taught by Mr. Rick Rexroth, Social Studies Department chair, was offered this year.

The two junior level Social Studies AP courses, AP Euro and AP World, require eight sections.

This year there are three sections of AP Euro and five sections of AP World, while last year there were five sections of AP World and three sections of AP Euro.

The Honors Civics courses now being offered offered for ninth graders have encouraged students to take APUSH which will in turn encourage more students to take other AP courses. HHS is starting a new era with more students being prepared for college level work. “[NJH and WJH] are offering honors civics in ninth grade and as a result [students] feel more comfortable jumping into AP [US history] as sophomores,” said Mr. Eric Swenson, Social Studies.

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RPFriday, October 5, 2012 news 3 District drops Office, encourages cloud computing Google Apps to replace Word and other Office functions as District upgrades operating systems

By Brit Stein Staff Reporter Students attempting to access Microsoft Word at HHS have received quite a shock.

Microsoft office has been removed from the student used computers.

“The version of Microsoft Office we have for student use is Office 2004. Unfortunately, Office 2004 is not compatible with any of Apple’s newer operating systems. As Office 2004 is not compatible [with the newer operating system], we did not include the software in our application deployment this fall.” said John Wetter, Technical Services Manager at HHS. The District saves tens of thousands of dollars by not needing to purchase newer versions or software updates for Microsoft Word. The school is

then able to put the savings into other resources for students like additional computers, iPads, and a faster Internet connection. As an alternative to Microsoft, the school has transitioned into using Hopkins Apps, mainly Google Docs.

Apart from money, there are many more reasons for the transition. “It is much easier to update the application when it isn’t installed on a computer. Google Docs has seen numerous updates and increased functionality over the last couple years without the school needing to change anything,” Said Wetter.

Additionally, Google Docs offers the same experience as Microsoft Word. With the Google Applications, anyone can just open a web browser, log in, and start editing.

“For the most part, it’s easy to navigate and easy to use.” said Peter Makey, sophomore.

It goes beyond Microsoft by allowing multiple students or teachers to edit a document at the same time.

Hopkins is not alone amongst schools transitioning to Google. “Google Apps has been an invaluable learning tool for students and teachers.” said Molly Schroeder, Technology Integration Specialist, Edina Public School.. “Google Apps has transformed our ability to help students and staff engage in learning.”

It’s not just schools that are moving towards a more online system through Google Apps.

Many large corporations have also made the switch.

“Google Apps provides enhanced collaboration and

flexibility, allowing users the ability to do their jobs any time, anywhere,” said Russ Little, Director Software, Service of National Geographic on the Google Apps for Business customer website.

Some additional companies who have completely switched to an online software system through Google include Motorola, Virgin America, Genentech, Hunter Douglas, and Delta Hotels.

However, for most schools, the drawback of having an entirely online system is that students with limited internet access will have more difficulties

with the switch.

“This is an important issue that we take very seriously. We want every student to have a great educational experience at Hopkins,” Wetter said.

For students who may not have Internet access at home, one option would be to take advantage of the free Internet connections offered in the community, such as the public library. The district is also collaborating with local Internet service providers to help students and their families get free or cheap Internet access.

The school recently obtained wireless hotspots that students

can use if they don’t have access at home to allow them to continue their work. Through these alternatives, HHS is hoping to make the Internet accessible to all students at home when they need it to work on their studies.

If a student cannot get online at home, he or she can still use Microsoft Word on his or her personal computer and save the file on a flash drive.

Once the student arrives at school, he or she can upload the document into Google Docs and continue working on the document as if it had always been a Google Doc.

Lunch and TASC changes result from last year’s pilot schedule

By Domitille Biehlmann Staff Reporter HHS makes changes to the schedule every year in hopes of further improving the circulation of the students and staff.

Unlike in the previous years with a four lunch format, this year HHS has only three lunches. The purpose for this is to manage the time during split lunches more efficiently.

“A couple of factors accounted for the reduced lunches. Last year, it was often a challenge for classes with tests and different activities,” said Adam McDonald, Assistant Principal.

“We also had between 400500 students passing through the hallways in between each lunch, so with the three lunch schedule, we have been able to reduce the congestion to about 300-400 students and increase the lunch time from 30 to 40 minutes,” said McDonald.

The structure of the lunches also allows for less confusion and disruptions during third block. With four lunches, students often times gathered in the hallways disrupting other

classes. With three lunches, the amount of noise disruptions and split classes have been dramatically reduced.

“We had a pilot schedule last year in which we tested out the three lunches, and it worked great,” said McDonald, “the Royal Cuisine staff also responded well to it.”

“We seem to be working very well together and are managing the amount of students coming through,” said Terry Tucker, three year employee of Royal Cuisine.

Last year, Monday advisory and TASC time were introduced into the weekly schedule. On a weekly basis there was Monday Advisory and a 25 minute TASC time on Thursday.

This year, however, an additional TASC was implemented due to the positive feedback from last years students and faculty. The changes included an additional 30 minute TASC following the 10 minute Monday Advisory as well as an extended 40 minute TASC time on Thursday. The extension ensures enough time for all students to receive the necessary attention in their

classes.

The purpose of the TASC time is to allow teachers and students to connect, as well as complete or make up any missing work or tests. Therefore, the additional TASC is allowing for even more assistance to those who have difficulty meeting with teachers before and after school hours.

“I believe that the new TASC schedule is very beneficial to the HHS student body because if you use your time efficiently it is likely that you will see major improvements in your grades,” said Matt Koopmeiners, Senior.

The final addition to the schedules has been the minimized late starts throughout the year and the termination of early release days. As opposed to the previous nine, there will only be five, and instead of the early release days on conferences there will be no school.

“The pilot schedules last year determined that we would be able to handle all the different schedule changes, however, we have yet to determine what the long term effects will be, and we are obviously hoping for good results,” McDonald said.

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RP Friday, Oct 5, 2012

Students have Are we too reliant on smartphones? tender feelings over new lunch adjustment This year’s frustration has nothing to do with the football team, new teachers, or even the more crowded lunches. Students are upset with the fact that The Royal Cuisine is no longer offering chicken tenders as a lunch option.

This lunchroom update has students taking sides over this tender issue. “ I’m actually really mad because chicken was the only food I ate from the cafeteria,” said Mickela Heilicher, Junior.

The loss of tenders will greatly deter students from eating in the cafeteria and cause them to move and eat at the Royal Cafe. “ I eat from the cafe except when there’s tenders,” Heilicher said.

School is supposed to be preparing you for life. In life you have choices. By removing the choice of chicken tenders they are not treating us as if we are adults, but as kids who can’t make decisions.

Sometimes chicken tenders are the right choice. They can really pick you up when you’ve had a hard day at school.

I remember one day during junior year, when I had an AP Euro test and I had to write a paper for Writers Workshop. This tough day at school was quickly made better when I was able to eat a lunch that I enjoyed eaten.

Tenders are made by white meat taken the from the breast, coated with bread crumbs and fried in oil. Simple and easy to make, chicken tenders are a great food choice for high school students.

Although chicken tenders do have high amounts of fat and protein, we are old enough to make choices for ourselves.

If they are going to teach us about the benefits of eating healthy, then we can make our own decisions about what we eat.

With chicken gone school lunches will be greatly effected. Most of the food they serve just isn’t to the tastes of the average high school student. Without chicken tenders twice a week, it will be hard to find something that is an enjoyable lunch.

When walking into the lunchroom I find it hard to make any choice of what to eat at all. Most of the food they offer just seems to be reused ideas.

