March 2021 Issue

the

RUBICON

the student newspaper of St. Paul Academy and Summit School 1712 Randolph Ave St. Paul, MN 55105 Volume 47. Issue 6.

March 2, 2021

www.rubiconline.com

Herspace hosts Love Your Body Day celebration NOA GROSS

THE RUBICON

As regulations and safety precautions created change with how the St. Paul Academy community gathers and celebrates, clubs and affinity groups were forced to adapt in order to ensure everyone’s safety while still maintaining their unique traditions.

On Love Your Body Day students get to celebrate themselves by pasting messages of self love on the outline of a human body. Despite not being able to celebrate the day in October, the Herspace affinity group didn’t want to let the tradition or the importance of the day be forgotten.

On Feb. 22, Herspace set up a poster, markers, sticky notes, and stickers in lower schilling. Julia Baron, a senior and the club co-president, spoke

to the challenges the group faced when planning the fun activity.

“I had to make the poster, I had my mom trace me at my house.

Usually we do it in a meeting, but all of our meetings have been virtual this year. So it’s definitely a little bit different and it’s harder,” she said.

Despite the challenges from creating the poster to cleaning the markers after students used them, Herspace successfully created a safe alternative that was similar to years past. However, each year is somewhat different, especially as the group examines and reexamines the nuances and intersectionality of feminism.

“We’ve really been trying to make Love Your Body Day more intersectional, so it’s not celebrating a white feminist view of what it means to be

body positive because often body positivity kind of ends up being, seen through a white feminist lens,” Jenny Ries, senior and co-president of Herspace, said.

Junior James Montague, who added a note about loving his ears, spoke to why having a day promoting self love was needed.

“Body positivity is important, and especially in the social media world, there needs to be more awareness around it,” he said.

All the work and planning paid off, as at the end of the day the poster was decorated in a rainbow array of sticky notes showing off the various things that people love about their bodies, from one’s eyes to one’s knees to more unique additions, such as one’s gallbladder.

Post-it notes were added with what students love about their bodies. Stickers were handed out with a unique love your body day design made by junior Annika Brelsford.

ILLUSTRATION: Annika Brelsford

THE RUBICON PHOTOS: Evelyn Lillemoe SELF LOVE. Herspace presidents Julia Baron and Jenny Ries encourage seniors Nikolas Liepins and Gabe Ramirez to post what they love about their body.

Vaccine rollout begins, school protocols unchanged SALAH ABDULKARIM THE RUBICON

Since the start of the pandemic, a vaccine and roll out method has been a high priority. The Minnesota Department of Health has been working to ensure the vaccines are distributed in the most effective manner possible, prioritizing different groups of people in the different stages of distribution.

The MDH has developed multiple phases of distribution. The first phase has distributed vaccines to first responders, healthcare professionals, and people above the age of 65. Some people outside these categories have received the vaccination as the MDH experiments with larger scale distribution to prepare for phase two, which is expected to include educators.

“I personally believe the

way that the MDH is going about distributing the vaccines is pretty solid. There’s only so many available doses right now and they are making sure that the people that are most susceptible stay safe until they can get it to the general public,” junior Jack Bogdan said.

With insufficient trials of the vaccine on young adults and children, as well as low mortality rate, young adults and children are expected to be one of the later groups of the population to receive the vaccine.

Despite what many would think, vaccines will not impact SPA’s modality, which will continue to be determined by the close monitoring of case numbers within the county and SPA. The main reason being that while the vaccine will simply alleviate symptoms, it does not fully prevent the patient

ALL ABOUT RELATIONSHIPS From the science behind them to knowing when to end them, explore the aspects of daily relationships.

IN-DEPTH pg. 9-12

IN THIS ISSUE:

from carrying or spreading the virus. This means a vaccinated person could carry the virus without even knowing, and possibly spread it to other people within the community.

“Vaccines should be conpeople in sidered one additional proMinnesota tective layer in the overall with a mitigation strategies we are completed using to minimize transvaccine series mission of COVID-19 on our campus. For now, the vaccinations won’t change our protocols or learning modalities. We are not certain how many adults will be vaccinated and when.

Currently, the vaccines are only recommended for individuals 16 and older, which means many of our students will not be vaccinated at INFORMATION: this stage,” Assistant Head of mn.gov School Jill Romans said.

There are of course excepINFOGRAPHIC: tions, some essential workers Evelyn Lillemoe have been receiving the vac-

370,981

770,021

people in Minnesota with at least one vaccine dose

MASKS ON MASKS

Is double-masking effective?

Which mask works the best? Find out the science behind masks and which are the strongest.

HEALTH pg. 13

1-4 - News I 5-7 Opinion I 8 - Good Question I 9-12 - In Depth I 13 - Health I 14-15 - Feature I 16-17 - A&E I 18-20 - Sports

cine due to their high exposure to others. Senior Ruby Hoeschen, who works at her family’s independent pharmacy, was recently vaccinated after they recently started administering COVID-19 vaccines.

“I wasn’t planning on getting it because I’m not high priority but we actually ended up turning our pharmacy into a vaccine clinic of sorts, so we all ended up getting vaccinated including myself because I want to be protected against the people I’m interacting with and also protect them,” Hoeschen said.

Since vaccinations are in such early stages of use and distribution, CDC protocols should by no means be ignored. Masking and social distancing protocol will continue until otherwise advised by the CDC and/or World Health Organization.

KITES ON ICE FESTIVAL

Community in Buffalo, Minn. braves the cold to participate in the third annual Kites on Ice Festival.

A&E pg. 16-17

@TheRubiconSPA

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NEWS THE RUBICON - MARCH 2021

Quiz Bowl team set to return to nationals “ LUCY BENSON

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Spartan Quiz Bowl buzzed into an unusual season. Where competitors would normally gather together in teams to face off against other schools’ knowledge of trivia from a range of topics, teams instead met over the screen.

Practices and meets shifted online but otherwise the Quiz Bowl format was upheld. Competitors compete in teams of no more than four people and this year used a program called buzzin.live to buzz in their answers. In each tournament a team will play 12 different rounds against 12 different schools.

Quiz Bowl president Noel Abraham reflected on a strange season.

“This season has been

weird to say the least, especially because of our entire competition being in distance,” he said. “We have had to adapt to find ways to practice, but we have honestly exceeded expectations.”

Despite the altered format, the team has still been away for teammates to connect.

“This was my first season on Quiz Bowl. I thought it was a really nice way to get to know people,” 9th grader Bridget Keel said. “Especially since I’m new to SPA, and starting the year distance was tough.”

Even online Keel was able to learn and integrate to the team easily.

“I haven’t done anything like Quiz Bowl before, but it was easy to get used to,” Keel said. “I think the season’s going

THIS SEASON HAS BEEN WEIRD TO SAY THE LEAST. Noel Abraham

”

pretty well. My favorite part is really any tournament that we go to, since there aren’t consequences if we don’t do well, like not making it past playoffs or something like that.”

In a January meet, Quiz Bowl showed off the ways the pandemic hasn’t been able to hinder them.

“Our last competition was the third and final league night in our division of Minnesota Quiz Bowl. The Quiz Bowl league has three nights of competition per division, Where each team plays a

PHOTO SUBMITTED BY: Kate Lockwood BUZZ IN. Quiz Bowl president Noel Abraham answers questions during an online competition. total of 12 games,” Abraham said. “Through the entire league, our team went 8-4, and made the League playoffs through tiebreakers, which we didn’t do last year.”

Their success at the final league night means they get to move forward with competition.

“This allowed us to qualify for both Small

School Nationals and the general High School Nationals, which we are really looking forward to,” he said.

On Feb. 11, the team also competed in the league playoffs, Minnesota Quiz Bowl Alliance but were eliminated in a double elimination round.

Abraham echoed Keel’s feelings about the

sense of community enduring the digital distance.

“My favorite thing about Quiz Bowl is the camaraderie and the competitive spirit. We love to just go out there and compete and have fun doing something we enjoy,” Abraham said.

Lawmakers push bills to both restrict and expand voting

INFORMATION: Brennan Center for Justice INFOGRAPHIC: Noa Gross States across the nation have introduced bills for both expanding and restricting voting access following the 2020 presidential election. pression, it’s not always Across the 50 states, [THERE IS NOA GROSS the seemingly outright 33 have collectively inTHE RUBICON which prevents the A] HISTORY troduced over 100 bills American public from The 2020 presidential aimed at restricting votthe polls. Empirically it OF VOTER election was a record ing access. From strengthhas been proven that rebreaking election. From ening voter ID requireSUPPRESSION. stricting voting ties into the highest number of ments to clamping down voter suppression, and votes for any presidenJon Peterson on mail-in voting, the typically unequally imtial candidate in Ameribills are purported to pacts minority voters. The can history to a huge infight voter fraud, some- or limiting early voting cause for concern, specificrease in early voting, the thing which has been re- hours and doing things cally with mail-in ballots, number of people who searched extensively and to limit early voting ac- stems from the unsubparticipated in staple of is, in actuality, at a low cess absentee voting. stantiated questions to U.S. democracy grew, derisk of occurring.

It’s all tied… It’s not the the integrity of the voting spite the safety challengThe main concern for same thing as grandfa- process following 2020’s es 2020 presented. But opponents of the bills ther clauses and it’s not record turnouts. One of in the wake of the hotly is their message and his- the same thing as literacy the main concerns with contested election, lawtorical associations. Jon tests, but there is a com- the proposed restriction makers across the nation Peterson, Upper School mon thread that runs bills is their message to have pushed bills onto history department chair, through what we see to- voters. Wafa Naqvi, a the agenda which would spoke to the historical day. It’s gonna be a little ninth grader, voiced her serve to, in one way or connections. bit sneakier, but it has the concern about the bills. another, restrict voting “[There is a] histo- same desire,” Peterson “The bills will be seen access in subsequent elecry of voter suppression said. as restricting, especially tions. with things like voter ID In terms of voter sup-

“

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for the voters who aren’t very confident in their position as a voter… [the bills] will make it difficult for people who aren’t used to voting or haven’t gotten the full opportunity to vote yet,” she said.

Though there are many concerns about the restrictive bills, there are many more bills being proposed nationwide that would expand voting access. 37 states, a mix of both Republican and Democratic, have, in total, introduced over 500 bills that would serve to expand voting.

Over the course of 2021, as these bills and their merits are being debated, students of all ages are encouraged to engage with their local lawmakers to create the voting regulations they would like to see. Junior Elea-

nor Smith, who volunteers as an election judge, hopes students will get involved.

“Talk to your state legislators They care what their constituents think they want to know what you think about mail and voting and any other bills that they may pass no matter what the subject is. If you’re not old enough to vote or if you can’t vote still talk to your legislators, making sure that they know what you think is really important because it gives you a voice even if you’re unable to vote” she said.

The bills, whether restrictive or expansive, are a reflection of the democratic process, and the job now falls on state legislators to chart a path forward for future elections.

INFORMATION: Brennan Center for Justice INFOGRAPHIC: Noa Gross Some of the bills proposed that restrict voting access have to do with voting by mail, especially due to the fraudulent claims surrounding mail-in voting.

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NEWS THE RUBICON - MARCH 2021

Clubs work to incorporate gender inclusivity in school policy

THE RUBICON PHOTO: Eloise Duncan New posters about respecting pronouns have been hung up around the school and in classrooms.

MADDY FISHER THE RUBICON

St. Paul Academy and Summit School clubs Action for Gender Equality and Gender and Sexuality Acceptance Club as well as affinity group Rainbow Connection are working with SPA faculty to incorporate gender in-

clusivity into the community and its policies.

AGE club leaders Maggie Baxter and Spencer Burris-Brown initially approached the administration about gender equality in their sophomore year, intending to attempt small scale projects and raise awareness.

Their work on a survey surrounding gender discrimination and school culture has gradually expanded to a broader initiative to approach inclusivity at SPA. Club leaders have been attending regular meetings with the Director of Intercultural Life Dr. Naomi Taylor and Dean of Students Chantal Thornberry. Additional plans have been made to present at faculty and department meetings in order to ensure inclusivity beyond the administration.

“Dr. Taylor, Ms. Short, Ms. Barbee, and I have been meeting with the leaders of AGE, Rainbow [Connection], and GSA to create ways to better ensure correct pronoun usage for community members and the normalization of pronoun sharing,” Dean of Students Chantal Thornberry said. “The student groups are focusing on education components pertaining to pronouns that could be presented to students and faculty and strategies for sharing pronouns in classroom settings.”

Dean Thornberry also mentioned a potential form that would provide students with an optional

“

THERE ISN’T A REALLY POLISHED PLAN IN PLACE FOR TRANS STUDENTS OR QUEER STUDENTS. Jayden Jones

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method of sharing their pronouns with counselors and the administration.

“This year we’ve been working a lot on getting pronoun introductions incorporated into the classroom. There have been a lot of issues with misgendering and so we’re trying to ensure that that doesn’t happen and that students are feeling safe in the school setting,” Burris-Brown said.

“The goal is just to make sure that everybody is feeling comfortable and respected in all spaces, regardless of their gender.”

Burris-Brown and Baxter found that the process required to send out

their survey was made extremely inefficient by the lack of specific policy.

Club leaders are pushing for more communication between teachers as well as a zero tolerance policy surrounding discrimination. Recent issues with misgendering and deadnaming have also prompted efforts to directly include correct pronoun usage in school policy. In January, AGE distributed pronoun stickers at the Huss entrance in an effort to emphasize correct pronoun usage.

“There isn’t a really polished plan in place for trans students or queer students in general. They can’t really come out and have that be a smooth or pleasant experience,” Rainbow Connection leader Jayden Jones said.

Jones’ own experience coming out to the SPA community was made far more difficult by lack of communication and resources.

Thus far, changing everything from email address to Veracross name has been a long, drawn out process. “I think making transitioning easier will be super helpful. I have a lot of friends who

Spring break travel restrictions set to mitigate virus spread ADRIENNE GAYLORD THE RUBICON

As spring break approaches, so does the threat of a spike in COVID-19 cases. To prevent the spread of the virus into the St. Paul Academy community, SPA has set some policies aimed to uphold community health.

“It is our strong recommendation that students take the COVID precautions in place seriously over the spring break period for their own health and the health of their families and communities,” Assistant Head of School Jill Romans said.

Student’s traveling over break must make sure they adhere to the travel policy.

