The Royal Page - October 2016

the

page

ROYAL

Monday, October 31, 2016

VOLUME 35, ISSUE 2 ELECTION 2016

VS. 2016 Presidential Election IN-DEPTH, p.6-7 photos provided by Creative Commons

Royals at sections

www.hopkinsrp.org Royal Page awarded at Journalism Convention

The Hopkins Royals played Shakopee on Sept.

20 at Shakopee.

Royals won against the Sabres 41-20.

Senior Rock painted as Pride flag

by James Gulden Staff Reporter On Oct. 23, like many before them, four students came to HHS in the middle of the night to do a little redecorating. Zoey Burt, senior, Car Thie, senior, Armand Martinez, junior, and Luke Yourzak, junior, have taken credit for repainting the senior rock to the colors of the rainbow pride flag, a symbol of the LGBTQ+ movement.

The repainting of the rock has been a tradition at HHS for a long time, and until then, it had sported a gold and orange look with “Class of 2017” written across it. Burt considers the repainting a visual improvement.

“Painting the rock was really fun. It was ugly before, and now it represents the diversity of HHS.” Burt said.

The origin of the repainting created some confusion among HHS. The official HHS Twitter account tweeted a picture of the rock, with the caption “GSA Club shows off their Hopkins Royal Pride.” However, Sam Clague, senior and copresident of Gender and Sexuality Alliance (GSA), denies any connection with the rock’s new look.

Read the full story at hopkinsrp.org

photo by Abby Doeden

by Kyle Miller Sports Blogger

Cross Country: Girls placed sixth in sections, and Boys placed fourth, with both teams having two individual State qualifiers.

Football: finished 3-5 and had a fourth seed in sections.

Girls Swim and Dive: Girls Swim and Dive will compete in sections Nov. 10.

Girls Tennis: Girls tennis team made it to the section finals where they lost to Edina.

Boys soccer: finished 7-7-2 and had a third seed in sections.

Girls soccer: finished 11-6-1 and had a third seed in sections.

Bit Klecker runs int the St. Olaf meet on Sept. 2. In this meet, she was a top 20 finisher. photo by Bea Frank

Volleyball: finished 25-1 and had a first seed in sections.

photos provided by Creative Commons

by Abby Doeden Print Editor-in-Chief

On Oct. 4, The Royal Page attended the Minnesota State Journalism Convention at the University of Minnesota.

The Minnesota High School Press Association (MSHPA) hosted this event.

Currently, their primary focus for Minn. is to help gain more rights for student journalists. Because of this, their primary speaker was Frank LoMonte, with the Student Press Law Center, who advocated for student press rights.

At the convention, we also received second place in the Best in Show category for the first edition of the Royal Page this year, and a gold award meriting our work during the 2015-16 school year.

“This award is proof of our commitment to present accurate facts and feature student life. We can’t wait to share more of our awardwinning papers with you this year,” said Michael Korsh, Managing Editor.

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photos provided by Creative Commons

Katie Donovan finds passion for politics

by Jordyn Petty Staff Reporter It was just a normal day for Katie Donovan, senior. She was visiting the Minn. Capital, when she ran into Terri Bonoff, a candidate running for congress in Minnesota’s third district. After some small talk, Bonoff asked if Donovan wanted to intern.

Ever since, Donovan has been working side-by-side with Bonoff on her campaign.

“Working with Terri has been such an eye opening experience,” Donovan said. “It made me realize the little things. Most people pay attention to the presidential race, but really it is important to look locally.”

Donovan was first on the field team for the Bonoff campaign.

Her main priority was talking to undecided voters. She made a lot of phone calls and talked to the public about how important it is to have a congresswoman that reflects what the people want.

Now that the election is closing in, Donovan is focusing on getting out yard signs and finding volunteers to deliver them.

“At the office, when you walk in, it’s [always] different staff doing different things,” Donovan said. “I check in with a field director and ask what’s going on. Now it’s to the point where I know what I’m supposed to be doing.”

On Oct. 29, President Obama released a video publically endorsing Bonoff. Earlier in the campaign Vice President, Joe Biden, also endorsed Bonoff.

Katie with Terri Bonoff at the Bonoff campaign office Bloomington.

photo provided by Katie Donovan

“I got a text in a groupchat that I am in with all of the other staff members and we were all geeking out,” Donovan said. “She definitely deserves that, she works so hard. I don’t know how she sleeps.”

After being so involved to the congressional race, Donovan urges students to pay attention to what’s going on in their community.

“[Working with Bonoff ] has made me realize how important congressional races are,” Donovan said. “Most people pay attention to the presidential race, but it is very important to look locally.”

After working so close with a campaign, Donovan realizes how different the presidential race has been compared to other races in the past.

“Seeing the whole campaign with Hillary and Trump and how negative it is is sad. It’s really just one big show,” Donovan said. “It doesn’t show the passionate side of wanting to be president.”

Donovan’s mother, Wendy Donovan, has always told her and her sisters that they need to form their own beliefs. It wasn’t until Wendy became Yvonne Selcer’s campaign manager that Katie knew she wanted to become involved in politics.

“I saw a lot of the behind the scenes and it made me want to pay more attention to what’s going on because politics is where change actually happens,” Katie said.

After working with the Bonoff campaign, Katie believes that politics may be the right place for her. The internship helped Katie open her eyes and many doors for herself in the political world.

“I definitely want to continue working on campaigns,” Katie said. “Eventually being a candidate is something I hope to see myself doing in the future.”

RPMonday, October 31, 2016

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130 Juniors take national PSAT test

by Maya Kupritz Staff Reporter

During a couple weeks in October, the Pledge of Allegiance was not announced during Monday advisory. The silence over the PA was attributed to an oversight and absence of one of the people who regularly recites the pledge.

Pledge of Silence

photo by Bea Frank

by Jordyn Petty Staff Reporter

On Sept. 19 the Pledge of Allegiance wasn’t recited during Monday advisory. For the next two weeks, advisory would continue to be silent over the loudspeaker.

Although HHS has missed the pledge during advisory in past years, the silence over the loudspeaker during the last few weeks of Sept. caused some questions amongst students because of the current controversy over the anthem during sporting games.

Mary O’Neil, sophomore, said the pledge every week at her elementary school. All the way from kindergarten to sixth grade.

“Our school doesn’t recite [the Pledge of Allegiance] once a week. It doesn’t make sense,” O’Neil said.

Mr. Doug Bullinger, principal, was unaware that the pledge had not been recited in three weeks when the Royal Page ap-

proached him.

“There’s no reason at all for us to not recite the pledge,” Bullinger said. “We haven’t stopped.”

Ms. Linda Yesnes, Administrative Coordinator, who regularly recites the pledge over the loudspeaker had been absent during some of the Monday advisories that the pledge was not recited.

The pledge has always been more consistent than not.

Sometimes it will come on the loudspeaker right after the first bell of advisory and other times not until the end of advisory.

“The school wants students to be proud citizens of the United States but they won’t say the Pledge,” O’Neil said. “I don’t get it.”

The United States is one of the few countries who has a pledge to it’s flag. 43 states require that the Pledge of Allegiance be recited by a teacher in

Clowns have recently been reported around Hopkins, stirring up fear in some students.

photo provided by Wikimedia Commons

Clown craze reaches Hopkins

by Sebastien Karo News Editor

Reports of clowns across the nation caused widespread paranoia and fear the past few weeks and recently sightings have been reported here in Hopkins.

Most officials say that these clown sightings are simply rumors spread by social media, which is true in most cases. For example, a 15 year old girl from Bloomington created a fake Facebook account titled ‘Kroacky Klown’ and posted: “Should I come to Hopkins and kill?”