To me, part of having “fresh” food is having fresh new meals instead of recycling the old ones.Everyday at lunch I see the exact same things, The Royal Rock Cafe has grilled cheese and some sorta of paninis all of which seem to be similar. The sandwich, salad, and pizza lines never change and the ethnic and grill have some small variety to cycle between all of which I end up seeing again by next week.

Before the new lunch changes there was always a shining hope to look forward to. When you just weren’t in the mood for anything else, the chicken tenders were always there on your tray.

This summer I attended a concert of one of my favorite bands, Radiohead. It was one of the greatest experiences of my life, but there was one thing that caught my eye the entire concert.

Almost half of the all the attendees were looking at their phones throughout the show.

It was hard to comprehend how for just one concert, someone couldn’t leave their phone in their pocket or ignore Twitter.

There were amazing, beautiful sounds and shapes coming from the stage and this audience was staring in a blaring light in their hand instead.

Teenagers today cannot see the world without staring through their phone first.

Someone’s enjoyment of experiences shouldn’t rely on how clever of a tweet they can think of or how clear the recording is on your phone.

Simply living the experience should be enough, but our smartphones have almost stopped us from enjoying simple things, like a concert.

At this concert Radiohead performed a new song that no one had ever heard before. When they announced this, the entire audience immediately took out their phones to record, but no one seemed to be listening to it.

I guarantee that song is going to be ten times better live than on a bad recording on your phone.

The number of smartphones in teens’ hands is growing too. According to Nielsen News, in 2011 only 38 percent of teens owned smartphones. In 2012 up to 58 percent of teens owned smartphones, and this number will only increase.

True, iPhones and other smartphones can do amazing things, but there’s more amazing things that could be looked at instead of a fancy gadget.

Walking outside, or talking to a stranger, will be more rewarding in the end than messing on a phone.

But this will likely not happen, as checking twitter or playing some dumb app is plain easier than doing anything. It’s a real sign of human laziness that we are so attached to our phones.

Now I can’t say I’m not guilty of seeing the world through my phone. I admittedly tweeted during the concert and received an iPhone later that summer and haven’t put it down since.

But, getting an iPhone has shown me how addictive they can be.

Even at school, kids will do just about anything to look at their phone in class. There are incredible things being told to them everyday at school, but somehow texting their friend seems more intriguing. Phones have skewed our priorities on what is interesting.

I wonder sometimes what animals think of us using devices like smartphones. It would look like a human looking into glazed light while their whole body goes braindead.

I’m not saying never use your iPhone or Droid, but learn to put it down more often. Make a habit of not looking at Twitter. Try turning your phone off for a whole week, you might actually learn something.

Will Burnton is a staff reporter for the Royal Page

September’s cartoon feature

What’s not on the menu at lunch?

Chicken Tenders Yogurt Pretzels Cheetos Ice Cream Variety Everyday chocolate milk Good French Fries Is pizza next to go???

Roy Grossmann is a staff reporter for the Royal Page

Teenagers today cannot see the world without staring through their phone first

Maddy Fox and Jesse Pedersen created the comic for the Royal Page

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RPFriday, Oct 5, 2012

Does Hopkins School District do a good job in teaching students about drugs?

No “If Hopkins did a good job they wouldn’t have the nickname ‘Potkins.’”Emily Debol, Junior

41% No 59% Yes

100 Students interviewed at HHS Illustration by Caroline Ravits

Yes “The signs in the bathroom are really helpful.”- Lauren Poppie, Senior

No “It’s hard to reach out and get kids to listen.”-Halle Teigen, Senior

T

op 10

10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1

:

Yes “They make the students go to drug meetings for sports.”- Cody Zarroug, Sophomore Joel Ratner is the Opinion Editor and Josh Gallop is the News Editor of the Royal Page

Things I shouldn’t

have done at homecoming

Hang with freshmen

Bring a parent to the game Wear the wrong color Going #2 in the porta-potty Accidently dance with your sibling Choke down three hot dogs at once Fall off the bleachers and have internal bleeding for a month Go tailgating as a sophomore Campaign to be homecoming king/queen

Streak and become a registered sex offender

From the Desk of the Editors Dear HHS students, faculty, and community, This year’s Royal Page staff is dedicated to serving the community.

We’re focused on reporting ethically and loyally, as well as keeping a journalistic voice and straying from bias. We want to cover national and international stories on a local scale along with covering local stories.

We respect the First Amendment as the most imortant amendment, and we pledge to use the rights granted to us by the First Amendment in a thoughtful manner.

This newspaper belongs to the community, and we want to hear from you. The Royal Page welcomes your feedback and input.

If you have any story suggestions or reactions, please send a letter to the editor at royalpage@ gmail.com.

Another main goal we have this year is to increase our traffic on the web. We update our twitter (@theroyalpage) and website (royalpage.org) weekly, and we’re utilizing these sties to report

timely as well as to educate our community on local, current events.

We promise to abide by our goals and ethics whether we’re in the field interviewing or writing articles, and this requires dedication. This staff also takes journalistic writing very seriously. For example, in this issue, we’ve covered a story on a transgender student.

The staff takes great care in writing stories such as these, and we pay close attention to our community’s needs.

We hope to serve the community throughout the year by entertaining and educating via journalism.

Sincerely,

Ursula Arhart Lydia Wilson 2012-2013 Editors-in-Chief

High school changes people Attempting to maintain an image that equity and integration specialist. is impossible for the mind to manage. Being Decisions like these, make it harder for judged at any given moment, spoken about to someone to find who they are. In the midst of others and then expected to be okay with it. getting high or bullying someone, they will truly Welcome to high school. miss out on opportunities that can empower This is an experience that can either emthem. This allows a person to take steps backpower or disempower a person, but sometimes ward in finding who they are, when the goal is a balance. This is a time to discover interests, to move forward. values, morals but most of all who a person When people have to hide who they are, wants to be and how one wants to be perceived at a place they have to be five times a week, by the world. demolishes the idea of being unique. Thinking People are classified under categories that outside of the box, believing in ideas that others do not give them full value to who they are as a do not have, is something that separates us from person. Whether it’s race, background or ethnic- everyone and forms who we are. ity, these are not the characteristics that should To walk into someone’s shoes, realizing the define us. Our personalities are. challenges they face daily, then to bring them If this is supposed to be our time to make down with negative comments and behaviors is memories and learn from experiences, why has it torturous. No one deserves to feel shameful for seemed to become such a negative environment what they go through, but to only have people for students? learn to understand the issues. This can make Commonly known is pretending to be the environment more positive and powerful. someone you aren’t. This is to mask characterisEveryone is human and working to do tics that others may not accept. the best they can. We as people are constantly Being too embarrassed to set yourself away making mistakes, judgements and learning how from the rest, people hide in the middle of the to deal with the consequences. Lots of people in crowd. This distracts the attention that could be high school tend to neglect that base of an idea, directed towards them. due to pride, ego and other reasons.

An issue with fitting in is participating Purpose, process and product are the reason in activities you may have never thought you we are put into this situation. Seniors have had would. Drugs have become a more common the same structure for the last thirteen years. social activity and a release to feel better due As a result it is now time to figure out what to stress, found amongst high school students. we want to achieve for the rest of our lives. Why Everyone’s doing it so why don’t you? we are here, what we are doing and what comes Hazing may seem harmless at first, but this of it, is the basis of what is going on. is false. They effect your peers, friends and the Life works in mysterious ways and tends to person who it is being done to. let people fall into place. Because it’s a learnThese actions later in life will have you realing process, when you know better you can do ize if this was due to fitting in or you wanted to better. It’s okay to be different, but it’s not okay do them. to be ashamed of who you are in a time you are “Everyone develops means and methods of blossoming. This is high school. dealing with change and difference. Difference is not deficit. Learning how to make useful, Caroline Ravits is a staff reporter for the Royal healthy choices is a learned process, usually based on a bigger purpose,” said Terrall Lewis, Page

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RPFriday, October 5, 2012

MPLS farmers market underrated Cydney Froehlich Photo Editor

Photos by Cydney Froehlich

Top: An array of vegetables are available for purchase at the MPLS Farmers Market.