“Our travel policy states that anyone traveling by mass public transportation must quarantine for 10 days after their return,” Dr. Romans said.

“Students should be extra vigilant to maintain so-

cial distancing and wear a mask even when outdoors with others outside of their household, and to refrain from socializing in public indoor places such as restaurants.”

SPA will be in full distance learning mode the week following spring break, which will help students stay safe and feel involved in the community. In addition to quarantining after travel, it is also recommended to get tested for COVID-19 within the week of return.

“Students who do travel should take a COVID test five days after they return. This will help identify any asymptomatic COVID-19 cases. Additionally, if a student receives a negative test after five days, they can return to campus on Day eight and shorten their quarantine to seven days assuming they do not exhibit any symptoms,” Romans said.

Students are taking ac-

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STUDENTS SHOULD BE EXTRA VIGILANT TO MAINTAIN SOCIAL DISTANCING AND WEAR A MASK.

”

Jill Romans

tion in their travel plans to adhere to these necessary measures.

Sophomore Lily Malloy is traveling to Hawaii for family business this break.

“We’re gonna do it a week before spring break starts, so we have an extra couple of days to be there, and then to get back home and then after the quarantine period for SPA,” she said.

Sophomore Soren Miller is headed to Chica-

transitioned this year and it was sort of a tough process to get everything changed,” sophomore Valerie Wick said. “I think fixing that process would make things a lot less awkward and would keep people from using deadnames or old pronouns or whatever.”

To students who feel uncomfortable coming out to the SPA community, Jones offered the support of Rainbow Connection and GSA. “It’s all a process, you don’t have to know exactly who you are or what you want. Just do what makes you comfortable and happy in that moment. It is perfectly okay if you change something about your identity at any time because the most important part is that you’re comfortable,” they said.

Burris-Brown offered similar advice: “I know the process of coming out can be extremely difficult. The piece of advice I’d give is take your time and don’t feel like you need to do it sooner rather than later. Just do whatever feels best.”

New posters about respecting pronouns can be found around the school for more tips.

WHAT ARE SPA’S TRAVEL PROTOCOLS?

THE RUBICON PHOTO: Adrienne Gaylord Students are encouraged to continue to follow safety protocols, even while traveling over spring break. go to visit colleges for insight into the future. “We definitely didn’t want to fly because I don’t want to have to do distance learning for two weeks.

So we are definitely driving,” he said.

Even when traveling, students are prioritizing their safety and the safety of those around them.

“Just trying to be the safest and just stay inside our house, and just kind of stay with our family that we’re going to see, and get tested before and after,” Malloy said.

“We think it’s really

important, my dad and I, that we stay safe. Because you know, I don’t want to get anyone else sick, because we are going out of state. And so it’s important that we follow those rules,” Miller said.

This upcoming spring break, the SPA community is taking action to keep everyone safe and healthy while mitigating virus spread. Through travel protocol, the school is committed to maintaining community health in and out of the classroom.

Travel is allowed during spring break, but protocols have been put into place for students to follow in order to limit virus spread and exposure when returning from break.

- get tested five days after returning from travel - if the test comes back negative, quarantine for seven days - if the test comes back positive, quarantine for 10 days - SPA is in full distance learning the week after break

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NEWS THE RUBICON - MARCH 2021

Donald Trump acquitted again NIKOLAS LIEPINS

POLITICAL CORRESPONDENT

After being impeached by the U.S. House of Representatives for “Incitement of Insurrection” for his role in the Jan. 6 assault on the U.S. Capitol, former President Donald Trump became the first U.S. president impeached twice and to face an impeachment trial after leaving office. The trial took just five days and ended in acquittal.

The Article of Impeachment was transmitted from the House to the Senate on Jan. 25. On Jan. 26, Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) introduced a motion to dismiss the trial because it was unconstitutional on the grounds that Trump had already left office. 45 Senate Republicans supported the measure, signaling that the 17 Republican votes required to convict were essentially unattainable, but the motion failed.

Also on Jan. 26, Senators were sworn in as jurors, but the Senate resumed regular business until Feb. 9, when the trial began.

The Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court would preside over the impeachment trial of a sitting president, but Chief Justice John Roberts is believed to have said that he can skip the trial because Trump is no longer in office. Instead, the vice president would preside, but Vice

Who were the main players?

House Impeachment Managers:

PHOTO: Nikolas Liepins INSURRECTION. The U.S. Capitol news coverage on January 6 reflected with the Minnesota State Capitol.

President Kamala Harris delegated the duty to President Pro Tempore of the Senate Patrick Leahy (D-VT) due to the partisan partiality that such a prominent role could suggest. The vice president would not preside over the trial of a sitting president because of their conflict of interest: ascension to the presidency.

On Feb. 9, the proceedings opened with a debate on the constitutionality of the trial. The four-hour debate (time equally split between House Managers and Trump’s Defense) concluded with a 56-44 vote, which allowed the trial to proceed.

Then, both sides had up to 16 hours each, split across two days, to present their cases. The House Managers presented their case on Feb. 10 and Feb. 11, though they rested their case with hours left on the clock. Trump’s Defense used less than four hours on Feb. 12 to make their case. Since the Trump team finished so early, Senators were able to begin a four-hour questioning period that same day.

On Feb. 13, the Senate voted 55-45 to allow witnesses, though they quickly reversed the decision after entering a statement from Rep. Jai-

me Herrera Beutler (RWA) into the record as evidence.

“When McCarthy finally reached the president on January 6 and asked him to publicly call off the riot,” Rep. Beutler said, “the president initially repeated the falsehood that it was antifa that had breached the Capitol.” Beutler also claims Trump said: “Well, Kevin, I guess these people [who attacked the Capitol] are more upset about the election than you are.”

After entering Beutler’s statement into the record as evidence, the backtrack from witnesses

made way for a final vote the same day, Feb. 13.

The vote was 57-43, falling short of the 67 votes needed to convict. Seven Republicans joined all Democrats in voting to convict.

This means Trump can still launch a presidential bid for another term. Though unlikely, Congress could censure Trump via Section Three of the 14th Amendment, which disqualifies anyone who “engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the same [United States of America]” from holding federal or state office.

Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD8), lead manager Rep. Joaquin Castro (D-TX20) Rep. David Cicilline (D-RI1) Rep. Madeleine Dean (D-PA4) Rep. Diana DeGette (D-CO1) Rep. Ted Lieu (D-CA33) Rep. Joe Neguse (D-CO2) Del. Stacey Plaskett (D-U.S. Virgin Islands) Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA15)

Trump’s Legal Team: David Schoen Bruce Castor Jr Michael van der Veen Trump’s entire original defense team quit just a week before the trial was slated to begin.

ABC News reports that part of the reason the team resigned was due to disagreements over defense strategy. New to the impeachment trial stage is the fact that no one on the defense team is a constitutional scholar.

What were the arguments?

House Managers’ Arguments: • Trump was the “Inciter-in-Chief,” Rep. Raskin said.

• There is precedent for the impeachment of former officeholders.

• The Congressional Research Service said: “Though the text [of the Constitution] is open to debate, it appears that most scholars who have closely examined the question have concluded that Congress has authority to extend the impeachment process to officials who are no longer in office.” The Congressional Research Service also notes that there is reason to believe the Framers accepted post-office impeachment.

• The responsibility for inciting the Jan. 6 U.S. Capitol attack lies with Trump and Trump alone.

• Managers showed a 14-minute-long video of footage (some unseen) from the Capitol siege, to which many Senators from both sides of the aisle were reported to have visibly reacted.

• “The Constitution governs the first day of the President’s term, the last day, and every moment in between. Presidents do not get a free pass to commit high crimes and misdemeanors near the end of their term,” House Managers wrote in their trial brief.

• Trump knew what he was doing — he repeatedly and intentionally misled his supporters to believe the 2020 election was a fraud, and he used the anger he built to get them to breach the Capitol.

• The First Amendment doesn’t protect the government and its officials from accountability. Even if the First Amendment were applied, it does not protect speech that incites imminent lawlessness or violence.

• Trump did not make an effort to protect his vice president amidst the attempted coup.

• Rebutting the defense’s claim of “no due process,” Rep. Neguse said: “The president was invited to testify. He declined. The president was invited to provide exculpatory evidence. He declined.”

Trump’s Defense’s Arguments: • Trump’s words before the riot were “ordinary political rhetoric.”

• These proceedings are unconstitutional because Trump is no longer the president. (The Constitution doesn’t explicitly allow or prohibit post-office impeachment.)

• Trump is not responsible for the Jan. 6 attack, and the impeachment is just “an act of political vengeance” by Democrats.

• Trump’s remarks in question are protected by the First Amendment’s guarantee of free speech.

• “This trial is about far more than President Trump. It is about silencing and banning the speech the majority does not agree with,” Castor said.

• Trump didn’t know Pence was in danger. (Despite Sen. Tommy Tuberville, a Republican senator and Trump ally from Alabama, saying he told Trump about Pence’s evacuation from the Senate chamber on Jan 6.)

• Focused on procedures, due process.

• The Jan. 6 attack was already planned, and “you can’t incite what was already going to happen,” van der Veen said.

• Trump was just saying his supporters should make sure their elected officials were properly certifying the election.

• The process falls short of what’s expected in a criminal case.

• House Managers reminded the defense that impeachment is not a legal or criminal process, but a political one.

• Castor said that if the impeachment allegations were true, “a high crime is a felony, and a misdemeanor is a misdemeanor. After he’s out of office, you go and arrest him.”

EDITORIAL THE RUBICON - MARCH 2021

Seek quality over quantity

5

MINI EDS:

Don’t underestimate social activism

Fewer, closer friendships maintain health and happiness

In activism, a lot of emphasis is placed on making systemic change—that is, demonstrating and agitating with a change in policy being the main goal.

However, it’s important not to underestimate the ability of cultural- and social-focused activism to make a difference in the world by changing the behavior, rather than the rules, of society. While policy changes are powerful and are a valid goal for any movement, don’t think of them as the fix for any problem. A lot can be accomplished just by changing the way people think and act.

EDITORIAL CARTOON: Noa Gross While there are many fish in the sea, having a few close friends helps fight lonliness and has a positive effect on overall health.

EDITORIAL

THE RUBICON STAFF

What is more important: quality or quantity?

The answer to that question depends on the situation and what is being measured, and this balance is incredibly present in day-to-day relationships.

We can get caught up in measuring our selfworth and happiness based on how many friends we have or how many people like us.

This is a desire for quantity, but in reality, quality is what is more necessary in relationships.

Having a smaller number of strong friendships is more beneficial than having a lot of surface-level ones.

Close friends bring love and support into one’s life. It is crucial to put energy into relation-

ships with people that bring happiness, comfort, and trust.

Being in relationships that bring one down or lack trust and deeper care can be detrimental, and not having positive close relationships has even been proven to affect overall health, both physical and mental.

According to the Mayo Clinic, having strong social support reduces “risk of many significant health problems, including depression, high blood pressure and an unhealthy body mass index.”

In addition, close friends give a sense of belonging, reduce stress, prevent loneliness, and improve self-worth.

These are the relationships that need to be nurtured most and aren’t always as easily developed or maintained because

YOU CAN STILL BE KIND TO EVERYONE WITHOUT BEING CLOSE TO THEM. they require a deeper level of trust and commitment.

However, this does not mean to only focus on the people you are close with; it is still critical to be friendly to everyone, without feeling the pressure to be friends with everyone.

Being friendly with a large quantity of people is beneficial because, first of all, it is a kind thing to do, and second of all, doing so can help find deeper connections to forge strong and more meaningful relationships.

A study done by the Journal of Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology found that “it appears that popularity is important for setting the stage for relationship development, but that it is dyadic friendship experiences that most directly influence feelings of loneliness and depression.”

Diverse surface-level relationships are extremely valuable in the search for those deeper connections. Being kind to peers shows care for others - a friendly smile and wave in the hallways can brighten someone’s day, and those little acts of kindness can even spur a deeper relationship, creating the starting point of a closer connection.

While being friendly to everyone, it is nevertheless important to recognize that excess energy doesn’t need to be put

into developing deeper relationships with everyone. Doing this can be extremely draining and often leads to more loneliness because energy is put into numerous, more surface-level relationships rather than a few deeper ones.

So, don’t spread yourself thin trying to be friends with everyone.

Self-worth shouldn’t be measured based on the number of friends one has.

Find those who make you most happy and who you have developed the most meaningful and positive connections with.

Put energy into nurturing those relationships rather than relationships with everyone or relationships that aren’t beneficial. You can still be kind to everyone without being close to them.

THE RUBICON

Wear masks while exercising Walking through the halls at St. Paul Academy you’ll see nearly every individual fully masked.

Unfortunately, when walking through gyms and rinks, this is not the case. Despite the MSHSL mask mandate, many players consistently have their masks below their noses, and sometimes even their mouths. Refs sometimes offer gentle reminders but scarcely take action to stop the behavior. As players are breathing hard, as well as being in a position next to, and sometimes coming in physical contact with, their own teammates and opponents, masks are even more important than in schools or grocery stores. Although masks can make it harder to breathe when out of breath, it’s essential that athletes hold themselves and their teammates to a standard of safety.

St. Paul Academy and Summit School • 1712 Randolph Ave St. Paul, MN 55105 • rubicon.spa@gmail.com • www.RubicOnline.com • @TheRubiconSPA EDITOR-IN-CHIEF CHIEF VISUAL EDITOR MANAGING EDITOR BEATS MANAGER NEWS EDITORS OPINIONS EDITORS HEALTH EDITOR IN DEPTH EDITOR FEATURE EDITOR ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR SPORTS EDITORS GOOD QUESTION EDITOR ILLUSTRATOR

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OPINIONS THE RUBICON - MARCH 2021

Help stop spread of vaccine misinformation HAZEL WALTENBAUGH THE RUBICON

Fears and myths around the quickly developed COVID-19 vaccine have led many to question its safety and reliability. It was developed too quickly, it could alter my DNA, it might give me COVID-19, there’s a microchip inside it, I’ve already had COVID-19 and therefore I don’t need the vaccine, etc. It can be difficult to refrain from trusting these types of headlines, and even more difficult to remind those around us to do the same. While thinking critically about the safety of medical treatment is valid, it’s wise to fact-check before spreading misinformation and irrational fears.