Many parents and kids saw this and were rightfully concerned, however the girl only created the account to scare her boyfriend.

each classroom or by an administrative member over the intercom, Minnesota is one of them.

Although not reciting the pledge was unintentional, it still confused some students.

“The school tries to teach us to be law abiding citizens and yet they are not,” O’Neil said.

While some students have expressed their frustration, others disagree.

“It takes time away from learning,” said Nick Ghose, senior. “We should not be forced to recite the pledge.”

A Minnesota State Statute says that public schools are required to recite the Pledge of Allegiance once a week, unless it is voted against by a majority of the school board.

“There was no majority vote against it from the school board,” Bullinger said. “The act of doing the Pledge of Allegiance is an opportunity for students to stand and show their

allegiance to the United States, to the flag and everything it stands for.”

On Oct. 10, the weekly announcements were spoken over the loudspeaker.

“To all that are interested, please stand for the Pledge,” was announced to the whole school over the intercom, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

For the first time in three weeks, HHS recited the Pledge of Allegiance.

After the administration saw students’ concerns about the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance, HHS has recited the pledge, for all students who choose to participate, during every Monday advisory.

“I didn’t believe it to be intentionally avoided,” said Ms. Alyson Purdy, science. “It was an oversight that needed to be corrected.”

Hopkins police, on the other hand, saw it as a threat to the community and arrested the teenage girl for ‘malicious threats.’

Although most of these threats are simply rumors, days ago, Kirsten Magaard and Makenzie Merritt, seniors, came in contact with a clown first-hand.

“We were going to open pitching at Alice Smith, but the doors were locked so I went back to my car. When I pulled out to leave, a clown came from the parking lot and ran in front of me,” Magaard said.

The supposed clown did not pursue Magaard or Merritt, but they were very shocked and a wave of fear washed over them upon seeing this clown.

“I slowed down because I didn’t want to hit it and then drove straight home,” Magaard said.

Maggie Cleary, senior, experienced a similar clown encounter that same night.

“There was a clown right outside my house in my neighborhood.

I didn’t see it myself, but my neighbors saw it and I was terrified,” Cleary said.

Cleary jokingly admitted that if she ever did see a clown in person, it wouldn’t be laughing much longer.

“I don’t think [the clowns] have actually done anything, but I think they’re terrifying and they should be gone,” Cleary said. “If I was in a car I probably wouldn’t hesitate to hit it full speed because clowns terrify me.”

In response to these clown reports, HHS administration released an announcement stating that clown suits will not be allowed on Halloween.

On Wed, Oct. 19, 130 junior students took the PSAT/ NMSQT. The PSAT is the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test and is a standardized test administered by the College Board and cosponsored by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) in the United States.

The PSAT is not a mandatory test but students want to try and place themselves into the “highly advanced students” category, and also it’s very good practice for the SAT or even the ACT. “I took the PSAT so I would have a better understanding on both my academic strengths and the areas for growth,” said Carly Bass, junior. “I also want to gain a better understanding for the SAT structure, as well as the experience of taking a test similar to the SAT.” The PSAT test started at 7:47am and ended at 11:40am.

They get 60 mins for the Reading section, 35 mins for the Writing and Language section, 25 mins for the Math test/No calculator, then 45 mins for the Math/With calculator.

“About 1.6 million juniors in more than 22,000 high schools entered the 2017 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the 2015 Preliminary SAT/

National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test, which served as an initial screen of program entrants,” NMSC stated (National Merit Scholarship Corporation.)

Approximately 3.5 million students take the PSAT each year, and out of those 3.5 million students, 16,000 students are entered into the Semifinalist in the 62nd annual National Merit Scholarship Program.

The only way students can make it into the semifinalists is if they are in the 99th percentile.

If a student makes it into the semifinalists, those seniors have an opportunity to continue in the competition for one of the 7,500 National Merit Scholarships in total worth about $33 million that will be offered in the spring.

In the past three years, various students at HHS have been nominated for this scholarship.

There were eight in the class of 2015, two in the class of 2016, and three current seniors in the class of 2017. All of those students who have been nominated have shown HHS teachers, students, and administration, all of the hard work they have put forth throughout the high school year and what good it was for them to take the PSAT.

2016-17 National Merit Semifinalists Ivy Johnson, Maxim Peng, and London Lowmanstone with Mr. Doug Bullinger, principal. These students took the PSAT last year to qualify for this award. photo provided by Jolene Goldade

Term One: in Review

HHS students look back at the first term of the 2016-17 school year “First term has gone by very smooth because I’ve been taught by very helpful teachers.”

Fatima Stall, junior

“First term has gone by well. The only challenge is getting used to the school.”

Joe Fahnbulleh, sophomore

“I feel like the first term was a wake up call. My grades are good, but some classes are a struggle.”

Aja Davis, senior

photos by Deveraux Davis

RPMonday, October 31, 2016

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3news

HHS hosts Memorial Blood Center tri-annual blood drive

by Deveraux Davis Staff Reporter On Oct. 12, HHS held a blood drive that was sponsored by the Memorial Blood Drive Center. Prior to the blood drive, students were sent an email providing information about the event. The email stated that students 17 and older could sign themselves up, but students 16 and under had to have parent permission in order to donate.

According to the Memorial Blood Drive center website, they’ve been saving lives for 65 years. The Memorial Blood Drive center is a Minnesota based, non profit organization, and it’s Minnesota’s largest community blood center.

The Memorial Blood Drive Center is striving to value integrity, respect, synergy, service and excellence. About one in seven people who enter a hospital will need blood and an estimated five million people need blood transfusions each year in the U.S. Ms. Bobbi Pointer, HHS nurse, directs the blood drive and is very passionate about students donating blood.

“Each unit of blood a person donates can save three people's lives. Blood goes to people who are severely sick with cancer and other fatal injuries. It’s great to see kids donate blood,” Pointer said.

HHS will have this event three times a year so students that want to donate but don't have time don't miss their opportunity to donate blood. Last year, HHS students donated a total of 194 units of blood in the three blood drives.

Pointer wants to stress that every student who is eligible to donate, should. According to Pointer, someone needs blood every two seconds and Memorial Blood Center serves over 30 hospitals that need over 2,000 units of blood a week to meet the demand.

“Blood needs to be available twenty four seven to meet the needs of patients who have cancer, pre-mature babies, and trauma victims, to name a few,” Pointer said.

Many students participated in the blood drive even if they were a little worried to do it.

“I’m nervous about donating because I don't want it to hurt. But it makes me feel good saving someone's life and that is why I’m doing it,” said Lydsey Thompson, junior.

Bullinger changes school start time this morning

by Sam Leervig Staff Reporter Currently, HHS is the earliest starting high school in the Lake Conference. Starting today, HHS will be starting at 7:50 a.m.

“The 7:47 start time strikes almost everyone I've talked to as a rather odd start time,” Bullinger said.

Aside from the awkward start time, passing time has also been an issue in the past weeks that has gone into consideration to this decision. Students

at HHS have had their passing time cut from eight minutes down to five minutes.

“The eight minute passing time is more than enough time between classes, bordering on too much time. It's good to have socialization time between classes, but too much of it becomes an opportunity for students to make bad decisions between classes,” Bullinger said.

Now, with the new 7:50 start time, students will have 7 min-

Royal Briefs: A short take on upcoming events at HHS ProPEL to host men’s volleyball tournament

by Sam Leervig Staff Reporter

On Tuesday, Nov. 1, ProPEL students Danny Dolan, Eliza Ratliff, Kate Glover, Sam Oxford, and Ian Yunis, seniors, will host a men’s volleyball tournament to raise money for the Simpson House charity. The game will be tuesday night and will be located in the Lindbergh gym.