Above: Locals enjoy the variety the MPLS Farmers Market offers.

Right: Apples, oranges, and a multitude of fruits are displayed at the MPLS Farmers Market.

The Minneapolis Farmers Market has been around since 1937 and is still vital to the Twin Cities’ community today.

The Minneapolis Farmers Market has over 230 vendors that occupy 170 stalls. The produce vendors are members of the Central Minnesota Vegetable Growers Association, which means that they directly market the fruits, vegetables, and farmstead products at the Minneapolis Farmers Market. Though not all of the food may be native to Minnesota, it is all grown within the state.

“Students should get used to buying foods that are locally grown because that’s the wave of the future...HHS students can also meet the farmers that are growing these foods,” said Mr. Rob Fuhr, Technology Education.

“The Minneapolis Farmers Market offers nutritious and organic foods, but it also gives students a unique cultural and diverse experience,” said Will Chizek, senior.

The Minneapolis Farmers Market has an atmosphere much like a European-bazaar. HHS students who have never been to Europe or a foreign bazaar can go to the Minneapolis Farmers Market to understand what those markets are like. A huge bonus is that the Minneapolis Farmers Market is located only nine miles from HHS. With thousands of visitors on the weekends, the Minneapolis Farmers Market is a hot spot for students in the Twin Cities.

“Going to the Minneapolis Farmers Market is an authentic Minneapolis experience and I like to support the local economy,” said Ellen Williams, senior. “It’s nice making new relationships with

the vendors and I enjoy using fresh ingredients to make meals.”

The Minneapolis Farmers Market also has many booths that offer prepared foods. People will often munch on pastries, bratwursts, breakfast burritos, and/or mini donuts while shopping.

Every weekend there are events ranging from cooking demos to live music. Also on the weekends some vendors will allow people to sample their products.

Right next to the Farmers Market is the Farmers Market Annex where there is not only more food, but jewelry, clothes, flowers, and artwork are sold as well. The Farmers Market Annex has “Specialty Resellers” where people travel the globe and bring unique products back to Minneapolis to sell to the community. Some of these products come from places such as Poland, the Caribbean, and southeast Asia.

The Farmers Market Annex has Artist Alley and Craftsman Corner on selected Sundays when artists can showcase their work.

The Twin Cities is fortunate to have both the Minneapolis Farmers Market and the Farmers Market Annex. The Minneapolis Farmers Market was rated four and a half stars out of five on yelp.com and the Farmers Market Annex is said to be the best in the Midwest by Star Tribune.

The Farmers Market is open everyday from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m, from the beginning of May until mid November. It is located at the corner of Lyndale and Glenwood Avenue North.

HHS students can take advantage of these markets to promote local farms, as well as enjoy the perks it has to offer.

Other Local Farmers Markets Mill City Farmers Market

704 South 2nd street Minneapolis MN Every Saturday May 12th- Oct. 27th 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Hopkins Farmers Market

One block South of Main on 9th Avenue Every Saturday June 16th-Oct 27th 7:30 - 12:00 PM

St Paul Farmers Market

290 5th Street East St. Paul, MN Saturdays April 28November 17 6:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Fall attractions introduce new activities for students Elise Christianson Staff Reporter Some students find fall a difficult time to find interesting things to do, though there are three upcoming events that may be worth checking out.

The Sever’s Corn Maze and Fall Festival is a family run business started by Sever Peterson and his wife. This year, the corn maze has a farm theme so that people can “harvest memories”.

Creating the maze takes all year.

“We start planning typically kind of late winter, early spring, thinking about our design, what we’re going to do, and then we plant it in may,” said Mrs. Nicola Peterson, daughter-in-law of Sever Peterson.

The work that is done to create the maze is “pretty labor intensive,” according to Mrs. Peterson. About 30 people are recruited to tend to the corn and work the event.

There is also a challenge within the maze that involves searching for pictures with a drawing prize of a $500 visa gift card

“...there’s so much more than a corn maze,” Peterson said. “We are very much a fall festival and there’s so much included in your admission that you could spend all day here...”

There are other activities such as pig races, a corn pit, a pumpkin patch, a giant slide, live music, and an exotic petting zoo.

A wide variety of people attend the festival. “[I have seen] grandma and grandpa with their children...high school kids, and college kids, sometimes in groups or on dates,” Peterson said.

“I like going [to corn mazes], but the people that I’m with is what makes it fun,” said Taylor Beckenbach, junior.

The maze, in past years, has had an average of about 40,000 to 50,000 people in attendance.

Another family run maze is The Twin Cities Corn Maze and Fall Festival that was started by Bert Bouwman and his family.

The Twin Cities maze is Minnesota’s largest corn maze at 19.5 acres. “Think of it more as a harvest festival that just happens to have Minne-

sota’s largest corn maze,” said Ms. Molly Bouwman, wife of Bert Bouwman.

This year, the maze theme honors Minnesota military families. A portion of the ticket sales go to the Minnesota Military Family Foundation, or MMFF, which helps to support the families of deployed soldiers.

The Twin Cities maze has many of the same attractions as the Sever’s Corn maze. “[People] are surprised at how many things there are to do: corn maze, shelled corn pit, huge straw bale maze, live music, petting zoo, plus several other rides and attractions,” Bouwman said.

Of course, fall is when apple orchards start to open.

“Being in an apple orchard isn’t something that’s just for little kids. It’s something you can enjoy over many years, and just the nature of it is so peaceful,” said Meaghan McConnell, senior.

McConnell attended the Pine Tree Apple Orchard last year.

“It’s nice to support the people who bothered

to plant the trees because they put effort into the work that they’re doing,” McConnell said.

variety 7

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RPFriday, October 5, 2012

Ostenso releases first EP

Gannon Youakim Staff Reporter

Like many artists, Max Ostenso, senior, started his journey into the realm of music at a young age. Now he has recorded his first Extended Play (EP).

This type of recording has too many songs to be a single, but not enough to be a standard album. Ostenso’s EP includes six songs.

“It was School of Rock, and then later in life Arctic Monkeys/Alex Turner that made me want to do music,” Ostenso said. “I didn’t really start learning until seventh grade. I took lessons at Buds from seventh grade to freshman year.”

Once he felt experienced enough, Ostenso got together with a group of friends and started a band. When they went their separate ways due to different song preferences, he began recording on his own.

“My friend Cayle, who is going to Hennepin Tech to be a producer, wanted to practice before school started. He helped me record [the EP] track by track on Garageband.”

Garageband is used by many people, including the HHS music tech lab. It makes organizing music easy to manage, and is supported by Apple.

“I mostly play alternative rock,” Ostenso said.

One of his favorite artists, the Arctic Monkeys, also plays this genre. “Only One Who Knows” on Ostenso’s EP is a cover of one of their songs.

Despite the multitude of popular artists, being a professional musician is no easy feat. Many people with musical talents have trouble finding a place to use them.

“I understand that chances of making it big are slim, but I still enjoy is and I will continue to do it,” Ostenso said.

Music may be his focus at this time in his life, but Ostenso has different plans for his future.

“Right now it’s primary, but it is more of a passion than a career pursuit,” Ostenso said.

Ostenso had his recorded for free by a friend, which made it a lot easier on him.