There is warranted mistrust of medical care in the United States within communities of color, particularly Black communities, based on a history of medical racism, such as the Tuskegee Syphilis Study and the use of Henrietta Lacks’ cells without her consent. In addition, there has been a decline in recent years of people who trust vaccines. Anti-vaccination movements have increasingly gained popularity, as parents choose to avoid vaccines due to the fear they could be causing harm to their children. An article from AP news reported that 47 percent of adults anticipate getting the COVID-19 vaccine, 27 percent are unsure, and 26 percent say they are not planning on getting the vaccine. In the survey, 53 percent of white adults interviewed stated that they will get the vaccine, compared to 24 percent of Black adults interviewed. Social media and the struggle in finding reliable news sources have made it even harder for some to decide who to trust. A poll conducted by the CCDH found that on average, individuals who rely on social media as their news outlet where more likely to be hesitant about trusting vaccines. It can be extremely difficult to sort fact from opinion, especially in this case, where the facts and science behind the COVID-19 vaccine, or

THE STRUGGLE TO FIND RELIABLE NEWS SOURCES HAVE MADE IT HARDER TO DECIDE WHAT INFORMATION TO TRUST.

any vaccine, is harder to access than simply reading a fear-inducing headline from Instagram. As fears continue to spread, they become more popular. But how can we persuade those around us to let those fears go and take the vaccine?

Imagine you have a relative that is easily drawn to believing these ludicrous headlines. They get most of their news off Snapchat ads, and it’s almost impossible to make them think otherwise. They are hesitant to trust the vaccine because the Snapchat algorithm reinforces these fears. The first thing to do is help them fact-check. Ask, where are these ideas (or fears) coming from? Who is sharing the information and why should they be trusted? Persuade them to get news from alternative sources, rather than seeing things one-sided from social media. The same thing can be done from the other side, looking at why the vaccine is safe, or why it should be trusted. An article titled ‘Not Sure About the COVID-19 Vaccine? Get the Facts, Then Decide’ published by the University of Michigan Health goes over the facts and the myths surrounding the COVID-19 vaccine, which could be a useful resource.

Another helpful resource could be looking at who is getting vaccinated. Public figures such as Dr. Anthony Fauci, President Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, former vice president Mike Pence, or US Representative Nancy Pelosi are some examples of those who have been vaccinated, which might ease the vaccine-hesitant relative’s fears as well. Rather than reinforcing who isn’t getting vaccinated, talk about who is.

ILLUSTRATION: Adrienne Gaylord DOUBT. Mistrust of medical care because of centuries of medical racism and the recent rise of the anti-vaccination movement both contribute to mistrust of the vaccine.

Other groups, such as the US military who are also getting vaccinated, might be helpful to look into as well.

Possibly one of the most common fears surrounding the vaccine is that it was developed too quickly.

Taking less than a year to develop, the COVID-19 vaccine is now the quickest the world has ever developed a vaccine, after the mumps vaccine which took almost 4 years. So it is understandable that safety and effectiveness are being questioned. Helping others understand the science behind how mRNA vaccines work could also be an effective strategy to reassure the safety of the vaccine to those around us.

With volunteer numbers down, donating time is crucial MAREN OSTREM

MANAGING EDITOR

To donate or to volunteer?

While money is always helpful to non-profit organizations, the donation of time and service can be extremely valuable to both the cause and the volunteers themselves.

Social media feeds are constantly filled with nonprofits needing support, usually financially. As teenagers, it can be difficult to reconcile the need to help with the reality of being financially dependent on parents and guardians. Oftentimes high school students do not have the means to donate to organizations that may be in need, even when it is for a cause that they care about. This is where volunteering comes in.

According to the Star Tribune,

nonprofits in the Twin Cities are having volunteer shortages due to the pandemic, making volunteering all the more important right now.

The saying “time is money” has a lot of truth to it. Most non-profits are fueled by a lot of behind-the-scenes labor and often do not have the means to hire numerous employees to help with this. While it may not be glamorous, physical labor is one of the most valuable things to contribute to a non-profit.

As the Sheridan Story’s website says, “volunteers play a key role in packing food into bags that are distributed to children and families facing food insecurity.”

Volunteering comes with obvious benefits for the non-profit, but there are slightly less obvious benefits for the

volunteers themselves. Volunteering builds self-esteem and confidence, specifically amongst teens, according to a 2017 study by the University of Missouri and Brigham Young University. This type of service also comes with physical benefits — a 2013 Carnegie Mellon University study discovered that adults over 50 who volunteer regularly are less likely to

develop high blood pressure. A lot of volunteering is relatively physical, which also encourages less conventional forms of exercise.

Volunteering is an infinitely important and effective way to connect with one’s community without spending money. If you are not able to give money, give your time. Find an organization to donate time to.

The list is endless. A few examples in the Twin Cities are Art Buddies, where volunteers can become pen pals with elementary schoolers stuck in distance learning, or Open Arms, where volunteers prepare and serve food. Most organizations are still accepting in-person volunteers during the pandemic with safety guidelines. So get out there and volunteer.

THE DONATION OF TIME AND SERVICE CAN BE EXTREMELY VALUABLE TO BOTH A CAUSE AND VOLUNTEERS THEMSELVES.

WONDERING WHERE TO VOLUNTEER? Here are a few places accepting volunteers in the Twin Cities -Art Buddies -Big Brothers Big Sisters -Helping Paws -Jeremiah Program -Neighborhood House -Open Arms -People Serving People -PRISM -The Sheridan Story -Vision Loss Resources

POLICIES, MEMBERSHIPS AND AWARDS OUR MISSION We strive to capture the spirit of the community through its stories while inspiring deeper conversations. Above all, we stand for integrity in our pursuit to inform and engage our readers.

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it is always preferable to use names when reporting, there are times when it is necessary to protect those we report on. In the case of a student, the use of grade level as a name designation (i.e. Sophomore Student) will be the preferred method of anonymity.

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published online, will be corrected following the online corrections policy.

EDITORIALS articulate the collective opinion of The Rubicon staff, while mini-editorials, opinions pieces, arts reviews, and columns belong to the author.

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SUBMISSION GUIDELINES

conducted interviews, drafted, revised and fact-checked an assigned story.

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IN PRINT: Corrections are printed at the bottom of News p. 2. Corrections will be printed in the month following the error and, if the story is also

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OPINIONS

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THE RUBICON - MARCH 2021

ILLUSTRATION: Noa Gross Illustration shows the American Sign Language signs for A-S-L. Creating more opportunities for students to learn ASL at school has the potential to increase the number of people proficient in ASL nationally and globally, improving accessibility.

Make ASL a world language class NOA GROSS

THE RUBICON

The ability to communicate has played a vital role in the survival and success of the human species. Though over the course of history its primal purpose has shifted from one of basic survival to interconnecting diverse communities.

Communication, the ability to understand and be understood by one another, remains vital. But communication is not limited to oral language.

According to a 2011 report for the U.S. Senate Committee on Health,

Education, Labor and Pensions’ public, “Across all age groups, approximately 600,000 people in the United States (0.22% of the population, or 2.2 per 1,000) are ‘deaf.’...

Altogether, more than 35,000,000 people (13%) report some degree of hearing trouble.” Effective verbal communication can be challenging, though not impossible, for people who are deaf or have hearing loss. Given the obstacle that oral communication poses, the number of people who could benefit from the increased accessibility

that sign language provides is in the millions.

Developed over years by people hard of hearing, sign languages are unique and independent from the dominant language spoken in their region. Even within the English language for example, there is everything from Pidgin Signed English (PSE) and American Sign Language (ASL) to Black American Sign Language (BASL). For the United States, American Sign Language (ASL) is the most frequently used signing language.

Educational institutions have slowly expanded language learning opportunities for students to include ASL. Despite those advancements, ASL is still critically under-taught. According to a 2019 ewsweek article, “98% of deaf people do not receive education in sign language.” Without access to proper education, the voices and experiences of people hard of hearing are lost, as communication becomes increasingly difficult.

One way to help increase accessibility is to introduce educational opportunities in schools to learn ASL. Much like

SPA HAS THE OPPORTUNITY TO JOIN THE ‘FRONT OF THE PACK’ IN TERMS OF ACCESSIBILITY. other world language classes, ASL should be an accessible option for students across the nation so that the decision-makers of tomorrow can be exposed to the culture, language, and experiences of those who are hard of hearing.

St. Paul Academy and Summit Schools, especially, has the opportunity to join the ‘front of the pack’ in terms of its accessibility. Since many students have discussed their potential interest in an ASL course, they should take the initiative with the administration and work to have their voices heard. SPA should also take on the responsibility of becoming more inclusive. From creating course opportunities to better connect its students with the diverse cultures and narratives

of the United States, it should encourage ASL long before high school.

Additionally, the majority of research on the topic points to the same conclusion, there are immense and long-term benefits associated with learning ASL, and the earlier ASL education begins, the better. Sign language allows people to communicate, regardless of their hearing. The benefits of learning ASL coincide with the benefits associated with learning world languages as well as unique benefits such as improved spatial reasoning and an improved ability to communicate with babies.

There are no downsides to offering ASL at SPA. As a community committed to educating the leaders of tomorrow, SPA needs to commit itself to educating students about all unique communities that they might one day serve, and not just the non-disabled ones.

ASL should be SPA’s path forward as it seeks to amplify diverse narratives and allow students to communicate with members of the community and beyond.

Don’t stop learning after Black History Month EVELYN LILLEMOE

CHIEF VISUAL EDITOR

February was Black History Month. While some white people did a lot to honor the month, too many of us let it pass us by. If you didn’t do anything for Black History Month, it is time now, and for the rest of the year.

Black History Month should be a time when white people really change the way we live.

This starts with the most obvious action, research.

Learn about the horrors Black people have faced in the United States, throughout history and today, learn about the ways in which Black people have resisted institutional racism and White Supremacy and thrived.

Many online publications have compiled lists of Black historical figures to learn about. Many Black creators on social media choose to spend the month of February discussing moments in Black history. You can find information on Black history anywhere, you just have to look.

With that, while the month is called Black

History Month, it is important to remember that this knowledge can be used to better understand the present and influence the future. Learning about Black history does nothing if one fails to use it as context for the world we live in today.

When researching minstrel shows, consider ways in which the belittlement and ridicule of Black people and Black culture, for example in stereotypes in the media or when non-Black people mockingly adopt African American Vernacular, is still deeply ingrained in the culture of the United States.

When learning about the Tuskegee Syphilis Study, consider how the medical field continues to fail Black patients and why Black people may have trouble trusting the healthcare system or may be among those hesitant to take the COVID-19 vaccine.

On that note, maybe even more important than researching Black history, is listening to Black people now. Black History Month should be a time where white

LEARNING ABOUT BLACK HISTORY DOES NOTHING IF ONE FAILS TO USE IT AS CONTEXT FOR THE WORLD WE LIVE IN TODAY. people are seeking out, listening to, and uplifting Black voices.

This of course means listen to Black voices on the subjects of discrimination, colorism, generational trauma, stereotypes, media representation, and other subjects related to anti-Black racism in general, but also listen to Black voices on every other subject.

Ask yourself whether you only listen to Black people when they are talking about their oppression, or if you are also listening when they talk about Black joy, love, and excellence. Great ways to seek out Black voices are in opinions articles, Youtube videos, Instagram

ILLUSTRATION: Evelyn Lillemoe Black History Month, and every month after, is a time to listen to Black voices. One of the easiest ways to do this is to interact with Black creators’ content on social media. reels or lives, books, poems, and more.

The next step is to take this knowledge and turn it into action. Get involved with and behind action fighting for Black lives, buy from Black owned businesses, uplift Black voices in the spaces you are in, give mutual aid or reparations to a Black person.

Take tangible action to fight the oppression Black people face and to uplift the Black people around you. Knowledge

is nothing without action.

Even if you let this Black History Month pass you by, you can change the way you live if you make an effort every day.

Learning Black history, listening to Black voices, working to be antiracist, and fighting Black oppression is not just a commitment for the 28 days of February, it is a commitment for all 365 days of the year, a commitment for a lifetime.

THINKING OUT LOUD

Redefine what art means to you JENNY RIES

THE RUBICON

I never thought I had much talent as an artist, a creator. After three years of romanticizing photojournalism on the Rubicon, I can barely change the shutter speed on a camera without help. My drawing skills are pretty much limited to doodling flowers, and I always end up liking the way my painting palette, or even paint-splattered paper towels, look 10 times better than the painting I did. In orchestra, my stand partner makes 95 percent of the sound coming from the two of us. I can’t sing to save my life, and don’t dance much better, despite my best efforts.

So does this mean that I don’t express myself, that I don’t create?

It occurs to me that this is a narrow view of what constitutes art, one that makes it hard to appreciate all of the different ways all of us contribute to the collective gallery that often goes unnoticed and unacknowledged.

We’re all constantly creating, putting things out into the world. Every time we breathe, we take the oxygen around us in, and breathe it out as carbon dioxide. We literally change the world around us with every breath.

Every time each of us does something that leaves a mark, whether it’s on the earth, other people, even our own minds, we create and we express ourselves. Smiling at someone, having a conversation, thinking, breathing, it’s all art.

Sometimes people create, express, and build by making paintings and music, by dancing, taking pictures, and writing poems. Sometimes people put things out into the world that we are not used to seeing as art, but that nevertheless inspire us and shape our world.

Things like caring for others, thinking, sitting still and listening.

If we broaden our definition of art, maybe we’ll find that we’re all artists, just by existing in the world and letting other people know that we’re here.

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GOOD QUESTION THE RUBICON - MARCH 2021

How do recycled items become products?

AMERICA’S WASTE STREAM. The U.S only recycles about 32% of its total waste. (Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency)

ILLUSTRATION: Noa Gross

THINKS Four little steps make a world of difference SPA How can we be more green?

JOHN BECKER

What happens when an object is recycled?

Where does it go?

How is it processed to be reused? The recycling process, on paper, is a simple four-step process: collecting, processing, manufacturing, and distributing. However, in reality, this process is much more intensive than just four words, as companies such as Waste Management have a process in place for recycling efficiently.

THE RUBICON

STEP 1: COLLECTING The process first begins when a consumer recycles an object. This first step, collecting, can be something as simple as throwing away a plastic water bottle. However, water bottles are not the only object that can be collected, other objects include newspaper, paper towels, metal cans, and much more.