ProPEL is a mentorship program which helps students become better informed of what they might want to study or do in post secondary schooling. It prepares them for choices they

make after high school.

“The tournament should be a really fun time for students and anyone who comes to watch. We put it in a lot of work and it’s all for a good cause so we’re pretty excited,” Dolan said.

The volleyball game will be two dollars per ticket if they are prepaid and three dollars at the door. Playing in the game will cost five dollars per student and all grades are welcomed to attend.

“We’re expecting lots of fans,” Dolan said.

Jonathan Goins, junior, donating blood at the blood drive. Last year, HHS students donated a total of 194 units of blood in three blood drives. photo by Deveraux Davis

Dahkayla Walker, junior, donated blood and was nervous as she sat in the waiting section.

“I’m nervous because I don't like needles and the only thing that is getting me through my nervousness is that in the end I’m going to save someone's life,” Walker said.

For some students donating might not be a scary thing, especially not for Jonathan Goins, junior.

“I’m not nervous about donating,” Goins said.

There were two options for donating blood. There was an option to double your blood count and there also was the regular blood utes of passing time to interact with friends and get to class.

Many students were unhappy with the five minute passing time. “[The five minute passing time] is kinda bad. I have no time. I think seven minutes is fine. Eight minutes is a little long,” said Jack Gunderson, sophomore.

With this push back of start time, a question that is raised is; why not even later? Schools such as Wayzata High School have a start time of 8:20 a.m. and Edina High School even has a start time of 8:25 a.m.

“The biggest pro I've heard

cited is that students are more awake/alert in their classes.”

Bullinger said.

Later start times mean more sleeping for students. Many schools, such as Minneapolis Schools, have seen increased attendance, alertness and grades when switching to a later start time.

“An 8:20 start time gives me more time to sleep and gets me better rested for the day.”

Gunderson said.

Later start time also comes at a price of getting out later.

Students would have a later practice or club meeting if they are involved in any extracurricu-

XinXing to come to HHS

by Jordyn Petty Staff Reporter Next year, the oldest class of the XinXing Academy will be coming to HHS. Evan Komschlies, freshman, has been attending XinXing Academy since kindergarten.

“I was five years old when I first joined so it was my parents choice to join the program,” Komschlies said. “I am really grateful they did though.”

XinXing Academy is a Chinese immersion program through Hopkins Public Schools. The program started in 2007 and the first students to

join, the class of 2020, will be attending HHS next year.

The students are fully immersed into the language in elementary school. In junior high and high school, the students’ schedules begin to balance out between classes in English and classes in Chinese.

“I have been with the same 25 kids since kindergarten,” Komschlies said. “We are all really close and are excited to come to the high school next year.”

HHS Royal Productions begins tech week in preparation for fall musical

by James Gulden Staff Reporter Hopkins Royal Productions is proudly presenting their fall musical, Once Upon a Mattress.

On Nov. 10-12, the cast will come together on stage in the HHS auditorium. Until then, they are shifting into an exhaus-

donation. Brandon Walling, junior, chose to take the second blood donation option.

“My procedure took longer because I chose the double blood cell procedure,” Walling said.

Teachers, as well as students donated blood at HHS. Mr. Don Habel, science, donated blood.

“I think it's something we can all do because it's easy,” Habel said. “I usually tell all of my students in all of my classes to donate blood and it makes me feel very good seeing students that I teach donate blood.” lar activities after school.

“A lot of families don't love it when their high school students get home from practice as late as 5:30-6:00,” Bullinger said.

With homework to juggle, time is slim for students who stay after school. Most students already complain about their homework load. If the start time was pushed further than 7:50 a.m., students would come home potentially 30 minutes later than before, slimming there already tight schedule for homework.

Aside from less time for school work, Gunderson finds a later end time for his football

practice helpful when getting a ride home.

“I often can’t get a ride from my parents after practice is ended. They aren’t home from work,” Gunderson said.

Despite constant complaints from students, Bullinger sees no need for a big change in start time here at HHS. The biggest change he’s planning to make will be the three minute later start time.

“I have no reason to believe we'll look at [a later start time] anytime soon,” Bullinger said.

tive rehearsal schedule.

The last week before the show is called Tech Week, where the cast and crew runs full dress rehearsals every night, often multiple run-throughs in a row. For a two hour musical with full singing and dancing musical numbers, this can get pretty exhausting, and nights can get late.

During tech week, the cast and crew go right from class to rehearsal after school, eating a prepared dinner all together in the commons. They also come in on saturdays to work on and prepare every element of the show.

This show covers a lot of new ground for the program, bringing up the usual amount of performances from three to four.

The extra performance will be a

matinee, aimed at kids interested in the show. The audience is encouraged to wear costumes and get a prize for doing so.

To gather interest from kids in our district, some of the actors are going on a tour of the local elementary schools in costume and character to interact with the children.

Tickets are now available to buy online at the Hopkins Royal Productions website.

They will also be available at the door, but if you want to reserve your seats and skip the line, buying online is an option.

The show goes on Nov. 10-12, at 7:00 p.m. A matinee will also be performed on Nov. 12 at 2:00 p.m.

4 feature

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RP Monday, October 31, 2016

by David J. Sheldon Feature Editor director of sales and community basketball and operations.

Most male athletes at HHS [I] left there and got back into can say, at one point in time, that they wanted to play in the business and went to Jostens,” NBA. One faculty member at Nuness said.

HHS can check that off a list of Jostens is an American things he has done with his life. manufacturer of memoraAl Nuness, Paraprofessional, bilia. The company is primaris a name some HHS students ily known for its production of would not know, but if someone yearbooks and class rings for were to mention the man who, various high schools and colon most days, wears a jumpsuit leges as well as championship you would know who they are rings for sports. Having the talking about. Nuness is in fact former Vice-President of sales a former NBA player, but has a at Jostens within the walls of an whole different set of skills he ordinary high school shows his likes to share about. character. Nuness first had conAfter two years in Jutact with HHS when one of his nior College at Iowa Central, sons open enrolled here.

Nuness committed to the Go“I’ve come full circle with my career. I love working with phers after a visit from a promiAl Nuness at his daily post watching students. “At the end of the day I want people to say ‘gosh, that guy was a good guy,’” Nuness said. Photo by Bea Frank young people and this is a very nent former U of M alumnus. unique school, it has a special place in my heart. When my son went At the University of Minnesota, Nuness was an All-Big Ten player here, Hopkins was a place where kids of colors could come and not and team captain in the 1968-69 season, scoring 740 points in just be called an Oreo, or not be made fun of because they were academitwo years and averaging 15.4 points per game as a Gopher.

On Oct. 20, while most students were sleeping, or, cramming cally smart,” Nuness said. homework over MEA weekend, Nuness was being inducted into the Nuness knew that if he was ever going to get back into doing University of Minnesota Hall of Fame. something with kids, he would make the point of showing students “The fact that I am being inducted into the Hall of Fame at of color that it is “okay to be smart.” It was Kenny Novak Sr, former the University of Minnesota, for me, is a trifecta. I’m in the Hall HHS basketball coach, who made sure Nuness knew that we needed of Fame at my high school, my junior college where I was a first someone like him here, everyday, with students, helping them. Noteam junior college All American, and to top it all off, the U of M,” vak Sr. asked Nuness if he would consider being a para.

Nuness said.