“Don’t spend a lot of money on it because it won’t pay off,” Said Ostenso.

Creating music has multiple purposes, but one takes priority over others according to Ostenso.

“Make music for yourself, because no matter how many people like it or dislike, at the end of the day, if it makes you happy, that’s what really matters,” said Ostenso.

Maddy Fox, senior, recorded vocals on the song “Only One Who Knows” with Ostenso.

“We recorded before he even knew he was gonna do an EP... then later he decided to put it on,” Fox said.

Being a male vocalist, the opportunity to have a woman sing with him creates a variety of tracks.

“His style of music is more relaxed, and female vocals add to that,” Fox said.

Fox has performed with many other groups and bands. Her collection of experience stretches very far back.

The duo perform together on the EP, but

it is not the only time they have paired up.

“Pretty much just this summer we started hanging out, practicing a few covers, and doing a few shows,” said Fox. “I’m in three choirs, [so] I’ve been singing forever.”

MyBurger offers a variety of options Tarina Gartner Business Manager

Above: The cover of Ostenso’s newly released EP entitled Untitled EP. Right: Max Ostenso enjoys playing live. “It’s fun to see people dancing to something that you made,” said Ostenso.

Photo by Bridget Bennett

music at the 2012-2013

center

Every night is student night at HCA concerts! students may purchase up to 2 tickets social hour with free hors 6 pmFulltime d’oeuvres and cash bar

per event at the deeply discounted price of $12 7 pm

concert

Saturday Sets

Take Five Tuesdays

8pm – 9 concerts during the school year including

7pm – 5 concerts during the school year including

Quartet San Francisco

Alison Scott

Aaron Neville

Ruthie Foster

McCoy Tyner

The Pines

Order tickets: • Online 24/7 at

www.HopkinsArtsCenter.com • Box office (Tues-Sat, noon-6pm) at 952-979-1111 • At the door (subject to availability)

Follow us on Facebook:

www.facebook.com/hopkinsartscenter

Halloween Alaska For a complete listing of concerts and other events at the Center, visit

www.HopkinsArtsCenter.com

Hopkins Center for the Arts 1111 Mainstreet, Hopkins

The idea of creating the perfect, personalized burger is now a possibility with MyBurger.

In 2004, MyBurger opened its first location in downtown Minneapolis. Since then, it has opened another location in the Lake Calhoun area next to the frozen yogurt shop, Yogurt Lab. MyBurger has four different categories of burgers to choose from with a total of 15 burgers at the Calhoun location and 12 at the Downtown location. The categories are either the “Original Burger,” the “Just As Good,” the “California Burger,” and the “Kinda Fancy” burger.

The “Original Burger” is a typical American burger with meat, cheese, ketchup and mustard.

In that category, a customer is able to choose from either the “My Burger” or the “Double.”

The “Just As Good” part of the menu consists of healthier choices that include turkey, chicken, fish and veggie burgers. Here, one is able to choose from a total of six different burgers.

A customer can choose either a single or double “California” burger which will have lettuce, tomatoes and mayonnaise.

With the “Kinda Fancy” burgers, one is able to choose from a total of five burgers that include products such as bacon, mushrooms, and different types of cheese.

“I usually get the classic bacon cheese, it’s amazing and I always get a chocolate Oreo malt,” said Kaitlyn Tupper, senior.

A basket of burgers and fries will range anywhere from $5.45 to $6.95 depending on the type of burger. The price can also be more if someone decides to add different toppings to their burger.

The “Top It Off ” options include other toppings that can be added to a burger with no extra cost such as ketchup, mustard, sweet pickles, fried onions, lettuce, tomatoes, mayonnaise, dill pickles, raw onions, or jalapeños. Someone can also “Spiff It Up” with cajun spices, jerk spices, teriyaki sauce, bbq sauce, bacon, mushrooms, or a fried egg each for under $1.

In addition to burgers, MyBurger also offers chocolate, vanilla and strawberry malts. Toppings such as Heath bars, Butterfinger bars, Oreo cookies, and cookie dough can be added in the mix.

When walking into the restaurant visitors first notice decorative malt makers, and jars full of ketchup, mustard, and relish.

“I love how they set everything up, it all looks so perfect and all coordinates together,” said Kristi Kuehn, senior.

“It’s a really great atmosphere with personable staff. [They have] a ton of different burger toppings, and even a veggie burger for vegetarians. It’s like the Chipotle of burgers,” said Dani Usselman, junior.

14. Get a motorcycle

17. Ge pilot

16. Pull an amazing senior prank

Dzintars Lachkaya, 10

Teschina Prier, 12

Stefanie Gedan, 12

15. Publish a book Olivia Newman, 10

4.

2.

3.

1.

1. Parachute Ray’Ann Cora, 10

2.Go on a roadtrip with friends Elise Christianson, 12

2

To p

13. Enlist in the Marine Corps

Shane

3. Knit a sweater

Things you

4. Visit all 50 states

6. Pla around

5. Go to Prom

7. Le

Maggie O’Neil, 11 Carter Eng, 10

Piper Leary, 12

Ma

Joe

et my private 18. Get accepted to the U of M t’s license

20 Van Hoven, 10

MacKenzie Rochow, 11

20. I’ve done it all Jake Beggin, 12

19. Wrestle Marcus Christian Dahl, 12

6.

to do before graduate

ant a garden d the school

addy Fox, 12

earn guitar

e Hedin, 10

5.

8. Skydive

Gretchen Muus, 11

9. Get a tattoo Nicole Galik, 11

10. Have a food fight Madeline Johnson, 12

7.

11. Write a movie script Lucas Foster, 10

12. Start a flashmob Charlie Morrison, 11 Illustrations by Maddy Fox

10 feature 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.

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RP Friday, October 5, 2012

Bates reintroduces himself to HHS

By Naomi Borowsky Feature Editor

Although he has attended Hopkins schools since Kindergarten, Jae Bates, junior, wore a nametag on the first day of school this year.

He wanted to let his friends and teachers know that he had a new name and more than that, a changed gender identity.

Bates was born a female and before coming out as transgender, Jae’s name was Anna.

“I’ve been struggling with gender since I can remember.

When you grow up, you don’t learn about gender. Someone just tells you what you are and then you think if anything varies from that, you’re weird,” said Bates.

Growing up, Bates always expressed his gender the way he wanted, which was rarely a problem until junior high school when some students started teasing him. Bates’ mom told him that perhaps this wouldn’t happen if he dressed like a girl. Bates forced himself to dress more feminine for a week, but he had breakdowns at home and felt uncomfortable.

After meeting a transguy, Bates did some research and realized this was what he identified as. Bates came out as transgender on July 3, 2012.

“Aside from one friend, most people took it well and were comfortable enough to ask me questions,” Bates said.

Bates came out to his mom as transgender over a text message, and she was supportive.

She said she already knew and was researching about what it meant to be transgender.

Bates’ brother has always stood up for him and was proud of him for coming out.

“He sometimes refers to me as his brother, sometimes not. It depends who he’s talking to,”

Bates said.

All of Bates’ teachers call him by his preferred name and gender pronouns. “The school has been really helpful and understanding. I give props to our administration because this isn’t very common,” Bates said.

April Felt, Math, knows Bates from track and field and Gay Straight Alliance (GSA) and has been a supportive adult to him. “I’m someone who’s open and accepting so I told Jae I could do anything at the school level to help,” Felt said.

Since coming out, there have been some challenges for Bates.

“I don’t really use the bathroom at school, and I don’t take gym classes because there aren’t any changing rooms I can use,” Bates said.