“

HOW DOES THIS LOOK AT SCHOOL? There are three different types of waste bins, each with its own color: blue (recycling), black (trash), or green (compost).

Junior Divya Bhargava said that “we focus on recycling a lot but not separating our recycling into different categories, so a lot of it ends up getting thrown away anyway.”

Seemingly insignificant problems can ultimately be detrimental to the recycling process.

Cross contamination can attract rodents and pests, sometimes causing recyclable material to be turned away by the buyer. This results in recyclable material being sent to a landfill.

LEARNING MORE IN CLASS

Spanish V courses recently completed a unit in which they discussed waste management in Latin America and the U.S. It was found that, in STEP 2: PROCESSING general, it costs more money to The EPA create an entirely new object comrecommends Once the object is collected it parable to an object that has been shifts into the processing phase. reducing and reusing recycled. In order to be more effiDuring processing, objects are as well as recycling. cient, Daniels came up with the sorted and cleaned at a material idea of a collective study between recovery center and turned into teachers and students. This would pieces that are sent to manufacturing facilities. allow for input from a wide variety of people From there, this everyday waste discovers its prior to taking action. new purpose by becoming other common ob“I tried to frame the Spanish V unit around jects like cereal boxes or aluminum cans. students’ perspectives, US Spanish teacher Pete Daniels said. “Students identified small changSTEP 3: MANUFACTURING es for lunch, such as food waste and packaging A number of green businesses use recycled or turning off lights on evenings and weekmaterials to make products from post-consum- ends. To more large-scale changes like the iner notebooks to Patagonia jackets. Everything stallation of solar panels.” used on a daily basis, from a toothbrush to Daniels encouraged students to help themshoes are manufactured from recycled materi- selves and others to lead more sustainable lives. als through manufacturing.

Junior Quinn Williams said, “If we make things more efficient and easier to recycle, it STEP 4: DISTRIBUTING would be more encouraging to the average Online shopping, while not a green practice consumer to recycle...I think that the student in itself, is an easy way to purchase globally re- body is doing a lot of things well, and some cycled products, but there are also a number things not so much. A way we can improve is of local places that sell recycled and upcycled by making sure that we throw away the right products. things, in the right places.”

The EPA reports that the U.S. only recycles about one-third of its total waste.

FAST FACT

WE SHOULD USE OUR COMPOST FOR A GARDEN AND GROW PRODUCE FOR LUNCH.

”

Katharine Hanf

SEPARATE “ INTRODUCE TRASH CANS FROM RECYCLING BINS IN CLASSROOMS SO RECYCLING ISN’T CONTAMINATED BY MISPLACED TRASH.

”

John Hall

“

REDUCE ENERGY WASTE

BY USING LIGHTS ONLY WHEN NECESSARY IN SPACES LIKE THE LIBRARY THAT CAN ALMOST COMPLETELY DEPEND ON NATURAL LIGHT. Isabel Lutgen

COULD USE FEWER “ WE PLASTIC BOTTLES IN THE LUNCHROOM BY GIVING STUDENTS REUSABLE BOTTLES INSTEAD. Ben Chen

”

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IN DEPTH

INTERPERSONAL

CALL ME MAYBE. Humans crave social interaction, and research shows that friendships increase mental and physical health. Neuroscientists have even found evidence that the human brain works better when a person has regular interactive and interpersonal connection with others.

THE RUBICON - MARCH 2021

ILLUSTRATION: Maddy Fisher

CONNECTION

Happiness and growth: why we need friends HAZEL WALTENBAUGH

Nowakowski is drawn to friends for similar reasons to Lindeman: “The most important thing for me is to have friends THE MOST who are easy to talk to about everything,” she said.

Relationships are a major part of life, especially for teenWhen it comes to making friends, humans are usually agers. Humans crave social interaction and are constantly IMPORTANT THING drawn to those who take initiative and demonstrate friendlooking for approval, support, attention, or day-to-day conliness, openness, attentiveness, and show trust and reliability.

FOR ME IS TO HAVE nection. With school and work, daily interactions are typiThose who converse easily are more likely to make others cally not hard to find, but social isolation brought on by the FRIENDS WHO ARE feel connected and welcome, leading to a more vast and dipandemic has made connection a struggle for some. verse social network. But there are also unconscious social Friendships make humans feel good, but why do we reEASY TO TALK TO cues that draw humans together. Expressions, postures, physally need them? Why can’t life be navigated alone? While it ical actions, intonation, and pheromones can affect who conABOUT EVERYTHING. may not be healthy to completely depend on those around nects best with who. us, scientifically speaking, friendships are necessary for overLeni Nowakowski Isolation can make it difficult to feel connected and mainall health. Lack of social support has been linked to negatain healthy relationships. “I think it’s important to always tive physical and emotional health outcomes. Isolation is communicate with your friends, even outside of school, so connected to an increased risk of disease and cancer, higher you can maintain the connection,” Lindeman said. stress levels, unhealthy lifestyle habits such as lack of exercise, and can even reduce In terms of more non-platonic relationships, humans are also drawn to certain success rates in things like school and personal goals. It can also be linked to higher people based on how they experienced love from an early age: “These early reladepression rates and even decrease life expectancy. tionships give you a blueprint of how it feels to be loved, which you then someAn article in the Journal Neuron published in 2015 by a group of Finnish neuro- times replicate or seek in romantic relationships,” US Counselor Emily Barbee said. scientists found evidence that the human brain works better with access to routine She explained that humans often look for someone who fulfills what we lack ourinteractions and collaboration with others. Another reason relationships are ben- selves in order to make us feel more complete or whole. eficial is because they tend to drive improvement and growth. Friends encourage “Maybe as a child, being in love was connected to seeking approval, and so I’m accountability when it comes to lifestyle and goals, as well as increase one’s sense of going to seek relationships with somebody who withholds approval and who I belonging or purpose (which is often linked to finding happiness). Relationships have to work really hard to get a compliment from,” Barbee explained. also tend to drive growth because of how interactions challenge us—social interacSometimes, it can be hard to distinguish between different types of relationality, tions are not always going to be positive. Conflict and obstacles force problem solv- making it difficult to decide how these connections fit into our lives. ing and reflection, both of which support constant growth and self-improvement “How can you tell the difference between lust and attraction, and whether or (which is again linked to finding happiness). not you actually want to be in a relationship with somebody? I think this is some“My out of school friends are mostly from sports so generally I end up with more thing we should talk about a lot more,” Barbee said. “Especially with hookup culcompetitive friends like me,” sophomore Leni Nowakowski said. These friendships ture; it’s almost not acceptable to develop feelings for somebody because you’re push Nowakowski to improve in sports and reflect her other similar interests. just expected to go with the flow.”

An article published in The Wall Street Journal found that humans, on average, Barbee recommends a compatibility quiz on the website for the book Attached, have about four close friends. Close friend relationships are deeper connections (attachedthebook.com) to get a better understanding of personal attachment pattypically with someone you can trust and open up to. These relationships are im- terns and relationship awareness. portant for overall well-being and sense of security.

Human connection is essential to mental and often physical well-being, wheth“My best friends are important because they listen to everything I have to say, er that be surface-level interactions or deeper, more complex relationships. any time of the day,” sophomore Aaron Lindeman said. “Having a couple of close Navigating relationships can be tricky, but navigating life in isolation can be friends is important because not everyone shares my same interests, so it’s import- even harder. ant to have a few people who are more similar to me, or get me.”

THE RUBICON

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IN DE

H

THE RUBICON

ow does distance change our connections LIZZIE KRISTAL THE RUBICON

Distance is a common factor in today’s life, especially for those with relationships outside of the local area. For safety reasons, very few have been able to travel across distance for visiting family and friends. These relationships face both challenges and advantages due to the physical distance and creative communication can become a huge role in maintaining them.

Relationships can have two types of distance: emotional and physical. Emotional distance is when there’s a disconnect between internal and mental levels, while physical is purely based on geographical separation. They have a deeply complex interaction with each other. For example, physical distance can often create emotional distance or can bring people emotionally together. It all depends on the specific people in the relationship.

For sophomore Aten-Wa Theba, distanced friendships, like the one he has with a friend he met on a snowboarding team in Australia, have their own advantages. “While we only got to spend time together for a few weeks, we talk all the time and she’s one of my closest friends. These connections are nice to have since they’re people to go to when you’re bored and want to mess around or when you have more serious things to talk about but don’t want to involve someone in your circles,” he said.

At the same time, the physical distance can create a strong tension, as there’s a massive loss of in-person interaction.

“Our relationship is ‘restricted,’ so to speak. I have many friends who I have known for years that I have yet to go out to lunch with, and that can be very gutting. Sometimes it feels like our friendships are only so strong because of the digital component and by extension would disintegrate upon meeting in person,” Theba said.

The difficulties posed by the pandemic have added an unfamiliar layer to distanced friendships. “One of my closest friends lives in Ohio. I haven’t seen her in over a year now… it’s weird because we didn’t have our phones so we were really becoming

FRIENDSHIP FACTS

Making connections Thank people. Thanking people for small favors can make the people around you feel more seen.

% of teens have a close friend who:

98% of teens say they have at least one close friend

friends without screens and now we’re only friends throu screens. It’s a completely different type of friendship,” sen Julia Scott said.

Seeing family in other states or countries has also becom an issue due to safety concerns surrounding travel. Already a limited amount of visits per year, the pandemic has plac an especially large strain on not being able to visit loved on “My dad’s side of the family all live in Washington and O gon and then my mom’s side all live in New York. I don’t ha any family here besides the people I live with. That’s been pr ty difficult because we usually see them every winter or spri break,” sophomore Parisa Ghavami said.

Distanced relationships pose many difficulties, but comm nication is key in tackling such obstacles. On top of regu texting, FaceTime, Zooming, and social media interactions, there’s room for creativity in forming a bond. “[We communicate by] sometimes sending gifts to each other,” Ghavami said. This can be especially handy during birthdays or holidays.

Strategy is also an important factor in finding ways to communicate to make sure all parties are available.

“I always have clocks set to the times of my friends so I can coordinate calls or gaming sessions and so I can be sure that I don’t catch them at any bad times, i.e. in classes or during dinner,” Theba said.

Friendships and family don’t have to be put on hold just because of physical distance. Technology has made communication so much easier, including more than just texts and calls. Online games are a great way to have fun apart, and even ordering food for your family through delivery sites can be a kind gesture. While distance often puts a strain on relationships, there are many ways to maintain contact and love from far away.

Do what feels comfortable. Realistic goals, like saying hi to more people in the halls, can make connecting feel more natural.

Play out interactions in your head. Imagining scenarios before they happen can be a good way to feel more secrure in a conversation.

78% of teens say they have between one and five close friends

INFORMATION FROM HARVARD MEDICAL SCHOOL AND PEW RESEARCH CENTER

Pick up conversations.

Don’t leave people hanging. When people try to start conversations, help them out.

INFOGRAPHIC: Maren Ostrem

11

EPTH - MARCH 2021

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It’s common to have at least one teacher who seems to know us personally and connects well. But how can you connect with a teacher where that connection doesn’t come naturally?

Tips to foster positive student teacher relationships: Do what’s obvious.

Show up for class on time, have your work done, and homework complete. Be focused and participate.

Show interest in the subject.

Teachers don’t choose to teach subjects they aren’t interested in, so show them you care. Find a cool language music video, share a current event in history class, talk about how mathematics relates to art or music.

Schedule 1:1 time. Use tutorial or a free period to get extra help, ask questions, or talk about your progress in class.

It’s a 2-way street.

Positive relationships are never one-sided, so know that teachers are willing to work with you to build a successful learning environment.

Tell them what works for you and let them support you.

INFORMATION FROM TEENS HEALTH / NEMOURS FOUNDATION

S

tudent and teacher dynamic: how it changes learning

CATHERINE HOOLEY THE RUBICON

One of the things most valuable to a school setting is the ability to build relationships between teachers and students. SPA’s small community setting allows for students to reach out to their teachers, but the unusual learning modalities have made it much harder for such relationships to grow.

The importance of a healthy and balanced dynamic between a teacher and their students is highly supported by science. A study published by Harvard University conducted by Matthew Kraft, David Blazar and Dylan Hogan found that teachers who participated in teacher training courses improved their instruction methods, and thus had a positive impact on their students’ learning experiIT’S EASIER TO HELP SOMEONE ence. Teachers that keep their students engaged LEARN IF YOU HAVE A BETTER IDEA allow students to develop a positive attitude towards learning.

OF HOW THEY THINK, WHAT THEY “It’s easier to help someone learn if you have a better idea of how they think, what they unUNDERSTAND, AND WHAT THEY CARE derstand, and what they care about. Without a ABOUT. strong connection, teaching is so much more difficult because the audience you’re imaginBryce Bjorkman ing is made up of total strangers,” new teacher Bryce Bjorkman said. Bjorkman is making connections with his students at a much slower pace with the pandemic, but he recognizes the importance to continue to become comfortable with his students.

New teachers seem to be managing the shift, but the experience is slightly different for new students. “It’s harder to do normal school and build those bonds with teachers right now because there is less community time,” sophomore Luke Welch said. Welch is a new student this year, and becoming part of a new community has not been easy.

Students who have already been attending SPA are able to build off of some past relationships, but not everyone is able to have that experience.

“Being comfortable enough to ask your teacher questions is really important.

For me, when I know a teacher well and feel comfortable when speaking to them individually, I find that it’s easier to pay attention in class and ask questions,” senior Katya Sjaastad said. When students feel safe with their teachers, it makes it much easier to communicate and ask questions, which in turn makes the academic experience a little less challenging. But one important way to build these comfortable relationships is communication, which is extremely limited right now.

Since SPA is in school 2-3 times a week, but online the rest of the time, students are constantly switching the ways in which they seek help from teachers. Although at SPA there are online tutorial periods for students to ask questions, they are rarely used. It is much easier for students to ask questions when it is casual and in-person, but students have a harder time showing up to online tutorials.

With these inconveniences, there are always more ways to build the ideal environment with an educator. “I think it is important to communicate authentic interest. I enjoy asking questions and listening to students. I think teachers build connections in all sorts of ways. I know my colleagues at SPA to be deeply interested in and deeply caring for the students,” US History teacher Ben Bollinger Danielson said. Keep in mind, a relationship goes both ways, and both the teacher and the student must make an effort to build that bond.

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IN DEPTH THE RUBICON - MARCH 2021

I WISH YOU WELL. While ending a friendship hurts, sometimes it’s the best choice.