“I said sure, because I’ve been married for 46 year and if I want His story does not end there. After playing for the Phoenix Suns, to make it to 47 I can’t stay home all day, but all joking aside {guys} Nuness went on to coach for the Gophers, becoming the first fullI am absolutely having a ball talking with and helping kids,” Nuness time African-American assistant coach. He then made his way to said Central High School, where he coached and taught. At Central Since Nuness didn’t go the “traditional” route to college he likes High School, Nuness was named Minnesota Coach of the Year in to talk to students about how it is okay not to do [college] in the 1976. traditional four year plan. He also likes to talk about how it is never Although Nuness was quite the basketball player, and coach, he too late to start again. also has had an impact in the business world. Nuness got into the “You don’t have to be an athlete, comedian, or magician to have a business world with the help from the alumni who convinced him great life. You can make a great living being a plumber, carpenter, or to go to the U of M in the first place. In fact Harvey Mackay, Unielectrician and there are opportunities for everybody. You just have to put the time and work in, you have to be committed,” Nuness said. versity of Minnesota Alumni, told Nuness that he would help plug Nuness started work at HHS last year and hasn’t looked back [Nuness] into the business world. ever since.

“I’ve had a tremendous career. When I decided to get into busi“I enjoy working with kids and enjoy making a difference seeing ness, I got into business with Pillsbury. I was a national sales manU of M kids and making a difference in their lives,” Nuness said. ager when I left Pillsbury to work for the Timberwolves where I was Mr. and Mrs. Nuness at the induction cermemony at the Photo provided by Jake Ricker

Nuness gets inducted into U of M Hall of Fame

Hallway Paraprofessional gets recognition for his contribution to the lives of many

HHS Drumline preforms for the stands at Homecoming. Homecoming was Friday, Sept. 23rd, 2016.

Photo by Bea Frank

HHS Drumline marches to its own beat The HHS Drumline brings themselves, and the crowd, together with the beat of a drum

by Sam Eklund Staff Reporter

Every Tuesday night at 7 pm, Chris Anema, senior, plays a four count and the rest of drumline hits once on the down beat, signaling the start of practice. While playing, each

drummer stares straight ahead or at their music, completely focused; one is reminded of the army drums corps. Earbuds are a must for everyone in the room as the drummers play away.

However, that feeling does not perfectly describe the group of musicians. Between exercises, the practice room is filled with

laughter and goofing around.

Like any team or group, a sense of community is strived for.

“We hang out, we’re pretty close to each other and very family like. We go to dinner and competitions, but we’re just not strong enough to compete,” said Sam Olson, senior.

In the 2002 movie Drum-

line, starring Nick Cannon, a young drummer from Harlem attends a Southern college with hopes of becoming the leader of the school’s marching band.

However, for Anema, Head Stick (the leader) in drumline, the movie has not has held as much interest as with the other drummers.

“I’ve never seen it,” Anema said.

The room erupts in a cacophony of protests to this newfound reality. Jokes circle around the room, ending in the conclusion that he must see the movie.

As far as the future is concerned, both Anema and Olson hope to be in a marching or pep band in college. Although the band here doesn’t march or compete, it doesn’t make it as important in their lives. For most, it started as just something to do, but has grown into something they look forward to each week. “[When I joined] I was like why not! And then it was awesome,” Olson said.

In the 10 minutes between the halves of the Sept. 16 football game at Eden Prairie, HHS students in the stands were given a show they don’t get at their own school.

Over 200 students rushed the field, some holding their instruments proudly, others brandishing large flags and twirling batons. The award-winning EPHS Eagle Band, celebrating its 53rd anniversary this year, plays at home sports games, parades, and even national competitions.

The closest thing to a marching band at HHS is the

pep band: Lean, Mean, Performance Machine (better known as LMPM). The group is comprised of volunteer musicians.

LMPM plays at sports games, pep fests, and the occasional parade.

In the mix of LMPM, there exists this group of nine musicians who bang on the drums, making the beat for the crowds and musicians to follow along to. While it is a percussion-only section, only half of the drummers are percussionists in the school bands and orchestras.

Olson plays Cello in the orchestra, but plays the Tenor Drums for drumline.

“We currently only have four percussionists that are part of drumline. You’re definitely welcome to do it but you have to be disciplined enough and be ready to go for it,” said Olson.

Also among the group are inside jokes aplenty. They even started #DrownMe, encouraging each other to stay hydrated after Olson became faint during a performance. As far as a slogan for the ensemble goes, it stays pretty simple.

“Hey, we’re drumline!

BUM-BUM!”

feature 5

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RP Monday, October 31, 2016

Bring Justin Back Student forced to transfer from HHS

by James Gulden Staff Reporter

A choir concert was held on Tues, October 18. There was a six o’clock concert and a eight o’clock concert with a total of eight different choirs.

Photo by Bea Frank

Seven Days Out

Events in the upcoming week Tech Week starts today for Royal Productions.

Today starts the starting day of Tech Week, in which the theater program will practice a full run-through of the play, “Once Upon a Mattress.”

Junior and Sophomore classes will have meetings.

There was a senior class meeting about leadership Oct. 28, and there will be one for both juniors and sophomores, with dates undetermined.

No school this Friday!

Nov. 4 is a Grading Day for all teachers. All final grades must be entered by Friday, Nov. 11.

Second term begins Nov. 7.

All second term classes will begin next Monday. Check your schedule to see what classes you may have.

In a large thunderstorm on September 22nd, a HHS senior crashed his car making it so that he could not return to HHS. Justin Pierce, former senior, recently had to move out of district to live with his new foster parents in Brooklyn Park, and his only way to get to school was using a car he bought himself.

Due to his family’s financial situation, he couldn’t get it fixed and had to transfer to Park Center High School, which hasn’t been an accepting environment for him.

Justin still wishes to return to HHS. Gabby Bolatto, senior, started a GoFundMe campaign to raise money to help Justin.

With a goal of $1,500, the campaign hopes to provide the financial boost needed for Pierce to get his car fixed.

Pierce is still shell-shocked after the crash.

“I feel hurt. All because of one little storm my whole world was flipped upside down,” said Pierce.

Pierce misses his time at HHS, and having the chance to come back would, “mean everything,” to him.

“I miss my friends the most, but also the teachers. Everyone that goes to the school just had a somewhat welcoming feel to them. [There was] spirit left and

right,” Pierce said.

Zoe Burt, senior, has known Justin since they we’re both sophomores.

“Justin is an individual who swam against the current. I was heartbroken and outraged when I found out, But I’m confident we can raise the money to bring him back.”

Being this far from his school is new to Pierce, and adjusting has been a tough process.

“Living in Brooklyn Park is really far, I haven’t always lived that far. It never was an issue because I had a car to reach my friends, and losing my car took them away from me. I worked really hard to pay for the car, and was maintaining it by working.

Since I lost the car I also had to quit my job, I have no way to get there,” Pierce said.

Sam Clague, senior, misses Justin as well.

“I met Justin in ninth grade, but I really got to know him when I started attending GSA sophomore year. Hearing about what an awful environment Brooklyn Park has been for Justin is enraging. Bringing him back is important.” said Clague.

If you would like to donate to the GoFundMe campaign, it is called “Bring Justin Back To School”. It can be find on the GoFundMe website. At the time of writing, it has raised $805 of it’s $1,500 goal in just 12 days.

U.S. sparks interest in the eyes of foreign students Students from around the globe come together at HHS to experience the American lifestyle

by Maya Kupritz Sophia Koritz Staff Reporter

Every year, a select amount of students are able to come experience the life of an American at HHS. For these students, they get to live a typical American high school life.

“I think it’s a beautiful country. It has been my dream to come to this country, and visit the beautiful places,” said Martina Mileo, senior.

This school year, HHS has six exchange students. The students are from all over the world, including Italy, Japan, China, Germany, and South Korea. Most of the students arrived here before the start of the school year.

The students live with host families within the Hopkins School District. For Martina Ferrari, senior, her [host] family isn’t the usual exchange student family.