Bates’ friend, Mia Berman, junior, has been supportive of him and is looking for solutions to this problem. “At Student Council, I’m advocating for more gender neutral bathrooms in the school since there is only one,” said Berman.

“Something else that’s hard is losing friends, even if it’s only one, because some people are gay friendly but transphobic,” Bates said.

“Dating is complicated.

Once you start developing relationships with new people, it can be hard because you’re in fear of them not being okay with who you are,” Bates said.

There have also been many positives to coming out for Bates. “Now that people know about this, it’s a lot more comfortable for me in school and in public. I have a lot more selfconfidence,” he said.

Bates’ girlfriend, Keisa Helgerson, believes this has brought her closer to Bates. “Before I was calling him the wrong name and pronouns without knowing it. Knowing now makes it easier

Meet the Editors

Ursula Arhart Lydia Wilson Editors-in-Chief

Maddie Shaw Variety

Joel Ratner Opinion

on our relationship because we have that equal understanding,” said Helgerson, HHS graduate.

Bates met many of his friends last year so it’s easier for them to call him the right name.

“Even kids I’ve known since Kindergarten are really trying hard. You can see people looking at me and thinking about what they’re going to call me,” Bates said.

Felt explained that at first she had a hard time remembering to call Bates by the correct name and pronouns. “Know that it’s okay to mess up now and then as long as you’re making efforts,” Felt said.

“I’m really proud of Jae. He’s been understanding of other people’s journey of understanding this,” Felt said.

“The biggest thing is I hope that people will ask me questions if they have questions because I’m totally open to it as long as they’re respectful. Even if I don’t know you, if you approach me respectfully, I’ll answer any question at any time,” Bates said There are other transgender students at HHS besides Bates, but not all speak about it like Bates does. “My biggest suggestion is to come to GSA where we talk about gender. It’s

Rachel Alter Naomi Borowsky Feature

Josh Gallop News

Photos provided by Jae Bates

Top: Bates organized a photoshoot for LGBTQ awareness month.

Bottom: Jae Bates, junior, and his girlfriend pose during the photoshoot.

important to talk to someone,” Bates said.

At GSA, students share their preferred gender pronouns when introducing themselves.

GSA is not only a good resource for students struggling with gender identity, but for anyone who wants to understand more.

There are some things everyone can do to create a more welcoming environment for those struggling with gender.

“Be respectful of people’s expression. Don’t make fun of girls for acting guy-ish and don’t make fun of guys for acting feminine because you never know who’s struggling with this,” Bates said.

Now that Bates has come

Casey Pasko Backpage

out, he’s starting to think about his next steps. “I want to get my name legally changed before I graduate so that on my high school diploma, it will have my preferred name,” Bates said.

Bates hopes to get surgery or hormones in the next 2-3 years.

Before that is possible, he has to go to mandatory trans-therapy at the University of Minnesota for six months, where they make sure he is emotionally ready.

In the end, Bates took off the nametag he was wearing on the first day of school because he felt it wasn’t necessary. “I give huge credit to our student body because I felt comfortable enough to come out,” Bates said.

Eli Badower Thomas Heegaard Sam Bloomfield Hannah Vaughn Sports Web

Joe Greene Tarina Gartner Business

RP Friday, October 5, 2012

feature 11

the

AP Art and Spanish classes paint their way to South America

By Maggie Abel Staff Reporter For most, this summer was a chance to relax with friends and enjoy their days free of school.

For 11 HHS students, this summer was a chance to broaden their experiences, learn about a different culture, and help others.

On June 14, Ms. Stephanie Owen-Lyons, Spanish, and Ms. Randi Rood, Art, led 11 of their students to Ometepe, Nicaragua. Their destination was the small Christian orphanage, CICRIN (Nicaraguan Christian Children’s Center).

As part of their final project, Rood’s AP Drawing and Painting students drew portraits of the 29

kids living in the orphanage.

Rood has wanted to organize a trip like this since she began working with Memory Project, almost six years ago. The Memory Project is a program where students paint portraits of orphaned kids and teens all over the world. Rood added her own twist by having her students hand deliver their portraits.

“Since Stephanie used to live in Nicaragua, is fluent in Spanish, and many of her Spanish students were also my Art students, it was a perfect collaboration for the two of us to chaperone,” Rood said.

CICRIN works to provide love and support to children by giving them all of the care they need.

They provide many services including medical care, education, and food and clothing. CICRIN also provides accommodations for volunteers, like the group from HHS. “Sleeping and eating at the orphanage was a great opportunity to get to know the children.

Students developed close, sweet relationships with the orphan children,” Rood said. After the students gave the kids their portraits, they gave them art lessons with donated supplies. “It was fun to play around with kids who haven’t seen paint before,” said Jack Kuderko, senior. Kuderko was one of Rood’s Art students. He encourages students to participate in school trips.

Owen-Lyons, with the help from Project Minnesota/León, a local group who organize

projects in Nicaragua, organized a homestay for the students in León. For three days, each student was lived with a Nicaraguan family.

While in León, the group climbed a volcano, went swimming in the ocean, and learned how to paint primitivista, the Nicaraguan style of painting.

Climbing Volcan Concepcion was Sophia Showalter’s, junior, favorite part. “All I could think about was ‘I can’t believe I’m doing this. This is a one-in-a-lifetime experience’,” Showalter said.

“It was truly a cultural exchange,” Rood said, “This trip was charmed. All the students were amazing. They were so respectful and tuned into the Nicaraguan culture. I was so proud that these were Hopkins students.”

Far left: Student and orphan play with face paint.

Students taught the kids at the orphanage how to paint.

Above: Students pose for a picture at the oceanfront. The group had some time for relaxing and fun too.

Left: A Nicaraguan orphan receives a portrait done by an AP art student. Each orphan at the orphanage received a portrait.

Photos provided by Elayna Shapiro and Ms.Owens-Lyons

Zelickson family attempts to thrill the Minnetonka community Site at 101 and 7 turning into hang out spot for teenagers and their families

By Joe Greene Business Manager This winter, a brand new attraction will inhabit the old Kmart location on Highway 101 in Minnetonka: Big Thrill Factory.

According to HHS senior Nicole Zelickson, the Big Thrill Factory is “a cross between Chuck E. Cheese, Grand Slam, and Dave and Buster’s.”

And Nicole should know – her father, Barry Zelickson is the creator of the Big Thrill Factory.

This 53,000 square foot indoor/outdoor recreational facility has something for every member of the family: multi-level laser tag, bumper cars, ten trampolines, eighteen holes of mini-golf, bowling, arcade games, a three story climbing area, a twenty-five foot slide, and hand-crafted pizza.

Barry Zelickson wanted to create something fun in his own backyard, and to give something special to the Minnetonka community.

Zelickson’s wife, Lisa agrees, “This is our community. It was always our dream to have a place like this in our neighborhood.”

Barry Zelickson has dedicated two years of careful planning to make sure that the contents and the layout of his new facility are just right.

Now all his hard work has paid off. On September 6th, the Minnetonka City Commission approved the construction of the Big Thrill Factory recreational facility.

Zelickson is no stranger to the entertainment industry. He held the position as president of “Spooky World” - a seasonal horror theme park previously located in both Murphy’s Landing and Canterbury Park. Currently employed at Border’s Foods, Zelickson has taken on the Big Thrill Factory as an added and exciting endeavor.

“My dad is a workaholic. He has given up so much free time with family. But he really does like starting new things” says Nicole Zelickson.

“Luckily I don’t need a lot of sleep,” said Barry Zelickson. “I always find time. When you’re pursuing this kind of industry, it’s quite fun!”

Big Thrill Factory promises unique attractions and good food for a reasonable cost. The appeal to all ages, particularly teenagers, is crucial to Zelickson. He consulted with high school students – among them HHS senior, Abby Kozberg.