Is it time to say goodbye?

Tips to make the break up better

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Break up in person but not in a big public place. Don’t text.

Don’t ghost. It’s essential to be physically present to show that the relationship was important to you. Choose a place that allows for honest emotional reaction and sincere conversation, but also a place you can leave when it ends.

Be honest and certain. It will hurt more if you don’t acknowledge the real issues involved and show your friend the respect inherent in closure. Don’t offer false hope.

Take responsibility for your choice. Acknowledge that it’s what you want instead of blaming circumstances, timing, or the other person.

Listen to their feelings without getting defensive. If they want to talk in that moment, hear them out. Answer questions as honestly as you can, but don’t engage in an argument.

Make it a clean break. Space and time give you both time to work through remaining feelings you have, and it reinforces that things have changed permanently.

INFORMATION FROM PSYCHOLOGY TODAY

ILLUSTRATION: Maddy Fisher

hen is it time to end a relationship?

EVE SAMPSELL-JONES THE RUBICON

because of fear of setting your It’s important that people friend off. The relationship is have strong friendships and refull of incredible highs and diIT BECOMES lationships, especially through sastrous lows, as your emotiontough and bumpy periods in APPARENT THAT al and mental health grows and their life—namely, the teenage falls. years. With modern technoloA FRIENDSHIP ISN’T Every toxic relationship will gy and the pandemic forcing look different and students WORKING WELL WHEN teenagers online more and should find the way to end it more, it takes work to connect I NO LONGER ENJOY that will be best for them based with others on a deeper levon the individual relationship. el to build strong friendships.

SPENDING TIME WITH “I think that there is not reHowever, it’s possibly just as ally one point or one way that THE PERSON. important to know how to end someone should end a friendthem when they get toxic or no Evan McCarthy ship.

It will most likely be differlonger enjoyable, though it can ent for different people, but for be a lot more difficult for teenme, the friendships that I have agers to end friendships during ended have just been through these important developmental years. growing apart over time,” junior Divya Bhargava said.

“Generally for me it becomes apparent that a “You can remain friendly with them and gradually friendship is not working well when I no longer enspend less time with them which can result in hard joy spending time with the person, or they just are suconversations,” Hanf said.

“Or you can almost rip off per annoying,” sophomore Evan McCarthy said. “For a Band Aid and break up with them which can cause me this is different for different types of friendships.” unnecessary hurt.

So it’s up to you to determine how He added that “being able to trust the person is detrimental they are to your mental and/or physical important.” health.”

According to Psychology Today, while a good friendGrowing apart can be one way to let a friendship ship can extend your life, staying in a bad friendship come to its natural end, and this may be helpful if the has psychosomatic effects which can lead to profriend wasn’t putting any work into the relationship found medical consequences. It’s important to leave a in the first place. However, some friendships need a toxic relationship for both your mental and physical solid ending and breakup conversation. Forbes recomhealth, but it can be difficult to spot toxicity in the mends starting by stating the benefits of the friendfirst place. ship originally, and then discussing how those benefits “For me, knowing if a relationship is going south have become lesser in the present day. Then, find a is a very internal and personal thing. Signs of this compromise for seeing and talking to each other less downhill incline are if I don’t get any laughter, supfrequently, creating some distance and boundaries. If port, or joy out of the relationship [or if] I start feelthe other person insists on having the last word, don’t ing uncomfortable or insecure around them,” ninth stress about it—it’s proof that ending the friendship is grader Katharine Hanf said. “Then if I feel I have to the right choice. change how I act around them or almost need to “I myself was in a pretty toxic friendship for a few prove my worth to them, that’s when I take the initiayears and it took quarantine to figure out that I was tive to end the relationship.” holding onto memories and not the current person,” Some signs of a toxic platonic or non-platonic Hanf said.

“My advice to ending a relationship is to relationship include constant competition, whether first think about how they affect you and if it’s a trait that’s within a friendship or if one member is comof that person that affects you, you have to understand peting with others outside of the friendship for the that that’ll never change.

Then you have to embrace toxic person’s attention and affection. Other signs are them for all they are and move on or realize it’s not that the relationship may be a one-way street, and worth holding on to the relationship.” someone may be putting a lot more work and time She added that “At the end of the day… you need to into it than the other. The friend may be overly critilook out for your well-being and happiness.” cal but refuse to realize their own flaws and work on them. Some topics of conversation may be off-limits

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HEALTH THE RUBICON -MARCH 2021

LET’S TALK

Senior Stella McKoy sports two masks for further protection from COVID-19, while sophomore Evan Holmes wears the basic blue medical mask that has become a staple of the pandemic.

MASKS

THE GOOD THE BAD THE SAFETY

How wearing a mask prevents the spread of coronavirus and other aerosolized germs ELOISE DUNCAN

While walking out the door, one grabs their keys, phone, wallet, and … a mask. Face masks have become a part of everyday life - a new accessory to outfits and a necessity for keeping people safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. Almost a year into the pandemic, grabbing a mask on one’s way out of the house isn’t unusual, but why do we even do this? How do these masks work?

Dr. MeiLan Han, a professor of medicine at the University of Michigan, says that the transmission of COVID-19 occurs through respiratory droplets released when talking and sneezing. If these droplets of someone who has the virus are released and then go into the mouth, nose, or lungs of someone nearby, that person can contract the virus. Masks put a physical barrier outside of one’s mouth and nose in order to catch these droplets so they do not spread as far into the air as they would without one.

THE RUBICON

Safe or sorry?

Noting the effectiveness of different masks JULIA BARON THE RUBICON

Students wear masks both because of the science behind it and because of their care for protecting themselves and those around them.

“I know we wear masks because science supports it and that without [wearing masks] spreading COVID-19 is much easier. I wear a mask because I am protecting the others around me. I know that if I was to get [COVID-19] I would be fine but knowing the impact I could have on others is why I wear it, along with keeping myself safe,” senior Senai Assefa said.

“They are a proven and effective strategy to slow the spread and keep everyone as healthy as possible.

Yes, they are required and should be, but that is not the only reason I wear one. Wearing a mask is just common sense, it’s one of the best things you can do to keep the community safe,” sophomore Maggie Fried said.

Studies done have shown the effectiveness of mask wearing in decreasing transmission levels. Mass Gen-

eral Brigham, the largest health care system in Massachusetts, with 12 hospitals in total, conducted a study that found requiring universal masking was associated with a significantly lower rate of COVID-19 positivity of the healthcare workers. Before they implemented masking, new positive cases among the healthcare workers were increasing. Another study done at Duke University evaluated the efficacy of different masks in reducing the transmission of respiratory droplets.

It found that the droplet rate and droplet counts significantly decreased when wearing a fitted N95 mask, cotton mask, or surgical mask.

Masks have been proven to decrease transmission levels of COVID-19 by blocking respiratory droplets from entering the air. They protect individuals and communities, making them a necessary and life-saving part of life during the pandemic.

“

At school, the grocery store, coffee shops and Dr. Anthony Fauci, have also explained that it ...WITH WHAT DR. ing even sports practices and games, mask wearing has might be a good measure to take. become the norm as it’s proven to help reduce the “If you have a physical covering with one layFAUCI HAS SAID spread of the COVID-19 virus. While evidence has er, you put another layer on, it just makes common ABOUT WEARING sense that it likely would be more effective and continually proven that masks are an effective measure for individuals to take in public areas during the reason why you see people either double TWO MASKS, [IT] that’s the pandemic, the question has come to: what mask masking or doing a version of an N95,” Fauci said. and how many?

Even though basic cloth and surgical masks are CAN’T HURT. While most masks have some effectiveness, there great options, the most effective kinds of mask are Kishori Patel are levels to the protection masks grant to their N95 or KN95 masks. Unfortunately, these kinds of wearer and the people around them. masks are both somewhat uncomfortable and not According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, the least effective kinds accessible to the entire population. This conundrum, along with the of masks to wear include bandanas, neck gaiters and valved masks. new strains of the virus, has begun to beg the question of whether Bandanas usually have a large opening at the bottom, allowing for double masking is a well matched alternative. respiratory droplets that can contain the virus to escape, while neck US science teacher Dr. Stading double masks at school. She wears gaiters are usually too thin to act as an effective barrier. One-way a cloth mask over the KN95 to preserve the KN95. valved masks are also a bad option, as they contain a vent, or hole, “I double mask so that I can get more life out of my KN95 mask. through which respiratory droplets can be released.

The school provided every teacher that requested one a 5 pack of Past these three flawed types of face coverings, the most import- KN95 masks per semester. I was told that if I wear a cloth mask over ant thing for is a tight seal: choose a mask that fits well, doesn’t have my KN95, then it extends it’s wear time to 5 days,” Stading said. any gaps, has multiple layers, and is comfortable enough so that they A study by the scientific journal Matter has found that pairing a are not constantly adjusting it. This could be either a multi-layer cot- nylon cloth mask over a surgical mask is extremely effective. The ton cloth mask or a disposable surgical mask. journal reported that “commercial surgical masks marketed for medJunior Kishori Patel is among the many students that have been ical use had mean particle removal efficiencies from 53% to 75% wearing two masks to school. when worn as designed but up to 90% when snugged to the face “I’m wearing two masks because of the spread of the COVID vari- under a nylon layer.” ants that have been in Minnesota. And with what Dr. Anthony Fauci While the most important thing for everyone to do is simply has said about [wearing two masks], it can’t hurt,” Patel said. wear a mask, there is variability is the protection offered by different While the CDC has not recommended the practice of double masks, and the practice of double masking — but the thing emphamaskings, it has become somewhat common among SPA students sized most by the CDC in most recent guidelines is to focus on wearand teachers, and both President Biden and Vice President Harris ing a well-fitted mask. have been seen double masking. Some scientific experts, includ-

”

HOW WELL DOES IT FILTER?

Neck gaiters

Valved masks

Cloth masks

Surgical masks

Double masking

KN95

LEAST SAFE MOST SAFE Cloth masks filter 50-70% of fine droplets and particles, while KN95 and N95 masks filter close to 95%. INFORMATION: MN DEPT. OF HEALTH

N95

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FEATURE THE RUBICON - MARCH 2021

O’Malley finds community in cosplay EVE SAMPSELL-JONES

TikTok has ruled many aspects of pop culture in recent years. It’s overtaken the music industry, with songs skyrocketing in popularity after a stint on the app. It’s created an infinite number of new memes as people produce original content. It’s given rise to countless new communities and trends, and has contributed greatly to the quick sharing of ideas that has become a trademark of Generation Z. And, in a section of TikTok where anime fans and alternative fashion lovers converge, it’s created a home for sophomore cosplayer Bev O’Malley.

Cosplay, a practice involving dressing up and acting as a character from a piece of media, has risen in popularity on TikTok. A subculture that was once ostracized and pushed into the “cringey” corners of the internet is now commonplace and accessible, as TikTok cosplayers can act along to their favorite sounds from their favorite pieces of media. Bev O’Malley is one of many cosplayers that has found community on the TikTok app.

“I think TikTok is a really great place for cosplayers to express themselves,” O’Malley said. “Cosplaying has, in the past, been not super widely accepted throughout the internet, but TikTok kind of normalized it.”

Scrolling through O’Malley’s TikTok profile (@offbrandbeverlymarsh), there are many types of videos: dances, jokes, and fun with friends. But the crown jewel of their TikTok account is indisputably their cosplays.

“I think I got into it when I started collecting screen-accurate clothing from movies. One of my TikTok mutuals did that as well and she got me into it,” they said.

O’Malley makes videos as a variety of characters.

“Most recently I cosplayed Yumeko Jabami, from Kakegurui, but I cosplay Beverly Marsh from “IT” the most,” O’Malley said. “I really love her character and “IT” has been my comfort movie for a long time, so I really enjoy cosplaying her.”

Looking through O’Malley’s TikTok, one can see the evolution of their Beverly Marsh cosplay outfit as they acquired screen-accurate clothes, wigs, and followers.

O’Malley, dressed as Beverly Marsh, is often reminding their followers they are loved and worthy, duetting cosplayers of other characters from “IT”, and acting out audios in character.

“I actually have a list in my Notes app of cosplays I THE RUBICON

PHOTOS: @offbrandbeverlymarsh on TikTok YOU’LL FLOAT TOO. Bev O’Malley cosplays as Beverly Marsh from the movie “IT”. “IT has been my comfort movie...so I really enjoy cosplaying her,” they said.

O’Malley dresses up like Yumeko Jabami, the lead of the anime series “Kakegurui”.

O’Malley films a TikTok at school. “TikTok kind of normalized [cosplay,]” they said.

IS A REALLY GREAT “ TIKTOK PLACE FOR COSPLAYERS TO EXPRESS THEMSELVES. ” Bev O’Malley

want to do. Usually, I just pick characters that I think look cool or that I relate to,” O’Malley said. “I think next up on my list is Sydney Novak from “I Am Not Okay With This”, but I have a very long list of things I want to do in the future.”

“I Am Not Okay With This” is a Netflix original series featuring actress Sophia Lillis as Sydney Novak.

(Lillis also portrays O’Malley’s main cosplay character, Beverly Marsh, in “IT”.) One season of “I Am Not Okay With This” went up on Netflix, but the show was canceled because of the COVID-19 pandemic, to O’Malley’s great distress.

“They could have just postponed filming ianowt [sic],” O’Malley captioned one of their TikToks after the show’s cancellation.

O’Malley noted that the TikTok cosplaying community is large and diverse, representative of fans from many different subcultures and media. They have their niche within the larger community, and so do others. O’Malley has made a point in the past of respecting other fandoms to help prevent a lot of the toxicity that can be spawned in internet communities.

“There are kind of different “groups” in the cosplay TikTok community. Things that show up on my For You page are mostly cosplay from things that I’m personally interested in, like “IT” or “Danganronpa”. I don’t really see cosplays from things I haven’t watched.

Certain aspects of the community can be toxic, but I think we work through things like that pretty well.” they said. “I found a lot of my closest internet friends through cosplay.”

Thanks to cosplaying on TikTok, O’Malley has found connections and inspiration that are unique to their niche. Different characters, shows, films, games, and people all contribute to their personal environment which they’ve specially curated on TikTok, and O’Malley is happy to be dancing, lip syncing, and having fun with them all

Sophomores face road blocks earning driver’s licenses

PHOTO SUBMITTED BY: Leona Barocas COVID-19 has made getting a drivers license more challenging for Leona Barocas. “I just don’t leave the house and I don’t get the hours,” Barocas said.