“She’s a retired teacher, along with another exchange student who goes to a performing arts high school,” said Fer-

rari. “It’s a really different life style because me and my host brother have different routines everyday.”

Josua Schreck, senior, is currently taking AP Government, and it’s an interesting time for him because his AP Gov class is doing a lot of discussing about this year’s elections. Schreck lives in Germany but because he is here in America, he gets to experience all of the craziness that goes on during October/ November.

“My observations about the election in America is especially this year it is completely crazy. There are more scandals in the election process than in my home country in the last 3 years,” said Schreck. “I am interested in the election because it decides about the most powerful person in the world.

A person that also is partly responsible for the politics in my home country and a person that influences the world. I don’t like the running candidates, so I would vote for a third party candidate. I think the candidates aren’t liked by most Americans too. I would liked to see a more

Exchange students gather on the balcony in the mall.

moderate person on the republican side and a less controversial person on the democratic side.”

Another major thing these students are experiencing differently than back home is the life style. Although school is school, foreign schools run very differ-

Photo by Maya Kupritz

ently than schools in America.

“It’s really different. In China, we have eight classes everyday and we start school at 7:00am and end at 5:00pm. We stay in the same class the entire day, with the same class mates, and the teachers rotate around

to each of the classes. Also, every student learns the same information, we don’t get to choose the classes,” said Mengyan Li, senior.

These students, if they want, get the chance to participate in after school activities or clubs and be apart of the HHS student body.

“Joining the football team and having practice with them every day has been really fun and a cool opportunity. Also, being at the games is a great experience,” said Joshua Schreck, senior.

Even if people don’t know much about Minnesota, many people know about the big shopping mall, Mall of America. All of these students have gotten the opportunity to go to MOA either with their host family or with their exchange program.

“I went to MOA about one month ago and it’s really big, with a lot of stores, but I really like it there and it’s a fun place to go,” said Yun Sung Lee, senior.

All of these exchange students had to come to the United

States through two of the following programs. Youth For Understanding (YFU) and Nacel International. Both of these programs are a non-profit organization that work with each student to find them the best education and host family during their stay. After the school and family is chosen, the student will pick their classes and arrange the details with the family to make sure everything is in place for the student to come.

“I couldn’t choose Minnesota, but I chose United States because the US has many states inside of it,” said Mai Yoshida, senior One of the students, Mileo, is only staying in the United States for one semester, but she is living it up and trying to have the most fun she can during her time as an exchange student.

“I really like this school and I sometimes even prefer HHS rather than back home. I miss my family and my friends but I have been enjoying this cool opportunity and I don’t want to go back home!” said Mileo.

8 op/ed The Royal Page 2016-2017

Print Editor-inChief Abby Doeden

Web Editor-in Chief

the

RP Monday, October 31, 2016

STAFF EDITORIAL

Fights, redux Revisiting “fight culture” following the events on Oct. 17

Noah Kaplan

Managing Editor Michael Korsh

News Editor Sebastien Karo

Feature Editor David J. Sheldon

Sports Editor Andy Weisman

Photo Editor Bea Frank

Video Editor Zach Roy

Social Editor Sophia Koritz

Staff Reporters Evie Barczak Deveraux Davis Sam Eklund Noah Fogel Matt Gerstner James Gulden Cole Kristal Maya Kupritz Sam Leervig Jake Lehman Kyle Miller Jordyn Petty Jordan Zaroff

Adviser

Jeff Kocur

Following the series of fights on Oct. 17, we at The Royal Page, frankly, are not surprised.

These occurrences seem to be almost cyclical. A series of fights break out; videos and commentary about them appear on social media; administration takes action through increased precautions and decreased passing times; the behavior subsides.

Despite this lack of surprise, we’re disappointed in both the students and administrators here at HHS. Students, your role in the events that Monday has continued to promote a disparaging image of HHS. When we record, post, and comment about these fights on social media, we glamorize the serious issue that

is student violence. By taking videos and not taking action, we have collectively worsened this situation.

Many students have responded negatively to the reduced passing time policy, including a petition to reinstate the normal amount. But to simply do so because of a petition would be naive; our behavior can’t be ignored.

But you don’t need us to tell you that.

For on Oct. 18 during first block, administration sent this message very explicitly to the student body. But it’s because of this message, administration, that we’re disappointed with you, too.

Much of the message was focused towards our subsequent use of social media. From dis-

cussion of student mindfulness on social media to a locally produced “public service announcement,” our role in the events was exaggerated to a point that it diminished the role of the fights themselves.

In this “digital age,” social media usage is inevitable. Regardless of how many lectures, videos, and “THINK” posters HHS students are exposed to, we’ve fallen victim to the powerful influence of social media on teen culture. (A note to students: this inevitability should not justify your personal usage of social media— you have the control to not give in to this peer pressure.)

What’s not inevitable, however, is the frequency of fights that occur at HHS. But to institute the same

A search for safety

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be nothing to post about, either.

In our Jan. 2016 issue, our in-depth focused on the very topic of fights. The Royal Page examined social media usage, administrative action, our school’s reputation, and the statistics about fights at HHS. We know that this issue is a complex one— and this editorial isn’t going to solve it all.

So let’s work together, and perhaps HHS can finally shed our “fight school” reputation, once and for all.

EDITORIAL BOARD VOTE: AGREE DISAGREE

6 3

Random drug searches provide security, value to HHS

by Sarah Kozberg Guest Contributor

tiveness, but in my opinion, they are a necessary part of the high school environment.

Fewer people bringing drugs Random drug searches discourage students from bring- to school potentially reduces the ing illegal substances to school. negative influence of drugs on Some may question their effec- other students. It also prevents

the development of a drug culture on campus.

It is clear that some high school students participate in harmful drug use. When kids who are not involved with drugs become associated with kids

Key Election Issues at 10 Top : HHS

10 Combatting the clowns

The editorial represents 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.

consequences following the notorious “Fight Week” of Jan. 2016 is not progress. Fighting may subside temporarily, but eventually it will return, continuing this cycle.

These actions were only the immediate ones taken, though, and we’re confident that Mr. Bullinger will continue to work hard to improve our school’s situation in the following weeks.

It’s a joint effort between students and administrators, but we’re hopeful to see change as the school year progresses.

According to the Minnesota Department of Education, in the 2014-15 school year, HHS had 9.5 fights per 1,000 students. Let’s try to bring that number down, rather than the number of posts per fight. After all, if there’s no fight, there will

9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1

The length of the burrito line Price hikes on parking passes Using a non-Hopkins Apps email server

Outlawing the new cookies Unblocking Snapchat Criminalizing finals Increasing the minimum passing time Expanding soup bowl coverage Reducing school hours by 100 percent

who are, they are introduced to unhealthy behaviors that they may have otherwise avoided.

At school, students should feel safe. However, many become uncomfortable when they discover others smoking in the bathrooms or parking lots during the school day. Many do not want to be in this type of environment, and the school grounds should grant that to them.

Fortunately, for some students, the idea of drug searches alone is enough to comfort them because they know that any drugs found will be confiscated and removed from the campus.

“I think drug searches in schools are good because learning and education should be taken very seriously and minimizing the amount of illegal substances brought onto school property is only beneficial to students,” said Ayanna Maddox, sophomore.

The safer students feel, the greater their potential for learning will be during the school day. If students are afraid to go to the bathroom or walk in the halls, they are going to be distracted from the intended learning.

A major aspect of drugs on campus is drug dealing. Dealing is less likely to take place because dealers do not want to get caught and prosecuted. This eliminates some of the drug use and distribution on campus.

“I think the drug searches are a smart idea to lower the drug usage on campus. Kids, especially dealers, are less likely to be bringing drugs to school if they know the risks and conse-

quences,” said Morgan Hawley, sophomore.