“I told him it couldn’t be too childish,” said Kozberg. “It has to appeal to a wide range of ages.”

“People love amusement parks and there hasn’t been a new one in a while,” said Kozberg.

“Kids get bored all the time. Amusement parks don’t get boring. You can’t get sick of laser tag.”

According to Kozberg, two factors give the Big Thrill Factory an edge over its competitors: what the Big Thrill Factory offers and where it’s located.

“Having both indoor and outdoor attractions makes it better than other amusement parks. And

Valley Fair is far away,” said Kozberg. “This is much more convenient.”

Max Engler, senior, agrees, “I can see that the Factory will take off. It’s like Grand Slam, but more appealing for older kids and it’s bigger. It’s also an ideal location.”

“I’m very excited,” said Kozberg. “I plan to be there opening night.”

Before the Big Thrill Factory can officially undergo construction, the Minnetonka City Council will need to approve the facility’s final elements.

If all is approved at the October 8th meeting, the Big Thrill Factory will open its doors this January.

For the Zelickson family this new venture is about giving something new to their neighbors and their community.

But it is more than that. “It is about leaving a legacy,” said Lisa Zelickson. “We would love our grandchildren to be able to experience the Big Thrill Factory.”

12 feature

the

RPFriday, October 5, 2012

Bonjour! Seniors studying abroad write to HHS to say hello The first in a series of letters from students studying abroad this term

I’m Becca Gorlin, a senior at Hopkins High School…well normally. Right now, I don’t attend HHS. Instead, I go to the Lycée Marcelin Berthelot in Châtellerault, France.

For the first six months of my senior year I decided to study abroad. I am an exchange student so I attend Lycée (high school). In addition, I get to experience French culture by living with a host family. I live in a beautiful old city, Châtellerault, in the Poitou-Charentes region of France. To sum up my experience here is difficult. I think it’s easier to understand by following an average day.

7:20) Eat breakfast with family. This usually

The traffic on the streets of Châtellerault, France.

Gorlin encounters this spot on her way to school everyday.

consists of baguette with butter and hot chocolate.

After breakfast, we leave the house and walk to school.

8:00) School begins. (The warning bell for class here is the theme song of the “Pink Panther”!) I have 2 hours straight of math followed by another 2 hours of gym class. Gym is intense here and everyone takes it very seriously. We do everything from badminton to l’acrosport (acrobatics/dance).

12:00) Dejeuner et repos! (Lunch time and break.) We have two hours to relax and eat at the cafeteria. The school food here is amazing!

It is literally gourmet. There is always a baguette,

cheese, the main course for the day, fresh fruit, vegetables, salad, desserts, etc. After eating, I will study in the library, go home, or walk around the city for an hour.

14:00) I return to class. It’s history so I get to sit through another 2 hours of lecturing. After history, I go to philosophy or economics & social sciences. After those courses, I might have an English language class (The only class I excel in!). Or I have the history of the United States, which is also in English. Sorry to all the sophomores complaining about APUSH right now, but the history of America class here is more detailed and difficult than APUSH at Hopkins! (I

Gorlin posing in front of the Eiffel Tower.

She was visiting Paris from her town, Châtellerault.

One of Gorlin’s everyday views in the Poitou-Charentes region of France.

She often spends part of her lunch time walking around the city and taking photos.

energy, and health care reform. Today, it continues to rally support for Obama and the Democratic Party.

Citizens are able to take a role in the campaign and make a change through social media, phone calls, fundraising events, and writing about Obama and the campaign to raise awareness.

Students get involved by participating in campaign events and making others aware of the issues.

“Once a week, students go to the phone bank at the Hopkins campaign office to make calls to citizens, trying to get their support for Obama,” said Hausman.

The HHS team has a group on Facebook that allows its 24 members to hear about what is going on with the campaign and what they can do to help in the community.

“Participating in OFA is important to me because it’s a way for me to get involved in politics and have my voice be heard as a citizen of the US. ” said Emma Schroer, senior, and an active member in OFA. “The Hopkins students that I’ve had the plea-

sure of working with and mentoring have been extraordinary. It’s very humbling to see such young people, some even too young to vote, commit their time and energy for a cause that is so much larger than themselves.” McFarren said.

“It’s rare for adolescents to have such a grasp on not only their immediate community climate, but on the national political one as well and I see that here in Hopkins.” McFarren said.

“This club can make such a difference in our school. It’s a big deal to get the youth involved because we’re the future of the country,” Schroer said.

Before the election, the HHS team for OFA will set up a booth at lunch to get eligible voters registered.

“I would like to see the HHS community become more politically aware,” Hausman said. “I want to see as many people voting as possible, no matter who they’re voting for.”

Organizing for America works to give Americans, and HHS students, the opportunity to support Obama and the causes that are important to them as well as have their voices heard.

would know because I took APUSH.) 18:00) Finally finished with school. I walk home with my sisters. Back home, we have goûter (an afternoon snack). This can be bread and nutella, cookies, Spéculoos (a spread made from crushed cookies that is similar to peanut butter), or chocolate. There is a lot of chocolate in my diet because it is cheap here compared to America. After snack, I work on homework.

20:00) We have Dîner (Dinner). Dinner is at a later time and usually lasts one to one and half hours. After the main course, we have cheese and yogurt for dessert.

À bientôt Becca

Photos by Becca Gorlin

Hausman takes political action for Obama

By Phoebe Cohen Staff Reporter

The election campaign that has dominated the news, media, and minds of the majority of Americans has been making an impact on the student body at HHS as well.

Caleb Hausman, senior, is in charge of the HHS team for Organizing for America (OFA).

He works with students to help them advocate for their beliefs and get involved in the OFA campaign for Obama.

Chelsea McFarren is the Deputy State Youth Vote Director for the Obama Campaign here in Minnesota. She works with Hausman and the other students at HHS who want to get involved in OFA. “Caleb Hausman has been an exceptional voice for students at Hopkins and he has been a committed and reliable volunteer throughout his duration with the campaign.” said McFarren.

Organizing for America was started by Obama when he was first elected and now spans over all 50 states. It was formed as a way to help gain support for his policies and plans including education,

Are you a team captain that’s serious about your Royal Athletics?

The Royal Page is looking for captains who would like to contribute to a sports blog hosted on the royalpage.org Captains could contribute information weekly about upcoming games and/or highlights from previous games or practice tips and info.

If you’re interested, send us an email at royalpage@gmail.com

sports 13

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RPFriday, October 5, 2012

Football team “shocking the world” out of state Sam Parker Staff Reporter

Off to one of its most impressive starts in the past decade, the HHS football team has benefited substantially from playing two out of state teams and traveling out of state once.

Before the season began, the Royals found themselves with an interesting scheduling dilemma. They play in a five team conference and have to fill an eight game schedule. With only 32 6-A football schools in the state, the Royals had to look out of state to fill the void in their schedule.

“The Minnesota State High School League has a rule that Minnesota high schools can only play in-state teams and travel to play teams from the surrounding horseshoe states including North and South Dakota, Iowa, and Wisconsin. North and South Dakota and Iowa have binding schedules, while Wisconsin and Minnesota do not,” said Mr. Dan Johnson, athletic director.

For the first game of the season, Johnson was contacted by the coach of Episcopal High School in Bellaire, Texas, a suburb of Houston. He had previously worked at Minnetonka High School, and he wanted to travel back to Minnesota to play against a team from his home state. The Royals came away with a significant 20-14 victory to start their season in correct form.

“The team from Texas was a hard opponent and playing out of state teams is definitely an exciting experience,” said quarterback JT DenHartog, senior.