COLIN WILL

THE RUBICON

According to tradition, each year students endure intense trials and tribulations to secure a coveted prize: their driver’s license. Per Minnesota law, these students must go through the rit-

uals of taking 30 hours of Driver’s Ed, a written test, driving 50 supervised hours including 15 nighthours, taking six hours of “behind the wheel” classes with an instructor, and, finally, passing the driver’s test to get their license. But in the era of

the COVID-19 pandemic, the Class of 2023 is finding these rites of passage challenging.

“Most of my activities are still going, but there have been times when they’ve stopped for a month or two. And so during those times I just don’t leave the house and I don’t get the hours,” Leona Barocas said, a 16-year-old sophomore with a driving test scheduled in March.

Barocas has fulfilled the required 50 hours of supervised driving, but has not yet driven for 15 hours at night. “Night driving has been tough, especially because the shortest weeks of the year were kind of when cases spiked and we weren’t really able to get those [hours],” they said.

Despite all these challenges, Barocas still

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WE’VE CANCELED A FEW BEHIND THE WHEEL LESSONS BECAUSE OF COVID RISKS. Leona Barocas

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found ways to fit driving practice into their busy schedule. “Over the summer my mom and I made an effort to drive to a bakery every Saturday morning and get takeout pastries, which we would bring back and share with my brother.

And that was kind of a way to practice freeways and just get a lot of driving time, so that was really helpful,” Barocas said.

Raina Fawcett, a 1 fellow sophomore, also

determinedly practiced despite the pandemic, relying on her parents and older brothers to supervise her.

“I’ve been just driving to errands and driving as much as possible,” Fawcett, who’s logged over 30 supervised hours in just three months, said.

Fawcett hasn’t yet received any “behind the wheel” training from a certified instructor, another requirement before she can get her Minnesota driver’s license. “I haven’t wanted to take lessons in the snow, but I plan to once it’s spring,” she said. On the prospect of being in a car with an instructor while COVID-19 runs rampant, Fawcett said she feels “a mixture of both worrying and exciting feelings, because then I’ll just be closer to getting my li-

cense.”

Barocas made sure to stay safe during their behind the wheel training, a very different experience from most years. “It’s been different because of COVID[…] obviously wearing masks and wiping everything down, having the back windows cracked even in the winter[...] it’s been different.

We’ve canceled quite a few behind the wheel lessons just because of COVID risks,” Barocas said.

Sophomores are learning to put on their turn signal, look over their shoulder, and safely switch lanes as they work to earn their drivers licences. It may be difficult, but these determined drivers wont let any detours stop them from reaching their destination.

FEATURE THE RUBICON - MARCH 2021

The perks of growing a wall-flower

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Houseplants bring peace in the midst of pandemic isolation CATHERINE HOOLEY THE RUBICON

Although there is a physical barrier between the outdoors and a person’s home, nature always finds a way to creep back into humans’ everyday lives. The past year has been a time of social isolation and indoors activities, and as some people became more detached from nature, some grew connected with soil and roots. One way students have been bringing nature into their homes and communities is plants.

These connections look different for everyone, as everyone has a different story of their journey with greenery.

For some, plants are a way to make the indoors feel more lively and energized.

“I feel like they really brighten up living spaces, especially in the winter, because they’re like a little window to part of the outside and summer,” junior Ellie Sandeen said.

Although the pops of color plants bring certainly are known for their soothing effect, there are

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PLANTS REALLY BRIGHTEN UP LIVING SPACES.

Top 5 Air Filtering Plants

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1. English Ivy Hedera helix

Ellie Sandeen

actually scientific reasons and benefits to having plants around. A study by the Journal of Physiological Anthropology showed that plants in a workspace can make it seem more comfortable, calm, and natural. Along with that, studies have proven that greenery can improve productivity, concentration and mood by up to 15%.

“I like having plants because I think that they are really pretty and serve as nice decorations. I also think it is fun to take care of them and watch them grow. I really like succulents so that’s what I have probably had the most of,” sophomore Lindsay Browne said.

Along with the benefits in appearance that plants bring to the table, for some like Browne it is fun to have plants

SUBMITTED PHOTO: Ellie Sandeen

SUBMITTED PHOTO: Lindsay Browne

Houseplants have brought junior Ellie Sandeen and sophomore Lindsay Browne calm in the pandemic. “It’s fun to take care of them and watch them grow,” Browne said. around because they are living things that need to be taken care of. According to Browne they serve as a reminder that even though humans are continually becoming less reliant on nature, we are still a part of it.

As for other types of plants that serve a different purpose, many families are making the addition of a garden in their own backyards. In an effort to have easy access to fresh vegetables

in the summer, students like sophomore Yash Kshirsagar have a different connection to their plants.

“My family has a lot of vegetable plants in the summer like a basil plant, a tomato plant, and then we also have this hibiscus plant which is very exotic.

The basil plant is my favorite because I like eating basil in the summer,” Kshirsagar said.

Indoors and outdoors plants serve different

purposes, but both are important.

“I think it’s not only nice to have plants inside the house, but we get to use them to grow food which is sustainable and saves some money so that’s really nice,” Kshirsagar said.

Plants can brighten a house and add more sustainability to people’s lives, so if you need a pick me up consider adding one of these decorations to your workspace.

2. Spider Plant Chlorophytum elatum 3. Devil’s ivy, Pothos plant Epipremnum aureum 4. Peace lily Spathiphyllum 5. Chinese evergreen Aglaonema modestum

Murphy connects to herself through spirituality Crystals, candles, and tarot galore: junior Ellie Murphy has found meaning in explorTHE RUBICON ing her spirituality. What began as exposure to holistic healing, has developed into love for crystals, tarot cards, meditation, and more.

“When I was little, my mom was really into crystals and meditation. She was a yoga teacher and she became a Reiki Master, which is basically energy massages where you move around stagnant energy, and just a lot of holistic medicine in the house… it’s been incorporated into my life since I was little,” Murphy said.

Initially, it was just something that her mom did. Eventually, Murphy’s own intrigue in it began to grow.

“I started getting more into it in eighth grade. I started buying crystals for myself and kind of reading more about it, and then I started doing tarot cards and manifestation meditation,” she said.

These areas hold a lot of complexities, especially tarot cards. Usually, there are about 78 cards per tarot deck, each card holding a different meaning. Along with memorizing the cards, there’s necessary knowledge on how to PHOTOS SUBMITTED BY: Ellie Murphy apply them to specific situations and questions. Murphy, Junior Ellie Murphy arranges her spiritual objects in her room. “When learned from her mom and YouTube videos until she I was little, my mom was really into crystals and meditation… it’s been eventually created a routine. incorporated into my life since I was little,” Murphy said.

“Usually I light a candle, shuffle the deck, and set my intention for the question that I want answered. uses. They can be used for healing, decoration, medita- thing that you can actively practice and get better at,” Then, I focus on that and shuffle until cards pop out. tion, and more. Murphy both keeps them in her room Murphy said.

And then the cards that pop out are supposed to be and takes them around with her, like on a necklace.

Crystals, mediation, tarot, and more have helped the ones that are incorporated into the reading. I do “I like Citrine a lot, which is a sun crystal. It’s about Murphy’s life in very meaningful ways. They opened that until it feels like, ‘okay, we’ve got a good set here’,” ambition and success, and I really like Rose Quartz her up to new forms of spirituality and it has made an Murphy said. impact on her life. which is more like self love,” she said.

While tarot cards can be used in many different “It’s definitely made me more mindful and grateful Her spirituality has also found a place in her social ways, Murphy has found methods she most enjoys. life. She converses with friends about crystals and zo- for what’s around me… it’s just another way to look “A lot of times what happens is that I asked a ques- diac signs, and even teaches tarot to her friends. for answers and find more meaning,” Murphy said. tion that I kind of already knew the answer to, like Spirituality can be a great way to get in touch with These interests have become even more prominent if there’s an issue being focused on in school or with in her life due to a lack of other activities in the pan- yourself at a deeper level. Murphy has explored these friends. I’ll be like ‘okay, how should I tackle this?’ It demic. It’s a safe thing to do from her own home and methods to improve her way of life. basically just reaffirms what I’ve been thinking for a makes her feel grounded. while. It’s a nice reminder to trust myself,” she said.

“I use it as a form of spirituality, but it’s also a nice Crystals have also found their way into her every- practice. Especially with COVID since it’s so hard to do day life. Like tarot cards, crystals have many possible other activities that I used to do. It’s nice to have someLIZZIE KRISTAL

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT THE RUBICON - MARCH 2021

Kites on Ice Festival defies weather with flying colors

Sled dogs take visitors on free sled rides in subzero temperatures on the ice of Lake Buffalo. Siberian Huskies can withstand temperatures as low as -60 degrees Fahrenheit.

THE RUBICON PHOTOS: Colin Will WHIRLING KITE. Richard Malak’s spinning windsaw flutters in the breeze. A spinning windsaw is not moored independently, but is attached lower down on the line of another kite. Items attached to a kite’s line are called “line laundry.”

COLIN WILL

THE RUBICON

February 13 was one of Minnesota’s coldest days on record, but that didn’t stop the residents of Buffalo, Minn. from braving the cold to come together as a community. It may have been -9° Fahrenheit, but the wind was blowing, and that meant the kite festival was on.

Despite the deadly shooting and bombing at the city’s Allina Health clinic only four days prior, the 3rd Annual Kites on Ice festival, organized by the Buffalo Chamber of Commerce and held on the frozen surface of Lake Buffalo, brought together throngs of people from Buffalo and other towns and cities throughout the state. The event featured a kite vendor, a cornhole tournament, life-size Jenga, snow painting, and the main event, the Fire and Ice Sport Kite Show, which featured show kites from across the Midwest.

They also included a booth for the Buffalo Strong Initiative, which has helped raise money for the victims of the Allina Health shooting and their families, organize blood and donation drives, and bring together the community.

Richard Malak, an experienced kite pilot who’s attended two dozen kite festivals from California to Canada, said this was the coldest one he’d ever been to. “I talked myself out of coming five times last week, but I’m glad I finally decided to,” Malak said.

Eight-year-old Jaelyn Vail, a slightly less professional kite-flyer, came with her dad from Montrose, Minn. to participate in the frigid festivities. This was her second time attending the festival, and the first time flying her own kite, which she bought at Kites on Ice last year. “I wanted to enjoy the kites, and to actually get to fly mine,” Vail said.

The festival was set to a soundtrack curated by Buffalo’s resident DJ, Chopper Lammers. He had heard rumors that the festival was to be canceled, but when no such news came, he drove onto the ice, set up two speakers and a microphone on his pickup truck, and got right to work blasting announcements and Queen songs across the lake. “I’m just trying to get people to forget their troubles for a day. It’s been a hard week here in Buffalo,” Lammers said.

Event organizers hand out flyers inside the Kites on Ice Festival entrance, while residents gather around a Buffalo Strong booth in the middleground.

Show kites from across the Midwest fly above Lake Buffalo. Kite pilots secure their kites in the ice by mooring the kite to an ice screw drilled into the lake or tying a rope to a 2-by-4 wood plank inserted vertically into the lake then turned sideways.

Mother Co., Plants sprouts new store in St. Paul

THE RUBICON PHOTO: Hobbs Lillygreen The shop is packed with valuable plants and cacti, some topped with color depending on the species.

HOBBS LILLYGREEN STAFF WRITER

Mother Co., Plants is the go-to store for Minnesota plant enthusiasts, but for fans of the store living in St. Paul, a 20-minute hike to Minneapolis makes the store inaccessible.

However,

in mid-November, a sister store opened. Tucked away on Selby and Dale’s corner at 162 Dale Street N., St. Paul, it brings a desert oasis to the snowy streets of St. Paul.

With the pandemic opening opportunities for new hobbies, many

people are hooked on growing plants. Some small shops sold plants around the neighborhood, but there was a gap in the market for the most part. Beautiful, interesting, and rare plants are hard to find, but that’s where Mother Co., Plants comes in. Mother Co., Plants provides a sophisticated shop filled with gorgeous ceramic pots, well-designed merchandise, healthy and rare plants, and an instagramable atmosphere.

Mother Co., Plants feels like a southwestern desert. The walls are bathed in golden sunlight, gigantic cacti, large plants, and desert tones.

With the freezing winters in Minnesota, the store

THE WALLS ARE BATHED IN GOLDEN SUNLIGHT, GIGANTIC CACTI, LARGE PLANTS, AND DESERT TONES. provides just a brief moment of warmth.

The plants in the store range from common Fiddle Leaf Figs to the rare Philodendron Birkin.

Just like varying plants, there are varying prices.

On the lower end, tiny plants can be just $16,

but some plants can be up to hundreds of dollars. It makes sense that rare plants would cost lots of money, but $20 is very overpriced for a small plant. Common varieties of Monsteras and Philodendrons are just a few dollars at a local hardware store. The price of the plants also does not take into account the price of the pot. By combining both a plant and a pot, prices can be about $10 or more than at Menards.

The prices at Mother Co., Plants can be justified. A lovely couple whose intent is to supply the Twin Cities with interesting plants in a beautiful way, run the store.

Paying a little more for

a plant than at Menards or Home Depot, a small business is able to stay open. There are also ways to find cheaper plants at the store. Some plants aren’t potted yet; that way it’s cheaper. The store also has free clippings that can grow into a whole plant for free.

Mother Co., Plants is 4/5 stars. The prices are too much for some plants, and while some plants are worth it, there are still cheaper alternatives.

RATING: 4/5

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT THE RUBICON - MARCH 2021

2021 ONE ACTS Prometheus, the God(father)

By Eric Coble Directed by Michael Moran & Miranda Bance

DMV Tyrant

By Christopher Durang Directed by Evelyn Lillemoe & Maren Ostrem

Five Women Wearing the Same Dress

By Alan Ball Directed by Gavin Kimmel

STEW

By Adrienne Gaylord Directed by Adrienne Gaylord

Second Best

By Anja Trierweiler Directed by Anja Trierweiler & Adeline DeHarpporte

The Sandbox

By Edward Allbee Directed by Eric Severson

Netflix comedians promote creative entertainment

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Stand up comedy has been around for a very long time, often being considered to have a therapeutic effect on listeners. Streaming services such as Netflix have added a wide variety of stand-up comedians, such as Kevin Hart and Nanette Gatsby with a centralized focus on new emerging voices.