School districts often talk about zero-tolerance policies for various unacceptable behaviors, such as violence and drug use. By having random drug searches and following through with any necessary punishments, the schools show they really mean what they say.

“The drug searches show the students how the administration will not tolerate drugs on the campus. This discourages students from bringing drugs because they know the consequences will be bad,” said Mary Schutte, sophomore.

The randomness of the searches is effective because students have no idea when the searches will happen.

“The searches should be random because then kids won’t be able to work their way around the situation,” Hawley. said I have seen concern in my classmates faces when they hear about a surprise drug search. It is understandable that students do not want to get busted with drugs in their cars.

However, these searches are a way of showing students the importance of a drug free campus. They also make students realize how necessary it is to not be using drugs which could have an impact on their decisions regarding drug use.

Ultimately, the random drug searches are important because they potentially make the school environment safer and encourage a drug-free campus.

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RP

op/ed 9

Monday, October 31, 2016

Rethinking TASC

by Maya Kupritz Staff Reporter As a sophomore, I have only experienced a small number of TASCs, but even from those few, I have noticed that students have a hard time using it properly.

I think that TASC is a nice addition to a student’s schedule, not only for them to get work done, but also for them to get a small break in the day to choose a class they want to go to.

According to the HHS website, “Twice a week, Hopkins High School has built time into the school day for students to work or meet under the direct supervision of one of their classroom teachers. TASC time may be used for conferencing with teachers, completing homework, making up work, quizzes, or tests, collaborating with other students on a group project or presentation, and/or academic computer work.”

I think it’s interesting to go into what “TASC” means. After all, many students don’t even know that it stands for “Teachers And Students Connecting.”

Looking at the name and what TASC truly looks like, for me, it’s a little misleading. Students don’t seem to grasp the full purpose of TASC. Instead of it being a working environment in the classrooms, it’s loud and crazy, which means it’s harder to get work done.

But students often waste TASC time. Instead of meeting with a teacher or getting work done, they go to a class and socialize the whole time. Also, I’ve witnessed students go into a classroom with their friends and they don’t even have a class with that teacher, so it’s an unuseful 25 or 40 minutes for them.

Also, it’s very distracting for those students trying to learn or get help from a teacher when others are yelling in the background and the teacher has to

Thumbs Up, Thumbs Down

keep telling them to sit down and be quiet.

So, how could HHS make TASC more productive for every student?

Like I said before, students sometimes misuse this added in TASC time. So, I think teachers should create an assignment that students have to complete, to help keep all of those students who have nothing to do during TASC busy. This could also help students improve their learning in that class, even if they don’t have work to make up.

TASC is a nice added time into the daily schedule for students to use, if used properly, but teachers and administration need to do a better job to make it a more useful time for all of those students who don’t spend it wisely.

Let’s make TASC an effective resource for all students at HHS by ensuring that during TASC, we’re on task.

HHS students share their thoughts about life at HHS. “Drake came out with some new songs.”-Ayanna Maddox, sophomore “I don’t like five-minute passing time.” -Jonathan Goins, junior

“Basketball season is starting.” -Rachel Jaeger, sophomore

“Classes are too long.” -Luke Peterson, senior

“There’s a large selection of LaCroix at lunch.” -Emma Feinberg, junior

“We have closed campus--even for seniors.” -Stella Haberman, senior

Election, Jr.

Why HHS students make a difference in politics

by Michael Korsh Managing Editor This summer, as I traveled in Poland, the first thing one man asked me when he found out I was American was perhaps the most influential question in current American society: “Are you voting for Hillary or for Trump?”

“Um,” I said, “I actually can’t vote.”

It’s true— due to the Twenty-sixth Amendment to the Constitution, I, like the majority of students at HHS, won’t be voting this November.

Yet, on Sep. 26, along with 81 million other people, I watched the first presidential debate. I also scrolled through my Twitter feed during the debate, watching many of my friends present their political opinions and viewpoints via social media.

But if many HHS students

can’t vote, why should we be participating in politics?

Some Americans discredit millennials’ belief systems due to their lack of exposure to the “real world.” That’s why we need to be informed now. By indirectly participating in this election by commenting on the debates, formulating our own opinions, and understanding our political leanings, millennials will be more civic-minded and likely to participate in elections once we’re of age.

There’s also a striking stereotype of millennials’ political belief system: that the older generation’s ideas are “outdated” for modern society, and that a liberal, progressive agenda is the only way to move the nation forward.

However, according to the 2016 Millennial Impact Report, 50 percent of millennials identified as conservative, compared to only 43 percent who identi-

fied as liberal. It doesn’t matter what side of the political spectrum you’re on— your voice should be heard, too.

Perhaps this increase in involvement is just because of the presidential election of 2016.

With Americans flocking in favor of one candidate and opposition of another, perhaps millennials are just taking sides with everyone else. According to the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement (CIRCLE), only 19.9 percent of 18-29-year-olds voted in the 2014 midterm elections— the lowest youth turnout in any federal election.

So, with the information and understanding millennials are gaining from the current election, it’s a shame to wait four more years to put it to use. If you can vote in the 2018 midterm elections, do.

There are countless ways for millennials to participate in

Share your voice!

Guest Editorials

Share your opinion on an issue facing our school, community, state, or nation.

politics, even now. If you’re 18, yours is the easiest: on Nov. 8, vote.

But if you aren’t, there are two main things that you can do.

The first: get informed— read up on the candidates of the current election, from Hillary and Trump to the candidates of our state and local elections.

Stay in touch with current events by reading the news— a good starting point is the indepth right here at The Royal Page!

The second: get involved— share your beliefs and opinions on social media. Start a conversation with others about politics, join a club, or campaign for your desired candidates.

Even if you can’t vote, your voice— our voices— matter.

Send yours in to royalpage@gmail.com

Letters to the Editor

Comment on one of our articles, or share what you think needs to be heard.

Photos licensed through Creative Commons

Album Review: The Divine Feminine

by Sam Eklund Staff Reporter Just under a year after the release of Mac Miller’s album GO:OD AM, his album The Divine Feminine hit stores and streaming services worldwide.

In the 10 days leading up to the album’s release, Mac began posting daily countdown pictures, each with the title of a song that would be on the album. Prior to the album’s release Mac released three singles, including “Dang” feat. Anderson. Paak, “We” feat. CeeLo Green, and “My Favorite Part” feat. Ariana Grande, Mac Miller’s new love interest and supposed inspiration for the album.

On Sept. 16, the entire album dropped. A quick look at the tracklist promised the listener features ranging from hip-hop giant Kendrick Lamar on the last track, “God is Fair, Sexy Nasty,” to lesser known artists such as Bilal on the first track, “Congratulations.”

In my opinion, the individual songs on this album do not live up to the standard set by songs such as “Weekend” and “100 Grandkids” on GO:OD AM. However, when looked at in its entirety, thinking about the story Mac wants to tell, and seeing how he did this, it’s hard for me to say this album is not better as a whole.

“It’s my perspective on love,” Miller said in an interview with The Breakfast Club.

Without a doubt, this is an album about love, and more specifically the way love works

in today’s culture. At times, the album seems to drift more into the realm of songs your Grandma wouldn’t approve of, but that’s the point.

In the song featuring the album’s inspiration, Ariana Grande, Mac sings directly to her, then allows her to put her thoughts in when she comes in with her famous wide-ranged, flowing runs. It may not be on the same level as the super couple of Drake and Rihanna, but that doesn’t make it any less captivating when it comes to the music being made.

In my opinion, the best song on the album by far is the last, “God is Fair, Sexy Nasty,” featuring Kendrick Lamar. Lamar puts his own spin on it, leaving the song with a vibe that could fit perfectly on any of his latest albums.