For the Royals’ second out of state game, Johnson contacted the Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association (WIAA) and ended up scheduling an away game against the Alexander Hamilton Wildcats of Milwaukee.

“I went on the WIAA website and saw that Milwaukee Hamilton was open. I called their

Photos by Kim Ruckdaschel-Haley Running back David Cliett (5), senior, evades a Milwaukee Hamilton defender. Cliett provides a balance for the Royals strong air attack.

Photos by Kim Ruckdaschel-Haley Charlie Giulliani (2), senior, fights off an Episcopal defender.

Giuliani is one of many weapons in the Royals arsenal.

athletic director, she worked on the date with us, and we agreed to that particular date,” Johnson said.

The Royals played the Hamilton Wildcats on September 15 and came away with a dominating 49-0 victory. Hamilton was known to have been a weaker opponent, but this victory after the 5 hour and 45 minute drive down to the shores of Lake Michigan was an important one.

“Milwaukee was awesome. A lot of the second and third stringers stepped up,” said Zach

out of state for a game. That year, they traveled to Menomonie, Wisconsin and also played a team from Kingsford, Michigan.

“I think it’s good to play teams from all over to get a diverse amount of schemes,” said Chris Rozek, senior.

The Royals have two remaining regular season games left this season and both are against division foes. The games are at Wayzata on October 12, and at home against Minnetonka in the season finale on October 17.

Condon, junior.

Although the players enjoyed the experience, Johnson said that out of state games are not very cost effective and he hopes that in the future, all games can be played within a 20-mile radius of the school.

“We would much rather play a team from suburban St. Paul than traveling ridiculous distances,” Johnson said.

This marked the first time since the 20062007 season that the HHS football team traveled

Cross Country team shows hard work pays off in 2012

Alex Felemovicius Staff Reporter

Many fall sports teams are off to good starts this year, and the HHS Boys Cross Country Team is no different, having won their first three meets.

Throughout the 2011-2012 season, the team won one meet out of seven, and placed fourth in the conference and section meets. The team has improved despite the loss of last year’s seniors.

“It has not been that hard to replace last year’s seniors because we simply just reloaded,” said Mr. Mike Harris, science and cross country coach.

“The kids were already there, and all they had to do was file into different positions and take on some different roles.”

Their efforts began early in the summer, with a lot more training and hard work during the off season.

“This season has been different so far because we have trained a lot more than past years,” said Reed Fischer, senior. “We have had more summer workouts, which has made us have a different mindset and determination.”

During the summer, the team would wake up early and run, to prepare them for the upcoming season. The team would work out twice a day, running up to two hours in the morning and 30 to 60

minutes in the afternoon.

They have won their past three meets, including a two point victory against the Perham High School Yellow Jackets. Perham High School is ranked as the best A team in the state.

“The reason our team has been so successful this season is because we are running way better than previous years. We have a very solid varsity squad,” Fischer said.

“Our team has greatly succeeded this year because our top three are faster than they have ever been and we are much faster as a team,” said Joe Klecker, sophomore.

Coach Harris has helped the team maintain a good mindset. They are confident and ready for success.

“I think that if you talk to the team, they would say that they are considered to be a top tiered team in the midwest, because they definitely have shown some really good things to demonstrate that,” Harris said.

As a co-captain for the 2012-2013 season, Reed Fischer has taken on some different roles.

Fischer has planned a way where he can reach out to his teammates and help them succeed throughout the season.

“As captain, to maintain this years success I

(From left to right) Will Jones, senior, Reed Fischer, senior, Joe Klecker, sophomore, Thomas Heegaard, senior, Owen Hoeft, freshman, and Jack Henschel, freshman, wearing their medals after winning the Lucky Lindy meet.

will, on the varsity level, make a good showing at state. For the JV team, I will do my best to get their level up to best performance for varsity,” Fischer said.

The team hopes to continue their success

Photo by Lisa Pavelka

through the rest of this year and for the future.

“I think as a team, we want to create a habit of success,” Klecker said. “It’s important that we stay focused and work hard to remain successful and have a good season.”

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RP Friday, October 5, 2012

Swenson uses international experience to lead HHS Sam Bloomfield Sports Editor Millions of kids fantasize about excelling at their favorite sport, and one day maybe even representing their country. For Sam Swenson, sopho-

more, that fantasy became a reality.

Last July, Swenson joined the U.S.A. Youth National Team to compete in the European Global Challenge Tournament.

Swenson tried out earlier in the year with many of the best 16 and under players in the country.

Photo by Vicki Swenson Sam Swenson (lower left), sophomore, poses for team photo with rest of the 16 and under U.S.A. team.

They took fourth place in the tournament

She and 11 others were selected to join the team.

“I was really surprised and excited when I heard I had made the team,” Swenson said. “It was unbelieveable, I never imagined it could really happen.”

The team went to Italy first for five days before the tournament to practice and prepare. They then traveled to Croatia to compete in the tournament.

Mrs. Vicki Swenson, HHS volleyball coach, and Mr. Erik Swenson, social studies, traveled to Europe with their daughter to support her.

“She may never make a team like this again, so we really wanted to go and support her,” Vicki said.

Sam’s team took fourth place in the tournament, losing to a collegiate level U.S.A. team.

“It was very humbling to be with so many great players on and off the court,” Sam said, “and I was just proud to wear U.S.A. on my back.”

Sam’s experience in this tournament was different than usual. She was one of three setters on the team, all of them among the top in the country.

“She had to adjust to not always being the top dog, and sometimes filling up water bottles for her teammates instead of being out on the court,” Vicki said.

At HHS, however, that is not the case. One of two setters, Swenson plays a commanding role on the team.

“She is very driven in many different ways, volleyball specifically,” Vicki said. “She is the type of kid that if you give the team a day off, she is disappointed.”

With Sam’s talent as well as the strong presence of seniors, the HHS volleyball team is off to a stellar start to the season so far, only losing one game in non-conference play.

“The team is playing so well this year because not only do we have a lot of talent, but we are also such good friends that we are able to transfer that onto the court,” said Nora Reed, senior.

The 2011-2012 season was plagued with injuries for the Royals, but there are many returning starters from last year’s team.

“We never got together from injuries last year until the end, and then we were great,” Vicki said.

“This year a lot of those players are back, so I’m not surprised at all by our success this year.”

With a healthy team this year, the Royals have their minds set on winning the conference and sectionals, and advancing to state.

With her European adventure behind her, Sam has her eyes set on a successful high school season, but the experience from Croatia will always be a defining part of her.

“I wasn’t only representing the U.S.A.,” Sam said, “I was representing Minnesota and Hopkins, and I’m proud of that.”

Alguindigue’s return breeds success for boys soccer team Eli Badower Sports Editor After a two year absence, Pablo Alguingigue, junior, returned to the HHS boys soccer team this fall.

Alguindigue went to Hopkins through 8th grade, until his father took a job in Florida. He is now back at HHS after his dad took a job in Chicago.

“The weather is colder, but it’s exciting to see all my old friends”, said Alguindigue, “It’s cool to see how people have changed in two years.”

Losing Alguindigue was tough for the team.

He made varsity for the first time in 8th grade.

“There was a considerable talent gap, even then, between Pablo and the rest of the team,” said captain Alex Lapp, senior. “He was a big part of our future plans.”

It has been a big adjustment on the field. Soccer players in Minnesota play high school during the season, and club in the offseason.

“In Florida I was playing a lot more club while in Minnesota its a lot more focused on high school, which is more of a good time for me,” Alguindigue said. “The style and speed of play is a lot different in Florida, but I’ve been able to adjust.”