Currently, one of Netflix’s top stand-up comedian acts is Kevin Hart’s Zero F**ks Given, with his iconic, “no she wasn’t ready” when referencing the first time he had been to a funeral, with a limited idea on how to behave.

Evan comedians with lower ratings still have fans, like Ruby Fields, find humor in comedians such as Azealia Banks. “Her presence on social media is very humorous and she claims to not be ALL HUMOR IS A joking about the things she says. No matter what I think they’re very funCOMMENTARY ny...she is a very outstanding person with her opinions.”

ON NORMAL Even as Azealia Banks’ primary LIFE, TO SOME focus remains on rap, she has been known to venture into comedy. HowEXTENT. ever, some have categorized it as offenIsaac Carlson sive.

“A lot of things that, for example Azalea bank says are very offensive to people, but I feel like if you identify within those groups that are being made fun of and you find it funny, then that’s your opinion. I feel like if it’s on something that you haven’t experienced, maybe you shouldn’t voice your opinion on whether or not that’s funny or not,” Fields said.

Another student, Isaac Carlson, has been listening to comedians such as Kevin Hart and a bit of Bill Burr, with their only

commonality being obscene language. Both comedians are very well known in the realm of stand up comedy due to their expressiveness and deep roots within the story being told as each experience is something they have been through. Thus, often being referred to as a coping mechanism to make himself and everyone else laugh about their past.

“The purpose of comedy to some HER PRESENCE extent is to shed light on things that we find normal or that we find abON SOCIAL normal, and sort of common. I think MEDIA IS VERY that all humor is a commentary on normal life, to some extent. SomeHUMORtimes it points out the hypocrisy, OUS. sometimes it points out the good things and the bad things and it’s just Ruby Fields sort of comedy is a reflection of what we know to be true,” Carlson said.

Pah Na, agrees with Isaac Carlson, as his favorite comedian at the moment is Kevin Hart, however, for different reasons.

“He’s friends with the Rock and so it’s got a lot of funny stories with the Rock,” Na said.

Yet, another aspect that Pah seemed to enjoy from Kevin Hart is his ability to punch up. “Satire that punches up at social constructs or problems with our society is important,” he said.

Regardless of the popularity displayed within streaming services such as Netflix, there is an endless stream of new emerging voices with a variety of fans. Each one amplified within this interview shared the common characteristic of using social norms for comedic aspects, often being a necessity for good humor.

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THE RUBICON

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JOHN BECKER

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Though the upper school One Acts will look different this year, students participating are still finding ways to make the experience meaningful. For some senior directors, the experience represents the culmination of years of work with the theater department.

Senior Miranda Bance is co-directing Eric Coble’s Prometheus and the Godfather with fellow senior Michael Moran. “It is a comedy, sort of a cross between Greek myth, and the Godfather, as in the name,” she said.

Part of the reason they chose this one act was the format, Moran said. “It was originally a radio and stage play.

And so we’re trying to adapt it to whatever format we end up releasing it in,” he said. “The blocking is relatively minimal, so we can, you know, adapt well if we need to do it over Zoom.”

For Bance, taking on the role of director is a new experience and has previously been part of the tech crew. “I usually just sort of do my own thing.

So it’s been really fun to interact with them and see how they interpret each of the characters

Trudging in from a polar vortex cold day, Café Cerés is the just the needed source of warmth and comfort. Located in the Linden Hills area and previously Penny’s Coffee, the new Café Cerés is the ideal spot for a pandemic treat. The cafe serves pastries, drinks, as well as a small lunch menu, with items like Falafel pita, Moroccan Carrot salad, and other traditional Turkish foods.

They also of fl avor . u ll sf make cakes to order and have plans of expanding their menu in a post-pandemic world.

With large windows and lots of sunlight, the warehouse style cafe is welcoming and the perfect respite from the cold.

While all the tables have been moved out for COVID-19, the open space is good for social distancing. Take out from the cafe is quick and easy: just walk in or order online ahead of time.

There’s a window in the back that lets customers see into the kitchen where baked goods are made. The unique green tiling of the barista stand makes the space unique and gives more personality to the cafe. However, it seems almost too empty and feels that it is unfinished. While accessing the cafe was somewhat of a challenge, with limited parking and snow banks The pistachi o that make it difficult to get out of the car, Café Cerés is worth it.

Despite the off-putting interior, the pastries do not disappoint. The pistachio croissant was flaky and fresh.

The pistachio flavor was perfectly balanced and not overpowering. While other chai lattes may lack flavor and are watered down, the chai at Cafe Cerés is flavorful and delicious.

They offer a range of unique drinks, like the Dulche de Leche latte which came with a pretty design in the foam.

Cafe Ceres is great for dining in a pandemic. Stop in and pick up a treat to go, and plan on returning when the cafe is fully opened in the future.

Leche latt e

THE RUBICON

and how they try to make them come alive.”

Bance also noted ways in which directing differs from being a member of the tech crew.

“You definitely get a lot more control over the flow of the story,” she said. “Usually when I’m doing behind-the-scenes work, the story already exists, and the director knows the direction they want to take. So, my creative design is more limited to supporting that while also adding in a couple things that I think might be nice.”

To Moran, directing is also a way of sharing his love of theater. “Focusing on a project for months on end, particularly a project that you have enjoyed every step of the process of creating, to me, is a really fulfilling experience,” he said.

No matter the role she plays in putting together a production, theater is an influential part of Bance’s life. “There’s just something magical that I can’t describe when everything in a show comes together… everything is balanced… it’s just a magical moment,” she said. “I just wouldn’t be the same without that.”

Seniors Adeline DeHarpporte and Anja Trierweiler are co-directing a one act written

LUCY BENSON

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

de

JENNY RIES

Trierweiler talked about some of her concerns with ultimately recording her play, including stylistic choices she made with lighting that may prove challenging. “We have to record everything and figure out timing and lagging issues,” she said.

Despite potential challenges, DeHarpporte is optimistic about the implications that producing a show in this way can have for theater during a pandemic.

“It’s fun, just sit back and enjoy,” Trierweiler said.

l aky. sly f

PHOTO SUBMITTED BY: Adeline DeHarpporte The one act group, directed by DeHarpporte and Trierweiler, are rehearsing over Zoom.

by Trierweiler entitled Second Best. “It’s about high school drama and really intense competition… it’s a thrilling drama,” Trierweiler said.

“It’s about kind of an SPAtype situation… a private school, and a group of friends who are all trying to get good grades and be better than each other, and how that creates a hostile environment, and a lot of it’s about subtle interactions,” DeHarpporte said.

Trierweiler drew from her own experiences with toxic friendships in her life, specifically one at the school she attended before coming to SPA. “I made it more fun, in that I just pushed everything to the extremes while still keeping it slightly rooted in reality,” she said.

The characters in her one act are based off the real people; “Every once in a while… either I’d see the actual person within the actor, and sometimes I would see a completely different person and that’s completely wonderful and great, too.

And I really like seeing how my words can come off of the page, and someone else can embody it,” she said.

DeHarpporte noted that the fact that Second Best has a small cast has affected her experience directing. She also mentioned that the virtual format has provided an even more personal view into cast members’ lives, at times including introductions with siblings and pets.

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One Acts directors prepare for all scenarios with creative plots

Café Cerés serves convenient, quality treats

The Dulche

The show must go on:

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RATING: 5/5

THE RUBICON PHOTOS: Lucy Benson

18

SPORTS THE RUBICON - MARCH 2021

Determination makes up for small numbers ALI BROWNE

STAFF WRITER

It’s a smaller team and a later season, but Spartan Girls Basketball was ready to take the court at their first practice Jan. 4.

Due to personal health and safety concerns, 11 of the players from last season, in addition to the seniors who graduated in the spring, decided not to play basketball this winter, leaving the girls basketball program with only one varsity-level team made up of the nine remaining girls.

Captain Rashmi Raveendran made the difficult decision to step away from basketball this year but will always be grateful for the relationships and memories that she has with her fellow teammates and the coaching staff during her time on the varsity team.

“The decision was mainly because of my parents because they both work in the healthcare system, but they actually just got vaccinated, so it became less about that and more about me.

I obviously wanted a senior season, but I knew that the things that I would miss about basketball and all that fun stuff wouldn’t necessarily be fulfilled this season. I was just kind of nervous about having to quarantine and not being able to come to school for my last semester of high school, so I pretty much made the decision for my health and my parents,”

she said.

Ninth-grader Naomi Kempcke returned for her second year on the varsity team and, like many of the players, was surprised and disappointed to lose some of her teammates. Instead of seeing this news as a problem and barrier for the success of both herself and the team, Kempcke has chosen to use it as motivation.

“I was sad. Most of the players are seniors this year, and knowing it is their last year to play is really hard. I think the people who are playing should work extra hard this season for themselves and the [girls] who aren’t playing,” she said.

The loss of some key players has also led the girls to put increased pressure on themselves to step up and fill the gaps left by their former teammates, especially those who played the same position.

“Sometimes I feel pressured to be exactly like Rashmi and be as good as she was, but then I have to remember I am not her, and we have different strengths that we bring to the team. I feel like I have to work harder because we have so few people left on the team,” Kempcke said.

With such small numbers, injury prevention will be crucial to the team’s success.

During a tough match up against Mounds Park Academy on Jan.

THE RUBICON PHOTO: Ali Browne BASELINE SHOT Junior Naomi Straub takes a baseline shot during a game versus Mounds Park Academy.

The girls basketball team plays their next game at home on March 6 versus Twin Cities Academy.

“

FROM BIG WINS TO THE SMALL WINS, EVERY STEP WE TAKE WILL MAKE US A BETTER TEAM.

”

Will Johnson 25, sophomore Lindsay Browne went up for a tough layup shot as she was double-teamed by two defenders and came down to the ground with her ankles intertwined with her opponents’, resulting in her second sprained ankle of the week. Browne, a returning varsity player and consistent member of the starting lineup,

was unable to play in the second half. Instances like this show the importance of each player, and their ability to remain injury-free in preparation for each week. Assistant Coach Will Johnson and the rest of the coaching staff emphasize the importance of the healing process over the time it takes to recover from an injury.

“We need our players healthy, and as a coaching staff, we are constantly reminding the players to follow RICE when they are home. Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation,” Johnson said.

The coaching staff understands that the girls are playing under unique circumstances this season and have worked to balance improvement and fun.

Johnson is a new

member of the girls varsity coaching staff and has used his middle school coaching experiences to bond with the players and foster a strong relationship between the coaches and the team.

“I think the message from the coaching staff is very clear that we want [the players] to work hard but not to be someone they’re not. We want them to be the best they can be. As a staff, we want to celebrate every win we get. From the big wins to the small wins, every step we take will make us a better team and allow us to have fun,” he said.

Although playing a larger role in the team due to injuries or doubling efforts towards improvement may feel daunting at first, many underclassmen and new players like sophomore

Maya Coates Cush are up to the challenge.

“I think that the younger players go where needed, and when they are asked to do something, they will definitely play the part they need to even if it isn’t what they want. As a whole, we are doing as much for the team as we possibly can,” Coates Cush said. “No matter what your level really is, you are varsity this year, so we are all trying our best.”

Despite the many obstacles the girls basketball team has encountered this early in the season, players are hopeful and excited for what lies ahead in the coming months.

Watch the next game on NHFSnetwork.com when the Spartans take on Twin City Academy on March 6th.

Larson navigates playing club soccer during pandemic

PHOTO SUBMITTED BY: Leo Larson Junior Leo Larson navigates an intense soccer season with his club soccer team, The Minnesota Thunder Academy, amidst a pandemic.

JULIA BARON THE RUBICON

Although the school soccer season ended in October, junior Leo Larsen, who plays for a club team, is in the midst of an intense soccer schedule. His Minnesota Thunder Academy team competes in the Elite Clubs National League --one of the most competitive leagues in the country-- and has continued to travel across the country for competition even amidst the pandemic.

“We’ve been to Arizona for a tournament and also to Florida a few times for

showcases and all over the Midwest for games,” Larsen said. “The Midwest conference in ENCL is pretty spread out. [It] includes Minnesota to Chicago to Missouri etc so we still get to go to a lot of places and see a lot of new areas.”

Although his team has been able to keep up an intense training and game schedule, there are still some changes to their season due to COVID-19 restrictions.

“We have the same practices and games; we just have to be more cautious about the virus and parents can’t watch as much,” Larsen said.

Larsen has also noticed a clear discrepancy between the teams he’s played that come from states like Minnesota, which have imposed strict restrictions on youth sports, versus teams from states in the South that haven’t been quite as disrupted

by COVID-19 restrictions.

“One thing that has been different though is when we travel to play teams from the South. They are often better as a team than us because they have been shut down less, resulting in their team chemistry being higher.

This has made it difficult for us to pick up wins [against them” Larsen noted.

Nevertheless, Larsen’s MTA team has hit a stride in recent weeks and has been able to win some games.

“We are finding our rhythm, winning the last 2 games we played,” Larsen explained.

As for Larsen’s individual goals, he is determined to play soccer far into the future and has been looking into different options for post-high school play. “[Playing soccer in] college is a great option and I am looking at and talking to a number of schools right now. Ideally, though I would love to take a gap year and go to Europe to test out what I can do there and [then] commit for 2023 instead of 2022” Larsen shared.

As Larsen has big hopes for his soccer career in the future, he is happy that the pandemic hasn’t had too big of an impact on his rigorous training schedule. Like many athletes, Larsen’s sport has offered him a constant throughout unprecedented times that he is grateful to be able to enjoy.

SPORTS THE RUBICON - MARCH 2021

THE RUBICON PHOTO: Hobbs Lillygreen The boys varsity basketball team huddles after being scored on in a game against Concordia high school.

Boys basketball fights against setbacks HOBBS LILLYGREEN STAFF WRITER

Masks, changes in scheduling, and a season that’s been cut short are just a few examples of how the pandemic has affected varsity basketball players. The basket-

ball season usually starts after Thanksgiving, but with the rising numbers, the season was faced with unexpected changes and challenges due to rising COVID-19 numbers.

Forward Gregory Forsberg said, “The biggest

change would probably be that we have to wear masks now during practices and games.”