This influence that Kendrick Lamar has shows something that I as an artist and music lover very much appreciate.

Mac doesn’t just give his featured artists a verse on his song, but it seems that he really gives them a good share of production rights as well, allowing the second artist to create a song that really allows them to shine and show their music.

Final Rating: 8/10

For more music reviews, check out hopkinsrp.org

10 sports

the

RP Monday, October 31, 2016

Royals soccer teams make major improvements in 2016

by Kyle Miller and Cole Kristal Sports Blogger and Reporter Nico Shirley, junior, of the Royals boys soccer team, is happy with the success of the team after last season’s struggles.

Although the team had great talent with players like Andrew Shirley and Brandon Speich, HHS alum, the Royals ended up with a record of 4-11-1 last season.

The Royals had one impressive Lake Conference win, over the Eden Prairie Eagles this season, whereas last year, theyhad no conference wins and lost by an average score of 0-19 to conference competitors. Also, in non conference games that they played the same teams as last year, like vs. Chaska and Champlin Park, the Royals came out victorious as opposed to last year when they lost by scores of 2-3 and 0-1 respectively.

“Last year we had some of the best players the program has seen, but we struggled so much

Clarence Weah, freshman breaks away from the St. Louis Park Orioles defender. The Royals beat the Orioles 2-0 in their sections game. photo by Bea Frank

with team chemistry. This year, chemistry has been a focal point and is the cause of our success this season,” Shirley said.

Last season, they earned a number six seed in sections and played the number three seeded Tigers from Minneapolis South High School. They lost that game by a score of 0-1.

This year, the Royals achieved a record of 7-7-2 during the regular season and secured a number three seed and

home field advantage. The Royals hosted the number six seeded Orioles from St. Louis Park.

The game started off slow, with the score being 0-0 at halftime. Then the Royals scored 2 goals in the second half, one from Andy Berris, senior and one from Clarence Weah, freshman. The Royals went on to one the first section game by a score of 2-0.

In their second section game the Royals played the Min-

neapolis Washburn Millers.

Washburn scored 3 minutes into the game and were up until about halfway through the first when Clarence Weah, freshman, tied the game. The Millers then pulled out to a 3-1 lead in the second half but Clarence Weah narrowed the gap with another goal with under 3 minutes to play. The Royals weren’t able to score again and lost the game by a score of 3-2 to Minneapolis Washburn.

“We played great in both games. Sometimes a couple unlucky bounces can end your season,” said Ryan St. Clair, senior.

As far as the girls’ soccer season, they have been doing much better than last season. After finishing just 6-8-2 last year, the Royals improved to 10-5-1 this year. One player who is happy with the progress of the team is Abbie Mandler, junior. ¨Last year, we had a lot of new players and it was more of a building year for us. That has allowed us to have a very strong team this year,” Mandler said.

Coming off a season where the Royals only had one conference win, over Edina, the Royals managed to pull off five conference wins this season, two over Minnetonka and Edina and one over Eden Prairie.

The Royals’ postseason last year was upset minded. They came into sections with a six seed and played the third seeded Robbinsdale Armstrong Falcons, beating them by a score of 2-1. They then advanced to

Photo taken at Minnesota Vikings second preseason game at their new stadium. Vikings beat the Los Angeles Rams 27-25 on Thu. Sep. 1st.

the section semifinals where they played the second seeded Minneapolis Washburn Millers.

They lost that game by a score of 0-4.

In the first sections game of this season, the Royals girls soccer team faced the St. Louis Park Orioles. The Orioles were the 6th seed, and the Royals were the 3rd seed.

The Royals beat the Orioles 3-1 in a fantastic showing for the girls. Lavin Douglass, sophomore, and Isabelle Olson, Chance Douglass, seniors, scored the three goals for the Royals.

The Royals then faced the second seed Minneapolis Washburn Millers.

The Royals came out hot with Olson scoring a goal within the first four minutes of the game. The Royals kept pushing to keep their lead, but the Millers tied the game in the last 10 minutes of the first half. With four minutes left in the game the Millers took the lead 1-2, and won the game.

“We had a well played last game,” Olson said. “Everyone worked very hard and I’m super happy with how our season turned out, and I am sad that it had to end.”

photo by Mr. Jeff Kocur

New U.S. Bank stadium impacts football culture throughout Minn.

by Andy Weisman Sports Editor One huge fan of the Minnesota Vikings at HHS is AJ Condon, junior, whose family has had tickets for 20+ years.

Condon has been very impressed by the new stadium atmosphere and the architecture of the building.

“I was in awe, it was the coolest thing I have ever seen. There was so much energy throughout the stadium, I actually got goose bumps when I walked through the revolving doors, seeing them open was amazing. I have never seen a better stadium,” Condon said.

In an interview with Jennifer Hathaway, Director of Communications for the MSFA [Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority], she talked about how the stadium was made possible and the importance of the stadium for Minnesota football fans and for the culture of football.

“The lease was up for the Minnesota Vikings at the Metrodome. When the lease is up, if the NFL owners approve it

the team can move anywhere in the United States. I believe that the legislature and the governor felt that it was an asset to have the Vikings stay here.” Hathaway said. “So, they passed the stadium legislation in 2012.”

The stadium was completed by June 17, 2016 six weeks ahead of schedule.

U.S. Bank Stadium has a capacity of 66,665 (expands to 73,000 for Super Bowls). It has the largest operable doors in the world. The five doors each swing out like a normal door from left to right. They’re 55 feet wide and the smallest door is 75 feet high and the largest door is 95 feet high.

“I think that Minnesota football fans can be very proud of the public and private investments in the stadium. We have an incredible cutting edge and a progressive design.” Hathaway said. “I think that Minnesota Vikings fans can be incredibly proud of the team and the authority behind the design and [HKS Architects]. I think we’ve really changed what it means to

be an NFL stadium from just a big barn looking thing to actually being creative and making a statement architecturally.”

Mike Wobschall, Sales and Marketing Senior Manager for the Minnesota Vikings, said that the stadium has been a significant home field advantage with the Minnesota football culture that has exist recently.

“It’s a big deal to have a significant home-field advantage.

Every team has a home-field advantage, but some advantages are bigger than others. So far, it’s clear to me that because of the crowd noise and some of the other components to how a team operates its home games the Vikings have the kind of home-field advantage that can be characterized as above average. Obviously how the team plays is the biggest factor in winning and losing, but to the extent that a home-field advantage can influence a game, I think U.S. Bank Stadium’s home-field advantage has been significant so far,” Wobschall said.

As well something new that Condon has taken on this year, is after every Vikings win Condon celebrates by wearing a Vikings jersey to school the next day.

“The stadium has been a huge impact on how the Vikings have been playing this season, with my experience in the stadium it is ridiculous with how loud it gets on third and fourth down when we are on defense,” Condon said.

Not only has the stadium helped the success of the Minnesota Vikings, but it has also has changed football culture all around Minnesota including Minnesota high school football.

“I don’t know that I have a great gauge on that because I am not involved in high school football at this time, but I remember playing high school football and there’s no question that what happened out on NFL fields influenced how I looked at the game and even how I tried to play it. I would think that the Vikings success under Zimmer has only encour-

aged players and even coaches to have similar success and, in some cases, even duplicate the methods to finding that success,” Wobschall said.

Lee Lehman, senior, [RightTackle] for the Royals football team said that the team has greatly appreciated the success of the Minnesota Vikings.

“I feel the Vikings have helped improve Minnesota high school football by truly bringing in high class men to play and coach for their team. These are players and coaches that are not only great on the field, but also do the right things off the field and don’t get into trouble for the most part,” Lehman said. “I feel like through the Vikings doing this it truly spreads a positive energy through not only Vikings fans but also all Minnesota High School football players.”