The adjustment off-the-field has been almost as big. He was gone for two years and kept in touch with some, but not very many of his old friends.

“It’s been hard to try to reconnect with friends that I haven’t talked to since I left,” Alguindigue said.

Lapp has helped Alguindigue adjust to playing with a totally new team, having not played with anyone on the current team at the varsity level.

“I’ve tried helping him get accustomed to the new team,” said Lapp, “We all know how to play with each other, and I wanted to make sure he [Alguindigue] knows his responsibility as a playmaker.”

Alguindigue returns to high expectations by teammates who remember what he was capable of.

“We had high hopes for him before he left,” Lapp said. ”We thought he had the potential to be like Sam Kessler.” Kessler graduated from HHS in 2010, and was a candidate for Mr. Soccer. He ended up going to the University of WisconsinMadison to play soccer.

The team, including new head coach Justin Hegre, is excited to have Alguindigue back.

“Pablo’s a game changer,” said Hegre. ”Anytime he’s on the field he’s dangerous. When the ball is at his feet the other team is always worrying.”

Hegre didn’t know what to expect when he heard Alguindigue was coming back.

“I had never seen him play before but I heard positive things,” Hegre said. “I didn’t know his size, his position, or his skill set, I just knew he was a solid player.”

Alguindigue’s role is much different now than it was before he left.

“The development I’ve had has changed my outlook on the game,” Alguindigue said. “Before I left I was here to learn, and now I’m here to teach.”

The news that Alguindigue would return to HHS was a surprise to many.

“I was surprised because I heard he was having fun in Florida,” Lapp said, “but I was also excited because I knew he could be the playmaker that we needed.”

In addition to his contributions on the field, Alguindigue is making an impact off-the-field.

“Pablo’s an easygoing kid and he gets along with everybody,” Lapp said. “He really helps team chemistry.”

Having Alguindigue back has helped the team in an area where they were not strong a season ago.

“He makes us way more potent on offense,” Lapp said, “It’s just too bad he wasn’t here last season.”

Alguindigue (10), junior, dangles a defender on his way to the goal. They cruised to a 4-0 victory against Anoka.

Photo by Jim Speich

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sports 15 RP Friday, October 5, 2012 Eighth grader swims above the rest, makes varsity Hillary Donovan Staff Reporter On a team made up entirely of freshmen and high school students, Kate Glover, eighth grader, makes her own mark. Landing a spot on the HHS varsity swim team, Glover is the youngest to make the cut.

Glover, who started her varsity swimming career in 7th grade, has placed at the top of the HHS swim team.

“Kate earned a spot on our varsity team due to her times. As a seventh grader, she excels in the distance events and was our top 200 and 500 freestyle swimmer,” said Mr. Nate Kremer, swimming coach. “She also fits in well with our varsity group and trains at a very high level.”

This year, Glover’s fastest is the 200 and 500 freestyle and the 200 IM. Typically, athletes don’t make a varsity sport until they are in high school, so being in eighth grade, the pressure can be overwhelming. On the varsity team there is one eighth grader, three freshmen, two sophomores, seven juniors, and four seniors, so the pressure of being the only eighth grader could present a challenge.

“It’s definitely a good feeling being the youngest, but also a challenge because you know the older girls have a lot more experience than you,” Glover said.

“I think the diversity of ages can be a very pos-

Spotlight Athlete

itive thing, this allows girls who are older to assume leadership roles, and gives our younger girls a strong training and peer group to be around,” Kremer said.

Glover quickly discovered that age doesn’t matter on the team.

“A lot of the of the younger swimmers are really good so it doesn’t really make a difference what age they are,” said Sarah Hedberg, senior. “She’s

Kate Glover (second from left), eighth grade, preparing to do her 500 meter freestyle. She led the team last year in 200 and 500 freestyle.

The month in review vs.

Quarterback JT Denhartog, senior, led Hopkins over 10th ranked Champlin Park 37-32, by throwing for 279 yards and 3 touchdowns (09/17/12).

vs.

Hopkins won three straight sets to sweep Wayzata (16-25, 22-25, 16-25) in a dominating victory, moving HHS to 4th in the state, ahead of Wayzata.

vs.

Hopkins records first victory of season, winning 3-1 against conference foe Minnetonka. Sami Pierau, senior leads the way with a hat trick (09/26/12).

Name: Margaret McDonnell Grade: 12 Sport: Tennis Athletic Idol: Maria Sharapova Favorite Memory: “Playing doubles with Shelby (Benkofske, junior) and beating Chanhassen.

really good and fast, so swimming at the varsity level isn’t a problem.”

“She is approaching her best times from last year, and is training very well. We expect her to have a shot at qualifying for state this year,” Kremer said.

If Glover does qualify for state, she will be one of the youngest girls at the competition, because no other seventh graders qualified last year. Not

The month to come vs.

Hopkins takes on second ranked Eden Prairie (10/09/12) after losing 3 sets to 1 in their September matchup.

Player to watch: Middle blocker Nora Reed, senior has provided good leadership and stellar play on the court.

vs.

Hopkins takes on conference rival Minnetonka (10/17/12) in final home game of the season.

Player to watch: Running back David Cliett, senior leads team with 509 rushing yards and 5 touchdowns, averaging 101.8 yards per game on the ground.

vs.

The girls soccer team takes on Armstrong in their final game of the season at home (10/6/12).

Player to watch: Goalie Gretchen Patterson, sophomore, has stepped up big this season after the graduation of longtime varsity goalie Jenny Grahek.

only will she be one of the youngest, she will be one of the only swimmers from HHS. Last year only three swimmers qualified to go to state from HHS, landing the team in 20th place in the state.

Glover is working hard in training, trying to keep her motivation up. “Knowing you have to work hard because you have to earn your spot and you have to keep up keeps me going,” Glover said.

“It is mostly just fun.”

Photo by Cydney Froehlich

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RP Friday, Oct. 5, 2012

“During practices we go for rides in the backyard, the woods behind HHS, or by the water tower.”

Bjorn Leach, senior

Right: Bjorn Leach, senior, speeds down the trail at the Salem Hills race on September 9.

HHS takes wheels off-road with new mountain biking club

Photo By Nathan Myers

By Casey Pasko Back Page Editor

In the winter, Sarah Benton, senior, skis; in the spring, she runs track, and the rest of the year, she takes her wheels to some of the area’s growing single track mountain bike trails.

Benton was a key player in starting Mountain Biking Club at HHS. “I have friends across the country that have fun mountain biking, and I thought that Hopkins could join in,” said Benton

Bjorn Leach, senior, helped start the club. Benton and Leach participate in Nordic Skiing together, and their coach encouraged them to put together a club.

Mountain Biking has practices three times a week at HHS, meeting at the bus parking lot. Drills, technique, and general bike handling skills are taught. On the weekends, they ride a variety of courses to get

used to trails and long rides.

The club has four races, at Inver Grove Heights, Rochester, White Tail Ridge in River Falls, and Buck Hill.

The race lengths vary according to class.

“Our stronger guys bike 20 miles, which will take an average of two hours, but our beginners will bike eight miles, and that will take them from a little under to a little over an hour,”

said Benton.

“I want to open people’s eyes to the mountain biking world that will be more available in years to come,” said Benton.

Photo By Nathan Myers

Above: Harris Dirnberger, senior, comes around a bend through the woods at the club’s race in Rochester, September 23.

Left: The team poses with coach Mary VanPilsum-Johnson (far left), at a race.

“We teach basic handling such as turning, obstacles, how to ride up steep hills, and how to remain safe while biking downhill.”

Photo By Cole Feagler

Sarah Benton, senior