Guard Levi Mellin said, “I think the hardest part, at least for me, but for the entire team it seems like is wearing masks while we’ve been playing. It’s restricted breathing at such a high cardiovascularly intense sport so that’s been a bit of a challenge. ” Masks are the most notable change, but social distancing is another challenge basketball players have had to face.

Forsberg said, “We can‘t do handshakes, we can’t meet in the locker room anymore, the benches are spread apart so were all six feet away from each other, we’re not supposed to share balls as much, just overall spread apart as much as we can, not as much contact between each other,.”

Forsberg said.

“

THE BIGGEST CHANGE WOULD PROBABLY BE THAT WE HAVE TO WEAR MASKS NOW DURING PRACTICES AND GAMES.

”

Gregory Forsberg

Playing basketball during the pandemic comes with new challenges. “The masks are definitely a big part of it,” Forsberg said. “It’s really hard to breathe just when you’re running around continuously in basketball.”

The world outside of St. Paul Academy has also had to change with

government mandates and the pandemic. The gyms that varsity players used to play at outside of school have been shut down because of the pandemic.

Forsberg said, “All the basketball courts have definitely closed because usually it’s very open and they let in whoever they want but now if you do want to do anything you have to book it which makes it a lot harder.”

The length of the basketball season has also been affected by the pandemic, as it. It was cut short after a month-long pause was put into place in December. and players have had to adapt in many ways because of the switch from distance to hybrid learning.

Senior Levi Mellin said, “We’re still able to practice which has been nice, sometimes it’s just the commute that’s chal-

19

lenging when you’re at home especially for some kids who can’t even drive yet.”

Forsberg said, “Our season was pushed back maybe a month, it was supposed to start around Thanksgiving and it started after we came back from winter break, so we lost a huge portion of our season.”

Although there are many cons to the COVID-affected basketball season, the shared experience of the changing season and the experience of adapting having to adapt to a new world, creates a great sense of community and friendship among the varsity boys basketball team.

The boys varsity basketball team’s next game is March 3 vs Math and Science Academy at 7 p.m. The game can be watched for free on NFHSNetwork.com.

Proper nutrition translates to better physical performance MADDY FISHER THE RUBICON

Amateur athletes occasionally overlook the importance of nutrition to their exercise. While some St. Paul Academy athletes understand the impact of nutrition on their performance and follow certain routines, few have looked into the science behind it. Paying attention to what you eat is easier said than done, but there are a few simple rules that could help improve performance.

Nutrition is a very flexible and individualized subject. Athletes should pay attention to their personal results and edit their process to what suits their body and goals best.

That said, there is plenty of general advice about the relationship between food groups and exercise.

FOOD GROUPS According to the official website of Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health, it is best to focus on the five main food groups (fruits, vegetables, protein, grains, and dairy) and tailor from there. Each of these categories contributes to specific bodily functions— fruits and vegetables, for example, should compose about half of every meal and combine fiber, carbohydrates, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and water to provide energy, hydration, digestion, and recovery/injury prevention. Grains pro-

vide resources necessary for activity and recovery, proteins donate essential amino acids important for vital functions like muscle maintenance and chemical reactions, and dairy is important for muscle function, bone strength, and energy production. In essence, proper nutrition is all about balance.

FOR EXERCISE According to MS PE teacher, sports coach, and certified personal trainer Kellan Minter, nutrition needs often vary between sports and people. “There are a lot of different demands on the body depending on what it is the athlete’s doing,” Minter said. “Everybody’s body is different and we all have different restrictions on what we can eat and different tastes and what we like so there’s not really a one size fits all thing.

People that are dealing with endurance activities, low-intensity over a long period of time, their bodies are tapping into fats, as opposed to people doing short bursts of high-intensity activities that are getting their energy from carbs.” Minter recommended avocado, nuts, and seeds as sources of healthy fats for athletes involved in endurance sports.

Research over the past fifty years has shown that healthy carbohydrates like pasta, quinoa, fruits, vegetables, and brown

“

PAY ATTENTION TO HOW YOUR BODY REACTS TO THINGS.

”

Kellan Minter

rice are extremely important for fueling your brain and muscles. According to the USADA, easily-digestible intake three to four hours before exercise is important to restore glycogen stores and maintain energy for exercise. Incorporating small amounts of protein can help regulate absorption and ensure consistent energy levels.

Fuel during or between exercise should be small amounts of carbohydrates, preferably in the form of sports drinks or fruit for shorter breaks and small meals like avocado toast or a sandwich for longer breaks. Post-exercise meals should occur fifteen to thirty minutes after activity and include healthy carbohydrates like quinoa and brown rice to restore energy and proteins such as eggs, yogurt, and chicken to build muscle and aid recovery.

ATHLETE EXPERIENCE However, athletic performance isn’t only about food. Beyond practice and physical activi-

ty, hydration and sleep are extremely important aspects of competition and can help counteract the intensive demands of school and playing sports.

For many SPA athletes, information regarding nutrition usually comes from training or coaches.

Sophomore Andrea Gist has been playing soccer for most of her life and learned a lot from personal experience. “I like to make sure to watch out for what I eat before and after. I always eat a banana, because I often get cramps and stuff,” she said. “There was one time when I didn’t eat anything and I just drank water because I was in a rush and I didn’t have time. And I felt really sick. I almost fainted. I definitely think nutrition impacts like how you perform on the field.”

Junior hockey-player Lucie Bond learned most of what she knows from various coaches. “I think it impacts my food choices a lot. I’ve gone to a lot of camps and stuff for hockey, and they talk very specifically about nutrition, so I feel like I focus on it a lot,” she said. Though Bond pays attention to what she eats, she found that she rarely drinks enough water, another extremely important aspect of athletic performance.

Senior Adam Holod plays basketball for SPA. Though he doesn’t know much about nutrition

THE RUBICON PHOTO: Hazel Waltenbaugh Healthy carbohydrates like quinoa and brown rice can restore energy post workout. beyond the basics, he usually aims to pay more attention to food choices during the season. “I usually try and eat a little healthier during the season, making sure that I’m getting the right vitamins/nutrients and not just settling for Hot Cheetos and mango Arizona,” Holod said.

ENDURANCE NEEDS US Physics teacher Sam Hinh also believes nutrition to be important. A regular runner and sports coach, Hinh never took formal classes but learned a lot about nutrition while playing college sports. “You can definitely see the effect of hydration. For me personally, if I don’t have any water before my run, or if I’m not properly hydrated throughout the day, it’s gonna be a pretty poor run,” he said. “I see that in practice, too. I can see when kids have a pretty long day, and they’re not

even thinking about water, their performance is pretty poor in practice.

Water is the key.” Hinh also recommends staying away from processed sugar, eating carbs before performance, and consuming large amounts of protein during offseason training.

To student-athletes trying to focus on nutrition, Minter recommended setting specific goals and practicing mindfulness. “You need to be able to pay attention to how your body reacts to things,” Minter said. “If you’re struggling, there’s a lot of different ways to win as far as your diet and what you’re putting in your body. The diet that works the best is the one that you can stick to, so don’t think that you have to do something that somebody else is doing.”

SPORTS THE RUBICON - MARCH 2021

Nordic fosters positive environment

THE RUBICON PHOTO: Eliana Mann Eighth grader Inga Wing skis across the finish line in a competition.

ELIANA MANN STAFF WRITER

The COVID-19 pandemic has placed challenges on many communities, and right now, Saint Paul Academy winter sports teams are facing some unfortunate setbacks. From the g o ve r n m e n t- m a n d a ted “pause” from youth sports in December to canceled competitions and practices, teams have had to significantly adjust their seasons. Despite it

all, the Nordic team has stayed positive through these trying times by maintaining their team culture of inclusivity and encouragement that has kept the skiers close each season.

Instead of starting the season in November as usual, the Nordic team did not begin practicing until mid-December, and challenges were continuously thrown their way.

“Initially, our practices were held over Google Meets, but then in January, we transitioned over to in-person,” captain Jonas Bray said. “Obviously, I’m really happy that we are able to practice, but COVID has made it so much harder to get better, especially when our annual ski trip was canceled and when the season was pushed back in such a significant way,” said Bray.

Bridget Keel is a skier in her first year at SPA and on the Nordic team.

Starting the season online was tough for her

since she did not know most of her teammates, but once in-person practices started, she immediately felt at home due to the uplifting, non-competitive nature of the team. “The best part of being at practices is getting to see people and getting encouragement from other people while you’re skiing. It’s a really nice vibe there,” Keel said.

Captain Isabel Toghramadjian feels the same, even though as a senior, she is now in her last SPA Nordic season. “I was new to skiing when I joined the team, and I’ve found everyone to be very encouraging and helpful throughout my skiing journey. I try to create the same environment as a captain,” said Toghramadjian.

Many of the usual opportunities for community-building have been cut this year due to COVID-19 restrictions something that usually brings the team together.

Skier Sila Liljedahl said,

“Riding the bus as a team was really fun because it was like team bonding.”

There have still been chances to build community, though. “Everyone just kind of hangs out together,” Liljedahl said.

Practices have also been a great time to connect with one another and cheer each other on.

This sense of positivity has kept the team going throughout this season.

“Despite the precautions we have had to take, this season has been full of growth and enjoyment.

I truly believe the team community has only been strengthened by the obstacles we have overcome,” captain Anthony Chen said.

While the Nordic team has fewer meets than usual this year, they are hopeful and excited for the rest of their season. The next competition will take place on Feb. 10th at 4 p.m. at Elm Creek Park.

Girls hockey persists despite challenges LUCY MURRY

STAFF WRITER

Team unity during a pandemic isn’t easy, especially when over half of the players are new. SPA’s girls’ varsity hockey co-op team adds Minnehaha into the mix this year replacing Visitation. Many of SPA’s players are also new to the school which adds challenges with team bonding amidst the struggles of wearing masks and social distancing.

Aurelia Meza, a new ninth-grader at SPA, described how difficult connecting as a team can be, especially during this time. “This year we’re bringing in 2 groups that have never played together which is kind of tough but I would say that we’re starting to bond and come together as a team,” she said.

Charlotte Goings, new to SPA like Meza, said that the pandemic has made her realize how grateful she is to finally be able to play hockey and how she has learned to not take it for granted.

Being new is hard enough, but during a global pandemic, meeting new people and making those essential connections is burdened by the weight of mask wearing and social distancing Goalie Greta Magnuson,

VERY “ IT’S DIFFICULT

TO GET TO KNOW THE NEW PLAYERS.

”

Greta Magnuson another player who is brand new to the team, said COVID-19 makes it, “very difficult to get to know the new players since we can’t hang out in the locker rooms before and after practice along with all of the added restrictions making it difficult as well.” The team also had to rush into the season despite only having two weeks of practice before their first game, yet they still won.

Unfortunately, several players acquired COVID-19, which resulted in a two-week quarantine for the entire team. This, however, did not stop the team from coming back strong and winning three out of the five games that they have played so far. The pandemic however, has been a conflict of interest between the two schools.

Meza says she was surprised by “the fact that people were willing to do anything to the governor to let people play sports even when it wasn’t safe

THE RUBICON PHOTO: Lucy Murry The SPA girls hockey team played against Breck school and lost 11-4. and how those same people are now complaining because we have to wear masks while in sports.”

Meza, like many other players, experiences the first hand challenges of teams not willing to comply with the COVID-19 safety protocols. Many of the schools that the SPA-Minnehaha co-op team plays either don’t have masks, or wear them below their chin where they aren’t protecting anyone. This irresponsibility is challenging since

everyone wants to stay safe during this difficult time.

Despite all of the new challenges this year has thrown at the team, they are coming together and getting to know each other, creating success on the ice. Though the team will continue to face challenges, the players are confident that they can make anything work, and hope to win many more games in the coming weeks.

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THE RUBICON PHOTO: Orion Kim Sophomore Tenzin Bawa practices freestyle.

Trojans focus on friendships ORION KIM

STAFF WRITER

The Trojan Swim and Dive team season started out like no other. With COVID-19 delaying several meets and practices, the athletes had to adapt to new circumstances. One of the COVID protocols is that students must compete at their own pool, and face off against their opponents virtually.

With the HAVING DAY TO DAY absence of the students’ INTERACTIONS AGAIN biggest fans their parents, ... IS WHAT MAKES and their SWIMMING REALLY opponents swimming FUN. not in the lane next to Rish Barghava them, but on a laptop, the ambiance of the natatorium is underwhelming. “The atmosphere isn’t nearly the same,” said an anonymous swim team member. And it truly isn’t. Whilst visiting swim meets and practices, the eerie cheers rebounding off the surface of the water don’t fill the room with quite the same presence.

Despite the restrictions of one of the deadliest pandemics in centuries, the mild setback of an underwhelming audience doesn’t stop the swim and dive team. The team continues to train hard. Around a dozen students of many varying levels of skill all strive towards the same goal of competing, improving and having fun.

Lifetime swimmer and new member of the varsity team Connor Overgaard said: “Everyone puts in the work. It’s a different level than my club team. Some kids are completely new to swimming, but at the end of the day, everyone gets in the same pool, and swims the same 2-3 miles for 2 hours, whether one of us finishes 10 minutes before the other.”

For Overgaard, swimming is his competitive sport (among many others), but for others, swimming and diving is just a way to have fun during a pandemic.

Sam Zakaib, a student that enters his first year of high school and his first year on the team, described diving as “Fun because you get to do flips.” When asked if he is the best on the team, Zakaib quickly exclaimed “...no, but the most important thing for me is having fun.” Sam fractured his wrist, and sadly had to miss out on the first meet, but is optimistic in attending future ones.

The students certainly do have a fun time. The season was filled with humorous moments. Rishi Barghava, another competitive club swimmer and freshman, recalls when captain Sean Stephenson stopped mid dive when teammate Thomas Minner cheered him on. Stephenson mistook him as an official! “It was pretty funny,” Barghava chuckled.

Pah Na, a junior, said his favorite moment of the season was when an official “liked [his] speedo design, which had a hamburger on it.”

For these swimmers, just “having day to day interactions again... is what makes swimming really fun,” said Barghava.

The story of this swim team stretches far beyond swimming, but to friendship, determination, and of course: fun. Whether it was a laughable miscommunication at the start of the race, a complimenting of a speedo, tedious laps and diving routines practiced every day, or the social interactions with friends that used to be considered normal, students are most grateful for being able to connect. more winter sports at

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