Lehman has one player in particular that has really influenced him.

“The one player I look up to on the Vikings is Chad Greenway, linebacker. I look up to him

because even though I don’t play his position, he is someone who demands excellence from himself and respect from everyone he plays with or against while also being a fantastic leader off the field through his work in the Twin Cities community [earned him seven straight Walter Payton Man of the Year award finalist titles],” Lehman said.

Coach John DenHartog, Royals Head football Coach, believes that the Vikings so far successful season has helped Minnesota football culture because of the buzz that goes on.

“I think that it makes the interest level in high school football go up. When there is a buzz around the Minnesota Vikings it trickles down to college football and then high school football also. I think when the Vikings are successful and doing well and with the new stadium it creates more interest around football in general,” DenHartog said.

RPMonday, October 31, 2016

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sports 11

Royals volleyball claims number 1 seed in sections

by Evie Barczak Sports Reporter While they awaited the section tournament seeds and schedule, the Royals continued their preparation for upcoming games. On a rainy Monday afternoon, the team was found working hard in the Lindbergh Center gym. Even an obviously sick, but extremely devoted, Coach Vicki Seliger Swenson sat and coached from the sidelines.

On Thurs. Oct. 13, the Royals girls volleyball team wrapped up their regular season with a record of 26-1 and the Lake Conference title. Their record puts them at the third rank in the state behind Eagan and Lakeville South.

“It’s the little things [that make success] like working on basic skills every day,” Seliger Swenson said. “Really it’s just a game of serve and pass.”

The practice consisted of a scrimmage between the players which appeared to provide a pressurized and realistic setting while keeping technique in mind.

“Obviously the ultimate goal is to win sections and get to state, but we just have to take it one game at a time,” said Lauren Ortiz, senior, captain.

The Royals have proven to stay focused and calm throughout a season of defending a solid record and they hope to stay poised going into sections.

“Sections brings higher intensity and there’s more at stake, but that’s when we have to remember our fundamentals,” Ortiz said.

The Royals huddle during game to discuss game plan. Royals beat the Chaska Hawks 3-0.

Although the Royals’ record shows evident success, what the girls share off of the court is truly impressive. For the girls, and for so many other athletes, sports mean more than just extracurricular activities.

Chudear Tut, freshman, started on the varsity level this season and is ultimately surprised by the close relationships and support of the team.

“I was really amazed at how well we got along and that we have such good chemistry,” Tut said.

Many coaches and teammates struggle with creating a close bond within a team because of the short length of a

high school season. For the Royals, Tut says it’s something they work at everyday by doing things together after practice and games.

in 2006.

Shortly after their mother’s death, Lee and her three siblings were adopted by their aunt, Seliger Swenson. Throughout

“It’s the little things [that make success] like working on basic skills every day. Really it’s just a game of serve and pass.”- Vicki Seliger Swenson, coach.

In a recent interview with the Star Tribune, Tara Lee, junior, expressed the role of volleyball in her life, especially after her mother’s tragic death

the years, Lee found comfort in the sport her mother and aunt had played.

“I don’t know what I’d do without volleyball. It’s the most

Putting their best foot forward

photo by Bea Frank

important thing in my life,” Lee said.

The girls also frequently show their appreciation for the sport and each other through social media.

“So proud of my team tonight, we fought so hard through adversity until the end.

Love this team so much,” said Jasmyn Martin, senior, captain, via Twitter.

With a powerful relationship and a strong record, the Royals eagerly count down the days until their hard work could take them through sections and into the state tournament.

“I’m excited to hear people cheering for us,” Tut said. “I like

Royals Player Profiles

by Jordan Zaroff Sports Reporter

When the game comes down to a last second field goal, all eyes are on the kicker. Kicking a football isn’t as easy as it seems. It takes a lot of technique and skill to perfect kicking a football accurate and far enough to split the uprights.

Roberto Aguayo, 22 year old football kicker, was taken 59th overall in the 2nd round of the 2016 NFL draft. Aguayo, was taken by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Bucs made a bold move by taking a kicker this early in last years draft. Aguayo was only the second kicker taken in the second round since Mike Nugent was drafted 47th overall by the NY Jets in 2005.

There are currently two kickers on the HHS Royals football team. Boye Mafe, senior, who is the place kicker [kickoff ], and Yacob Yisehak, senior, who kicks field goals.

Mafe is getting recruited as a linebacker and stepped into the role as a kicker just this season.

“We needed a kicker at the beginning of the season, and since I was able to kick for the most part, I got the job,’’ Mafe said.

Mafe’s primary position is

provided by Jesse Sattler

Yacob Yisehak, senior, kicks extra point for the Royals. The Royals beat the Shakopee Sabres 41-20.

from what I’ve learned in soccer,” Yisehak said. “Soccer taught me how to make good contact with the ball which really impacts the accuracy and power of the kick.”

Yisehak has missed one extra point this season, which is really impressive considering this is his first year playing football.

“I really like kicking because of the support I receive and the intensity of the moment before kicking in games”, Yisehak said.

“I stay motivated by positive feedback from teammates and

friends.’’

Coach Denhartog, has been the head coach for the Hopkins Royals for the past 12 seasons.

The Royals have only had about “4 or 5” kickers on the team that have played soccer, Denhartog said.

“I think that they are a pretty big impact, we play in a real tough conference where a lot of games are close, and in those close games a lot of times special teams is the deciding factor, and having a good kicker has a big impact,” Denhartog said.

“One thing to look forward to this season is definitely a lot of team building, this will be our first full year with our new coach, Al Price. Nate Johnson, senior and I are in our last years and so we’re looking to shoot for the stars,” -Jesse Sattler, senior, wrestling.

“I am excited to see some great results because of the depth of the team this year. We have a strong and large senior class, and we look forward to winning a lot of conference games,” -Stella Haberman, senior, girls hockey.

provided by Stella Haberman We have a chance to be really good, and I’m excited to be the leader on the team as a senior and hopefully make it back to state and win.”

-Simon Wright, senior, boys basketball.

photo by Sam Leervig

on the defensive side of the ball; he doesn’t usually practice certain techniques for kicking.

“I normally aim my steps at where I’m kicking and stare at the ball as I follow through with my kick,” Mafe said.

Yisehak played soccer for the majority of his high school career, up until this year. Just a day before the season, he stepped up and took the role of the field goal kicker for the Royals.

“I chose to kick for the football team because I thought I could contribute to the team

games with high energy.”

The No. 1 seeded Royals played the No. 8 seeded St. Louis Park Orioles in the section 6AAA tournament on Thurs. Oct. 27.

The Royals closed out the Orioles in 3 sets after a strong performance in their first section game on their road to state.

“The game went really well.

We knew it was our last home game, so we really just went after it. Our passing was good, we worked hard together and got the job done,” Lee said.

The Royals will play the Armstrong Falcons at Robbinsdale Cooper High School on Tues. Nov. 1st at 5:30pm.

provided by Simon Wright “After getting second last year, my goal for the team is to win state and build more relationships before I go to Sienna (college).”

-DeAnna Winston, senior, girls basketball photo by Ruby Krietzman

Spiderweb from clipartion.com; costumes from target.com; text bubbles from commons.wikimedia.org

RP Monday, October 31

the

12 backpage

by Bea Frank and Sophia Koritz Photo Editor and Social Editor

Every year, new Halloween trends arise. Last year’s Halloween saw lots of referees, lifeguards, and pumpkins.

The Royal Page looked into what we’ll be seeing this Halloween from HHS students. Here’s a quick glimpse of what you can expect to see today.